5 Oct 2022 : Welcome to Granada
Today you should arrive in Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) or Federico Garcia Lorca Granada Airport (GRX). Once you’ve reached the arrivals hall at the airport, look for "The World’s Fastest Marathon" sign and our representatives will show you to the bus.
There will be 3 scheduled arrival transfers from the airport in Malaga to Granada: 13:00, 16:30 and 20:00. The transfer time is approximately 1.5 hours. If any of the above transfers do not fit your travel plans, we will kindly ask you to make your own transfer arrangements. If arriving in Granada Airport we kindly ask you to find you own way to your hotel.
Upon checking into your hotel, you will be greeted by your tour leader. If your tour leader is not present in the reception, please check the hotel notice board for further information. Your goodie bag will be handed out by your guide upon arrival at your hotel in Granada.
The afternoon is free for you to enjoy some first impressions of Granada.
In the evening, we’ll gather to mingle with the other runners from around the world and share our positive vibes for all the excitement that lies ahead in the coming week. Join us in enjoying a special, laid-back welcome that begins with a walking tour through Granada’s historic city center. Your tour guide will lead the tour from your hotel, which will conclude with a taste of Spanish wine and nibble on tapas.
Note: Participants arriving to take the last transfer at 20:00 will not be in Granada in time to join the evening mingle and light tapas.
Meals: Light tapas
6 Oct 2022 : Guided walk in Granada & Optional Excursion to Frigiliana and Nerja
This morning is free for you to relax, enjoy, and explore Granada at your own pace.
Alternatively, an optional excursion is available.
The optional excursion takes you further out to visit two charming Spanish villages: the rural 'White City' of Frigiliana and seaside Nerja on the Costa del Sol, the “Coast of the Sun.” This excursion will last 6-7 hours.
The excursion will begin following breakfast. For further details, see “Package Add-ons.”
In the late afternoon, after the return of the optional excursion, we’ve organized a special treat – a guided walking tour through two of Granada’s most fascinating and special quarters: El Albayzín, a historic neighborhood deeply rooted in Granada’s medieval Moorish culture, and Sacromonte, famous for its thriving Roma culture, caves, and long flamenco tradition.
From this part of Granada’s old town, one can easily spot The Alhambra sitting high atop Sabika Hill with a dramatic backdrop – the beautiful, snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range, where you will soon have the chance to achieve your next “personal best” in The World’s Fastest Marathon!
Meals: Breakfast and dinner
7 Oct 2022 : Optional Excursion to Alhambra and Route Inspection // Guests arriving for 3 day arrivals
Today, you can enjoy the day at your leisure. Alternatively, you have the possibility to join one or both of today's optional excursions.
The first excursion is the Route Inspection, which offers you the perfect opportunity to not only inspect the route and briefly introduce your legs to the downhill terrain, but also enjoy the impressive panoramic views and fresh air of the Sierra Nevada. This excursion will last 4-5 hours.
The second excursion takes you to the UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site Alhambra. A must do when visiting Granada.
Please note: It is extremely difficult to get tickets to the popular Alhambra during high-season, which is why we have secured a number of entry tickets for WFM participants. Adding the Alhambra excursion to your itinerary will guarantee you the entry to this fascinating, historical gem, but keep in mind: tickets are limited, so don't wait too long to book.
OR 2 night/ 3 days arrivals
If you are arriving with us Today you should arrive in Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) or Federico Garcia Lorca Granada Airport (GRX). Once you’ve reached the arrivals hall at the airport, look for "The World’s Fastest Marathon" sign and our representatives will show you to the bus.
There will be multiple arrival transfers from the airport in Malaga to Granada: 11:00, 15:00, 17:30 and 20:00. The transfer time is approximately 1.5 hours. If any of the above transfers do not fit your travel plans, we will kindly ask you to make your own transfer arrangements.
Upon checking into your hotel, you will be greeted by your tour leader. If your tour leader is not present in the reception, please check the hotel notice board for further information. Your goodie bag will be handed out by your guide upon arrival at your hotel in Granada.u to the bus
In the evening, we can load up on carbs at the pasta dinner. Your tour leader will provide the full details.
Rest up tonight – tomorrow is the big day!
Meals: Breakfast and dinner or only dinner if you arrive today
8 Oct 2022 : Race Day & Celebration Dinner
Today is the big day – The World’s Fastest Marathon! Breakfast will be either provided in the form of a breakfast box or served at your hotel.
Buses depart for the start no later than 6:00am. The race starts at 8:00am. Refreshments and snacks will be provided for all runners at the finish line.
The finish line is located at Celador Del Paseo Del Salon, a beautiful park centrally located in Granada.
From here, it's only a short walk to your hotel.
In the evening, we all gather for the big celebration dinner. All participants will be picked up at their hotels at 18:45 and taken to the party. The venue is a surprise, but with an open bar, a menu of Spanish delicacies, and fantastic atmosphere, it's a party not to be missed!
Meals: Breakfast, post-race snacks and celebration dinner
9 Oct 2022 : Farewell Granada
Depending on your departure time and whether or not your legs have the energy for more, you might have time to enjoy a bit more of Granada’s charm. Hotel check-out is before noon.
There will be 4 scheduled departure transfers from Granada to the airport in Malaga. Departure times from Granada: 05:30, 09:00, 12:00 and 15:00. The transfer time is approximately 1.5 hours. If any of the above transfers do not fit your travel plans, we will kindly ask you to make your own transfer arrangements. If departing from Granada Airport we kindly ask you to find you own way to the airport.
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Excursions and Extensions
7 Oct 22 | 4-5 hours | Route inspection - £35
Inspect the route with a drive up and down the mountain to the start area situated at 2,605 meters (8,546 feet) above sea level.
The route inspection will begin following breakfast, as we board our bus for the 1-hour drive to the start area which is just adjacent to Sierra Nevada National Park (Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada). Both runners and non-runners welcome! This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and panoramic views over the Sierra Nevada, as well as take a brief test run down the mountain.
The bus will follow the marathon route on the return leg of this excursion, giving you a chance to see the route start to finish. We expect to be back in Granada between 13:00-14:00 in time to join the optional Alhambra excursion.
7 Oct 22 | 3-4 hours | The Alhambra - £60
The UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site known as the Alhambra is the most sought-after attraction in Granada and it definitely tops the “must-see list” in the Andalucía region and Spain. Tickets are difficult to secure, but with this excursion, your entry to this world-class monument is guaranteed.
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984, the Alhambra is an expansive complex of regally decorated palaces, perfectly pruned gardens, residences and a once-mighty fortress. Here in the Alhambra, imperial history abounds and visitors quickly sense both the cultural importance of this monument and the presence of ancient spirits that mysteriously linger.
This sprawling, grandiose complex is situated atop Sabika Hill, a plateau located to the west of Granada that served as a strategic vantage point. The site offers panoramic views over Granada as well as breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains. When illuminated by the glimmering Spanish sun, the towers and walls glimmer radiantly in vivid shades of red and gold. Perhaps this trait is what earned the complex its name “Alhambra,” an Arabic word for “red castle,” although the precise origin of the name is still debated.
According to limited historical records, origins of The Alhambra date back to the 9th century, when the once-mighty Moorish fortress, known as the Alcazaba, was built.
Construction of the Alhambra, as we know it today, was not only the work of one ruler, but a succession of rulers in the Nasrid Dynasty during their reign over Granada and parts of the Iberian Peninsula between 1238 to 1492. The Nasrid Dynasty was the last of the Muslim dynasties in Spain and the special architectural influence of Moorish culture is apparent throughout the Alhambra.
In 1492, centuries of Islamic rule ended with the defeat of the last Nasrid ruler (Muhammed XII, known as Boabdil to Spanish historians) by King Ferdinand of Aragon and Queen Isabella of Castille in their Christian conquest of Granada. This marked a major turning point in world history – it resulted in the defeat of the last remaining Islamic Kingdom in Western Europe, led to the expulsion of the Moors from Granada and unified Spain under a Catholic monarchy. Shortly thereafter, the royal couple set their sights on discovery, sending Christopher Columbus on his first expedition. Together, this series of events influenced the course of world history and further solidified Spain’s prominence as an influential European power.
In the years that followed, the Alhambra was partially destroyed and rebuilt by Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor (1519-1556) and King of Spain (as Charles I; 1516-1556), thus giving The Alhambra a unique blend of Moorish and Renaissance architecture.
During a visit to the Alhambra, one can see a number of sections including the Generalife Gardens (a collection of courtyards, pools, fountains and land used for both cultivation and grazing); the Alcazaba (the remainders of the fortress); Charles V Palace and surrounding areas; the Towers and higher Alhambra.
Guarantee your entry to the Alhambra with this excursion! In high season, it is nearly impossible to get tickets for entry to the Alhambra, however, with this excursion we can guarantee you will have an entry ticket to this impressive monument.
6 Oct 22 | 6-7 hours | Frigiliana & Nerja - £45
Visit two charming Spanish villages on this half-day ex5cursion to the rural “White City” of Frigiliana and seaside Nerja on the Costa del Sol, “Coast of the Sun.” Both stops will include a brief, guided introduction provided by your tour leader, followed by time to explore on your own.
After breakfast (around 8:30am), we will drive approximately one hour from Granada to our first stop in the country town of Frigiliana, fittingly known as “The White City.”
En route through the hilly, green countryside, we will pass traditional ranches with groves of olive trees and meticulously maintained vineyards and orchards of lush avocado trees. If we’re lucky, the trees will be covered in greenish-yellow blooms that fill the air with a sweet, citrusy aroma.
The first stop is Frigiliana. Impeccably clean, white-washed homes adorned with pots of bright-red geraniums stand in stunning contrast to the blue skies. Red slate roofs, colorful cafe umbrellas, and vibrant shades of bougainvillea, lavender, and jasmine add an extra dash of color and scent to this enchanting scene. As you explore, ponder the stories held within the walls of Frigiliana’s medieval Moorish fortress and get lost wandering the mazes of cobblestone streets and staircases. Take in the magnificent vistas over Costa del Sol. It is all of this, and so much more, that makes Frigiliana especially captivating.
On the next leg of our journey, we’ll take a short drive to the south and stop in Nerja. The epitome of a quintessential Andalusian town, Nerja is nestled in a stunning natural setting surrounded by sandy beaches, the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and the breathtaking mountains of the Sierra de Almijara. As a cozy costal town which is not packed by tourists, Nerja embodies the Spanish concept of “tranquilo” or “relaxed.”
Our time here begins in the heart of Nerja at Balcón de Europa or “The Balcony of Europe,” an attraction beloved by locals and visitors alike for its palm tree-lined promenade and cliff-top viewpoint that juts out like a natural pier over the cobalt-blue Mediterranean Sea. Here, you’ll fantastic panoramic views of Costa del Sol’s many honey-colored coves and sandy beaches. The two ancient cannons serve as reminder that a mighty fortress once stood atop the cliffs.
You can spend the next few hours in Nerja at your leisure. Be sure to pack your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in Mediterranean waters or catch some rays on nearby La Caletilla Beach, which is a relatively small beach that is surrounded by cliffs and accessible only by foot. It just so happens that La Caletilla Beach is also near Balcón de Europa and just a stone’s throw away from restaurants and shops. If you’d like to do a bit of shopping, you can find a number of local boutiques selling everything from shoes to clothing to souvenirs and art.
There will be plenty of time to enjoy lunch at a café along one the village streets or why not dine beachside?
We’ll board the busses in the early afternoon to return to Granada.
9-13 Oct 22 | 5 days | Andalusian Dreams - £865pp
Explore some of the most beautiful cities in Andalusia, immerse yourself in this wonderful region that provides the best culture, food and wine.
Day 1 - 9 Oct : Hola Ronda!
Today we will move on from Granada towards the Ronda mountains, it is a 2,5 hour drive away. Ronda is surrounded by lush river valleys and sitting on a deep ravine, Ronda is a paradise worth visiting. This magical mountain-top city is best known for its bridge, Puente Nuevo. It is also home to the only bullring made entirely out of stone, which also happens to be one of the oldest bullrings in Spain. Ronda is brimming with beautiful examples of Moorish architecture. After our guided tour through the city, we will visit an ecological wine cellar to get a taste of the famous wines of Ronda.
The history of this winery begins with the winemaking tradition of Puente Genil, Córdoba, hometown of its owner. Until one day he discovered the mountains of Ronda, and found the perfect estate to build the winery he had always dreamed of. Along with a tour of the vineyard and a tasting, we will also enjoy a regional homemade lunch, including appetizers and a paella.
After our winery tour, we will get back on the bus and drive on to Sevilla, where we will settle for the night at our hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 2 - 10 Oct: Sevilla for the day!
This morning we will start off with breakfast at the hotel, before heading off to explore this beautiful city.
Nestled on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, Seville is heir to a rich Arab legacy and its status as a thriving commercial port with the Americas. The Andalusian capital exudes joy and bustle in each of the streets and squares that make up its historic center, which houses an interesting set of constructions declared World Heritage and popular flavor, such as Triana or La Macarena.
We will begin with a guided tour of the Real Alcazar. Peter I, the Cruel, rebuilt the old Almohad fortress and made it into his royal residence. Over time it became extremely deteriorated and had to be refurbished during the reign of Isabel II. It has always received a lot of attention due to its historical and cultural significance, and more recently, due to its appearance in the world-famous series "Game of Thrones".
Once we have taken the time to soak in all the beauty of the Real Alcazar, we will explore Seville's “City Centre” and its gastronomy through a guided tour and discover our most popular and well-know traditions, such as tapas.
We will visit three establishments, tasting a great variety from typical products in “a Sevillian” atmosphere - always advised by our guide - who will explain the different plates, preparation, ingredients.
After enjoying a delicious meal, you will be taken to the Cathedral area where you will enjoy a panoramic city tour by horse carriage, along Plaza de España, Maria Luisa Park, 1929 Expo, Macarena Quarter, Guadalquivir River and Torre del Oro.
Finally, you will have some time to wind down and relax after our busy day. The evening is free for you to enjoy at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3 - 11 Oct: Off to Córdoba
Today, after breakfast at the hotel, we will continue our journey through Andalusia by heading off to our next stop: Córdoba. This is approximately a 2 hour drive away.
Córdoba, capital of Muslim Spain, is in the centre of Andalusia. There remain traces of its Iberian, Roman and Muslim past. It has an impressive monumental heritage, and its cuisine has experienced a remarkable boom. The territory of Cordoba's Al-Andalus was the focus of cultural and economic enlightenment during medieval Europe.
Once we arrive in Córdoba, you will have the afternoon free to walk around and explore the city at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 - 12 Oct: Discover Córdoba and the Mosque-Cathedral
You will start the day by enjoying breakfast at the hotel, before heading out for a guided tour of Córdoba and The Mosque-Cathedral.
The Mosque lies in the historic heart of the city, and is one of the most beautiful examples of Muslim art in the whole of Spain. The Moslem emir Abderrahman I ordered construction of the temple in the year 785 on the ruins of the old Visigoth church of St. Vincent. During the centuries that followed the Mosque underwent several changes. Abderrahman III ordered a new minaret, while Alhaken II, in 961, enlarged the plan of the building and the mihrab was decorated. The last of the reforms was carried out by Almanzor in 987. As a result of all the work, the interior of the building is a myriad of row upon row of beautiful columns and horseshoe arches. In 1523, following the Christian conquest, the cathedral was built inside.
The Mosque of Córdoba is not only the symbol of Al-Andalus, but a fundamental monument of the entire Islamic West and one of the most amazing in the world.
You will then have time to wander around the picturesque streets of the Jewish Quarter. The Synagogue, situated in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, is unique in Andalusia and one of the three best preserved Medieval synagogues in the whole of Spain. According to the inscriptions found in the building, it was built between the years 1314 and 1315, and was in constant use right up until the Jews were expelled from Spain.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 - 13 Oct: Farewell Spain!
Sadly, it is time to bid farewell to Córdoba after breakfast at the hotel. It should take us approximately 2 hours to reach Malaga Airport, so you can expect to be there around noon.
Meals: Breakfast
