Southbound towards the sun: setting out from Hamburg, the HANSEATIC spirit will set a course southwards for Madeira over Easter. Multifaceted spring adventures on the coastline of Western Europe await along the way. The jewel of Normandy, Honfleur, starts the show with its half-timbered houses and winding streets. A scenic tour to Pays d’Auge* is particularly charming in spring, when the sun bathes the green hills and meadows in a beautiful light. The same is true for a hike along the Alabaster Coast to Etretat*. The route to the small seaside resort takes you past steep cliffs with inspiring views.

The treasures of Guernsey are to be found in its eventful history and rugged cliffs. Saint Peter Port is considered the most beautiful town in the Channel Islands. See the charm of this picturesque place for yourself with a fascinating collection of terraces and hidden gardens. An island tour on a vintage bus* will introduce you to the smallest church in the world – a short but unforgettable visit. Alternatively, a hike along the cliffs* reveals spectacular views of steep rock formations and pine forests. Steel your nerves and feel the adrenaline on an exciting RIB tour* where you might just spot puffins and gannets.

Reawaken your pioneering spirit on Easter Sunday in La Coruna. The city heralds your arrival with the Tower of Hercules, the only lighthouse dating back to Roman times to still be in operation. Visit the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela*, a sacred beacon, and marvel at its architectural style. Away from the famous place of pilgrimage, it is well worth exploring the labyrinth of the old town with its arcade-lined streets. Enjoy the typical Galician lifestyle and cuisine with a walk and tapas in La Coruna*.

Porto is like an open-air museum of the baroque. Explore the city on the Duoro in a tuk-tuk* on Easter Monday for an exceptional experience. Alternatively, take a city walk with a boat trip*. The port wine cellars are situated along the river. Visit a wine cellar where you will have the opportunity to sample this icon of Portuguese culture. Or are the Middle Ages more of a fascination for you? If so, historic Guimaraes* is perfect for you with a majestic castle, opulent palace rooms and town houses.

Lisbon is built on great seafaring history. Portuguese ships set out from the city to explore the world during the Golden Age of the country. Take the historic tram* uphill and downhill through the narrow streets and past the most famous landmarks. Alternatively, take a modern approach and explore Lisbon on a Segway*. The “Garden of Eden” awaits you in Sintra* in the form of Quinta da Regaleira. The estate enchants with its fantastic park of exotic plants, hidden ponds and grottoes. Take all the time you need to bid farewell to the European mainland as you cruise on the Tagus. Continue on southwards with an inspiring feeling of spring in your heart.

A part of the Madeira archipelago, Porto Santo is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. An island tour in an all-terrain vehicle* will reveal many facets of the unique landscape. The sandy beach spanning 9 km (5.5 mi.) is just one example of its idyllic beauty. Riding on Porto Santo*, discover the island from horseback as you traverse the valleys of Serra de Fora and Serra de Dentro before your springtime adventure comes to an end in Funchal, the capital of Madeira.