The Chronicle (South Tyneside and Durham)
DECKS APPEAL
MARJORIE YUE sets sail in style to learn about the islands of the Med
cabin daily. Packed with activities and events – quizzes, boardgames, darts, skittles, watercolour and craft classes, talks and ballroom dancing – there’s something for everyone.
In need of a little pampering, I booked an Elemis hot mineral body boost spa treatment. Cushioned in a bed of sand-fine warm crystals, I soon drifted off as therapist Irene deftly worked her magic, soothing aches and unknotting muscles.
Those three days seemed to fly by as suddenly we arrived at Cadiz port. Founded by the Phoenicians in 1104BC, this charming city is said to be Europe’s oldest.
As the mercury hit 33°C, we admired its significant sights from the comfort of an air-conditioned coach, taking in the majestic golddomed cathedral, the ruins of the world’s second largest Roman amphitheatre in the medieval Barrio del Populo quarter, and pretty La Caleta beach – Halle Berry famously emerged from the sea here in Bond movie Die Another Day.
We followed the city walls round to Genoves Park, a tranquil green oasis home to more than 100 tree species and some eye-catching towering topiary.
Next up on our island-hopping itinerary was Menorca, the second largest of the Balearics. After docking at the capital Mahon on the east coast, we joined a coach tour to the northeast coast, stopping to take in sea views over Arenal d’en Castell and Port d’addaia, then heading on to the Fornells for a brief visit. The pretty fishing village is famed for its seafood restaurants, serving their version of the island’s signature dish – lobster stew.