Details:
Day 1 Arrival Cacassonne (France) / North Barcelona (Spain)
All passengers to fly on own to France, in Cacassonne in south of France. Upon arrival at the local airport, you will be met by tour manager and driver. A short drive brings you to the city old town. At the edge of the River Aude. Here, on the opposite bank is one of the most breathtaking sights in Europe, the old medieval town of Carcassonne, known as La Cit? Dominated by the 12th century castle, this ancient walled town is astoundingly beautiful. It was said to be Walt Disney's inspiration for the castle in Sleeping Beauty. Entering the old fortification, via the Narbonnaise towers and gate, we come face to face with La Cite ? The old town centre itself is half a mile from one side to the other, with narrow cobbled streets and plenty of shops to browse. Climb up to The Count's Castle, with its a square tower and eight semi-circular towers, protected by a barbican. from here looking out over endless miles of vineyards.
(This short transfer will continue until 3.30 p.m. whereby at this time, the last arriving passenger should appear. We will then proceed to Areny de Mar township, at the edge of the Ibero peninisula. Late arrivals to France, will need to pre-arrange with the tour operator on the best way to meet up with the main party. )
This evening, entering Catalonia, one of the most out standing provinces of Spain, not only it has its own culinary pride, its folklore and culture, it even has its own language. Here we shall enjoy our three wonderful nights. .
(Western Dinner)
Day 2 Full-day tour in Barcelona
There is never a dull moment in the second largest city of Spain. The city tour takes us into the Old and New Quarters, dissected by the famous La Ramblas pedestrian mall - the focal point. Visit the Tetuan Square, Arch of Triumph, the Magnificent Lau Seu Cathedral, and the Christopher Columbus monument by the seafront. Then we drive up to Montjuic, site of the 1992 Summer Olympics for a panoramic view of the city by the sea. It is at the Spanish Village where we end the day tour with this highlight. All the best samples of Catalonia and Spanish architecture are being represented to you in a nutshell. Most of the " houses " are handi-crafts Centres for arts and crafts which will no doubt catch your interests. Later spent some free time at the Plaza Catalonia, Barcelona main shopping district and Cort des Inglais department store. This evening, we arrive at our hotel on the seaside resort of Costa Brava, and why not after dinner, stroll with friends to enjoy the balmy night by the beach?.
(Breakfast / Western Dinner)
Day 3 More treasures of Barcelona's Gaudi
Indeed there are not many artists in the 19th century that could rival Spain own prodigy - Antonio Gaudi and his team-mates. What is sad but true, is these creators of arts are never as revered only after death. Gaudi left a legacy that we are fortunate to be inspired by. This morning as we return to the city, our path follows all of his works. At the incomplete Church of Sagrada Familia, which ranks as one of the most extraordinary buildings in the world, a master piece by Gaudi, we see the spectacular towers and the unique structure which is now a national treasure. Then to Casa Batllo, completed in 1906 for a wealthy family, your walk through the house gives you depth to appreciate the genius in authenticity. We come to Park Guell, the familiar Gaudi curves and mosaic work are evident all over the park, such as the benches. Within the 20 hectares park you will also find two pavilions joined by a dividing wall that sets the main entrance. The hall of 96 columns serves as a support for the upper plaza which was once intended to be the open forum of the new arden city development. Here you will also find his home. After dinner, we head towards the University township of Lerida..
(Breakfast / Chinese Lunch)
Day 4 Zaragoza / Madrid
In Zaragoza, the capital of Aragon Region. It is the culminant point in the valley of Ebro, Spain? most water-bearing river, in an impressive landscape. Founded some 2000 years ago, and Old-Iberians, Romans, Goths and Arabians equally left their heritage. We stop here for own lunch and time to wander in the largest Cathedral Squares in the region and to admire the Bas?ica de Nuestra Se?ra del Pilar, the town hall and it? shopping street. In the early evening, we journey through the mountainous region towards Madrid, passing massive red rock formations, dramatic peaks and the occasional hawk hovering above towering cliffs. Sit back, relax and take stock of a fascinating holiday of a lifetime towards Madrid Est.
(Breakfast / Western dinner)
Day 5 Madrid city tour / Palacio Real (Royal Palace visit)
There is never a dull moment in the second largest city of Spain. The city tour takes us into the Old and New Quarters, dissected by the famous La Ramblas pedestrian mall - the focal point. Visit the Tetuan Square, Arch of Triumph, the Magnificent Lau Seu Cathedral, and the Christopher Columbus monument by the seafront. Then we drive up to Montjuic, site of the 1992 Summer Olympics for a panoramic view of the city by the sea. It is at the Spanish Village where we end the day tour with this highlight. All the best samples of Catalonia and Spanish architecture are being represented to you in a nutshell. Most of the " houses " are handi-crafts Centres for arts and crafts which will no doubt catch your interests. Later spent some free time at the Plaza Catalonia, Barcelona main shopping district and Cort des Inglais department store. This evening, we arrive at our hotel on the seaside resort of Costa Brava, and why not after dinner, stroll with friends to enjoy the balmy night by the beach?.
(Breakfast / Chinese Dinner)
Day 6 El Escorial / Salamanca
In the morning, we come to El Escorial, one of the everlasting monuments commissioned by Felipe II. It includes a church; monastery; library; royal mausoleum and imperial Palace all rolled in to one world heritage building of today. The Palace was intended to combine all the functions of Church and state. It also contains the bodies of all but two of the kings of Spain from Charles V to Alfonso XIII. Visit it on your own (Ticket pay at the gate; appointed palace guide is available at the ticket desk) within it gives us an intriguing insight into the mind of Philip II, who erected it in a barren and severe setting as a memorial to his father, `to offer respect and honour to death,' At close range the beauty of the palace's ornamentation and of its pools and gardens can be seen; but one can also view the small, bare and poorly furnished cell in which Philip chose to die. It is this mixture of royal grandeur and monastic austerity that makes El Escorial unique. Later, time to savour the splendid edifice and surroundings. This evening, we come face to the " OXFORD" of Spain, the most important University town - Salamanca.
(Breakfast / Western Dinner)
Day 7 Salamanca / Fatima (Portugal) / Lisbon / Setubal
Salamanca is a small and friendly Spanish university town. Many students from all over are seen, whether to study Spanish or learn another subject Salamanca is not only a learning center in the country, also a distinguished establishment for many centuries. A short stroll through the township, we see the two Cathedrals, the most beautiful squares of Spain that is the Plaza Mayor, and that unique facade of the Casa de Las Conchas ?or simply "house of the shells". We then continue our journey, to feel the Portuguese air titillating our senses in the afternoon. We are in the village of Fatima. Home to 3 shepherds - Lucy, Francisco and Jacinta. These were the three children who had seen the vision of The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared, a total of 6 times between May 13 and October 13, 1917. She came to the little village of Fatima which had remained faithful to the Catholic Church. Today, tens of millions tourists or pilgrims around to world has set foot in the shrine. One could either simply light a candle or devote a lengthy period of meditation. You will find this place most fascinating. The pristine white basilica in the neoclassic style was erected at one end of the wide square. If you wish to go inside, be prepared to be suitably dressed. Women are asked not to enter wearing slacks or "other masculine attire." Men wearing shorts are also excluded. Still, for the rest, there are shops, cafes and stalls to browse with yet more opportunity to learn the stories that evolves around this famous township. Before dinner we enjoy a video presentation by the Consolata Fathers on the history of Fatima. Continue to Lisbon for your dinner before checking in the hotel.
(Breakfast / Chinese Dinner)
Day 8 Sintra and Estoril coastal circuit
1) Sintra National Palace and Historical Centre.
2) To the end of the Earth, on the Atlantic lookout-point - Cape Roca.
3) Estoril Coast line, with the famous Casino.
4) Rugged cliffs along the Atlantic Coast.
It can be said that if you come to Portugal and Lisbon, it is mandatory to visit the northern Coast! Ostentatiously named as "the end of the earth", which is indeed an exhilarating experience when you come right to edge of the European Continent. The endless horizon is the Atlantic Ocean, at this point, here in Cape Roca, the lonely lighthouse stands. This is the spot where you stand at the furthermost edge on the European Continent. Why not have a certificate printed here, a great souvenir for all visitors. We continue our scenic drive along the shimmering sea along the Estoril Coast. It will always be remembered as a place of charm, having several attractions like its famous beaches and the pretty towns of Estoril and Cascais. There is the town of Sintra and its natural surroundings, confirmed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site! An encounter with the History and Culture of Portugal in the afternoon as we make an orientation drive in the capital - Lisbon. Spread across seven hills, Lisbon offers many delightful and distinctive regions to discover. The Alfama Hill is the oldest part of the city and is crowned by Castelo de St Jorge (St George's Castle). The Baixa is the heart of the city where best shopping could be found. To the west of the city is Bel , boasting two world heritage sites - the Torre de Bel (Bel Tower) and the Mosteir o dos J er imos (Jeronimo Monastery). You will also see the huge statue of Christ, that resembles the one found in Brazil's capital, the statue is most impressive, when you cross the river Tagus on the suspension bridge, similar to the one you find in San Francisco. Tour ends after your meal back at the hotel.
(Breakfast / Chinese Dinner)
Day 9 Depart Portugal
Depart for airport today after breakfast. Here is where your tour manager and driver bid you farewell and goodbye.
(* Ticket from back to the UK is NOT included, agent could assist you in making this reservation. You may also stay back on your own accord, you could either fly out from Lisbon or Faro where we could provide you with one transfer. )
(Breakfast)
Last update: 14 Aug 2007
.JPG)
