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Paradores of Spain Self-drive: Madrid, Valencia, Tortosa & Cardona

Duration
8 Days
Prices From:
AU$ 2,261

FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Stay in unique properties situated in spectacular locations on a 8-day self-drive program in Spain. Spanish Paradores are state-run restored Monasteries, Convents, Fortresses, Manor Houses and Castles. Experience high level of services, modern amenities and exceptional gastronomy for a truly amazing adventure!


This 8 day first-class, self-drive tour will appeal to history lovers and those wishing to experience some of Spain’s most unique highlights and fascinating cities. Stay in luxuriously restored monasteries, called paradores, and enjoy fantastic food as you explore the best of Spain.

Start in Madrid,Spain’s sophisticated capital. Your first full day has you at leisure to experience the city as you like. Visit sites such the Royal Palace or the Plaza Mayor or just enjoy a day experiencing all the tapas your heart desires. 

Head towards Valencia and the Mediterranean coast, the way visit the medieval city of Cuenca and its “Hanging Houses”. Enjoy the beach and golfing amenities at your parador or take a day to experience Valencia as you choose. 

Depart Valencia and spend 2 days heading north. Visit smaller historic towns along the way such as Peniscola. After a night in charming Tortosa, you will head towards famous Montserrat Abbey before finishing the day in Cardona for your final two nights. 

Your last full day is spent exploring the best of Barcelona. This Catalonian capital features the truly unique architectural styles of Gaudi and a beautiful beachfront to explore. Return to Cardona for your last night.

 

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At Goway we are experts at designing personalized itineraries to suit your special interests, tastes and budget. Let us arrange your ultimate travel experience today.
Duration
8 Days
Prices From:
AU$ 2,261

Itinerary View Trip Map

Day 1

Arrive Madrid

Upon arrival at Madrid Airport, pick up your car and make your way to your first hotel, located 20km from the airport and 40km from the centre of Madrid. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Once a 17th-century monastary school and student lodging, today, the Parador Alcalá de Henares is a 4-star modern property combining tradition and avant-garde design. The town of Alcalá de Henares is the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, author of the timeless novel, 'Don Quixote'. Follow the footsteps of his childhood as you discover this UNESCO World Heritage city.

Meal Plan Dinner
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Parador De Alcala De Henares

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    Parador De Alcala De Henares



    The hotel enjoys a peaceful and relaxed location in the centre of the city. The building is one of the city's landmarks, along with the Hoster a del Estudiante in the former San Jeronimo college, which was founded by Cardinal Cisneros in 1510 and which …

    The hotel enjoys a peaceful and relaxed location in the centre of the city. The building is one of the city's landmarks, along with the Hoster a del Estudiante in the former San Jeronimo college, which was founded by Cardinal Cisneros in 1510 and which offers marvellous views over the beautiful Patio Trilingue courtyard of the University of Alcala de Henares. The hotel is next to monumental treasures such as the Capilla de San Ildefonso, the Palacio Arzobispal and the baroque convent of Las Bernardas. Nightlife opportunities and links to public transport can be found in the immediate vicinity. The bus and train stations are about 15 and 20 minutes' walking distance away, respectively. The La Dehesa shopping centre is about a 15-minute drive away, and Barajas Airport is approximately 25 km away.

    This newly opened city hotel was built in 2008. It is housed in a magnificent seventeenth-century building, the former Santo Tom's Dominican Convent and School. All in all, it offers a great combination of tradition and avant-garde, making it perfect for either relaxing stays or successful business meetings. It has 128 rooms in total spread across 3 floors. Amenities and services include air conditioning, a lobby, 24-hour reception and check-out service, a hotel safe, currency exchange facilities, a cloakroom, lift access, a garden and a terrace. A restaurant, cafe, bar, TV lounge and Internet access are provided. There are also twelve rooms suitable for holding conferences, meetings and other events. Some of these even have a separate reception area. Room and laundry services are available for a fee. A car park and garage also feature, providing parking for up to 124 vehicles.

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Day 2

Madrid Sightseeing

Today, enjoy a day at leisure or discover the Spanish capital, Madrid! Sites of interest may include a visit to the Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Puerta de Toledo, the Royal Palace, Almudena Cathedral and Santiago Bernabeu, home of football team Real Madrid. Don't forget to try traditional cuisine like the tapas (small plates) and local wine, best discovered in typical bodegas (wine cellars).

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Day 3

Madrid - Cuenca - Valencia Area

Depart your hotel and drive southeast towards Valencia, located on the Mediterranean coastline. En route, visit the picturesque city if Cuenca, one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Spain, famous for its famous 'hanging houses' that cling to steep, rocky slopes. Wander through the ancient old town, now a UNESCO World Heritage city with its charming cobblestone lanes and old-world character. Drive to your next Paradores hotel, located just 20km from the centre of Valencia, directly on the sea.

The Parador El Saler is a modern 4-star property combining beach, golf and spa facilities. Surrounded by the La Albufera Nature Reserve and only a 25 minute drive to Valencia, this property is a perfect place to relax and unwind.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Parador De El Saler

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Location View map
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    Parador De El Saler



    A must for all golf lovers, thanks to its 18 hole course considered to be one of the best in the world. Located by the Mediterranean sea, the Parador El Saler also has a seasonal swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, spa and a magnificent football pitch.

    A must for all golf lovers, thanks to its 18 hole course considered to be one of the best in the world.

    Located by the Mediterranean sea, the Parador El Saler also has a seasonal swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, spa and a magnificent football pitch.

    Facilities

    • Gymnasium
    • Sauna
    • Spa
    • Swimming Pool

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Day 4

Valencia Sightseeing

Spend some time in Valencia, Spain's 3rd largest city and home to the famous paella (traditional rice dish with meat, fish or seafood). Discover this vibrant city, including famous attractions like the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the Plaza de la Virgen, the Turia fountain, the Serrano Towers and the modern City of the Arts and Sciences building. The city is also a top destination for foodies and nightlight. Check out great cafes, bars, restaurants and try traditional dishes like paella.

Meal Plan Breakfast
Day 5

Valencia - Peniscola - Tortosa

Today, drive north along the coast towards Tortosa, a small city located near the mouth of the River Ebro. Enroute, visit another small town, Peñiscola, known as the City in the Sea. It served as the official residences of Popes Benedetto XIII and Clemente VIII, now a UNESCO Heritage city. Be enchanted by this charming medieval city surrounded by water and the filming location for popular television series, Games of Thrones! Continue driving to your next Paradores hotel, located in the centre of Tortosa.

The charming Parador de Tortosa is a 4-star luxury hotel converted in the 10th century Zuda Castle. The interior features Christian and Arabic motifs, classical style furniture and impressive Gothic windows. In Tortosa, visit the historic city located on the Ebro River, the Jewish quarter or the open-air sculpture museum of Santigo de Santiago.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration1 Night
Accommodation

Parador De Tortosa

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Location View map
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    Parador De Tortosa



    More than two thousand years of history make up the cultural and historical heritage of Tortosa, a city which has been declared an area of artistic and historical importance. Located on the Ebro River, near the mouth where the delta begins, Tortosa enjoys a Mediterranean …

    More than two thousand years of history make up the cultural and historical heritage of Tortosa, a city which has been declared an area of artistic and historical importance. Located on the Ebro River, near the mouth where the delta begins, Tortosa enjoys a Mediterranean climate and charm. The Parador is situated in the spectacular Zuda Castle, overlooking the city from high above, offering a combination of monumental beauty and the attractions of the various natural areas that surround it. At this inviting hotel, you can enjoy the seasonal swimming pool, a cozy dining room with Gothic windows, comfortable guest rooms and magnificent views of the banks of the Ebro along the river's final stretches.

    Facilities

    • Bar
    • Conference Facilities
    • Convention Center
    • Elevator
    • Foreign Exchange
    • Garden
    • Laundry
    • Outdoor Pool
    • Parking
    • Restaurant
    • WI-FI

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Day 6

Tortosa - Montserrat - Cardona

Today, drive north to visit the Montserrat Abbey, located in the heart of the Catalunya region. The Abbey is famous for the holy grottos, visited by the Virgin Mary in the 11th century, and the Montserrat Choir boys. Drive up to Montserrat or park your car at the foot of the mountain, using the racktrain and cable car to reach the Abbey. If time permits, check out the Penedes area, famous for its sparkling white wines. Your final destination is Cardona, located halfway between Barcelona (85km) and Andorra. This small medieval town dominated by the Cardona castle, built in the 11th century, now converted to the luxury parador, Parador de Cardona.

The Parador de Cardona is a 4-star luxury property situated in a medieval castle from the 9th-century. Revel in gothic elements like the towers, fortified walls, wood beams, Catalan antiques, arched ceilings and canopied beds.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Duration2 Nights
Accommodation

Parador De Cardona

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Location View map
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    Parador De Cardona



    Located on a hill at the top of Cardona, this historic hotel lies in the centre of Catalonia, 85 km from Barcelona, 90 km from Lleida, 95 km from Girona and 90 km from Andorra. The centre of Cardona is just 900 m from the …

    Located on a hill at the top of Cardona, this historic hotel lies in the centre of Catalonia, 85 km from Barcelona, 90 km from Lleida, 95 km from Girona and 90 km from Andorra. The centre of Cardona is just 900 m from the hotel and the following sights are all in the near vicinity: San Vicente Church (80 m), Cardona old town (1 km), the Salt Mountain (2 km) and Montserrat (45 km). Barcelona Airport is 90 km away. This luxury hotel is housed in a 19th century castle the tower of which dates back to the 2nd century. It occupies a prime position overlooking the Cardoner River and the surrounding valley. Fully air-conditioned, the 54-room hotel features a lobby with 24-hour reception and check-out service, as well as hotel safe, currency exchange facility and lift access. There is an on-site caf_ and restaurant and conference facilities are also available. Wireless Internet access is available. Room and laundry services are provided and guests arriving by car can leave their vehicles in the hotel's own private car park. 41 of the hotel's guest rooms have twin beds and all feature an en suite bathroom with shower, bathtub and hairdryer. Further in-room amenities include direct dial telephone, satellite/ cable TV, Internet access, minibar and safe. All of the rooms are bright with various views, whilst the 3 suites feature a four-poster bed and views of the Saline Valley. All rooms have been fitted with individually regulated air conditioning and heating units. The hotel provides guests with an activities guide of the area including tours, excursions, etc. upon arrival. The hotel also has a sauna and a gym that can be used by guests for free. Horse riding is also available, although additional fees apply.

    Facilities

    • Bar
    • Conference Facilities
    • Elevator
    • Foreign Exchange
    • Gym
    • Restaurant
    • Sauna
    • Shop

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Day 7

Day Trip to Barcelona

Spend a day at leisure or head to Barcelona and discover the world-class city of gastronomy, art, architecture, urban beaches and shopping. Visit the famous Boqueria market, Gaudi's masterpieces, walk Las Ramblas and even try its famous vermouth like a local.

Meal Plan Breakfast and Dinner
Day 8

Cardona - Barcelona

After breakfast, drive back to the Barcelona airport, return your car rental and depart home or continue your journey in Spain.

Meal Plan Breakfast

Other Information

DEPARTURES:

Daily

PRICE INCLUDES:

  • 8 day car rental with automatic transmission + basic insurance
  • 2 nights accommodation in Parador Alcala de Henares (Madrid area)
  • 2 nights accommodation in Parador El Saler (Valencia area)
  • 1 night in Parador de Tortosa (Tortosa)
  • 2 nights Parador de Cardona (Cardona)
  • 7 breakfasts (excluding day 1), 6 dinners

PRICE EXCLUDES:

  • Travel insurance
  • Excursions 
  • International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not mentioned
  • Gratuities
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Visa fees if applicable

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.

TB LIBERTYMAD23SD: PSSD
12 Dec 2023
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