Europe

Our approach to Italy is to unearth small footprint, high-quality experiences that deliver an innate sense of place. We connect with the heritage and history of Puglia where gastronomy tells as much of a story as the cone-tipped Trulli dwellings.

Envision hidden corners of Umbria where only Italian is spoken: be a sculptor for a day, meet a count of one of Venice’s noble families, or ski with an Olympic champion in the Dolomites.

Of course, we cannot help but treasure the wine-lovers paradise that is Tuscany and the sheer beauty, delectable seafood, and fashionable flair of the Amalfi Coast.

We fast-track where appropriate and slow the pace where merited. Discover the TS version of Dolce Vita!

To fully appreciate Greece is to discover still remote, largely untouched islands (these do exist!). Away from the mainstream, a simple life exists, stuck in time, where playing chess under vines in village squares is interrupted only by the arrival of fishing boats delivering the catch of the day.

Swimming in hidden coves, strolling through hillside olive groves, and feasting on the healthy delicacies of the Mediterranean make for a fabulous way of life.

Darren lived on Rhodes Island and explored Greece’s many islands and mainland (including ancient Greco-Roman ruins and jaw-dropping clifftop monasteries) which allows us to provide a personal approach to one of the world’s hottest spots.

Many people conjure images of iconic, red-tiled roofs and the fortresses of Dubrovnik when they think of this slice of the Baltics—we can attest there is so much more!

Istria is home to the exceptional natural beauty found in the north and is an alternative to Tuscany with a flourishing gastronomy and wine scene. To connect with nature, visit Dugi Otok, a secluded island where you can find isolation from the crowds among a 500-year-old olive grove that produces award-winning oil.

Pair Split’s laid-back Mediterranean mentality, vibrant coffee culture, and lively art scene, with Hvar, the Island of Lavender. This playground to the international elite is also steeped in history and its main port has been restored with brilliant detail.

We value the land and sea hybrid approach—the best way to explore this magical destination.

England is synonymous with history and ceremony. Allow us to capture the essence of a country that once ruled 70% of the discovered world.

Our deep family connections and long-term friendships here position us to deliver behind-the-scenes royal experiences one moment and pints in country pubs during spring lambing season the next. This ensures that we can showcase the full spectrum of this diverse country.

We love a town-and-country approach to itinerary design in England. Conjure the setting of Downton Abbey combined with a chic boutique hotel in London’s Belgravia.

The lush Emerald Island is a myth we have spent years untangling. This diverse country offers sprawling castle estates, world-class golf, a sophisticated culinary scene, and a culture of proud and warm people eager to sing late into the night over a pint of Guinness.

Highlights include exploring the towering Cliffs of Moher with an expert ranger and his sheep dog and flying to the Aran Islands for lunch at the home of a renowned foraging chef. Enjoy a sunrise hike in Connemara National Park and gain a sense of history in Belfast. Dublin tours include private showings of the Trinity Library and Book of Kels with their resident historian.

Scotland is a medley of legend and lore, home to Nessie the famed loch ness monster, magical cities highlighting medieval architecture, and stately castles. The raw western coastline hosts charming fishing villages that remain steeped in tradition where locals gather to enjoy a scotch whisky or distilled gin. Its capital city, Edinburgh, is an elevated fairy-tale city that will fulfill your desire for culture with its explosive art scene.

The birthplace of golf and home of some of the world’s top courses such as St Andrews Old Course looks out on the wild natural beauty that surrounds it. Finally, don’t leave Scotland without immersing yourself in its unique culinary scene.

Spain is a culmination of many cultures from the Moors to the Romans. Contrasts are found throughout from its neoclassical cathedrals to its modern marvels and cutting-edge architecture of Gaudí and Gehry. Its gastronomy ranges from bars offering pintxos to Michelin-starred establishments. The Basque country in the north features the white sand beaches of San Sebastián and the art culture of Bilbao. In the south, Andalucía offers access to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, UNESCO sites, and historical marvels.

For wine enthusiasts, La Rioja is a mountainous area known for its sprawling vineyards that produce world-renowned Tempranillo.

Montenegro is a magical place nestled on the Adriatic where the mountains kiss the sea, creating fjords. The fairytale old town of Perast, situated in the Bay of Kotor, bursts with charm and offers short boat rides to the islets of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. The main promenade showcases wisteria from Japan and birds of paradise from Hawaii, brought home by sea captains.

This stunning medieval gem is also a must for history buffs and those who love to get lost while meandering ancient port towns. Equally as beautiful from sea or land, this is a gorgeous country to visit and is easily paired with Croatia.

Sip a vibrant orange Spritz … zip through a narrow maze in a vintage Fiat 500 … stand at the base of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples … watch plumes of smoke rise from majestic Mount Etna.

Sicily continues to captivate the world from its ancient Hellenic ruins and intricate gold leaf mosaics to its cliff-top towns full of baroque cathedrals and picturesque beaches.

The natural beauty of this volcanic island spans from turquoise coves, expansive saltpans, and tiered vineyards to pomegranate and persimmon trees, olive groves, and flowering yucca.

The sea monsters and nymphs that live on through Greek mythology were inspired here in Sicily. Influences from the Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish contributed to the island's distinctive cuisine, architecture, and dialect.

Time in France can be ethereal.

Envision a grand Cru Burgundy consumed in a winemaker’s barn in the rural countryside, freshly shucked oysters on a beach in Cap Ferret, or a sun-drenched square near Sacre Coeur on a lazy Sunday afternoon ... the country feeds all the senses and each region delivers distinct opportunities.

The beaches of Normandy implore us to avoid another world war scenario. Rustic, hearty experiences in Alsace are a welcome foil to chic, fast-paced Paris.

The abundant Rosé of Provence contrasts with the formality of Bordeaux. This truly is one of the few countries in the world that warrants a regular pilgrimage.

The wine regions of Portugal centered in Douro and Alentejo are rustic and romantic. In Douro, against a backdrop of terraced vineyards and a meandering river course, established vines normally associated with port production are making earthy red wines. Alentejo is home to undiscovered hilltop villages, artisanal foods, and renowned wineries. The country is an ideal destination for cyclists that can cruise through its eucalyptus and cork forests and olive groves.

The magical archipelago of the nine islands that compose the Azores provides a broad range of natural beauty. Explore rolling green hills, dramatic craggy cliffs (perfect for canyoning!), and black lava fields. Sip wine at a tiered vineyard, hike around a lush caldera lake, or soak in the hot thermal waters of turquoise lagoons.

The sheer vertiginous scale is jaw-dropping. There is simply no frame of reference. The true secret about this country is that it is as much fun in summer as it is in winter.

The Alps are the picture-perfect destination for a winter wonderland to come alive thanks to striking vistas and dramatic mountain ranges. Winter brings sporting opportunities for beginners to Olympians. Ski down pristine slopes veiled with fresh powder and enjoy stylish Après ski–without the crowds.

In the summer months, the hills are alive with the sound of music … and cowbells. Hike to peaks and through verdant valleys covered with a blanket of wildflowers to take in the fresh mountain air and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Switzerland offers a window into a culture where neutral is a way of life. Our approach is to scratch below the surface to discover the many different layers of this very distinctive destination.

Cavernous caves, check … snowcapped mountains, check … glacial lakes, check.

Add fairytale castles and the sparkling Mediterranean and you have a recipe for a dynamic European destination. Sprinkle in thousands of vineyards, thermal hot springs, medieval architecture, and islet churches and you’ve completed a truly magical experience—without the crowds!

Slovenia, Italy’s neighbor to the north not only features quintessential alpine landscapes and adventurous wonders within its borders but provides easy access to the surrounding countries which allows you to expand your exploration of this region.

For the epicurean traveler Slovenia holds so many treasures … a must-visit.

When a local puts his or her arm around you, beware because you are about to feel the full force of Georgian bonhomie and conviviality. The generosity of time and spirit in the country is world-renowned, and with good reason. Georgia is where Europe begins, not where it ends.

Tbilisi has the feel of an intimate European city with cutting-edge architecture, a neighborhood of ancient bath houses and boutique hotels in re-purposed Soviet printing press factories. The Northern Kazbegi region offers stellar hiking and skiing. Georgia is the land of 8,000 vintages. It is where winemaking started, and its gastronomy is the predecessor of much of the Mediterranean diet.

A youthful and vibrant energy is coursing through this gem of a country in the heart of the Caucasus. Armenia’s diverse and rich history, roughly 2,500 years, is a real focus and while the country cannot lay sole claim to being ground zero for religious tourism, it does offer some of the most atmospheric and beautifully located churches anywhere in the world.

Add to this a rapidly evolving wine scene, the rustic delights of the Armenian table, and overwhelming hospitality, especially in rural areas, and you have a perfectly balanced experience. A visit to Armenia is educational, invigorating, and full of surprises … go now before it is re-discovered.

Turkey is the classic nexus of East and West. Istanbul is a city full of intrigue and unique geopolitical standing. Witness the grandeur of the iconic Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia and get lost in the intricate Topkapi Palace.

Intense aromas envelop you as you explore a bizarre with colorful spices, honey-drenched filo deserts, spicy kababs and hand-painted tiles, and soft cotton linens. Stop to enjoy the ritual that accompanies Turkish coffee, distinct for its unfiltered preparation.

There are myriad opportunities to step back in time in Bodrum and Ephesus where Roman ruins abound. Float over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia in a hot-air balloon and soak in the mineral-rich thermal waters of Pamukkale.

An evening stroll across Prague’s Charles Bridge is a peerless and timeless experience. The bridge is a gateway to a medley of some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe ranging from Baroque, Renaissance, Romanesque, Classicism, and Art-Nouveau.

While there is a fairytale atmosphere in this “City of a Hundred Spires”, there is so much more to this country.

On the outskirts of the city, Český Krumlov, a preserved town from the Middle Ages, is the perfect place to step back in time while exploring its castle complex. Taverns here serve dense bread dumplings and goulash, which remain the hearty staples of Czech cuisine. Na zdraví!

“The Land of Maybe” is the epitome of adventure. The result of its extreme topography and its elements requires flexibility, but the reward is unparalleled.

The Faroe Island archipelago is comprised of eighteen volcanic islands situated in the Atlantic north of Scotland. By private boat, you can explore secluded lagoons and fjords and sail past cascading waterfalls, and along the craggy coastlines to visit isolated picturesque fishing towns—where you can dine on the world's best sea-to-plate cuisine. Hike lush green rolling hills where sheep outnumber people and grass-tufted roofs stand up to mother nature’s harshest weather.

This mythical region and a visit to this remote destination provide pioneering travelers with the rare opportunity to truly stray from the beaten path.

“The Land of 1,000 Lakes” could just as easily be known as the land of a million saunas … or perhaps reindeer. The superlatives are endless in Finland, as are the wonders this Scandinavian treasure holds.

Perched on the Baltic Sea, its capital city, Helsinki, showcases cutting-edge interior design, modern architecture, and world-class museums.

Lapland sits above the Arctic Circle, a location perfect for viewing the shapeshifting phenomenon that is the northern lights. This is also where Sami, indigenous reindeer herders reside. While exploring this winter wonderland, you are presented with endless outdoor adventures. Dog sled across the vast tundra to your luxury glass igloo to watch shooting stars above you.

Finland is the very pinnacle of alpine adventure.

More than 80% of Greenland is covered in ice—but that is literally just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to this distinctive destination.

This is a playground for active adventures and wildlife lovers. The extreme nature of this remote island is controlled by the weather and midnight sun. Spend your nights in glass igloos mesmerized by the aurora borealis (Northern Lights), and take to the water to see whales breaching, glaciers calving, and colossal icebergs floating like art installations in inky blue water.

Explore the tundra to spot polar bears, reindeer, and myriad birdlife. During summer, hike the Arctic Circle Trail among the wildflowers or take a dip in a geothermal hot spring.

Nuuk, the capital city where Inuit live alongside Europeans, features a lively music and gastronomy scene thanks to Danish influence—an experience Erik the Red, the Norse explorer never saw coming.

There are more boats than cars, and sled dogs or snowmobiles are the preferred mode of transportation. Although not your traditional ski destination, anyone looking for an epic Heli-ski experience … Greenland is in a league of its own.

Norway is a destination that can be photographed but cannot be captured. The iconic Lofoten Island’s sheer scale and dramatic scenery are complemented by the majesty of the fjords.

Oslo offers a bustling café culture, open-air art installations, and trailblazing architecture. Preserved 9th-century Viking ships are displayed at Oslo’s Viking Ship Museum. The legacy and ancestry of their culture are wrapped in the warmth of modern-day Norwegians.

Bergen, iconic for its colorful wooden houses, is your launchpad to Sognefjord. The fjords are truly a magical place to immerse yourself in nature.

So, whether you literally take an icy plunge or pierce through the water via kayak, you behold the raw and pure scenery that abounds.

Get your heart pumping with downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, or tobogganing. Watch the northern lights dance in the sky while reflecting off a blanket of fresh snow.

The earth is alive in the “land of fire and ice”—a perfect symphony of active volcanoes, vast lava fields, erupting geysers, steamy hot springs, thundering waterfalls, and iridescent glaciers. Only here you have the opportunity to straddle tectonic plates between two hemispheres.

Prepare for all four seasons within one afternoon as you explore The Golden Circle. You can see rainbow-producing waterfalls and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula home to beloved Kirkjufell. Reynisfjara’s black sand and basalt sea stacks create a moody atmosphere where glistening pieces of glacier ice sparkle along Diamond Beach.

Regardless of your activity level, there is something for everyone on this island: 4WD “super jeep” and ATV excursions, horseback riding, mountain biking, glacier walks to ice caves, or if the sea beckons to you snorkeling and diving—you may even spot a rare beluga whale commune.

Natural hot springs such as the geothermal Blue Lagoon, where milky-colored water heals and restores are the perfect setting to watch the Northern Lights dance above.

Sweden remains supreme when it comes to the forefront of technology and design.

Royalty is a large part of the lure of Sweden’s historic and traditional heritage. Elaborate castles, palaces, and manicured grounds provide an insider glimpse into their opulent world.

The Baltic Sea houses 30,000 islands, skerries, and rocks off the coast of Sweden. We recommend splitting your time between land and sea to optimize your experience in this complex archipelago.

Press pause for a “fika” (coffee break) as the locals do in Gothenburg, the best walking city in Scandinavia, where you can visit the Volvo Museum.

Explore Stockholm’s iconic Vasa Museum to read cliff notes of Nordic history.

Home to Legoland and the birthplace of author Hans Christian Andersen, Danish contributions to the world are extensive. Within this Scandinavian gem, its capital city Copenhagen is the epicenter of culinary adventure. Gastronomy takes centerstage with über fork-to-table dining thanks to René Redzepi, former head chef Noma, who reinvented Nordic gastronomy.

It is no surprise Denmark is one of the happiest countries in the world with its colorful houses that line Nyhavn Harbour, its magical castles, palaces, and elaborate manicured gardens.

Despite its size, this nation holds a place on the map for its innovation in renewable energy. For outdoor pursuits, this pocket of pristine countryside is a purist’s dream. Take in the clarity of light and clean air while walking through virgin forests by crystalline lakes that offer fishing, swimming, or canoeing.

Experience “hygge” to relax and enjoy life's pleasures.

Welcome to a paradise where bikes outnumber cars. The Netherlands has always been on the forefront of green living and its culture and forward-thinking egalitarian society are a joy in which to immerse yourself.

Amsterdam, the capital, features established world-class art museums such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh. Quirky “Dancing Houses” abut narrow canals flanked with thousands of bridges. However, there is so much more to this country … romantic windmills and endless fields of tulips are a perfect pairing to city exploits.

So, whether you cruise the waterways or cycle alongside locals, there is something for everyone.

Hungary encapsulates a unique blend of East meets West. The Chain Bridge ignited the marriage of Buda and Pest which showcases cities with two very different personalities. Austro-Hungarian classicism, Art Nouveau, and Gothic Revival architecture styles co-exist in Budapest. Its iconic parliament building features hundreds of spires, arches, and a dome that sits on the bank of the Danube River, the “lifeblood” of Hungary.

A cultural Central European hot spot, the former “Queen of the Danube,” offers a rich heritage found through impressive performance arts including music, opera, and ballet. And then there are the 125 healing thermal springs and Roman bathhouses. Need we say more?

Sardinia is one of five “blue zones” of the world, recognized for the exceptional longevity of its population. Their healthy lifestyle is a significant tribute to the island’s “garden-to-fork” gastronomy drizzled with locally produced olive oil.

The contrast between the glitz and glam of Costa Smeralda and the interior of Sardinia is stark—as is the white sand against the turquoise sea. Mountains give way to lakes fed by pristine streams with smooth rock formations that could be mistaken for sculptures.

Italian vibes and picturesque landscapes act as inspiration for artists’ retreats and artisanal gastronomy, delivering a real sense of place. Not to be missed is the Maddalena Island archipelago nestled between Sardinia and Corsica.

The magic of Mallorca is just a direct flight away from the east coast of the US. Known for its breathtaking beaches, rustic countryside, quaint villages, and limestone mountains, this Mediterranean jewel offers something for everyone. As one of Spain's Balearic Islands, the epicurean pleasures found here offer layers of complex flavors with a standout being jamon from the famed Mallorca black pig. Local wineries and organic farms contribute to the island being named the “gourmet capital” of the region.

One of the greatest delights is boating to explore secluded coves offering hidden perspectives of the island. Snorkel, scuba, sail, or simply soak up the sun.

A little island known affectionately as Sa Roqueta “the little rock”, 

Menorca is the laid-back little sister of Mallorca. Think bohemian beach chic, restored farmhouses, breathtaking beaches, and limestone mountains—the epitome of cool. Mahón, its capital, is the island's beating heart where you can peruse intimate galleries and countless shopping boutiques along the main port.

Cliffside cabanas provide chill vibes infused with DJ's beats. Chartering a boat enabled us to explore secluded calas (coves). Camí de Cavalls, a historic hiking trail that hugs the coast, gives way to horseshow-shaped red sand beaches.

The “scented isle” is impactful. The air is perfumed with sage and lavender—which are as beautiful as they are aromatic. Combine this with clear blue water layered below bright blue sky and you have a vibrant combo.

Independently minded Corsica has an indigenous culture vastly different from homeland France. This rugged and mountainous island holds many secrets. Adrenalin junkies are driven to the coast for epic kitesurfing while many opt to enjoy the chic laid back beach scene.

From this location, you have easy to access to adjacent Sardinia, its Italian counterpart.

Malta is an independent country, yet a melting pot of Moorish, French, British, and Roman flavors and heavily influenced by its neighbors. Valleta, its capital city, holds an incredible amount of intrigue—a true testament to a long history of occupancy by diverse civilizations.

Discover ancient fortresses, ornate cathedrals, or simply relax and enjoy the catch of the day in one of myriad fishing villages … this is where time stands still, and the pace of life slows down.

The architecture, art, and culinary components that reside in this storied archipelago make it an unexpected, enigmatic destination to visit.

Pantelleria, Sicily’s little sister, is known as the “black pearl” of the Mediterranean. Closer to the African coast than Sicily, the lava rock from this volcanic island created everything from its Byzantine castle to its secluded pools, grottoes, coves, and underwater caves. On land, hike along the rugged coast and stop at boutique vineyards.

Although the impressive natural “Arch of Elephant’ sea stack is a site to behold, our highlight is the Mirror of Venus, a romantic heart-shaped lake fed by thermal springs that shift through shades of turquoise—producing healing thermal mud.