Colour & Culture of Morocco

El Ferrol is located in the far north west of Spain, and has always been linked to the sea, thanks to its location deep within one of Europe's most strategic natural harbours. Its name derives from 'farol', due to a lighthouse at the harbour entrance. The city is seen as the gateway to Santiago de Compestela, where it is said that the relics of James the Apostle are buried, prompting thousands of pilgrims to have journeyed along the Camino de Santiago for centuries.

The narrow, winding streets of Tangier’s Medina present an exciting assault on the senses, with bustling souks selling traditional crafts, spices, fresh fish, fruit, and vegetables, and restaurants offering local dishes like Tajines of stew in a thick sauce and cooked in a large earthenware pot, couscous, or mouth-watering brouchettes (kebabs) of meat or swordfish. You can immerse yourself further into the Moroccan way of life by participating in the mint tea culture at Café Hafa, frequented by famous musicians and writers of the past, or sample sweet baklava for an authentic taste of Tangier. Meanwhile, the Kasbah fortress dominates the skyline, and the Dar el Makhzen inside offers opportunities to delve into the city’s deep history.

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Cadiz is well-known for the golden dome atop the cathedral, which gleams in the pleasant February sunshine. You will be perfectly placed to wander through the narrow streets of the old town or ascend the 173 steps of the former watchtower, Torre Tavira, for outstanding views across the city. There will be opportunities for you to witness a traditional Flamenco show in its place of origin and dine at authentic tapas bars, offering delectable small plates like fried anchovies, garlic prawns, and shrimp fritters, accompanied by local wines or the famously sweet and nutty-tasting Jerez sherry.

The lively and cosmopolitan city of Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca, beautifully blends tradition with modernity. Known for the majestic Hassan II Mosque, one of the world’s largest, it boasts striking Art Deco architecture and bustling souks and cafes, alive with the rich scents of spices and fresh seafood. As you wander through the crowded streets of the Old Medina, you can explore the tiny shops full of colourful wares or enjoy a drink at Rick’s Café, famous for featuring in the 1942 film Casablanca. Nearby is the enchanting city of Marrakech, which you can experience on a tour from your smaller sized ship, offering chances to explore Bahia Palace and Jemaa-al-Fnaa Square, alive with acrobats, snake charmers and water sellers.

Matosinhos is a delightful city to explore, where, during the winter months, the coastline offers a refreshing change of pace, with scenic walks along the promenade, sweeping ocean views and welcoming cafés overlooking the Atlantic. Venture further afield to Porto, and you’ll be offered opportunities to explore the narrow, cobbled streets and colourful houses of Ribeira, or perhaps take a boat trip along the Douro River to witness scenic landscapes of terraced vineyards and traditional wine estates known as quintas. Meanwhile, the city is well known for its production of Port wine, which can be sampled at one of the many wine cellars, or for enjoying Porto’s signature dish, Francesinha, a mouth-watering hearty sandwich of meat covered with melted cheese and a hot, thick sauce in an authentic Portuguese restaurant.

The vibrant 9th-century port town of La Coruña offers a delicate combination of old and new architecture, with shimmering glass modern buildings contrasting with the deeply historical medieval district. You can immerse yourself in local life by sampling traditional Galician dishes like ‘pulpo a la gallega’, octopus with paprika and olive oil or ‘empanada gallega’, a savoury pastry filled with meat or seafood. After ascending the hillsides of Monte de San Pedro Park for remarkable vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, discover rocky Costa da Morte, a rugged stretch along the coast of Galicia which tempted ships to run aground, creating a storied and legendary past. Alternatively, you may wish to explore the spiritual heart of Spain at Santiago de Compostela with its beautiful mix of Romanesque, Baroque and Gothic buildings.