Portugal and the Atlantic Coast

Regional departure by coach or Home Connect service, then to Portsmouth/Plymouth for the overnight crossing to Santander.

Arrival in Santander, then travel to our overnight hotel in Valladolid area of Spain.

We then head southwest, crossing the border into Portugal and make a leisurely journey to our hotel in Praia da Viera for a six-night stay.

Today we head to Lisbon, located on the estuary of the River Tagus, near the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the oldest capitals in Europe! Once occupied by the Moors, it was reconquered in 1147 by King Afonso Henriques, who settled in St. George’s medieval castle.

We visit the Alfama and Chiado districts and enjoy lunch at a restaurant with drinks included. We also explore the Belém District, which bears witness to its glorious era of discovery and include a visit to Jeronimos Monastery (church entrance included).

We visit ancient Coimbra to explore the city, located in central Portugal with stunning views over the Mondego River. Coimbra is home to one of the oldest universities in the world, and has been nominated a city of light and culture.

You will have the opportunity to visit this legendary university and the Capelos room (subject to availability). Lunch including drinks will be in a restaurant during the visit and you will also enjoy some free time to explore.

The carefully preserved and restored historic centre of Porto has been appointed a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. You will have the opportunity to explore the Cathedral where entrance is included (the cloisters have an additional charge payable locally). Lunch including drinks will be held at the restaurant during the visit.

We then set sail on a cruise on the Douro River. before seeing the famous Port wine cellars, located on the south bank of the Douro River, in the municipality of Vila Nova de Gaia. Here, we enjoy a lovely wine tasting before heading back to the hotel.

Enjoy a day at leisure in resort.

Enjoy a further day at leisure or alternatively join our optional excursion where we venture out into the countryside and visit the picturesque medieval town of Obidos, dominated by its castle which was once a royal residence. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the local delicacy, ginjinha, a cherry liqueur served in chocolate cups. We also visit the seaside village of Nazaré, dominated by a promontory, the Sítio. The site offers breathtaking views of the lower town and the immense beach occupied by boats and fishing nets.

This morning we leave Praia da Viera and travel northwards to our overnight hotel in Palencia area, pausing to visit Salamanca on our journey.

We depart from Palencia area and travel northwards to our overnight hotel in the Biarritz area. We enjoy an en-route visit to the bustling resort town of San Sebastián on the Bay of Biscay.

We set off for the Paris area for an overnight stay.

Return home.