Galicia’s Camellia Route 1207

Galicia’s Camellia Route 1207

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6 Days From

$1840

Galicia’s Camellia Route 1207

6 Days Starting and ending in London, UK

Visiting: A Coruña, La Coruña, Santiago de Compostela, Vigo

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BCGG

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 25

Physical rating:

Light

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegans, Meat, Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1840

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Galicia's enchanting gardens with the Camellia Route 1207 tour. Begin your adventure with a flight from London to La Coruña, where you'll explore the city's modern parks and historic center. Discover the lush gardens of Pazo de Mariñán and the exquisite topiary at Monasterio de San Lorenzo de Trasouto in Santiago de Compostela. Marvel at the Baroque beauty of Pazo de Oca and the camellia-filled Pazo de Santa Cruz de Rivadulla. Visit the hilltop Castillo de Soutomaior and the elegant Pazo de Rubianes, before concluding your tour at the Pazo de Quiñones de León in Vigo. With professional tour management, comfortable coach travel, and all site entries included, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Galicia's natural splendor.

Highlights

  • Tour of the modern parks and historic city centre of A Coruña.

  • Visit to the garden of Pazo de Mariñán with its impressive camellia collection.

  • Explore the Monasterio de San Lorenzo de Trasouto and its renowned cloister garden.

  • Visit the Romanesque Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a major pilgrimage site.

  • Discover the Baroque garden of Pazo de Oca with its canals and ponds.

  • Explore the Pazo de Santa Cruz de Rivadulla, known for its camellia collection and ancient olive trees.

  • Visit the hilltop Castillo de Soutomaior with its historic camellia garden.

  • Tour the Pazo de Quiñones de León, a Baroque mansion turned city museum.

Places You'll See

Galicia’S Camellia Route 1207

Galicia’S Camellia Route 1207

Galicia’S Camellia Route 1207

Galicia’S Camellia Route 1207

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: A Coruña

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Ciudad de La Coruña

We depart on a flight from London to La Coruña. On arrival we will be met by our local coach and transferred to our hotel.  Evening is at leisure.

Day 2

Location: La Coruña

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Ciudad de La Coruña

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning following breakfast we shall have a tour of the city to see its modern parks and the historic city centre. We shall also visit the little park around the tomb of Sir John Moore on the city ramparts.Following lunch (not included) we will visit the garden of Pazo de Mariñan overlooking the quiet waters of a river estuary. At the entrance to the Pazo we are welcomed by banana trees, walnut trees from India and huge eucalyptus trees, while the drive is bordered by two rows of trees, with spruce planted on one side and camellias on the other. The garden was first completed in the eighteenth century, and was designed by the artistic gardener Martin Thiebe, who was well known for completing many gardens for others “Pazos” in the region during this time. Amongst the botanical varieties to be found here are many old camellia plants with multiple trunks, along with others which have been planted over the years to add fragrance and colour to the garden in the winter and spring.

Day 3

Location: Santiago de Compostela

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Gran Hotel Santiago de Compostela

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast we check out of the hotel. We leave La Coruña and head for Santiago de Compostela where we will visit the Monasterio de San Lorenzo de Trasouto. Although there are other gardens within this property the pazo owes its horticultural renown to the cloister garden. The upper part of the two-storey cloister is glazed but the lower part is open with single columns, up which grape vines have been trained. Its garden is occupied by an extraordinary masterpiece of box topiary; a wriggling rounded hedge with only the smallest of spaces separating its parts. a sculpture of the Virgin clothed in ivy.We then visit the great Romanesque Cathedral with its Baroque facade and its Cloisters, which is reputed to hold the remains of St James. This has made Santiago a centre for pilgrimage and thousands walk the pilgrim’s way of El Camino de Santiago each year. Following our visit here depart for our hotel in Santiago de Compostela, where the evening is at leisure.

Day 4

Location: Santiago de Compostela

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Eurostars Gran Hotel Santiago de Compostela

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast this morning we depart for Pazo de Oca at La Estrada, where the practical and the beautiful are united in a network of canals and two ponds in a mainly 18th century garden. The basic layout of the garden has remained unchanged since 1743 despite the introduction of new species at a later date. In the first half of the 18th century it changed from being a collection of small productive spaces with fruit trees and vines to a Baroque garden ornamented with ponds, fountains and statues.Our next visit is to the Pazo de Santa Cruz de Rivadulla at Vedra-Ortigueira. Once the home of the canon of Santiago Cathedral, this charming manor house now boasts one of the region’s best plant collections. In the 19th century, the owner Ivan Armada added many new species to the already established garden, including hundreds of varieties of Camellia, which still bloom today. Unique in the north of Spain, and a truly amazing sight, are the avenues of ancient gnarled olive trees that criss-cross the garden.

Day 5

Location: Vigo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Eurostars de Vigo Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following breakfast we visit the Pazo de Rubianes at Arousa, where the garden was started in the mid 18th century and developed in both the 19th and 20th centuries with recent expansion onto the hill behind. The well-proportioned garden features fountains, pools and camellia walks, which complement perfectly the handsome villa.We then visit the impressive hill top Castillo de Soutomaior. This garden, which has an important and historic camellia collection, is situated on a steep bluff surrounding a small crenellated castle and commands views over the attractive wild, hilly countryside of this part of Galicia. The origin of the park goes back to 1870 when the Marqués de la Vega de Armijo y de Mos decided to make the castle his summer residence. He set about restoring the castle itself and laying out a pleasure garden on what were previously fields of maize. Following our visit here we continue to our hotel in Vigo.

Day 6

Location: Vigo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following breakfast we check out of the hotel and visit the Pazo de Quiñones de León, 2km south west of Vigo. A Baroque mansion, which became a city museum in 1937, it is situated at the top of Castrelos Park, formerly part of the property of the Tavarés family, through which the River Lagares flows, which is dammed to form a lake adjacent to an open air theatre.We later continue back to La Coruña in time for our flight back to London.

What's Included

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    The tour includes the services of a professional tour manager to guide and assist throughout the journey.

  • Return flights

    Return flights are included as part of the tour package.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided during the tour.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    The tour includes comfortable coach travel for all transfers and excursions.

  • Meals - as per itinerary

    Meals are included as specified in the itinerary.

  • Entries to all sites as per the itinerary

    Entry fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary are included.

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • Lunch on Day 2

    Lunch on Day 2 is not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

Enjoy comfortable coach travel throughout the tour, with return flights included from London to La Coruña, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Accommodation

Stay at the Eurostars Ciudad de La Coruña, Eurostars Gran Hotel Santiago de Compostela, and Eurostars de Vigo Hotel, offering comfortable accommodations throughout your journey in Spain.

Check out our Q&As

  • What is included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes the services of a professional tour manager, return flights, accommodation, comfortable coach travel throughout, meals as per the itinerary, and entries to all sites as per the itinerary.

  • Are there any costs not covered by the tour package?

    Yes, tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • What can I expect on the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, you will depart from London on a flight to La Coruña. Upon arrival, you will be met by a local coach and transferred to your hotel. The evening will be at your leisure.

  • What are some of the highlights of the second day?

    On the second day, you will have a tour of the city of La Coruña, visiting its modern parks and historic city center. You will also visit the park around the tomb of Sir John Moore and the garden of Pazo de Mariñán, which features a variety of botanical species including old camellia plants.

  • What is special about the visit to Santiago de Compostela on the third day?

    In Santiago de Compostela, you will visit the Monasterio de San Lorenzo de Trasouto, known for its cloister garden and box topiary. You will also visit the great Romanesque Cathedral, which is a significant pilgrimage site reputed to hold the remains of St James.

  • What unique features does the Pazo de Oca garden have?

    The Pazo de Oca garden, visited on the fourth day, is known for its network of canals and ponds, as well as its Baroque garden layout with ponds, fountains, and statues. It has remained largely unchanged since 1743.

  • What can I expect to see at the Castillo de Soutomaior?

    At the Castillo de Soutomaior, you will see a historic camellia collection in a garden situated on a steep bluff. The garden offers views over the wild, hilly countryside of Galicia and features a pleasure garden laid out by the Marqués de la Vega de Armijo y de Mos.

  • What is the significance of the Pazo de Quiñones de León?

    The Pazo de Quiñones de León, visited on the last day, is a Baroque mansion that became a city museum in 1937. It is located at the top of Castrelos Park and features a lake formed by the damming of the River Lagares, adjacent to an open-air theatre.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

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Wednesday - Monday

Mar 12, 2025 - Mar 17, 2025
$1840

Wednesday - Monday

Mar 12, 2025 - Mar 17, 2025
$1884

Including UK Flights

Prices last published on 21-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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