Heritage & Traditions of Western Europe - a cruise & land journey

Welcome to Lisbon, the colourful capital of Portugal and a city with a proud seafaring history. Lose yourself in its cobbled alleyways, ancient ruins and white-domed cathedrals.

This afternoon you’ll board your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse. You’ll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew. Meet the butler and settle in your spacious suite. Join your fellow guests in the Sky Bar for a glass of Champagne to toast the start of your fascinating exploration of Western Europe.

Please book your flight to arrive into Lisbon prior to 02:00 PM.

Discover the unique treasures of Porto. Located on the Douro River estuary, it’s the commercial centre of northern Portugal. The city dates back to pre-Roman times and is the source of the name Portugal and of the famed port wine. Stroll through the winding alleys, admire grand gothic and baroque architecture, see the public street art, hear the rickety tram, and feel the breeze off the Atlantic.

Freechoice:
Easy Porto City Tour with Gaia Cellar Visit: Experience Porto’s most emblematic places then visit Gaia for a tasting at the famous port wine cellar Caves Ferreira.

Porto Active City Tour with Palacio da Bolsa visit: Enjoy an active walking tour of Porto’s highlights then visit the Palacio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange).

Guimaraes with Ducal Palace visit: Discover Guimarães, considered the birthplace of Portugal, and visit the 15th-century Ducal Palace.

Hiking tour: Experience a different side of the region on a guided hike, including a cable car ride. Explore narrow streets, admire ancient cathedrals and walk to the edge of the Douro.

Aveiro Tour with Gondola Ride: Visit the coastal city of Aveiro, walk through the historic centre, then board a traditional boat to explore the canals of the ‘Venice of Portugal’.

Sail north to Vigo, located in the Galicia region just over the border in Spain. Home to the largest fishing fleet in Europe, it dates back to the Middle Ages. The city has Celtic ruins, beautiful beaches and a cathedral that is a sacred place of pilgrimage for millions of Christians around the world. The seafood is excellent and there’s a thriving culinary scene with many buzzy tapas bars.

Freechoice:
Vigo Sightseeing & Baiona: Discover the beauty of the marshes of Southern Galicia. Drive up Mount Castro and visit Baiona, an important fishing village with historic monuments.

Santiago de Compostela: Visit the capital of Galicia where a local guide will share the region's history. Learn the history of Saint James and go inside the Romanesque Cathedral.

Gardens of the North: Enjoy a scenic drive to Quiñones de León Palace and its famed gardens. Finish with a panoramic tour passing Samil Beach and Bouzas quarter.

Galician Wine Appreciation: Visit Galicia’s premier winery, Agro de Bazan, to sample high-quality wines made with only the Albariño grape.
 

Enrich
Symphonic Orchestra at Teatro Afundación: Enjoy an unforgettable concert in Teatro Afundación from the 65-person Orchestra Ponferrada y del Bierzo.

Today, take some time to explore the ship and familiarise yourself with all the areas on board your new ultra-luxury home. Visit the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10. Step into the tranquil Senses Spa# on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, and plunge pool therapy lounges.

Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the all-inclusive bars and lounges on board or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. At dinner, tempt your palate at one of up to 10 exceptional dining venues.

The aptly named Belle-Île-en-Mer (‘beautiful island in the sea’) is the largest island in the French region of Brittany. The small bays and beaches along the rocky coastline are generally accessible only on foot or by sea. The capital, Le Palais, has an imposing citadel and plenty of cafés along the harbour. The island also has a strong artistic tradition - Monet produced 39 paintings of the wild Côte Sauvage while living on the island.

Freechoice:
Belle Ile Panoramic Tour: A scenic coach tour of the island’s highlights, including Grand Phare, Port Coton, Pointe des Poulains, Kervilahouen and Sauzon.

Belle Ile Eden Garden & Port Coton: Visit Eden Garden where the owner will take you on a guided walk. Then marvel at the rock pyramids of Port Coton Needles.

Belle Ile & Oyster tasting: Enjoy a short sightseeing tour before arriving at the famous Castel Clara restaurant for delicious local oysters paired with a glass of white wine.

Hiking Belle Ile: From Port Jean to Le Palais: Follow your guide on a hike along the wild coast, admiring pretty coves, turquoise water and picturesque ports.

Located on the tip of Brittany, Douarnenez is set around four harbours. With a bustling quayside, the town will captivate you with its craft workshops and fisherman cottages. It owes much to sardine fishing, which has been carried out here since the Roman times.

Freechoice:
The Bigouden Country: Discover the beauty and charm of Bigdouen Country, learn about local history and culture, admire historic villages and wild landscapes.

Douarnenez Walking Tour: Explore Douarnenez on foot, following the unique ‘venelles’ alleyways, visiting the port museum and tasting fish at a local Sardine House.

Hiking Cap Sizun: Hike among the tremendous landscapes of far western Brittany at the wild Cap Sizun, with its sheer cliffs, breathtaking panoramas and peaks.

Tastes of Locronan: Discover the architecture and history of the medieval village of Locronan, then taste Breton specialities such as kouign amann and apple cider.

Sweet Concarneau: Get away to Concarneau, a typical fishing harbour and a walled city. Taste local sweets with a glass of cider, then enjoy some free time.

The ancient port city of Fowey has been an important stop since medieval times, and is now known for its quaint narrow streets, picturesque quays and busy harbour. With centuries old well-preserved buildings, houses perched on rolling hills and gurgling creeks, Fowey has inspired many authors and painters. The city is said to be the inspiration behind the famous children's book, The Wind in the Willows.

Freechoice:
Fowey by Foot: Join your guide for a walking tour of the picturesque town Fowey, learning  tales of writers, pirates and smugglers.

Pencarrow House: Visit the Georgian Pencarrow House, admire its art collection and tour the stately gardens.

Scenic Cornish Drive & Polperro: Take a scenic drive through the Cornish countryside to Polperro. Visit the museum, wander the shops and galleries, and enjoy a cream tea.

The Eden Project: Explore the Eden Project, the world’s largest global garden, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world.

The Lost Gardens of Heligan: Visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan, one of the most popular botanical gardens in the UK. Lost to the world for 70 years, it was restored in the 1990s.

The largest of the Isles of Scilly, St Mary’s is the gateway to this beautiful archipelago. Only 50 kilometres off the southern coast of England, the 140 islands are covered in lush green pastures and white beaches. They have long been a popular holiday destination for the British, who enjoy the slower pace of life and idyllic surrounds. Wander around the winding paths of Hugh Town, the largest settlements on the islands, with its cluster of charming shops, churches, galleries and cafes.

Freechoice:
Tresco Abbey Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely guided stroll through this spectacular garden set around the ruins of a Benedictine abbey.

Delightful St Mary’s Walk: A 90min walk around the Garrison on St Marys, taking in the Elizabethan defenses, Star Castle Hotel, and views to the outer islands.

St Mary’s History Walk: Join a local guide who will entertain and inform about the island’s rich history, wildlife and lifestyle on a 2.5-hour walk.

Wildlife Sea Safari Trip: Explore some of the islands by sea and experience the wildlife and key sights within the archipelago. (Cruises vary by weather and season.)

Spend a day of exploration in Fishguard, one of the twin towns of North Pembrokeshire on the southwest coast of Wales. Surrounded by the sea, towering cliffs, the Preseli Hills, valleys and ancient standing stones, it is incredibly picturesque. Wander the town and find family-owned antique and gift shops, galleries, cafés, pubs and restaurants offering a warm Welsh welcome.

Freechoice:
Coastal Walk: Follow the Pembrokeshire Coast Path with an experienced guide. Pass green fields and secluded pebbled beaches and look out for abundant birdlife.

Picton Castle: Visit the medieval Picton Castle, one of the region’s finest stately homes, and explore the beautiful woodland gardens.

St. David’s: Drive through Wales' striking landscape to St David's, a small city with a magnificent 12th-century cathedral.

St David’s Head & Carn Llidi Hike: A walking tour along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, passing St David's Head peninsula and Carn Llidi peak, two prominent landmarks.

Beautiful scenery, lush valleys, medieval castles and jagged coastlines await on this small island in the Irish Sea. The Isle of Man was a popular tourist destination in the 19th century and you can still see the historic guesthouses, pubs and theatre that line the waterfront promenade in Douglas. The island is also a biosphere reserve, which recognises its significant environmental and cultural treasures. Take the time to reconnect with nature and enjoy a holiday from a different era.

Freechoice:
Magnificent Castle Rushen & Vintage Steam Train: Visit Castletown, one of the oldest towns in the British Isles, and medieval Castle Rushen. Then ride a scenic 125-year-old steam train.

Scenic Isle of Man: Enjoy a scenic drive around the island. Cross Fairy Bridge, visit Castletown and Port Erin, admire the ruins of Peel Castle, and see the beautiful Plains of Heaven.

The Great Laxey Wheel – Lady Isabella: Visit the famous Lady Isabella waterwheel, built in 1854 and the largest working waterwheel in the world. Climb to the top for stunning views.

Volcanoes & Viking Hike: Follow the 'Raad ny Foillan' (The Way of the Gull) path to see rugged coastline, volcanic rocks, historic sites and abundant birdlife.

Disembark in Dublin after breakfast and begin your land journey in the heart of Dublin with a two night stay.

This morning your local guide will help you discover the history and charm of Ireland’s capital city. Set along the banks of the River Liffey, Dublin is awash with Georgian architecture, grand squares and historic monuments. 

Freechoice: Explore the interactive Guinness Storehouse where you will learn how to ‘pull the perfect pint’, or gain an understanding of what it means to be Irish at the EPIC Museum of Irish Emigration.

Enjoy dinner tonight at a traditional Irish pub. 

Discover Blarney Castle where legend has it, if you kiss the famous stone you will receive the ‘gift of the gab’. Then continue to Killarney for a two night stay.

Experience the beautiful scenery of the Ring of Kerry. See where the Iveragh Mountains dramatically drop into the Atlantic Ocean, and watch as tiny fishing villages and off-shore islands come in and out of view around each twisting bend. It is often said that the landscapes vary a hundred times in 100 kilometres. 

Explore Bunratty Folk Park Museum, before driving along spectacular coastline to the stunning Cliffs of Moher. Arrive in the vibrant city of Galway for your overnight stay.

En route to Northern Ireland visit the Monastery of Clonmacnoise. Continue to Belfast for your two night stay.

Belfast is a port city with a fascinating history. Learn about its troubled past during your guided tour. 

Freechoice: Discover the story of the Titanic, from its design and build to its fateful ending. Alternatively, take a ride in one of Belfast’s historic black cabs and learn about the city’s past and present.

This morning, journey to Scotland via ferry, before continuing on to Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s best known lakes. This evening, check into your historic accommodation for a two night Special Stay. 

Today visit Stirling Castle, one of the regions most iconic castles. Today you will discover its vast history including as the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots. 

Journey to mysterious Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for the fabled monster. Continue to Inverness for a two night stay.

Today discover Cawdor Castle. The castle dates back to the 14th century and is still inhabited by the Cawdor family.  Then visit the Battle of Culloden Visitors Centre where you will learn about the 1745 Jacobite rising and hear tales of the battle that is often described as one of the most brutal in Scottish history.  Our last stop for today is the Glenfiddich distillery to sample one of the most celebrated whiskies in Scotland. 

Enrich
Enjoy morning tea and a display of the ancient art of falconry, known as the ‘sport of kings’ which dates back almost 4,000 years. 

Then its on to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, where you will check into your hotel for a two night stay.

The city of Edinburgh is one of the most architecturally beautiful cities in the world, with monuments, cathedrals and buildings all perfectly preserved. During a city tour, board the Royal Yacht Britannia then explore Edinburgh Castle, the iconic symbol of this beautiful 1,000 year old city. 

Bid a fond farewell to Edinburgh taking many wonderful memories with you. 

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.