You will depart from the Windstar Hotel on an interesting tour to discover the beauty of the enchanting Vatican City and the worldwide famous Vatican Museums. Within the small, independent state of the Vatican City there is an exceptional collection of artwork from every era. Accompanied by your English speaking Guide, collect your audioguide and visit the Vatican Museums and the impressive Michelangelo’s  masterpieces housed in the Sistine Chapel. Walk to the splendid and awe-inspiring  St. Peter’s Basilica,  the largest church in the world. Before returning  to your coach you will also pass across the magnificent St. Peter’s Square on your way to your waiting ship.  

 

Please note: This tour will occur the day of embarkation and terminate at the pier so it is suggested you bring a snack with you.  There is a strict dress code at the Museum and the Basilica. Women can wear trousers, capri pants and skirts and dresses are permitted, however they cannot be shorter than knee length and shoulders must be covered.  In very hot weather a shawl or large scarf/Pashmina can be draped around the shoulders for visiting the sites.  Bare shoulders, shorts, and short skirts are not permitted.  Men can wear long pants and at least short sleeves. No shorts, t-shirts without sleeves or baseball caps inside the churches. Large bags, backpacks and metal or pointed items are not allowed. The order of sites visited may be adjusted anytime and without prior notice for security reasons. The Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica may close without prior notice. Should this happen we will provide free time instead.

 

             

 

Nature Lovers, don’t miss this unique opportunity to discover the beauties of Elba on our Bike Tour! The tour will start with a scenic bicycle ride on a paved road from Portoferraio to Enfola on the North coast of the island; the views are breath taking and the vegetation is particularly luxuriant. Upon arrival, you will have some free time to relax at a picturesque café, or on the beach. Then, you will bicycle back to Portoferraio where you will tour around the historical center of the town

 

Please note:  The tour does not require any particular physical training, but suits active people. You will cover 7.5 miles by bike (approximately 90 minutes, up to 197 feet above sea level). 

            

 

 

 

 

Please note: The Azienda Agricola La Chiuse is not wheelchair accessible. 

           

 

 

Emperor Napoleon was exiled on the island of Elba for 300 days beginning in May 1814. Take a look at that fascinating bygone era on this tour that will include one of his two island residences. You will visit his country residence (Villa San Martino). Visiting the Villa San Martino country home you will see the Room of the Doves, whose ceiling is adorned with a painting depicting two doves linked by a knotted ribbon that tightens as they fly further away. By way of contrast, the Egyptian Room has a circular ceiling painting featuring a ring of Zodiac signs.  You will stop at the picturesque Port Azzuro, one of the most pleasant seaside areas you’ll ever see.  You will have free time in Port Azzuro perhaps enjoying an espresso, a gelato or strolling the pedestrian paths or the harbor.  

 

Please note: At Villa San Martino there is an uphill walk of 900 feet along a smooth surface to reach this villa. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. As temperatures can be high, guests are advised to bring along a hat and bottled water. Layered clothing is suggested due to unpredictable rainstorms.

           

 

 

 

 

Your guide will be pleased to meet you on the pier to start your tour by private car or minivan heading to the charming village of San Rocco by a panoramic road. San Rocco is a small hamlet, settled on the top of Portofino’s National Natural Park ( Site of Community Importance) , and is the starting point of a lovely path. The walk follows the coast line and stops in front of the little church of San Nicolò Capodimonte for a short visit. Proceed then to Punta Chiappa, a rocky formation jutting out into the sea, which is also a very interesting area due to a breathtaking landscapeand this site can be reached only by path or boat, no roads, no vehicles! All around there is  the coastline of Liguria, ahead Corsica, and behind on land there is the Batteria di Punta Chiappa hidden in the mountains. You will arrive at Stella Maris Resort and have the choice to swim (please note: no beaches and no sand, only rocks and water shoes recommended) or snorkel (no guide or equipment included, guest should take mask and fins on their own) or just relax on the terrace of Stella Maris Resort. You will then be welcomed with an aperitif on the terrace accompanied  by local specialties, and enjoy lunch including a starter and special homemade pasta with Camogli pesto sauce. After lunch, you will sail to  Camogli by boat to enjoy a guided walking tour among the highlights of this lovely fishing village. 

 

Please note: Very comfortable walking shoes, swimsuit and towel, sunscreen/hat/sunglasses and water shoes are recommended. If you wish to snorkel you will need to bring your own snorkeling equipment.

            

 

 

 

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a National Park and Protected Marine Area.  Clinging to the Ligurian cliffs on the west coast of Italy are five castles at nearly the same distance from one another - Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Today you will see two of these sites as the ancient mariners had - from the sea. Depart from the pier heading to Cinque Terre, or five lands, and marvel as you approach the beautiful coast with villages suspended above the sea, almost defying gravity. Pass the scenic Tigullio Gulf and Poet's Gulf, with terraced vineyards alive with the aroma of olive trees blended with the fresh ocean breeze.  Arrive at the village of Vernazza, where you will disembark the vessel and begin a guided walking tour of this 1st century village. Notice the richness of its architecture, which evinces a wealthier standard of living than that of other villages. Following your tour, you will have free time to browse the local shops or enjoy a cafe. Reboard your boat and proceed to the next stop, the most westerly village and Cinque Terre's beach town, Monterosso. The town is divided into two distinct parts, San Cristoforo Hill, and the old maritime village protected by a rock spur. After your guide points out the highlights of Monterosso, you will have some free time to explore on your own, enjoy the beach and purchase your lunch. Meet the guide after free time and enjoy a relaxing panoramic cruise back to Santa Margherita.

 

Please note:  The operation of this tour is weather / sea conditions related.  it may happen that only  the stop in Monterosso can be made and Vernazza will be a photo stop. Order of sites may change order to avoid congestion. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

            

 

 

 

Start your walk from the pier with your guide, viewing the elegant shops and boutiques that surround the charming piazzetta along the way.  You will walk by the church to the hiking path. The itinerary of the hike can vary depending on your guide, on the weather and path conditions and on the fellow guests in your group. The first half of the tour is mostly an uphill walk if your tour goes towards Cappelletta, San Sebastiano and Olmi, to reach Molini. You will pass elegant villas nestled among rich tropical vegetation and olive trees. If your tour starts heading towards Paraggi, you will walk along the coastline and then hike up towards Acquaviva and Molini, where an old olive oil mill has been restored, now housing a little museum, a café, and toilets. The path leads the way through the Mediterranean flora, vineyards and olive groves. Vegetation hugs the medieval dwellings and the cliffs drop off to the crystal-clear sea, making this one of the most fascinating locations of the Riviera. Continue walking on to Santa Anna and Nozarego and finally you will arrive at the main promenade of Santa Margherita Ligure. Santa Margherita’s colors, the arrangement of its characteristic houses, its rich villas and great hotels have painted around its bay something similar to a magical reflection. Pause for refreshment at a café and then you will return to Portofino by minivan, or you may choose to remain in Santa Margherita to stroll around on your own and go back to Portofino by taxi, public ferry or public bus. 

 

Please note: Wear a hat and comfortable walking/hiking shoes. Bring a bottle of water. 

           

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

            

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 2-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

             

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

           

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 2-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

          

 

 

 

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothes. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses! This tour is a more unique visit to some of the more charming and remote fishing villages in the area and offers a cultural excursion difficult to do on your own. This tour will operate or not depending on sea conditions. 

            

 

 

Your motor coach will take you to Monaco Rock where elevators and escalators transport you up to the Old City. Take a guided walking tour up the hill and through the narrow streets, past the Oceanographic Museum, and the Cathedral containing the tomb of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier. Visit the interior of the Prince's Palace followed by some free time to explore further on your own. Next, you will descend from the rock and drive on a small part of the Grand Prix circuit on your way to Casino Square. Your final stop is Monte Carlo, where you will first walk along the Formula 1® circuit up to Casino Square to discover the most prominent and famous building on this square - the Grand Casino, surrounded by the Hotel de Paris and the Café de Paris. You may want to stroll around the square admiring the designer boutiques, or try your luck with the slot machines at the Café de Paris Casino. Return to the pier or if you want to stay to explore more on your own, return to the ship at your leisure.

 

Please note:  This excursion involves walking over cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The walk to Casino Square is 15 minutes of steep uphill walking so not recommended for those with mobility issues. The order of sites visited may vary. The Grand Casino opens for visits only from 9 a.m. to noon. Gambling is allowed in the afternoon from 2 p.m. The entrance fee is not included (17 euros) and a passport is required for guests who wish to visit the Casino on their own in the afternoon. Shorts, short skirts, and bare shoulders are not considered acceptable attire for visiting the Casino and Cathedral.  The Prince’s Palace is closed during the winter season usually from mid-October to April. Official dates will be announced during the season. 

          

 

 

 

You will depart from Monaco for a scenic 60-minute drive to Nice, considered the Pearl of the French Riviera. You will disembark your motor coach for a guided walk and tour of Nice’s Old Town, known as the Cours Saleya, where you will see a fabulous flower, fruit and vegetable local market. Explore the surrounding area with its colorful houses, narrow picturesque streets and squares with their Italian flair.  You will  have free time to stroll in the charming little streets and to shop before re-boarding your motor coach for the return trip to Monaco.

 

Please note:  Wear comfortable walking shoes,  bring water, a hat, sunscreen and local currency. On Mondays, the flower and vegetable market is replaced with a flea market.

           

 

 

Eze has been described as an “eagle’s nest” because of its clifftop location over 1,400 feet above sea level. Contrast this enchanting village with the stately grandeur of a seaside palazzo in exclusive coastal Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Following a 30-minute drive you will begin a guided walking exploration of Eze along narrow streets and past recently restored medieval houses. You will walk to the garden at the top of the village and enjoy breathtaking sea views and the superb panoramas of the Italian and French coasts from this high vantage point during your 1¼-hour stay. Back aboard the coach you will continue to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, one of the Côte d’Azur’s most exclusive destinations. The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild was constructed in the early 1900s and lies on a promontory overlooking the sea surrounded by a splendid 14-acre garden.  During your 1¼-hour stay, there will be time to appreciate the gorgeous views of Villefranche and Beaulieu sur Mer Bays. From the Villa there is a 45-minute return to the ship.

 

Please note: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there are steep inclines at Eze. Itinerary order may vary. Morning visits will include entrance to the exotic gardens. 

            

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

       

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6  guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a privatevan, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

      

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

      

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

        

 

 

 

 

Please note: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Participants must be over 18 years of age for Absinthe tasting.

           

 

 

 

 

Discover Cotes de Provence on this delightful excursion into the wine country of southern France, complete with two tastings.   You will depart from  Cannes via motor coach en route through the Esterel Massif to Chateau Sainte Roseline, in Les Arcs, which some claim is the capital of the Cotes de Provence wines.  Chateau Sainte Roseline has a prestigious vineyard created by Pope Jean XXII and its cru classe wines are regularly rewarded.  See the lovely chapel and learn about the area, the history and production of the wines, as well as how to serve, evaluate, smell, taste, and enjoy the varieties.  Following your introduction, you will enjoy a sample of three delicious wines accompanied by “provencal” bread.  Continue on to your next wine venue, the Chateau Saint Martin.  This domain has a long history and you will discover some interesting facts while enjoying a guided tour along part of the property.  The chateau has always been owned by women, since it first was built. Enjoy another sampling of wines in the characteristic lounge used for this purpose. In both venues you will have the chance to purchase wines and also some other specialties. This is a tour for lovers of wine and the good life! You will return to Cannes having savored some excellent wine.

 

Please note:  Wear comfortable walking shoes as there are uneven surfaces at both venues. This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Participants must be over 18 years of age for wine tasting.

           

 

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 250 km (155 miles).

            

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 4-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 250 km (155 miles).

             

 

 

 

 

 

 

Begin this excursion with a scenic drive to Le Castellet - a typical Provençal hilltop village above the vineyards. This remarkable stronghold boasts well-preserved ramparts, a carefully restored 12th century church, and a castle dating back to the 11th century. Entering by the two fortified gates, called le portail and le portalet, you will start your visit with a guided walking tour around the narrow streets up to the castle which is now home to the town hall. Time at leisure will allow you to explore the arts and craft workshops - painting, pottery, and hollowware, before re-joining the motor coach for a drive to _Pavillon Fregate or similar. Upon arrival, you will have a short walk, to get a glimpse of this 70-hectares property, planted with 100-year-old olive trees and rows of vines, cypress trees, and lavender and will offer you 3 house wines and 2 house olive oils to taste. Then, your motor coach will drive you back to your ship.

 

Please note:  According to European law, guests under the age of 18 are not allowed to drink alcohol.  

           

 

 

 

You will board your motor coach for a drive to Aix en Provence. This was the capital of the Provence region and its attractions are many such as the print of the painter Cézanne. Upon arrival, you will do a walking guided tour of the old town, starting on the grand Cours Mirabeau; a wide avenue built on the site of the city's medieval ramparts. The avenue is one of the city's most beautiful, so be sure to notice the elegant facades of its private mansions, especially their wrought-iron balconies and finely carved doorways.  Explore the old Mazarin District, founded by archbishop Michel Mazarin in 1646, and later home to many writers and artists such as Paul Cézanne. The district is also noted for its meticulously kept walled gardens. Discover beautiful St. Sauveur cathedral with its many contrasting architectural styles, a legacy of countless additions and renovations performed between the 5th and 18th centuries. Most notable are the remnants of a Roman-era wall that were used in a later wall, and the 15th century Gothic portal.  Then, enjoy some free time at leisure for shopping or have a coffee “en terrasse” before driving back to your ship.

 

Please note: This excursion involves walking over cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes are recommended.  Bring sunscreen, a hat and local currency.

          

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own.

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 50 km (31 miles).

            

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own.

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6 guests. Privatevans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 50 km (31 miles).

             

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 100 km (62 miles).

           

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 100 km (62 miles).

            

 

 

 

Embark on a short scenic drive to Bell Lloc Estate, where modern and traditional elements coexist in perfect harmony. Discover the estate's commitment to local heritage and sustainability through a visit to its unique underground cellar. Plus, enjoy the chance to savor the estate's variety of wines and exquisite local cuisine during a farm-to-table lunch with wine pairings. Take a tour of the estate and its vineyards before stepping underground to the cellars, designed by RCR Aranda Pigem Vilalta Architects. Observe its structure which is made of recycled steel sheets with small openings to allow natural light to penetrate. The design allows very little light to enter, which allows the wines to be kept in a dark and quiet environment.  Next, learn about the wine-making processes and taste a variety of wines, including rosé, white, and red. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious Catalan farm-to-table meal composed of organic products grown on the estate, including milk cheeses, oil, and jam, all paired with the estate's extraordinary wines. Appreciate the produce from organic farming, additionally, they also have a professional shepherd who takes care of the animals, and who is responsible of maintaining the balance of the natural resources of their lands. At the end of the day, return to the ship with unforgettable experiences and a newfound appreciation for Bell Lloc's philosophy rooted in the land and their Eco philosophy.

Please note: Bring your sunglasses and wear sunscreen.
 


         

 

 

 

 

During this tour, you'll see a great diversity of scenary such as rough coves on the coasts, forests, fields and medieval villages … and without much effort!  You will leave the port with the e-bikes, and head towards la Fosca, a pretty little beach with beautiful views. Continue the route cycling along the greenway called "Ruta del Tren Petit,” which used to be a narrow-gauge railway line. Head north, where you'll cycle along agricultural roads. As a backdrop, appreciate les Gavarres, a mass of of hilly woodlands that is important for the production of cork. Cycle through the plain of the Empordà and finally arrive at the medieval village of Pals. Its old center is dominated by a Roman Tower built between the 11th  and 13th  centuries.  You will find pebbled streets, half-point arches, facádes with ogive windows and stone balconies. The city wall has four square towers from the 4th  century. From Pals you'll have great views to the rice fields of the Ter River plain and the Medes Islands in the sea. After an escorted walking tour through the city center, a coach will take you back to the ship.

 

Please note: The distance covered by bike is 12 miles.  Bring sunscreen and wear your sunglasses. 

 

 

 

Begin your excursion with a scenic drive to Figueras, located in the northern part of the Empordà region, a sweeping fertile plain that lies inland from the Gulf of Roses. Enjoy the sights of small towns on the way to the highlight of your day, the Dalí Theatre-Museum. Prepare yourself for an extraordinary experience while visiting the museum, which houses the works of one of the art world’s geniuses of the 20th century, Salvador Dalí. Built by Dalí himself around the former Municipal Theater, the museum is where most of the artist’s works can be seen, and where his first exhibition was held. Dalí was also buried at this site alongside the church that was also the scene of his christening and funeral. Upon entering the museum, you will take in the huge collection that encompasses his most outstanding works. Highlights include Rainy Taxi, Sala Mae West, a scenography of a living room, which turns into the face of the legendary actress through optical illusion, and the enormous portrait of Abraham Lincoln. Also see the crypt where Dalí is buried. Upon departing the museum, enjoy some free time in town, to browse the shops in Figueras before reboarding your coach for the return drive to Palamos.

 

Please note: Wear sunscreen and your sunglasses. 

            

 

 

 

 

Your tour departs from the port for the 1-hour drive to reach Montserrat, a peculiar rocky mountain range which is the site of the monastery where people come to worship “La Moreneta,” the black Madonna who is the patron-virgin of Catalonia.  The Benedictine Monastery of Montserrat was founded in the 11th century and is located in a natural park 37 miles west of Barcelona. Besides visiting the Benedictine Abbey Monastery, you will admire also the Patron of Catalonia, Saint Mary of Montserrat that is worshiped at the shrine in the Monastery. The Benedictine community, now numbering some 80 monks, has served the shrine for almost 1,000 years. They are dedicated to a life of prayer, to working and to welcoming pilgrims, making the site a place for dialogue, prayer and culture. In addition to the monks, the escolans also live in Montserrat. They form the oldest boys choir in Europe ( and might be available during the visit).  You will be given a tour of the monastery, and have some free time before taking the coach back to the Windstar hotel.

 

Please note:  Comfortable shoes, water, a light jacket and a hat are recommended. There are downhill and uneven paths, plus cobblestones to walk over. There may be long lines to view the Black Virgin up close.  This excursion may operate in reverse. Access to the Basilica might be denied if mass is taking place. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter monastery.  This tour will end  at your Windstar hote and is available only to guests staying overnight in Barcelona. 

          

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, the Sagrade Familia, Casa Batllo, Passeig de Gracia and El Mirador Alcalda or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own.

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

          

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, the Sagrade Familia, Casa Batllo, Passeig de Gracia and El Mirador Alcalda or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own.
 

Please note:  Capacity: 3 - 6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

            

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, the Sagrade Familia, Casa Batllo, Passeig de Gracia and El Mirador Alcalda or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own.

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

             

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, the Sagrade Familia, Casa Batllo, Passeig de Gracia and El Mirador Alcalda or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own.

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3 - 6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

            

 

 

 

 

Setting out from the port by coach, you will find it easy to relax and enjoy this driving tour of Spain’s most fascinating city, Barcelona, a lovely Mediterranean stronghold of architectural interest. Your guide will point out all the highlights as the coach drives up Via Laietana to view the exterior of the Cathedral de la Santa Creu I Santa Eulalia. You will drive along one of Barcelona’s most famous streets, the Passeig de Gracia, lined with different Modernist buildings, many of which were designed by architect Antoni Gaudí. Watch for Casa Batlló, an iconic Barcelona landmark and Casa Mila. You will drive by one of Gaudí’s masterpieces – the Sagrada Familia (Holy Family) Church. This is a site not to be missed. Though construction was started in 1882 it is still unfinished. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most-visited building in Barcelona, and immediately identifies the city around the world. From here you’ll head up to the El Mirador Alcalde garden with the most exceptional views of Barcelona and its impressive harbor.

 

Please note: This tour will end  at  your Windstar hotel. This tour is available only to guests staying overnight in Barcelona. An inside visit to the Sagrada Familia is not included.   The Cathedral is closed to tours.