Witherspoon Madrid & the Costa del Sol Highlights

 

Landed at Madrid's Barajas International Airport ahead of schedule where we met Andy (tour director) who transfered us to our hotel located on the Gran Vía in Madrid's historic heart. Still earlymorning so we deposited luggage, freshen up and then set out immediately to begin our explorations of the Spanish capital (and beat our jet-lag) on foot. Strolled along the elegant Gran Vía and through the commercial shopping district to the Puerta del Sol (Spain's geographical centre) and the narrow streets and squares of the Habsburg (Los Austrias) district. Stopped for coffee and snacks in the regal 'Plaza Mayor' before continuing to the Bourbon inspired 'Art Golden Triangle' to see the Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen Museums. Checked into our rooms for a well deserved rest and shower and devoted the rest of the afternoon to independant exploration of the Spanish capital. Some visited the Thyssen Museum for a whirlwind art history trip and others visited the Retiro Park to ride the rowboats on its lake. Filling buffet dinner beside the Opera House before returning to the hotel for a long and extremely well earned rest.