ROAD TRIPS
The Lofoten Islands, Norway
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INTRODUCTION
In the pantheon of classic holiday types, the road trip sits pretty much at the pinnacle. Hit the road and you can visit a destination’s best bits while also spending time exploring the off-the-beaten-track hinterland and exercising that rarely flexed instinct – genuine spontaneity. Remember spontaneity? It gets better, because there are road trips and then there are Original Travel road trips. Want to upgrade that middle of the road hire car? We’ve got you covered (or not, when we book you a convertible). Want to make an impromptu pit stop in an out of the way location? Call our clued-up local Concierge and they can recommend somewhere lovely for lunch at a moment’s notice. Want to enjoy a range of original experiences en route? Our knowledgeable destination consultants are on hand to weave these into your tailor-made itinerary. After all, everything is possible when Life is in the Detail.
Nick Newbury and Tom Barber, Founders
CONTENTS City, Country and Coast in Andalucia..................... 12 Avoiding Carguments............................................... 18 Touring Tasmania...................................................... 20 Family Adventures in the Golden State.................. 24 Are We There Yet?.................................................... 30 Culture in Sicily.......................................................... 32 Family Road Trip in South Africa............................. 36 Crossing the Andes.................................................. 42 Pimp My Ride............................................................. 46 Self-Drive Safari in Namibia..................................... 48 Family Adventure in Iceland..................................... 52 Panoramic Pit Stops................................................. 56 Laos Top to Bottom................................................... 58 Other Road Trips....................................................... 64
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INTRODUCTION
WhY TAKE A ROAD TRIP? The team at Original Travel have road tested all our destinations. Here’s why we’re such fans of the fast lane.
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FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT The ‘fly and flop’ holiday has its place but the classic road trip is hard to beat for a liberating sense of freedom. Each day you
may know where you want to end up, but not how you’ll get there and what spontaneous adventures you might have en route.
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MIX IT UP Road trips can be a cost-effective way to holiday. Not only can you pack your own picnics (and we’ll suggest the best spots
to stop), but because you’re on the move, you can mix up the types of places where you rest your head. Switch between expensive (but worth it) properties and more low-key, cost-effective accommodation as you go - we’re on hand to suggest the best of both.
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CALL ON OUR CONCIERGES Fly-drive holidays are a great way to get out of your comfort zone and recapture
a sense of spontaneity. Our network of clued-up local Concierges are the secret sauce in this road trip recipe, suggesting restaurants or activities in the places you stop en route and making changes as you go.
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INTRODUCTION
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THE PLACES IN BETWEEN One of the best reasons to road trip is the freedom to stop off where, when and as often as you want, which means endless
opportunity to discover a country’s hidden gems. Driving by a fun-looking local fiesta? Join in. Glimpse a gob-smacking view? Pull over and savour the scene. The favourite part of your trip might be just around the next wrong turn.
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LONG SIGHTED Whether you’re a city-dweller or not, there’s something seriously satisfying about being on the open
road and looking out across a seemingly endless landscape. Hit the road in the destinations we recommend, and you can enjoy views for miles and more (see page 56 for Panoramic Pit Stops).
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DRIVE TIME Don’t get us wrong - we love planes and trains, but automobiles are mighty fine too. Since you’ll be spending time
on the road, our regional playlists should be the soundtrack to your epic driving adventures. We’ll also help you pick the right vehicle. Want to try something a little different? In certain destinations we can upgrade your wheels to a convertible, or even a supercar (see page 46, Pimp My Ride).
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INTRODUCTION
OUR SERVICE
We’re called Original Travel for a reason. We’re constantly looking for innovative ways to make your holiday even better. We like to call it Original Thinking. Book with Original Travel and these services come as standard…
UK DEPARTURE ASSISTANCE Our team will meet you at the airport and fast-track you through
UK AIRPORT LOUNGE
Enjoy the comfort of an airport lounge with free drinks and snacks, even if you’re flying in economy
FAST-TRACK SERVICES In UK airports, we’ll speed you through check-in and security queues
PRE-BOOKED SEATS Avoid airlines’ random seat allocation
for flights booked with Original Travel
LOCAL CONCIERGES Our global network of Concierges live locally, know
their destinations inside and out, and are always on hand
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INTRODUCTION
ONE POINT OF CONTACT
HOLD SEATS
OUR APP
Our destination expert will
While fine-tuning your trip
Access your itinerary,
create a perfectly tailor-made
we’ll be holding airline seats
destination dossier and live
itinerary for you
updates on our app
BORROW A GOPRO
EXPERT GUIDES
Borrow one of our GoPros
Our expert guides will help you
Destination-specific info,
on selected trips
really get under the skin
challenges and games for
of your destination
every child (aged 3-10)
FULLY PROTECTED
PERFECT PICKS
24 HOUR HELPLINE Things can go wrong;
Your holiday is fully protected
FUN, FUN, FUN PACKS
We provide you with a
we’re on call 24/7 to offer
destination-specific reading
assistance if required
list and music playlist
To view more about The Detail and relevant Terms and Conditions, visit originaltravel.co.uk/additional-services
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100% CARBON OFF-SETTING
We are proud to off-set 100% of the carbon generated by our clients’ flights, transfers and car rentals and have committed, as a group, nearly £5,000,000 since 2010. For further information see: originaltravel.co.uk/carbon-off-setting
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INTRODUCTION
THE ORIGINAL TRAVEL FOUNDATION We believe travel and tourism should positively affect the people in the destinations we visit.
Our Foundation, created in 2009, supports a number of humanitarian projects in developing countries in Africa, Asia and South America. Since 2009, nearly £1,150,000 has been invested in the support of over 250 humanitarian projects in 30 countries, focusing on five key areas: Child protection Vocational training Economic development assistance Preservation of cultural and natural heritage Safeguarding the lifestyles of indigenous peoples We also support emergency relief efforts in large natural and humanitarian disasters, spending almost 14% of our annual budget on emergency humanitarian aid.
SUNDARBANS
KENYA
JOSÉ MANUAL PANDO
Our Foundation aims to improve
BOLIVIA
Due to climate change, the number
the living conditions and educational
We’re working to improve the living
of mangroves in India’s Sundarbans
opportunities for the Maasai
conditions of village communities in
region is rapidly declining. Our project
population in Kenya by providing the
the province of José Manual Pando,
aims to plant more than 16 million
following support: helping to set up
where 98% of the population live in
mangrove trees to protect the local
child sponsorship for schooling and
poverty. We support the ‘Weave the
communities’ homes and farmlands
school materials; providing literacy
Future’ project, which trains local
from flooding and to restore local
classes; conducting awareness
farmers to turn wool into high quality
biodiversity. So far 12,400 acres have
campaigns against FGM and HIV;
local crafts and textile products which
been replanted, impacting 250,000
and building a safe drinking water
they can sell to improve their income.
local people, and counteracting
MASAI MARA
dispensary for a village of 80 people.
WEST BENGAL, INDIA
750,000 tonnes of CO2.
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INTRODUCTION
OUR COLLECTIONS We specialise in a wide range of holiday types. Whether you’re an avid diver or in search of a last-minute Big Short Break, Original Travel can tailor-make something just for you. For more inspiration visit originaltravel.co.uk/collections
FAMILY
BOATS AND LIVEABOARDS BIG SHORT BREAKS SABBATICALS
CITY BREAKS 10 | originaltravel.co.uk
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INTRODUCTION
Top to bottom, left to right:
⚫ A Big Short Break in Marrakech, Morocco ⚫ Piazza Maggiore, Bologna, Italy
⚫ A honeymoon in Rajasthan and Agra, India
⚫ A family sailing holiday, Greece
⚫ Heli-skiing in Monte Rosa, Italy
⚫ Sailing on Alexa, Indonesia
⚫ Elephants in the Serengeti National
⚫ Hiking in Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
DIVING
⚫ Diving in the Maldives
Park, Tanzania ⚫ Villa Mangiacane in Tuscany, Italy
WINTER SPORTS
PRIVATE HIRE PROPERTIES
S
SAFARI HONEYMOONS
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FEATURE | ANDALUCIA
CITY, COUNTRY AND COAST in ANDALUCIA It’s been 500-plus years since Isabella and Ferdinand recaptured the last remnants of Andalucia from the Moors, but by then they had left an indelible Islamic identity on the southern Spanish region. An Andalusian road trip is a journey through this extraordinary fusion of Islamic and Iberian cultures, taking in architecture, history and cuisine, from the glorious Moorish aesthetics in Seville to the Catholic pilgrimage site of El Rocio.
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ANDALUCIA | FEATURE
Zahara de la Sierra, Andalucia
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FEATURE | ANDALUCIA
This: Flamingos in Doñana National Park Below: Plaza España, Seville
DOÑANA NATIONAL PARK Explore beyond the region’s cities by driving to Doñana National Park, a 134,000 acre nature reserve on Andalucia’s Atlantic coastline. Best explored by 4x4, in spring the park’s picturesque marshlands are home to huge numbers of geese, egrets, spoonbills, storks and - the star attraction - flamingos. As you explore, your private guide will explain how the park’s unique ecosystem lends itself to such a diverse array of wildlife, feathered and otherwise.
SECRET SEVILLE Ditch the car to explore the alleyways and courtyards of secret Seville. Away from the crowds, our expert local guides can reveal the hidden highlights of this fascinating MoorishSpanish city, from former harems to ancient convents. A handful of the convents are still run by charming nuns who make ends meet selling delicious marmalades made from the oranges for which the city is famous. Look no further for souvenirs.
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ANDALUCIA | FEATURE
A glass of fino sherry, olives and jamon iberico
CHÉRIE SHERRY Once the preserve of grandparents and vicars (and - criminally - served warm), sherry is making a much overdue comeback. If not already a convert, we can arrange a privately guided visit to one of the best independent bodegas in Jerez , where you will learn about the history behind this fortified wine and the buildings in which it is made. This vineyard is rarely open to the public and during your visit you will gain an insight into the botas (sherry casks) and barrels which are essential to sherry-making, before a five-course lunch with sherry pairings for each course.
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FEATURE | ANDALUCIA
THE ROUTE Seville
Doñana National Park
Jerez
Costa de la Luz
Hacienda San Rafeal Casa La Siesta
FROM PRICE: This road trip exploring Andalucia starts from £2,745 per person. DISTANCE:
c.235 miles
DRIVE TIME:
c.5 hours*
*Excluding any additional exploring
Images, top to bottom, left to right: - Balconies in Seville - Sevillian oranges - The village of El Rocio - The Costa de la Luz - A griffin vulture - Sherry tasting in Jerez
DAY 1: INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT
RAFAEL OUR SPAIN CONCIERGE
A Spanish native, Rafael has lived in Austria, France, Italy and the USA before settling between Seville and Madrid, where he enjoys biking, kayaking and rowing. He specialises in history of art and music tours and is just a phone call (or WhatsApp) away when you’re in Spain to help out with anything from recommending the best tapas bars in town to tracking down tickets to a sold out flamenco show.
After your flight to Seville you will be privately transferred to your city centre hotel. This evening, head out with your local guide and go behind the scenes of the city’s flamenco scene in the neighbourhood where the dance was born. Then visit a few favourite tapas haunts. Sevillian civilians party hard, so expect a late one. DAY 2: SECRET SEVILLE Explore the hidden corners of Seville with an expert guide on a half-day walking tour of the city. You will take in the Moorish-era old town before visiting a charming 14th century convent and then tucking in to a delicious fresh fish lunch in your guide’s favourite local restaurant.
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ANDALUCIA | FEATURE
DAY 3: DOÑANA NATIONAL PARK
DAY 5: SIERRA DE GRAZALEMA
DAY 7: SHERRY SHENANIGANS
Today is a mini-road trip in its own
This morning you will meet your guide
Visit a local sherry vineyard for a
right as you leave the city behind on a
for a four-hour hike through the Sierra
full-day tour and tasting experience
4x4 excursion in the Doñana National
de Grazalema mountains. As you walk
near Jerez, the home of this delicious
Park. You will explore Spain’s largest
through cork and holm oak forests,
fortified wine. The owners of the
national park, taking in rare wildlife
as well as groves of wild olives and
vineyard will show you round before
(including - hopefully - the extremely
almonds, keep your eyes peeled for
a slap up lunch and tasting of some
rare Iberian lynx) and beautiful birdlife.
the largest colony of griffin vultures
of their favourite sherries.
Then visit the nearby village of El
in Europe.
Rocio, where the 4x4 capability is just
DAY 8: BEACH BUMS
as useful because most of the ‘roads’
DAY 6: COUNTRY TO COAST
Today you can use the car to explore
are sandy. El Rocio is a pilgrimage site
After a lazy morning, it’s an hour-and-
the beautiful beaches along the
for thousands of Spanish gypsies
a-half drive to your costal hotel,
Andalusian coastline (our Concierge
every year.
but we strongly recommend taking
will recommend their favourites), in
any detours that take your fancy,
the process appreciating the clarity
DAY 4: CITY TO COUNTRYSIDE
particularly to explore some of the
of the light that led to this area being
Today the road trip starts for real
pueblos blancos – the charming
called the Costa de la Luz (the Coast
as you pick up your hire car for the
whitewashed hilltop villages that
of Light).
hour-long drive to your country estate
dot the landscape here. On arrival,
hotel in time for a delicious lunch.
spend the rest of the day relaxing
DAY 9: INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT
Spend the afternoon enjoying a siesta
by the pool.
After breakfast make the drive to
by the pool or going for a wander to
Jerez or Seville in good time for your
explore your surroundings.
late-morning flight back to the UK.
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TOP TIPS
AVOIDING CARGUMENTS Apparently a quarter of all arguments occur in the car. Here’s a road map to avoiding traffic-related tiffs. PACIFY THE KIDS
If the temperature is rising in the front seats, a full-on riot in the back won’t exactly help mellow the mood. See page 30 for a survival guide to road tripping with children in tow. Not literally towing them, although that’s not the worst idea ever…
DIRECTION DIRECTIONS
KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON
The main source of strife in the car is
Embrace wrong turns and see where
disagreements over the best route,
the road takes you. The most thrilling
so we recommend outsourcing the
moments and breathtaking views
decision-making to a traffic/navigation
aren’t always plotted on a map and
app. Like a one-stop couple conciliation
almost definitely require a little
service, the app will make the calls and
detour. Relax, enjoy the rewards
you just have to obey orders. The best
of taking the scenic route and
app – by far – is Waze.
remember to laugh!
BEST LAID PLANS
While spontaneity is king of the road trip, some things - like loo breaks, swapping drivers and meal times - are better planned in advance to help set expectations and ensure everybody’s needs are looked after.
WHERE THERE’S A WAZE THERE’S A WILL
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
The science bit: Waze is more than a sat
Minimise the chances of a
nav, using GPS location information
cargument with a few simple tricks.
from millions of Waze users to monitor
For instance, pre-agreeing on a
traffic jams in real time and suggest
compromise temperature in the car
quicker alternative routes. Important
and aiming to play soothing music
caveat - you have to trust the route,
(our regionally-specific playlists,
however convoluted it seems!
for example) are a good start.
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JUST ONE OF OUR MANY ADDITIONAL SERVICES...
UK AIRPORT LOUNGE Enjoy the comfort of an airport lounge with free drinks and snacks, even if you're flying in economy
To find out more about The Detail and relevant Terms and Conditions, see page six or visit originaltravel.co.uk/additional-services
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FEATURE | TASMANIA
Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
TOURING TASMANIA As a continent-sized country, Australia can be a daunting driving destination. However, the (relatively) pint-sized island of Tasmania is much more manageable road trip territory. On this two-week trip you’ll explore the wide open roads of ‘the land under the land down under’ as you make your way from city to coast to countryside and discover jaw-dropping scenery, wildlife wonders and world-class cuisine. 20 | originaltravel.co.uk
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TASMANIA | FEATURE
QUOLL PATROL In Launceston join your expert guide and venture into Ben Lomond National Park for an evening of wildlife watching. Drive through dense forest up to Tasmania’s highest point, where you will enjoy a four-course dinner of delicious local produce - think famously good Tassie salmon or unusual-yet-delicious wallaby burgers - served around a campfire as the sun sets. After dark the action cranks up a notch as the nocturnal wildlife emerges. Your guide will point out Forester kangaroos, brushtail possums, Tasmanian pademelons and, of course, adorable eastern quolls.
OYSTER FORAGING There’s something supremely satisfying about foraging for your
Above: Forester kangaroos, Ben Lomond National Park Right: Tasmanian devil road sign This: Oyster foraging, Freycinet
own food, ideally with a side order of chilled champagne. During a visit to Freycinet Marine Oyster Farm you’ll be suited and booted in waders and overalls to join the local farmers gathering prime Pacific oysters. As you forage, learn more about the region’s marine ecology before sampling your harvest at a table set up in the shallows. During lunch, take plenty of time to relish the beautiful views and novel setting; after all, meals don’t come much fresher or more scenic than this.
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FEATURE | TASMANIA
TOP TIPS GOING UNDERGROUND
GO WALKABOUT
Head underground for a cocktail at
There are hundreds of fantastic
Void Bar, underneath the weird and
walking trails to choose from in
wonderful MONA (Museum of Old and
Tasmania. One of our favourites is
New Art). The signature Poltergeist
a loop in Cradle Mountain National
Bramble cocktail is made of local
Park which takes in both Pencil Point
spirits and liqueurs including
and Knyvet Falls, two of the most
Poltergeist unfiltered gin, house-
beautiful spots in the park.
made wild blackberry liqueur and lemon juice.
AURORA AUSTRALIS Make sure you’ve got your camera
LAYER UP
settings sorted (you’re after a wide
Pack a jumper. Even in the height of
aperture and a long shutter speed) as
Tasmanian summer the mercury peaks
the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights
in the early 20s (degrees Celsius)
can often be seen in Tasmania. They’re
which is ideal walking temperature
most often spotted in Australian winter
but it can get chilly at night.
and in areas of low light pollution, of which there are plenty.
Bruny Island, Tasmania
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TASMANIA | FEATURE
THE ROUTE DAY 1: MELBOURNE
DAYS 7-8: LAUNCESTON
DAYS 11-12: LAKE ST. CLAIR
Touchdown in Melbourne and spend
Drive inland through lush green
Continue your Tasmanian adventure
your first day in Australia acclimatising
landscapes to lovely Launceston
as you take the scenic drive south
while exploring this cool, kooky city.
in the north-east of Tasmania.
through the rugged landscape of the
Come evening, join a local guide for a
The island’s second biggest city
Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage
fantastic foodie tour to discover the
happens to be home to some
Area to the shores of glacial Lake
city’s secret culinary hotspots and
fantastic wineries, so park the car
St. Clair. Your home for the next
best rooftop bars.
and let a driver or guide take you on
two nights is Pumphouse Point, a
a tour of the best vineyards. No trip
converted lodge overlooking the
DAYS 2-4 : HOBART
to Launceston would be complete
lake at the end of a 900ft jetty.
Your road trip around Tasmania
without also making time to explore
From this incredibly original base
should include plenty of stop offs,
the neighbouring wildlife hotspot of
you can make use of the lodge’s
starting today as you fly to the state
Ben Lomond National Park, just a
bikes and boats or explore via one
capital, Hobart. We can arrange
45-minute drive away.
of the well-marked nature walks.
in the Museum of Old and New Art
DAYS 9-10: CRADLE MOUNTAIN
DAY 13: HOBART
(MONA), a full-day whisky distillery
Epic scenery and a sense of true
Complete your loop of Tasmania as
tour, a guided day trip to beautiful
wilderness await you as you make
you drive the two-and-a-half-hours
Bruny Island and much more.
your way through verdant,
back to Hobart today.
tickets to see the eclectic collection
mountainous countryside to the DAYS 5-6: FREYCINET
north-west’s wonderfully wild Cradle
NATIONAL PARK
Mountain region. Park up and stretch
Tasmania is a dream destination for
your legs while you explore this
a road trip thanks to long open roads
naturally beautiful area on foot;
where you’re more likely to encounter
we can recommend some incredible
a wandering wombat than another car.
walks. While you’re here, make sure to
The drive from Hobart to Freycinet
visit the Tasmanian Devil Sanctuary
National Park is the perfect example
which offers some of the best
as you pass through lush green
sightings of the state’s iconic and
landscapes and along the picturesque
somewhat mysterious marsupials.
Melbourne
TASMANIA
east coast to arrive at the stunning Freycinet peninsula. Fill your days here with seafood, sea-views and some great guided coastal walks. One of our favourites will take you to Wineglass Bay where you can enjoy
Cradle Mountain
Launceston
breathtaking scenery while you learn more about the region’s flora, fauna and rich cultural history.
Lake St. Clair
Freycinet National Park
FROM PRICE: This Tasmanian road trip starts from £5,420 per person. DISTANCE:
c. 565 miles
DRIVE TIME:
c. 12 hours*
Hobart
*Excluding any additional exploring
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FEATURE | CALIFORNIA
FAMILY ADVENTURES
- in the -
GOLDEN STATE
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CALIFORNIA | FEATURE
California’s iconic Pacific Coast is the dream destination for a family road trip. Combine fun family urban adventures in San Francisco and Los Angeles with time spent enjoying the great outdoors. You and the children can explore a selection of national parks – home to raft-friendly rapids and wondrous wildlife – and learn to surf off beautiful beaches. Bonding never got better.
Bixby Bridge, Big Sur
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FEATURE | CALIFORNIA
WHALE OF A TIME There’s no two ways about it, Monterey Bay is the best spot in America - if not the world - for whale watching. Heading out to sea on a fast inflatable dinghy with one of our expert marine biologist guides is the best way to spot these magnificent mammals, as the boat can travel further and faster out to sea (usually about 10 miles off shore, and at up to 40 knots). The guides on board have decades of experience and can make an educated (and, more often than not, highly accurate) guess as to where the whales and other marine life will be, depending on the season and whether they are migrating or resident.
This: A humpback whale breaching Below: Learning to surf in Santa Barbara Right: Santa Barbara sunset
CATCH A BREAK Surfing is the ultimate family activity, and there are few better places to learn than the sandy shores of Santa Barbara. Maximise your time, and improve your skills, with a morning of private lessons. With an instructor dedicated just to your family you’ll be popping up and carving before you can say ‘hang ten, dude’. Even better, we’ll make sure your board hire lasts for as long as you are in town, so you can pop down to practise whenever you want.
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CALIFORNIA | FEATURE
Hiking in Yosemite National Park
HIT THE HIKES Planned properly, hiking in the Yosemite Valley is manageable for even the littlest of legs, and with a ranger for company this is a wonderful way to learn about the park’s wildlife and plantlife. Drive through these stunning surroundings and stop off for walks or to discover geological marvels such as Tunnel View viewing point (an ideal spot for a family photo), the 317ft tall Vernal Fall waterfalls and the iconic El Capitan rock formation. If you’re feeling truly adventurous, we can arrange for you to camp out for the night with a former park ranger.
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FEATURE | CALIFORNIA
THE ROUTE San Francisco
Four Mile Trail
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Morro Bay
Santa Barbara Los Angeles
FROM PRICE: This Californian road trip starts from £19,980 for a family of four. DISTANCE:
c.740 miles
DRIVE TIME:
c.10.5 hours*
*Excluding any additional exploring
DAY 1: FLY TO SAN FRANCISCO
DAY 4: TO YOSEMITE
DAYS 7-8: CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
After your direct 11-hour flight from
Today you’ll hit the open road. Pick
Drive back to the coast through the
London to San Francisco (our Sharky
up the keys to your hire car, get
patchwork farmland of San Joaquin
& George fun packs should keep the
yourselves comfy, have some
Valley – one of the world’s most fertile
children busy) one of our team on the
strategically useful snacks to hand
agricultural areas – to reach Carmel-
ground will whisk you to your city
and make the four-hour drive inland
by-the-Sea (former mayor: Clint
centre hotel.
to Yosemite National Park, your
Eastwood). This seaside city, sitting
home for the next three days.
at the south end of Monterey Bay
DAYS 2-3: SAN FRANCISCO
(see page 26 for whale watching
Your epic West Coast road trip is
DAYS 5-6: YOSEMITE
insights) has an unusual mix of
book-ended by two iconic American
NATIONAL PARK
California chic and quaint fairytale
cities. When in San Francisco take a
Every twist and turn in the road
cottages to delight the whole family.
cycle tour, including riding across the
in beautiful Yosemite opens up a
There’s plenty to do together for the
Golden Gate Bridge, before diving into
stunning vista. As you’re driving
next couple of days, from hiking and
the underwater world at the Aquarium
yourself you can stop wherever
tennis to arts and crafts, but for some
of the Bay, a firm family favourite.
you want to explore the park’s alpine
grown-ups-only time to indulge in a
Another must-do is a tour of the
meadows, tumbling waterfalls and
spa treatment or wine tasting, take
legendary island of Alcatraz, once
granite monoliths, and feel truly
advantage of the kids’ club at the hotel.
a Civil War fort, then a military prison
dwarfed alongside ancient sequoia
and one of the most notorious federal
trees. Keep an eye out for black-tailed
penitentiaries in US history.
deer and the endangered Sierra Nevada big horn sheep. We will also book you in for a morning river rafting in the Merced River canyon.
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CALIFORNIA | FEATURE
TOP TIPS SIZE MATTERS When hiring a car always go for something slightly bigger than you think you need. An SUV is ideal as it comes with space for all the children’s (never-ending) paraphernalia but allows you better views – crucial when driving along California’s Big Sur where you won’t want to miss a moment. Bigger windows in the back mean the children will have a better view, too. WRAP UP WARM Take a warm layer when you explore San Francisco. During the summer months the hot temperatures inland draw a sea mist into the city, meaning the average temperatures hover DAY 9: MORRO BAY
the beautiful beaches of this
Today you will drive the most iconic
Mediterranean-style city, fondly
section of one of the most memorable
known as The American Riviera.
around 14 Celsius. FARM TO FORK California is home to some of the
coastlines in the world – Big Sur. Taking Highway One you’ll hug the
DAYS 12-13: LOS ANGELES
freshest foodstuffs imaginable,
coastline, traverse the famous Bixby
Cruise the final two hours down
so even the fussiest children
Bridge and weave your way through
Highway One to the quirky coastal
will hopefully find something
the national park to Morro Bay.
suburb of Santa Monica, your base in
they like at the many farmers’
Stop off at one of the many cafes
the City of Angels. Hire bikes and take
markets en route.
and viewing points along the way and
the whole family on a leisurely cycle
open up your picnic hamper (prepared
along the coastal path between Santa
A FAMILY AFFAIR
by the hotel) for a once-in-a-lifetime
Monica and Venice Beach, where you’ll
You are never too old or too
lunch with a view. In Morro Bay, change
find plenty of colourful characters and
young for California. In fact,
pace with a whale watching excursion.
have another opportunity to surf. Then
this is a great destination for
Keep your eyes peeled for humpback,
it’s lights, camera, action at the movie
a 3G (three-generational)
California grey and blue whales, as
studios of Hollywood, and eyes on the
road trip. Children will love
well as the region’s famously cute
stars at both the Walk of Fame and the
the beaches and theme parks,
sea otters.
California Science Centre.
while parents and grandparents
DAYS 10-11: SANTA BARBARA
DAYS 14-15: FLY HOME
great outdoors, exploring the
Head another two hours south
Bid a fond farewell to your trusty car at
wine regions and absorbing
to Santa Barbara, driving via the
Los Angeles airport before your ten-hour
California’s infectious positivity.
winery-rich area around Santa
overnight flight back to London.
will love getting lost in the
Maria. Spend the next couple of days surfing, kayaking and swimming off
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TOP TIPS
ARE WE THERE YET? Keep the use of that dreaded phrase to a minimum with these road tested ruses. SHARKY & GEORGE FUN PACKS
All children aged from three to ten receive a fun pack designed by children’s party specialists Sharky & George. They contain challenges and games to keep little ones engaged, including a quiz and fun facts about your destination for that all-important educational element.
THE OLD ONES ARE THE BEST
THE RIGHT FUEL
No, we’re not talking diesel or unleaded, but rather what snacks
A little bit of planning here, some minimal additional packing there, and
to pack in order to refuel the
hey presto you’re primed with
children. Avoid sugary things
family-friendly games for the road. Top
if you want to minimise the risks
Trumps, travel-sized Connect Four
of happy highs followed by not
(cue happy flashbacks), travel-sized
so happy lows!
Battleship. These classic games transcend the generations.
I SPY… OTHER FUN GAMES
I Spy will only get you so far, but My Granny Went to Market (and bought…) is a nailed on classic. The only downside? Realising how terrible your memory is compared to the children’s.
AUDIOBOOKS
TAKE YOUR TABLETS
If you’re looking at a longer journey,
If all else fails, and much as we hate
make sure you’ve downloaded some
to admit it, sometimes a digital nanny
suitable audiobooks (or brought old
is a game-changer. Make sure the
school CDs). We can recommend some
iPads (other tablets are available) are
destination-specific crackers such as
fully charged, filled to the brim with
the Lauren St John White Giraffe series
the children’s favourite series and
for African trips or the Roman Mysteries
films and that there are enough
by Caroline Lawrence for Italy trips.
screens to go round.
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FEATURE | SICILY
Market day in Sicily
CULTURE in SICILY Few places in Europe can lay claim to as fascinating a history as Sicily, the ‘ball’ to Italy’s boot. A road trip around the island’s south-east corner allows you to explore 3,000 years of history in towns such as ancient Greek Agrigento and Baroque Ragusa, but also the island’s secret interior, where old men still watch the world go by in time-stood-still hilltop villages. 32 | originaltravel.co.uk
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SICILY | FEATURE
MOUNT ETNA A brooding presence in the Sicilian landscape, Mount Etna has shaped the lives of the people who reside on and around it for millennia. The best way to experience Europe’s largest volcano is on an early morning expedition to the summit. Driving past villages, fields of hazelnuts and vineyards, you will learn how, despite the risk, the locals remain deeply wedded to the land and the lives they lead here. On the mountain, hike to ruins of buildings that were lost to a lava flow in 2002 – a sobering reminder of the power of nature.
Above: View of Mount Etna from the Greek theatre in Taormina This: The Greek amphitheatre in Syracuse
IT’S ALL (ANCIENT) GREEK TO ME Make sure to visit the ancient Greek amphitheatre at Syracuse, one of the most important archaeological sites in Sicily. Carved directly into a hillside, the ancient playhouse is part of a network of ruins which make up the Syracuse and Necropolis of Pantalica UNESCO World Heritage Site. A tour with one of our expert archaeologist guides is a fascinating look at life in antiquity. The amphitheatre also hosts an annual festival (from May until July), when Italy’s finest actors perform ancient Greek plays for which we can snaffle tickets.
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FEATURE | SICILY
TOP TIPS BACK TO NATURE
NOTO BENE
Beautiful as the cities in Sicily are, too
Be sure to visit the city of Noto for
much time away from nature is bad
a pit stop between Ragusa and
for the soul. To remedy this, visit the
Syracuse. Head to Caffe Sicilia and
nature reserves of Cavagrande del
taste the famous almond granita
Cassibile on the drive from Ragusa
(a Sicilian sorbet) before marvelling
to Syracuse, where we can arrange
at the beautifully Baroque cathedral.
a trek through the wilderness of the Hyblaean mountain range, before a
DAY TRIPPING
spot of wild swimming.
Less than an hour’s drive south of Syracuse is the charming town of
KEEP IT SIMPLE
Marzamemi. Like a less polished
In some destinations it might be
version of St Tropez, it is full of lovely
tempting to upgrade to a swankier
squares, churches, boutiques and
type of car. Not Sicily. When it comes
restaurants - perfect for a day trip
to navigating the tiny labyrinthine lanes
spent lingering over lunch. Eat on the
in the island’s towns or winding hillside
terrace at Cortile Arabo, just off the
roads - not to mention finding a parking
main square and with sea views, then
space - small and chic really is best.
take the scenic route back to Syracuse.
Noto cathedral
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SICILY | FEATURE
THE ROUTE DAY 1: INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT
DAY 5: RAGUSA AND MODICA
DAY 9: TAORMINA
After you’ve flown to Catania on the
The neighbouring towns of Ragusa
It’s time to leave the city behind and
east coast of Sicily, pick up your hire
and Modica are equally intriguing
follow the coast north to Taormina,
car and head west to Agrigento, about
for their history and elegant Baroque
the hilltop town in the shadow of
two hours’ drive away through Sicily’s
architecture, and today you’ll explore
Mount Etna and the final destination
unspoilt hinterland.
them both with a guide, learning about
on your road trip. Explore the town
early modern Sicilian history.
with a private guide and visit the
DAY 2: THE VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES
Greek theatre with its picture-perfect
Explore ancient Agrigento today with
DAY 6: RAGUSA TO SYRACUSE
an expert guide, starting at the Valley
It’s back on the road today as you
of the Temples just outside of the
drive to a beautiful spot on the coast
DAY 10: MOUNT ETNA
hilltop city. Trace the history of this
near Syracuse. Enjoy an afternoon
After seeing her from afar yesterday,
archaeologically intriguing gem from
by the pool before an aperitivo with
it’s time to tackle Mount Etna yourself.
the golden age of ancient Greece up
Lucia, your eccentric host, followed
With an expert geologist guide you will
to the present day.
by a delicious dinner.
make your way up the volcano, learning
DAY 3: AGRIGENTO TO RAGUSA
DAY 7: SYRACUSE CITY TOUR
Experience the stunning Sicilian
The culture and history of Syracuse
coastline this morning as you make
and its island offshoot Ortigia are
DAY 11: INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT
the drive south-east to your country
on the menu today. Starting with the
Enjoy a lazy morning before making
estate hotel near the historic city of
Phoenician ruins, dating from 734 BC,
the hour-long drive back south to
Ragusa, stopping for a picnic with a
you will travel through time, stopping
Catania for your flight home.
panoramic view. Take the drive at your
off in ancient Greece and the Baroque
own pace then spend the afternoon
period, before finishing in the city’s
relaxing (we can even arrange
storied Jewish Quarter.
framed views of Etna and the coast.
about Etna’s cultural significance and place in Greek mythology.
pampering spa treatments).
Taormina
DAY 8: COOKING UP A STORM DAY 4: THE BALCONY OF SICILY
Today explore a different side of Sicilian
Drive out of the city and head to the
culture - its gastronomy. Sicilians are
‘Balcony of Sicily’ – the nearby town of
fiercely proud of their cuisine, so with a
Chiaramonte Gulfi – with your expert
private chef you will learn how to make
guide. We’ve timed your visit so that
fresh arancini (fried rice balls) and
you can soak up the spectacular
caponata (aubergine stew) to rival
sunset views to Gela and Mount
nonna’s (grandma’s), before tucking
Etna while you enjoy a wine-tasting.
in to your feast for lunch.
Catania Agrigento Ragusa Syracuse
FROM PRICE: This Sicilian road trip starts from £4,240 per person. DISTANCE:
c.360 miles
DRIVE TIME:
c.8 hours*
*Excluding any additional exploring
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FEATURE | SOUTH AFRICA
Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Peninsula
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SOUTH AFRICA | FEATURE
A FAMILY ROAD TRIP
- in -
SOUTH AFRICA South Africa’s south coast is one of our favourite family road trip destinations – so popular in fact that both our co-founders took their families on road trips there last year. During this 13-day trip you’ll drive from Cape Town to the Cape Winelands and then along the famous Garden Route, eventually reaching the Eastern Cape where the cast of The Lion King await.
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FEATURE | SOUTH AFRICA
CAPE CRUSADERS When in Cape Town join a guide and venture out of the city on a private, fun-filled adventure to the Cape Peninsula. Each tour is completely tailor-made to suit your specific family requirements and you’ll be driven around in a specially adapted ‘adventure utility vehicle’ packed full of family-friendly toys (surf boards, fun packs) and a delicious lunchtime picnic. Some highlights you might want to slot into the day are boogie boarding or surfing on the super safe beach break at Muizenberg; meeting the cute penguins at Boulders Beach; spotting baboons, sea lions and ostriches at Cape Point and enjoying enormously fun treasure hunts in the dunes.
Fun with the penguins, Boulders Beach, Cape Peninsula
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SOUTH AFRICA | FEATURE
SPROGS ON SAFARI Watching the joy on your child’s face as they meet real-life-Simba is something you’ll never forget. That said, we also understand that children can’t be cooped up in a 4x4 all day. Luckily we work with several safari lodges that specialise in catering for kiddies and whose staff will make sure the stay is as magical as it is varied. The malaria-free and Big Five (elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, lions and leopards) populated Eastern Cape is one of Africa’s best family friendly safari regions, with lodges offering private vehicles and activities such as bush orientation, paw patrols, dung discovery and ‘bug CSI’.
MONKEYING AROUND Plettenberg Bay plays host to a number of wildlife sanctuaries, many of which merit a visit. If we had to pick a favourite, though, it would be Monkeyland, the world’s first free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary, where your little monkeys can meet their distant (or not) cousins. Spend a morning exploring and spot the likes of capuchin monkeys, ringtail and black-and-white ruffed lemurs, squirrel monkeys This: Canopy walkway, Monkeyland, Plettenberg Bay Above Left: Simba spotting, Kwandwe Game Reserve Above Right: Dung discovery, Kwandwe Game Reserve
and gibbons in the sanctuary’s 70 acres of indigenous forest. For those not scared of heights, a real highlight is the canopy walkway suspended 420ft above ground.
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FEATURE | SOUTH AFRICA
THE ROUTE Eastern Cape Cape Winelands
Plettenberg Bay
Cape Town De Hoop Nature Reserve Images, top to bottom, left to right: FROM PRICE: This South African family road trip starts from £18,000 for a family of four. DISTANCE:
c.600 miles
DRIVE TIME:
c.12.5 hours*
*Excluding any additional exploring
- Sandboarding fun, De Hoop Nature Reserve - A lone zebra, Shamwari Game Reserve - A ruffed lemur, Monkeyland, Plettenberg Bay - Learning bush skills, Kwandwe Game Reserve
DAYS 1-3: CAPE TOWN
DAYS 4-5: CAPE WINELANDS
DAYS 6-7: DE HOOP
Begin your family adventure in
Your hire car will be delivered to
NATURE RESERVE
colourful Cape Town after a 12-hour
your hotel for the road trip to begin
Next up it’s a two-and-a-half-hour
direct flight. Start with a (revolving)
in earnest. First stop, just an hour
drive through beautiful countryside
cable car ride to the top of iconic
away: the Cape Winelands. Once
to the De Hoop Nature Reserve, a
Table Mountain to spot hyraxes -
somewhere best for adults, the
World Heritage Site reserve made up
like over-grown guinea pigs - and
region has welcomed a raft of fun
of 139 square miles of conservation
to point out where you’re staying to
new family experiences, meaning
area with rich biodiversity and over
the children. Then spend your days
parents and children alike can
30 miles of pristine coastline.
exploring the stunning Kirstenbosch
now enjoy the charming town of
Essentially, this is one enormous
Botanical Gardens (complete with
Franschhoek and the surrounding
family adventure playground, where
canopy walkway, epic tree climbing
vineyards. Go on bike tours, meet
children and parents alike can choose
potential and wild tortoises to hunt
Pigcasso, - a porcine painter whose
from activities such as sandboarding,
for) and visiting the fun Waterfront for
works sell for thousands of rand -
beach volleyball, whale watching (in
shopping and family-friendly suppers.
and, of course, enjoy a guided winery
season), rock-pool snorkelling and
Finally, join a guide for a full day tour
tour. While Mum and Dad have private
mountain biking.
of the Cape Peninsula (see Cape
wine tastings, the children are taken
Crusaders, page 38).
on a spooky cellar tour or to enjoy their own grape juice tastings.
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SOUTH AFRICA | FEATURE
ZOLA
OUR SOUTH AFRICA CONCIERGE After studying in France, Zola returned to Johannesburg to work at Satyagraha House, a hotel/museum where Gandhi once lived. She is passionate about South Africa, and can handle any sort of last-minute request, be that tickets for a cricket or rugby match, organising stargazing with a private astronomer deep in the savannah, or a beginner’s surf lesson in Muizenberg.
ZOLA’S TOP TIPS PICNIC IN THE PARK If you’re travelling between December and March, and in DAYS 8-10: PLETTENBERG BAY
DAYS 11-13: EASTERN
A four-hour drive (via Swellendam -
CAPE RESERVE
a swell place to stop for lunch)
We’ve saved the best until last -
takes you to the coastal town of
spotting Big Five game in the wild.
Plettenberg Bay, a great base for a
After another four-hour drive, spend
multitude of outdoorsy adventures.
the last three days of the trip on safari
Split your time between the beach
at one of the malaria-free (so you don’t
and the lush forests just away from
have to force feed the children malaria
the coast, either swimming in the
tablets) game reserves in the Eastern
sea and building sandcastles, or
Cape. This should be the icing on the
visiting one or more of the brilliant
cake of a fantastic family holiday, with
wildlife sanctuaries in the area
the little ones seeing their first big
(see Monkeying Around, page 39),
game, but also learning bush skills
including an elephant sanctuary
such as tracking and navigation and
where the children can see African
gaining a greater understanding of
ellies up close, a horse riding centre
this beautiful but fragile ecosystem
and a huge exotic bird sanctuary.
(see Sprogs on Safari, page 39, for more details).
Cape Town on a Sunday, we can book tickets and provide a picnic for one of the outdoor concerts in the beautiful Kirstensbosch Botanical Gardens. SUNSET AT EMILY’S When in Plettenberg Bay visit Emily’s restaurant at Emily Moon River Lodge and tuck into the delicious Karoo Lamb Rack as you watch a spectacular sunset over the river. ROBBERG RESERVE Make use of the hire car and visit Robberg Nature Reserve on the outskirts of Plettenberg Bay where you can spot sea lions, explore ancient caves and race each other along the beautiful beaches.
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FEATURE | PATAGONIA
CROSSING the ANDES At the ends of the Earth sits Patagonia, one of the planet’s most extreme environments and our favourite (off-)road trip destination. The region, which straddles Chile and Argentina, is quintessential off-the-beaten-track territory, best explored on a high-octane road trip driving your own high-spec 4x4. There are plenty of opportunities to hike, too, with the towering peaks and wild pampas of the Torres del Paine National Park as a dramatic backdrop.
On the road in Torres del Paine National Park
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PATAGONIA | FEATURE
PUMA TRACKING Elusive and tricky to spot, pumas (also known as mountain lions or cougars) are undeniably the most impressive animals in Torres del Paine National Park. The best time to spot them is between May and August, when the park is at its least crowded and the pumas gather en masse in one spot to hunt llama-like guanacos. This makes these otherwise notoriously elusive animals much easier to see, and our expert guides know the best spots to sit and wait for the big cats
This: A puma hunting in Torres del Paine National Park Below: Gauchos in Torres del Paine National Park
to arrive - an experience to rival any African Big Five-spotting safari.
NO PAINE NO GAIN This area of the Torres del Paine National Park may not be the wild horse-filled landscape it was when 19th century European explorers first clapped eyes on this wilderness (and committed it to watercolour), but it’s not tame by any means. This vast basin of yellow pampas and rugged mountains under extraordinary skies is best explored on a hike with an expert local guide. Keep one eye on the view and the other searching for fossils, all the while learning about everything from the prehistoric creatures who lived here to the modern-day gauchos (cowboys) who call this home.
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FEATURE | PATAGONIA
TOP TIPS WIND UP
SEASONED TRAVELLERS
Be prepared for wind, whatever time
For the highest chance of seeing
of year you’re here, and particularly
wildlife and avoiding the crowds, head
in peak season. You can trek to the
to Patagonia early or late in the season
Towers at Torres Del Paine starting
(October and April). Our team have the
in shorts and T-shirt and end up
inside track on the best times of year
wishing you were in ski gear, so we
to see different wildlife and, of course,
recommend dressing like an onion,
having your own car means you can
with lots of layers you can peel off
get even further off the beaten path.
and back on. GUIDING LIGHT CHANGE OF PLANS
You will have a guide throughout the
Always check the weather forecast
road trip who can tailor the trip to
and be prepared to amend your plans
whatever you are most interested in
accordingly. Our support network
(from photography to hiking to wildlife)
(Concierge, ground team etc) are in
and – rather spoilingly – drive
place to make last-minute changes
whenever you want to take a break.
for you.
Off-road in Patagonia
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PATAGONIA | FEATURE
THE ROUTE DAY 1 - 2: FLY TO SANTIAGO
DAY 7: TORRES DEL PAINE
Take a 14-and-a-half hour overnight
Depending on how active you want
flight from London to Santiago. Once
to be, today brings another choice.
you’ve landed, one of our team on the
For a serious challenge and some of
ground will whisk you to your hotel
the most breathtaking scenery in
where you can drop your bags before
the world, head to the Base of the
a walking tour of the Chilean capital
Towers, or choose from a combination
this afternoon.
of shorter routes to see meadows, lakes and rocky outcrops.
DAY 3: HEADING SOUTH Following a private transfer to the
DAY 8: ACROSS THE BORDER
airport, you will catch a three-and-a-
Drive approximately five hours
half hour flight to Puerto Natales,
(dependent on photo stops and time
the gateway to Chilean Patagonia.
at the border) east into Argentina and Los Glaciares National Park.
DAY 4: RANCHING AROUND
ARGENTINA Los Glaciares National Park
Torres del Paine Puerto Natales
CHILE
FROM PRICE: This road trip through Patagonia starts from
Head to a local estancia (ranch)
DAY 9: PERITO MORENO GLACIER
for a day of outdoorsy fun, exploring
Start your day ice hiking across the
the fjords on foot, horseback or in a
top of the Perito Moreno Glacier,
4x4. After a traditional Patagonian
before spending the afternoon
lunch, you will learn to shear sheep
wandering along the glacier’s
and herd them with border collies.
observation boardwalk. You might
Before dinner, you will be introduced
witness the glacier calving – where
to your guide and trusty 4x4, which
a chunk from the front of the glacier
you will drive for the rest of your
breaks off into the water below.
to the drive from Puerto Natales
DAY 10: HORSING AROUND
in the Torres del Paine and Los
time in Patagonia. DAY 5: HIT THE ROAD
Our team on the ground will have
Get behind the wheel of your 4x4
collected your car last night, so
and head into the dramatic Torres
today you will be transferred to a
del Paine National Park. Drive north,
local ranch to spend the last day
taking in as much of the park as
of your holiday horsing around on
possible and stopping en route for
Argentine purebreds.
£8,500 per person. DISTANCE:
c.185 miles
DRIVE TIME:
c.4.5 hours*
*Excluding any additional exploring NB. This driving time relates only to El Calafate and not the drives Glaciares National Parks. The border crossing could take 20 minutes or longer.
a (relatively) easy starter hike up to tranquil Laguna Azul.
DAY 11 – 13: HEADING HOME This morning you will be privately
DAY 6: TORRES DEL PAINE
transferred to El Calafate airport
Start the day with a drive around Grey
for the first leg of your homeward
Lake to get up close to the mighty
trip. You will overnight in Buenos
Glacier Grey. This afternoon, choose
Aires this evening, so visit a tango
between hiking to Mirador Ferrier (an
club (our Concierge can recommend
off-trail scramble up the mountain) or
and book the best), before your early
Mirador Condor (a climb through high
afternoon overnight flight home. You
altitude pampas) for some epic views.
will land early next morning.
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TOP TIPS
PIMP MY RIDE
Some roads demand to be driven, so a bog standard hire car just won’t cut it. Add some horsepower to your holiday with these upgrades. CHAPMAN’S PEAK DRIVE, SOUTH AFRICA Cruise out of Cape Town and along
the coastal Chapman’s Peak Drive in a classic backdraft racing Cobra. Feel the wind in your hair as you take in views of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and pit stop for a picnic at Hout Bay.
SEA TO SKY HIGHWAY, CANADA
Complete your California road trip
HIGHWAY ONE, USA
Feel the rush of driving a Ferrari
by upgrading to a supercar and
or a Lamborghini on this ultimate
you’ll feel like you’re truly living the
three-hour supercar driving
American dream. Whether you
experience. Travelling along the Sea
want a casually cool Porsche
to Sky Highway from Vancouver to
convertible, BMW’s latest sporty
Squamish the scenery is as stunning
number or an unashamedly
as your supercar’s performance,
gas-guzzling all-American
so buckle up and enjoy the views.
Hummer, we can organise it.
FURKA PASS, SWITZERLAND
Hug the hairpin bends made famous in James Bond’s Goldfinger as you race up the Furka Pass Alpine crossing. We can arrange for you to borrow a car to rival Bond’s; ejector seat not included.
FAR NORTH ICE FIELDS, FINLAND
Speed across snow and ice at the
JAIPUR CITY, INDIA
Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting you drive around Jaipur yourself, but
world’s leading winter tyre test centre.
with an experienced driver/guide at
With a beautiful ‘White Lake’ and over
the wheel you can navigate between
1,000 acres of track terrain, there’s
the City Palace, Hawa Mahal and
plenty of space to speed and boy
Jantar Mantar observatory in your
(and girl) racers can even pull a few
choice of classic vintage car –
highspeed handbrake turns.
an iconic Austin 7, perhaps?
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JUST ONE OF OUR MANY ADDITIONAL SERVICES...
LOCAL CONCIERGES Our global network of Concierges live locally, know their destinations inside and out, and are always on hand
To find out more about The Detail and relevant Terms and Conditions, see page six or visit originaltravel.co.uk/concierge
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FEATURE | NAMIBIA
SELF-DRIVE
SAFARI in NAMIBIA
Namibia’s open, empty roads and dramatic landscapes make this one of our all-time favourite road trip destinations. Travel from Windhoek to the mighty Victoria Falls on this 12-day trip and encounter abundant wildlife while taking in both the arid Etosha National Park and the lush Caprivi Strip en route.
Giraffe jam, Etosha National Park
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NAMIBIA | FEATURE
CAPRIVI STRIP One of the most ecologically diverse and geographically intriguing regions in Africa, the Caprivi Strip – Namibia’s northern pan-handle – is a must-visit on your road trip. Relatively unexplored and blissfully undeveloped, you’ll have the Caprivi’s long open road (almost) all to yourself while passing landscapes including Popa Falls, the Kavango River and sub-tropical Bwabwata National Park. You’ll have plenty of opportunity for casually spectacular encounters with local wildlife including huge herds of buffaloes, elephants – who pass along the strip on their migration route – and elusive African wild dogs. To the east, spot crocs and hippos in the Zambezi River, plus over 450 species of birds that thrive in this striking landscape.
This: Overlooking the Kavango River, Caprivi Strip Below: The thundering Victoria Falls
ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK Widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest wildlife-viewing destinations, Etosha National Park is also one of the world’s easiest locations to enjoy a self-drive safari. Whether you want to join the action with other drivers or find your own quiet spot, Etosha’s arid nature means wildlife naturally congregates around the numerous watering holes in their hundreds, so you can park up and let the animals come to you. Expect to see the Big Five (elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, Watering hole playtime, Etosha National Park
lions and leopards) plus numerous other animals such as springboks, zebras and oryxes. With well-marked roads and an easy-to-use map highlighting all the main watering holes and salt pan lookouts, this 9,000 square mile wildlife haven is ripe for road trip exploration.
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FEATURE | NAMIBIA
THE ROUTE DAY 1: WINDHOEK
place to see the Big Five from the
DAYS 9-10: BWABWATA
After a 14-hour international flight, start
comfort of your car. Go at your own
NATIONAL PARK
your Namibian adventure in the capital,
pace from watering hole to watering
The verdant, lush landscapes of
Windhoek. Relax at your hotel or do
hole, taking in the ever-changing
Bwabwata National Park are in stark
some exploring before your rental 4x4 is
scenery from arid plains and salty
contrast to the arid desert for which
dropped off in preparation for tomorrow.
pans to prominent kopjes (isolated
Namibia is more famous. In addition
hills) and forested groves.
to the huge herds of elephants and
DAYS 2-3: OKONJIMA NATURE
other game that call this habitat
RESERVE
DAYS 6: KAVANGO REGION
home, this is also one of the few
Hit the road and travel three hours
Today stop off in the tranquil Kavango
African national parks with its own
north to Okonjima Nature Reserve
Region on the northern border with
human community, lending it the
- one of the best places to spot
Angola. Here the scenery switches
nickname ‘The People’s Park’.
notoriously shy cheetahs. As well as
from arid pans to lush riverine
the regular guided game drives, we
landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled
DAYS 11-12: VICTORIA FALLS
will also arrange for you to spend a
for fish eagles and crocodiles.
Cross the border into Zimbabwe
morning with the AfriCat Foundation
and arrive at the incomparable
team to track the resident cheetahs
DAYS 7-8: CAPRIVI STRIP
Victoria Falls, the world’s largest
via their radio collars and learn more
Drive east to this lesser-known yet
curtain waterfall. As well as visiting
about their conservation programme.
intensely interesting strip of land
the thundering falls, enjoy a sunset
that borders Angola, Zambia,
cruise along the Zambezi and relax
DAYS 4-5: ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK
Zimbabwe and Botswana. Here
at your lovely riverside lodge before
Three hours further north you will
you’ll encounter diverse flora
flying home.
reach the southern edge of Etosha
and fauna and enjoy river-based
National Park, from where you drive
excursions, with the bird-watching
east across the park itself. This is the
and fishing particularly good. Bwabwata National Park
Kavango Region
Etosha National Park
Victoria Falls
Caprivi Strip
FROM PRICE: This self-drive safari through Namibia starts from £4,660 per person. Okonjima Nature Reserve
DISTANCE
c. 1,145 miles
DRIVE TIME
c. 21 hours*
*Excluding any additional exploring NB. Parts of this road trip will use gravel roads and/or take you into
Windhoek
national parks, where wild animals roam freely and much slower speeds (c. 20mph) are required to enjoy the scenery and wildlife
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NAMIBIA | FEATURE
A leopard hunting, Bwabwata National Park
TOP TIPS CHAT TO DAVID
SUNSET CRUISE
Our charismatic and knowledgeable
For a truly memorable and romantic
Namibia Concierge David has lived
evening in the Caprivi Strip, make
in Southern Africa for longer than
sure you book a sunset cruise on
he cares to remember. After time in
the Kavango River - and take your
South Africa and Botswana, David
bird book along too.
has now lived in Namibia for 17 years and is our go-to expert for advice
LOCAL LIFE
and recommendations. Not one to do
Add a touch of local colour to your
things by halves, David will meet you
evening in Winhoek with a trip to Joe’s
at your hotel in Windhoek to talk you
Beerhouse, where you’ll experience
through how to get the most of your
the famous Namibian hospitality and
time in this incredible country, plus all
enjoy some delicious craft beers and
of the practicalities that will help along
a hearty meal.
the way, such as how to change a tyre.
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FEATURE | ICELAND
The original Geyser
A FAMILY ADVENTURE in ICELAND Easier on the eye than it is on the tongue (try pronouncing the place Þjóðvegur); Iceland is wild, woolly and utterly wonderful. This quirky North Atlantic island is also an alltime Original Travel favourite for an off-the-beaten-path family road trip. We promise that even the most screenobsessed teenager will be transfixed by the power of Icelandic natural beauty and its capacity for adventure. 52 | originaltravel.co.uk
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ICELAND | FEATURE
THOR’S WOOD Hop into a specially modified superjeep (with massive tyres) and make your way along Iceland’s southern shores - expert guide in tow - in the direction of one of the most revered sites on the island: Þórsmörk (The Woods of Thor). As you explore the valley, which is surrounded by three glaciers and a mountain range, you will be able to spot the notorious Eyjafjallajökull glacier, the cause of much ash cloud-related chaos in 2010. On the way to the valley, you can also put your superjeep through its paces when you cross several glacial rivers at Seljalandsfoss.
JOURNEY TO THE CENTRE OF THE EARTH When you’re in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, jump in the car and nip to the tip of the peninsula to visit Vatnshellir, a lava tube created by a volcanic eruption over 8,000 years ago. It is the most accessible such cave in Iceland, where adventurous hikers can head through an unremarkable-looking door and follow the path the lava took all those years ago. Head 650ft into the cave and almost 115ft beneath the surface of the Earth, where you will be surrounded by extraordinary and colourful lava formations. Above: Krossa River, Thorsmork This: Vatnshellir lava tube
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FEATURE | ICELAND
TOP TIPS FORTY WINKS
A WHALEY GOOD TIME
Summer nights in Iceland can
Whales have played a huge
be pretty bright, so make sure
part in Icelandic culture for
you take eye masks to help the
centuries, so dig a little
children sleep through.
deeper and visit Reykjavik’s Whale Museum to see the
HOOF IT
life-size interactive models
Adorable and ever so sturdy,
and learn more about these
Icelandic horses may be
magnificent creatures.
pony-sized but they pack a cart horse-sized punch when
SECRET SWIMS
it comes to family fun. They
Iceland is known the world
are also steady enough for
over for its hot springs and
even the most inexperienced
thermal baths, but the most
rider to handle, making a ride
famous can get pretty busy.
across the rugged landscape
Fortunately, we have the inside
the perfect way to spend an
track on the best secret spots
afternoon as a family.
for some thermal bathing away from the crowds.
Icelandic horses
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ICELAND | FEATURE
THE ROUTE DAY 1 : HEAD NORTH
DAY 5: SUPERJEEP ADVENTURES
On arrival in Reykjavik after a direct
Head south along the coast today,
three-hour flight, pick up your hire car
switching over to a superjeep to
and make the three-hour drive to the
explore the Thorsmork Canyon at
Snaefellsnes Peninsula, passing
the feet of the Eyjafjallajökull and
through tunnels and crossing bridges
Mýrdalsjökull glaciers. Then jump
along the dramatically rugged coastline.
back in your own car to continue
Snaefellsnes Húsafell
down the road, stopping at the eerie DAY 2: JOURNEY TO THE
wreckage of an old DC airliner before
CENTRE OF THE EARTH
making your way to your next hotel.
Jules Verne had his explorers in Journey to Centre of the Earth
DAY 6: GLACIER HIKING
descend into the Vatnshellir lava
Today, drive inland through storm-
tunnel at the beginning of their
battered wilderness to Skaftafell
adventure. With your expert guide
National Park, where you will meet
you too can explore the twin caverns,
your guide for a hike along the
learning about the lifespan of volcanic
crevasses and natural icy formations
eruptions from the lava in the tunnel
of Europe’s largest glacier. Continue
left behind by the original eruption.
your drive through the verdant
When you reach the deepest point,
Kirkjubærklaustur region, stopping
turn off your head torch and feel for
so the children (and you) can explore
the faint breeze that permeates
moss-covered lava flows and
through the rock.
waterfalls before you reach your next hotel, two-and-a-half hours back along
DAY 3: VIKING SUSHI
the coast towards Reykjavik.
Hvolsvöllur Coast
Reykjavik
Ásólfsskáli Coast
Glacier Lagoon
FROM PRICE: This Icelandic family road trip starts from £14,860 for a family of four. DISTANCE:
c.910 miles
DRIVE TIME:
c.21.5 hours*
*Excluding any additional exploring NB. This does not include excursions such as the superjeep adventure
This morning you will swap car for boat. As you sail around the area’s
DAY 7: EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL GLACIER
numerous and beautiful islands, your
Head out onto the notorious
crew will scoop up delicious scallops
Eyjafjallajökull glacier (of ash cloud
and sea urchins (aka Viking sushi)
infamy) for a snowmobile adventure
from the sea bed for your lunch.
where children as young as six can
Then head east and, following a hike
sit behind parents as you race across
through lava fields and forests in the
the ice. Afterwards it’s a two-and-a-
Valley of Husafell and a soak in the
half hour journey back to Reykjavik
hot springs at Krauma spa, drive on
past desolate coastlines and lunar
to your next hotel.
landscapes, as well as the Reykjanes Peninsula, where the North American
DAY 4: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE
and European tectonic plates meet.
Head off and explore some of Iceland’s
Continue on to Reykjavik for the last
most iconic sites today on a driving tour
night of your road trip.
of the Golden Circle, visiting Þingvellir (Thingvellir), site of the world’s first
DAY 8: FLY SOUTH
parliament; Geysir, home to the geyser
Spend the day exploring Reykjavik,
which gave the world the name; and
Europe’s smallest capital city, and
the spectacular Gulfoss waterfall.
relaxing in the geothermal waters
We’ll recommend a cunning route that
of the world-famous Blue Lagoon
means you avoid the coach tours.
before your three-hour flight home.
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TOP TIPS
Panor amic PIT STOPS You’re here for the freedom of the open road, but do stop to take in the sheer magnificence of your surroundings. CAPE OTWAY LIGHTHOUSE, AUSTRALIA
Veer off the Great Ocean Road to take in Cape Otway Lighthouse, where you can see nothing but ocean (and perhaps a whale or two) for miles on either side of the peninsula - in fact the nearest western land mass is South Africa.
SANTA MARIA DI LEUCA, ITALY
EL SECRETO JOSÉ IGNACIO, URUGUAY
Spend a day driving south from
Hug the coast from Montevideo to
Otranto in Puglia and finish up in
Punta Del Diablo and enjoy unspoilt
Santa Maria di Leuca, best timed to
ocean views as you pass fishing
coincide with a spectacular sunset.
villages and wonderfully wild
From the town’s hilltop viewpoint
beaches. One of our favourite beach
you’ll look out at the point where
stops is El Secreto José Ignacio,
the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet.
where you’ll see local surfers expertly riding the perfect waves.
MALIGNE LAKE, CANADA
Drive the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper National Parks and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the Rockies. Make a day of it and stop plenty of times, including beside the brilliant blue glacial waters of Maligne Lake.
SPITZKOPPE, NAMIBIA On your Skeleton Coast self-drive, make sure to include a stop at
CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD, NZ
When driving in New Zealand’s South
Spitzkoppe’s huge granite boulders.
Island, stop at this church by Lake
Whether you stay overnight or just
Tekapo whose altar window perfectly
park up for a few hours to explore,
frames the Southern Alps. The area
these 120-million-year-old rock
is also in a designated dark sky
formations are extraordinary.
reserve, so stay until after nightfall for the full star-studded show.
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JUST ONE OF OUR MANY ADDITIONAL SERVICES...
FAST-TRACK SERVICES In UK airports, we’ll whisk you through check-in and the security queues
To find out more about The Detail and relevant Terms and Conditions, see page six or visit originaltravel.co.uk/additional-services
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FEATURE | LAOS
Rural life in the plantations, Laos
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LAOS | FEATURE
LAOS TOP
- to -
BOTTOM While in the strictest sense a road trip implies doing the driving yourself, sometimes it works better being driven. Lucky for some, on this 13-day trip along Laos’ scenic Route 13 your dedicated driver/guide can really help bring some of the unknown (and under-rated) sites you’ll visit along the way to life. Plus, it means you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views.
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FEATURE | LAOS
BOATING BELOW GROUND When in Kong Lor, spend an afternoon underground exploring the remote Kong Lor Caves, following the Hin Boun River as it winds through dark tunnels. Kitted out with head torches and lifejackets you’ll follow your guide into the cave entrance and board a traditional longtail boat to travel through the length of this spectacular four-and-a-half-mile long tunnel. Bar the light from your headtorches and gentle murmur of your boat’s engine you’ll be travelling in absolute darkness and silence. As you travel further into the cave, look out for beautiful This: Stalactites and stalagmites, Kong Lor Caves Below: Ancient Wat Phou
stalactites and stalagmites and disembark to explore the cave on foot.
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGY Cambodia’s Angkor Wat might have snaffled the world’s attention, but parts of Laos’ ancient Wat Phou temple actually predate Angkor by seven centuries. A stunning example of Khmer architecture and once the country’s most important economic and political centre, the temple is now UNESCO-protected and still a significant spiritual site. After a scenic car journey, explore with your guide, hearing how the temple is constructed in three layers; the bottom level focused on the baray (water reservoir) and promenade, the second level featuring pavilions and galleries of carvings, and the top level a sanctuary.
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LAOS | FEATURE
LUANG PRABANG LOVE-IN The ancient capital of Laos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a real highlight of any trip. Chances are, if you spend three days in beautiful Luang Prabang you’ll fall in love with Laos before the road trip even begins. Some of our (many) highlights include visiting a village on the outskirts to witness the morning Buddhist alms ceremony; climbing the steps to the top of Mount Phousi to enjoy panoramic views of the town; learning to rustle up the likes of laap (minced meat salad) Morning alms ceremony, Luang Prabang
during a hands-on cookery class, and admiring the ornate carvings adorning Wat Xieng Thong.
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FEATURE | LAOS
THE ROUTE
Luang Prabang
Vang Vieng Kong Lor Vientiane
Savannakhet
Pakse
Si Phan Don
:
DAYS 1-3 LUANG PRABANG After your 16-hour flight, begin in the ancient capital of Luang Prabang where you’ll be able to acclimatise, meet your dedicated driver/guide and start exploring. As well as a number
FROM PRICE: This Laos road trip starts from £3,950 per person. DISTANCE:
c.7755 miles
DRIVE TIME:
c.24.5 hours*
*Excluding any additional exploring
Images, top to bottom, left to right: - Pak Ou Cave, Luang Prabang - Rural Vang Vieng - Coffee beans, Bolaven Plateau - Som tum lunch - Mother and son, Savannakhet - Sunset over the Mekong, Si Phan Don
of city-based excursions (including a Mekong cruise to visit Pak Ou Cave, and learning about Laotian history in the Royal Palace’s National Museum), we will organise a day trip to visit local hill tribes in the forests around the city. DAY 4: VANG VIENG Leave Luang Prabang and start the
ADD ONS
PRE: Explore northern Thailand
road trip proper, driving for around
and then sail along the Mekong
five hours along one of the most
River from the Thai border to
scenic stretches of the journey.
For the ultimate Indochina trip,
Luang Prabang.
Your driver will take the ‘old road’
top and tail your road trip in Laos
so that you get the best twisting
with non-road trip adventure in
POST: Take a direct hour-long
and turning mountain views en
Thailand and Cambodia.
flight from Pakse to Siem Reap
route to Vang Vieng, where you’ll
and visit the Temples of Angkor
find stunning limestone karst
with a knowledgeable local guide.
scenery waiting to be explored.
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LAOS | FEATURE
DAYS 5-6: VIENTIANE
DAY 8: SAVANNAKHET
DAY 10 -13: SI PHAN DON
Following a morning kayak along the
There are two interesting stops on the
The final four days of the trip are
Nam Song river you’ll be driven four
five-hour drive to Savannakhet today.
spent in Si Phan Don, otherwise
hours on to Vientiane. You then have a
First is the sleepy colonial town of
known as the 4,000 Islands Region.
full day to explore the lively capital
Thakhek where you’ll have a lunch
During your time here visit UNESCO-
with your guide, visiting the likes of
break, and second is the beautiful
recognised Wat Phou temple (see
Wat Sisaket temple and the Patuxay
16th century temple of That Ing Hang,
Ancient Archaeology, page 60), spend
monument. In the evening enjoy a fun
one of the most revered temples in
a day exploring the islands by boat to
(and filling) street food tour.
Laos. When you arrive in Savannakhet,
spot Lippi and Khone Falls and rare
take a short tour of the architectural
Irrawaddy dolphins, and relax beside
DAY 7: KONG LOR
highlights and then stroll along the
the beautiful Mekong River.
The six-hour drive to Kong Lor takes
banks of the Mekong River while
you along another of the most beautiful
the sun sets.
stretches of Route 13 today, so make sure you have cameras at the ready.
DAY 9: PAKSE
When you arrive, spend an afternoon
Journey four hours to explore the
boating along the nearby Hin Boun
Bolaven Plateau this morning where
River where it flows underground into
you’ll begin with a visit to some of
Kong Lor Caves (see Boating Below
the local coffee plantations and hill
Ground, page 60).
tribe communities. After lunch, visit the plateau’s stunning Tad Fane Waterfalls which cascade nearly 400ft into a lush gorge. Finally, make the 45-minute drive to Pakse for the night.
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WHERE ELSE TO HIT THE ROAD... Feeling inspired? We hope so. For more open-road inspiration visit our website and find out where else we can put you behind the wheel: originaltravel.co.uk/road-trips
NEW ZEALAND
PUGLIA, ITALY THE DEEP SOUTH, USA
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CANADIAN ROCKIES
08/02/2019 11:36
Top to bottom,
The great outdoors in New Zealand
Wildlife and wilderness in Costa Rica
left to right:
A musical road trip in
Mediterranean island life in Corsica
The Deep South Culture and coastline in Puglia From the Rockies to the coast, Canadian Rockies
A seafood lovers’ self-drive, West Coast Sweden City, coast and countryside in Victoria, Australia
WEST COAST, SWEDEN COSTA RICA VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA
CORSICA, FRANCE
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WE HOPE THIS BROCHURE HAS INSPIRED YOU. If so, please contact us as follows... PHONE +44 (0) 20 7591 4433
ONLINE originaltravel.co.uk originaldiving.com
EMAIL ask@originaltravel.co.uk
All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. If you buy a holiday that does not include a flight, as a condition of our membership of ABTA, protection is also provided. Details of this protection is set out in our booking conditions viewable at originaltravel.co.uk.
All prices are from prices for a trip including flights from the UK in economy class, car hire, accommodation and, if specified, organised experiences.
PHOTO CREDITS Mimo Sevilla (p.17), Saffire Freycinet (p.21), Kwandwe (p.39 & p.41), Morukuru Family (p.40), Shamwari (p.41), Quasar Expeditions (p.42, p.43 and p.44), Juha Kankkunen Driving Academy (p.46), Scenic Rush (p.46).
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To order one of our brochures call: +44 (0)20 7591 4433 or visit: originaltravel.co.uk/brochure
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Front cover image: Monument Valley on the Arizona-Utah border, USA
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