Gaudí to gourmet: Join us on this trip of a lifetime
Traveller invites readers to savour the many delights of this one-off culinary cruise.
On behalf of Traveller and our partner Viking Cruises, I’m delighted to announce details of our latest reader tour.
During this extraordinary, one-off, 15-day luxury cruise around Europe, designed by the Traveller team, you’ll experience some of the greatest sights of Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Denmark and more.
You’ll also savour the continent’s exceptional cuisine in the expert company of Fairfax Media’s Jill Dupleix and Terry Durack, two of the country’s foremost food writers.
Your journey begins with Jill and Terry hosting a special welcome dinner in Barcelona at the acclaimed restaurant Bravo24 where the kitchen is helmed by Carles Abellán who once worked at the legendary El Bulli.
You’ll also enjoy unique insights into Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s still unfinished Basilica masterpiece, by a leading Spain-based architectural academic with Australian connections.
Guests will also learn about the secrets of travel writing from Steve McKenna, a UK-based travel writer and a regular and valued contributor to these pages. Steve has visited many of the amazing destinations on this itinerary, including Porto in Portugal, and will deliver his special insights and tips for readers.
Spaces are limited so don’t hesitate to secure your place on one of the most compelling itineraries we’ve compiled for a Traveller Tour.
Anthony Dennis, Editor, Traveller
THE ITINERARY
DAY 1 APRIL 25
BARCELONA, SPAIN
Step on board to begin your journey then spend the afternoon ambling along Las Ramblas, taking in the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí or exploring the myriad sidestreets of the city’s ancient Gothic Quarter. This evening, meet acclaimed food writer Jill Dupleix, award-wining restaurant critic Terry Durack, long-time Traveller contributor Steve McKenna and Barcelona-based academic Rodrigo Aguirre, an expert on Gaudí and contemporary architecture, and your fellow travellers for dinner at Bravo24. Here, you’ll sample the most authentic local cuisine, designed by Catalan chef Carles Abellan. Enjoy a pre-dinner conversation led by Jill Dupleix, Terry Durack and Steve McKenna. Overnight on ship. Meals included: D
DAY 2 APRIL 26
BARCELONA, SPAIN
This morning, Barcelona-based academic Rodrigo Aguirre will deliver an exclusive Traveller Tours talk on the architectural masterpieces of Barcelona, and the role of Gaudí in building historical and contemporary Barcelona, including the famous Sagrada Família Basilica. In the company of Rodrigo, visit the Sagrada Família Basilica with a local guide and see one of Gaudí’s most famous works. Spend the afternoon soaking up the charms of Catalonia’s cultural capital at your leisure before returning to your ship for an afternoon departure. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 3 APRIL 27
MURCIA (CARTAGENA), SPAIN
Uncover the rich history of Cartagena, which brims with remarkable architecture that ranges from Roman times to the 20th-century Art Nouveau period. Outside the city, marvel at the beauty of the sanctuary of the Virgin of Fuensanta, Murcia’s patron saint, and the baroque- and gothic-style cathedral. Alternatively, explore Cartagena’s impressive Roman Theatre and Roman Forum. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 4 APRIL 28
GRANADA (MÁLAGA), SPAIN
Málaga, the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, is the gateway to Andalucia, a seductive province of rolling hills and olive groves. An included Viking tour, this features the 11th-century Alcazaba Palace, residence of Arabian caliphs, the ancient Moorish Gibralfaro Castle, the renaissance Málaga Cathedral and Picasso’s birthplace. Or, choose to explore the mighty Alhambra palace in Granada, one of Spain’s most treasured sites. This afternoon, enjoy a Traveller Tours exclusive experience with Jill and Terry as they host a talk on Spanish gastronomy during which you will learn about the great food and wine of Spain, as well as the etiquette of "tapas dancing": sharing small portions of numerous dishes. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 5 APRIL 29
CRUISE THE ATLANTIC OCEAN
Sail through the famed Strait of Gibraltar into the Alboran Sea, the westernmost portion of the Mediterranean. On a clear day, you can spot the giant Rock of Gibraltar on the starboard side. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 6 APRIL 30
PORTO, PORTUGAL
Today, dock in Leixões, a coastal city with a rich history, near the extraordinary city of Porto. Enjoy a walking tour and port tasting in the company of Jill, Terry, a local guide and your fellow Traveller Tours guests. Be enchanted by Porto’s architecture and culture, including a visit to the 18th-century Clérigos Tower and a walk down Praça da Liberdade to the São Bento Railway Station, with its beautiful azulejo tile mosaics. Continue via Rua das Flores (Flower Street) with its lively cafés, restaurants and shops until you reach the Palácio da Bolsa, Porto’s historic stock exchange. By coach, cross the 19th-century Dom Luís I Bridge to the wine cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. Join Jill and Terry in a tasting and learn the secrets of making port wine before returning to your ship. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 7 MAY 1
CRUISE THE ATLANTIC OCEAN
Enjoy a day at your leisure. You might sample the onboard entertainment or soothe your body with a hot sauna contrasted with a few minutes in the chilled air of the Snow Grotto. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 8 MAY 2
FALMOUTH, ENGLAND
Arrive in Falmouth, the gateway to the dramatic county of Cornwall, in the most southwestern corner of England. Admire the grey granite architecture and hilltop college of this picturesque port city overlooking the scenic harbour, famous as the backdrop for countless films and television series. Henry VIII built Pendennis Castle here to defend his country from France and the Holy Roman Empire. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 9 MAY 3
PORTSMOUTH, ENGLAND
Sail between Napoleonic forts in the Solent Strait and pass stunning citadels at the harbour entrance to picturesque Portsmouth. In the company of Jill, Terry and your fellow Traveller Tours guests, visit the world-famous Bombay Sapphire Distillery at stunning Laverstoke Millm. Explore the distillery at your own pace on a self-guided tour and learn about the age-old tradition of gin making. Then, join your hosts as they take you behind the scenes of the unique vapour infusion distillation process. You can also enjoy a drink "on the house" in the mill bar alongside the beautiful Test River. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 10 MAY 4
PARIS (LE HAVRE), FRANCE
Arrive in historic Le Havre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on a Seine River estuary. This historic port city is the gateway to the pleasures of Paris, so you’ll take a scenic drive through the countryside of Normandy and into the heart of the French capital. You’ll have time on your own to ascend the Eiffel Tower for sweeping city views or to marvel at the Gothic glory of Notre Dame Cathedral. Or you might choose to pay homage at D-Day beaches or stroll the pretty quay of the artists’ town of Honfleur. This afternoon enjoy a Traveller Tours exclusive with Jill, Terry and Steve McKenna as they host a talk and Q&A; on the art of food and travel writing, and places and experiences they believe will pique the interest of Traveller readers. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 11MAY 5
BRUGES, BELGIUM
Call on Zeebrugge, Belgium’s most important fishing port and your doorway to canal-laced Bruges, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. Bruges’ early textile trade made it one of the wealthiest trading towns in the world, and a vital port. Explore its cobblestone streets and ascend its towering belfry in the Market Square for sweeping views of restored guild houses and squares shaded by trees. Shop for lace and chocolate. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 12 MAY 6
AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
Today, in the company of Jill and Terry, your local guide and your fellow Traveller Tours guests, enjoy a culinary tour of stunning Amsterdam. This food lover’s walk will take you along beautiful canal paths, stunning waterside homes and the cozy shops in the Jordaan District. You’ll sample some traditional Dutch herring and learn how this delicacy is prepared. You’ll also visit a Dutch café and try a local beer; and learn about Holland’s unique cheeses, enjoying a taste of each type paired with a matching wine. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 13 MAY 7
SCENIC CRUISING: KIEL CANAL
This afternoon, sail through Germany’s Kiel Canal, a European cruising milestone. Since 1914, ships have used this engineering marvel to shave 250 nautical miles off their journey from the North Sea to the Baltic Sea. Enjoy canal-side sights from the deck and toast your crossing over dinner tonight, while sampling wines paired with cuisine at The Chef’s Table. Overnight on ship. Meals: B, L, D
DAY 14 MAY 8
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
The Danish capital was founded as a Viking fishing village and boasts more than 850 years of history. Spend the day exploring the fairytale city, including the neighbourhood of Nyhavn, famed for its brightly coloured houses and once the home of Hans Christian Andersen, best known as a writer of fairytales. Discover the rococo interiors of Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of the Danish royal family or visit the ornate Kronborg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Indulge in the city’s food halls or whet your palate at one of its many Michelin-starred restaurants. This evening, join Jill, Terry, Steve McKenna and your fellow Traveller Tours guests for farewell drinks..
DAY 15 MAY 9
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight home or stay on to explore more of Copenhagen’s charms.
TOUR DETAILS AND INCLUSIONS
Departure Date: April 25, 2019
Tour name and code: Viking and Traveller Tours, Gaudi to Gourmet C109016
On board Viking Jupiter
Direction Barcelona to Copenhagen
Price From $9,295 in a Deluxe Veranda
Call centre number: 138 747
Email: traveller.tours@vikingcruises.com
- 14-night cruise from Barcelona to Copenhagen
- Private veranda stateroom with king-size bed
- Onboard meals and beverages; including wine, beer and soft drinks
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- Choice of eight dining venues – no charge for specialty dining)
- Unlimited Wi-Fi
- Nordic spa facilities
- All onboard tipping and gratuities
- All port charges and government taxes
- Culture Curriculum: Music, art, cooking, dance and history lectures or performances
THE SHIP
Viking Jupiter, Viking Cruises’ sixth ship, will start sailing in January 2019. This new build, 745-feet luxury small ship is contemporary in design and carries 930 guests. The nine-deck Viking Sun is engineered to have direct access to post ports.
Prices are subject to availability. Circumstances beyond Traveller’s control may affect the guest lineup. Operational or logistical changes or issues related to the itinerary before, during or after the tour are the responsibility of Viking Cruises.
Booking conditions available at vikingcruises.com.au/travellertours
BOOKINGS
Ph: 138 747
Monday to Friday 9am-6pm
Email: traveller.tours@vikingcruises.com
vikingcruises.com.au/travellertours