Beauty of Northern Spain, France and Portugal

Day 1 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Portsmouth is one of the most densely populated cities in Southern England, uniquely situated as its built-up area lies on Portsea Island, connected to the mainland by road and rail bridges. Despite Roman fortifications at nearby Portchester, the area was undeveloped at the time of the 1086 Domesday Book. The town flourished in medieval times, receiving its first charter in 1194 from King Richard I, soon becoming a major naval base. Boasting the world’s oldest dry dock, Portsmouth is home to several famous ships, including HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose, which was raised from the Solent in 1982. Today, Portsmouth still holds significance as a naval base, housing a substantial part of the British service fleet. The waterfront skyline is dominated by the Spinnaker Tower, the tallest structure in the United Kingdom outside London. Notable attractions include Charles Dickens's birthplace and the City Museum, which features a permanent exhibition dedicated to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who resided in the town.

Day 3 - La Coruña

La Coruña, Spain: La Coruña, the largest city in the Galicia region of Spain, is one of the nation's busiest ports. The Galicia area, with its verdant, misty landscapes, stands in stark contrast to the typical Spanish scenery. The city's name is of Celtic origin, dating back to the 6th-century BC, when Celts occupied the region. Under Roman influence, La Coruña emerged as an important port, later witnessing invasions by Suevians, Visigoths, and Moors.
The city’s prominence rose when Galicia became part of the Kingdom of Asturias, initiating the epic Pilgrimage to Santiago saga. By the 15th century, overseas trade thrived, and in 1720, La Coruña gained the exclusive right to trade with America. The city's evolution is evident in its distinct districts: the town centre along the isthmus, a commercial hub with wide streets, and the 'Ensanche' area filled with warehouses and factories. The iconic glazed façades in the old section have earned La Coruña its nickname, the 'City of Crystal'. The main square, Plaza Maria Pita, is named after the local heroine who alerted the townspeople to an English attack in 1589.

Day 4 - Leixões

Leixões, Portugal: Leixões has been a site of prosperity and trade since the Romans established a fort and trading post there. The city benefited from the wealth during Portugal's age of maritime discoveries in the 15th and 16th centuries. Even as the spice trade diminished, the lucrative wine trade with Britain sustained its economy. Now, Portugal's second-largest city, Oporto, has developed into a bustling, cosmopolitan centre renowned for its sweet 'port' wine. The historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captures the city's charm, further celebrated as European Capital of Culture in 2001. Due to a large sandbar, ships dock at the man-made Leixões seaport, constructed a few miles from Oporto. Leixões is one of Portugal's key seaports and home to a historic football club, victorious in the Taça de Portugal cup in 1961.

Day 5 - Lisbon

Lisbon, Portugal: Lisbon, situated on seven hills along the River Tagus, has served as Portugal's capital since the 13th century. This city is famed for its majestic architecture, vintage trams, and rich Moorish history. Following devastating 18th-century earthquakes, the Marques de Pombal orchestrated its reconstruction, crafting an elegant city adorned with wide boulevards and a grand riverfront square, Praça do Comércio. Today, Lisbon offers distinct modern and historical sections, merging excellent shopping with cultural and sightseeing opportunities in the ancient quarters perched on the terraced hills.

Day 7 - Gijón

Gijón, Spain: The ancient Roman port city of Gijón offers glimpses into its past with sites like the 1st-century AD Campo Valdés baths. Gijón faced near destruction in the 14th century during a conflict over the Castilian throne, yet it emerged in the 19th century as a thriving port and industrial hub. Today, it combines its roles as a fishing port, a summer resort, and a vibrant university town brimming with cafés, restaurants, and sidrerías.

Day 8 - Santander

Santander, Spain: Situated on the northern coast of Spain, Santander is a picturesque city known for its stunning beaches and vibrant cultural scene. Famous for its maritime trade history, Santander is a dynamic port city enriched by its historical landmarks such as the Magdalena Palace. Cultural enthusiasts can explore numerous museums and galleries, while nature lovers can enjoy its coastal beauty and expansive parks.

Day 9 - Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France: Bordeaux is a city that invites exploration as a whole, serving as a testament to why Victor Hugo compared it to a blend of Versailles and Antwerp. This southwest French city, synonymous with the wine trade, has long hosted wine shippers along the Garonne River, appealing to global wine connoisseurs. Although known for its conservative air, Bordeaux is witnessing a vibrant rejuvenation. The cleaned-up riverfront echoes elegance akin to St. Petersburg, and the aura of 18th-century charm permeates the old town, 'le vieux Bordeaux', teeming with elegant shops. Discovering the historic port is best done through a boat trip departing from Quai Louis-XVIII or a ferry ride along the Garonne.

Day 10 - Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France: Bordeaux continues to captivate visitors with its comprehensive charm, celebrated for the same reasons that drew illustrious figures like Francisco de Goya to its embrace. The city's persona remains intertwined with the illustrious wine trade, hosting significant industry events like the biennial Vinexpo. Bordeaux's stylish energy is visible in its revamped riverfront and the elegant historic centre, attracting visitors to wander its cobbled streets and partake in its rich culture.

Day 11 - La Pallice

La Pallice, France: Serving as the deep water harbour for La Rochelle, La Pallice is an integral port for maritime trade on the French Atlantic coast. Known for its historical U-boat base, La Pallice played a significant role during World War II. Today, it is a bustling port with both commercial and fishing activities. Visitors can explore the nearby city's maritime museum, enjoy waterfront dining, and experience the charming old town with its arcaded walkways.

Day 13 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: Steeped in history, Portsmouth stands as a vibrant maritime city in Southern England, unusual for occupying Portsea Island. It has evolved significantly since receiving its charter in 1194, blossoming into a key naval base recognised for vessels like HMS Victory and HMS Warrior. With modern landmarks such as the Spinnaker Tower beautifying its skyline, Portsmouth invites visitors to delve into its storied past at landmarks including Charles Dickens’s birthplace and the City Museum, dedicated to the literary icon Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.