Itinerary

Today we will go for an unforgettable, once in a lifetime flight tour over the fiery mountains and river, to see the Fagradalsfjall Volcano, and enjoy a landing near by the emerging lava. 
 
We will transfer to a close-by helipad and take our helicopter flight to see the vast and glowing lava field; vivid red rivers snaking from fissures; craters spurting fire and molten rocks dozens of metres into the air; and an ambience befitting the landscapes of Morder. After circling the Fagradalsfjall Volcano and surrounding Geldingadalur area, we will land near the smoking, flaming landscapes for a closer look!

With our local guide, we will embark on a walking tour for an intimate and insider's view of this beautiful city, strolling past the UNESCO-listed canals and 17th-century gabled houses. . We will view Amsterdam's historical center including Dam Square, the Royal Palace, the Anne Frank House, the Rembrandt House Museum, the Van Gogh Museum and the infamous Red Light District among other highlights, all while we learn about an intriguing historical background. 

Today our short flight takes us to Dijon, France, for a visit of the famous Burgundy region. Upon arrival, we will take a short drive to Chateau du Gilly, our oasis in the area. Chateau du Gilly, the former residence of the Cistercian Monks, has preserved its authentic 14th and 16th century character with its vaulted ceiling and surrounding moats. The property is ideally located in the village of Vougeot at the heart of the finest wine ("Grand Cru") producing area in Burgundy.

Enjoy the Castle's surrounding gardens, an ideal terrain for walks and running races. An outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, badminton court and bicycles offer a perfect stay for our next three days.

Today is free to relax and explore on your own. 

Today we will take a fascinating morning tour of Carcassonne. Dating back to the Gallo-Roman era, this is the most complete medieval fortified city in existence today with its 52 watchtowers, portcullis and extraordinary repertoire of defences, which resisted the many armies that tried to storm this glorious Camelot setting.
 
In the afternoon, we cruise through the trademark olive shaped locks of the Canal in the shade of the plane and pine trees, gently descending to Ventenac.

This morning we will cruisie to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visigoth monarchs once lived. Enjoy a visit to the ARchbishop's Palace and the indoor market at the hub of this bustling canal side town, where you will have time to shop or simply absorb the relaxed atmosphere.
 
After lunch, our barge oasis takes us through vineyards and pine trees along the "Grand Bief", one of the many engineering prowesses unique to the Canal du Midi. Our last mooring will be in Capestang, where we will overlook the 13th century Collegiate.

Today we will cruise the local waters by private boat (weather permitting) as we explore the island. There’ll be time for swimming and along the way we’ll stop at a local restaurant for lunch.

Fly to Bordeaux - the wine country of France, and spend the next three nights in a luxurious Hotel de Pavie. The hotel was once a convent where nuns offered shelter and protection to pilgrims and travelers.

Enjoy an outstanding experience in the heart of the medieval city of Saint-Emilion, a historic village. This region is one of the most famous in France and from the top of this beautiful village, you will discover a dazzling panorama of the ancestral vines of Saint-Emilion, a magnificent wine-growing landscape but also the first to have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fly to Milan Linate Airport where we will transfer to Como – immerse yourself in Lake Como. Enjoy a breathtaking setting on the shores of Italy's most famous lake. Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como exudes romantic Italian style perfectly complemented by timeless Oriental charm. Atmospheric, elegant and incredibly private, the hotel effortlessly blends the romance of the past with the luxury of the present.

Today is at leisure to relax or explore on your own.

Discover the sites of D-day (June 6, 1944) - the largest invasion force in history! Codenamed OVERLORD, it delivered five naval assault divisions to the beaches of Normandy (codenames UTAH, OMAHA,  GOLD,  JUNO  and  SWORD).
 
We will walk  among  the  cliffs, bunkers and edges old soldiers still talk about, visit several museums, D-Day memorials and the very moving American Cemetery.

After breakfast, we will launch for our over-water crossing to Iceland. There will be a stop in Stavanger for lunch and to refuel.