Mallora & Southern Spain
The dramatic landscapes of the island of Mallorca, the stunning Moorish influence of palaces and architecture in Andalusia Spain, the walking from Spain to UK in Gibraltar and the day trip to Morocco. Let’s dive into the highlights of this captivating 14 day, late summer itinerary.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | This is the travel day. Getting to the airport and overnight flight to Mallorca. | In flight |
| Day 2 | Exploring Mallorca. Drive down the Sa Calobra road. Visit the town of Pollenca. | Mallorca |
| Day 3 | Exploring Mallorca. Beach coves and golden sunsets. | Mallorca |
| Day 4 | Exploring Mallorca. Drach Caves, Cape Formentor and Cape Formentor beach. | Mallorca |
| Day 5 | Exploring Mallorca. 3 impressive towns: Deia, Valldemossa and Palma. | Mallorca |
| Day 6 | Fly to Seville. Explore the cathedral and beautifl town of Seville. | Seville |
| Day 7 | Explore Seville. Visit the impressive Plaza de Espana & Royal Alcazar of Seville. | Seville |
| Day 8 | Drive to Granada, via Cordoba. | Granada |
| Day 9 | Walk the old town up to Mirador de San Nicolás. Visit the Alhambra palace & fortress. | Granada |
| Day 10 | Drive to Ronda. | Ronda |
| Day 11 | Drive to Gibraltar and send the evening in Tarifa. | Tarifa |
| Day 12 | Day trip through organized tour half day tour of Morocco. Drive back to Ronda. | Ronda |
| Day 13 | Drive to Mijas. Enjoy the last day in southern Spain. | Mijas |
| Day 14 | Fly home. | Home |
Day 1 - Travel Day
We flew from London Gatwick to Mallorca via EasyJet. After picking up a rental car at the airport, we headed straight to our Airbnb nestled in the charming fishing harbor of Port Sóller—a scenic seaside town that became our home for the next five days. Although the drive there isn’t mountainous, Port Sóller sits on the island’s rugged northern coast.
Day 2 - Exploring the north part of the island:
A drive to Sa Calobra Beach. Warning this drive is not for everyone. The Sa Calobra Road. One of the scariest roads I’ve been on. It is 12 km of jaw dropping hairpin (180 degree) turns on a mountainous road to reach the beach. Additionally reaching this road is also challenging at times because of the narrow roads through the mountains and more hairpin turns. Basically you have go up the mountain so high that it seems like you are on another planet, and then drive down the Sa Calobra to reach a beach. Do your research on the drive and make sure you are comfortable with this drive before attempting it. Another option would be take a bus, although I’m sure that will have it’s own thrill going down this road. Final point, this road is dangerous and you must be an experienced driver and up to the challenge.
The town of Pollenca. A gorgeous mountain town, known for the tiny church at the top of 365 stairs, 1 for each day of the year. It has wonderful views and great restaurants to enjoy some tapas and sangrias before wandering up the 365 steps.
Day 3 - Beach Coves and Golden Sunsets, travelling east to west:
Mallorca has gorgeous cove beaches. Pick one and enjoy a few hours on the beach. The most beautiful don’t come easy, often there will be a trek from the car to a cliff and a climb down on either stairs or a path.
Sunset at Port d’Andratx. Check the time of the sunset, and arrive early before the sunset. Nestle into one of the sunset facing outdoor cafes along the promenade and enjoy the most spectacular sunset if you are visiting in September.
Day 4 - Shopping, Dramatic Caves, More Spectacular Lookouts, more beaches and more sunsets:
If you forgot to pack anything, don’t worry as Mallorca has great shopping malls. One in the capital of Palma, and a lovely outdoor outlet mall, called Mallorca Fashion Outlets.
Next stop was the underground Caves of Drach. These are world famous limestone caves, with a show in the caves at the end of your tour.
Scenic Lookouts at Cap de Formentor and Mirador de Es Colomer. Close to Pollenca, this is another Mallorcan fantastic lookout. Afterwards if you continue from the lookout, you can take a twisty road toward the beautiful Platja de Formentor beach.
Day 5 - Explore 3 breath taking Mallorcan towns:
Deia - One of the pretties villages on the island. Tucked in the mountains of the north coast, this town offers a dramatic landscape surrounded by mountains, palm trees, cactus trees and scenic ocean views as you approach.
Valldemossa - a short drive from Deia as you travel south. This interior town offers old town charm. Scattered throughout are lovely restaurants, shops and little alley ways beautifully decorated with wall planters.
Palma De Mallorca - the capital of Mallorca. First stop is the Castell de Belver, a Gothic-style castle on top of a hill the offers beautiful views of the city of Palma De Mallorca. After explore the landmark cathedral and the old town. Explore the Royal Palace of Almudaina, which is the official residence of the current monarchy, takes its name directly from the Arabic for 'fortress'. Nearby, the tranquil Arab Baths, are another reminder of their time on the island.
Day 6 - Travel to Seville by plane: Time to leave the island of Mallorca. Take a taxi from the airport to the city centre (the main cathedral). Explore the city and the cathedral. Indulge in tapas in one of the many restaurants. It’s a good idea to pre-purchase tickets to the Royal Alcazar of Seville.
Day 7 - Seville: Explore Seville on foot. Start the morning admiring the beautiful architecture of Plaza de Espana, a square built for the 1928 Ibero-American Exhibition. It will take at least an hour to wander through and explore. Walk back along the river and you will see Plaza de Toros de Sevilla, the largest and most important arena for bullfighting in Spain. Tickets are required to enter. In the afternoon visit the Royal Alcazar of Seville (depending on the time of day of your ticket purchase), a magical historical royal palace and gardens influenced by Moorish architecture.
Day 8 & 9 - Travel to Cordoba, while on route to Granada: At this time during the travels it’s useful to have a car. We rented a car from a Budget Car Rental location close to the city centre. On route to Granada we stopped in the city of Córdoba. Córdoba, Spain is a city where history, culture, and architectural splendor converge in unforgettable ways. Here's what makes it truly stand out:
Historic Significance
Once the capital of the Islamic Caliphate in the 10th century, Córdoba was one of the most advanced cities in Europe, known for its libraries, universities, and scholars.
It was a hub of coexistence among Muslim, Christian, and Jewish communities, leaving behind a rich cultural legacy.
The Mezquita-Catedral (Mosque–Cathedral)
This iconic structure is Córdoba’s crown jewel. Originally a mosque built in the 8th century, it was later converted into a cathedral after the Christian Reconquista.
Its forest of red-and-white horseshoe arches and intricate mihrab are breathtaking examples of Moorish architecture.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The Historic Centre of Córdoba, including the Mezquita, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Nearby, the Madinat al-Zahra, the ruins of a 10th-century Islamic palace-city, is also recognized by UNESCO
The Roman Bridge of Cordoba is a beautiful sight to see, and was also see in the hit show, Game of Thrones.
When finished exploring Cordoba, continue on to Granada. We checked into this amazing apartment with fantastic views of the Alhambra and the city.
Day 9: Explore Granada. A city where Moorish magic, mountain majesty, and flamenco fire all collide in the most enchanting way. Here's what makes it truly special and what to see and do:
The Alhambra (buy tickets at least 3 months ahead of time!)
Granada’s crown jewel, this sprawling hilltop fortress-palace is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
With its intricate stucco work, tranquil courtyards, and lush Generalife gardens, it feels like stepping into a dream from the 13th century.
The Alhambra will take at least 3 hours to explore.
Breathtaking Views
From the Mirador de San Nicolás, you get a postcard-perfect panorama of the Alhambra with the Sierra Nevada mountains in the background—especially magical at sunset.
Albaicín & Sacromonte
The Albaicín is a maze of narrow, whitewashed streets that echo Granada’s Moorish past.
Sacromonte is famous for its cave dwellings and flamenco shows—raw, passionate, and unforgettable.
Flamenco Culture
Granada is one of the birthplaces of flamenco. Watching a performance in a Sacromonte cave is a visceral, soul-stirring experience.
Free Tapas Tradition
Order a drink, and you’ll get a free tapa. It’s a beloved local custom that turns bar-hopping into a full-blown culinary adventure.
Cultural Fusion
Granada was the last Muslim stronghold in Spain, and its architecture, cuisine, and traditions reflect a rich blend of Islamic, Christian, and Jewish influences.
Sierra Nevada Mountains
Just a short drive away, these peaks offer skiing in winter and hiking in summer—ideal for nature lovers.
Day 10 & 11 - Ronda: Leave Granada and embark a beautiful countryside drive to Ronda. Ronda, Spain is like a storybook town perched dramatically above a gorge—equal parts breathtaking and historic. In Ronda, we rented a 3 bedroom house off the cutest street close to the centre of town. Here's what makes it unforgettable:
Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)
Ronda’s most iconic landmark, this 18th-century stone bridge spans the El Tajo gorge, connecting the old Moorish quarter with the newer part of town.
It towers 120 meters above the canyon floor and took over 40 years to build.
Historic Bullring
The Plaza de Toros de Ronda is one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, built in 1785.
Ronda is considered the birthplace of modern bullfighting, thanks to the Romero family who revolutionized the art.
Moorish Legacy
The town’s Arab Baths are among the best-preserved in Spain, dating back to the 13th century.
You can also explore the Casa del Rey Moro, which includes a secret water mine carved into the cliffside.
Epic Views & Natural Beauty
The El Tajo gorge slices the town in two, offering jaw-dropping vistas from multiple viewpoints.
Nearby, the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park adds to the region’s rugged charm.
Cultural Influence
Writers like Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles were captivated by Ronda’s beauty and bullfighting traditions.
Welles even had his ashes buried in Ronda.
Local Flavor
Ronda is part of the Andalusian Wine Route, with boutique wineries tucked into the countryside.
Try Rondeño chorizo, or choose from a variety of paella, and sip local wine while gazing over the valley.
Day 12 - Gibraltar & Tarifa: The drive from Ronda to Gibraltar is a scenic adventure through the heart of Andalusia, offering a mix of mountain charm and coastal beauty. It’s approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Gibraltar is a tiny British territory with a towering personality—literally and figuratively. Don’t forget your passport! After going through British customs and border security you will walk across the airport to get to the main town. Here's what makes it so fascinating:
The Rock of Gibraltar
This massive limestone monolith dominates the landscape and has been a symbol of strength for centuries.
It's home to Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe. Legend says British rule will end if the monkeys ever disappear!
Strategic Location
Perched at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar guards the entrance to the Mediterranean via the Strait of Gibraltar.
You can see Africa from Europa Point on a clear day—just 13 miles across the water.
Underground Mysteries
The Rock hides over 50 km of tunnels, some dating back to WWII. Rumors swirl about secret bunkers and radiation-proof shelters.
There's even a legend of a natural tunnel to Morocco from St. Michael’s Cave!
British Yet Mediterranean
Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, so you’ll find red phone boxes, pubs, and Union Jacks.
But it also blends Spanish, Moorish, and Mediterranean influences in its food, architecture, and language.
Tarifa: After finished exploring Gibraltar, continue driving south to the beautiful town of Tarifa. The drive takes little under an hour. Tarifa is a windswept jewel at the southernmost tip of continental Europe, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, literally, and even the water colour between the 2 oceans looked different. Tarifa was a huge surprise and we had no idea how much we would love it here. Our hotel fit the mood as well, perfect blend of Andalusian and Moroccan. Here's what makes Tarifa so captivating:
Kitesurfing Capital of Europe
Thanks to the powerful Levante and Poniente winds, Tarifa is a mecca for kitesurfers and windsurfers.
Dozens of surf schools line the town, and the beaches are dotted with colorful sails dancing in the breeze.
Whale Watching & Marine Life
The Strait of Gibraltar is a hotspot for spotting fin, sperm, pilot, and even orca whales.
Boat tours offer close encounters with these majestic creatures as they migrate between the Atlantic and Mediterranean
Historic Charm
The Castillo de Guzmán el Bueno, built in the 10th century, stands guard over the town and tells tales of Moorish sieges and heroic sacrifice.
Tarifa’s old town is a maze of whitewashed houses, cobbled streets, and lively plazas like Plaza de Santa Maria
Beaches & Natural Beauty
Playa de Los Lances and Valdevaqueros are long, golden beaches perfect for sunbathing or horseback riding.
Nearby, the Parque Natural del Estrecho and Parque Natural de los Alcornocales offer hiking trails with views of Africa across the water
Cultural Crossroads
Just a 35-minute ferry ride to Tangier, Tarifa is a gateway between Europe and Africa.
Its vibe is a blend of Spanish, Moorish, and bohemian influences, with surf shops, tapas bars, and art galleries creating a laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere
Roman Ruins
A short drive away, the Baelo Claudia ruins near Bolonia Beach showcase ancient Roman temples, baths, and fish-salting factories
Day 13: Morocco: You can’t come all this way, to the very tip of Spain and not do at least a day trip to Morocco, Africa. We did an organized tour that was planned a head of time using Get-Your-Guide. A half-day tour from Tarifa to Morocco—specifically to Tangier—is a whirlwind cultural escape that packs a lot into just a few hours. Here's what such a tour typically includes:
Ferry Ride Across the Strait
Depart from Tarifa Port and take a 45–60 minute ferry to Tanger Ville.
Enjoy views of the Mediterranean and Atlantic merging, with Africa coming into focus as you approach.
Guided Walking Tour of Tangier
Explore the Medina, a maze of narrow alleys filled with spice shops, artisan stalls, and historic homes.
Visit the Kasbah, offering panoramic views and insight into Morocco’s layered history.
Stop by the Grand Socco and Petit Socco, lively squares brimming with local life.
Coastal Excursion
Some tours include a short drive to Cap Spartel, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean.
Visit the Hercules Caves and enjoy a camel ride on nearby beaches.
Day 14: Mijas, Spain: The final stop of this trip is Mijas, Spain. It is close enough to the Malaga city airport for tomorrow’s departure, yet Mijas, Spain is a charming blend of whitewashed tradition, coastal beauty, and mountain serenity tucked into the heart of Andalusia’s Costa del Sol. We stayed in the little town of Mijas (Mijas Pueblo) at this wonderful hotel with spanning views of the Costa del Sol. Mijas Pueblo is known for:
A classic “pueblo blanco” perched on the hillside, known for its narrow cobbled streets, flower-filled balconies, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean.
Highlights include the Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña (a chapel carved into rock), the Plaza de Toros (a unique oval bullring), and the quirky Miniature Museum with art on grains of rice and pinheads.
The Botanical Gardens and La Muralla offer panoramic views and peaceful strolls along ancient fortress walls.
Our final evening ended with some last minute souvenir shopping, wonderful tapas, wine and dinner in this charming whitewashed little town.
