BARCELONA

Barcelona, wonderfully rich capital of Catalunya, with its long, elegant tree lined boulevards, its distinctive architecture, its impressive seaport and shoreline promenades. Proud host to the Olympic Games in 1992, Barcelona showed the
world its beauty and the well known efficiency of its people. Offering superb cuisine complemented by fine wines from its large regional wine industry, Barcelona is a city of the future with a lively past. Here one can wander the maze of tiny streets and medieval squares of the old Gothic quarter, visit some of the numerous museums including the Picasso Museum, the Maritime Museum and the Wax Museum, or just stroll the charming streetscape.
The centre of 'Modernism', Spain's 'Belle Epoque', Barcelona has many famous sons including Gaudi, Miro and Tapies and was home to Picasso, Dali and other artists and writers, all of whom lived and worked in its historical heart and contributed to its cultural fame.

Hotel Del Mar

HOTEL DEL MAR 3*

This comfortable 3* hotel is ideally located,right in the heart of the city centre, at the base of the old Gothic quarter just next to the Marina. Each of the 72 rooms has bath ,telephone, heating , air conditioning, TV, individual safe and internet connection. Comfortable and convenient. Cafe but no restaurant. Fully renovated in 2006.

NH Duc de la Victoria

HOTEL NH DUC DE LA VICTORIA 3*

The hotel is in an unbeatable location on a quiet street just 3 minutes off La Rambla, close to the Gothic quarter. The delightful hotel has modern flair and style, offering all the latest amenities and services. Parking facility.

Barcelona Center

HOTEL BARCELONA CENTER 4*

This classy 4* hotel has 135 Rooms and suites. It is located in Calle Balmes, on the corner with Calle Mallorca, one of the main streets in the Eixample district. Decorated in stylish contemporary style, the hotel has a lounge, bar-cafe, business centre, gym, two rooftop jacuzzis and parking. Delightful.

Hotel Best Western Regina

HOTEL REGINA 4*

Fully renovated in 2006 by architect and designer Jordi Veciana, this is a charming hotel only 50m from the Plaza de Catalunya and the famous Ramblas Boulevard. Offering all amenities and a stylish interior. The hotel has a library in the lobby and special offers for guests at the nearby Holmes Place fitness centre, which has jacuzzi, swimming pool and gym facilities.

Condes room

HOTEL CONDES DE BARCELONA 4*

This hotel has been built to a very high standard and is housed in two magnificently restored Golden Quarter buildings. The building is of special interest for its artistic beauty. The hotel is situated in the city centre, right in the heart of the architectural, commercial and business hub of the city. The rooms are sleek, spacious and attractive. Small rooftop pool.

Casa Fuster

HOTEL CASA FUSTER 5*

A 5* luxury hotel (listed as a landmark building dating back to 1908), boasting a perfect combination of a modernist atmosphere, unique architecture and a mix of Art Deco and traditional furnishings. The hotel is situated at the highest point of Paseo de Gracia, giving its guests the opportunity to enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city of Barcelona. Hotel Casa Fuster is located in the heart of Barcelona, in the residential and cultural area of L'Eixample - within walking distance to designer shopping, bars and restaurants.

 

NORTH OF SPAIN AND THE PYRENEES

The northern coast of Spain and its border extension in the mountain heights of the Pyrenees is the consecration of the colour green. This lesser known region of Spain is called Green Spain owing to the fine rain that nourishes the land and brings harmony to its undulating landscape. The inhabitants of the region - Asturians, Cantabrians, Basques, Navarrese, Aragonese and Catalans have withstood the advances of the Celts, Romans, Visigoths and the Moors over the millenia.
Offering both impressive coastal and mountainous scenery, the entire area has managed to conserve its distinctive character in its historical fishing villages, its ancient cities and its medieval mountain hamlets. Not only the regional architecture has been preserved, but also the local customs and traditions. The varied regional cuisine and local wines are an extra treat for the visitor. Where the sea meets the mountains is where you will find the enchantment of Green Spain and the Pyrenees.

Castell D'Emporda

HOTEL CASTELL D'EMPORDA 4* - LA BISBAL D'EMPORDA

Built on old Roman foundations, the 14th century Gothic style building and the 16th century baroque tower give an idea of the architectural value of this old fortress that is today enclosed in a 10 hectare estate in the heart of the L´Empordá region. The over eight hundred year old walls could tell their tale. The rooms have extraordinary views of the fields and prairies of the L´Empordá, the sea, the mountains or the garden and pond, which has been replaced by the swimming pool. In the interior the decor will surprise the guest with material from the most diverse corners of the globe: Morocco, China, India...creating individual styles and atmospheres in each room.

Parador de Cardona

PARADOR DE CARDONA

The Parador is located on a headland, in a fortified 9th c. enclosure in which there is also the 2nd c. Minyona tower and an 11th c. church, representative elements of the Catalan Romanesque of its surroundings. Its location offers an exceptional panoramic view of the town and of the fertile lands bathed by the river Cardoner. Some bedrooms have the charm of four poster beds. Moats, towers, walls and Gothic elements combine with a decoration in which comfort and Catalan-inspired medieval furniture predominate.

Parador la Seu D'Urgell

PARADOR LA SEU D'URGELL

This Parador is found next to the Romanesque cathedral of La Seu d'Urgell, in a monumental setting also open to nature, which attracts numerous hikers, lovers of mountains and no end of tourists making their way to the Andorran paradise. The world-famous Parc Olimpic del Segre Canoeing Championships are held on the river Segre here during the summer. Indoor pool, sauna, solarium, café and air conditioning in all guest rooms, make this Parador an attractive choice. Parking.

Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada

PARADOR DE SANTO DOMINGO DE LA CALZADA

The Parador occupies a 12th c. former hospital, next to the cathedral and built by Saint Dominic to give shelter to the pilgrims on the Road to Santiago. In a regal and elegant style, it has majestic living rooms and a lobby with Gothic arches and wooden coffered ceilings. Noble materials and bright colours - blues and whites - lead to comfortable bedrooms, decorated with exquisite taste; some have four poster beds.

Posada la Pastora

MH POSADA LA PASTORA - UNCASTILLO

Tucked in between narrow streets of the old quarter of town and watched over by the Romanesque church of Santa Maria is this delightful house dating back to the early 18th century. The careful restoration ensured that the architectural harmony and integrity of the house was maintained in the medieval district of the village. The inside provides a wonderful atmosphere with enormous ambience and a special welcoming, homely feeling with clever use of stone, wood and fabric. Parking at the church.

Parador de Sos del Rey Catolicos

PARADOR DE SOS DEL REY CATOLICOS

Of Aragonese character, the building conserves the monumental, historical and artistic atmosphere of Sos del Rey Católico. The town, declared a Historical-Artistic area, was the birthplace of influential nobles and of the Catholic King, and the influence of the Aragonese and Navarrese foothills of the Pyrenees can be made out in its landscape. It is an appropriate setting to discover this medieval town and to visit areas of immense beauty. The regal and elegant interior offers beautiful views of the town from some rooms. Wood covers interior columns and predominates in the Castilian style furniture.

Hotel Codina

HOTEL CODINA 3* - SAN SEBASTIAN

Completely renovated in July 2006, this modern hotel is situated at a short distance from Ondarreta beach. Hotel facilities include garage, cafeteria, free wi-fi, and currency exchange.

Hotel Tryp Orly

HOTEL TRYP ORLY 4* - SAN SEBASTIAN

Attractive modern hotel with all standard amenities and facilities including currency exchange, restaurant and parking. The hotel is located in the heart of San Sebastian, next to Paseo de la Concha, with a wonderful view over the bay.

Hotel NH Aranzazu

HOTEL NH ARANZAZU 4* - SAN SEBASTIAN

The NH Aránzazu enjoys a privileged location next to the Ondarreta beach and 300m from the Playa de la Concha, approximately 20 minutes walk by the river to the old quarter. The rooms are spacious and comfortable and the hotel has wireless internet access, inhouse restaurant and parking on site.

Hotel Abba de Londres

HOTEL ABBA DE LONDRES 4* - SAN SEBASTIAN

Delightful hotel facing on to the beautiful La Concha beach, offering impressive views. Very comfortable accommodation, classic decor, lounges, restaurant, piano bar and casino. Parking.

Hotel Maria Cristina

HOTEL MARIA CHRISTINA 5* - SAN SEBASTIAN

All the grace & beauty of the 'Belle Epoque' is embodied in this most elegant hotel. Elegant and luxurious old world hotel offering the best in style, comfort, service and cuisine. Pride of position in the very centre of town overlooking the River Urumea. Has own parking and Hyrda Wellness Center & Spa, comprising a sauna, steam room, and fitness area. Superb.

Hotel Pampinot

HOTEL PAMPINOT 3* - HONDARRIBIA

The measure of this hotel's attraction can in part be gauged by the fact it has been declared a Historic Monument. In times gone by, this 16th century Manor house was the residence of Kings and noblemen. Now this renaissance residence has been transformed into an enchanting 8-room hotel providing comfort and luxury. Upon entering, antique furniture and a beautiful columned staircase leading up to the rooms come into view. The decor is simple but personalised - all bedrooms, for example, can boast a distinctive hand painted ceiling. Delightful. The hotel has a special arrangement with a nearby garage (payable locally).

Parador de Hondarribia

PARADOR DE HONDARRIBIA

Founded by the Navarrese king Sancho Abarca in the 10th c., this Parador rises up in a beautiful castle which maintains the structure of a medieval fortress in a monumental, coastal setting. Its defensive appearance, with thick walls, conceals an interior recovered with mastery. The immense, naked stone of the courtyard stands out, as do the beautiful views of the French coast and the sea, which the guest can contemplate from the splendid terrace or from some bedrooms. Lances, cannons and armour make up the interior decoration, offering an air of elegance in a most comfortable atmosphere. Limited private parking spaces (cannot be pre-reserved).

Hotel Hesperia Bilbao

HOTEL HESPERIA BILBAO 4* - BILBAO

The Hesperia Bilbao hotel is a newly built hotel located opposite the Guggenheim museum and just 9.5km from the airport. The hotel has 151 rooms equipped with all amenities including in room safe and wireless internet connection and the hotels facilities include business centre, cafe, restaurant, parking and bicycle hire.

Hotel Silken gran Domine

HOTEL SILKEN GRAN DOMINE 5* - BILBAO

First class hotel in the heart of the city. The design is sleek and modern, complimenting the Guggenheim Museum, which it directly faces. The rooms are luxurious and the hotel's facilities include cocktail lounge, cafe, restaurant, reading corner and shop. The panoramic views from the terrace are superb, looking over to the spectacular museum building. Valet parking.

Parador de Santillana Gil Blas

PARADOR DE SANTILLANA GIL BLAS

The Parador is installed in the beautiful Barreda-Bracho ancestral home, in the Santillana del Mar plaza, a town declared a National Monument, whose origins date back to the 8th century. The main entrance precedes diaphanous, friendly rooms, with wooden floors and traditional decoration for the furniture and the ornamental details.

Hotel NH Plaza Mayor

HOTEL NH PLAZA MAYOR 4* - LEON

Right in the main square of Leon, this newly opened hotel is housed in a typical Castilian building with an arched entrance. Classic and elegant, the interior is modern and the hotel has 52 attractive air-conditioned rooms equipped with satellite TV, minibar and bathroom with hairdryer. Hotel facilities include parking, business centre and restaurant "Nhube", inspired by acclaimed chef, Ferran Adria.

Parador de Leon

PARADOR HOSTAL SAN MARCOS - LEON

Construction began around 1515 on this monumental building, which features a Spanish Plateresque façade. The building's historical past is found in the Cloister, Church, Choir and Chapterhouse, and the present in the careful renovation-work, combined with an interior filled with works of art and rooms which gave shelter to pilgrims in olden times. A night's stay here is truly a luxury, offering: suites with views of the cloister, stately rooms, and a lovely restaurant.

Parador de Cangas de Onis

PARADOR DE CANGAS DE ONIS

The monastery was declared a National Monument in 1907and features an added wing of perfectly harmonious architectural and constructional qualities: truly a jewel set on the green banks of the River Sella. In the background, guests can contemplate the majestic landscape of the Picos de Europa. This Parador, featuring comfortable and modern facilities, is the ideal starting point from which to discover the delights of the Asturian landscape, enjoy its typical festivals and ancestral folklore activities and sample the best and most authentic of its rich gastronomic tradition.

Gran hotel Espana

GRAN HOTEL ESPANA 4* - OVIEDO

Over 100 years old, the restored building housing the Gran Hotel España has been tastefully refurbished to reflect its original style. Located within walking distance of the delighful 'casco viejo', or old city with its Gothic cathedral, the hotel offers all modern amenities and a convenient position. Parking.

Hotel Silken Monumental Naranco

HOTEL SILKEN MONUMENTAL NARANCO 4* - OVIEDO

Recently established hotel in the new area of this regional capital, just 500m from the new Congress Centre, designed by famed architect Santiago Calatrava. The hotel is approximately 15-20 minutes walk to the shopping strip of Calle Uria, which leads to the city's lively Gothic quarter. The hotel has 62 sleek modern rooms, extensive business facilities, indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and garage.

Hotel Reconquista

HOTEL DE LA RECONQUISTA 5* - OVIEDO

Impressive building of the 18th C built as a home and hospital for orphans. Wonderful position facing onto Gil de Jaz street in the centre of town, its Spanish Baroque facade leads into a central lounge which faces onto a large internal cloister. Period furniture and decor ensure the character of the place. Gracious lodgings in a charming city. Own Garage.

Casona de la Paca

MH CASONA DE LA PACA - CUDILLERO

Lovely little restored mansion from 1877, surrounded by an ample garden abundant in camelias, magnolias and century old oaks. Just 2.5 km to the beach with many local walks, national parks and northern villages to enjoy in the surrounding area. Has its own swimming pool and children's playground.

Hotel Penarronda Playa

HOTEL PEÑARRONDA PLAYA 3* - CASTROPOL

Family owned stone hotel at the lovely surf beach of Peñarronda. Each of the 8 rooms is totally unique, with exposed stone and wood beams, warm colours and beautiful bathrooms with hydromassage. The restaurant has a welcoming open fire and serves specialties of the region. Cosy and attractive, the hotel is ideal for a beachside break on the rugged Atlantic coast, just 5 minutes by car to Ribadeo. 2 apartments are also available for longer stays and the property has private parking and wheelchair access.

Parador de Ribadeo

PARADOR DE RIBADEO

The Parador occupies a large Galician house at the mouth of the Eo, a marine and tourist enclave on the border of the Asturian coast. Its magnificent position, on the Asturian outskirts of Galicia, offers the possibility to contemplate unique views of the Galician countryside, the Eo estuary and the small Asturian villages on the other shore. A marine style prevails on the inside, with an air of grace and elegance. The bedrooms are friendly and comfortable, and some have splendid panoramic views.

Hotel Nh Obradoiro

HOTEL NH OBRADOIRO 5* - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

This large modern hotel has extremely comfortable rooms and extensive facilties, such as gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, steam room, valet parking and business services. Located opposite the Galicia Auditorium and surrounded by parks and gardens, the hotel is a comfortable 10-15 minute walk to the old quarter and Cathedral.

Hotel Palacio del Carmen

HOTEL AC PALACIO DEL CARMEN 4* - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

Recently refurbished, this beautiful hotel is the fully restored Convent of Las Oblatas and is located in a privileged position in the centre of town, just metres from the Obradoiro Square. The convent was restored with a great deal of style and maintains its historical appeal while still offering the traveller all the modern comforts. The decor is elegant and the hotel has its own restaurant, fitness centre and private parking.

Parador de Santiago de Compostela

PARADOR DOS REIS CATOLICOS - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

The Parador Dos Reis Catolicos Hotel is situated in the heart of the city. Considered to be the oldest hotel in the world, it is also one of the most luxurious and beautiful.
A mixture of history, art and tradition, the dream of pilgrims and an emblem of Santiago, the 'Hostal Reyes Católicos', located in the Plaza do Obradoiro, forms a magnificent golden corner with the cathedral. The 'Hostal' originated as a Royal Hospital in 1499 to give shelter to the numerous travellers making their way to Santiago. It has four cloisters of immense beauty, elegant living rooms, spectacular bedrooms and a luxurious dining room.

 

 

 

  • Spain
  • Tours
  • Great Train Journeys
  • Paradores
  • Rustic and Rural
  • Hotels
  • Apartments

Land of Contrasts

Appropriately called the 'Bull's Hide' by Roman geographer Strabo in 29-27BC, the landmass of Spain with its 505,000 sq. km, provides the traveller with an opportunity to experience the great diversity within its borders, bounded by sea, except for Portugal to the west and France to the north-east.

Iberia has charmed travellers for centuries, but it was not until the early19th century that the first romantics brought Spain into world recognition. Richard Ford along with many others of his time, describing the country as a 'land of miracles, anomalies and contradictions'.

Spain today embodies all of the contrasts of yesteryear. With its rich and varied culture and language, Spain's 17 autonomous regions offer many unexpected architectural, geographical, cultural, gastronomic and climatic differences; all contributing to the many delights and pleasures of the visitor.

Once Spain was one of the most powerful nations on earth with far flung dominions wielding great influence on world political and commercial affairs. The Spain of today is an energetic member of the European Community with a population of 45 million and a universally appreciated culture, individuality and language.

Download our brochure by section:

PDFSpain (PDF 10.8mb)

PDF Fully Escorted Tours (PDF 4.5mb)

 

 

 

Events :: Links

Tours

Ranging from short Fully Escorted coach tours to Private itineraries with your own driver, we have a tour to suit your time frame and budget. Here are a few examples of some of our most popular touring options...

 

  Self Drive Tours:A GASTRONOMIC ADVENTURE IN NORTHERN SPAIN  --  ROMANTIC ANDALUCIA  --  WORLD HERITAGE ENCOUNTER   
  Fully Escorted Tours:ANDALUCIA AND MEDITERRANEAN COAST  --  ANDALUCIA AND MOROCCO  --  ANDALUCIA AND TOLEDO  --  CASTILLA, PORTUGAL AND ANDALUCIA  --  GREEN SPAIN  --  NORTH OF SPAIN  --  PORTUGAL, ANDALUCIA AND MOROCCO  --  SALAMANCA AND PORTUGAL   
  Chauffered Tours:PRE AND POST EL TRANSCANTABRICO CHAUFFEUR ITINERARIES  --  SEVILLA AND THE WHITE VILLAGES OF ANDALUCIA  --  SEVILLA, CORDOBA AND GRANADA   
  Walking Tours:EL CAMINO DEL NORTE - 8 DAYS TOUR  --  EL CAMINO PRIMITIVO  --  HIKING IN THE PYRENEES -ORDESA NATIONAL PARK  --  IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ST. JAMES  --  SHORT BREAK PICOS DE EUROPA   --  THE ALPUJARRAS - A JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY AND CULTURE  --  THE ALPUJARRAS - MOORISH SPLENDOUR  -- WALKING THE PICOS DE EUROPA  --  WOMENS ONLY TRIP IN THE PICOS DE EUROPA   
  Unique Spain:BARCELONA AND ORGANIC WINE IN THE PENEDÈS  --  BARCELONA AND THE MEDIEVAL VILLAGES OF CATALONIA  --  A GOURMET'S GRANADA  --   ANDALUCIA UNCORKED - SEVILLA AND THE BODEGAS OF JEREZ  --   ANDALUCIAN ENCOUNTERS  --  BARCELONA AND THE GENIUS OF DALI  --  GRANADA - ORIGINS OF FLAMENCO  -- SEVILLA AND THE PUEBLOS BLANCOS - A CULINARY ENCOUNTER  --  THE MOORISH LEGACY IN GRANADA  --  THE ROMAN EMPIRE IN CATALUNYA   

The Great Train Journeys of Spain

IBERTOURS is the sole GSA in Australia and New Zealand for the Great Train Journeys of Spain. These marvellous journeys attend to the needs of the traveller who is keen to savour the travel delights of yesteryear and who is enticed by the notion of a special journey by rail.

"El Transcantabrico" explores the rugged mountains and seascape of the northern coast in an 08 day gastronomic adventure.

The "Espreso de la Robla" takes one on an enjoyable 4 day regional rail experience between Bilbao and Leon, as well as Gijon and Santiago de Compostela.

 

El Transcantabrico LogoLa Robla logo

EL EXPRESO DE LA ROBLA    EL TRANSCANTABRICO - 8 DAY JOURNEY   

Unique Historic Accommodation

IBERTOURS TRAVEL is the Official Representative of Paradores in Australia and New Zealand.

The concept of utilising these unique establishments as selected accommodation for tourism goes back to 1926, when the royal tourist commissioner, the Marques of Vega-Inclan, sought Royal Approval for the extraordinarily far sighted idea of setting up State run Paradores as lodgings for nature lovers and hunters around the country.

View Selection of Paradores

Rustic and Rural Spain with Rusticae

Rusticae is a network of boutique properties and guesthouses that are often old farms, mills and homes, transformed into small hotels. Rusticae has currently has over 160 hotels spread across Spain, Portugal, France and Argentina divided into two main types of accommodation, Metropoli and Tradition.

The Metropoli range incorporates a selection of small, boutique hotels inside major cities including Sevilla, Granada, Cordoba, Palma de Mallorca and Bilbao.
The Tradition range is the most extensive and has a wide selection of hotels and manor houses located in small villages in the countryside.

There are around 140 of these properties in Spain alone and each possesses its own individual charm and style, reflecting the history and traditions of the region and its people.

View Selection of Rustic and Rural Properties

Spanish Hotels

Stopovers can include 2 and 3 night packages in all major cities including Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and San Sebastian, plus many other smaller regional cities such as Granada, Toledo, Segovia, Salamanca, Santiago de Compostela and so on... In fact, with our extensive experience and contacts we can develop stopover packages for almost any city or town in the Iberian Triangle, for any length of time, to suit your requirements. Here are some examples...

View a selection of hotels by region:

Northern Spain and the Pyrenees / Madrid and Surrounds / Extremadura and Castilla La Mancha / Valencia / Andalucia / Balearic Islands /Canary Islands

Apartments

If you are planning a stay of 3 nights or more, why not consider an apartment? Live like the locals do in the centre of one of Spain's vibrant and emblematic cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla, and others. Ideal for an extended stay, an apartment gives you the freedom and choice to shop with the locals at the market and cook up your own Spanish fusion! All we need to know is how many people, what city and when and we can find one perfect for you! Just ask us to add an apartment to your creative itinerary.

View Selection of Apartments

Another Ecosphere Website