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Madeira, Canaries & Lisbon
with Ashley Stephenson

3rd May 2010 - Balmoral

"This year I paid a visit to the Canary Islands in May and it was well worth the journey as there was more colour to be seen than on my previous visits to this area. Trees in full flower such as the Jacaranda, Pride of Bolivia (Tipu tipuana) Acacias in various forms and of course the African TulipTree (Spathodea).

The climate is warm without the oppressive heat of the tropics which makes it pleasant to wander the streets and gardens to note the wealth of interesting plants. So many of the plants you will see may be known to you as many are those grown as house plants. Come with us and enjoy a horticultural treat." Ashley

Blessed by a climate that is almost perfect all year round, with temperatures hovering constantly in the high 60s and 70s, the beautiful islands of Madeira and the Canaries are a haven for peace, quiet and pure relaxation! There will be plenty to do and see ashore and afloat and the itinerary offers a lovely blend of leisurely days cruising at sea, floral delights, sightseeing and shopping ashore.

Complimentary Tours
Santa Cruz, Tenerife
Plantlife is rich and colourful on Tenerife and a fitting port for our included tour taking in the Botanical Gardens, where many of the plants in the garden are the original specimens and the centerpiece is a huge South American fig tree. Risco Bello is our next stop and features attractive waterfalls and colourful terraces of local flowers. Finally refreshments will be served at the Hotel Tigaiga Gardens.

Funchal, Madeira
The picturesque white-washed capital of the mountainous Portuguese islands has a timeless charm, delightfully enhanced by a benign climate that fills this ‘floating garden’ with the year-round colours and perfumes of subtropical flowers and fruits. The Botanical Gardens of Funchal are one of the best examples of Madeiran landscaped gardens and are host to a profusion of plants and flowers from all over the world which thrive in the island’s temperate climate. The gardens provide an excellent view over Funchal, so remember your cameras

EXCLUSIVE GARDEN CLUB BENEFITS

• Programme of talks, Gardeners' Question Time, Cocktail Party
• 2 x half-day garden tours
• FREE car parking at port
• Hosted by Ashley Stephenson
• £50 per cabin on board spend
 

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