Gardens of Portugal including Madeira & a Douro River Cruise

From Lisbon, we board a plane and fly to the stunning island of Madeira, known for its beautiful, cultivated terrace gardens set against a backdrop of sheer peaks, with views out to the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the stunning Madeira Botanical Gardens in the capital Funchal. Here, we find an amazing collection of plant species, exotic flowers and tropical birds. Settle in this afternoon at your luxurious hilltop accommodation.

Today, soak up more of Madeira's beautiful gardens with a visit to the Blandy family's Quinta do Palheiro. This garden has many species of plants, as well as a sunken garden and topiary gardens.

Afterwards, explore Monte Palace Tropical Gardens, set high in the hills. The garden's phenomenal exotic plant collection includes species that have arrived from all over the world.

Fly back to Lisbon this morning.

On arrival, we explore the Queluz National Palace. This grand royal palace has been home to three generations of the Portuguese Royal Family. We explore the incredible gardens before having lunch in the old kitchen.

Today we make our way from Lisbon to Porto, stopping on the way in the city of Coimbra. Here we tour the university library and museum, which displays some of Portugal's vast riches. Continue to Porto and visit the garden of Quinta do Alao, which dates to 1684. Its lush oasis makes it an attractive destination for those wishing to spend some time away from the city.

This afternoon, transfer to your luxurious river ship and settle into your suite before enjoying a Welcome Dinner.

This morning, choose to explore Porto's Old Town and delight in its 16th-century buildings and Baroque churches. See the iron bridge built by Gustave Eiffel, then enjoy a tasting at a local port house in Gaia. Alternatively, visit the garden of Parque de Serralves, said to be the most important private garden designed in Portugal during the first half of the twentieth century.

This afternoon visit Quinta De Villar d'Allen, one of the first romantic gardens built in Portugal.

Enjoy a scenic cruise through the Douro Valley, en route to Entre-Os-Rios, which translates to ‘between the rivers'. This small village is located at the confluence of the Tâmega and Douro rivers. Our travels then take us to Quinta da Aveleda, a renowned wine estate where we enjoy a traditional ‘home cooked' meal. The property's grounds also contain rare tree species, as well as artistic follies.

Start your day with a tour of the 18th-century Palacio Anadia, or Palace of the Counts, known for its beautiful interior and Baroque style. Inside the house, we see intricate panels of blue and white tiles and a striking vaulted ceiling. Explore the park and gardens, which feature terraced flowerbeds. The grounds are embellished further with ponds and fountains, which connect to the palace via long paths. Arrive in the sun-drenched town of Peso da Régua this afternoon.

Take the opportunity to visit Lamego, a picturesque town rich in history. Visit its castle during a tour and see the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, one of Portugal's most significant places of pilgrimage. Alternatively, visit two wonderful gardens, including the gardens of Casa de Santar, home to the Countess of Santar. Its parterre gardens, tightly clipped topiary and interesting tile work make this garden a delight to explore.

Afterwards, continue to another garden of geometric design within the province of Beira Alta. Here, hazelnut groves and orchards of figs, apples and pears feature strongly.

Enjoy a trip to the Palacio de Mateus, just outside the city of Vila Real. Discover the fascinating story behind Mateus Rose wine, with which the palace has long been associated. Explore the gardens, which showcase charming topiary work and an impressive cedar tunnel. After our visit, we return to our river ship.

Travel to Castelo Rodrigo, known as the ‘white village', due its almond trees. The site offers spectacular views of the surrounding area, and as far away as Spain. Join a walking tour through its medieval streets and see the houses and establishments with 16th-century facades and windows in the Manueline style.

Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of local favourites, such as almonds, cheese, bread and wine.

This morning, we disembark our river ship in Vega de Terron and make our way to Madrid. Along the way, we make a stop in the city of Salamanca to view the Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful squares in Spain. Over lunch enjoy a traditional Flamenco show. Arrive back in Madrid at around 4.30pm.