Dutch windmills, cozy streets, bubbling champagne, and the “City of Light” – experience the essence of three European countries. Cruise through the canals of Amsterdam on a private boat. Stand in awe before the powerful windmills of Kinderdijk. Spend two nights in the storybook city of Bruges. Traverse the World War I Flanders battlefields and travel along the Route du Champagne stopping for a visit to a Champagne winery. See Parisian boulevards, make the most of a free day in Paris and finish with dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Connect with deeply rooted cultures as you make your way through the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.
The itinerary was well planned to give a range of experiences throughout the holiday. The visits to a winery, cider brewing were very interesting, and some more of this type of local experience would fit well with all the other visits. I found the visits to Normandy and other War Memorial sites of particular interest and quite moving.
The viewing of historic places such as Monet's garden, the Taurin Tapestry and other special places were excellent breaks from the large number of castles visited.
The provision of free time to allow our own investigations of some towns was most welcome, providing some leisure time too.
The small group size is an attraction to the Back Roads touring style as it allows all members of the touring party to meet and mingle well.
The tone of the holiday was set by the friendly and knowledgeable tour guide, Marie Plattard, and the expert coach drive, Alex. Marie was always available to provide local information and suggestions for our free time, and to help where possible with any problems we may have had.
I would certainly seek-out what Back Roads tours had to offer when considering other country holidays, and recommend it to my friends and family.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on an exceptional cruise along the Seine aboard a paddlewheel boat that will transport you to the heart of a historical and artistic heritage of unparalleled richness.From Paris to Giverny, passing through picturesque villages and ancient castles, let yourself be enchanted by a timeless experience.This journey will take you to discover hidden gems such as Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne, a medieval village that inspired the painter Alfred Sisley, as well as the Château de Rosa Bonheur, former home of the renowned animal artist. You will also explore must-see sites such as the majestic Château de Fontainebleau, the residence of kings and emperors, the Île de la Cité at the heart of Paris, and the enchanting gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny. Your voyage will also lead you to La Roche-Guyon, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, where a fascinating château stands nestled between the Seine and a chalk cliff.Between peaceful navigation, fascinating excursions, and convivial evenings on board, this cruise promises an unforgettable immersion in the elegance and history of the Seine’s shores.
Cruise
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
18-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, Saint Mammes, Corbeil-ess
Paris, Saint Mammes, Corbeil-essonnes, La Roche-Guyon
Immerse yourself in the magical world of Impressionism through a fascinating program where art, light, and nature meet. Each day takes you on a journey in the footsteps of the greatest masters, from Claude Monet to Édouard Manet, passing through Gustave Courbet and Eugène Boudin. From Monet’s house in Giverny to the cliffs of Étretat, from the Abbey of Saint-Wandrille and the House of Victor Hugo to the picturesque streets of Honfleur, each stop invites you to discover places rich in history and artistic emotions. Sail along the Seine, between landscapes immortalized by the Impressionists and UNESCO World Heritage sites, for a full immersion in the world of art. A unique journey at the crossroads of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Cruise
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, La Roche-Guyon, Caudebec-
Paris, La Roche-Guyon, Caudebec-en-Caux, Honfleur, Rouen
Interesting stops but a bit too much on WW I.
Tour of Quarry too long & too much standing. No place for a break.
Enjoyed Normandy & Minen Gate very much.
Our tour director was awesome! He listened to us & adjusted as he could to accommodate everyone.
Loved the very small group size!
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, London, Jack The Ripper L
Paris, London, Jack The Ripper London, Brussels, Lille, Amiens, Normandy
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Sail along the harmonious loops of the Seine and dive into the heart of the treasures of this fascinating region, where the gentleness of the landscapes, majestic cliffs, and picturesque villages reveal themselves at every bend. Explore the enchanting gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny, wander through the medieval streets of Rouen, and discover the timeless charm of Veules-les-Roses and the Catel Manor. Honfleur, with its old harbor, will transport you into the world of the Impressionists, while the Côte Fleurie and its elegant seaside resorts will delight lovers of authentic Normandy. Normandy, a land of indulgence, will also awaken your taste buds. You will have the pleasure of tasting its iconic cheeses onboard. During a visit to a Calvados distillery, discover the art of turning Norman apples into this refined elixir, a symbol of local craftsmanship. Finally, the elegance of Lisieux and the Château de Boutemont will crown this journey, where nature, art, heritage, and gastronomy intertwine to offer you an unforgettable adventure. Rouen, with its imposing cathedral and half-timbered houses, will immerse you in the medieval atmosphere of Joan of Arc’s time, a captivating journey through history.
River cruiseCruise
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Resort, Ship Cabin
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, La Roche-Guyon, Caudebec-
Paris, La Roche-Guyon, Caudebec-en-Caux, Normandy, Rouen