2026 – France and Iberia Cruise
We took an early-morning flight from Manchester to Paris. Then a pre-arranged coach took us to our Oceania Cruise ship, the ‘Insignia’, in Le Havre. Our cruise was designated Riches of France and Iberia. This was our eighth cruise with the same company, as we’d enjoyed previous ones.
GUERNSEY
Our first port of call was Guernsey, an island we have both visited once before, long ago. I’ve been several times during my powerboat racing days, too. We went our own way, first exploring the town’s back streets before hopping on a local scheduled bus around the island. The west side of the island was serene, with wonderful beaches, though German WWII fortifications overshadowed it. We ended our day with a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
BORDEAUX
We arrived early in the morning, after our only sea day on this particular cruise. ‘Insignia’ berthed right in the centre of Bordeaux, which was wonderful. The quayside was busy with runners, electric and push-bike riders, and the occasional walker.
We spent two days in Bordeaux, including a winery visit on the first day. We took a lovely coach ride out to the countryside, followed by a winery tour and, of course, a little wine tasting. On our second day, we explored the city and enjoyed a special, unique performance of Reveloro’s Bolero. The open-air performance took place in a crowded city square, with musicians coming out of bars and cafes and from surrounding balconies. The conductor was lifted on a cherry picker so he could conduct everyone. A resounding clap of appreciation echoed around the square at the end of the 20-minute performance.
The city was very comfortable to walk around, with lots of beautiful, fine architecture, including cathedrals, churches, and administrative buildings. The cafes and shops felt very authentic, and we enjoyed coffee and cake, then later a cooling cider, in one of the local bars. A modern tram system served the city. We enjoyed the city very much.
Sunrise Bay of Biscay
BILBAO
Heart of the Basque Country. Several languages are spoken, and many Spaniards don’t understand the local language either! Our highlight was seeing the famous Guggenheim Museum. The tour didn’t allow time to visit the museum, but the building and the surrounding artwork were very impressive. A quick shop in the obligatory adjoining gift shop satisfied our need for something from this unique museum.
The Bilbao Guggenheim Museum
GIJÓN