We’ll say “adéu” to Andorra the Pyrenees and roll south on a gorgeous mountain-to-Mediterranean drive. Our drives are fun, and relaxed. Expect lots joking around, lots of fun talks, and many “pull over, that view is ridiculous!” moments.

First highlight: Cuevas de San José, a natural cave with Europe’s longest navigable underground river.  We’ll hop into small boats and glide along the underground river, then do a short walk inside the cave system. It’s peaceful, otherworldly, and very, very cool.

Next up is Valencia’s backyard pantry: L’Albufera lagoon. We’ll head to El Palmar village, the birthplace of paella, for a proper Valencian paella lunch overlooking the water. This is the paella you will talk about for the rest of your life! Slow down, enjoy, and let the Iberian schedule work its magic.

After lunch we’ll cruise into Valencia’s historic center. We’ll visit the Valencia Cathedral, and see what many believe is the Holy Grail, and wander the old quarter’s plazas and winding streets. From there, we’ll stretch our legs through the Turia Gardens (a former riverbed turned into one of Europe’s coolest urban parks) and time golden hour at the futuristic City of Arts & Sciences for those “is this even real?” photos.

In the evening we’ll drift into Barrio del Carmen. It’s our first night in Spain, so we have to have tapas and a late dinner!

OVERNIGHT: Casual Socarrat València or similar

MEALS: Breakfast