Spain
Winter in Spain: Culture & History Along the Southern Coast
Program No. 2211660MEADV-1116-60
Immerse yourself in the cultural bounty of southern Spain, where you’ll discover Moorish architecture, explore the Rock of Gibraltar and learn the vibrant story of this ancient land.
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800-454-5768
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DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Mar 22 - Mar 29, 2025
Starting at
2,399DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jan 25 - Feb 1, 2025
Starting at
2,689Feb 1 - Feb 8, 2025
Starting at
2,689Mar 1 - Mar 8, 2025
Starting at
2,689Mar 22 - Mar 29, 2025
Starting at
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
8 days
7 nights
16 meals
6B 4L 6D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
4
Cordoba & The Moorish Influence
Estepona
7
Gibraltar, Farewell
Estepona
At a Glance
Surrounded by sea and mountains, the southern tip of Spain is an ideal getaway for anyone suffering from the “winter blues.” While the incredible landscapes may be the first thing that draws your eye, this region is also an ideal jumping-off point for exploring Spain’s rich heritage, from ancient Roman and Moorish influences to traditional Andalusian cuisine. With the North African coast in view on a clear day, the seaside communities and verdant vineyards offer a unique connection across cultures and time. Follow in the footsteps of ancient invaders, inspired poets and adventure-seekers both past and present — all along the beautiful Mediterranean coast.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one to two miles per day. Cobblestones, uneven paving, some rough trails, steps without handrails.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Discover breathtaking Sierra de Ronda with visits to Spain’s oldest bullring and ancient Moorish houses.
- Learn about the legacy of 800 years of Moorish rule during a visit to Cordoba's great mosque.
- Explore the Rock of Gibraltar and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the British-style streets of Gibraltar.
General Notes
Give us a call to combine this learning adventure with select dates of "Winter in Spain: Andalusian Highlights" (#22107) for even more learning in Southern Spain! We’ll even transfer you for free by bus or car between locations.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Tony Muldoon
After graduating with a master’s in Hispanic Studies in 1993 from the University of Glasgow, in his native Scotland, Tony Muldoon came to live and work in the mountains of Andalusia — first in the Sierra Nevada and now the Serrania de Ronda. He leads trekking and cultural programs all over Spain, Portugal and Morocco as well as cultivating olives and almonds on his smallholding. His passion for the history, culture and landscapes of his adopted home is heartfelt.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Tony Muldoon
View biography
After graduating with a master’s in Hispanic Studies in 1993 from the University of Glasgow, in his native Scotland, Tony Muldoon came to live and work in the mountains of Andalusia — first in the Sierra Nevada and now the Serrania de Ronda. He leads trekking and cultural programs all over Spain, Portugal and Morocco as well as cultivating olives and almonds on his smallholding. His passion for the history, culture and landscapes of his adopted home is heartfelt.
Fernando Derqui
View biography
Fernando was born and raised in Madrid. At the age of 17, he moved to England where he completed a bachelor’s degree in biological science and an MSA in marine biology. Returning to Madrid, he started leading educational groups abroad to the USA. Finally, he became a professional group leader and has worked full time for the past 26 years, covering most European countries and North Africa. Fernando has a special affinity for Andalucía, Islamic art and architecture as well as Arabic culture and language.
Suggested Reading List
(21 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Winter in Spain: Culture & History Along the Southern Coast
Program Number: 22116
The Truth about Franco - Spain's forgotten Dictatorship
This documentary delves into the past and attempts to examine the almost forty-year rule of Spain's Generalisimo - Francisco Franco.
Ghosts of Spain
Tremlett captures the Spanish character, history and modern politics in this masterful portrait, interweaving the story of his love for the country (where he has lived for 20 years) with interviews, anecdotes and observation.
España - A Brief History of Spain
Bestselling author and journalist, Giles Tremlett delves into the rich and varied history of Spain, from prehistoric times to today, in a brief, accessible and enjoyable account.
The New Spaniards
John Hooper's fascinating study brings to life the new Spain of the 21st century
Moorish Spain
An entertaining and enlightening account of a vital period in Spanish history which transformed the culture and society, not only of Spain, but of the rest of Europe
Driving over Lemons, An Optimist in Andalucia
Stewart's memoir about moving with his wife to a farm in Alpujarras is charming and insightful. Unlike many expatriates, Stewart manages to ground himself far enough into the community to make lasting friends -- as well as a home for his young daughter.
The History of Spain - Land on a Crossroad
Professor Emerita Joyce E. Salisbury of the University of Wisconsin unfurls a broad and fascinating panorama of Spanish history, spanning the centuries from the first Neolithic settlement of the peninsula to Spain’s 20th century Civil War in this documentary series.
Cities of Light: The Rise and Fall of Islamic Spain
The Cities of Light documentary explores the causes that destroyed a civilization of pluralism and interfaith cooperation that for a few centuries lit the Dark Ages in Medieval Europe.
Death in the Afternoon
Ernest Hemingway's classic exploration of the history and pageantry of bullfighting, and the deeper themes of cowardice, bravery, sport and tragedy that it inspires.
Food and Wines of Spain
A classic collection of 400 recipes, interwoven with cultural commentary and the culinary history of Spain
Spain: The Root and the Flower
An absorbing, well-written account of Spanish cultural history from prehistory to the Romans, Jews, Moors, Golden Age, and on to Franco and his legacy in modern Spain.
Into the Arena: The World of the Spanish Bullfight
Fiske-Harrison offers a comprehensive and involving portrait of a controversial Spanish tradition
The Arts in Spain: From Prehistory to Postmodernism
A representative anthology of examples of painting, architecture and sculpture providing a critical overview of Spain. From Iberian and Roman beginnings, the book traces the development of the arts in Spain, examining the magnificent Islamic and Christian foundations at Cordoba and the Escorial, the idiosyncratic masterworks of El Greco, the Golden Age of Zurbaran and Velazquez, the art of Goya, and the innovative works of Picasso, Dali and Miro, and revealing that many of the most characteristic Spanish artistic currents had their origins at the dawn of history.
As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning
Laurie Lee captures the atmosphere of a beautiful but violent Spain during the Spanish Civil War.
Spain Revealed: Cordoba's Mezquita
The definitive guide to the Great Mosque of Cordoba .
Camarón: The Film
Netflix documentary looking back on the life of legendary flamenco singer Camarón, who went from humble roots to rock star status to a tragic early death. (Spanish with English subtitles)
The Spanish Inquisition: A Historical Revision
A clear and objective account of a polemical period of Spanish history
A Vision of Battlements
1965 novel by Anthony Burgess based on his experiences during World War II in Gibraltar, where he was serving with the British army.
Made in Spain
Spanish Chef and philanthropist Jose Andres introduces the cuisine of Spain, in this 13 episode series available on Prime.
Lorca: Living in the Theatre
Compelling biography of Andalusian playwright and author Federico Garcia Lorca – who was executed by Nationalist forces in 1936, allegedly at Franco’s behest- offers readers an in-depth analysis of the work of one of Spain’s most treasured artists.
Gibraltar: The Greatest Siege in British History
A page-turning account of the dramatic four-year siege of Britain’s Mediterranean garrison by Spain and France—and an often overlooked key to the British defeat in the American Revolution.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
8 days
Program Begins
Estepona
Program Concludes
Estepona
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
16
| 6B |
4L |
6D |
Activity Level
Surrounded by sea and mountains, the southern tip of Spain is an ideal getaway for anyone suffering from the “winter blues.” While the incredible landscapes may be the first thing that draws your eye, this region is also an ideal jumping-off point for exploring Spain’s rich heritage, from ancient Roman and Moorish influences to traditional Andalusian cuisine. With the North African coast in view on a clear day, the seaside communities and verdant vineyards offer a unique connection across cultures and time. Follow in the footsteps of ancient invaders, inspired poets and adventure-seekers both past and present — all along the beautiful Mediterranean coast.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Discover breathtaking Sierra de Ronda with visits to Spain’s oldest bullring and ancient Moorish houses.
- Learn about the legacy of 800 years of Moorish rule during a visit to Cordoba's great mosque.
- Explore the Rock of Gibraltar and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the British-style streets of Gibraltar.
General Notes
Give us a call to combine this learning adventure with select dates of "Winter in Spain: Andalusian Highlights" (#22107) for even more learning in Southern Spain! We’ll even transfer you for free by bus or car between locations.
Featured Expert
Tony Muldoon
After graduating with a master’s in Hispanic Studies in 1993 from the University of Glasgow, in his native Scotland, Tony Muldoon came to live and work in the mountains of Andalusia — first in the Sierra Nevada and now the Serrania de Ronda. He leads trekking and cultural programs all over Spain, Portugal and Morocco as well as cultivating olives and almonds on his smallholding. His passion for the history, culture and landscapes of his adopted home is heartfelt.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Fernando Derqui
Fernando was born and raised in Madrid. At the age of 17, he moved to England where he completed a bachelor’s degree in biological science and an MSA in marine biology. Returning to Madrid, he started leading educational groups abroad to the USA. Finally, he became a professional group leader and has worked full time for the past 26 years, covering most European countries and North Africa. Fernando has a special affinity for Andalucía, Islamic art and architecture as well as Arabic culture and language.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one to two miles per day. Cobblestones, uneven paving, some rough trails, steps without handrails.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(21 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Year
- 2025
- 2026
Date
- Jan 25 - Feb 01
- Feb 01 - Feb 08
- Feb 08 - Feb 15
- Feb 15 - Feb 22
- Feb 22 - Mar 01
- Mar 01 - Mar 08
- Mar 08 - Mar 15
- Mar 15 - Mar 22
- Mar 22 - Mar 29
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Mar 15 - Mar 22, 2025 Itinerary Differences: Enroll in this date preceded by the corresponding March 09, 2025 departure of "Winter in Spain: Andalusian Highlights" (#22107) and receive a free bus transfer from one program to the next!
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
- 2025
- 2026
- Jan 25 - Feb 01
- Feb 01 - Feb 08
- Feb 08 - Feb 15
- Feb 15 - Feb 22
- Feb 22 - Mar 01
- Mar 01 - Mar 08
- Mar 08 - Mar 15
- Mar 15 - Mar 22
- Mar 22 - Mar 29
Mar 15 - Mar 22, 2025 Itinerary Differences: Enroll in this date preceded by the corresponding March 09, 2025 departure of "Winter in Spain: Andalusian Highlights" (#22107) and receive a free bus transfer from one program to the next!
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
8 days
7 nights
What's Included
16 meals | 6B | 4L | 6D |
4 expert-led lectures
7 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
6 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Activity Note
Though southern Spain is known for its pleasant winter weather, evenings and inland areas can be chilly. Temperatures generally range from 40 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit; be sure to pack layers so you are prepared for any weather during our program, as well as rain gear in case of showers. Remember to bring your Road Scholar nametag (sent previously).
Day
2
Arrive Málaga, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Estepona
Meals:
D
Stay:
H10 Estepona Palace
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Orientation: 6:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Periods in the schedule designated as "Free time" and "At leisure" offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we'll get to know each other over a plated welcome dinner including complimentary wine and mineral water.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
3
Spain Today, Estepona's Old Town, Payoyo Cheese
Location:
Estepona
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
H10 Estepona Palace
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving to and from downtown Estepona, no more than 5 miles (8 km) in total. Walking up to 1.5 miles (2.4 km); cobblestones and uneven ground in Estepona, rugged terrain at the cheese maker. Extent and duration of free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, we’ll choose from the buffet featuring a selection of bread and pastries, cereal, yogurt, fruit, and cold cuts; beverage choices of coffee, tea, juice, water.
Morning:
We'll gather in a hotel meeting room for an introduction to Spain's mighty past from our Group Leader. We'll then head out by motorcoach to downtown Estepona. Led by a local expert, we will visit the charming pedestrian old town with its Andalusian whitewashed buildings, discover the municipal market and clock tower, and learn about the ancient Phoenician and Moorish invaders.
Lunch:
In the Old Town of Estepona, we will enjoy a selection of simple tapas; mineral water and wine included.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we will head by motor coach to a local cheese producer, where we will learn about the speciality Payoyo cheese, produced from goat's milk from the Cadiz region of Spain.
Dinner:
We will return to the hotel for a buffet dinner
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Cordoba & The Moorish Influence
Location:
Estepona
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
H10 Estepona Palace
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 150 miles (244 km) *one way* to Cordoba. Be prepared for a long driving day. Walking 1.5 miles on city streets with some cobblestones. Temperatures inland can be cooler; warmer clothing may be necessary. Extent and duration of free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will drive inland by motorcoach to Cordoba, former capital of the Muslim Caliphate of Al Andalus. Our expert-led visit of the old town will include the cathedral, popularly known as the "Mezquita," which stands over a Christian church built in the Visigothic period (5th century). After the Moorish conquest of Spain, it was used as a mosque. In 1236, following Cordoba's fall to Ferdinand and after over 500 years of use as a mosque, the site was reconsecrated as Christian and in 1523, a cathedral was erected. The Mezquita of Cordoba is one of the most emblematic monuments in Europe, and a unique example of the interplay of Christian and Muslim cultures in Spain.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in Cordoba.
Afternoon:
Free time. We'll then return to the hotel by motorcoach.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Introduction to Spanish Cookery, Fish Workshop
Location:
Estepona
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
H10 Estepona Palace
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Standing at the workshop and cookery class. Extent and duration of free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Spain is one of the largest consumers of fish in the world. We will meet our local expert at Estepona's fishing port for an on-site presentation of local fishing traditions and an introduction to the fresh local produce that is key to the local economy, and an important component of the renowned Mediterranean diet. Later on, we will transfer by motorcoach to a local venue, where we will join a participative seafood paella making workshop.
Lunch:
We'll enjoy the results of our cooking course with a complimentary glass of wine. We'll then return to the hotel.
Afternoon:
Free time. Group Leader will provide suggestions.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At a local cultural center, we'll enjoy a performance of classic Spanish guitar by a local musician (performance subject to availability and may be substituted).
Day
6
Ronda, Culture of Bulls, Spain Today
Location:
Estepona
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
H10 Estepona Palace
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 50 miles (80.5 km), approximately 1.5 hours one way. Walking up to 2 miles on very uneven terrain, with many cobblestones, inclines and steps without railings. Unpaved trails at the bull ranch. Temperatures inland can be much cooler; warm clothing may be necessary.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will drive north through the beautiful scenery of the Sierra de Ronda. Ronda is an ancient Spanish town, famous for its breathtaking views of the El Tajo gorge that plunges down hundreds of meters and dramatically divides the town into two. Uniting both these sections is a spectacular 18th-century arched bridge. In Ronda, our local expert will show us the oldest bullring in Spain and the ancient Moorish houses.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant in Ronda we will enjoy a light lunch. Water and one glass of wine included
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will head to a nearby bull ranch, where we will join staff for a visit on foot and by motor coach through the Andalusian reserve. Here, we will have the chance to see the Toro Bravo or Toro de Lidia (Spanish Fighting Bull) and thoroughbred Andalusian horses. We will learn about the breed and discuss the arguments and controversy surrounding this Spanish tradition. Later in the afternoon, we will return to the hotel by motorcoach. . After a short rest, we'll join our Group Leader for an examination of Spain today. We will hear about the radical evolution of Spain and Andalusia since Franco's death, the advent of democracy in 1975, as well as the current challenges and opportunities faced by the Spanish population.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Gibraltar, Farewell
Location:
Estepona
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
H10 Estepona Palace
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach and minibus in Gibraltar; driving about 30 miles (47.9 km), approximately 45 minutes to Rock of Gibraltar. Walking about 1.5 miles during the included activities. Extent and duration of free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We'll depart by motorcoach on a field trip to the Rock of Gibraltar, a small peninsula on the Spanish coast under British jurisdiction, and a major area of dispute over the centuries. During the drive along the Costa del Sol, your Group Leader will explain the reasons and arguments behind the sovereignty of this 7.5-mile stretch of land. Once across the border, we will join our local expert and board a minibus to the Punta de Europa (European Point) from where you can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the British-style streets of Gibraltar and, in clear weather, the Moroccan coastline. Later, we will visit the underground World War II tunnels from where Operation Torch – the Allied invasion of North Africa – was planned, see the famous Barbary "apes" (macaca sylvanus) who roam freely around the peninsula, and the pillars of Hercules – the legendary promontories that flank the entrance to the Straits of Gibraltar.
Lunch:
Enjoy local cuisine on your own.
Afternoon:
Free time. We'll then return to the hotel and hold a program wrap-up meeting prior to dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Say farewell to new Road Scholar friends and prepare for departure in the morning.
Day
8
Program Concludes, Departure from Malaga
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by Noon. Airport transfers beginning at approximately 4:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet, flight times permitting. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don't forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
16 Meals
6 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
6 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025
- Jan 25, 2025 - Feb 01, 2025
- Feb 01, 2025 - Feb 08, 2025
- Feb 08, 2025 - Feb 15, 2025
- Feb 15, 2025 - Feb 22, 2025
- Feb 22, 2025 - Mar 01, 2025
- Mar 01, 2025 - Mar 08, 2025
- Mar 08, 2025 - Mar 15, 2025
- Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025
- Mar 22, 2025 - Mar 29, 2025
- Jan 24, 2026 - Jan 31, 2026
- Jan 31, 2026 - Feb 07, 2026
- Feb 07, 2026 - Feb 14, 2026
- Feb 14, 2026 - Feb 21, 2026
- Feb 21, 2026 - Feb 28, 2026
- Feb 28, 2026 - Mar 07, 2026
- Mar 07, 2026 - Mar 14, 2026
- Mar 14, 2026 - Mar 21, 2026
- Mar 21, 2026 - Mar 28, 2026
Participant Reviews
Based on 34 Reviews
Sort By:
Gibraltar and the mosque at Cordoba were bucket items for me! We got much more than a 'bird's eye view' of Gibraltar. Our leader, Fernando, was the greatest! I was concerned about too much 'free time' but we had the perfect balance of activity and leisure, in my opinion. I would give this trip a '5'--a great deal of variety and a great winter getaway.
— Review left July 16, 2024
The Andalucian region of Spain is so fascinating with a wide range of interesting features. I'm happy for this opportunity to visit the area.
— Review left March 26, 2024
See my note below--a review of this trip and Winter in Spain: Andalusian Highlights.
Both trips were fabulous.
Our guide, Paula (Andalusian Highlights), was superb. 8 of us from this trip continued on to Winter In Spain: Culture & History Along the Southern Coast. Fernando, our guide for this program, was equally excellent.
These two trips were back to back. All eight of us were glad to have taken both trips. They did not duplicate one another and the areas and activities were different and equally interesting. If you have time, sign up for both. The hotel in Estepona was nicer that the hotel in Nerja, but both were on the beach and well located. Food was excellent. You could walk to town (30 min or longer) from both hotels. If you have time, go to the Nerja Cave--it's fantastic and beautiful.
— Review left March 19, 2024
This program will build your understanding of how new food sources are developed, the risks to current supplies, the impact of history on our societies, and how geography affects history and economies. See some wonders of the medieval world--and miss others lost due to conflicts. Enjoy learning how some foods are produced, and taste the joys of Mediterranean diet. You will be on the move throughout the day, with options to slow during limited free time.
— Review left March 17, 2024
Great program given at a perfect time just before other mainly European tourists arrive. Absolutle lovely hotel with great food, very relaxing atmosphere
— Review left March 3, 2024
A great winter break! Visiting Moorish Spain was on my bucket list and this trip did not disappoint--lovely hotel, delicious food, and flowers added to the romantic atmosphere.
— Review left February 16, 2024
I could not be happier with my experience in Southern Spain. The instructor, events, trips and people were just excelente!
— Review left February 6, 2024
This program was packed with things to see and do. We had long days and were on our feet quite a bit, which is the way I like it. But if you are not willing to be on your feet, you might choose a different program. That said, the walking was easy without a lot of steps most of the time. Be ready to eat a lot of great food, especially the lunches. The amount of contact with local people was a real plus in understanding the region and added to the fun.
— Review left March 13, 2023
A wonderful educational experience.
— Review left March 9, 2023
I want to go on more trips
— Review left March 9, 2023
We have traveled extensively in the US but this was our first trip to Europe. Road Scholars made it seamless, stressless and educational. Before we signed up, I thought the programs were a bit pricy but we more than got our money's worth from the program. We are already pondering what our next trip should be!
— Review left March 5, 2023
The trip was very well done. Our guide, Fernando was great. I truely enjoyed it. I have been on two other tours with companies other than Road Scholar. I would take a future trip with Road Scholar.
— Review left February 28, 2023
Road Scholar is always a good bet, but my experience with this program was particularly positive because of the different types of activities. Not only did we visit some of the tried-and-true tourist attractions (e.g., Cordoba's Mezquita; Ronda), but we also participated in activities that we never would have thought would be so enjoyable (e.g., cheesemaking; making paella; performance of Flamencan guitarist and singer and a community center). All local guides were excellent -- pleasant, interesting, and knowledgeable. The group seemed just the right size, diverse, and easy-going. Tony, the group leader, was stellar -- so well-organized and informative, both in his instructions for the day and the lectures he presented.
— Review left February 6, 2023
This trip was our first with Road Scholar. It was everything as advertised plus. We have travel extensively by boat, train, bike and bus. This was a wonderful experience with a nice educational component. I would recommend Road Scholar trips for anyone interested in that.
— Review left March 30, 2022
Excellent program. The hotel was very nice- clean and the food was good. The leader (Fernando) was superb. He couldn't have been more compassionate and attentive to all of our needs. I particularly enjoyed Cordoba and the orchidarium in Estepona. It was lovely having a hotel next to the Mediterranean Sea.
— Review left March 26, 2022
The program was interesting and informative. It was a wonderful trip!!
— Review left March 24, 2022
Beautiful, historical, culturally significant. Great accommodations, food, wine. Knowledgeable, colorful and talented locals are enjoyable ambassadors. Spain is beautiful and cosmopolitan. Don’t hesitate!
— Review left March 20, 2022
Our time in Estepona was very interesting and educational. Tony was an excellent group leader, and added a lot to our experience. In addition, he was called on to handle a number of departures from the norm, and he performed admirably. If I have one suggestion, it would have to do with free time. We had plenty in Estepona itself, and I found that quite enjoyable. However, some additional time in both Ronda and Cordoba would have been greatly appreciated. It seemed that both of those destinations found us leaving to meet some return time that appeared quite arbitrary. Why did we have to get back to the hotel at 5? Much better to have had an extra half hour in each of those amazing towns!
— Review left March 19, 2022
This excellent trip will exceed your expectations -- combining Cordoba, Ronda and Gilbrater in one trip and I loved the town of Estepona where we stayed. Fabulously beautiful part of Spain on the Mediterranean.
— Review left March 10, 2022
This was my first experience with RS and I am extremely impressed. I combined two trips together in Southern Spain. It was all the fun of traveling without the logistical hassles of lodging, food and transportation. It was educational; my the tour guides were excellent. We were given tours by local educated experts. I met like minded others and plan to stay in touch even visit them. Some might find RS pricey but most costs are included. I didn't spend more than 150 Euros and 50 of that went to a covid test we got in our hotel. They are thorough especially if you book your travel arrangements with them. They pick you up in country and make arrangements to get to your returning flt and everything in between.
— Review left February 27, 2022
Try Road Scholar. Fun and educational!
— Review left January 30, 2022
Winter in Spain is a very well organized and interesting program set in gorgeous sunny location.
— Review left March 1, 2020
Beautiful weather in a gorgeous setting. Couldn't ask for a better time. Three excursions to Gibraltar, Cordoba and Ronda balanced off with day trips to Esponza for a walking tour of the city of flowers and a chance to cook our own paella.
— Review left March 1, 2020
Always wanted to see Gibraltar: the resident macaques, the WW II tunnels, the lit up limestone caves? here's your chance, with well organized negotiations of passport control, mini buses and cave tours.
— Review left February 28, 2020
Wonderful trip! In addition to perfect weather and lovely accommodations from which we could see the Rock of Gibraltar, we had wonderful visits/guides to Cordoba and Ronda, as well as great interaction with local people. Cordoba and Gibraltar were as outstanding as I had expected, but visiting the town of Estepona and the fish market were unexpected pleasures. The paella making demo and competition were great fun, and my team won!
— Review left February 28, 2020
This was an excellent week of activities based on an ideally located high-end resort in Estepona with an excellent buffet. Our guide Fernando was personable and hard-working and did his best to involve everyone and make sure they had a pleasant experience. Highlights for us were the visit to Ronda and the olive farm there and the visit to the Mezquita in Cordoba.
— Review left February 26, 2020
The trip was fabulous but I wish the buses had a bathroom.
On these trips we are old seniors and a bathroom on the bus is a necessity. The frequent stops is not enough.
— Review left February 25, 2020
This was a wonderful experience! - The hotel is a large resort situated smack right on the beach, with a long promenade for walking along the ocean. There is entertainment provided by the hotel at night and the buffet meals where the best I have ever had when traveling. I also found it safe to walk on my own during the day to a convenience store located nearby and to the marina downtown. The towns we visited were all clean and well selected for history and charm. I especially loved Cordoba and Ronda. I took advantage of an optional tour to the Estepona Orchid House which was a fantastic surprise paid for by RS. This trip inspired me to want to see more of Spain which I am registered to do in 2020. I only had time for one week of travel, but would highly recommend this trip!
— Review left May 1, 2019
Worthwhile for the visit to the Mezquita in Cordoba despite the long, but scenic, drive. The field trip to the fishing docks and fish auction was an unexpected highlight. The old town of Estepona was beautiful and the Spanish guitar concert memorable.
— Review left April 5, 2019
I've always been afraid that a group tour would be ridged, or personally constricting. Worse, that I would find myself struck with people I wish I wasn't. But the Road Scholar Program I participated in, could not have been done alone. It was expansive, informative, and best of all, socially gratifying. I'm glad that I fought my prejudices.
— Review left March 24, 2019
This is a wonderful trip, being able to experience a region of Spain away from the major cities and more traveled areas. I feel I have a better understanding into the daily life of folks living in southern Spain, it's a beautiful, slower paced and very unique area. The history and culture is fascinating. I strongly recommend this trip.
— Review left March 5, 2019
I really enjoyed this trip and would recommend it and its companion trip based in Nerja to anyone who wants to explore Andalucia and the Moorish culture of Spain. Our guide, Tony, gave very clear and detailed talks on everything from Spanish culture, history and politics to the cultivating and various uses of olives. Highly recommended.
— Review left March 2, 2019
High lights of this program were the trips to Cordoba and Gibraltar.
— Review left February 18, 2019
This was an excellent trip. We covered wonderful sites. The group leader Emma was excellent.
From wine tastings, to making paella to Cordoba with the wonderful Mosque/Cathedral. All and all wonderful
— Review left January 27, 2019
