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.

 

             

 

 

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.

           

 

 

 

 

The beautiful peninsula of Cap Corse is a ribbon of sheer coast along a fault line, suspended at an altitude of 3,280 feet. Between two seas. The prelude to the beauties of Cap Corse will be found along the road called the Cliff Road which, starting you will journey on  from Bastia and it will a matchless view over the Tuscan Archipelago.  A 30-minute ride will take you to the small and colorful fishing port of Erbalunga  where you will have time to spend before re-boarding your motor coach for the 30-minute to Luri for another short stop.  Then on for a 60-minute drive to the marine of Pino and the sheer cliff of Nonza with its Genovese tower and a boundless grey beach — offering astonishing landscapes.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring euros.  This tour is not recommended for people with vertigo as the road is extremely windy with several hairpin turns.

           

 

 

Bastia was founded by the Genoese in 1380, when they were looking for a naturally sheltered port to replace the ancient Roman city of Mariana and Biguglia (which had been destroyed by the Corsicans in 1372).  They needed a city and port which could assure the contact between their “Homeland” and their “colony”. Even if this small port was swept by terrible winds, it was protected by a rock,  easily defensible, and upon which a dungeon (or bastiglia) was built- and hence the name of the town Bastia. The numerous religious buildings dotted all over the island bear witness to the profound religious fervor of its inhabitants and their attachment to the Catholic faith. Despite this, the collective consciousness remains steeped in many pagan traditions,with relics of ancient beliefs. The mystical spirit of Corsica finds its true expression during the great Christian festivals, however the barrier between the natural and supernatural world is extremely permeable and Corsica is teeming with visionaries, faith healers, and mediums. This walking tour will take you to some purportedly haunted sites, and give you an overview of the superstitions and local legends which still hold sway.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring Euros. You will have about 30 minutes to shop on your own.

            

 

 

 

Your journey from Bastia will lead inland to Oletta – a small village terraced up the hillside, and from where there is a lovely view of Saint Florent and over  the countryside of olive groves, vineyards, and pastures – small squares of property delimited by dry stone walls. Then the road climbs up to the San Stefano Pass, through chestnut and olive groves, and from there is a spectacular panorama down to the east coast and the Biguglia “étang” (pool) and in the other direction, across the Agriates Desert and the sea at Saint Florent.  You will climb a sinuous, narrow road, up to the Teghime Pass, where at an altitude of 1,759 feet ( 536M), the views are completely different in each direction. To the West: over extensive vineyards right to the gulf of Saint Florent. To the South: across mountains and valleys towards the chestnut forests of the Castagniccia. The East: past Bastia and the sea leading to Italy. Finally North: the mountainous backbone of the Cap Corse. The road turns and twists its way down to Patrimonio, offering picturesque views background. Patrimonio village is dominated by its church and high steeple (built in 1749). Of course, it would be impossible to be in the finest wine producing region of the island, without having a wine-tasting session!

 

Please note: The order of sites visited might vary.

            

 

 

 

Bastia was founded by the Genoese in 1380, when they were looking for a naturally sheltered port to replace the ancient Roman city of Mariana and Biguglia (which had been destroyed by the Corsicans in 1372). The Genoese needed a city and port which could ensure contact between their “homeland” and their “colony.” Even if this small port was swept by terrible  winds, it was protected by a rock, easily defensible, and upon which a dungeon (or bastiglia) was built- and hence the name of the town Bastua. You will be met by your tour guide for a walking visit of the old City and the citadel . During your city tour by foot you will enjoy a stop for a Corsican spuntinu and tasting of Corsican specialties.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring euros.

 

            

 

This pleasant excursion will take you along winding roads and through picturesque villages. You will discover the hinterland of the Balagne region. In the past, the Haute-Balagne was the most fertile region of Corsica, famous for its prolific production of honey, fruit and wine. Today a stark brightness characterizes the fire-ravaged landscapes of the interior. Acres of gnarled olive trees and wavy vestiges of dry-stone walls intermittently break up the pattern of pale orange rock. The Haute-Balagna coast still boasts many unspoiled places that you will explore as you travel along the coastal road to Lumio. This terraced village overlooking the gulf has an exceptional Romanesque church and is surrounded by excellent vineyards. From here, the road snakes leisurely through the interior to typical Corsican villages. Enjoy lovely views along the way, including those from Col de Salvi and Cateri village with its flower-bedecked balconies. At San Antonino, you will stop for a visit. You will pass the interesting Church of Aregno with its multi-colored walls and unique sculptures and stop in Ile Rousse where free time is allowed for browsing in this charming village before you return to Calvi. On the way to Ile Rousse you will enjoy a tasting of Corsican specialties,

 

Please note: This tour is not recommended for people who experience vertigo as  the  road is extremely winding.
 

                          

 

 

Calvi is an attractive town in an idyllic location between the sea and the mountains. As you explore, you will learn about Calvi's history, from its origins as a humble fishing village to a mighty Genoese stronghold, and now its current status as a picturesque vacation getaway. With your guide, begin your walking tour as you head to the entrance of the citadel perched on a rocky hill overlooking the port. You will cross the drawbridge and stop to enjoy a breathtaking vista of the red rooftops and the crystal-clear sea. Continue to the Place d'Armes and then to the St. Jean Baptiste Cathedral set at the highest point of the promontory. The cathedral, founded in the 13th  century, was partially destroyed during the Turkish siege in 1553 and rebuilt in the shape of the Greek cross. Your walk will take you to the home of Calvi's most famous son, Christopher Columbus, born in Calvi on October 12, 1451. After viewing the exterior of this fabled building, you will pass the 13th century Caserne Sampiero, formerly the Governor's palace and now a military building. Make your way to the Oratoire St. Antoine to admire its Italian frescoes, then stroll along the city's ramparts and wander through the Ville Basse. This bustling section of the town sits at a foot of the ramparts, and the Landry Quay features a lovely marina and a café-lined promenade.

 

Please note:  Wear comfortable walking shoes.

           

 

 

 

You will leave Calvi harbor in an air-conditioned coach driving slowly through town and sightseeing the old town of Calvi. Then you will be crossing the River Figarella, going deeper into the Corsican countryside on the road to the village of Calenzana with its 1700 inhabitants. Set amidst olive trees and located at the foothills of the Montegrossu, Calenzana is a trekkers’ paradise in the summer, and is a lively village all year around due to its long-standing agricultural tradition. In addition, wine making and cheese making are very important in this region. You will discover the village’s 17th century Baroque church with its three chapels and its winding old streets. At Domaine Orsini, you will experience the best of Corsican hospitality. In one of the most beautiful Corsican wine cellars you will get to taste some of the most delicious wines made in Corsica.  You will tour the winery. The wines bear the prestigious label “Appelation d’Origine Controlée-Calvi” (AOC-Calvi). The vinification process takes the best of tradition and the best of what modern winemaking has to offer. After harvesting, the grapes are left together with their skin for the maceration process as it was done in the old days so that the grape juice keeps all of its aroma and bouquet. But the quality has been tremendously improved with the use of stainless steel barrels in the winemaking process but aging, on the other hand, is done in oak barrels, like in ancient times.  A bottle of Orsini wine will be offered to each guest.

 

Please note: Bring euros. This tour is not recommended for those with vertigo and the roads are very windy.


            

 

 

 

 

 

 

Embrace the timeless beauty of Menorca on a journey that showcases the island’s best views and most inspired landmarks. Start atop Monte Toro, the highest point on Menorca and home to a 17th century sanctuary. Take in sweeping views and hear tales of the supernatural before visiting the mysterious “taulas” of Torralba, great stone monoliths created millennia ago. Marvel at a massive  T-shaped monument made of two stone blocks so perfectly balanced not even 3,000 years of earthquakes have been able to topple them. From the ancient world, discover Menorca’s fun-filled present at the Xoroi Caves, cliff-top caverns that have been transformed into a favorite entertainment spot.  Take a refreshment and soak up the views, and hear the epic love story behind the Xoroi Caves. The day’s last stop is the resort town of Binibeca. Crafted to resemble a rustic fishing village, this is the perfect place to do a little shopping.  

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring your camera.

     

 

 

 

This tour offers a quick visit to the most enjoyable locations in the island of Menorca, a small paradise on its own. On the way to Fornells, you will be able to enjoy a scenic journey along the main road of the island that links the beautiful city of Mahon with Ciudadella, famous for its beautiful houses, and grandiose traditional architecture. The Port of Mahon is the biggest natural port in the world (only after Pearl Harborr) and the most secure natural port of the Balearic Islands. Fornells, situated at the mouth of a long bay, is a charming fishing village where the natural beauty of this bay is underlined by the sober architecture of the white houses with green window shutters. Upon arrival in Fornells, you will have some free time for photo taking before heading to Monte Toro, the highest mountain of the island (1,171 feet) where you will admire both magnificent sights of the island and will also have the chance to visit the small chapel dedicated to the "Monte Toro” Virgin. Leaving Monte Toro, you will continue to Sant Patrici, a charming little town famous both for its beautiful views and the locally produced cheese (a strong tasting variety, mahonés, that delights people from all over the world). You will have a chance to taste the products. You will visit the Museum of Menorca dating from 1889. The actual building  is a Franciscan Convent from the 15th  century with a beautiful courtyard. The museum gives an overview of Menorca’s interesting history. Time permitting you will be offered the possibility of tasting another great local product - free of charge -, the alcoholic drink known as Gin Xoriguer, the Mahon brewed,version of the “conventional” Gin. This is often tasted with lemonade in a cocktail known as “pomade” and is very commonly drunk by locals.  The possibility of a guided walk around town will also be available upon arrival, or you can return to the ship comfortably in a coach.

 

Please note:  Wear comfortable walking shoes as the ground is uneven in some places.

             

 

 

 

Your tour will depart for the 75-minute drive to the town of Porto Cristo, one of the oldest anchorages of the island. This fishing village is located at the end of a sheltered bay which developed in the Middle Ages to cater for Manacor. On the outskirts of the town is where you will find the famous Caves del Drach are located. The Caves of Drach are the most popular caves with tourists. There are three main caves, Cueva Negra (Black Cave), Cueva Blanca (White Cave) and Cueva Luis Salvator, at the end of which is a place called La Ventana (the window). Through La Ventana there is a huge lake, now known as Lago Martel (Lake Martel), behind which is the latest discovery of the caves, now known as Cueva de los Franceses (Cave of the French). Enjoy a row boat ride across Lake Martel, one of the world’s largest underground lakes accompanied by live classical music. The beauty of the caves can be appreciated thanks to its exceptional lighting. You will stop in Porto Cristo, with a short amount of time to browse at the pearl factory.

 

Please note: This tour is not recommended for guests in wheelchairs or with limited mobility. No cameras or video equipment allowed in the caves and no flash allowed during the entire tour.

            

 

 

 

Palma is the capital of the Balearic Islands and lies on the southeastern coast of Mallorca Island. A wealth of architectural highlights awaits you. Board your coach and travel to your first stop at the circle-shaped 14th century Bellver Castle, one of the world’s very few rounded castles and the only one of its type in Europe. Built in military-influenced Gothic style, it lies atop a hill affording expansive panoramic views over the city and surrounding countryside.  You will travel on to the handsome 13th century La Seu Cathedral, which presides over the city and is one of Europe’s finest examples of pure ecclesiastic Gothic architecture. After exploring the Cathedral’s interior you will view the exterior of the adjacent Almudaina Palace. This austere palace was originally an Arab fortress and later the palace of Majorcan kings. Before returning to the yacht you will stop to see the unique style and architectural engineering of the city’s famous bullring.

 

Please note: Comfortable shoes with rubber soles are recommended. There are approximately 100 steps from the coach parking area to the La Seu Cathedral. Spanish law requires that motor coach guest’s wear their seat belts at all times while in vehicles that are so equipped. On Sundays and holidays the Cathedral is not open to visitors. The history of the Cathedral will be given outside. When visiting the Cathedral, knees and shoulders must be covered. Bellver Castle is closed on Mondays and the visit will be from the outside only with extra time for shopping.

             

 

 

 

One of the best ways to experience some of Mallorca's dramatic scenery is this train ride across the island that allows you to see the rugged interior. From the port, a short motor coach ride will take you to the train station. You will board the old fashioned electric train for Soller. Learn all about this old fashioned electric train that has preserved its traditional character for almost 100 years. You will be passing almond and locust-bean trees, groves of olive trees and the lush and pine covered mountains.  Arrive in Soller and take a walking tour around this charming village before returning to your yacht.

 

Please note: Train ride will be one way and could be either going to Soller or coming back,  depending on train schedules. The other way will be by motor coach.  You should always take your ID and  bring a camera, sun protection and sunglasses.

 

              

 

A short motor coach drive past olive trees and local vegetation brings you to the quaint 14th century village of Valldemossa, located at the foot of the Northern Mountain Range. Its former royal residence, La Cartuja, is the first stop on your tour. The residence became a Carthusian monastery in the Middle Ages and your guide will show you the chapel, a pharmacy, and the monks’ library. Valldemossa’s shining moment was in 1838, when George Sand and Frederic Chopin came to live at the monastery. Their stay here is well documented and a collection of their furniture remains. George Sand later wrote a book about their time here, entitled “A Winter in Majorca.” You will have an opportunity to taste the typical sweets from Valldemosa called Coca de Patata, an individual sweet cake made with potatoes. The drive back to the ship will give you the opportunity to view the impressive cliffs to the north.

 

Please note: Comfortable shoes with rubber soles are recommended. Spanish law requires motor coach passengers to wear their seatbelts in vehicles that are so equipped. Please, note that this tour is not available on Sunday.

            

 

 

 

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 Palma, 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 Palma, 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.

          

 

 

 

 

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, 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. Entrance tickets are not included, please share your itinerary with the Destination Manager to secure any necessary tickets and review additional charges.


          

 

 

 

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, 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. Entrance tickets are not included, please share your itinerary with the Destination Manager to secure any necessary tickets and review additional charges.


            

 

 

 

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, 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.  Entrance tickets are not included, please share your itinerary with the Destination Manager to secure any necessary tickets and review additional charges.


             

 

 

 

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, 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.  Entrance tickets are not included, please share your itinerary with the Destination Manager to secure any necessary tickets and review additional charges.


            

 

 

 

 

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. 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 (outside visit). 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 viewpoint in Montjuic 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.