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Castile and the Cosmos
Total Solar Eclipse in the Heart of Spain

  • August 8 – August 16, 2026
  • Pre-Tour: August 6 – August 9, 2026
$6,495

per person based on double occupancy

Reserve Now

  • DURATION

    9 Days

  • GROUP SIZE

    40

overview

The Kingdom of Castile—in the heart of Spain—is a region where centuries of history, a legacy of traditions and boundless landscapes converge. Once the cradle of Spain’s medieval power, Castile is divided into two historic areas: Castilla la Vieja (Old Castile) and Castilla la Nueva (New Castile). During this unforgettable journey through each, discover ancient cities, imposing fortresses and stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all highlighted by the area's rich cultural and culinary flavors. With the rare spectacle of a total solar eclipse as a centerpiece, this extraordinary experience combines heritage, natural beauty and celestial wonder in one of Spain's most evocative regions.

tour map

tour highlights

– Watch the mesmerizing phases of the 2026 solar eclipse from an unobstructed vantage point.

– Marvel at Spain’s lesser-known but historically significant landmarks including castles and palaces, a stunning Roman aqueduct and magnificent cathedrals, each showcasing the country’s rich engineering and artistic heritage.

– Enjoy a relaxed journey through the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Segovia, Alcalá de Henares and Cuenca.

– Savor regional specialties offering an authentic taste of Spain’s diverse culinary traditions.

– Step back in time during guided walks through ancient streets and squares that have preserved their medieval charm.

day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in Madrid, Spain | Chinchón
Day 3: Chinchón
Day 4: Segovia
Day 5: Eclipse Day
Day 6: Toledo
Day 7: Aranjuez | Alcalá de Henares
Day 8: Cuenca
Day 9: Chinchón | Madrid | Depart for U.S.

full itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Saturday, August 8, 2026

Day 2: Arrive in Madrid, Spain | Chinchón

Sunday, August 9, 2026 (R)

Upon arrival at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to a hospitality room before continuing to the property in Chinchón.

Take time to unpack and settle in before meeting fellow travel companions for beverages and tapas during a welcome reception.

Day 3: Chinchón

Monday, August 10, 2026 (B,D)

Following breakfast at hotel set off on a guided city tour of Chinchón, a town rich in history featuring several notable landmarks including the 15th-century Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, which houses a painting by Goya, and the 11th-century Castillo de los Condes, a fortress with a turbulent past.

Enjoy lunch on own with free time to explore Chinchón's narrow, winding streets full of old-world charm.

This evening gather for dinner in a wine cave restaurant, or cueva del vino.

Day 4: Segovia

Tuesday, August 11, 2026 (B,L)

After breakfast depart for an exciting full day of touring in Segovia, first seeing the city and gardens. The most iconic landmark in Segovia is the Roman Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman structures in the world. Built around the 1st century AD, this engineering marvel stretches for more than nine miles and is composed of 167 arches, standing without the use of mortar.

Following a group lunch continue to the Alcázar de Segovia for an inside visit.

Day 5: Eclipse Day

Wednesday, August 12, 2026 (B,L,D)

This morning after a leisurely breakfast visit an olive oil farm for a tour and tasting followed by lunch at a local restaurant.

The afternoon is reserved for special eclipse activities. Depart for a local park for unobstructed viewing opportunities. Witness this celestial phenomenon where the moon slowly encroaches on the sun. At the moment of totality you can safely remove your solar viewing glasses for a brief period. The sky darkens dramatically, resembling twilight, and the sun’s outer atmosphere becomes visible creating a breathtaking halo of light around the darkened sun. This is the most magical moment of the eclipse, often lasting only a few minutes. Enjoy a tapas dinner before the main event.

Day 6: Toledo

Thursday, August 13, 2026 (B,L)

Today explore Toledo, a diverse city whose historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986.

Visit Toledo Cathedral, one of Spain’s most important Gothic structures and a stunning masterpiece of medieval architecture. Completed in the 13th century, it boasts an intricate façade, an ornate interior filled with beautiful chapels and a collection of religious artwork including paintings by El Greco.

After lunch at a local restaurant continue to the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca. Originally built as a synagogue in the 12th century under Christian rule, this building is an architectural marvel with its mix of Moorish and Jewish design elements.

Enjoy leisure time for independent exploration before returning to Chinchón.

Day 7: Aranjuez | Alcalá de Henares

Friday, August 14, 2026 (B,L)

Following breakfast set out for Consuegra to see the 12 legendary windmills prominently featured in Don Quixote, written by Miguel de Cervantes—one of the greatest writers in Spanish history.

Continue to Cervantes' birthplace, Alcalá de Henares, for lunch. Afterward visit the Cervantes Birthplace Museum, a beautifully restored 16th-century house displaying exhibits related to the life of Cervantes, the era in which he lived and the influence of his literature on the world.

Day 8: Cuenca

Saturday, August 15, 2026 (B,R,D)

This morning depart for Cuenca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cuenca’s most iconic landmark, the Casas Colgadas—or Hanging Houses—appear to defy gravity as they perch dramatically on the edge of a steep cliff overlooking the Huécar Gorge. These medieval houses were originally built in the 14th century, although many have been reconstructed and re-purposed over time.

Take advantage of free time in Old Town's square—a great place to explore the city’s medieval streets and sample wonderful cuisine and a variety of cafés and restaurants.

This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a special farewell reception plus dinner featuring a delicious assortment of tapas.

Day 9: Chinchón | Madrid | Depart for U.S.

Sunday, August 16, 2026 (B)

After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport for flights home.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • 7 nights luxury accommodations
  • Special welcome and farewell receptions, 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners served with wine/beer or soft drinks
  • Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director and expert local guides
  • All private tours, tastings and unique small-group excursions noted on the 9-day itinerary
  • Private motor coach transportation
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

rates

Category Rate*
Double: $6,495
Single: $8,995

Special group rates; limited offer. Rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included.

optional pre-tour

Madrid

Madrid is known for its elegant boulevards, beautifully preserved architecture and world-class museums. Experience a delicious bite of this vibrant city and glimpse into Madrid’s storied past and lively contemporary grandeur.

Activity Level: 3

Full Itinerary

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

Day +1: En Route from U.S.

Thursday, August 6, 2026

Day +2: Arrive in Madrid, Spain

Friday, August 7, 2026

Upon arrival at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport transfer to the hotel for check-in and the remainder of the day at leisure.

Strolling through Madrid discover lively tapas bars, colorful parks offering peaceful green spaces to relax, and a vibrant nightlife with cozy cafés open late into the evening.

Day +3: Madrid

Saturday, August 8, 2026 (B)

After breakfast at the hotel meet a local guide for a comprehensive city tour. Madrid is known for its elegant boulevards, beautifully preserved architecture and world-class museums like the Prado, home to masterpieces from Goya and Velázquez. At its heart is the bustling Puerta del Sol, a lively square that’s always full of activity. Nearby Plaza Mayor offers a glimpse into Madrid’s storied past with its majestic arcades and cobblestone streets.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore independently.

Day +4: Madrid | Main Program Begins

Sunday, August 9, 2026 (B,L)

Following breakfast enjoy additional time exploring Madrid before venturing to a local farm for lunch. Afterward join guests arriving for the main program.

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • 2 nights hotel accommodations with breakfast each morning
  • A guided panoramic tour of Madrid’s highlights
  • A special visit to a local farm followed by lunch
  • Luggage porterage
  • Guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guide, driver and porters
  • Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested times

Rates

Category Rate*
Double: $1,895
Single: $2,695

*Pre-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Unless noted otherwise, airfare not included. 

Travel Insurance

We recommend you look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. It's important to note that some coverage can be linked to timing of your initial payment.

Orbridge's travel insurance partner, Redpoint, has a specific policy option to meet your needs. Visit redpointtravelprotection.com/partner/orbridgecavalry for a quote and more information. To speak with a Redpoint agent directly, call (415) 481-0610 and their team will be glad to assist.


Booking Flights

Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.

your guide(s)

Insider, Interpreter, Epicure, Host

As you explore the region's culinary and cultural flavors, an Orbridge Travel Director will infuse your journey with an epicure’s appreciation of food and wine, a local’s knowledge and pride of place, and a travel aficionado’s ability to enrich the beauty of all senses to your discoveries. 

The contribution of your Travel Director is essential to the intimate and educational qualities that distinguish this program. Catch their enthusiasm and explore the flavors of this wonderful region with added confidence, understanding, and appreciation.