An Extended Journey Across the Mediterranean’s Western Shores

Breathe in the cultural heart of Catalan; an elegant blend of high energy and undisturbed tradition. Muse over the origins of captivating Gaudi architecture within the enchanting labyrinth that is the Gothic Quarter. Savour the flavours of fresh tapas and crisp cava in breezy plazas, tranquil terraces and coveted cafés, or glide down to a shimmering beach club to unwind. Imagine a visit to peaceful Passeig de Gracia, where modernist buildings merge to showcase iconic global labels. And, as dusk falls, prepare for urban action and swing by the lively bohemian bars to fiesta on the leafy stretch of La Rambla. If you’re serious about style, this colourful city provides plenty to celebrate.

Leave craggy coastlines behind and venture to the heartland of the biggest Balearic. Where endless authentic charm, history and nature await. Celebrate at Spain’s oldest winery, shop chic Palma boutiques and marvel at blossoming UNESCO-limestone mountains aboard a vintage train. Experience a tranquil monastery, art at a historic hacienda and tons of protected wildlife. Delve into nature at reserves, feast on wood-fired paella at lively hangouts, pilgrimage to historic churches and tour old-world Mallorcan villages. And as for sapphire seas that frame spotless beaches - Mallorca is truly an immense Balearic beauty.

Lounging under a Provençal sun, Marseille is the oldest city in France yet seemingly grows younger each day. A multi-cultural melting pot with top-notch museums, galleries, smart squares and hip port-side bars, where you can tuck into a bowl of bouillabaisse, its famous fish stew. Meander past fountains built under the reign of Napoleon III and city hall erected during Louis XIV. Fall in love with the Calanques cliffs for a bit of French coastline drama, or wind through cypress trees and lavender fields to Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, famously once home to Van Gogh, Cézanne, and author Peter Mayle. Chase light, ripening Syrah grapes and drink in the nuances of terroir. From Marseille’s boisterous roots to its French coastline drama and nearby classic Provence, wander at will and fall in love with it all.

There’s more to Rome than its ancient architecture. The Eternal City is home to a seemingly endless array of hidden gems. The artistic-minded can enjoy fashion aristocracy, street art, vespa jaunts to The Appian Way and toss coins into fountains. Or you can stroll by appointment to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and the Pope’s private quarters at the Vatican. Explore the historic ruins of The Colosseum, Caravaggio churches, the Spanish Steps and The Pantheon. Learn how to make pasta the true Italian way, hunt truffles, nibble gelato, sip coffee and sink into a 3000 year old pool for a wellness experience. an ode to homespun pasta at a Renaissance piazza. When in Rome, fusing old with new makes it simple to indulge in whatever you like.

Be drawn into a balmy blend of olive-strewn landscapes, starkly beautiful Greek temples, Byzantine mosaics, and ricotta-filled farm-to-table delights. Wander Palermo's ficus-filled streets as you tour through the Florio family tale. Taste wine through a patchwork of fertile vineyards below rumbling giant Mount Etna and talented Teatro Greco, Sicily's most dolce vita hill town. Take in noble UNESCO heritage sites, tour leafy Villa Tasca, marvel medieval mosaic masterpieces at Monreale or Cefalù and continue the Greek theme to visit tumbled ruins and secluded temples. Welcome Baroque brilliance, Aztec chocolate, and modern-day charms in Sicily's honey-hued deep south towns. From Michelin-starred temple dining to Trapani beaches and fishermen mending nets outside hipster bars - such contrasts are at the soul of this irresistible island.

March into a hidden Spanish gem with centuries of deeply ingrained culture and history. Not forgetting gourmet cuisine fit for a king. Take part in cookery lessons, wine samplings and coffee workshops, or the heart stopping elevator to the top of the Castillo. Head back to Roman times at the theatre and sanctuary for relics and mosaics. Inspect weaponry at the military museum and explore shipwrecks, artefacts and Mediterranean history at museums. View delightful street art in the bustling city centre and sample the traditional sailor tipple, Asiático. Cartagena has sites you won't see in the rest of Spain, from Roman ruins, Byzantine walls and Belle Epoque architecture to marble streets and war memorials.

Breathe in the cultural heart of Catalan; an elegant blend of high energy and undisturbed tradition. Muse over the origins of captivating Gaudi architecture within the enchanting labyrinth that is the Gothic Quarter. Savour the flavours of fresh tapas and crisp cava in breezy plazas, tranquil terraces and coveted cafés, or glide down to a shimmering beach club to unwind. Imagine a visit to peaceful Passeig de Gracia, where modernist buildings merge to showcase iconic global labels. And, as dusk falls, prepare for urban action and swing by the lively bohemian bars to fiesta on the leafy stretch of La Rambla. If you’re serious about style, this colourful city provides plenty to celebrate.