Accompanied by your local guide, you will stroll through the oldest districts of the city discovering the legacy of centuries of history. Starting from the Arab wall of the tenth century, you will visit the Puerta del Sol, the street and Plaza Mayor with 400 years of history, the Royal Palace and the elegant Plaza de Oriente, the Royal Opera, that recently turned 200 years old and Madrid’s Cathedral La Almudena, all while passing through narrow medieval streets and traditional shops. After the city tour we’ll head to a ham carving workshop and tasting with a local expert. Your private expert will teach an appreciation for the variations between different hams and as well as the ideal way to carve and consume it for your best enjoyment. The visit includes the tasting of different hams to help you understand their differences. In the afternoon we’ll return to the hotel for a lecture from our astronomer Bob Berman. The rest of the evening will be at your leisure.

Breakfast at the hotel then depart for Toledo. Meet your private Toledo guide to explore this monumental city, the first capital of the Spanish Empire. Take in spectacular views of the city over the Tagus River and start with a nice walk with our expert local guide through the old Jewish quarter, with its narrow streets. As we continue to wander you will discover the impressive Cathedral, the old Palace of Justice, the Town Hall and much more. The Cathedral of Toledo is considered the best expression of Gothic art in Spain. Started in 1226, it was not until 1493 that the Catholic Kings completed their construction. The visit to its interior proves the richness of centuries of history and art of the Spanish Empire. The Church of San Tomé houses El Greco’s famous painting “The Burial of the Count Orgaz”, the masterpiece of the Greek genius who settled in Toledo and created a school in Spain with his unique art. The old Synagogue of Sta. María la Blanca remains as a symbol of the coexistence of the “Three Cultures”: Muslim architects carried out its construction, the most experienced of their time. Toledo has also been the cradle of steel workshops for centuries, not only in Spain. High-quality swords were praised throughout Europe during the Middle Ages and you can still witness local craftsmen working steel to transform it into impressive swords, helmets and more by visiting some work centers where they are still manufactured.

After a leisurely morning in Madrid we will journey northwest into the arid countryside to our vineyard hotel, Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine. Along the way, we will stop to visit Segovia. In the city of Segovia, located west of the Sierra de Guadarrama, we meet our private guide, who helps discover the history and the rich legacy left by the Romans, Visigoths, Muslims, Jews and Christians. The monarchs of Castile established their court in the city temporarily during the twelfth century. Segovia preserves the magnificent Roman aqueduct of the Emperor Augustus, with over 2000 year’s existence. Very possibly, already in the time of the Romans there was some kind of fortress in Segovia that was used as residence of several kings from Alfonso X to Felipe II.. Rumor has it that this fortress inspired Walt Disney in creating his famous story castle. After lunch we continue our journey and arrive at the Abadia Retuerta Le Domaine our monastery turned vineyard home for the next two nights. After a delightful dinner, the evening unfolds with a special treat. Under the vast, unspoiled sky, join renowned astronomer Bob Berman for a star party. Bob’s insights bring the wonders of the universe into stunning focus, creating a memorable evening of stargazing and discovery.

After a restful night in the tranquil surroundings, the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Spend the morning soaking up the peaceful atmosphere, whether you’re lounging by the pool, wandering the beautiful vineyard grounds, or simply enjoying the views of the sprawling Spanish countryside. In the afternoon, take a guided private wine tour of the vineyard, where you’ll explore the rich history of the estate and indulge in tastings of some of the finest local wines. As you stroll through the vines, learn about the winemaking process and the unique terroir of the region. As the day comes to a close, excitement builds for the next adventure: the total solar eclipse. After a scenic drive to our private viewing location, prepare to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. As the moon gradually obscures the sun, the sky will darken, and the eclipse’s full majesty will unfold before your eyes.

After leisurely morning at the vineyard, we will say goodbye and make our way back towards Madrid. Along the way we will stop for some sightseeing in Avila, one of the oldest cities in Spain. Upon arrival in Ávila we meet our private guide for a walking tour of the city. Surrounded by perfectly preserved medieval walls, the city looks more like an immense castle, and is the best example of a fortified city in all of Europe. Its old quarter maintains an important number of Romanesque churches, Gothic palaces and its fortified cathedral. Avila is also the birth city of Santa Teresa, the Spanish Catholic mystic. The Cathedral of Ávila is considered the first built in the Gothic style of Spain. Attached to the fortified wall, its current floor plan was developed between the 12th and 17th centuries. After enjoying lunch in a local restaurant, we continue our journey and arrive at Madrid and check back into our original hotel.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and depart at your leisure. Please let us know if you have interest in extending your stay in Madrid, and we can help you book your stay.