This epic, 12-day charts the vibrant transition from Mediterranean Europe to North Africa, via a flurry of bustling cities brimming with sights, smells and sounds. We’ll start in Madrid for a royal exploration of the capital, before keeping things distinguished in Córdoba’s one-of-a-kind mosque-cathedral. Seville is our last Spanish stop – expect flamenco dancers and world-beating cuisine. Then it’s time to hop across the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco, the gateway to Africa. See Tangier, get lost in the romance of Casablanca, experience the spiritual heartland of Fes and, last but definitely not least, we end our rail adventure with a deep dive into the myriad wonders of Marrakech.
The rooms at Room Mate Macarena pop with bold primary colours in classic Spanish style thanks to Tomás Alía’s design, which captures the vibrant, cosmopolitan spirit of Madrid and, in particular, the Gran Vía neighbourhood this hotel calls home. The area is centrally located but also boasts a lively personality of its own, which you can observe from the hotel’s stunning rooftop terrace, fit with a pool, hammock area and cocktail bar.
This recently renovated hotel is right next to Córdoba’s biggest attraction, the Mezquita. In fact it’s so close to the cathedral-mosque that some of its 15th century Mozarabic ruins are actually in the hotel. The hotel’s centrepoint and crowning glory, however, is the gorgeous Andalusian courtyard, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as snacks and cocktails. With mosaic floors, arched pillars and greenery aplenty, you won’t want to dine anywhere else.
This charming city centre boutique hotel is infused with a warm Andalusian flavour, represented by everything from the friendly staff to free bicycle rental (this city loves to cycle) and, of course, breakfast. The first meal of the day is a treasured one in this city, and the spread on offer every morning here is to die for.
One step into this hotel and you’ll understand why they call it Palais. The luscious rugs, the spectacular chandelier, the artfully designed banisters… it’s all there to make you feel instantly special, but it’s also a product of the ancient Petit Socco district it calls home. This area has been a gathering place and a cultural melting pot for centuries and Palais Zahia aims to keep that tradition alive.
This hotel, just two kilometers from Mosque of Hassan II, is a relaxing base for any trip to Casablanca. It overlooks the Triangle d'Or district, where luxury boutique shops gather in their masses, so a spot of shopping is always on the cards. Alternatively, if you’re in need of some pure relaxation, you can treat yourself to a wide range of treatments in the hotel spa.
You can’t come to Morocco without experiencing a traditional riad stay, and where better to embrace tradition than in one of the country’s most historic cities? From the patios, the outdoor garden space and the pool, to the authentic decor, traditional hammam and locally-sourced Moroccan cuisine, this place is a real slice of immersive Moroccan hospitality.
This luxury boutique hotel and spa, within walking distance of Jemaa el Fna, is a chic oasis amid the hustle and bustle of Marrakech. Art Deco stylings are given a classic Moroccan handicraft touch, while local natural products are at the forefront in the luxurious spa. Patron De La Mer is one of the city’s finest seafood restaurants, and Lola Sky Lounge is a stunning rooftop tapas bar with great food and panoramic views of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains.