Southampton → Southampton (19 nights)

Sail into this vibrant quay with enough shops and entertainment to form its own village. Modern and lively, this coastal town bustles with waterfront restaurants, heritage charm, bars, cinemas and offers great access to other spots in the South of England. Sit back and drift through heavenly countryside to ancient Stonehenge, see if the King is at home in Windsor, learn secrets from the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery or slip up to London for some rich British culture. Then enjoy a cup of tea as you reflect on formal traditions, perfect your cockney accent and recall England’s green and pleasant lands.

The ‘summer city’ of Mandal welcomes us to its sunny beachfront and lovely harbour for an afternoon of history, architecture, and fresh fare from the ocean. Stroll along an 800km stretch of golden Sjøsanden Beach, explore the city's pier, venture into the archipelago, visit museums, or find peace in Norway’s largest wooden church. Established by King Eric of Pomerania as a major salmon trading station, Mandal has morphed into one of the prettiest harbours lined by whitewashed houses. Descend to the Lindesnes lighthouse to find small lakes and coves dotted with isolated islands. Tour the birthplace of Gustav Vigeland, one of Norway's greatest artists, where his quest for spirituality began.

Lovingly known as the ‘heart of the fjords’, this city nestled between seven mountains has plenty to live up to. Burrowed between the mighty Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord fjords – the biggest in Norway – the sensational beauty of Bergen is best appreciated from the top of the funicular, Fløibanen. Flightsee around the peak for a summit advantage to enjoy panoramic views of this city’s beauty. Hike to Fløyen or mountain bike to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Bryggen, before winding down to the sound of calming piano recitals honouring Edvard Grieg Troldhaugen. Raft, crab, kayak or head to a local farm. With lungs full of fresh air and hearts full of love, sink into seafood heaven at the historic fish market to consume mouth-watering Bergen fish soup, fish cakes and customary persetorsk.

Nested deep between towering mountains are narrow valleys, a mile-deep fjord and a little village called Flåm. Surrounded by breathtaking beauty, visit the Borgund Stave Church museum or board the astonishing Flåmsbana train, often titled the world's most beautiful rail journey. Climb aboard and witness waterfalls, fjords and farms so remote you wonder how they got there. Fish, cycle or experience a RIB safari through the slender Nærøyfjord - part of the UNESCO world heritage - as you appreciate the surreal landscape. Head into the abyss on the dramatic Stegastein, or - for the less adventurous but no less curious - sip homemade specialties at the local brewery.

Sail into this vibrant quay with enough shops and entertainment to form its own village. Modern and lively, this coastal town bustles with waterfront restaurants, heritage charm, bars, cinemas and offers great access to other spots in the South of England. Sit back and drift through heavenly countryside to ancient Stonehenge, see if the King is at home in Windsor, learn secrets from the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery or slip up to London for some rich British culture. Then enjoy a cup of tea as you reflect on formal traditions, perfect your cockney accent and recall England’s green and pleasant lands.

The Eire Force is strong along the Wild Atlantic Way. Scout the filming sites of Star Wars movies on the rugged cape of Mailin Head. Taste the legends of Donegal County in gin and whisky at Sliabh Liag Distillery. Take a swing at the two courses at Ballyliffin, which golfing superstar Rory McIIroy proclaims, “are must-play championship links”. Step back in time at Grianan of Aileach, a massive man-made stone ring fort and one of Gaelic Ireland’s royal sites. Go with the flow along the Lough Foyle to the bold Greencastle, built in 1305 by the Earl of Ulster. Or delve deeper into nearby Derry to see how its “Troubles” have eased into a vibrant and beautiful community. And never forget, “Go mbeidh an fórsa leat” or “May the force be with you”!

Sail into this vibrant quay with enough shops and entertainment to form its own village. Modern and lively, this coastal town bustles with waterfront restaurants, heritage charm, bars, cinemas and offers great access to other spots in the South of England. Sit back and drift through heavenly countryside to ancient Stonehenge, see if the King is at home in Windsor, learn secrets from the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery or slip up to London for some rich British culture. Then enjoy a cup of tea as you reflect on formal traditions, perfect your cockney accent and recall England’s green and pleasant lands.