Tenerife - Civitavecchia (Rome) Amidst island idylls and coastal charm

Laurel forests, shrouded in mystical fog, shape the wild beauty of La Gomera. Garajonay National Park tells a story of ancient times, when nature still played the leading role. The coasts drop dramatically into the sea and El Silbo, the whistled language of the Indigenous people, rings through the valleys. From the summits, there are views over the unending blue of the Atlantic, where the waves gently lap against the rugged cliffs. La Gomera is a place full of secrets and magic, a paradise for explorers and dreamers.

Santa Cruz de la Palma, the capital of the “isla bonita” stretches between green hillsides and dark beaches. The colourful house facades and colonial palaces along Calle Real and Calle de San Sebastian exude traditional Canarian charm. In the narrow streets, small tapas bars and cafes invite you to while away some time, while the cobblestone pavements and baroque city palaces bring the splendour of centuries past back to life. Santa Cruz is the heart of the island – charming, culturally rich and full of soul.

The copper-red cliffs along the Algarve coast, which rise up almost vertically from the deep-blue sea, make Portimao a real highlight. The charming old town and the marina are perfect for relaxed walks, while the Praia da Rocha – an endless, golden shimmering beach – invites you to enjoy soaking up some rays of sun. Numerous other bays, dune islands and crystal-clear water are perfect for beach days at your own leisure, which will quickly make you forget the everyday. The long lay time time allows you to relax and unwind at the end of the day.

The white buildings of Cadiz appear on the horizon, while the golden domes of the cathedral reflect the bright blue sky. The screeches of seagulls and the sound of the waves are carried on the wind. Cadiz, with its history dating back over 3,000 years, was once a lively trading centre. Today, the city retains its pride in its majestic palaces, the Miradores, which offer a breathtaking view over the endless sea. And as you approach the long sandy beach, you almost expect Halle Berry to emerge from the waves – as she did in the famous James Bond scene filmed here.

Andalusia’s second-largest city exudes the scent of orange groves and the heat of the sun, which shines over the Bay of Malaga. The majestic Montes de Malaga mountain range is just a few kilometres north of the city, whereas the 130 m (426 ft) high Gibralfaro rises up in the city centre: from the walls of the Castillo de Gibralfaro, you can see Malaga in all its beauty – with the old town dominated by the elegant towers of the cathedral, one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Beneath the castle are the romantic gardens of the Moorish Alcazaba fortress, a great place to while away some time. Wine lovers will appreciate the fertile soils of the Vega, which produce wines like Pedro Ximenez. Malaga is a feast for all the senses. The ship will stay overnight – perfect for enjoying your time to the fullest.

Ibiza, the third largest of the Balearic Islands, is known for its blend of peaceful bays and lively party beaches. The island’s capital, Ibiza Town, combines modern flair with historical elements: founded by the Phoenicians in the seventh century BC, the mighty Moorish fortified walls of Dalt Vila still dominate the townscape today and in 1999 the old town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well as its famous night life, Ibiza also offers beautiful scenery like the Ses Salines Natural Park in the south of the island, which is famous for its plants and bird life that thrive in saline conditions and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the atmosphere until the evening thanks to a long lay time.

First-class restaurants, breathtaking views and a lively nightlife – Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the Balearic Islands, combines historic sights with modern charm. Stretched out along palm-lined promenades, the cultural centre of the city is Passeig des Born, where exclusive shops and tapas bars will tempt you in. The old town, criss-crossed by narrow streets, is dominated by the impressive Gothic cathedral, La Seu, while the former merchants’ stock exchange, Llotja de Palma, is another architectural highlight of the city. Its blend of Mediterranean charm and vibrant urban life makes Palma a perfect destination.

Alghero is located on the north-western coast of Sardinia, a pretty town that delights visitors with its Mediterranean flair and historical treasures. Alghero was a Catalan enclave for over 400 years, and many older residents still speak the Algherese dialect today. The old town is characterised by medieval buildings, colourful houses and Catalan Gothic architecture, which is particularly evident in the church of San Francesco. The Cathedral of Santa Maria is also an impressive example of sacred architecture. Around Alghero, the city beaches invite you to take a refreshing dip: the crystal-clear sea makes the region a paradise for sun worshippers and connoisseurs. Enjoy fascinating experiences until the evening hours – thanks to the long lay time.

North-east of Sardinia lies the La Maddalena archipelago – a pearl in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Granite cliffs, karstic bays and fine sandy beaches shape this incomparable archipelago. Part of the archipelago belongs to the Parco Nazionale dell’Arcipelago di La Maddalena, a protected nature reserve that is home to several endangered animal and plant species. The main islands of La Maddalena and Caprera exude a special charm and are also the ideal starting point for boat trips or snorkelling excursions: the water here is so clear that you can see right to the bottom – a real paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. The overnight lay time allows you to relax and unwind at the end of the day.

Bonifacio on the French island of Corsica features a breathtaking location and rich history. The town is perched high atop white limestone cliffs that drop steeply into the sea, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean. The narrow, winding streets, ancient fortified walls and picturesque Mediterranean-style houses give Bonifacio a unique charm. The historic old town is a fascinating place to stroll through the past, while the surrounding cliffs and coastline are ideal for walks and boat trips. Bonifacio is a real gem for nature lovers, history buffs and anyone looking for a special atmosphere.