Vistas of the Mediterranean

For decades, between 1920 and the late 1950s, Tangier was a playground for the rich and famous as well as artists and adventurers from all walks of life. Tangier attracted those seeking a tax haven or a mystic destination, from authors and artists, to spies and aristocrats. Regular visitors included the likes of Truman Capote, Tennessee Williams, and Woolworth heiress, Barbara Hutton.

When Spain relinquished Tangier back to Morocco in 1960, its duty-free status went with it, and the city lost a great deal of its flair. However, tourism is on the up once more, with visitors succumbing to the city's proximity to Europe and discovering that its decayed grandeur still has much to offer, from its palm-lined promenade and sandy beach, to the old town and its outlying villages and resorts. Despite its fall from glory, a stylish cafe society has once again begun to build up in modern day Tangier's boulevards, and the merchants in the medina (old quarter) are doing good trade with tourists exploring its maze of narrow streets, all of which are within sight of the Spanish coast across the straits of Gibraltar.

Despite its popularity as a beach holiday paradise, the Balearic Island of Menorca remains one of the loveliest, most unspoilt islands in the Mediterranean. The local population support the control of resort development and the woodlands and fields of its hilly rural interior remain largely untouched by the tourism trade.

This is the result of a thriving local industry that is less dependent on tourism for its survival than many of the other islands are. Minorca is therefore a great option for travellers wanting a more authentic Spanish beach resort holiday. Menorca is only nine miles (15km) wide and about 32 miles (52km) long, and boasts stretches of varied beaches, from silver-sanded, gently curving bays to rugged, rocky inlets.

Aside from beaches and resorts, the island also has plenty of interest for history buffs and culture connoisseurs, with several attractions to visit, including a world famous pipe organ and several mysterious, prehistoric archaeological sites related to the second millennium BC Talayot culture. The more recent history of the island is a saga of British, French, and Spanish attempts at control and colonisation, each of which have left their influence on the local culture and architecture.

Alghero is a beautiful coastal city located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, Italy. Known for its stunning beaches, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Alghero is a popular destination for tourists looking for a mix of relaxation and exploration.
One of the main attractions of Alghero is its beaches. The city boasts several sandy stretches, including the popular Lido di Alghero, Maria Pia Beach, and Bombarde Beach. With crystal clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, these beaches offer the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports activities such as snorkeling and diving.
Aside from its beaches, Alghero is also renowned for its captivating historic center. The old town, also known as the "Città Vecchia," is enclosed by ancient walls and features narrow streets lined with colorful buildings. The architecture is a mix of Catalan Gothic and Italian Renaissance styles, reflecting the city's complex history. Walking through the old town, visitors will discover charming squares, picturesque alleys, and impressive landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Church of San Francesco, and the Tower of San Giovanni.
Alghero is often referred to as "Little Barcelona" due to its Catalan heritage. The influence is evident in the language, cuisine, and local traditions. Catalan is still spoken by many locals, and street signs are in both Italian and Catalan. This unique blend of cultures is also reflected in the city's gastronomy. Visitors should not miss tasting the local specialty, "aragosta alla catalana" (Catalan-style lobster), as well as other seafood dishes and traditional Sardinian cuisine.

Portoferraio is a charming coastal town located on the island of Elba in Tuscany, Italy. This picturesque destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage, making it a popular choice for tourists from all over the world.
One of the highlights of Portoferraio is its stunning beaches. With crystal clear waters and sandy shores, these beaches provide the perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying various water sports. The most famous beach in the area is Spiaggia delle Ghiaie, known for its unique grey pebbles and breathtaking views. Other notable beaches include Sansone and Capo Bianco, both known for their white pebble shores and turquoise waters.
Aside from its natural beauty, Portoferraio is also steeped in history. The town was founded in the 16th century and has since played a significant role in the history of Italy. One of the most prominent landmarks is the Medici Fortresses, which include Forte Falcone and Forte Stella. These fortresses were built to defend the town from pirates and invaders and offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Livorno became an important free port in the second half of the 16th century, with intense commercial activity largely dominated by foreign traders.

Today, Livorno is considered to be the most modern of the Tuscan cities and is the third-most populous in the region, after Florence and Prato.

The Spanish province of Almeria is made up of about 200 miles of varied, scenic coastline that attracts package tourists to its developed resorts near the main towns, but also offers idyllic spots for nature-lovers to explore unspoilt fishing villages, long, sandy beaches and small, intimate coves which are popular with nudists.

Enjoying a sunny and mild climate, Almeria lies southeast of the Iberian Peninsula on the Mediterranean Sea, and still bears the archaeological evidence of many ancient cultures, from the Tartessos and Phoenicians, to the Romans and Visigoths, who were drawn here by the natural beauty, and useful maritime geographic location. The region retains an African flavour owing to its proximity to the continent.

Lisbon has been revitalised in recent years and has once again become the poster city of southern Europe following rejuvenation efforts in the 1990s.

Take a ride on the famed Tram 28, which winds its way through the oldest – and steepest – parts of the city, allowing you to get a feel for the vibrant culture Lisbon has to offer.

Or head to the banks of the River Tagus, walking through the stunning Arco da Rua Augusta which opens up into the incredibly elegant Praça do Comércio.

After two weeks of exploring some of Europe's most idyllic scenery, you'll dock in Portsmouth, bringing your Saga journey to a close.

But you'll still have a little more time to relax, as return chauffeur transport is included as standard with all Saga bookings.