Day 1 - Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France: Bordeaux, with its historic charm and elegance, offers a glimpse into why it inspired famed figures like Victor Hugo and Francisco de Goya. Known as the wine capital of southwest France, its picturesque riverbanks have long housed wine shippers. While more subdued than some other French cities, Bordeaux's lively riverfront and 'le vieux Bordeaux' filled with elegant shops juxtapose its conservative façade. The revitalised docklands add a modern touch to its traditional appeal, and a ferry ride on the Garonne River provides the perfect experience of its historic port.

Day 2 - Quiberon

Quiberon, France: Quiberon is a charming peninsula in Brittany, known for its stunning natural landscapes and picturesque coastal towns. Visitors are often enchanted by its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. The area is also renowned for its delicious seafood, offering ample opportunities to savour the local cuisine. A visit here promises both relaxation and the chance to immerse oneself in the breathtaking scenery often found in this beautiful part of France.

Day 3 - Brest

Brest, France: Located on the western tip of Brittany, Brest offers a rich maritime history and a gateway to the Atlantic Ocean. The city's naval base is one of the largest in France, reflecting its strategic importance. Brest's modern elements are coupled with various attractions such as the National Maritime Museum and Océanopolis, an ocean discovery park. Visitors can enjoy picturesque harbour views or explore the historical streets of this resilient city.

Day 4 - Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo, France: St-Malo, dramatically jutting into the sea, has built a legacy of remarkable sailors, unsurprisingly so given its strategic maritime position. Its storied past boasts explorations of the New World and storied corsairs. Although much of the original city was destroyed during WWII, its restoration, though not immaculate, captures the spirit of its narrow, granite-street past. The authentic ramparts and surviving structures stand testament to its enduring allure as a bustling port and tourist haven.

Day 5 - Saint Peter Port

Saint Peter Port, Guernsey: St Peter Port is a jewel of the Channel Islands, boasting cobblestone streets adorned with vibrant floral displays and dotted with quaint churches. As Guernsey's capital, the picturesque harbour offers a spectacular introduction to the island’s pristine beaches and rich history. Visitors are drawn to Castle Cornet, with its majestic presence over the port, offering incredible views and an insight into Guernsey's past through its museums.

Day 6 - Dartmouth

Dartmouth, England: Dartmouth is a historical port town in South Devon, celebrated for its marine heritage and scenic setting along the River Dart. Home to the iconic Britannia Royal Naval College, the town offers rich nautical history, charming architecture, and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the picturesque waterfront, explore local shops, and indulge in freshly caught seafood while admiring beautiful river views.

Day 7 - Cowes

Cowes, Isle of Wight, England: The Isle of Wight, just off England's southern coast, is a blend of stunning natural landscapes, rich Victorian history, and maritime tradition. It is renowned for its iconic chalk stacks, beautiful beaches, and as the home of Queen Victoria’s beloved Osborne House. Cowes, the island's bustling harbour town, is celebrated for its annual sailing event, Cowes Week. Visitors can enjoy exploring historic Victorian sites, walking on sandy shores, and discovering its charming thatched villages.

Day 8 - London (Greenwich)

Greenwich, England: Downstream from central London, historic Greenwich spans both sides of the Prime Meridian. Its legacy as a naval stronghold is still evident, with attractions like the Old Royal Naval College and the National Maritime Museum featuring prominently. Visitors often explore the restored Cutty Sark, savour the views from Greenwich Park, and straddle the Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory. A trip to Greenwich is incomplete without a scenic boat ride along the Thames, past London's iconic skylines.