Enjoy Europe at your own pace
Self-guided cycling, walking or cultural adventures are ideal for independent travelers who want to do as they please, local travel professionals say.
A self-guided trip provides the confidence and 24/7 support that comes with an expert-designed group tour. It allows you to travel with who and when you want, according to Marlin Travel in Kelowna.
Power on, off or pause — the choice yours: select sightseeing stops along the way, decide to linger in the winelands, or set off an hour earlier to catch the coolest part of the day. So, how does it work?
You’ll be provided in-depth trip notes to keep you company – personally tested by Exodus Travels experts – which give you detailed kilometer-by-kilometer overview and include all the details you need, from the best lunch spots and places to stop for a swim to quiet backroads and UNESCO Sites.
On self-guided trips, you are actually never on your own. You’ll be met at the start by a local specialist who happily talks you through your trip in detail to ensure you can make the most of every moment. Don’t worry about carrying your bags, they are transported for you, so you can relish each step of your journey or ride! Even better however is the wine service. Majority of these selfguided tours include complimentary pick-up service for the wine, beer or cider you loved so much you had to bring it home.
Loved past vacations in Europe but limited your time to big cities? SelfGuided trips allow you to spend time where it counts. Time to head off the beaten path and delve into a more authentic experience.
If you’re in love with “La Dolce Vita” head south to Puglia, the heel of Italy. Are you a beach aficionado but find Capri and Barcelona to busy? Check out Elba island, the Azores or the lesser known Algarve or Malta. These walking, hiking and biking trips take travellers away from tourist traps and invite them to get up close and personal.
All are graded by activity level so there is something for every style.
A GASTRONOMIC JOURNEY Indulging in delicious local food and wine are an essential ingredient to a perfect holiday. Self-guided trips are always created with this in mind. Enjoy countless culinary encounters (included) or opt to customize with extra cooking classes, wineries and more. For those looking to pamper their palates with even more foodie delights, we have gastronomic tours designed around places with outstanding regional cuisine and where food is always the focus. Think: bubbly in the prosecco hills of Italy or French cheeses at a 4-star château. The cherry on top? Most of these trips enjoy walking, hiking or cycling which means indulging without any guilt!
CAREFULLY CURATED HOTELS Over the years we have collected an exquisite selection of places for you rest your head. From centuries-old castles and converted farmhouses to stylish spa hotels and country manors, you’ll spend nights at charming accommodations, soaking up the atmosphere and surroundings. We look for small, family-owned hotels, with great regional cuisine, and the warmest of welcomes wherever you stay.
— Submitted by Marlin Travel