The Italian Riviera

Enjoy 'La Dolce Vita' on the Mediterranean Coast.
16 May; 23 May; 10 June Blessed with a year-round temperate climate, the Italian Riviera is renowned for its stunning coastline, verdant mountains and colourful seaside villages, whose promenades are lined with orange and lemon trees. You will be staying in Diano Marina - an attractive, relaxing resort with a wealth of cafes, shops and trattorias - nestled in a lovely wide sweeping bay. Excursions include visits to Albenga, Nice, Alassio, Cervo and exclusive Portofino.
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Lake Maggiore

Lakeside gardens and majestic islands.
21 September The westernmost of Italy's three pre-alpine lakes, Lago Maggiore is also one of its most picturesque. Nestled between Switzerland and the Italian provinces of Piedmont and Lombardy, it is lined with pretty gardens, Alpine peaks and turn of the century resorts. Our pick is the elegant town of Stresa, a favourite with English aristocrats since the 19th century. From here you will visit one of Lago Maggiore's most significant sights: the beautiful palace and gardens of the majestic Borromean islands. Other excursions include Locarno in Italy (via the scenic Centovalli railway) and Lake Orta. More about Lake Maggiore

Historic Burgundy

A delightful interlude to the land where living is good.
16 May; 12 September Burgundy's fame is universal. The Route du Vin which follows the Saone Valley is sprinkled with exquisite wine-producing villages whose names have become amongst the most illustrious ambassadors of France. Among the majestic houses, rolling hills and mixed farmland you will also discover the gastronomy, art and rural traditions of the region - a testament to the timeless harmony between nature and man. More about Historic Burgundy

Sardinia

Jewel in the heart of the Mediterranean.
4 June; 3 September Midway between Spain, Africa, France and Italy lies Sardinia - a beautiful island cast adrift in the emerald waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Part forgotten in time in the small inland villages, part thrust into the modern world of the rich and famous along its bejewelled coastline, the island is formally part of Italy - il continente as the locals like to call it. We include excursions to the traditional interior, and also along the dazzling coastline. More about Sardinia

Corsica, the Fragrant Isle

One of the last untarnished jewels of the Mediterranean.
5 June; 11 September Scenically, the beautiful Mediterranean island of Corsica has no equal, especially in the rugged, unspoilt interior where high mountains and fragrant maquis delight the senses. Corsica's fractured coastline is just as appealing, taking in small sandy coves, pretty fishing villages and the cobbled streets of Bastia and Calvi. This tour is the best way to sample three contrasting areas of Corsica, all in one holiday. More about Corsica, the Fragrant Isle

Return to the French Riviera

A nostalgic journey to rediscover the Riviera's cultural and natural splendour.
13 September The elegant resort of Juan-les-Pins lies at the end of a magnificent bay, protected by the luxurious Cap d'Antibes. Ancient squares, Provencal houses and pine trees form the enchanting backdrop to the museums and festivals here. There is always something happening in this lively part of the French Riviera. This tour takes in many of the delightful hilltop villages that abound in the region. You will also be able to marvel at the spectacular scenery of the Esterel coastline - one of the finest on the Mediterranean. More about Return to the French Riviera

Artists and Landscapes of Provence

'Where colour is at its richest and shape and form abound.' - Cezanne.
22 June It is easy to see why artists hold Provence in such high regard: the intense light and radiant blend of colours provide plenty of inspiration. Here you will find a fertile plain where rows of lavender and swathes of sunflowers bathe in the clear, sharply focused light that is only found near the Mediterranean. Topographical relief comes from the Alpilles - a chain of craggy limestone hills that contrast vividly with the cypresses sheltering olive groves in the vale. This is a warm invitation to embark upon a nostalgic tour of the region as seen through their eyes. More about Artists and Landscapes of Provence

Andalucia - truly Moorish

A captivating combination of historic Moorish architecture and unspoilt Andalucian scenery.
20 October Andalucia is one of Spain's most culturally diverse provinces, dazzling both with the architectural heritage of its mains towns and cities, but also with its unspoilt mountain scenery and white villages. Your first base is the vibrant provincial capital of Seville, followed by glorious Granada - a stunning showcase for the region's Moorish heritage. You will also enjoy excursions to Jerez, the capital of sherry-making, historic Cordoba and the fascinating caves of Guadix. More about Andalucia -truly Moorish