10 Days 10 Nights
Spain
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1
Overview
Overview
The beauty of Spain is legendary: the sweep of Mediterranean beaches and contrasting rugged mountains, the cosmopolitan cities and tiny hilltop villages where time seems to have stood still. Experience the diversity, color, and passion that is Spain in this journey to two of her most exciting regions.
We begin in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, and Spain’s most visually striking city. As Rose Macaulay wrote in The Fabled Shore, “…it gives an impression of tempestuous, surging, irrepressible life and brio.” It remains true today. We’ll spend our days exploring the Barri Gotic, the heart of Barcelona, her outstanding museums and architecture, and take an excursion up the Costa Brava in search of Salvador Dali.
Finally, a 4-night stay on the Mediterranean island of Mallorca concludes the trip with a welcome change of pace as we explore hidden villages and monasteries, winding lanes, and quiet corners. The island is at once small enough to be easily manageable, but large enough to provide a variety of landscapes and resources. From the mountains of the northwest to the fertile central plain, there is an abundance of historical and artistic treasures to occupy the discerning visitor. And of course, beautiful beaches have made the island a haven for European tourists seeking the summer sun.
Your trip has been specifically designed to avoid tourists. In April the weather is wonderfully warm, spring is in full swing, and the historical sites will be blessedly free of tour buses. Our base will be in the historic town of Soller, set in the beautiful Tramuntana Mountains. It is also accessible to the capital, Palma, by a beautiful antique electric train that affords incredible views as it weaves up through the mountains and out the other side.
Join Gavin Miller in exploring the island paradise he now calls home. This is the magic and romance of the Mediterranean: azure waters, white sands, and year-round golden sunshine – but beware, like Robert Graves, you may never want to leave.
* Late registrations (received within 60 days of departure) may also incur extra fees as discounted rates for hotels and airfares may no longer be available so close to departure. Participants will be made aware of any such charges before their registration is accepted
