Captain Dunlop's top destination picks for Iona
Captain Wesley Dunlop is at Iona’s helm for her maiden season. He picks four destinations he can’t wait to see again in 2021 and 2022
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is always a joy to explore, whether strolling the narrow cobbled streets of Alfama or paying homage to our sailing forefathers at the Monument to the Discoveries just outside the city in Belém. Lisbon’s café scene is brilliant, so refuel with a hot drink and a pastel de nata before hopping on an iconic yellow tram for a tour of the city with its wonderful blue-tiled façades.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain
The beaches are beautiful. But venture beyond Lanzarote’s shoreline and you’ll be rewarded with an out-of-this-world experience. The landscapes here are often compared to those of an alien world: with volcanic terrain and vineyards that grow grapes in moon-like craters, you’ll feel like you’ve sailed to another planet. For more stellar beauty, check out the work of artist César Manrique dotted all over the island.
Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg is an epicentre of cool. It mixes old and new, unpolished and glamorous to intoxicating effect – you never know what you’ll find around any given corner. Explore the Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus district, one of the world’s largest warehouse complexes. It’s linked together by narrow streets, bridges and canals and is home to harbourside pubs and charming restaurants. Culture vultures should head to the stunning Elbphilharmonie concert hall, whether for a show or simply to marvel at its eye-popping architecture.
Olden, Norway
Sailing into Olden is a treat. After a journey down the pristine Nordfjord, this charming village offers a warm welcome. From here you can explore Norwegian nature at its finest: beautiful fjordic coastlines, towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes and roaring waterfalls. Don’t miss Jostedalsbreen, the biggest glacier on mainland Europe. There’s easy access to both the Briksdal and Kjenndalen glaciers, plunging dramatically into the valleys below.
This article is taken from the latest edition of Moments magazine. As well as these four special destinations recommended by Captain Dunlop, the edition also features articles about colourful Cadiz, enchanting Sardinia, advice from local shore experience partners, and much more.