Iberia & Moroccan Discovery - 12 nights, November 2013

Enjoy all the major highlights of Lisbon from the comfort of your coach. View the Belem area and many more city sites.

A wonderful way to see the city of Lisbon without having to walk around the city. Have your camera at the ready as you enter the area of Belem and view the Presidential Palace, The Monastery of Jeronimos, Tower of Belem and the Monument of Discoveries.

Drive through the exclusive residential district where many of the foreign embassies are located and then see the impressive 18th Century stone aqueduct, 11 miles long, which until recently was used to bring fresh water into Lisbon. A stop will be taken at Belvedere to admire the panoramic view across the city.

Afterwards, drive down the famous avenue of Liberty to Rossio Square, to see the Santa Justa Elavator, designed by Eiffel of the famed Eiffel Tower in Paris. Finally you will see the one of the most impressive squares in Lisbon the Praca co Comercio (Black Horse Square).

This is a great tour for those wishing to relax and enjoy a scenic tour of Lisbon.

Note: The order of highlights may vary. There are steps into the Belem Tower for those requiring toilet facilities.

The 18th Century Palace of Queluz is a spectacular site to visit, along with the luxurious and famous gardens.

Perched proudly on the hill southeast of Sintra, the Palace of Queluz is a wonderful piece of architecture. Dating back to 1747, the Palace was once a country mansion built by the infant Dom Pedro, later to be known as Dom Pedro III, it was then re-named Queluz Palace.

The gardens have become a focal point of the Palace with Baroque fountains, statues and places of recreation. You will be able to walk around and enjoy these at your own leisure.

Before heading into Cascais, you will have an opportunity to stop and photograph the viewpoint of Praia Do Guncho and admire the views over the bay. Take time to explore the streets of this small picturesque town or just sit and relax in one of the local cafés and treat yourself to a coffee.

Note: Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended. There is no flash photography allowed within the Palace.

Follow in the pilgrims’ footsteps on this comprehensive MUST SEE tour to this beautiful medieval city with its grand Cathedral.

Magnificent Santiago Cathedral is a monument to Christ’s apostle, James, whose relics are believed to have been discovered here in the 9th century. Half a million pilgrims flock each year to this great shrine, which was once the third most important place of pilgrimage after Jerusalem and Rome.

Four majestic squares surround the Cathedral and your guide will explain the characteristics of all four. Admire the majestic square of Plaza del Obradoiro, still the focal point for pilgrims when arriving in the city.

Refreshments will be served at the exclusive Parador Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos, a late 15th century pilgrim hostel.

Enjoy superb views of the typical Galician countryside, before reaching Santiago de Compostela, which is undoubtedly the showpiece of Galicia.

Note: This tour involves a considerable amount of walking (approximately 2 hours) over uneven and cobbled ground and many steps at the Cathedral. There is a slight incline from the drop off point to the Main Street. There is no seating available at the refreshment venue. Modest dress is required inside the Cathedral. During mass services, visits and photography are not permitted. Please note there is no free time included on this tour. If you wish to have free time, you can opt out of the guided visit around the four squares and explore independently during this time. The order of visits may vary.

Enjoy the scenic delights of Beaulieu Estate including the National Motor Museum and Palace House with its beautiful grounds.

Beaulieu is a top visitor attraction located in the heart of the beautiful New Forest. The estate features many highlights including the National Motor Museum, an Ancient Abbey, Palace House and a variety of gardens including a Victorian, kitchen and wilderness garden.

Within the fascinating National Motor Museum you can see some of the earliest examples of motoring from the 1890s through to legendary world-record breakers, such as Campbell’s jet powered Bluebird which broke the world land speed record in 1964.

New for 2012 is BOND IN MOTION, the world’s largest collection of original James Bond vehicles. Celebrating 50 years of Bond, with 50 vehicles from the films, this exhibition includes iconic on-screen favourites such as Goldfinger’s Rolls-Royce Phantom III, Zao’s Jaguar XKR loaded with weapons from Die Another Day and Bond’s Aston Martin DBS from Quantum of Solace.

Take some time to admire the remains of the picturesque 13th century Abbey with its timeless beauty and tranquil atmosphere. One of the buildings now houses a monastic multimedia exhibition which illustrates the daily life of the Cistercian Monks.

Historic Palace House has been the stately home of the Montagu family since 1538. With its combination of 13th century Gothic and 19th century Scottish Baronial architecture, the House offers an insight into the past with many fascinating family treasures, portraits and photographs.

Note: The grounds are spread out over a vast area, however there is a monorail and Veteran Bus which connect the main attractions. There will be approximately three hours of free time to explore the Beaulieu attractions at your own leisure.

One of the best ways to get to know a city is on foot. Follow your guide to explore many of the city’s most popular attractions.

From the quayside, you will take a leisurely walk along the Avenida Montoto and the Paseo de la Darsena before arriving at San Carlos Gardens. Your guide will explain about Sir John Moore, an English General, who was killed in La Coruña. You will see his tomb at the San Carlos Gardens, one of the most romantic corners of the city.

On your stroll around the old city, you will pass by the convent of Santo Domingo, which contains a chapel dedicated to La Coruña’s patron ‘La Virgen del Rosario’. Sitting on the highest part of La Coruña is the church of Santa Maria del Campo, built between the 12th and 15th centuries. You will see other fascinating sights such as the church of Santiago and Santa Barbara, Azcarraga and Maria Pita Squares.

Your walking tour will finish at Maria Pita Square. Before leaving you, your guide will give directions to the nearest shops and café bars as well as advising you how to make your way back to the ship.

Note: This tour is entirely on foot and involves some steps, slight inclines and uneven, cobbled ground.

This panoramic drive through the ‘Crystal City’ is perfect for those who enjoy a more leisurely pace.

Head into the city of La Coruña where your guide will bring to life the many city highlights. From the comfort of your seat, enjoy views of the Archaeological Museum and San Carlos Gardens (where the tomb of Sir John Moore is located). View the typical Galician 19 century buildings with their unique glass-paned balconies during your leisurely drive along the Avenida de la Marina.

Enjoy a photography opportunity at Europe’s oldest working lighthouse, the Tower of Hercules and the city’s most important monument. The original lighthouse was built in the 2 century A.D. and rebuilt in its present form in the 18 century.

Your scenic drive will also pass the Domus, Museum of Mankind, the excellent beaches of Orzan and Riazor, the Millenium Monument and through the City Centre.

Be tempted by an array of traditional Spanish tapas and a glass of wine, which will be served during your tour.

Note: There are some steps at the refreshment venue. A ramp is in place at the entrance and there are two lifts available.

Explore the city on foot and discover the intriguing old town of Cadiz and its haphazardly placed Moorish-style houses.

Jutting out of the Bay of Cadiz, and almost entirely surrounded by water, Cadiz can lay claim to being Europe’s oldest city. Legend has it that Hercules was the founder of ancient Cadiz. Some of its 18th century walls still stand and the old quarter is famous for its picturesque charm.

One of the best ways of getting to know a city is by exploring on foot. Your guide will take you through narrow lanes, where flowers sprout from rusting cans mounted on walls beside religious paintings. At the Plaza de España, you will find a monument to the first Spanish constitution of 1812 and then pass by the Town Hall in the Plaza de San Juan de Dios. The golden cupola of the Cathedral looms high above long, white houses and you can hear how this house of worship was built from silver and gold from the New World. Relax awhile with a refreshment of sherry, beer or a soft drink at a local café.

Get the most from your visit by exploring the many highlights of this once highly fortified town in the company of a knowledgeable guide and at a leisurely pace.

Note: This tour is entirely on foot from the quay. Comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended.

A tour that captures the very best of Jerez. Sample sherry before watching the training of world renowned horses.

Driving through Cadiz, your panoramic journey will head to Jerez. Take in such sights as the exterior of Domeq Palace and the Convent Church of Santo Domingo. You will also have a glimpse of the Plaza del Caballo, Horse Square, which contains a monument symbolising the city.

A ‘must-see’ on a visit to Jerez is a guided tour of one of the famous ‘bodegas’. An interesting insight into the blending process will be given and, most importantly, a sherry tasting session of the different types of sherry.

The wine aristocrats of this area take their horsemanship very seriously and some of the finest horses can be seen at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. Situated in the grounds of a splendid 19th century palace, this prestigious school was established by Alvaro Domeq in the 1970’s. The Spanish-Andalusian Horses are a world-renowned pure breed with incredible grace, speed, stamina and beauty. Admire these magnificent creatures and their skilled riders as they train for their show.

Note: Guests are advised that there is approximately two hours’ total walking during this tour. There are some steps at both the Bodega and the Equestrian School. The use of cameras is strictly forbidden within the building of the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, however cameras are permitted in the grounds outside.

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.

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).

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.

This leisurely option provides a perfect introduction to Gibraltar followed by a spot of English tea.

A relaxing drive North will cross Gibraltar's unique runway to the border between this small colony and Spain. There will not be a stop here, but as you drive by there is a great opportunity to view this remarkable border and the Spanish mainland beyond.

Proceeding along the outskirts of town and passing the American War Memorial and the Trafalgar Cemetery, you will soon reach Europa Point. From this vantage point, admire the fine views of the coast of North Africa, twelve miles across the famous Straits of Gibraltar. From here, you can appreciate why this territory was, and continues to be, of such strategic importance to the British Navy.

Relax and enjoy refreshments at the renowned Caleta Hotel. From this location overlooking a Genoese fishing village, you can admire the spectacular views to Spain and North Africa. Take in the scenery as you savour a delightful tea accompanied by a tempting selection of sandwiches, scones and cakes.

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Stroll around the beautiful Alameda Gardens before capturing some fantastic views of the Rock on an exciting cable car ride.

Delight in the wonderful collection of plants at Alameda Gardens. The Gardens are an important conservation project and house a collection of plants from around the world as well as displays of local flora. Join your guide who will point out the various plants, sights and wildlife whilst guiding you through its fascinating history.

Gibraltar’s cable car is the island’s only purpose-built tourist attraction. Enjoy a ride up to the very top of the Rock and marvel at the breath-taking views. At the cable car’s top station take advantage of the restaurant and bar as well as cloakroom facilities. You are free to wander independently around the many terraces and enjoy the splendid views of the city of Gibraltar to the West, the coastline of Africa to the South, the Spanish mainland to the North and the blue waters of the Mediterranean to the East.

After your tour a shuttle service will take you straight back to the ship or you may prefer to be dropped off in the Irish Town pedestrian area to explore the many shops. Alternatively, relax in a pub or café, before making your own way back to the ship.

Note: Ground at the Gardens is generally paved with steps and some steep gradients and there are 35 steps at the cable car. Please expect queues at the cable car. Guests are reminded that Gibraltar’s apes may be encountered on this excursion and should not be touched or fed as they may bite. If you choose not to take advantage of the local shops a shuttle service will take you back to the ship.

See the main highlights and enjoy some time for independent shopping or a cable car ride.

See Gibraltar’s oldest and most famous residents, the apes, at close quarters. The semi-wild apes roam freely around the slopes at this viewpoint and you can usually get some great photographs. Please remember the apes are wild animals, do not be tempted to touch or feed them and please watch your belongings as they have been known to take things.

St. Michael’s Cave is a large natural cavern filled with uniquely formed stalactites and stalagmites. It is said that this bottomless cave is linked to Africa by a fifteen mile long passage under the straits.

Located on the southern tip of Gibraltar at Europa Point, Trinity Lighthouse is still in use and its light can be seen from a distance of thirty miles.

At the end of your tour, you can either be dropped off at Main Street for shopping, or at the Cable Car Station, where you can take a ride independently to the Top of the Rock (cable car payable direct). Alternatively, you will be taken directly back to the ship.

Note: There are approximately 75 steps at St. Michael’s Cave, however guests can remain on the mini-coach during this visit. Comfortable non-slip shoes are recommended as some areas of the Cave can be slippery. Lighting in the cave is dim and coloured for effect. Guests who choose to be dropped off for shopping or the cable car are responsible for making their own way back to the ship by taxi or on foot. Some of the roads up to the Rock can be winding and narrow.

Discover Southampton’s historic buildings and its links with the legendary Titanic on this fascinating walking tour.

Titanic pulled away from the White Star dock in Southampton at the start of her maiden voyage on 10th April 1912. Five days later in the early hours of 15th April she sank after striking an iceberg. The disaster made headlines across the world and had a devastating effect on the people of Southampton. Of the 724 crew which lived within in the area - only 175 returned home.

Your interesting walking tour commences at Ocean Terminal, which is located adjacent to the site of the original White Star dock. A leisurely stroll will take you through Queen’s Park and past the luxury flats which used to be the old South Western Hotel. This hotel was where the First Class passengers stayed before embarking on the majestic liner. Close by are the old White Star offices where Southampton residents gathered in their hundreds, waiting day after day for news of loved ones.

A walk along Oxford Street will take you past some of the drinking establishments used by the ill fated crew including The Grapes pub, which is where filming took place for the famous ‘Titanic’ movie. At the end of the street are the ruins of Holyrood Church where a memorial to the Titanic crew stands. As you wander past the ancient Southampton walls and through the main shopping precinct, with its eclectic mix of shops, you’ll hear poignant tales of the Titanic heroes and survivors.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the SeaCity Museum. This interactive Museum is filled with information and interesting memorabilia of the fateful disaster and illustrates the impact the liner has had on the city.

Note: There is two hours walking on mostly flat ground with some slight inclines. The return journey will be by shuttle bus. Guests can opt to remain in the city centre and make their own way back to the berth by shuttle bus at their own convenience. This tour only operates when the ship is berthed at Ocean Terminal.