Al Andalus Express - Railway Tours from Shenfield Travel

Al Andalus Express

Take a trip back into the golden era of travel whilst visiting some of Andalucia’s most beautiful towns.

The Al Andalus Express consists of vintage carriages from the 1920’s that have been tastefully refurbished and fitted with modern conveniences. The cabins are twin bedded and have private facilities. There are two restaurant cars on board, a bar and a recreation lounge.

On this trip admire the contrasting scenery of high sierras, olive groves and flower-rich meadows. Stop off to wonder at the architectural marvels of this historic region, including the Great Mosque in Cordoba, the glorious Alhambra in Granada and the Giralda in Seville.

Your itinerary

Saturday Departures

Day 1: Afternoon flight from Heathrow to Seville - Transfer on arrival to the Melia Colon Hotel.

Day 2: Embark on the Al Andalus Express around midday in time for a welcome cocktail followed by lunch. The first stop is Cordoba where in the late afternoon we visit the old city, including the charming Jewish Quarter and the Great Mosque, perhaps the greatest Islamic monument in all Spain. Dinner on board the train. (BLD)

Day 3: An excursion by road today takes in two beautiful towns off the main tourist track where fine Renaissance architecture predominates: Baeza, set amid olive groves, where we visit the Cathedral, and Ubeda, whose central square is surrounded by elegant 16th century palaces and churches. After lunch at the Parador of Ubeda, return to the train and continue to Granada. Dinner on board. (BLD)

Day 4: Today we visit the incomparable Alhambra, set majestically on a hill overlooking the city of Granada. We also walk through the gardens of the Generalife, the summer palace of the sultans. Marvel at the magical use of space, light, water and decoration. After lunch at a selected restaurant, the afternoon is at leisure to explore the city. After dinner on board, you will be taken to a flamenco show in the picturesque Albaicin district of the city. (BLD)

Day 5: This morning we take an excursion to the white walled city of Tonda, perched dramatically on a massive rocky outcrop above the El Tajo Gorge. See the old town, one of the last of the Moorish bastions to fall to the Christian armies in 1485 and the Maestranza bullring (1785), one of the oldest and largest in Spain. Lunch is at the Parador in Ronda. Afternoon at leisure. Dinner on board. (BLD)

Day 6: This morning we explore Jerez de la Frontera, visiting a renowned sherry bodega before witnessing the superb riding skills of the Royal School of Equestrian Art. After lunch in the city, the Al Andalus Express returns to Seville. Farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (BLD)

Day 7: Disembark the Al Andalus Express and transfer to the Melia Colon Hotel for the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

Day 8: Transfer to the airport for the early afternoon flight to Heathrow. (B)

Included in Your Holiday:

** Private transfers from airport to hotel and to the train

** English speaking guides during the train itinerary

** First class hotel in Seville

** Meals as detailed above B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

** Complimentary wine with included lunches and dinners

** Complimentary bar on the train (except for Reserve wines and imported drinks)

** Flights with Iberia

Prices Per Person

	Price	Single Suppl.	Bus Class Flight
27 March 2004 03, 24 April 04, 11, 18, 25 September 02, 09 October	£2,250	£995	£380
10, 17 April	£2,420	£1,025	£390
01, 08, 15, 29 May 05, 12, 19, 26 June	£2,275	£995	£360
22 May 16, 23 October	£2,310	£995	£360
30 October 06 November	£2,195	£950	£360

We are acting as agents for Bales Worldwide Tours on the above tour - ATOL Number 2882