Portugal, France and the UK: Castles, Coastlines and Cuisine

Arrive in Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, one of Europe’s most vibrant and charismatic cities.  Spend the day exploring the history, art, culture and delectable cuisine in the city of seven hills at your leisure before embarking in the late afternoon. 

After a morning sailing along the coast of Portugal, arrive in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Porto. The birthplace of port wine, Porto straddles a gorge on the beautiful Douro River, linked by numerous bridges and filled with medieval architecture. See the region’s famous azulejo tiles and take in the views from the Ponte Dom Luis bridge, an iron masterpiece completed in 1886. Learn the secrets of port-making during a tasting at a riverside port house. 

Spend a relaxing day at sea sailing along the French coast as you enjoy the ship’s amenities. Join your officers on the Bridge and learn about navigating through the Bay of Biscay, attend a presentation about the region led by one of your naturalists or schedule a rejuvenating massage with your wellness specialist. 

Arrive in Brittany, where coastlines are dotted with quaint harbors, coastal trails and seafaring traditions. With the ship docked in the picturesque harbor town of Douarnenez, delve into the history of sardine fishing in the area, indulge in the local gastronomy or opt for a coastal hike. Alternatively, head inland from the coast to the ancient Breton city of Quimper, to explore its half-timbered houses and distinct pottery tradition 

Awake to a view of Land’s End, England’s most westerly point, renowned for its breathtaking panoramic vistas. Part of Cornwall and steeped in legend, this is a region of dramatic cliffs, rocky coves and heather-carpeted moors. Associated with King Arthur and smugglers who inspired Gilbert and Sullivan’s <i>The Pirates of Penzance</i>, its real-life historic sites include remnants of early Christian and Bronze Age settlements and St. Michael’s Mount, a centuries-old island castle still inhabited today. Cornwall shares cultural, natural and industrial heritage with Brittany and is enjoying a cultural renaissance, drawing artists inspired by its coastlines, harbors and quiet garden retreats. You’ll experience the greatest of this rich area with hikes along its picturesque coast, cultural immersion experiences such as tastings of regional cuisine and musical performances, as well as an exploration of the Cornish Mining Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Sail north along the Welsh coastline, known for its blend of rich natural beauty, history and a multitude of coves jutting out into the Irish Sea. Take in the spectacular scenery and diverse landscapes as you explore this rustic region while on Zodiac cruises, coastal hikes or kayaks. 

Arrive in Wales, which has more castles per square mile than any other country in the world. Choose to tour some of the grand castles that are part of the Iron Ring of Castles, a chain of fortresses built by King Edward. Alternatively, stay on the Isle of Anglesey and walk the Coastal Path, designated An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, alongside a member of the local mountain rescue team. Spot falcons, seals and springtime wildflowers as you pass through a mixture of farmland, coastal heath, dunes and more. 

Disembark in Dublin after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight home.