Description
Join the all-suite MS Hebridean Sky for this coastal journey along the Atlantic shores of Spain and Portugal as we sail from Malaga to the UK visiting some marvellously historic and special places along the way. These are perfect sailing waters and ashore we will be able to appreciate the contrasting cultures of the Iberian Peninsula enjoying the art, architecture and of course the wines. Early May is an ideal time for our voyage as we can expect moderate temperatures with the absence of the high season crowds and our itinerary has been planned to ensure that the balance is just right between exploring ashore, relaxing on board and time at leisure in picturesque ports for individual exploration.
Setting sail from Malaga, we sail south to Morocco for our visit to the port city of Tangier, Europe’s gateway to Africa where our exploration will include a visit to the newly created Donabo Gardens, a botanical oasis by the sea with ten distinct sections within the main garden. Added to this we spend time discovering Portugal’s Algarve coast including a visit to the charming town of Lagos, and enchanting Oporto with its splendid port wines. Continuing to Northern Spain we will meander through the Galician countryside visiting the most beautiful Pazos and their gardens, sample the local wines and step into the pilgrimage cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Our final days are spent sailing to Portsmouth with calls in the idyllic Isles of Scilly and Cornwall including visits to Tresco Abbey Gardens and the magnificent Caerhays Castle and Garden along the way.
Sailing in the company of just over 100 fellow travellers, we have the added benefit of excellent local guides and our knowledgeable Guest Speaker who will add much to your experience and knowledge of this fascinating region. Few itineraries in Europe can offer such a wide ranging and endlessly fascinating cultural experience and all of this combined with the rich maritime history of the region and the sheer beauty of the coastal landscapes makes for an endlessly fascinating cultural experience.