Ria Formosa cruise from Huelva with lunch on Culatra Island

Ria Formosa cruise from Huelva with lunch on Culatra Island

Hop across the border to Portugal and visit the country's prized network of lagoons, sandbanks and barrier islands that form the wildlife haven of Ria Formosa Natural Park. Your first stop on this full-day cruise is Farol Island, it's famous for its inviting beaches, but make sure you grab a photo with its iconic lighthouse, too. Then, it's on to Culatra Island, a spot where the 1,000-strong community follow the rhythm of the sea. You'll experience this for yourself when you tuck into lunch at a local restaurant on the island. You'll dock back at Olhao Harbour late in the afternoon before heading back to Spain.

Isla Cristina boat cruise

Morning light, salty air and the gentle hum of engines set the scene as Isla Cristina begins its working day. You'll start your boat tour gliding past fishing boats, lively markets and the steady rhythm of port life, with the skipper and guide sharing stories about local fishing traditions and daily routines. Then, the pace slows down in the nearby marshes, where a wide variety of birds, from cormorants to woodcocks, skim the water as you enjoy the sunset. A stop for white prawns and local wine at a fishing village completes your journey.

Isla Cristina boat tour with seafood and wine-tasting

You'll head out from Punta del Moral and cruise toward Isla Cristina's fishing port, with a front-row view of one of Spain's busiest fishing hubs. Your skipper will share stories of local fishing life as you drift into the nearby untouched marshes to spot native birds like woodcocks and ospreys. Then, you'll continue to the traditional mussel rafts – platforms where mussels grow on long ropes – before stopping to try white prawns with Huelva wine. Your route then loops back to the marina.

Doñana National Park 4x4 safari tour

Explore the unique ecosystems of one of Europe's most remarkable natural reserves.

Jabugo Iberian ham route with tasting and guided tour

Discover the world-famous Iberian ham on this guided tour through Jabugo, learn about traditional production methods, and visit authentic curing cellars.

Columbus Route Tour with Monastery and Caravels

Two historical sites that played a role in changing the world are the stars of this half-day tour. You'll cross the border into Spain and visit the Cradle of Discovery Monastery and Muelle de las Carabelas, both in Palos de la Frontera, from where Columbus sailed to the Americas. At the monastery, you'll learn about his voyages and the Franciscan friars who helped him. And just a short stroll away, at the quay, you can see and board full-scale replicas of the three ships on his expedition – the Santa Maria, the Pinta and the Nina. You'll see up-close the cramped conditions the seafarers endured for months on the high seas.

Huelva Half-day Tour with Boat Cruise

If you're keen to discover the best bits of Huelva in one morning, then this tour will tick all the boxes. Kicking off with a visit to the historic centre, you'll explore its renowned food market, celebrated for its exceptional fish and seafood. Next, set sail on a 90-minute boat trip through the Odiel Marshes Natural Park. While cruising, enjoy a tasting of Huelva's famous local prawns paired with exquisite local wine.

Full Day Gibraltar Tour from Costa de la Luz

Mix Mediterranean vibes with Brit-friendly features, and you get Gibraltar. Experience a uniquely British-style world on this excursion from Costa de la Luz. You'll take a minibus tour of the Rock to learn all about its fascinating history, before free time for some duty-free shopping.It's an early start from Costa de la Luz, but some trips are worth getting out of bed for. On a minibus tour of the Rock, you'll visit Europa Point where on a clear day, you can see all the way across to Africa. Then it's on to the spectacular St Michael's Caves, once home to Neanderthals, used as a war hospital during World War II, and now a unique concert hall.To round off the day, you'll have free time to explore. Meet the cheeky Barbary apes who have made Gibraltar their home, take advantage of some duty-free shopping, or simply wander the extraordinary British-themed streets.

Guadiana River cruise with a barbecue

As the natural border between Spain and Portugal, the River Guadiana cuts through areas of natural beauty. You'll navigate your way upriver from Vila Real de Santo António to Foz de Odeleite and Quinta do Rio, where you'll enjoy a barbecue and live music.Once you arrive at Vila Real de Santo António, you'll board the boat ready for a relaxing cruise up the Guadiana. Take a seat and enjoy the passing scenery and once we reach the timeless village Foz de Odeleite, we'll anchor up, and you can stroll around at your own pace. Back on board, we'll cruise a bit further to Quinta do Rio.Here you'll have views over the river and village, and you'll even be able to cool down with a swim and a drink at the bar. We'll then serve up a barbecue lunch, complete with local wine and live music in the background. The rest of the afternoon is for relaxing on the sun terrace and cruising back downriver.

Andalusia small-group tour of Huelva with wine-tasting

One of Spain's most beautiful and unspoiled corners is right next door to the Algarve. Andalusia boasts landscapes of protected wetlands pockmarked by history-steeped towns. You'll visit the city of Huelva, Caravels Dock in La Rabida, stop off to explore El Rocío, as well as enjoy a visit to a winery. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says "apart from its religious significance, El Rocío is also known for its unique architectural style, characterised by whitewashed buildings with colourful trim and traditional wooden balconies. The town has a distinctly rustic and charming atmosphere, with sandy streets and a laidback vibe."You'll start the tour with a visit to the city of Huelva, where you'll spend some time wandering around one its markets. This place is perfect for getting to grips with the local way of life, and also buy any souvenirs you want to take home as mementos – colourful fans and leather goods are particularly popular here.Then, things take a spiritual turn at El Rocio – one of Spain's most important pilgrimage sites – where faith and tradition paint a vivid picture of Spanish culture. Drop by a shop specialising in frilly flamenco dresses, a true emblem of Spain. Enjoy some free time here to explore the town's charming streets. From here, you'll visit the Caravels Dock in La Rabida, where you'll get to snap up pics of this waterfront exhibition with life-size replicas of the ships Christopher Columbus used during his voyage to the Americas. You'll then round off your trip at Bollullos Winery for a tasting session.