Spain, Portugal & Morocco Itinerary

Arrive in Madrid, one of the most vibrant cities in Spain. Stop and smell the roses in the Real Jardin Botanico, marvel at masterpieces in the Museo del Prado or wile away pleasant hours on the Paseo del Arte.

Head west to the university city of Salamanca. Soak up the student vibe on a walk past historic stone buildings to Plaza Mayor and admire the intricate detail of the Casa de Las Conchas, or ‘House of the Shells’.

Travel from Spain to Portugal to sample full-bodied wines, delicious spicy cuisine and enjoy the local tradition of Fado - soulful music about love.

Explore multicultural Lisbon, a charming city with a towering medieval citadel and many interesting museums. In free time, see quirky pieces in the Folk Art Museum, take a day trip into the mountains or sample the nightlife in Barrio Alto.

Venture further afield to the south coast of Portugal. Take the opportunity to bliss out on the beach, explore hidden coves and just soak up the mellow holiday vibe of the Algarve.

Visit Jerez and discover the secrets to a perfect aperitif on a bodega tour or enjoy a tipple of sherry - the drink named after this town. Later, why not head into the Moorish baths to see classic Arabic tiling.

Travel across the Strait of Gibraltar and explore Chefchaouen, a sleepy mountain town peppered with blue-washed buildings and ambient restaurants. While here, perhaps expend some energy on a hike into the Rif Mountains.

Arrive in the city of Fes and step back in time at a medieval medina thick with exotic smells, tastes and sounds. Fuel explorations of this imperial city with a glass of mint tea and some sweet Moroccan dates. After a guided sightseeing tour, maybe unwind at the Palais Jamai in the evening, while the melodic call to prayer floats over the city.

Find everything from genie lamps to leather slippers in Marrakech, an intoxicating city of souqs and mosques. Take a refreshing walk through the gardens at Majorelle Jardin, visit the lavishly decorated Saadian Tombs or end the adventure among the bustle of Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech's bustling main bazaar.

Stay in a mountain gite with incredible views while exploring the High Atlas Mountains. Hike to the burial place of a medieval saint.

Explore the grand Ait Benhaddou kasbah, Morocco's internationally acclaimed film set, as featured in Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator.

Embark on a journey towards the mighty Sahara Desert, through the lush Draa Valley and on to Zagora - a small oasis town on the Sahara fringe that is perfect for an overnight stop.

Travel along rugged mountain ranges, through seas of sand and past the occasional desert oasis of date palms. Investigate an ancient library filled with manuscripts and discover the green-glazed pottery of Tamegroute. Enjoy a camel expedition across the Sahara at dusk and spend the night under the stars.

Climb aboard a 4x4 for an epic trip out to the Erg Chigaga sand dunes. Look out for the incredible sight of goats climbing argan trees on the way to the bustling market town of Taroudannt. Take to the souqs and haggle with local traders for silver jewellery or colourful Moroccan ceramics and mosaics.

Travel to the seaside gem of Essaouira and discover a variety of active or relaxing things to do. Essaouira's old medina is a fascinating place to explore with a local guide, or perhaps take the opportunity to relax by the beach or browse the bubbly markets.

Farewell the beach and head from Essaouira to Marrakech. Once again, get lost in the mayhem of the souqs or seek out Majorelle Gardens to relax in a tropical oasis.