History of Moorish Spain
Saga Hosted Hotels
History
Join renowned historian Jason Webster, author of almost 20 books on Spain, on an unforgettable journey back in time. Staying at the one-of-a-kind 5-star hotel Convento de la Magdalena in Antequera, explore the rich history of Islamic Spain from its Golden Age to its eventual collapse in 1492. Delve deeper into the fascinating culture and history of this amazing region as you enjoy nightly talks and four guided tours of Granada, Cordoba, Seville, and Antequera. All lunches and dinners are included, and you'll receive a copy of Jason's latest book Violencia.
Four included excursions and four expert talks
Four expert talks from Jason Webster
Antequera tour (half day)
Cordoba (full day)
Seville (full day)
Granada (full day)
Standing on a hillside overlooking unspoiled Spanish countryside, this beautiful 16th-century building exudes Spanish character and history. It was first a church, then a convent, before it was restored in 2009 and converted into a luxury hotel. Original features remain, including beautiful arches, frescoed walls and religious paintings, alongside modern touches like air-conditioning, a wellness centre and an indoor swimming pool. Outside, the grounds are dotted with fruit and olive trees, vegetable plots, chickens and even a resident donkey.
Including
Saga host
Four expert talks with historian and best-selling author Jason Webster
A copy of Jason Webster’s latest book Violencia
Hosted drinks reception
Half Board: All breakfasts and waiter served dinners
Porra Antequerana cooking demo and tapas lunch
Included tour of Antequera
Guided walk and visit the Dolmens
International flights. Prices are based on return flights with British Airways from London Gatwick. Supplements may apply from other airports
Return transfers direct to your hotel
Minimum 20kg checked luggage, per person
Overview
5 nights
Antequera, Spain
Multiple
Half Board
From £1,299 per person
Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction if not required
Holiday details
Food and drink
Breakfast and dinner are served in the hotel's waiter-served restaurant, where you will receive attentive service and a pleasant atmosphere. The hotel prides itself on its rich and flavoursome menu, with many of the ingredients locally sourced and even grown in its very own garden. You also have available the piano bar and the convent terrace to purchase and enjoy snacks and drinks while taking in the relaxing and peaceful surroundings.
Entertainment
During your stay we’ve included two visits: on Day 2 a guided tour of Antequera, and on Day 4 a guided walk to visit the Dolmens. There are some unique experiences available during your stay to enhance your experience further, including: A visit to the local "El Torcal" rock formations (extra charge for taxi) A local speciality cooking class and a visit to a nearby winery Bicycle rental Golf (within 3 km) Local walking trails on the Camino de las Arquillas, and more. Please note that some unique experiences will be at an additional charge.
Accommodation
There are twenty-one large rooms, authentic in design and character, with many of the original features still in place and some with the original floors. Due to the historical status of the building, the room configurations are all different, and some don’t have a balcony or terrace. There are lifts available to all rooms but there is some walking involved.
Amenities
- Indoor swimming pool
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Spa
- Wellness centre
- Jacuzzi
- Solarium
- Sauna
- Wi-Fi
- Sun terrace
- Terrace
- Currency exchange
Holiday location
Local Area
Antequera, the closest town, is a beautiful place whose opulent Spanish baroque style has led to it being called the ‘Florence of Andalusia’. Take a taxi - it’s about 15 minutes away - or head off and explore the surrounding Spanish countryside on one of the many walking trails. The area is also well-known for its three megalithic tombs. Known as the Antequera Dolmens and listed UNESCO World Heritage sites, they date back around 5,500 years.