Herdade da Malhadinha Nova tour
Eco-Cork Factory tour
Jamones Eiriz Iberian pork production tour
Finca La Capitana ranch tour
Rail journey from Madrid to Barcelona
Bob Bosold
Bob Bosold
Bob Bosold has been the Farm Director at WAXX 104.5 for over 40 years. Bob received the Farm Broadcaster of the Year award in 2002 and was recently inducted into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Hall of Fame. He also makes many appearances at farm…
Trip overview may vary by departure.
Highlights
Lisbon
Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Tagus River, this capital city boasts a rich blend of culture and captivating attractions that are rooted in Portugal’s heritage. Explore the grandeur of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Tower of Belem and Jeronimos Monastery. During leisure time, savor the flavors of Portuguese cuisine and stroll the cobbled streets of the historic district, lined with pastel-colored houses and quaint Fado bars.
Gaudi’s Masterpieces
Get a glimpse into the mind of one of the world’s most celebrated architects, Antoni Gaudi, as you behold his acclaimed masterpieces in Barcelona. Known for Catalan Modernism, Gaudi’s distinctive and one-of-a-kind designs are often inspired by his three greatest passions: religion, architecture, and nature. Learn how he tells the story of life, death, and faith to evoke wonder by using wood, stained glass, wrought iron, stone, and more. See the way stone is used to create natural features on Casa Mila, marvel at the immaculate mosaics on Casa Batllo, discover Gaudi’s naturalist phase at Park Guell, and explore the fruition of his biggest dream, La Sagrada Familia.
Pena Palace
Travel into the picturesque Sintra Mountains to visit one of the most recognizable palaces due to its brightly colored exterior. This whimsical palace is a beautiful expression of 19th-century Romanticism. Enter through the Door of Alhambra, embellished with ceramic tiles depicting flowers and knights in armor. Wander the gardens and terraces, then step inside to explore the lavish rooms including Noble Hall, where the king threw his parties.
Royal Palace of Madrid
Take a captivating journey into Spanish royalty and history with a tour of this 18th-century palace, the largest in Western Europe. The moment you step into the vast courtyard, you’ll be transported to a bygone era of monarchy. The opulent rooms and chambers, adorned with priceless art, chandeliers, and furnishings, offer a window into the lifestyle of Spain’s royals. Don’t miss seeing an actual throne used by past kings in the Throne Room!
- Day 1: Fly to PortugalOur journey begins with an overnight flight across the Atlantic.
- Day 2: Belem Tower & Jeronimos MonasteryBem-vindo to Portugal! Upon arriving, our local guide takes us through the vibrant capital city of Lisbon for views of the gorgeous coastline, the famous 16th-century Belem Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, and Jeronimos Monastery. Next, enjoy leisure time in Rossio Square before checking in to our accommodations and getting to know fellow travelers over a delicious Welcome Dinner.
Meals Included: Dinner
- Day 3: Lisbon NeighborhoodsAfter breakfast, we see the city’s most famous neighborhoods, including Baixa, Chiado, and Bairro Alto. Afterwards, we break for lunch at the 19th-century Time Out Market to independently savor some of the best regional cuisine. Our final stop is the medieval Alfama neighborhood, the capital’s oldest district. Discover its traditional character, shop for authentic crafts, and admire the gorgeous scenery.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 4: Sintra’s Pena Palace & Rare WineThis morning, we’re off to discover UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sintra’s spectacular architecture and royal history, as it was once a peaceful escape for the noble. On our guided tour of Pena Palace, marvel at its striking Romanticism design, unique statues, and beautiful terraces with views of the Sintra Mountains. Then, spend time exploring on your own. Later, we travel to Portugal’s oldest cooperative winery in Colares, home to rare red wines. Learn how these vinos are crafted and enjoy a tasting surrounded by vineyards and mountains before we return to our hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 5: Alentejo Country EstateToday, our travels take us to Albernoa in the Alentejo region, known for its red wine, beautiful countryside, environmental sustainability, and preservation of ancient traditions. We stop at Herdade da Malhadinha Nova estate to learn about rare pureblood Lusitano horses, then indulge in their most popular wines. Afterwards, we depart for the country’s southernmost region – the Algarve – and break for leisure time in Castro Verde. Views of pristine beaches, red cliffs, and magnificent architecture unfold before us as we reach the resort town of Vilamoura.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 6: Traditional Cork FactoryOur day begins with a drive to the 19th-century Eco-Cork Factory in Sitio da Mesquita Baixa. Witness the traditional process of preparing and packing cork created from a noble oak tree, then see its latest uses in fashion accessories. We are also treated to regional sweets, like fig biscuits with tea! Afterwards, we have time at leisure in Tavira, nestled within a salt extraction area of Ria Formosa Natural Park. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy views of medieval buildings overlooking the Gilao River. Later, we cross the border into Spain and reach Huelva.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 7: Aracena’s Iberian PigsWe depart this morning for Aracena, an Andalusian village surrounded by Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. During our stop at Jamones Eiriz, we see Iberian pigs roaming free in beautiful pastures, then visit the drying rooms and natural ham cellars. The Eiriz family has built a 200-year legacy of curating high-quality ham and Iberian sausages, which we have the opportunity to taste! Our day concludes in Seville, where we gather for a tapas-style dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 8: Seville & Bullfighting Ranch TourToday, we cherish Seville’s lively culture as we stroll the Santa Cruz Quarter and Parque de Maria Louisa, then view the city’s namesake cathedral – the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. Our exploration continues at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Royal Alcazar, a 10th-century palace used by Spanish Kings and currently occupied by the royal family. This afternoon, we venture into the countryside to be immersed in the traditional world of bullfighting at Finca La Capitana! A farm manager takes us through the facilities while detailing the challenges they face as owners of Toros Bravos, magnificent Spanish bulls. They also treat us to an authentic Andalusian snack. Back in Seville, we have leisure time at the Mercado Lonja del Barranco to taste cuisines from around the world.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 9: Spain’s Liquid GoldThis morning, our travels continue to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Baeza for a delicious lunch surrounded by centuries-old architecture. Next, we visit nearby Begijar for a guided tour of the San Francisco Olive Oil Mill. Enjoy learning about the entire olive oil production process, from cultivation and planting to pruning and harvesting, before sampling three exceptional varieties of extra virgin olive oil. Later, we travel to Madrid and settle in for a two-night stay in Spain’s vibrant capital. The evening is at your leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
- Day 10: Madrid City Tour & Flamenco ShowToday, we join our local guide for a tour of Madrid to see its distinguished boulevards, impeccable parks, and world-renowned art scene. A top highlight is the Royal Palace of Madrid*, the largest palace in Western Europe and former residence of several royal generations. Step inside this magnificent residence to uncover fascinating history and marvel at opulent spaces like the Throne Room and Hall of Columns. Later, enjoy free time to explore the unique neighborhoods and bustling food markets before tonight’s dinner. We’re treated to an immersive cultural experience of mouthwatering cuisine and a flamenco show, showcasing traditional Spanish music and dancing! *Entrance to the palace is not always guaranteed.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 11: Barcelona City Tour & Poble EspanyolOur day begins with a high-speed AVE train ride to Barcelona, a destination offering the finest in everything – art, weather, beaches, cuisine, and architecture. Enjoy a guided tour with sights of Las Ramblas Boulevard, Casa Mila, Parc de Montjuic, and the Columbus Monument. The afternoon is yours to dive deeper into the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, browse local boutiques, or sample Catalonian specialties at a market or café. After checking in to our hotel, we gather for a memorable evening at Poble Espanyol (Spanish Village), a unique open-air museum built for the 1929 Barcelona International Exhibition.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 12: Gaudi's MasterpiecesWe continue sightseeing this morning with attractions such as Park Guell, one of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi’s most expansive and spectacular designs. We also visit the innovative La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, the world’s largest unfinished Catholic church. Our afternoon is free for individual pursuits, like shopping for some last souvenirs or appreciating works of art in world-renowned museums. This evening, we celebrate our adventures at a delicious Farewell Dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 13: Fly HomeWe board our flight home, returning with treasured memories of uncovering agricultural and historical wonders in Spain and Portugal.
What's Included
All Accommodations
- 3 nights at Turim Marques Hotel in Lisbon
- 1 night at Vila Gale Marina in Vilamoura
- 1 night at NH Luz Huelva
- 2 nights at Melia Lebreros in Seville
- 2 nights at Hotel Gran Versalles in Madrid
Attractions & Highlights
- Lisbon guided city tour feat. 19th-century Time Out Market
- Colares Regional Winery tour & tasting
- Pena Palace tour
- Herdade da Malhadinha Nova tour feat. stud farm & wine tasting
- Eco-Cork Factory tour
- Jamones Eiriz Iberian pork production tour & tasting
- Finca La Capitana ranch tour feat. Toros Bravos & Andalusian treat
- Mercado Lonja del Barranco
- Seville guided city tour feat. Seville Cathedral & Royal Alcazar
- San Francisco Olive Oil Mill tour & tasting
- Madrid guided city tour feat. Royal Palace of Madrid
- Time at leisure in Lisbon, Castro Verde, Tavira, Seville, Madrid & Barcelona
- Barcelona guided city tour feat. Park Guell & La Sagrada Familia Cathedral
- Rail journey from Madrid to Barcelona
18 Excellent Meals
- Welcome Dinner in Lisbon
- Daily breakfast
- Tapas-style dinner in Seville
- Lunch in Baeza
- Flamenco dinner & show in Madrid
- Dinner in Poble Espanyol (Spanish Village)
- Farewell Dinner feat. authentic paella in Barcelona
Learn more about what's included with the Holiday Advantage.
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