Bordeaux Affair & Unforgettable Douro

Begin your multi-day journey in Bordeaux, where you are welcomed aboard the luxurious Scenic Diamond (or similar). Once known as the 'Sleeping Beauty' of France, Bordeaux has undergone a stunning transformation, revealing its elegant limestone architecture and vibrant city life. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a gourmet welcome dinner as you prepare to explore a city famed for its UNESCO-listed historic centre, lively pedestrian streets, and over 300 heritage monuments.

Enjoy a leisurely morning on board as you cruise towards the medieval port town of Libourne. In the afternoon, discover the enchanting village of Saint-Émilion, celebrated for its world-renowned vineyards, charming cobblestone streets, and historic monuments. Sample local delicacies and wines before returning to your ship, which will be docked overnight in Libourne, a picturesque town at the meeting point of the Dordogne and Isle rivers.

Today, delve into the rich history of Libourne with a guided walking tour, exploring its fortified harbour and vibrant markets. Venture into the countryside for a wine tasting at a prestigious Saint-Émilion château, or learn about caviar production at a local sturgeon farm. Alternatively, visit a beautifully restored 19th-century water mill for a hands-on bread-making workshop. In the afternoon, relax on board as you sail towards Blaye, enjoying regional wines and panoramic river views.

Arrive in the charming hamlet of Blaye, renowned for its impressive citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once protected Bordeaux from invaders. Choose between a leisurely or active walking tour of the citadel, guided by local experts. In the evening, travel to the enchanting Château d'Agassac in the Médoc countryside for an exclusive classical concert, surrounded by vineyards and historic architecture.

Awaken in Fort Médoc, nestled in the heart of the world-famous Médoc wine region. Embark on a wine tasting adventure by coach or e-bike, sampling exquisite cabernet sauvignon at a prestigious estate. Continue to the picturesque village of Bourg, where you can visit the Carriages Museum within Bourg Castle or cycle along the scenic Captain’s Road, lined with historic homes and vineyards. Savor local wines at a nearby estate before your ship sails overnight towards Cadillac, pausing in Bordeaux.

Depart Bordeaux early and cruise along the Garonne River to the fortified town of Cadillac, famed for its grand château. Choose to explore the rolling vineyards of Sauternes by coach or e-bike, indulging in tastings of the region’s celebrated sweet wines. Alternatively, enjoy a guided walking tour through Cadillac’s medieval streets, culminating in a visit to its impressive château.

Wake up in Bordeaux and choose from a variety of immersive experiences. Join a guided tour to discover the city’s Gothic cathedral and the iconic Place de la Bourse, or cycle through historic quarters sampling local treats like canelé. Alternatively, shop with a chef at a bustling market before participating in a French cooking class on board. Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring the Golden Triangle district or visiting the interactive La Cité du Vin wine museum.

After breakfast, board a flight from Bordeaux to Porto, where you are greeted by the welcoming crew of the Scenic Azure (or similar). Settle into your new floating hotel and prepare for the next chapter of your journey along Portugal’s Douro River.

Awaken in Porto, a city brimming with history and youthful energy. Embark on a guided tour to uncover the city’s cultural treasures, including the ornate Palácio da Bolsa and the majestic Porto Cathedral. Alternatively, take a cable car to Vila Nova de Gaia, stroll across the Dom Luís I Bridge, and explore the vibrant streets and iconic tiled buildings. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Portuguese artistry during a hands-on tile painting workshop.

Sail to the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios, gateway to the lush Douro Valley. Choose to hike the scenic Paiva Walkways, visit the enchanting Quinta da Aveleda estate for wine tasting, or explore the historic city of Guimarães. In the afternoon, cruise to Régua, the heart of Port wine country, and visit the acclaimed Douro Museum to deepen your appreciation of the region’s winemaking heritage.

Begin your day with a choice of excursions: explore the captivating Varosa Valley, visiting the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca and the historic Ucanha bridge, or learn about olive oil production at a family-run Quinta. In the afternoon, journey to Lamego to admire the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, or visit the opulent Mateus Palace. Alternatively, participate in a hands-on Port wine blending class at Quinta de Pacheca.

Enjoy a tranquil day cruising through the breathtaking Vinhateiro wine region, the world’s first demarcated wine area and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the terraced vineyards and traditional villages dotting the Douro Valley as you make your way to Vega de Terrón, arriving in the evening.

Wake up in Vega de Terrón, a peaceful town on the Portuguese-Spanish border. Embark on a full-day excursion to Salamanca, famed for its twin cathedrals and vibrant market, or visit the unique village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta to discover the art of silk-making at the local museum and sample regional delicacies at a nearby estate.

Arrive in the riverside village of Pocinho, the historic terminus of the Douro Railway. Choose to visit the Côa Valley Museum, home to the world’s largest open-air Paleolithic rock art site, or experience traditional village life in Freixo Numão, including a visit to the Casa Painova estate for a tasting of local almonds and sweets. In the afternoon, cruise towards the scenic village of Pinhão.

Wake in Pinhão, surrounded by terraced vineyards and renowned for its exceptional Port wine. Visit the hilltop village of Provesende, where you can explore the local church, bakery, and the elegant Morgadio da Calçada manor house, sampling delicious regional pastries. In the afternoon, choose between kayaking along the Pinhão River, hiking through the vineyards of Quinta da Roêda, or enjoying a guided tasting at the estate.

Enjoy a relaxing morning on board as you sail back to Porto. In the evening, attend an exclusive classical concert in the magnificent São Francisco Church, renowned for its Gothic architecture and lavish gold-adorned altar, creating a memorable finale to your day.

Start your day in Porto with a choice of unique experiences: cruise the picturesque canals of Aveiro in a traditional moliceiro boat, play a round of golf at the esteemed Quinta do Fojo Golf Club, or enjoy a guided tasting at Cockburn’s Port Cellar in Vila Nova de Gaia. Spend your afternoon exploring Porto at your own pace before a farewell dinner and an enchanting illumination cruise along the Douro River, passing beneath the city’s iconic bridges.

Your unforgettable journey concludes in Porto. Disembark with cherished memories of an extraordinary adventure through the heart of France and Portugal, filled with cultural discoveries, culinary delights, and breathtaking landscapes.