Top 5 Expert-Led Tours for 2023
Bordeaux is best known for its full-bodied red wine, and you'll get to sample several, alongside other wines on this seven-night tour. Embark Scenic Diamond for a luxury river cruise through the Médoc wine region and sample the Flavours of Bordeaux with Raymond Blanc OBE. Ashore, you'll visit several vineyards and wine estates, while on board, you'll learn about the art of French cuisine through Scenic Culinaire, the ship's cookery classes. Raymond will also host a cooking demonstration, where there will be time to ask him your burning foodie questions.
The Cotswolds are the epitome of Great British countryside - rolling hills, picture-perfect villages and towns with honey-stone-coloured buildings, and bundles of rural charm. On this four-night itinerary, discover the Cotswolds' Gardens and Farm Park with Adam Henson - and get a chance to explore this quintessentially English region. Your tailor-made trip will end with another truly British pastime - afternoon tea at the four-star Lygon Arms Hotel in the village of Broadway.
There's no better way to explore Scotland's Highlands and Islands than by ship, and you'll embark the Lord of the Glens for this scenic cruise. Departing from Inverness, explore Scotland's Caledonian Canal and hidden sea lochs as you sail to Oban, via the Isle of Mull. Your small ship offers personalised service and with just 26 cabins, you'll sail with like-minded others. The highlight of your trip will be meeting proud Scotswoman and broadcaster Kirsty Wark, who will accompany you for the first few days, giving a talk to guests on her life and career - as well opening the floor to a very special Q&A. Scotland's scenery is spectacular, and this autumn voyage is not to be missed.
The Rainbow Nation, South Africa, is best known for its imposing Table Mountain, the Cape's wine regions and its stunning flora… you'll discover all three on this fantastic tour. Horticulture enthusiasts will appreciate visiting during the time of year the wildflowers are their most colourful, with visits to the Ramskop Wildflower Nature Reserve and the West Coast National Park. Also on the itinerary are Babylonstoren, Kirstenbosch, Harold Porter and the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden. Meet botanist Sean Privett at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, and later on the tour, you'll be joined by Gardeners' World presenter Frances Tophill. Of course, there will be time to explore the sights of Cape Town at your leisure, with a Champagne sunset cruise from the V&A waterfront also included.
Experience the Wildlife and Gardens of the Scilly Isles during a five-night tour. From your base on the island of St Mary's, also visit the islands of Tresco, St Agnes, St Martin's and Bryer for scenic walks, and guided excursions. There are several highlights, including a visit to Tresco Abbey Gardens, an organic vineyard in St Martin's and a wonderful wildlife cruise, where you could be lucky enough to spot the Scillies unique birds and sea life. You'll also get to meet the Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, Julian Brancscombe who will join you for a day and dinner, as well as host a talk - where he'll tell you more about the fascinating wildlife. This trip is always so popular, so don't miss out.
