Spanish Sunshine Winter Warmer in Benidorm

DAY 1

After this morning's pick-ups, we head across the English Channel by ferry, with an overnight stay in France this evening.

DAY 2

We continue our journey south, crossing the Spanish border into Lloret de Mar, a vibrant coastal town where we'll stay for two nights.

DAY 3

Enjoy a full-day excursion into beautiful Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia. Fabulously cosmopolitan and rich in history, you'll have up to five hours of free time to explore this stunning city as you wish. Why not visit Gaudi's unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, or explore the gothic streets found alongside the bustling shops of Las Ramblas?

DAY 4

We continue our journey south with a visit to Tarragona, a historic coastal city. Once a Roman colony, you can explore a second-century amphitheatre and traces of the old forum among the alleys of the walled Old Town. After some free time here, we continue onto Benidorm, your home in the Spanish sunshine for the next twenty-one nights.

DAY 5

We start with a leisurely morning, perfect for getting to know your hotel and surrounding area. This afternoon, we head into the mountains to visit charming Guadelest. Founded by the Moors, this thriving inland mountain town is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. You'll find a mix of medieval Spanish and Muslim architecture, alongside a collection of shops, cafes and bars. For those able, we recommend climbing up to the castle ruins, which provide spectacular views of the surrounding mountainside.

DAY 6

This morning, after breakfast, we head to Elche. Well-known for its beautiful palm trees and shoemaking tradition, the city is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Highlights include the Basilica de Santa Maria and the famous 'Huerto del Cura' Garden, where you will find the great imperial palm and over two thousand species of flora and fauna.
Our day will also include a visit to the thriving harbour town of Alicante, a famous tourist centre on the Costa Blanca. Why not relax in the famous marina, a popular hotspot for luxury yachts, or explore the medieval old town and the Castle of Santa Barbara that stands above it?

DAYS 7 TO 21

Enjoy the beauty of Benidorm over the next two weeks. With a comfortable, mild climate, this much-loved resort is popular with those looking to escape the winter back home. With a variety of traditional Spanish culture, vibrant nightlife and home comforts, you'll have plenty to explore daily. Stroll along the old town's cobbled streets, home to blue-domed churches, bustling flea markets and Tapas Alley, perfect for sampling local delicacies. You'll also find miles of sandy, golden beaches, the famous Bingo Plaza, or treat yourselves to an evening of entertainment at the famous Benidorm Palace, where incredible gymnasts, flamenco dancers and trapeze artists perform for you alongside magicians, comedians and singers - one thing's for sure, in Benidorm you'll find something to suit all tastes and pockets! If you're looking to travel a little further afield, local excursions are available and can booked with the hotel reception.

DAY 22

Our next included excursion is to Denia, home to a thriving coastal port and marina. Here, you'll find countless waterfront bars, cafés and restaurants to visit with something for everybody. Denia is also home to a fantastic castle that offers spectacular views over the town below and the surrounding area. This afternoon, we continue to Javea, boasting a wide sandy beach flanked by a promenade of shops, bars and restaurants. Nestled between two rocky headlands, it still has the charm of the ancient fishing village it once was - the fishing harbour is situated next to an attractive marina, whilst its historic quarter is full of beautiful architecture and monuments such as the church of San Bartolomé.

DAY 23

Today we included an excursion to Valencia, a tremendous cornucopia of Spanish sights, sounds and flavours. With heritage around every corner, step back in time exploring the twisting narrow cobbled streets of the picturesque Old Quarter, taking in the medieval might of the Cathedral, the ancient bell tower and bustling Central Market. Valencia is also the birthplace of paella, a Spanish staple, and we recommend trying it here for the most authentic experience.

DAY 24

Today's half-day excursion includes a visit to Villajoyosa, best known for its brightly coloured houses, palm tree-laden promenade, and chocolate! We also include a visit to the Valor Chocolate Museum. Here, we'll find out why 'La Villa' is recognised for its chocolate-making, exploring over one hundred years of history with an opportunity to sample freshly made products and even take some home from the in-house shop.

DAY 25

After breakfast, we depart Benidorm, starting our journey north. This afternoon, we'll enjoy a visit to Girona. This Catalonian city is best known for its medieval architecture; it is home to the Forca Vella Roman fortress, a wonderfully preserved Jewish Quarter and the beautiful Placa de la Catedral, used during the filming of Game of Thrones. After some free time, we continue to our overnight hotel over the border in France.

DAY 26

We continue our journey through the heart of France to our final overnight hotel.

DAY 27

Enjoy the final leg of our journey home through France before our return ferry across the English Channel.