Hotel Fuerte El Rompido

Birdwatching enthusiasts will know the significance of this region – it’s an important refuge point for migratory birds flying between Europe and Africa. Today’s optional excursion allows you to unleash your binoculars within the protected pine forests, wetlands and sand dunes of Doñana National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest nature reserves in Europe and positively overflowing with feathers. In the company of a local expert you’ll be invited to keep your eyes peeled for imperial eagles, kestrels and several species of duck and water fowl as well as pink blankets of flamingos fringing the inland lakes and lagoons.

This excursion is a must for history buffs. Starting with the Rio Tinto mining and railway museum, you’ll be taken on a journey through time and find out more about the British miners that lived and worked here from 1892 – 1992. It’s a really immersive experience with insight into the landscapes, ancient settlements and the expansion of Huelva as it grew to accommodate the workers in one of the world’s largest mines. After enjoying the surrounding countryside from the Cerro Colorado, you’ll head back to Huelva and hear the true story of the 'The Man Who Never Was'. Visiting the headstone and watching a short documentary film adds depth to one of WWII’s most interesting and successful military deceptions.

Every Whitsun, the whitewashed village of El Rocío sings to the sounds of church bells and the clip clop of caballeros' horses. It signals a stunning pilgrimage event to commemorate the miracle of Nuestra Señora del Rocío, filled with religious fervour and cultural heritage. Witnessing the spectacle is a truly authentic Andalucian experience however, no matter what time of year you visit El Rocío, the timeless, traditional ambience allows you to see a side of southern Spain that’s resisted the modern world. Once you’ve enjoyed a guided tour, you’ll be treated to a trip to one of Europe’s largest protected nature reserves, Doñana National Park. It’s the perfect setting to learn more about the region's indigenous animals and migratory bird species that can be found within the marshlands, coastal pine forests and white sand shifting dunes. Tours of the park are undertaken in specially modified vehicles to avoid damaging the fragile landscapes. Keep a look out for egrets, eagles, herons and ducks as well as the fabulous flamingos lining the inland lagoons and shallow saline lakes.

Explore Seville, the vibrant heart of Andalusia with a rich history dating back to the Carthaginians and Romans. In 1248, the Castilian monarchs claimed the city from the Moors, establishing it as their southern capital. The 16th century ushered in a period of prosperity, fueled by burgeoning trade with the Americas. Marvel at the grandeur of Seville's Gothic cathedral, the largest in Spain, featuring the Orange Tree Court and the iconic Giralda minaret, remnants of the original mosque. Another architectural gem is the Alcazar, a former Moorish palace rebuilt by Pedro the Cruel in the 14th century. Please note that entrance fees are not included, allowing you the flexibility to tailor your experience in this enchanting city. Seville beckons with a tapestry of history, culture, and architectural splendour.

Tavira is one of the oldest and prettiest towns on the east coast of the Algarve. Set on the banks of the River Gilhão, its narrow streets offer an intriguing mix of Roman, medieval and Renaissance buildings – including 37 churches – to discover. Enjoy a two-hour guided walking tour around this traditional town to see the castle, the many bell towers and distinctive tesouro-style rooftops.

Even if you haven’t brought your binoculars, today’s half day excursion to Odiel Marshes is certainly worth experiencing. This is nature reserve is situated at the confluence of the Odiel and Tinto rivers and forms one of Spain’s most important tidal wetland areas. It’s a haven for migrating and native birds with flamingos, osprey, herons and European spoonbills to be found amongst the islets, dunes, mudflats and lagoons. Also, if you’re lucky, you might be fortunate enough to spot a chameleon or two as you follow your nature guide alongside the reeds and the bullrushes.

Cross the international bridge into Portugal’s Algarve region, beginning with a visit to Loulé. A guided tour covers the historic centre, including the market, town hall, castle remains, Arabic baths, and the Chapel of Our Lady of Conceição. There’s free time to explore the market before continuing to Albufeira, a former fishing village that has grown into a popular tourist destination. Here, there is time for lunch with views of the beach. The journey then continues to Tavira, known for its traditional Algarve architecture. A walk through the historic centre includes the Roman bridge and Republic Square, where there is time for a coffee before the return journey.

This full-day trip takes you into the forested hills of western Huelva, where you can spot raptors, insect-eating birds, and other wildlife among the rocks, woods, and scrub. Sierra Pelada is home to Andalusia’s main colony of Black Vultures, offering a great chance to see these impressive birds. On the way up, we’ll also look out for Great and Little Bustards on the steppes and, from late winter onwards, the Great Spotted Cuckoo.

We begin in Ayamonte, a picturesque Andalusian white town where you'll enjoy a guided tour through its charming streets. After a short break, hop on a ferry across the Guadiana River – the natural border between Spain and Portugal – arriving in the elegant town of Vila Real de Santo António. Known for its distinctive Pombaline architecture, there’s a lively pedestrian centre filled with shops, showcasing the historic trade between these two neighbouring towns.

This UNESCO site and Biosphere reserve provides an ideal environment for ibis, spoonbills, egrets and grebes as well as the rarely seen marbled teal. As the first ever project of the World Wildlife Fund, the protected area has grown in population and now boasts more than 30, 000 breeding water birds. Also, thanks to Doñana’s location on the migratory superhighway, winters are filled with feathers as more than 400,000 birds arrive from colder climes.

Explore Doñana National Park on a 4x4 tour. Get ready for an adventure through rugged terrain and breathtaking landscapes. Plus, immerse yourself in local culture with a visit to an ancient wine cellar. And the best part? Lunch is included, so you can savour delicious flavours while soaking in the beauty of this unique destination.

Today we’ll visit the port city of Huelva – situated at the meeting place of the Odiel and Tinto rivers. It’s the provincial capital and packed full of picturesque town plazas, seafood restaurants, and historic monuments such as the statue dedicated to the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus. We’ll kick start our day with a panoramic sightseeing tour by bus. This will take in the key city sights including the whitewashed Sanctuary of the virgin of La Cinta – the patroness of Huelva – and the Cementerio de la Soledad which contains the grave of Major William Martin: the man who never was. After an enjoyable morning sightseeing, we’ll be free to explore at leisure and discover some of Huelva’s laid-back tapas bars and selection of boutique stores in the pedestrianised centre.

This morning will head into Huelva and take a stroll around the pedestrian streets of the Old Town. Highlights include the Casa Colón, the Town Hall and the Nuns Square. We’ll also visit the Mercado del Carmen, bustling with locals browsing the stalls selling Iberian specialities such as olive oils, wines, cheese, hams, and sausages. After picking up a few souvenirs and tasting some of the regional delights, we’ll walk down to the harbour. It’s here we’ll board a boat for a 90-minute cruise along the Odiel River marshes. It’s the perfect opportunity to see more of the birdlife living in the wetland nature reserve including flamingos, spoonbills and herons. We’ll also be treated to some local cheese and a glass of wine before returning to the harbour and heading back to the hotel.