Spain Vacations: Unveiled & Curated

28/02/2025

Here's a handy way to make sure you're ordering coffee in Portugal the way you want it, and more importantly, the way the Portuguese drink coffee!

07/02/2025

we're now on Blue Sky app follow us there (we/ve deleted the X/Twitter account)

This is a heavily interactive web application, and JavaScript is required. Simple HTML interfaces are possible, but that is not what this is.

28/01/2025

Arcos de la Frontera: Where White Villages Meet Andalusian Charm

Nestled high above a dramatic ravine, Arcos de la Frontera is a breathtaking jewel in Andalusia, Spain. This picturesque town, just a short drive from Seville, is more than just a pretty face; it's a living testament to the region’s rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. The geography of Arcos is what truly sets it apart.

Perched atop a limestone cliff overlooking the Guadalete river, the town boasts some of the most stunning panoramic views in Spain. The natural ravine itself has shaped Arcos, providing a dramatic setting for its iconic white villages architecture.

Arcos de la Frontera is considered the gateway to the famous Route of the White Villages of Cádiz, it's easy to understand why it is a popular stop for travelers who are seeking the true essence of Andalusia. Wander through its narrow, winding streets where whitewashed facades meet iron-barred windows adorned with brightly colored flowerpots.

Explore the Plaza del Cabildo and its renowned balcony, offering sweeping views of the surrounding fertile farmlands and the nearby Sierra de Grazalema mountain range. These features are must-see for anyone visiting.

Beyond its visual appeal, Arcos de la Frontera offers a taste of authentic Andalusian life, especially with its vibrant yearly events. One of the main festivals includes the celebration of the patron saint, the Virgen de las Nieves in early August, and the Feria de San Miguel which is held at the end of September. These festivals allow visitors to experience the towns local traditions, music and food.

The culinary dishes of Arcos are as captivating as its views. The town is known for its traditional Andalusian cuisine. Some of the most famous dishes are rabo de toro (oxtail stew), sopa de tomate (tomato soup), and berza gitana (a hearty chickpea stew).

Try the local queso de cabra (goat cheese) and pair it with the regional wine. These flavors reflect the heart of this region. You’ll find many excellent restaurants and tapas bars showcasing the local specialties. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the authentic cuisine of Arcos during your visit.

For those seeking an escape from city life, Arcos de la Frontera provides an ideal opportunity for exploration, both within the town and in the neighboring mountains. This town is a must-see destination on any Andalusia travel itinerary.

Explore its stunning landscapes, enjoy its delicious food, and immerse yourself in the culture. Arcos offers you a glimpse into Spain's heart, where history, nature, and tradition come together.

22/11/2024

The Monastery and Site of the Escorial, Madrid, are an expression of the Catholic Counter-Reformation and the Spanish Golden Age.

Today I led our small group tour, with the help of our wonderful guide, on a private trip about an hour outside of Madrid to El Escorial.

El Escorial was built at the behest of King Philip II in 1563 as a place for prayer and a pantheon to the Spanish monarchs. The style is particularly austere and yet overwhelming in its pure grandness starting with the rough hewn massive stones that the complete complex is made up of. This monastery church and Pantheon, including two Royal palaces of two different dynasties of Spanish rulers, is truly one of the most remarkable buildings I've ever seen..

The real highlight of your visit will probably be the Royal residences. The spanish kings were great patrons of the arts and the monastery housed one of their finest collections. Many of the highlights have been moved to the Prado Museum, but the monastery still has a very impressive collection, which is mostly portrayed in the Habsburg residence..

The mausoleum houses almost all Spanish kings since Charles I and an INORDINATE amount of members of the Royal families. Most of the tombs of the latter group are quite plain, with only a few exceptions like that of John of Austria.

The overall atmosphere of the crypt is severe and sombre. The Kings and Queens are members of the Royal families from throughout Europe. Most of the tombs of the latter group are quite plain, with only a few exceptions like that of John of Austria.

The library (at least the part you can visit) IS small, but pretty impressive. I advise taking a look at the beautifully decorated muslim manuscripts. The Monastery houses a far bigger, though inaccesable sible, collection of books, botanical and macabre oddities as Philip V was a great fan of them.

SUMMARY:
Overall the building perfectly reflects Philip's personality. It's functional (quite cool even in summer) severe and sober. The almost complete lack of decoration and gigantic size definitely give it a very particular aesthetic, which you'd be hard pressed to find in any other palace complex in Europe.

If you're interested in having a custom designed trip through Spain and want to include a private excursion to this incredible UNESCO world heritage site, you can reach us through our website:

www.spainandportugalvacations.com

18/11/2024

Chinchón we took our small group tour to this town located about 45 km from Madrid. First and foremost, the town is a square, or more exactly, the focal point is the Plaza Mayor. From the panoramic picture which you can control to get a full view, it is flanked by arcades staggered roofs and 234 green wood balconies all from the medieval period.

This town was the seat of a very important Noble family who were closely related to the kings of Spain, and particularly one of the brothers of King Phillip V.

Throughout the years it has hosted Royal announcements and celebrations mock spear, combats, bullfights and even burnings at the stake of heretics during the time of the Spanish Inquisition.

In addition to the fascinating medieval, baroque town with the very well preserved architecture and the stunningly beautiful tile roofs, this town is known for its foods, in particular, suckling pig, lamb, chorizo and others all roasted in a wood fired stove.

The front page of the menu with the name of the restaurant is one we highly recommend where you can taste these foods as well as other appetizers such as roasted peppers, garlic and traditional soups made with bread crumbs and sheep's milk cheese.

If you would like to arrange your own trip with us, either a private individual tour or you have a group of people that would like to form a small group tour, you can contact us through our website and we will make sure that you have one of the most spectacular private trips ever arranged throughout Spain, including this incredible town which must not be missed .

www.spainandportugalvacations.com

Below are our other Facebook groups which you are invited to join to follow our other trips throughout Spain and Portugal.

Discover Portugal Travel

Spain and Portugal Guided Tours

Spain and Portugal Vacations

15/11/2024

Walking through Madrid seeing the beauty of this city that never ceases to amaze

13/11/2024

Portugal is unequivocally one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Even when looking at it from hundreds of miles in the sky

29/10/2024

96 yr old hotel in Macao restored to it's glory days. Love reading about the cultural achievements the Portuguese people left throughout the word. This hotel is located in Macao, a former Spain and Portugal Vacations Portuguese colony now part of China.

It has all the characteristics of Portuguese architecture with many things instantly recognizable' the tiles floors, austere facade, color schemes, although this green is not that commonly found.

Simon Sio grew up in an old building in the heart of Macao, directly across from what was then one of the city’s finest accommodations, Hotel Central. Decades later, he’s now the owner of this recently reopened grande dame.

19/10/2024

This photo is from a few years ago whilst having lunch in the seaside town and resort of Estoril, located approximately 45 minutes from Lisbon.

07/08/2024

Sun- Kissed Shores.

Historic Ports.

Unforgettable Sailing Adventures.

Spain and Portugal Vacations

Www.Spainandportugalvacations.com

07/08/2024

A huge thank you and welcome to all of our new followers and everybody that has been a follower sometime. We really appreciate your support!

28/07/2024

Discover the Basque Coast & Countryside.

Visiting the Basque Country must include the coastal village of Getaria to understand and enjoy the history and exotic life.

People from here include: acclaimed fashion designer Balenciaga and centuries before him was Elcano, the first to sail around the world. Both are from the small fishing village, Getaria.

Several Michelin rated restaurants, including the famous Elkano;

The legendary turbot is an absolute must!.

Feel free to contact us and make Getaria part of your bespoke itinerary we'll design for you and your traveling party.

www.spainandportugalvacations.com

18/07/2024

𝔸𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕒𝕝 𝕗𝕝𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥 𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖 𝕠𝕗 𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕗𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕡𝕝𝕒𝕔𝕖𝕤 𝕚𝕟 𝕊𝕡𝕒𝕚𝕟. 𝕄𝕠𝕤𝕥 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕧𝕖𝕝𝕖𝕣𝕤 𝕠𝕟𝕝𝕪 𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕡𝕝𝕒𝕔𝕖𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕤𝕥𝕣𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝕝𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕝 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕠𝕗𝕥𝕖𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕨𝕠𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕣 𝕨𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕪 𝕧𝕚𝕤𝕚𝕥 𝕝𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕒𝕚𝕣.

𝔻𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕥𝕙𝕖𝕤𝕖 𝕡𝕝𝕒𝕔𝕖𝕤?

𝕃𝕖𝕒𝕧𝕖 𝕒 𝕔𝕠𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕥 !

16/07/2024

𝔸𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨 𝕦𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕣𝕠𝕕𝕦𝕔𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕒 𝕝𝕦𝕩𝕦𝕣𝕚𝕠𝕦𝕤 𝕖𝕩𝕡𝕝𝕠𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕠𝕗 𝔹𝕚𝕝𝕓𝕒𝕠 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕣𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕛𝕖𝕨𝕖𝕝 𝕠𝕗 𝕊𝕡𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕤 𝔹𝕒𝕤𝕢𝕦𝕖 ℂ𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕣𝕪

Nestled on Spain's northern coast, Bilbao has emerged as a must-visit destination, drawing discerning travelers from around the globe. This once-industrial city has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, shedding its former reputation as a gritty, economically depressed urban center.

In a surprisingly short span, Bilbao has reinvented itself as a beacon of contemporary design and culture, all while maintaining its rich heritage and unique Basque identity. The city's transformation is so profound that it defies easy description - one must experience it firsthand to truly appreciate the scale of change.

Art aficionados will delight in Bilbao's world-class museums; the Guggenheim houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including pieces by international luminaries. Meanwhile, the Fine Arts Museum offers a comprehensive look at Basque and Spanish artistic traditions, featuring works from medieval times to the present day.

The city's vibrant culinary scene is a testament to the region's gastronomic heritage, with Michelin-starred restaurants sitting alongside traditional pintxos bars. Oenophiles can sample exceptional local wines, from the renowned Rioja Alavesa to the crisp Txakoli. Music, dance, and traditional Basque sports also play a vital role in the city's cultural tapestry.

Whether you're drawn by the allure of cutting-edge design, the depth of artistic offerings, or the richness of Basque culture, our Bilbao tour promises an unforgettable journey of discovery.

🌟 Discover Bilbao: The Hidden Gem of Spain's Basque Country! 🌟Embark on a luxurious journey through Bilbao with our exclusive VIP tours! 🏙️✨

Why Bilbao?
🎨 Home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum
🍷 World-class cuisine and wine
🏛️ Stunning blend of modern and historic architecture
🏞️ Gateway to the breathtaking Basque countryside
Our private tours offer:
🔑 Personalized experiences
👑 VIP access to top attractions
🍽️ Reservations at Michelin-starred restaurants
🎭 Immersion in rich Basque culture
From art lovers to foodies, Bilbao has something for everyone. Let us craft your perfect Spanish getaway!
👉
𝖢𝗈𝗇𝗍𝖺𝖼𝗍 www.spainandportugalvacations.com 𝗍𝗈 𝗂𝗇𝖼𝗈𝗋𝗉𝗈𝗋𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝖡𝗂𝗅𝖻𝖺𝗈 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗇𝗈𝗋𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋𝗇 𝖲𝗉𝖺𝗂𝗇 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝗈 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗇𝖾𝗑𝗍 𝖾𝗑𝖼𝗅𝗎𝗌𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝗉𝗋𝗂𝗏𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝗍𝗋𝖺𝗏𝖾𝗅 𝖾𝗑𝗉𝖾𝗋𝗂𝖾𝗇𝖼𝖾.

12/07/2024

𝔻𝕚𝕤𝕔𝕠𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝔼𝕟𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕍𝕚𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕒-𝔾𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕚𝕫:

𝕋𝕨𝕠 𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕊𝕒𝕟 𝕊𝕖𝕓𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕚á𝕟, 𝕍𝕚𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕒-𝔾𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕚𝕫 𝕚𝕤 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕒𝕡𝕚𝕥𝕒𝕝 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝔹𝕒𝕤𝕢𝕦𝕖 ℂ𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕥𝕣𝕪 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕊𝕡𝕒𝕚𝕟'𝕤 𝕠𝕟𝕝𝕪 “𝔾𝕝𝕠𝕓𝕒𝕝 𝔾𝕣𝕖𝕖𝕟 ℂ𝕚𝕥𝕪”.

This hidden gem offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and sustainable living that will captivate the discerning traveler.

Whether you're drawn to history, art, music, or sustainable living, Vitoria-Gasteiz provides a serene yet stimulating environment to satisfy your curiosity and rejuvenate your senses.

Places we can include in your private tour:

- The Medieval: Step back in time as you wander through the beautifully preserved old town, with its ancient layout and remnants of defensive walls, the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria and churches that have inspired literary giants like Ken Follett.

- Cultural: including the world-renowned Playing Cards Museum and the fascinating Natural Sciences Museum housed in the 15th-century Tower of Doña Otxanda.

- Green Spaces: Stroll through meticulously maintained parks and the innovative Green Ring, showcasing the city's commitment to sustainability and urban planning.

- Gastronomic: Indulge in the special cuisine of the region, savoring local delicacies in the vibrant Plaza de la Virgen Blanca.

- Jewish Heritage: Explore the fascinating history of Basque Jews along Judería street and in the historic Casa del Cordón.

𝕆𝕦𝕣 𝕥𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕤 𝕒𝕣𝕖 𝕕𝕖𝕤𝕚𝕘𝕟𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕡𝕣𝕠𝕧𝕚𝕕𝕖 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕨𝕚𝕥𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕦𝕥𝕞𝕠𝕤𝕥 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕒𝕔𝕪 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝𝕚𝕫𝕖𝕕 𝕒𝕥𝕥𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟. 𝔼𝕒𝕔𝕙 𝕥𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕚𝕤 𝕖𝕩𝕔𝕝𝕦𝕤𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕥𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕡𝕒𝕣𝕥𝕪, 𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕦𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕟 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕒𝕥𝕖 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕠𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕖𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕔𝕖 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕔𝕣𝕠𝕨𝕕𝕤.

𝕀𝕟𝕔𝕝𝕦𝕕𝕖𝕕 𝕚𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕡𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕒𝕥𝕖 𝕥𝕠𝕦𝕣:

ℙ𝕣𝕚𝕧𝕒𝕥𝕖 𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕟𝕤𝕡𝕠𝕣𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠n E𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕥 𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕠𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕘𝕦𝕚𝕕𝕖 𝕕𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕘𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕡ℙ𝕣𝕚𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕪 𝕒𝕔𝕔𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕥𝕚𝕔𝕜𝕖𝕥𝕤 𝕥𝕠 𝕞𝕒𝕚𝕟 𝕞𝕠𝕟𝕦𝕞𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕤 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕒𝕥𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟𝕤𝔽𝕝𝕖𝕩𝕚𝕓𝕚𝕝𝕚𝕥𝕪 𝕥𝕠 𝕔𝕦𝕤𝕥𝕠𝕞𝕚𝕫𝕖 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕖𝕣𝕒𝕣𝕪 𝕥𝕠 𝕪𝕠𝕦𝕣 𝕚𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕤𝕥𝕤.

www.spainandportugalvacations.com

05/07/2024

Good night from Madrid.

04/07/2024

¡𝕍𝕚𝕧𝕒 𝔼𝕤𝕡𝕒𝕟𝕒! ¡𝔼𝕤𝕡𝕒𝕟𝕒, 𝔼𝕤𝕡𝕒𝕟𝕒, 𝔼𝕤𝕡𝕒𝕟𝕒!

07:45 pmPapis PumpelsWith their funny German Schlager music, the Papis Pumpels are guaranteed to put you in a cheerful mood. The nine-member group from the Ländle region is known for its unusual outfits and rousing atmosphere. Their reinterpretations of hits by well-known artists such as Udo Jürge...