Discover Amsterdam's Lake IJssel and numerous Dutch highlights by bike. Numerous highlights are packed into this carefully planned cycling route through Amsterdam and the old fishing villages and trading towns situated around Lake IJssel, the closed-off freshwater lake in the central Netherlands bordering the provinces of Flevoland, North Holland and Friesland. As you pedal through classic Dutch landscapes, cycling below sea level at times, you will visit the star shaped fortified town of Naarden and "Amsterdam Castle" (Muiderslot), along with Edam, famous for its cheese, the fishing village of Volendam, the island of Marken and the historical towns of Enkhuizen and Hoorn which flourished during the Golden Ages with the VOC (United East India Company). Explore the lakes of Friesland and the Weerribben-Wieden National Park with their rich birdlife, take in the Hanseatic city of Kampen and the old fishing village of Harderwijk. If you plan to do just one cycle tour of Holland, this itinerary provides the quintessential Dutch experience.
Start off the week in the Troodos Mountains and the stone-built village of Kakopetria, with its narrow, cobbled streets and the nearby 11th century painted church, Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis, one of ten that make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Painted Churches in the Troodos Region. Enjoy fabulous views across the Solea and Marathasa valleys to the sea as well as the northern slope of Mount Olympus - the highest point in Cyprus and home to both a long-range British radar installation and a ski resort in winter.
The next part of your trip heads towards the Northwest and Droushia with walks across the Laona Plateau with its picturesque stone-built villages. There's also the possibility of visiting a local winery. Enjoy fabulous panoramic views as you head towards the coast at delightful Lara Beach and the dramatic Avakas Gorge Nature trail. As your luggage is transported to your final hotel, you'll walk from Droushia to the Baths of Aphrodite cave, enjoying spectacular views of Cyprus's Northwest coast with the whole of Chrysochous Bay laid out before you, from the northwest tip of the island at Cape Arnaoutis, all the way to Pomos village in the northeast. You'll also walk stretches of the Smigies, Adonis and Aphrodite Trails with stunning views from the Moutti tis Sotiras peak and enjoy a walk along the North coast, visiting some of the best beaches and coves including Fontana Amoroza, the Blue Lagoon, Manolis Beach and more.
In just one day you can explore the most attractive spots of Cappadocia and get the chance to take some of the most amazing photos of your life! One this day tour, we'll pick you up from your hotel and, in a private comfortable vehicle, our local guide will take you to all the highlights of Cappadocia in just one day, including visits to:
Uchisar Castle (30 minutes)
Cavusin (1 hour)
Ozkonak Underground City (1 hour 30 minutes)
Pigeon Valley (1 hour)
Pasabag (1 hour)
Devrent Valley (15 minutes)
Goreme Open-Air Museum (2 hours)
There is no need to think about routes or driving to go to each place, you will just enjoy your trip to Cappadocia!
This exceptional tour through Central Europe's most iconic cities offers a perfect blend of guided exploration and leisurely discovery, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Your journey starts in Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, where you will immerse yourself in the allure of this historic city. Enjoy the scenic views along the Vltava River, which gracefully winds through the heart of Prague. You will have the opportunity to visit the majestic Prague Castle, the picturesque Charles Bridge and the enchanting Old Town Square with its famed Astronomical Clock. Stroll through the city’s historic center and immerse yourself in centuries of rich history and breathtaking architecture. Then, leaving Prague behind you will travel to Vienna, Austria's elegant capital. As you traverse the scenic landscapes of Bohemia and Moravia, you will witness the imperial past and cultural splendor of this beautiful city. With a panoramic tour of Vienna, you will be introduced to architectural masterpieces such as the Vienna State Opera, the grand Hofburg Palace and the stately buildings along the Ringstrasse. Your journey advances as you proceed to Budapest, the capital city of Hungary. Here, you will explore the city's distinct districts, from the bustling streets of Pest with its neo-Gothic Parliament building to the historic Buda district, home to the Royal Palace and the romantic Fishermen’s Bastion before concluding your tour.
Make your way to the Mediterranean to discover all the natural beauty, warm hospitality and cuisine Italy and Sicily have to offer. On this 17-day adventure, you’ll travel from Rome to postcard-perfect Venice. From visiting one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Colosseum – to driving up the flank of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, this trip goes the extra mile to deliver experiences that go beyond the guidebooks. Visit the famous spots like the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain, then go off the path to a local’s favourite restaurant. Get ready to tuck into local eats, explore iconic sites and brush up on your ancient history, all with an experienced local by your side.
'Every known superstition in the world is gathered into the Carpathians, as if it were the centre of some sort of imaginative whirlpool.' So says the narrator of Dracula, the late 19th century English novel of Victorian superstitions that used this area of Romania to represent something on the edge of civilisation.
A trip to this part of the world is to enter a maelstrom of natural sensation. There is everywhere a bewildering mass of flora and fauna. Profusions of trees and flowers and grasses are barely touched by agricultural exploitation. Be alert, however, for roe deer and chamois and hedgehogs and rodents, plus the sight and sound of the area's 190 bird species. Transylvania is a region full of beauty of every kind, sometimes little towns or castles on the top of steep hills.
This trek rises daily through Carpathian lower reaches, a green land full of forests and woods, with here steep hills crowned with clumps of trees, and there villages newly built in a riot of colour and style. Smile and say Boo Naa (Hello) and you'll meet open-faced strangers who say all the country people show 'hospitality, flexibility, honesty'. The message is that tourists are welcome.
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day journey through Turkey, starting and ending in the vibrant city of Istanbul. This expertly crafted itinerary takes you from the historical landmarks of Istanbul to the poignant Gallipoli Battlefields, the legendary ruins of Troy, and the ancient wonders of Ephesus. Discover the breathtaking travertines of Pamukkale, the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, and the eastern treasures of Mt. Nemrut, Göbekli Tepe, and Sanliurfa. Along the way, experience unique cultural traditions, ancient sites, and scenic landscapes, while staying in boutique and 4-star accommodations.
El Hierro is the least known, and most westerly, of the Canary Islands. In fact, it was the most westerly point of the 'old world'. El Hierro has escaped mass tourism and with a population of just over 6,500 it has a very different feel to the other Canarian islands. The Herrenos are fiercely proud of their island and are very welcoming towards visitors who come to appreciate the environment, such as walkers.
Like its neighbours, El Hierro was formed by volcanic activity along an offshoot of the mid-Atlantic ridge. There has not been an eruption on the island since the 18th century, but the cones of ash and old lava flows are a prominent feature of the island. The small central plateau, at 1000m or more, offers a mixture of volcanic scenery, pastures (cattle, sheep and goats provide fine cheeses), and the beautiful Canarian pine woodlands. To the north the lowland of El Golfo resembles a huge bite taken out of the island, and the impressive bordering escarpment, reaching 1500m in altitude, features in our walks. On the lower land of El Golfo vines, bananas and pineapples are grown. The islanders have preserved a number of local traditions and some of their sites are included in our routes. Overall, there is a surprisingly rich variety for such a small area!
The walking is designed to pass through the variety of landscapes on the island and to seek out the most spectacular views and a number of locations of cultural and historical significance to the islanders. No two days are the same. Your El Hierro experience begins in the small town of Valverde up on the plateau- the official capital of El Hierro. For early arrivals there are short walks locally to help you to get the feel of the island. From Valverde the route winds across the plateau, down to El Golfo and up again, then across to the far west of the island before heading back again across the plateau to descend and finish by the east coast.
You accommodation is a mix of simple and charming apartments and hostels, to 3 star hotels. All have restaurants either on site or very close by and so we have included half board for you on this holiday.
This is your ticket to explore the best of Italy in just 15 days. From the ancient sites of Rome and visiting one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Colosseum – to staying in the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to visiting the site of Pompeii with a local guide, this trip encompasses some of Italy's must-do experiences. You’ll visit ancient monuments, lively cities and sprawling vineyards, indulging in delicious traditional cuisine. Kick back on sparkling coastal beaches, get to know the locals and visit lesser-known spots with your knowledgeable local leader – what more could you ask for?
One of the first destinations in the world to be awarded the special certificate as a Biosphere Reserve, the landscape is unique and awe inspiring, with magnificent volcanic craters, stark lava fields displaying a myriad of different colours, and beaches, ranging from white sands to volcanic black dust.
The island is very easy to drive across, the journey from the northern tip of Orzola to the beaches of Papagayo in the south takes just over 1 hour drive, giving you plenty of opportunity to explore.
Some of the best food and wine in the Canaries can be found here, so make sure you try the local specialities, Canarian potatoes, mojo sauce, estofado stew and the delicious boquerones, (anchovy fillets), perhaps accompanied by a locally produced wine, the widely regarded Malvasi - again the result of the rich volcanic soil.
This self-guided, single centre holiday highlights the best of Lanzarote; from its pretty inland villages with verdant terraces and fields, to the varied coastline and beaches, the exquisite volcanic landscape, and the gently pervading influence of Cesar Manrique. Whatever you decide to do either taking a slow and relaxed tour of some of the best locations, or a varied itinerary of walking, swimming and cycling on La Graciosa, there is something for everyone here.
Your week is based at the Rural Finca La Florida in San Bartolome. Originally a family home, the 15 spacious rooms of this delightful hotel with its superb on site restaurant, provide the perfect base for your holiday. The hotel has everything you will need including a fabulous restaurant, swimming pool , sun terrace and even spa treatments for a bit of downtime!
Embark from Rome to Naples, uncovering the ancient city's treasures. Visit the legendary site of Pompeii, frozen in time by the cataclysmic eruption of Mount Vesuvius over 2,000 years ago. Continue your journey with a full-day tour to the idyllic Italian island of Capri, and later, unwind in the enchanting town of Sorrento on your Amalfi Coast getaway, with ample free time for independent exploration
We warmly invite you to come and enjoy the unique world of Hungarian folklore and dance as well as great views of the capital city of Budapest at night.
While enjoying a boat trip aboard one of our unique catamaran boats on the Danube, you can delight in the wonderful sights of the beautifully illuminated city. This 3 hour river cruise is a good way to see many historical and cultural monuments of Budapest on the banks of the Danube, some of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Sightseeing experience aside, the main part of this tour is a delicious Hungarian dinner for our guests. We pay special attention to the presence of traditional Hungarian taste in our menus.
We have also specifically planned a uniquely Hungarian experience for you with our ''Folklore and Dance Show'' which displays Hungarian customs, traditions and history through storytelling and dance.
Enjoy this unique evening in Budapest with us.
Begin a mesmerizing journey through the enchanting landscapes of Spain and Portugal. Start in Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. Next, explore Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its magnificent university and the beautiful Plaza Mayor. Cross into Portugal to discover Porto, where the charming old town and iconic Dom Luís I Bridge await. Experience the picturesque canals of Aveiro, often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal," before immersing yourself in the medieval charm of Coimbra. Marvel at breathtaking coastal views in Nazaré, known for its giant waves, and then head to Lisbon, Portugal's capital. Wander through colorful neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto, visit iconic landmarks such as the Belém Tower, and indulge in local cuisine while soaking in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Returning to Spain, visit Mérida, a historic city in Extremadura famous for its remarkably preserved Roman ruins, including an impressive theater and Roman bridge. Continue to Córdoba, home to the awe-inspiring Mosque-Cathedral and vibrant Jewish Quarter. In Seville, the birthplace of Flamenco, discover stunning landmarks like the Plaza de España. Afterward, travel to Ronda, perched dramatically on a cliff, where breathtaking views and rich history await, before heading to Jerez for traditional flamenco performances. Finally, relax in Málaga and conclude your adventure in Granada, home to the magnificent Alhambra Palace, leaving you with unforgettable memories of this captivating journey, all made possible through Portugal tours.
