Escorted Tours

Highlights of Britain

11 days | London to Edinburgh - 11 days from $6,809.00 per person, Mar - Oct 26.

Explore the very best of Britain and Scotland on this  journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of London to the rugged peaks of Snowdonia, the literary landscapes of the Lake District, and the historic streets of Edinburgh, this tour combines iconic landmarks with hidden gems and authentic local experiences.

Begin in London, where palaces, historic streets, and lively pubs set the scene, before venturing to the scholarly spires of Oxford and the charming villages of the Cotswolds. Discover Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare, and trace the paths of medieval saints and kings in Worcester and Denbighshire, before soaking in the spectacular beauty of Snowdonia National Park.

Continue through Liverpool, home of The Beatles, and the historic city of York, with its Viking heritage and towering Minster. Journey through the grand estates of Castle Howard, the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, and the literary heart of the Lake District, including Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top and a tranquil Windermere cruise.

Cross into Scotland to explore the scenic Borders, including Abbotsford House and Rosslyn Chapel, before concluding in Edinburgh, a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. With expert local guides, immersive experiences, and breathtaking scenery, this tour is a perfect mix of discovery, culture, and iconic British experiences.

Highlights

• Snowdonia National Park, Wales – Marvel at rugged peaks, sparkling lakes, and the dizzying Pontcysyllte Aqueduct suspended 40 metres above the River Dee.
• Stratford-upon-Avon, England – Walk in Shakespeare’s footsteps through charming streets, visit his birthplace, and uncover the secrets of his famous epitaph.
• The Lake District, England – Explore Beatrix Potter’s enchanting Hill Top and drift across serene Windermere, surrounded by breathtaking fells.
• Liverpool, England – Feel the Beatlemania at The Beatles Story Museum and stroll the lively Royal Albert Docks, blending music, culture, and history.
• Edinburgh & Scottish Borders, Scotland – Discover Abbotsford House, the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel, and the historic streets and castle vistas of Scotland’s capital.

Pricing

11 Days

from

$6,809*

per person, twin share

Pricing based on 04,11,25 Oct 26 departure

Inclusions

• 11 nights in hand-picked accommodation 

• 15 meals

• Premium mini-coach transportation

• Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader & Driver

• All experiences and entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary

Italian Indulgence

13 Days | Rome to Venice - 13 days from $8,179.00 per person, Mar - Nov.

Discover Italy beyond the usual tourist paths on this 13-day immersive journey through history, culture, cuisine and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of Rome to the tranquil lakes of northern Italy, this tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending iconic sights with hidden gems and local encounters.

Begin in Rome, where ancient history and vibrant cuisine set the scene, before venturing to Assisi and Perugia, hilltop towns steeped in medieval charm and culinary tradition. Explore the medieval streets of Siena, the vineyards of Chianti and the rolling hills of rural Tuscany, including hands-on cooking classes with local chefs.

Experience Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, stroll the walled streets of Lucca, and visit the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa. Continue along the dramatic Ligurian Riviera, exploring fishing villages, glitzy harbours and spectacular coastal scenery.

The journey then leads through Piedmont, famed for Barolo wines and truffle hunts in Alba, and across Italy’s beautiful northern lakes – Orta, Maggiore and Como – with island visits, boat cruises and culinary indulgences along the way. Finally, immerse yourself in the romance of Verona before arriving in Venice, a magical finale to a feast for the senses.

This itinerary blends cultural discovery, gastronomy, and scenic backroads, allowing you to experience Italy as locals do, with a mix of guided highlights and leisurely exploration.

Highlights

• Explore Rome’s iconic landmarks and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine on arrival
• Discover the hilltop towns of Assisi and Perugia, including St Francis’ birthplace and Baci Perugina chocolate
• Wander the medieval streets of Siena and savour local Tuscan specialties in Chianti
• Participate in a Tuscan cooking class and enjoy your own creations
• Visit Florence and its Renaissance treasures, including the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio
• Explore Lucca and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, including a unique acoustic experience in the Baptistery
• Travel the Ligurian Riviera, with stops in Camogli, Recco and Portofino
• Taste Barolo wines and local grappa in Piedmont, and join a truffle hunt in Alba
• Cruise and explore Italy’s northern lakes: Orta, Maggiore, and Como, including the Borromean Islands
• Experience Verona, including Juliet’s Balcony and the Roman amphitheatre, before ending in magical Venice

Pricing

13 days

From

$8,179*

per person, twin share

Pricing based on 08, 10, 19 Oct & 7 Nov 26 departures

Inclusions

• 12 nights in hand-picked accommodation 

• 18 meals

• Premium mini-coach transportation

• Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader & Driver

• All experiences and entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary

A Scottish Journey

10 days | Edinburgh Roundtrip - 10 days from $7,909.00 per person, Mar - Oct 26.

Lochs that shimmer like glass. Mountains that rise like ancient guardians. Castles that whisper tales of kings, battles, and long-lost legends. Scotland isn’t just a destination – it’s a living storybook, and this ten-day adventure is your front-row seat. Begin in the cobbled streets of Edinburgh, where centuries-old houses glow with warm light and the hilltop castle surveys the city below. Meet your fellow travellers, clink glasses over your first group meal, and let the Scottish saga begin.

Venture north through quaint fishing villages, historic universities, and windswept coastal towns before breathing in the fresh air of the Highlands. Explore dramatic glens, majestic castles, and the haunting mystery of Loch Ness. On the Isle of Skye, get lost in landscapes sculpted by time – the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, and cascading Kilt Rock will leave you spellbound. Cast your eyes to the horizon on the mystical Isle of Mull and the sacred shores of Iona, where fairy tales, legends, and history converge in one unforgettable experience.

Return to the mainland via the seafood capital of Oban and the mighty Stirling Castle, where sweeping views and centuries of history remind you why Scotland’s past is as thrilling as its scenery. From vibrant cities to wild, windswept islands, this journey is a feast for the senses – and a love letter to the very heart of Scotland.

Highlights

• Edinburgh – Begin your journey in Scotland’s capital, where cobbled streets, centuries-old shops, and the imposing Edinburgh Castle set the stage for history, culture, and a warm welcome over a group dinner.
• St Andrews & East Neuk Villages – Discover Scotland’s golf heritage, royal connections, and charming coastal villages, where pastel cottages and sea breezes create a picture-perfect backdrop.
• Highlands & Inverness – Explore majestic castles, ethereal glens, and Loch Ness, all while breathing in the crisp Highland air. Enjoy whisky tasting at Malt Rooms, where flavours range from smoky to fruity, and immerse yourself in the tales of Inverness’s old town.
• Isle of Skye – Wander the magical landscapes of the “Cloud Island,” from Portree’s colourful harbour to the dramatic Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, and Kilt Rock. Wildlife sightings – think golden eagles and dolphins – add enchantment to every vista.
• Isle of Mull & Iona – Journey to islands steeped in mythology, from Mull’s serene landscapes to Iona Abbey, one of the UK’s oldest sacred sites. Experience fairy tales, legends, and the wild beauty of Scotland’s western isles.
• Stirling Castle – On the way back to Edinburgh, marvel at this hilltop fortress, where history whispers from every painted ceiling and sweeping view of the surrounding lands evokes the power and grandeur of Scotland’s past.

Pricing

10 days 

from

$7,909*

per person, twin share

Pricing based on 01,08,11,13 Oct 26 departure

Inclusions

• 9 nights in hand-picked accommodation 

• 14 meals

• Premium mini-coach transportation

• Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader & Driver

• All experiences and entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary

The Emerald Isle

13 Days | Dublin Roundtrip - 13 days from $7,789.00 per person, Mar - Oct 26.

Rolling green hills, windswept coastlines, and castles that rise like whispers from centuries past – Ireland is a land where every corner tells a story. This twelve-day journey sweeps you from the bustling streets of Dublin to the jagged cliffs of the Wild Atlantic Way, from mystical islands to picture-perfect coastal towns, and from medieval castles to lively city streets pulsing with music and history.

Begin in Dublin, where the first pint of Guinness and a welcome meal with your fellow travellers set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. Cross into Northern Ireland to uncover the dramatic stories of the Battle of the Boyne and explore Belfast’s rebirth from turbulent times. Follow the North Irish Coast’s spectacular vistas, from the otherworldly Giant’s Causeway to the windswept streets of Derry, where history and legend intermingle.

Step back in time at the Ulster American Folk Park and immerse yourself in the rhythms of traditional Irish life. Wander the colourful streets of Galway, savour the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, and explore the rugged beauty of the Dingle Peninsula. Kiss the Blarney Stone in County Cork, toast to life at the Jameson Distillery, and marvel at medieval castles in Kilkenny, where fairytales feel tangible at every turn.

From fairytale landscapes to vibrant cities, from ancient traditions to modern culture, this is Ireland in all its glory – magical, captivating, and utterly unforgettable.

Highlights

• Dublin – Sip Guinness, explore the city’s literary and historic landmarks, and share a welcome meal with your group.
• Belfast – Discover the Titanic Museum, political murals, and the dramatic history of Northern Ireland.
• Giant’s Causeway – Walk among 60-million-year-old basalt columns and uncover the legend of Finn MacCool.
• Derry & North Coast – Explore ancient city walls, coastal vistas, and the stories of hardship at Doagh Famine Village.
• Kilronan Castle & Roscommon – Stay in a historic castle, wander its woodland trails, and dine like royalty.
• Galway & Connemara – Enjoy bohemian streets, traditional music, and a glimpse of life in the Irish countryside.
• Cliffs of Moher & Dingle Peninsula – Stand atop towering cliffs and follow the scenic Slea Head Drive, one of Ireland’s most photogenic routes.
• County Cork & Blarney Castle – Kiss the Blarney Stone, explore lush gardens, and enjoy seasonal local dishes.
• Kinsale & Jameson Distillery – Wander rainbow-hued streets, taste fresh seafood, and sip Irish whiskey.
• Kilkenny – Explore the Medieval Mile, Cahir Castle, and the city’s fairytale charm before the final farewell in Dublin.

Pricing

13 days

from

$7,789*

per person, twin share

Pricing based on 30 Sep 26 departure

Inclusions

• 12 nights in hand-picked accommodation 

• 18 meals

• Premium mini-coach transportation

• Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader & Driver

• All experiences and entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary

Secrets of Puglia

9 days | Naples Roundtrip - 9 days from $6,069.00 per person, Apr - Nov 26.

Sun-drenched towns, olive groves stretching to the horizon, and flavours that linger long after the last bite – this nine-day journey through southern Italy is a celebration of slow living, soulful landscapes and ancient traditions. Beginning in vibrant Naples, where energy crackles through every street, we journey east into the heart of Puglia and onward to the spellbinding cave city of Matera.

Along the way, life unfolds at a gentler pace. We taste creamy burrata straight from the hands of a local cheesemaker, wander whitewashed coastal towns perched above the Adriatic, and descend beneath the earth into glittering cave systems carved by time. UNESCO-listed Alberobello’s trulli feel plucked from a fairytale, while baroque Lecce enchants with ornate façades glowing in golden stone.

This is a journey shaped by the senses: sipping Primitivo wine among ancient vines, learning to make fresh pasta in a farmhouse kitchen, inhaling the scent of warm bread in Altamura, and waking up in a cave hotel where history hums quietly through stone walls. Designed to slow the rhythm and deepen connection, this immersive escape reveals southern Italy at its most authentic, indulgent and unforgettable.

Highlights

• Naples – Kick off the journey with a welcome dinner in one of Italy’s most vibrant and character-filled cities.
• Bari & Polignano a Mare – Stroll historic streets, watch pasta made by hand, and relax in a dramatic coastal town overlooking turquoise waters.
• Castellana Caves – Descend into a vast underground world of stalactites, stalagmites and shimmering rock formations.
• Alberobello – Explore a UNESCO World Heritage town of iconic trulli houses straight from a storybook.
• Lecce – Discover baroque masterpieces, sunlit piazzas and Puglia’s irresistible food scene.
• Manduria Wine Tasting – Sample bold Primitivo wines paired with local delicacies in the heart of ancient Messapian lands.
• Ostuni & Pasta Making – Cook fresh pasta in a traditional farmhouse beneath the whitewashed hill town known as La Città Bianca.
• Matera – Walk through one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and stay overnight in a cave hotel carved from stone.
• Altamura – Taste historic pane di Altamura bread before the scenic return to Naples.

Pricing

9 days

from

$6,069*

per person, twin share

Pricing based on 05 Nov 26 departure

Inclusions

• 8 nights in hand-picked accommodation 

• 13 meals

• Premium mini-coach transportation

• Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader & Driver

• All experiences and entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary

Explore Eastern Europe

10 Days | Budapest to Prague - 10 days from $5,279.00 per person, Apr - Oct 26.

Description

This unforgettable journey through Central Europe weaves together history, culture and everyday life across four fascinating countries. Begin in vibrant Budapest, where grand architecture, thermal baths and lively neighbourhoods set the scene for an adventure rich in stories and flavour.

Travel through Hungary’s countryside to traditional villages and renowned wine regions, sharing meals with locals and tasting celebrated Tokaji wines. Cross into Slovakia for soaring mountain landscapes in the High Tatras, then continue to Poland to explore Kraków’s medieval streets and descend deep into the remarkable Wieliczka Salt Mine. A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau offers a powerful moment of reflection and understanding.

The journey continues into the Czech Republic, where charming towns, Baroque squares and fairy-tale Český Krumlov reveal a slower pace of life. Along the way, enjoy hands-on culinary experiences, artisan tastings and time to wander at your own rhythm. Thoughtfully paced and guided by local experts, this tour offers meaningful encounters, memorable meals and a deeper connection to Central Europe’s landscapes, traditions and people.

Highlights

• Budapest & the Danube – Begin in Hungary’s vibrant capital, from grand thermal baths to a scenic Danube cruise past Parliament, Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge.
• Tokaj Wine Region – Taste five distinctive wines at a family-run winery, including the famed golden Tokaji Aszú dessert wine.
• High Tatras Mountains – Ascend by cable car to Lomnický štít for breathtaking alpine views, followed by a traditional cheese tasting on a local farm.
• Kraków & Wieliczka Salt Mine – Descend into the extraordinary underground world of the Wieliczka Salt Mine before exploring Kraków’s historic Old Town and Jewish Quarter.
• Český Krumlov to Prague – Wander one of Europe’s most picturesque medieval towns before finishing in magical Prague, the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’.

Pricing

10 Days

from

$5,879*

per person, twin share

Pricing based on 28 Oct 26 departure

Inclusions

• 9 nights in hand-picked accommodation 

• 14 meals

• Premium mini-coach transportation

• Experienced Back-Roads Tour Leader & Driver

• All experiences and entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary

Small-Group Tours of Italy

Experience Italy through small-group journeys designed for deeper local connections.

Imagine wandering through fragrant lemon groves along the coast, waking up in a peaceful Tuscan farmhouse, or enjoying the first bite of freshly made tagliatelle. These carefully crafted Back-Roads tours reveal the authentic side of bella Italia, blending iconic landscapes, regional cuisine and meaningful cultural experiences.

Travelling in small groups allows more time to explore charming villages, meet local producers and experience the traditions that make Italy so special.

 
Featured Italy Tours
Enchanting Southern Italy
8 Days | 13 Meals | 12 Included Experiences

Travel through the sun-drenched landscapes of southern Italy, discovering historic towns, coastal scenery and traditional cuisine.

Signature Experience:
Visit a local farm in Paestum to taste freshly made mozzarella while learning about the region’s famous buffalo dairy traditions.

 
Italian Indulgence
13 Days | 18 Meals | 12 Included Experiences

Explore the culinary heart of Italy on a journey that blends regional flavours with beautiful countryside and historic towns.

Signature Experience:
Join a local truffle hunter and their dog in the forests of Alba for a traditional truffle hunt, followed by a tasting of these prized delicacies.

 
Adriatic Discover: Northern Italy, Slovenia and Croatia
10 Days | 14 Meals | 15 Included Experiences

Travel across three captivating countries, discovering alpine lakes, historic cities and Adriatic coastlines.

Signature Experience:
Cruise across Lake Bled in a traditional pletna boat to the picturesque island chapel built on land once dedicated to the ancient Slavic goddess Ziva.

 
A Taste of Medieval Italy
9 Days | 13 Meals | 14 Included Experiences

Step into Italy’s medieval past while exploring historic towns, countryside landscapes and authentic culinary traditions.

Signature Experience:
Learn to make fresh pasta during a hands-on cooking class at the historic Antico Borgo Di Tabiano Castello.

 
Each Back-Roads journey offers an immersive way to experience Italy through local culture, regional flavours and unforgettable landscapes.

Explore Spain with Back-Roads Touring

Discover Spain beyond the highlights with Back-Roads Touring, where small-group journeys connect travellers with the authentic rhythm of Spanish life.

From vibrant cities to hidden villages rich in culture and tradition, each journey is designed to immerse travellers in the local way of life. Think locally guided walks, family-run wineries, intimate cooking experiences, charming boutique stays and regional cuisine enjoyed where locals gather.

Travelling in small groups allows for a deeper connection to each destination, uncovering Spain’s quieter corners and unforgettable cultural experiences along the way.

 
Featured Spain Tours
Highlights of Northern Spain
10 Days | 15 Meals | Maximum 18 Guests

Journey through the scenic landscapes of northern Spain, discovering historic towns, cultural traditions and spectacular mountain scenery.

Signature Moment:
Spend two nights in a beautifully restored 17th-century monastery in the Pyrenees town of Boltaña. With rustic stone walls, a peaceful spa and a grand restaurant, it offers a unique setting to reflect and relax.

 
A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao
7 Days | 10 Meals | Maximum 18 Guests

Travel along one of Europe’s most famous pilgrimage routes, experiencing the landscapes, villages and traditions of the Camino region.

Signature Moment:
Ride the Fuente Dé cable car to the panoramic peaks of the Picos de Europa, rising 753 metres above the valley floor. Keep an eye out for wildlife including brown bears and Iberian wolves in this dramatic mountain range.

 
Iberian Inspiration
12 Days | 16 Meals | Maximum 18 Guests

Explore the culture, landscapes and culinary traditions of Spain and Portugal on a journey filled with immersive local experiences.

Signature Moment:
Visit La Bodega de las Estrellas, where a guided winery tour is followed by a relaxed lunch prepared by the family using local ingredients, enjoyed beneath the winery’s shaded patio.

 
Why Travel with Back-Roads Touring
Back-Roads specialises in small-group travel, offering thoughtfully curated experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing. With smaller groups and unique local encounters, travellers can explore each destination at a relaxed pace while discovering authentic cultural moments.

Discover Ireland the Back-Roads Way

Ireland is a land of stories, where dramatic coastlines meet charming villages and every journey feels deeply personal.

With Back-Roads Touring, travel is slower, more immersive and designed to uncover the heart of a destination. St Patrick’s Day is the perfect moment to spotlight one of Europe’s most loved countries, and there’s no better way to experience it than by going beyond the expected.

 
Why Travel with Back-Roads
Small group journeys with a maximum of 18 guests
Access to hidden gems and lesser-known locations
Authentic, story-led experiences
Time to slow down and truly connect with each destination
 
Featured Back-Roads Tours
The Emerald Isle
13 Days | 18 Meals | Max 18 Guests

A comprehensive journey through Ireland’s most iconic and scenic regions, blending history, landscapes and local culture.

Signature Moment:
Stay at Kilronan Castle, an 18th-century estate set within 50 acres of landscaped grounds, offering a memorable night in a truly historic setting.

 
Corners of Southern Ireland
7 Days | 9 Meals | Max 18 Guests

A shorter journey through the south, perfect for discovering Ireland’s character, traditions and storytelling.

Signature Moment:
Visit the home of Molly Gallivan, where a local expert brings 19th-century Ireland to life through stories, demonstrations and traditional poitín making.

 
A Different Way to Explore
Back-Roads Touring is about more than just seeing Ireland, it’s about experiencing it. From historic stays to meaningful local encounters, each journey offers a deeper connection to the places and people that define the country.

 
Plan Your Ireland Journey
Ireland offers something unforgettable in every season, from vibrant cultural moments to quiet scenic escapes.

Contact Shore Travel to learn more about Back-Roads tours and upcoming departures.

2027 ANZAC Tours

The Silence and Stories of the Western Front

As dawn breaks over Villers-Bretonneux, the sound of the Last Post carries through the stillness, a moment that stays with you long after it ends.

This is the essence of a Back-Roads ANZAC journey.

These tours go beyond visiting battlefields and memorials. They uncover the personal stories, quiet moments and lasting connections that bring history to life across Northern France and Belgium.

With 2027 departures now open, this is an opportunity to stand on the very ground where history was written, and to reflect, remember and connect in a meaningful way.

 
ANZAC on the Western Front
A powerful six-day journey through key ANZAC sites, designed to deepen understanding and connection to those who served.

Travel through Northern France and Belgium, visiting significant battlefields, memorials and villages, with the opportunity to attend a Dawn Service.

Signature Moment: A Soldier’s War Home
Beneath the streets of Arras lies a vast network of tunnels carved by ANZAC soldiers. Walk through these underground passages with an expert guide, tracing the walls and uncovering the stories left behind.

 
WWI Battlefields
A thought-provoking six-day journey exploring the Western Front and the human stories behind the Great War.

This journey focuses not just on the events of WWI, but on the individuals, communities and sacrifices that shaped history.

Signature Moment: An Underground City
Descend into the Underground City of Naours, where soldiers once took refuge. Explore the cave networks and discover the carvings and markings left behind, a lasting imprint of those who passed through.

 
Why Travel with Back-Roads
Small group touring for a more personal experience
Time and space to reflect at each location
Expert guides bringing history to life
Carefully curated itineraries across key ANZAC sites
 
A Lasting Connection
In the Somme village of Villers-Bretonneux, a school still bears the words “Do Not Forget Australia” a tribute to a bond formed over a century ago.

It’s a connection that can still be felt throughout the region, in every memorial, village and quiet corner of the Western Front.

 
Book Now
2027 ANZAC tours are now open.

Due to high demand around ANZAC Day, we recommend booking early to secure your place.

Discover France with Back-Roads Touring

Explore France at a slower pace with a collection of small group journeys designed to uncover the country’s most iconic regions and hidden gems.

With departures available from August onwards, these itineraries offer the perfect opportunity to pair land touring with a river or ocean cruise, creating a seamless and immersive European experience.

 
Paris to Nice Through the Vineyards
12 days | Paris to Nice | From $692pppd

Travel through France’s most celebrated wine regions, from Champagne to Burgundy and Chablis, before reaching the French Riviera.

Highlights include:

Visiting the historic Hospices de Beaune
Tasting local cheeses in an Alpine fromagerie
Wine tastings across renowned regions
Scenic landscapes in Annecy and Chamonix
Available departures: 2, 9 and 30 September (plus additional dates)

Pair with:

Viking – Paris & The Heart of Normandy
AmaWaterways – Paris & Normandy
 
La Belle France
10 days | Paris return | From $636pppd

Experience the essence of France through culture, history and regional flavours.

Highlights include:

Exploring Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Visiting Monet’s gardens in Giverny
Wine tasting in the Loire Valley
Available departures: 6 August, 7 & 17 September, 1 & 15 October (plus additional dates)

Pair with:

Scenic – Normandy & Gems of the Seine
Oceania Cruises – London to Paris
 
Jewels of Southwest France
11 days | Bordeaux return | From $708pppd

Discover a region known for its exceptional food, wine and history.

Highlights include:

Sampling oysters from Arcachon Bay and Bordeaux wines
Visiting the prehistoric Lascaux Cave
Exploring the medieval citadel of Carcassonne
Available departures: 8 and 22 September (plus additional dates)

Pair with:

Uniworld – Brilliant Bordeaux
Viking – Châteaux, Rivers & Wine
 
Extend Your Journey
These itineraries are ideal to combine with a cruise, offering a deeper exploration of each region before or after sailing.

 
Looking Ahead
Battlefields Tours for 2027 are now open for booking, offering meaningful journeys through historic sites across Europe.

 
Start Planning
With strong availability from August onwards, early booking is recommended to secure preferred departure dates and combinations with cruise itineraries.

Back-Roads France Tours

Travel France at a Slower, More Meaningful Pace

France remains one of the most in-demand destinations, especially for those wanting to go beyond the well-known highlights and experience the country more deeply.

Back-Roads tours are designed for travellers who value scenic routes, regional depth and authentic local encounters, all at a considered pace.

From countryside roads to immersive food and wine experiences, these journeys reveal a richer, more personal side of France.

 
Why Choose Back-Roads
Small groups (max 18 travellers)
Slower-paced itineraries with more time in each destination
Expert Tour Leaders with local insight
Authentic experiences across food, wine and culture
Scenic routes beyond the typical tourist path
 
Featured France Tours
Paris to Nice through Vineyards and Mountains
12 Days | 17 Meals | Max 18 Guests

Travel from Paris to the French Alps and down to the Riviera, blending landscapes with culinary experiences.

Standout Experience
Visit a traditional alpine fromagerie and enjoy a cheese tasting paired with regional wines.

 
Jewels of Southwest France
11 Days | 15 Meals | Max 18 Guests

Discover historic towns and rich cultural heritage across Southwest France.

Standout Experience
Stay within the walls of Carcassonne and explore its medieval streets and hidden passageways.

 
Provence and the French Riviera
8 Days | 12 Meals | Max 18 Guests

Experience the beauty of Provence and the glamour of the Riviera at a relaxed pace.

Standout Experience
Visit a local olive farm, learn about cultivation and enjoy a scenic tasting experience in the Alpilles.

 
La Belle France
10 Days | 14 Meals | Max 18 Guests

A classic journey through France’s most iconic regions with a deeper cultural focus.

Standout Experience
Spend time in Honfleur and visit locations that inspired Monet and the Impressionist movement.

 
Start Planning
With small group sizes and strong demand for France year-round, early booking is recommended to secure preferred departures.

Four journeys. One extraordinary Iberian escape.

From sun-soaked coastlines to story-rich cities, the Iberian Peninsula overflows with breathtaking scenery, immersive culture and centuries of captivating history.

So why linger in just one corner, when your clients could experience it all?

Our four expertly crafted Spain and Portugal small group tours are designed to seamlessly connect, creating the ultimate 39-day slow-travel journey through Iberia. With matching start and finish cities, it’s effortless for you to move from one beautifully curated experience to the next, without compromise.

Even better, when you book two or more tours, they’ll enjoy our Multi-Tour Loyalty Discount, adding even more value to an already unforgettable Iberian adventure.

 
Iberian Inspiration
Savour life along scenic back roads on a breathtaking journey through the heart of Spain and central Portugal.
Combines with: Discover Portugal

 
A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao
Beginning in Porto, this unforgettable journey leads your clients from Portugal into northern Spain’s story-rich towns and timeless cities.
Combines with: Discover Portugal · Highlights of Northern Spain

 
Discover Portugal
From Gothic cities to sweeping rural scenery, experience the true essence of Portugal through treasured landmarks and indulgent local cuisine.
Combines with: Iberian Inspiration · A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao

 
Highlights of Northern Spain
From the Basque Country to Catalonia, uncover extraordinary landscapes, irresistible cuisine and fascinating culture across Spain’s most mesmerising regions.
Combines with: A Taste of the Camino: Porto to Bilbao

Explore the World with Back-Roads

Touring the road less travelled offers a more intimate connection to your destination. With leisurely paced itineraries and plenty of opportunities to form genuine connections with locals, your travels through Europe, Asia or the United Kingdom will be filled with unforgettable encounters.

Back-Roads delivers cultural experiences like no other. When you stay on the grounds of stately English manors you will hear the local lore and personal stories etched into the buildings' foundations. A tour through Asia will have you tasting some of the world’s best street food as well as partaking in traditional meals, cooked in family homes. Visiting the vineyards of Bordeaux is not just a stop-off at a cellar door; it is drinking in the flavour of the countryside and savouring the vistas of rural France.

Whether you’re breaking new ground or returning to a region for a deeper understanding, Back-Roads provides a journey full of authentic experiences.

Explore Europe with Back-Roads
From azure coastlines to alpine landscapes and world-famous cities, your travel dreams are sure to come true in Europe. Be inspired by the rich history of Ireland, the cuisine of Italy and the sun-soaked architecture of Spain and Morocco. Follow back roads through the highlands of Scotland and the English countryside to experience the diverse landscapes of the UK. Each unique country offers experiences that will make Europe an unforgettable holiday destination. Your adventure in Europe awaits…

Explore Central & Eastern Europe with Back-Roads
Following the road less travelled in Central and Eastern Europe will take you on a journey through medieval cities and villages rich in cultural experiences. From alpine landscapes in Switzerland to time-honoured traditions in Germany and Poland’s delicious cuisine, this unique region of Europe is not to be missed.

Explore Western Europe with Back-Roads
Home to some of the world’s most distinctive architectural styles (from medieval to Renaissance and beyond), the impressive sights of Western Europe are sure to inspire. When you experience this part of Europe on the road less travelled, you’ll discover the stunning coastlines of Ireland, alpine landscapes of Italy and culinary classics that offer a taste of local culture and traditions.

Explore the Nordics & the Baltics with Back-Roads
Your imagination will run wild as you take the road less travelled on a journey through the majestic Nordics and Baltics. Tales of revolutionaries and old world alliances will bring history to life as you wander through historic cities rich in architectural gems. From the scenic fjords of Norway to Russia’s culinary legacy, there is much to explore in the magical north of Europe.

Explore the United Kingdom with Back-Roads
Eye-catching architecture, natural beauty and fascinating threads of history weave together the story of four unique nations that make up the UK. Travellers to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will discover impressive sights and culinary traditions in this beautifully varied region.

The Back-Roads Difference

Enjoy the company of a small group

With small group sizes of no more than 18 people, you can expect a more personalised touring experience. And with like-minded travellers at your side, you’ll find that a journey shared is a journey best enjoyed.

Feed your curiosity

Stories waiting to be unravelled. Secrets waiting to be revealed. Fascinating cultures, delicious flavours and unexplored terrain. Feed your curiosity and embark on a voyage of discovery with Back-Roads – and let the new and exciting take centre stage.

Embrace the view

Immerse yourself in nature on uplifting journeys through evocative landscapes. From rolling hills and swathes of forest to shimmering coasts and soaring mountains, breathtaking views lie around every corner when you take the scenic route.

Discover a local way of life

There’s no better way to understand the essence of a destination than by meeting the people who call it home.
Learn traditional crafts, stories and recipes as you venture off the tourist trail and behind the scenes with exclusive local experiences.

Savour each moment

Slow the pace and take it all in; there’s plenty of time to enjoy each step of the journey. Whether you’re touring a
historic home, enjoying a meal or indulging in a wine tasting session, you can do so safe in the knowledge that you won’t be rushed.

Guided by the best

Insightful, attentive and passionate, our Tour Leaders will unlock the experiences that make your Back-Roads tour truly special – from adding personal touches to your itinerary to bringing destinations to life with their local knowledge.