The beautiful peninsula of Cap Corse is a ribbon of sheer coast along a fault line, suspended at an altitude of 3,280 feet. Between two seas. The prelude to the beauties of Cap Corse will be found along the road called the Cliff Road which, starting you will journey on  from Bastia and it will a matchless view over the Tuscan Archipelago.  A 30-minute ride will take you to the small and colorful fishing port of Erbalunga  where you will have time to spend before re-boarding your motor coach for the 30-minute to Luri for another short stop.  Then on for a 60-minute drive to the marine of Pino and the sheer cliff of Nonza with its Genovese tower and a boundless grey beach — offering astonishing landscapes.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring euros.  This tour is not recommended for people with vertigo as the road is extremely windy with several hairpin turns.

           

 

 

Bastia was founded by the Genoese in 1380, when they were looking for a naturally sheltered port to replace the ancient Roman city of Mariana and Biguglia (which had been destroyed by the Corsicans in 1372).  They needed a city and port which could assure the contact between their “Homeland” and their “colony”. Even if this small port was swept by terrible winds, it was protected by a rock,  easily defensible, and upon which a dungeon (or bastiglia) was built- and hence the name of the town Bastia. The numerous religious buildings dotted all over the island bear witness to the profound religious fervor of its inhabitants and their attachment to the Catholic faith. Despite this, the collective consciousness remains steeped in many pagan traditions,with relics of ancient beliefs. The mystical spirit of Corsica finds its true expression during the great Christian festivals, however the barrier between the natural and supernatural world is extremely permeable and Corsica is teeming with visionaries, faith healers, and mediums. This walking tour will take you to some purportedly haunted sites, and give you an overview of the superstitions and local legends which still hold sway.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring Euros. You will have about 30 minutes to shop on your own.

            

 

 

 

Your journey from Bastia will lead inland to Oletta – a small village terraced up the hillside, and from where there is a lovely view of Saint Florent and over  the countryside of olive groves, vineyards, and pastures – small squares of property delimited by dry stone walls. Then the road climbs up to the San Stefano Pass, through chestnut and olive groves, and from there is a spectacular panorama down to the east coast and the Biguglia “étang” (pool) and in the other direction, across the Agriates Desert and the sea at Saint Florent.  You will climb a sinuous, narrow road, up to the Teghime Pass, where at an altitude of 1,759 feet ( 536M), the views are completely different in each direction. To the West: over extensive vineyards right to the gulf of Saint Florent. To the South: across mountains and valleys towards the chestnut forests of the Castagniccia. The East: past Bastia and the sea leading to Italy. Finally North: the mountainous backbone of the Cap Corse. The road turns and twists its way down to Patrimonio, offering picturesque views background. Patrimonio village is dominated by its church and high steeple (built in 1749). Of course, it would be impossible to be in the finest wine producing region of the island, without having a wine-tasting session!

 

Please note: The order of sites visited might vary.

            

 

 

 

Bastia was founded by the Genoese in 1380, when they were looking for a naturally sheltered port to replace the ancient Roman city of Mariana and Biguglia (which had been destroyed by the Corsicans in 1372). The Genoese needed a city and port which could ensure contact between their “homeland” and their “colony.” Even if this small port was swept by terrible  winds, it was protected by a rock, easily defensible, and upon which a dungeon (or bastiglia) was built- and hence the name of the town Bastua. You will be met by your tour guide for a walking visit of the old City and the citadel . During your city tour by foot you will enjoy a stop for a Corsican spuntinu and tasting of Corsican specialties.

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring euros.

 

            

 

 

Please note: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Participants must be over 18 years of age for Absinthe tasting.

           

 

 

 

 

Discover Cotes de Provence on this delightful excursion into the wine country of southern France, complete with two tastings.   You will depart from  Cannes via motor coach en route through the Esterel Massif to Chateau Sainte Roseline, in Les Arcs, which some claim is the capital of the Cotes de Provence wines.  Chateau Sainte Roseline has a prestigious vineyard created by Pope Jean XXII and its cru classe wines are regularly rewarded.  See the lovely chapel and learn about the area, the history and production of the wines, as well as how to serve, evaluate, smell, taste, and enjoy the varieties.  Following your introduction, you will enjoy a sample of three delicious wines accompanied by “provencal” bread.  Continue on to your next wine venue, the Chateau Saint Martin.  This domain has a long history and you will discover some interesting facts while enjoying a guided tour along part of the property.  The chateau has always been owned by women, since it first was built. Enjoy another sampling of wines in the characteristic lounge used for this purpose. In both venues you will have the chance to purchase wines and also some other specialties. This is a tour for lovers of wine and the good life! You will return to Cannes having savored some excellent wine.

 

Please note:  Wear comfortable walking shoes as there are uneven surfaces at both venues. This tour is not wheelchair accessible. Participants must be over 18 years of age for wine tasting.

           

 

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own.

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 150 km (93 miles).

              

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 250 km (155 miles).

            

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 4-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests. Mileage limit is 250 km (155 miles).

             

 

 

 

Your motor coach will take you to Monaco Rock where elevators and escalators transport you up to the Old City. Take a guided walking tour up the hill and through the narrow streets, past the Oceanographic Museum, and the Cathedral containing the tomb of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier. Visit the interior of the Prince's Palace followed by some free time to explore further on your own. Next, you will descend from the rock and drive on a small part of the Grand Prix circuit on your way to Casino Square. Your final stop is Monte Carlo, where you will first walk along the Formula 1® circuit up to Casino Square to discover the most prominent and famous building on this square - the Grand Casino, surrounded by the Hotel de Paris and the Café de Paris. You may want to stroll around the square admiring the designer boutiques, or try your luck with the slot machines at the Café de Paris Casino. Return to the pier or if you want to stay to explore more on your own, return to the ship at your leisure.

 

Please note:  This excursion involves walking over cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The walk to Casino Square is 15 minutes of steep uphill walking so not recommended for those with mobility issues. The order of sites visited may vary. The Grand Casino opens for visits only from 9 a.m. to noon. Gambling is allowed in the afternoon from 2 p.m. The entrance fee is not included (17 euros) and a passport is required for guests who wish to visit the Casino on their own in the afternoon. Shorts, short skirts, and bare shoulders are not considered acceptable attire for visiting the Casino and Cathedral.  The Prince’s Palace is closed during the winter season usually from mid-October to April. Official dates will be announced during the season. 

          

 

 

 

You will depart from Monaco for a scenic 60-minute drive to Nice, considered the Pearl of the French Riviera. You will disembark your motor coach for a guided walk and tour of Nice’s Old Town, known as the Cours Saleya, where you will see a fabulous flower, fruit and vegetable local market. Explore the surrounding area with its colorful houses, narrow picturesque streets and squares with their Italian flair.  You will  have free time to stroll in the charming little streets and to shop before re-boarding your motor coach for the return trip to Monaco.

 

Please note:  Wear comfortable walking shoes,  bring water, a hat, sunscreen and local currency. On Mondays, the flower and vegetable market is replaced with a flea market.

           

 

 

Eze has been described as an “eagle’s nest” because of its clifftop location over 1,400 feet above sea level. Contrast this enchanting village with the stately grandeur of a seaside palazzo in exclusive coastal Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Following a 30-minute drive you will begin a guided walking exploration of Eze along narrow streets and past recently restored medieval houses. You will walk to the garden at the top of the village and enjoy breathtaking sea views and the superb panoramas of the Italian and French coasts from this high vantage point during your 1¼-hour stay. Back aboard the coach you will continue to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, one of the Côte d’Azur’s most exclusive destinations. The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild was constructed in the early 1900s and lies on a promontory overlooking the sea surrounded by a splendid 14-acre garden.  During your 1¼-hour stay, there will be time to appreciate the gorgeous views of Villefranche and Beaulieu sur Mer Bays. From the Villa there is a 45-minute return to the ship.

 

Please note: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there are steep inclines at Eze. Itinerary order may vary. Morning visits will include entrance to the exotic gardens. 

            

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

       

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6  guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a privatevan, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 4 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

      

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private car, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

      

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the most interesting sites in the comfort and privacy of your own van With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore. See the iconic sites of the city, or create your own personal stops to make the experience your own. 

 

Please note:  Capacity: 3-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). This tour includes transport in a private van, driver and English Speaking Guide. Itinerary can be adjusted with tour guide as long as it’s in the area and does not exceed the duration of 8 hours. Recommended for physically challenged guests.

        

 

 

 

Your guide will be pleased to meet you on the pier to start your tour by private car or minivan heading to the charming village of San Rocco by a panoramic road. San Rocco is a small hamlet, settled on the top of Portofino’s National Natural Park ( Site of Community Importance) , and is the starting point of a lovely path. The walk follows the coast line and stops in front of the little church of San Nicolò Capodimonte for a short visit. Proceed then to Punta Chiappa, a rocky formation jutting out into the sea, which is also a very interesting area due to a breathtaking landscapeand this site can be reached only by path or boat, no roads, no vehicles! All around there is  the coastline of Liguria, ahead Corsica, and behind on land there is the Batteria di Punta Chiappa hidden in the mountains. You will arrive at Stella Maris Resort and have the choice to swim (please note: no beaches and no sand, only rocks and water shoes recommended) or snorkel (no guide or equipment included, guest should take mask and fins on their own) or just relax on the terrace of Stella Maris Resort. You will then be welcomed with an aperitif on the terrace accompanied  by local specialties, and enjoy lunch including a starter and special homemade pasta with Camogli pesto sauce. After lunch, you will sail to  Camogli by boat to enjoy a guided walking tour among the highlights of this lovely fishing village. 

 

Please note: Very comfortable walking shoes, swimsuit and towel, sunscreen/hat/sunglasses and water shoes are recommended. If you wish to snorkel you will need to bring your own snorkeling equipment.

            

 

 

 

Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a National Park and Protected Marine Area.  Clinging to the Ligurian cliffs on the west coast of Italy are five castles at nearly the same distance from one another - Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Today you will see two of these sites as the ancient mariners had - from the sea. Depart from the pier heading to Cinque Terre, or five lands, and marvel as you approach the beautiful coast with villages suspended above the sea, almost defying gravity. Pass the scenic Tigullio Gulf and Poet's Gulf, with terraced vineyards alive with the aroma of olive trees blended with the fresh ocean breeze.  Arrive at the village of Vernazza, where you will disembark the vessel and begin a guided walking tour of this 1st century village. Notice the richness of its architecture, which evinces a wealthier standard of living than that of other villages. Following your tour, you will have free time to browse the local shops or enjoy a cafe. Reboard your boat and proceed to the next stop, the most westerly village and Cinque Terre's beach town, Monterosso. The town is divided into two distinct parts, San Cristoforo Hill, and the old maritime village protected by a rock spur. After your guide points out the highlights of Monterosso, you will have some free time to explore on your own, enjoy the beach and purchase your lunch. Meet the guide after free time and enjoy a relaxing panoramic cruise back to Santa Margherita.

 

Please note:  The operation of this tour is weather / sea conditions related.  it may happen that only  the stop in Monterosso can be made and Vernazza will be a photo stop. Order of sites may change order to avoid congestion. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

            

 

 

 

Start your walk from the pier with your guide, viewing the elegant shops and boutiques that surround the charming piazzetta along the way.  You will walk by the church to the hiking path. The itinerary of the hike can vary depending on your guide, on the weather and path conditions and on the fellow guests in your group. The first half of the tour is mostly an uphill walk if your tour goes towards Cappelletta, San Sebastiano and Olmi, to reach Molini. You will pass elegant villas nestled among rich tropical vegetation and olive trees. If your tour starts heading towards Paraggi, you will walk along the coastline and then hike up towards Acquaviva and Molini, where an old olive oil mill has been restored, now housing a little museum, a café, and toilets. The path leads the way through the Mediterranean flora, vineyards and olive groves. Vegetation hugs the medieval dwellings and the cliffs drop off to the crystal-clear sea, making this one of the most fascinating locations of the Riviera. Continue walking on to Santa Anna and Nozarego and finally you will arrive at the main promenade of Santa Margherita Ligure. Santa Margherita’s colors, the arrangement of its characteristic houses, its rich villas and great hotels have painted around its bay something similar to a magical reflection. Pause for refreshment at a café and then you will return to Portofino by minivan, or you may choose to remain in Santa Margherita to stroll around on your own and go back to Portofino by taxi, public ferry or public bus. 

 

Please note: Wear a hat and comfortable walking/hiking shoes. Bring a bottle of water. 

           

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

            

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 2-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

             

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own car. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 1-2 guests. Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

       

 

 

 

Explore at your leisure with a private vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. This exclusive tour will allow you to customize your time ashore and explore the sites most interesting to you in the comfort and privacy of your own van. With your private vehicle, and the personalized attention of your driver and guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your own unique tour.  

 

Please note: Capacity: 2-6 guests. Private vans are ordered per vehicle (not per person). The number of vehicles is limited, so reserve as early as possible. The price shown is the total for the vehicle so only one person will need to reserve it. The price includes vehicle, driver, and personal guide to take you to the sites of your choice.  It does not include entrance fees to any particular sites.

          

 

 

 

 

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothes. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses! This tour is a more unique visit to some of the more charming and remote fishing villages in the area and offers a cultural excursion difficult to do on your own. This tour will operate or not depending on sea conditions.