Aren’t all tour companies the same? Don’t they all provide a guide, a packed itinerary and hassle-free holiday? On the surface this might seem to be true, but dive a little deeper and you’ll realise the subtle luxuries, exclusive inclusions, free time and innovative mindset that make Back-Roads so unique.
As the name suggests, this tour company doesn’t take the usual holiday routes. It recognises that you can do that on your own.
What you’ll find more difficult to achieve without them is discovering the local secrets, staying in castles and exploring attractions few people ever get to see.
Here are nine reasons why Back-Roads will win you over from the moment your holiday begins.
1. Small group sizes
Don’t feel lost in the crowd, or like another sheep in the flock led from one site to the next. As part of a Back-Roads journey, you’ll be one of only a maximum 18 to 22 travellers.
These intimate numbers allow for more personalised holiday experiences, with each tour leader devoting ample time to your needs, goals and passions.
2. Scenic routes
Smaller tour numbers mean smaller buses, which allow you to get off the freeways and onto the charming country lanes.
Instead of staring numbly out the window at a repetitive motorway, you’ll be able to witness fascinating landscapes including mountains, oceans and undulating fields. Passing through quaint country towns, these tours offer deeper immersion in local culture.
3. A leisurely pace
A Back-Roads journey is all about interacting with your destination. The slow pace allows you to thoroughly explore each town, city and attraction.
There’s an impressive amount of free time factored into each trip, so that by the end of your holiday you’ll feel a local.
Not just limited to coach touring, consider a Back-Roads French canal cruise to immerse yourself in quaint French villages and towns.
4. Authentic local experiences
A big part of helping you better connect with every destination is a commitment to providing authentic experiences.
This could mean meeting iconic local characters, learning the native tongue, partaking in dance and tea ceremonies, or cruising along the water on a traditional punt boat. Each moment brings you closer to the local customs, histories and cultures of your destination.
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5. An emphasis on culinary immersion
Back-Roads knows that cuisine is a huge part of discovering foreign cultures. Each tour is partially an exciting gastronomic journey run by culinary aficionados.
From whisky tasting in Scotland and vineyard lunches in France, to cooking classes in Spain and browsing Moroccan souks, your next foodie dream is never far away. You may even bump into a celebrity chef or two along the way.
6. Boutique accommodation
You’ll feel far from budget hotels on your journey. Every night reveals a new and fascinating abode with strong ties to the region’s history and people.
From luxurious country estates and ancient castles, to waterfront villas and French manors, these stunning settings enrich your holiday.
7. Knowledgeable tour leaders
Back-Roads tour leaders possess incredible local knowledge, as many have been raised in their respective tour regions.
These experienced guides are always looking for new ways to share their cultures with you, such as home visits and back-stage access to attractions.
Read what motivates the tour guides and see what they love most about their jobs in our one-on-one interviews.
8. Luxurious transportation
Almost every journey is taken in one of the opulent Mercedes or Mercedes Vito mini-coaches. These extravagant vehicles feature uber-comfortable leather seats, air conditioning, over-sized windows for soaking up the countryside and sunroofs that run the length of the coach itself so you never miss a site.
9. Tailor-made tours
Are you looking for a personalised journey with just your family or friends? Back-Roads lets you create your dream holiday while providing the security of an award-winning tour company at your side.
This means you get to pick the attractions, destinations, accommodation, meals and more experienced on your tour.
