Overview and Itinerary

19^th – 26^th September 2026

Overview

• Start:
  • Málaga – Soho Boutique Urban Málaga – Saturday 19^thSeptember 2026 3pm
• Finish:
  • Málaga – Málaga Airport – Saturday 26^th September 2026 12pm (midday) 
• Destination: Spain
• Ages: Minimum 18
• Group size Min 6, Max 12
• Physical Rating: 2 out of 5
• Price Per Person in shared room: £3420
• Private Room supplement: £579
• Deposit: £950 to reserve your place.
• Date we’ll confirm if the trip is going ahead (at the latest): Wednesday, 1st July 2026
• Final Payment (remaining balance): Wednesday 15^th July 2026

This is a 8 DAY trail to capture the essence of Rajasthan:

• Malaga: 4 nights
• Cordoba: 3 nights

TRIP OVERVIEW:

An Immersive Art Holiday in the heart of beautiful Andalucía.

You will love how Andalucía invites you to slow down and look closer. Its glowing light, striking colours and textured details create moments that feel beautifully restorative, where your creativity can unfold in its own way.

With its vibrant culture, rich architectural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, Andalucía is a dream for anyone seeking a creative retreat. From elegant Moorish architecture and charming whitewashed villages to sweeping coastal views and the sun-soaked streets and lively energy of Málaga, the region offers endless inspiration for artists of all levels.

On this immersive art holiday, you will explore your creativity in Andalucía’s most captivating settings — Málaga, Córdoba and Mijas — with guidance from well renowned artist Phil Dean.

Phil’s approachable teaching style encourages confidence and experimentation, helping you develop your own artistic voice. Under his guidance, you’ll gain valuable techniques and insights while capturing the vibrant scenes of Málaga, the historic beauty of Córdoba and the picturesque charm of Mijas.

You will be supported in developing your own artistic approach, whether you are just beginning or more experienced. With a mix of workshops, on-location art sessions and informal tuition, Phil will share his hard-won tips and tricks to help you build confidence and develop your own creative voice.

These 8 days are focused yet unhurried, with time to unwind, savour Andalucía’s incredible gastronomy and connect with fellow creatives.

Is this trip good for me?

• In September, Andalucía is generally warm and pleasant, with daytime temperatures from around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). It’s a lovely time to visit, as the heat of summer begins to fade, and you can expect plenty of sunshine. It’s a good idea to pack light, breathable clothing, but also bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Be sure to include a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking. However, it’s always recommended to check the weather forecast closer to the trip to be prepared for any changes.
• We’ve sourced our accommodation carefully and picked the best possible hotels in line with The Creative Trail’s style of travel.
• We have chosen to travel slowly, allowing us to take time to be creative and experience Spain. There will be less travelling than on most tours. But when we do travel Andalucian life awaits you through the window and we stop on route, and these trips soon become part of the adventure.
• A lot of research goes into producing this trip, but it doesn’t always mean that it is possible for everything to run perfectly. We find that a small detour can add to the interesting aspect of the tour, as long as you approach the trip with flexibility and an open mind.
• A mix of activities is included in the trip, plus you will have some free time to discover the destinations for yourselves.

Physical Rating: 2 out of 5

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much physical exertion is required on a particular trip. This trip is rated 2 out of 5 which means some easy physical activities are included in the trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Health, Medical Ailments, Dietary Requirements, Reduced Mobility, Disability and Age

• It is your responsibility to advise us in writing, at the time of booking, of any medical or other ailment or allergy. We must also be notified of any special dietary requirement(s).
• You are responsible for ensuring that the holiday you select is within your physical capabilities. Our trips involve sightseeing in busy areas and sometimes on uneven surfaces. Our tours are not strenuous, but you must be able to manage the requirements of the itinerary.
• If you have a disability, medical condition, or require special assistance or accommodations, please contact us in writing in advance of booking. We’ll do our utmost to pass on any requests to our suppliers and will confirm in writing if we are able to guarantee specific arrangements.
• Dietary requirements / allergies: although we will try our best to help where we can, we are unable to give absolute assurance over the contents of your food, and the contact of it with allergens. Please contact us if you’d like to discuss this further.
• It is your responsibility to supply us with any other information that we may reasonably require in order to supply our tour, ensuring that this information is complete and accurate.
• Our holidays are for over 18s.

Please contact us at hello@thecreativetrail.com to discuss your specific requirements so we can assess the suitability of the holiday with you.

 

Joining Point

• • Málaga – Soho Boutique Urban Málaga, C. Casas de Campos, 8, Distrito Centro, 29001 Málaga, Spain – Saturday 19^thSeptember 2026
  • Any problems, please WhatsApp / message / call Louisa de Jong (Trip Host) on +44 7792 168 406
  • We can help you with enquiries about flights or any other travel in advance if required.

  Please contact louisa@thecreativetrail.com for more information.

  It is your responsibility to join the tour on time. Any delay in joining the tour will be met at your cost. We understand that delays happen, and we will always endeavour to assist where possible. You should check your insurance policy to see whether this cover is included. 

  Finishing Point

  • Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), Av. del Comandante García Morato, s/n, Churriana, 29004, Málaga, Spain, Saturday 26^thSeptember 2026 at 12pm (midday)

 

Problems and emergency contact information

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your Trip Host straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please contact us at hello@thecreativetrail.com.

In case of crisis or emergency, you can reach our Louisa de Jong (Trip Host) on the number below:

Available for phone call or WhatsApp call +44 7792 168 406

Itinerary

Day 1 – Welcome to Enchanting Andalucía!

We’ll begin at our stylish hotel in Málaga’s lively Soho district, the perfect base for exploring the old city. The day starts with a relaxed welcome session to get to know each other, followed by an introductory walk through Málaga’s historic streets to soak up the atmosphere.

In the evening, enjoy welcome drinks and a delicious Andalusian dinner, a great chance to meet fellow creatives and settle into the rhythm of the trip.

 

Accommodation

Hotel Malaga (night 1 of 4)

Meals Included

None

 

Day 2 – Discover Malaga’s Hidden Gems

Explore the peaceful corners of Málaga’s historic town centre, capturing the essence of Plaza de la Merced, Calle Comedias and other charming spots, where locals play chess, stroll and go about their daily lives.

Later, we’ll unwind with a relaxed “Drink and Draw” session, enjoying a drink while capturing the atmosphere, followed by a sumptuous Andalusian dinner.

Accommodation

Hotel Malaga (night 2 of 4)

Included Activities

Art Tour of Malaga with Phil Dean

Meals Included

Breakfast

 

Day 3 – Malaga’s Iconic Historic Centre and Beachside

This morning we explore Málaga’s historic town centre, the lively streets that inspired Picasso. Enjoy a relaxed creative workshop on a rooftop, capturing the textures, colours and energy of the city while responding through your chosen medium.

Afterwards, head to a beachside restaurant for a leisurely lunch with stunning Mediterranean views. Spend the afternoon along the waterfront, soaking up the coastal atmosphere and translating the light, movement and reflections into your art.

 

Accommodation

Hotel Malaga (night 3 of 4)

Included Activities

Art Tour of Malaga with Phil Dean

Meals Included

Breakfast

Day 4 – Malaga and Afternoon to Explore

We’ll begin by exploring some of Málaga’s most iconic spots, including Calle Alcazabilla and the Alcazaba, the ancient fortress. Next, we’ll walk up to the Castillo de Gibralfaro, where sweeping views of the city and coast await.

The afternoon is yours to explore, relax or follow your own artistic inspiration, with suggestions provided for those who wish it.

Accommodation

Hotel Malaga (night 4 of 4)

Included Activities

Art Tour of Malaga with Phil Dean

Meals Included

Breakfast

Day 5 –Exploring the Charm of Mijas

We’ll spend the morning in the picturesque village of Mijas, wandering its charming streets and visiting landmarks like the Bullring and Mirador with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Every corner offers inspiration to capture its character and textures.

In the afternoon, we journey to Córdoba through Andalucía’s scenic countryside, glimpsing whitewashed villages, rolling hills, and olive groves, before arriving at our hotel for a welcoming dinner and a taste of the city’s rich culture.

Accommodation

Hotel Cordoba (night 1 of 3)

Included Activities

Art Tour of Mijas with Phil Dean

Travel by air-conditioned coach

Meals Included

Breakfast

Day 6 – Discovering Córdoba’s Heart & Soul

We’ll explore the heart of Córdoba, wandering its narrow, cobbled streets and soaking up the city’s unique atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to capture its essence through your art.

In the afternoon, we visit the striking Museum of Modern Art, home to an exceptional contemporary collection, then end the day capturing the golden sunset over the Roman Bridge and Guadalquivir River, as the city glows in the evening light.

Accommodation

Hotel Cordoba (night 2 of 3)

Included Activities

Art Tour of Cordoba with Phil Dean

Entry to Museum of Modern Art

Meals Included

Breakfast

Day 7 – Exploring Córdoba’s Courtyards & Celebration

The morning is spent exploring Córdoba’s beautiful courtyards and squares, including the famous Patios and Plaza de la Corredera, offering endless inspiration for your artwork.

We’ll visit one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Mezquita-Catedral, whose breathtaking architecture leaves a lasting impression. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon to wander, relax or catch up on your art, followed by a special final dinner celebrating our shared creativity and connections.

Accommodation

Hotel Cordoba (night 3 of 3)

Included Activities

Art Tour of Cordoba with Phil Dean

Meals Included

Breakfast

Day 8 – Córdoba In The Morning Light

We’ll enjoy an early morning farewell stroll through Córdoba, taking in the city’s beauty one last time.

There will be a few final moments to capture the essence of this historic city before we head back to Málaga, arriving at the airport around 12pm (midday) and reflecting on the unforgettable experiences, artwork created and memories made during this magical journey.

Accommodation

None

Included Activities

Travel in air-conditioned coach

Meals Included

Breakfast

Finishing Point

• Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), Av. del Comandante García Morato, s/n, Churriana, 29004, Málaga, Spain at 12pm (midday)

Itinerary Disclaimer

Itinerary Changes:

We sometimes update the itinerary to reflect the local conditions and also to ensure you have the best experience. The information listed here in this Essential Trip Notes may be slightly different from when you booked the trip, and it is important to always refer to the most up-to-date version. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, festivals, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in country. This also applies to the order and timings of included activities. We will keep you up to date with any changes on the tour. Travelling of this nature can require flexibility.

Essential Trip Information

Feedback

Feedback is very important for us, and we’d love to hear about how you found the trip. If you’d like to do this in writing, our email address is hello@thecreativetrail.com

Essential Holiday Notes: Important Notes

1. The tour will only operate once we reach our minimum number of 6 persons. We recommend that you do not book your flight until we confirm that the tour is going ahead.
2. Travel insurance is mandatory on all The Creative Trail trips – please read Booking Conditions for more details.
3. We offer a Single Supplement for every night of this trip.

Passport and Visas

It’s your responsibility to make you have valid travel documents – including passports and visas.

PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government’s foreign travel advisories and/or consular websites.

Medical and health information

It is a necessity of this trip to be in good physical health. You will need to read the itinerary carefully to determine if this trip is suitable for you. If we feel that you are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself or the rest of the group, The Creative Trail reserves the right to exclude you from all or part of the trip, without a refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government’s foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements.

Food and dietary requirements

While travelling with us you’ll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip.

To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other’s company. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let us know prior to departure.

Meal times in Spain

Meal times in Spain are later than in many other countries. Dinner is usually served between 8pm and 10pm. While this takes some getting used to it is a great way to observe Spanish food culture.

 

Accommodation

3 and 4 Star Hotels (7 nights)

Our carefully chosen 3 and 4-star accommodation blends comfort and style with local character, providing the perfect backdrop for your creative journey. In Málaga, we stay at Soho Boutique Urban, a modern and elegant hotel tucked into the heart of the city’s vibrant arts quarter. Its quiet, stylish interiors offer a calm retreat, while outside, the lively streets, colourful murals and cultural energy of Málaga are right on your doorstep.

In Córdoba, we are based at Soho Boutique Capuchinos & Spa, a sophisticated spa hotel adjacent to the iconic Plaza de Capuchinos. Here, refined interiors, luxurious touches and relaxing amenities – including a jacuzzi, Turkish bath and sauna – create a serene haven, ideal for unwinding after a day exploring the historic streets and capturing the city’s unique spirit through your art.

Both hotels provide inviting, inspiring spaces where you can relax, reflect and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Andalucía, ensuring every evening is a restorative pause in your creative adventure.

On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.

Single Supplement

We offer a Single Supplement for every night of this trip. Twin rooms are available. 

Checking-In

Check in times for our accommodation should be from 3pm at the latest, although there may be instances when this cannot be the case. If our rooms are not available, we will be able to store our luggage and return when the rooms are available.

Accommodation

All of our accommodation is comfortable with ensuite bathroom facilities and air-conditioned rooms – rated 3* and 4*.

Spa

Our accommodation in Cordoba has a spa.

Room Issues

We have chosen accommodation which we hope you will enjoy. But if you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and us immediately, so that we can sort any issue right away without delay. If we do not know about an issues, we cannot help to solve it.  

Money

Spending money

When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.

Official Currency

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in Spain. You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Europe. You can obtain EUR cash prior to arriving through normal outlets such as banks and currency exchange offices

 

Tipping:

Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels.

 

Optional Kitty:

At the Welcome Dinner, we will discuss with you the idea of running a group kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount for meals and tipping (drivers, local guides, and hotel staff). We will keep a running record of all monies spent which can be checked at any time, and any money remaining at the end of the tour returned to group members. This is often the easiest way to avoid the hassles of needing small change and knowing when and what is an appropriate amount to tip. Participation in this kitty at your own discretion, and you are welcome to manage your own meals and tipping separately if you prefer.

Contingency Funds

We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 or equivalent in GBP for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD/GBP for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

Packing

Most travellers prefer to take a wheeled suitcase. Whatever you take, be mindful that you will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, take it in/out of accommodation and perhaps even walk short distances.

Travel documents

• Passport
• Visas
• Vaccination Certificates
• Travel insurance policy (see Travel Insurance Section below)
• 24 hr emergency travel insurance contact and policy number
• Flight e-tickets
• Your travel itinerary
• Photocopies of important documents
• A print-out of your trip’s Essential Holiday Notes
• Spare passport photos
• Cash/credit cards
• Access to contingency money
• Money belt or pouch

Main Luggage

Please make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage. It is important that you can manage your luggage for short distances including up and down stairs if needed.

Wheeled suitcases that can also easily be picked up and carried are generally easier, although if you prefer, a backpack is also fine.

Day Pack

A day pack for carrying essentials when exploring destinations. Below are some ideas and helpful tips on what you specifically need for this trip.

Below are some ideas and helpful tips on what you specifically need for this trip.

ESSENTIALS:

• Lightweight clothing. A mixture of lightweight clothing and warm layers. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry.
• Comfortable shoes
• Sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

RECOMMENDED:-

• Personal medical kit, we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, Band-Aids
• Battery Pack for your phone, as you will be taking lots of photos and your phone may run down quickly during the day

Clothing:

• Lightweight clothing. A mixture of lightweight clothing and warm layers including a coat. Be prepared for the different temperatures.
• Closed-in shoes
• Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Swimwear

Clothing tips:

• Check weather in destinations we are travelling to online a few days before you go to make sure you pack appropriate clothing

Other personal kit:

• Personal medication and prescriptions (contact your doctor for detailed advice).
• Personal medical kit, we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, Band-Aids
• Toiletries, biodegradable travel-wipes, anti-bacterial gel
• Ears plugs / eye mask
• Reusable shopping bag(s)
• Electrical adapter for Spain
• Phone
• Pen/paper/diary and a good book
• Small repair / sewing kit

 

Art Materials:

We will provide a suggested list of art materials to bring.

Valuables:

Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables. We strongly recommend that you:

• use a money belt or pouch that is well hidden.
• photocopy/scan all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificates, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals.

Trip staff

As tour leaders we aim to take make your trip as easy as possible, enabling you to have the best of experiences. We will help you with information about the places we are visiting, give suggestions of where to visit, and recommend local places to eat.

Safety

We recommend that you check your government’s foreign travel advisory for the latest information about the destination before you travel. You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip.

You must also make sure that your travel insurance covers you for all aspects of the itinerary.

Wearing a neck wallet or money belt is strongly recommended while travelling. You should use this to keep your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave all other high value items, including jewellery, at home. Use safety deposit boxes at hotels to store your valuables when available and ensure your luggage is lockable.

Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft. Exercise caution when walking at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well-lit. Take precautions such as carrying your bag in front of you and never leaving personal items unattended.

In your free time, you are free to pursue whatever activity is of interest. We are very happy to assist you in understanding the available options in each location, but please note that these are optional activities and are therefore not part of your The Creative Trail itinerary. As such we make no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. It is important to use your own good judgement when choosing an activity in your free time.

Please note, that we reserve the right to amend or cancel any art of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

A couple of rules

Everyone has the right to feel safe when they travel. We don’t tolerate any form of violence (verbal or physical) or sexual harassment, either between customers or involving our staff, partners or local communities.

Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in The Creative Trail denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

Travelling in a group

Travelling in groups can result in forming life-long friendships. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group – patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone’s travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don’t keep the rest of the group waiting. The best trips are those where the dynamics within the group work well – this takes just a little effort on your part.

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive Travel insurance is compulsory for all our trips. We strongly suggest that you purchase this at the time of booking (if you don’t have it already) so that you have cover in case you need to cancel before travel.

Comprehensive Travel Insurance should include, but is not limited to:

• Personal accident, medical expenses, medical emergencies such as illness or injuries while you’re away, repatriation if injured, ill or hijacked.
• For reasons which means you cannot travel.
• Missed flights
• Trip cancellation insurance to receive reimbursement for flights and other non-refundable expenses should The Creative Trail trip be cancelled by you or by The Creative Trail for reasons set out in these Terms & Conditions, including, but not limited to, the tour not reaching the minimum numbers to run, which is 8 people for this trip.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have read and understood all the details of your travel insurance policy. This responsibility includes ensuring your policy covers all activities (optional and included) listed in the itinerary section of this Essential Trip Notes document.

You are also responsible for ensuring that the policy does not contain exclusion clauses which would mean you cannot access the cover you might reasonably need.

We cannot be responsible for any costs you incur as a result of failing to take out adequate travel insurance.

We require your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company’s 24-hour emergency contact number two weeks before travel. If you have not provided it by the first day of your trip you will not be able to join the trip.  If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number and emergency contact number with you rather than the bank’s name and credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in Spain.

Responsible Travel

We believe strongly in low impact or rather positive impact tourism. Broadly speaking this means that we try to minimise the negative aspects of tourism on the local cultures and environments that we visit and highlight the positive aspects. Tourism can be extremely beneficial for a country and its local people. But we must be mindful of our actions.

Support of Local Communities

Our mission is to always travel thoughtfully, ensuring we work with local communities to understand the impact of our wanderlusting footsteps. From helping local schools, to working with the right suppliers, we ensure our actions are sustainable.