Iberian Serenade - 11 nights, November 2013

An introduction to Tenerife, with a chance to shop or browse in one of the main tourist resorts of the island.

Puerto de la Cruz lies at the mouth of the Orotava Valley. Tree-lined avenues, large modern hotels and a variety of shops have transformed this one-time quiet fishing village into the main tourist hub of the northern part of the island. Enjoy some free time to shop, or stroll along the promenade.

A visit will be made to the Orchid Garden, founded in 1774, where a vast variety of exotic species can be seen. This is the largest orchid collection in the Canaries. Enjoy a glass of wine in the garden during your stay.

Passing the university city of Laguna, the first capital of the island and the village of Tacoronte, you will descend to the small village of El Sauzal for a brief photography stop. Stopping next at Humboldt’s viewpoint, take a look over the vast Orotava Valley with its impressive banana plantations.

Note: The ground at the Orchid Garden is uneven and gravel-covered in parts. There are also some slopes and steps to negotiate. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

Absorb the tranquil atmosphere of Exbury Gardens as you wander around the stunning gardens which are bursting with beautiful colours.

Your journey will take you through the beautiful New Forest National Park, where you will have the chance to see the famous New Forest ponies which graze on the wild heathland, before arriving at Exbury Gardens. Created in the 1920’s, Exbury Gardens are a spectacular 200 acre site, world famous for the Rothschild collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and shrubs. So spectacular are the gardens that the Queen of England enjoys private visits every year.

The Gardens have been specially created to reflect the changing colours of nature throughout the different seasons. During the spring the magnolias, camellias, azaleas and wisteria burst into flower, whilst the Daffodil Meadow is a carpet of glorious gold. The spectacular collection of over ten thousand rhododendron specimens is at its best with its display of beautiful colours.

During the tour there will be the opportunity to take a delightful 20 minute ride on a small narrow gauge steam railway to see parts of the Gardens not accessible on foot.

The Gardens contain a quaint tearoom, which serves a delicious English cream tea (own expense), and an extensive gift shop selling an array of gifts and souvenirs.

Note: There is up to three hours of leisurely walking, which is at guests’ discretion. The railway and main paths of the Gardens are wheelchair accessible. There is a buggy tour available on the day for those with limited mobility (additional expense, payable direct).

An exclusive tour to sample the wines from the El Sauzal and Tacoronte wine growing regions of the island.

El Sauzal and Tacoronte have gained a reputation of being the best wine growing regions in Tenerife. Only a short drive from the ship, you will visit the Wine Centre Museum at the old farmhouse mansion of La Baranda Here, you will be offered three different kinds of wine: red, white and rosé.

Moving on to Bodegas Alvaro, which holds possibly the biggest collection of wines in the Canaries, you will have the opportunity to try Cava, a sparkling wine, and Moscatel, a sweet wine. A further three wines will be tasted, together with a selection of Spanish tapas.

The return drive will take you through the vineyards and the great scenery of Arafo.

Note: This tour involves some walking over cobblestone terrain and steps. There is a downhill walk and return uphill walk of approximately 45 metres from the coach drop off point to the winery. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. Participants in the wine tasting must be over 18 years of age.

Discover the delights of this wonderful town at your own pace.

Your transfer will take you north, to Puerto de la Cruz, a popular resort with a charming atmosphere.

However you choose to spend your time in Puerto de la Cruz, you will not be disappointed. Perhaps start off by exploring the old colonial part of town, where many of the houses still retain their beautiful architecture and distinctive Canarian balconies. Stop for a coffee in the shady square before exploring the narrow winding streets.

Puerto de la Cruz has a wonderful promenade, great for strolling and browsing the many souvenir shops. You may choose to explore the Botanical Gardens, situated on the edge of the town, where you can discover plants and trees from all five continents.

There is a whole host of attractions for you to enjoy, during your stay in Puerto de la Cruz.

Note: This tour is un-guided and does not include luncheon or refreshments. Please carry local currency. The transfer time is approximately 30-40 minutes each way and maps will be provided on the coach. Please make note of the return time and meeting point, coaches cannot be held for latecomers.

Discover one of the most welcoming and picturesque locations in Gran Canaria, at your own pace.

Puerto Mogan is Gran Canaria’s smallest and southern most resort, offering a different charm in contrast to the more commercial resorts on the island.

This simple transfer will allow you to enjoy around 3½-4 hours at Puerto Mogan to explore at your own leisure. The resort offers numerous shops to browse and there are plenty of cafés and restaurants to purchase refreshments or lunch. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the harbour, view the houses built over the small canals or head to the small beach to sunbathe or swim.

After your visit, you will meet at the designated time and place for the return drive to the port.

Note: Walking is at guest’s discretion. There are steps to negotiate on to and off the coach. The shops may be closed on Sundays. There is a market on Fridays and coach parking is restricted, resulting in a further than usual walk to the main town. This tour is unguided and excludes refreshments or meals. The drive to Puerto Mogan is around one hour each way and involves winding roads, which are not suitable for those who suffer from vertigo. Euros are accepted for purchases. For those wishing to swim, please remember swimwear, a towel and sunscreen. Please refrain from drinking alcohol prior to swimming activities. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that may offer water sports. These are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Head off the beaten track and into the hills and villages with some spectacular scenery and typical country villages.

Heading off in your 4x4 jeep you will be taken on a journey through some of the best scenery outside of Lisbon. Entering the Serra Sintra you will take the gravel roads inland with beautiful centenary tree-lined tracks. Marvel at the beautiful landscape as you arrive at the area of Memoria and Palacio da Pena with her peaks on the other side of the hills. This area was devastated by fire and tragically 20 soldiers lost their lives fighting the fires.

Driving along leafy lanes you come to Penedo, a typical country village with its pretty cottages and narrow winding streets. The village church is a national monument, displaying exceptional 17th century tiles which decorate the interior.

Stopping at another nearby village, Almocageme, you will have the chance to relax and enjoy a refreshment of local Portuguese sausages, cheese, bread and olives.

Heading back towards Lisbon, you will have the chance to visit Sintra and spend some free time in the square for souvenir shopping.

Note: This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Pregnant women and children may not participate. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the guide to symbols in the brochure.

Combine a visit to Europe’s most intriguing prehistoric monument, with the enchanting medieval city of Salisbury.

Stonehenge is Britain’s most remarkable and intriguing prehistoric monument. It is as old as the great temples and pyramids of Egypt and remains as compelling today as it was to the people who built the first phase over 5,000 years ago. This mighty symbol is a wonder of the world drawing thousands of visitors each year to witness its awesome majesty and mystery.

The stone circle of shaped stones, lintels, unique jointing and absolutely perfect geometry make it the most sophisticated stone circle in the world. The stones are fenced off for their preservation and protection, however your guide will accompany you along the encircling pathway for close up views and will describe what has been concluded from observations and archaeological evidence.

After a short drive from Stonehenge, you’ll arrive at the magnificent medieval city of Salisbury, with its historic streets and alleyways, charming half-timbered buildings, traditional eating houses and medieval Cathedral. Salisbury Cathedral is a beautiful masterpiece of early English Gothic architecture which also boasts the tallest spire in Britain, Europe’s oldest working clock and the world's best-preserved original copy of the Magna Carta. Enjoy free time to explore this lovely city at your leisure.

Note: The transfer time to Stonehenge is approximately one hour. There will be approximately 2½ hours of free time in Salisbury. Luncheon and the Cathedral entrance fee are not included to allow maximum flexibility. Please remember to carry local currency (pounds sterling).

Tour some of the most scenic spots of Tenerife by jeep and regain your sense of adventure.

A short transfer from the ship will bring you to your jeeps, ready and waiting to take you on an island discovery.

Embark on your adventure towards the Cañadas del Teide, passing by the attractive Esperanza Forest for photograph stop. Further photography stops will be made before stopping for a snack to enjoy a coffee and pastry.

The National Park of Las Cañadas is an enormous crater covering an area of 13,571 hectares, from which emerges the majestic cone of Mount Teide. The mountain is Spain’s highest and can be seen from almost everywhere on the island. The Park also extends as far as the Ucanca Valley, the largest plain in the Park, along with its lava fields. View the rock formation known as ‘God’s Finger’ at the Mirador del Dedo de Dios, where a stop will be made for photographs, before your return drive to the ship.

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure. Due to restrictions in the National Park, the jeeps are not permitted to go off road. There is a high step onto the jeeps. Jeeps are open top and open sided and seat 8 guests each on inward facing, bench style seats. This tour is not suitable for those with injuries or conditions, which may be affected by the bumpy ride. The minimum age for participation is 6 years of age.

If you prefer to do your own thing, then this tour is the perfect option.

Your transfer will take you south of Tenerife to Playa de Las Americas, the island’s largest and most popular tourist destination.

The resort was ‘born’ in the 1970’s and has quickly developed from a bare shoreline to the high-rise and high-energy resort it is today. The great success of the area is based on the wonderful climate and calm waters. There are several beachside bars, shopping centres, and if you just decide to sunbathe, you are in the best place, as this is the sunniest and driest part of the island.

Note: This tour is un-guided and does not include luncheon or refreshments. Please carry local currency. The transfer time is approximately one hour each way and maps will be provided on the coach. Please make note of the return time and meeting point, coaches cannot be held for latecomers. Please remember swimwear, a towel and sunscreen if wishing to swim. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Enjoy the delightful scenery of Madeira and sample its renowned wine on this wonderful introductory tour.

Your scenic extravaganza starts off along the rugged west coast road and through the picturesque fishing village of Camara de Lobos, once painted by Sir Winston Churchill. The beauty of Funchal is best admired from the Pico da Torre viewpoint.

Driving through eucalyptus forests, you will reach Cabo Girao. From a superb viewpoint, see the second highest sea cliff in the world. From here, you can also see mountain slopes that have been carved into terraces.

At Pico dos Barcelos the true beauty of the island is revealed. See Funchal in the distance and the surrounding villages scattered on green slopes.

An essential part of any visit to Madeira is experiencing its well-known wine. Enjoy sampling several different types of Madeira wine and take the opportunity to purchase a bottle to take home with you.

Note: As coaches are not permitted to park outside the wine lodge, you are advised that a walk up a slope and some steps will be necessary. There are some cobblestones and steps at the viewpoints. This excursion involves traveling around hairpin bends with steep slopes, which may affect those who suffer from vertigo.

Enjoy a VIP tour of the medieval town of Romsey with its stunning Abbey, interesting history and links to Florence Nightingale.

Discover the medieval 7th century market town of Romsey. This quaint town with its tudor character and historical buildings is where the Prince and Princess of Wales began their honeymoon in 1981.

Your first stop will be at the country estate of Embley Park, former home of Florence Nightingale. Florence, also known as ‘The Lady with the Lamp’ was the founder of modern nursing which began during the Crimean War. You’ll be shown an interesting presentation illustrating her pioneering work on nursing and sanitary reforms which she achieved during her life before taking a guided tour of the west wing of the grand house and gardens. Florence is said to have had a calling from God whilst seated beneath a giant cedar tree in the grounds. Refreshments of tea, coffee and cake will be served in the library.

Nearby, at St Margaret’s Church, you’ll be able to see Florence’s grave with its ornate headstone. Thousands of people from all over the world come here annually on her birthday, the 12th May (International Nurses Day), to celebrate her contribution to health reformation.

On arrival in the historic town centre of Romsey, you will receive a VIP welcome from the Mayor, in his colourful official robes, before visiting the beautiful stone 10th century Romsey Abbey. Inside the Abbey you’ll discover the fine Norman architecture, elaborate stonework, magnificent stained glass windows and interesting memorials as you hear of its history and how it managed to survive the Dissolution of Monasteries in 1538.

Before returning to the ship, you’ll have around 30 minutes of free time to explore the historical town further or browse the boutiques and shops.

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The picturesque villages of Sintra and Cascais have a unique charm all of their own.

Hailed by poets for the great beauty of its surrounding mountain range, Sintra Village is renowned for the view of the old Royal Palace, perched on the highest peak. One of Portugal’s oldest settlements, occupied by both Moors and monarchs, whose castles and palaces add charm to the village. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace.

Make the most of a photography stop at the Praia do Guincho and capture the magnificent views and the most westerly point in Europe – Cabo da Roca.

Cascais, originally an old Portuguese fishing village, has now become a popular holiday resort. Set alongside the picturesque Bay of Cascais, lovely early 20th century homes mingle with modern buildings, creating a delightful atmosphere. You will have some free time to wander along the streets, enjoy the views or browse in the local shops.

The return drive will be along the Corniche bordering the River Tagus, passing by the well-known village of Estoril.

Note: The streets of Sintra are steep and cobble-stoned, and care should be taken. Highlights may operate in reverse to that described above. Shops in Cascais are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Admire the spectacular scenery for which Madeira is renowned, whilst experiencing something of the ‘spirit of Madeira’.

Driving east towards Camacha, admire the beautiful views over the bay of Funchal as you stop at Pináculo. Camacha is one of the largest inland villages of Madeira, and the centre of the wicker industry. At the warehouse and working showrooms, view the range of wicker work that is created, from baskets and chairs to elephants and giraffes.

From Camacha, head north to Pico de Arieiro, where, on a clear day, you can appreciate magnificent views over the north, south and centre of the island. A warm welcome awaits you at the Casa do Abrigo Restaurant at Poiso, where a traditional Madeiran luncheon will be served.

At the village of Monte, notable for its many fine properties and gardens, admire the view over Funchal. Its twin towered 18th century church is a landmark throughout the city, and is home to the statue of Our Lady of Monte, credited with being the source of many miracles.

For a true taste of Madeira, experience the exciting toboggan ride back into Funchal, ending in Livramento. The downhill ride in wicker sledges was formerly the established form of transport in Madeira, and your short ride will be something to remember. Back in Funchal, proceed to a wine lodge and complete your Madeira experience by tasting some fine Madeira wine, world famous for over 400 years.

Note: Please wear suitable clothing and footwear, and follow the instructions of the toboggan drivers once seated.

A special tram ride in the Old Town and an exploration of Lisbon’s monumental area to make a memorable tour.

A ride on Lisbon’s most famous and typical form of transport – the tram – is an absolute must. With the added dimension of local waiters serving port wine and traditional pastries on board, this unique tram tour is an ever-popular option. To further enhance this Lisbon experience, you will step from ancient tram to modern coach as your tour is rounded off with a panoramic drive of the city’s most famous monuments.

At the famous Black Horse Square, step aboard the tram for a leisurely circuit through this seven-hilled metropolis. See many fascinating glimpses of the ‘old city’ and the Tagus, passing landmarks such as the Parliament, Cathedral and Santa Luzia Belvedere. At Estrela Square, say goodbye to your traditionally-dressed waiters as you step onto a coach for the second part of your tour.

As you stand before the impressive Gothic-Manueline-style Jeronimos Monastery, your guide will provide you with details of this imposing building. Nearby, you will be equally impressed by the lavishly-decorated Belem Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, which commemorate Henry the Navigator and Portugal’s incredible voyages of exploration.

Note: Guests are advised there are some fairly high steps to be negotiated when boarding the tram.

Rising over 12,000 feet – Mount Teide is one of the most famous sights in all of the Canary Islands.

Your tour begins with a drive towards the old colonial capital of La Laguna, situated in the Aguirre Valley amidst beautiful surroundings. From La Laguna, your route turns along the base of the mountain range, through the Esperanza pine forests and foothills to the Teide National Park. A short stop will be made at El Portillo Restaurant for refreshments before heading into the heart of the Park.

Declared a national park in 1954, the Cañadas del Teide National Park includes an enormous volcanic crater, which has been dormant since 1909 and is over 29 miles in circumference. From the crater, rising 12,300 feet, is Mount Teide - the highest mountain in all of Spanish territory. Take in the views of this impressive peak and the surrounding arid landscape in the crater, which is often said to resemble the set of a western movie.
Enjoy some free time at the Parador hotel centre before reboarding the coach for your return journey. En route to the ship several stops will be made for photographs, giving you the opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking scenery.

Note: This excursion will travel up some mountain roads to approximately seven thousand feet above sea level. Warm clothing is recommended. It is forbidden to remove any stones or plants from the National Park. The cable car at Mount Teide is NOT included. Walking is mainly flat over gravel and paved areas. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended.