Happy Returns: Travel Deeper On These 5 Second-Time Tours
Think you’ve seen it all? When you go to France and see the Eiffel Tower, you may think you’re done and dusted – but that’s just the beginning. Every country is full of diversity and regional variation when you go beyond the iconic sites, which is why we created our Country Roads tours, to help you travel deeper into your destination.
1. How do Country Roads tours help you travel deeper?
Returning to the same country for a second trip is far from repetitive – in fact, it offers you a completely fresh perspective. Our Country Roads tours are the perfect choice if you want to travel deeper into what makes each destination different.
While many of our tours cross multiple countries, our Country Road itineraries focus on just one, helping you see it from a new, more authentic approach – whether that’s meeting local people, trying traditional dishes with our farm-to-table dining experiences, or discovering hidden gems in more rural destinations that stray from the regular tourist roads. Discover these five Country Roads tours that will have you wanting to return to Europe for a deeper travel experience.
2. Our most popular Country Roads tours
Country Roads of Scotland
9 days, 13 cities
See the beauty of Scotland, from the ancient villages of the rural islands to the forward-thinking rangers of Glencoe Natural Reserve, protecting its natural beauty for generations to come – with a wee dram and delicious local fare in between. Yes, you’ll see the colorful streets of Edinburgh, but you’ll also get to talk with a Glencoe ranger about the conservation of the valley and pick the brains of a Scotch whisky master distiller.
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Old Pulteney Distillery Whisky Tasting
The story of Scotch begins as early as the 15th century and you’ll get to learn all about the art of whisky-making, rom barrels that have been resting for decades to those that have only just been filled, as you share a wee dram of Old Pulteney Distillery with the master distiller, appreciating the flavors as you taste a selection of whiskies.
Meet a Ranger to Learn about Conservation in Glencoe
Join a ranger in the spectacular Valley of Glencoe for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, where you’ll about the protection of this rare ecosystem and the important work reintroducing lost indigenous species to its flora and fauna. The Natural Reserve carries out important scientific research and conversation initiatives to protect the fragile biodiversity including rare alpine flowers, mosses, mountain hares, red deer and birdlife such as golden eagles. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Glencoe is a world-famous movie location featuring in the likes of Harry Potter, Skyfall, Braveheart, Outlaw King, Rob Roy and The 39 Steps.
A Day in the Orkney Isles
Experience rural island life as you head across to the windswept Orkney Islands – here the hardy locals say they live ‘below the wind and above the water’. Visit the 5,000-year-old village of Skara Brae, the old Norse Town of Kirkwall and the mysterious Ring of Brodgar as you step back in time, getting a real insight into the history of this rugged island.
Glencoe Local Dinner
For your final night in Scotland, we ensure you finish your journey in the best way – with a wonderful evening enjoying the best Highland hospitality and market-fresh ingredients that reflect the local produce of this wonderful country.
Country Roads of Portugal
11 days, 14 cities
Portugal is a feast for the senses, from cruising across Alqueva Lake with a local captain, sampling the best local produce in the Douro Valley (including a delicious glass of port, of course), and the grand architecture of Lisbon’s historic Belém Quarter through the eyes of a Local Expert. Plenty of pastel de nata is agiven, but you’ll expand your horizons at a local winery where you’ll try grape varieties unique to Portugal.
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Discover Sustainable Viticulture at Casa Relvas
Dive deeper into the complex nuances of Alentejo wine with a wine tasting session at Casa Relvas on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. You’ll have the chance to try uniquely Portuguese grape varietals like Touriga Nacional, and learn how the Relvas family has been managing to keep low water consumption, reforestation of indigenous trees, and providing scholarships to children of the village. This experience advances United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and production.
Douro Valley Farm-to-Table Lunch
Enjoy a wonderful Farm-to-Table lunch, freshly prepared from locally sourced ingredients of whatever is in season – whether it’s fresh seafood, cured meats, homegrown vegetables or creamy goat’s cheese, you won’t be disappointed.
Cruise Lake Alqueva with a Local Captain
Take to the water with a local boat captain for a tranquil cruise on Lake Alqueva. This is a chance to relax and enjoy calming waters, picturesque views and tales of river life from your captain, who will regale you with tales of water adventures.
Monsaraz Highlight Lunch
Taste some of the best regional Alentejo cuisine with a memorable lunch at Sem-Fim, a local restaurant that was once an olive mill – you’ll dine in the old olive oil pressing room, indulging in dish-after-dish of the tastiest tapas in a vibrant, unique setting filled with art and rustic details.
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Plus receive latest offers, travel inspiration, and discover how your travels will make a positive impact. Together, WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®. Subscribe NowCountry Roads of Northern Italy
10 days, 11 cities
See the breathtaking scenery of Northern Italy, from the peaks of the Dolomites to the romantic canals of Venice, seeing the masters of Venetian glassblowing at work. Italy is world-famous for its exceptional cuisine and you’ll go home having tried some of the best local produce from the region, whether it’s the sparkling delights of prosecco or fresh-caught fish.
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Venetian Artisan Glass Blowing Demonstration
Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Now practised by precious few masters, you’ll get to watch these artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. Learn from the workshop’s master craftsmen about the craft’s history, which dates back to the 15th century – every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
See Venice by Gondola
What better way to see Venice than from the water? Glide through Venice’s canals on an iconic gondola ride, passing beneath historic bridges and past elegant palaces. Your gondolier will navigate the city’s waterways effortlessly, so you can soak up the city’s romantic atmosphere and gain a unique perspective on this timeless floating city.
Taste Veneto Prosecco
On a visit to a local winery, a tasting of their magnificent prosecco will open your eyes to the exceptional quality of one of Italy’s most delicious exports. You’ll even meet the vignerons (winegrowers) and learn how this local drink has come to rival its well-known counterpart in France.
Dine on Lake Maggiore
Your northern Italian adventure comes to an end – celebrate the journey with an unforgettable Farm-to-Table dinner on the glamorous Lake Maggiore, with local wine to complement.
Discover the tour: Country Roads of Italy
Country Roads of Ireland
12 days, 16 cities
You won’t need to luck of the Irish to see all the incredible sights Ireland has to offer when you travel with us, from the Book of Kells in Dublin to majestic Kilkenny Castle. Experience the magic of Giant’s Causeway’s basalt columns and the mystical Ring of Kerry – with plenty of Irish fare to keep your spirits high throughout the journey.
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Locally Sourced Farm-to-Table Meal at 19th Green Killarney
This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience takes you into the beautiful home of John and Freda, passionate guesthouse owners in Killarney. John and Freda have a policy that all food is sourced locally from farms and the coast of the Emerald Isle – you’ll hear more about their farm-to-table concept, sustainable consumption and the benefits of eating fresh homegrown produce, all while enjoying a delicious meal made from fresh ingredients sourced within a five-mile radius. This experience advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption & Production.
The Giant’s Causeway is around 50-60 million years old, formed by volcanic activity during the Paleogene period.
Explore the Cliffs of Moher
With its towering cliffs over 700 feet high over the dramatic sea, when you visit the Cliffs of Moher you’ll understand why it’s inspired countless travelers. Visit the Exhibition Centre and look out over the Wild Atlantic Way, while your Travel Director will give you insights into the cliffs’ geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
Scenic Ring of Kerry Drive
Sit back, relax and enjoy the view as you take the scenic route round the Ring of Kerry, journeying through towering cliffs, lush lakelands, beaches, fields dotted with sheep, rocky coastline, remote villages and historical sites. This 111-mile circular route is the best place to admire Ireland’s scenic beauty and one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
Walk the Giant’s Causeway
Visit Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site, formed by volcanic activity (or was it giants?) over 60 million years ago. Walk across thousands of interlocking basalt columns, shaped by nature and renowned for their striking geometric appearance.
Discover the tour: Country Roads of Ireland
Country Roads of France
16 days, 20 cities
Consider this your ‘Tour de France’ (without the cycling), immersing yourself in this vibrant country across 16 days. You’ll live life in the fast lane as you cruise along the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco and lose yourself in the City of Lights as you see the Eiffel Tower sparkle – but you’ll also take things a bit slower, finally understanding why the French love playing pétanque so much over a leisurely game, with plenty of long lunches and dinners allowing you to taste some of the finest French produce, from confit de canard to Cabernet Sauvignon.
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Discover Moulin Castelas Olive Oil Production
On your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, meet the owners of Moulin Castelas, Jean-Benoît and Catherine. At their organic olive mill, sustainable farming promotes biodiversity, and as you explore the groves you’ll learn about eco-friendly cultivation. Your experience is finished with a tasting of exceptional oils of the highest quality, understanding why cold extraction is so important for flavor. This experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production,
Join a Petanque Player for a Game in Saint Paul de Vence
Join a pétanque player to learn the secrets behind this traditional French discipline which dates back to 1910. Steady your hand and get ready to put your best food forward with a game, ending with a glass of pastis, a French apéritif, to celebrate your newfound skills.
Cahors Market Tasting
With views of the Pont Valentré bridge, you have the opportunity to explore the Cahors open air market. Full to the brim with fresh, seasonal produce and local delicacies, it’s a sensory experience for any food lover. Try new fruits and vegetables as well as wine, cheeses (in particular Rocamadour), charcuterie, honey and Quercy pastis, a dessert made from dough and apples. If you travel in the winter or summer, you’ll get to experience the prized truffle markets.
La Roque-Gageac Farm-to-Table dinner
Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table dinner, prepared with the best locally sourced ingredients and acompanied with wines from the Dordogne region – expect to see local delicacies like duck, truffle, walnuts and berries on the menu.
Travel deeper with our Country Roads guided tours – discover more here.
About Jess Williamson
Jess is an experienced writer and editor, with 6 years' experience working within the whisky industry. Her work has taken her to Scotland and beyond, while her personal travel highlights include backpacking around Vietnam with her sister, trips to California, Madrid, and the Greek islands.
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