Vigo

The news of Columbus’ discovery of the New World was first heard here in 1493 on arrival of the ‘Pinta’. The village is now a popular summer resort whose 16th century fortress has been converted into a tourist parador (hotel). A ‘must–see’ is the Old Quarter, where you can stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Bayona, passing the cloistered Convent of the Dominicas, the Misericordia Chapel and Casa Lorenzo Correa, now the town hall.

Relax and enjoy local Spanish tapas, tea, coffee or soft drinks at the Parador Conde de Gondomar as you admire the scenery.

From La Guia Hill, one of Vigo's highest points, capture exceptional panoramic views of the city and its Bay.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves an optional 20 – 30 minutes’ walking on uneven, cobbled ground in Bayona’s old quarters. If you wish to have free time, you may opt out of the guided walk. There is an approximate 10 minute walk and a few steps to be negotiated at the refreshment venue. The order of highlights may vary.

Portugal lies a mere twenty miles away from Vigo, and your route passes through vineyards and pine plantations set amongst the picturesque hills of Galicia. You will cross over the Minho River, which forms the border between the two countries.

At La Guia Hill enjoy panoramic views stretching out over the Galician countryside and down to the bay - peppered with numerous mussel farms.

Valenca Do Minho, Portugal, an attractive fortified town, whose 17th century ramparts were raised to keep the neighbouring Spaniards out, now invites former foes and others to visit its quaint streets. Gothic houses and a Romanesque church epitomise the character of this place, where local souvenirs include pottery, port, vinho verde, linen and crockery. After your guided walk, you will have free time to do some shopping.

Refreshments and snacks will be served at the exclusive Pousada de Sao Teotonio in Valenca, which offers magnificent views over the river, and the bridge allegedly built by Eiffel.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves a considerable amount of walking (approximately 1½ hours in total) over cobblestones and uneven ground. Shops in Valenca accept Euros. Please note that there is very limited seating available at the refreshment venue. The order of highlights may vary.

Enjoy a 40 minute transfer by boat along the stunning Atlantic coastline of Galicia to one of the jewels of the coast, ‘Cies Island’. Your guide will give you all the necessary safety and itinerary information whilst you relax and take in the scenery.

Once a pirates' haunt, Cies Island is now an uninhabited national park abound with all types of flora and fauna, nature trails, a bird observatory and a lagoon full of fish.

You’ll have approximately 3 hours of free time on the island to explore, swim or sunbathe at Rodas Beach or you may prefer to follow your guide on the optional walk to the Alto do Principe, a 2 mile (1¼ hour walk). This path gently rises from Rodas Beach to the cliffs where you will have excellent views over the Cies Archipelago.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by boat and on foot. Passengers are reminded to wear suitable attire, take a towel and sunscreen. A light jacket is recommended for the boat ride. There are 7 steps to negotiate in order to board and disembark the boat. An optional walk to Alto do Principe will be offered, but this is not recommended for passengers with limited mobility. Please wear comfortable, flat walking shoes and bring bottled water. Snacks are available for purchase on the island. Please be advised that some beaches are ‘clothing optional’. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraph under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Pontevedra boasts one of the largest and most elegant historic quarters in the whole of Galicia and is itself the second largest city in the region.

The city has a wonderful collection of cobbled streets, historic buildings, secluded squares and typical shopping streets. View the many different displays of architectural styles including gothic, plateresque and baroque.

Join your guide on a walk around the old town of Pontevedra including some free time to browse the traditional shops and boutiques. Hear about its historical personalities and the city’s seafaring past, its geographical setting and the crafts and trades of its settlers.

Starting at Alameda square, your guide will point out many of the important monuments of the city, including the Ruins of Santo Domingo, Pazo do Concello, St Mary’s Church, the traditional Plaza de la Ferreira and many more.

To round off your tour, sit back, relax and enjoy a refreshing tea or coffee on the covered terrace in the beautiful gardens of the exclusive Parador de Pontevedra, a former 16th century renaissance palace.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. Passengers are reminded that this tour involves approximately 1¾ hours’ walking (including free time) over uneven, cobbled ground and through some narrow streets. There are a couple of steps at the refreshment venue. Please note, the drop off point and pick up point for this tour will be at different locations. Shops are closed on Sundays.

One of the best ways to discover a city is on foot. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Montero Ríos Avenue, where you will see the statue of Jules Verne, who set the 2nd chapter of the famous fiction novel ‘Twenty Thousand’ Leagues Under The Sea, in the beautiful bay of Vigo. Continue through Concepción Arenal Street towards Compostela Square and Gardens to absorb the local atmosphere and Modernist style of its buildings.

As you stroll around the city centre, you will pass by the so-called "money crossing", the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Príncipe Street, the García Barbón Theatre and the Puerta del Sol, considered to be the heart of the city and presided over by an imposing scupture called El Sireno ("The Merman").

Continue towards the Old Quarter, passing Constitution Square, "Cesteiras" Street (Basket Makers Street), and Santa María Collegiate Church.

Pass by the well-known Oyster Street with its oyster shucking ladies who will be sure to bring a smile to your face before returning to the ship.

Essential information

This excursion will operate on foot. This tour is conducted entirely on foot from the quayside and involves some steps, slight inclines and uneven ground. Comfortable, flat walking shoes are recommended. There is the option to remain in town after the tour and make your own way back to the ship.

Enjoy a tour of the Agro de Bazan Winery and then sample three different Albariño white wines: Granbazan Ambar, Granbazan Verde and Contrapunto. Granbazan Ambar has an attractive straw yellow colour and its aroma has tones of ripe fruit, fennel and flower petals. Granbazan Verde, a typical Albariño wine with a fruity after-taste, has an aroma with hints of apple and fennel. Contrapunto has fresh fruit aromas and pleasant floral notes. After your tasting, there will be a chance for you to purchase your own bottles to take home.

Your wine tasting spree continues at Parador de Cambados, a former 17th century stately home, with samples of more regional red and white wine. A selection of appetizing Spanish ‘tapas’ will be served accompanied by coffee, tea or soft drinks.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. There is approximately 50 minutes total walking during this tour including a 30 minute visit to the winery and 20 minutes walk from the coach drop off at Cambados to the Parador along some cobbled, uneven ground. There are also 4 steps at the entrance to the Winery and 7 steps at the entrance to the wine tasting room. There is a ramp for wheelchair use at the entrance of the wine tasting room. Wine is available to purchase at both venues, major credit cards are accepted. Children may not participate.

Winding your way through the city your coach will take you up to La Guia Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views stretching out over the Galician countryside and down to the bay - peppered with numerous mussel farms.

Continuing through the city, admire the elegant facades as you pass by Plaza de Espana and Plaza de America, have your cameras at the ready as your guide will point out some of the most outstanding fountains, monuments and statues, including the bronze Fishermen and the Statue of the Wild Horses.

Upon arrival at 17th century Castrelos Park you will have free time to wander through the stunning French style gardens, located within the grounds is the palace built in 1620 and recently restored to become Quiñones de Leon Municipal Museum (exterior visit).

Before returning to the ship, a stop will be made at a 19th century Galician country manor, Pazo Los Escudos. The manor is now a 5 star exclusive hotel which houses a fabulous collection of family coats of arms of Galicia, dating between the 15th and 19th century. Sit back and enjoy a selection of typical Spanish Tapas with wine, coffee, tea and soft drinks and marvel at the magnificent views.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves a limited amount of walking, the ground is flat and gravelled. There are a few steps in the gardens but passengers do not need to negotiate these in order to enjoy the sights.

One of the most stylish resorts in Galicia; La Toja Island is connected to mainland Spain by bridge. Famous for its thermal spa and tranquil lifestyle, this international resort is enjoyed by the many famous personalities who visit during the summer.

Enjoy a refreshment stop at the Hotel Louxo Isla de la Toja for a selection of mouth-watering ‘tapas’ and local wine.

Treat yourself to some of the renowned bath products, which are on display close to the hotel. A ten-minute stroll from the Hotel will lead you to the island’s souvenir stalls, where you will have free time to browse.

Crossing the Rande Strait and passing Pontevedra, you will drive past summer resorts and fishing villages to reach La Toja.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. The walk on the island is mostly over flat ground. There are 10 steps at the entrance to the hotel and also a ramp for wheelchairs access. Guests should be able to climb a few steps to enter the coach. The order of highlights may vary. Please note that souvenir stalls and shops at La Toja will only accept Euros. The drive to La Toja island is approximately 1¼ hours.

Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately an hour into the Galician countryside to embark upon your river rafting adventure. Upon arrival at the launch site, you will be provided with a life jacket, helmet and wet suit and given a short safety briefing and instructions.

Your experienced rafting guide will then lead you on the inflatable rafts for an exciting river experience. Prepare to manoeuvre through white-water rapids and during the calmer moments, take the opportunity to marvel at the magnificent scenic landscapes of this region.

A wonderful experience for those that love the outdoors and have a sense of adventure!

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach, raft and on foot. This excursion is only suitable for those in good physical condition. Passengers with back or neck injuries , pregnant women, children under the age of 12 and adults over the age of 60 may not participate. Participants are required to walk a distance of 800 metres and raft for approximately 8 km on the river which takes around 2 hours. Remember to wear swimwear underneath loose clothing and shoes that can get wet. Ensure to bring a towel and change of clothes as you may get wet. A bottle of water and an energy bar will be provided. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach / Water Related’ paragraphs under the Guide to Symbols in this brochure.

Magnificent Santiago Cathedral is a monument to Christ’s apostle, James, whose relics are believed to have been discovered here in the 9th century. Half a million pilgrims flock each year to this great shrine, which was once the third most important place of pilgrimage after Jerusalem and Rome.

Four majestic squares surround the Cathedral and your guide will explain the characteristics of all four. Admire the majestic square of Plaza del Obradoiro, still the focal point for pilgrims when arriving in the city. Time permitting, you will have a brief chance to browse for souvenirs from the local vendors (this is subject to the local stalls being open and nearby at the time of the visit).

Refreshments will be served at the 15th century Parador Hostal de los Reyes Catolicos during the tour.

Santiago de Compostela is undoubtedly the showpiece of Galicia.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach and on foot. This tour involves a considerable amount of walking (approximately 2 hours) over uneven and cobbled ground and many steps at the Cathedral. There is no seating available at the refreshment venue. The interior visit of the Cathedral is non-guided. Modest dress is required inside the Cathedral. During mass services, visits and photography are not permitted. The order of visits may vary.

Board your coach, sit back and relax while a local guide enlightens you on the countryside that you’ll pass during your transfer to Santiago de Compostela.

Santiago de Compostela is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The old, world-famous centre of European pilgrimage, its Romanesque cathedral, with an impressive Baroque façade, is the centre of life in Santiago de Compostela. The city has many other interesting buildings, such as the Old University, the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Maria del Sar and the Gelmirez Palace to name but a few.

This is the perfect opportunity to adapt your day to suit your needs and make the very most of your time in this fascinating city. You will have approximately 3 hours to explore independently.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. The transfer takes approximately 1¼ hours each way by coach. From the drop off point your guide will walk you (approximately 15 minutes) to the Obradoiro Square, the main square in front of the Cathedral. Modest dress is required inside the Cathedral. During mass services, visits and photography are not permitted. At a time specified by your guide, you’ll meet back at Obradoiro Square to walk back to the coach park for the transfer back to Vigo. City maps will be provided on the coach. This is a transfer service only and no entrance fees or refreshments are included.

Board your coach, sit back and relax while a local guide enlightens you on the countryside that you’ll pass during your transfer to Santiago de Compostela.

Santiago de Compostela is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. The old, world-famous centre of European pilgrimage, its Romanesque cathedral, with an impressive Baroque façade, is the centre of life in Santiago de Compostela. The city has many other interesting buildings, such as the Old University, the Romanesque Collegiate Church of Santa Maria del Sar and the Gelmirez Palace to name but a few.

You will have approximately 2 hours to explore this fascinating city independently.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by coach. The transfer takes approximately 1¼ hours each way by coach. From the drop off point your guide will walk you (approximately 15 minutes) to the Obradoiro Square, the main square in front of the Cathedral. Modest dress is required inside the Cathedral. During mass services, visits and photography are not permitted. At a time specified by your guide, you’ll meet back at Obradoiro Square to walk back to the coach park for the transfer back to Vigo. City maps will be provided on the coach. This is a transfer service only and no entrance fees or refreshments are included.