From Honfleur to Cork · Northern Europe · 7 nights
Sleek and stylish, Le Boréal, Le Soléal, L’Austral and Le Lyrial are wonderful small ships that blend luxury and intimacy with a discreet elegance and tasteful décor.
These chic sisters are amongst the most stylish ships at sea,
with muted natural tones, minimalist interiors and playful splashes
of colour. The accommodation is flexible, with the option to
combine staterooms and create expansive suites, while the
restaurants deliver the sort of outstanding gastronomic experience
that you would expect from a French flag cruise line.
Situated on the southern bank of the Seine estuary, Honfleur was once one of France's most important ports. It was also a favourite location of Monet and the Impressionists, and art lovers may well recognise the elegant Renaissance architecture of the old harbour, the Vieux Bassin.
The island of Guernsey draws visitors south from the British mainland with its more favourable climate and beautiful coastline. The capital, St Peter Port, is a lovely little town of cobbled streets and elegant architecture, and there are also several interesting museums dedicated to the Nazi occupation of the island.
Every August sailors from all over the world descend on Cowes for Cowes Week, the world’s oldest sailing regatta, and the town has an unmistakable nautical vibe. Spend some time perusing the upmarket shops, tuck into some fish and chips or head out and explore the Isle of Wight's beautiful coastline.
The picturesque and historic town of Dartmouth is situated at the mouth of the river Dart, on the south coast of Devon. The town has a proud maritime heritage, home to the Royal Naval College, and the streets are lined with attractive 17th and 18th century buildings leaning at rakish angles.
St Mary’s is the largest of the Isles of Scilly, and the gateway to the islands for those arriving by ferry from Penzance. Take a wander around charming Hugh Town, explore some of the lovely nearby beaches and look out for wildlife including seals, puffins and fulmars.
Colourful Kinsale is situated on a sheltered natural harbour, guarded by a brooding 17th-century fortress. The winding streets are a delight to explore, and the town is home to some excellent restaurants, galleries, pubs and shops. For sublime coastal views, take a trip out to the Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse.
Bantry Bay is one of the most picturesque spots on County Cork’s west coast, sandwiched between the Beara and Sheep’s Head peninsulas. Local highlights include the 18th-century Bantry House, with its elegant gardens and intriguing links to the United Irishmen Rebellion of 1798.
Ireland’s second city is an engaging mix of cosy pubs, grand Georgian architecture and forward-thinking restaurants, with one of the best foodie scenes in the country. Cork’s historic centre sits on an island in the River Lee, and the narrow streets are full of cafés, bars and markets.
