overview

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Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Lisbon

Begin your voyage in Las Palmas and set a course for Iberian archipelagos off the coast of Africa. These islands were well known to Columbus and other seafarers who followed his route between the Old and New World, filling their galleons with water and provisions before or after an Atlantic crossing. Discover the Portuguese personality of Funchal with its cable cars, mosaics and madeira. Then on to a clutch of delightful Canary Islands with a diversity that is astounding. Martian landscapes on Lanzarote. Lush green La Palma. Cloud forest, cliffs and canyons on La Gomera. Tenerife with its spectacular beaches and soaring Mount Teide. No wonder all of these islands have been named UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. Add in colonial gems, a unique culture, and a playful cuisine that includes dishes like wrinkly potatoes and “old clothes ,” and you have the makings for a beguiling Canary Islands journey.

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Day 1: Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Here in this privileged setting you’ll discover two UNESCO World Heritage Site beaches of tantalizing beauty; San Cristóbal de La Laguna; and the island’s symbol, Teide National Park. Wide avenues, exotic landscapes, and striking examples of modernist architecture complete one of the world’s most popular destinations.

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Day 2: San Sebastian

Though you won’t find canaries here you will find people who can whistle like them. Whistled speech helped shepherds communicate across the steep ravines and in the lush cloud forest of Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Columbus paused here on all three voyages so you’re in good company as you explore historic San Sebastián, but with all the natural beauty around, you’ll find your gaze drawn inexorably up the terraced hillsides and across to views of Mount Teide.

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Day 3: Las Palmas

Magnificent scenery surrounds you in the capital of Gran Canaria. Two lovely bays and their beautiful beaches frame the city. The Vegueta District, the older quarter of the town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its historical and cultural treasures, dating back to the city’s founding in 1478.

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Day 4: Lanzarote

Nature is the star on this small volcanic island. Enjoy the afternoon on the beach or follow the island’s famous wine trail, tasting as you go. This, the most northerly of the Canary Islands, welcomes you with laid-back hospitality and genuine warmth. This region of petrified lava makes up the National Park of Timanfaya and its Mountains of Fire, where visions of a lifeless, prehistoric earth, with enormous craters of an incandescent red color, can be seen on a bus or even a camel tour. This unique atmosphere has made it a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and one of the most impressive natural parks in all of Spain.

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Day 5: Lanzarote

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Day 6: Funchal

Considered one of Portugal’s main tourist attractions and home of world-famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, Funchal is known for its style and beauty. Visit Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe or take a trip to the Pica da Torre for an incredible view of Camara de Lobos, a delightful fishing village. With a long history of Madeira winemaking, there’ll be time here for a little wine tasting, a meal at one of the many 5-star restaurants, sightseeing to 15^th century Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, shopping the bargains to be found here, or experiencing the vibrant night life.

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Day 7: Funchal

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Day 9: Lisbon

The rhythm of Lisbon invites you to join its captivating dance. This splendid capital city on the banks of the Rio Teja offers a warm welcome and an unparalleled blend of architectural styles. Elegant outdoor cafés line the cobbled sidewalks. Turn-of-the-century funiculars climb the scenic hills. Find the UNESCO sites of the Tower of Belem and the Monastery of the Hieronymites. And, everywhere, the city engages you with its easy style and remarkable charm.