Mediterranean Heritage: An Expedition of Exploration

Day 1 - Dover

Dover, England: Known as the gateway to England, Dover welcomes millions of visitors annually as the world's ferry capital and the UK's second busiest cruise port. The town, famous for its iconic white cliffs, boasts a rich heritage with over 2,000 years of history waiting to be explored within the walls of its iconic castle. The Dover Museum is home to the Bronze Age Boat, the oldest known seagoing vessel. The cliffs, a familiar sight for cross-channel travellers today, once served as the control centre for the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940.

Day 5 - Motril

Motril, Spain: Situated in the Andalucia region on the Costa Tropical, Motril is the largest town on the coast with a bustling commercial, fishing, and leisure port. While less than two hours' drive from Malaga, it nestles in the fertile Sierra Lujar foothills. The town, surrounded by rich agricultural areas, boasts a sub-tropical climate ideal for cultivating exotic fruits like sugar cane, oranges, and mangoes. Among its attractions is the 17th-century church of Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza, dedicated to the town's patron saint.

Day 8 - Valletta

Valletta, Malta: Malta's capital, the minacity of Valletta, is revered for its ornate palaces and museums, sealed by massive fortifications crafted from honey-coloured limestone. Its streets are bordered by charming, balcony-adorned houses, reminiscent of a bygone era where women would observe the bustling world from indoors. The city's exploration begins through the main entrance, City Gate, which leads to Republic Street, a lively spine of shops and culture. Valletta's compact nature makes it perfect for leisurely walking, and while undergoing redevelopment, it retains an allure that draws visitors into its historical embrace. Tourist information is conveniently available for eager explorers at the local office on Merchant Street.

Day 10 - Korčula

Korčula, Croatia: Off Croatia's coast in the southern Adriatic Sea, Korčula is deemed the most beautiful among a thousand islands. Its abundant sunshine fosters lush Mediterranean vegetation, drawing comparisons to a pristine Eden. The main town, Korcula, reflects a well-preserved medieval ambiance and offers various attractions, from the City Museum to the legendary house of Marco Polo's birth. The island's strategic location along trade routes has fostered a diverse history, with influences from Greek, Illyrian, Roman, and Croat settlers. Its rich maritime traditions and historic knightly games, such as the Moreska dance, continue to captivate visitors.

Day 11 - Split

Split, Croatia: Split's core captivates visitors with its unique heritage tied to Roman Emperor Diocletian, who erected his retirement palace here. This grand structure, transformed over centuries into an urban center, houses Split's much-admired cathedral. Throughout history, Split has thrived as a vital trade port, underlining its importance with splendid Renaissance palaces. Today, the historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing numerous explorers to admire its ancient walls and enjoy its vibrant cultural life.

Day 12 - Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia: The sight of Dubrovnik, a fortified marvel, leaves a lasting impression. Its robust stone walls enclose cobbled streets, historic buildings, and copper-domed structures that evoke its storied past. Established by Roman refugees and expanded into a powerful republic, Dubrovnik flourished in the 16th century despite earthquakes and conflicts. Modified in baroque style after the 1667 earthquake, its restoration after the war for independence has ensured Dubrovnik remains a treasure trove of history and architectural brilliance, earning its UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Day 13 - Kotor

Kotor, Montenegro: Nestled in Europe's most southerly fjord, Kotor captivates with its medieval Stari Grad, a maze of narrow cobbled streets and charming piazzas encased within centuries-old walls. Known for its schools of stonemasonry and iconography, Kotor's turbulent history includes periods under Venetian, Austrian, and French rule, with Venetian influences significantly shaping its architecture. The town now attracts visitors to its well-preserved historic fabric, and the serene bay views from surrounding villages offer a tranquillity often missing from busier tourist spots.

Day 15 - Siracusa

Siracusa, Sicily, Italy: Known to many as Syracuse, this historic city once stood as a mighty bastion of Greek civilization, surpassing even Athens in grandeur. Founded by Greek colonists, it became a beacon of culture and military might. Today, it offers visitors a rich tapestry of baroque art, Greek and Roman ruins, and captivating piazzas. The Archaeological Zone and Ortygia Island are notable highlights, seamlessly blending history and vibrancy amid the Baroque old town's lively charm and seaside allure.

Day 18 - Gibraltar

Gibraltar, Gibraltar: Perched at the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, Gibraltar's imposing Rock offers breathtaking views and strategic significance. This British outpost, despite its diminutive size, is celebrated for its duty-free shopping resembling that of a familiar UK high street. Its narrow roads necessitate excursions by mini-bus, yet the wonders of the Gibraltar Rock, and the vibrant blend of cultures offer a memorable exploration.

Day 22 - Portsmouth

Portsmouth, England: A city oozing with naval history, Portsmouth sits proudly on Portsea Island. With its origins traced back to a grant by King Richard I, it has grown into a crucial naval hub, housing historic ships like HMS Victory and the Mary Rose. The Spinnaker Tower, alongside historical attractions such as the Charles Dickens birthplace, offers glimpses into the city's vibrant story, while the bustling waterfront retains its charm as a leading British naval service enclave.