Our Ancient Spain adventure begins in the ancient Phoenician port city of Cádiz, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Western Europe.

Set upon a narrow peninsula surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Cádiz provides a magnificent starting point for our journey into the historic heart of southern Spain. With its whitewashed buildings, elegant plazas and centuries of maritime history, Cádiz offers an evocative introduction to the Andalucía we are about to discover.

This evening, crews come together to meet their fellow adventurers and prepare for the days ahead as we begin our journey through Spain’s timeless landscapes, extraordinary architecture and fascinating history.

Perched dramatically above the Guadalete River, the Parador de Arcos de la Frontera occupies the former Casa del Corregidor in the heart of this beautiful hilltop town. With its traditional Andalusian architecture, elegant rooms, spectacular views and atmospheric courtyard, it provides a wonderfully authentic introduction to Andalusia and the famous White Villages of Cádiz, with the perfect sense of history and place for the opening night of our journey.

Leaving Cádiz behind, we begin our journey north along the Gulf of Cádiz, following the Atlantic coast through some of the most evocative landscapes of Andalucía.

The route carries us through open coastal country, pine forests and traditional Andalusian landscapes before reaching the remarkable wilderness of Doñana National Park, one of Europe's most important protected natural areas. We continue towards Huelva, a region deeply connected with Spain's maritime heritage and the great age of exploration. It was from this corner of Andalucía that Christopher Columbus embarked upon his historic voyage across the Atlantic.

Our first full day on the road provides an ideal introduction to the character of Ancient Spain: beautiful scenery, historic places and roads that invite you to settle into the rhythm of the journey.

Set beside the Atlantic Ocean within the natural landscape of Doñana, the Parador de Mazagón is surrounded by pine forests, dunes and long stretches of golden beach. The elegant four-star property offers comfortable accommodation, beautiful gardens, swimming pools and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, providing a wonderfully peaceful retreat as we journey west through Huelva and the Costa de la Luz.

Continuing eastwards through Andalucía, we leave the Atlantic behind and journey towards Seville, one of Spain’s most captivating cities.

The route takes us deeper into the heart of southern Spain, through rolling countryside, traditional villages and landscapes shaped by centuries of agriculture and olive cultivation. As we approach Seville, the character of the journey changes once again. The great Andalusian capital rises from the surrounding countryside, its skyline dominated by the Giralda, while the legacy of centuries of Moorish, Christian and Renaissance influence can be found throughout the city.

We arrive in Seville in time to settle into our hotel and begin discovering the city at leisure.

Perched above the historic town of Carmona, the Parador occupies a magnificent 14th-century Moorish fortress, transformed into an elegant Andalusian palace. With its Mudejar interiors, beautiful courtyard, panoramic views across the surrounding countryside and atmospheric restaurant, it offers a wonderfully authentic taste of Andalusia, while providing a peaceful and memorable base just a short drive from Seville.

Today, we put the cars aside and spend a full day discovering Seville, giving us the opportunity to properly experience one of the great cities of southern Europe.

Seville has been shaped by more than a thousand years of history. Roman, Moorish, Christian and Renaissance influences have created a city of extraordinary character, where magnificent palaces stand alongside narrow lanes, flower-filled courtyards and lively plazas.

At the heart of the historic city stand the magnificent Royal Alcázar, the Cathedral of Seville and the Giralda, together forming one of the most extraordinary architectural ensembles in Spain.

The day is deliberately unhurried, allowing participants to choose how they wish to experience the city. Explore the Royal Alcázar and Cathedral, wander through the atmospheric streets of Santa Cruz, discover the magnificent Plaza de España and María Luisa Park, or simply find a shaded terrace and enjoy a long Andalusian lunch. For those looking to discover more, the traditional riverside district of Triana offers another perspective on Seville, with its ceramics, flamenco traditions and historic relationship with the Guadalquivir.

As evening approaches, Seville becomes even more atmospheric. We come together for dinner, with the opportunity to experience the passion and artistry of Andalusian flamenco.

After our leisurely day in Seville, we return to the road and begin one of the most spectacular driving days of Ancient Spain.

Leaving the city behind, we head south through increasingly rugged landscapes towards the Sierra de Grazalema. The roads become narrower and more sinuous as we climb into the mountains, passing through cork oak forests and some of Andalucía’s most beautiful white villages. This is classic Andalusian driving: winding mountain roads, dramatic landscapes and whitewashed villages seemingly suspended against the hillsides.

Our route leads us towards Ronda, one of the most spectacularly situated towns in Spain. Divided by the immense Tajo gorge, Ronda has been shaped by Phoenician, Roman, Moorish and Christian civilisation. After time to explore and enjoy lunch, we continue through the Sierra de las Nieves, following spectacular mountain roads before descending towards the Mediterranean and our overnight destination in Málaga.

Perched high on Mount Gibralfaro, overlooking Málaga and the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean, the Parador de Málaga Gibralfaro occupies a spectacular position beside the ancient Gibralfaro Castle, whose Moorish walls have watched over the city for centuries. With its elegant architecture, panoramic terraces and rooftop pool, it provides a memorable base from which to discover Málaga, the Costa del Sol.

Leaving Málaga, we turn east along the Mediterranean coast before heading inland towards the magnificent city of Granada.

Our route takes us through the dramatic landscapes of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama, where steep ridges, deep valleys and spectacular mountain scenery provide a memorable backdrop to the drive. We pause for lunch in the ancient Roman town of Almuñécar, overlooked by the centuries-old Arab fortress of San Miguel, before turning north towards Granada.

As we approach the city, the landscape opens beneath the mighty Sierra Nevada, signalling our arrival in one of the great historic cities of southern Spain. Tonight, we settle into Granada and prepare for tomorrow’s full day exploring this extraordinary city.

Set within the walls of the Alhambra, the Parador de Granada is an extraordinary historic property occupying a former Nasrid palace, later transformed into a monastery by the Catholic Monarchs. Its beautiful cloisters, Arabic rooms and gardens overlooking the Generalife bring together the extraordinary Moorish and Christian heritage that defines Granada and Andalucía. Staying here places us at the very heart of one of Spain’s greatest historic monuments, making it a truly exceptional chapter in our Ancient Spain journey.

Today, we put the cars aside and spend a full day discovering Granada, giving us the opportunity to properly experience one of the most extraordinary cities of southern Spain.

Once the capital of the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada and the final great Muslim kingdom of Iberia, Granada is rich in Moorish architecture, ancient streets and centuries of fascinating history. Dominating the city from its hilltop setting is the magnificent Alhambra, one of Europe’s great architectural treasures. Below it, the atmospheric Albaicín climbs the hillside in a maze of narrow streets and whitewashed houses, offering spectacular views towards the palace and the Sierra Nevada beyond.

The day is deliberately unhurried. Guests may choose to explore the Alhambra, wander through the Albaicín, discover Granada’s historic centre, enjoy a long Andalusian lunch or simply relax and enjoy the city.

This evening, we come together for dinner and experience the unique atmosphere of Granada after dark.

Leaving Granada, we head northwest through some of Andalucía’s most beautiful inland landscapes.

We cross the Iznájar Reservoir before entering the UNESCO Global Geopark of the Sierras Subbéticas, where dramatic geological formations, rocky outcrops and ancient landscapes provide a spectacular setting for the road ahead.

Our route continues towards Jaén, the heart of Spain’s great olive-growing country. The surrounding landscape is dominated by seemingly endless olive groves, while above the city stands the imposing Santa Catalina Castle, offering magnificent views across the surrounding countryside. After lunch, we continue deeper into the mountains, following the roads towards the spectacular Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas.

By the end of the day, we will have exchanged the Moorish splendour of Granada for some of the wildest landscapes of inland Andalucía. Wildflowers, rocky outcrops and ancient Moorish ruins accompany us towards Jaén, a city celebrated for its extraordinary architecture and world-renowned olive oil, overlooked by the imposing Santa Catalina Castle.

Perched dramatically on Santa Catalina Hill, beside the remains of an imposing eighth-century Moorish fortress, the Parador de Jaén offers spectacular views across the ancient city and the endless olive groves of Andalucía. With its massive stone walls, vaulted interiors and traditional craftsmanship, the property evokes the defensive grandeur of another age. Surrounded by the landscapes that have shaped Jaén’s remarkable history and its centuries-old olive culture, it provides an evocative setting for our Ancient Spain journey.

Today we leave Jaén behind and enter the spectacular Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas, following one of the wildest and most remote sections of our journey.

The route follows the eastern banks of the Guadalquivir River, through deep mountain valleys and extensive pine forests. At the Mirador de Bujaraiza, we pause to admire panoramic views across the Tranco Reservoir and the evocative ruins of the 12th-century Bujaraiza Castle, whose remains stand upon an island created by the reservoir.

We continue towards the beautiful mountain town of Santiago de la Espada, where we pause for lunch before continuing eastwards through the mountains. Gradually, the landscape changes once again as we descend towards the Mediterranean and the ancient city of Cartagena. Founded by the Carthaginians and later developed by the Romans, Cartagena provides a fascinating continuation of our journey through the ancient civilisations of Spain.

Located in the heart of Cartagena’s historic centre, the AC Hotel provides a stylish contemporary base surrounded by more than two millennia of history. Just steps from the ancient Roman Theatre, the port and the remains of the city’s Carthaginian and Roman past, the hotel places us perfectly to discover Cartago Nova, one of the most important cities of ancient Hispania. Contemporary design, refined Spanish dining and a central location provide a comfortable contrast to the remarkable history beyond its doors.

Today, we put the cars aside and step back more than two thousand years to explore Cartagena, one of Spain’s great ancient cities.

Founded by the Carthaginians in the 3rd century BC, Cartagena became one of the most important cities of the Roman Mediterranean. Its extraordinary history remains visible throughout the modern city, where ancient ruins sit alongside elegant Spanish architecture.

We explore the magnificent Roman Theatre, discovered beneath the modern city, before continuing through the historic centre and discovering the layers of Carthaginian, Roman and Spanish history that have shaped Cartagena.

The Castillo de la Concepción, rising above the city, provides spectacular views across the ancient harbour and Mediterranean beyond.

The remainder of the day is deliberately relaxed. Enjoy lunch beside the harbour, explore Cartagena’s atmospheric streets or simply return to the hotel and enjoy some time at leisure.

This evening, we come together for dinner in the heart of Cartagena, celebrating another extraordinary day on our journey through the ancient heart of Spain.

Leaving Cartagena, we turn north and experience yet another dramatic change in landscape.

The rugged Mediterranean coastline and mountains give way to the broad agricultural landscapes of Murcia, where orchards, vineyards and fertile valleys dominate the countryside.

Our route takes us through the El Valle y Carrascoy Regional Park, a beautiful landscape of pine forests and rugged hills on the outskirts of Murcia. We pause in Murcia for lunch before continuing north into the vast landscapes of Castilla-La Mancha.

The scenery becomes increasingly open as we travel through farmland, vineyards and rugged valleys towards Albacete, the largest city in the province and our overnight destination.

Set among the wide-open landscapes of Castilla-La Mancha, the Parador de Albacete is a refined country retreat surrounded by mature gardens and peaceful countryside. Its traditional Spanish architecture, spacious interiors and relaxed atmosphere provide a welcome change of pace as our journey leaves the Mediterranean behind. From here, we enter the historic landscapes of La Mancha, a region of ancient roads, vast plains and enduring Spanish traditions, before our final journey towards Valencia.

Our final day on the road brings one of the most dramatic changes in landscape of the entire journey.

Leaving the relatively open plains around Albacete, we turn east towards the mountains and spectacular river valleys of the interior of Valencia. Our route traces the Júcar River, following its course through steep-sided valleys and rugged landscapes before reaching the extraordinary Embalse de Embarcaderos.

The road then climbs and loops through the dramatic landscapes around Cortes de Pallás, where turquoise waters, towering cliffs and winding mountain roads create a spectacular finale to our driving adventure.

Eventually, the mountains begin to fall away and we descend towards the Mediterranean and the cosmopolitan city of Valencia.

After eleven extraordinary days on the road, our driving adventure reaches its spectacular conclusion.

Set between the Mediterranean Sea and the Albufera Natural Park, the Parador de El Saler offers a peaceful and elegant retreat surrounded by pine forests, dunes and the landscapes that have shaped the character of Valencia. Just a short drive from the city, the modern property combines spacious accommodation, beautiful gardens, refined dining and a relaxing spa. Its setting among the rice fields, lagoons and coastal landscapes of Valencia provides a fitting final chapter to our journey through Ancient Spain, before we gather in the city for our farewell celebration.

Today, we put the cars aside and spend a full day discovering Valencia, one of Spain’s most captivating cities.

Blending centuries of history with striking modern architecture, elegant plazas and a celebrated food culture, Valencia offers a fitting finale to our journey through Spain.

We explore the city’s historic heart, discovering its ancient streets, magnificent architecture and lively plazas. The Central Market provides an opportunity to experience the colours, aromas and flavours of Valencia, while the city’s historic centre offers countless opportunities for exploration at a leisurely pace.

For those looking for something more contemporary, the extraordinary City of Arts & Sciences provides a remarkable contrast to the ancient architecture of the old city.

The afternoon is left deliberately relaxed, allowing time for shopping, exploration or simply enjoying the hotel and the atmosphere of Valencia.

As evening approaches, we come together for our special Valencian Gala Evening, celebrating the landscapes, history, cuisine and extraordinary roads we have experienced together.

Our day takes us through the city's historic heart and some of its most memorable sights, with time to enjoy the atmosphere, discover local traditions and savour the flavours of the region. As evening approaches, we come together for our special Valencian Gala Evening, enjoying exceptional local cuisine, Spanish wines, music and, perhaps, a little dancing.

After an extraordinary journey across the ancient heart of Spain, today is a morning to slow the pace, savour the final moments and say farewell.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before taking time for one last coffee, a final stroll through Valencia or simply relaxing and reflecting on the journey we have shared.

Over the past two weeks, we have travelled from the Atlantic shores of Cádiz, through the ancient cities of Andalucía, across dramatic mountain ranges and remote landscapes, and finally to the Mediterranean elegance of Valencia. We have discovered Moorish palaces, ancient cities, whitewashed mountain villages, spectacular gorges and some of Spain’s finest driving roads, all from behind the wheel of our classic cars.

Now, after breakfast, it is time to say farewell to fellow participants and depart at your leisure.

For some, the adventure will continue along Spain’s Mediterranean coast. For others, it will be time to begin the journey home.

Wherever the road leads next, we hope you leave Ancient Spain with memories of remarkable roads, extraordinary places and new friendships.