Audley USA

U n i t e d S tat e s of America

Ta i lor - m a d e J o u r n e y s

for

the

D i s c e r n i n g T r av e l l e r

Dear Traveller No matter how many times I visit the USA there is always something new to see or a different part of the country to explore. I marvel at how varied one nation can be and how much it can offer in terms of culture, history, wildlife and activities.

In this brochure we include two exciting new regions, introducing Florida’s unique landscape and culture, as well as the dynamic cities and tranquil wilderness of the Great Lakes. The spectacular scenery here and elsewhere certainly lends itself to outdoor adventure and we also showcase some of our favourite activities, from private guided hiking in Yosemite National Park to snorkelling with manta rays in Hawaii.

Our specialists, who have travelled extensively across the country, share their insider tips on the best activities, museums and restaurants as well as the walking trails and driving routes that work particularly well. They’ve also handpicked accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets but most of all, their passion is infectious and will inspire you to go beyond the obvious in the search of a trip of a lifetime.

Craig Burkinshaw, Founder Director

Introducing Audley I

t was a trip around Asia in the early 1990s that ignited Craig Burkinshaw’s passion for travel.

On his return he was so keen to share his experiences that he founded Audley, or Asian Journeys as we were then called. We offered a new type of travel – individual journeys, designed to match the traveller’s interests, tastes and budget, created with an absolute commitment to quality and authenticity.

Today this desire to share authentic travel experiences is undiminished and Audley is one of the UK’s most highly regarded specialist tour operators, providing tailor-made trips throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Australasia, North America, Antarctica and the Arctic.

Specialist knowledge

Tailor-made journeys

Speaking to one of our specialists is the best way to start planning your trip, whether you already know where you want to go or just have the seed of an idea. They can discuss your plans, offer advice and give you ideas and inspiration for your trip, before creating a detailed itinerary, which will be forwarded to you together with maps, accommodation descriptions and a price.

The same specialist will then refine the plans until you are completely satisfied and will be on hand to answer questions from your very first telephone call until you return from your trip.

The beauty of tailor-made travel is that every trip is unique. Whether you want to stay in simple or luxurious accommodation, have great guides on hand or explore under your own steam, travel for one week or five, we can create a trip to match your tastes and budget. We can also design trips for a special occasion, whether this is a spectacular honeymoon or milestone anniversary. Throughout the brochure you will find suggested itineraries and some of our favourite places to stay, but these are all just for inspiration as each trip is created uniquely for you and there are many more options available.

Our USA specialists have all travelled extensively throughout the country and in many cases lived there, so you can rely on their in-depth, first-hand knowledge. They regularly return to discover new hidden gems in each region, stay in the accommodation and meet our guides – many of whom are firm friends – as well as experience all the excursions and activities.

We believe this is the only way that we can genuinely offer you a tailor-made service and enable you to experience a side of these countries that others might miss.

Planning your trip

Financial security

Contents Introduction 2-7 New England 8-21 Colonial and revolutionary America

11

New York & the Capital region 22-33 The Deep South 34-47 Florida 48-57 California & Nevada 58-75 Yosemite National Park

64

Los Angeles

68

Texas & the Southwest 76-93 Pueblo Indians

82

The Grand Canyon

87

The Rockies 94-109 Yellowstone National Park Cowboys & ranches

100-101 103

The Great Lakes 110-117 Pacific Northwest 118-125 Hawaii 126-137 Combining the USA with Canada 138 Useful information 139

All travel arrangements in this brochure that include a flight from the UK are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is 4817. Please see our booking conditions for more information. If your arrangements do not include any flights from the UK they are protected by a separate financial scheme, for further details please visit www.audleytravel.com/protect Introduction

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Audley in the

USA T

he United States of America is a vast and diverse place, offering a huge range of experiences depending on which area you visit. To help make sense of it all we have divided the brochure into ten sections to cover the most popular regions of the country. Below you will find an overview of each, giving the highlights and types of experiences they offer.

Acadia National Park, New England

Cattle drive, Wyoming, The Rockies

New England

Florida

The historic city of Boston, pretty rural villages and superb whale watching make up just a small part of New England’s appeal. All this, combined with magnificent beaches, immense mountain ranges, craggy lighthouse-peppered coasts and miles of scenic byways, make New England a destination that appeals to all. This region covers the states of Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut and Rhode Island.

The ‘sunshine state’ conjures up images of tropical palm-fringed beaches and theme parks.

There is so much more to this state though, such as the vibrant Hispanic culture, the Art Deco architecture of Miami Beach, the wildlife of Everglades National Park and Crystal River, and the history of colonial cities such as St. Augustine.

Cosmopolitan cities perfectly combine with stunning white-sand beaches to make this a destination that has broad appeal.

New York & the Capital Region

California & Nevada

The bright lights and non-stop attractions of New York City contrast with the peaceful lakeside vineyards and brooding mountains of New York State. Likewise, Washington D.C.’s great monuments and museums are a world away from the quaint settlements along Chesapeake Bay, the waterfalls of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park or the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains. This region includes the states of New York, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Maryland.

The Deep South

Yosemite National Park, California

The Deep South offers visitors a varied experience, from historic antebellum cities and a vibrant musical heritage, to the alligators and spicy cuisine of southern Louisiana, and Mississippi’s great plantation houses. This region covers the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana.

Anhinga, Everglades National Park, Florida

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There’s far more to California and Nevada than the great cities of Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. Superb national parks such as Yosemite, Death Valley, Sequoia and Kings Canyon offer excellent wildlife viewing and magnificent scenery, while the deserts of southern California and Nevada contrast with the vineyards, waterfalls, lakes and giant redwood trees of the north. Both are linked by scenic driving routes, the greatest of which is California’s superb coastal drive.

Texas & the Southwest Colossal canyons, cactus-studded deserts, deserted mining towns and the fascinating native culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people can all be found in this most rewarding of regions. One of the undoubted highlights is the Grand Canyon, which is an awe-inspiring backdrop for spectacular hiking, white water rafting or light aircraft flights. Texas on the other hand is still the land of the cowboy, where Western heritage is juxtaposed with cultured modern cities and a tangible Mexican heritage.

This region includes the states of Texas, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah.

CANADA

CE AN

Seattle

0

200 miles

0

320 kilometres

Portland NEW ENGLAND

THE ROCKIES

Minneapolis

Yellowstone National Park

San Francisco

Yosemite Salt Lake Park City

Los Angeles San Diego

Boston NEW YORK & THE CAPITAL REGION

Detroit Chicago

CALIFORNIA National & NEVADA

Las Vegas

GREAT LAKES

Denver

USA

The Grand Canyon Charlotte Phoenix

TEXAS & THE SOUTHWEST

MEXICO

DEEP SOUTH

Houston

Atlanta

90 miles 150 kilometres

New Orleans FLORIDA

Gulf of Mexico

HAWAII

0

Philadelphia

WASHINGTON DC

Dallas

0

New York

AT L OC ANT EA IC N

PAC IFIC O

PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Miami

The Rockies

Pacific Northwest

Hawaii

North America’s mightiest mountains, the Rockies, form a spectacular glacier-capped playground for a vast variety of outdoor adventures from hiking and mountain biking to white water rafting and canoeing. Cowboy culture is alive and well here and you can learn to ride or fly-fish on an authentic Western ranch, or take in a lively local rodeo. Highlights of the region though are Yellowstone and Glacier national parks which should not be missed. This region covers the states of Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, Montana and Idaho.

A diverse region, the Pacific Northwest is best known for its beautiful driftwood-strewn beaches framed by stands of giant redwoods and temperate rainforests. Inland, lush vineyards line the banks of the mighty Columbia River and the jagged peaks of Olympic and North Cascades national parks are home to bighorn sheep, elk and antelope. From the modern cosmopolitan cities of Seattle and Portland you can visit the volcanic slopes of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens, whilst in the south the deep blue waters of Crater Lake provide a picture-perfect backdrop to delightful walks. This region includes the states of Oregon and Washington.

Lush vegetation, palm-fringed beaches and dramatic scenery make Hawaii one of the USA’s most popular beach destinations. Learn to surf on Waikiki Beach, take a helicopter flight over erupting volcanoes on Hawaii, go whale watching in Maui or admire the breathtaking Na Pali cliffs on Kauai.

The Great Lakes A wonderfully diverse destination, the Great Lakes is a most rewarding region to visit. The beautiful architecture of Chicago and the resurgent cities of Detroit and Minneapolis contrast with the tranquillity of lighthouse-dotted lakeshores, and the wildlife havens of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Boat trips, wonderful coastal walking and superb modern museums combine with character hotels and exciting new restaurants to ensure this area appeals to all.

This region covers the states of Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota.

Combining the USA with Canada or Mexico It’s easy to combine a trip to the USA with one to Canada. You can hop across to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, extend your exploration of the US Rockies north into British Columbia and Alberta, continue along Maine’s rugged coast to New Brunswick or venture to Québec from New England. Alternatively, why not venture over the border into Mexico from southern California, Arizona, New Mexico or Texas.

Alaska This huge and far-flung northern state is a magnificent place to visit. Please contact our specialists on 01993 838 700 for a copy of our Canada & Alaska brochure or to start planning your trip.

Kauai, Hawaii

01993 838 755 • Introduction

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Experience the

USA T

he USA’s cities and landscapes are comfortably familiar thanks to its ubiquitous presence on our screens, yet the country’s sheer size and diversity mean it also defies simple description.

The landscapes are so varied and the experiences so broad that you could spend a lifetime here and still find something new to discover. From humbling national parks to iconic cities, remote outposts to awe-inspiring wildlife, the USA really is so much more than the sum of its parts.

Times Square, New York

Coastal road, Big Sur, California

Planning your trip

Families

Sitting down to plan a trip here can be daunting; with so many significant sights, and long distances between them, it’s hard to know how to make the most of your time. This brochure aims to simplify the task, offering a range of suggested itineraries. These are a good starting point and provide a feel for what is achievable, but can be completely modified to suit your interests and the pace you want to travel at. We know that where you stay is important and we’ve selected a range of options, from simple guesthouses and ranches to luxury hotels. Wherever possible these reflect the character of the locality.

We’ve included some of our favourites in these pages to give you a taste of what’s on offer, and reveal a few gems we’ve unearthed on our trips.

This brochure is intended to inspire you but there’s no substitute to speaking to someone who really knows the country well. Our USA specialists have travelled throughout the country and can advise on everything from where to find New York’s finest bagel to the best trails in Yosemite, so do call and let us help you plan your trip.

The USA is an incredibly family-friendly destination with plenty of monumental landscapes, high-octane activities and famous sights to keep even the most reluctant teenagers happy. You can bike, raft and canoe, see whales, elk and wolves, spot TV and film locations around every corner or simply relax on the beach. Logistics are easy too with accommodation particularly well suited to families and a warm welcome for little ones almost everywhere you go.

Getting around The most convenient and flexible way to discover the USA is to self-drive. This enables you to travel at your own pace, stopping at points of interest along the way, and we will of course include a satellite navigation system to ensure a trouble-free trip. Our specialists will draw on their knowledge of the country to ensure that your route is carefully planned and, if you wish, a self-drive trip can be combined with flights, rail journeys or cruises to access further-flung corners of the country. For those who prefer not to drive we can offer a wide range of escorted coach touring options.

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

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Humpback whale, Cape Cod, New England

Culture & history A melting pot of peoples, cultures and traditions, the USA has a hugely diverse population despite its tender age. The original native Americans, and the Polynesians of Hawaii, were joined by Europeans, African slaves, Asians and Latin Americans, each carving out their own corner of the country and stamping their mark on it.

This potent blend of old world and new gives the USA a unique character and you won’t need to travel far to experience its wonderfully diverse food, architecture, music and politics.

Getting to this point wasn’t always easy though, and along with the burritos and the dim sum, the Spanish churches and ancient petroglyphs, you can learn about the Indian, Revolutionary and Civil wars, the Civil Rights Movement and the often complex history that made this great country what it is today.

Monument Valley, Utah

Popular culture

Wildlife & flora

For many years the USA has been the perceived leader of popular contemporary culture. Its music, film, fashion and sports are followed around the globe and the country boasts many world-class live music venues and sporting events. It is a country that knows how to shop like no other, one universally famous for its film locations and desperately proud of it all.

Whether you want to indulge in it, observe it or simply avoid it, we can plan your trip accordingly.

As well as preserving spectacular scenery, the country’s national parks are home to some magnificent plants and animals. In the west you’ll find black bears, wolves, mountain lions and elk, the immense redwoods of California and the iconic saguaro cacti of Arizona. In the east, New England has a healthy population of moose and excellent whale watching; the Great Lakes offer superb moose and migratory bird viewing whilst the Deep South is known for waterways filled with alligators, colourful birdlife and water hyacinth.

Food & wine The USA is not just a nation of hamburgers and fried chicken. From New England’s lobsters and fish chowders to the spicy gumbos and jambalayas of the Deep South, the Spanish and Mexican cuisine of the southwest and ranch-reared steaks, it will leave you wanting more. You’ll also find some superb Chinese and Japanese food, particularly on the west coast, New York’s famous hot dogs and pastrami, and some exceptionally good wines, especially in California and Oregon.

Participants in a powwow, Wyoming

Outdoor activities

Moose, Glacier National Park, Montana

Landscapes & scenery Undoubtedly one of the USA’s biggest attractions is its awe-inspiring landscapes.

From the rugged coastal scenery of New England and California to the deserts of the southwest, and the mighty peaks of the Rockies to the volcanoes of Hawaii, the panoramas are familiar yet far more spectacular than you ever expected.

The most fragile and historic are protected as national parks, but everywhere you can take to the hills on foot, or explore by bicycle, on horseback, by 4x4 or by air to see these most iconic vistas for yourself.

The USA was made for outdoor exploration, and the national park system offers hiking, cycling, and horse riding trails of every description. From short, easy routes to more strenuous and challenging mountain trails, you will find something to suit your level of interest and ability. Alternatively, you can opt for white water rafting, kayaking, 4x4 trips, fly fishing or even hot air ballooning.

Hiking, California

01993 838 755 • Introduction

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New England I

n 1620 the Pilgrim Fathers landed at Plymouth Rock, in present-day Massachusetts, laying the first foundations of the colony of New England. A century and a half later, the American Revolution sparked into life in this part of the continent, and today fascinating historical legacies are found across the region. Modern New England’s charms extend far beyond its significant past though, and each of its six states has a distinct identity. Massachusetts is renowned for its capital, Boston, a progressive, intellectual and culturally-rich city, the endless beaches of Cape Cod, and the picturesque islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Rhode Island is best known for the smart yachts and Gilded Age mansions of Newport, and neighbouring Connecticut for august Yale University, the pastoral Connecticut River valley, and historic Mystic Seaport. Vermont features pretty white clapboard villages, red-barn dairy farms, and the huge Lake Champlain. New Hampshire’s beautiful southern lakes region is bounded to the north by the peaks of the White Mountains, and Maine has a rugged coast, old fishing villages, and vast lake-strewn forests where moose rule supreme.

Audley in New England Whether you are looking to relax on the coast, spend a few days hiking in the mountains, or explore the pretty, historic villages at your own pace, diverse New England has much to offer. The scenic highways and byways make driving an easy way to discover the region’s charms, and our specialists can advise you on anything from journey durations to the sights you will see along the way, and where to find the best whale watching opportunities. We can also recommend places that are off the beaten track to enable you to really get under the skin of this appealing part of the USA.

Accommodation New England offers perhaps the most varied choice of accommodation in the country. In the big cities like Boston you will find a broad selection of hotels to suit most tastes. Much of the charm of the region, however, lies in its delightful country inns, boutique hotels and B&Bs, which provide a wonderfully personal stay. These range from simple rooms to luxurious, refined country mansions. There are numerous villages dotted across the six states, where the accommodation choice is often limited but those available are often characterful and certainly comfortable.

Baxter State Park

CANADA

Mount Katahdin

QUÉBEC

Moosehead Lake

CANADA

Greenville

MAINE

Lake Champlain

USA

Stowe Burlington

Bretton Woods

VERMONT

Green Mountains National Forest

Lincoln/North Woodstock

Woodstock Manchester

5

Mount Washington

Jackson

The Berkshires

6 Kennebunkport

Portsmouth

Green Mountains National Forest NEW YORK

1

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Boston

MASSACHUSETTS

Lenox

Massachusetts Bay Provincetown

Stockbridge

Plymouth Providence CONNECTICUT

New Haven

Mystic Seaport

Acadia National Park

Portland

NEW HAMPSHIRE

4

Bar Harbor Camden

White Mountains National Forest

Lake Winnipesaukee

Shrewsbury

Sandwich

Cape Cod

0

50 miles

0

80 kilometres

2

Chatham Hyannis Newport Falmouth

RHODE ISLAND

3

Martha’s Vineyard

Nantucket

Block Island

New York

1 Boston The birthplace of New England and the crucible of the American Revolution.

See page 10 2 Cape Cod

National Seashore Miles of deserted beaches and sand dunes line this iconic narrow peninsula.

See page 12

Humpback whale, Stellwagen Bank

NEW BRUNSWICK

3 Newport’s Gilded

Age mansions A glimpse into the fascinating lives of America’s richest families.

See page 14 4 Green Mountains

Home to historic villages set around charming greens.

See page 16 5 White Mountains

Discover the highest peaks in northeastern USA, including the renowned Mount Washington.

See page 17

6 The Maine coast A ruggedly attractive shoreline strewn with lighthouses and clapboard houses.

See pages 18-19

Autumn Foliage Witness the region’s splendour as forests turn to fiery reds and oranges.

Whale watching New England’s waters offer unparalleled opportunities to spot whales.

See page 13

www.audleytravel.com/newengland • 01993 838 755 • New England

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Beacon Hill, Boston

Boston Known for everything from the Red Sox and Paul Revere to Cheers and clam chowder, Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and the largest city in New England. Founded in 1630, it is one of the oldest, most culturally significant cities in the USA as well as a modern metropolis with a wide variety of attractions. Some of the city’s bestknown sites include lively Boston Common, the gold-domed State House, Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall, which has served as a marketplace and meeting hall since 1742. Between these landmarks, you can visit the fabulous stores on Newbury Street, enjoy a taste of Italy in the North End, or admire the distinctive red-brick buildings of Beacon Hill. There is culture at every turn too; the city boasts world-class museums, theatres and music venues, including the John F. Kennedy Library and the Museum of Fine Arts, while just across the river the city of Cambridge is home to Harvard University and the USS Constitution.

The Colonnade Hotel, Boston

The Colonnade Hotel, Boston This stylish property is situated in fashionable Back Bay. Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, Symphony Hall, and Newbury Street restaurants and stores are all nearby, and a subway stop right outside the front door means the rest of the city is easily accessible. The hotel has its own French restaurant, and we particularly like the rooftop pool that boasts a spectacular city panorama.

The 285 rooms are chic and sophisticated with modern amenities.

Nine Zero, Boston

Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park, Boston

The Freedom Trail One of the best ways to explore Boston is to follow the Freedom Trail, a marked two and a half mile walking route that weaves in and out of historic neighbourhoods and past 16 historically significant sites. These landmarks are often linked to the American Revolution and include museums, churches, burial grounds and meeting houses, all of which play a part in telling the city’s story. Marked by red bricks, the trail starts at Boston Common, the USA’s oldest public park, and ends at the USS Constitution in Charlestown.

A smart hotel located in the heart of the city, Nine Zero lies just across the road from Boston Common and close to many of the city’s major attractions. It offers 190 stylish, well-designed rooms and friendly, attentive service. The hotel’s Highball Lounge is a classy, vintage cocktail lounge, and there are spectacular views of the city from the upper floors.

Nine Zero, Boston

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Massachusetts State House, Boston

View across Battle Green, Lexington

Re-enactors in a Fourth of July parade, near Concord

Illustration of the Boston Tea Party

Colonial and revolutionary America The Pilgrim Fathers In September 1620, a group of English non-conformists fled religious persecution at home and settled briefly in Holland before setting sail on the Mayflower for the New World. In November 1620, 120 pilgrims arrived at Cape Cod, establishing New Plymouth as their first settlement. In that first harsh winter many of them died, but helped by a native North American, Squanto, they learned to grow maize and by the summer of 1621 the colony was thriving.

Plimoth Plantation, Plymouth A living history museum, Plimoth Plantation recounts the story of the original New Plymouth Colony. The museum replicates everyday life for settlers and native people in the colony’s early years. Historical interpreters speak, act and dress appropriately for the period, answering questions, discussing their lives, and cooking, planting and tending their livestock in a realistic recreation of the original settlement.

Re-enactor at the Plimoth Plantation, Plymouth

The American Revolution By 1732 there were 13 British colonies and after the Seven Years War (1756–63), in which French territories in North America were ceded to the British Crown, Britain decided to finance its army in the continent by levying taxes. In protest the colonists refused to import British goods and three shiploads of tea were dumped into Boston harbour – a move later known as the Boston Tea Party. Boston and Massachusetts were subsequently placed under military rule but hostilities quickly grew. In 1775 the British sent troops to arrest opposition leaders in Lexington and Concord and were met with fierce fighting, beginning what has become known as the Revolutionary War.

George Washington Born into Virginia’s plantation elite in 1732, George Washington became a lieutenant colonel in the Virginia militia. He was in command of the British forces at the Battle of Fort Necessity in 1754, subsequently inherited the family estate, became a planter and served in the Virginia colonial legislature.

When the dispute with Britain escalated he took the revolutionary side. He was elected to the first Continental Congress and later became Commander-in-Chief of the new Continental Army. Washington ultimately led his side to victory and later presided over the Constitutional Convention of the nascent nation and became an almost unanimous choice as first president of the USA. He served two terms between 1789 and 1797, before his death in 1799.

The War The Revolutionary War lasted eight years and early victories by the British at Bunker Hill (1775) and Québec (1776) were soon followed by a series of defeats. In 1777 the French negotiated an alliance with the revolutionaries and forced Britain to change strategy to try and hold on to their southern colonies. The following year the French reinforced Washington’s army and the French navy inflicted serious damage to the British fleet at the Battle of the Capes. This left Lord Cornwallis’s army cut off at Yorktown where he was subsequently defeated. In 1783, with rising war costs, Britain sued for peace with the signing of the Treaty of Paris.

Engraving depicting George Washington

www.audleytravel.com/newengland • 01993 838 755 • New England

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Beach, Cape Cod

Cape Cod Cape Cod is a glorious peninsula of expansive sandy beaches, fishing villages and thriving artistic communities. At the southwestern tip is Falmouth, a charming town with an array of fine architecture, a striking harbour and village green.

Nearby lies the village of Woods Hole, the terminal for ferries to New Bedford and Martha’s Vineyard. On the ‘elbow’ of Cape Cod, Chatham is a friendly old town of whitewashed houses tucked away in a sheltered harbour. It’s known for its highly-regarded shellfish – clams, oysters and mussels are harvested here in abundance.

Nearby is the long strand of Chatham Lighthouse Beach, while just offshore is the bird sanctuary of South Monomoy.

Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham Overlooking Pleasant Bay and the Atlantic, Chatham Bars Inn is a short stroll from one of the prettiest villages on Cape Cod. An idyllic retreat since 1914, the hotel retains much of its original character and grandeur, with an expansive lounge, veranda and dining room all boasting panoramic ocean views. The resort has a spa, tennis, croquet and biking facilities, and whale watching, fishing and boat trips to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket can also be arranged. Four restaurants provide plenty of dining choice, while accommodation is divided between 217 well-appointed rooms in the main inn and characterful New England-style cottages, situated in the grounds. We particularly like the hotel’s great service and direct beach access.

Provincetown, at the tip of the peninsula, is packed with clapboard houses, colourful gardens and tiny winding streets. Despite a declining fishing fleet, this little town thrives; artists live alongside fishermen and during the summer visitors head here to enjoy the galleries and small restaurants. Adjacent to Provincetown lies Cape Cod National Seashore, with its huge swathes of sandy beaches and golden dunes that invite exploration. This part of the Cape is a great place to spend a few days and is also renowned for its summer whale watching. There’s no shortage of accommodation here, but it can be expensive in season.

4x4 sand dune tour The sand dunes that hug the northern coastline of Cape Cod are a National Seashore protected area. They have witnessed many landings and shipwrecks, and the windswept landscape has inspired writers and artists alike. On a guided 4x4 trip you will learn about the natural environment and hear historical tales as you weave your way through the dunes.

Belfry Inn, Sandwich The good value Belfry Inn is housed in three historic buildings that include a restored Victorian home and a former Catholic church.

Each of the 20 comfortable guest rooms is elegantly decorated, with charming period features giving the property plenty of character.

The atmospheric restaurant is a favourite of ours, being situated in the old Abbey building.

Chatham Bars Inn, Chatham

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Captain’s House Inn, Chatham A historic property in the heart of Chatham, Captain’s House Inn is set across several Greek Revival-style buildings. It offers 16 characterful guest rooms, all named after the daughters or ships of the sea captain who built the property in the late 1800s. Set amongst well-tended grounds, and with an excellent attention to detail, this inn feels very much like a home from home.

Captain’s House Inn, Chatham

Local man, Nantucket

Belfry Inn, Sandwich

Multi-coloured cliffs, Aquinnah

Cape Cod homes A holiday home can often be a great alternative to a hotel if you are staying in a particular area for several days. They are a particularly comfortable option for families, with a well-equipped kitchen, laundry facilities, spacious living areas and often a private outdoor area for al fresco dining.

Nantucket Originally a booming whaling port, little has changed since the 17th century when many of the seaside cottages were built. The entire town is a National Historic District, with more than 800 antebellum buildings contained within one square mile. One of the town’s main attractions is its Whaling Museum, where lectures are given on the history of the industry and the tragedy of the Nantucket whaling ship, Essex, inspiration for Herman Melville’s Moby Dick. Bicycles can be hired for the seven mile ride to the village of Siasconset with its pretty old cottages.

Commercial Street, Provincetown

Martha’s Vineyard Along with its neighbour, Nantucket, this small island, seven miles off Cape Cod, is one of the most popular and picturesque destinations in New England. Measuring 24 miles long by 10 wide, Martha’s Vineyard’s quiet lanes are delightful to explore by bicycle. Victorian houses are reminiscent of the bygone whaling era, while at Aquinnah, beautiful multi-coloured cliffs, revered by the native Wampanoag tribe, tumble into the sea. You can stay on the island, but most people choose to visit on a day trip by ferry.

Mansion House, Martha’s Vineyard Lying just a short walk from the ferry port at Vineyard Haven, Mansion House blends the charm of days gone by with modern day living.

Established in 1791, the hotel is situated within walking distance of beaches, galleries and nightlife. The 48 bright, airy rooms each enjoy views of the harbour or village. Guests can relax in the spa or take a fitness class in the gym, while the cupola makes a great place to sit and watch the boats in the harbour.

Whale watching The waters off the coast of New England are on the migratory path of various species of whale including humpback, finback, right and minke.

Many come to feed on the rich supply of fish and plankton in and around the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, off the Massachusetts coast, but you can take a whale watching trip from various places along the region’s coast. The best time to view whales feeding and playing is between May and October, and most whale watching cruises are led by naturalists who will help you understand all about these magnificent creatures and the environment in which they live.

Mansion House, Martha’s Vineyard

www.audleytravel.com/newengland • 01993 838 755 • New England

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Newport Harbor, Rhode Island

Rhode Island At just 48 miles long and 37 miles wide, Rhode Island is the smallest state in the USA. It was formed in 1636 as an experiment in religious freedom, breaking away from the Puritans in Massachusetts – who subsequently dubbed it ‘Rogues Island’. Despite its diminutive size, the state boasts over 400 miles of coastline, mainly along the edge of the huge Narragansett Bay, from which it developed a prosperous maritime and industrial economy. The state’s largest city is its capital, Providence, but it is the affluent yachting town of Newport, 30 miles south, that draws most visitors. Once the summer playground of America’s wealthiest families, Newport is known for its opulent Gilded Age mansions, many of which are now open to the public. Marble House is the most lavish, reputedly costing the Vanderbilt family $11 million to build in 1892. A good collection of 18th-century houses also survive along with the historic Old Colony House, and the Touro Synagogue.

Vanderbilt Grace, Newport

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Almondy Inn, Newport Dating back to the 1890s, Almondy Inn enjoys a prime location in downtown Newport on the first gas-lit street in America. Bannister’s and Bowen’s wharfs are just yards away, and the town’s antiques shops, art galleries, smart boutiques and fine restaurants are all within walking distance. This charming, immaculately presented B&B has five elegant rooms and suites, each individually styled and appointed with fine period antiques, and most have spectacular views over the bay. Guests are also treated to afternoon cheese and wine in the parlour.

Block Island

Almondy Inn, Newport

Vanderbilt Grace, Newport Built in 1909, this beautiful Newport mansion was formerly known as Vanderbilt Hall and, having undergone extensive restorations, today offers luxury accommodation only half a block from bustling Thames Street. The 33 guest rooms and suites are elegantly decorated and stylishly appointed, and the hotel has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a gym, a spa and two restaurants. For service and style this lovely property is one of our favourites.

This small landmass lies in Block Island Sound, midway between the eastern stretches of Long Island and the coasts of Connecticut and Rhode Island. Measuring just three miles by seven, it is renowned for its excellent sandy beaches, sparkling clear waters, dramatic bluffs, and nature trails. Nearly half the island is set aside for conservation and life here moves at a much slower pace than on the mainland. It is a delightful spot and, in season, is easily reached by ferry for a day trip.

Marble House, Newport

Lady painting, Block Island

Mystic Seaport, Connecticut

Bash Bish falls in the Berkshires

Connecticut

The Berkshires

This southerly gateway to New England lies within comfortable reach of New York City, yet its rolling farmland, pretty villages and pristine beaches are a world away. Connecticut was named by the native Americans for the ‘great tidal river’ that splits the state in two. Today, its capital is the modern hub of Hartford, but probably best known is the colonial town of New Haven, home to Yale University with its impressive architecture and world-class art collections. Southern Connecticut has miles of sandy beaches, and highlights include Hammonasset Beach State Park and the Thimble Islands. Further along the coast, Mystic Seaport is a living museum depicting 19 th-century maritime traditions, while near the border with New York State are the lovely villages of the Litchfield Hills, with their many antiques shops and walking and cycling trails.

Set in a swathe of hills and forests on the border between Massachusetts and New York State, the Berkshires are an area of delightful scenery dotted with ostentatious Victorian mansions.

The region is home to an impressive collection of cultural and historical institutions including Tanglewood, an art, music, and theatre venue, and the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Also in the Berkshires are the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Arts, the Norman Rockwell Museum and the Williamstown Theatre Festival. Recreational opportunities abound too, with rafting, kayaking, fishing and golf all popular pastimes.

The Berkshires are an easy two-and-a-half-hour drive from both Boston and New York City.

Boston Symphony Orchestra performing at Tanglewood

Norman Rockwell’s Studio, Stockbridge

Wheatleigh, Lenox Housed in a 16th-century Italianate building set in extensive grounds, Wheatleigh is surrounded by the Berkshires lakes and mountains but still close to galleries, shops and museums. This is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of New England’s autumnal foliage, while in winter, guests are close to many ski areas. The 19 luxurious rooms are individually designed and guests have access to the gym, outdoor heated pool and tennis courts. The Dining Room restaurant offers fine dining and exemplary service in a beautiful setting.

Inn at Stockbridge

Inn at Stockbridge Located in the Berkshire Mountains, and just a mile from downtown Stockbridge, this characterful inn offers 16 guest rooms across three buildings, and the impressive main house dates back to 1906. The rooms boast original features juxtaposed with modern amenities, and guests can make use of the outdoor heated pool, gym, library and games room.

A complimentary wine and cheese reception is held daily, with the wrap-around porch being the ideal place to unwind.

Wheatleigh, Lenox

www.audleytravel.com/newengland • 01993 838 755 • New England

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Typical red barn and sugar maple tree, Vermont

Vermont In many ways, Vermont is archetypal New England – it is a state of forested hills, white churches, red barns, clapboard houses and maple syrup. This was the last part of New England to be settled; it became an independent republic in 1777 and joined the Union in 1791. The Green Mountains are the state’s backbone, and it is these verdant hills that inspired its name (vert mont in French). This area is home to several iconic villages, such as Weston and Woodstock, while in the north, near the Canadian border, lies the enormous stretch of Lake Champlain and the lovely bustling towns of Burlington and Stowe.

Inn at Ormsby Hill, Manchester A luxurious retreat, this historic inn dates back to 1764. With only ten rooms, it has a warm, intimate atmosphere, and features a cosy sitting room, a library with original fireplaces, a delightful conservatory, and a patio offering beautiful views of the Green Mountains.

Woodstocker Inn, Woodstock

Woodstocker Inn, Woodstock You can be sure of a warm welcome at this good value and colourful inn, run by friendly British expats David and Dora with their friendly dog Daisy. Located a few minutes’ walk from the pretty village of Woodstock’s shops and restaurants, it has direct access to the Rockefeller National Historical Park from its back garden.

An adult-only property, it offers nine spacious, well-equipped rooms, as well as a library, cosy sitting room with wood burning stove and 24-hour refreshment station. A cooked breakfast is served each morning before you head off to explore the area.

Crisanver House, Shrewsbury

Crisanver House, Shrewsbury Reminiscent of an English country house, this historic property is perched in Vermont’s Green Mountains, affording stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Offering two deluxe rooms, three spacious suites and three luxurious cottage rooms, your stay here will be more than comfortable. Breakfast is served in the elegant dining room, which is a romantic spot by night when guests can enjoy a four course dinner.

There is plenty to do with hiking trails, a tennis court and swimming pool available, as well as excellent nearby seasonal skiing.

Stowe Mountain Lodge

Inn at Ormsby Hill, Manchester

16

Ideally located, this lodge is a comfortable base for exploring northern Vermont. The timberline studios have a kitchenette, fireplace and an outdoor patio area. Each of the 312 guest rooms has large picture windows so you can fully appreciate the surrounding mountain scenery.

Stowe Mountain Lodge

View from Mount Washington, New Hampshire

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire

Collecting maple sap, New Hampshire

New Hampshire

Omni Bretton Arms Inn, Bretton Woods

In 1776, New Hampshire was the first American state to declare independence, and since then has been proud of its freethinking attitude. It took many years for the granite mountains of the interior to be settled by Europeans, but at the beginning of the 20 th century their pristine forests were recognised as one of the state’s biggest attractions; the White Mountains. This section of the Appalachians is home to glorious walking trails and scenic driving routes, such as the Kancamagus Highway between Lincoln and Conway, Franconia Notch State Park, and the highest peak in the northeast USA, Mount Washington. The historic Mount Washington Cog Railway is the ideal way to reach the 1,916 metre summit, where you will find an interesting visitor centre and museum, and on the days when the famously brisk wind isn’t sweeping the

Christmas Farm Inn, Jackson

Omni Bretton Arms Inn, Bretton Woods

clouds in, there are spectacular panoramic views in all directions. New Hampshire has just 18 miles of coastline, which is where the state’s oldest town, Portsmouth, is located, whilst central New Hampshire is known for its lakes.

The largest is Lake Winnipesaukee, which is a great place for windsurfing and boating.

Christmas Farm Inn, Jackson This characterful and good value New Hampshire property offers the personal touches of an inn whilst also offering hotel-style amenities such as a spa, indoor swimming pool and a restaurant. It is set against the spectacular backdrop of the White Mountains and is thus a perfect base for exploring some of New Hampshire’s most impressive scenery. The 41 rooms are a mixture of individual cabins built into the hillside and uniquely-decorated rooms inside the two main lodges.

This historic property is part of the Omni Mount Washington Resort and is set in picturesque perennial gardens, offering guests a peaceful haven in which to relax. For those looking for a more active stay, there is access to a variety of activities including horse riding, hiking, golf, tennis, skiing and snowboarding.

The 34 spacious rooms offer modern amenities and contemporary decor, while communal areas include two pools, a spa, gym and an intimate dining room in which hearty breakfasts and elegant dinners can be enjoyed.

Crossing into Canada The Canadian province of Québec lies just over Vermont’s northern border and can easily be combined with a trip to New England. Please contact us for a copy of our Canada & Alaska brochure or to speak to our Canada specialists.

Champlain Street, Québec

www.audleytravel.com/newengland • 01993 838 755 • New England

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Bass Harbor Head Light, Acadia National Park

Kennebunkport Inn A former tea merchant’s mansion, the Kennebunkport Inn dates back to 1899 and is located close to shops, restaurants, museums and leisure activities. The 30 rooms are in two separate buildings, featuring traditional New England or more modern decor. The restaurant serves mouthwatering steaks to be enjoyed on the patio in fine weather, as well as hosting nightly entertainment. This is a good property for those who wish to relax in a deckchair on the beach or explore the area on one of the inn’s bicycles.

Kennebunkport Inn

Maine

Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park

Maine is an outdoor paradise with mile after mile of rocky coastline pounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Pretty clapboard fishing villages, such as Kennebunkport and Camden, and characterful lighthouses can be found along its coast, and even the largest city, Portland, remains true to its New England setting with a wealth of scenic, historic and cultural attractions. The coastal waters are a prime location for whale watching and catching seafood such as lobsters and clams, while Maine’s interior is home to one of the country’s highest moose populations, especially around Moosehead Lake and Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park. Acadia National Park, near Bar Harbor, has rugged coastal scenery and excellent walking trails.

Situated on Mount Desert Island on Maine’s scenic Atlantic coast, Bar Harbor is the ideal location from which to explore Acadia National Park. Nearly half the island is devoted to the park, a huge wilderness area of diverse and dramatic scenery from granite-topped mountains to scenic bays. Over 120 miles of hiking trails weave throughout the park offering some fantastic walking as well as excellent wildlife viewing opportunities with seals, beavers, puffins and bald eagles frequently sighted. The park consists of three distinct parts; Mount Desert Island, and the Schoodic Peninsula, can be explored by car, shuttle bus or by bicycle, however the third area – Isle au Haut – can only be accessed by boat.

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The Bayview, Bar Harbor A winding drive leads to The Bayview, a peaceful retreat offering unsurpassed views of the Atlantic Ocean and Frenchman’s Bay. Just minutes away from Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, the 32 spacious rooms, some of which have private balconies, benefit from ocean views. While there is no restaurant here, a complimentary minibus will take you into town, and a continental breakfast is served each morning on the ocean-front terrace.

Inn at Ocean’s Edge, near Camden Situated on picturesque Penobscot Bay, a short distance from the shops and bustling harbour of Camden village and the artists’ colony of Belfast, the Inn at Ocean’s Edge is a perfect, peaceful base from which to explore Maine’s coastline.

We really like the inn’s heated infinity swimming pool overlooking the ocean. This romantic inn offers 32 guest rooms, all set within manicured gardens and woodlands.

Inn at Ocean’s Edge, near Camden

The Bayview, Bar Harbor

Lobster fisherman, Maine

Mount Katahdin, Baxter State Park

Lulu lobster boat

Moosehead Lake

This unique cruise takes you along the picturesque Maine coastline on a traditional lobster boat. Whilst on board you will get a fascinating insight into the working life of the Maine lobstermen as the captain demonstrates how lobster traps are set and hauled out of the water. Passengers may also enjoy some wildlife viewing with seals and sea birds being abundant here.

Located on the edge of Maine’s Great North Woods, Moosehead Lake offers visitors endless vistas of island-studded waters and forested wilderness. The lake can be explored by kayak, canoe or scenic cruise and the surrounding mountains offer wonderful hiking trails. This is also an excellent place to view a variety of birdlife and one of the best places in the country to see moose.

Blair Hill Inn, Greenville

Blair Hill Inn, Greenville Perched on a hill with soaring views of Moosehead Lake, the beautiful Blair Hill Inn offers eight spacious guest rooms with breathtaking views of the surrounding lake and mountains. The property is set in mature gardens which feature a tranquil pond, wildflowers and woodlands. Guests can also enjoy access to spa services, a cocktail lounge and bar, and a lakeside veranda. The restaurant here is one of the best in the area and offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding wilderness.

Windjammer Cruises, Camden Board a historic schooner for an exploration of the spruce-clad islands and hidden coves of the rugged Maine coast. You will embark on one of a fleet of National Historic Landmark schooners, such as the Grace Bailey or the Mercantile, for a voyage that can last anywhere between three and six days. These tall ships had prominent careers in the coastal cargo trade during the 19 th and early 20 th centuries, and now take small numbers of passengers on adventure cruises.

You can learn how to sail or simply watch the crew at work. There are no engines, so the ships use canvas and rope to harness the power of the wind, just as they did over a hundred years ago.

Canoeing on Moosehead Lake

Bull moose, Moosehead Lake

www.audleytravel.com/newengland • 01993 838 755 • New England

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USA

White Mountains

Kennebunkport

Green Mountains

Boston Cape Cod Newport

Classic New England This tour is a great introduction to New England, covering a variety of experiences and highlights across all six states. Start in the historic city of Boston, before taking in idyllic mountain and rural scenery in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, exploring the stunning coastlines of Rhode Island and Cape Cod, and discovering the contrasting harbour towns of Newport, Mystic and Plymouth.

Beach at Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard

Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our New England specialists to start planning your itinerary.

T 01993 838 755

Getting around

Man posing in front of US flag on his shed, Maine

Most visitors to New England fly into Boston and then collect a hire car and self-drive around the region from there. There are regular ferry crossings between Cape Cod and the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket and also seasonal crossings between Provincetown and Boston. In addition, regular train services operate from Boston to New York and beyond.

Canada’s eastern provinces are also easily accessible from New England.

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Q

Q

Q

~

3

3

~

~

Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

New England experiences very cold and usually snowy winters, which are particularly good for winter sports from January until the end of March. May can be a pleasant time to travel whilst June to September is the best time to visit.

Mid-September to mid-October is the time of the autumn colours, but the region is at its busiest at this time of year. Rain can occur at any time, especially in the mountains and along the coasts.

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

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Day 2

Spend a day discovering historic Boston.

Day 3

Drive to the Maine beach resort of Kennebunkport.

Day 4

Journey through Maine’s lakestudded interior and on to New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

Day 5

Discover the beautiful White Mountains, perhaps taking the Cog Railway up imposing Mount Washington.

Day 6

Travel the spectacular Kancamagus Highway into Vermont and the Green Mountains.

Day 7

Spend the day exploring the Green Mountains.

Day 8

Drive on to Newport, Rhode Island, stopping en route at Old Sturbridge Village or historic Mystic Seaport.

Day 9

Drive east to Cape Cod, pausing to discover fishing villages en route.

Day 10

Explore Cape Cod; options include whale watching, visiting the dunes of Cape Cod National Seashore, or relaxing on a beach.

Day 11

Return to Boston via Plymouth Rock and the excellent Plimoth Plantation.

Join your onward flight.

Q Snow or ski season.

Time difference: GMT-5 hours

Autumn colours, Vermont

Arrive in Boston.

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

33 33 33 33

33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

~

Day 1

Stay longer From the southeast corner of Cape Cod you can take a ferry over to Martha’s Vineyard, a lovely place to visit for a day or an overnight stay.

Here you will find rolling hills and sweeping beaches, and it is in turn a short ferry ride to Chappaquiddick Island to visit Cape Pogue Wildlife Refuge.

Suggested itineraries Fredericton

USA

Green Mountains

canada

Québec

canada

St. Andrews

Bar Harbor White Mountains

USA Montréal

Woodstock

Moosehead Lake

White Mountains

Kennebunkport

Grand Manan Island

Bangor

Bar Harbor Boothbay Harbor

The Berkshires

Albany

Boston Cape Cod

Newport

Boston

USA

Toronto Niagara Falls

Finger Lakes

Boston New York

Grand New England

Maple Leaf Trail

This comprehensive trip allows you to delve into New England’s treasures in more depth, and at a relaxed pace. Enjoy Cape Cod’s sandy beaches, Maine’s rugged coastline, the charms of Newport, historic Boston, the White Mountains of New Hampshire and green Vermont.

The best of eastern USA and Canada in one trip.

As well as taking in the city of Boston, this diverse itinerary also includes time in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the cosmopolitan Canadian cities of Montréal, Québec and Toronto, spectacular Niagara Falls, and the splendid, isolated scenery of New York State.

Day 1

Arrive in Boston.

Day 2

Spend a day discovering Boston.

Day 3

Drive north along the Maine coast to Kennebunkport.

Day 4

Explore Maine’s seaside towns, or enjoy a day relaxing on the beach.

Day 3

Collect your hire car and drive to the White Mountains.

Day 5

Continue up the coast to Bar Harbor, near Acadia National Park.

Day 4

Discover the White Mountains.

Day 6

Explore the spectacular coastal scenery of Acadia National Park.

Day 5

Day 7

Travel inland through Maine’s lake-studded interior to New Hampshire’s White Mountains.

Day 8

Explore the beautiful White Mountains; perhaps take the Cog Railway up Mount Washington.

Day 9

Take a short, scenic drive to Vermont’s Green Mountains.

Day 10

Spend a day exploring Vermont’s pretty, historic villages.

Day 11

Head to Woodstock in Vermont’s southern Green Mountains.

Day 12

Explore the delightful village of Woodstock or take part in some of the area’s many outdoor activities.

Day 13

Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum or Bennington Museum before driving to the Berkshires.

Day 14

Visit Old Sturbridge Village, en route to Newport.

Day 15

Spend the day visiting some of Newport’s magnificent mansions.

Day 16

Drive to Cape Cod.

Day 17

Explore Cape Cod; options include whale watching and visiting Cape Cod National Seashore.

Day 18

Return to Boston and join your onward flight.

Maine & New Brunswick Seascapes The rugged coastal scenery of both Maine and Canada’s province of New Brunswick is a delight to explore with unspoilt scenery, empty roads and friendly locals.

Day 1

Arrive in Boston.

Day 1

Arrive in Boston.

Day 2

Day 2

Spend a day discovering historic Boston, the capital of Massachusetts and the largest city in New England.

Spend a day discovering the historic Freedom Trail which weaves its way around the city.

Day 3

Collect your hire car and drive to the pretty little Maine village of Boothbay Harbor.

Day 4

Continue north along the Maine coast to Bar Harbor.

Cross into Canada and drive to Québec city.

Day 5

Explore the scenery of Acadia National Park.

Day 6

Explore Gallic Québec.

Day 6

Day 7

Follow the mighty St. Lawrence River to Montréal.

Cross the border into Canada, for an overnight stay in St. Andrews, New Brunswick.

Day 8

A full day in vibrant Montréal.

Day 7

Day 9

Travel along the northern shore of Lake Ontario to Toronto.

Take the ferry across to Grand Manan Island, the largest island in the Bay of Fundy.

Day 10

A full day in Toronto. Ascend the CN Tower, watch a hockey game or visit the Royal Ontario Museum.

Day 8

Explore some of the nature walks on Grand Manan Island.

Day 9

Return by ferry and continue your journey to Fredericton, the historic capital of New Brunswick.

Day 10

Cross back in to Maine and drive to Moosehead Lake.

Day 11

Relax at Moosehead Lake, or explore the beautiful remote scenery of Mount Katahdin in nearby Baxter State Park.

Day 11

Head south to Niagara Falls.

Day 12

Cross the border back into the USA and drive east through northern New York State’s pretty Finger Lakes region.

Day 13

Visit the reputable wineries of the Finger Lakes region.

Day 14

Follow the mighty Hudson River to Albany then take the train to New York.

Day 12

Another day at Moosehead Lake.

Enjoy boating on one of the many lakes, or go looking for moose.

Day 15

Spend the day exploring.

Day 13

Day 16

Make your way to the airport for your onward flight.

Drive to Bangor and join your onward flight.

Stay longer From Moosehead Lake continue your journey to explore some of the inland areas of New England.

From New Brunswick you can take the ferry to explore Halifax, Lunenburg and Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia.

www.audleytravel.com/newengland • 01993 838 755 • New England

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NYC & the Capital Region N

ew York City, one of the world’s great metropolises, needs little introduction; if you want the best in culture, shopping, nightlife and entertainment, this is the place to come. But the Capital Region also offers two other very different cities: the nation’s capital, Washington D.C., with its wide array of monuments and museums, and historic Philadelphia, where dreams of revolution and independence began and the Declaration of Independence was finally written. Away from the urban attractions, New York State features the dramatic peaks of the Adirondack Mountains, striking Niagara Falls, and the tranquil vineyards of the Finger Lakes. Its southern neighbour, Pennsylvania, is where you can meet the Amish people, who maintain a simple, rural lifestyle, and visit Gettysburg, the fascinating Civil War battle site where Lincoln delivered his famous Gettysburg Address. Virginia and Maryland are crammed full of historic colonial towns, magnificent country estates, and reminders of revolutionary and Civil War conflict, but also offer quaint maritime communities along Chesapeake Bay to the east and the glorious landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park to the west.

Audley in New York & the Capital Region New York and the Capital Region provide a superb introduction to the USA’s history, mind-set and politics, making them an excellent place to start your visit to the country. The centres of the great cities of New York, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia are easily reached by train, but the region’s more distant highlights are best explored with a hire car. Our specialists have travelled extensively in the region and can advise you on the best time to travel and where to stay, and will give you plenty of useful tips such as where to eat and which driving routes to take.

Adirondack Mountains

Lake Ontario

Niagara Falls

3

2

Rochester

Buffalo Lake Erie Allegheny National Forest

NEW YORK

Lake George Saratoga Springs

Finger Lakes

Corning

Albany

Ithaca Catskill Mountains

USA

Poughkeepsie

Stroudsburg 0

100 miles

0

161 kilometres

1

PENNSYLVANIA

New York

Pittsburgh Lancaster

Gettysburg

Philadelphia

MARYLAND

Accommodation The great cities of the region have an enormous choice of hotels and we have carefully chosen a selection that appeals both to those seeking value for money options and those looking for the ultimate in luxury and sophistication. Outside the large cities there is a wide variety of accommodation options, including boutique independent hotels, tranquil lakeside B&Bs, large resorts offering a range of leisure facilities, and character country inns. Our knowledgeable specialists will be glad to recommend our favourites.

Lake Alexandria Placid Bay

CANADA

Luray

WEST VIRGINIA

Shenandoah National Park

6

Blu

e

Ri

e dg

7

TENNESSEE

Boone

1 New York City

A legendary city that offers something for everyone.

See pages 24-25 2 Adirondack

M

ou

nt

a

s in

Front Royal

NEW JERSEY

Baltimore Annapolis

WASHINGTON D.C.

4 Skyline Drive Fredericksburg

DELAWARE

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Charlottesville

Roanoke

Richmond

5

Williamsburg

VIRGINIA

Blue Ridge Parkway

Norfolk

Virginia Beach

NORTH CAROLINA

4 Washington D.C.

The nation’s capital with a superb collection of museums, monuments and memorials.

See page 29

Mountains Upper New York State’s tranquil lakes and mountains region.

See page 26

5 Williamsburg A vivid portrait of life in colonial America.

See page 31

3 Niagara Falls One of the world’s most iconic waterfalls thundering across the border between the USA and Canada.

See page 26

National Park Broadleaf forests, waterfalls and magnificent views.

See page 30

6 Shenandoah

7 Virginia’s Blue

Ridge Mountains Majestic mountains covered in lush vegetation and littered with walking trails.

See page 31 The Amish people Step back in time for a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of these humble people.

See page 28

Pumpkin harvest

www.audleytravel.com/newyork • 01993 838 755 • New York & the Capital Region

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Times Square, New York

Park Hyatt New York

Park Hyatt New York

New York City New York is one of the most cosmopolitan and exciting cities in the world. Whether you have come to the ‘Big Apple’ for the architecture, shopping, Broadway shows or just to stroll down Fifth Avenue and soak up the electric atmosphere, it is a city that never disappoints.

You can dine in bustling Chinatown or stylish Greenwich Village or revel in the charms of SoHo and Little Italy. Many of New York’s museums and art galleries are world-leading, and the choice of exhibitions, sports events, and nightlife on offer is staggering. Along with the more traditional attractions of the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Brooklyn Bridge you can also visit Ground Zero, stroll through Central Park, enjoy a trip over the city by helicopter, tour around on an open top bus, or see the Manhattan skyline from the river at night.

Located on West 57th Street, Park Hyatt New York enjoys a prime location directly opposite Carnegie Hall, a few steps from Fifth Avenue, and just a short stroll from Central Park. This architecturally striking hotel offers impeccable service and 210 generously sized rooms and luxurious suites, each beautifully designed in a contemporary style. The Nalai spa with terrace is located on the 25th floor. For well-being there is a state-of-the-art gym, indoor lap pool with underwater music, steam room, and hydrotherapy pool. In addition there is a highly regarded restaurant and bar with excellent views of the city.

Bryant Park Hotel, New York The stylish and award-winning Bryant Park Hotel is located in bustling Midtown, adjacent to the park of the same name, and provides easy access to the MET, Tribeca, New York Public Library and all major sites. The 128 decent sized rooms are designed in a contemporary, minimalist fashion and are well appointed with lovely marble bathrooms. We would recommend going for Park View rooms that overlook leafy Bryant Park and the city skyline. The hotel’s restaurant, Koi, is a local favourite and serves modern Japanese fusion food.

Bryant Park Hotel, New York

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Distrikt Hotel, New York Just steps away from Times Square, Hell’s Kitchen and Broadway, Distrikt Hotel is located in the heart of Manhattan and celebrates the diverse individuality of New York’s different neighbourhoods through its architecture and design. The lobby’s ‘Central Park’ living wall pays homage to some of New York’s best known districts and acts as a gateway to the 155 sleek and contemporary rooms. Decorated in neutral tones, the rooms maximise comfort with everything from sound-proofed windows to quality linens. Whilst the hotel has no restaurant, the concierge will knowledgably guide you to the best eateries both locally and throughout the city.

HARLEM

ive r

Cathedral of St John the Divine

Pa ntr al Ce

UPPER EAST SIDE

Lincoln Center MIDTOWN 57 WEST TH

Lincoln Tunnel 42

ND S

50 TH ST RE ET

Times New York Square Public Library T

Museum of Modern Art

ST

MIDTOWN EAST

Rockefeller Center

5T H

Penn Station

AV E

Yankee Stadium, the Bronx

Empire State 3 Building 0TH ST TH ST Grand 14 TH Central ST Station

Queensboro Bridge

United Nations

20

Chrysler Building

QUEENS

Queens-Midtown Tunnel

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Holland Tunnel

BR

t Riv

er

OA DW AY

Gramercy Park

Woolworth Building City Hall

FINANCIAL DISTRICT

Ellis Island

Eas

Memorial at Ground Zero

Statue of Liberty

Guggenheim Museum Metropolitan Museum of Art

rk

Hu ds on R

UPPER WEST SIDE

American Museum of Natural History

NEW JERSEY

THE BRONX

CHINA TOWN

Brooklyn Bridge

Williamsburg Bridge Manhattan Bridge

Governor’s Island

Liberty Island

BROOKLYN

0

1 mile

0

1.6 kilometres

Statue of Liberty

Manhattan: The city’s smallest borough but home to its most famous icons: Times Square, Broadway, Central Park, the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock Observation Deck, National September 11 Memorial, and Chinatown. Manhattan is divided into many districts such as Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Midtown and Harlem.

New York City’s boroughs

Queens: The largest and most easterly of the New York boroughs, Queens sits at the end of Long Island and is home to the Museum of Modern Art, New York Hall of Science, the National Tennis Center and the district of Astoria, renowned for Greek cuisine and chic vintage shops.

Mention New York to most people and the image that often springs to mind is of the towering skyscrapers and attractions of Manhattan – but the city is actually made up of five separate boroughs, and each has its own distinctive personality with plenty to offer visitors.

Staten Island: The views on board the 25 minute ferry journey from Manhattan to Staten Island are unforgettable. Passengers will be rewarded with a stunning panorama of New York’s skyline and a close up of the Statue of Liberty.

Distrikt Hotel, New York

The Bronx: A diverse, vibrant borough of hip-hop legends and salsa dancing. Home to several theatres, the Bronx Zoo, Yankee Stadium and the Bronx Museum of the Arts.

Brooklyn: Lying just across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan, Brooklyn is large enough to be a city in its own right boasting a population of over two million people. Highlights include Prospect Park and the galleries and bars of Williamsburg.

Eating out The New York dining scene is as varied and eclectic as the city itself, catering for all tastes and preferences. Choose an iconic NY hot dog loaded with onions and mustard served from a street cart or dine at world renowned Michelin-starred restaurants. From brunch in Chelsea to grabbing a slice of New York pizza in Little Italy, you can eat whatever you like, whenever you like. There are also lots of food trucks to be found around the city, providing a good choice of cuisine, not to mention an interesting local experience.

You may also like to sample the restaurants in Chinatown, Curry Row or Korea Town and you shouldn’t miss Katz’s Deli for superb New York pastrami. It’s a city institution.

Saxophonist in Central Park

www.audleytravel.com/newyork • 01993 838 755 • New York & the Capital Region

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Lake Placid, Adirondacks

New York State

Buffalo

In contrast to the great metropolis of New York City, New York State consists of 50,000 square miles of rolling farmland, great lakes and towering mountains. The mighty Hudson River Valley and the brooding Catskill Mountains lie to the north of the city, en route to the state capital, Albany, and the glorious wilderness of the Adirondack Mountains. It is in the midst of the Adirondacks that pretty lakeside towns have sprung up, such as Lake George and Lake Placid. To the west of the state lie the charming Finger Lakes, where New York’s renowned vineyards tumble gently down the hillsides to the lake shores. The mighty lakes Erie and Ontario form the state’s north and western borders, as does the spectacular natural wonder of Niagara Falls.

Set on the eastern shore of Lake Erie in the northwest corner of New York State, the small city of Buffalo is known for its fine collection of American architecture. The city prospered in the early 20 th century and today it has a wealth of fine buildings including 80 sites which are on the National Register of Historic Places. Buffalo also acts as a gateway to the American side of the nearby natural wonder, Niagara Falls.

La Tourelle Resort, Finger Lakes This 19 th-century farmhouse and barn is set in rolling farmland on the edge of Upper Buttermilk Falls State Park and Finger Lakes wine country.

A charming, family-run resort, La Tourelle has 55 rooms, all offering lovely views over the surrounding countryside. The resort also features a spa and two restaurants. Simply Red Bistro blends locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients with more exotic flavours while the John Thomas Steakhouse serves a varied selection of steaks and seafood.

Boathouse B&B, Lake George

Boathouse B&B, Lake George Occupying a stunning waterfront setting on the banks of Lake George, Boathouse is an elegant and intimate B&B. Originally built in 1917 as the summer residence of Gold Cup winning speedboat racer, George Reis, the Boathouse has been meticulously renovated by its current owners, Patti and Joe, to offer seven beautifullyappointed rooms and suites, many with lake views. This is the perfect spot for quiet relaxation, fishing, boating and water sports.

La Tourelle Resort, Finger Lakes

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Niagara Falls Niagara Falls never fails to impress, and the sheer scale and volume of thundering water can be heard for miles around. The Canadian province of Ontario lies just over the border, offering the best views of the falls, and can easily be combined with a trip to New York State.

Visitors can take a boat trip to the foot of the falls or a thrilling helicopter flight over them.

In winter the falls freeze, creating a totally different dynamic to this great waterfall. Please contact us for a copy of our Canada & Alaska brochure or speak to one of our specialists.

Grapes, Finger Lakes

The American Falls, Niagara Falls

Elfreth’s Alley, downtown Philadelphia

The Liberty Bell, Philadelphia

Pennsylvania

red brick warehouses and the old Market Square lined with shops and restaurants. To the state’s south, amidst rolling farmland and pretty villages, lies the town of Gettysburg, famous for the crucial, and bloody, 1863 Civil War battle and where President Lincoln made his famed Gettysburg Address.

In 1681 King Charles II made one of the largest individual land grants in history to William Penn to repay a £16,000 debt owed by his father. The land, named Pennsylvania, became home to the nascent nation’s capital, Philadelphia, a city laid out in 1682 by William Penn Junior. It was here in 1776 that the Declaration of Independence was written, and where the US Constitution was first read ten years later. The city still boasts a downtown core of shady cobbled streets and red brick houses that include Independence Hall, Congress Hall and Carpenter’s Hall, along with the Liberty Bell Center, home to the USA's symbol of independence. There are some outstanding art museums, including the Philadelphia Art Museum, the Rodin Museum and the Franklin Institute Science Museum which honours the life and work of Benjamin Franklin, the city’s most famous ambassador.

Market Square, Pittsburgh

Palomar Hotel, Philadelphia The award-winning Palomar Hotel, a landmark Art Deco building now restored to its original grandeur, is an Audley favourite. Constructed in 1929, the hotel is located in the trendy Rittenhouse Square neighbourhood close to many of Philadelphia’s notable attractions.

A collection of artworks can be found throughout the hotel including in the 230 comfortable guest rooms, many of which have exceptional city views. We especially like the acclaimed Square 1682 restaurant which has a modern American menu.

To the west of the state, Pittsburgh, named after British Secretary of State William Pitt, has a strong industrial heritage. By the time of the Civil War, Pittsburgh was producing half the nation’s iron and a third of its glass, followed by a vigorous expansion of the steel industry in the 1870s. Pittsburgh is a pleasant city made up of interesting close-knit neighbourhoods. The downtown commercial area, known as the Golden Triangle also houses Victorian churches,

Travelling by train The cities of the USA’s northeast are well connected via an extensive train network which is a vital commuter link with routes at peak times proving extremely busy. Services are frequent, inexpensive, and depart from and arrive into the heart of the cities. Many of the stations were built during a boom time for neo-classical design and have real architectural significance with domed roofs, pillars, gilded arches and large mosaic-tiled concourses. It is worth lingering for a while before your journey to take in the atmosphere and watch the world go by.

Palomar Hotel, Philadelphia

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Amish man at work, Pennsylvania

Amish View Inn & Suites, near Lancaster

Town square, Gettysburg

Nestled amidst tranquil Amish farmland, this family-friendly hotel is situated close to the Amish Country Homestead and adjacent to the Amish Experience interpretive centre. Tours and buggy rides of the area are available from the hotel. As well as an indoor swimming pool, gym and arcade room, there are two restaurants and 50 elegant guest rooms.

Gettysburg In Pennsylvania’s south, amid rolling farmland and pretty villages, lies the town of Gettysburg, famous for the crucial, and bloody, 1863 Civil War battle, and where President Lincoln made his Gettysburg Address. For anyone with an interest in America’s Civil War history a visit to Gettysburg National Military Park, which can be toured on horseback or by Segway as well as on foot, is an enlightening insight into the era.

The Amish people Amish people belong to a group of Christian Anabaptist churches that also includes the Huttites and the Mennonites. In the early 18 th century many Amish and Mennonite people migrated to Pennsylvania in order to escape religious persecution in Europe.

Today many of their more traditional descendants still speak Pennsylvania German. The Amish are known for simple living, plain dress and a reluctance to embrace many aspects of the modern world. Rural life, manual labour and humility are highly valued, and lifestyles and beliefs are traditional in the extreme.

Wyndham, Gettysburg Ideally located, the Wyndham impresses with a pillar-lined marble lobby and a wide range of facilities. As well as three restaurants, the hotel boasts a lounge, bar and a theatre which features the latest films on a huge screen. There is also a gym, Jacuzzi and an indoor swimming pool.

The 248 spacious rooms have been designed to create a period feel whilst complemented by modern amenities.

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Gettysburg National Military Park

Lincoln Memorial

US Capitol building

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The White House

Washington D.C.

Great shopping and restaurants can also be found, while the National Mall is surrounded by the buildings of the Smithsonian Institution, the Washington Monument and the US Capitol.

From its iconic monuments and buildings to its historic neighbourhoods and free museums, the USA’s capital has a huge array of attractions.

A tour of the White House Visitor Center offers a wealth of information about one of the most powerful symbols of American history and politics. From there you can make your way to a number of moving tributes including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Jefferson and Lincoln memorials, while the city's world-class museums cover everything from the holocaust to international espionage. Don’t miss the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court, the National Gallery of Art, the Pentagon and the National Archives where you can see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

The Jefferson, Washington D.C. Exuding style and offering impeccable service, The Jefferson is one of our favourite hotels and has been the choice of senators and statesmen since it opened in 1923. Situated in a prestigious location close to the White House, The Jefferson has just 95 rooms, designed in a European style with antiques, period artefacts and books throughout the public areas. The spacious rooms are tastefully furnished and all offer modern amenities. There is a gym, a spa, two excellent restaurants and a complimentary car available to transport guests around the city.

Hotel Monaco, Washington D.C. Located in Chinatown and the Penn Quarter, close to the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, the Hotel Monaco is a colourful, Victorian hotel occupying a National Historic Landmark building. The 183 rooms and suites have high vaulted ceilings, and are finished with vibrant decorative touches and furnishings.

The hotel’s restaurant offers casual dining with tables overlooking the open kitchen or the leafy courtyard.

Lady blowing bubbles, Washington D.C.

Highlights of the Capital There is so much to see and do in Washington it can be hard to know where to begin. Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Take a guided tour of the US Capitol, the seat of political power.

• Visit the Library of Congress, with more than 75 million books and manuscripts.

• Visit the Supreme Court, arbiter of the nation’s law.

• Travel across the Potomac River to visit Arlington National Cemetery.

• Visit the dazzling collections of artefacts at one of the Smithsonian Institution’s museums.

• Walk along the National Mall, stretching from the US Capitol to the Potomac River, and visit the impressive presidential memorial monuments.

• View the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights at the National Archives.

Hotel Monaco, Washington D.C.

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Shenandoah National Park

Virginia The Commonwealth of Virginia started with the founding of the English colony of Jamestown in 1607 and grew to become the richest of the English colonies, thriving on vast fortunes made from the tobacco plantations. Several notable Virginians had a huge influence on the emerging United States; George Mason, James Madison, and Thomas Jefferson, who wrote the Declaration of Independence. This agricultural state began to be eclipsed by the industrialised cities of the north in the mid-19 th century and Virginia was caught in the midst of the battles, politically and geographically, during the Civil War. Today the state is a delight to visit, with historic buildings seemingly around every corner, including the wonderfully restored colonial capital of Williamsburg, the battlefield of Yorktown, George Washington’s former home of Mount Vernon near Washington D.C., and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello near Charlottesville. The magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains define the western edge of Virginia which is also where the spectacular limestone stalactites and stalagmites of the Luray Caverns and the beautiful waterfalls, dark forests and rocky ravines of Shenandoah National Park can be found. The present day capital, Richmond, is a thriving city with many fine old buildings, whilst the coastal towns such as Virginia Beach boast beautiful stretches of fine sandy beaches.

Omni Charlottesville Hotel Located in historic Charlottesville, where Thomas Jefferson country meets Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, the Omni is well positioned adjacent to the old main street with its outdoor cafes, shops and galleries. With 209 comfortable rooms and suites the hotel has a modern feel and boasts a seven-storey atrium, a gym and two swimming pools. The informal restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and there is a coffee shop in the lobby. The Omni offers good value for money and is an excellent base to discover the highlights of the region.

Monticello, Charlottesville

Monticello

Omni Charlottesville Hotel

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The architectural masterpiece of Thomas Jefferson, Monticello was designed, redesigned, built, tweaked, extended and reformed over a period of 40 years. It is set within extensive grounds and gardens filled with plants sourced from around the world. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the house is based on a neo-classical design and inspired by Jefferson’s knowledge of Italian Renaissance architecture together with a few of his own ideas. The house is filled with books, antiques and relics while the beautiful, well-preserved grounds feature flower gardens, vegetable plots, fruit orchards and a thriving collection of historic plants.

Local man, Blue Ridge Mountains

Williamsburg, Virginia

Upper Doyles River Falls, Shenandoah National Park

Williamsburg

White-tailed deer, Blue Ridge Mountains

Blue Ridge Mountains The jewel in the crown of Virginia’s breathtaking scenery has to be the Blue Ridge Mountains, part of the east’s great Appalachian Mountains.

The Blue Ridge Parkway wends its way through this glorious scenery and is one of America’s great drives, forming a link between Shenandoah National Park in the north and North Carolina’s Great Smoky Mountains in the south. The park’s name originates from the bluish haze that drapes the heavily contorted peaks here. More than 120 species of trees and over 1,400 flowering plants clothe the mountains with colourful spring flowers, summer rhododendrons and the blazing colours of autumn. The mountains, which rise over 1,800 metres, afford dramatic vistas at any time of year. However, nothing beats getting out on foot on one of the many lovely walking trails.

Keep a look-out for wildlife as white-tailed deer are frequently seen, as well as bears, coyotes and wild turkeys.

In 1676 the English colonial capital in the New World was moved from Jamestown to the village of Middle Plantation and was subsequently renamed Williamsburg in honour of King William III. To reflect the growing wealth of the tobacco-producing colony of Virginia, a grand city was laid out which focused on a mile-long avenue studded with opulent buildings such as the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol and the Courthouse. During the Revolutionary War, the capital was moved to the more secure city of Richmond and Williamsburg slowly declined.

It was in the 1920s and 1930s that John D. Rockefeller financed a $90 million restoration and today this car-free garden city is a delightful and educational place to visit, with interpretive activities and craftspeople conveying a real sense of colonial life during its late 17th-century heyday.

Re-enactment of life in Williamsburg

Courtyard by Marriott, Williamsburg Situated near to Busch Gardens Amusement Park and Water Country USA, this Marriott hotel is a good choice for those looking for more mainstream family entertainment, yet is also close to colonial Williamsburg and the Jamestown settlement. There are 151 comfortable rooms and suites and a buffet breakfast is served daily.

Whilst the hotel does not have its own restaurant, there are a number of dining options; amenities include a gym and an indoor pool with whirlpool connecting to a seasonal outdoor pool.

Williamsburg Lodge

Eastern bluebird, Blue Ridge Mountains

Conveniently located within easy reach of Williamsburg’s historic sites and restaurants, Williamsburg Lodge is beautifully furnished with leather sofas and lantern-lined hallways. There are 323 comfortable rooms and a wide range of facilities that include two outdoor swimming pools, a gym and a restaurant.

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Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our New York and the Capital Region specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Lancaster Gettysburg

Philadelphia

Washington DC

Williamsburg

33 33

3

Blue Ridge & Great Smoky Mountains Trail

This delightful itinerary combines visits to the great cities of Philadelphia and Washington D.C., taking in the region’s history and scenic beauty.

After exploring the nation’s capital, Washington D.C., this lovely trip takes in some of eastern USA’s most scenic mountains.

Day 1

Fly to Philadelphia.

Day 1

Fly to Washington D.C.

Day 2

Spend a day exploring Philadelphia including Independence Hall, Congress Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Day 2

Enjoy a full day exploring Washington.

Day 3

Collect your hire car and travel through rolling farmland to Lancaster.

Day 4

Discover the fascinating history and culture of the Amish people before driving south to Gettysburg.

Day 5

Visit the Battle of Gettysburg site then continue south to Shenandoah National Park.

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

3

3

33 33

3

~

33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

~

Asheville

Pennsylvania & Virginia Explored

When to go Q

Boone

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Capital Region’s main international airport hubs are New York City and Washington D.C. whilst the beautiful landscapes away from the cities are best explored with a hire car. New York and Washington D.C. can be explored on foot or by using the efficient underground systems, although clean and efficient buses also operate. New York’s famous yellow cabs are a city icon and allow easy downtown transfers.

One of the most pleasant ways of travelling between the great cities of the east is by train, enabling access to the heart of the action.

Q

Roanoke Knoxville

Getting around

Q

Shenandoah National Park Charlottesville

Charlottesville

T 01993 838 755

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Washington DC

Shenandoah National Park

Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

Q Snow or ski season.

New York and the Capital Region has a diverse climate, ranging from cold and often snowy winters, especially from December until March, followed by hot and humid summers. Rainfall can occur at any time of the year but perhaps the most pleasant times to visit are during April and May or September and October.

Time difference: GMT-5 hours

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Day 6

Enjoy a full day in Shenandoah National Park.

Day 7

Drive to historic Charlottesville to explore this delightful town.

Day 8

Continue to the former colonial capital, Williamsburg, and visit Jamestown, the first English colony in North America.

Day 9

Spend a day in Williamsburg for a taste of life in colonial days.

Day 10

Drive north along the shores of Chesapeake Bay to the nation’s capital, Washington D.C.

Day 11

Enjoy a full day exploring Washington’s many monuments, museums and art galleries.

Day 12

Travel to the airport for your onward flight.

Days 3-4 Drive to Shenandoah National Park and visit the Luray Caverns and enjoy the cool, shady forests.

Day 5

Savour the breathtaking scenery along Skyline Drive to Charlottesville.

Day 6

Discover Charlottesville’s beautiful colonial buildings and leafy squares.

Day 7

Continue south through the magnificent scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains, to Roanoke.

Day 8

Head south on the Blue Ridge Parkway through verdant Appalachian peaks to Boone, North Carolina.

Day 9

Drive on to the town of Asheville and visit the grand Biltmore Estate.

Day 10

Explore the spectacular Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Day 11

Drive to nearby Knoxville before boarding your return flight.

Stay longer Lovers of history and coastal scenery may wish to extend this trip by travelling through the heartland of rural Virginia, perhaps visiting colonial Williamsburg and returning to Washington D.C. along the shores of Chesapeake Bay.

Stay longer You could easily spend another day in Philadelphia, Washington D.C. or exploring the shores of Chesapeake Bay. Alternatively, why not take the train to add on a few nights in New York City.

Canoeing on Lake Placid, New York State

32

New York skyline

Suggested itineraries canada

Adirondack Mountains Boston Baltimore

Niagara Falls

Saratoga Springs

Rochester Finger Lakes

Washington DC Shenandoah National Park

Annapolis

New York

Charlottesville Williamsburg

Philadelphia

Virginia Beach USA

New York

Washington DC

New York State Discovered

A Journey through Virginia

New York State is wonderfully diverse and this exciting itinerary covers its urban as well as its natural wonders.

Virginia is one of the most rewarding parts of the USA to visit. This itinerary takes in the state’s cities, wildlife, beaches and history.

Day 1

Fly to New York.

Day 1

Fly to Washington D.C.

Day 2

Explore New York’s famous sights, museums and art galleries.

Day 2

Day 3

Visit Central Park, Ellis Island or Brooklyn Bridge, shop or take in a Broadway show.

Enjoy a full day exploring Washington’s many monuments, museums and art galleries.

Day 3

Collect your car and drive to vibrant Baltimore.

Day 4

Drive south to the historic port of Annapolis.

Day 4

Collect your hire car and drive along the Hudson Valley past the Catskill Mountains to the Finger Lakes.

Day 5

Spend the day exploring pretty villages and vineyards.

Day 6

Travel northwest to Niagara Falls; cross into Canada to visit the pretty town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Day 7

Take a boat trip to the foot of the falls or a helicopter trip over them.

Day 8

Drive along Lake Ontario to Rochester stopping at some of the many delightful state parks en route.

Day 9

Continue into the wilderness of the Adirondack Mountains.

Day 10

Soak up the splendid Adirondack scenery or join one of the many outdoor activities on offer.

Day 11 Day 12

Travel to Saratoga Springs, renowned for horse racing.

Return to New York along the beautiful Hudson River before boarding your onward flight.

Stay longer This lovely trip can be extended by crossing the border into Canada to discover parts of Ontario or by journeying east to the pretty villages and Green Mountains of Vermont.

Cities of the East The northeastern corner of the USA boasts some of the world’s greatest cities, each with its own unique character. The four cities of Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. not only offer superb shopping, nightlife and restaurants, but also world-class museums and inspirational architecture. Train travel between these cities is simple, time efficient and a relaxing way to arrive in the heart of these great metropolises.

Day 1

Fly to Boston.

Day 2

Spend the day exploring this historic city.

Day 3

Take the train from Boston to New York for an afternoon discovering the city’s charms.

Day 4

Drive along Chesapeake Bay past pretty villages and harbours to Virginia Beach.

Visit New York’s Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty or fine museums and art galleries.

Day 5

Relax on one of Virginia Beach’s long stretches of sand or visit the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Reserve.

Travel from New York to Philadelphia by train. The afternoon is free to explore.

Day 6

Discover historic Philadelphia’s rich heritage in Independence Hall, Congress Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Day 8

Drive to Williamsburg to learn of its history and heritage.

Day 7

Day 9

Drive through rural Virginia to Charlottesville, stopping at the state’s capital, Richmond, en route.

Take the train from Philadelphia to Washington D.C. and spend the afternoon exploring.

Day 8

Enjoy a full day visiting Washington’s many monuments, museums and art galleries.

Day 9

Travel to the airport for your flight.

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 10 Day 11

Visit Annapolis’ Banneker-Douglass Museum, which explains the town’s history, and the former tobaccostoring Waterfront Warehouse.

Explore the beautiful buildings and leafy squares of Charlottesville.

Take the spectacularly scenic Skyline Drive to Shenandoah National Park.

Day 12

Enjoy a full day in Shenandoah National Park.

Day 13

Drive back to Washington D.C. to board your onward flight.

Stay longer There is such a lot to see and do in each of these great cities that you may wish to add additional nights in some or all of these destinations.

Stay longer Those with more time may wish to continue their scenic drive south from Charlottesville to include the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Old apartment building, Philadelphia

www.audleytravel.com/newyork • 01993 838 755 • New York & the Capital Region

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The Deep South F

ull of character and history, the Deep South is a truly rewarding place to visit. Its rich, complex heritage is revealed in its many beautiful antebellum towns, stately plantation homes and moving Civil War and Civil Rights sites. Cotton, sugar and the fur trade brought great wealth to the area and the leafy streets and historic homes of Charleston, Savannah, Natchez and Vicksburg seem little changed in centuries. Cotton and sugar are still grown along the great sweeping bends of the Mississippi River where august plantation homes dot the landscape, while in Louisiana’s bayous, basking alligators and colourful birds are shaded by draping tropical vegetation. The area is equally renowned for its languid charm, slow pace of life and distinctive food, music and culture. Cajun influences are tangible, especially in the region’s music, an art form that seems to have defined the Deep South more than any other part of the country. The birthplace of soul, jazz, blues, country, and rock and roll, music runs through the veins of the South and is enshrined in cities such as Memphis, Nashville and New Orleans.

Audley in the Deep South Louisville

TENNESSEE

LOUISIANA

Vicksburg Natchez Baton Rouge

Lafayette

4

1

Milledgeville

ALABAMA GEORGIA

Montgomery

5

Jekyll Island Cumberland Island

Mobile Pensacola

FLORIDA

Gulf

3 Vicksburg A poignant Civil War site home to the Vicksburg National Military Park.

See page 43

0

100 miles

0

161 kilometres

of M

exico

4 New Orleans A truly unique city with its wonderful French Quarter architecture, jazz heritage and a colourful Mardi Gras.

See pages 44-45

2 Nashville & Memphis Two Tennessee cities renowned for their musical heritage.

See pages 36-37

Charleston

Kiawah Island Hilton Head Island

Savannah

New Orleans

Ornate frontage, Savannah

EA N

SOUTH CAROLINA

OC

Atlanta

Birmingham MISSISSIPPI

Wilmington Columbia

Tupelo

3 Jackson

Outer Banks

NORTH CAROLINA

IC

ARKANSAS

Charlotte

Chattanooga

Huntsville Clarksdale

1 Charleston & Savannah Charming historic towns full of beautiful antebellum architecture.

See pages 40-41

Wild horses, the Golden Isles

Asheville

Memphis

Durham Raleigh

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Sevierville

Nashville

2

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Mammoth Cave National Park

AT LA NT

Bowling Green

Accommodation One of the draws of the Deep South is its glorious characterful accommodation. Small hotels of great charm are found in historic cities, while smart resorts with excellent leisure facilities feature along the coasts of Georgia and the Carolinas. A stay in a plantation home is always a highlight of a trip to the Deep South and we can recommend our favourites to you.

Lexington

KENTUCKY

Mississippi

Audley’s Deep South is designed to give you an authentic experience of the region, which is full of easy charm despite its often turbulent history. We can advise you on how to combine these distinct and varied states, recommend the most scenic routes, and suggest some of the lesser-known highlights. Despite the region’s growing popularity, we can offer experiences not readily available, such as our Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour and, where possible, we will always recommend locally owned and operated trips with professional guides who offer a personal experience. We can also advise on how to combine relaxation on a sandy beach with taking a leisurely cruise on the Mississippi River, exploring the region’s grand plantation homes, or the best places to experience the South’s foot-tapping music.

Cincinnati

5 Golden Isles The wild horses and pristine ecosystems of Georgia’s Golden Isles are a joy to discover.

See page 41

Plantation homes Grand, stately homes with touching stories to tell can be found across the South.

See page 45 Wildlife Alligators and exotic birdlife are among the creatures that occupy the region’s bayous, swamps and forests.

The Mississippi River Slow, broad and meandering, the Mississippi has been the lifeblood of the Deep South for centuries.

Cajun culture Louisiana’s thriving Cajun culture features exotic, spicy food, energetic music and traditional dance.

Mardi Gras, New Orleans

www.audleytravel.com/deepsouth • 01993 838 755 • Deep South

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Live music at The Wheel on Broadway, Nashville

Tennessee

River Inn of Harbor Town, Memphis

The rural state of Tennessee stretches from the magnificent peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains in the east to the easy meanderings of the blues-soaked, cotton-growing Mississippi River region in the west. The state plays host to two of the South’s most vibrant cities, Nashville and Memphis, legendary places that play a significant role in the musical history of the USA. River Inn of Harbor Town, Memphis

Memphis The birthplace of blues, soul, and rock and roll, Memphis is rich in musical heritage and is eternally linked with Elvis Presley. Graceland, the ‘King’s’ former home, is the main attraction for Elvis fans, while Beale Street, at the heart of the city’s historic district, has recently re-emerged as a bustling entertainment centre with some great live music venues. The city’s thriving musical heritage also manifests itself in Sun Studios and the Stax Museum. Memphis is more than just music; Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated here in 1968 and the National Civil Rights Museum provides a comprehensive insight into the movement he spearheaded. The Mississippi River Museum is also worth a visit with its fascinating collection of information about the history, culture and life of the Mississippi Delta.

Beale Street, Memphis

36

Situated on Mud Island, near downtown Memphis and overlooking the Mississippi River, River Inn combines the charm and hospitality of the ‘old South’ with European style.

The hotel’s 28 bedrooms are full of character, and an open fireplace and crystal chandelier light up the lobby. Diners can choose from the popular Paulette’s restaurant or the more relaxed Tug’s Casual Grill. For pre or post-meal drinks, we recommend that you pop up to the inn’s rooftop terrace for memorable views – the Mississippi in one direction and the Memphis skyline in the other.

Chattanooga An attractive leafy city on the banks of the Tennessee River, Chattanooga has a wide variety of attractions from the remarkable Tennessee Aquarium to the legendary Chattanooga Choo Choo Terminal Station. You’ll get an insight into the American Civil War at Point Park, excellent views on a riverboat cruise, or a taste of the great outdoors on a trip on the Incline Railway to Lookout Mountain with its underground Ruby Falls and the spectacular Rock City Gardens.

You can also enjoy the Bluff View Art District and the Hunter Museum of American Art.

Grand Ole Opry Backstage Tour This is a very special opportunity to join an exclusive group of no more than 20 guests on a backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry just 20 minutes before the show is due to start. You will see all the action behind the curtain as artists and their teams get ready for their act.

You will then be photographed with the leading star of the night and remain on stage for the first act. After this you will be shown to your seat for the remainder of the show. It is advised to book well in advance for this very limited opportunity.

Hiking trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hunter Museum of American Art, Chattanooga

Black bears, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Nashville

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, Nashville

Set amid gently rolling farmland, Nashville is Tennessee’s capital. Known worldwide as the home of country music, every year millions of visitors come here to hear live performances by some of the genre’s best artists. The main venues are the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium and the Grand Ole Opry, while the many bars that line Broadway also feature live music. The Tennessee Performing Arts Center hosts classical music concerts, and during summer months orchestral events are staged in Centennial Park. Other attractions are the Tennessee State Capitol, the Tennessee State Museum, and the Art Museum, which is housed in a replica of Athens’ Parthenon. On the history trail, nearby Franklin was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War in 1864, and the strategic buildings from this time make an interesting visit.

Loews Vanderbilt Hotel, Nashville

A stylish, contemporary hotel, Loews Vanderbilt makes a dramatic first impression with its gleaming white lobby accented by vast pillars, modern art and a jukebox playing the music of former celebrity guests. The hotel’s lounge bar offers nightly live music, whilst the two restaurants specialise in southern fare and steaks.

The 340 rooms are bright and well-appointed and look out over the city skyline or the quiet Vanderbilt University campus. Situated nearby are the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, the Parthenon at Centennial Park and the historic Belle Meade Plantation.

Music There’s no better way to understand the life of the Deep South than to tour its musical landscape. Mississippi is the birthplace of the blues, spawning the likes of B. B. King, Charley Paton, Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf. The great city of New Orleans is renowned for its unrivalled jazz scene, and Cajun culture thrives in western Louisiana, where traditional accordions, fiddles and washboards create the foot-tapping beats of zydeco music.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is the USA’s most visited national park and is known for the diversity of its flora and fauna; black bears, white-tailed deer and raccoons are often seen. There are many walking trails leading to waterfalls and forested mountain vistas, but for those exploring by car the winding, Roaring Fork drive is a highlight.

Oak Haven Resort, Sevierville Nestled in a tranquil setting within easy reach of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Oak Haven Resort offers 98 comfortable log-built homes, from intimate one-bedroom cabins to seven-bedroom lodges. Each features a kitchen, fireplace, and, our favourite, a large furnished porch with a hot tub and magnificent mountain views.

Oak Haven Resort, Sevierville

www.audleytravel.com/deepsouth • 01993 838 755 • Deep South

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Kentucky Oaks race, Churchill Downs, Kentucky

Kentucky The most northern of the Deep South states, Kentucky is known for bourbon whiskey, thoroughbred horses and for its foot-tapping music. Known as the Bluegrass State due to its flowering grasses, Kentucky is bordered by the Ohio River to the north and the Appalachian Mountains surrounding the Daniel Boone National Forest and the Cumberland Gap to the east. It’s a charming place with small, elegant cities and numerous attractions that can be combined with a visit to neighbouring Virginia and Tennessee. Trace the history of thoroughbred breeding in Lexington, sample bourbon in Louisville, explore Shaker history at Pleasant Hill, industrial heritage at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, or underground worlds at Mammoth Cave National Park.

Bourbon ageing at Heaven Hill Distillery, near Louisville

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21C Museum Hotel, Louisville

21C Museum Hotel, Louisville

Louisville The largest city in Kentucky, Louisville was founded in 1778 and named in honour of King Louis XVI of France, whose soldiers were then aiding Americans in the Revolutionary War. The city is home to the famous Kentucky Derby horse race, which takes place annually on the first weekend in May. The race was first held in 1875 at the Louisville Jockey Club track, which was later renamed Churchill Downs, and horse races are still held there to this day. Louisville also lies at the heart of Kentucky’s bourbon whiskey distilleries so there are plenty of opportunities to sample this distinctive tipple. The Muhammad Ali Centre, a museum dedicated to the life of one of boxing’s greatest heroes, is also here, as is the Slugger Museum and Factory which offers an insight into the production of baseball bats.

This unique boutique hotel and contemporary art museum is located in the heart of historic Louisville. Once home to a series of 19 th-century tobacco and bourbon warehouses, today it offers 90 comfortable guest rooms. High ceilings and large windows give a wonderfully spacious impression, while original art and, in many rooms, original exposed brickwork, give a real sense of character. The hotel’s restaurant, Proof on Main, is inspired by the American South and has a choice of more than 50 Kentucky bourbons, several bottled exclusively for the hotel.

Mammoth Cave National Park With over 350 miles of passageways, Mammoth Cave is reputedly the longest cave system in the world, and it has yet to be completely explored.

There are five separate levels of subterranean rooms, narrow passageways, deep shafts, and underground rivers, all some 122 metres underground, which can be visited in groups with a National Park Ranger. While many visitors come to see the depths of the cave, the park also protects more than 80 square miles of rolling hills, forests, sinkholes and valleys that are home to a variety of animals including white-tailed deer, bobcats and great blue herons.

Fishing from the beach, the Outer Banks

Biltmore House, Asheville

At Cumberland Falls, Asheville

Inn on Biltmore Estate, Asheville

Wright Brothers Memorial, the Outer Banks

North Carolina

Inn on Biltmore Estate, Asheville

The Outer Banks

Pristine beaches, wildlife-rich marshes, fascinating historic towns and the impressive Appalachian Mountains define North Carolina. The drive along the spectacular Blue Ridge Parkway and the many hiking and cycling trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park give a taste of its stunning landscapes where skiing, rock climbing, fishing and hang gliding are just some of the activities on offer. You can step back in time in 18th-century Old Salem, near Winston-Salem, with a walk along the cobbled streets or a horse-drawn carriage ride, or discover the truth about notorious pirate Blackbeard and his ill-fated ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge, at the Maritime Museum in Beaufort.

Asheville Asheville is a bohemian university town that retains an appealing 1920s core and has the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains as its backdrop. The town’s colourful neighbourhoods and Art Deco buildings are best discovered on an urban art walking tour, while just outside the town you can visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest private mansion in the USA. Nearby is the beautiful North Carolina Arboretum, and slightly further afield, Chimney Rock which offers breathtaking views.

This lavish estate has been home to the Vanderbilts, one of America’s wealthiest families, since 1895. Visitors can explore one of America’s largest private residences, its extensive gardens and the estate’s winery. Inn on Biltmore Estate is a comfortable property situated within the grounds of this magnificent house. It has 201 rooms and suites, an outdoor swimming pool and is ideally located for visiting Asheville itself and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

At Cumberland Falls, Asheville Situated within walking distance of downtown Asheville, At Cumberland Falls is a good value, turn-of-the-century property set in beautiful gardens. As well as quaint public areas, this B&B property has just six elegantly appointed bedrooms, each with a whirlpool or claw-foot bath and a wood-burning fireplace. Patti and Gary are friendly hosts and treat guests to a sumptuous breakfast each morning.

Stretching 200 miles from the Virginia border to Cape Lookout, the Outer Banks is a string of narrow barrier islands offering unspoilt beaches, immense dunes and a history reaching back to America’s first English colonies. A truly rural location, wild horses run along the beaches and the high number of shipwrecks have earned it the moniker ‘graveyard of the Atlantic’. The first English settlement in the New World was established here in 1585 and the Wright brothers completed the first aeroplane flight here in 1903.

A tranquil place to relax, visitors can also enjoy fishing, surfing, hang gliding and horse riding.

Sanderling Resort, the Outer Banks A stylish property offering magnificent views of the ocean, Sanderling Resort is set in delightful gardens overlooking a quiet beach. The 98 bright, spacious rooms are calm and elegant and have generous decks with stunning views.

Among the wide range of facilities is an acclaimed spa, two swimming pools, a gym, and restaurants that offer some of the finest dining on the Outer Banks. Stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and surfing are available and bicycles can be hired to explore the magnificent coastline.

Sanderling Resort, the Outer Banks

www.audleytravel.com/deepsouth • 01993 838 755 • Deep South

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Avenue of oaks leading to the ruined Wormsloe Plantation, Savannah

South Carolina Rich in history and diverse in landscape, South Carolina has a fascinating heritage and a languid charm. The landscape here varies from the wild hills, waterfalls and lakes of the northwest to the pristine beaches, marshes and historic towns of the balmy coastal region. You can stroll the tree-lined streets of Charleston or Beaufort with their elegant, period buildings, or head to one of the barrier islands such as Hilton Head or Kiawah for beaches, golf and water activities. Restored plantations are found across the state and are stark reminders of the slave trade that once existed here.

Charleston The lovely old city of Charleston is South Carolina’s main attraction. Once a thriving trading port, its restored historic district, located on the tip of a peninsula, is full of tall, narrow houses adorned with shutters and wide porches, wrought-iron balconies, leafy courtyards and pretty gardens. There’s a lively entertainment scene with a great choice of music venues, bars and excellent restaurants specialising in Southern cuisine. Outside the city are some magnificent plantations that are well worth a visit, while Charleston’s historic naval base and Fort Sumter, where the Civil War started in 1861, are nearby.

Planters Inn, Charleston Conveniently located in downtown Charleston, Planters Inn has 64 unique rooms in an exquisitely restored historic building. Each room exudes an air of understated elegance with high ceilings and four-poster beds. The hotel’s restaurant offers delicious local specialities.

Hilton Head Island Discovered in 1663 by English sea captain William Hilton, this small resort island has a warm, subtropical climate and a diverse range of landscapes, making it an ideal retreat. Fifty miles of bike and nature trails criss-cross the sea marshes, lagoons, forests and sandy beaches, while the island’s 24 golf courses, numerous spas, quaint museums, historic buildings, shops and galleries offer alternative forms of relaxation and discovery.

Sonesta Resort, Hilton Head Island Thoroughly modern, Sonesta Resort is a family-friendly property with a wide array of facilities. The 340 spacious and contemporary rooms boast views of the landscaped grounds, the Shipyard Plantation or the Atlantic Ocean.

There’s also a beautiful spa, four swimming pools, a choice of restaurants, excellent sports facilities and direct beach access.

Kiawah Island

Historic district, Charleston

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Sonesta Resort, Hilton Head Island

A barrier island 15 miles south of Charleston, Kiawah is primarily known for its five awardwinning golf courses. Although much of the island is privately owned, visitors can enjoy miles of pristine beaches, water sports and maritime forests and marshes home to turtles, alligators, deer, raccoons, otters and seabirds. Thirty miles of cycle paths meander around the island making this a good way to explore.

Willets feeding, Hilton Head Island

Boone Hall Plantation, near Charleston

Horse and carriage, Savannah

Jekyll Island, the Golden Isles

Alligator, Little St. Simons Island

Georgia

The Golden Isles

Georgia’s subtropical climate made this part of the continent appealing to early plantation owners and today the millionaires’ mansions, pristine maritime forests, Golden Isles and undeveloped beaches attract modern-day explorers to the area. The state capital, Atlanta, was the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while the glorious, 100-mile-long Antebellum Trail from Athens to Macon links towns and areas with outstanding architecture.

Excellent growing conditions for ‘sea island’ cotton attracted wealthy planters to Georgia’s Golden Isles – Jekyll, St. Simons, Sea Island, Little St. Simons and Cumberland – and today their historic homes and pristine beaches make them a charming escape. On Jekyll Island you can see the opulent Gilded Age homes of some of America’s wealthiest families including the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts while Cumberland, which is a wilderness area owned by the National Parks Service, is a complete contrast.

Wild horses gallop along its white-sand beaches and alligators roam through the tangled interior of oak trees and creeks. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming and cycling, as well as a visit to the grand old Carnegie family home which now stands empty whilst wild horses and turkeys graze its perimeters.

Savannah Shaded by huge Spanish moss-draped oaks, perfumed by magnolias and filled with historic buildings, squares and gardens, few American cities are more beautiful than Savannah. Some of the finest buildings of this historic cotton port town include the Owens-Thomas House, considered one of the best examples of Regency architecture in the USA, and Fort Jackson, which has been an integral part of Savannah’s skyline for nearly two centuries. The city’s waterfront can be reached by navigating several stone staircases and atmospheric alleyways, and its tall brick warehouses are today home to a number of popular seafood restaurants and lively bars.

Dotted throughout Savannah are 22 lovingly cultivated public squares that add splashes of scent and colour to the city.

Azalea Inn, Savannah

Azalea Inn, Savannah Situated in historic Savannah, this charming B&B combines a relaxed atmosphere with personal service. The colonial inn dates back to the 19 th century and has a beautiful perennial garden, complete with a hidden pool and a patio that is the perfect spot for an evening glass of wine.

The ten bedrooms are decorated with period furnishings that give each one a sense of individual character.

Greyfield Inn, Cumberland Island An historic property dating back to 1900, Greyfield Inn is decorated with family heirlooms and antiques. The inn boasts just nine suites and two cottages, all retaining the splendour of the original decor. Guests enjoy a range of complimentary services including picnic lunches, gourmet dinners, bicycles and guided island tours. The island is reached by a private ferry from Fernandina Beach, Florida.

Fountain at Foley Square, Savannah

www.audleytravel.com/deepsouth • 01993 838 755 • Deep South

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Field of cotton, Alabama

Alabama

Battle House Renaissance Hotel & Spa, Mobile

Alabama’s rich rural tapestry offers fast-flowing rivers, lakes and waterfalls in the Appalachian foothills in the north, white subtropical beaches in the south, and a heart of sun-drenched farmlands full of crops such as cotton, soybeans, corn and peanuts. This rural idyll is interspersed with industrial cities such as Birmingham, and the state capital, Montgomery, which gave rise to the Civil Rights movement.

This historic good value hotel is located in the heart of Mobile’s central business district and the 269 classically elegant rooms offer a range of modern amenities. Seasonal menus featuring local produce are served in the acclaimed restaurant while the lively Joe Cain Cafe is more casual and offers frequent live entertainment.

The property also has a heated outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub and a spa.

The USS Alabama, Battleship Memorial Park

Montgomery

Mobile

Montgomery, the small state capital of Alabama, has played an important role in the history of the USA. It was central to the Civil Rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s and was also home to the first President of the Confederacy, Jefferson Davis. His home, the first White House of the Confederacy, was remodelled in 1851 in the Italianate style and the building is still furnished with many of his family possessions.

The Alabama State Capitol building, which dates from 1841, was the place where Jefferson Davis took the oath of office and for a time served as the Capital of the Confederacy. Another well-known native was Hank Williams, the country music star, whose legacy lives on at the Hank Williams Museum.

Founded in 1792 as the original capital of the Louisiana Territory, few American cities can boast such a rich history. Mobile survived the torches of the Union army during the Civil War and consequently has four designated historic areas filled with beautiful antebellum homes.

All around town delightful historic buildings mix seamlessly with contemporary structures and the city hosts a collection of excellent museums including the Mobile Carnival Museum and the battleship USS Alabama. Fort Condé, the original settlement on Mobile Bay, has been reconstructed and serves as the city’s visitor centre. Mobile was also home to the USA's first Mardi Gras in 1703 (before New Orleans) and hosts America’s family Mardi Gras every year.

Mize Mills Falls, northern Alabama

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The Civil Rights Movement In 1955 Rosa Parks, a seamstress from Montgomery, Alabama, refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white man and was arrested. This triggered a 381-day boycott of the bus system organised by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., which led to the desegregation of the transport system. Eight years later a pivotal, and bloody, civil rights campaign was fought in Birmingham, Alabama, the USA’s most segregated city. That same year 250,000 people gathered in Washington D.C. as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous ‘I have a dream’ speech, which brought about the 1964 Civil Rights Act and outlawed racial discrimination in the USA. Civil Rights Museums in Memphis and Atlanta are great places to find out more about the movement.

Cypress Swamp, off the Natchez Trace

Illinois Memorial, Vicksburg National Military Park

Casino boat on the Mississippi River, Natchez

Mississippi

Vicksburg

Natchez

Before the American Civil War, cotton and slavery combined to make Mississippi the fifth wealthiest state in the nation. Since then, however, it has become one of the poorest. It was also one of the strongest bastions of racial segregation before the intervention of the Civil Rights movement. Many evocative reminders of the state’s heyday remain, especially along the banks of the Mississippi River, which forms its western border. This is where grand plantation homes are framed with trees draped in Spanish moss and historic antebellum cities such as Vicksburg and Natchez provide tangible reminders of the South’s past.

In its heyday Vicksburg was a vital stronghold on the Mississippi River, an important railway transportation hub, and home to successful landowners and merchants. Everything changed in 1863 however, when Union troops converged here and besieged the town. Vicksburg finally surrendered, a key moment in Civil War history, which effectively split the Confederacy in half.

Today many beautiful antebellum mansions still sit proudly along the riverbanks, evoking the history of days gone by. The 2.8 square mile Vicksburg National Military Park is one of the most significant sites from the Civil War with re-enactments and museums helping to bring this important era to life.

Natchez is the oldest town on the Mississippi and was founded in 1716 by French fur traders. It lies at the end of the Natchez Trace, a traditional native American trade route that is now a scenic byway. A tour around the historic district, which is filled with elegant buildings, many complete with white columns and furnished with Italian marble and fine antiques, is highly recommended.

In the Civil War Natchez surrendered to the Union army without a fight so over 400 of these stately homes survive here.

Anchuca, Vicksburg Named after the Choctaw Indian word meaning ‘happy home’, Anchuca is one of the most prestigious antebellum homes in Vicksburg.

This grand house, built in 1830, is located in the heart of the city’s historic district and served as a shelter for those who had suffered through the siege of Vicksburg. There are just three guest rooms in the main house (we particularly recommend the Wilson room) and a further four in the carriage house, each sumptuously decorated in rich Southern style. The property retains a particularly intimate feel and has its own library bar and cafe.

Anchuca, Vicksburg

Monmouth Historic Inn, Natchez This antebellum property began life in 1818 as a grand estate mansion, and following restoration is today considered one of Mississippi’s finest hotels.

Monmouth sits in extensive, well-tended gardens where self-guided walks allow guests to explore at leisure. The 30 rooms and suites are beautifully decorated with antiques and fine furnishings.

Monmouth Historic Inn, Natchez

www.audleytravel.com/deepsouth • 01993 838 755 • Deep South

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Bourbon Street in the French Quarter, New Orleans

Louisiana Louisiana is a fascinating state to explore with its rich atmosphere and heritage, and an intoxicating blend of influences. Previously claimed as both a French and Spanish territory, the European legacy is inextricably intertwined with that of African Creole traditions. A distinctive French patois is still widely spoken and vibrant zydeco music, voodoo, and energetic festivals and dance are testimony to a unique and thriving culture.

Louisiana’s marshy swamps and bayous are home to exotic birdlife and sunbathing alligators, while elsewhere great plantation homes litter the fields. A highlight of any stay, however, has to be the glorious food.

Jazz musicians, Louisiana

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Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans

Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans

New Orleans Undisputedly one of the coolest cities in America, New Orleans just oozes character and charm. The city was rocked by Hurricane Katrina, but its resilient residents have rebuilt the worst affected districts while the historic French Quarter was spared the effects of the floods.

The crumbling grandeur, cast-iron balconies, hidden courtyards and time-worn stucco buildings make this part of town an atmospheric place to stroll. Here you will find lively Jackson Square, St. Louis’ Cathedral, the fascinating Mardi Gras museum as well as the Voodoo Spiritual Temple and Historic Voodoo Museum. The New Orleans’ Jazz National Historic Park celebrates the city’s famous musical heritage, while other sights include the haunted Lalaurie home, the Cabildo and the Old U.S. Mint. Every February the Mardi Gras celebrations explode in a riot of music and colour and bring a real sense of joy to the city’s streets.

Located in the heart of the city’s historic French Quarter, you’ll have quaint restaurants and specialist shops, cobbled streets and the restaurants of Riverwalk are just steps from your door. The hotel is a New Orleans landmark and, despite its size, offers plenty of charm and character. There are 600 comfortable rooms and suites but our favourite features of the hotel are its rooftop pool, the spa, and its wonderful rotating Carousel bar.

Grand Victorian B&B, New Orleans Set under oak trees in New Orleans’ Garden District, the Grand Victorian B&B was built in 1893 and has been lovingly restored to its former glory. Its eight bedrooms are tastefully decorated and recapture the property’s original style. With the St. Charles Avenue streetcar operating 24 hours a day from just outside the front gate, the whole of New Orleans is easily accessible.

Grand Victorian B&B, New Orleans

Oak Alley Plantation 55 miles west of New Orleans This magnificent antebellum mansion, dating from around 1839, is best known for its spectacular avenue of old live oak trees. Visitors can also tour the site of the original slave quarters.

Plantation homes of the Deep South The plantations of the Deep South offer a profound insight into the lives of wealthy estate owners, their families and slaves during the 18th and 19 th centuries. Many of the region’s splendid antebellum mansions remain intact and visiting these impressive buildings with their manicured grounds provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the social history and plantation life in the lead up to the American Civil War. Destrehan Plantation 20 miles west of New Orleans Dating from 1787, this is the oldest documented plantation in the Mississippi valley. The property uncovers the story of the Destrehan family and Louisiana’s early history.

Houmas House Plantation

New Orleans walking tour This two-hour walking tour is led by a local expert who will unravel the mysteries of one of America’s oldest and most unique cities. Follow in the footsteps of historic figures as you stroll along the banks of the mighty Mississippi, through the French Market and Jackson Square, and down quaint streets. Learn about the Creoles and the history of the original city, founded in 1718, and see the Old Quarter come to life as your guide explains its secrets and helps you to understand all that it has to offer from its architecture and gardens to its food, music and art.

Oak Alley Plantation

San Francisco Plantation 40 miles northwest of New Orleans One of the most opulent and authentically restored plantation homes in Louisiana, San Francisco Plantation also has an extensive collection of contemporary art.

Evergreen Plantation 45 miles west of New Orleans Built at the end of the 18th century, Evergreen is one of the most intact plantations and remains a working sugar estate. At its heart lies one of the few remaining major Greek Revival homes of southern Louisiana.

Laura Plantation 50 miles west of New Orleans Built in 1805, Laura is still set amongst fields of sugar cane and the guided tour here is based on compelling personal accounts of life on the plantation over the centuries.

Houmas House Plantation 40 miles southeast of Baton Rouge Visitors to Houmas, once the largest sugar producer in the country, can explore the beautiful gardens and the 16 rooms filled with period antiques.

Frogmore Plantation 19 miles west of Natchez Frogmore is a working cotton plantation where visitors can trace the history of cotton production from the days of slavery to the present.

Dunleith Plantation Natchez This magnificent plantation house is now a smart historic hotel. It is one of the few places where you can sample the lifestyle of plantation owners in days gone by.

American Queen The largest Mississippi steamboat ever built, the American Queen recreates the opulence of the Victorian era and conveys an appreciation of the elegance and grandeur that made steamers an integral part of Mississippi river life.

A stylish and sedate way of exploring the river, expect polished woodwork, fresh flowers and antiques in the 222 spacious en suite cabins.

The vessel’s most popular route is between New Orleans and Memphis, calling at Natchez and Vicksburg en route. Other routes are available so please speak to our country specialists for further information.

Swamp boat, Louisiana

Swamp boat tour A key highlight of Louisiana are the wonderful bayous, swamps and lagoons that dot its indented coastline. Two of the most accessible spots are the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge and the Atchafalaya Swamp. The latter is one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the USA with coastal swamps and hardwood forests festooned with Spanish moss and alive with sunbathing alligators, nutria (river rats), egrets, brown pelicans and hundreds of other bird species. A two-hour boat trip with a local guide offers a fascinating insight into this natural environment.

American Queen

www.audleytravel.com/deepsouth • 01993 838 755 • Deep South

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Vicksburg Natchez Mobile

Plantation country

New Orleans

Discovering the Old South This is the perfect compact itinerary for those who wish to sample the highlights of the Deep South. You will explore the iconic city of New Orleans, sample the region’s intoxicating Cajun culture, and discover the grand old plantation homes set along the banks of the Mississippi River.

Abandoned truck in a cotton field, Alabama

Day 1

Tailoring your trip

Arrive in New Orleans.

Days 2-3 Spend two days exploring this fascinating city, with its distinctive French Quarter architecture and renowned jazz clubs.

The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Deep South specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Day 4

Drive to plantation country, where you can discover the region’s many old estate properties – and even stay in one.

Day 5

Follow the great lazy bends of the Mississippi River north to Natchez.

Day 6

Enjoy the beautiful antebellum architecture of Natchez.

Day 7

Head to Vicksburg.

Day 8

Spend the day in Vicksburg; don’t miss a visit to the National Military Park.

Day 9

Drive to Mobile.

Day 10

Explore Mobile, visit the pristine Bellingrath Gardens or Battleship Memorial Park.

Day 11

Return to New Orleans for your onward flight.

T 01993 838 755

Getting around

Bourbon aging at the Maker’s Mark distillery, Kentucky

There are regular flights to Atlanta and Charlotte, with excellent onward connections to regional airports. There are also limited rail services which link New Orleans with Memphis and Atlanta. However, the region is ideally suited to self-driving with some delightfully scenic routes to discover. Main highways link the major cities, but we recommend taking the time to explore quieter, less-travelled routes.

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

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Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

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33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

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Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

The southern states are hot and humid in July and August and tend to be mild between November and April with northern areas dipping just below 0C (32F). April, May, June, September and October are generally the best times to visit when the days are warm and nights are cool.

For coastal areas, June to September are best avoided as there can be heavy rain and occasional hurricanes. Mardi Gras takes place in February in New Orleans, and therefore it is advisable to book well in advance.

Time difference: GMT-5 (Atlanta)

Prices

Jazz parade, New Orleans

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We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Longwood, Natchez, Mississippi

Suggested itineraries Nashville

Clarksdale

Atlanta

Vicksburg

Montgomery

Atlanta

Charleston

Macon

Natchez

Savannah

Dixie Dreaming

Georgia & the Carolinas

This trip takes in the highlights of the Deep South.

Music is integral to this region, and the itinerary includes visits to the home of country music, Nashville, Elvis’s Memphis, jazz-central New Orleans, and Cajun country. Heritage, from Civil War sites to antebellum architecture, is on the agenda too, and then there’s the wildlife, with opportunities to see alligators and exotic birdlife.

From magnificent mountains to sun-drenched beaches, this itinerary has it all. Hike or cycle in the panoramic Great Smoky Mountains, stretch out on the sands of Jekyll Island, and discover the charms of historic cities such as Wilmington, Charleston and Savannah, and the antebellum mansions of rural Georgia.

Day 1

Arrive in Atlanta.

Day 2

Drive via Chattanooga to Nashville, with an afternoon at leisure.

Day 3

A day to enjoy buzzing Nashville – a must-visit city for country music fans.

Day 4

Drive through the heart of rural Tennessee en route to Memphis.

Day 5

Spend a day in Memphis exploring the heartland of blues, soul, and rock and roll, paying a visit to Graceland.

Day 6

Travel to Clarksdale and visit the famous Ground Zero Blues Club.

Day 7

Travel south to Vicksburg and visit the impressive National Military Park.

Day 8

Follow the Mississippi River to the delightful old town of Natchez, where you can visit one of the area’s many plantation homes.

Day 9 Day 10

Visit a few of the many beautiful antebellum homes of Natchez.

Journey through the heart of plantation country to Vacherie.

Day 11

Drive to New Orleans.

Day 12

Spend the day exploring the vibrant culture and nightlife of New Orleans.

Day 13

Travel through the agricultural heartland of rural Alabama to the state capital, Montgomery.

Day 14

Head to Georgia’s historic Savannah.

Day 15

Discover Savannah’s colourful parks, squares and waterside wharves.

Day 16

Travel north to Charleston.

Day 17

Spend a full day in Charleston taking in its magnificent old buildings.

Day 18

Return to Atlanta for your flight.

Memphis

Chattanooga

Tupelo

Atlanta Birmingham

Jekyll Island

New Orleans

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Nashville

Wilmington

Charleston Savannah

Lexington

Mammoth Cave National Park

Chattanooga

Memphis

Plantation country

Louisville

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Highlights of Kentucky & Tennessee This varied itinerary combines the beautiful scenery of the Appalachian Mountains, the bourbon and horse-racing traditions of Kentucky, with the great musical heritage of Tennessee.

Combined with Birmingham’s Civil Rights history, this itinerary offers a comprehensive look at a fascinating part of the Deep South.

Day 1

Arrive in Atlanta.

Day 2

Drive north to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Day 1

Arrive in Atlanta.

Day 2

Drive north to Chattanooga.

Day 3

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hiking, biking or a visit to the Cherokee Indian Reservation are all options.

Days 3-4 Travel to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and explore the spectacular scenery.

Day 4

Head through the heart of North Carolina to the attractive coastal city of Wilmington.

Day 5

Spend a day in this charming historic location. Relax with a drink on the cobbled waterfront, or hop on a harbour tour.

Day 5

Cross the border into Kentucky and continue to Lexington.

Day 6

You may wish to visit the fascinating Shaker village at Pleasant Hill before driving to Louisville.

Day 7

Spend a day exploring Louisville; perhaps visit Churchill Downs, the Slugger Baseball Museum, the Muhammad Ali Center, or taste some bourbon on Whiskey Row.

Day 6

Take the scenic route down to Charleston in South Carolina.

Day 7

Discover the characterful old buildings of Charleston.

Day 8

Day 8

Drive south to the historic port city of Savannah in time for an afternoon of exploration.

Travel to Mammoth Cave National Park to explore one of the world’s longest cave systems.

Day 9

Visit the National Corvette Museum at Bowling Green before making your way to Nashville.

Day 10

Travel to Jekyll Island, where you can relax on the beach or explore the sand dunes.

A day to enjoy buzzing Nashville – a must-visit city for country music fans.

Day 11

Drive through the heart of rural Tennessee en route to Memphis.

Day 11

More beach time on Jekyll Island.

Day 12

Day 12

Drive inland to the pretty little town of Macon in rural Georgia.

Spend a day in Memphis exploring the heartland of blues, soul, and rock and roll, paying a visit to Graceland.

Day 13

Discover the charming antebellum buildings in the area and the nearby towns of Madison, Watkinsville and Athens.

Day 13

Visit Elvis’s birthplace in Tupelo, Mississippi.

Day 14

Drive south to Birmingham, Alabama, to learn about the city’s industrial and Civil Rights heritage.

Day 15

Return to Atlanta for your onward flight.

Day 9 Day 10

Day 14

Enjoy Savannah’s colourful parks, squares and waterside wharves.

Return to Atlanta for your onward flight.

www.audleytravel.com/deepsouth • 01993 838 755 • Deep South

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Florida H

ome to pristine beaches, year round sunshine and field after field of orange trees, Florida has long provided a warm welcome to visitors. Since the early 20 th century the state has lured people from all over the world with its beautiful climate and fun for all ages. The coastline remains a major draw with a diverse mix of small communities and cosmopolitan cities, great beaches and hundreds of islands, from the Florida Keys that stretch out into the Gulf of Mexico to the islands of the Atlantic Coast. Despite its long-established development, scratch under the surface and you’ll find a surprising amount of wilderness and wildlife from manatees, alligators and turtles to eagles and ospreys.

There are a host of state and national parks protecting forests, wetlands, swamps and marine life, the most famous of which is the renowned Everglades. If you prefer a more active experience, Florida has some of the world’s best-known theme parks and is the launch pad for the US space industry.

Audley in Florida ALABAMA GEORGIA

Pensacola

Fernandina Beach

8

Fort Walton Beach

Amelia Island

Tallahassee

Jacksonville

Panama City Beach 50 miles 80 kilometres

Daytona Beach

Gulf

7

Crystal River

of M ex ic

Tampa

St. Petersburg

FLORIDA

Anna Maria Island

Sarasota

N OCEA

Cape Canaveral

Accommodation

Lake Okeechobee

Fort Myers Captiva Island Sanibel Island

Fort Myers Beach

Naples

1 Miami With a beautiful setting, excellent beaches and Art Deco architecture, Miami offers culture, glamour and nightlife galore.

See pages 50-51

5 2 Everglades National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

4

3

Key West

1

Fort Lauderdale Miami

Key Largo Islamorada Marathon

eys da K Flori

2 Everglades

National Park A huge national park, home to forests, wetlands and an array of wildlife.

See page 52 3 The Florida Keys Strung out into the Gulf of Mexico, this chain of coral islands has great fishing, diving and boating.

See page 52 4 Dry Tortugas

National Park Spectacularly clear aquamarine waters and an atmospheric Civil War fortress make this a captivating place to visit.

See page 52 Art Deco, Miami

Orlando

Clearwater

6

As one of the most visited states in the USA there are accommodation options to suit every style and budget. Miami boasts a selection of chic hotels often incorporating fine dining restaurants and trendy bars.

Accommodation in Orlando and Tampa is more family focused while the Florida Keys’ islands and smaller towns are home to charming independent boutique hotels.

Throughout the state there is also a wide range of rental homes, often with private swimming pools. We have hand-picked the best mix of properties across the state based on our own regular research trips.

Our specialists will be happy to discuss your requirements and recommend the most suitable places to stay.

IC ATLANT

0 0

St. Augustine

o

We have uncovered a broad range of destinations extending far beyond Disney and the beaches. We have concentrated on Florida’s historic, cultural and natural aspects, and to get you off the beaten track to discover the state’s many delightful and little-explored gems. There are a variety of national parks to visit, a wealth of wildlife to discover on land and in the water, and stunning lakes, rivers and coastlines to explore. If you wish to stay busy then Miami, Orlando, Tampa and towns such as Key West boast a great selection of activities, restaurants and entertainment while Tallahassee and St. Augustine provide historic charm and character.

5 Naples

Chic and stylish Naples sits on Florida’s Gulf Coast close to some of the state’s best beaches.

See page 53

8 Tallahassee

Florida’s small yet elegant state capital is full of parks, historic monuments and colonial architecture.

See page 55

6 Anna Maria Island

Our favourite barrier island, tranquil Anna Maria’s laid-back charm is only topped by its great beaches and majestic sunsets.

See page 54 7 Manatees Warm waters fed by hot springs attract gentle manatees to Crystal River in winter.

See page 55 Roseate spoonbill, the Everglades

www.audleytravel.com/florida • 01993 838 755 • Florida

49

Ocean Drive, Miami

Miami Set on a thin strip of land between the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, Miami Beach basks in a beautiful waterfront setting. Miami is also Florida’s largest and most vibrant city and is a fascinating place to explore with its glorious Art Deco architecture, historic mansions and quirky museums. Everyone from artists and writers to hedonists and immigrants have come here over the years, attracted by the city’s glamorous image, dazzling beaches and tropical climate.

Established at the end of the 19 th century, the city initially prospered as an agricultural centre but evolved as migrants moved in, boosting the population and helping to further develop the city’s infrastructure and economy. In recent years Miami has grown to include a large international community including a significant Hispanic population, the vast majority of whom are Cuban, which helps add to the tropical vibe.

Voted one of America’s cleanest cities, Miami’s public parks, beaches and open spaces offer obvious appeal and watching the world go by at a pavement cafe is one of the best ways to appreciate the city’s lifestyle. By night, neon lit buildings glow along Ocean Drive as lively bars, nightclubs and restaurants open for business.

Metropolitan by Como, Miami

Metropolitan by Como, Miami Overlooking Miami Beach, this chic Art Deco style hotel lies just a ten minute stroll from the buzzing restaurants and shops of downtown Miami Beach.

Metropolitan by Como offers a refined seafood restaurant, a sophisticated cocktail bar, a gym, day spa with hydrotherapy pool, and a delightful outdoor swimming pool with cabanas. The 74 rooms and suites are decorated in subdued tones and come with vintage-inspired furnishings.

Some have private balconies and ocean views; others have city views. Service here is exemplary and one of the highlights of a stay.

The Setai, Miami

50

South Beach, Miami

The Setai, Miami A landmark 1930s Art Deco building cleverly integrated with a modern taller addition, The Setai lies just steps from the beach on glitzy Collins Avenue, and provides guests with quiet sophistication, superb personal service and possibly the finest lodging in Miami. This stylish retreat from the buzz of South Beach began life as the Dempsey-Vanderbilt Hotel and today sports a meticulously restored façade and contemporary interiors enhanced with Asian influences such as dark mahogany woods, bronze fittings and calm reflection pools. The 131 spacious rooms are luxuriously furnished and have views of the city, the courtyard or the ocean.

There is a stylish spa, three inviting swimming pools and a choice of top-class dining options.

Art Deco district, South Beach

Bayside Marketplace and marina, Miami

Lifeguard station on South Beach, Miami

The Betsy, Miami Situated on Ocean Drive, overlooking South Beach, The Betsy is a glamorous boutique hotel and one of the finest places to stay in Miami.

This property was built in 1942 and is another city landmark which today combines many original period features with 21st-century technology. Each of the 61 rooms and suites is styled in an elegant fashion with lovely plantation shutters, dark wooden floors and attractive furniture. There is a well-regarded restaurant and we particularly like the courtyard swimming pool and stunning roof-top deck overlooking the ocean, which we would recommend for a pre-dinner drink.

Cuban man, Little Havana

Little Havana Little Havana, a colourful suburb near Miami’s downtown area, is a bastion of Hispanic culture.

The aroma of Cuban coffee fills the air, elderly men play dominoes on outdoor tables, cigar makers roll their leaves in shopfronts, and monuments and murals to heroes past and present line the walls. Everywhere you go you’ll hear the pulsating beat of traditional Cuban and Afro-Cuban music as you stroll between the captivating little independent stores, unique art galleries and local restaurants. On the last Friday of each month Little Havana hosts Viernes Culturales, a monthly gallery night showcasing the neighbourhood's arts scene.

Art Deco architecture Offering some of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the world, Miami, and South Beach in particular, have a collection of exuberant buildings designed with an emphasis that appeared, at times, to be firmly on elegance and glamour over practicality.

Over 800 structures of historical significance, most built between 1923 and 1943, showcase this architectural style known for its colourful pastels, sleek curves, ship-like railings and shiny chrome. Set against blue skies and swaying palms, these architectural gems are a significant part of Miami’s charm and appeal. Walking tours are a good way to explore the area’s architectural highlights.

The Betsy, Miami

www.audleytravel.com/florida • 01993 838 755 • Florida

51

Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas National Park

Everglades National Park A vast and aqueous region of glittering wetlands and lush forests, Everglades National Park covers an area of some 2,000 square miles in the southwest corner of the state. The park is a complex network of interdependent ecosystems that include cypress swamps, mangroves, sawgrass marshes, and tropical hardwood and pine forests. This varied landscape hosts a wealth of wildlife from alligators and manatees to bobcats and white-tail deer, as well as a wide variety of colourful birdlife. To fully appreciate the scale of the park and access some of its most remote corners, guided boat tours provide a fun and informative insight into this incredible biosphere.

Alligator, Everglades National Park

52

La Mer & Dewey House, Key West

La Mer & Dewey House, Key West

The Florida Keys Stretching 112 miles into the ocean from the southernmost tip of the mainland, the Florida Keys are an archipelago of pretty coral islands surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. The islands are connected by a series of bridges making it possible to drive the length of the Keys on the spectacular Overseas Highway. Of the inhabited islands, Key Largo, the first and largest of the Keys, is closest to the mainland and a convenient departure point for fishing and diving trips.

Further south, beautiful Islamorada is smaller and well known for its quaint shops and numerous art galleries, while mid-way along, the island of Marathon has the interesting Dolphin Research Center. At the very tip of the island chain Key West, once home to Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, is a gloriously eccentric and wonderfully lively community full of galleries, museums, bars and restaurants.

An award-winning boutique hotel offering historic charm and turn-of-the-century style, La Mer & Dewey House is set amongst tropical gardens and shaded by graceful palm trees. The hotel overlooks the beach and has idyllic views from the terrace and balconies but is also close to Key West old town. There are just 19 rooms decorated in a contemporary but classical style with ceiling fans, shuttered windows and views of the garden or ocean. A lovely continental breakfast, that includes waffles made to order, is served on the outdoor terrace each morning.

Dry Tortugas National Park Renowned for abundant sealife and spectacular coral reefs, Dry Tortugas National Park is made up of seven small islands in the Gulf of Mexico about 70 miles west of Key West. The park is amongst the most isolated and least disturbed of the Keys and makes for a lovely day trip.

Along with wonderful opportunities for snorkelling, kayaking, fishing and diving, the park is home to an impressive former Civil War prison, Fort Jefferson. Dry Tortugas is accessed by boat or seaplane from Key West.

Airboat, Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park

Ernest Hemingway’s House, Key West

Naples waterfront

Bicycles, Sanibel Island

Naples

Sanibel & Captiva islands

A stylish, upmarket town known for its beautiful white-sand beaches and numerous golf courses, Naples is a relaxed community with a sophisticated charm. The town is set on the Gulf Coast in southwest Florida and is a popular retirement community full of waterfront homes and condominiums. In the centre you’ll find many parks and green spaces and a good selection of restaurants and quality shops, making this an excellent base for exploring the Everglades, enjoying local water sports and accessing the many small islands scattered offshore. Numerous boardwalk trails head out from the town while canoe and boat trips can easily be arranged.

Sanibel and Captiva islands are a delightful pair of barrier islands a short distance from the mainland and easily accessible from Naples.

Development here is strictly controlled, there are no high-rise buildings at all and most of the islands are preserved in a natural state which makes them ideal for exploring on foot or by bicycle. The two islands are connected by a bridge and joined occasionally at low tide. They are home to a number of small communities with a selection of restaurants, galleries and shops and even a local theatre. While each island has its own personality, they are both known for their seashells, and residents and visitors alike can be seen in the ‘Sanibel stoop’ or the ‘Captiva crouch’ while searching for some 200 species on the islands’ glorious beaches.

Pelican, Naples city dock

Bellasera, Naples Designed to replicate an elegant Tuscan villa, the Bellasera is a popular hotel well positioned in the centre of Naples and close to the galleries, boutiques and restaurants of Fifth Avenue.

The 100 large apartment-styled rooms are ideal for families and come complete with kitchens and dining rooms, and many have balconies that look out over the shady courtyards. The hotel has a wealth of amenities including a lovely outdoor pool with cabanas, a spa, gym and an al fresco restaurant serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Bellasera, Naples

Seashells, Captiva Island

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53

Manatees, Crystal River

Tampa

Anna Maria Island

Sitting in an enviable spot at the mouth of an expansive bay of azure waters, Tampa is regularly voted one of America’s most liveable cities. It grew from a small community in the 19 th century into a large bustling metropolis following the arrival of the railway and the emergence of a cigar industry. Home to an international airport and port, the city has numerous attractions and is a good gateway for visitors exploring the Gulf Coast, especially its two most popular beach resorts, Clearwater and St. Petersburg.

One of our favourite barrier islands, Anna Maria can be found at the southernmost tip of Tampa Bay. Connected to the mainland by two bridges, the island is made up of several small communities and miles of beautiful beaches.

With numerous original wooden homes, a fishing pier and a distinct lack of high-rise buildings, the island has a wonderfully traditional, old-world feel about it. A bus operates around the island and allows for easy exploration and there are plenty of relaxed activities to participate in including cycling and swimming with dolphins.

Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater Located on the wide, powdery white Clearwater Beach, Sandpearl Resort is one of the finest hotels in the area. With over 250 rooms, the resort is large but ideal for a relaxing beach break. There are numerous facilities and activities available including a spa, yoga classes, a lovely lagoon-style swimming pool and a gym.

There is also a children’s club and several dining options. Perhaps the best feature of the hotel is their marine biology excursions that provide the opportunity for guests to learn about the rich local marine life.

Sandpearl Resort, Clearwater

Gulf Coast barrier islands One of Florida’s best kept secrets, the semitropical barrier islands, that stretch along much of the Gulf Coast, offer a wonderful escape where the only daily routine seems to involve celebrating the sunset with a cold drink. Blissfully quiet and relaxed, the islands are little-developed and enjoy an unhurried pace of life with little or no vehicular traffic. The islands form a natural protective barrier for the mainland and showcase some of the best of Florida’s natural landscapes including delicate mangrove wetlands, pine and tropical forests, and some superb beaches.

Harrington House, Anna Maria Island

54

Harrington House, Anna Maria Island Boasting stunning views across the Gulf of Mexico, Harrington House is one of our favourite properties and is a delightful base for your stay on Anna Maria Island, lying just moments from superb white sandy beaches.

There are 20 rooms and suites in total, set within four separate buildings that all lie just a few steps from each other. The main building contains seven charming air-conditioned rooms, some with a private balcony, whilst the other buildings offer one, two and three bedroom suites. There is a sitting room for guests’ use and a swimming pool.

Marina, St. Petersburg

Pier 60, Clearwater Beach

Anna Maria Island

Memorial Presbyterian Church, St. Augustine

Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island

Manatees

The Florida Panhandle

St. Augustine

Travel a couple of hours north along the coast from Tampa and you’ll arrive at the small, quiet town of Crystal River, one of the few places where you can swim with manatees. The warmer waters of the Crystal River are fed by hot springs keeping the temperature at 20C (68F), providing ideal conditions for the manatees in winter when the waters in the Gulf of Mexico cool down. We can arrange guided trips for you to watch and swim with these graceful ‘sea cows’.

Sparsely populated, underdeveloped and often overlooked, the Florida Panhandle is a region of oak-lined roads, pristine natural springs and irresistible Southern charm. This sliver of land in the northwest of the state is bordered by Alabama and Georgia to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, and is home to miles of deserted white-sand beaches and small barrier islands lapped by crystal-clear waters. Small friendly coastal communities including Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach are good places to stay and explore with a surprisingly good selection of restaurants and shops. The exception in the region is Panama City Beach which is a lively nightspot frequented by the spring break crowds.

Situated on Florida’s northeast coast, St. Augustine has a distinct historic character and is a unique place to visit. Founded in 1565, the town predates Plymouth Rock by 55 years, and is reported to be one of the oldest European settlements in the United States.

A stroll along the narrow lanes reveals Spanish, English and native American influences in the lovely architecture, museum and various historical landmarks. Originally the state capital, St. Augustine is a popular stop for visitors.

Tallahassee The Panhandle is also home to Florida’s leafy state capital, Tallahassee. Set across several hills, Tallahassee is a quiet, genteel kind of place, home to the state university and many impressive buildings. A ten-block historic district preserves the city’s gracious old homes together with a collection of historic inns, restaurants, museums and art galleries. There is also the beautiful iconic Tallahassee Museum, which exhibits Florida’s varied flora and fauna and is well worth a visit.

Cypress swamp, Tallahassee Museum

Historic district, St. Augustine

www.audleytravel.com/florida • 01993 838 755 • Florida

55

The Kennedy Space Center

Orlando One of the largest cities in the state, Orlando is recognised as the theme park capital of the world and is now established as one of the most visited cities in the country. Located in the centre of Florida, the city was another that flourished thanks to the citrus industry, only starting to emerge as a popular resort after the war. The starting point for Orlando’s transformation came with the development of Walt Disney World in 1971 and many famous attractions quickly followed. Along with Disney World, Universal Studios and Wet ‘n’ Wild are the city’s most popular attractions and contribute to Orlando’s relaxed, youthful feel. Alongside the theme parks the city offers an abundance of large hotels, shopping malls and golf courses together with an array of day tours and excursions that cater for all ages.

Greenkeeper at Grand Cypress Golf Club, Orlando

56

Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Orlando

Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Orlando Located within the Universal complex, the Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a perfect base for a stay in Orlando. Like many hotels in the area the Loews is large with 1,051 rooms and is ideal for families with a wide array of facilities available.

There are multiple dining options and several bars including a beach bar set next to a superb lagoon-style pool. Guests are eligible for special access to the Universal theme park which reduces the queue times on rides and attractions and allows early admission.

Wet ‘n’ Wild, Orlando

Astronaut, Kennedy Space Center

Space Coast Travel east of Orlando and you’ll soon arrive at Florida’s Space Coast, NASA’s main hub, but also a region of sandy beaches, quiet rivers, lakes and small towns. The Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Airforce Base have been America’s gateway to space exploration since the 1960s and provide the opportunity to learn more about the past, present and future of space travel and bring this fascinating subject to life.

Even if there isn’t a live launch scheduled during your visit, you can still experience the drama of space flight with a simulator, or watch a film inside the immense IMAX theatre. There is also a wide selection of rockets and spacecraft to explore and astronauts to meet and talk to.

Suggested itineraries Tailoring your trip

Charlotte Clearwater

The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Florida specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Tampa

Charleston Savannah Golden Isles St. Augustine

Sanibel/Captiva

Miami

Cape Canaveral

T 01993 838 755

Islamorada

Getting around The region’s principal international airports are Miami, Tampa and Orlando. The Florida Keys and barrier islands are largely accessed by road and, like the rest of the state, are best explored at your own pace with a hire car.

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

33 33 33 33

3

3

Naples

3

3

3

3

33 33

33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

Florida is renowned for its sunny climate and for much of the year the weather is very good.

June to October are hot with high levels of humidity, and tropical storms are common towards the end of August and in to September.

November to May are some of the best times to visit, with lower humidity, cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.

Time difference: GMT-5 hours

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Key West

Miami

Dry Tortugas National Park Key West

Carolinas to Key West

Florida Coastal Explorer

Take a journey along the east coast, all the way from North Carolina to the southern tip of Florida. This itinerary offers plenty of time to explore the various towns and cities along the way, rich in culture and history, along with some beautiful coastal scenery.

This itinerary explores the coastline of southern Florida starting with a stay in Miami then travelling through the Keys and Everglades before finishing with time to relax on the Gulf of Mexico at the end of your trip.

Day 1

Arrive in Charlotte.

Day 2

Collect your car and drive towards the coast, to Charleston.

Day 3

Spend the day in Charleston. Visit the grand Magnolia Plantation and Audubon Swamp Gardens.

Day 4

Make your way to Georgia and the town of Savannah.

Day 5

Visit the Civil Rights Museum or wander the pretty tree-lined streets of Savannah.

Day 6

Travel to the laid-back Golden Isles just off the Georgia coast.

Day 7

Spend the day relaxing on the beach, or looking for the resident wild horses.

Day 8

Cross the border into Florida and make your way to St. Augustine, the oldest European settlement in the state.

Day 9

At leisure to explore the cobbled streets and Spanish history of St. Augustine.

Day 10

Continue south to Cape Canaveral.

Day 11

Relax on the beach or discover the history of the country’s space programme at Cape Canaveral.

Day 12

Drive to Miami.

Days 13-14 A couple of days to discover Miami – from the historic Art Deco district to the lively surf scene.

Day 15

Day 1

Arrive in Miami.

Day 2

Explore the city on foot or by bicycle, sampling some of the fabulous culture and food.

Day 3

Collect your car and make your way down the coast to Key West.

Day 4

Take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, just off the coast.

Day 5

Return northwards to Islamorada.

Day 6

Head inland to Everglades National Park and take a tour before continuing to Naples on the west coast.

Day 7

Take a stroll along Naples’ historic 5th Street.

Day 8

Cross the causeway to the beautiful islands of Sanibel and Captiva.

Days 9-11 Take some time to relax on the beautiful beaches of Sanibel and Captiva, or browse in the boutique shops here.

Day 12

Travel back to the mainland and on to Clearwater.

Day 13

Continue your journey to Tampa where you join your onward flight.

Stay longer It is possible to continue your journey along the Gulf Coast and travel at a leisurely pace through Crystal River and Panama City all the way to New Orleans. Alternatively, for a livelier experience, head to the theme parks of Orlando.

Head all the way down the coast to picturesque Key West.

Days 16-17 Stroll the palm-lined streets or visit Dry Tortugas National Park.

Day 18

Snowy egret, Everglades National Park

Return to Miami for your onward flight.

Everglades National Park

www.audleytravel.com/florida • 01993 838 755 • Florida

57

California & Nevada R

enowned for its sunshine, vineyards and stunning scenery, California is one of the most diverse destinations in the United States. Its glittering cities, spectacular coastline and giant redwood forests have all become familiar from their film appearances but are as impressive in real life as they are on the big screen. Los Angeles has long been a city of dreamers, home to Hollywood, Venice Beach and the Santa Monica boardwalk, while further north is historic yet trendy San Francisco and its iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Outside the cities you’ll find the rolling vineyards of Sonoma County and the Napa Valley, driftwood-strewn beaches and long-abandoned mining towns. Scenic highways meander along rugged shores, arid deserts meet snow-capped mountains and magnificent national parks such as Yosemite, Death Valley, Kings Canyon and Sequoia just wait to be explored. In neighbouring Nevada the hot, dry desert gives way to the surreal wonder of Las Vegas, a monumental playground where anything seems possible. Along with the casinos and architectural theatrics you’ll find superb hotels, great dining and thrilling shows.

Klamath Falls

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Mount Shasta

0

100 miles

0

161 kilometres

Eureka S

st

Lassen Volcanic National Park ie r

a v

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Napa

Reno

N

Jenner

ges

Mendocino

r

Ran

The cities of Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco and Las Vegas offer an enormous range of accommodation and we have personally visited and carefully chosen a collection of our favourites to suit a variety of tastes and budgets. In all the razzmatazz of Las Vegas the main hotels tend to be vast, themed leisure complexes but we have sought out more peaceful and personal options that are still conveniently located for all the attractions. Conversely, California’s spectacular national parks have limited choices and, at times, varying service standards are the price to pay for splendid views and an ideal location. California’s beautiful coastline is dotted with intimate exclusive retreats and family-friendly resorts.

Whatever your preference, our specialists will recommend properties to suit your interests, tastes and budget.

3

oa

Accommodation

Crescent City Redwood National Park

OREGON

C

The combination of cosmopolitan cities and magnificent scenery make California and Nevada two of the most popular destinations in the USA, and although the region’s iconic attractions can get busy, our knowledge and experience will help you avoid the crowds wherever possible.

Timing your visit carefully or opting for an alternative way to see the popular sights can help improve your experience enormously.

Once you’ve ticked off the highlights we’re here to advise you on how to get off the beaten track to enjoy the region’s incredible scenery and relax far from the crowds.

We can also offer a wealth of outdoor experiences to help you get a different perspective on these two states, from hot air ballooning and white water rafting to whale watching, vineyard tours and boat trips on San Francisco Bay.

d e C a s c a

Audley in California & Nevada

2

d

Sacramento

Sonoma

San Francisco

a

USA

Lake Tahoe a

NEVADA

Yosemite National Park

1

4

Mammoth Lakes UTAH

PACIFIC OCEAN

Kings Canyon National Park

Carmel

Fresno

Monterey

Big Sur

CALIFORNIA

San Simeon

6

Sequoia National Park

7 Las Vegas

Death Valley National Park

ARIZONA

Morro Bay

Bakersfield

Mojave National Preserve

San Luis Obispo Pismo Beach Santa Barbara

1 San Francisco

An iconic city with a cosmopolitan vibe, home to Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and bustling Chinatown.

See pages 60-61 2 Wineries of the Napa

& Sonoma valleys An outstanding area of pretty villages, rolling vineyards and delicious wines.

See page 62

Channel Islands National Park

5

Joshua Tree National Park

8

Los Angeles Palm Huntington Laguna Springs Beach Beach

San Diego

5 Los Angeles

MEXICO

Brash and beautiful, a legendary city of Hollywood superstars, glamorous beaches and superb entertainment and shopping.

See pages 68-69 6 Kings Canyon &

3 Redwood National Park A wonderful combination of mighty coastal redwoods and glorious ocean views.

See page 63

Sequoia national parks Home to some of the largest, most spectacular trees in the world.

See page 65

4 Yosemite National Park Experience the natural grandeur of towering mountains and thundering waterfalls.

See page 64

7 Las Vegas Best known for its casinos, ‘Sin City’ also has world-class shows, restaurants and nightlife.

See pages 72-73

8 Joshua Tree

National Park To the northeast of Palm Springs, this region is renowned for its spiky-leaved Joshua trees and vibrant desert flowers.

See page 71 Highway 1 Hugging California’s glorious coast, Highway 1 is one of the USA’s most scenic drives.

www.audleytravel.com/california • 01993 838 755 • California & Nevada

59

Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco

Bike the Bridge

From the 1848 gold rush to the dot com boom and bust, San Francisco has always been a pioneering place and today it is one of the USA’s most iconic cities, home to Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and colourful cable cars which make their way up the steep streets to reveal amazing views at every turn. Spectacularly located on a peninsula at the mid-point of the California coast, it’s a compact place that’s easy to explore, and its quirky neighbourhoods reflect the city’s many vibrant communities. You can sample dim sum in Chinatown, browse for vintage gems in boho Haight-Ashbury, dine on the freshest seafood on Fisherman’s Wharf or stroll the chic streets of Nob Hill. Whether you cycle through Golden Gate Park or take a cruise on San Francisco Bay, it’s hard not to like this dynamic city.

This three-hour guided bike tour takes in the highlights of San Francisco’s waterfront, beginning in Fisherman’s Wharf and continuing on to Fort Point to ride across the Golden Gate Bridge.

From here you can freewheel down through Vista Point to Old Fort Baker and on to Sausalito where you can explore the shops, art galleries and restaurants. You can then either return with your guide or linger a little longer before taking the ferry back across the bay past Pier 39 to Fisherman’s Wharf.

Omni San Francisco Hotel Set among the smart stores and stylish galleries of San Francisco’s Financial District, the Omni was built in 1926 in Florentine Renaissance style.

The grand lobby is adorned with Italian marble, rich fabrics and crystal chandeliers while the 362 elegant rooms and suites have high-ceilings, traditional 1920s decor and modern amenities.

The Omni also features a popular steakhouse and its convenient location, just a short walk from Union Square and right on a cable car line, makes it a great base for exploring.

Fairmont San Francisco Hotel

Fairmont San Francisco Hotel A landmark Nob Hill property, the Fairmont offers turn-of-the-century opulence and impeccable service. Everything here operates on a grand scale, from the impressively large and luxurious main lobby to the wide hallways and spacious guest rooms. Elegantly decorated and featuring superb facilities, the 591 rooms are contemporary but classical in style. There are three well-regarded restaurants and lounges, a gym and spa, and easy access to Chinatown, Union Square and North Beach.

Omni San Francisco Hotel

60

Galleria Park Hotel, San Francisco Conveniently located in the heart of San Francisco, Galleria Park provides easy access to most of the city’s attractions. This characterful hotel is decorated in a sleek contemporary style with designer furnishings and many original Art Deco and Art Nouveau elements. The 177 rooms follow a similar pattern and have an air of understated elegance with stylish furnishings and fabrics in a muted palette. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s rooftop garden which affords lovely city views, a French brasserie, a gym and 24 hour room service; complimentary daily wine tasting is also available.

Galleria Park Hotel, San Francisco

Sea lions, Pier 39

Chinatown

View from Russian Hill to Alcatraz

San Francisco walking tour This two-and-a-half-hour guided tour takes you through the heart of San Francisco and offers a fascinating insight into the city’s rich history and culture. The walk begins in Chinatown where you will learn about the city’s Chinese immigrants on visits to the Tin How Temple and a fortune cookie factory, before continuing into adjacent North Beach, where waves of Italian immigrants settled around Washington Square. Visit historic Caffe Trieste and sample local foods along the way as you explore these unique neighbourhoods and discover how each community contributed to shaping the San Francisco of today.

America’s Cup yacht trip A memorable way to experience the beauty of San Francisco Bay, the USA 76 is an International America’s Cup Class racing yacht with a fully experienced crew. A trip on board is a wonderful opportunity to see this race-winning yacht in action, and with a maximum of 20 passengers, there’s ample opportunity to get involved in the sailing should you wish. Take a turn at the helm or as a ‘grinder’ on the big sail trim controls (affectionately known as coffee grinders) or just sit back and enjoy the view; either way this thrilling two-and-a-half-hour trip is likely to be a highlight of your visit.

Cycle path near Golden Gate Bridge

Hotel Abri, San Francisco

Hotel Abri, San Francisco

Alcatraz Step back in time and experience the legendary island of Alcatraz. This infamous place has served as a Civil War fort, a military prison and one of the most notorious federal penitentiaries in US history. Some of its many secrets are revealed in a guided tour which includes a 45-minute audio presentation featuring the recollections of former correctional officers and prisoners. The remainder of your time here is free for a self-guided tour around the cells and former prison gardens.

Occupying a charming colonial-style building in the heart of San Francisco, Hotel Abri is a sharp, stylish property just a few blocks from Union Square. Inside, the decor is sleek and sophisticated with contemporary art, designer furniture and warm earthy colour schemes throughout. The 91 rooms are similarly styled and offer high-tech amenities. There is also a modern Italian restaurant and easy access to San Francisco’s many attractions.

Casa Madrona, Sausalito Perched on a hill with delightful views of the bay, Casa Madrona is a stylish retreat in the charming waterfront community of Sausalito. This tranquil spot lies just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco and provides peace and quiet within easy reach of the city. Casa Madrona itself is a beautiful Victorian mansion built in 1885 and now converted into a gorgeous boutique hotel.

There are 64 stylish guest rooms in both the original house and in cottages in the grounds, many of which feature a fireplace and stunning views over the waterfront. We particularly like Casa Madrona’s location – just a few minutes walk from both the ferry port and a choice of excellent waterfront restaurants.

Casa Madrona, Sausalito

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Vineyards, Napa Valley

Farmhouse Inn, Sonoma County

Farmhouse Inn, Sonoma County

Napa Valley & Sonoma County The sheltered valleys and sunny slopes of Napa and Sonoma are archetypal wine country.

Situated to the northeast of San Francisco, the region produces some of the finest vintages in the country and many of the wineries are open to the public. Napa Valley highlights include a visit to Robert Mondavi, one of its best-known wineries, and the nearby little town of Calistoga, known for its mud baths and mineral water.

Sonoma County is more rustic and has a Spanish colonial heritage. It was here in 1846 that the Bear Flag Revolt took place, propelling California into independence from Mexico, and the restored Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma is worth a visit. The rugged coast of Sonoma County features pretty towns such as Bodega Bay, Jenner and Timber Cove, interspersed with giant redwood trees and vineyard-covered hills.

The internationally acclaimed Farmhouse Inn combines the warmth and hospitality of a family-owned B&B with the amenities of a luxury boutique hotel. Situated within a few minutes’ drive of hundreds of wineries and a variety of excellent restaurants, galleries and boutiques, the inn is perfectly located for exploring the beautiful Sonoma Valley. The inn has a Michelin-starred restaurant and a superb spa, whilst there is also a heated outdoor swimming pool set in delightful gardens. There are just 18 rooms, each beautifully appointed with either a sauna or a steam shower. Personal, attentive service is the hallmark here.

Join a tour of some of the best vineyards in the Sonoma or Napa valleys to learn about, and taste, some of region’s lesser-known but world-class wines, whilst also exploring the region’s magnificent wine country. These six-hour small group tours carry no more than 12 passengers and are led by an experienced driver-guide who will choose four wineries to visit, usually properties that are smaller, family-owned, and off the beaten path. These fun tours are quite relaxed and sociable and a delicious picnic lunch is served in the grounds of one of the wineries.

River Terrace Inn, Napa Overlooking the Napa River, this well-located hotel is just minutes from downtown Napa, the Opera House and Oxbow Public Market, and has the popular Napa Valley Wine Train on its doorstep. There are 106 stylish rooms and suites decorated in a contemporary but classical style with subtle feature wallpaper, king size beds and tasteful furnishings. Many also have whirlpool baths and balconies with views over the river and park below. There is an outdoor swimming pool, complimentary bikes, a wine bar and restaurant, and a lovely cafe on a terrace overlooking the river.

River Terrace Inn, Napa

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Napa or Sonoma wine tour

Wine tasting, Napa Valley

Hyatt Regency Resort, Lake Tahoe

Scenic drive, Redwood National Park

Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino

Mendocino, Northern California

Northern California

Lake Tahoe

A world away from California’s bustling south, northern California is a region of stunning landscapes and picturesque seaside towns hemmed in by the peaks of the mighty Sierra Nevada, Coast and Cascade ranges. The rugged, unspoilt coastline with its swirling mists and driftwood-laden beaches is best explored from Mendocino, a pretty seaside village on a small, hilly peninsula. There are lovely scenic coastal trails to explore and kayak trips to impressive sea caves. Further on, Eureka, with its picturesque old town, is another convenient base with easy access to the giant redwood forests, for which the region is well known.

A sacred summer gathering place for the peaceful Washo Nation, silver was discovered in the Sierra Nevada in the mid-19 th century and the subsequent gold rush changed the region forever. By the end of the century luxury hotels were catering for San Francisco’s elite, gambling establishments opened in the 1940s, and in 1960 the Winter Olympics established Lake Tahoe as one of the USA’s foremost ski resorts.

Remarkably, the area’s charm has been maintained despite the tremendous development and along with excellent amenities and outdoor activities, Lake Tahoe still offers the calm, peace and beauty that inspired the Washo and the early pioneers.

Brewery Gulch Inn, Mendocino Constructed primarily from hundred-year-old redwood logs that were salvaged from the river mud, the Brewery Gulch Inn has a firm commitment to sustainability and a magnificent location. Each of the 11 rooms provides breathtaking views of the ocean and all are luxurious with plush feather beds and leather armchairs. The locally sourced seasonal food is a highlight and there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the surrounding area.

Elk Meadow Cabins, Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park Home to some of the world’s tallest trees, Redwood National Park offers a host of easy trails through spectacular old growth forest.

Coast redwood trees here grow to an average of 100 metres in height and can be more than 2,000 years old. Further south, at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, the Avenue of the Giants scenic drive weaves through 33 miles of huge coastal redwoods. The Klamath area offers spectacular coastal views, and herds of Roosevelt elk can be seen in Prairie Creek State Park.

Elk Meadow Cabins, Redwood National Park

Hyatt Regency Resort, Lake Tahoe Set against a background of towering pines on Lake Tahoe’s north shore is Hyatt Regency Resort. There are 422 beautiful air-conditioned rooms with expansive views. There are four restaurants to choose from as well as a gorgeous pool with a bar, a casino, beauty salon and live entertainment during the ski season.

Conveniently located in the heart of Redwood National Park, the seven spacious cabins here offer three bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with a kitchen, deck and barbecue. There is also a communal Jacuzzi and fire pit. www.audleytravel.com/california • 01993 838 755 • California & Nevada

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Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park This vast tract of protected land in eastern California’s Sierra Nevada is one of the world’s most dramatic geological spectacles.

Raging waterfalls plummet over 900-metre cliffs crowned with jagged pinnacles, while at the base of the mighty mountain walls, grassy meadows are home to mule deer, coyotes and black bears. More than 400 species of vertebrate call Yosemite home, including bobcats and Sierra Nevada foxes. In 1864 it became the USA’s first national park. Today the 1,170 square miles of spectacular falls, clear mountain streams and giant sequoia groves attract millions of visitors each year.

When to go Being high in the Sierra Nevada, the park gets plenty of snow during winter so the best, although busiest, time to go is from June to September.

Exploring the park Most people head to the Yosemite Valley, in the centre of the park, where the Merced River is flanked by near vertical granite cliffs, including the unmistakeable rock formations of El Capitan and Half Dome, and the spectacular lookout, Glacier Point. Many beautiful waterfalls tumble into the valley but the most spectacular are Yosemite and Bridalveil. A wide choice of trails of varying difficulties criss-cross the park and you can follow easy walking routes to Yosemite Falls and the vast Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.

Mariposa Grove, accessible from the park’s south entrance, is Yosemite’s most famous collection of giant redwoods and is well worth visiting, while the breathtaking drive across Highway 120 showcases some truly dramatic landscapes.

Redwoods in Yosemite operates over 130 cabins inside the park, ranging from intimate studios to six bedroom family homes.

The cabins are individually owned and decorated and offer easy access to many beautiful hiking trails including Chilnualna Falls.

Ideal for families or groups, they offer an authentic cabin experience and all have kitchens and barbecues.

Where to stay There is limited accommodation within the park which needs to be booked well in advance. Alternatively, there are other, less expensive options located nearby outside the park. Our specialists can advise on the best options for you.

Evergreen Lodge, Yosemite National Park

Redwoods in Yosemite

Historic Evergreen Lodge is located just outside the park, about an hour’s drive from Yosemite Valley. 90 attractive cabins are scattered throughout the extensive grounds and are surrounded by majestic pine trees.

Each features historic artwork, a satellite radio and a private deck, while there’s a restaurant, swimming pool and hot tub at the main lodge.

Private guided hikes Explore Yosemite on a private full day guided hiking tour of the Yosemite Valley, home to some the world’s highest waterfalls, the wild and scenic Merced River and the giant granite monoliths, Half Dome and El Capitan.

Led by professional guides who offer a highly personal experience, they will tailor routes to suit your abilities and interests.

Deer, Yosemite National Park

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Evergreen Lodge, Yosemite National Park

Fisherman, Kings Canyon National Park

John Muir Lodge, near Grant Grove

Tunnel Log, Sequoia National Park

Hiking in Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon National Park A collection of spectacular canyons and remote lakes awaits visitors to Kings Canyon National Park, which is wilder and less-visited than some of its more accessible counterparts. The only way into the canyon is via the village of Grant Grove from where the Big Stump Trail winds past the sizeable remains of trees felled in the late 19 th century. Close by, stand the huge General Grant and the Robert E. Lee sequoias.

Further into the park, the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway descends into the steep-sided gorge, where immense walls of blue marble and granite contrast with the clear but rapid Kings River waters and verdant yucca plants. There are a series of walking trails that provide excellent views of the Grand Sentinel and North Dome peaks.

John Muir Lodge, near Grant Grove Conveniently located between Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks, this lodge offers a quiet and comfortable base. Situated within walking distance of Grant Grove, the lodge features 36 rooms with beautiful forest views.

To preserve the tranquil setting, there are no televisions in the rooms but an extensive collection of books, games and puzzles are available. A family-friendly restaurant serves traditional cuisine.

Wuksachi Lodge, Sequoia National Park

Wuksachi Lodge, Sequoia National Park

Bobcat, Yosemite National Park

Sequoia National Park This is one of the most southerly of the Sierra Nevada national parks, and undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking. Famous for its thick woods of ancient sequoias, the park is home to some of the largest trees in the world. The enormous General Sherman tree, thought to be the largest on Earth in terms of total volume, is reputed to be 2,200 years old. The scale of these vast arboreal specimens is well demonstrated at Auto Log, a toppled sequoia chiselled to enable motorists to drive on to it. Beyond lies the granite monolith of Moro Rock, where a three-mile trail and 400 stone steps lead to remarkable panoramas. Other highlights include the glacial canyon on the Tokopah Valley Trail and Tunnel Log, where you can drive through a hole cut in a massive sequoia that fell in 1937, and the glacial canyon on the Tokopah Valley Trail. Highway 198 climbs through the park’s wilderness for some glorious views.

Surrounded by towering trees, stunning waterfalls and picturesque valleys in the heart of Sequoia National Park, Wuksachi Lodge enjoys a prime location with convenient access to the park’s most popular attractions. The lodge was beautifully crafted in 1999 from cedar and stone, and affords excellent views of the Sierra Nevada range and its forests. The 102 spacious rooms are comfortably furnished in a traditional style.

Kings Canyon National Park

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Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur

California Coast California’s central coast, stretching 350 miles between Los Angeles and San Francisco, is one of the world’s most beautiful shorelines.

Unspoilt and spectacularly rugged, it is backed by rolling vineyards and golden hills. The scenic drive along Highway 1 is a fantastic way to enjoy this stunning region and links the cosmopolitan towns of Santa Barbara, Carmel and nearby Monterey. Other highlights include Hearst Castle at San Simeon and the magnificent Bixby Creek Bridge at Big Sur.

Monterey & Carmel The town of Monterey was founded by the Spanish in 1770, and its colonial heritage is revealed in its historic buildings and former wharves and canneries, many of which are now smart boutiques and restaurants. Dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Del Monte Forest can be enjoyed on the spectacular 17 Mile Drive that hugs the coast of the Monterey Peninsula, passing beautiful Pebble Beach en route. The drive ends near the little village of Carmel, one of California’s most picturesque seaside towns.

A world-class destination for golfers, hikers and spa enthusiasts, this delightful community is easily explored on foot and boasts white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, as well as superb shopping and excellent restaurants.

Hotel Abrego, Monterey This hacienda-style property is located close to Monterey’s shops and restaurants, while Cannery Row and some fine beaches are just a short drive away. The 93 rooms are modern but cosy and most boast a fireplace. The lounge is a relaxed setting for drinks, while outside there is a swimming pool and a hot tub.

L’Auberge Carmel A member of Relais & Chateaux, L’Auberge Carmel dates back to 1929. This romantic retreat combines modern amenities with old-world charm. The 20 elegant guest rooms feature French windows and marble bathrooms.

Dining here is a delight and the intimate restaurant features an underground wine cellar housing a collection of 4,500 bottles.

Carmel Valley Ranch Surrounded by landscaped gardens and lush woodlands, Carmel Valley Ranch offers impeccable service and luxurious amenities.

Its 139 spacious studio-style suites are contemporary in style and have wood-burning fireplaces and beautiful views. You will also find tennis courts, an 18-hole golf course and an outdoor swimming pool overlooking the Santa Lucia Mountains. Carmel Valley Ranch is located about 20 minutes’ drive from Carmel.

Classic Convertible Cars

L’Auberge Carmel

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Carmel Valley Ranch

Beautiful scenery, sunny weather and excellent roads make southern California the ideal destination to discover whilst at the wheel of a classic American car. Choose from a 1960s convertible Mustang, Cadillac or Impala.

Please speak to our country specialists for further information.

Hotel Abrego, Monterey

Sea otters, Big Sur

The coastline near Big Sur

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, Pismo Beach

Santa Barbara Mission

Big Sur

San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay & Pismo Beach

Santa Barbara

With the ridges of the Santa Lucia Mountains soaring 900 metres above the Pacific Ocean, the breathtaking coastline along Highway 1 is a highlight of the region. Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers scenic hiking trails past towering redwoods to waterfalls that drop into the sea. Look out for migrating grey whales, sea otters in the kelp beds, and birds such as California condors, water ouzels and belted kingfishers.

Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, Post Ranch Inn combines rustic elegance and organic architecture with luxury and comfort. Its award-winning Sierra Mar restaurant offers splendid ocean views and a variety of cuisines.

The hotel also has two clifftop infinity pools, complimentary yoga and stargazing classes, and guided nature hikes. Each of the 39 guest rooms features an indoor spa bath and a private deck with views over the mountains or ocean.

Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur

Lying approximately halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo is a superb stop along the coast. Its historic centre is a delight to explore with its Spanish mission of San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Nearby, at San Simeon, you will find wild, unspoilt beaches and Hearst Castle, a flamboyant fairy-tale retreat built by publishing tycoon William Randolph Hearst. Just inland, rolling vineyards are perfect for tastings and lazy lunches, while to the south lies Morro Bay with its empty beaches, nature trails, and kayak and whale watching trips, and the long white sands of Pismo Beach.

Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, Pismo Beach Set around a large pool overlooking the ocean, Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa offers 62 spacious one and two bedroom villas. Each is tastefully styled and well-equipped. The resort also has a spa, gym and a restaurant.

Santa Barbara was founded in 1782 by Father Junipero Serra, one of the original Jesuit priests who established El Camino Real. The town’s principal attraction is the beautiful Santa Barbara Mission, but El Presidio de Santa Barbara Historic Park, home of one of the original Spanish fortresses built along the coast, is also worth visiting. You can also tour the tall ships at the Maritime Museum, stroll around the Botanic Garden or explore the outdoor paseos and landscaped plazas.

Canary Hotel, Santa Barbara The design of this boutique hotel is inspired by the Canary Islands and the 97 stylish guest rooms are beautifully appointed with four-poster beds and hardwood floors. The hotel enjoys a prime location and offers impressive city panoramas from its rooftop swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

The restaurant, Coast, serves a menu inspired by local culture and cuisine.

Canary Hotel, Santa Barbara

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Los Angeles

Los Angeles A vast, sprawling conurbation of once distinct cities, Los Angeles is made up of numerous suburbs and neighbourhoods linked by extensive freeways. Beverly Hills, one of the most affluent suburbs, is home to celebrities and the exclusive boutiques of Rodeo Drive.

Downtown LA is the oldest part of the city where you’ll find historic buildings sitting next to glittering skyscrapers and the theatres of Broadway. Bustling Santa Monica is an oceanfront resort with an array of shopping and dining options. From here beautiful beaches stretch south to Venice Beach and north to Malibu. Sunset Boulevard and trendy Melrose Avenue are located in West Hollywood within easy reach of the beaches, while Hollywood itself is home to the early film studios and overlooked by its iconic hillside sign. Coastal Marina del Rey has a large marina and is conveniently located close to the airport.

Beaches LA has a great beach scene from the bustling boardwalk of lively Venice Beach to the outdoor bodybuilding mecca of Muscle Beach where people whizz up and down on bikes and roller blades. Santa Monica is one of LA’s most popular beaches, while further out, Malibu is famous for its surf scene. To the south of the city there are a number of sophisticated beach resorts to choose from including Huntingdon, Newport and Laguna.

Entertainment One of the classic areas to visit is Sunset Boulevard (also known as Sunset Strip), which features nightclubs such as Whisky a Go Go, and countless bars and restaurants.

Alternatively, more family-friendly activities can be enjoyed at Disneyland Resort in nearby Anaheim. Broadway offers the pick of theatre productions, while the film industry comes to life at Universal and Warner Bros. studios.

Shopping LA offers shopping on a grand scale with everything from couture classics to vintage bargains. Melrose Avenue is home to some of the city’s most fashionable stores, while Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is the place to head for designer boutiques.

Hollywood sign

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Venice Beach, Los Angeles

Eating Out As you may expect, LA offers an almost endless array of options for eating out with every cuisine and budget catered for. The more affluent parts of the city host some of the world’s finest restaurants, many owned and sometimes run by celebrity chefs. A variety of simpler options are available as well though, and we can make some great recommendations.

Sightseeing There is plenty to see and do in this vast city.

Highlights for most include the J. Paul Getty Museum, the retired ocean liner R.M.S. Queen Mary berthed at Long Beach, the homes of the stars in Beverly Hills and Bel-Air, and, of course, the Walk of Fame and the iconic Hollywood sign, both in Hollywood.

Cycle route, Santa Monica

Shops at Beverly Hills

Andaz, West Hollywood

Beverly Hills Hotel & Bungalows

Palihouse, Santa Monica

Beverly Hills Hotel & Bungalows

Casa Laguna Inn & Spa, Laguna Beach

Located on the iconic Sunset Boulevard, Beverly Hills Hotel & Bungalows offers guests refined luxury in a series of 208 exquisitely designed rooms, suites and cottages. The hotel is set in lush gardens and has hosted Hollywood’s finest over the years. The rooms are all individually styled and tastefully decorated, and feature modern conveniences. The hotel has two dining options, the Polo Lounge, a favourite breakfast spot for locals as well as guests, and the Cabana Café, offering more relaxed poolside dining. In addition, there is a spa and a gym.

Casa Laguna Inn & Spa offers a very different style of Los Angeles accommodation. Now operating as a B&B, it was originally constructed in the 1920s as a private residence with additional buildings added in 1946. Full of character and charm, it was designed as a peaceful, romantic escape and makes a lovely coastal getaway. The 22 rooms have a range of modern amenities including air conditioning and a small refrigerator. There is also a heated outdoor swimming pool, a small gym and a spa.

Andaz, West Hollywood Once known as the Riot House for its rock and roll parties hosted by the likes of the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and The Who, this Sunset Boulevard hotel has been transformed into a glamorous urban oasis. The hotel’s lobby exudes contemporary refinement, while the 239 bedrooms are modern yet understated.

Excellent open-kitchen dining is available in the restaurant and the bar is reputedly a favourite among Hollywood’s fashionable residents. The Andaz boasts Los Angeles’ highest rooftop swimming pool and spectacular views over the Hollywood Hills, Sunset Boulevard and downtown LA.

Omni Los Angeles Downtown Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, this 17-storey property offers easy access to the city’s finest museums, galleries and theatres.

It has a choice of 453 spacious rooms with views over Bunker Hill or the California Plaza.

The hotel is decorated in contemporary style throughout and offers excellent value as well as a good restaurant, a coffee bar, outdoor swimming pool, a spa and a gym.

Palihouse, Santa Monica This lovingly styled boutique hotel blends Moorish arches, ornate fireplaces and carved woodwork with mid-century furniture and designer style. A hotel since 1927, it is full of original features but contemporary in design, with rooms arranged around lush courtyards which offer a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the city. There are only 37 rooms, studios and suites here, each with a fully-equipped kitchen.

Located in a quiet residential neighbourhood, the hotel is only a few minutes’ walk from Santa Monica’s attractions.

Omni Los Angeles Downtown

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View of San Diego from Coronado

Pacific Terrace Hotel, San Diego

Surfer, San Diego

San Diego Elegant and sunny, San Diego is a city with enormous appeal. The pleasing climate and white sandy beaches ensure its popularity, but you will also find excellent museums, great golf and leafy Balboa Park, home to San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Museum of Art, the Air and Space Museum and the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. The city also caters well for families, with attractions such as Sea World and the historic Gaslamp Quarter. There is an array of fashionable restaurants serving all kinds of cuisines, numerous colourful festivals and events, and excellent beaches along the isthmus of Coronado and in nearby La Jolla. Just outside town, Torrey Pines State Reserve offers a somewhat wilder terrain, where visitors can view rare birds and the distinctive trees from which the park takes its name.

Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Pacific Terrace Hotel is ideally located within walking distance of oceanfront restaurants, shops, nightlife and family friendly beaches. It is also within driving distance of the city’s Gaslamp Quarter and San Diego Zoo. All 73 rooms include hand-crafted wooden beds, plantation shutters and a private balcony or patio. There’s a lovely outdoor heated swimming pool, a spa with spectacular ocean views, a choice of restaurants, and complimentary bicycles, beach chairs and parasols.

Hotel Solamar, San Diego This urban hotel occupies a prime setting in San Diego’s lively Gaslamp Quarter. There are 235 stylish rooms decorated in a comfortable, contemporary style. The Solamar Terrace features a heated outdoor swimming pool and a stylish bar with superb views over the city.

Loews Coronado Bay Resort, San Diego Located on a peninsula with views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and San Diego on the other, Loews Coronado Bay Resort offers direct access to the waterfront. The 439 spacious guest rooms are calm and elegant with pale colour schemes.

There is an extensive spa, tennis courts, three outdoor swimming pools and expansive deck areas. Bicycles, rollerblades, and boats can also be hired. In addition there is a restaurant, a cafe and a bar that serve drinks and light meals.

Surfing lessons

Hotel Solamar, San Diego

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Loews Coronado Bay Resort, San Diego

Learn how to surf on the iconic Californian coast with professional instructors. Lessons are suitable for all ages and abilities and with just three surfers per instructor, they offer a positive and memorable experience.

Building in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego

Joshua Tree National Park

Dante’s View, Death Valley National Park

Eroded hills, Death Valley National Park

Golf Course, Palm Springs

Death Valley National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

Palm Springs

This national park is both the hottest and driest in the USA and, at 86 metres below sea level, is the lowest point in North America. Its extreme temperatures make it best visited in the winter, when snow caps the mountains and the low light gives the desert a golden hue. April and May is another good time to visit when over 1,000 species of plants burst into flower bringing the landscape to vivid life. During July and August, heat creates a shimmering mirage so it is best explored just after dawn or before dusk, when it is cooler.

This immense reserve vividly illustrates the contrast between high and low desert ecosystems. At 900 metres the Colorado Desert, occupying the eastern half of the park, is dominated by the abundant creosote bush.

The higher, slightly cooler and wetter Mojave Desert is the perfect environment for the Joshua tree which, along with yucca and cacti, creates a habitat for over 200 species of birds and 40 species of reptiles. There are many spectacular rock formations like Old Woman and the Wonderland of Rocks, as well as old gold mines, ancient petroglyphs and numerous walking trails.

The nearby towns of Twentynine Palms and Palm Springs are convenient places from which to explore.

A true oasis in the California desert, Palm Springs has many golf courses and condominiums lying amid lush irrigated orchards. To get your bearings, take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway 2,400 metres up into the mountains for stunning views. Many miles of walking routes surround the town, and you may also wish to explore the Indian, Palm or Andreas canyons. Some areas of the desert are set aside for 4x4 adventures, which is another great way to discover the surrounding desert.

The Ranch at Furnace Creek, Death Valley National Park Set in a lush oasis in the vast and arid desert, The Ranch at Furnace Creek offers a casual, family-friendly base from which to explore Death Valley National Park. One of two hotels at the resort, the property was originally built in the 1800s as a working ranch and its history is reflected in its Corkscrew Saloon, general store and museum displaying antique stagecoaches and steam locomotives. The 224 comfortable cabins and rooms are all air-conditioned, and there are three restaurants as well as a spring-fed swimming pool, tennis courts, children’s playground, horse riding and golf.

La Quinta Resort & Club, Palm Springs La Quinta Resort & Club is a traditional hideaway which has been welcoming guests with its unique style of hacienda-inspired warmth since 1926. Set in large, lushly manicured grounds at the foot of the soaring Santa Rosa Mountains, La Quinta provides a wide range of facilities including five championship golf courses, renowned restaurants, a spa and tennis courts; alternatively you may just wish to relax by the swimming pool. The 796 garden casitas feature luxurious bathrooms as well as private patios or open fires.

La Quinta Resort & Club, Palm Springs

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Las Vegas

Las Vegas

Vdara Hotel & Spa, Las Vegas The Vdara Hotel & Spa is part of the CityCenter complex which includes several luxury hotels and many entertainment, shopping and dining options. Each of the 1,495 spacious suites features a kitchenette, dining table and a large spa-style bath. Vdara is one of the few hotels that does not feature a casino but a short stroll via a covered walkway takes you to gambling tables at the Bellagio or Aria hotels. Vdara offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere; here you can lounge by the outdoor swimming pool or indulge in the spa. The hotel also offers a restaurant and bar.

One of the world’s most remarkable cities, Las Vegas is an eye-opening destination that also makes a convenient start or finishing point for your trip due to the excellent flight connections.

The city’s glittering lights appear like a mirage out of the Nevada Desert while theatrically themed hotels, choreographed water displays, world-class shows and spectacular free entertainment make it an extraordinary place to visit. Most of the action centres around the iconic Strip, which is vividly illuminated with a sea of neon and can be seen on a dramatic sunset helicopter trip.

Las Vegas is also a base for visiting the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead and the Hoover Dam, which are easily reached from the city.

Bellagio, Las Vegas

Vdara Hotel & Spa, Las Vegas

Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

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This luxury hotel, one of our favourites, offers an oasis of quiet sophistication at the heart of the Strip. The Mandarin Oriental prides itself on its stylish accommodation, relaxing spa facilities, fine-dining options and excellent service. Each of the 392 rooms and suites combines sleek design with subtle oriental touches and guests have some of the city’s most famous casinos, shopping and entertainment right on their doorstep.

Known as much for its legendary fountains, casino and shows as it is for its world-class service and facilities, Bellagio exudes an air of style and elegance. With 3,933 rooms, this is by no means a small or intimate hotel, but one which offers the latest modern amenities and features spacious and smartly presented accommodation with sweeping views over Lake Bellagio, the pools and courtyards. There is a wealth of dining options covering everything from casual snacks to fine dining. In addition to five swimming pools, a spa, nightclubs, boutiques and its very own casino, the Bellagio is also currently the residence of the Cirque du Soleil show ‘O’.

Neon lights on Fremont Street, Las Vegas

Bellagio, Las Vegas

The Mirage, Las Vegas A huge hotel with 3,044 rooms, The Mirage offers a wide range of facilities, entertainment, dining and shopping options. A stay here ensures everything is at your fingertips and, despite its size, the hotel is known for its attentive service and efficiency. The stylish rooms feature plush fabrics and stylish artwork, while you’ll also find every dining option from a fully-stocked deli to gourmet restaurants. There’s an enormous pool and lush tropical gardens with a series of lagoons and waterfalls.

Show girl on Las Vegas Boulevard

Kayak on the Colorado River

Helicopter trip over the Grand Canyon

Helicopter trips Watching the Las Vegas Strip light up at sunset is quite a sight, but seen from a helicopter, it’s a mesmerising experience that puts this remarkable city and all it stands for in perspective. Las Vegas is also a gateway to America’s most famous natural attraction, the Grand Canyon. Undeniably the best way to discover the canyon’s enormity is to fly over and through it. Flights can be taken from the edge of the canyon itself, but trips to the West Rim start from Las Vegas. We are happy to discuss the many available options with you.

For more information on the Grand Canyon, please see page 87.

Las Vegas shows Justly famed for its elaborate and varied nightlife, Las Vegas offers a wide selection of shows and events every night of the week. These range from the world-famous Cirque de Soleil performances, comedy shows, plays and musicals to big name performers, tribute acts and old-school cabaret. We can often obtain tickets in advance so please discuss your preferences with your country specialist.

Grand Canyon trip One of the most amazing ways to experience the Grand Canyon is to take a thrilling helicopter trip into its depths, and then go rafting through the scenic Black Canyon on the Colorado River.

You will see awe-inspiring scenery as you fly over one of the world’s greatest natural wonders before landing to meet up with your rafting crew. This motorised and fully narrated rafting trip departs from the base of the Hoover Dam for a 12-mile trip along the Colorado River through the spectacular scenery of the Grand Canyon. There will be several stops along the way and lunch will be served on the riverbank.

The Mirage, Las Vegas

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San Francisco

Zion Yosemite National National Park Park Death Valley National Park

Monument Valley Lake Powell

Las Vegas Pismo Beach

Bakersfield

Los Angeles

Grand Canyon National Park

Sedona

Phoenix

The Best of the West This is a delightful itinerary for exploring southwestern USA at a reasonably relaxed pace.

Beyond the great cities, you will visit some of California, Utah and Arizona’s most spectacular national parks and discover the beautiful Pacific coastline.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, San Diego

Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our California and Nevada specialists to start planning your itinerary.

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Getting around The region’s principal international airports are Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego and Las Vegas. The magnificent national parks, mountains and coast are best explored at your own pace with a hire car, but there are also train services that link the coastal cities. Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas have efficient bus systems, while San Francisco is easily explored using the underground system, the iconic cable cars or on a harbour ferry.

Thinning vines, Napa Valley

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Southern California and Nevada are known for their sunny climates, although winters can get cold, especially in the mountains or in coastal areas. July and August are very hot months, making spring and autumn possibly the best times to visit. The northern California climate is much more temperate, with warm summer days but sometimes cold and grey winters. Snow is usual in the mountains from January until March and fog and rain are common along northern coasts during the winter months.

Prices

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Arrive in Los Angeles.

Day 2

Spend a day discovering this great metropolis.

Day 3

Drive along the coast to Pismo Beach.

Day 4

Head north towards San Francisco on coastal Highway 1.

Day 5

Enjoy a full day exploring San Francisco.

Days 6-7 Head inland to Yosemite National Park.

Time difference: GMT-8 hours

Nevada Falls, Yosemite National Park

Day 1

We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Day 8

Drive south through Sequoia National Park to Bakersfield.

Day 9

Continue to Death Valley National Park.

Days 10-11 Head for the bright lights of Las Vegas and discover the city’s shows, sights, shops, restaurants and casinos.

Days 12-13 Drive to spectacular Zion National Park and enjoy some of the many walking trails.

Day 14

Journey to Lake Powell, where many water sports are available.

Day 15

Travel through the vast Navajo Nation Indian Reservation to Monument Valley.

Day 16

Tour Monument Valley in the morning then head to the Grand Canyon.

Day 17

Discover the awe-inspiring scenery of the Grand Canyon by helicopter.

Day 18

Head to Sedona.

Day 19

Take a 4x4 trip through the distinctive red rocks of Sedona.

Day 20

Travel south to Phoenix for your onward flight.

Suggested itineraries Crater Lake National Park

Napa Valley San Francisco Monterey

Yosemite National Park Death Valley National Park

Sequoia National Park

Pismo Beach

San Francisco

Redwood National Park

Mount Shasta

Eureka

Monterey Las Vegas

Bakersfield

Mendocino

Pismo Beach

Los Angeles

Sonoma County

Los Angeles San Francisco

San Diego

California Explored

Coastal California

Northern California

This well-paced itinerary offers a comprehensive discovery of California’s many attractions, which include glamorous cities, a spectacularly rugged coastline, snow-capped mountains and rolling vineyards.

For those short on time, this tour combines two of the USA’s greatest cities, San Francisco and Los Angeles, with some of the west coast’s most dramatic scenery.

This active itinerary explores the highlights of northern California and southern Oregon, encompassing the beauty of the Pacific coast and the blue waters of Crater Lake. Along the way there are plenty of opportunities to relax on deserted beaches, cycle in the mountains, or look for wildlife.

Day 1 Day 1

Arrive in Las Vegas.

Day 2

Discover Las Vegas’s shows, sights, shops, restaurants and casinos.

Day 3

Move on to Death Valley National Park.

Day 4

Days 2-3 Enjoy a couple of days exploring San Francisco. Highlights include a boat trip on the bay, Alcatraz, Chinatown and Union Square.

Day 4

Drive to Bakersfield.

Days 5-6 Continue your journey to Sequoia National Park and explore the mountain scenery and gigantic trees.

Days 7-8 Travel to Yosemite National Park.

Spend a full day in discovering the wildlife, waterfalls and mountains.

Days 9-10 Drive to the wine producing area of Napa Valley. Spend the day exploring some of the excellent wineries.

Day 11

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco.

Day 12

Enjoy a full day exploring the many highlights of San Francisco.

Day 13

Follow the scenic Highway 1 south to Monterey.

Day 14

Explore Monterey and the charming 17 Mile Drive.

Day 15

Drive along the stunning California coast to Pismo Beach.

Day 16

Continue your journey south to LA on Highway 1.

Day 17

A day to explore LA. Perhaps visit Santa Monica and stroll along the famous beachfront.

Day 18

Drive down the coast to San Diego.

Day 19

A day in San Diego. Visit the zoo or take a sailing trip on the harbour.

Day 20

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

Arrive in San Francisco.

Follow Highway 1 south along the impressive California coast towards Monterey, taking in the spectacular 17 Mile Drive.

Day 5

A day to explore the towns of Monterey and nearby Carmel.

Day 6

Drive south alongside the Pacific to the community of Pismo Beach.

Day 7

Continue your drive past Santa Barbara and Malibu to the city of Los Angeles.

Days 8-9 Spend time discovering this great metropolis, perhaps visiting Hollywood, Santa Monica or the boutiques and restaurants of Beverly Hills.

Day 10

Head to the airport for your onward flight.

Day 1

Days 2-3 Enjoy a couple of days exploring San Francisco. Highlights include a boat trip on the bay, Alcatraz, Chinatown and Union Square.

Day 4

Drive north over the Golden Gate Bridge to the rolling vineyards of Sonoma County.

Day 5

Spend a full day relaxing, visiting some world-renowned vineyards, or exploring some delightful walking and cycling trails.

Day 6

Travel north to Eureka.

Day 7

Head inland to the dramatic mountains and volcanic landscapes around Mount Shasta.

Day 8

Relax in the morning and then cross the border to Crater Lake National Park in Oregon.

Day 9

Enjoy a full day at this dramatic volcanic lake, where the bright blue waters contrast sharply with the surrounding scenery.

Day 10

Head to Redwood National Park, on the coast.

Day 11

Spend the day exploring the magnificent mighty redwoods in the national park.

Day 12

Drive to Mendocino to explore the old painted houses and art shops.

Day 13

Make your way back to San Francisco for your onward flight.

Stay longer You may wish to extend your stay to include the vineyards of the Napa or Sonoma valleys, or head inland to visit Yosemite National Park.

Arrive in San Francisco.

Stay longer Those with more time may wish to continue travelling north along the spectacular Oregon coast to the cities of Portland and Seattle.

Trolley car, San Francisco

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Texas & the Southwest W

ith a personality all of its own, the vast state of Texas, briefly independent in the 19 th century, blends a Western cowboy culture with wealthy, modern cities. Its landscape is surprisingly diverse, from cacti-studded desert to towering mountain peaks, and this is best demonstrated in the beautiful Big Bend National Park, lying close to the Mexican border. The dynamic music scene of Austin provides a refreshing contrast to the arid land in the west and friendly ranches make perfect bases to experience an authentic Texan lifestyle. The stunning landscapes and ancient history of the Southwest are a draw to any visitor; a place where you can delve deep into native American culture by exploring centuries-old Pueblo settlements, visit 16th-century Spanish cities like Santa Fe, trek through the beauty of Utah’s magnificent national parks, and admire the striking rock formations of Arizona’s Monument Valley – the backdrop of many classic Western films. Of course, nothing matches the staggering scale of the Grand Canyon; standing on the cusp of this spellbinding chasm is a never to be forgotten experience.

Audley in Texas & the Southwest

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1 The Grand Canyon

A scenic flight through this natural wonder is an unforgettable experience.

See page 87 2 Monument Valley Take a 4x4 trip through impressive rock formations immortalised in many classic Western films.

See page 91 Monument Valley, Utah

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Away from the large cities, where there is a choice of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, options can be somewhat limited. This is especially true in the national parks where accommodation is almost always very simple, from rustic lodges to basic hotels, and service is limited.

However there are some good options away from the national parks, but early booking is essential as demand always outstrips supply. Elsewhere there are some wonderfully atmospheric properties, in incredibly scenic locations, that really reflect the regional character.

0 Ro

With such enormous distances, it is important to plan your trip carefully and we can advise you on where to go to see the highlights but also on how to experience the path less travelled. We have carefully researched a number of options to enable you to really experience this magnificent region in a way that suits you. This may be a private guided walk at the Grand Canyon or in Zion National Park, an expert-led white water rafting experience on the Colorado River, or advice on the most scenic driving routes through New Mexico’s abandoned mining towns. Whatever your preferences, our specialists will able to plan the perfect trip for you.

IDAHO

3 Utah’s national parks

Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches and Capitol Reef provide sculpted rocks on an enormous scale.

See pages 88-90 4 Tombstone

This atmospheric Wild West town stages entertaining recreations of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral.

See page 84 5 Big Bend National Park

Southern Texas’s vast and little-visited treasure has a dramatic, varied landscape.

See page 80

6 The Alamo, San Antonio The immortalised site of a famous siege, the Alamo is a tangible reminder of Texas’s Mexican past.

See page 80

Pueblo Indians Explore the fascinating history and thriving culture of New Mexico’s historic Pueblo people.

See page 82

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Texas Longhorns, Fort Worth

Texas

Dallas

Fort Worth

Measuring 800 miles across and almost 1,000 miles in length, Texas is the second largest state in the USA. It was, briefly, an independent republic in its own right, following periods as a Spanish and Mexican territory, and before it joined the Union in 1845. Texas offers a huge variety of landscapes from coastal swamps and pine-filled forests in the east to scorching deserts and high mountains in the west. The Gulf of Mexico coastline is home to the large port city of Corpus Christi whilst inland, Fredericksburg offers rolling vineyards. Although cowboy culture is still alive in Texas, the oil industry and significant industrialisation have also created great wealth, manifested in buzzing modern cities and a sophisticated way of life.

This traditionally prosperous city boasts a reputation for wealth, arts and culture. It has had its dark days too, most notably in 1963 when President John F. Kennedy was assassinated as his motorcade drove along Dealey Plaza. Today the city is better known for its glittering skyscrapers, excellent museums and grand red brick warehouses of the West End historic district.

Visits to the dynamic Dallas Museum of Art, Pioneer Plaza and the many restaurants, jazz clubs and galleries of Deep Ellum, are all recommended.

Compared to the modern city of Dallas, nearby Fort Worth has much more of a Western feel to it. The historic Stockyards area of town, with its wooden pavements, old shop fronts and rodeo events, is well worth a visit and every day, weather permitting, there’s a chance to witness the spectacle of more than a dozen Texan Longhorn cattle being driven down East Exchange Avenue. A more modern focal point of Fort Worth is the entertainment district of Sundance Square, a large area of shops, entertainment, bars and restaurants.

Hotel Joule, Dallas

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Hotel Joule, Dallas This modern, stylish hotel is set in the centre of Dallas’ art district and features an impressive collection of original artwork. Built in 1927 as the Dallas National Bank, the building offers 160 sleek rooms, a renowned restaurant, craft coffee shop, cocktail lounge, library, spa, gym and boutique shops. The piece de resistance is its glass-fronted heated pool, which protrudes three metres beyond the building’s edge to provide seasonal swimming with a birds eye view.

Stockyards Hotel, Fort Worth Since opening its doors to the public in 1907, cowboys and cattle barons, country music legends and even Bonnie and Clyde have found refuge and romance at the Stockyards Hotel.

This characterful and atmospheric property has 52 rooms and suites and each is individually decorated, with themes reflecting the traditions of the area. The hotel is surrounded by steakhouses, saloons and honkytonk music bars, and is just one street away from the Cowtown Coliseum, home to the commercial but fun Saturday Night Rodeo and Pawnee Bill Wild West Show.

West End, Dallas

Stockyards area, Fort Worth

Traditional Western wear, Fort Worth

Travaasa Austin, near Austin

Dixie Dude Ranch, near San Antonio

Austin

Houston & Galveston

In 1839 the state capital was moved from Houston to Austin and the city has since prospered; today it is a progressive but also delightfully laid-back place. It has long been a haven for music, with a rich heritage of country, folk and R&B genres. There is plenty to see in the city including the Texas State Capitol and the 600-year-old Treaty Oak, the last of the 14 Council Oaks that once served as a meeting point for local native Americans.

Oil, cotton and real estate are the backbone of Houston, a wealthy metropolis situated on a large plain. Littered with glittering skyscrapers and endowed with many great galleries, museums and performing arts spaces, Houston is as much a cultural centre as an economic one.

Nearby Galveston is the antithesis to the buzz of Houston. Lying on the Gulf Coast of Texas it has 32 miles of beaches, a fantastic historic district and the beautiful Moody Gardens where you will find an enclosed ten-storey rainforest and one of the world’s largest aquariums.

Dixie Dude Ranch, near San Antonio

Travaasa Austin, near Austin Located in Texas Hill Country, surrounded by the ancient trees and hills of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, Travaasa Austin is just 30 minutes from downtown Austin but offers a retreat embraced by nature. A variety of activities are available including a high ropes course, bike tracks, two-step dancing lessons, wine tasting, yoga and a tranquil spa. There is also an infinity pool and a restaurant serving locally-sourced dishes. The 70 tastefully decorated rooms overlook the countryside or the hotel’s gardens from their balconies.

Nestled in gently rolling Texas Hill Country, around an hour northwest of San Antonio, Dixie Dude Ranch offers an old-fashioned taste of Texas ranch life. There are plenty of activities to participate in, from horse riding to swimming, and songs around the campfire. There are also walking trails and guests can search for fossils and arrowheads. After a day of activities you may wish to have a massage or simply sit on the porch and enjoy the sunset. The ranch is ideal for families with 20 comfortable, rustic cottages, rooms and cabins.

Houston’s skyline

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San Antonio River Walk

San Antonio

Corpus Christi

Big Bend National Park

Founded in 1691 by Spanish missionaries, San Antonio is an attractive old colonial settlement that has played a pivotal role in Texan history.

It has grown into the state’s third largest city and is home to Texas’ most famous attraction – the Alamo. This former Roman Catholic mission, established in the 18 th century by the Spanish with the aim of converting the area’s indigenous people to Christianity, is best known for the siege that took place here in 1836. Texan troops valiantly held out in the now-fortified premises against Mexican opposition for 13 days before being overcome. Just a short walk from the Alamo is the lively stretch of dining and entertainment venues that line the pleasant cobbled paths of San Antonio River Walk.

The large port city of Corpus Christi is popular for its plentiful sunshine, miles of nearby beaches, its botanical gardens and the USS Lexington Museum. Nicknamed the ‘Texas Riviera’, it has a diverse mix of museums, shops and restaurants and offers outdoor activities such as surfing, sailing, fishing or birdwatching, especially on Padre Island National Seashore, to the east of the city. Sports such as kiteboarding and wind surfing are particularly popular here due to the high average wind speeds, and days often end with spectacular sunsets as you dine on fresh seafood served in the many local restaurants.

Its isolated position makes Big Bend one of the USA’s least visited national parks. The Rio Grande flows through 450 metre-high gorges and then turns to form the southern border of the park, and the border with Mexico. This hauntingly beautiful wilderness has been home to the Chisos and Apache native Americans, as well as prospectors, smugglers and pioneers.

Much of the park remains uncharted territory, where extreme contrasts in topography and temperature result in dramatic juxtapositions of desert and mountain plant and animal life.

Tangles of wild flowers mix with cacti, wild mesquite and creosote bushes, while coyotes, road-runners, and even black bears are all resident. Beyond Rio Grande village are natural hot springs and the Mexican village of Boquillas, where huge cliffs and canyons make a wonderful setting for walking and white water rafting trips.

Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio This characterful hotel occupies an attractive waterfront setting in the heart of San Antonio, offering 473 spacious rooms and suites with city or river views and modern amenities. Guests can take advantage of the gym, spa, sundeck and heated outdoor pool, while the hotel’s Latino theme means you can join in with its daily merienda, which marks the transition from day to evening with drinks and snacks. Italian cuisine served at Zocca restaurant can be enjoyed on the pleasant riverfront terrace.

Omni Corpus Christi Boasting spectacular views over Corpus Christi Bay, this Omni hotel is located in the lively Marina District of downtown Corpus Christi. A wealth of land and water-based activities are available nearby, as well as museums, restaurants, shops and nightlife. The 475 elegant rooms feature private balconies with views of the bay; there is also a gym, whirlpool, sauna, heated swimming pool and racquetball courts. The hotel’s two restaurants provide delicious, varied cuisine in a lovely setting.

Omni Corpus Christi

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The Alamo, San Antonio

Big Bend National Park

Billy the Kid The infamous outlaw and folk hero was born William Henry McCarty in 1859.

From 1877, he worked in Lincoln, on the ranch of John Tunstall and Alexander McSween. Here, the Lincoln County War erupted between his employers and competing merchants Lawrence Murphy and James Dolan, resulting in Tunstall’s murder and subsequent revenge killings from both sides. Known as ‘Billy the Kid’ for his youthful looks and likeable personality, he was the only person to face conviction for the shootings and was sentenced to death. After escaping jail and hiding in Fort Summer, he was shot

by Sheriff Pat Garrett on 14 July, 1881.

Calf roping competition, New Mexico

Bear Mountain Lodge, Silver City

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

New Mexico Settled at various times by native Americans, Spanish and Mexicans, New Mexico is one of the USA’s most ethnically and culturally diverse states. Reminders of this rich heritage are everywhere, from the amazing cliff dwellings of the Pueblo people, to ancient pictographs and adobe buildings. Spanish colonial history comes alive in the baroque churches and cobbled plazas of Santa Fe, while the Wild West, synonymous with Kit Carson and Billy the Kid, lives on in historic towns such as Lincoln and former mining towns like Silver City. The Turquoise Trail weaves through the sites of ancient mines, and it is believed the ancient Pueblo Indians traded in these semi-precious stones, with some reaching the Aztecs. Culture of a more modern nature is evident in the celebrated Route 66, parts of which still run through the state as it wends its way from Chicago to Los Angeles.

A tranquil retreat on the cusp of New Mexico’s wilderness, Bear Mountain Lodge is perfect for both relaxation and adventure with peaceful grounds set against the Gila National Forest, and the centre of Silver City just a few minutes away.

Offering 11 characterful rooms, an inviting sitting room with beams and fireplaces, a well-stocked library, art gallery and a dining room serving breakfast and dinner, the lodge is a comfortable base from which to explore the area, providing easy access to hiking, cycling, horse riding and birdwatching.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

White Sands National Monument A 275 square mile expanse of flowing white sand dunes, White Sands National Monument is a fascinating landscape to discover in the mountain-bordered Tularosa Basin. The dunes consist of gypsum crystals and together make the largest gypsum dune field in the world.

This mesmerising, arid landscape may seem barren, but it is home to hundreds of different animal and plant species that have adapted to this harsh environment. You can learn all about the sands at the visitor centre, which provides activities and information about how the dunes are formed, how life survives here and the history of the National Monument.

A national park since 1930, the history of Carlsbad Caverns stretches back 280 million years. The 119 caves found here were formed by sulphuric acid, which created their many striking features. Visitors can explore beneath the rugged Guadalupe Mountains, either on a guided or self-guided tour, taking in the ‘big room’ – a huge stalactite and stalagmite festooned limestone chamber – and observing the 17 species of bat living herein. The bones of Ice Age animals such as jaguars, camels and lions have been found in the caves’ entrances, as well as native American artefacts and tools used by ancient peoples.

White Sands National Monument

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Pueblo Indian artist

Traditional dress

Pueblo Indians The Pueblo people have been an integral part of the southwest’s high plateaux for 2,000 years, residing in multi-storey clay adobe houses high on a mesa, or in rock structures carved into the cliffs. The Pueblo were traders, hunters and farmers who grew vegetables, cotton and tobacco. In 1680, they became the first native American people to successfully revolt against Spanish rule, keeping the Europeans at bay for a further 12 years. One of the main influences of the Spanish was the incorporation of Catholicism within traditional Pueblo religion, with each Pueblo assigned a Roman Catholic patron saint for whom a feast is still held annually. A number of Pueblo communities survive today, and several sites can be visited, providing a fascinating glimpse into this ancient civilisation.

Bandelier National Monument This 53 square mile National Monument preserves Pueblo homes and territory, with most of the structures dating back to between 1150 and 1600. Frijoles Canyon contains these former dwellings, which were either built of rock on the canyon floor or were natural ‘cavates’ in the canyon’s wall, further carved out by humans. Visitors can walk along the paved Main Loop trail to see these fascinating ancient homes, while a further trail leads to Alcove House – a cave containing a reconstructed kiva, a chamber used for religious rites.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument Dating to the 12th century, this site consists of interlinked cave dwellings across five alcoves within the cliff wall. Approximately 10 to 15 families would have occupied the caves’ 46 rooms and their reasons for abandoning them

A mural at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

remain a mystery. Mummified bodies have been found at the site, as well as fascinating artefacts such as a clam shell bracelet traded from the Gulf of California, macaw feathers, and textiles made from non-local plants.

Visitors can view some of these at the visitor centre’s museum and use the trail to explore the dwellings on foot.

Acoma Pueblo One of the country’s oldest continuously inhabited villages, Acoma Pueblo is still home to many Pueblo people living atop the 112 metre sandstone mesa in around 300 multi-storey adobe buildings with no electricity or running water. This is the way people have lived here for centuries, and the word ‘Acoma’ means ‘the place that always was’. Visitors can observe traditional Acoma potters using centuries-old techniques, learn about the history and way of life of the Acoma people at Haakú Museum and marvel at the unique buildings they call home, which are still accessed via a ladder as a defence aid.

Santa Ana Pueblo Originally called Tamaya by the Pueblo, Santa Ana was named after its patron saint assigned by the Spanish. It spans 114 square miles of reservation land in the Rio Grande Valley, and its population speaks an eastern dialect of the Keresan languages. Traditional and modern lifestyles are blended here, with some people crafting traditional Pueblo pottery and woven accessories, but most have conventional jobs in nearby cities. The pueblo also operates a number of businesses including a casino and two golf courses, however, most of the population returns to the old pueblo for traditional ceremonies and festivals.

Jemez Pueblo Encompassing 139 square miles of land, this independent sovereign nation has its own government and tribal court system. Most of its 3,000 tribal members live in the village of Walatowa and maintain the ancient traditions, religion and culture of their ancestors. Towa, the language spoken here, has been preserved over centuries; forbidden from being translated in writing to prevent exploitation by other cultures. While the village is closed to the public (except on feast days), the Walatowa Visitor Centre is home to an informative museum and a reconstructed fieldhouse.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

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Route 66 road signs, Albuquerque

Adobe buildings, Taos

Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe

The annual Indian Market, Santa Fe

Flamenco dancers, Spanish Market, Santa Fe

Santa Fe

Taos

Albuquerque

This is one of the USA’s oldest cities, founded by Spanish missionaries a decade before the pilgrims reached Plymouth Rock. Spread across a high plateau at the foot of the magnificent Sangre de Cristo Mountains, New Mexico’s capital has original adobe houses and baroque churches.

The downtown area is compact, making it pleasant to explore the attractive streets on foot. The old central plaza is still the heart of the town, especially during the annual Indian Market, held in August, and the Fiesta de Santa Fe, usually held in September. The appealing Barrio de Analco historic area is worth visiting, as are the Palace of the Governors, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and the San Miguel Mission. Santa Fe is also strategically placed for visiting the Ancestral Pueblo ruins of Bandelier National Monument and, further afield, Taos.

Home to one of the longest-established native American populations in the USA, Taos is also one of the most impressive traditional dwelling places still in use. Transformed in the 17th century when it became a Spanish colonial outpost, Taos is now made up of three distinct parts: the unconventional town of Taos itself, the Ranchos de Taos and the native American community of Taos Pueblo. Thanks to its superb quality of light and magnificent mountain backdrops, Taos is a magnet for artists, and the bohemian streets are packed with museums, galleries and quirky shops. The old Spanish plaza is the centre of the town, while the adobe dwelling that was once the home of US cavalry man Kit Carson, is popular with visitors.

The city of Albuquerque has a distinctly Iberian atmosphere; it was founded and ruled by the Spanish until 1821, when Mexico and then the Union took it over. The tranquil Old Town Plaza, overlooked by the lovely 1793 San Felipe de Neri Church, still lies at its heart. The city has many other charms too. All around town you will discover little pockets of peace and quiet, from hidden patios to winding brick paths, gardens and balconies. Attractions include the fascinating Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Rattlesnake Museum and nearby Acoma Pueblo.

Historic Route 66 winds past the Rio Grande Botanic Garden and the Albuquerque Aquarium, while the city’s best restaurants are all to be found in trendy Nob Hill. You can also take a trip on the Sandia Peak Tramway, a cable car which transports visitors 3,000 metres up the mountainside, which is especially beautiful at sunset.

Inn on the Alameda, Santa Fe This characterful and welcoming inn is conveniently located in the heart of Santa Fe, just steps from the historic plaza. The 72 spacious rooms and suites are spread across ten buildings with a daily buffet breakfast served each morning and a wine and cheese reception hosted in the afternoon. The inn also boasts an outdoor hot tub, gym, library and restaurant with bar.

Three miles south, Ranchos de Taos is an area containing old Spanish ranches. One of the buildings, Hacienda de los Martinez, has been restored and provides an interesting glimpse of the old colonial way of life. Two miles north of town, visitors to Taos Pueblo can get an insight into even older regional traditions. The multi-storey adobe buildings here have been continuously occupied for over 1,000 years, and today’s residents have made few concessions to the modern world, living without running water or electricity. A guided walking tour is highly recommended.

San Felipe de Neri Church, Albuquerque

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Saguaro cacti, Arizona

Arizona

Phoenix & Scottsdale

Best known as the home of the Grand Canyon, which lies entirely within its borders, no trip to Arizona should be without a visit to this vast chasm carved in the earth by the mighty Colorado River. The region also has a number of other attractions. Its arid landscape is punctuated by the Sonoran and Painted deserts, great mountain ranges and the extensive lands of the Navajo, Apache and Pueblo people.

The distinctive rock formations of Monument Valley (often visited from Utah) and Canyon de Chelly in the north contrast with the saguaro cacti-studded Wild West scenery that surrounds Tombstone in the south. In the heart of the state lie the pretty towns of Flagstaff and Sedona, surrounded by the Kaibab and Tonto national forests.

The modern city of Phoenix was developed on the foundations of an ancient native American pueblo. Today, nearly perfect year-round weather and several impeccably designed golf courses have made Phoenix a popular destination. The greater Phoenix area, including the affluent region of Scottsdale (where we recommend you stay), offers an array of impressive cultural attractions such as the internationally renowned Heard Museum, which gives an in-depth look at native American history, and the fascinating Desert Botanical Garden.

Theatre-going is also popular along with top-class ballet at the ornate Orpheum Theater.

The city is surrounded by nature and it is easy to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, the Mazatzal Mountains or the Tonto National Forest.

Firesky Resort, Scottsdale This attractive property is set around a large pool and garden in the heart of Scottsdale, near Fashion Square, museums and golf courses.

The 204 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites offer a range of modern facilities and views over the pool, lagoon, courtyard or patio from a private balcony. Two pools, a gym and a spa ensure relaxation is top of the agenda, while Taggia restaurant serves delicious Italian cuisine to be enjoyed al fresco on the outdoor patio.

Firesky Resort, Scottsdale

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Tucson & Saguaro National Park Although its excellent climate, national parks, forests and desert landscape make Arizona the perfect environment for outdoor activities, the city of Tucson also has its share of history and culture. It served as a colonial outpost for both the Spanish and the Mexicans, and long before that it was a native American settlement. Today Tucson boasts century-old architecture and a host of museums, while the Wild West, Mexican and native American influences are all still apparent. Highlights of the surrounding region include the nearby Saguaro National Park, home to many of the Sonoran Desert’s monumental saguaro cacti, the 18 th-century mission of San Xavier del Bac, and the atmospheric Wild West town of Tombstone.

Tanque Verde Ranch, Tucson A delightful guest ranch set in the foothills of the Rincon Mountains east of Tucson, Tanque Verde is the perfect haven, offering a variety of activities including horse riding, hiking, biking and fishing, as well as swimming in the indoor and outdoor heated pools. Boasting tennis courts, a gym, and spa facilities, the ranch offers 69 rustic-style salas, casitas and haciendas with sweeping views.

Themed barbecue nights and Wild West entertainment add to the atmosphere.

Artist, Sedona

Tombstone, Arizona

Tanque Verde Ranch, Tucson

Enchantment Resort, Sedona

Barn owl, Saguaro National Park

Enchantment Resort, Sedona

San Xavier del Bac Mission, near Tucson

Sedona

In extensive grounds of striking crimson monoliths, pine forests and flower-filled meadows, Enchantment Resort lies at the gateway to the Boynton Canyon. Shaded by cottonwood trees, the 218 guest rooms and suites are situated in luxurious casitas throughout the resort and offer magnificent views from their outdoor decks. There are two restaurants, a wine bar, cafe, spa and a wide range of leisure activities to enjoy. These include mountain biking and hiking, tennis, swimming and croquet, as well as a native American programme designed to give an insight into the region’s indigenous culture.

Surrounded by striking red rock formations and blessed with an idyllic climate, Sedona is a delightful place to visit. Its beautiful environs and laid-back atmosphere draw artists to the area in droves and there is a host of galleries to discover including the Sedona Arts Center, which showcases world-class exhibits and local artists’ work. Beyond the town, you can hike past the Sinagua ruins on the Boynton Canyon Trail, whilst nearby Red Rock State Park is wonderful for walking, mountain biking and birdwatching. Slide Rock State Park, where the canyon walls are shaded by ponderosa pines and sycamores, has a natural waterslide and picturesque meadows perfect for a picnic. Exploring the rocky landscape in a 4x4 is also a popular option.

Broken arrow 4x4 trip

Broken arrow 4x4 trip This exciting guided adventure takes you through and over Sedona’s striking red rocks, which are surrounded by towering canyon walls. There’s plenty of time to get out to explore and soak up the views at Submarine Rock and Chicken Point.

The trip is a great way to get right to the heart of the area’s natural beauty.

Amara Resort, Sedona Situated along Oak Creek with a spectacular backdrop of red rocks, the Amara Resort is also located in uptown Sedona. The heated infinity pool is a highlight of this property, which also offers a gym, spa and restaurant serving southwestern cuisine. The 100 rooms have a courtyard or creek views, while some feature a private patio. Guests can explore nearby petroglyphs or go hiking amongst the rocks.

Amara Resort, Sedona

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Boats on Lake Powell

Lake Powell which offers lots to do including fishing, walking, kayaking and water-skiing. The minimum rental period is three nights but you may prefer to stay for a week or more.

Lake Powell, Glen Canyon & Page Straddling the border between Utah and Arizona, Lake Powell is a man-made reservoir on the Colorado River set among some of Utah’s finest red rock desert scenery. The lake was created by the controversial flooding of Glen Canyon in the 1960s and named after a Civil War veteran who explored the river a century earlier. This deep, tranquil lake has nearly 2,000 miles of shoreline and the calm waters contrast sharply with the surrounding rock and sandstone buttes. The town of Page sits on top of the Manson Mesa and overlooks the lake, the dramatic Glen Canyon Dam, and a network of canyons and arches. It makes an ideal base for visiting the historic native American sites, the Navajo Indian Reservation and the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument.

Amangiri, near Page

Lake Powell Resort, Page

Lake Powell Resort, Page Located at the Wahweap Marina in Page, right on the edge of Lake Powell, many of the 348 comfortable bedrooms at this hotel enjoy fine views out over the water. A wealth of activities can be enjoyed locally including kayaking, boat trips, fishing and walking, as well as speed boat and jet ski hire. There are also a number of restaurants and bars around the marina.

Set in the ruggedly beautiful desert at Utah’s Canyon Point, this luxury property is an intimate, peaceful place in which to enjoy the surrounding landscape. The main part of the hotel centres around the swimming pool which is built dramatically around a stone escarpment. There is a sublime spa, with a sauna and steamroom, and the public areas, including the living room, gallery, library and dining room, provide stunning vistas of the dunes, plateaux and mesas.

Two accommodation wings spread out towards the desert housing 34 sleek and sophisticated suites, each comprising a bedroom, living area and bathroom, but it is the excellent service that really sets this hotel apart.

Houseboats on Lake Powell For accommodation with a difference, you may wish to stay on a beautiful houseboat on Lake Powell for a few days. There is plenty to explore in the region and having a home on the water is a wonderfully relaxing adventure. A variety of houseboats are available, accommodating up to 12 guests. Most come equipped with a kitchen, sundeck, barbecue, living and dining areas, and private bedrooms and bathrooms. You can also hire a motor-boat for quicker access around vast Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

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Amangiri, near Page

North Rim, Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon Nothing can quite prepare you for a visit to the Grand Canyon. Its sheer scale is staggering, and to stand on the edge of this enormous chasm and look out over it is truly a breathtaking experience. Imagine a crevasse so huge you cannot see the end, and so deep that ten 40-storey buildings stacked up would still not reach the top. At 277 miles long and 1,800 metres deep, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is justifiably considered one of the greatest of all natural wonders.

The canyon’s size and depth mean the flora and fauna are hugely diverse and the mighty Colorado River, snaking along the bottom, appears almost insignificant against the immensity of the landscape it has created.

The most visited part of the Grand Canyon, the South Rim, is easily reached by car along Highway 64, by the daily Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, or by flying into Grand Canyon Airport. There are free shuttle buses to all the main sites and viewpoints.

Alternatively, it is possible to self-drive the 25-mile stretch of road that runs along the canyon’s South Rim, known as Desert View Drive, which offers excellent views of the Colorado River.

Coming from Las Vegas, a popular way to access the canyon is via the West Rim, driving through Joshua tree-studded desert scenery, or arriving by helicopter. A popular attraction here is the Hualapai native American reservation where you can try the Skywalk, a glass-floored platform that juts out beyond the rim, a mile or so above the canyon floor, and provides some dizzying views.

The least visited and most difficult part of the canyon to access is the North Rim. As the crow flies it is just ten miles between the North and South rims but they are 215 miles apart by road. The North Rim is eerily quiet and atmospheric. It is largely undeveloped and offers a more authentic experience for those wishing to avoid the crowds. Due to adverse weather the North Rim can only be reached from mid-May until mid-October.

Despite often being rather basic, accommodation around the Grand Canyon is always in high demand and needs to be booked well in advance.

Mule trek, the Grand Canyon

Activities at the canyon There are many excellent walking trails around and into the canyon of varying length and difficulty. Some of the most popular are the Bright Angel Trail and sections of the South Kaibab Trail. Another way to explore is to take a mule trek to the canyon floor, hire a bicycle, or try some adrenalin-fuelled white water rafting on the Colorado River. Wildlife is frequently seen so keep your eye out for deer, coyotes and even mountain lions.

Flights over the canyon Getting an aerial perspective of the canyon is a wonderful way to fully appreciate its monumental scale. Helicopter and light aircraft flights are available at the canyon itself while the former also make a great day trip from Las Vegas. We are happy to discuss and recommend options for you.

Rafting on the Colorado River

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Hickman Natural Bridge, Capitol Reef National Park

Utah Utah is home to some of the continent’s most spectacular landscapes. The state is an outdoor lover’s paradise with a wealth of national parks to explore in southern Utah. Natural attractions include the famous Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks, while Arches, Capitol Reef and Canyonlands are more remote but equally as dramatic. In the north lies the wilderness of the Uinta Mountains, the granite peaks of the Wasatch Mountains and the flat, dry scenery around the Great Salt Lake, from which the state capital takes its name. All this makes Utah a wonderful destination for those who want to go hiking, white water rafting, mountain biking or skiing. The state’s history is as unique as the landscape too. It was settled by Mormons in the mid-19 th century, and today 70% of its population are Latter-day Saints, their centre of worship the enormous Mormon Temple in Salt Lake City.

Checkerboard Mesa, Zion National Park

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Cable Mountain Lodge, Springdale A simple, atmospheric lodge just steps from the entrance to Zion National Park and the Virgin River, Cable Mountain Lodge is also within walking distance of Springdale’s shops and restaurants. Its 50 characterful rooms and suites each include a small kitchen, and guests can make use of the heated swimming pool and spa with views across Zion Canyon and the river.

Cable Mountain Lodge, Springdale

Cliffrose Lodge, Springdale

Zion National Park The spectacular rock formations, rugged canyons, tumbling rivers and pine-clad peaks of Zion National Park provide a breathtaking backdrop for excellent walking, canyoning and climbing.

Visitors can drive along the Zion Park Scenic Byway, but for the most rewarding exploration of the park’s geological wonders, head out on foot. Some of Zion’s most sensational sandstone monoliths, such as the Great White Throne and Checkerboard Mesa, are best appreciated from the challenging hiking trails between the Narrows and Canyon Overlook. Kolob Canyons, a much less visited part of the park, has equally spectacular terrain, but without the crowds.

The high country around Kolob Reservoir is a land of forests, meadows, cliffs and rugged, red Navajo sandstone canyons that are home to diverse flora and fauna.

Set in the heart of Zion Canyon, bordering Zion National Park, Cliffrose Lodge makes a peaceful base for exploring this picturesque area. The 50 rooms feature a private balcony with canyon or riverside views. Time at the lodge can be spent swimming in the seasonal pool, soaking in the waterfall hot tub or enjoying a barbecue.

Cliffrose Lodge, Springdale

Walker, Zion National Park

Hoodoos, Bryce Canyon

Angels Landing trail, Zion National Park

Walking in Zion National Park A private guided walking tour is by far the best way of exploring one of the USA’s most spectacular national parks. The tour can be adapted to suit the pace and challenge right for you, and your guide will take you to the parts of the park that you most wish to see. As you enter the park you will be surrounded by towering cliffs that reach over 900 metres in the air – the tallest sandstone cliffs in the world. As you explore the park, you will be awed by the full colours and grandeur of these cliffs – flaming reds, brilliant whites and subtle yellows – which seem to change with the light.

There are plenty of opportunities to hike on many of the trails in the park, including Emerald Pools, Weeping Wall, the Narrows, Temple of Sinewava River Walk, Canyon Overlook and Angels Landing. Don’t forget your camera as this photogenic national park presents magnificent opportunities for spectacular photographs.

Throughout the day your guide will explain all about the park’s history, geology, flora and fauna and a delicious packed lunch is provided. We can also arrange private guided walking tours in Bryce Canyon National Park; please speak to a specialist for further information.

The Castle, Capitol Reef National Park

Bryce Canyon

Capitol Reef National Park

Thousands of spires, fins, pinnacles and mazes of multi-coloured rock make up Bryce Canyon National Park in southwest Utah. Despite its name, the park does not protect a canyon but a series of giant natural amphitheatres along the eastern side of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. This forest of bizarre rocks, known as ‘hoodoos’, was formed when the harder upper layers of limestone, sandstone and mudstone remained firm while the lower layers wore away, leaving a landscape of jagged shoots. You can follow a network of walking trails around this surreal landscape, and there are many scenic views into Bryce Amphitheatre. The best known are from Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, but possibly the most dramatic vista of all can be had at Bryce Point. From here you can look out over most of the park with the Henry and Escalante Mountains in the distance.

The small town of Torrey is a gateway to Capitol Reef National Park, a place of towering ochre, red and white rock walls and deep river canyons.

The park takes its name from a reef-like wall of uplifted sedimentary rock, and an outcrop which reminded an early traveller of the dome of the US Capitol building. Stretching over 100 miles from north to south, but only a few miles wide, is the Waterpocket Fold, which flanks the park’s only paved highway. It then follows the deep canyon of the Fremont River past the enormous rocky outcrop known as the Castle. Thousandyear-old petroglyphs can be seen at Fremont, while at Gooseneck Overlook visitors can peer down 152 metres into stunning canyons.

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon Set just a few feet from the rim of Bryce Canyon’s amphitheatre and trail heads, the Lodge at Bryce Canyon offers 114 rooms from motel-style accommodation with balconies or porches, to cosy pine cabins and suites.

Surrounded by a forest, the main lodge is home to the rustic dining room.

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon

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Monument Valley at dusk

Arches National Park

Canyonlands National Park

The red rock landscape of Arches National Park is among the most dramatic in the country.

Striking geological formations silhouette against blue skies, making this a much-photographed natural attraction. The park features over 2,000 stone arches, including Delicate Arch, which is perched at the brink of a deep canyon and is a favourite spot for watching the sunset. The 93 metre-long Landscape Arch is one of the longest such formations in the world, while other significant highlights include the short Windows Trail, or a more challenging ranger guided walk through the Fiery Furnace. Many of the main sites are near the park road, but a short walk to get a closer view is recommended.

This is the largest and, arguably, most magnificent of Utah’s national parks, covering more than 500 square miles of canyons, fissures, plateaux and faults, all scattered with flat-topped hills, monoliths, arches and caverns. At its centre is the confluence of the Green and Colorado rivers, which splits the park into three distinctive parts. The Needles, east of the Colorado River, is a land of sandstone pinnacles and the drive there from the main highway is among the most impressive in Utah. The Maze, west of both rivers, is a labyrinth of tortuous, waterless ravines that requires at least a full day of hard hiking to access. This is where the Horseshoe Canyon, with its ancient native rock art, can be found.

North of the Needles and the Maze lies the high, dry, flat-topped mesas of the Island in the Sky, which drop 600 metres to the Colorado River below. Canyonlands is largely inaccessible by car so more in-depth exploration is on foot and requires a stay of several days.

Moab Located between red sandstone cliffs that climb above the banks of the Colorado River, the city of Moab is the perfect base for exploring the rugged beauty of southern Utah. It is the ideal hub for visits to Arches and Canyonlands national parks, the La Sal Mountains and Dead Horse Red Cliffs Lodge, Moab

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Point State Park. From here you can participate in a wide variety of activities such as mountain biking, 4x4 tours and white water rafting. It is well worth spending a few days here to really explore the surrounding area.

Red Cliffs Lodge, Moab The rugged setting of this lodge, perched on the banks near the Colorado River’s best white water rapids and over-shadowed by 600 metre cliffs, has seen it used in many Hollywood blockbusters. This retreat, one of our favourites, offers a wealth of attractions both at the lodge itself and in its surrounding environs, from horse riding, mountain biking, white water rafting and hiking to an outdoor swimming pool, spa and tennis courts. The 110 rooms feature hand-crafted furniture and views of either the Colorado River or Castle Creek, and there is even a winery and movie memorabilia museum.

Rafting An exhilarating white water rafting trip takes you 13 miles down the Colorado River. A great introduction to the sport, you will raft through six class I-II rapids whilst enjoying delightful scenery from Fisher Towers and Professor Valley to stunning red rock formations such as Castle Rock. After tackling the tricky White’s Rapid, you can enjoy a refreshing swim.

Navajo woman weaving, Monument Valley

Hikers, Arches National Park

Native rock art, Canyonlands National Park

Horses, Monument Valley

Goulding’s Lodge, Monument Valley Located next to the Navajo Tribal Park, just north of the Arizona-Utah border, Goulding’s Lodge enjoys majestic views of Monument Valley. The property offers a restaurant and 62 comfortable guest rooms, as well as a number of suites and houses, perfect for families or extended stays.

Gouldings Lodge, Monument Valley

Monument Valley by 4x4

Monument Valley

This two-and-a-half-hour 4x4 trip shows that Monument Valley is truly a unique place, a holy land for the Navajo Nation who still hold their daily ceremonial rituals here. Taking in a number of the valley’s most magnificent sites including Sun’s Eye, Ear of the Wind, Big Hogan and Moccasin Arch, you will also have the opportunity to meet a Navajo rug weaver inside a traditional Navajo Hogan home, and learn about the many plants that grow here and are used for food, herbs, medicines or dyes.

Across the border in Arizona, Monument Valley is an almost cartoon-like landscape of sandstone buttes, towering rock pinnacles and an endless expanse of drifting red sands. Such scenery has been immortalised in many classic Western films, and the sheer majesty of the place is breathtaking. The most impressive monoliths are a pair called the Mittens, the taller of which rises 300 metres above the valley floor. The region is the heartland of the Navajo Nation and Navajoled 4x4 or horse riding trips are very much recommended. Other highlights include ancient native rock art and Ancestral Pueblo ruins. The Canyon de Chelly National Monument, also in northeastern Arizona, is another magnificent sheer-sided gorge where such ruins can be found, and which also retains enormous symbolic significance to the Navajo people.

Bluff Nestled between 90 metre sandstone cliffs and the San Juan River, Bluff is a small, historic town.

It was founded by a group of Mormons who had trekked for 180 miles through Utah’s rugged terrain along what is now known as the Hole in the Rock Trail in order to colonise the area.

Visitors can observe many interesting rock formations including the Locomotive Rock, Twin Rocks and Bluff Ballroom, a natural cave in which dances have been held since the late 1800s.

Bluff is ideally located for visiting Monument Valley, Hovenweep National Monument and Mesa Verde National Park.

Desert Rose Inn, Bluff Situated at the entrance to Bluff, the Desert Rose Inn is an appealing family-run property boasting panoramic views of the surrounding red rocks. The timber-framed lodge makes an excellent base for exploring Goosenecks State Park and Monument Valley Tribal Park – both a 40 minute drive away. The 37 spacious rooms are tastefully decorated and have modern amenities while the wood-panelled executive cabins have private porches. Facilities include an onsite market, indoor pool, gym and large sitting area.

Desert Rose Inn, Bluff

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Dallas

Fort Worth

Austin Houston

San Antonio

Corpus Christi

Texan Trails This itinerary enables you to discover the glittering modern Texan cities of Dallas, Houston and Austin, whilst also exploring areas that still retain a real flavour of their Spanish and Mexican past. In contrast, Fort Worth offers a tangible glimpse of Texas’s Western heritage, and you can discover the cowboy lifestyle with a ranch stay.

Day 1

Arrive in Houston.

Day 2

Collect your hire car and make your way to Corpus Christi, on the Texas coast.

Saguaro cacti, Arizona

Tailoring your trip

When to go

Day 3

Spend a day exploring the city or visit one of the nearby beaches.

The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Texas and Southwest specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Arizona, New Mexico & Texas

Day 4

Make your way to San Antonio.

Day 5

Discover San Antonio’s historic roots including the Alamo.

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Getting around The region’s magnificent rocky scenery, historic towns and mountains are best explored by car, and many of the routes take you through stunning vistas. We can arrange a variety of vehicles to meet your requirements, and will plan your trip to ensure that travelling time is broken up with interesting stops. The principal international airports are Dallas, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Salt Lake City, and all offer excellent onward connections.

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Days 6-8 Get the taste of rural Texan life with a ranch stay.

Utah Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Day 9

Continue your journey to Austin.

Day 10

Explore the city then in the evening enjoy some country or folk music at one of the local bars.

Q Snow or ski season.

Day 11

Head to Fort Worth.

Arizona, New Mexico and Texas have a dry climate that is very hot and sunny between July and September while in winter, between November and March, there are pleasantly warm days and cold nights. The mountains are delightful to visit in July and August although temperatures can get remarkably high; the Grand Canyon in particular gets very hot, often around 35C (95F).

Day 12

Enjoy a day soaking up the Western heritage of Fort Worth, not forgetting the historic cattle stockyards.

Day 13

Travel to Dallas for your onward flight.

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3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

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Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

The national parks, particularly the Grand Canyon get very busy during the summer months so are best visited in May, June, September or October.

Stay longer There is plenty to see in all these cities so you may wish to spend longer in some or all of them.

Alternatively, why not visit spectacular Big Bend National Park.

Time difference: GMT-7 hours

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Austin, Texas

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Texas Longhorn cow

Suggested itineraries Denver

Monument Valley Zion National Park

Page

Mesa Verde National Park Alamosa

Las Vegas Grand Canyon National Park

Santa Fe

Taos

Albuquerque

Santa Fe Albuquerque

Phoenix

Grand Canyon National Park Las Vegas Winslow Pasadena Los Angeles

Silver City

Phoenix

Tucson

Santa Fe

Chicago Springfield Branson

Albuquerque Amarillo

St. Louis

Oklahoma City

Silver City Tucson

Culture & Canyons of the West

Arizona & New Mexico Discovered

See some of the most iconic sights in Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah on this varied itinerary. Explore wonderful desert, canyon and mountain landscapes, discover historic Spanish towns and native American cliff villages, and indulge yourself in Las Vegas.

Get off the beaten path and explore the fascinating thriving culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people. See the giant cacti-studded scenery of Saguaro National Park near Tucson and explore New Mexico’s former mining towns.

Day 1

Arrive in Phoenix and stay in nearby Scottsdale.

Day 2

Collect your hire car and drive south to Tucson. The afternoon is free to relax by the pool.

Day 3

Day 4

Spend a day exploring Saguaro National Park and the nearby old Western town of Tombstone.

Day 1

Arrive in Phoenix and stay in nearby Scottsdale.

Day 2

Explore the cultural attractions of Scottsdale.

Day 3

Drive to Tucson.

Day 4

A day in Tucson and time to visit Saguaro National Park.

Day 5

Cross into New Mexico to the historic mining town of Silver City.

Day 6

Visit nearby Whitewater Canyon and the suspended Catwalk Trail.

Day 7

Drive to Albuquerque and spend the afternoon exploring the winding streets.

Head to Silver City in New Mexico.

Day 5

Travel north to Albuquerque where the afternoon is free to explore.

Day 6

Take the short drive to Santa Fe.

Day 7

Enjoy a day in Santa Fe, or visit Bandelier National Monument.

Day 8

Drive to Mesa Verde National Park.

Day 9

Spend a full day exploring the amazing native American cliff houses.

Day 10

Visit Hovenweep and Canyons of the Ancients national monuments en route to Monument Valley.

Day 1

Arrive in Chicago.

Day 2

Explore this famous city, with its renowned architecture, lakeside beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Day 3

Drive south to Springfield, Illinois.

Days 4-5 Continue south to St. Louis in Missouri.

Day 6

Drive to Branson.

Days 7-8 Travel to Oklahoma City and spend a day exploring this Western city.

Day 9

Journey west to Amarillo in Texas.

Drive along Amarillo Boulevard, part of the original Route 66.

Day 10

Drive to Santa Fe.

Day 11

Enjoy a day in Santa Fe, or visit nearby Bandelier National Monument.

Continue to Santa Fe.

Day 9

Explore the central plaza and historic areas of this old Spanish city.

Day 12

Take the short drive to Albuquerque.

Day 10

Drive to Taos.

Day 13

Day 11

A day to immerse yourself in the native American communities of Taos.

Explore the Petrified Forest National Park en route to Winslow.

Day 14

Travel through Flagstaff on the way to the Grand Canyon.

Day 12

Make your way to Alamosa.

Day 15

Day 13

Drive to Denver for your onward flight.

Take a helicopter or light aircraft flight through the Grand Canyon.

Day 16

Visit the former Route 66 town of Kingman then continue to Las Vegas.

Day 17

Spend a full day enjoying the shows, shops, lights and glitz of Las Vegas.

Day 18

Drive through the Mojave Desert to Pasadena.

Day 19

It is a short drive to the beach suburb of Santa Monica, at the end of Route 66.

Day 20

Take your onward flight from Los Angeles.

Take a guided tour of Monument Valley.

Day 12

Drive to Page and relax at the edge of enormous Lake Powell.

Day 13

Head to the Grand Canyon.

Stay longer

Day 14

Take a helicopter or light aircraft flight through the Grand Canyon.

This popular route can be extended to include the Grand Canyon and more of the varied scenery of both New Mexico and Colorado.

Days 17-18 Drive to Las Vegas and spend a day enjoying the shows, shops, lights and glitz of Las Vegas.

Day 19

Route 66 no longer exists in its entirety, but this superb itinerary takes in stretches of the original route and provides a sense of the history and landscapes that made this highway iconic.

Day 8

Day 11

Days 15-16 Continue to Zion National Park and discover the mighty mountains and rock formations.

Historic Route 66

Take your onward flight from Las Vegas.

Rodeo, New Mexico

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The Rockies T

his is America’s most rugged region, where you can explore Wild West landscapes, discover native culture and experience a wealth of outdoor activities. In the north, Montana’s ranch lands are peppered with atmospheric small towns and the sites of historic battles such as Little Bighorn and Wounded Knee. The state’s undulating landscape comes to an abrupt halt as the mighty Rocky Mountains rise skywards. Colorado is home to some of the USA’s most magnificent mountain ranges, an abundance of outdoor activities and the incredible Pueblo Indian houses of Mesa Verde National Park. Wyoming embodies cowboy culture like no other state, with its rolling grasslands and small Western towns, and visitors can get in on the action with a stay at a working ranch. In neighbouring South Dakota the beautiful Black Hills offer excellent hiking, historic towns and the gigantic memorials of Crazy Horse and Mount Rushmore. On top of all this are two guaranteed highlights of any visit to the USA: stunning Glacier and Yellowstone national parks with their glaciers, geysers and abundant wildlife.

Audley in the Rockies

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Gunnison National Park Springdale An immense chasm amidst Lake Mead spellbinding mountains – this is scenery on a monumental scale.

Grand Canyon See page 98 National Park 3 Mount Rushmore

& Crazy Horse national memorials Man-made monuments on a truly epic scale.

See page 107 4 Little Bighorn

National Battlefield The southern Montana site of General Custer’s famous last stand.

See page 104

Torrey

Bryce Canyon National Park

Canyonlands National Park

Black Canyon Moab of the Gunnison National Park

National Park

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Aspen

Telluride Durango

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Canyon de Chelly National Monument

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Albuqueque

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White Sands National Monument

Ranch stays Live the cowboy life at one of the many working cattle ranches in the region.

Yellowstone National Park

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Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde National Park

Colorado

Denver

Colorado is probably best known for containing some of North America’s most impressive mountains with the Rocky, San Juan and Sangre de Cristo ranges all running through the state.

The mountains accommodate some of the world’s finest ski resorts including Aspen, Vail, Steamboat Springs and Telluride, while in warmer months the city of Colorado Springs is the gateway to a wide range of activities, especially around Pike’s Peak.

Gold, oil and cowboys combined to lay the foundations of Colorado’s capital, which today is a modern, shining metropolis on the edge of the mountains. It is a cosmopolitan city that provides visitors with a fine bill of entertainment and culture to enjoy. A wonderful collection of native American works is housed in Denver Art Museum, and the region’s colourful past is entertainingly presented in the History Colorado Center. Other attractions include the Children’s Museum and the Botanic Gardens, while the United States Mint is located in the city and can be visited on a free tour.

The state capital, Denver, dates back to the gold rush and was renowned for the rip-roaring lifestyles of the newly rich prospectors in the latter half of the 19 th century. Elsewhere, small towns such as Leadville and delightful Durango testify to the state’s mining past. Natural highlights include the Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Rocky Mountain national parks, where moose, coyotes and mountain lions roam, while the rock formations of the Colorado National Monument and the fossils of Dinosaur National Monument are equally impressive.

The Ancestral Pueblo ruins in Mesa Verde National Park and the vast shifting sands in Great Sand Dunes National Park are also well worth visiting.

Curtis Doubletree, Denver A stay at the centrally located Curtis Doubletree is a fun and memorable experience with bold interiors, cartoons playing in the lobby and wake up calls from Elvis, Marilyn Monroe or Austin Powers. Each floor at this good value hotel has a different pop culture theme and the 510 rooms are in a sophisticated retro or mid-century style but feature modern facilities. We really like the popular Corner Office, a modern yet retro cocktail bar and eatery, offering a contemporary and regional American tapas menu with influences from Asia and Latin America.

Rocky Mountain National Park The little town of Estes Park lies at the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, and is a good base for exploring this splendidly scenic region.

Towering peaks that rise in excess of 3,000 metres form a backdrop to the town, and in the nearby Never Summer Mountains, large areas of snow remain year-round. The sheer scale and beauty of the peaks here has to be seen to be believed. White summits give way to rich forests and flower meadows on the lower slopes creating a haven for moose, coyotes, mountain lions and black bears. One way to take it all in is to drive the Trail Ridge Road, where highlights include Many Peaks Curve and the Colorado River headwaters.

Curtis Doubletree, Denver

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Ladder to the Cliff Palace

Hallett Peak, Rocky Mountain National Park

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Far View Lodge, Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park

Far View Lodge, Mesa Verde National Park

Set high in the densely wooded plateaux of southwest Colorado, Mesa Verde, from the Spanish for green table, offers a fascinating look into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made this region their home for over 700 years. Between the 7th and 14th centuries the community thrived here and today, nearly 5,000 archaeological sites are protected, including 600 cliff dwellings which are some of the best preserved in the country. Deep canyons cut through the park at its southern edge and the dwellings here are so far off the beaten track that they were not fully explored until 1888.

The highly skilled Ancestral Pueblo Indians are thought to have been the only people ever to have inhabited the region. After many centuries they moved from the mesa tops to construct multi-storey houses nestled in rocky alcoves high above the canyons. The most notable ruins include Balcony House, Long House and Spruce Tree House, but the highlight is Cliff Palace. This extraordinary building is tucked below an overhanging rock ledge, its 150 rooms once housing more than 100 people. A visit here is a tantalising glimpse into a lost and little-known world.

Restaurants, downtown Denver

Located 15 miles inside the national park boundary, Far View Lodge was designed to reflect the essence and tranquillity of Mesa Verde. Each of the 150 rooms offer excellent value and have a private balcony from which to take in the natural surroundings. The formal dining room features traditional Western-style decor and colourful native American artwork, while the rooms are simple but comfortable and have handcrafted furnishings. Do try one of their Cactus cocktails – they’re delicious.

Durango Founded by the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad Company in 1880, the original Durango settlement was once surrounded by silver mining towns of the Wild West. Durango’s delightfully old-world downtown area is a carefully preserved National Historic District and has been used in films such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Although the railway still passes through town, the mining industry it was built to serve has long since faded. You can, however, take a vintage steam train along the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This is a spectacular old mining route through the Animas Valley to Silverton, offering passengers wonderful views of lush aspen forests and rocky outcrops.

Strater Hotel, Durango

Strater Hotel, Durango This classic downtown Durango hotel dates back to 1887 and has 93 comfortable rooms furnished with Victorian antiques and decorated in a style that reflects the building’s history.

The hotel’s Henry Strater Theatre is one of the oldest continually running theatres in Colorado, while the atmospheric Diamond Belle Saloon is a renowned ragtime piano bar, complete with costumed dance-hall girls and bartenders.

For diners, the Mahogany Grille serves up eclectic culinary specialities in a Victorian ‘old West’ atmosphere.

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Cowboy and horse, Wyoming

Crested Butte

Vail

The former mining town of Crested Butte is nestled in Colorado’s magnificent Rocky Mountains and is renowned for offering superb winter sports activities. However, during the summer months the town is an ideal base for enjoying the magnificent landscape and the pure mountain air with a wide range of activities such as walking, mountain biking, white water rafting and horse riding. The town is also well located for exploring Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Carved through solid granite over countless millennia, the dark canyon walls plunge an awe-inspiring 823 metres to the Gunnison River below.

Although best known as a premier winter sports resort, affluent Vail is also a popular summer destination. Encompassing a series of villages spread out along a valley floor, Vail is a charming place with immaculately kept lawns and pedestrianised streets lined with boutiques, galleries, sports shops and restaurants. The rugged mountain scenery can be viewed from a cable car or explored on one of the many walking or cycling trails.

Lodge at Mountaineer Square, Crested Butte Located in the heart of the Crested Butte Mountain Resort, moments from the outdoor activities, shops and restaurants, the Lodge at Mountaineer Square is an excellent base for your stay in the mountains. Facilities include indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, an outdoor hot tub, gym, complimentary shuttle bus into town, a restaurant and a selection of shops.

The 133 cosy rooms are tastefully furnished and most have a balcony and a fireplace.

Sebastian Hotel, Vail One of Vail’s most stylish hotels, the Sebastian is located in the heart of the village. Its 107 guest rooms range from chic and contemporary to more earthy and rustic. Service here is excellent and guests can enjoy a wide range of facilities including a small spa, library, a tapas bar, and a cafe which offers casual breakfasts and lunches.

There is also a sophisticated cocktail bar.

Sebastian Hotel, Vail

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Herding bison, Zapata Ranch

Zapata Ranch, Great Sand Dunes National Park The Nature Conservancy, a leading conservation organisation, owns Zapata Ranch, which is set amid 160 square miles and shares a border with Great Sand Dunes National Park. The ranch is home to a small herd of cattle and a conservation herd of 2,500 bison, and guests can join in with daily ranch activities by helping to move cattle or monitor water levels and grass growth. The carefully restored original buildings date back to the 1800s and the rooms mix comfort with rustic style. A maximum of 30 guests are accommodated at any one time which ensures a very personal experience and the delicious meals, taken around one large table, include the ranch’s own beef and bison. Guided horse rides through Great Sand Dunes National Park, climbs of local mountains and white water rafting trips down the Arkansas River are all available.

Main Street, Cody

Cycling near Vail

Gunnison River, Black Canyon

Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch, Saratoga

Wyoming Renowned for its rolling grasslands, mountain peaks, wild horses and huge herds of beef cattle, Wyoming is pure cowboy country and there is no better way to experience the state than to stay on one of its many excellent ranches.

Wyoming’s attractions reach far beyond its cowboy lifestyle however; the state is also home to two of the USA’s greatest national parks, Yellowstone and Grand Teton, which encompass awe-inspiring scenery, excellent wildlife viewing and spectacular geothermal features. Pronghorn antelope almost outnumber people and are often seen.

Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch, Saratoga Promising breathtaking vistas, gourmet dining and lots of adventure, the Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch is set on a 23 square mile working cattle ranch. Your stay includes everything from luxurious accommodation, in one of the 41 rooms and cabins, to superb food and activities, guides and instruction. For many, guided activities are the highlight, which include fishing, horse riding, mountain biking, clay pigeon shooting and walking. You can also get involved with the ranch activities if you wish, or simply relax in the spa.

In winter, guests can enjoy snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing and ice skating.

Landscape at Crested Butte

Residence Hill B&B, Sheridan Rob and Bev Bernard assure you of a warm and friendly welcome at their delightful B&B, Residence Hill. This large and beautifully restored Victorian home retains all its traditional character, along with the creature comforts of the modern age. Set within a quiet residential area just a few minutes’ drive from downtown Sheridan, Residence Hill offers five spacious and light guest rooms. The Great Room is the perfect place to meet your fellow guests or you may wish to relax with a book on the outside porch.

Cody Founded by ‘Buffalo’ Bill Cody in 1896, the town became the home of his ‘Wild West Show’, and the frontier spirit remains strong here to this day.

The Cody Night Rodeo, in operation for 60 years, offers thrilling shows every night during the summer. A highlight of the town is the Buffalo Bill Historical Center which includes the Buffalo Bill Museum, Whitney Gallery of Western Art, the Plains Indian Museum, the Cody Firearms Museum and the Draper Museum of Natural History. If you want a souvenir of your time in Wyoming, Cody is a great place to invest in some cowboy boots or a hand-crafted belt or buckle. There are excellent guided trips to see wild mustangs in the surrounding mountains that can be arranged from here.

Residence Hill B&B, Sheridan

The Cody Conveniently situated within walking distance of the Cody Rodeo on the edge of the town, and within an hour’s drive of Yellowstone National Park, The Cody makes a comfortable base from which to explore Buffalo Bill country.

The 74 rooms have a balcony or patio and facilities include an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and sauna, and bicycles for guests’ use.

The Cody

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Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park Magnificent mountains, abundant wildlife and spectacular geothermal activity have secured Yellowstone’s reputation as one of the USA’s best known national parks.

Geology & scenery Yellowstone is home to more than 300 geysers, approximately half the world’s total, including Steamboat, the tallest, which is capable of forcing boiling water more than 91 metres into the air, and Old Faithful, the most frequently erupting, which puts on a crowd-pleasing performance roughly every 78 minutes. At Mammoth Hot Springs, the bubbling, boiling waters are surrounded by an otherworldly blanket of chalky calcium carbonate, while Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest, oldest and most dynamic of Yellowstone’s thermal areas.

In contrast, the blue-green waters of Emerald Spring, juxtaposed with the yellow crater sides, create a stunning, jewel-like hue.

More active sites can be seen in the park’s western Madison area, where the earth bubbles and hisses from the many fumaroles and boiling mud holes. Here you can take a scenic trail past the colourful hot springs and the two large mud basins of the Artist’s Paint Pots. In the north of the park, Mount

Wolf howls, Yellowstone National Park

Visiting the park It’s worth factoring in several days to ensure you experience all of Yellowstone. June to September is the most popular time to visit but the park is open year round with snow coaches operating in mid winter when the wolves are most active.

Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

Washburn, the verdant Lamar Valley, and the thundering waterfalls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone are all well worth seeking out.

In the southeast, Yellowstone Lake is North America’s largest alpine lake and a perfect spot for a relaxing boat trip, while nearby, the Mud Volcano comprises a series of gurgling pools that lead to the desolate shores of Sour Lake.

Grizzly bear, Yellowstone National Park

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Yellowstone Falls

Wildlife The wildlife in Yellowstone is rich and varied.

Look out for bison, bears, moose, elk, buffalo, bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope and mountain lions. Packs of wolves roam the park too, so listen out for their tell-tale blood-curdling howls. To get the most out of your visit it is best to experience the park with a wildlife guide.

Explorer Cabins, West Yellowstone

Private Yellowstone wildlife tour Exploring Yellowstone with a private guide offers the opportunity for a trip to search for wolves and bears from comfortable touring vehicles kitted out with high quality optics, spotting scopes and binoculars to make distant sightings more intimate and memorable. Follow this with a guided visit to some of the park’s attractions or a hike along some of the delightful trails with in-depth interpretation as you go.

Accommodation Great demand means that accommodation in Yellowstone commands high prices despite its simple nature and often indifferent service.

Book as early as possible to get reservations at the best properties.

Explorer Cabins, West Yellowstone Ideally located near Yellowstone’s western park gate, Explorer Cabins offer 50 comfortable one and two bedroom cabins, each with an open fireplace and a kitchenette. Guests can use the restaurant, swimming pool, hot tub, gym, and laundry facilities at the adjacent sister property, the Yellowstone Park Hotel.

Bison, Yellowstone National Park

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Old barn, Grand Teton National Park

Jackson & Grand Teton National Park Jackson is a delightful town surrounded by lakes and mountains and home to a tree-lined square, designer boutiques, craft shops and galleries, all linked by wooden boardwalks. Situated within the lush river basin of Jackson Hole, it makes a great base for exploring nearby Grand Teton National Park and the National Elk Refuge. Teton Village is a small settlement close to the edge of the southwestern boundary of the national park, about ten miles north of Jackson. It offers a good selection of shops and restaurants, along with outdoor activities such as horse riding, swimming and walking. You can also take a cable car up to the high peaks of the southern Tetons.

Amangani, Jackson A tranquil property in a spectacular setting, Amangani is surrounded by mountain ranges and overlooks the town of Jackson. In addition to exemplary service there are 40 extremely stylish suites, and plenty of facilities including a library, gallery, bar, and an outdoor infinity swimming pool and spa. Dramatic views extend across the Snake River Valley from the expansive lounge, and continue in the restaurant where sustainable ranch meats and local farm produce feature heavily on the menu.

Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa, Jackson

This full-day small group trip offers many opportunities to view and learn about the wildlife of Grand Teton National Park. Your expert naturalist guide will know the best areas for spotting elk, pronghorn deer, black bears and other species, and will answer all your questions about fauna, geology and local history. You will travel in comfortable safari-style vehicles which have retractable roof hatches and sliding windows for easy observation. A typical day begins with an early morning drive through the park and surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest, providing a chance to view wildlife in the quiet dawn hours. After lunch, the tour continues on foot, allowing you to get even closer to nature.

Rustic Inn, Jackson

One of Jackson Hole’s most acclaimed hotels, Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa is a family-run property. Informal yet personal service and a warm, unpretentious atmosphere combine with just 30 cosy rooms to make this a charming place to stay. The intimate Wild Sage restaurant has a creative menu incorporating the freshest local ingredients, and guests can view the chefs at work in the exhibition-style kitchen. There is also a comfortable lounge, outdoor hot tub and a spa offering a range of treatments.

Set right next to the National Elk Refuge in large grounds, Rustic Inn has 145 rooms spread across the main lodge and a series of cabins in the grounds. Some rooms boast a large private deck backing onto a beautiful flowing stream and there is also a heated outdoor swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, sauna, gym and a fireside lounge.

Rustic Inn is a convenient base for Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks and an easy walk from Jackson’s historic town square.

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Grand Teton wildlife discovery

Bull riding rodeo, Colorado

Horse riding at Goosewing Ranch

Cowboys & ranches Much of the West was settled in the 19 th century by pioneering families taking over land that had been cleared of native Americans by the US Army. The poor grasslands necessitated vast ranches, often many square miles in size, to support the huge herds of cattle. To this day the most efficient way of traversing this landscape is by horse, which is why the cowboy traditions remain alive in the 21st century. Their distinctive clothing evolved to cope with the difficult weather and terrain, so rugged jeans, chaps, boots with spurs, a bandana and wide-brimmed hat remain essential cowboy gear. When not branding, mending fences or driving cattle to new pastures, many cowboys compete in rodeos, where bull riding, steer wrestling and saddle bronc are just a few of the contests cheered on by enthusiastic crowds. To experience the cowboy lifestyle we recommend staying in one of the authentic working cattle ranches that can be found throughout the West, and particularly in Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. Typical activities include riding, fishing, shooting and fence checking. We have featured some of our favourite ranches in this brochure but there are plenty more to choose from.

Goosewing Ranch, near Jackson

Parade Rest Ranch, near West Yellowstone

Parade Rest Ranch, near West Yellowstone

Goosewing Ranch, near Jackson This rustic guest ranch, set 2,250 metres high, is surrounded by spectacular terrain inhabited by a wide variety of wildlife including elk, moose, mountain sheep, antelope, bears and eagles. The main lodge here serves as the central gathering place for dining or relaxing and has a charming atmosphere with a large open fireplace, pelts and a bear skin displayed on the log walls, and a hot tub and swimming pool outside. There are eight comfortable guest cabins and three two-bedroom cabins all furnished in traditional local style. Once you arrive you will be assigned your own horse, from the stable of 60, for the duration of your stay. The head wrangler will match the horse and rider according to ability, physical requirements and horse temperament. Other activities to enjoy include target shooting, hatchet throwing, archery, horse games, team penning and roping practice. At night guests can enjoy hearty meals and sit around the campfire to listen to mountain stories, watch authentic Western entertainment or take part in some line dancing.

Set just ten miles from Yellowstone National Park’s west entrance, the characterful Parade Rest Ranch offers a simple ranch experience in scenic, mountainous surroundings. The land was once part of the 200 mile Bannock Indian Trail, used by native Americans to trek from Idaho to buffalo hunting grounds in Yellowstone. The ranch itself dates back to 1919 and has 15 rustic cabins featuring private bathrooms, porches and wood burning stoves. There are plenty of facilities for guests to enjoy including a hot tub and horse riding opportunities. Hearty meals are served, and the ranch hosts fantastic seasonal ‘cook outs’ at its dining area in the mountains, with entertainment by Western singers. Parade Rest is ideal for those looking for a friendly, traditional ranch stay.

Cowboy gear hanging up

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Bison, Montana

Montana Known as Big Sky Country, Montana certainly lives up to its name with rolling grasslands seemingly stretching forever beneath expansive skies. The Rocky Mountains form the states western boundary on their march north into Canada. The most dramatic peaks are in Glacier National Park, where spectacular scenery hosts myriad wildlife such as grizzly bears, elk and bighorn sheep. Eastern Montana features rolling prairies, once prime buffalo territory, where native North Americans fought bravely, and with some temporary success, to hold on to their land. Memories of the Indian wars are kept alive at the Little Bighorn Battlefield and the Wounded Knee Monument. Today, settlers and native Americans are united in an obvious pride in this beautiful state and visitors can explore on horseback or by taking part in some of the many outdoor activities.

The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg

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The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg Set among ten square miles of rugged Montana ranchland just outside Philipsburg, The Ranch at Rock Creek has 28 rooms and is a place that offers the feel of the true West without sacrificing comfort. Here guests experience many outdoor recreational opportunities, outstanding accommodation and cuisine, and a spa. Many activities are available, including horse riding, fly fishing, mountain biking, hiking and clay pigeon shooting. After a day of activities you may wish to relax in the spa or at the swimming pool.

Rainbow Ranch Lodge, Big Sky With a wonderfully peaceful setting overlooking the Gallatin River, Rainbow Ranch Lodge is an excellent base for exploring southern Montana.

The timber buildings blend harmoniously with the natural landscape and offer a restaurant and a spa treatment room. There are just 21 guest rooms with either pond or river views, wood-burning fireplaces, fridges and outdoor decks. On the lawn, badminton, croquet and bocce ball are available whilst the immediate area is superb for fishing, hiking, mountain biking and horse riding; winter sports are also excellent here.

Battle of the Little Bighorn In 1875, the Sioux and Cheyenne gathered in Montana with the great warrior Sitting Bull to fight against white intrusion into their sacred Black Hills lands. In the summer of 1876 the Battle of the Little Bighorn, also known as Custer’s Last Stand, pitted the combined forces of the Sioux, Lakota, Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho people against the 7th Cavalry Regiment led by Colonel Custer. The result was an overwhelming victory for the native Americans, and annihilation of much of the regiment, including Custer himself.

The site of the battle, not far from the Wyoming-Montana border, is a poignant reminder of this struggle.

Nez Perce Indian, Idaho

Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho

Triple Creek Ranch, Darby

The Resort at Paws Up, Greenough

Rafting the Salmon River

range from horse riding, fishing, hiking and biking to white water rafting, kayaking and cattle drives.

You will find two restaurants, a gym and a spa, and the lodge runs family-friendly activities such as scavenger hunts and horse-drawn wagon rides around its extensive grounds.

River Dance Lodge, near Lowell

Triple Creek Ranch, Darby Set amongst Montana’s Bitterroot Mountains, Triple Creek Ranch offers Western opulence in a stunning mountain setting. This is one of our favourite properties and service is exemplary.

The main lodge has a delightfully romantic dining room with dramatic views of the mountains, where gourmet meals are matched by fine vintages from the extensive wine cellar.

Accommodation varies from stylish cedar cabins to sumptuous log cottages, all furnished to the highest standard. Guests can fill their days horse riding, hiking or playing tennis, or you may simply choose to relax by the pool. Alternatively, it is easy to plan an off-ranch adventure, including guided fly fishing, scenic river floating, cattle drives, white water rafting, and guided all-terrain vehicle tours.

The Resort at Paws Up, Greenough For a truly luxurious ranch stay, head to The Resort at Paws Up. Set on a 57 square mile working cattle ranch, the property offers guests the indulgence of a plush hotel but with all the attractions of the great outdoors. There are 28 elegant but rustic cabins, each equipped with all modern amenities, as well as four luxury camping locations, each with superb en suite tented accommodation. Surrounded by mountains, rivers and stunning wilderness, activity choices

Idaho Idaho is a natural paradise of massive mountain ranges, virgin forest and lava plateaux dissected by mighty rivers. One of the last states to be settled by European migrants, its wilderness regions are barely explored and many have been awarded National Park status. Natural wonders include the breathtaking Sawtooth Mountains, the barren black lava of Craters of the Moon National Monument, and the 500-mile-long Hells Canyon, one of America’s deepest river gorges.

The Snake and Salmon rivers have also carved great canyons in the land. The Nez Perce National Historic Park highlights the demise of the native Nez Perce people, who were transported to a reservation in Oklahoma during the gold rush, but then allowed to return to Idaho decades later. Today some 1,500 Nez Perce people live on a nearby reservation.

Ideal for active families and groups of friends, this adventure lodge on the banks of the Clearwater River is surrounded by mountainous terrain and offers a wide variety of activities.

With three local rivers and over 2,000 square miles of back country in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness nearby, this is a great playground for adventure. Adrenaline-filled white water rafting or kayaking, more sedate hiking or cycling through the surrounding forests and fishing or horse riding along the river are all available.

Guests stay in one of the eight comfortable and well-equipped log cabins overlooking the river, or in luxury en suite tents set along a rushing creek. The lodge’s restaurant serves healthy northwestern cuisine, and there are plenty of shared barbecues if you fancy dining al fresco.

River Dance Lodge, near Lowell

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View from the Going to the Sun road, Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park Undoubtedly Montana’s star attraction, Glacier National Park’s countless lakes, rivers and glacial peaks combine to form a staggering 2,187 square mile wilderness. The park adjoins Canada’s Waterton Lakes National Park, and together they form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Some of Glacier’s many highlights include the stunning Lake McDonald, Avalanche Lake and Hidden Lake, and numerous walking trails offer the chance to hike through breathtaking scenery.

Routes head from St. Mary Lake to the crashing St. Mary Falls and Virginia Falls, while in the southeastern corner, the Aster Park Trail leads to the stunning Two Medicine Lake, which offers views of the Sinopah and Rising Wolf mountains.

The Going to the Sun road is an unforgettable drive which, when traversed from west to east, creates the illusion of an endless climb, culminating at the spectacular Logan Pass, where you cross the Continental Divide.

Great Bear Inn, near Glacier National Park Ideally located, Great Bear Inn lies just a ten minute drive from the west entrance to Glacier National Park. This beautiful timber lodge offers guests the use of the delightful Great Room with its soaring windows that frame the spectacular scenery. There are just 12 guest rooms, some with balconies and fireplaces.

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Rocking Z Ranch, near Helena

Many Glacier Hotel, Glacier National Park

Many Glacier Hotel, Glacier National Park This secluded hotel on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake in the northeastern section of Glacier National Park, was built in a distinctly Swiss style in 1915 and is today a National Historic Landmark. The hotel is surrounded by alpine peaks and you enter into a striking atrium lobby which leads to 214 rustic yet comfortable rooms over five floors. Many have balconies, the best of which overlook the lake. The dining room serves continental and American cuisine with large picture windows giving way to magnificent views over mountain peaks. There is also a wraparound lakeside veranda on which to relax with a drink.

A horse rider’s paradise, this family-run ranch is set in picturesque Wolf Creek, between Helena and Great Falls, and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The focus here is on equine activities, and the owners offer a variety of riding experiences for all levels, from learning the basics in the arena to short rides up the valley floor and scenic endurance rides through the mountains.

You can even learn skills in cattle work for a true ranch experience. For those wishing to take part in additional activities, clay pigeon shooting, fly fishing, hiking, cycling and birdwatching can also be enjoyed in this beautiful area. The property offers a warm family atmosphere, with homecooked meals served each day and regular ‘cook outs’ held during the summer months.

There are eight comfortable guest rooms across two buildings; each with an en suite bathroom.

Walking trail, Glacier National Park

Bighorn sheep, Custer State Park

Deadwood, South Dakota

Waterfall, Glacier National Park

Cowboy herding bison, Custer State Park

Badlands National Park

South Dakota East of Wyoming is the state of South Dakota.

Here the small town of Custer lies just five miles west of Custer State Park where jagged granite spires emerge from dark pine forests and elk, bighorn sheep, wild donkeys and bison thrive.

The town is perfectly positioned for exploring the many attractions of the Black Hills, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial. Badlands National Park is well worth visiting for its spectacularly coloured, eroded rock formations and remarkably preserved fossils. Adjacent to the park lies the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, where a simple monument commemorates the massacre of native Americans by the US Army at Wounded Knee in 1890. Other nearby places of interest include Spearfish Canyon, the atmospheric Wild West town of Deadwood, and Wind Cave and Jewel Cave national parks.

State Game Lodge, Custer State Park Surrounded by ponderosa pine trees, amidst a beautiful mountain valley, State Game Lodge is the largest property in Custer State Park. This attractive stone and wood lodge has 77 rooms and 24 cabins. The dining room offers a menu rich in local game, and guests can relax before and after dinner on the front porch, or stroll by the stream.

Mount Rushmore & Crazy Horse Mount Rushmore National Memorial This iconic memorial depicting the faces of four US presidents is one of the country’s most famous sites. Begun in 1927, it took sculptor Gutzon Borglum 14 years to complete. The carvings here are on a grand scale, each head is 20 metres high and each nose over 6 metres. The presidents were selected on the basis of what each symbolised: Washington represents the struggle for independence; Jefferson his contribution to democracy and expansion of the country; Lincoln his ideas on equality and the permanent union of the states; and Roosevelt for the USA’s role in 20 th century world affairs.

Crazy Horse Memorial Prompted by the development of Mount Rushmore, the Sioux leader, Henry Standing Bear, wrote to prize-winning sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski, in 1939 saying that ‘my fellow chiefs and I would like the white man to know that the red man has great heroes, too’. Ziolkowski accepted the commission to immortalise the revered warrior Crazy Horse in stone. He set out to make his monument the largest statue in the world and began work in 1948. Although Ziolkowski died in 1982, his wife, family and grandchildren continue his work, however the project may take another 50 years to complete.

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Yellowstone National Park Grand Teton National Park

Sheridan Cody

Custer State Park

Cheyenne

Salt Lake City Zion National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

Denver Mesa Verde National Park

Colorado Springs

Alamosa Page

Monument Valley

National Parks Explored This excellent itinerary explores some of the country’s most spectacular national parks, taking in a diverse range of scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities and history.

Day 1

Arrive in Denver.

Day 2

Spend a day in the city.

Tailoring your trip

Day 3

Drive north to Cheyenne.

The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Rockies specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Day 4

Travel through eastern Wyoming to South Dakota’s Black Hills to stay in Custer State Park.

Day 5

Explore Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse memorials.

Day 6

Visit Deadwood en route to Sheridan.

Day 7

Cross the Bighorn Mountains en route to Cody.

Day 8

Drive to Yellowstone National Park.

Day 9

Spend a day in Yellowstone.

Day 10

Travel south through Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Park.

Day 11

Explore Grand Teton National Park.

Day 12

Drive to Salt Lake City.

Day 13

Spend a full day in Salt Lake City.

Day 14

Continue your journey to Bryce Canyon National Park.

Day 15

A short drive takes you to Zion National Park.

Day 16

Enjoy a full day in Zion National Park.

Day 17

Travel to Page by Lake Powell.

Day 18

Drive east through the Navajo Indian Reserve to Monument Valley.

Day 19

Travel to Mesa Verde National Park.

Day 20

Spend a full day visiting the cliff houses in Mesa Verde National Park.

Day 21

Travel to Alamosa.

Day 22

Drive to Colorado Springs.

Day 23

Return to Denver for your onward flight.

Cowboy and his dog, Wyoming

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Getting around The region’s national parks, historic towns and mountains are best explored by car, and many of the routes travel through stunning landscapes.

We can arrange a variety of vehicles with satellite navigation systems to meet your requirements and will plan your trip to ensure that travelling time is broken up with interesting stops. The principal international airports are Salt Lake City and Denver and both offer excellent onward connections.

Ground squirrel, Rocky Mountain National Park

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

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Q

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33 33 33

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33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

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Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

Q Snow or ski season.

The Rockies region is delightful to visit between June and September when temperatures can get surprisingly high. They are also famed for their excellent winter sports, which are best enjoyed from January until the end of April. May, June, September and October can be excellent times to visit with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. Do note that roads into the national parks tend to open around late May or early June and often close as early as mid September.

Time difference: GMT-7 hours

Prices

Crested Butte, Colorado

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We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Suggested itineraries Rocky Mountain National Park

Vail

Glacier National Park

Yellowstone National Park Cody

Denver

Whitefish Sheridan

Missoula Rapid City

Grand Junction

Crested Butte

Moab

Jackson

Grand Teton National Park

Bozeman Mammoth Hot Springs

Custer State Park

Yellowstone National Park

Durango Monument Valley

Mesa Verde National Park

Jackson

Mountain Magic

On the Trail of the Bison

Colorado is renowned for the magnificent scenery of the Rocky Mountains, which this leisurely trip allows you to fully explore. The region’s mining heritage, vineyards, ancient native cultures and outdoor activities combine wonderfully to create a hugely varied itinerary.

This is a classic itinerary for those who wish to explore the history of the Plains Indians and the culture of the cowboy. From South Dakota’s Black Hills you visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and Badlands National Park, while in Wyoming you will discover Western towns and Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks.

Day 1

Arrive in Denver.

Day 2

Spend a day enjoying Denver’s many museums, galleries and restaurants.

Yellowstone & Glacier National Park Discovery Explore two of the USA’s most magnificent national parks – Yellowstone and Glacier.

Combining these with a leisurely route through small character-filled Western towns enables you to get off the beaten track to experience some grass-roots communities of the Rockies.

Day 1

Arrive in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Day 1

Arrive in Jackson, Wyoming.

Day 2

Day 2

Days 3-4 Drive north to Rocky Mountain National Park, arriving in time for some afternoon exploration.

Drive through the beautiful forested Black Hills to Custer State Park.

Explore the delightful Western town of Jackson.

Day 3

Explore Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse memorials.

Day 3

Join a guided wildlife adventure in Grand Teton National Park.

Day 5

Drive to Grand Junction. Visit some of the region’s wineries.

Day 4

Drive to Sheridan, at the foot of the Bighorn Mountains.

Day 4

Drive to Yellowstone National Park.

Day 6

Cross the border into Utah for a stay at the outdoor adventure town of Moab.

Day 5

Continue to Cody.

Day 5

Explore the wildlife and geothermal activity of Yellowstone.

Day 6

Explore the Western town of Cody.

Day 6

Day 7

Drive to Mammoth Hot Springs, in northern Yellowstone National Park.

Move onwards to Mammoth Hot Springs in the northern part of the park.

Day 8

Take a private guided walking tour of the national park.

Day 7

Day 9

Drive to Old Faithful in the southern part of the park.

Join a private guided wildlife tour of remote northern Yellowstone to look for wolves, bison and elk.

Day 8

Day 10

Discover Yellowstone’s wildlife and geothermal activities.

Take a scenic drive from Yellowstone to Bozeman in Montana.

Day 9

Day 11

Travel to Jackson Hole on the edge of Grand Teton National Park.

Continue your drive north through rural Montana to Missoula.

Day 10

Day 12

Take a sunrise wildlife expedition in Grand Teton National Park.

You may wish to visit the National Bison Range en route to Whitefish today.

Day 13

Spend another day to enjoy some walking in the park.

Day 11

Drive to Glacier National Park; the remainder of the day is free to explore.

Day 14

Take your onward flight from Jackson.

Day 12

Discover the magnificent mountain scenery of Glacier National Park.

Day 13

Return your car at Glacier National Park Airport and board your onward flight.

Day 7

Nearby Arches and Canyonlands national parks can be explored on foot, by 4x4, bike or horse, or on a rafting trip.

Day 8

Make your way to Monument Valley.

Day 9

Explore the rock formations of Monument Valley.

Day 10

Take a short drive to Mesa Verde to discover the cliff houses.

Day 11

Drive to Durango.

Day 12

Board the scenic Durango to Silverton historic railway.

Day 13

Continue to Crested Butte.

Day 14

Visit the magnificent Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Days 15-16 Drive to Vail where there are excellent restaurants to indulge in.

Day 17

Return to Denver for your onward flight.

Durango and Silverton Railroad, Colorado

Stay longer You may wish to extend your stay to include a visit to Glacier National Park, or stay for a few days on a ranch.

Beadwork, Journey Museum, Rapid City

Yellowstone Falls, Wyoming

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The Great Lakes S

tretching across eight US states and the Canadian province of Ontario, the Great Lakes are huge inland seas containing 21% of the world’s surface fresh water. The five lakes – Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario – were carved out by retreating glaciers some 10,000 years ago and are connected to the Atlantic Ocean via the Saint Lawrence River. They have long been a major transportation route for industrial materials such as iron ore, coal and limestone. However, in stark contrast, the lakes also provide crucial wildlife habitats and are a scenic backdrop for a wide range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, diving, boating and fishing. Visitors are struck by the clarity of these pristine waters, the silence of the forested wilderness and the variety of wildlife to be seen, from moose, deer and migratory birds to bears and eagles. It is easy to explore some of the thousands of tranquil lighthouse-peppered islands while the quaint towns and resurgent cities provide vibrant nightlife and dynamic museums, and are greatly influenced by the lakes themselves.

Audley in the Great Lakes Whether you are looking to relax on a lakeside beach, explore the nightlife and architecture of cosmopolitan Chicago, go wildlife spotting or take part in a diverse range of outdoor activities, the Great Lakes region has plenty to offer visitors of all ages.

Vibrant and newly resurgent former industrial cities contrast with peaceful lakeside walking trails and delightful waterbased activities. Our specialists can advise on anything from journey durations to the sights you will see along the way, and the best places to go for spotting moose or for the scenery. We can also recommend places that are off the beaten track to enable you to really get under the skin of this appealing part of the USA.

Thunder Bay

8 Duluth

Keweenaw Peninsula Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Lake Superior

St. Paul

Marquette

Green Bay

Sault Ste. Marie

Upper Peninsula

4

Door Peninsula

Traverse City

Mackinac Island

Lake Huron

USA MICHIGAN

2

Accommodation

Milwaukee

Lake Michigan

Detroit 0

100 miles

0

161 kilometres

1 Chicago Explore the superb beaches, architecture, shopping and nightlife of this beautiful city.

See page 112 2 Milwaukee Explore this revitalised city, try some craft beers and visit the Harley Davidson Museum.

See page 116

9

1

INDIANA

5 Mackinac Island Turn the clock back and discover this pretty traffic-free island.

See page 113 6 Michigan’s Upper

Peninsula Explore the scenery, walking trails and wildlife in this unspoilt peninsula.

See page 114

Scenic coastal hiking trails await on this rugged Lake Michigan peninsula.

See page 115

OHIO

7 Isle Royale

National Park Get back to nature and look for bears and moose in this little-visited national park.

See page 114 8 Apostle Islands

National Lakeshore Take a leisurely boat trip around Wisconsin’s pretty lighthouse-studded islands.

See page 115 9 Henry Ford Museum Devoted to the motor car and American inventions, this is a fascinating Detroit museum.

See page 113

4 Sleeping Bear Dunes

National Lakeshore Take a guided tour of the 122 metre-high coastal sand dunes on Lake Michigan.

See page 113

Lake Erie

Chicago ILLINOIS

3 Door Peninsula

Bridge over the Chicago River

5

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore 3

WISCONSIN

Minneapolis

CANADA

6

MINNESOTA

IOWA

Chicago offers a diverse range of accommodation to suit all styles, tastes and budgets whilst in many of the region’s revitalised cities former industrial buildings are being transformed into smart, character hotels. Away from the urban areas, accommodation options tend to be rather limited, and also quite simple, but options include some delightful B&B properties, simple motels often with lovely views, and rustic lodges in breathtaking wilderness settings. We have taken great care to select the best properties that truly represent the character of the region.

7 Isle Royale National Park

Flowers, Isle Royale National Park

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Cloud Gate, Millennium Park

Chicago Chicago is the third largest city in the USA and enjoyed rapid growth in the 19 th and 20 th centuries as a prime transportation hub between the great cities of the east and the expanding settlements in the west. Despite burning to the ground in 1871, the city was quickly rebuilt, and grew to cater for the influx of immigrants from Ireland, eastern Europe, and the USA’s Deep South. Known as the Windy City, this great metropolis boasts a skyline of towering skyscrapers, including the renowned Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower). Michigan Avenue runs through the heart of the city and, north of the Chicago River, is known as the ‘Magnificent Mile’.

This is the heart of Chicago, with restaurants, shops and the Chicago Water Tower, one of the few buildings to survive the 1871 fire.

Visitors may wish to see Cloud Gate, locally known as the ‘bean’, in Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago – one of the city’s range of excellent museums – or take in some live music at one of the many jazz, blues and rock venues.

For outdoor entertainment, visit one of Chicago’s fine beaches, the lively shops and restaurants of Navy Pier, catch a baseball game at Wrigley Field, or take an atmospheric cruise on the Chicago River. For unparalleled views over the city, its beaches and Lake Michigan, visit 360 Chicago, formerly the John Hancock Observatory.

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Hampton Inn & Suites, Chicago Ideally located in the heart of downtown Chicago, the excellent value Hampton Inn & Suites lies within walking distance of the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier and Millennium Park, with a host of shops, restaurants and nightlife on its doorstep. Guests can enjoy the hotel's restaurant, lounge and indoor swimming pool.

Many of the 299 rooms and suites have delightful city views.

Architecture Foundation Cruise

The Peninsula, Chicago

The Peninsula, Chicago This stylish hotel, one of our favourites, is situated in the heart of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, and just a few blocks from the shoreline of Lake Michigan. The lobby provides a bright and elegant setting for lunch and traditional afternoon tea whilst the terrace offers an unrivalled venue for cocktails and light meals against a city backdrop. The 339 rooms boast a classic yet contemporary design with city views and all modern facilities. The Peninsula also offers a restaurant, cafe, a spa, a gym with complimentary yoga and pilates classes, a 25 metre indoor swimming pool and a sundeck.

One of the best ways to experience Chicago is to take an Architecture Foundation Cruise on the Chicago River. This hour-long trip takes you past dozens of impressive buildings including the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, Marina City and Willis Tower. Fully narrated, you will learn all about the history and construction stories behind these and other Chicago landmarks.

Historic buildings, Chicago River

Oak street beach, Chicago

Walking trail, Mackinac Island

Lighthouse on Lake Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Traverse City & Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Cherry Tree Inn & Suites, Traverse City

Michigan Michigan consists of two peninsulas – the mitten-shaped Lower Peninsula with its renowned car manufacturing industry and the sparsely-populated Upper Peninsula, whose beautiful natural landscape is a highlight for nature lovers. Bordered by four of the five Great Lakes and containing over 11,000 smaller lakes, Michigan is a top spot for boating, fishing, scuba diving and wildlife watching. Boasting more lighthouses than any other state, it is also home to numerous national parks protecting its dense forests and thousands of miles of peaceful beaches. For a spot of culture, peruse the variety of museums, including Detroit’s Motown Museum and the fascinating Henry Ford Museum.

The largest city in northern Michigan, Traverse City is situated at the head of the West Arm of Traverse Bay. The area is known for its cherry cultivation and hosts an annual week-long cherry festival; there are also lots of vineyards in the vicinity so wine tasting is also a popular activity.

Nearby lies Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a nationally protected stretch of pristine islands, towering sand-dunes and inland lakes, along the northeast coast of Lake Michigan.

Here visitors can take ranger-led guided walks, drive the scenic Pierce Stocking loop, climb the enormous dunes, or take a day trip to pretty South Manitou Island.

Cherry Tree Inn & Suites, Traverse City Overlooking the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay, Cherry Tree Inn & Suites offers delightful water views as well as easy access to shops and restaurants. There are just 76 studios and suites, most with bay views, and some offer a balcony.

The studios are also equipped with a kitchenette.

The property offers both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a sauna and a poolside barbecue. Boats can be hired from the small beach which is a relaxing place to watch the sun set over the bay.

Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, Detroit

Mackinac Island Mackinac (pronounced mack-in-awe) Island is a delightful natural retreat. Reached by ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, motorised transportation on the island is prohibited so getting around is confined to horse and carriage, bicycle, or on foot. Most of the island is a state park and has largely escaped change since a village was constructed here in the 19 th century, making it a lovely place to wander around. The island’s Fort Mackinac was constructed by British soldiers during the American Revolution and is today a National Historic Landmark. The rest of the island consists of high limestone bluffs, emerald green forests and beautiful vistas of sparkling water which are a pleasure to explore on the walking or bicycle trails. The island is sacred to the Ojibwa and Odawa people and, according to their beliefs, this is where life began.

Mackinac Island

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Isle Royale National Park

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Isle Royale National Park

Despite making up 29% of Michigan’s land area, the Upper Peninsula contains just 3% of its population so its picturesque forests, lakes and mountains make it an ideal place for a tranquil break. More than 150 waterfalls can be found in the region, along with an array of mammals, birdlife and reptiles, from black bears and wolves to bald eagles and bats. Being surrounded by lakes and rivers means fishing, kayaking and white water rafting are popular sports, while significant winter snowfall provides ideal skiing conditions. The area’s mining history and native American roots are explained in numerous museums, many of which are found in the port city of Marquette, which also claims the world’s largest wooden dome, two popular beaches and the Marquette Underwater Preserve in Lake Superior, a diving hotspot.

Located in the northwest of Lake Superior, in the state of Michigan, Isle Royale is not only a National Park but also a National Wilderness Area and an International Biosphere Reserve.

This is the largest island in Lake Superior and the park also protects 400 smaller islands and surrounding waters. Largely forested, this beautiful, rugged, and isolated place is known for its significant wolf and moose populations, but beavers, foxes and loons also exist here in large numbers, making it a haven for walkers, kayakers and wildlife enthusiasts. The island can be reached by seaplane, or there are seasonal ferry services from Houghton and Copper harbors on Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, or from Grand Portage in Minnesota.

Rock Harbor Lodge, Isle Royale Located along the shore of Lake Superior, on the northern tip of Isle Royale, Rock Harbor Lodge offers simple but comfortable accommodation in a breathtakingly peaceful and natural environment. The 60 guest rooms each have a private bathroom and most offer water views.

There is a dining room, dockside shop and a marina. This is a great place to explore from with motor boats, kayaks and canoes for rent, and guided fishing and sightseeing trips are also available.

Rock Harbor Lodge, Isle Royale

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Wildlife of the Upper Peninsula The peninsula is, perhaps, best known for its population of moose, and the best places to see these shy and retiring mammals is in Van Riper State Park, Tahquamenon Falls State Park, and at Seney National Wildlife Refuge which is also home to trumpeter swans. In the west, Porcupine Mountains State Park is a rugged refuge for black bears whilst the Mollie Mine, in the peninsula’s southwest, is a superb bat cave; the best time to visit is in September and early October. April to early June sees the magnificent spectacle of the birds of prey migration over the Keweenaw Peninsula whilst Whitefish Point, in the northeast, is superb for spring and autumn bird migrations.

Sister Bay, Door Peninsula

Kayaking near Devils Island

Dairy farm, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Producing more milk than any other state, Wisconsin’s license plates have read ‘America’s Dairyland’ since the 1940s. However, the state has far more to offer, including many miles of picturesque shoreline along lakes Michigan and Superior and numerous hidden inland valleys and sweeping prairies. Visitors can enjoy kayaking around the Apostle Islands, boating off the Door Peninsula or simply explore the scenic backroads.

The resurgent city of Milwaukee is home to the Harley Davidson Museum, whilst Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin complex lies in the south.

No visit would be complete though without sampling the artisanal cheeses and craft beers which are Wisconsin staples.

Eagle Harbor Inn, Door Peninsula

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Consisting of 21 islands and almost 110 square miles on the northern tip of Wisconsin, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a pristine wilderness in the southwest corner of Lake Superior. The islands are peppered with lighthouses and interesting geological formations including sea stacks and sea caves. One of the best ways to explore the islands is to take a scenic three hour boat cruise. Departing from Bayfield, this narrated, 55 mile cruise takes you past extraordinary natural scenery, the Raspberry and Devils Island lighthouses, standing rocks, and extensive sea caves. Do keep a look out for deer, bears, eagles and marine wildlife on the way.

Green Bay The city of Green Bay lies at the head of its namesake at the mouth of the Fox River. There are plenty of things to do here; hike the 26 mile Fox River State Trail, learn about nature and visit the beautiful Green Bay Botanical Garden. You could also take in a tour, or a game, at Lambeau Field, home to National Football League Green Bay Packers, or visit Heritage Hill State Historical Park – an open-air museum featuring over 30 historical structures, such as log cabins from the fur trade era.

Door Peninsula Separating Green Bay from Lake Michigan, the Door Peninsula has 300 miles of picturesque shoreline and is known for its cherry and apple orchards. While the peninsula is home to 11 lighthouses, the strait connecting it and nearby Washington Island to the rest of Lake Michigan is known as ‘Death’s Door’ due to the high number of ships that have sunk in its dangerous waters.

The peninsula’s five state parks, called the ‘five jewels in the crown’, provide opportunities for walking, cycling, swimming and fishing in beautiful surroundings.

Eagle Harbor Inn, Door Peninsula Set in the pretty village of Ephraim on the Door Peninsula, Eagle Harbor Inn is a friendly B&B within walking distance of shops, galleries, restaurants and Ephraim’s white sandy beach.

The inn offers 13 rooms across several buildings, some with Jacuzzis and kitchens. Communal areas include a small gym, peaceful gardens, an indoor swimming pool and sauna, and croquet and barbecue areas. You can also sample Door County’s renowned cherries in delicious home-baked pies.

Eagle Bluff lighthouse, near Ephraim

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City skyline from Lake Michigan shoreline, Milwaukee

Milwaukee On the southwest shore of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee is a city of genuine American charm.

The pretty downtown lakefront offers a range of boutique shops, galleries and outdoor dining options. For those interested in architecture, the city boasts a number of gems, including the august Pabst Theater, the dramatic modern structure of the Milwaukee Art Museum and the spaceship-esque Greek Orthodox Church designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The city is also home to the Milwaukee Brewers baseball team who take their name from the locally founded Miller Brewing Company. The city is perhaps best known for motorcycles and the Harley Davidson museum is a particular highlight, celebrating the 100 year history of these iconic motorcycles.

Brewhouse Inn & Suites, Milwaukee A delightful character hotel, Brewhouse Inn & Suites is located in Milwaukee’s newly redeveloped downtown neighbourhood. The building itself, a National Historic Landmark, was built as part of the Pabst Brewing Company, and retains its copper vats and much of its industrial heritage. Grafted on to this is a dedication to significant environmental sustainability. Exposed brick walls and antique ironwork complement modern fabrics and high tech facilities. Think industrial revolution meets 21st century. The 90 rooms range from cosy studios to large suites complete with kitchens; all come with airy high ceilings. Downstairs, the bar features high ceilings, cast iron pillars, and a nine-metre-long bar serving a wide variety of local beers, ciders, wines and spirits. The food here is excellent too and lunch, dinner and room service are offered.

Minneapolis & St. Paul

Brewhouse Inn & Suites, Milwaukee

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On the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, just north of its confluence with the Minnesota River, lie the glittering twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Historically important as a centre for flour milling and the timber trade, modern Minneapolis is a progressive, arty town, dominated by skyscrapers and green spaces in the midst of numerous lakes and wetlands. The city has a thriving theatre scene, with plenty of

cultural highlights including the Walker Art Center, the Weisman Art Museum (housed in a distinctive Frank Gehry building), the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, and it is also a renowned centre for ice hockey. For those keen to be more active, the city’s Lake Calhoun is a great place to hire a bike or even go roller-blading, while the surrounding ‘Chain of Lakes’ parks, all connected by paved walkways, provide an ideal spot for canoeing, fishing and windsurfing. It’s also somewhat of a retail magnet – with the Mall of America, the second largest shopping centre in the USA, just minutes away.

The Covington Inn, St. Paul One of America’s few floating B&Bs, The Covington Inn is moored on the Minneapolis River, ideally located for both St. Paul and Minneapolis. St. Paul’s capitol building, museums, nightlife, shops and restaurants wait just across the bridge. This historic mahogany and brassfitted tug offers just four staterooms, each with deck access, an en suite bathroom, and a working fireplace. You will be warmly welcomed by the owners who will cook a delicious breakfast for you each morning. The salon is a delightful place to relax and take in the city’s skyline views after a day of sightseeing.

Suggested itineraries Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests.

Please call one of our Great Lakes specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Mackinac Island

Getting around

Q

Q

Q

3

3

Mackinac Island Minneapolis

Traverse City

Whitehall Whitehall Detroit

Classic Great Lakes

The Great Lakes Trail

See some of the most tranquil scenery of the USA’s Great Lakes. From Chicago follow the coast of Lake Michigan to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Then explore car-free Mackinac Island on foot before venturing to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Your journey back to Chicago takes in Green Bay, the Door Peninsula and the shore of Lake Michigan.

This excellent itinerary combines the more remote and beautiful parts of the Great Lakes with vibrant and varied cities. From Detroit travel to the sand dunes and seascapes of the lakes themselves. Visit Mackinac Island, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Isle Royale National Park.

You will then explore Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands by boat before heading to Minneapolis.

Day 1

Day 1

Arrive in Detroit.

Day 2

Explore the car manufacturing city of Detroit, rapidly being revitalised.

Day 3

Collect your hire car and drive to Whitehall on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan.

Arrive in Chicago.

Days 2-3 Explore the city, with its renowned architecture, beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Day 4

Collect your hire car and drive along the west coast of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula to Whitehall.

When to go Q

Marquette

Chicago

This region is easily reached with direct flights to Chicago, Detroit and Minneapolis, whilst further direct flights operate to Toronto too, over the border in Canada. Chicago is a superb hub for trans-continental rail journeys, with regular services to both east and west coast cities. There are plenty of ferry services that link many of the small communities and islands in the Great Lakes region and taking one of these during your trip is a highly recommended experience. For those who wish to discover the Great Lakes in more detail, a hire car offers the easiest option and will allow you to reach some of the region’s more remote highlights. Our specialists can offer a range of vehicles for you to choose from and help you plan a route that is ideal for you.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Apostle Islands

Traverse City

Green Bay

Milwaukee

T 01993 838 755

Isle Royale National Park Marquette

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

33 33 33

3

~

Q

33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

Days 5-6 Drive along the coast of Lake Michigan to Traverse City and explore the scenery of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Days 4-5 Drive along the coast of Lake Michigan to Traverse City and explore the lovely coastal scenery.

Day 6

Journey north to park your car and take the foot passenger ferry to Mackinac Island.

Day 7

Spend the day exploring car-free Mackinac Island.

Day 8

Return to your car and drive through the unspoilt scenery of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to Marquette.

Day 9

Enjoy a day discovering the tranquil lake shores, state parks and wildlife of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Day 10

Drive to the scenic Keweenaw Peninsula and board the ferry to Isle Royale in Lake Superior.

Day 11

Explore Isle Royale National Park.

Day 7

Journey north then take the foot passenger ferry to Mackinac Island.

Day 8

Spend the day exploring peaceful car-free Mackinac Island.

Day 9

Return to your car and drive through the unspoilt scenery of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to Marquette.

Day 10

Enjoy a day discovering Michigan's tranquil Upper Peninsula.

Day 11

Drive south to Green Bay in Wisconsin.

Prices

Day 12

Visit the scenic Door Peninsula, go hiking, fishing or take a boat trip.

We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Day 13

Travel along the western shore of Lake Michigan to Milwaukee.

Day 12

Return to your car and drive to Bayfield in Wisconsin.

Day 14

Explore Milwaukee and visit the Harley Davidson museum.

Day 13

Take a day trip around the delightful Apostle Islands.

Day 15

Drop off your hire car in Chicago and board your onward flight.

Day 14

Drive to Minneapolis.

Day 15

Spend the day shopping or exploring Minneapolis.

Day 16

Take your onward flight from Minneapolis.

~

Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

Q Snow or ski season.

The climate of the Great Lakes region ranges from extremely cold winter temperatures, regularly as low as minus 30C (minus 20F), to pleasantly hot, humid and sunny summers. The best time to travel is during the spring and autumn (May, June, September, October) but be aware of mosquitoes during June.

Time difference: GMT-6 hours (Chicago)

Boat, Michigan's Upper Peninsula

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Pacific Northwest T

he USA’s Pacific Northwest region is a lesser-visited gem with breathtaking mountains and a beautifully rugged coastline waiting to be explored. Magnificent Hells Canyon forms a natural gateway from Idaho into Oregon, which is renowned for the liberal, innovative city of Portland, wide driftwood-strewn beaches, tracts of temperate rainforest and the iridescent waters of Crater Lake.

The Cascade Mountains divide Oregon’s greener, wetter west from the vineyards of the arid, sunny east. Further north, the mighty Columbia River separates Oregon from Washington State. Washington produces some excellent wines and its wineries are wonderful places to both visit and stay, offering an insight into the local landscape as well as the wine business. Further north, temperate rainforests, lakes, waterfalls and prolific herds of elk abound in Olympic National Park whilst the pretty San Juan Islands offer some of North America’s most thrilling orca whale watching. Finally, dynamic Seattle is a great city to spend some time in, and makes a perfect base for exploring Mount Rainier National Park and seeing the results of the awe-inspiring volcanic power of Mount St. Helens.

Audley in the Pacific Northwest

8 Victoria Olympic National Park

Kalaloch

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

e

Coos Bay

Quincy

WASHINGTON

Yakima

iver Columbia R

Mountains

Newport

Accommodation The region’s accommodation ranges from contemporary city hotels to ocean lodges with spectacular sea views, and from friendly B&Bs to scenic wilderness retreats. Away from the cities the options are generally rather simple, but we always strive to offer accommodation that appeals to those seeking personal service or a spectacular view. Some of the national parks offer rustic historic lodging, which is often rather simple, but usually ideally located to explore.

5

Portland

2

Grand Winthrop Coulee Dam Spokane Leavenworth

Hood River

Cannon Beach

PACIFIC OCEAN

North Cascades National Park

Mount Rainier National Park

6

Cascad

Astoria

7

Mount Baker

Seattle

Quinault

CANADA

San Juan Islands

Lake Crescent

1

t Ranges Pacific Coas

Visitors to the Pacific Northwest are spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring this hugely scenic region. There are well-known scenic highlights to take in, such as Crater Lake and Olympic national parks, but also many lesser-visited areas such as the delightful San Juan Islands and the beautiful Oregon coast. From the Pacific Northwest it is easy to cross over into neighbouring Canada, especially Vancouver Island, so please contact us to discuss your plans.

Our specialists will make recommendations about which routes to take to enable you to see the best of the region’s magnificent scenery; we also work with knowledgeable local guides to ensure your experience is the best it can be.

Vancouver

Baker City OREGON

Bend

100 miles 161 kilometres

Hells Canyon National Recreational Area

4

USA

Mount Hood

0 0

IDAHO

John Day Fossil Beds

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

3

Crater Lake National Park

Grants Pass Gold Beach

Klamath Falls CALIFORNIA

1 Olympic National Park

NEVADA

4 Columbia River Valley

7 North Cascades

An oasis of temperate rainforests, remote lakes, rugged beaches and mighty mountains.

See page 121

The mighty river that separates Washington from Oregon provides mile after mile of memorable panoramas.

See page 123

National Park An area of glacier-riven mountains, best explored from the Cascade Loop drive.

See page 122

2 Oregon coast Magnificent seascapes abound along this driftwood-strewn coastline.

See page 124

5 Mount St. Helens A dramatically altered landscape created by the volcano’s violent 1980 eruption.

See page 120

8 San Juan Islands A haven of relaxed island life, offering delightful walks, exhilarating sailing, harbours and thrilling whale watching.

See page 121

3 Crater Lake

National Park Vivid blue iridescent waters fill the vast basin of this volcanic lake.

See page 124

6 Seattle A vibrant, cosmopolitan city, home to the Boeing factory, Pike Place Market and the Space Needle.

See page 120

Pike Place Market, Seattle

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Pike Place Fish Market, Seattle

Washington State Washington State has an enviable combination of dramatic natural environments and dynamic cities. From diverse and arty Seattle on the beautiful Puget Sound to the vineyard-covered slopes in the sunny east, you’ll be treated to scenic views and a unique take on west coast culture everywhere you go. Olympic National Park with its stunning rainforest, driftwood beaches and herds of elk, and the San Juan Islands, which offer superb summer sailing and whale watching, are easily accessible from Seattle. Magnificent mountain scenery is on show in North Cascades and Mount Rainier national parks and also at Mount St. Helens.

To the east is the mighty Grand Coulee dam, one of the largest concrete structures in the world, while the Canadian city of Victoria lies just across the border and is easily reached by ferry from Seattle.

Hotel 1000, Seattle

Hotel 1000, Seattle

This modern property occupies an excellent location, just a couple of blocks from the waterfront and right in the heart of the shopping district. Contemporary furnishings make this a comfortable hotel in which to stay and the hotel prides itself on service and attention to detail.

There are 120 guest rooms, the BOKA restaurant and bar, a luxurious city spa and an indoor hi-tech golf club.

Seattle

Mount St. Helens

A thriving modern city, Seattle enjoys a natural setting nestled between snow-capped Mount Rainier and the shorelines of Elliott Bay and Lake Washington. Seattle is known for its arts and music scene as well as being home to cuttingedge aviation and technology industries. There is an excellent public transport system, including a monorail, to get around the attractions which include lively Pike Place Market, Pioneer Square, the Future of Flight Aviation Center and Boeing Tour and the towering Space Needle. Seattle is also the starting point for some Alaska cruises.

One of the northwest’s most impressive attractions is Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. A huge eruption took place here in 1980 and a full-day guided tour gives a fascinating insight into the impact of the event. An expert naturalist leads visitors through parts of the blast zone to provide stunning views into the smoking volcano. You will learn about the recovery of the ecosystems and the impressive ongoing reforestation project as well as some of the key geological facts and findings from the eruption.

Some amazing eyewitness accounts are recounted, while a short walk along the Eruption Trail takes in views of the lava dome, crater, pumice plain and the landslide deposit, the largest in recorded human history.

Mayflower Park Hotel, Seattle This excellent value hotel is handily located with the Seattle waterfront and Pike Place Market right on its doorstep. Dating back to 1927, it offers 160 rooms and suites. There is a restaurant and a lounge, known for its city views.

Sculpture outside the Seattle Art Museum

120

Mount St. Helens

Mountain biking, Olympic National Park

Crab fisherman, San Juan Islands

Driftwood strewn beach, Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park

San Juan Islands

Situated in northwest Washington, Olympic National Park blends spectacular snow-capped peaks, lush rainforests and rugged coastlines. At its centre is impressive Mount Olympus, one of more than 260 glacier-riven peaks in the park.

Along the coast, 70 miles of deserted, windswept beaches are piled with driftwood, whilst inland are the fog-shrouded forests of Douglas firs and Sitka spruces, some more than 90 metres high.

The park offers a number of outdoor activities including hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, climbing and beachcombing, as well as hot springs and a series of geothermal mineral pools.

Created in 1938 in part to ensure the survival of the rare Roosevelt elk, today the park has the largest remaining herd in the USA. It is also home to raccoons, beavers and mink in the lowlands, deer, cougars and bears in the valleys and mountain meadows, and Pacific salmon, whales, dolphins and sea lions in its waters.

Delightfully laid-back and gloriously scenic, the San Juan Islands offer a wonderful antidote to the stresses of modern life. The archipelago of 172 verdant islands and reefs lies in the Salish Sea between Seattle, Vancouver and Vancouver Island. San Juan, Orcas, Lopez and Shaw are the most populous islands and can all be reached by ferry, although most visitors stay in the little town of Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. The islands beg to be explored on foot, by bicycle or kayak, but there are also some lovely boat trips to take. Whale watching around the islands is superb, especially at Lime Kiln Point State Park, where three local orca pods are frequent summer visitors.

Orca whales, San Juan Islands

Lake Quinault Lodge, near Olympic National Park This simple rustic lodge was built in 1926 and offers a tranquil hideaway surrounded by towering trees. The main property houses an indoor swimming pool and the Roosevelt dining room, named after the president who had lunch here in 1937. The 92 rooms are comfortable, and many feature views over shimmering Lake Quinault. The lodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is ideally situated just south of Olympic National Park, making it perfect for taking advantage of the hiking, canoeing, kayaking and fishing opportunities.

Whale watching The San Juan Islands offer some of the world’s best orca whale watching and we work with an excellent local company that accommodates just six passengers at a time on board their boats.

The trips are led by an experienced professional guide who will tell you all about these magnificent mammals and the ecology of the area. You may also see harbour seals, Stellar sea lions, porpoises, bald eagles and many other seabirds. The boat is a stable 27 foot fast cruiser which offers a heated cabin as well as outside seating for the best viewing.

Lake Quinault Lodge

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Mount Rainier National Park

North Cascades National Park Jagged peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls and over 300 glaciers fill North Cascades National Park – more than half of all the glaciers in the contiguous USA. The area is a haven for wildlife, including grizzly and black bears, beavers, mountain goats, cougars and wolves. One of the best ways to explore is by driving the Cascade Loop which encompasses the park’s magnificent mountain scenery plus quirky old towns and villages such as Winthrop and Leavenworth.

There are plenty of places to stop at along the way and, if you wish, venture off the road along one of the many walking trails.

Leavenworth on the Cascade Loop

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Mount Rainier National Park

Sun Mountain Lodge

Sun Mountain Lodge, near North Cascades National Park Set at the top of a 900 metre-high mountain with panoramic views of peaks, wilderness and valleys, Sun Mountain Lodge is a perfect year-round base for taking part in a whole range of activities. Over 100 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding lace the countryside and fly fishing, river rafting, canoeing, tennis and golf can all be enjoyed nearby. There are 96 guest rooms and a further 16 lakeside cabins, all offering spectacular views and some have their own private deck and hot tub.

Cave B Estate Winery & Resort

This spectacular part of the Cascade Range lies about 30 miles northeast of Mount St. Helens.

The park, which covers 368 square miles, was created in 1899 to preserve the dormant Mount Rainier volcano and the surrounding area. The peak has been sculpted by ice, and its many glaciers feed the park’s rivers. Coniferous trees dominate and the lower slopes have dense forests of giant Douglas firs, western red cedars and mountain hemlocks, while wild flowers bloom progressively higher up the slopes as the summer passes. The park’s abundant wildlife includes deer, Roosevelt elk, bears and mountain goats, and there are more than 100 bird species.

One of the most scenic drives runs from the Nisqually entrance to Paradise, winding through river valleys, lowland forests and glaciated peaks.

Cave B Estate Winery & Resort, Quincy Breathtaking views of its vineyards, the Columbia River and dramatic gorge scenery make this a special place to stay. Guests at this boutique winery can enjoy a wonderful wine-tasting experience as well as tutorials, and can choose from a variety of accommodation. The 55 comfortable guest rooms range from spacious cliff houses to cavern rooms and yurts, and there’s also a restaurant, spa and a dramatic cliffside swimming pool.

Steller’s jay, Mount Rainier National Park

Alphabet district houses, Portland

Vineyard, Oregon

Micro-brewery, Portland

Oregon

The Nines, Portland Situated next to bustling Pioneer Courthouse Square in the heart of the city centre, The Nines sits at the top of one of Portland’s best known landmarks, the 15-storey Meier and Frank building. The 331 stylish bedrooms and suites overlook either the city skyline or the large atrium lobby and all offer modern amenities.

The hotel has two restaurants and an impressive collection of local art.

During the 19 th century, when Oregon was first populated by European colonists who had travelled west along the Oregon Trail, the fertile Willamette Valley was an obvious choice for the initial settlements. The valley is still at the heart of the state and is where Portland (Oregon’s biggest city), the capital Salem, and the college town of Eugene, are located. The Cascade Range form a natural vertical barrier through the centre of the state, separating the temperate, wetter Pacific climate of the west from the arid east.

In the middle of the state lies the town of Bend, a magnet for outdoor activity enthusiasts, and the John Day Fossil Beds, where remains of dinosaurs are still being unearthed. The Columbia River forms a natural border with Washington State to the north and its banks cascade with waterfalls and vineyards, while in the south are Crater Lake National Park and Newberry National Volcanic Monument. The Oregon coast is peppered with state parks and is a delight to travel along, exploring the temperate rainforests, sand dunes and lighthouses at your own pace.

Don’t miss Cannon Beach, where Haystack Rock, crowned with nesting seagulls, creates the perfect photo opportunity.

American Empress

American Empress

The Nines, Portland

Portland Laid-back yet dynamic, progressive Portland is a mellow place with diverse attractions and a vibrant arts scene. The city is set on the Willamette River and backed by the brooding snow-capped Mount Hood. Exploring its colourful streets you’ll come across a wealth of museums, restaurants and micro-breweries, numerous live music venues, evocative Victorian buildings and leafy parks, such as engaging Washington Park, home to the International Rose Test garden and the tranquil Japanese garden. We recommend exploring by bike, on the excellent public transport network or on foot to take in the city at a leisurely pace.

The USA’s mighty rivers once served as highways of early exploration and inspired dreams of discovery. Today, the American Empress, a replica paddleboat, follows in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, the Pacific Northwest’s intrepid explorers, gliding through the spectacular scenery of the Columbia and Snake rivers. The vessel is the largest overnight river boat west of the Mississippi, and offers a delightfully comfortable and elegant base which evokes the spirit of bygone days. Guests enjoy comfortable modern conveniences including a choice of 102 cabins with either a balcony or a picture window, complimentary shore excursions, daily lectures, live evening entertainment, and delicious meals that are all freshly prepared on board.

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View of Wizard Island, Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park

Ocean Lodge, Cannon Beach

Ocean Lodge, Cannon Beach Cannon Beach

Oregon coast Oregon’s coast is, perhaps, one of the state’s best-known natural features. Stretching 363 miles from the mouth of the Columbia River in the north to the California border in the south, this magnificent coastline is peppered with wide and protected expanses of sand, jagged black monoliths, lighthouse-crowned headlands, and mighty forests and sand dunes. Much of this natural beauty is protected in a seemingly unbroken chain of state parks which offer magnificent seascapes and delightful spots for whale watching. Of all the places to stay, the seaside town of Cannon Beach is one of our favourites, known for its iconic Haystack Rocks, excellent coastal walking and its pretty Victorian cottages, art galleries and museums.

Just steps from Haystack Rock, on the seafront at the south end of Cannon Beach, Ocean Lodge is reminiscent of a 1940s vintage beach resort.

The charming lobby has hardwood floors and massive fir beams, with an impressive two-storey wood-burning fireplace as the centrepiece.

There are 37 oceanfront or partial ocean-view studios and suites, with a further eight rooms adjacent to the lodge. This is the perfect place to relax with a book or a glass of wine and admire the ever-changing seascape.

Crater Lake Lodge, Crater Lake National Park The historic Crater Lake Lodge is dramatically perched on the edge of the volcanic cauldron overlooking Crater Lake. It opened in 1915 and oozes authentic, rustic charm; a wood and stone-clad great hall provides an impressive welcome, and a lakefront dining room serves fresh regional cuisine. There are 71 guest rooms, many with lake views. Be sure to book early though – this is a very popular lodge.

Beachfront houses, Cannon Beach

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Despite Oregon’s beauty, Crater Lake is the state’s only national park. Rolling mountains, volcanic peaks and evergreen forests surround this enormous lake which has been a sacred place for the Klamath native Americans for thousands of years. The lake’s intense blue colour and the surrounding scenery make this a breathtaking place to visit. From June until mid-October you can take the Rim Drive along the crater’s edge. Look out for Wizard Island, the lake’s largest, which is actually the tip of a still rising cinder cone. Other highlights in the area include the Klamath lakes and Lava Beds National Monument just over the border in northern California. A wide variety of outdoor pursuits can be enjoyed from boat cruises, diving and fishing to cycling or hiking along the 90 miles of trails.

Suggested itineraries Tailoring your trip

Olympic National Park

The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Pacific Northwest specialists to start planning your itinerary.

Seattle Jasper

Cannon Beach

Portland Calgary Banff

Kamloops Crater Lake National Park

Gold Beach

Vancouver

North Cascades National Park

Victoria Redwood National Park

T 01993 838 755

Mendocino

Olympic National Seattle Park

Mount Rainier National Park

Sonoma San Francisco

Getting around This region is easily reached with direct flights to Seattle and excellent onward connections to many other regional airports. There is also an excellent, scenic rail service that connects California with Seattle and travels onwards into Canada. In addition, ferry services operate from Seattle and Port Angeles, on the Olympic Peninsula, to Victoria on Canada’s Vancouver Island. The easiest and most relaxed way to explore the region’s scenery however, is to self-drive.

Pacific Coasts & Volcanoes This tour includes three of the USA’s most attractive cities, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle, and combines them with the rugged rainforest-fringed beaches of northern California, Oregon and Washington.

Spokane

Glacier National Park

Canada & the Pacific Northwest Discovered This magnificent three-week itinerary takes in many contrasting parts of the northwest corner of the USA, as well as Canada’s breathtaking Rocky Mountains and the charming cities of Vancouver and Seattle.

Day 1

Arrive in San Francisco.

Day 2

Take a guided bike tour of the city or visit Alcatraz.

Day 1

Arrive in Seattle.

Day 2

Explore Seattle’s various attractions.

Day 3

Collect your hire car and drive to Sonoma.

Days 3-4 Drive west to Olympic National Park and explore the rainforest.

Day 4

Enjoy a guided wine tasting tour in the Sonoma Valley.

Day 5

Take the ferry to Victoria on Canada’s Vancouver Island.

Day 5

Head north along California’s coast to Mendocino.

Day 6

Go whale watching before taking the ferry to Vancouver.

Day 7

Enjoy a full day in the city.

Day 8

Drive to Kamloops, in British Columbia’s arid ranching region.

Day 9

Continue to Jasper amid the breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains.

Day 10

Explore Jasper National Park.

Day 11

Move on to the small town of Bend, and enjoy some of the outdoor activities there.

Travel south on the scenic Icefields Parkway to Banff.

Day 12

Enjoy a full day in Banff National Park.

Day 12

Make your way to Portland.

Day 13

Continue to Calgary.

Prices

Day 13

Day 14

Head south back into the USA to beautiful Glacier National Park.

We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Enjoy a day exploring friendly Portland, or take a trip to the nearby Colombia River Gorge.

Day 15

Days 14-15 Return to the coast for a stay at Cannon Beach.

A day to do some walking in Glacier National Park.

Day 16

Travel through northern Idaho to Spokane in Washington.

Day 17

Drive to North Cascades National Park.

Day 18

Take a walking trail through North Cascades National Park.

Day 19

Head to Mount Rainier National Park.

Day 20

Return to Seattle for your onward flight.

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Q

Q

Q

Q

3

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

33 33 33 33

3

~

~

33 The best time to travel.

3 A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.

~

Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.

Q Snow or ski season.

The coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest are best explored during the summer months between June and September when temperatures are warm and rainfall is lower.

The region east of the Cascade Range is considerably drier and warmer, providing an ideal climate for vines. The many mountains provide excellent winter sports activities between January and April.

Time difference: GMT-8 hours

Days 6-7 Continue your journey north through Redwood National Park and take a private guided walking tour.

Day 8

Cross the border into Oregon and travel to Gold Beach.

Day 9

Travel to Crater Lake National Park.

Day 10

Take a boat trip around Wizard Island amidst the spectacular scenery of Crater Lake National Park.

Day 11

Days 16-17 Travel along the rugged Pacific coast to Olympic National Park and spend the day in the spectacular wilderness.

Day 18

Catch the ferry to Seattle. The afternoon is free to explore.

Day 19

Discover Seattle’s attractions.

Day 20

Make your way to the airport for your onward flight.

Trail through Olympic National Park

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Hawaii H

awaii conjures up classic tropical island images of powdery beaches, swaying palms and colourful hula dancers. It’s true you’ll find all this on this heavenly archipelago, but you’ll also get dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush valleys, tumbling waterfalls, colourful coral reefs and a gloriously laid-back attitude. Each of the eight main islands has a different character. Cosmopolitan Oahu is home to the lively capital, Honolulu, the battleship memorials of Pearl Harbor, and one of the world’s most famous surf beaches, Waikiki. Neighbouring Maui is renowned for its beautiful beaches and superb outdoor activities, while Hawaii, the ‘Big Island’, is largely undeveloped; its highly active volcanic landscape protected by the stunning Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Kauai offers perhaps the most remarkable scenery, including the spectacular Waimea Canyon and the dramatic Na Pali cliffs, where sheer-sided verdant ravines plunge to the surging blue sea below. There are several smaller islands to explore too, such as Lanai and Molokai, where turtles lay their eggs on empty beaches and a more traditional Polynesian culture prevails.

Audley in Hawaii Hawaii is a fascinating place to explore with more than enough to engage you for the duration of your trip. However, it also makes an ideal destination for a beach stay after a trip to western USA or Canada. We have carefully designed our trips to combine the main sights with the smaller, less-visited Hawaiian islands to ensure you get a taste of the diverse scenery and traditional Polynesian culture. We can organise hire cars, and flights between islands, so you can explore at your own pace, or small ship cruises for those who want to see a bit more of the archipelago. Our specialists know the islands extremely well and can advise you on where’s best to go and stay depending on your preferences.

Accommodation The Hawaiian islands offer a wide range of accommodation choices, from large resorts with an array of facilities to small boutique properties. We have carefully selected a range of options to suit a variety of tastes and budgets and these include a selection of character B&Bs or country inns that often provide a personal experience and lots of local charm. In such a picturesque destination it’s a real benefit to wake up to a great view so, where possible, we will endeavour to ensure you have the Pacific Ocean, a tropical garden or a magnificent mountain as a backdrop to your stay.

2

Na Pali Coast Waimea Canyon

1 Niihau

Kauai

Princeville Kapaa Lihue Poipu

0

30 miles

0

50 kilometres

Kahuku

Oahu

3

Pearl Harbor

Honolulu

4

5

Kaunakakai Kaanapali Kahului Maui 8 Lanai Lahaina Haiku Hana 6 Wailea- Haleakala National Park Makena 7 Kaho’olawe

Molokai

Ko Coahala st

1 Waimea Canyon, Kauai

PACIFIC OCEAN

The ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’ is a truly impressive sight and can be combined with a visit to nearby Kokee State Park.

See page 129 2 Kalalau Trail, Kauai Kauai’s magnificent Na Pali Coast can be admired from this superb hiking trail.

See page 129 3 Pearl Harbor, Oahu Visit the sunken USS Arizona memorial and learn all about the day in December 1941 that led to the USA entering the Second World War. See page 135 4 Waikiki Beach, Oahu Learn to surf, enjoy the dynamic city of Honolulu or relax beneath the palm trees on this world-renowned beach.

See page 134

Waimea Waikoloa

Mauna Kea

Kailua-Kona Hawaii Island

6 Lanai Relax in luxury at one of the island’s resorts, hike the Munro Trail or rent a 4x4 to visit Shipwreck Beach.

See page 136 7 Haleakala National

Park, Maui This enormous dormant volcano affords spectacular views of the island.

See page 130

Honomu Hilo

Volcano

9

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

8 Road to Hana, Maui Wind your way along Maui’s unspoilt northern coast which is dotted with waterfalls, pineapple shacks and breathtaking views.

See page 130 9 Volcanoes, Hawaii Walk on solidified lava beds at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or take in the view of the smoking Kilauea crater.

See page 132

5 Molokai Explore this unspoilt island with its traditional Hawaiian way of life, an adventure for the more intrepid traveller.

See page 136 Manele Bay, Lanai

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

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Na Pali Coast, Kauai

Kauai Lush, green and awash with rivers, streams and waterfalls, Kauai is geologically the oldest of the islands and one of the wettest spots on Earth.

The combination of rainfall and sunshine gives the ‘Garden Isle’ its verdant glow, and with the spectacular steep-sided gorge of the Waimea Canyon and the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, Kauai is one of the most beautiful islands to explore.

Spinner dolphins, near Kauai

Captain Andy’s snorkel & sail

Outrigger Kiahuna Hotel, Poipu Set on the edge of stunning Poipu Beach on the south side of Kauai, these beautiful plantationinspired bungalows and condos are nestled in landscaped lawns and gardens lined with fragrant flowers. The 333 rooms are bright and colourful with local art, a private lanai with patio furniture, and a kitchen. There are several dining options, tennis courts, a beautiful pool and a well-equipped gym. This good value resort is also close to Kiahuna Golf Club.

Outrigger Kiahuna Hotel, Poipu

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Koa Kea Hotel & Resort, Poipu

Koa Kea Hotel & Resort, Poipu On the southern coast of Kauai, Koa Kea is a luxury hotel right on the ocean’s edge. The 121 rooms are sleek and sophisticated with contemporary decor in subtle colour schemes, large windows opening onto private lanais and a host of modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the spa, gym and swimming pool as well as a range of beach activities from snorkelling to surfing, while golf, scuba diving and horse riding are available nearby. The hotel’s Red Salt restaurant serves fresh seafood and produce from nearby islands.

Board a beautiful 60 foot catamaran for a delightful sailing trip around the coast of Kauai towards the dramatic Na Pali Coast. At Na Pali you will have incredible views of the enormous sea cliffs which rise 1,220 metres above the ocean, as well as numerous waterfalls and lava tubes. Kauai has an ancient landscape, and this carved coastline is the result of nearly eight million years of wind and water erosion. Its first inhabitants are thought to have arrived in the 3rd century and the knowledgeable crew will share the history and legends of the ancient civilisations that once thrived in these verdant valleys. After a relaxing and beautiful downwind sail, you will anchor in a remote spot, a favourite amongst locals, to snorkel and enjoy a barbecue lunch.

On the leisurely cruise back to port do keep a look out for sightings of large pods of spinner dolphins that are frequently seen in these waters.

Mountain biking in Waimea Canyon

Poipu Beach, Kauai

Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon helicopter flight This thrilling helicopter flight to Kauai’s spectacular Waimea Canyon takes in some of the island’s most stunning landscapes. Your journey begins with a flight to the dramatic Hanapepe Valley, then continues on to the thundering Manawaiopuna, commonly referred to as ‘Jurassic Falls’. You will then fly over the Olokele Canyon before moving on to the astounding Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. From here the sculptural masterpiece of the Na Pali Coast gives way to the sheer Bali Hai Cliffs and the pristine blue waters of Hanalei Bay. Weather permitting, you will then visit Mount Waialeale, the heart of the ancient volcano. This is the wettest spot on Earth, with an average annual rainfall of 450 to 500 inches.

Flying into the centre of the crater, with its 1,500 metre-high walls towering above and its massive waterfalls surrounding you, is truly awe-inspiring.

Koloa Landing Resort, Poipu Set within expansive lush tropical gardens, Koloa Landing Resort is ideally located just a short stroll from the soft white sands of Poipu Beach and a variety of restaurants and shops.

The resort offers a wide range of facilities, including a superb modern spa, a gym and two swimming pools complete with cascading waterfalls and meandering lagoons. There is even a sunset wall, a favourite spot for watching the spectacular Hawaiian sunsets. The 85 spacious guest villas offer large lanais, superb views, and come with a choice of one to four bedrooms.

Each offers a private bathroom per bedroom, a kitchen and a stylish sitting room.

Koloa Landing Resort, Poipu

Waimea Canyon downhill bicycle ride This delightful half-day bicycle ride is a superb way to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Waimea Canyon. Your trip starts at an elevation of 1,100 metres and takes you on a safe downhill ride to sea level, providing opportunities for you to stop and marvel at the dramatic canyon cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. Along the way drinks and snacks will be served and you will learn about the fascinating culture, history and folklore of Kauai. The bikes are great ‘comfort cruisers’ with wide, comfortable saddles, high-rise handlebars and powerful brakes, making them fun and easy to handle.

Kalalau Trail guided walk Na Pali – ‘the cliffs’ in Hawaiian – is one of the most beautiful and remote areas on Kauai. The challenging 11 mile Kalalau Trail winds along this rugged coastline providing the only land access to the beautiful Kalalau Valley. Your guide will tell you all about the history, geology and local legends of the area as you climb over cliffs hundreds of metres high – so you will need a good head for heights. Your efforts will be amply rewarded though, the remote location and spectacular scenery of the Kalalau Valley makes this an unforgettable, if strenuous, experience.

Helicopter flight, Waimea Canyon

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Secret Beach, Maui

Maui

Discover Molokini

Maui is Hawaii’s second-largest island, home to Haleakala National Park, the centrepiece of which is an enormous dormant volcano. Its summit is the highest point of the island and affords spectacular views of Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe and the Big Island. The interior consists of grasslands, tropical rainforests, streams and waterfalls, while white sandy beaches are scattered along the coast.

Highlights include the small town of Hana, set amid lush tropical vegetation, and the charming port of Lahaina, the oldest town in Hawaii.

Enjoy a delightfully relaxing day on a sailing trip to Molokini, a beautiful semi-submerged volcanic crater surrounded by a coral reef teeming with tropical fish and turtles. You will visit two excellent snorkelling sites, Molokini itself and Makena, which is a haven for green sea turtles.

Snuba (a cross between snorkelling and scuba diving) is also available to try if you wish. If you are travelling between January and March you are highly likely to see whales, and possibly spinner dolphins, often at close quarters, and you will be able to listen to them using underwater hydrophones. There is plenty of time for you to swim and snorkel in this tropical world and a light lunch and drinks will be served before your return to Maui.

Hotel Wailea, Maui One of our favourites, this boutique hotel is situated amidst extensive tropical gardens in a secluded cliffside location on Maui’s southern coast. It’s a lovely, relaxed and romantic property with panoramic ocean views as well as excellent service. Each of the 72 spacious suites is decorated in a smart, modern style and features a living area, kitchenette, private lanai, separate bedroom and a bathroom. The award-winning restaurant serves fresh Italian cuisine whilst other facilities include a spa and large indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Wailea Beach is a pleasant 20 minute walk away, although the hotel also offers a free shuttle bus.

Hotel Wailea, Maui

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Andaz Maui at Wailea

Andaz Maui at Wailea A sophisticated resort set amongst extensive grounds, Andaz Maui enjoys a delightful beachfront location. Each of the 290 stylish rooms are decorated with crisp white fabrics, contemporary decor, and artwork that incorporates elements of native Hawaiian culture. There are lovely views from the balcony, as well as from the bathroom’s rain shower.

The resort has been enhanced with eco-friendly amenities such as a solar thermal heating system.

With private access to Mokapu Beach, four outdoor infinity swimming pools, a separate adult pool, a gym and a programme of children’s activities, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

The hotel also has two acclaimed restaurants and two poolside bars and lounges.

Diving, Molokini

Ocean view of the Road to Hana

Hula dancer

Humpback whale fluke

Ho’Oilo House, near Lahaina

Ho’Oilo House, near Lahaina

Inn at Mama’s Fish House, Paia

Inn at Mama’s Fish House, Paia Enjoying a secluded setting just steps from a stretch of sandy beach on Maui’s north shore, Inn at Mama’s Fish House offers 13 attractive beachfront and garden cottages. Each is decorated in traditional Polynesian style with local artwork. The luxury beachfront cottages each have a kitchen and a private covered patio with ocean views, while garden cottages have an enclosed private patio with a barbecue. We love the restaurant here which is popular with visitors and locals alike; so be sure to book early.

Nestled in the West Maui Mountains, this quiet, secluded B&B offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and the islands surrounding Maui.

It is located on the popular west side of the island, around ten minutes’ drive from the historic whaling town of Lahaina and the Kaanapali resort area. Each of the six rooms is beautifully furnished and comes with a refrigerator and a private lanai. There is also a delightful swimming pool and the owners, Amy and Dan, will make you feel very much at home.

Travaasa Hana This award-winning hotel is situated above Kaihalulu Bay in the tiny town of Hana on the eastern tip of Maui. The twisting and turning road to Hana could not end in a better way.

This lovely hotel epitomises the exotic culture of the islands; many of the staff, most of whom are Hana natives, have worked here for years and dolphins and whales can often be seen from the black-sand beach below the hotel.

The 70 rooms range from garden view suites to plantation-style cottages which boast a private lanai with a hot tub overlooking the ocean. The hotel offers a dining room, a lounge serving simple meals, an outdoor swimming pool and a spa as well as many activities including horse riding and lei (garland) making.

Royal Lahaina Resort, Kaanapali The good value Royal Lahaina Resort is set on Kaanapali Beach, a three mile stretch of golden sand. The 333 guest rooms and 114 cottages are all generous in size, and each has a kitchen and a private balcony. The hotel also has three swimming pools, 11 tennis courts, a Jacuzzi and a choice of dining and drinking venues.

Whale watching This two hour whale watching trip takes place aboard a range of vessels, from small Zodiacs to large two-deck catamarans, depending on the number of passengers. The best time to see whales in Hawaii is between January and March, and this informative and fun trip is led by a team of certified marine naturalists who explain and interpret the social behaviour of humpback whales. You will be able to listen to whale songs through underwater hydrophones, watch mothers and calves interact and see males compete for females.

Travaasa Hana

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Mauna Kea Observatory, Hawaii

Hawaii Hawaii, or the ‘Big Island’ as it is known locally, is the youngest and largest of the state’s islands, twice the size of the others combined. Some of the world’s most active volcanic peaks are protected here by Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where the only continuously active volcano in the USA, Kilauea, is enlarging the landmass every year. This constantly changing landscape is fascinating with steaming craters, lava tubes, cinder cones and, on occasions, the sight of molten hot lava, are just some of the spectacular volcanic activities on view here. Elsewhere the island offers verdant jungle, waterfalls, beautiful beaches, dry ranch lands and even snow-capped mountains. The highest peak in the archipelago, Mauna Kea, is here, as is the final resting place of Captain Cook, and a host of traditional temples and historic sites.

Four Seasons Hualalai, Kona-Kohala Coast

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Fairmont Orchid, Kohala Coast A tropical beachfront oasis, the Fairmont Orchid lies on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast.

This large resort has 538 luxurious guest rooms each with a private lanai. There are five restaurants offering a variety of dining options, and other amenities include two swimming pools, a spa, tennis courts and a championship golf course. The property is located on a rocky beach, but does have access to a sandy cove which is a great place to go snorkelling.

Four Seasons Hualalai, Kona-Kohala Coast This superb luxury resort enjoys an oceanfront setting amidst white sandy beaches and black lava landscapes on the Kona-Kohala Coast.

There are 243 spacious and beautifully-appointed guest rooms and suites with open living spaces set across two-storey buildings. Each overlooks the landscaped gardens, swimming pool, golf course or ocean, and comes with a furnished lanai. Guests enjoy a wide range of amenities with three restaurants, two oceanfront lounges, a spa, tennis courts, a cultural centre and a golf course. There are also seven swimming areas to choose from including a lava-rock snorkelling pool.

Fairmont Orchid, Kohala Coast

Manta ray night snorkel Hawaii offers a very special opportunity to snorkel with manta rays as they feed on plankton.

Although manta rays can be seen during daylight hours, this trip departs at dusk when plankton rise towards the surface of the sea and the rays feed most actively. Specially designed diving lights attract the plankton which, in turn, attract the manta rays. Participants can choose to snorkel or, for a supplement, dive with the rays, which is a thrilling experience. The tour is led by qualified guides and includes hot refreshments, all snorkelling gear, and instruction if required.

Diving with a manta ray

Green sea turtles, Kona Coast

Kulaniapia Falls, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii

Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa This large, stylish hotel is set on a lovely part of the coast. The property has huge gardens and water features, overlooks a good swimming beach and has a market place just a short walk away. There are 555 smart, modern rooms with air-conditioning. Guests have access to a wide range of amenities including three dining options, an infinity pool, spa, a separate children’s pool, and golf can be arranged at a nearby course.

Volcano House Hotel, Volcanoes National Park Perched on the rim of Kilauea caldera with a view toward Halema‘uma‘u crater, the historic Volcano House Hotel was built in 1846 and today offers 33 tastefully decorated guest rooms as well as a dining room, snack bar and lounge.

The real draw here is the location however, with dramatic views from the windows and within an easy drive of the viewing points for the crater and the Chain of Craters Road.

Hapuna Beach State Park, Kohala Coast

Chalet Kilauea, Volcano This charming small property is a peaceful oasis set amid lush Hawaiian rainforest. The six cosy guest rooms have a unique decor, and come with en suite bathrooms. The property is located just minutes from the entrance to Volcanoes National Park in Volcano village, which has useful (but limited) facilities, including a couple of restaurants, a small supermarket and a petrol station. Guests can relax in the outdoor hot tub and there is always some amazing home-blend Kona coffee to enjoy. Don’t ask for the ingredients though – they remain a secret!

Circle of fire helicopter trip During this thrilling one hour helicopter trip you will fly over the most geologically active environment on Earth, the Kilauea Volcano, which has been continuously erupting since 1983.

The exact route may vary according to wind, weather conditions and volcanic activity, but you will be able to see amazing lava flows, black-sand beaches, tropical rainforests and cascading waterfalls, all whilst learning about the fascinating history and culture of Hawaii. You will travel on board a state-of-the-art helicopter which provides each passenger with a large amount of personal space and expansive windows for exceptional visibility.

Chalet Kilauea, Volcano

Mauna Kea summit & stars trip Mauna Kea is the world’s tallest mountain, rising over 9,700 metres from the ocean floor to its summit, and is considered the most sacred place in the islands by many Hawaiians. Your drive from Kona will take you along the coast, over desolate lava flows and through rolling pasture land. A hot dinner will be served outdoors before sunset, then you will commence the 45 minute drive to the mighty mountain’s summit. As you make your ascent, your guide will explain Hawaii’s remarkable natural, cultural, and geological history. After sunset you descend to the visitor’s information station at 2,700 metres.

Here, through telescopes, and wrapped in warm coats, you will be able to marvel at the brilliance of the Hawaiian night sky. Your guide will point out the observable universe, and offer you a personal and educational look at the heavens.

Volcano House Hotel, Volcanoes National Park

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Waikiki Beach, Honolulu

Halekulani Hotel, Waikiki

Halekulani Hotel, Waikiki

Oahu Oahu is the best known island, and is often called the ‘gathering place’. It is the third-largest of Hawaii’s islands and contains almost 80% of the archipelago’s population. The capital, Honolulu, is easily the busiest town, while nearby Pearl Harbor is a poignant place to visit. Honolulu’s celebrated Waikiki Beach, though commercial, offers a beautiful stretch of golden sand with Diamond Head promontory forming an impressive backdrop. Waikiki has a wide variety of accommodation, restaurants and nightlife, all within easy walking distance.

The Modern, Waikiki

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Overlooking Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean, the Halekulani has been welcoming guests for nearly 100 years and is one of our favourite properties. This bright, airy and stylish property has 453 beautiful rooms and suites with a variety of views and all the latest amenities. The hotel features three excellent restaurants, an inviting freshwater swimming pool, a gym and a spa. As guests you will have complimentary admission to some of Oahu’s finest art and cultural venues including the Bishop Museum, Iolani Palace and the Honolulu Museum of Art.

The Modern, Waikiki Overlooking the marina, the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding city skyline, The Modern offers a contemporary and convenient base just a short walk from Waikiki Beach and the nightlife of Honolulu. Facilities include sunrise and sunset swimming pools, a spa, lounge, nightclub and several dining options. There are 353 rooms, each designed in a minimalist style, and with either city or ocean views. Do look for the surfboard mural behind reception and the bookshelves opposite which open at night to reveal the bar.

Safari Explorer

Safari Explorer Perhaps the best way of exploring the delightfully varied islands of the Hawaii archipelago is aboard a small ship cruise. The intimate Safari Explorer carries just 36 passengers and offers regular seven night cruises between Molokai and the Big Island. Taking in the spectacular coastal scenery of the lesser-known parts of the archipelago, including Lanai and Maui, passengers will also be able to swim, snorkel and kayak off these enchanting islands. Cruises depart between November and April, over the prime months for whale watching and snorkelling with manta rays and turtles. Each day you will venture ashore in small guided groups to explore the islands. The en suite cabins are simple but perfectly comfortable, and all meals are included.

Diamond Head, Waikiki

Pearl Harbor National Monument

Polynesian Cultural Center, Oahu

Outrigger Reef on the Beach

Outrigger Reef on the Beach, Waikiki Situated just steps from Waikiki Beach and its restaurants, this large oceanfront hotel offers 635 rooms that come with views of the city or the beach. Many also have a private lanai. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and sun deck, a spa and a range of water-based activities.

Turtle Bay Resort, Kahuku With almost five miles of beachfront, Turtle Bay Resort is the perfect place to take in the azure beauty of Kawela Bay. There are 443 rooms, suites, beach cottages and villas, many with ocean views. Other facilities include two swimming pools, excellent dining and two championship golf courses. Guests can also enjoy the tennis courts, horse riding, and surf school (many of the staff here are local surfers and are bound to be able to give you a few tips).

Surfer at Sunset Beach, Oahu

Pearl Harbor In the early hours of 7th December 1941 the tranquil waters of Pearl Harbor, home to the US Navy’s Pacific fleet, were shattered by surprise air attacks by the Imperial Japanese Navy. The base was attacked by 353 Japanese fighter planes launched from six aircraft carriers in two waves. All eight US Navy battleships were damaged, and four sank. All but one, the USS Arizona, were later raised, and six of the eight battleships returned to service to fight in the war.

The Japanese also sank or damaged three destroyers and three cruisers. In total 188 US aircraft were destroyed, 2,403 people were killed and 1,178 were wounded. The Japanese losses were light – just 29 aircraft and five midget submarines – and they suffered 65 casualties. The attack came as a profound shock to the American people and led directly to the United States’ entry into the Second World War. Today, within the precincts of Pearl Harbor, a number of exhibits, displays, memorials and museums honour not only the victims of the Japanese attacks, but all USA veterans of the Second World War. Built over the wreckage of the sunken ship, the

USS Arizona memorial is a sobering experience where visitors pay profound and silent tribute to the fallen. Visitors can take a guided deck tour of the USS Missouri and also a tour of the submarine USS Bowfin to get a taste of the confined conditions on a war vessel that was often submerged for months at a time. As you may expect, Pearl Harbor is very popular, so we recommend booking in advance. Please speak to your specialist who will be happy to advise you on the best times to visit to avoid the crowds.

Turtle Bay Resort, Kahuku

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Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Molokai

Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay

Four Seasons Resort Lanai at Manele Bay

Lanai Away from the crowds and hustle of everyday life, Lanai is a tranquil and largely untouched destination. One of the island’s highlights is the lunar-like landscapes of Keahiakawelo where rock towers and spires, formed by centuries of erosion, are a magnificent sight, especially at dusk. From here, on clear days, the islands of Molokai and Oahu can also be seen. On the southern coast is picturesque Hulopoe Bay and Lanai’s main harbour, Manele Bay. Rising from the sea just between these two bays is the iconic Puu Pehe, or ‘Sweetheart Rock’ from where you’ll get delightful coastal views which often include pods of dolphins. Lanai has 18 miles of shoreline with a handful of beautiful white-sand beaches that offer a level of unparalleled seclusion for those wishing to get away from it all.

Presiding over a protected marine preserve and a pristine crescent of white sand, Four Seasons Resort Lanai is a sophisticated tropical island retreat. The 236 spacious, stylish guest rooms and suites and each has a private lanai or balcony.

There are wonderful ocean views from the large terrace, a golf course and a spa offering a comprehensive range of treatments. Guests can choose from several restaurants offering everything from local delicacies to gourmet Japanese dishes and Mediterranean classics.

Molokai

Aqua Hotel, Molokai Situated on Kamiloloa Beach on the southern coast of the island of Molokai, this oceanfront resort boasts a lovely setting amidst lush landscaped grounds where views extend to the volcanoes of Maui across the waters. Styled after a traditional Polynesian village, the complex offers 53 ocean and garden-view bungalows, each with a private lanai. There is a freshwater swimming pool and a sun deck overlooking the island of Lanai where you’ll find the Hula Shores restaurant and bar, in addition to a spa. The hotel provides nightly entertainment and the Aloha Friday Sunset Celebration features live music and hula dancing in the atmospheric, torch-lit gardens.

Molokai is possibly the most traditionally Hawaiian island in the archipelago and is often called the ‘friendly island’. Life here is slow, relaxed, peaceful and rural, and a visit can be like stepping back in time. The Kalaupapa National Historical Park is reputedly one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii and is a highlight of the island. Visitors can do as much or as little as they like and activities include snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing and whale watching, or simply reading a book on a beach under the shade of a palm tree.

Special events on Molokai include a celebration of the birth of hula which occurred here, and outrigger canoe races across the 26 mile channel to Waikiki on Oahu.

Aqua Hotel, Molokai

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Suggested itineraries Tailoring your trip The itineraries shown are designed to give you a flavour of what is possible, and are routes that work particularly well. We can use these as a basis to plan your trip or can design a completely different itinerary to suit your tastes and interests. Please call one of our Hawaii specialists to start planning your itinerary.

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Getting around The Hawaiian islands are larger than many people imagine and are justly famous for their beautiful beaches, but they also offer many delightful things to see and do away from the shore. It is highly recommended to hire a car for a few days to enable you to explore the scenery and hidden charms. Each has its own distinct character so, if time permits, it is well worth visiting two or three of the islands. This is best done by short inter-island flights but ferries also run between some of the islands.

When to go Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

Hawaii’s Highlights

Hawaiian Adventure

The islands of Maui and Hawaii offer plenty to see and do, but the relaxed pace of this trip also allows for plenty of beach time. Explore Maui’s highest peak, Haleakala, and snorkel amongst tropical fish at the volcanic atoll of Molokini.

On the Big Island of Hawaii, explore Volcanoes National Park and the island’s spectacular waterfalls and black-sand beaches.

This classic itinerary takes in all the principal Hawaiian islands. Starting in Kauai, you will see the Na Pali cliffs and the Waimea Canyon before moving on to the beaches and sparkling waters of Maui. In the Big Island, see active volcanoes and snorkel with manta rays. Finally, visit Pearl Harbor and relax on Waikiki Beach.

Day 1

Arrive in Maui.

Day 2

A day in Maui. Collect your hire car and perhaps take a tour to Haleakala National Park to see Maui’s highest peak.

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 33 The best time to travel.

Day 3

Join a thrilling whale watching trip.

Hawaii enjoys a typical tropical climate with warm temperatures of between 20C (68F) and 30C (86F) year round. Rainfall can occur at any time but the wettest months are between November and April. Many of the islands have their own micro-climates and in general the northeastern parts of the islands are wetter than the southwestern regions.

Day 4

Take a boat trip to the sunken volcano of Molokini.

Day 5

Spend a day relaxing on the beach or exploring.

Time difference: GMT-9 hours

Day 6

Arrive in Kauai.

Day 2

Relax on the beach in the beautiful ‘Garden Isle’ of Kauai.

Day 3

Visit beautiful Kokee State Park.

Day 4

Take a boat trip to see the spectacular Na Pali cliffs.

Day 5

Enjoy a thrilling downhill bike ride at the Waimea Canyon.

Day 6

Fly to Maui and collect a hire car.

Day 7

Relax on the sun-kissed beaches or walk to the beautiful Lao Valley.

Day 8

Take a snorkelling trip to Molokini.

Day 7

Fly to Hawaii, the Big Island, and collect your hire car.

Day 9

Join a guided walk through the rainforest.

Day 8

Relax on the beach, explore the small towns or visit a coffee plantation.

Day 10

Fly to Hawaii Big Island. Relax at your hotel.

Day 11

Day 9

Visit Hawaii’s spectacular Volcanoes National Park.

Join a guided walk through Volcanoes National Park.

Day 12

Day 10

After a day at leisure join an evening snorkelling trip to see manta rays close up.

Drive from Volcanoes National Park to the west of Hawaii.

Day 13

Take a trip to the summit of Mauna Kea, for some spectacular stargazing.

Prices We offer trips to cater for a wide range of budgets. You can find up-to-date guideline prices for your trip to the USA on our website, alternatively please call our specialists to discuss your plans.

Join a small group walking tour to the beautiful Lao Valley.

Day 1

Day 11

A final day to explore the waterfalls and beaches of the Big Island.

Day 14

Relax on the beach on the beautiful Kohala Coast.

Day 12

Return your car before boarding your onward flight.

Day 15

Fly to Honolulu and drive to the northern side of the island.

Day 16

Relax on Oahu’s north shore and visit the Polynesian cultural centre.

Day 17

Drive south to Waikiki Beach.

Day 18

Visit Pearl Harbor then relax on the beach at Waikiki.

Day 19

Take your onward flight from Honolulu Airport.

Stay longer You may wish to extend your trip, and break your flights, by staying for a few nights in the exciting cities of Los Angeles or San Francisco. Other city stopovers are also available, or you may wish to explore more of the Hawaiian archipelago.

Men performing a hula, Hawaii

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Alberta’s northern Rocky Mountains

Combining the USA with Canada The USA offers a wealth of different experiences, but you can add even more variety to your trip by also visiting Canada.

There are excellent road, rail and flight connections between the two nations, leading to multiple possibilities. You may wish to combine British Columbia and Alberta’s northern Rocky Mountains with Montana, Wyoming or Colorado. On the Atlantic coast, a trip to Maine can be expanded to include the Canadian provinces of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, or tour Ontario and Québec in Canada, and then travel through New England in the USA. The Yukon also combines perfectly with a trip to Alaska. Distances are immense in both countries, which needs to be considered when planning your trip, but there are so many options for exploring these two destinations in one exciting visit. Here is a brief guide to Canada’s most popular provinces.

British Columbia Gateway to the Pacific, British Columbia is perhaps best known for its coast. A chain of islands protects the Inside Passage where the Coast Mountains rear 2,000 metres above spectacular fjords whose waters offer some great whale-watching. Temperate rainforests hug the coast and offer wonderful opportunities to see black and grizzly bears.

The city of Vancouver is beautifully set between the mountains and the ocean, while inland are spectacular canyons, vineyards and rolling ranch lands.

Alberta Banff National Park, Lake Louise and the Rocky Mountains form the strongest images of Alberta, a huge and thinly-populated

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province that stretches from the mountains in the west to the seemingly endless farmed prairies in the east. The largest city is Calgary, an oil-rich high-rise metropolis whose veneer of sophistication falls away each year with the Calgary Stampede. At this time it plays host to the world’s richest rodeo and the enduring spirit of the cowboy rules supreme.

Ontario Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s best known attractions, but Ontario is also home to Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, and its largest metropolis, Toronto. One sixth of the province is covered with water and the Great Lakes dominate the southern lowlands.

This is a beautiful region for exploring by car, from the sandy beaches of Lake Huron to Algonquin Provincial Park with its canoeing, hiking and resident moose and wolves.

Québec The province of Québec is proudly Francophone, with Gallic traditions that include fine restaurants, pavement cafes and a vibrant arts scene. The province’s largest city is arty and refined Montréal, while its capital is the atmospherically walled city of Québec. Away from the cities, the Laurentian Mountains, just north of Montréal, offer a multitude of outdoor activities, while the Saguenay Fjord and quaint nearby villages have a timeless charm and thriving artist communities. To the east exquisite forests drop down to the water’s edge on the Gaspé Peninsula.

The Maritime Provinces The provinces of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador make up Canada’s eastern

seaboard. Beautiful scenery combined with abundant marine and terrestrial wildlife mean the Maritime Provinces are excellent for exploring by road. Mighty cliffs descend from Labrador’s Torngat Mountains and the precipitous fjords of Newfoundland’s Gros Morne National Park, while in iceberg season huge white leviathans drift slowly along the shoreline on ocean currents.

Yukon Rich with the romance of the Klondike gold rush, the Yukon is a rare wilderness region dotted with pockets of civilisation that have been laid down by pioneers. Many of the gold rush towns have remained largely unchanged: step into Dawson City for streets lined with wooden clapboard houses evoking the ghosts of a bygone age. Most of the land is made up of forested mountains riven by rivers and scattered with lakes. Bears, wolves and moose vastly outnumber the human population, with trappers’ log cabins forming toehold settlements in a truly wild environment.

Find out more We have a brochure dedicated to Canada and Alaska.

Please ask our specialists on 01993 838 700 for your copy.

Alternatively, please see our website for further details.

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Useful information

Buoys, Provincetown, New England

Fly fishing, Florida Keys

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Contact us

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The USA makes a wonderful honeymoon destination, where it is easy to combine relaxation and adventure. From basking on the beautiful palm-fringed beaches of Hawaii, visiting dynamic cities like New York or San Francisco, to staying in an old Deep South plantation home, there are plenty of opportunities to create a unique and extraordinary trip. Our specialists can advise you on where to stay to enjoy dramatic sunsets in special locations, and suggest an array of activities such as riding with cowboys or hot air ballooning to ensure you have an unforgettable trip.

Terms & Conditions and Travel Insurance

Audley Travel, New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United Kingdom.

Telephone: 01993 838 755 Email: usa@audleytravel.com London Office: Audley Travel, Monsoon Building, 1 Nicholas Road, London W11 4AN, United Kingdom.

Flights A number of airlines fly directly to various gateway cities throughout the USA, including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, Delta and United. When selecting your airline and route we will take into account current airfares and taxes, your itinerary, and which airport you wish to fly from. Your specialist will discuss these options with you, along with opportunities to use the excellent internal flight network connecting cities across the country, and the benefits of upgrading to a premium class of travel for longer journeys.

Responsible travel We’re passionate about travel but also deeply aware of the responsibility we have to the people and places we visit. We believe that a visit from an Audley traveller should have a positive impact on the destination and, wherever possible, bring real benefits. We always endeavour to use locally-owned hotels, work with local guides and operators, and promote community and wildlife projects.

We carbon offset all our staff flights and you can choose to do the same, please speak to your specialist about this or follow the link on our website www.audleytravel.com/offset For more information about travelling responsibly and the charities and projects we support please visit www.audleytravel.com/rt

Your booking is subject to the terms and conditions of Audley Travel which are detailed in the booking form. It is vital that you have adequate travel insurance and we are able to suggest a number of policies either for the duration of your trip or on an annual basis.

AITO Membership Audley is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. The association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service.

Audley abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.com

Photography in this brochure We would like to thank the following photographers and organisations for the images used in this brochure: Alamy, Audley staff, clients and suppliers, AWL images, iStockphoto, Robert Harding, Superstock, The Florida Keys & Key West TDC. All images used in this brochure were obtained in good faith by Audley Travel Group Limited and in the belief that all necessary consents and clearances were obtained for their use. For any queries relating to photography please contact us on 01993 838 040.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Visit our offices

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If you would like to discuss your travel arrangements in person we welcome personal visits, please call in advance to arrange an appointment with one or more of our country specialists. Our offices are at the New Mill, a 17th-century converted wool mill on the outskirts of Witney, ten miles west of Oxford, on the edge of the Cotswolds.

We also have an office in west London, if this is more convenient for you.

Our website is packed with information, features and advice covering all our destinations across the globe. On the site you can browse by theme, interest or region as well as viewing additional accommodation options and itineraries that are not featured in this brochure. You can request all our brochures online or contact us via the website where there is the option to tell us about your plans so that we can start tailoring your itinerary.

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New Mill, New Mill Lane, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9SX, United Kingdom Telephone: 01993 838 755 • Fax: 01993 838 010 Email: usa@audleytravel.com • Website: www.audleytravel.com

This brochure has been printed on paper from well managed forests, approved by the Forest Stewardship Council ,® using vegetable inks. Our printer holds ISO 14001 and FSC® environmental certifications. Should you wish to dispose of your brochure, we kindly request that you recycle it. The paper used in this brochure has also been carbon balanced.