Hi- my boyfriend and I are flying to Seville on Dec 26th. Staying through Jan 2nd. Our return flight leaves from Valencia on jan 10th. We want to rent a car and make a road trip of it.
We plan to see granada.
Any other recommendations of hidden gems along the way?
Also, I would love hotel recommendations.

Thank you!

Between Seville and Granada you should visit Cordoba. Tarifa is OK but is very windy, and Jan. is NOT beach weather.

Another vote for Cordoba (which I like more than Sevilla - the Cathedral is better and the town is more authentic, less touristy).

If you like for a hidden gem, visit Carmona - it is really authentic.

I have more places in mind, but I am afraid, time won't be sufficient.

For hotels, Paradores are very atmospheric IF they are in historical buildings. www.parador.es

Sevilla - Carmona - Cordoba - Alcala la Real (great hilltop fort) - Granada. If you leave Sevilla early, this can be a one-day trip, getting you to Granada after dark.

Then - If the weather and road condition allow, up to Trevélez, back down and continue via Fondon and Canjayar (a great mountain drive!) to A-92 to coast road A-7 near Almeria and A-7 to Valencia.

If the above is not a good idea because of wintery condition (Sierra Nevada - nevada=snowy), check on conditions and take the route from Granada that is best, either via Guadix and Abla (could also be affected) or down to Motril and along the coast.

Thank you so much! This is really helpful.

Another idea I had was to take a train from Seville to Granada, and then start the car rental from Granada instead.

Do you think I should Include Malaga or Almeria?

Cordoba is a must. Malaga is interesting, Almeria not so much so. Do not drive thru the Alpujarras at that time of year. The roads are dangerous and icy. Go down to Motril from Granada and along the coast. Beyond Almeria you could turn off to Mojacar, a fun village, and then continue on to Valencia.

Ronda!

Ronda won't fit the trajectory - Sevilla - Cordoba (!!!) - Granada.

Ronda is ok with the bridge and the gorge, but is doesn't compare with Cordoba, not even close!

Thank you for all the helpful info!