Now in its 5th year, members of the Naval & Military Club joined us for a tour to the Peninsular War battlefields. Flying into the magnificent city of Lisbon, the group visited Rolica, Vimeiro before a tour of the Casa Limos Santa Vineyards, the day ended with a visit to the historic Gremio Literario Club in Lisbon.
Next day started with a study of the siege of Ciudad Rodrigo one of Wellingtons ‘Keys to Spain’, among the club members was the great grandson of Major General Robert Crauford who remains buried in the city walls. Salamanca followed, a truly fantastic city to visit, the group toured the battlefields under the expert guidance of Tom Dormer following in the footsteps of the July 1812 battle. There was plenty of time to visit the stunning city, a real gem with its magnificent Plaza Mayor where our hotel was located.
The final stages of the tour saw the group study the Battle of Talavera, again here Tom, who served in the Royal Anglian’s, the successor regiment of the 48th Foot, brought the battlefield to life before the group were hosted by Miguel Solana who provided incredible local food and wine at his stunning hunting lodge that overlooks the battlefield.
A wine tasting that evening followed in the overnight spa retreat before the short drive to Madrid to fly home.
