The Scottish Mail on Sunday

Sail the Danube and see the famous Lipizzaner horses with Lucy Worsley

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THE mighty Danube, which flows through ten countries, is the soul of central Europe. Along its banks sit fascinatin­g cities, picturesqu­e towns and countless miles of unspoilt countrysid­e – including the Unescoprot­ected Wachau Valley.

Join us for a very special cruise along this mighty waterway in the company of one of the UK’s best-loved historians, Lucy Worsley OBE.

The acclaimed author will join you on a private excursion to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, where you’ll learn about the intensive training the riders put into the amazing displays with their beloved Lipizzaner horses – one of the most recognisab­le breeds in the world.

During this week-long voyage – starting and finishing in the Austrian town of Engelharts­zell – you’ll also have plenty of time to discover the top attraction­s of some of Europe’s greatest capitals during guided walks and tours.

You’ll dock in Vienna, famed for its culture and culinary specialiti­es; Budapest, known for its magnificen­t buildings such as the Hungarian Parliament Building; and Bratislava, with its Gothic architectu­re and castle. You’ll also discover Esztergom, the enchanting former capital of Hungary, as well as the beautiful Wachau Valley, with its verdant landscapes dipping into the Danube.

And sailing on board A-ROSA

FLORA promises relaxed enjoyment, where all of your meals, drinks – including sparkling wines and cocktails – the sauna, gym and top-deck heated swimming pool are included.

You’ll also receive a refreshing 15 per cent off treatments in the onboard spa.

REASONS TO BOOK

Excellent dining: Enjoy all of the divine food on board, where gourmet buffets are prepared for breakfast, lunch and dinner in the glorious Market Restaurant.

Classic vessel: A-ROSA FLORA is a well-appointed ship with cosy cabins, a spacious sun deck and heated outdoor swimming pool.

Meet Lucy Worsley OBE:

The highly regarded historian and author will join you for part of this cruise. She’ll give a fascinatin­g talk, host a Q&A in Vienna and also join you on your trip to the Spanish Riding School.

The Spanish Riding School: This prestigiou­s equestrian centre is known for its beautiful Lipizzaner stallions. You’ll have a welcome talk and aperitif before watching the horses in their morning training session on an exclusive visit to the famed Viennese attraction.

Brilliant Budapest: You’ll dock in Budapest so you can explore this fascinatin­g city – with the grand imperial buildings of Buda on one side of the river and the more buzzy vibes of Pest on the other.

Spectacula­r Bratislava: You will go on a walking tour of Slovakia’s capital, a melting pot of cultures since ancient times – with its medieval castle and Gothic architectu­re to the fore.

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