Discover Europe Tours
Into The Swiss Alps
August 8 - 17, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Starting in the beautiful Italian Lake District, join Disvoer Europe on a journey through the Swiss Alps.
This tour stays in fabulous hotels and enjoys a leisurely pace. We’ll wander the streets of Romeo and Juliet, visit magnificent villas and gorgeous gardens, and enjoy the natural beauty of this spectacular region.
The Great American Revival
A Catalogue of Dreams: The Americans who revived the English country house
September 2 - 10, 2024| Maximum Group Size: 10 Participants | Availability: Open
From Consuelo Vanderbilt to Gordon Selfridge, those Americans who were devoted Anglophiles or married into aristocracy gave a much-needed boost to Britain in the 19th and early 20th centuries and some continue to this day. At the most obvious level, the wealthy gave a financial infusion which saved many country houses or at the very least kept them going in comfort and much better decorated than would have otherwise been the case. What became known as the ‘country house look’ was codified by an American. The greatest of early 20thC gardens was created by an American. The first female Member of Parliament was an American. It was an American romance that caused Edward VIII to abdicate. Here we examine a selection of houses and estates which were supported and sometimes transformed by fortunes hailing from the United States, together with a brief look at those who are continuing to forge those ties today.
At the time of curating this programme, a new television series entitled ‘The Buccaneers’ is about to hit our screens! This will showcase the 1870’s London social scene where young Americans were sent to find a partner!
Wales & the Welsh Borders
September 4 - 13, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Castle ruins, meandering medieval streets, and a magnificent Celtic heritage brings the beauty of Wales to life against a backdrop of rolling green hills and dramatic sea cliffs. A place where the Romans mined for gold, the Tudors founded a dynasty, and the Normans built castles.
From the romantic Tintern Abbey to the peaceful St. David’s Peninsula, we’ll explore ancient market towns and pay homage to the great poets and rich literary history, including a full day on the trail of Dylan Thomas. High peaks and hauntingly beautiful valleys define this diverse ancient landscape. Join us as we explore where the magic of this Celtic kingdom comes to life.
Journey to the Northern Isles of Scotland
September 5-14, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: LIMITED
This island sojourn is an adventure off the beaten track that explores port towns, prehistoric villages, Viking harbors, archaeological sites, and extraordinarily rich wildlife and scenery.
Jutting from the northern tip of Scotland into the North Sea, Orkney, and the Shetland Islands have a unique history of Nordic and Viking heritage. Beginning in Edinburgh we fly to Orkney where we will travel back in time to visit the World Heritage sites of Orkney’s Neolithic Heartland. From there, we will travel to Shetland Island where we’ll spot razorbills, guillemots, puffins, gannets, and abundant aquatic life.
Come join naturalists from around the world to experience for yourself the abundant island beauty in the North Sea.
TWS: Hidden Treasure & Heresy
September 8 - 18, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Set in the southwest of France, in the foothills of the Pyrenees, we’ve found the perfect setting for a week—The Château de Camon.
This past Benedictine Abbey where troubadours, crusaders, itinerant knights, Spanish princesses, and persecuted Cathars passed through seeking sanctuary, has the authentic historical charm of the 16th century with modern luxury amenities of the 21st century. Four poster beds, beautiful fabrics, and exquisite accommodations await us after we explore the antiquities of the Aude and Ariege regions.
From the prehistoric cave paintings at Niaux to the medieval grandeur of Carcassonne, it will be impossible to return home without feeling touched by the shadows of the past!
The Passionate Gardener
September 9 - 18, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 20 Participants | Availability: LIMITED
Join garden blogger Michael Gordon for a stroll through England’s best gardens. Experience the expression of Britain’s top garden designers, who have set the standard for the rest of the world in horticulture for centuries.
Our tour will show that a well-designed garden continues to delight through various seasons. From William Kent’s masterpiece landscape garden, Rousham, to Christopher Lloyd’s innovative garden at Great Dixter, to the contemporary private garden at Pettifers, we will see English garden design from the traditional to the cutting edge. This trip is designed for the passionate gardener with first-class hotels and wonderful meals.
Follow Michael on Instagram: @thegardenerseye
Adventures in the West Country
September 13 - 23, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Join Discover Europe for an exploration of vacation spot, Cornwall. Starting in Windsor, we’ll make our way through the counties of Devon and Cornwall. Highlights include Tintagel Castle, Stourhead Garden, Castle Drogo, Highclere Castle (subject to availability), Montacute House, Stonehenge, and much more!
*Back to back with: Wales & the Welsh Borders, September 4 - 13, 2024
Wild Ireland
September 19 - 29, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
From the Rose of Tralee to Dublin’s fair city, Ireland is an almost mythical land of lyrical folk song, romantic poetry, turbulent history, and deep green fields. Wild Ireland focuses on the dramatic beauty of the rugged West Coast, where the Atlantic Ocean first hits the European continent.
Join Discover Europe for an in-depth exploration of the Wild Atlantic Way, stretching from County Donegal in the north down to County Clare. From the pre-Celtic hill forts punctuating the island to her dramatic seascapes and fabulous formal gardens, Ireland is a land of gracious discoveries. Our itinerary offers an introduction to Ireland for travellers who want to see beyond the tourist façade and explore the epic history of this small island.
Treasure Houses of Northern England
September 27 - October 6, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
From the ancient city walls of York to the Lake District, here is an adventure in Northern England that takes you behind the usual tourist facade. We meander past ruined abbeys, country mansions, and breathtaking scenery, traversing from one side of the country to the other.
We will take in several literary locales, including Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage and Beatrix Potter’s charming cottage, and understand why other Lakeland poets (Coleridge, Southey, et al.) decided to make this area their home. From Castle Howard, immediately recognizable from the BBC television series, Brideshead Revisited, to Fountains Abbey, Britain’s largest and most beautiful monastic ruin, this trip promises to take you back in time to explore the wonderful Treasure Houses of Northern England.
*Back to back with Treasure Houses of Southern England, October 5 - 14, 2024
Treasure Houses of Southern England
October 5th - 14th 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Join Discover Europe and like-minded friends for a look at the history of English aristocracy in the 20th century. Spanning from the Norman invasion to the Victorian era, we will try to understand how the English class system came about and still exists in the legacy that it has bequeathed the nation.
With visits to Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn; Oxford, with its treasured buildings dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries; Waddesdon Manor, the home of Lord Rothschild; Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill; and other stately homes of historical significance, we will gain a deeper understanding of Royalty and its history. With time to stop for a pint in a cozy pub and picturesque landscapes along the way, we will journey into the tales and traditions housed in the stately homes of England.
*Back to back with: Treasure Houses of Northern England, September 27- October 6, 2024
A Portuguese Panorama
October 17th - 26th, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
This tiny country between Spain and the sea, known for its traditional agriculture, fishing communities, cosmopolitan, bustling cities, and jet-setting coastal resorts, offers a variety of experiences of the senses.
We will spend an evening listening to the beautiful husky music of “fado” while sipping port; a day exploring Portugal’s most spectacular religious sanctuary, “Bom Jesus do Monte” with its 18th-century giant baroque stairway; and a night at Pousada Serra da Estrela where a log fire and stunning views over the snow-capped mountains greet us. From Lisbon to Oporto, Oliveira, and Evora, architectural, historical, and cultural treasures await us on this unforgettable sojourn into the very heart and soul of ancient Portugal.
The Glory of Greece
October 26 - November 4, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
We invite you to join us on this journey through classical Greece! Long ago, the ancient poets wrote the first epics of war and love, families and feuds, trickery and revenge, Gods and Heroes.
Here, in glorious Greece, you’ll see where theater was born, consult the oracle at Delphi, stand where St. Paul preached to the Corinthians, and walk under the Lion Gate at Mycenae, just as the blind poet Homer recorded it nearly 3,000 years ago. Our first stop is the small fishing village of Tolo, an ideal base from which to explore much of “Classical Greece.”
Visits will include the theater at Epidavros and ancient Mycenae, famous for The Iliad. We’ll cross the Gulf of Corinth, stopping in the ancient city for a visit, and travel back in time to Delphi where the most famous oracle in ancient Greece was consulted. In Athens, we’ll visit the Acropolis, explore the National Museum, soak up the city’s history, and sample food and nightlife in the Plaka, the old section of the city.
We’ll end our adventure with an optional extension for three nights on the island of Crete, home to the ancient Minoan civilization. We’ll visit the Palace of Knossos, home of the Minotaur, and explore the island from Zeus’ birthplace to the charming resort town of Agios Nikolaos.
Madrid y Andalucia
November 14 - 23, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Spain is a land of vivid contrasts. Timeless, sunbaked landscapes surround its vibrant cities, and traditional rural communities continue unchanged beside the bustle of modern-day urban life.
The country’s proud history and architectural legacy embrace Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Moors, and the Catholic Kings of Spain’s “Golden Age.” Join Discover Europe for a journey into the heart and soul of Southern Spain — Andalucía!
Christmas Markets of Austria & Bavaria
December 5th - 14th, 2024 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Join Discover Europe for a very special journey to Vienna, Salzburg, and Munich during the most festive time of year.
Both Vienna and Salzburg’s city centers are UNESCO World Heritage Sites with well-preserved architecture, magnificent museums and gardens, culinary delights, and music everywhere. Our travels between these three cities will provide memorable experiences amid the stunning landscapes of the Vienna Woods, the Danube Valley, and the Bavarian Alps.
During our journey we will attend a service with music by the Vienna Boys Choir, a show of the Lipizzaner Stallions of the famous Spanish Riding School, stop at the picturesque Neuschwanstein Castle, and, of course, along the way, there will be ample time to browse the wonderful Christmas Markets for which the region is famous.
This is sure to be a remarkable trip, filled with glorious architecture, art, dining, music, and memories!
Lisbon to Maderia
January 25 - February 3, 2025 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Embark on a journey of discovery from Lisbon to Madeira. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Lisbon, where historic charm meets modern allure. Then, head to the enchanting island of Madeira, where rugged landscapes and lush greenery await. Experience coastal wonders, indulge in local flavors, and create unforgettable memories on this captivating adventure through two Portuguese gems.
Join us for an unforgettable blend of city charisma and island allure!
An Icelandic Valentine
Iceland . . . the Land of Fire and Ice is a country full of contrasts. From steamy hot springs to top-notch spas, spectacular scenery to art museums, this unique land is the perfect place to relax, recharge, and explore.
Embark on a romantic journey amidst the otherworldly beauty of glaciers, waterfalls, and geysers, creating timeless memories with your loved one. Marvel at the spectacular Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky, painting a celestial canvas just for you.
Italian Masterpieces
March 27 - April 5, 2025 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Discover the unique charms of Rome, Florence, and Venice—each representing a distinct facet of Italy's rich heritage.
From the architectural wonders of Rome, including St. Peter’s Square and the Colosseum, to the artistic treasures of Florence and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this journey encapsulates Italy's timeless allure. Explore medieval gems like Assisi, Padua, and Bologna, culminating in the enchanting Venice—a city that seamlessly combines light, water, open space, and Gothic grandeur.
This excursion is a reminder of Italy's timeless past and present, showcasing civilization's splendid achievements.
The World of Jane Austen
April 25 - May 3, 2025 | Maximum Group Size: 20 Participants | Availability: Open
Enjoying a wave of popularity in recent years, thanks largely to the various film adaptations of her novels, Jane Austen’s work spans the Regency period. Her view of English society is a matchless mix of irony, humor, and honesty. Jane Austen fans will love her quiet home in Chawton. The door to the dining room, which she would not allow the servant to oil, still squeaks. The tiny Hampshire village is the epitome of the country setting Jane Austen loved for her novels, while our stay in Bath will shed light on the more cosmopolitan world of which she was such a keen observer.
Join us this spring on an adventure through the picture book countryside of southwest England, where the scenes and characters of this great novelist will rise off the page and come to life before your eyes.
Enchanting Ireland
May 5-14, 2025 | Maximum Group Size: 8 Participants | Availability: Open
Embark on an enriching journey through Ireland’s captivating landscapes and charming towns. Set against a backdrop of mythology, deep green fields, literary heritage, and a proud but turbulent history, Ireland is as lovely and lyrical as it is lively.
Join Discover Europe, as we traverse through ancient castles, verdant countryside, and charming villages, immersing ourselves in the rich heritage and breathtaking scenery that define Ireland’s enchanting allure.
Travels with Sandi: Barcelona & Mallorca
November 17 - 25, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
This trip has been specifically designed to avoid the tourists and take in the culture of this multifaceted island In November, the weather is still warm, and the historical sites will be blessedly free of tour buses.
Our base is the fabulous Gran Hotel in the historic town of Sóller, set in the beautiful Tramontana Mountains. Sóller is accessible to the capital, Palma, by a wonderful antique electric train that affords incredible views as it weaves up through the mountains and out the other side.
We’ll celebrate Thanksgiving Mallorcan style with slow-roasted lamb at a very special restaurant up in the mountains. This year don’t spend all day in the kitchen. If you like your relatives, bring them along - if you don’t, leave them to it and join us for fun in the sun on an island paradise!
Join our most popular tour guide, Gavin Miller, who will take us to many very special places on this beautiful island that he calls home.
The Glory of Greece
October 21 - 30, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
We invite you to join us on this journey through classical Greece! Long ago, the ancient poets wrote the first epics of war and love, families and feuds, trickery and revenge, Gods and Heroes.
Here, in glorious Greece, you’ll see where theater was born, consult the oracle at Delphi, stand where St. Paul preached to the Corinthians, and walk under the Lion Gate at Mycenae, just as the blind poet Homer recorded it nearly 3,000 years ago. Our first stop is the small fishing village of Tolo, an ideal base from which to explore much of “Classical Greece.”
Visits will include the theater at Epidavros and ancient Mycenae, famous from The Iliad. We’ll cross the Gulf of Corinth, stopping in the ancient city for a visit, and travel back in time to Delphi where the most famous oracle in ancient Greece was consulted. In Athens, we’ll visit the Acropolis, explore the National Museum, soak up the city’s history, and sample food and nightlife in the Plaka, the old section of the city.
We’ll end our adventure with an optional 4-day Greek Island Cruise, visiting Mykonos, Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Rhodes, Patmos, Crete and Santorini. With warm sun and sea, delicious food and thousands of years of fascinating history, join Discover Europe on The Glory of Greece.
Travels with Sandi: A Taste of Sicily
October 20 - 28, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Halfway between Europe and Africa and commanding the passage between the east and west parts of the Mediterranean Sea, the island of Sicily has always been at the crossroads of history. With a balance of guided excursions and leisure time to explore at your own pace, you’ll have an opportunity to experience Sicily’s winding medieval streets, glittering beaches, and, of course, the incredible variety of its food and wine.
Your traveling party will be escorted by Discover Europe’s Fiona Bennett as she leads you through scenic landscapes and ancient towns on this customized tour.
Optional Malta extension.
Kent: The Garden of England
October 5 - 14, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
The County of Kent takes up most of the southeastern tip of England, the closest point to the continental mainland. The gentle slopes of its chalk hills and the rich clay soils of its central valleys, combined with the mild climate of the south of England have provided such a fertile environment that the area has been known for centuries as the Garden of England.
From the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle; to Chartwell, the home of Sir Winston Churchill; with stays in ancient Canterbury and Battle, named for the Battle of Hastings, we have opted for a mixture of sites, ranging from the historic to the scenic, from the literary to the whimsical, that we hope will give an accurate flavor of the region.
The Hidden Treasures of Le Marche
October 5th - 14th, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Le Marche sits in rural tranquility, happily devoid of convoys of tourist coaches clogging up the countryside, and is the perfect destination for those who want to experience Italy, away from the throngs of tourists.
A highlight of the tour for many will be the visits to three gorgeous renaissance villas, complete with their spectacular gardens. Additionally. we’ll take part in Aqualagna’s National Truffle Festival, visit a mozzarella and cheese farm, taste wine from ancient vines only found in this region, experience the enchanting Frasassi Caves, and spend an evening devoted to a traditional Italian cooking class.
Join Discover Europe and long-time guide, Fiona Bennett on this journey to the undiscovered jewel, Le Marche.
The Italian Kitchen
September 28 - October 7, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
When you think of soul-satisfyingly good food, you think of Italy. Bowls of heaping semolina pasta as yellow as the sun. Seafood right off the hook, grilled, and served to perfection. Vegetables are plucked from the earth just moments before they grace your plate. Wine, ever flowing, rich and robust.
Take a journey from farm to table in the Piedmont and Emilia Romagna regions of Italy. In a country where food is royalty, these regions are king. From the frenzy of white truffle season to the majestic grapes that are aged into the Barolos and Barbarescos, and cheese crafted with perfection, we will loosen our belt buckles and explore the gastronomic masterpieces, as we soak in the history of the culture of this famed region.
The Island of Saints & Scholars
September 21 - 30, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
This trip is for travelers who want to see beyond the tourist façade and explore the deeper artistic and cultural facets of this small complex island. From literary haunts to dramatic seascapes, our itinerary offers an experience of the full range of the Emerald Isle.
Starting in Dublin for three nights, where we will see the celebrated Book of Kells, we will then venture on to Sligo with a visit to the Neolithic Newgrange, one of the most spectacular archeological sites in Europe; to Galway where we will drive along the Connemara Coast and venture to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands.
With a balance of guided and free time in the ancient country, you’ll revel in the mystical beauty and literary references as we explore this magical land.
In the Footsteps of Martin Luther
September 14 - 23, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Exploring the birth of the Protestant Reformation and ending with a stay in the city of Berlin
Ravenna & the Veneto
September 21 - 30, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
This exquisite tour will highlight the picturesque towns and villages of the Veneto and highlight the connections that the region has with Asia Minor and the artistic and cultural influences that have been absorbed over the centuries.
This fall, why not join Discover Europe’s Fiona Bennett for a visit to a vineyard (Soave), a stroll through the quiet back streets of Venice, or an ancient village in search of the perfect gelato, Here is an opportunity to sample the rich cuisine of the north and toast the beauty of the Veneto region.
The Hidden Scottish Borders & Lowlands
September 20 - 28, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
A collaboration with our partners at The Culture Concierge and hosted by Alexandra Messervy, this tour takes you through the lowlands and into the Scottish borders.
With rolling hills often regarded as the poor relations of the highland mountains, famous fishing rivers and burns and some spectacular coastal scenery including the Isle of Arran and the Mull of Galloway, this land is filled with history, castles and beautiful estates, as well as some glorious gardens with late summer colour abundant in September.
Yorkshire and the Lake District
September 14 - 23, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Join us in a celebration of the finest English landscapes of the Peaks, Lakes and Yorkshire; inspiration for poets, artists and writers as well as gardeners and aristocratic collectors through the centuries.
The Château de Camon
September 8 - 16, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Set in the southwest of France, in the foothills of the Pyrenees, we’ve found the perfect setting for a week—The Château de Camon.
This past Benedictine Abbey where troubadours, crusaders, itinerant knights, Spanish princesses, and persecuted Cathars passed through seeking sanctuary, has the authentic historical charm of the 16th century with modern luxury amenities of the 21st century. Four poster beds, beautiful fabrics, and exquisite accommodations await us after we explore the antiquities of the Aude and Ariege regions.
From the prehistoric cave paintings at Niaux to the medieval grandeur of Carcassonne, it will be impossible to return home without feeling touched by the shadows of the past!
Queen Elizabeth II - An Emblem of our Time
September 4 - 14, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Celebrate the life and legacy of Queen Elizabeth II on the first anniversary of her passing.
Curated by Alexandra Messervy, a former member of The Royal Household of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, we have put together a programme which celebrates the history and traditions of the British Monarchy and will commemorate the events to come.
Guided by our superb experts throughout, visits include hosting by a cousin of The Prince of Wales, our own Alexandra Messervy who gives insight into Royal service, and some of London’s finest history and art guides.
Journey to the Northern Isles
August 31 - September 9, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
This island sojourn is an adventure off the beaten track that explores port towns, prehistoric villages, Viking harbors, archaeological sites, and extraordinarily rich wildlife and scenery.
Jutting from the northern tip of Scotland into the North Sea, Orkney, and the Shetland Islands have a unique history of Nordic and Viking heritage. Beginning in Edinburgh we fly to Orkney where we will travel back in time to visit the World Heritage sites of Orkney’s Neolithic Heartland. From there, we will travel to Shetland Island where we’ll spot razorbills, guillemots, puffins, gannets, and abundant aquatic life.
Come join naturalists from around the world to experience for yourself the abundant island beauty in the North Sea.
Into the Western Isles of Scotland
August 25 - September 3, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Well over a thousand years ago the Vikings sailed across the North Sea, first to raid and then to settle in the Hebrides and Western Scotland. They mingled with the native Gaelic people and brought a special gift – their mastery of the sea and their fast, flexible ships. Before long, a race of strong and independent leaders was born. The highest title, the Overlord, was claimed by the Norse King. Somerled, the earliest ancestor of Clan Donald, rebelled to lead a great revival of Gaeldom. The Norse were driven out of Western Scotland and the Isles, and Somerled crowned himself “King of the Isles.”
Join Discover Europe on this magical and historical journey through the Western Isles of Scotland as we explore both the landscape and culture of this powerful clan.
Across the Channel
August 24 - September 3, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Medieval cities, charming small towns, gothic cathedrals—we’ll experience all this and more, in a journey that crosses the English Channel, taking us from London to the islands of Jersey and Guernsey, across the beaches of Normandy, to the beauty of Monet’s gardens and the elegance of Parisian boulevards.
It’s a visit that spans a spectrum of experiences—from the drama of medieval villages to the broad vistas of seaside towns to the cosmopolitan beauty of city life, with all of their attendant architectural, artistic, and gastronomic masterpieces—truly a feast for the senses!
All of the Creatures: Great & Small
August 2 - 13, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 6 Participants | Availability: WAITLIST ONLY
The recently released second season of the wonderful TV series, All Creatures Great and Small, was a co-production between Channel 5 in the UK and America’s PBS and has been a huge success on both sides of the Atlantic. The title, of course, comes from the hymn by Mrs. Cecil Alexander, which begins “All things bright and beautiful, . . .” Here is your opportunity to visit some of the locations at which the series was filmed.
But there is so much more . . .We begin our adventure in Edinburgh in time to attend the opening of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which, in turn, heralds the beginning of the annual Edinburgh Festival of Arts.
This summer, join tour guide Thomas Randall and explore the north of England from Edinburgh, through the “border country” to the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, immortalized in James Herriott’s novels.
Discovering East Anglia
July 14 - 22, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Windmills and waterfowl, tiny stone churches, rambling country mansions, and vast gentle fens stretching to the sky.
East Anglia is an area of England often overlooked by visitors and it is truly worth discovering. Our guide, Gavin Miller, has designed this itinerary to showcase the hidden treasures of the region where he grew up.
Along the way, we’ll explore the cities of Norwich with its beautiful cathedrals (possibly in time for Evensong); and Cambridge for a walking tour of the ancient university with 800 years of architecture and tradition. For the duration of the visit, Gavin has chosen a wonderful, four-star country house hotel that is also recognized locally for its excellent restaurant.
This summer, come join Gavin, in this special place and share his love of what he once called home.
The Passionate Gardener
July 3 - 12, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
This Summer, join garden blogger Michael Gordon for a stroll through England’s best gardens. Experience the expression of Britain’s top garden designers, who have set the standard for the rest of the world in horticulture for centuries.
Our tour will show that a well-designed garden continues to delight through various seasons. From William Kent’s masterpiece landscape garden, Rousham, to Christopher Lloyd’s innovative garden at Great Dixter, to the contemporary private garden at Pettifers, plus a day at the Hampton Court Flower Show, we will see English garden design from the traditional to the cutting edge. This trip is designed for the passionate gardener with first-class hotels and wonderful meals.
Follow Michael on Instagram: @thegardenerseye
*Optional Ireland Extension: July 12 - July 16
Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast
June 23 - July 1, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
The wonders of nature, from Mount Vesuvius to the azure grotto of Capri; classical landmarks from both Greek and Roman eras; villas and gardens of delightful villages of the cliff-hung Amalfi Coast; the splendid cuisine of the region; and coastal cities saturated with art and architecture all await.
The Sorrento Peninsula and the Amalfi Coast have long been a playground for the rich and famous, and with very good reason. The mountains tumble down into the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, providing breathtaking views around every bend in the road. The Island of Capri glistens like a jewel set in the Bay of Naples; it is a small wonder that Roman emperors made this their “home away from Rome.” Scenic landscapes, ancient towns, and sculpture-filled gardens on this wonderful discovery of southern Italy.
Treasure Houses of Southern England
June 17 - 26, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Late Registration*
This Summer, join Discover Europe and like-minded friends for a look at the history of English aristocracy in the 20th century. Spanning from the Norman invasion to the Victorian era, we will try to understand how the English class system came about and still exists in the legacy that it has bequeathed the nation.
With visits to Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn; Oxford, with its treasured buildings dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries; Waddesdon Manor, the home of Lord Rothschild; Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill; and other stately homes of historical significance, we will gain a deeper understanding of Royalty and its history. With time to stop for a pint in a cozy pub and picturesque landscapes along the way, we will journey into the tales and traditions housed in the stately homes of England.
*Back to back with: Treasure Houses of Southern England, June 9 - 18, 2023
* Late registrations (received within 60 days of departure) may also incur extra fees as discounted rates for hotels and airfares may no longer be available so close to departure. Participants will be made aware of any such charges before their registration is accepted.
Burns’ Country
June 17 - 26, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
The southwestern corner of Scotland comprises the counties of Ayrshire, Wigtownshire, Dumfriesshire, and Kirkcudbrightshire, located in the regions of Strathclyde and Dumfries & Galloway — we call it Burns’ Country.
The name derives from the region’s claim to fame as the home of Scotland’s “favorite son,” the “Bard of Ayrshire,” Robert (Robbie or Rabbie) Burns. His fame is now so widespread that Scots worldwide have founded Burns Clubs and celebrate his birthday every year on January 25th.
This part of Scotland is well off the usual tourist track, which heads up into the Highlands or down through the Borders into England. The gently rolling hills dotted with ruined castles, medieval abbeys, and megalithic stone circles will charm you with a beauty all their own.
Treasure Houses of Northern England
June 9 - 18, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Late Registration*
From the ancient city walls of York to the Lake District, here is an adventure in Northern England that takes you behind the usual tourist facade. We meander past ruined abbeys, country mansions, and breathtaking scenery, traversing from one side of the country to the other.
We will take in several literary locales, including Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage and Beatrix Potter’s charming cottage, and understand why other Lakeland poets (Coleridge, Southey, et al.) decided to make this area their home. From Castle Howard, immediately recognizable from the BBC television series, Brideshead Revisited, to Fountains Abbey, Britain’s largest and most beautiful monastic ruin, this trip promises to take you back in time to explore the wonderful Treasure Houses of Northern England.
*Back to back with: Treasure Houses of Southern England, June 17 - 26, 2023
* Late registrations (received within 60 days of departure) may also incur extra fees as discounted rates for hotels and airfares may no longer be available so close to departure. Participants will be made aware of any such charges before their registration is accepted.
Wild Ireland
June 8 - 18, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Late Registration*
From the Rose of Tralee to Dublin’s fair city, Ireland is an almost mythical land of lyrical folk song, romantic poetry, turbulent history, and deep green fields. Wild Ireland focuses on the dramatic beauty of the rugged West Coast, where the Atlantic Ocean first hits the European continent.
Join Discover Europe for an in-depth exploration of the Wild Atlantic Way, stretching from County Donegal in the north down to County Clare. From the pre-Celtic hill forts punctuating the island to her dramatic seascapes and fabulous formal gardens, Ireland is a land of gracious discoveries. Our itinerary offers an introduction to Ireland for travellers who want to see beyond the tourist façade and explore the epic history of this small island.
* Late registrations (received within 60 days of departure) may also incur extra fees as discounted rates for hotels and airfares may no longer be available so close to departure. Participants will be made aware of any such charges before their registration is accepted.
Skye & the Highlands
June 1 - 11, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Late Registration*
Few visitors travel to Skye without leaving part of their heart in the Highlands. The breathtaking landscapes, the romance of the tales and legends, and the drama of noble and fiercely independent inhabitants all leave a lasting impression.
Starting in Edinburgh, “the Athens of the North,”; we will travel on to Inverness- “the capital of the Highlands” with a day trip excursion on Loch Ness; Skye — home of Dunvegan Castle and Talisker Whisky Distillery; Mull, where we will go to the holy island of Iona where Christianity in Scotland started; and Stirling — the gateway between the highlands and the lowlands. With plenty of time to enjoy a wee dram in a pub or two, join us this summer for this unforgettable northern journey into Scottish culture, history, and stunning scenery.
* Late registrations (received within 60 days of departure) may also incur extra fees as discounted rates for hotels and airfares may no longer be available so close to departure. Participants will be made aware of any such charges before their registration is accepted
The Pilgrim’s Way
May 30 - June 8, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Join Discover Europe and explore the ancient route of the Camino de Santiago in northwest Spain. Also known as The Pilgrim’s Way or Way of St. James, it has been travelled a foot by those seeking redemption since AD 1085.
Starting in Bilboa, we will go to the stunning Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, all while staying in hotels along the path, getting an idea of what life is like walking the Camino. With visits to the beautiful stained-glass cathedral in Leon, Gaudi’s The Bishop’s Palace, and O Cebreiro, a traditional Galician Mountain settlement with pallozas (stone huts topped with thatched roofs), we will wind our way to Santiago, where present-day pilgrims celebrate the end of their 500-mile journey, with swollen feet and big smiles.
The Food & Wine Of Bordeaux
May 26 - June 3, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Late Registration*
As France’s largest wine-producing region, Bordeaux has much to offer both the wine connoisseur and the novice alike.
Situated on the Garonne River upstream from the Gironde estuary, Bordeaux is France’s undisputed wine capital and, as such, attracts visitors from all over the world. But it is much more than that. From our base near St. Émilion, this one-stop tour focuses on this region's delicious food and exquisite wines.
* Late registrations (received within 60 days of departure) may also incur extra fees as discounted rates for hotels and airfares may no longer be available so close to departure. Participants will be made aware of any such charges before their registration is accepted
The Cotswold Hills
May 25th - June 3rd 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Dreamy spires and picturesque villages capture the romance and gentle beauty of the Cotswolds, a corner of England where lush, rolling hillsides meet the horizon.
From the soaring towers of Oxford University, where we will take a walking tour, to the quaint, tumbling thatched-roofed cottages, along the riverside, to the gorgeous Georgian architecture of ancient Bath, we will slow down, stay a while, and dream. We begin and end our tour in Royal Windsor, which is convenient for meeting the various arriving flights of our group members. From here, we will wend our way with stops at Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, to the beautiful gardens of Sudeley Castle and the romantic ruins of Kenilworth.
Experience the gentle scenery in the full glory of an English summer and be transfixed by the stunning Cotswolds Hills.
Under the Tuscan Sun
May 19 - 27, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
Let’s unpack in Tuscany this Spring!
Come experience the sights, smells, and tastes of this fertile cultural, historical, and bucolic land. We will make our base in Montecatini where we will take daytime excursions to Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance; San Gimignano, the “city of beautiful towers”; Pisa, famous for its leaning tower; and the Cinque Terre, five towns that are perched along a stretch of cliffs, an area of such unspoiled natural beauty that it was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1997.
With our luxury home base in The Grand Hotel Francia & Quirinale, we will explore and taste our way around this heavenly place called Tuscany!
The Best Of English Gardens
May 16 - 25, 2023 | Maximum Group Size: 15 Participants | Availability: Open
This spring, join fellow garden lovers for a stroll through The Best of English Gardens.
At a relaxed pace, with wonderful meals, first-class hotels, and a panorama of magnificent blooms unfolding before us, we will explore England’s most famous gardens, from Vita Sackville-West’s crowning achievement at Sissinghurst Castle to magnificent Stourhead Gardens. We’ll tour the Royal Horticultural Society’s flagship gardens at Wisley, Kiftsgate, and Hidcote Manor, along with visits to the Georgian city of Bath, and conclude with a full-day visit to the Chelsea Flower Show on the members-only day.
A quintessential springtime celebration, this tour will plant colorful memories for years to come.