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- Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi
- All port charges & airport taxes
- Return flights & transfers
- Free Superior drinks package (in 2024)
- 7 visits & tours
- Complimentary on-board tea & coffee
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The Douro, Porto & Salamanca
MS Douro Elegance
29th Oct 24
7 Nights
1
Porto Portugal
Arrive, transfer and board MS Douro Elegance for your 7-night cruise.
2
Mateus Palace, Portugal
In Régua, climb Miradouro de S Leonardo em Galafura; it offers the most stunning views of the Duoro Valley and surrounding mountains. Head to the splendid gardens of the Palace of Mateus where you'll enjoy an excursion, then tour the living museum which is owned by the Count of Vila Real. Sample the local beverage and discover the strong connection between the beautiful 18th century palace and Mateus Rose wine. In Pinhão, enjoy the idyllic scenery and taste traditional Portuguese dishes in a local quinta.
3
Castelo Rodrigo, Portugal
The town of Castelo Rodrigo is located in the Guarda district of north-east Portugal. Castelo Rodrigo has a medieval presence and a rolling hilltop position close to pine-wooded forests. The region is known for its castle which is a listed national monument; pay a visit to the ancient ruins and view the imposing walls which date back to the 12th century. Visit the clock tower to enjoy the fantastic structure and learn the history behind the protection of the citadel. The parish church is dedicated to Our Lady of Rocamador and was founded in the 13th century. Discover the church's ancient history and admire the painted and ornamented wooden ceiling, the Hispanic-Arab tiles at the high altar, and the statue of Saint James the Moor-slayer.
4
Salamanca, Spain
Located in the Spanish region known as Castilla y Leon, Salamanca is famous for its culture and lively atmosphere. Salamanca is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities due to its intricate architecture. In the heart of the city visit Plaza Mayor; a popular square lined with authentic restaurants, ice cream parlours and souvenir shops. For culture, St Stephen’s Convent and the Old Cathedral will take your breath away; they both boast stunning gothic structures and elaborate stained glass. Climb up the towers of Ieronimus Cathedral and listen to the bells ringing as you discover the picturesque city views.
5
Peso da Regua, Portugal
Commonly known as Regua, this northern Portuguese town is drenched with sunshine. In the heart of Porto country, local wine lodges offer tours of their cellars where the vineyards roll on for miles. You won’t be disappointed if you make the effort to climb Miradouro de S Leonardo em Galafura: it offers the most stunning views of the Duoro Valley and surrounding mountains. If you’re after adrenaline, take a bike ride through the mountain trails and admire the wildlife.
6
Lamego, Portugal
Instilled with Baroque style, Lamego is an elegant town in the Douro Valley's port wine-growing region. Lamego is flanked by two hills and is a perfect base for discovering the area’s half-ruined monasteries and chapels. On one of the two hills is a 12th-century keep and a castle and on the other is the monumental Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remedios - a baroque staircase leading up to the church steps. The top of each hill offers magnificent views of the UNESCO World Heritage Douro Valley. Pass through the Portas dos Figos gateway to the inner town and discover the narrow winding lanes and tree-lined boulevards. Visit the 18th-century Episcopal Palace, home to a museum and artworks by Portuguese master, Vasco Fernandes.
7
Porto Portugal
8
Porto, Portugal
Disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
Hays Extras
MS Douro Elegance
Overview
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that our highly successful Douro cruise on Portugal’s most spectacular waterway will now be operated on a brand new state of the art vessel, the magnificent five-star MS Douro Elegance. Painstaking research over many months with our highly regarded Portuguese shipping partners, the first luxury ship operator on the Douro, who have been involved in river cruise ship building for over a quarter of a century, has resulted in the creation of a worldclass vessel which is without doubt one of the most exceptional ships afloat on any European river. If cruising is an art, then this ship has truly mastered it; constructed with the very latest technology and a strong environmental ethic in mind, yet simultaneously retaining a classic, refined elegance reminiscent of cruising from a bygone era, this five-star, fully-air-conditioned river cruiser has been purpose-built to fit the unique size limitations of the Douro’s five locks and features all the facilities you would expect in a top-class hotel and more so your cruise will be as relaxing as possible and your stay on board will be a uniquely memorable one. Accommodating just 126 guests in the most exquisite of surroundings, the ship’s spectacular design and high specification ensures this vessel feels exceptionally light and airy. The generous ratio of 3:1 guests per crew member ensures a first-class personal service plus the friendly ‘small ship’ feel so beloved of Riviera Travel cruise aficionados, enables the ever attentive crew to revel in taking care of all those little things – leaving you to simply sit back, relax and enjoy every minute of your sensational river cruise experience.
Food & Drink
Stunning restaurant on the Main Deck serving buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and four-course dinner
Entertainment
Forward of the ship you will find the magnificent lounge and bar, the very heart of the ship, styled by a leading Portuguese designer and sumptuously furnished with elegant settees and comfortable armchairs; plump cushions in smart complementary fabric invite you to sink in and relax – your holiday starts here!
Enjoy a freshly made cup of tea whilst soaking up the refined ambience, complemented by high quality fittings, thoughtfully positioned lamps, a thick wool carpet, beautifully polished hardwoods and fabulous fresh-cut flowers. A well-stocked bar with friendly professional staff taking delight in attending to your every wish in sampling local wines or preparing whatever takes your fancy completes the convivial scene.
So just sit back and enjoy the stunning view from the magnificent panoramic windows as the ever-changing river scenery slips effortlessly by. When evening falls, the subdued lighting creates the most gentile ambience so unwind over a digestif or perhaps take a turn on the dance floor to the soothing tones of the resident musician. There really can be few holidays quite as relaxing as this! All three air-conditioned accommodation decks are connected by a lift for your convenience and an elegant wide staircase with gleaming handrail.
Health & Fitness
Accessed by stairs from the Upper Deck, head on up to the magnificent and spacious Sun Deck from where you can enjoy the stunning 360 degree views as they glide past from the comfort of your sun lounger whilst sipping a long refreshing drink or chatting with your fellow companions. You might choose to enjoy a glimpse of the wizardry ‘on the bridge’ as the Captain skilfully negotiates the twisting river with reassuring ease.
When the temperature rises you will feel the benefit of the fantastic outdoor swimming pool – a rarity on a river cruiser. For many though, just to lean against the ship’s rail and breathe in the invigorating river breeze whilst casting a relaxed eye over the fascinating scenes of life ashore or the wonderful river wildlife all around you, is what it’s all about; this is surely the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern life so let us take you on the cruise of your dreams!
Kids & Teens
Please note: there are no dedicated kids or teens facilities onboard.
Terms & Conditions
Prices are based on two people sharing and are correct at time of print. Single supplements may apply. This holiday is operated by and subject to booking conditions of Riviera Travel, ABTA V4744 ATOL 3430 protected. Subject to availability.
The Douro, Porto & Salamanca
£1,699
From PP
MS Douro Elegance
29th Oct 24
7 Nights
£1,699
From PP
