Portugal/Spain

Tales of Portugal and Spain: A Historic Journey Through Iberia

Program No. 21925RJ
Enjoy the opulence and history of grand hotels as you discover UNESCO Heritage Sites, Gothic cathedrals, Moorish palaces and picturesque villages in this unique educational adventure.

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At a Glance

Embark on a unique educational adventure in Portugal and Spain as you go off the beaten path to experience local life and stay in some of the region’s most unique hotels. With experts, explore the countryside as you enjoy field trips to a winery and olive grove, and enjoy lunch with a local Andalusian family. Take in a private fado performance and Spanish guitar concert, and delight in a Portuguese cookery demonstration. Along the way, you’ll stay in hotels that have their own stories to tell — a 15th-century converted convent near Evora, a hotel once the home of poet Rainer Maria Rilke and two former palaces are just a few of the accommodations that will delight and inspire you on this special journey through Iberia.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Extensive walking, up to 3 miles per day, on winding, hilly roads and cobblestone streets. Stairs without railings. Comfortable footwear is essential.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Delve into the musical heritage of Portugal and Spain during a Fado performance and Spanish guitar concert.
  • Experience Andalusia and learn about Moorish rule at the Alhambra and the Mosque of Córdoba.
  • Stay at hotels in grand historic buildings including a palace and a convent.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Luisa Azevedo
For the past 15 years, Luisa Azevedo has led learning adventures throughout Portugal and Spain. Her vast travel experience and wealth of knowledge about the history and cultures of Iberia contribute tremendously to the content of the programs she leads and provides an excellent perspective on the region. Fluent in English, Portuguese and Spanish, Luisa also lived for a few years in Brazil. She holds a degree in international relations from Minho University.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Luisa Azevedo
Luisa Azevedo View biography
For the past 15 years, Luisa Azevedo has led learning adventures throughout Portugal and Spain. Her vast travel experience and wealth of knowledge about the history and cultures of Iberia contribute tremendously to the content of the programs she leads and provides an excellent perspective on the region. Fluent in English, Portuguese and Spanish, Luisa also lived for a few years in Brazil. She holds a degree in international relations from Minho University.
Profile Image of Mary-Anne de Freitas
Mary-Anne de Freitas View biography
Mary Anne de Freitas is an experienced group leader and international courier with over 18 years in the travel industry, leading groups in Portugal and overseas. In addition to her master's in tourism management and planning as well as other education in tourism, she regularly participates in conferences to update her knowledge on the latest trends in the travel industry. She has worked for both local and international travel companies. Mary Anne is fluent in Portuguese, English, Dutch and French.
Profile Image of Mayra Noguerales
Mayra Noguerales View biography
Mayra Noguerales was born on the Canary Islands and moved to mainland Spain as a teenager. At 16, she moved to the US, and after four years in several states, headed to the UK to finish her university degree. Returning home, she moved to beautiful, historic El Escorial and became an educational Group Leader. Mayra enjoys time in her workshop creating all types of arts and crafts. Her passion and most rewarding experiences come from meeting people and sharing her knowledge of Spain and Portugal.
Profile Image of Mariola Alonso
Mariola Alonso View biography
Mariola Alonso has been leading educational programs in Spain and Portugal since 2002. A native of Valladolid, Spain, she currently divides her time between her home and her adopted city of Granada, where she is a licensed exploration leader. She has previously lived and worked in the UK, and holds degrees from the prestigious universities of Salamanca and Valladolid. Mariola is an enthusiastic group leader, who is passionate about sharing her love of art, history, and culture with Road Scholar participants.
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