Day 1 - Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France: Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you'll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region's largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years). Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theatre—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d'Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city centre is the first Sunday of the month, when it's pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Day 2 - Quiberon

Quiberon, France: Quiberon is a beautiful peninsula known for its dramatic rocky coastlines and sandy beaches. It's an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts and those looking for stunning seaside landscapes. The town itself offers a charming vibe with its lively markets and delightful seafood restaurants.

Day 3 - Brest

Brest, France: Brest is a historic port city that boasts a rich maritime heritage and a modern atmosphere. Known for its naval base, the city also offers fascinating museums, delightful parks, and a vibrant cultural scene. Explore the majestic cliffs and picturesque lighthouses that define its coastline.

Day 4 - Saint Peter Port

Saint Peter Port, Guernsey: Cobblestone streets, blooming floral displays, and tiny churches greet you at this wonderfully pretty harbour. The town of St Peter Port is a visual delight, with vibrant flower displays adorning practically every street corner and window ledge. As the capital and main port of Guernsey, St Peter Port places all of the island's stunning beaches, rich history, and inspiring stories at your fingertips. Experience the striking sound of the midday gun firing at Castle Cornet, which stands guard over one of the world's most beautiful ports. This 800-year-old medieval fortress offers staggering views of the harbour from its rugged island location, and you can gaze across to the looming shorelines of the other Channel Islands from its well-weathered battlements. With four meticulously maintained gardens and five museums providing a rich overview of Guernsey's history, you'll want to set aside a few hours to explore the myriad treasures that lie within the castle's walls.

Day 5 - Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo, France: Romantic St-Malo, thrust out into the sea and tethered to the mainland by man-made causeways, has built a reputation as a breeding ground for phenomenal sailors. Many were fishermen, but others—most notably Jacques Cartier, who claimed Canada for Francis I in 1534—were New World explorers. Others were corsairs, "sea dogs" employed by the French crown to harass their English neighbours across the Channel. The St-Malo you see today is a restoration after a weeklong fire in 1944 destroyed much of the old town. The granite houses and narrow streets of the Vieille Ville have been recreated, helping St-Malo regain its role as a bustling fishing port and seaside resort. Explore the ramparts that encircle the city or wander the authentic Rue de Pelicot, which miraculously survived the flames.

Day 6 - Dartmouth

Dartmouth, England: Dartmouth, a picturesque town on the River Dart, is known for its charming streets, stunning harbour views, and fascinating maritime heritage. Visit the historic Dartmouth Castle, stroll along the scenic riverbanks, or enjoy the delightful array of shops, galleries, and eateries.

Day 7 - Saint Mary's

Saint Mary's, Isles of Scilly, England: St Mary's is the largest island in the Isles of Scilly, offering long stretches of white sandy beaches and a breathtaking untouched landscape. The gateway to the magnificent islands, it welcomes visitors with Hugh Town, a beautiful old town featuring its own beach, nature reserve, and church. Explore tiny streets filled with shops offering the perfect souvenir, and take in the coastline's many archaeological sites. Discover miles of splendid walks along the coastal and country paths.

Day 8 - Kinsale

Kinsale, Ireland: Kinsale, a charming seaside town, is famed for its gourmet food, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene. With its picturesque harbour, colourful streets, and stunning coastal views, it's an ideal place to unwind, savour local cuisine, or embark on scenic walks along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Day 9 - Dublin

Dublin, Ireland: Dublin is experiencing a renaissance. After years plagued by economic woes, the city has emerged as one of Western Europe's most delightful urban destinations. Whether you're exploring the old or the new, you'll find it a colossally entertaining city, all the more fascinating given its intimate size. It’s ironic and telling that James Joyce chose Dublin as the setting for many of his famous works. If he were to return to his once-genteel hometown today, he might not recognise the vibrant, cosmopolitan city it has become. Discover the revitalised Temple Bar, with its international-party atmosphere, or enjoy the quiet sophistication of the Italian Quarter and its open-air restaurants. Experience the thriving cultural scene with sold-out theatres, bustling galleries, and creative restaurants. The fundamentals—Georgian elegance, historic landmarks, and lively pubs—remain unchanged, providing the authentic Dublin experience. Most of all, it's the locals, with their nod and grin, eager to share stories, who make Dublin the rare old gem that it is. As Ireland's capital flourishes anew, one thing is certain: Dublin's unique spirit endures, making it a truly special place to visit.