Coastal Charms of France, Spain & Portugal

The River Garonne is quite possibly south-west France's most important river, and arguably one of the region's most picturesque too. Serving a number of important towns and cities, including the historic and magnificent city of Bordeaux; the River Garonne flows through unspoilt French countryside. Just upstream from Bordeaux, the Garonne meets the Dore River and forms Western Europe's largest estuary, the Gironde – best known for the Côte d'Argent beach, and birthplace of Jacques-Yves Cousteau.

Exploring Bordeaux during the summer offers you the opportunity to discover not just the world’s wine capital but also its fascinating cultural and historical sites. Spend time at Place de La Bourse, with its iconic Miroir d’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool, or wander along the Rue de Saint Catherine and the maze of streets running through the city, lined with boutiques and wine shops. Renowned for its incredible wines, the region surrounding Bordeaux is home to numerous wineries and vineyards producing some of the best wines from around the globe. You can explore La Cite du Vin, a museum dedicated entirely to wine and its production and designed to look like a wine decanter, discover local food markets and 18^th-century architecture, or simply enjoy a glass of Bordeaux wine on the banks of the Garonne River.

Matosinhos is a delightful city to explore, where a summer stroll along the promenade offers a laidback atmosphere and a lovely beach located just outside the town. Venture further afield to Porto, and you’ll be offered opportunities to explore the narrow, cobbled streets and colourful houses of Ribeira, or perhaps take a boat trip along the Douro River to witness scenic landscapes of terraced vineyards and traditional wine estates known as quintas. Meanwhile, the city is well known for its production of Port wine, which can be sampled at one of the many wine cellars, or for enjoying Porto’s signature dish, Francesinha, a mouth-watering hearty sandwich of meat covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick sauce in an authentic Portuguese restaurant. 

Visiting Lisbon in the warm summer months allows for opportunities to explore further outside the city centre, including marvelling at views across the city from the many miradouros (viewpoints) or visiting the nearby fairytale-like town of Sintra, set against the backdrop of rolling hills. You will also be ideally placed for wandering along the labyrinth of cobblestoned streets of Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, which offers a captivating journey through the city, from the grandeur of São Jorge Castle to the stirring rhythms of Fado music. There will also be chances to try local dishes like grilled sardines or the deliciously crumbly Pastéis de Nata custard tart with a Portuguese espresso, known as Bica, ride through the city on a vintage tram, and participate in birdwatching in the Tagus Estuary.  

Nestled along the Rías Baixas, Vigo is a hidden gem with one of the largest ports in Europe, showcasing its rich maritime heritage and serving as a haven for seafood lovers. You’ll have opportunities to explore the charming old town of Casco Vello, where you can experience Spanish festivities in tiny boutiques and artisan shops and take part in the local tradition of eating fresh oysters at Oyster Street (Rua de Pescaderia). Elsewhere, you will be able to discover Castro Fortress, which offers spectacular views across the city, and learn about its deep history, dating back to the 17^th century, or relax on the golden sands of nearby Samil Beach.