Silversea
Delve into the delights of the Western Mediterranean onboard Silversea’s luxurious Silver Ray. Chart a course from alluring casino towns onwards to sun-drenched Spanish cities, enroute absorbing all the sights and smells of Provence and stepping back in time whilst exploring Roman ruins. Where quintessential luxury meets golden beaches, exquisite cuisine, and ancient treasures seamlessly blend with modern mind-bending architecture.
After two nights exploring the unashamedly luxurious Monte Carlo, embark on Silversea’s Silver Way to unearth the hidden cultural delights of this ancient corner of the world. Throughout the week of indulgence and adventure on a state-of-the-art ship, an array of exclusive excursions encompassing both the land and sea are on offer, with something special for everyone to enjoy. The upmost paradise for a relaxing yet action-packed escape, from stepping through Roman ruins to walking hand-in-hand along the riverside, and the scents of lavender accompanying the streets of Provence. A beacon for knowledge dating back over two thousand years, discover the timeless tranquillity of the Western Mediterranean with a curated mix of culture, exploration, natural beauty, and luxury every moment of the way.
Immerse in Silversea’s pioneering design, promising uninterrupted views and a seamless destination connection. Silver Ray, a guiding light for the future of luxury travel, designed with glorious outdoor spaces and glassy interiors that celebrate openness and light. Feeling more like a destination itself, Silver Ray creates an atmosphere of upmost tranquillity, with the opportunity to indulge in a variety of exclusive spa experiences or beauty treatments. Escape to this private retreat to relax and unwind after the adventures of the day.
Day 1 - 2
Arrive in Monte Carlo and transfer to the luxurious Hotel Metropole to stay for the next two nights. Experience a taste of the high life in Monte Carlo, where super-yachts jostle for best position in the harbour and lavish bars serve perfectly chilled champagne. As a playground for the rich and famous, in Monaco’s only city, a gloriously indulgent and sun-soaked escape awaits. From witnessing cultural delights at the opera to raising the stakes at a casino, between the glitz and the glamour of Monte Carlo, take a moment to explore the old town’s pink and lemon floral facades, offering an authentic balance of historic character to counterpoint the palatial excess.
Day 3
Take a step onto the sunbaked cobbled streets of Marseille, France’s sunniest and oldest city. Renowned for its authenticity and cultural depth, Marseille is abundant with museums, creativity, and colour. Keeping watch over the city above its walled fortifications, the soaring golden statue of Madonna and Child rises high into the air and is visible from all over the city. The smells of Provence, from lavender to olive oil and thyme drift through the air to create a city saturated for the senses. Escape the hustle of the city to soak in the natural glory of the Calanques National Park. From there, hike, kayak, and sail your way through a treasure trove of limestone cliffs, dropping off to hidden and secluded beaches.
At Sea
Recharge and rejuvenate with a restorative day of sailing across the seas. Treat yourself to health, beauty, and restorative treatments in the revitalising spa or enjoy the onboard fitness options – offering a chance to truly focus on you. Watch the world go by, perhaps with a drink or two at the choice of bars, lounges, and social spaces. In the evening, dine in luxury and elegance at speciality restaurants.
Day 5
With a distinct feeling of stepping back in time, the history of Cartagena dates back over two thousand years to its founding by Carthaginians in 277 BC. Blending the imprints left by countless cultures at this ancient crossroads, the presence of all civilisations from the Vandals, the Phoenicians, and the Moors can be felt whilst walking between its ruins and contemporary streets. Crowned by the soaring Castilo de la Concepcion, wander Cartagena’s breezy waterfront, looking across the narrow strait towards Africa’s distant haze, imagining a fleet of ancient warships on the horizon.
Day 6
A proud city, Valencia has been fiercely contested ever since its foundation by the Greeks. From El Cid capturing it back from the Moors in 1094 to holding out against Franco’s National forces before the country fell to forty years of dictatorship. Today, Valencia represents the absolute essence of contemporary Spain's daring design and architecture yet remains deeply proud of its historic traditions. On a steady course of urban beautification, lovely bridges that once spanned the Turia look equally graceful spanning a wandering municipal park, and its spectacularly futuristic City of Arts and Sciences has created an exciting architectural link between this river town and the Mediterranean.
Day 7
A rugged Mediterranean gem, arising from sea’s rich blue haze, Mallorca is renowned for its cuisine, culture, and especially sun-drenched beaches. As the island’s dominating capital, Palma de Mallorca provides a sand-coloured mirage of glorious buildings and living history. Conquered and liberated countless times over the years, since its Bronze Age founding, the city is a gateway to ceaseless Mediterranean beauty, lively markets, and intense flavours.
Day 8 - 9
Cruise into Barcelona, a timeless place where historic streets are met by a bountiful variety of modern city life. Its colourful ceramic tiles perfectly represent the cultural heart and heritage of Barcelona, catching the eye to every sight and sound. A two-night stay awaits in the capital of Catalonia, which offers a banquet for the senses with a beguiling mix of ancient and modern architecture, tempting cafes and markets, as well as the opportunity to relax of sandy beaches. A stroll along La Rambla and through waterfront Barceloneta, as well as a tour of Gaudí's majestic Sagrada Família are an essential part of a visit to Spain's second-biggest city. Soak up the holiday's final moments whilst lingering over regional wine and cuisine at lively tapas bars before returning home to the UK.