New England, White Mountains & Cape Cod

Welcome to Boston, often referred to as the cradle of American liberty. Upon arrival at Logan International Airport, we transfer independently to the hotel, where we meet our Tour Director and prepare for the journey ahead.

Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Boston - Kennebunkport - Portland. We travel north of Boston, following a route shaped by centuries of history and some of the East Coast’s finest coastal scenery. Passing through Portsmouth - the oldest community in New Hampshire, known for its maritime heritage and historic architecture - we continue to Cape Neddick. Here, we visit one of New England’s most iconic landmarks, the Cape Neddick Lighthouse, set on a small rocky island just offshore and widely regarded as the most photographed lighthouse in the United States.

We then continue to Kennebunkport, a charming seaside town known for its elegant summer homes, including those of former US President George H. W. Bush. Its relaxed coastal character makes it a popular year-round destination. From here, we travel on to Portland, Maine’s largest city, where we take in the region’s rugged coastline, working harbours and traditional lobster fishing culture. Later, you are free to explore Portland’s Old Port, with its cobbled streets, waterfront views and excellent local seafood - perhaps including a classic Maine lobster roll.

Portland - Arcadia National Park - Bar Harbor. Today we journey further north to Acadia National Park, often called the crown jewel of the North Atlantic coast. Located along Maine’s rugged shoreline, the park is known for its dramatic landscapes, wildlife and seasonal beauty. En route, we pass through small fishing villages where colourful buoys mark local lobster grounds.

We arrive in Bar Harbor, a coastal town known for its distinctive Downeast character and long-standing connection to the sea. The town offers a blend of natural beauty, galleries and boutique shops. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace.

Bar Harbor - Bretton Woods. We head inland towards New Hampshire’s White Mountains, often referred to as the rooftop of New England. Our route follows the scenic Kancamagus Highway, renowned for its unspoilt forests and seasonal foliage. We continue through Franconia Notch, an eight-mile mountain pass known for its striking landscapes.

Here, we visit Flume Gorge, a natural granite gorge at the base of Mount Liberty, offering impressive views and a close look at the region’s geological formations.

Bretton Woods - Flume Gorge - Bretton Woods. This morning, we explore more of the White Mountains, a region celebrated for its dramatic peaks, waterfalls and natural beauty. We visit Flume Gorge in greater depth, walking through this narrow natural chasm that extends 800 feet through the landscape.

Later, we visit a traditional maple farm, where we learn how pure maple syrup is produced. This process combines long-standing techniques with modern methods, resulting in one of New England’s most famous products. There is also time to browse local shops, with the added benefit of tax-free shopping in New Hampshire.

Bretton Woods - NewPort. We travel south through forested landscapes before leaving New Hampshire and entering Rhode Island, known as the Ocean State. Our destination is Newport, widely recognised as the sailing capital of the world.

Here, you may choose to explore the famous Cliff Walk, which runs between the Atlantic coastline and a series of grand Gilded Age mansions. These historic homes once belonged to influential families such as the Astors and Vanderbilts. You may also wish to visit one of these properties for a glimpse into their opulent past.

NewPort - Cape Cod. We continue to Cape Cod, known for its natural coastal beauty, sandy dunes and expansive ocean views. The area is ideal for beachcombing, with a variety of shells and distinctive sea-worn stones found along its shores.

Today is free for you to relax or explore Cape Cod further. Your Tour Director will suggest optional activities, which may include a ferry trip to Martha’s Vineyard - known for its maritime history and unique character - or a visit to Provincetown. Located at the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is known for its artistic community, coastal scenery and historical links to President John F. Kennedy.

Cape Cod - Plymouth - Boston. We begin the day with a visit to Plymouth, where English settlers first established a colony in New England. Here, we see Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower, the ship that carried the Pilgrims across the Atlantic.

We then return to Boston, where you may explore sections of the Freedom Trail, including Boston Common, King’s Chapel and the site of the Boston Massacre. There is also time to visit Quincy Market, a historic marketplace now filled with shops and cafés. You may wish to try a traditional bowl of New England clam chowder while here.

For those continuing, we travel on to New York City.

We transfer independently to the airport for our return flight, marking the end of the tour.