LA CORUNA, SPAIN

Departing from the pier, we will head towards the famous village of Betanzos, the Roman village that emerged from Old Castros. Betanzos contains wonderful examples of medieval architecture, with various houses bearing coats of arms, the ‘fishing quarter’ also makes it a delightful village to visit.

Departing from the pier, we will head towards the famous village of Betanzos, the Roman village that emerged from Old Castros. Betanzos contains wonderful examples of medieval architecture, with various houses bearing coats of arms, the ‘fishing quarter’ also makes it a delightful village to visit. Upon our arrival, we will proceed to visit the Garden of Pasatiempo. This fine work of art by the Garcia Naveira Brothers materialises their impressions of their abundant travels. Construction began on the gardens during 1893 and it provided work for approximately two hundred employees at a time of strong economic recession. It was considered an open-air recreational museum, which provided varied knowledge by representing the technological innovations of the time and of a world in which the possibilities of travel made things start to feel small. Fashioned with well-known works of art included sculptures and grottoes from all over the world, this unforgettable place is like a journey back in time. Following our visit to the gardens, we continue to the 18th century Pazo de Mariñán (country house). Located on the banks of the Betanzos and Mandeo rivers, it is perhaps one of the best Pazos in Galicia and Spain. Historical events of this location help us to identify the Pazo’s most famous owner, the influential Gómez Pérez das Marinas, who lived here during the fifteenth century and is remembered as the invincible defender of the city of La Coruna against the attacks from the Court of Benavente. As soon as we enter the grounds, we will discover unique gardens, which include giant shade creating banana trees, walnut trees from India and huge eucalyptus trees, all of which meet us at the entrance to these grounds. The path leading up to the Pazo is a paved road that is bordered by two rows of trees. The spectacular arrangement of trees, becomes visible shortly after passing the Piceas planted on the left side of the path, and on the right side a row of Camellias are on display. Further along the path we will find the Pazo’s Chapel, which was originally built by Costanza das Marinas in the 15th century in honour of Saint Roque. The Italian influence in the garden is the stairway that is connected to the terrace, it gives a spectacular view of the sea and of the main garden, which is an architectural jewel. These stairways lead to the owners’ once private gardens, which are decorated with fountains, busts and statues of the Count of Mos. Following our visit to the Pazo de Mariñán and gardens we shall re-board our coach. On our return journey we shall drive along the Antabro Gulf, passing by Meirás and Sada. Please note that this tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking, over uneven ground. There are approximately 50 steps to negotiate at the Garden of Pasatiempo. This tour is not recommended for passengers with limited mobility or wheelchair users.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 CANARIES & MEDITERRENEAN CRUISES