Treasures of the Western Mediterranean

An important commercial port on the Italian Coast for wood, marble and alabaster, Livorno was founded by the Medicis. From here we will venture out to discover the delights of tuscany and its great cities of art. Explore the aristocratic charm of secretive Pisa and its famous leaning tower, or the elegance of Florence, Dante’s homeland where the Renaissance was born.

Be prepared for a magnificent cruise along the Gulf of Spezia for a breathtaking view of the Cinque Terre, five jewel-like villages nestled into a dramatic landscape that is truly without equal. Nearby the pretty Genoese town of Portovenere reveals its tall pastelcoloured houses from the 12th Century.

The prestige and fame of this tiny yet fascinating state extend way beyond its borders, and the location is enchanting. A little way along the coast is the lovely mansion and gardens of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, home to a unique collection of furniture, paintings and rare porcelain pieces.

Marseille, a port city in southern France, has been a crossroads of immigration and trade since its founding by the Greeks circa 600 B.C. At its heart is the Vieux-Port (Old Port), where fishmongers sell their catch along the boat-lined quay.

Tranquil and peaceful, Minorca is the smallest of the Balearic Islands and is a natural oasis rich in contrasts. A real paradise bathed by the waters of the Mediterranean sea, the harmony and diversity of its shores will charm you. Diving enthusiasts have been coming here for decades, lured by the spectacular underwater vistas. Indeed, the island’s tranquillity owes much to the richness of its natural assets, and is why it is now a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Valencia – the city of Art and Sciences. Two hearts beat in this Spanish city: one is modern, avantgarde and almost futuristic; the other is more provincial, more traditional and nostalgic. Valencia has the temperament of a great Mediterranean city whose wide avenues form a border around the old town. The city has an abundance of architectural styles that coexist harmoniously, but above all it resolutely embraces the 21st Century with the futuristic structures of its Agora congress centre and City of Arts and Sciences, emerging from a crystal blue pool.

Valencia – the city of Art and Sciences. Two hearts beat in this Spanish city: one is modern, avantgarde and almost futuristic; the other is more provincial, more traditional and nostalgic. Valencia has the temperament of a great Mediterranean city whose wide avenues form a border around the old town. The city has an abundance of architectural styles that coexist harmoniously, but above all it resolutely embraces the 21st Century with the futuristic structures of its Agora congress centre and City of Arts and Sciences, emerging from a crystal blue pool.

Surrounded by hills, the natural site of the Bay of Carthagena presided over the fate of this former fortress which has been home to the greatest European civilisations. Today, these Phoenician, Roman, Carthaginian, Moorish and Christian influences form a rich architectural heritage. Its Roman theatre is one of the most significant and best conserved in Spain. You will also be able to cross the landscapes of vines and citrus groves stretching endlessly towards Murcia, to visit this dynamic regional capital.

A historical and festive town, Malaga is located in Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol. Between the marina and the beaches, the seaside promenade of La Farola offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxing. Set slightly further back, the Malagueta bullring is one of the emblematic sites of the city. From the hill overlooking the old town, one can see Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba, two fortified ensembles rising out from the cypresses and maritime pines. To visit Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, you will go first to the courtly plaza de la Merced. A few streets back from here, you can explore the museum dedicated to the artist, in the Buenavista palace.