Spain and Morocco In Style

Itinerary

• Morocco

  Morocco is located in North Africa with a population of nearly 34 million. It has a coast on the Atlantic Ocean that reaches past the Strait of Gibraltar into the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco has international borders with Algeria to the east, and Mauritania to the south. Morocco was drawn into the Mediterranean world by Phoenician trading colonies and settlements in the late Classical period. This strategic region formed part of the Roman Empire, Vandals, Visigoths, Byzantine Greeks, and Islamic empires. During this time, the high mountains of most of modern Morocco remained in control of their Berber inhabitants. The Treaty of Fez (1912) made Morocco a protectorate of France, but in 1955 the country regained its independence. The capitol city is Rabat, and main economic center is Casablanca. Tangiers is a port located very close to Spain, and receives a lot of European traffic. The cities of Marrakech and Fes are both UNESCO sites. There is a broad range of other sites, the ancient seaport of Essaouira, desert gateway of Ouarzazate, and the mountain passes of the high Atlas Mountains.

• Casablanca

  Casablanca is a city in western Morocco, on the Atlantic coast. It is the country's largest city and chief port. The site was used early on as a port for Romans and Phoenicians, eventually becoming a town under Portuguese rule, and later abandoned in the mid 1700's after a devastating earthquake. In 1907, the French took control of the rebuilt Casablanca and retained power until 1956. The city still retains much of its French colonial architecture and culture.

• Fes

  Fès is the most ancient and impressive of the imperial cities. Built in the eighth century, it has more history and mystery than anywhere else in Morocco. The medina (market) in Fès El Bali is one of the largest in the world and is also on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. It is a huge maze of winding streets and covered bazaars where you can buy almost anything. It is particularly good for carpets, rugs and ornate metalwork.

• Marrakech

  Marrakech, founded over 1,000 years ago, is also known as the ‘red city’, from the natural red-ochre pigment that colours its walls and buildings, and is perhaps the most famous city in Morocco. A combination of the old (the Medina) and the new (Guéliz), Marrakech is an exotic cocktail of sights and sounds. Its roots are Berber, rather than Arab, having developed as the metropolis of nomadic and Atlas tribes (from the plains and Sahara desert). Once upon a time, Marrakech was the marketplace for goods of all type (slaves, gold, ivory) brought by caravan from distant Southern empires, a commerce which shaped its souks and carnival way of life.

• Spain

  Spain is a country located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. Its mainland is bordered to the south and east by the Mediterranean Sea, to the north by France, and to the west by Portugal. Spanish territory also includes the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean. Spain is the second largest country in Western Europe after France. Because of its location, Spain has had an intriguing role in global history. Archaeological and genetic evidence suggests that the Iberian Peninsula acted as one of three major refugia from which northern Europe was repopulated following the end of the last ice age. Andalusia was the furthest reach of the great Moorish empire. And it was also the seat of a global empire that discovered the New World, and left a legacy of over 400 million Spanish speakers today. Through war and peace, under different religions, and with strong regional differences - Spain continues to be a remarkable destination with intriguing cities and natural beauty.

• Granada

  Granada's rich Moorish history and the spectacular backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains have long inspired the spirit of romance among inhabitants and visitors alike. The old city has changed little in hundreds of years, and the incomparable Alhambra palace is an architectural masterpiece that should not be missed.

• Seville

  Seville is the capital of the province of the same name. With a population of some 704,000 people, Seville is the fourth largest city in Spain and is considered the cultural centre of the region. Its history dates back more than 2,000 years. Romans, Vandals, Visigoths and Moors all left their presence in the city. The Moors ruled from here during their occupation of Andalucia, and their influence can still be seen in the "Mudejar" architecture of the city. The cathedral is the largest Gothic structure in the world and a symbol of Spain.

• • Seville
  • Calle Mateos Gago, Sevilla
  • Petit Palace Marques Santa Ana

  Day 1: Seville

  Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.

  A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.

  Embark on a Seville walking tour with your own private guide to check out the most important landmarks of the city. You will see La Torre del Oro (The Golden Tower), a Moorish-built tower dating from 1222, which formed part of the old defensive wall that protected the old city. You will also see Triana (this Gypsy district is the home of flamenco), Santa Cruz (the Old Jewish Quarter and a labyrinth of tiny alleys with white houses with traditional Moorish courtyards), Reales Alcazares (a Moorish palace-fortress which originally dates back to 913AD and has been the residence of various kings and boasts impressive gardens and fountains) and The Cathedral and Giralda, originally a 12th Century mosque, of which only the minaret (La Giralda) and the orange tree courtyard now remain. The cathedral is also Europe's second largest. If you have a particular interest in bullfighting, we can substitute some of the above for a visit to the Real Maestranza (The Maestranza Bullring). Built between 1767 and 1880 this famous bullring houses a museum dedicated to the world of bull fighting.

  Accommodation: Petit Palace Marqués Santa Ana (4*)

  The Petit Palace Marqués Santa Ana (4*) is located in in Jimios Street, the heart of the city centre, in the vicinity of Seville's famous Cathedral, and from which all major tourist and historical zones are within walking distance. The Hotel occupies an emblematic building dating from the middle of the XIX Century, which has been completely renovated in March 2005, making it one of the best hotels in the city. The Petit Palace Marqués Santa Ana offers the services of Buffet-Breakfast, Meeting Room, Private Garage and Internet Corner with free internet access (LMDS-2Mb), located in the hall with daylight.

• • Guadalquivir river cruise
  • Flamenco dancer

  Day 2: Seville

  Enjoy a cruise seeing the city's key sights from the river; Torre del Oro, La Giralda, La Maestranza Bullring, Expo 92 Site and many more. The Guadalquivir river is known as the great and millenary river, the romantic river and the river of the conquerors as well as being the only navigable river in Spain. Enjoy the marvellous views that this privileged route offers and listen to the audio commentary highlighting all the major attractions enroute. You can admire the varied architecture of its bridges, the monuments by the banks or the avant-garde landscape. The cruise lasts one hour and you will be dropped off where you started.

  Enjoy a breathtaking evening at El Arenal watching a fantastic performance of Flamenco. Located in the center of Seville (next door to the Bullring La Maestranza), El Arenal offers both regulars and tourists a unique and friendly atmosphere. Singers, Guitarists and Dancers share the experience to make you feel the art of "Flamenco". They will introduce you to various flamenco styles through song, guitar and dance. You will also have the opportunity to taste the Spanish and local cuisine for dinner while you enjoy a glass of wine and mineral water.

  Accommodation: Petit Palace Marqués Santa Ana (4*)
• • Granada
  • Alhambra Palace, Granada

  Day 3: Seville - Granada

  Meet your driver for a private train station transfer.

  Enjoy your train ride from Seville to Granada. The train ride takes approximately three hours.

  Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.

  Enjoy a guided exploration of the Albaicín, the old Moorish quarter of Granada with your private English-speaking guide. You will be shown how this medieval Islamic city has kept its identity into the modern age, as your guide explains its history and character in anecdotal style. As you walk through its cat’s cradle of twisting alleyways, you will come across stunning views of the city, the majestic Alhambra palaces and, beyond, the often snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada. You will pass by churches built on the sites of mosques, stroll underneath the walls of the scented gardens of carmens, and stop in squares to take in the slow rhythms of daily life in this most traditional and yet singular neighborhood. A stop for refreshments in a cafe or bar is included.

  Accommodation: Alhambra Palace (4*)

  The Alhambra Palace (4*) is located in the hills overlooking the city of Granada, facing opposite the Albaicín. The hotel is just 5 minutes from the Alhambra and less than 5 minutes from the Plaza Nueva, historic and central shopping district. Noted are the excellent views from many of the 126 guest rooms and several common terraces. The Hotel Alhambra provides an atmosphere, both inside and out, which is reminiscent of the nearby Alhambra. The restaurant, bar and terraces are popular for their magnificent views and the perfect place to end the day with a drink or meal.

• • Alhambra Palace interior
  • Bike Tour- Sierra Nevada
  • 

  Day 4: Granada

  Enjoy a private tour with a local guide as you visit the UNESCO world heritage site of the Alhambra palace and gardens. On a rocky hill, on the banks of the River Darro, protected by mountains and amongst the eldest quarter in the city, the Alhambra rises up like an imposing castle with its distinctive reddish stone in its ramparts that prevent the outside world from seeing the delicate beauty enclosed within. Originally designed as a military area, the Alhambra became the residence of royalty and the court of Granada in the middle of XIII century. Throughout the XIII, XIV and XV centuries the fortress became a citadel which housed two main areas: the military area (or Alcazaba) and the medina (or court city) where Charles V Palace was built after the city was taken by the Catholics. The complex of monuments has also an independent palace opposite the Alhambra; The Generalife, which is surrounded by orchards and beautiful gardens which you will also visit. (Tour includes entrance into the palace).

  There is a wide range of optional active activities that you can add to your tour; consider any of the following: a Granada Countryside Walk,  a guided Wine Stroll,  a Bike Tour around the Sierra Nevada mountain range or Horseback riding. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if any of these are of interest.

  Enjoy navigating the custom of tapas with a local expert. Going out for drinks and tapas – or “tapeando” – is an event enjoyed throughout Spain, and everywhere has its local variations. The frustration that many visitors experience is that this can mean never quite knowing the “rules of the game”, and a feeling that the authentic bars and tapas are eluding them. A local resident guide will steer you away from the comfortable but bland, sit-down options and take you into the places where locals go, jostling at the bar for elbow-room, and sampling some great dishes amid a lively atmosphere. There is an option to sample vegetarian tapas if requested. (Includes drinks & tapas in three different bars). (Vegetarian on request).

  Accommodation: Alhambra Palace (4*)
• • Fez Mosque
  • La Maison Bleue - Patio

  Day 5: Granada - Algeciras - Tangier - Fes

  Meet your driver for a private transfer from Granada to Algeciras.

  Enjoy the short (35 minute) ferry ride between Algeciras in Spain to Tangier in the Northern part of Morocco.

  A private vehicle with driver is made available for usage today.

  After your tour of Tangier, you'll head to Fez via Chefchaouen. Chaouen, or Chefchaouen in Berber, is one of the most beautiful cities in Rif the mountainous massif which is the last rampart before the Mediterranean and the Iberian Peninsula. Chefchaouen is known by its Medina of shady alleys, whitewashed houses with blue turquoise doors, wrought iron windows and tile covered roofs. The souks are decorated with their traditionally dressed inhabitants toing and froing in their straw hats.

  Accommodation: Riad Maison Bleue

  Riad La Maison Bleue is located in one of the most historic quarters of the Fès Medina. A mysterious door off a laneway opens to reveal a wonder of Arabo-Andalusian architecture. La Maison Bleue was built as a family palace in 1915 by Sidi Mohammed El Abbadi, a famous judge and astrologer of the times. Enter the mysterious inner courtyards and lifestyle of the city of Fès, jewel of the Arab world, where blue zellij mosaics, finely carved cedar-wood doors, stained glass windows with wrought iron grilles and stucco cornices come together in refined harmony. You will find the house a haven of peace in the heart of the bustling Medina.

• • Fez
  • Cooking Class

  Day 6: Fes

  Explore the cultural and spiritual center of Morocco during this full day tour of Fes. Also known as Fes el Bali, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was founded in the 9th century, and is home to the world's oldest university. The city of Fes reached its true economic and cultural height in the 13th–14th centuries under the Merinids, when it replaced Marrakech as the capital of the kingdom.   Although the political capital of Morocco was transferred to Rabat in 1912, Fes has retained its status as the country's Artisan centre. Artisan workshops in the medina are as active today as they were 100 years ago, and strongly contribute to the city’s industrial economy. Trades such as blacksmithing, leather working, ceramics, silk, tapestries, and sculpting are still practiced in these workshops today. The original ramparts still protect this ancient city and its estimated 9000 narrow passageways and bustling streets.

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  This morning meet with the Maison bleue Moroccan chef, Tariq Hadine to discuss the dishes that you would like to learn. Learn the correct preparation of Moroccan mint tea. Shop in the Medina in the morning to collect the day’s ingredients.  Head back to class and were you will learn and preparing three authentic dishes. You will then enjoy your meal and saver what you have learnt with a glass of local wine.

  Accommodation: Riad Maison Bleue
• • Volubilis

  Day 7: Fes

  Today you will explore the Imperial City of Meknes along with the Roman city of Volubilis. In antiquity, Volubilis was an important Roman town situated near the westernmost border of Roman conquests. It was built on the site of a previous Carthaginian settlement from the third century BC. Volubilis was the administrative center of the province in Roman Africa called Mauretania Tingitana. The fertile lands of the province produced many commodities such as grain and olive oil, which were exported to Rome, contributing to the province's wealth and prosperity. Then you'll discover the Imperial city of Meknes known as the “Moroccan Versailles”. Meknes was founded in the 17th century by King Moulay Ismail. It is famous for its 25-mile-long walls. Return to Fez later this afternoon.

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  Accommodation: Riad Maison Bleue
• • Koutoubia mosque
  • Riad Kniza

  Day 8: Fes - Marrakech

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  Explore the Mountain range of the Middle Atlas, with incredible passes and dizzying sights. Visit the Berber villages of Immouzer du Kandar and the University town of Ifrane to experience rural Morocco. Explore the Kasbah (market) of Ras El Ain. Approx. 7 hours.

  Accommodation: Riad Kniza

  Dating from the 18th century, Riad Kniza is a small, luxury "Hotel de Charme" in the heart of the old Médina of Marrakech, completely restored using traditional materials and artisans to recreate an authentic Moroccan experience as in days gone by. Riad Kniza, with its eleven tastefully decorated rooms and suites, is an excellent point of departure from which to explore the city. It is conveniently located within only few minutes' walk from the famous Jema l'Fna square, the wonderful souks and the most important monuments and cultural treasures of this imperial city, and a short distance from the Gueliz, the modern quarter of Marrakech.

• • 

  Day 9: Marrakech

  After breakfast you will be met at your hotel and taken on a full day guided tour of Marrakech. Your tour usually starts at the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque but you can discuss all of the options with your guide. The mosques beautiful minaret dominates the skyline of Marrakech and can be seen from almost every approach to the city thanks to a long-standing planning ordinance that forbids any other building in the old city to rise above the height of a palm tree. You will also visit the El-Bahia Palace, this 19th century palace is elaborate in its decoration and was built over a period seven years for Ba Ahmed, the son of the Grand Vizier Si Moussa, there are row after row of apartments—that once housed Ahmed's harem—a trapezoidal garden, a huge tiled courtyard, and many hidden treasures, both in the form of antique objects d'art and the palace's convergence of Andalusian and Moorish architecture. One of most visited sites in Morocco is the Saadian Tombs which were only accessible via the mosque next door. However, in 1917 they were opened to the public and can now be accessed via a narrow passage that leads to an enclosed garden watched over by two mausoleums that include more than one hundred mosaic decorated tombs. The Koranic School Medersa Ben Youssef which is a Theological college founded by the Merenid Sultan Abu Hassan in the 14th century, and restored in 1564 by the Saadians who made it the largest theological college in the Maghreb and a rival to the important Medersa Bou Inania in Fés.

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  Accommodation: Riad Kniza
• • Casablanca

  Day 10: Marrakech - Casablanca

  A private vehicle with English speaking driver will be at your disposal for the day.

  Travel to Casablanca (approx 2.5 hours) by private car.

  Accommodation: Depart

  Depart from Casablanca International airport - end of itinerary.

Accommodation

• Culinary Delights

  Moroccan dishes are replete with wonderful, healthy ingredients such as garden-fresh fava beans, vine ripened vegetables, and a medley of legumes (chickpeas, kidney, navy, and lentils Many dishes feature pastas and grains like couscous, vermicelli, and orzo. What sets Moroccan cuisine apart from other Mediterranean cooking, however, is the liberal use of spices. Turmeric, saffron, cinnamon, cumin, and sweet Hungarian paprika lend dynamic flavour and a rich, warm colour that enhances the meals' visual quality. Almond paste, ginger, harissa, mint orange-flower-water also add to the exotic flavour.

• Natural Wonders

  The Argan is a rare and endangered tree that grows in warm arid climates and is most commonly found in Morocco. Similar in appearance to an olive tree, it is an important natural resource, producing a nut that provides rich and delicious oil used for cooking. Goats climb the broad, gnarled tree-trunks of the tree to eat the olive-like fruit; however they discard the hard shells and the nut. Farmers then collect the shells and nuts to press for oil, and afterwards the remains are burned and used in cooking. Argan oil is expensive and a rare commodity made mostly by women. It has as divinely smooth and nutty flavour, making it a treat in salad dressing of for dipping bread.

• Cultural Moments

  The medina (market) in Marrakech is one of the largest in the world. Here, one can buy almost anything. It is particularly good for carpets, rugs and ornate metalwork. As in all of Morocco, the market business is conducted in a leisurely, although decidedly earnest way, with the accompaniment of endless glasses of sweet mint tea. Miles of narrow winding streets are crowded with stores selling everything from brass plates and trays to sweet pastries and richly patterned carpets.

• • Petit Palace Marques Santa Ana

  Petit Palace Marqués Santa Ana (4*)

  The Petit Palace Marqués Santa Ana (4*) is located in in Jimios Street, the heart of the city centre, in the vicinity of Seville's famous Cathedral, and from which all major tourist and historical zones are within walking distance. The Hotel occupies an emblematic building dating from the middle of the XIX Century, which has been completely renovated in March 2005, making it one of the best hotels in the city. The Petit Palace Marqués Santa Ana offers the services of Buffet-Breakfast, Meeting Room, Private Garage and Internet Corner with free internet access (LMDS-2Mb), located in the hall with daylight.

  • More information
• • Alhambra Palace, Granada

  Alhambra Palace (4*)

  The Alhambra Palace (4*) is located in the hills overlooking the city of Granada, facing opposite the Albaicín. The hotel is just 5 minutes from the Alhambra and less than 5 minutes from the Plaza Nueva, historic and central shopping district. Noted are the excellent views from many of the 126 guest rooms and several common terraces. The Hotel Alhambra provides an atmosphere, both inside and out, which is reminiscent of the nearby Alhambra. The restaurant, bar and terraces are popular for their magnificent views and the perfect place to end the day with a drink or meal.

  • More information
• • La Maison Bleue - Patio

  Riad Maison Bleue

  Riad La Maison Bleue is located in one of the most historic quarters of the Fès Medina. A mysterious door off a laneway opens to reveal a wonder of Arabo-Andalusian architecture. La Maison Bleue was built as a family palace in 1915 by Sidi Mohammed El Abbadi, a famous judge and astrologer of the times. Enter the mysterious inner courtyards and lifestyle of the city of Fès, jewel of the Arab world, where blue zellij mosaics, finely carved cedar-wood doors, stained glass windows with wrought iron grilles and stucco cornices come together in refined harmony. You will find the house a haven of peace in the heart of the bustling Medina.

  • More information
• • Riad Kniza

  Riad Kniza

  Dating from the 18th century, Riad Kniza is a small, luxury "Hotel de Charme" in the heart of the old Médina of Marrakech, completely restored using traditional materials and artisans to recreate an authentic Moroccan experience as in days gone by. Riad Kniza, with its eleven tastefully decorated rooms and suites, is an excellent point of departure from which to explore the city. It is conveniently located within only few minutes' walk from the famous Jema l'Fna square, the wonderful souks and the most important monuments and cultural treasures of this imperial city, and a short distance from the Gueliz, the modern quarter of Marrakech.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
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  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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