Bordeaux Affair & Unforgettable Douro

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. (D)

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. (B/L/D)

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. Then, you'll have the opportunity to explore Libourne and its surrounding wine-growing region.

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, you'll 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 chateau and 15 hectares of rolling parklands, resplendent with century-old trees and landscaped woods.
• Excursion to Sturgeon Farm: Caviar production in the Aquitaine region of France is renowned the world over and youwill have the opportunity to learn about how they produce fine quality caviar during a visit to a local sturgeon farm. Get up close to and even hold one of the sturgeon before sampling some of the caviar produced on site.

This afternoon, relax on board as you sail towards Blaye. Toast the passing scenery with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar or spend time in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. (B/L/D)

Wake this morning in 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.

Afterwards relax on board your luxury ship as you sail towards Fort Medoc for tonight's classical concert.

Enrich: Tonight's Scenic Enrich:

• Classical Concert at Chateau d'Agassac: Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château d'Agassac 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. (B/L/D)

Wake up this morning in Fort Medoc, located between Bordeaux and Pointe de Grave, at the northern end of the Médoc winegrowing region. This appellation grows some of the world's most famous and expensive wines, particularly cabernet sauvignon.

Freechoice: Explore your way with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Medoc wine tasting by coach: 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, with more than 16,000 hectares of vineyards across eight appellations. The epic ‘Route des Chateaux', which translates to the ‘Route of Castles', which winds through undulating countryside from Bordeaux to the Pointe de Grave, at the northern end of the Médoc region. On this coach tour you will travel through this scenic region to a local 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 fine aristocratic châteaux in the world's leading red wine producing region. Afterwards, sample the region's finest at one of the prestigious estates.

Back on board, enjoy lunch as you cruise to Bourg, 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: This afternoon's Scenic Freechoice options:

• 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.
• 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 to a local estate: Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of Gironde Estuary from the right bank while tasting Côtes de Bourg wines at a local winery.

This evening your ship will continue its journey towards Cadillac, stopping overnight in Bordeaux before sailing onward. (B/L/D)

Departing Bordeaux early, your Scenic Space-Ship will sail along the Garonne River to Cadillac. Relax in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of the passing landscape, some of the most picturesque in the Bordeaux region. Or perhaps you'd rather spend the morning in the state-of-the-art gym doing an invigorating workout before a day of sightseeing in and around Cadillac. Founded in the 13th century, this charming, fortified city is centred around its magnificent château.

Freechoice: Explore your way with this morning's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Cadillac walking tour: Enjoy a walking tour of Cadillac, a small town with architecture dating to the 16th century. On this tour you will visit Château de Cadillac, a well-preserved monument with decorative fireplaces, more than 30 tapestries and painted ceilings. Between the early 19th century and the 1950s, the château was used as a women's prison.
• 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 Château 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.

Back on board this evening, fabulous local entertainers perform live in the Panorama Lounge for a night of entertainment as you cruise back to the beautiful city of Bordeaux. (B/L/D)

Waking this morning in Bordeaux, you will have several options to explore this incredible city. 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 you'll 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 Canele, 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

This afternoon is at your leisure to wander the streets of Bordeaux. Spend your final hours in France wandering along the waterfront past 18th century buildings, make a beeline for the city's Golden Triangle district for beautiful architecture and shopping, or visit La Cite du Vin, an interactive and sensory wine museum. (B/L/D)

Board an included flight from Bordeaux to Porto where you will be welcomed on board by the friendly crew of the Scenic Azure. (B/D)

Wake in the city of Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that lent its name to the nation of Portugal. And while it is awash in history, it has a youthful vibe. Porto is both hip yet opulent, where street art adorns ancient city walls and historical buildings are decorated with intricate colourful tiles.

Freechoice: Explore the region with one of this morning's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Guided tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture and history of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palacio da Bolsa. Located in the heart of the city, this 19th-century neoclassical building boasts stunning architecture and intricate detail, including the Arab Room, adorned with stunning Moorish-inspired decorations and with a ceiling made entirely of gold leaf. After your guided tour you have ample free time so why not explore the Bolhão Markets? This historic market has been in operation since 1914 and offers visitors a glimpse into the local food and culture. It's a great way to mingle with locals and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
• Active tour of Porto including cable car: Walk from the ship to board a rabelo (a traditional wooden cargo boat). Travel from Porto to Gaia (or Vila Nova de Gaia) where you'll take a cable car ride to the Dom Luis bridge, which crosses the Douro River. Walk across the bridge towards Porto Cathedral, Sao Bento railway station, and the bustling street of Rua das Flores.

Decorative blue tiles are synonymous with Portugal and this afternoon you will learn about their history while creating a masterpiece of your own during a tile painting workshop. (B/L/D)

Your first port of call along the Douro is the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios. From here, you will set out to explore the verdant Douro Valley, with options to enjoy a hike, sample local wines, or visit a city known as the ‘cradle of Portugal'.

Freechoice: Choose from one of today's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Paiva Walkways: Explore nature at its finest on an active hike along the Paiva River. A wooden walkway snakes its way down a rocky hillside in Arouca Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark comprising a mountainscape carved by rivers, and the longest suspended pedestrian bridge in the world, at 520 metres long. This active tour requires a high degree of fitness due to a large number of stairs, uneven terrain and a walking distance of approximately 4 kilometres.
• Quinta da Aveleda: Transfer by coach to this 150-year-old wine producer for a tour and tasting. Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate. A highlight of this tour are the enchanting gardens.
• Excursion to Guimarães: Fondly referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães was the seat of the first King of Portugal and home to the impressive Ducal Palace. Visit the well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage-listed city and explore the palace, which dates to the 15th century and displays an historic collection of tapestries, furniture, ceramics, weapons and more. You will also have free time to explore the city on your own.

Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise to Regua, the largest of the riverside towns and an excellent base for exploring the Douro Valley. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating back to the 18th century. Upon arrival this afternoon you can enjoy a visit to the excellent Douro Museum.

Learn about the history, culture and traditions of the region of the Douro Valley at Douro Museum. It's set in a fully restored 18th century building that once housed The Company, which was responsible for the demarcation of Douro wines, as well as being a place where wines and winemaking tools were stored. After the museum visit, enjoy a drink of local port or port tonic on the terrace overlooking the magnificent Douro Valley. (B/L/D)

This morning join you fellow guests for an excursion to the Varosa Valley, the first demarcation region of sparkling wine. Visit the charming village of Tarouca where you'll explore the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca. Walk the fortified bridge of Ucanha, Portugal's first toll bridge spanning the Varosa River which was built during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Freechoice: Choose one of this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice activities:

• Excursion to Lamego: Take a coach to the town of Lamego, nestled among terraced vineyards that were the first to produce world-famous port wine. The city prospered in the 18th century and is a fascinating place to wander, with its many fine Baroque structures. Your tour will culminate at the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, standing gracefully overlooking the town. The front of the cathedral is lined by a zigzagged staircase decorated in traditional blue and white tiled mosaics leading down to the town centre. You will have the option to take a self-guided tour of the museum and will be offered a tasting of local produce.
• Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. Built in the first half of the 18th century, the former family home features rooms with original furniture and ornately carved ceilings; a library that contains one of the first illustrated editions of Os Lusiadas, Portugal's most significant epic poem; and a manicured garden dotted with statues, hedges, a cypress tunnel and reflective ponds.
• Port Wine Blending Class: Ever wanted to know how an oenologist creates their beautiful blends? Well today you will find out. Visit Quinta de Pacheca and marvel at the glorious vineyards and old cellar before taking a hands on workshop where you will learn about the blending process. (B/L/D)

Today you'll enjoy a relaxing day on board, as you sail towards Vega de Terron.

Spend the morning soaking up the sunshine on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the Douro scenery rolling during a full day cruise through the Douro Valley's Vinhateiro wine growing region. A World Heritage-listed Site, Vinhateiro has a history of wine production that stretches back for 2,000 years. In fact, its impeccable port wines have been world-famous since at least the 18th century. (B/L/D)

Wake this morning in the city of Vega de Terron, located on the border of Portugal and Spain and at the confluence of the Douro and Águeda rivers. This small town remains beautifully unspoiled, with quiet streets, lush landscapes and welcoming locals. It's a popular gateway to the university town of Salamanca, which you will have the opportunity to explore today.

Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Salamanca Full Day Excursion: Known as the ‘golden city' for its honey-coloured sandstone architecture. Salamanca is home to two cathedrals, one dating to the 12th century and the other to the 16th century, which you will see on today's guided tour. You will also visit a market to taste local delicacies such as olives, cheese and smoked ham, and you'll have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure.
• Freixo de Espada à Cinta with silk museum: Visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century. The town is also the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you will visit a silk museum. (B/L/D)

Wake in the village of Pocinho, established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley.

Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Côa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum. The museum is a great introduction to the region's paleolithic rock art sites through original artefacts and digital technology; on your visit you'll enjoy a pre-historic workshop.
• Tastes of the Côa Valley: Visit Casa Painova estate for a demonstration on how sweet almonds are produced and learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds, olives and fruit products.

This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Pinhão. (B/L/D)

Wake this morning in Pinhão, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional port wine.

This morning, transfer to the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region's fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church, discover the old bakery, learn how traditional handicraft is made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you'll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.

Freechoice: Choose one of this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice activities:

• Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore this beautiful region as you glide past impressive landscapes of terraced vineyards, patchworked farmland and sprawling estates via kayak on the Pinhao River, a tributary of the Douro.
• Quinta vineyard hiking: Take a guided hike through the breathtaking vineyards of Quinta in the Douro Valley. Enjoy stunning views across the Douro River, learn about the winemaking process and sample some of their wines.
• Quinta tasting: Visit Quinta da Roêda estate for a tasting of the region's most famous export. On a guided walking tour, you'll learn the secrets of the vineyard. Finish in the estate's visitors' centre, housed in the old stables that have been restored in traditional Douro style, the perfect location for a tasting of port wines. (B/L/D)

Enjoy time at leisure as you continue to sail along the spectacular Douro River. Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive back in Porto this afternoon, where you'll experience an exclusive classical concert tonight.

Enrich: This evening's Scenic Enrich:

• Classical concert in Sao Francisco Church: From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to Sao Francisco Church, which is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church has an alter decorated with intricately carved wood swathed in gold. All guests will enjoy a performance of classical music. (B/L/D)

Wake in Porto, ready for a day of unique experiences, whether that be a ride on a traditional boat, playing a round of golf or sampling wine in one of the most famous cellars in the city.

Freechoice: Explore your way with one of today's Scenic Freechoice activities:

• Excursion to Aveiro with a cruise: Take a coach to Aveiro, a city resplendent in Art Nouveau architecture and famed for its canals. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city and cruise the waterways in a brightly coloured moliceiros flat-bottomed boat.
• Round of golf: Golfing enthusiasts will have the opportunity to tee off here in Porto, a city known for its top golf courses. Play 6 holes at the Quinta do Fojo Golf club, one of Porto's most popular courses. Quinta do Fojo is a spectacular course set in a walled estate which houses gardens, lakes, woods and a historical Manor House, founded in 1714. This activity is for experienced golfers only and to participate guests must bring their 'Golf Handicap Certificate'. If this is not provided you will be unable to participate in this Scenic Freechoice activity. It is recommended that participants bring sunscreen and a hat with them.
• Wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Travel to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit one of Porto's most famous cellars, Cockburn's Port. Enjoy a guided visit and a tasting.

This afternoon you will have free time in Porto to explore the city at your own leisure. Return to your Scenic Space-Ship this evening for a farewell dinner.

This evening you will take an illumination cruise through Porto to see the city lit up at night, including the bridges that span the Douro. (B/L/D)

Disembark after breakfast this morning transfer to Porto airport for your onward journey.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change. (B)