Exclusive Premier Journey

Departure from Charleston International Airport (CHS) – Arrival in Seville October 19, 2026

This evening, depart Charleston on an overnight transatlantic flight to Seville. (Flight arrangements are independent and not included in the tour package.) Settle into your seat as your aircraft lifts gracefully into the night sky, carrying you toward the storied landscapes of southern Spain.

Dinner will be served on board, followed by time to relax and unwind. We recommend resting as much as possible to ensure a refreshed arrival.

Your flight will arrive in Seville tomorrow, where the golden light of Andalusia welcomes you to a city of orange blossoms, Moorish palaces, and timeless elegance.

Highlights:

• – Private Transfers
• – Sevilla Guided Culinary Tapas Neighbourhoods
• – Local Wines

Your Spanish sojourn begins. Seville is the soulful heart of Andalusia, where flamenco rhythms, Moorish architecture, and vibrant street life blend seamlessly. Wander through the orange-scented lanes of the Santa Cruz quarter, marvel at the intricate beauty of the Royal Alcázar, and stand beneath the soaring Gothic grandeur of the Cathedral and La Giralda. Evenings come alive with tapas bars, live music, and the unmistakable passion of southern Spain.

Upon arrival at Seville International Airport, you will be warmly greeted and escorted by private transfer to Hotel Corral del Rey, your elegant home in the heart of the historic quarter for the next four nights.

Tucked within a restored 17th-century palace in the Barrio Alfalfa, Corral del Rey is an intimate boutique retreat where original marble columns and carved wooden doors blend seamlessly with refined contemporary design. Its serene ambiance and attentive service offer a graceful introduction to Andalusian hospitality.

After check-in, take time to relax and refresh from your journey.

This evening, meet your Expert Host, Chef Bob Waggoner, and your fellow travelers for an immersive introduction to the flavors of Seville. Your local culinary expert will escort you on an authentic Sevillian tapas discovery. Stroll through the enchanting old streets, where centuries of history unfold along lantern-lit lanes and lively plazas. Visit beloved, often hidden, centennial tapas bars and savor traditional specialties as the locals do—each dish thoughtfully paired with regional wines.

Following this immersive culinary experience, the balance of the evening is at leisure.

Highlights:

• – Breakfast
• – Seville Guided Panoramic City Tour
• – Entrance / Guided Alcazar Palace
• – Lunch Included

This morning, meet your expert guide and set out to discover Seville in the most timeless manner—by horse-drawn carriage. Clip-clopping gently through elegant boulevards and palm-lined avenues, pass many of the city’s beloved landmarks, gaining a graceful introduction to its layered history and romantic spirit.

Your exploration continues on foot, allowing for a closer look at Seville’s charming plazas, hidden corners, and vibrant daily life.

Lunch is included today at a carefully selected local restaurant. Enjoy regional specialties and a tasting of Spain’s celebrated Jamón Ibérico de Pata Negra, prized for its delicate texture and rich, nuanced flavor—a true emblem of Spanish gastronomy.

This afternoon, a guided visit to the magnificent Royal Alcázar of Seville awaits. One of Europe’s oldest royal palaces still in use, the Alcázar is a masterpiece of Mudéjar architecture, adorned with intricate tilework, ornate arches, tranquil courtyards, and lush gardens perfumed with orange blossom. Its harmonious blend of Moorish artistry and Christian influence reflects centuries of Andalusian history.

The evening is at leisure. Perhaps settle into a lively outdoor terrace as the Sevillanos do—lingering over a glass of wine while the city glows softly at dusk. Dinner is on your own, allowing for personal discoveries.

Highlights:

• – Breakfast Included
• – Private Lunch at Hacienda de San Rafael
• – Countryside Tour
• – 350 Years Old Sherry Tasting

At 10:00 AM, depart Seville for a full day devoted to the serene beauty of the Andalusian countryside. Accompanied by your English-speaking guide, journey through rolling olive groves, sun-washed fields, and storied landscapes that have shaped the region’s culture for centuries.

Your destination is the award-winning Hacienda de San Rafael, an 18th-century estate once a thriving olive hacienda and now an exquisite rural hideaway owned by friends of Premier. Meticulously restored, the property balances rustic authenticity with understated sophistication. Ideally situated between Seville and Jerez, it offers an intimate glimpse into refined country living.

Enjoy a truly special luncheon—an inspired collaboration between Chef Bob and the Hacienda’s local chef, celebrating seasonal ingredients and regional traditions. Lunch is included and thoughtfully paired to reflect the flavors of the land.

Your experience continues with a tasting of authentic Andalusian sherry, a wine deeply rooted in the heritage of southern Spain. Discover its distinctive character, nuanced aromas, and time-honored production methods, all within the elegant surroundings of the estate.

In the late afternoon, return to Seville enriched by a day of pastoral beauty, culinary artistry, and gracious hospitality. The evening is at leisure.

Highlights:

• – Seville at Leisure & Farewell Dinner
• – Breakfast Included

Breakfast at your hotel may be enjoyed at a leisurely pace this morning—linger over café con leche and fresh pastries as the city slowly awakens.

Today is yours to discover Seville in your own rhythm. Perhaps wander through the atmospheric lanes of the Santa Cruz quarter, browse artisan boutiques, or simply pause in a shaded plaza to observe daily Sevillian life.

A visit to the magnificent Seville Cathedral is highly recommended. One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it rises in breathtaking scale and splendor. Built on the site of a former mosque, the cathedral reflects centuries of layered history. Marvel at its soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate chapels, and the grand main altar, richly adorned in gold. Adjacent stands the iconic Giralda Tower, once a minaret, offering sweeping views over the city for those who wish to ascend.

You may also stroll through the elegant Parque de María Luisa, a lush oasis of tiled fountains, palm-lined avenues, and fragrant gardens—an ideal setting for a peaceful afternoon walk.

This evening, gather for a gracious farewell dinner with Chef Bob and the group at a carefully selected local restaurant. Enjoy traditional Andalusian cuisine and regional wines as we celebrate the inaugural Charleston Magazine Club journey—an elegant finale to our time in Seville.

Highlights:

• – Breakfast Included
• – Grazalema Park
• – Huerta de Condesa Wine Tasting in the Andalusian Highlands
• – Chef’s Dinner Included

This morning at 9:00 AM, bid farewell to Seville and depart by private luxury motorcoach, accompanied by our expert driver and guide. As the landscape unfolds, olive groves give way to dramatic limestone peaks and sweeping valleys.

Our route takes us through the breathtaking Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, a protected biosphere reserve known for its rugged mountains, deep gorges, and some of the most picturesque whitewashed villages in southern Spain. These “pueblos blancos,” clinging to hillsides in brilliant contrast against the green countryside, reflect centuries of Moorish influence and rural tradition.

We will pause in one of these charming villages for a leisurely stop—time for photographs and perhaps a glass of local wine or coffee, embracing the unhurried rhythm of Andalusian life.

Our journey continues toward Ronda and on to La Fuente de la Higuera, our refined countryside Cortijo for the next four nights. Nestled among olive trees and rolling farmland, this elegant boutique hotel blends rustic authenticity with contemporary comfort. Its serene setting, panoramic views, and understated sophistication offer a tranquil contrast to the city days behind us.

Upon arrival and check-in, take time to settle in and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Reconnect with the group for a Welcome Chef’s Dinner with the Cortijo’s chef on property.

The balance of the evening is at leisure—relax beneath the Andalusian sky and savor the charm of your new home in the hills.

Highlights:

• – Breakfast Included
• – Paella Class and Lunch
• – Olive Oil Tasting
• – Behind-the-Scenes: Vaquillas Experience
• – Tour of Ronda
• – Flamenco Performance

Over a leisurely breakfast, bask in the silver-green trees and expansive views of the Serranía mountains of Southern Spain.

A short drive into the countryside reveals another layer of regional heritage. Through this exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience, gain insight into the historic tradition of — and passion for — bullfighting through an understanding of the vaquilla — young cows used in the training of aspiring toreros. Rather than spectacle, this experience provides thoughtful cultural context, illuminating the discipline, rural customs, and centuries-old practices that have shaped this complex and storied art form.

Midday brings us together for a celebratory culinary experience. In collaboration with the Cortijo’s local chef, Chef Bob leads a hands-on workshop devoted to Spain’s most iconic dish—paella. From selecting seasonal ingredients to mastering saffron-infused rice and achieving the coveted socarrat, the experience is convivial and immersive, blending professional technique with regional authenticity. Paired with carefully selected Andalusian wines, this shared meal becomes both a welcome gathering and a memorable highlight.

No exploration of this land would be complete without honoring its olive oil tradition. A guided tasting introduces guests to locally produced extra virgin oils, revealing the nuanced flavors—grassy, peppery, subtly nutty—that distinguish exceptional harvests, an elegant sensory journey into what Andalusians proudly consider their liquid gold.

As late afternoon approaches, travel by private driver to Ronda, one of Spain’s most captivating hilltop cities. Perched dramatically above the El Tajo gorge, Ronda enchants with its whitewashed façades, cobbled streets, and sweeping views. Enjoy a private, guided tour of Ronda before time at leisure to dine in one of the town’s charming restaurants for dinner, experiencing its culinary scene at your own pace as twilight settles across the landscape.

The evening culminates in an authentic flamenco performance, where guitar, song, and impassioned dance embody the very spirit of Andalucía. In an intimate setting, local artists bring centuries of tradition vividly to life. Guests are invited not only to witness this powerful expression but to engage—learning a few spirited steps alongside the dancers for a joyful and unforgettable finale.

Return to the Cortijo

Highlights:

• – Breakfast / Lunch Included
• – Marbella Guided City Tour
• – Puerto Banus Guided Tour

For the Charleston Magazine Club, this day reveals yet another facet of Andalucía—where Moorish heritage meets Mediterranean glamour.

Following an unhurried breakfast, depart for the coast, where a different rhythm and radiance await.

Our first stop is the Old Town of Marbella. Once a quiet whitewashed fishing village with Moorish roots, Marbella today represents a graceful blend of history and cosmopolitan refinement. In its historic quarter, narrow cobbled streets open into flower-filled plazas, orange trees scent the air, and wrought-iron balconies frame centuries-old façades. The charm here is intimate and authentic, offering a glimpse into Andalucía’s layered past.

From the Old Town, explore Marbella’s golden beaches, where the Mediterranean sparkles against a dramatic mountain backdrop. The town’s transformation into one of Europe’s most desirable coastal destinations is evident—but it retains an elegance that feels timeless rather than ostentatious.

Enjoy time for shopping at leisure—whether browsing sophisticated boutiques, artisan shops, or curated galleries that reflect Marbella’s refined character. Lunch is on your own, allowing the freedom to discover a seaside café or stylish terrace at your own pace.

Later, stroll through Puerto Banús, Marbella’s celebrated marina and emblem of Mediterranean luxury. Here, sleek superyachts line the harbor, designer flagships overlook the waterfront, and the atmosphere hums with international glamour. It is a place to observe the pageantry of high society—an effortless display of wealth, leisure, and indulgence set against brilliant blue skies.

After a full day of guided exploration along the Costa del Sol, return to the tranquility of the Cortijo. Dinner this evening is on your own, offering flexibility to enjoy the Cortijo surroundings or venture out for a personal culinary discovery.

Highlights:

• – Breakfast
• – Guided Tour Mijas
• – Cortijo Fuente de la Higuera Farewell Dinner

The morning unfolds gently at La Fuente de la Higuera. Sunlight filters across the countryside as coffee is poured and a thoughtfully prepared breakfast highlights fresh local ingredients—seasonal fruits, rustic breads, and regional specialties served in the calm elegance of the Cortijo.

Travel to Mijas, widely regarded as one of Spain’s most beautiful pueblos blancos. Perched in the hills above the Mediterranean, Mijas captivates at first sight with its brilliant white façades, cobalt flowerpots, and sweeping coastal views.

Our half-day guided tour of Mijas introduces the town’s layered history, from its Moorish origins to its role in the Christian Reconquest and later development as an artists’ enclave. Narrow cobbled lanes wind past chapels, small artisan workshops, and panoramic terraces that seem suspended between mountain and sea.

A charming and distinctive local tradition is the famous donkey taxis—once a practical mode of transport for villagers navigating the steep terrain, and now an enduring symbol of Mijas’ identity. These beloved burro taxis add both character and nostalgia to the town’s atmosphere.

Enjoy ample free time to wander at leisure—browsing artisan boutiques, ceramic studios, and specialty shops offering local crafts, leather goods, and Andalusian delicacies.

Following our exploration and lunch, return to the serenity of La Fuente de la Higuera. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure—time to relax by the pool, stroll among the olive groves, or simply embrace the quiet rhythm of the countryside.

This evening, enjoy a farewell collaboration with Chef Bob and the local Cortijo chef.

Highlights:

• – Farewell to Ronda
• – Breakfast
• – First Class Train Tickets
• – All Transportation
• – Madrid Walking Gourmet Tapas Tastings with an Expert
• – Hotel Wellington & Spa

Today, bid a graceful farewell to Ronda and the sun-drenched landscapes of Andalusia, carrying with you the warmth, flavors, and traditions that have defined your time in the south.

A private transfer escorts you from La Fuente de la Higuera to the nearby train station—an easy and scenic drive of approximately fifty minutes through the rolling countryside. First-class train tickets and reserved seating are included, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey north.

Board one of Spain’s sleek high-speed trains bound for Madrid. Designed for both efficiency and comfort, the train offers spacious seating and smooth passage across the Spanish landscape. An onboard café provides coffee, refreshments, and light lunch options available for purchase, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the journey as Andalusia gradually gives way to the Castilian plains.

Upon arrival in Madrid, private transfers await to escort you to the distinguished Hotel Wellington & Spa Madrid, our home for the next three evenings. Ideally located in the elegant Salamanca district—Madrid’s refined quarter known for its grand boulevards and upscale boutiques—the Wellington has long been a symbol of classic hospitality. Established in the mid-20th century, it has hosted notable figures from the worlds of culture, politics, and sport, blending traditional grandeur with contemporary comfort. Its location places us within easy reach of the city’s finest museums, gardens, and culinary landmarks.

After check-in and a brief time to refresh, you are introduced to Madrid by our local guide and culinary expert, who will accompany the group on a walking exploration of Old Madrid. Through lively plazas and historic streets, visit several centenary tapas establishments—beloved institutions that have served generations of Madrileños.

At each stop, our expert provides context and storytelling behind the dishes you taste, explaining their origins, evolution, and place in Spain’s culinary heritage. Carefully selected wines accompany the tastings, enhancing the flavors and deepening our understanding of the region’s gastronomic traditions.

This evening offers a vibrant contrast to your days in Andalusia—where Madrid reveals itself through history, architecture, and above all, its enduring and convivial food culture.

Highlights:

• – Breakfast
• – Madrid Guided Panoramic Tour
• – Entrance Tickets to the Royal Palace

The morning begins with an elegant breakfast at Hotel Wellington & Spa Madrid. In a refined setting that reflects the hotel’s classic character, guests enjoy a generous buffet of freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruits, artisanal breads, Spanish cheeses, charcuterie, and made-to-order specialties. Fine coffee and fresh juices complete a graceful start to the day in the heart of the Salamanca district.

Embark on a panoramic guided tour of Madrid, a capital that effortlessly blends imperial grandeur with cosmopolitan vitality. Broad boulevards, elegant plazas, and architectural landmarks reveal a city shaped by Habsburg and Bourbon monarchs, yet energized by contemporary art, fashion, and gastronomy.

Madrid is at once regal and dynamic—where history lives comfortably alongside a vibrant modern culture.

A highlight of the morning is the visit to the magnificent Royal Palace of Madrid, with entrance tickets included. Once the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family (now used for state ceremonies), the palace stands as one of Europe’s most impressive royal residences. Inside, opulent salons, grand staircases, exquisite frescoes, and extraordinary collections of art and tapestries offer a glimpse into centuries of Spanish monarchy. The visit is both visually stunning and historically enriching, providing insight into Spain’s regal past.

Following the tour, the afternoon and evening are at leisure, allowing guests to explore Madrid at their own pace.

For lunch, many may wish to visit the lively Mercado de San Miguel, located near Plaza Mayor. This beautifully restored iron-and-glass market offers an array of gourmet options—from freshly shucked oysters and Iberian ham to artisan cheeses, tapas, paella, and delicate pastries. It is an ideal setting to sample a variety of Spanish flavors in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

The Wellington’s privileged location in the Salamanca district places guests within walking distance of excellent restaurants, stylish cafés, and sophisticated wine bars. From traditional Spanish dining rooms to contemporary Michelin-starred cuisine, the options are abundant. We will be delighted to assist with personalized recommendations and to arrange dinner reservations to suit individual tastes.

Today offers a perfect balance of guided discovery and independent exploration—an immersion into Madrid’s elegance, history, and cosmopolitan spirit.

Highlights:

• – Breakfast
• – Day at Leisure
• – Optional Museum del Prado
• – Farewell Dinner

The day begins gracefully at Hotel Wellington & Spa Madrid, where a refined breakfast awaits.

Today is entirely at leisure, offering the freedom to experience Madrid at your own pace. Lunch will be on your own expense, providing the opportunity to discover a new favorite café, terrace, or market at your discretion.

The Wellington’s enviable location is mere steps from the finest shopping in the distinguished Barrio de Salamanca. Along Calle de Serrano and its surrounding avenues, international luxury houses, refined Spanish designers, and elegant local boutiques create one of Europe’s most sophisticated shopping districts. Nearby, El Corte Inglés offers a comprehensive and upscale department store experience, from fashion to gourmet delicacies.

For those interested in art and culture, Premier Tours & Travel offers an optional guided visit at 10:00 AM (walking distance from the hotel) to the renowned Museo del Prado. While the guided opportunity is arranged for your convenience, please note that museum tickets are not included. The Prado’s extraordinary collection—featuring masters such as Velázquez and Goya—makes it one of Europe’s most treasured cultural institutions.

A pleasant walk from the museum leads to Parque del Retiro, Madrid’s beloved green sanctuary. Once royal gardens, El Retiro’s shaded promenades and tranquil lake offer a serene contrast to the city’s vibrant energy. Nearby terraces around Plaza de la Independencia, beside the iconic Puerta de Alcalá, provide elegant settings for a relaxed refreshment while enjoying the city’s cosmopolitan ambiance.

This evening, gather for a special farewell dinner at a nearby restaurant. As we conclude our journey, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Charleston Magazine Club. It has been a true pleasure to share the beauty, culture, and culinary richness of Andalusia and Madrid with such gracious and discerning travelers. We thank you for your enthusiasm, curiosity, and camaraderie, which have made this experience all the more meaningful.

May the memories of Spain—its landscapes, flavors, and warm hospitality—travel home with you and linger long after our final toast together.

Highlights:

• – Breakfast Included
• – Hotel Wellington & Spa Transfers to Madrid International Airport

On the final morning of your journey, guests are asked to meet in the lobby of Hotel Wellington & Spa Madrid for private transfers to the airport. Please ensure that all luggage is packed and ready, and that passports, wallets, and any important travel documents are with you.

The drive from the hotel to Madrid-Barajas Airport takes approximately 20 minutes. Given airport security protocols and baggage check-in procedures, it is recommended to allow at least three hours for check-in and processing before your departure. This ensures a smooth and relaxed transition from your final day in Madrid to your onward journey.