Traditions & Folklore

And yes, in Spain, we’re mainly talking about flamenco and bullfighting. On your trips with Madrid & Beyond, we aim to take you past the clichés and to the heart of these symbols of Spanish culture…

For bulls, we arrange a whole variety of insider possibilities, such as private visits to bull ranches to see these magnificent animals close-up and learn how they are bred. Our favorite ranch 90 minutes south of Madrid is a truly authentic experience and a highlight for all those with an interest in bullfighting. For those who seek the unique experience of attending “La Corrida” we strongly recommend being accompanied by our bullfighting insider who explains the background, the rituals, the various people involved, the movements of the matador, the music, the crowd reaction, etc. This way, it’s possible to go behind the scenes at a bullfight and our clients have even been known to meet bullfighters themselves. In fact, on one extraordinary day in 2012, four Madrid & Beyond clients actually ran the bulls with a matador during the festival of San Fermines in Pamplona!

For flamenco, the opportunities to get under the skin of this most spanish of art forms are perhaps even greater. Far from the usual tourist trail, you have the chance to meet performers, share stories and experience flamenco up close. Teaming up on an exclusive basis with flamenco musicians in andalucía, we arrange once in a lifetime experiences…

Providing special entrees to the little-known world of gypsy culture, an encounter and musical feast that often proves to be the highlight of a trip. It’s a rare and incredible experience. We also can arrange flamenco classes for aspiring dancers!

Of course, Spanish traditions and folklore go way beyond flamenco and bullfighting. We arrange a number of other cultural immersions such as an insider experience of the Catalan “Human Towers”, to witness the Castellers training and practising their two centuries-old tradition. For its values of collaboration, teamwork, effort, goal-oriented achievement and solidarity, in 2010 UNESCO declared Castells as a part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Spain’s festive and folkloric heritage is practically limitless. From the processions of Easter Week in Sevilla to the fiery Fallas in Valencia and literally thousands of local festivals we are happy to include special ‘local’ encounters when the fiesta envelops you.

In Portugal, the best expression of tradition and folklore is undeniably fado. This authentic music genre, another piece of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is said to mirror the identity of the Portuguese people, with its melancholic lyrics and sounds. Let our fado experts lead you on a fun night out visiting traditional taverns, indulging in traditional food and drink, and learning all about the passion behind it.

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