Beautiful Bordeaux with Iberian Grandeur

Welcome to Bordeaux. Your friendly crew are ready to receive you on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond.  The moniker ‘Sleeping Beauty’ or La Belle Endormie was given to Bordeaux when industry was moved to the outskirts and the city was all but abandoned. The quiet waterfront was a vestige of a once bustling port, shops were empty… it was a once beautiful city that lay dormant. In the late 20th century, the city was woken and restored to its former glory, a project headed by former mayor Alain Juppe. The city centre was pedestrianised, limestone was revealed under blackened facades, and Bordeaux was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 300 structures declared historical monuments. It’s now one of the most desirable places in France to live and visit, with its waterfront rich in architecture and bustling with locals and visitors promenading, sipping coffee or wine from the surrounding renowned vineyards, a landscape that’s also dotted with beautiful castles.

This morning is spent on board relaxing as you cruise into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne. Head up to the Sun Deck to bask in the sunshine and enjoy the scenery along the Dordogne River rolling by. Or perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class.   Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a World Heritage-listed medieval village with world-famous wineries, beautiful architecture and historic monuments. It’s also the birthplace of macarons. The town bears the name of a monk who is said to have performed miracles, such as restoring a local woman’s sight, and lived in a natural grotto here in the 8th century. You will enjoy a guided tour of the caves and catacombs beneath the city, including a Monolithic church built from limestone, whose 38-metre-long bell tower can be seen above ground.  This evening your Scenic Space-Ship will be docked overnight in Libourne, a 13th-century city located at the confluence of the Dordogne and Isle rivers.

This morning, why not ask your personal butler to wake you with a coffee delivered to your suite? Then enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Crystal Dining.   Freechoice: This morning, choose from one of these Scenic Freechoice activities: Walking tour of Libourne: Join your local guide for a walking tour of Libourne, the fortified harbour town with a rich history linked to the trade of wool, wine, salt and wood. As you stroll through the town, youll see the quaint 16th-century town-house and Gothic church that boasts a 71-metre stone spire. Wine tasting at Château Siaurac: Located in the prestigious Pomerol wine-growing region, Château Siaurac is the largest and most iconic estate of the appellation. With a long history in winegrowing, the estate produces award-winning wines, which you will have the opportunity to taste. You will also explore the immaculate property, which is home to a 19th-century château and 15 hectares of rolling parklands, resplendent with century-old trees and landscaped woods. Biking and tasting at Château Siaurac: Cycle through this acclaimed wine-growing region to the impressive estate of Château Siaurac where you will learn about the wines produced at this property and enjoy a tasting. Paint and Pour: Join a local artist for a class on the Sun Deck of Scenic Diamond. Enjoy the magnificent river views, learn watercolour techniques and create your own masterpiece while sipping on delicious local wines. This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will sail onwards to Fort Medoc where you will dock overnight.

The name Médoc is synonymous with exceptional wines. Considered the world’s leading red wine producer, Médoc has been a winemaking region since the 18th century. Today you will have the chance to explore this remarkable wine region.   Freechoice: Explore your way with a Scenic Freechoice excursion: Medoc wine tasting by coach: With more than 16,000 hectares of vineyards across eight appellations, Medoc is home to the epic ‘Route des Chateaux’, which translates to the ‘Route of Castles’ and winds through undulating countryside from Bordeaux to the Pointe de Grave. On this coach tour you will travel through this scenic region to a prestigious winery and enjoy a tasting of their wines. Medoc wine tasting by bicycle: Discover the spectacular Médoc countryside by e-bike today and see many grand aristocratic châteaux in the world’s leading red wine producing region. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at one of the prestigious estates.   Enrich Tonight, enjoy an exclusive Scenic Enrich experience: Classical Concert at Chateau d’Agassac: Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château dAgassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Wander through the château and its gardens and soak in the ambiance of this magnificent property before a string quartet performs classical masterpieces for your enjoyment.

This morning will be spent cruising towards Cadillac. Perhaps you’d like to spend time in the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout or if you’d prefer to wind down, head to the wellness centre for a relaxing massage.  Founded in the 13th century, the charming, fortified city of Cadillac is centred around its magnificent château. It has a unique connection to the United States and, ultimately, the car that shares its name. Seventeenth century French explorer Anthony Laumet was born in a nearby village but reinvented himself as Antoine de la Mothe, sieur de Cadillac (sire of Cadillac). He rose high in the French fur trade and in 1701 established the port of Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, which would become modern day Detroit where the American auto industry began. The Cadillac car is named in his honour.

Today you have the choice between many different experiences in the region surrounding Cadillac, from its bucolic countryside to its historic castles.   Freechoice: This morning explore your way with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions: Sauternes by coach: Venture into the Sauternes region with a visit to either Château Rayne Vigneau or Château La Tour Blanche (the group will be split into two). Enjoy a delicious tasting of the chateau’s fine wines as you take in the stunning views of the vineyard and surrounds. Sauternes by bike: Cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Classé estate of Chateau Mayne la Merci for a tasting. Learn the history of winemaking here and the process involved in production from time of harvest, grape to wine, length of maturing and, of course, the tasting pleasure. Freechoice: Choose from this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities: Roquetaillade Castle: The first fortress here was built by Charlemagne, or Charles the Great, in the 10th century. Today, the architectural jewel of Roquetaillade Castle, which comprises two castles and a chapel, dates from around the 13th century. Youll tour the castle with the family whose ancestors have resided here for more than 700 years. Biking to Château Benauge: Join a local guide as you cycle through the landscapes of the Gironde towards the impressive Château Benauge. The Château, which dates to the 11th century, maintains a strategic position at one of the highest points of the Gironde allowing for breathtaking views. Château Toulouse-Lautrec: This historic estate dates back over five centuries and is considered one of the oldest estates in the region. Château Toulouse-Lautrec was the family home of renowned French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. During a guided tour you will discover the historic rooms of the estate including the apartments of the famous painter, which still house some of his greatest works. Truffle Farm: Visit one of the most renowned truffle producers of the Aquitaine region to learn about and taste this revered delicacy. The farm you will visit today supplies truffles to some of the greatest chefs in the world. Meet the truffle hunter and his specially trained dog and gain an understanding of how these truffles are found. While in the region youll also enjoy an orientation tour of the small town of St. Croix du Mont. Tonight, enjoy a sumptuou dinner created by your on board team using regionally sourced Truffles.

This morning you will wake in the fascinating city of Bordeaux, which you can explore by foot, bike or through a cooking class. The city of Bordeaux was founded by the Celts around 300BC and became part of Julius Caesar’s Roman Empire in the 1st century. It has been an important trading port since the Middle Ages, thanks to its strategic location on the river flowing to a sea port, and even acted as the seat of French government at the start of both the First and Second world wars.  Freechoice: The choice is yours with this morning’s Scenic Freechoice: Guided tour of Bordeaux: Join your local guide on a tour of Bordeaux. Discover the highlights of the city by coach and on foot, such as the magnificent Gothic cathedral and Place de la Bourse, which is home to the famous ‘Water Mirror.’ Along the way, you’ll learn interesting facts about the city’s history, culture and way of life. Afterwards youll have free time to explore the streets and go shopping at your leisure. Cycling tour of Bordeaux: Pedal through historic Bordeaux on a guided cycling tour. Cross bridges to see the Royal Gate and the Palais Rohan, relax in pretty public gardens and sample delicious treats such as canelé, a custard cake. Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Gourmands can join Scenic’s on board chef on a visit to a local food market where you will have an opportunity to shop for and taste the best ingredients this region has to offer. Upon returning to your Scenic Space-Ship, head to the Scenic Culinaire cooking school for an interactive cooking demonstration making some of France’s most popular and delicious dishes using the ingredients you have just bought. Back on board, your Cruise Director will organise a special treat for you, with a tasting of fresh Oysters delivered straight from the waters of Arcachon Bay.   Enrich This evening’s Scenic Enrich: Les Bassins de Lumiere: You will be given after-hours access to Les Bassins de Lumierès this evening, Bordeauxs former submarine base which has been transformed into an impressive art installation. On arrival, you will be welcomed with a glass of champagne and be immersed in the exhibit with an exclusive show.

Today you’ll continue your exploration of Bordeaux and its surrounding regions.   Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions: Moon Harbour Whisky production: Although synonymous with wine, Bordeaux is also home to an exceptional whisky distiller. Named after the city’s crescent shaped port, guests will tour Moon Harbour’s distillery to learn how whisky is made and enjoy a tasting. Dune du Pilat: Climb Europe’s largest sand dune for expansive panoramas over Arcachon Bay and the stunning French countryside. Please note: Guests must be able to ascend at least 150 steps to reach the top. Visit Arcachon & the Baltard markets: Join your local guide for a walking tour of the charming bayside town of Arcachon, including a visit to Baltard market, an undercover food hall where stallholders tout local delicacies. Enjoy some time at leisure to explore this elegant town yourself or wander to the seven-kilometre-long beach Plage d’Arcachon, which borders the main shopping and dining precinct. This afternoon you’ll enjoy time at leisure on board as you sail towards Bourg. You may want to relax in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Gironde.

Your luxury Scenic Space-Ship will be docked in Bourg today, a picturesque town set on a rocky promontory. Built as a defensive château, it’s a maze of ancient alleyways, moats and bell towers on the Dordogne. This quiet village sits among many famous World Heritage-listed sites and, though it is just as charming, remains largely undiscovered by the masses. Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities: Bourg tour with carriages Museum: Situated inside the grounds of Bourg Castle, visit the carriages Museum with a local guide and discover the unique collection of horse-drawn carriages on display. In addition, visit the 16th-century passageway to the guard’s rooms and immense WWII oil tanks. Full day excursion to Cognac: The fortified city of Cognac is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest brandy. You’ll be taken on a walking tour of the town and have some free time to explore on your own, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will travel to the breathtaking estate of famed Rémy Martin, which you will tour before sampling some of the cognacs.

This morning your luxury Scenic Space-Ship will sail towards Blaye, a small town with a rich military history and surrounded by vineyards known for red wine production. Most famously, this petite hamlet is home to a World Heritage-listed citadel that was constructed to protect the city of Bordeaux, 50 kilometres upstream, from enemy attacks.   Freechoice: This morning, choose your Scenic Freechoice activity: Walking tour of Blaye: Stroll through the charming city of Blaye with a local guide. Contained within the walls of the 17th-century Citadel of Blaye, a World Heritage-listed monument that overlooks the Gironde Estuary. Active walking tour of Blaye: Tour the fascinating World Heritage-listed Citadel of Blaye on an active walking tour with a local guide. Gain an understanding of the defence system created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban. Guided cycling along the Captain’s Road: Join an active cycling tour along the Captain’s Road, which is named in honour of the WWI captains who chose to purchase their homes along this beautiful stretch of waterway in the early 20th century. Cycle through beautiful riverside villages before returning to the ship. Visit Chateau de la Roche Courbon: In the 15th century, Château La Roche Courbon was built on a high cliff overlooking the River Bruant. The fortified castle was transformed into a grand residence in the 17th century. Guests will discover this historic château and its sprawling manicured gardens during a guided visit. Prehistoric caves have also been found in the thousand-year-old forest surrounding the property. This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will make its way back to Bordeaux for your final evening on board.

Fly to Lisbon. Settle into your hotel before meeting your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink.

Take a guided tour of Lisbon this morning, including the National Tile Museum, which explains the significance and traditions of Portuguese tile work – from geometric patterns to intricate artworks – that adorns the facades of the city’s historic buildings. This museum, founded in 1509, displays five centuries of decorative tiles. You will also visit Jeronimos Monastery, a masterpiece of 16th century architecture in which lies the tomb of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Enjoy a taste of Pasteis de Nata, Portuguese custard tarts, which were first invented by local monks right here in the 18th century.  Freechoice: This afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice: Sintra tour with National Palace*: Take a guided tour of the town of Sintra, located a short drive from Lisbon. Discover its spectacular natural beauty, which could easily slot into the pages of a fairytale. The World Heritage-listed town is nuzzled into undulating forest and filled with charming historic buildings. Here, you will visit the impressive National Palace, perched high above the town, the palace is a glorious blend of Moorish and Portuguese Gothic architecture topped with twin conical chimneys.*Please note this is an active tour due to steep inclines and steps. Maritime Museum: Located in the west wing of Jeronimos Monastery, the Maritime Museum showcases Portugal’s pioneering role in world exploration and honours centuries of naval history. View some of the 17,000 items on display including model ships, old maps and globes while learning about some of the discoveries that changed the world.

Head to Evora today, travelling through the winegrowing region of Setúbal. Stop in Azeitão to visit a traditional tile manufacturer, one of the most important in the region. From here continue to Evora, where you will spend the next two nights.   Once an important trading route and religious centre, this walled city is dotted with crumbling Roman ruins, whitewashed buildings and elaborate cloisters and cathedrals lining its narrow, cobbled streets. Here you will enjoy a guided tour, where you’ll see the Evora Cathedral, a large Gothic-style medieval church completed in the 13th century. It boasts an impressive marble portal and a Renaissance organ, one of the oldest in Europe.

Travel through landscapes blanketed with lush vineyards and olive groves to the estate of Herdade do Esporao. Enjoy a tour of this exclusive estate and enjoy a World of Wines workshop, where you’ll learn about the wines produced in this region. Sample some during a relaxing long lunch in the Galeria do Esporao restaurant. Return to Evora later this afternoon for time at leisure. Wander the ancient streets to see the ruins of the Roman Temple of Diana built some 2,000 years ago, pay a visit to the Chapel of Bones, which is decoratively adorned in human bones, or spend time in Giraldo Square, with a coffee or a regional wine or beer.

Today you will travel to Siera de Aracena, a mountain range that straddles the Portuguese and Spanish borders and is famous for its production of Iberian pork. You’ll visit the little village of Jabugo, famous for its cured jamon (ham), before visiting a renowned local producer for a tasting. Enjoy a lunch of fine Spanish delicacies before heading to your hotel in Seville, Spain.  This Andalusian city was built on The Guadalquivir River, the only navigable river in Spain, which made it an important trading centre. Today it is renowned for its Moorish buildings, having the world’s largest gothic cathedral, which houses the tomb of Italian explorer Christopher Columbus, a breathtaking palace that has been built over 11 centuries, and flamenco dancing.

Your exploration of Seville starts with a walking tour of Barrio de Santa Cruz, a labyrinth of winding streets that lies within the historic centre. Once the old Jewish quarter, this district leaves a lasting impression with impressive landmarks including the immense Seville Cathedral and Real Alcazar, which has a 1,000-year history and is still a working palace to this day. Within these atmospheric streets you’ll also find tapas bars and a flamenco museum.  Freechoice: This afternoon, choose from these Scenic Freechoice options: Explore Seville by Horse & Carriage: Take in the city from a different angle during a horse and carriage ride, trotting past all the key sights such as the spectacular Plaza Espana. The city’s most famous square is actually a semi-circular space flanked by Renaissance revival and Moorish buildings and towers decorated in ornate tiles. You’ll also see Torre del Oro, the impressive 12th century Golden Tower on the banks of the Guadalquivir River. Flamenco Dance show: Flamenco is a form of music and dance that originated in the southern reaches of Spain in the 18th century and was historically associated with gypsies. But its popularity quickly spread, and it is now a complex artform, recognised by UNESCO as part of the World’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. Feel the passion expressed during this riveting dance at a performance today, accompanied by traditional music, singing, clapping and finger snapping.

Enjoy a scenic drive to Ronda, an Andalusian town dramatic in scenery and history. Teetering on a clifftop above the El Tajo Gorge, an 18th century bridge spans the 100-metre drop to connect the town. Located on the site of an ancient Iberian settlement, it’s home to original Arab baths that were used for 600 years, and Spain’s oldest bullfighting ring, which is said to have inspired Ernest Hemingway’s Death in the Afternoon. Soak up the splendour of this town on a walking tour, visiting the bull ring constructed entirely of stone and Casa Don Bosco, a local mansion with views across the canyon. Continue to Granada, where you will spend the evening. At the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and nestled between two rivers, Granada is one of Spain’s most striking cities, resplendent in Islamic architecture and overlooked by an impressive hilltop fortress.

During a morning tour of Granada, you will visit the Alhambra, the 13th century palace and fortress set against the peaks of Sierra Nevada. The complex of ancient buildings is a sight to behold, built on a high plateau above the city, and is a remnant of the Nasrid Dynasty, the last Islamic kingdom in Western Europe. It’s also home to Generalife Gardens, featuring manicured flower beds, water features, colonnades and pavilions. Afterwards, you will travel to the mountain village of Alfarnatejo, where you’ll sit down to a home-hosted lunch with hospitable locals who will share insights into the customs and traditions of the region. After lunch you will continue to Cordoba where you’ll stay overnight.   Cordoba is the only city in the world to have four World Heritage-listed Sites, ahead of Rome and Paris. It includes the archaeological site of Medina Azahara, a 10th century city, the UNESCO-protected Patio Festival, when floral blooms adorn the city, the Historic Centre, and its 8th century Great Mosque, which boasts a breathtaking sea of orange-and-white-striped arches. You will see the latter two on a city tour this afternoon.   After an exciting day of touring, enjoy time to relax tonight at your unique hotel. 

On your way to Madrid this morning, you will stop in the fascinating 2,000-year-old city of Toledo, which sits on a gorge of the Tagus River and was the former Spanish capital before Madrid. Within its historic centre, you’ll find mosques, synagogues and cathedrals coexisting, which gave the city its name the ‘City of Three Cultures’.   Continue to Madrid for a two-night stay. At almost precisely the heart of the Iberian Peninsula, Madrid became the capital of Spain in 1562 and has held the role continuously since 1606. All of Spain’s roads lead to Madrid, quite literally. And while the city has a storied past, it has a youthful energy, exciting nightlife, excellent gastronomy and is home to some of the best art galleries and museums in the world. On arrival, join a guided tour to see the 17th-century Austrian Quarter (Madrid’s oldest surviving district), as well as other significant sites.  This evening in Madrid you will enjoy dinner at a well-known local restaurant featuring Tuna Folk Music, traditional Spanish music typically performed by students. The tradition is said to date back to the 13th century.

Freechoice: This morning, you will have the choice to visit one of Madrid’s most renowned museums or to learn the art of Flamenco through Scenic Freechoice: Prado Museum: Visit the Prado Museum where a guide will escort you through the exquisite collections including masterpieces by Francisco Goya, El Greco, Rembrandt and Caravaggio. Opened in 1819, the Prado Museum has successfully fulfilled its mission of preserving, exhibiting, and enriching its collections of art, including the most comprehensive collection of Spanish paintings in the world. Flamenco Dance workshop: Put on your dancing shoes and join a workshop to learn the art of Flamenco dance, which has been mesmerising audiences from all over the world over for centuries. Discover the passion and skill involved in creating this performance art. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Madrid on your own. Perhaps this evening you’d like to find a cosy tapas bar and enjoy these popular bite-sized foods with a regional wine or beer, dine at Sobrino de Botin, the world’s oldest continually operating restaurant and one of Hemingway’s favourite haunts.

After breakfast, transfer to Madrid airport for your homebound flight. Please note: The Gironde, Dordogne and Garonne waterways are part of a tidal river system which results in changing water levels in the region. Every effort is made to keep to the brochure itinerary however based on tides it will be amended or modified. Please refer to our terms and conditions.