Both the Guadalquivir and Guadiana Rivers can take you through the south of Spain, with the latter forming the border with neighbouring Portugal. Journeys usually combine both of these waterways, with the ship sailing into the Gulf of Cadiz and hugging the coastline in between. Guests will typically start in Seville, Europe’s most sun-drenched city, to visit the world’s largest gothic cathedral and the beautiful Alcazar Palace. As you sail south, the buildings become few and far between and are replaced by farming areas and the Doñana National Park, where nature abounds in the form of birdlife and the rare Iberian lynx.
After navigating the rolling waves of the sea, you will get to experience a taste of Portugal in towns such as Alcoutim and Vila Real de Santo António. Here, olive groves take centre stage and Moorish history can be seen in the form of castle ruins.