Combining enthralling French city discovery and scenic cruising with an authentic taste of northern Spain creates truly rewarding, full-flavoured adventure. Borealis serenely sails through the countryside scenes of the Gironde and Garonne rivers to Bassens, your gateway to Bordeaux. Take the short journey into the heart of the ‘Pearl of Aquitane’ to uncover plenty of historical and architectural highlights, from Cathédrale Saint-André to Calihau Gate. A full-day stop at allows ample time to sample Bordeaux’s famed wine culture too; or even visit one of the family-run countryside vineyards nearby. Elsewhere in France, La Pallice is your starting point for a tour to La Rochelle, a city rich in war history and maritime heritage that dates back to the 10th century, where modern bars, cafés and social hubs mix in with centuries-old monuments amongst the old districts and ancient streets. And, on the beautiful Brittany coast, you’ve a chance to explore fascinating St Malo, encased by imposing granite walls, or simply relax at the beach; or perhaps tour to the dramatic island of Mont St Michel and its iconic, fairytale-esque spired abbey. Meanwhile, in Spain, you could visit Avilés – on tour from Gijon – to indulge in the flavours of a city famed for it’s authentic Asturian cider; and sample traditional Basque pintxos and delicious Rioja wines in Getxo too.