Fertile plains, pretty towns and a unique charm all of its own make Portugal a wonderful place to visit, especially at this popular time of year. Whilst away we enjoy a seven hour cruise along the spectacular Douro river.
The four star Axis Hotel, Povoa de Varzim, enjoys a lovely seafront location with easy access to the beach. All rooms have bright decor, air conditioning, TV and hairdryer. The hotel has good facilities including outdoor pool, bar, dance floor, lift and regular entertainment.
Itinerary
Tuesday We travel from Cornwall to Portsmouth where we board the Brittany Ferries flag ship the Pont Aven for our overnight sailing. Accommodation will be inside lower bunks, dinner is not included this evening and we would suggest that you eat on board.
Wednesday During the day you will be able to enjoy the facilities on board including several restaurants, bars, live entertainment and a pool. The ferry will dock in Santander early in the evening and we will make our way to our overnight hotel in Palencia for a late dinner, bed and breakfast.
Thursday We leave our hotel and drive across Northern Spain and into Portugal arriving in Pova de Varzim with plenty of time to settle in and relax before dinner.
Friday Today we leave our hotel and join a boat that will take us on a beautifully scenic seven hour Douro Valley river cruise. Breakfast, lunch and a drink will be served on board. The panoramic views over the vineyard terraces are spectacular. On arrival in Regua we catch a train back to Porto.
Saturday Most of your day will be spent at leisure in the city of Porto. You can see the Crystal Palace, City Hall, the Stock Exchange and the famous bridge over the River Douro. We will return to Pova de Varzim mid afternoon to enjoy a relaxing few hours before dinner.
Sunday Our coach will take us into the most atmospheric town in North Portugal, Guimaraes. Visit the castle, stroll the historic centre or visit the Place of the Dukes. We will return to the hotel for an afternoon free to explore the area where we are staying.
Monday Following breakfast we enjoy a visit and guided tour of one of Portugal’s best known wine estates. The Quinta de Aveleda. The gardens are described as ‘beautiful and gardenesque’ with specimen trees, fountains and follies. The property has been in the same family for generations and is known for its fine produce. We will also visit the beautiful town of Amarante. Stroll through the charming town and see the S.Goncalo church and convent.
Tuesday We say goodbye to The Axis Hotel and begin our journey back into Spain. We will sit back, enjoy the scenery and break for lunch en route before returning once more to the Europa Central Hotel.
Wednesday After a leisurely breakfast we will travel the short distance to Palencia centre. The city is very historical and has a many monumental sites. In the afternoon we will travel on to Santander where there will be free time to enjoy the centre of the city or the Sardinero beach area. You will have time to get an early evening meal before we board the ferry.
Thursday We will dock in Plymouth late in the afternoon and travel back to Cornwall arriving mid evening.
Terms
Single rooms available at a supplement of £150 per person
Home pick up available – £10 per person
Meals on the ferry are not included
PASSPORTS ARE REQUIRED FOR THIS TOUR
A £100 non-refundable non-transferable deposit/person is required when booking, the balance being payable 6 weeks prior to departure. Tour subject to loading.
Total Price Includes:
* Executive Coach Travel * 2 Night Ferry Crossings including lower berth inside cabin*
* Holiday Insurance * 7 Nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast * Welcome drink on arrival at main hotel *
* Wine and water with dinner at main hotel * Folkelore Evening at main hotel *
* 7 hour cruise including breakfast, lunch and a drink * Excursions as detailed *
* Admission & Guided tour of Quinta de Aveleda wine estate * Porterage at main hotel *
* Free Parking at Depot * Pick up points in most towns & villages *