Senoritas in Spain & Portugal - May 2025 - Hostess Round Up - Melanie Golin

16 Adventurous Ladies including a few who had never travelled with Sisterhood embarked on an unforgettable journey. Every corner offered us something irresistibly magical. The Iberian Peninsula is a place where sun-kissed beaches meet centuries-old cathedrals, vibrant street life dances between history and modernity. — each with its own pulse, charm, and flavour.

Our journey began in Barcelona, where the Mediterranean breeze carries the scent of orange blossoms and sea salt. There’s no better place to get lost than the Gothic Quarter, with its labyrinthine alleys and hidden squares. But it was Gaudí’s fingerprints on the city — Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló — that made us feel like we were dreaming.  Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbours, Zaragoza was my unexpected Favorite. Sitting peacefully on the banks of the Ebro River, this city is rich in Moorish, Roman, and Christian history. the Aljafería Palace, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

We arrived in San Sebastián, tucked into the Basque coastline of northern Spain, one of those rare gems. Jam-packed with Michelin Star restaurants and old and new world charm it’s about the place's pace, pride and poetry. We discovered the famous burnt-out cheesecake store, which was an absolute highlight. We were very lucky to drive to Bilbao to see the Exotic Guggenheim Museum.

Our coach continued and we arrived in Camaleño, a gateway to the majestic Picos de Europa National Park. This area offers a harmonious blend of rugged mountain landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and authentic rural charm. We took the cable car to the top of the mountain. What an incredible sight! 

Later, we celebrated Mother’s Day with a cheese and wine party in our cosy Hotel. Crossing into Portugal, we were greeted by the soulful city of Porto. Narrow cobbled streets, tiled facades, and steep hills make Porto feel like a living postcard. We cruised the Duoro River with amazing views of the city's historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Of course, no visit is complete without a tour of the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia Sandeman. The incredible Railway Station and a stroll through the Livraria Lello (one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world). Pity the lines were huge, making it impossible to enter.

We made our way to Coimbra, renowned for its prestigious university, vibrant cultural scene, and picturesque landscapes. We were lucky to meet students and learn about ceremonies that are still in practice today, including the burning of the ribbons, which is the most iconic academic festival.

Then came Lisbon, making our way to a Pastel de Nata Baking class, a superb MasterChef baking treat where we learnt to make this delicious tart. I know some Ladies have already baked them since arriving home.

This city is a delightful mix of hills, historic trams, and azulejo tiles. We spent a day exploring downtown by Tuk Tuk, nibbling on pastel de nata, and watching the waves crash near the Tower of Belém. We had a tile workshop class.

We visited Sintra, Cascais, and Estoril, Portugal’s enchanting “Golden Triangle,” a blend of fairy-tale palaces, dramatic coastal cliffs, and elegant seaside charm. What struck us most about Lisbon was its energy: vibrancy and creativity, the food and shopping is superb and abundant.

We travelled to Mérida, a city where we could walk on Roman roads, dine beside temples, and watch theatre in an ancient arena—all in one day.

Next stop was Seville, the capital of Andalusia and the heart of Spanish passion—where flamenco was born, orange blossoms perfume the air, and grand plazas echo with centuries of history. The biggest highlight was the Real Alcázar of Seville: A dazzling blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Think Game of Thrones beauty. Seville Cathedral & La Giralda is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, with Columbus’ tomb and a bell tower you can climb.

Then came Granada home to the Alhambra—Spain’s greatest Moorish palace—Alhambra is the crown jewel of Islamic architecture in Europe. The exquisite Garden of Paradise Generalife, where beautiful roses and other diverse and vibrant flora grow.  A highlight was the 3 Tapas food stations where we sampled delicious wines and exotic snacks.

We then caught a train to Madrid — Spain’s heart and capital. After the coastal calm of Lisbon, Madrid felt like an explosion of art, food, and nightlife. We viewed Retiro Park, Plaza Mayor and Puerta del sol. We got to see the Royal Palace adorned with exquisite furniture, some of the girls wandered through the Prado Museum, and others took to the high street for shopping and rooftop bar experiences.

We also enjoyed a tour of Toledo, visiting the Toledo Cathedral: One of the most important Gothic cathedrals in Europe. a medieval hilltop city that was once home to Christians, Jews, and Muslims living side-by-side. This trip reminded us why we love to travel — not just for the sights, but for the stories, the serendipity, and the sensory overload. From Gaudí’s fantastical visions to Porto’s poetic streets, Lisbon’s soulful songs and Madrid’s fiery spirit.

If you love what you read, you're in luck! Sisterhood is returning to Spain & Portugal in 2026. CLICK HERE for tour details and we'd love to welcome you to your next adventure!