Issuu

UK & EUROPE 2027

18 UP TO

GUESTS

Crafted for the

curious

Imagine turning down a narrow, cobbled lane, the soft glow of dawn illuminating your window, the well-trodden tourist trail disappearing into the distance. This is where your journey begins. Our small-group tours of the UK and Europe are crafted for the curious; for those who want more than to simply see somewhere. With us, you’ll go beyond the surface and become a part of local life instead.

Crafted for

connection

Designed to connect you deeply with people and places, Back-Roads tours delve into local life in a way that larger tours simply cannot. The magic ingredient? Our devoted Tour Leaders, who can’t wait to share the stories (and secrets!) of the places they call home. Whether it’s discovering Gothic tales of Dracula hidden within the cellars of Bran Castle or finding the best pub to join a lively Céilí in Galway – our Tour Leaders turn moments into memories.

Crafted by the

experts

Immersive small-group tours are our speciality – in fact, it’s all we do. We’ve been honing our craft for 40 years (we’ve got the smile lines to prove it!), weaving together thoughtful journeys that put you at the heart of every experience. Your personal tale of discovery is what drives us – that’s why our tours unfold at a pace that allows you to uncover the soul of each and every place. Turn the page to discover the Back-Roads Way...

Contents About us The Back-Roads Way

Where we go

Connect with a small group

Thoughtfully selected accommodation

Feel like a local

Feed your curiosity

Be guided by the best

Signature Moments

Combinable tours

UK and Europe tours UK and Ireland

Italy and Malta

Spain, Portugal and Morocco

France and Battlefields

The Mediterranean and Balkans

Scandinavia and Iceland

Central and Eastern Europe

Useful information Travelling solo with Back-Roads

Book with confidence

Loyalty discounts

Frequently asked questions

Tour maps

Full tour list

Connect with a small group Designed for up to 18 guests, our intimate tours invite you to experience Europe in a deeply personal way – carefully considered and always put first. Connecting with a small group will come easily, and all the stories and scrumptious local dishes you’ll share along the way are what makes it so special.

The Back-Roads Way

Be guided by the best Here’s our secret: supremely passionate, entirely unflappable and truly thoughtful Tour Leaders. These local experts own precious golden keys for each destination, unlocking unique and unexpected experiences. Warm and welcoming, their insider know-how, stirring stories and personal touches ensure your tour is genuinely and distinctively yours.

Soak up every moment Slow it down and soak it up. When you explore the scenic back roads, you’re fully immersed. Hear the gentle hum of village life, feel the crisp coastal air on your cheeks, feast your eyes on a field of wildflowers. Travelling in luxury minicoaches, each twist and turn of the journey will widen your eyes with wonder – and every moment’s a memory you’ll want to pack in your suitcase and bring home.

Feel like a local It’s not always about what you see; it’s how you feel. That’s why our enriching experiences connect you to the personal stories beyond the sights. From hands-on cookery classes to traditional crafts, you’ll delve into the heart of each destination with the warmth and wit of the community beside you. With us, you won’t just discover a local way of life – you’ll become a part of it.

Go beyond the surface A pace carefully designed for discovery means you’ll uncover the deeper layers of every location. Unearth the mysteries of the past. Reveal a region’s true culture. And indulge in flavours that tell the rich tapestry of the land and its people. Back-Roads tours are created for the curious – but where your journey will take you is another tale entirely.

40 years

finding Europe’s secret corners

Reykjavík

Iceland

Where we go

The cities shown are where our tours begin and/or end.

Bergen

Scotland

La Belle France

Northern Ireland

Edinburgh Glasgow

England

Manchester

Dublin

Republic of Ireland Wales

London

Cardiff

Belgium G Lille Paris

Zurich

Switzerla Bordeaux Bilbao Porto

Spain

Portugal

Madrid

Lisbon Iberian Inspiration

Morocco

Casablanca

Marrakech

France Nice

Barcelona

Mil

Iceland: Sagas and Springs

FINLAND

Norway Stockholm

HELSINKI

Sweden

enmark

Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes

Copenhagen

Poland

Germany

Prague

Czech Republic Slovakia Austria Budapest Munich h Hungary and Slovenia Romania

lan

Venice

Croatia

Italy

Split

Balkan Treasures: Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo

Bucharest

Dubrovnik Kosovo

Florence

Montenegro Tirana

Rome Naples Palermo

Malta

North Macedonia

Albania Greece

Catania

Athens

Sliema

Italian Indulgence

with Connect a small group Our intimate tours are crafted for connection. Designed for a maximum of 18 guests, you’ll join a mix of like-minded couples, friends and solo travellers with one shared goal: to discover deeper.

Crafting your personal travel tale is our speciality – that’s why we’re very proud of our 4.8-star rating on Feefo from our wonderful guests.

Connect with the

places

Can you hear the tapping of a woodpecker along the mist-shrouded shores of Loch Lomond? Or feel the gentle Cornish breeze prickling your skin as night falls across the starry harbour? When you discover the back roads, there’s a new surprise waiting around every corner. With us, you’ll explore Europe’s scenic side in a luxury minicoach, leaving the tourist trail far behind. Watch as sun-warmed lavender fields transform into tiny Provence villages, where time stands still (and the Calissons d’Aix almond-shaped candies are a must-try!). Or listen to the cicadas hum their midday song as a powdery Tuscan path leads to a rustic, centuries-old winery.

“...a small group of people and a tour that didn’t go to the usual tourist destinations. The destinations were well presented and varied, very personalised, not at all commercialised. It was like travelling with friends and family.” Ada N, Corners of Cornwall

Connect with the

people

Picture this: you’re gathered around a table in a timeless Catalan courtyard, plates overflowing with vibrant tapas – crispy patatas bravas, salty jamón ibérico, and plump olives glistening with oil. You’re clinking chilled glasses of Cava with newfound friends, laughter bubbling as you share tales of the day’s adventures. It’s easy to connect on our small-group tours; conversations flow naturally, and friendships spark with every shared sip and story.

“We had the best group of guests and an amazing Tour Leader. The highlight was all the new friends we have made.” Lawrence V, Corners of Southern Ireland

Connect more

personally

If you’ve ever wondered how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness (it’s all in the angle!) or what the Scots really stow beneath their kilts, our passionately local Tour Leaders have all the answers. With a depth of knowledge no Google map could ever match – and a tale for every turn in the journey – they unlock the spirit of each location. Putting you first every step of the way, our expert Tour Leaders connect you deeply and personally to their home countries. And as we travel in small groups, they’ll be sure to include those special moments that excite and inspire you.

“Thanks to our Tour Leader, we not only saw the sights but truly experienced the heart and soul of each place we visited. This journey has left us with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.” Bruce H, Discover Portugal

Thoughtfully selected accommodation Where you stay isn’t just a cosy spot to count sheep; it’s a gateway to the spirit of a destination. From drifting off to sleep beneath the ancient stone arches of a castle to waking to the distant chimes of a village church bell, we make sure you’re fully immersed in the essence of every place – from start to finish.

Cooking and Nature Emotional Hotel, Alvados 12 rooms, 12 emotions – your stay here begins with a simple question: which feeling will you sleep in tonight? Set inside the Serra de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park, each individually designed room draws its character from classic cinema, while olive groves stretch beyond your window. Before dinner, try your hand at a traditional Portuguese cooking class, learning recipes you’ll want to recreate long after you’re home. Tour: Discover Portugal

Les Villas d’Arromanches, Normandy A short walk from the D-Day landing beaches, Les Villas d’Arromanches sits within a cluster of 19th-century Anglo-Norman villas, once built for holidaymakers of another era entirely. Spend your evening by the heated outdoor pool or wandering the hotel’s own wooded orchard, then retire to one of just 28 rooms that still carry the charm of that old seaside style – with the beach, and the weight of history behind it, only 200 metres from your door. Tour: La Belle France

The Mulberry Inn, Denbighshire Tucked away in the heart of Wales’ Ceiriog Valley, where the air is thick with the scent of wildflowers – The Mulberry Inn is a rustic bolthole brimming with effortless charm. Picture a crackling log fire, exposed-wood beams and deep, comfy armchairs – an irresistible invitation to unwind. It’s also the perfect base to experience the soul-stirring magic of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), with the aroma of hearty Welsh stews awaiting your return. Tour: Highlights of Britain

Grand Hotel Majestic, Lake Maggiore Built in grand Belle Époque style, this historic hotel sits right on the water’s edge in Verbania-Pallanza, with the Borromean Islands rising from the lake just beyond the garden’s palm trees. Days here move slowly – a walk through the grounds, a read by the water, dinner drawn from Piedmont’s slow-food traditions, all in view of one of Italy’s most storied lakes. Tour: Italian Indulgence

Cahernane House Hotel, Killarney Reincarnated as a lavish hotel, this elegant 19th-century manor house still radiates with its original Victorian warmth. Sunlight floods through glass atriums, antique chandeliers gleam, and watchful portraits tell a story of bygone times. When the sun sets, a quiet stillness settles over the private grounds, a welcome retreat after a day exploring Killarney’s wild beauty. It’s a place to relax, reflect and simply be. Tour: Corners of Southern Ireland

www.backroadstouring.com

Feel like a

local

With us, you’re not just a visitor... you’re part of the local tapestry. Whether you’re chatting with local fruit farmers in a quaint French marketplace or clapping your hands to a local fiddle player’s melodies in Galway, you’re never watching from the sidelines; you’re always at the centre of the scene. We flow with the local rhythm of life, uncovering secrets and stories that reveal the heart of each destination – and making connections that last far beyond the final farewell.

Explore a family winery, four generations deep In the heart of Burgundy, we’ll turn up the driveway of Château de la Greffière, a winery that’s belonged to the family for four generations. A tour leads us through vines and beneath the chateau’s turrets, followed by a tasting of their wines. Then, in the shade of plane trees, we’ll settle in for a picnic – with, naturally, a final glass of wine to savour. Tour: Paris to Nice through Vineyards and Mountains

Unlock the secrets of Portugal’s ‘liquid gold’ Journey into the heart of rural Portugal, where terraced slopes meet winding river valleys. Here we’ll visit a family-owned olive grove near Tomar to discover the secrets behind Portugal’s ‘liquid gold’ olive oil, from its careful cultivation to the first pressing. Give in to the smooth, peppery taste as it dances on your tongue. Delicioso! Tour: Discover Portugal

Get a taste of traditional Hungary at Hollókö village Take a stroll through the centuries at the UNESCO World Heritage village of Hollókö, where each medieval street is a snapshot of Hungary’s past. Buzzing with the living traditions of the native Palóc people, we’ll even be welcomed into a local family’s home to share a delicious lunch rich with regional flavours. Tour: Explore Eastern Europe

Dive into Catania’s vibrant fish market Catania’s fish market – La Pescheria – is a feast for all the senses. Picture glistening swordfish laid out on ice, the briny scent of the sea mingling with the boisterous calls of vendors, and the sight of spiky urchins and mussels piled high. Just a skip from the grand Piazza del Duomo, it’s a real slice of Sicilian life. Tour: Splendours of Sicily

Experience a real Scottish send-off in Dumfries Our final night in the Scottish Borders is more than just a dinner; it’s a joyful celebration of Scotland’s spirit. Savour a taster of haggis alongside neeps and tatties, a true Scottish tradition, as the raw, resonant sound of bagpipes pulls at your heartstrings. This is a proper Scottish send-off that will stick with you long after the last notes fade. Tour: Highlights of Britain www.backroadstouring.com

Feed your

curiosity

Step away from tourist traps and predictable menus. On a Back-Roads tour, food is an adventure in itself. Feasting our way through the UK and Europe, each sip or bite reveals a story, a tradition and a connection. From rustling up a classic tagliatelle in Tuscany to experiencing a refined English afternoon tea, we’ll feed not just our stomachs, but our curiosity too – for a true taste of the land and its culture.

Tuscany, Italy

Roll up your sleeves in Albania Spend an afternoon in the kitchen of a farm estate in the Albanian countryside, learning to make fërgesë, byrek and slow-roasted lamb with your own hands. Once the cooking’s done, head out to the farm itself to pick the fresh fruits and vegetables that will round out your meal, before sitting down together to enjoy what you’ve made. It’s a deeply warm, truly Albanian experience – food as connection, as generosity, as tradition. Tour: Balkan Treasures: Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo – brand new for 2027!

Learn to cook a traditional Greek lunch in Naxos Step into a Greek kitchen! There’s no better way to get a taste for Greek tradition than at a rural family farm on the charm-filled island of Naxos. Here – amid olive groves and herb gardens – we’ll learn the local secrets behind Grecian cuisine, and the stories behind the staple dishes. This is one to impress your guests back home! Tour: Greece: Legends and Landscapes

Uncork the local sherry culture in Jerez

Reveal the secrets of Tuscan cuisine

You’ve heard of an equilateral triangle, but have you ever heard of a Spanish sherry triangle? By the end of our tasting session in Jerez, you certainly will have! Welcome to a land of sun-drenched vineyards and cool, dark bodegas – where we’ll step inside a local winery for a very special sherry sampling, complemented by tapas bursting with Andalusian flavours.

Shh... these culinary secrets have been kept under wraps for generations. Well, some of them anyway! We’ll make our way through the gently rising hills and slender cypress trees of the Tuscan countryside for a masterclass in local cooking. Perhaps a pappa al pomodoro bread-and-basil filled tomato soup or a classic tagliatelle will be on the menu? Delizia!

Tour: Iberian Inspiration

www.backroadstouring.com

Tour: Italian Indulgence

Be guided by the

best

Fluent in the language of local life, our Tour Leaders turn even the most ordinary of moments into extraordinary memories. Local

experts

Think of our Tour Leaders as walking, talking encyclopedias of local lore – they don’t just know the customs; they live them. Every tale or tip they share will peel back the layers of a location, revealing its true spirit.

Uniquely

talented

A delightfully quirky bunch bursting with unique talents, don’t be surprised to be serenaded by a bagpipe or given an impromptu lesson on Viking ship burials. Sprinkling a little local stardust is their speciality!

Skilled

linguists

Between them, our Tour Leaders speak more languages than you can shake a phrasebook at – over 25, to be precise, including excellent English! They’re the smooth operators who keep your journey flowing, turning language barriers into bridges.

Seasoned

guides

Many different paths have steered our Tour Leaders to their calling. But with decades of experience under their belts, they share a common dedication: you. Unfailingly warm, passionate and caring – know that your comfort and enjoyment are their guiding principles.

“Our Tour Leader was not just a guide but a storyteller with a profound connection to the places we visited. Their insights into the history, culture, and hidden gems of each location brought everything to life in a way that no guidebook ever could.” Bruce H, Discover Portugal

Maura Cahill Can you share a highlight of one of your recent Emerald Isle tours? “There were two gentlemen on tour that were bikers, so a big highlight for them was the Joey Dunlop Memorial Garden (which was not on the itinerary). They really appreciated going there and it was very special for them.”

Nicholas Battaglia What’s your most memorable moment as a Tour Leader? “I organised an aperitivo on the beach of Lake Maggiore with some wine, focaccia, cold cuts, and the truffles hunted the day before. It was not planned, and we had so much fun. It was so simple, but we stayed there laughing and having fun for hours.”

Maxime Giron How do you create authentic moments for your guests? “To create an authentic moment, nothing beats chatting with locals to get the little story between the lines of the big history. And, on these occasions, language is never a problem because passion translates in every language!”

www.backroadstouring.com

Signature

Moments

Welcome to our treasury of travel secrets – we call them our ‘Signature Moments’. Whilst our tours are full of unique accommodation and unexpected experiences, these truly special moments are designed to deeply immerse you further into local life.

Westman Islands, Iceland

Isle of Arran, Scotland

A story shaped by fire

A wild side of Arran

Board the ferry to the remote Westman Islands and step ashore into the aftermath of a 1973 eruption that buried an entire town overnight. At the Eldheimar museum, an excavated house still sits beneath the volcanic rock exactly where it was found – walls, furniture and all – telling the story of that night with a quiet intensity no photograph could capture. Wander the streets that were rebuilt around it, then look up: above the town, the red cone of Eldfell still steams gently, a reminder that the ground here has never quite gone still. It’s one of Iceland’s strangest, most human stories, hiding at the edge of a nation better known for ice than fire.

Spend two nights on the Isle of Arran, where golden eagles circle overhead and stags graze the open moorland undisturbed. Join a local guide for a 4x4 safari across Clauchlands Hills, past the tumbling Glenashdale Falls and on to the ancient Giants Graves cairn. Tour: Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes

“Safari on Arran was a highlight for both of us and also having two-night stays made it more enjoyable.” Jennifer M

Tour: Iceland: Sagas and Springs – brand new for 2027!

Keep an eye out for our Signature Moments icon throughout the brochure – every tour has one!

Paestum, Italy

Truro, England

A buffalo’s gift

A British cuppa

Prepare your senses for a tasting of fresh, light mozzarella after wandering through a local farm in Paestum, where buffaloes happily swing their tails and graze on the fertile plains. Watch the cheesemakers at work as time-honoured techniques transform fresh buffalo milk into one of Italy’s most celebrated delicacies, before savouring the results for yourself.

Visit Britain’s first tea plantation, Tregothnan Estate. Stroll through the estate’s lush gardens, spotting favourite flowers and rare trees such as blossoming Camellia and the protected Wollemi Pine. Then, sample a selection of black teas along with traditional English cream tea!

Tour: Enchanting Southern Italy

“Visits to buffalo cheese farm, lemon grove and ceramics studio were above expectations.”

Tour: Corners of Cornwall

“Tregothnan Estate. Beautiful place and very knowledgeable and friendly guide on the tour of estate.” Matthew M

Rodney G

Boltaña, Spain

Carcassonne, France

A memory of monks past

Sleep inside Carcassonne’s walls

Slumber where monks once pondered as we spend two nights at a former 17th-century monastery in the Pyrenees town of Boltaña. Set on the banks of the gently flowing Ara River, its rustic stone walls, soothing spa and grand restaurant offer the perfect place to reflect on those existential questions (how much tapas is too much tapas?).

Spend two nights inside Carcassonne’s medieval citadel, one of the world’s best-preserved UNESCO World Heritage sites. Our hotel is one of just two within the walls, so once the day-trippers leave, the fortress becomes yours – its passageways quiet and ramparts glowing in the evening light.

Tour: Highlights of Northern Spain

“The hotel in the monastery was magical.” Valerie O www.backroadstouring.com

Tour: Jewels of Southwest France

“The two days we spent in Carcassonne were the highlight for me... The hotel was exceptional.” Elizabeth G

Combinable tours For those looking to travel for longer, we’ve crafted our tours to connect effortlessly, creating seamless combinable adventures. Many of our tours begin and end in the same city, making it easy to extend your travels with another tour – helping you make the most of your time in Europe. Here are some popular examples of how our tours combine. You’ll also save money with our Multi-Tour loyalty discount! See page 70 for details.

United Kingdom London to Edinburgh via Cornwall and the Scottish Highlands

Corners of Cornwall Highlights of Britain A Scottish Journey

days travelled

countries explored

experiences included

Spain and Portugal Madrid to Barcelona via Andalusia, the Douro Valley and Catalonia Iberian Inspiration

Discover Portugal

A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao

Highlights of Northern Spain

days countries experiences travelled explored included

France Paris to Nice via Normandy and the Loire Valley La Belle France

Paris to Nice through Vineyards and Mountains

days country experiences travelled explored included

UK and Ireland

What our guests say... “So many highlights – the Cliffs of Moher, Kilronan Castle, a whiskey tour, Dingle and Galway. Varied places to visit and stay, excellent history and information given, and never felt rushed. We would love to travel with Back-Roads again.” Caroline B, The Emerald Isle Kilronan Castle, County Roscommon, Ireland

UK and Ireland 25

The Emerald Isle 13 days | 12 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to October

Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry, Ireland

Tour summary:

Included meals: 18

Combinable with:

• 12 breakfasts

• Corners of Southern Ireland

• 6 dinners

Have you ever kissed a stone upside down for good luck? Or slumbered in the storied halls of an 18th-century castle? These are just some of the unique and unexpected experiences you’ll relish on this Irish journey, with each encounter revealing more of the country’s captivating heritage and culture. Inhale the salty sea air of the North Irish Coast, shuck your own fresh oyster and admire the intricate interiors of a traditional cottage orné. With us, you won’t just discover a local way of life in the Emerald Isle – you’ll become a part of it.

Tour highlights: • Spot incredible art murals along the streets of Belfast during a guided tour with a local, who shares tales that bring Northern Ireland to life. • Follow the footsteps of giants at the edge of the world as you step onto the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway that span 60 million years in the making. • Be blessed with the ‘gift of the gab’ while visiting the iconic Blarney Castle. • Uncover the magnificent Cliffs of Moher. These jagged, vertical cliffs will take your breath away.

Signature Moment:

Belfast, Northern Ireland

A night of regal rest - Step into a period drama (minus the corsets, thankfully) at Kilronan Castle, a spectacular 18th-century fortress set within 50 acres of landscaped grounds. You’ll be sure to snooze like royalty after plenty of relaxation.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

26 UK and Ireland

Highlights of Britain 11 days | 10 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to October

Castle Howard, North Yorkshire, England

Tour summary: Do you know where you’re most likely to encounter a cursed gravestone, a fat rascal and Europe’s longest place name? On this Great British adventure, of course! Delve into centuries of spellbinding stories and bewitching historical quirks as we roam the rich landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales. Slow down and soak it all up with us. We guarantee you’ll have more than a few tales to tell when your journey comes to an end...

Included meals: 15

Combinable with:

• 10 breakfasts

• A Scottish Journey

• 5 dinners

• England: Castles and Country Life

Tour highlights:

• Corners of Cornwall

• Explore the scenic back roads of Britain’s most spectacular regions including the Cotswolds, Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. • Roar like a Viking through the medieval streets that make up the maze of York’s Shambles and Snickelways. • Roam through the grounds of 17th-century Castle Howard like a duke or duchess, twirling through grand halls and vibrant gardens alike. • Tap your toes along to the iconic tunes of the Fab Four at The Beatles Story Museum.

Signature Moment:

Scottish Borders, Scotland

A bagpiper’s sweet melody - Settle in your plush chair as a local bagpiper plays his tune just for us. The melodic notes will fill the room as we savour a taster of traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

UK and Ireland 27

Corners of Cornwall 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to October

Padstow, Cornwall, England

Tour summary:

Included meals: 11

Combinable with:

• 7 breakfasts

• Highlights of Britain

• 4 dinners

• Chelsea Flower Show • Heart of England

A land where sapphire sky meets turquoise sea, Cornwall is a true treasure. With its windswept moors that graze the horizon and winding country lanes that open up to postcard-perfect fishing villages, England’s South West is waiting for you to carve your own story. Soak up the views of pristine golden bays, bustling harbours and wild coastlines as you go – all best enjoyed with a traditional Cornish pasty in hand, of course!

Tour highlights: • Venture across rippling waters to the island of St Michael’s Mount where a medieval fortress and panoramic views of sea and sky await. • Step back in time and imagine locals of the past sauntering through the Cornish port towns of Padstow and Port Isaac during short but sweet visits. • Admire the dramatic cliffs and wild shorelines of the jaw-dropping Jurassic Coast. • Pause at the hushed cloisters of Salisbury Cathedral, a magnificent feat of Gothic architecture.

Signature Moment:

Truro, Cornwall, England

A British cuppa - Visit Britain’s first tea plantation, Tregothnan Estate. Stroll through the estate’s lush gardens, spotting favourite flowers and rare trees such as blossoming Camellia and the protected Wollemi Pine. Then, sample a selection of black teas along with traditional English cream tea!

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

28 UK and Ireland

A Scottish Journey 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to October

Quiraing, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Tour summary:

Included meals: 14

Combinable with:

• 9 breakfasts

• Highlights of Britain

• 5 dinners

• England: Castles and Country Life • Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes

As soon as you step foot in Scotland, you’ll be under its spell. Revelling in mystical monsters, snug glens and infamous battles, allow yourself to breathe deeply and take it all in. Bask at the edge of the world where sea meets sky. Wander through centuries-old cities filled with a vibrancy for life. And discover a locally owned whisky room filled with flavours beyond your imagination. Wherever the path through Scotland takes you, rest assured the memories made here will last a lifetime.

Tour highlights: • Unearth the magic hidden on the Isle of Skye and the Isle of Mull. • Splash your tongue with a variety of whisky brands at Malt Rooms and discover local secrets behind sweet, smoked and fruity flavours that heighten your senses. • Step into the past on the grounds of Culloden Battlefield and feel the ghosts of fallen soldiers surround you as a guide shares the horrors from the Jacobite Rising’s final, tragic end.

Signature Moment:

Minicoach, Scotland

A moment of Hebrides magic - Seemingly plucked from the pages of a storybook, the wild Isle of Skye welcomes us overnight. During our stay, we’ll encounter many of its mythical wonders – from mesmerising mountains to otherworldly rock formations.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

UK and Ireland 29

Corners of Southern Ireland (Westbound and Southbound) 7 days | 6 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to October Worth noting: You can choose between two directions on this tour, Westbound or Southbound.

Cliffs of Moher, County Clare, Ireland

Tour summary:

Included meals: 9

Combinable with:

• 6 breakfasts

• The Emerald Isle

• 3 dinners

Weave your way through the rich tapestry of Ireland’s southern corners on this unforgettable adventure. Gaze at the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, whose rugged rockface was formed over 300 million years ago. Transport yourself back to Viking times in Ireland’s oldest city. Uncover the remarkable story of Molly Gallivan’s entrepreneurship. Where spellbinding scenery and rich history meet, Ireland invites you to craft your own story as you explore its many wonders.

Tour highlights: • Journey around the Ring of Kerry and uncover the remarkable story of the early Christian monks who once called Skellig Michael home. • Venture to Ireland’s oldest city where we’ll saunter through the House of Waterford Crystal, home to traditional crystal making. • Feel the breeze flutter around you as we stand atop the Cliffs of Moher, taking in verdant fields and crashing waves.

Signature Moment:

Molly Gallivan’s, County Kerry, Ireland

An illegal pub - Allow Molly Gallivan’s ghost to welcome you into her home with open arms. We can’t promise Miss Molly herself, but a local expert will guide you through the intimate rooms as they spill stories from the 19th century. As you listen, drink in various demonstrations, from turf cutting to traditional poitín (whiskey) brewing!

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

30 UK and Ireland

Chelsea Flower Show (Eastbound and Westbound) 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests | May Worth noting: You can choose between two directions on this tour, Eastbound or Westbound.

Chelsea Flower Show, London, England

Tour summary:

Included meals: 10

Combinable with:

• 7 breakfasts

• Corners of Cornwall

• 3 dinners

• England: Castles and Country Life • Heart of England

Signature Moment: A private garden tour - Imagine the most beautiful garden – filled with verdant bushes, blooming flowers in all colours of the rainbow, and sleeping trees that stand tall. Welcome to the Savill Garden, where we’ll watch the grounds come alive on a private tour.

The Savill Garden, Egham, England

Embark on an adventure through South East England’s finest, where regal towns, show-stealing stately homes and manicured gardens meet. Bask in the warmer climes of Kew’s magnificent Victorian palm house, feel the buzz of Windsor’s medieval streets and indulge in the traditional flavours of afternoon tea. The jewel in your journey’s crown? The RHS Chelsea Flower Show – bursting with kaleidoscopic colours and dazzling displays that invite you to be swept away by their beauty.

Tour highlights: • Immerse yourself in the glitz and glam of the flower world at the annual RHS Chelsea Flower Show. • Glide your fingers through a kaleidoscope of blooming flowers on a guided tour through Kew’s Royal Botanic Gardens. • Enjoy overnight stays in historic royal towns Tunbridge Wells and Windsor.

Kew Gardens, London, England

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

UK and Ireland

Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to September

Loch Lomond, Scotland

Tour summary:

Included meals: 10

Combinable with:

• 7 breakfasts

• A Scottish Journey

• 3 dinners

Signature Moment: An idyllic island - Allow the mystical nature of island life to wash over you during a two-night stay on enchanting Arran. We’ll even spot the island’s more elusive residents, such as golden eagles and proud stags, on a unique safari experience with a local guide.

Isle of Arran, Scotland

Settle in for your own Scottish story, filled with soaring mountains, enchanting lochs and mysterious castles. Stroll through a fairytale glen as mist swirls past ancient ruins. Sip on a dram of local Scotch whisky in a cosy wood-beamed inn. And spot majestic golden eagles on a Highland safari experience as the Hebrides becomes our home for a while. We’ve woven together the myth and magic of Scotland’s wonderful west, but where it will take you is another tale entirely.

Tour highlights: • Sail through glassy waters on this special scenic cruise, watching the reflective surface of Loch Lomond as it transforms under the moving clouds above. • Journey through the dramatic Glencoe Valley and visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre to uncover the haunting story of the infamous 1692 Massacre. • Meander through the cobbled paths of 18th-century New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage mill village surrounding the calm River Clyde.

New Lanark, Lanarkshire, Scotland

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

32 UK and Ireland

A Tale of Yorkshire Tradition 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to September

NEW Knaresborough, North Yorkshire, England

Tour summary:

Included meals: 10 • 7 breakfasts • 3 dinners

Yorkshire doesn’t do things by halves. The landscapes are vast, the history is layered thick, and the locals will tell you, with some justification, that there’s nowhere quite like it. This is the England of purple heather moorlands and Gothic abbey ruins, of Victorian spa towns and ancient smugglers’ coves, of steam trains rattling through wild countryside and pints of ale brewed the way they’ve always been brewed. A tale of tradition awaits... pull up a chair!

Tour highlights: • Step inside the Bronte Parsonage Museum where Charlotte, Emily and Anne Brontë lived, wrote and looked out across the moors that shaped their greatest works. • Board the North Yorkshire Moors Railway at Pickering’s perfectly preserved 1930s station and ride 39 kilometres of moorland drama – past Goathland (Hogsmeade to some) and on through the wild landscape. • Settle in for afternoon tea at Bettys in Harrogate – a Yorkshire institution for over a century.

Signature Moment:

Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire, England

A hidden smuggler’s past - Slip through the hidden passages of Robin Hood’s Bay on a guided walk that unveils the village’s extraordinary smuggling past – contraband, Revenue men, Press Gang and all. One of England’s most beguiling coastal villages, with stories to match.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

UK and Ireland 33

Heart of England 7 days | 6 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Stroll where Shakespeare once wandered in the quaint town of Stratford-upon-Avon, visiting the famed literary hero’s childhood home and final resting spot. • Travel through time in Bath, where Roman and Georgian architecture blend together in a stunning and sophisticated fashion. • Soak up centuries of intriguing stories on a walking tour with a local guide in historic Oxford.

Signature Moment: A lady’s afternoon tea - Cradle a warm china teacup and indulge in a fine spread of sandwiches, cakes and scones in the comfort of a 15th-century family home nestled in the Cotswolds. Whilst you relax, your accommodating hostess will share tales of the local area. The Cotswolds, England

Kent: The Garden of England 7 days | 6 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Journey into the past with visits to castles that have stood the test of time in Hever, Leeds, Dover and Sissinghurst. • Discover over 1,400 years’ worth of stories inside Canterbury Cathedral as a local guide leads us through its illustrious history. • Sample celebrated beers at Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewery.

Signature Moment:

Leeds Castle, Kent, England

A stately sleepover - Rest your feet in an individually decorated en-suite bedroom in the cosy Stable Courtyard in Leeds Castle and dine in the estate’s 17th-century Castle View Restaurant, enjoying a hearty breakfast and dinner created with local produce by prestigious cooks from the area.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

34 UK and Ireland

The Wonders of Wales 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea served in a delightful tearoom at the edge of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). • Settle into the vintage carriages of a historic narrow-gauge train and experience the Rheidol Valley just as the Victorians did. • Rewind the clock to a time of towering columns and arched stained-glass windows at the ruins of St Davids Bishop’s Palace.

Signature Moment: A coal miner’s tale - Dig deep into the past as we venture a mighty 90 metres underground for a tour of the Big Pit – a one-time working mine and UNESCO World Heritage Site – to discover stories of life and work in these tunnels. Big Pit National Coal Mine Museum, Wales

England: Castles and Country Life 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Stroll through the house and gardens of Sandringham Estate, where members of the Royal Family rest and rejuvenate. • Take to calm waters along the ‘Backs’ of Cambridge University and pass by entrancing architecture during a legendary punting experience. • Feast your eyes on an original Magna Carta and stunning medieval architecture at Lincoln’s Castle and Cathedral.

Signature Moment:

Sandringham Estate, Norfolk, England

A star-studded affair - Visit the heart of the thoroughbred industry, The National Stud in Newmarket. Here, you’ll gain behind-the-scenes insight into England’s proud sporting history as you wander through the farm’s winding trails on a guided tour.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

UK and Ireland 35

London to Paris via the Channel Islands 12 days | 11 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Wander the ‘Dark Sky Island’, also known as Sark, for the day – roving through the car-free landscape to spot various viewpoints and monuments. • Uncover the idyllic island of Guernsey, taking in coastline views and wandering through cobbled streets, and learning of its occupation during WWII. • Wander the enchanting island village of Mont Saint-Michel.

Signature Moment: A coastal fortress - Flip through the many chapters of 16th-century Elizabeth Castle during a leisurely visit. Free time is your friend here, so lead the way and discover the grounds at a pace that suits you! Elizabeth Castle, St Aubin’s Bay, Jersey

London Uncovered NEW

3 days | 2 nights Pre-tour package: Whilst available to book as a standalone experience, London Uncovered is designed as a pre-tour package for guests arriving in London a few days ahead of a full-length tour.

Highlights: • Board a Thames riverboat and glide to Greenwich, arriving the way sailors and merchants have for centuries. • Stand beneath the Painted Hall’s breathtaking baroque ceiling, 19 years in the making and still stopping people in their tracks.

London, England

• Peel back the quieter, older layers of royal London on foot, from the backstreets of Westminster to the shopfronts of Jermyn Street.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Italy and Malta

What our guests say... “Great part of Italy to visit. History, scenery and culture! Tour Leader was brilliant. His knowledge, organisation and companionship made for a great experience. The experiences of cooking, ceramics and limoncello made for a lot of fun.” Rodney G, Enchanting Southern Italy Ravello, Campania, Italy

Italy and Malta 37

Italian Indulgence 13 days | 12 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to November

Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy

Tour summary:

Included meals: 18

Combinable with:

• 12 breakfasts

• Vistas of Italy and Switzerland

• 2 lunches • 4 dinners

• Adriatic Discovery: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia

Have you ever met a white peacock, or found a truffle deep beneath the ground? This indulgent Italian adventure reveals a new discovery with every twist and turn. Ignite your imagination as blissful lakes invite you to linger, a sea of vines presents a silky Chianti wine, and terracotta towns dance with Renaissance tales. It’s time to slow down and soak it all up – the journey won’t last forever, but the memories certainly will.

Tour highlights: • Cinch your aprons and listen to a master of Tuscan cuisine as they teach you how to make a classic seasonal dish inside a rustic countryside villa.

Signature Moment:

• Soak up the exquisite scenery and opulent atmosphere of Lake Como.

A private hunt - Meet your new favourite local guide – a truffle-hunting dog! Alongside their trifolau owner, we’ll venture into the tree-clustered forests of Alba for a truffle hunt. Then, we’ll have the opportunity to try the truffle ourselves – when in Rome! Or Alba...

• Cruise along the tranquil waters of Swiss-Italian Lake Maggiore, pointing out white-washed buildings and lush trees nestled on the Borromean Islands.

Alba, Piedmont, Italy

Lake Maggiore, Italy

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

38 Italy and Malta

Splendours of Sicily 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to November

Syracuse, Sicily, Italy

Tour summary:

Included meals: 14 • 9 breakfasts • 2 lunches • 3 dinners

Signature Moment: A sweet delight - Visit Prestipino, the oldest pâtisserie in Catania, and discover the classic Sicilian dessert that effortlessly mixes crunch and creaminess. We’ll create our own cannoli whilst being guided by a master pastry chef – yum!

Prestipino, Catania, Italy

Nibble on freshly shaped cheese as buffaloes swing their tails in the distance. Step back to a time when ancient Greeks roamed the earth as their stories are spoken through locals. And witness the trembling glory that is Mount Etna – one of the most active volcanoes in the world. On this expertly crafted tour of splendid Sicily, every day begs a new journey, and a question... What memories will we carve on the cobbled paths before us?

Tour highlights: • Witness the sights of Palermo during a locally guided walking tour and learn how Sicilians bravely protected their home from the Mafia. • Discover the fascinating history behind the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valley of Temples. • From sweet treats like cannoli and almonds to the classic staple of cheese and wine – nibble, sip and create tastes of Sicily to satiate the senses.

Taormina, Sicily, Italy

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Italy and Malta 39

Tuscan Treats 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to November

Volterra, Tuscany, Italy

Tour summary:

Included meals: 11 • 7 breakfasts • 1 lunch • 3 dinners

Signature Moment: A Tuscan farewell - You won’t want to leave Tuscany, if you can help it. But there’s no better place to finish than our home for the final night: a 15th-century farmhouse cradled by the Chianti and Valdarno countryside.

Fattoria Degli Usignoli, San Donato Fronzano, Italy

Picture a place where each sun-dappled street leads to a new and surprising discovery. Where golden-lit towns burst with medieval treasures, and sheer, rugged coasts send shivers down your spine. A soft breeze whispers through a neat row of olive trees, and a gently simmering ragù fills the air at every turn. This is more than a tour of Tuscany; it’s an invitation to experience Italy with all your senses.

Tour highlights: • Explore the mysterious medieval town of Volterra. • Unleash all your senses during a Tuscan cooking class, where a local chef will spill recipe secrets against a calming Chianti backdrop. • Graze on a selection of handcrafted cheeses during a tasting at a local farm shop in Pienza – with sweeping rural views as the perfect accompaniment!

Cheese tasting, Pienza, Italy

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

40 Italy and Malta

Enchanting Southern Italy 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to November

Paestum, Italy

Tour summary:

Included meals: 13

Combinable with:

• 7 breakfasts

• Secrets of Puglia

• 2 lunches • 4 dinners

Welcome to Italy, where pastel-hued cliffside villages, glittering turquoise oceans and gilded palaces collide. Where every winding path laden with history leads to a new memory waiting to be unlocked. Sample soft mozzarella and crunchy peperoncini that tantalise your tastebuds, hear tales of noble kings and queens from a local expert, and soak up fragrant gardens filled with every colour of the rainbow. Embrace this journey as your own and discover something new every step of the way.

Tour highlights:

Signature Moment:

• Stroll through the manicured grounds of the Royal Palace of Caserta, taking in the magnitude of this 18th-century Baroque beauty.

A buffalo’s gift - Prepare your senses for a wonderful tasting of fresh, light mozzarella after wandering through a local farm in Paestum, where buffaloes happily swing their tails and munch on fertile land.

• Get lost among lemon trees at a grove near UNESCO-certified comune Minori where we’ll sample zesty limoncello and other lemon-infused flavours. • Spend a day exploring the breath-taking and idyllic island of Capri.

Lemon grove, Minori, Italy

Capri, Italy

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Italy and Malta

A Taste of Medieval Italy 9 days | 8 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Feast your eyes on Ravenna’s treasure trove of kaleidoscopic Byzantine mosaics on a walking tour that delves deep into its medieval past. • Savour the feeling of salty cheese crumbling on your tongue during a tantalising tasting tour of a Parmigiano Reggiano factory in the Parma countryside. • Immerse yourself in Italy’s thrilling racing heritage at the Ferrari Museum Maranello and Enzo Ferrari Museum.

Signature Moment: A pasta masterclass - What’s more quintessentially Italian than fresh pasta?! Try your hand at whipping up your own silky strands during an expert-led cooking class in the Parma countryside. Delizioso! Parma Countryside, Italy

Secrets of Puglia 9 days | 8 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Immerse yourself in the bewitching history of the Sassi di Matera cave dwellings with a local guide. • Sample a variety of full-bodied, fragrant and crisp Primitivo wine flavours during a local tasting paired with delightful snacks in Manduria. • Explore the labyrinth of Castellana Caves, where every step leads you on a journey filled with sparkling stalactites and glimmering stalagmites.

Signature Moment:

Matera, Italy

A caveman’s snooze - Our final night of this calm adventure will be spent slumbering in a cave hotel nestled in the heart of UNESCO World Heritage Site, Matera. Hotel Sassi is a family-owned venture which offers uniquely shaped rooms and views of Matera’s 16th-century skyline.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

42 Italy and Malta

Vistas of Italy and Switzerland 9 days | 8 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Test your culinary skills at a rustic farmhouse in the Franciacorta region, where a local will share recipe secrets – then, taste your own creations! • Experience scenic train journeys on two of the great alpine railways: the Bernina Express and the Glacier Express. • Observe a traditional mask-decorating demonstration in the magnificent floating city of Venice.

Signature Moment: A scenic train ride - All aboard the Bernina Express! Wind through landscapes on railway tracks that claim the crown for being the highest in Europe and steepest in the world, spotting manmade and natural phenomenas along the way. Bernina Express, Switzerland

Malta Highlights 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Wander through the maze of streets lined with beautiful Baroque architecture and hear tales of Valletta’s unique setting. • Discover Mdina’s past through its wonderful architecture as we discover the stories behind the silent city’s ancient reign. • Sip Maltese wines and discover a winemaking tradition dating back nearly 6,000 years.

Signature Moment:

Blue Grotto, Wied iż-Żurrieq, Malta

A Blue Grotto - Take to the cobalt-hued waters of the Mediterranean Sea as we embark on a short boat ride to the mouth of Blue Grotto, steered by a seasoned local fisherman. Fancy making a splash whilst you’re here? Jump in!

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Spain, Portugal and Morocco

What our guests say... “I would not hesitate to recommend to anyone contemplating a small-group tour. Our Tour Leader was professional, knowledgeable and went out of her way to ensure that everyone on the tour was comfortable and catered for.” Susan H, Iberian Inspiration Seville, Spain

44 Spain, Portugal and Morocco

Iberian Inspiration 12 days | 11 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to November

Alhambra, Granada, Spain

Tour summary:

Included meals: 16

Combinable with:

• 11 breakfasts

• Discover Portugal

• 2 lunches • 3 dinners

Sevillian sun-ripened tomato gazpacho, crispy jamón ibérico croquettes, flaky Portuguese pasteís de nata... Take your taste buds on a tantalising journey as we trace the scenic back roads of Spain and Portugal! Not just a culinary adventure, our path will reveal a heady mix of historical riches – from the Alhambra’s kaleidoscope mosaics to the eye-catching Islamic arches of Córdoba’s Mezquita. Are you ready to immerse yourself in the captivating stories and scrumptious local dishes of ancient Iberia?

Tour highlights: • Fully immerse yourself in the historic charm of Córdoba, Granada, Úbeda, Estremoz and Ronda with stays in atmospheric old town hotels. • Try freshly cured jamón ibérico in the cellars of a local farm where pigs happily frolic in surrounding pastures of Sierra de Aracena. • Feel the burning passion of a traditional flamenco show at the Museo del Baile Flamenco in Seville. • Be blown away by the exquisite beauty of the Córdoba Mezquita – a UNESCO-protected mosque-cathedral.

Signature Moment:

Minicoach, Spain

A starry wine bodega - Feel all five senses tingle as the scent of smooth wine lingers in the air during a guided tour of La Bodega de las Estrallas. Sample full-bodied flavours alongside a lunch prepared by our host family using local ingredients, as you relax underneath the winery’s shaded patio.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

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Discover Portugal 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to November

Douro River, Douro Valley, Portugal

Tour summary:

Included meals: 14

Combinable with:

• 9 breakfasts

• Iberian Inspiration

• 5 dinners

• A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao

Uncover Portugal’s true essence as we journey from vibrant Lisbon to the cinematic Douro Valley and beyond – taking in world-famous pilgrimage sites, sumptuous local cuisine and staggering landscapes as we go. Weave your own travel tale as you discover cosy hole-in-the-wall eateries along cobblestone alleys and seek out the perfect pastel de nata in medieval cities, sip on distinguished wines among lush olive groves and feel the power of the Atlantic Ocean fill up your lungs. It’s all here, waiting to become a part of your story.

Tour highlights: • Cruise along the Douro River on a traditional rabelo boat and experience the region’s majestic beauty up close. • Discover the secrets behind the delicious flavours of locally produced cheeses near Viseu. • Visit the famed University of Coimbra – sat atop a hill since 1290 – followed by a stroll through the city’s medieval, cobblestone streets.

Signature Moment:

Cooking and Nature Emotional Hotel, Portugal

A cinematic stay - Spend two nights at the Cooking and Nature Emotional Hotel in Alvados, slumbering in one of 12 individually designed rooms that take inspiration from cinematic masterpieces. We’ll also enjoy a hands-on cookery class! Prepare your senses for rustic recipes you’ll desire long after your final bite...

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

46 Spain, Portugal and Morocco

Highlights of Northern Spain 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to October

San Sebastián, Spain

Tour summary:

Included meals: 15

Combinable with:

• 9 breakfasts

• A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao

• 2 lunches • 4 dinners

Which treasures lie in the pathways that follow rugged mountains, and through the alleyways of quaint towns with pretty names? This is a journey of two parts. The first: an interwoven ten-day adventure of Northern Spain, bursting with life and brimming with flavours that will stretch beyond your wildest imagination. And second: the discovery of something about yourself – whether it’s a new favourite wine, or a town you’d never thought to visit that becomes your personal highlight. Are you ready for your next chapter?

Tour highlights: • Master the art of Spanish cuisine with a traditional cooking class in Pamplona. • Spend two evenings in the gastronomic capital, San Sebastián, filling your stomachs with Basque recipes as you feast your eyes on the coastline’s glittering waters. • Deep under Salt Mountain in Cardona, amble through low archways and vast grottoes on a journey through salt mines that were active between 1929 and 1990.

Signature Moment:

Hotel Monasterio de Boltaña, Boltaña, Spain

A memory of monks past - Slumber where monks once pondered as we spend two nights at a former 17th-century monastery in the Pyrenees town of Boltaña. Its rustic stone walls, soothing spa and grand restaurant offer the perfect setting to reflect.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Spain, Portugal and Morocco 47

A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao 7 days | 6 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Slow the pace in Santiago de Compostela as the past weaves into the present along the narrow streets of its UNESCO-listed Old Town. • Compare the subtle notes of León wine over a homecooked lunch, surrounded by the cosy and historic ambience of a rustic wine cellar. • Gaze in awe at the majestic mountains of the soul-stirring Picos de Europa National Park.

Signature Moment: A skyward ascension - Ascend 753 metres to the panoramic peaks of Picos de Europa on the Fuente Dé cable car – a glorious mountain range home to animals such as the brown bear and Iberian wolf! Pack your binoculars to help you spot these curious creatures. Fuente Dé cable car, Picos de Europa, Spain

Majestic Morocco 13 days | 12 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Drift off in luxurious comfort for two nights surrounded by elegant symmetry, golden hues and oasis tranquility only found in a traditional riad. • Learn to prepare a traditional Moroccan tagine from scratch in Aït Benhaddou, mastering the fragrant blend of herbs and spices that gives Moroccan cuisine its unmistakable warmth. • Explore the remarkably preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis with a local guide, uncovering the stories of this once-thriving city.

Signature Moment:

The Sahara Desert, Morocco

A Saharan adventure - Feast beneath the evening sky, surrounded by the golden dunes of the largest hot desert in the world. You’ll savour the blend of rich spices as Moroccan melodies entwine in the air, and fall asleep to the quiet sounds of the Berber camp.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

France and Battlefields

What our guests say... “Charlie, our Tour Leader, made sure there was a good balance between exploring and having some necessary downtime. He has really good knowledge of French history and life. Our driver, Ewan, was so good at his job and great company to boot. Definitely the best land tour we’ve done - and we’ve done quite a few!” Anthony H, Jewels of Southwest France Saint-Émilion, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

France and Battlefields 49

Paris to Nice through Vineyards and Mountains 12 days | 11 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to October

Burgundy, France

Tour summary:

Included meals: 17

Combinable with:

• 11 breakfasts

• Provence and the French Riviera

• 1 lunch • 5 dinners

• La Belle France

Signature Moment: A French Alp fromagerie - Enlighten all your senses with a cheese tasting at Fromagerie Les Aillons – a local dairy shop that has stood the test of time. Learn the secrets behind the making process and splash your tongue with some of the region’s favourite wine. Santé!

Fromagerie du Val d’Aillon, France

Glasses glinting with shimmering bubbles, windows opening out onto soaring mountain ranges and rustic villages enveloped in the sweet scent of fresh lavender... This leisurely voyage through quintessential France is guaranteed to ignite all your senses! From uncovering tales of heroism in medieval Reims to savouring the plumpness of Burgundy’s juicy grapes, you’ll discover what makes this belle country so unique. Are you ready to become fully immersed in local French life?

Tour highlights: • Gaze at 15th-century Hospice de Beaune, once a hospital for the poor and now a dedicated work of art that unveils the past. • Follow your senses on a journey through the renowned wine regions of Champagne and Burgundy, comparing indulgent notes during tastings along the way. • Feast your eyes on breathtaking scenes of soaring peaks and glittering lakes in Annecy and Chamonix.

Chamonix, France

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

50 France and Battlefields

La Belle France 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to October

Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy, France

Tour summary:

Included meals: 14

Combinable with:

• 9 breakfasts

• Paris to Nice through Vineyards and Mountains

• 5 dinners

Dive into a land of renowned artists and royal crusaders, hilltop monasteries and valley castles – this 10-day journey takes us from France’s dramatic northern shores to its château-sprinkled countryside. Along the way, indulge in fresh seafood and revel in the delights of the Loire’s vineyards. You’ll meander through elegant villages rich with stories of epic battles, curious myths and mighty legends, and pause for a moment of reflection at Normandy’s beaches, where tales of war endure. France’s timeless beauty and captivating history awaits – what memories will you create?

Tour highlights: Signature Moment: A painter’s paradise - Ready to drop into the world of Monet? We’ll do just that with our two-night stopover in Honfleur – the charming port town that inspired a bevy of Impressionist artists.

• Follow the path to Mont Saint-Michel to discover an island of medieval buildings, turreted towers and everlasting sea views. • Draw your eyes to the glittering rainbow that is Claude Monet’s private home in Giverny – an Impressionist’s delight! • Savour the flavours of local wines with a tasting session in the romantic Loire Valley.

Honfleur, France

Chinon, France

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

France and Battlefields

Provence and the French Riviera 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Marvel at the extraordinary Gorges du Verdon: the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’. • Experience the mesmerising Carrières de Lumières multimedia art show in Les Baux-de-Provence. • Discover the art of Provence rosé with a guided tasting and leisurely lunch.

Signature Moment: A picnic in the grove - Settle in for a picnic with a twist – it’s olive themed! After a wander through a local farm where an expert shares the cultivation process, we’ll have the chance to sample olive oils blended with various flavours. Our view while we dine? The peaceful Alpilles mountain range. Les Alpilles, France

Jewels of Southwest France 11 days | 10 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Savour the tantalising flavours of fresh Arcachon Bay oysters, Bayonne ham, Blanquette de Limoux wine and world-famous Bordeaux reds. • Admire the famous prehistoric paintings of the UNESCO-protected Lascaux Cave at Lascaux II. • Discover the origins of Périgord’s prized black truffle at a local farm, before tasting truffle specialities paired with a locally produced walnut-infused wine.

Signature Moment:

Carcassonne, France

Carcassonne citadel discoveries - During a two-night slumber within its walls, take your time exploring Carcassonne – a fascinating ancient citadel. Discover passageways that lure you deep into the past and find whispers of humans who lived here thousands of years ago – in a medieval city that tingles the senses.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

52 France and Battlefields

ANZAC on the Western Front: Dawn Service (Northbound and Southbound) 7 days | 6 nights | Up to 18 guests | April Worth noting: You can choose between two directions on this tour, Northbound or Southbound. Ypres, Belgium

Tour summary:

Included meals: 8 • 6 breakfasts • 2 dinners

This ANZAC tour has been carefully designed to connect you to the past – and with any ancestors who may have fought and died during the Great War. Encounter tales of the soldiers who courageously captured the Messines Ridge at Passchendaele. Breathe in the scent of damp earth as you delve into the Wellington Quarries’ twisting tunnels. And pay your respects at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service as the sun begins to rise over the heroes laid to rest in Villers-Bretonneux. Join us and uncover not just their stories, but perhaps a few hidden narratives of your own.

Tour highlights: • Join locals and visitors alike as the first golden light of the day spills across Villers-Bretonneux at a beautiful ANZAC Day Dawn Service. • Delve into the Australian story on the Western Front at the Franco-Australian Museum. • Step into Australia’s First World War story at the Sir John Monash Centre, an immersive museum shaped by soldiers’ letters, diaries and first-hand accounts.

Signature Moment:

Villers-Bretonneux, France

A soldier’s war home - Deep below the cobblestones of Arras lies a network of underground tunnels specifically dug by ANZAC soldiers as temporary barracks. With an expert as our guide, we’ll trace our fingers across rough walls and hear the whisperings of their stories.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

France and Battlefields 53

WWI Battlefields 6 days | 5 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Have the opportunity to pay your respects at your relatives’ graves with visits to significant sites. • Witness the Last Post, the traditional final salute to the fallen, at atmospheric Menin Gate in Ypres. • Discover the craftmanship that goes into caring for memorials at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Visitor Centre.

Signature Moment: A battle to remember - Delve into the tragic history of the first major battle fought by Australian troops on the Western Front at the Museum of the Battle of Fromelles. Here we’ll see the stories of soldiers brought to life in moving displays that teach us to remember and reflect on the human cost of war. Museum of the Battle of Fromelles, France

ANZAC on the Western Front 6 days | 5 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Visit significant sites where WWI soldiers are laid to rest and pay your respects to those who served their country with pride. • Delve into the Australian story on the Western Front at the Franco-Australian Museum. • Step into Australia’s First World War story at the Sir John Monash Centre, an immersive museum shaped by soldiers’ letters, diaries and first-hand accounts.

Signature Moment:

Carrière Wellington, Arras, France

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

The Mediterranean and Balkans

What our guests say... “An unforgettable experience. Themis, our Tour Leader, was amazing sharing his knowledge of the history, legends and landscapes. The experiences included were so relevant and enjoyable, the meal choices so delicious, and the free time allowed us to explore independently as well. I would do it all again and not change anything!” Roberta MG, Greece: Legends and Landscapes Athens, Greece

The Mediterranean and Balkans 55

Greece: Legends and Landscapes 12 days | 11 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to October

The Erechtheion, Athens, Greece

Tour summary: Step into a world of myth and magic – where ancient art and culture flourished, philosophy was founded and gods were made. From awe-inspiring archaeological sites to sleepy towns and coastal treasures, Greece rewards with every twist in the journey. Shrouded in secrets and stories, the legend lives on in this 12-day adventure. Included meals: 17 • 11 breakfasts • 1 lunch • 5 dinners

Signature Moment: A Greek port of call - Our heads will softly hit the pillow in Gytheio for two nights, where turquoise water ripples lap against rocking sailboats and the scent of baked fish wafts through the air.

Gytheio, Greece

Tour highlights: • Tie on an apron and cook a traditional Greek lunch from scratch at a beautiful Naxian family farm. Sample the island’s famous cheeses and learn the secrets of Grecian cuisine. • Step into a world of ancient oracles and sacred landscapes as you explore the UNESCO-listed sites of Delphi and Olympia. • Go behind the scenes at a working apiary near Itea, learning the art of beekeeping before tasting fragrant local honey.

Delphi, Greece

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

56 The Mediterranean and Balkans

Balkan Treasures: Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | May to September

NEW Sveti Naum Springs, North Macedonia

Tour summary:

Included meals: 16 • 9 breakfasts • 4 lunches • 3 dinners

Signature Moment: An evening among the vines - On the outskirts of Skopje, spend an unhurried evening at Kamnik Winery, touring the vineyards, learning about North Macedonia’s ancient winemaking traditions, and sitting down to dinner.

Kamnik Winery, North Macedonia

There is a corner of Europe that most travellers are yet to discover – where ancient bazaars still hum with craftspeople plying centuries-old trades, Byzantine monasteries cling to clifftops above impossibly blue lakes, and the welcome extended to strangers is genuine in a way that feels increasingly rare. Albania’s white-walled hilltop towns, North Macedonia’s vineyard-fringed valleys and Kosovo’s layered old cities are each worth the journey alone.

Tour highlights: • Drift between the towering limestone walls of Matka Canyon as the river carries you deeper into the rock – past Vrelo Cave and its subterranean chambers. • Glide through the crystal-clear springs of Sveti Naum by boat, a centuries-old monastery. • Learn to prepare traditional Albanian dishes in a beautiful agrotourism estate’s outdoor kitchen before heading out to pick the fresh fruits and vegetables to accompany your meal.

Berat, Albania

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

The Mediterranean and Balkans 57

Adriatic Discovery: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to October

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Tour summary:

Included meals: 14

Combinable with:

Lakes like turquoise gemstones, local wines that dance with flavour and picture-perfect Riviera-style villages await – get ready to be enraptured by the beautiful diversity of Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. Carve your path through these Adriatic wonders as you uncover the remains of medieval frescoes, spy cascading waterfalls, and share stories with artists that call this region home. What hidden secrets will you discover?

• 9 breakfasts

• Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast

Tour highlights:

• 3 lunches • 2 dinners

• Italian Indulgence

Signature Moment: A storybook island - As the warmth of the sun mingles with a soft breeze, venture to tiny Bled Island in a pletna – a traditional handmade boat. Once on the island, there’ll be time to saunter through its magnificent 17th-century chapel built upon ground originally dedicated to the ancient Slavic goddess, Ziva.

Bled Island, Slovenia

• Sip an array of signature wines during a tasting experience within the evocative walls of Bassano del Grappa’s Poli Grappa Museum. • Amble across wooden walkways through the enchanting land that is Plitvice Lakes National Park, where every turn reveals a shimmering reflection of nature. • Dive into local life in lovely Rovinj, a quaint coastal town with stunning Italianate architecture.

Bassano del Grappa, Italy

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

58 The Mediterranean and Balkans

Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to October

Kotor, Montenegro

Tour summary:

Included meals: 14

Combinable with:

• 9 breakfasts

• Adriatic Discovery: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia

• 1 lunch • 4 dinners

Embark on a voyage through South Croatia and Montenegro, where terracotta roofs glow in the light of golden sunsets and azure waters caress the shores of tranquil islands. Whether it’s sampling local sizzling seafood dishes, meandering through timeless cobblestone streets or soaking in the beauty of cascading waterfalls, this 10-day adventure will leave you with everlasting memories.

Tour highlights: • Cruise through glittering waters to the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks, as you uncover the secrets that swirl here.

Signature Moment:

• Explore the mesmerising ancient city of Dubrovnik where every cobblestone street has a secret to tell.

An unfamiliar natural beauty - Awaken all your senses with an enchanting visit to Krka National Park, Plitvice’s lesser-known sibling. During our amble through the park’s walkways, a local guide will point out energetic waterfalls and calm lakes, sharing facts at every twist and turn.

• Test your cooking skills during a class in Korčula and transform a blend of ingredients into a plate of cuisine any Croatian local would be proud of; then, uživati!

Krka National Park, Croatia

Korčula, Croatia

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Scandinavia and Iceland

What our guests say... “Our enthusiastic Tour Leader and excellent driver made sure we experienced and learned so much. We travelled almost 1000 miles in comfort with many interesting stops and walks. Certainly the best way to discover the wonders of Norway!” Marilyn H, Norway: Fjords and Glaciers Geiranger viewpoint, Norway

60 Scandinavia and Iceland

Iceland: Sagas and Springs 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests | May to September

NEW Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland

Tour summary:

Included meals: 12 • 7 breakfasts • 2 lunches • 3 dinners

Signature Moment: A story shaped by fire - Board the ferry to the remote Westman Islands and step ashore into the aftermath of a 1973 eruption that buried a town overnight. The Eldheimar museum, built around an excavated house preserved beneath the lava, tells this story with quiet intensity – and above the town, the red cone of Eldfell still steams.

Westman Islands, Iceland

Imagine a land where fire erupts from below and glaciers grind silently above – where Norse mythology feels less like legend and more like living memory. Iceland is a place of extraordinary contradiction: brutal volcanic landscapes softened by wildflower meadows, geothermal springs rising beside black lava fields, and a coast where puffins wheel above cliffs that once sheltered Viking longships. This is Iceland at its most memorable, most vivid and most unlike anywhere else on earth.

Tour highlights: • Sink into naturally heated pools at the edge of the remote Whale Fjord with mountains rising on three sides. • Visit a family Icelandic horse farm and taste rye bread slow-baked underground by geothermal heat, a centuries-old tradition. • Discover why the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is known as ‘Iceland in a Nutshell’, from glacier-capped volcanoes and black sand beaches to Viking landscapes and seal-filled shores.

Hvammsvik Hot Springs, Whale Fjord, Iceland

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Scandinavia and Iceland

Norway: Fjords and Glaciers 8 days | 7 nights | Up to 18 guests | May to September

Flåm Railway, Norway

Tour summary:

Included meals: 11 • 7 breakfasts • 1 lunch • 3 dinners

Imagine a place where powerful waterfalls tumble like reams of silk over colossal cliffsides, a world-famous railway snakes its way through dramatic valleys, and vast glaciers rumble with legends of centuries past – this is the Norway you’ve been dreaming of. With its fresh salmon delicacies and unique local ciders, pastel-hued facades and remarkable medieval stave churches, Norway’s distinctive character is sure to stir the soul.

Tour highlights: • Hop aboard one of the world’s most scenic train experiences – the Flåm Railway – to admire cragged mountain lines, cascading waterfall vistas and verdant valleys. • Cast your eyes up to the powerful, steep hills around you as we sail through the calm, turquoise waters of Geirangerfjord. • Journey to Briksdal Glacier aboard a Troll car, travelling through birch forests and rushing meltwater to the edge of ancient blue ice.

Signature Moment:

Hardangerfjord Akvasenter, Steinstø, Norway

A farm in the sea - Visit Hardangerfjord Akvasenter in Steinstø – a traditional Norwegian salmon farm. Follow schools of salmon whipping through waves as a local farmer shares insight into their life cycle. Then we’ll sample fresh salmon dishes for lunch – it doesn’t get better than this!

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

62 Scandinavia and Iceland

A Scandinavian Journey: Denmark to Sweden 12 days | 11 nights | Up to 18 guests | May to September

Kronborg Castle, Denmark

Tour summary:

Included meals: 17 • 11 breakfasts • 2 lunches • 4 dinners

Signature Moment: A place where oceans meet - Venture to Denmark’s northernmost town called Skagen, whose story began in the Middle Ages. Catch glimpses of its fishing history as you wander along its coastline and discover unique monuments that have stood the test of time.

Skagen, Denmark

Immerse yourself in a region of myths and legends – where footsteps from bygone eras echo in fabled castles, bracing sea air swells through quaint coastal towns, and insightful museums overflow with fascinating artefacts. Step into the script of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, feel the power exuding from thousand-year-old Viking ships, and share inspiration with local artisans on this spectacular tour. By sea and by land, Scandinavia’s stories are woven – and now, your own tale awaits.

Tour highlights: • Travel back in time as you discover genuine Viking ships at The Viking Ship Museum. • Travel deep into the forest at Skullaryd Moose Park, where a tractor-led wagon journey reveals the slow-moving giants that call this landscape home. • Put your literary caps on for a visit to Kronborg Castle and spot similarities between its magnificent halls and those of Shakespeare’s Elsinore in Hamlet.

Skullaryd Moose Park, Sweden

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Central and Eastern Europe

What our guests say... “Loved the tour, especially enjoyed the activities: cheese, alphorn, beer and chocolate making. The Tour Leader, Melinda, was very knowledgeable on all things Swiss and couldn’t have been more accommodating to the group.” Annemaree S, Mountains, Valleys and Lakes of Switzerland Bernese Oberland, Switzerland

64 Central and Eastern Europe

Explore Eastern Europe 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests | March to October

Wawel Castle, Poland

Tour summary:

Included meals: 14 • 9 breakfasts • 2 lunches • 3 dinners

Signature Moment: A dumpling discovery - From flour and fillings to little pockets of Polish joy – the dumplings of dreams await in Krakow! We’ll dive into the art of pierogi making under the watchful eyes of the local masters, before devouring our creations for dinner. Wonky or not, they all taste delicious to us.

Krakow, Poland

A land of ancient cities, time-honoured culinary customs and ever-changing landscapes, Eastern Europe rewards those ready to explore. Picture pastel-hued Old Towns frozen in time and hearty local cuisine crafted with love and tradition. Add soaring mountains that graze the sky like fragments of giant crystals, and you’ll soon find yourself drawn to this beautifully diverse region. Ready to dive in?

Tour highlights: • Sip a variety of white wines at a family-owned winery surrounded by fragrant vineyards in Tokaj famed for its ever-blossoming grape cultivation. • Descend into the extraordinary Wieliczka Salt Mine, where chapels, sculptures and vast chambers have all been carved from salt. • Study a blend of Baroque and Renaissance architecture during our time in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town Český Krumlov, where we’ll have the day to explore every path.

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Central and Eastern Europe 65

Romania: Mountains to Monasteries 9 days | 8 nights | Up to 18 guests | April to September

Viscri, Romania

Tour summary:

Included meals: 13 • 8 breakfasts • 3 lunches • 2 dinners

Majestic mountains, fabled castles and rustic medieval villages await on this storybook journey through Romania. Our spellbinding adventure will take us from the elegant streets of Bucharest to the dramatic forests of Transylvania, where mountain ridges sculpt the landscape, castle spires pierce the sky and half-timbered houses transport us back in time. What stories will be written into the pages of your Romanian fairytale?

Tour highlights: • Relish the sweet taste of homemade brandy during a local distillery tour.

Signature Moment:

• Count how many colours you spot in the shimmering medieval city of Sighisoara during our two-night stay.

A vampiric fortress - Velcome to Bran Castle – the stronghold that presides with Gothic glory atop a hill in the heart of Transylvania. Will you feel the presence of Dracula’s watchful eye lurking in the shadows during our guided tour?

• Discover Transylvanian charm among the medieval streets of Brasov, nestled at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains.

Bran Castle, Romania

Sighisoara, Romania

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

66 Central and Eastern Europe

Alpine Escape: Germany, Austria and Italy 11 days | 10 nights | Up to 18 guests | May to October

Innsbruck, Austria

Tour summary:

Included meals: 14 • 10 breakfasts • 1 lunch • 3 dinners

When was the last time you filled your lungs with crisp mountain air, indulged in a glass of locally produced wine (or two) and ambled through knots of colourful streets? Well, now’s your chance to write your next travel tale. Be inspired by the towering Dolomites whose jagged peaks graze the sky like giant hands reaching up from the earth. Let the music carry you through the baroque splendour of Salzburg, where Mozart’s spirit still fills every concert hall. And pause at Lake Constance, whose water glistens like millions of turquoise gemstones. This enchanting trio of countries is waiting for you.

Tour highlights: • Inhale the crisp mountain air and hear tales of the Habsburgs in the lovely city of Innsbruck, as the surrounding snowy peaks transform under the light of the sun. • Walk in the footsteps of Mozart through Salzburg’s baroque old town, then take your seat in Mirabell Palace for an evening of live Mozart. • Take to the skies on a cable car ride in the Nordkette mountains – ‘the Jewel of the Alps’.

Signature Moment:

Lake Constance, Germany

A day of lakeside treasures - Spend a day drifting across the calming waters of Lake Constance, soaking up Mainau Island’s botanical beauties and UNESCO site Unteruhldingen’s extraordinary Stone Age stories.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

Central and Eastern Europe 67

Mountains, Valleys and Lakes of Switzerland 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Be blown away by the majestic alpine views from Mt Jungfrau: the ‘Top of Europe’. • Nibble on a small variety of your own handmade cheeses after wandering through a local cheese factory in Eisiedeln. • Relish panoramic views over the Bernese Oberland from the enchanting Thun Castle.

Signature Moment: A musical maker - Meet a local musical genius in the form of an alphorn maker during a leisurely stop in Eggiwil, who’ll share secrets behind the Swiss national symbol. You may even have the chance to play the long red pine instrument yourself! Eggiwil, Switzerland

A Journey through Germany 10 days | 9 nights | Up to 18 guests Tour highlights: • Settle in for a moment among the Ammergau Alps – views of towering, snow-dusted peaks like these don’t come around often! • Saunter through fairytale towns filled with quaint homes and charming markets as local guides reveal ancient secrets and tales of the past. • Visit a traditional cuckoo clock maker in Schonach and discover the craftsmanship behind Germany’s iconic timepieces.

Signature Moment:

Weltenburg Abbey, Germany

A monastic brewery - Peek into the past to the humble beginnings of the world’s first brewery. Our local guide will share the brewery’s oldest secrets as we compare flavours during a tasting of award-winning beers.

For full details, up-to-date availability, pricing and reviews, please see our website.

solo

Travelling with Back-Roads Travelling solo with Back-Roads is a rewarding way to explore the world. It gives you the freedom to follow your curiosity and embrace new experiences, while opening the door to new friendships along the way. You’ll join a small group of like-minded explorers, and a Tour Leader who helps everyone feel right at home.

“I’ve not done a tour like this before, certainly not as a solo traveller, but because it was a small group I was included and made welcome. I plan to travel again with Back-Roads.” Louise R, Discover Portugal

With a maximum of 18 guests, it’s easy to get to know your fellow travellers naturally whether they’re travelling solo, as a couple or with friends. Before long, shared meals and conversations turn strangers into familiar faces.

Your single supplement, explained As a solo traveller, you’ll pay a 25% single supplement for the privacy of your own room and the comfort of a double bed all to yourself. We’ve kept it as low as we can, so you don’t pay more than necessary for the independence of travelling solo. And unlike some travel companies, we never put solo guests in single beds or smaller rooms – you’ll enjoy the same thoughtfully chosen accommodation as everyone else.

Lasting memories, made together Whether you’re travelling solo for the first time or you’re a seasoned solo traveller, you’ll be welcomed by a Tour Leader who gets to know you and a group of fellow travellers who soon feel like friends. Our Tour Leaders are always on hand to share local recommendations, answer questions and make sure everyone feels included. You may arrive solo, but you’ll leave with memories and friendships that last long after the tour ends.

“Our Tour Leader’s experience and knowledge was fantastic – he gave us a glimpse of British history and showed us all the highlights of the back roads. As a solo traveller, I felt very safe and well looked after from start to finish.” Margaret D, Highlights of Britain

Book with

confidence

Sometimes your travel plans might change. That’s why we give you the flexibility to make adjustments, meaning you can book your UK or European escape with confidence.

Our flexible booking policies include the following benefits:

Book now, pay the rest later Confirm your booking with an affordable deposit and enjoy the flexibility of paying your remaining balance in instalments. You’ll have up to 60 days before departure to make your full payment.

Unlimited no-fee changes With us, you can make unlimited fee-free changes to your travel dates and choice of tour up to 60 days prior to departure.

Cancellation protection If you cancel for any reason up to 60 days before your scheduled departure, we’ll hold on to your deposit for another tour and fully refund any additional amounts paid. When rebooking, tour, flight or accommodation price differences may apply. T&Cs apply. For more details visit: www.backroadstouring.com/resources/booking-flexibility

Terms and Conditions View our standard booking terms here: www.backroadstouring.com/terms-and-conditions

thank-you

A little for your loyalty

Whether you’re travelling with us again, or booking more than one tour, we’ve got special discounts for you. Think of it as our way of saying thank you, ensuring loyal guests like you always feel welcome.

Multi-Tour discount

Returning Guests discount

Many of our tours start and end in the same city, making it easy to combine them and save.

We love welcoming familiar faces. Travel with us again and save $250 off per person, per tour.

TIER 1

BOOK

TWO TOURS

TIER 2

BOOK

THREE TO FIVE TOURS

Combine your Returning Guest and Multi-Tour discounts for even bigger savings. Simply contact our friendly Customer Service team to claim your discount.

TIER 3

BOOK

SIX OR MORE TOURS

*T&Cs apply. Discounts are based on AUD (NZD values are $200, $300, and $400 respectively for the Multi-Tour discount, and $300 for the Returning Guest discount). Visit our website for details: www.backroadstouring.com/deals/loyalty-discounts

Frequently asked questions Travelling with us I have some health issues. Will this be a problem? If you can manage your health issue(s) without needing additional care or facilities, and they do not present a risk to others, this is unlikely to be a problem. You should be fit enough to walk for up to four hours during a walking tour (approximately two to four kilometres), climb stairs in traditional-style hotels (many without lifts or ground-floor rooms), use a shower over the bath, and get on and off boats independently. If you have any mobility concerns, we’ll need a quick self-assessment to check the tour will be suitable. For further information please check our Terms and Conditions (under the ‘Dietary, Health and Special Requirement’ section), contact our Customer Service team or your travel agent.

How much driving can I expect? We keep our minicoach time to a minimum, and when we do drive, we take the most beautiful route wherever possible. Of course, some days involve longer stretches, but we aim for no more than four hours behind the wheel. Think of it as a moving postcard!

Will I have free time to explore independently? Absolutely, every tour includes free time. If you’d rather stay active than slow down, your Tour Leader can recommend everything from scenic hikes and coastal walks to local markets, cycling routes and hidden viewpoints. Prefer a slower pace? They also know the best spots to linger over a coffee in a bustling square or enjoy a long lunch with a view.

Our accommodation Do your hotels have lifts (elevators)? Our thoughtfully selected accommodation is full of charm and historic details. For this reason, most hotels don’t have lifts.

What star rating are your hotels? You’ll stay in 3- and 4-star accommodation – including elegant country inns, grand town centre hotels and even the odd castle! We prioritise quality and local character over official ratings, but rooms will always come with en suite bathrooms.

Will I share a room if I’m travelling alone? We don’t pair solo travellers for room sharing – instead you’ll have your own room and a double bed all to yourself for a 25% single supplement on all our tours.

Can you arrange pre- and post-tour accommodation? Yes, we can arrange extra nights in your arrival or departure city. Spending a few extra days in your starting city is a great way to explore. Since most of our tours finish in the early evening, we recommend flying home the next day, just to be safe. For further details, please contact our Customer Service team or your travel agent.

Your peace of mind Are your tours always guaranteed to run? We usually guarantee a tour when we have at least seven guests booked. To check, find the tour you’re interested in on our website, then click on the ‘Check Prices & Book’ button and look out for the ‘G’ icon. Our Customer Service team or your travel agent will also be able to help.

What is and isn’t included in a Back-Roads tour? These are included in the overall price: • Selected breakfasts, lunches and dinners • Entrance fees to sites listed within the itinerary Costs that are not covered include: • Airfares • Transfers, unless specified in the listed inclusions • Meals not specified in the listed inclusions • Driver/Tour Leader gratuity (given at your discretion) • Social drinks • Personal items • Incidental expenses (such as hotel room service charges) • Laundry costs • Shipping charges for the return of purchases made • Charges for the return of property lost on tour • Pre- and post-tour accommodation

How much luggage can I bring? As we travel in minicoaches, luggage space is limited. You can bring one piece of main luggage of a standard size of no more than 158cm (when the length, width and height is added together) and weighing no more than 20kg, as well as one small carry-on of no more than 70cm (when the length, width and height is added together). If you have more than this, please store it before joining your tour. We are unable to carry extra luggage on the minicoach.

Tour

maps

Explore our curated small-group itineraries with these detailed maps. Plan your next unforgettable adventure.

UK and Ireland

The Emerald Isle

Days: 13

Page: 25

Highlights of Britain

Days: 11

Page: 26

Corners of Cornwall

Days: 8

Page: 27

A Scottish Journey

Days: 10

Page: 28

Corners of Southern Ireland

Days: 7

Page: 29

Chelsea Flower Show

Days: 8

Page: 30

Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes

Days: 8

Page: 31

73 NEW

A Tale of Yorkshire Tradition

Days: 8

Page: 32

Heart of England

Days: 7

Page: 33

Kent: the Garden of England

Days: 7

Page: 33

The Wonders of Wales

Days: 8

Page: 34

NEW

England: Castles and Country Life

Days: 10

Page: 34

London to Paris via the Channel Islands

Days: 12

Page: 35

London Uncovered

Days: 3

Page: 35

Days: 10

Page: 38

Tuscan Treats

Days: 8

Page: 39

Italy and Malta

Italian Indulgence

Days: 13

Page: 37

Splendours of Sicily

Enchanting Southern Italy

Days: 8

Page: 40

Vistas of Italy and Switzerland

A Taste of Medieval Italy

Days: 9

Days: 8

Page: 42

Page: 41

Secrets of Puglia

Malta Highlights

Days: 9

Days: 8

Page: 41

Page: 42

Spain, Portugal and Morocco

Iberian Inspiration

Days: 12

A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao

Page: 44

Discover Portugal

Days: 7

Page: 47

Days: 10

Page: 45

Highlights of Northern Spain

Majestic Morocco

Days: 13

Days: 10

Page: 46

Page: 47

France and the Battlefields

Paris to Nice through Vineyards and Mountains

Days: 12

Page: 49

La Belle France

Days: 10

Page: 50

Provence and the French Riviera

Days: 8

Page: 51

Jewels of Southwest France

Days: 11

Page: 51

ANZAC on the Western Front: Dawn Service

Days: 10

Page: 52

WWI Battlefields

Days: 6

Page: 53

ANZAC on the Western Front

Days: 7

Page: 53

A Scandinavian Journey: Denmark to Sweden

Days: 12

Page: 62

Scandinavia and Iceland NEW

Iceland: Sagas and Springs

Days: 8

Page: 60

Norway: Fjords and Glaciers

Days: 8

Page: 61

The Mediterranean and Balkans NEW

Greece: Legends and Landscapes

Days: 12

Page: 55

Balkan Treasures: Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo

Days: 10

Page: 56

Adriatic Discovery: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia

Days: 10

Page: 57

Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast

Days: 10

Page: 58

Central and Eastern Europe

Explore Eastern Europe

Days: 10

A Journey through Germany

Page: 64

Days: 10

Romania: Mountains to Monasteries

Page: 67

Days: 9

Page: 65

Alpine Escape: Germany, Austria and Italy

Mountains, Valleys and Lakes of Switzerland

Days: 10

Days: 11

Page: 66

Page: 67

Full tour list Region

Days

Tour

Page

UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland UK and Ireland

13 11 8 10 7 7 8 8 8 8 7 7 8 10 12 3

The Emerald Isle Highlights of Britain Corners of Cornwall A Scottish Journey Corners of Southern Ireland (Westbound) Corners of Southern Ireland (Southbound) Chelsea Flower Show (Eastbound) Chelsea Flower Show (Westbound) Scotland: Lochs and Landscapes A Tale of Yorkshire Tradition Heart of England Kent: the Garden of England The Wonders of Wales England: Castles and Country Life London to Paris via the Channel Islands London Uncovered (Pre-tour Package)

25 26 27 28 29 29 30 30 31 32 33 33 34 34 35 35

Italy and Malta Italy and Malta Italy and Malta Italy and Malta Italy and Malta Italy and Malta Italy and Malta Italy and Malta

13 10 8 8 9 9 9 8

Italian Indulgence Splendours of Sicily Tuscan Treats Enchanting Southern Italy A Taste of Medieval Italy Secrets of Puglia Vistas of Italy and Switzerland Malta Highlights

37 38 39 40 41 41 42 42

Spain, Portugal and Morocco Spain, Portugal and Morocco Spain, Portugal and Morocco Spain, Portugal and Morocco Spain, Portugal and Morocco

12 10 10 7 13

Iberian Inspiration Discover Portugal Highlights of Northern Spain A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao Majestic Morocco

44 45 46 47 47

France and Battlefields France and Battlefields France and Battlefields France and Battlefields France and Battlefields France and Battlefields France and Battlefields France and Battlefields

12 10 8 11 7 7 6 6

Paris to Nice through Vineyards and Mountains La Belle France Provence and the French Riviera Jewels of Southwest France ANZAC on the Western Front: Dawn Service (Northbound) ANZAC on the Western Front: Dawn Service (Southbound) WWI Battlefields ANZAC on the Western Front

49 50 51 51 52 52 53 53

The Mediterranean and Balkans The Mediterranean and Balkans The Mediterranean and Balkans The Mediterranean and Balkans

12 10 10 10

Greece: Legends and Landscapes Balkan Treasures: Albania, North Macedonia and Kosovo Adriatic Discovery: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast

55 56 57 58

Scandinavia and Iceland Scandinavia and Iceland Scandinavia and Iceland

8 8 12

Iceland: Sagas and Springs Norway: Fjords and Glaciers A Scandinavian Journey: Denmark to Sweden

60 61 62

Central and Eastern Europe Central and Eastern Europe Central and Eastern Europe Central and Eastern Europe Central and Eastern Europe

10 9 11 10 10

Explore Eastern Europe Romania: Mountains to Monasteries Alpine Escape: Germany, Austria and Italy A Journey through Germany Mountains, Valleys and Lakes of Switzerland

64 65 66 67 67

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