FROM HAMBURG TO HAMBURG

Close at hand and yet still unknown: on Scotland’s east coast, prepare to be surprised as you explore Edinburgh from the port of Rosyth. The capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an open book of cultural and architectural history. Winding streets, ancient and neoclassical architecture, society and monarchy – a walk through the city on your own or on excursions* with your experts will show you the main facets of the city, crowned by Edinburgh Castle. Home to many Scottish kings, the castle sits majestically in the middle of the city on an extinct volcano. Edinburgh is also a delight for fans of literature: Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson were born here and J. K. Rowling drew inspiration from the city for her Harry Potter novels, some of which she wrote in The Elephant House cafe. Look forward to creating your own stories in Edinburgh.

Untamed charm envelops the Orkney Islands. The archipelago, consisting of around 70 islands, forms a spectacular backdrop for your insights into European cultural history. Kirkwall on the mainland, with its red and yellow sandstone St Magnus Cathedral built in 1137, is an imposing reminder of the Middle Ages – one of the most interesting buildings in northern Scotland. Narrow, cobbled streets are lined with traditional shops and pubs. Enjoy the opportunity to go for an independent stroll. Kirkwall is also an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area, with its prehistoric sites, rugged coastline and gently rolling hills. 

Lush, green highlands, rugged coasts and the heritage of kings and clans: head deep into the rugged island world of the Hebrides and feel the soul of Scotland – for example, on the wildly romantic Isle of Skye. Here you will be greeted by the famous rock formation, the Old Man of Storr, watching over the island. Portree is more tranquil: in this picturesque fishing village, you will encounter colourful facades which stand out in contrast against the black cliffs and green highlands. From here you can explore the surrounding area with its lochs, mountains and castles, which are wonderful examples of Scottish architecture.

Enchanting Kyle of Lochalsh on the Scottish north-west coast combines idyllic village life with the forces of nature. The village is in the middle of the Highlands and offers spectacular views over the surrounding mountains, lochs and coastal scenery. The nearby Skye Bridge links the Isle of Skye to the mainland. Kyle of Lochalsh is an important transport hub: the construction of the railway line at the end of the 19th century was a major engineering project, which contributed to the development of infrastructure and economic growth in the Scottish Highlands.

The cliffs of the Hebridean island of Staffa have been shaped over the millennia by the wind and the sea. Allow yourself to be captivated by the drama of nature, just like Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy was in the 19th century. Inspired by the huge basalt cave on the uninhabited island, he composed his Hebrides overture. What effect will Fingal’s Cave have on you? Find out when you explore this monument of black basalt columns by Zodiac.

For centuries, Iona has been famous as the cradle of Scottish Christianisation and a place of pilgrimage. A Zodiac landing will take you on to this remote island, the site of the first monastery in Scotland. As well as the abbey and Celtic crosses, there are also the graves of more than 60 kings, including the Scottish king Macbeth, on this island. Historic Iona Abbey is a famous spiritual refuge. 

The impressive scenery of the Isle of Man in the middle of the Irish Sea awaits your visit. The island is home to rolling hills and valleys, picturesque bays and dunes. The Nordic culture here has been shaped by the Celts and Vikings. One of the world’s oldest parliaments, Tynwald Court, can be found here, as well as the Manx Gaelic spoken language. Your walk along the historic harbour promenade in the picturesque town of Douglas will take you back in time to the age of Queen Victoria.

Cruising off Calf of Man is all about birdwatching. The tiny island is the breeding ground for more than 30 species, including kittiwakes, shearwaters and shags. With a bit of luck, you might also spot peregrine falcons and Alpine choughs. Your experts on board will provide a commentary thanks to their ornithological knowledge. The Zodiacs will again be used, depending on the local conditions. 

Music and football, industry and entertainment: discover vibrant Liverpool, where history meets innovation. Immerse yourself in the past with the iconic Royal Liver Building and Liverpool Cathedral, built in the 20th century in the neo-Gothic style. The most famous sons of the city are without doubt the Beatles – follow in the footsteps of the Fab Four to the beat of the 1960s. But the city has a lot more to offer, including the Royal Albert Dock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the historic 19th century complex of warehouses and docks is a masterpiece of Victorian engineering – built entirely from cast iron, brick and stone. These days, it is popular because of its museums, restaurants and art galleries. Creative street art, microbreweries and live music will draw you in to the trendy Baltic Triangle and Ropewalks districts. The lively pub scene will round off your adventure. Liverpool is a diverse port city, perfect for discoveries off the beaten track. 

Picturesque Fishguard on the coast of Pembrokeshire in Wales is a hidden gem. Nestled between green hills and steep cliffs, the charming town offers an authentic insight into Welsh culture. Discover the historic port, walk along the coastal path and visit St Mary's Church. Fishguard is also famous for its intricate Last Invasion tapestry, which represents the last invasion of England by the French in 1797 and is on display in the town hall. Discover how the Welsh live today on a walk through the busy hustle and bustle of this small coastal town. Fishguard is also your tranquil starting point* for a journey back in time to the surrounding areas – to see castles and picturesque towns and villages.

The tiny island of Lundy is a great place for discovering the British wildlife. Will the weather allow a landing? With its steep cliffs and green pastures, the island is a protected habitat for seals, puffins, wild goats and many endemic plants. On the rocky island in the Bristol Channel, the historic stone houses defy the weather, just like the remote, romantic lighthouses that stand guard over the rugged coastlines. Let the peace and natural beauty of the island work its magic on a hike.

The crowning glory of nature awaits on the Isles of Scilly – the “English South Seas” – with thousands of subtropical plants, such as in the Abbey Garden on Tresco, warmed by the Gulf Stream. Between Mexican agave, South African protea and Chilean wine palms, you will feel as though you have been halfway round the world. The remoteness of the islands make them a place of retreat, where you can leave the fast pace of everyday life far behind. Here you can enjoy peaceful beaches, rolling hills and clean fresh air.

The backdrop to the coastal town of Fowey has a rather Mediterranean feel. At the mouth of the river Fowey, the town stretches along a steep coastal slope, with white sail boats and motorboats creating a beautiful contrast to the azure water. Discover the beauty of Cornwall from here: the sea rages against the rocks and the fishing villages are filled with romance – just like the novels of Rosamunde Pilcher, who was born in the region. The area also has many magical gardens offering insights into the classical garden architecture of the Victorian era.

Discover the charming harbour town ofPoole in the beautiful county of Dorset on the south coast of England. With one of the largest natural harbours in the world and a rich maritime history, Poole is a must for explorers. Stroll through the lively and historic Poole Quay, where cosy restaurants and traditional pubs are a great place to while away some time. Or visit the world-famous Sandbanks Beach, one of Britain's most beautiful beaches, and let your gaze wander over the English Channel.

The Isle of Wight in the south of England inspired Charles Dickens: beaches, cliffs and castles – a trilogy you can enjoy at your leisure on your shore visit. Stroll through the sleepy lanes of the small harbour town of Cowes, or take in sweeping views of the coast and the English Channel. The beautiful scenery is dotted with lighthouses, well-preserved windmills and a 6,000-year-old megalithic monument. You’ll be in aristocratic company while you explore, since the island is home to Osbourne House, Queen Victoria’s summer residence.