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Madrid Through a Creative Lens

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Explore the very best of the Adriatic on the journey through Dubrovnik and Montenegro, where medieval towns, coastal elegance, and mountain adventures come together in perfect harmony. From private boat rides and wine tastings to alpine escapes and hands-on cultural experiences, every day is thoughtfully curated for depth, style, and discovery. For those wishing to arrive early, an optional 4-day pre-trip through Croatia is available, featuring Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Split, and the island of Brač—offering a deeper dive into Croatia’s rich heritage, landscapes, and culinary traditions before the main journey begins.

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Included Meals: Wine tasting with cheese &amp; salami pairing Accommodation: Hotel Sheraton&nbsp; Welcome to Zagreb, Croatia’s charismatic capital—an elegant city where Central European charm meets artistic energy. Upon arrival, each guest will be privately transferred to the hotel, with transfers arranged according to individual flight times. For those arriving around the same time, we may organize small-group transfers. If you’d like to arrive early and rest before the trip officially begins, we’re happy to arrange an additional night’s stay.After settling in, you’ll be welcomed by your local guide for a distinctive themed walking tour celebrating the remarkable women of Zagreb. Through untold stories and rich anecdotes, this experience explores the influence of historic female figures who shaped the city’s identity—from revolutionaries and artists to unsung heroines.As the sun sets, we’ll visit a 200-year-old wine cellar to enjoy a curated tasting of local cheese and salami, perfectly paired with three glasses of Croatian wine—a sensory introduction to Zagreb’s flavors and traditions.The rest of the evening is yours to explore the city independently. With numerous events often taking place in September, you’ll have a variety of cultural and social options to enjoy before returning to the hotel for overnight.

Pre-trip Day 1

Zagreb Arrival

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Piazza Heritage Hotel After breakfast and hotel check-out, we leave Zagreb and head toward one of Croatia’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders: Plitvice Lakes National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice is the country’s oldest and largest national park, known for its cascading turquoise lakes, moss-covered wooden walkways, and ethereal beauty. With your local guide, you’ll enjoy a tailored walking route based on group preferences and comfort, including boat and panoramic train rides that bring you deeper into the heart of this lush forested world.From here, we continue to Rastoke—often referred to as “Little Plitvice”—a fairytale village where waterfalls run between centuries-old watermills. Lunch will be served at Restaurant Petro, offering a cozy and picturesque setting that complements the charm of the village. In the late afternoon, we travel south to Split, arriving in the early evening for hotel check-in and a relaxed overnight stay by the Adriatic.

Pre-trip Day 2

Plitvice-Rastoke-Split

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: &nbsp;Piazza Heritage Hotel &nbsp; Following breakfast, we begin the day with a private guided walking tour of Split, starting in the Veli Varoš neighborhood—the city’s oldest quarter. Here, you’ll step into the story of Roko and Cicibela, Split’s most legendary lovers, whose tale continues to enchant the city’s heart. We then enter the iconic Diocletian’s Palace, a living Roman monument that pulses with local life. After a stroll through its ancient streets and squares, we’ll drive to Stella Croatica Ethno Agro Park—an open-air experience dedicated to preserving Dalmatian heritage. A traditional Dalmatian lunch will be served in the setting of a recreated stone village surrounded by olive trees and Mediterranean plants.Afterward, a multisensory tour reveals traditional crafts, regional delicacies, and aromatic gardens—a true immersion into the culture of the region. Our final stop is the breathtaking Vranjača Cave in Dugopolje, a protected natural monument and geological wonder of the Dalmatian karst landscape. Return to Split in the late afternoon. Dinner is at leisure tonight.

Pre-trip Day 3

Split-Klis-Vranjaca

Included Meals: Breakfast, Tasting, Lunch Accommodation: &nbsp;Piazza Heritage Hotel&nbsp; Today we escape to Brač, one of Croatia’s most storied and soulful islands. After a scenic ferry ride to Supetar, we begin in Škrip—the oldest village on the island and a place that feels suspended in time. There, we’ll visit both the Museum of Brač and the Museum of Olive Oil, where a curated tasting awaits. Our journey continues to Pučišća, a seaside town known for its stonemasonry tradition. You’ll visit the private gallery of Josip Radić—often called the “Michelangelo of Brač”—and view his intricate replicas sculpted over thousands of hours, including a scale model of St. Peter’s Basilica. Lunch will be served at Kaštil Gospodnetić, a 16th-century family estate perched above the island’s hills, offering views as rich as its recipes. Before returning to Supetar, we ascend Vidova Gora—the highest peak of all Croatian islands. From here, gaze down on Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), one of the most photographed beaches in the world. We return to Split by ferry in the evening. Overnight at your hotel.

Pre-trip Day 4

Island Brac Day Trip

Included Meals: Breakfast, Tasting, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel Valamar, Dubrovnik After breakfast and check-out, we depart Split and begin our scenic coastal drive south toward Dubrovnik—a city of timeless beauty and legendary stone walls. En route, we make a stop in the historic town of Ston, home to one of the oldest and largest preserved saltworks in the Mediterranean. A private guided tour will offer insight into the centuries-old salt production methods still in use today. From Ston, we continue to Mali Ston for a tasting of locally farmed oysters—a delicacy of this region and a tradition protected by only ten family-run farms. This experience is a true taste of southern Dalmatian heritage, ideal for those who want to deepen their culinary immersion. We then continue to Dubrovnik, arriving in time for check-in at the Valamar Hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to rest or begin soaking in the magic of this Adriatic jewel. This evening, we transition into the main trip, with a welcome dinner planned to begin the next chapter of your journey in style.Main Trip:Welcome to Dubrovnik—a destination where history, elegance, and Adriatic charm seamlessly converge. Upon arrival, each guest will be greeted with a private transfer arranged according to their flight schedule. For guests arriving around the same time, we may organize small-group transfers to optimize comfort and efficiency. Should anyone require early arrival accommodations, we are happy to secure pre-night hotel stays upon request. Check-in at the elegant Hotel Valamar will be followed by leisure time to refresh and unwind. Whether you choose to stroll the hotel’s beautiful seaside promenade or simply rest after your journey, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace. In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at Porto Restaurant, a thoughtfully curated dining experience that sets the tone for the journey ahead.

Pre-trip Day 5 & Main Trip Day 1

Dubrovnik Arrival

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel Valamar After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, we’ll meet at 10:00 AM and set off to experience Dubrovnik as it was meant to be seen—from the sea. A private boat will be waiting at the port to take us along the stunning Adriatic coastline. We'll cruise through turquoise waters, stopping at a small Croatian island for a wine tasting paired with local delicacies, followed by a relaxed lunch in an idyllic setting. Upon returning to the hotel in the afternoon, enjoy some downtime. We suggest taking the opportunity to walk Dubrovnik’s storied city walls—one of Europe’s most iconic and picturesque experiences. Dinner this evening is planned as a group, allowing us to reflect on the beauty of the day and deepen the camaraderie among fellow travelers.

Main Trip Day 2

Boat & Wine Islands Tour

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: North Story Hotel, Žabljak This morning, we begin our journey into Montenegro—where dramatic landscapes and Mediterranean soul intertwine. After breakfast, we’ll depart Dubrovnik at 8:00 AM. Upon reaching the border, guests will switch into Montenegro-based vehicles due to local regulations. Our first stop is a speedboat excursion that offers a refreshing opportunity to swim in Montenegro’s crystal-clear waters. By midday, we’ll visit the charming town of Perast and board a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks—an iconic islet steeped in legend and architectural beauty. The journey continues northward, where we’ll pause at Nudo Winery for lunch and wine tasting of Montenegrin vintages before arriving in the mountain town of Žabljak. This evening is yours to rest and enjoy the mountain air in preparation for the adventures to come.

Main Trip Day 3

Perast-Kotor Bay-Zabljak

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel Bianca, Kolašin Wake up to fresh mountain air in Žabljak, nestled within the Durmitor massif—often called the “Alps of the Balkans.” The morning is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You may choose a light walk around the serene Black Lake or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings. Around midday, we’ll gather for lunch at a restaurant near Black Lake, where you’ll enjoy a locally inspired meal surrounded by pristine nature. After lunch, we’ll head to the magnificent Tara River Canyon—the deepest canyon in Europe and second deepest in the world. Prepare for an exhilarating experience as we zip-line across this awe-inspiring natural wonder, parallel to the historic five-arched Tara Bridge. Later in the afternoon, we’ll transfer to Hotel Bianca in Kolašin. Optional spa treatments are available to ease into the evening. Dinner will be enjoyed together at the hotel, rounding off a day full of nature, adrenaline, and awe.

Main Trip Day 4

Durmitor-Kolasin

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Hotel Bianca, Kolašin Today’s experience will take you deep into the untouched heart of the Bjelasica mountain range, renowned for its rolling green pastures and panoramic views. At 9:00 AM, we’ll begin an off-road jeep tour that leads us through stunning alpine landscapes. Around 10:00 AM, we’ll pause for a guided horseback ride—an opportunity to connect with the land in an unforgettable way. By midday, we’ll arrive at a traditional mountain household in Vranjak for an authentic home-cooked lunch. This is a true cultural highlight, accompanied by breathtaking views and a professional photo session to capture the moment. We’ll return to the hotel in the afternoon, where you can unwind at your own pace and enjoy a relaxed evening in the mountain town of Kolašin.

Main Trip Day 5

Mount Bjelasica

Included Meals: Breakfast, Tasting, Lunch Accommodation: Iberostar Slavija, Budva After breakfast and check-out, we begin our descent from the mountains to Montenegro’s southern gem: Lake Skadar. We’ll depart at 9:00 AM and reach Rijeka Crnojevića, where a private boat awaits. From here, we’ll cruise through lily-covered channels and bird-rich wetlands toward the town of Virpazar. Onboard, you’ll enjoy snacks, rakija, and local wine while taking in one of Montenegro’s most photogenic landscapes. For lunch, we’ll be hosted by a local family at their 200-year-old boutique winery—a hidden gem rooted in tradition, where generations have crafted wine using time-honored techniques. Here, you’ll enjoy a meal prepared with regional ingredients and paired with wines produced right on the estate. After this authentic experience, we continue toward the coast, arriving in Budva in the afternoon. Before checking in, we’ll explore Budva’s storied Old Town on foot with a guided tour. Tonight, settle into the Iberostar Slavija—a modern seaside property with a rooftop pool and bar offering panoramic views of the Adriatic.

Main Trip Day 6

Skadar Lake-Budva

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Accommodation: Iberostar Slavija, Budva This morning is yours to savor. Sleep in, enjoy breakfast at your leisure, or stroll Budva’s palm-lined promenade before we depart for our final adventure: Kotor. Our afternoon begins with a guided walking tour of the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll then step into a local household, where a warm Montenegrin host—Grandma Sussane—welcomes us for a hands-on cooking class. The meal we prepare together will be the centerpiece of this afternoon’s experience, blending family tradition with regional flavor. We return to Budva in time for a celebratory farewell dinner as a group—raising a glass to the unforgettable moments shared across two countries.

Main Trip Day 7

Kotor & Cooking Class

Included Meals: Breakfast After breakfast and check-out, guests will be privately transferred from Budva to Dubrovnik Airport. Transfer times will be arranged according to individual flight schedules. For those with similar departure times, small-group transfers may be organized to ensure a smooth and timely arrival. Should guests require an earlier transfer or extended stay, we’re happy to assist with personalized arrangements. As we part ways, we leave with cherished memories and the quiet joy of a journey shared—across cultures, coastlines, and the stories that connect them.

Main Trip Day 8

Dubrovnik Departure

Adriatic Journey: Croatia & Montenegro Immersion

As outlined in the itinerary, an 8-day tour through the wonders of the Adriatic.

Main Trip to Dubrovnik and Montenegro

As outlined in the itinerary, a 5-day tour from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.

Pre-Trip in Croatia

Don't want to share a room? The single supplement is 600 EUR for the Main Trip.

Single Supplement for Main Trip

Don't want to share a room? The single supplement is 510 EUR for the Pre-Trip.

Single Supplement for Pre-Trip

Prepare to unlock your creativity and immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Madrid with Liesl Gibson, the designer and founder of Oliver + S and Liesl + Co. Having lived in Madrid for more than a decade, Liesl offers a passionate insider's view of the city’s artistic soul through the lens of a seasoned designer. From world-renowned art museums and talented local artisans to quirky, one-of-a-kind shops, you'll experience Madrid like never before. This is your opportunity to explore the city’s creative heartbeat in a way that's both intimate and inspiring, guided by a creative insider.&nbsp; Spend your days discovering Madrid and its charming surroundings while building connections with Liesl and her community. In addition to enjoying a week full of artistic exploration, crafts, and unforgettable experiences, you'll also receive individual attention as you shop for exquisite fabrics and trims with Liesl.

Madrid, Spain

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Arrive in Madrid, the energetic capital of Madrid. Once you make your way to your lovely hotel home for the week, check in to the hotel and explore a little of your neighborhood. We will meet up in mid afternoon for a tour around Madrid to orient you to the city and see some of the major sites. We will make a few planned stops along the way. In the evening, share a drink and light bites with Liesl and your new traveling companions at the welcome dinner! We can set up private transfers to the hotel for additional cost.&nbsp;

Arrive and meet your travel companions

Day 1

You will head to Granja de San Ildefonso where you will start with a guided tour of Real Fabrica de Cristales, a glass factory with a museum, including the chance the chance to see the glass blowers at work. Following the tour, you will participate in a sand casting workshop. Enjoy lunch with your travel companions. Following lunch, you will head over to Segovia. There, you can explore the beautiful city to see all the major highlights.

Day trip to Granja de San Ildefonso and Segovia

Day 2

In the morning, you will have some free time to see the parade for the National Day of Spain celebration if you choose.You will enjoy a lovely lunch with your travel companions.In the evening, we will experience flamenco, the captivating and emotive dance of Spain. Listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, flamenco is a cornerstone of Spanish culture. It represents the most emblematic national folklore and is celebrated as one of the most renowned forms of artistic expression in Spain.

Celebration Parade and Flamenco

Day 3

Today, we explore some of Liesl's favorite creative shops in Madrid! Get a creative insider's tour of some secret gems that only a local would know about. Liesl will be there to lend any creative assistance you need or want!As a real highlight on these tours, you will take a unique behind-the-scenes tour to a famous and historic notions and trims shop,. In between all the delightful shops, you may stop at a lovely cafe for chocolate and churros! This week, you will have time to fabric shop or explore other shops. Liesl will provide a list of all of her favorites and can help with fabric shopping if you would like.In the afternoon, experience the Prado Museum, a jewel of Madrid and one of the most esteemed art institutions in the world. This visit allows you to skip the lines and immediately delve into an exceptional collection of European art on a private guided tour. The museum is home to masterpieces by iconic artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, each showcasing the richness of their unique styles and contributions to art history. We'll also learn about the museum's spectacular collection of works by Titian, whose paintings influenced Spanish art.

Hidden shops of Madrid

Day 4

Since its founding, Real Fábrica de Tapices has played a vital role in preserving Spain’s textile heritage, particularly the historical pieces associated with the Spanish Crown. During your visit, you'll explore the workshop where tapestries, carpets, and wall hangings are still produced entirely by hand, preserving the deep rooted tradition of Spanish textile craftsmanship. The tour provides a fascinating insight into how the factory has evolved,embracing high-quality and 100% sustainable production methods. This visit will allow you to witness master weavers at work, observing the meticulous process that goes into each piece. Following that visit, explore the fascinating world of fashion and culture with a self-guided visit with Liesl to the Museo del Traje (the fashion museum). With a collection exceeding 160,000 pieces and documents, this unique museum showcases an extensive collection of clothing and accessories that span centuries, from traditional garments to contemporary fashion. As you explore the exhibits, you’ll discover how fashion has evolved over time and how it reflects the social, cultural, and historical context of each era. Whether you're passionate about fashion history or simply curious to see iconic styles from different periods, the Museo del Traje offers a rich and immersive experience. You can take your time exploring at your own pace, delving into the stories behind each piece. Or you can spend some time with Liesl and see the history of fashion through her eyes. Free afternoon to explore more of Madrid on your own.

Real Fabrica de Tapices & Museo del Traje

Day 5

Immerse yourself in the ancient art of Toledo damascening with this unique participatory workshop, hosted in a specially reserved space. Enroute, you will take a panoramic tour around the city with some photo opportunities. The experience begins with an insightful explanation of the traditional damascene craftsmanship, where you'll learn about the history and techniques used to inlay precious metals like gold and silver into steel to create intricate designs.&nbsp; Following the introduction, enjoy a master class led by a skilled artisan. During this live demonstration, you'll witness the meticulous process of damascening firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of this remarkable technique. Next, it's your turn to get hands-on! Under the guidance of the master artisan, you'll have the opportunity to create your own damascened piece. Whether you're a beginner or more experienced, this is a chance to test your creativity and craftsmanship in a fun and supportive environment. At the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a special souvenir — the damascened piece you personally created. &nbsp;This workshop is the perfect combination of culture, creativity, and tradition, making it a memorable experience for all participants. The rest of the afternoon is yours free for lunch and to explore more of Toledo!

Damascene workshop and explore Toledo

Day 6

Today, you will start your day with a visit to a sastreria de toreros (bullfighting tailor), one of the most famous makers of the bullfighting suit in Spain. You will visit the workshop and learn about the process, in addition to seeing the various stages of construction. The “traje de luz”, as the bullfighter’s costume is called, is entirely custom-made, with lots of beading and embroidery in addition to unique construction techniques.You will then visit a multi-generational guitar luthier who will explain the process and give you a little demonstration, plus a short history of their business. This luthier has produced guitars for many famous musicians.Lunch at your leisure.In the afternoon, you will visit Liesl's studio to learn more about her creative process. To end our wonderful time in Madrid, we will gather with our new friends once more for a wonderful farewell dinner!

Luthier Workshop and Bullfighting Tailor

Day 7

Today we will say goodbye and catch our departure flights home or begin your next adventure! We can set up private transfers to the airport for additional cost.&nbsp;

Bid farewell!

Day 8

Highlights of the tour: - Workshops and tours with local artisans- Shopping opportunities at Liesl's favorite shops- An insider's view into creative Madrid- Tours of some of Madrid's best museums- Flamenco evening- Day in Toledo and an afternoon in Segovia- Personal time with Liesl, a Madrid resident- Accommodation in a lovely centrally located Madrid hotel

Highlights

Madrid Through a Creative Lens Oct 2026

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