A Self-Guided Walking Tour to Suit Your Interests

When people look at Country Walkers Self-Guided Walking Adventures, we always hear the same question—how do you choose just one? It can be tough to narrow down the field, since every trip incorporates spectacular walks on scenic paths, splendid boutique hotels, luggage transportation, and a delicious breakfast each morning. To offer a helping hand, we broke down our Self-Guided Walking Adventures into four categories to appeal to your interests. So, if you’re looking for a walking tour with a focus on European history—we’ve got several to choose from. Similarly, if you’re looking for a vacation with a focus on natural beauty, incredible food, or unique vintages, read on. We’ve got just the thing.

If European History Tickles Your Fancy

There’s nothing quite like a good European castle—be it English, Irish, Italian, or beyond. If the opulence of European manor houses and estates gives you a thrill, these Country Walkers Self-Guided Adventures offer delicious opportunities to scratch that itch.

England: The Cotswolds Self-Guided Vacation—This delightful Self-Guided Walking Adventure includes entrance to historic Sudeley Castle—the final resting place of Katherine Parr, the last wife of Henry VIII. Within the castle’s aristocratic halls, you’ll find an incredible array of Tudor relics—including a suite of replica costumes documenting the fashions of the day. This exceptional tour includes many opportunities to experience English history up close.

Ireland: Cork & Kerry Self-Guided Vacation —If Irish history is more to your taste, you’ll find this excellent Self-Guided Adventure ticks that box. Located south of Killarney, Bantry House and Garden is the opulent former residence of the Earls of Bantry. The elaborate gardens look out onto the sea and Whiddy island—and include the recent archeological discovery of a medieval Gaelic village on the west lawn.

Italy: The Amalfi Coast Self-Guided Vacation —If you harbor a passion for Roman history, there’s nothing like the Amalfi coast. The ancient island of Capri, for example, became a favorite resort of Roman Emperors Augustus and Tiberius—and the ruins of impressive Roman villa remain accessible to this day. This splendid Self-Guided Walking Adventure includes a full day on this delightful historic island resort.

Wonders of the Natural World

Ireland: Cliffs of Moher, the Burren & Aran Islands Self-Guided Vacation—Discover the wonders of Ireland’s wild west! Learn about the rocky crags along the Irish coast during an included visit to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center. You’ll also learn about the unique Burren ecosystem during a guided visit with local expert Shane Connolly—then take an included ferry ride to Inis Orr and explore the outer reaches of this authentic Irish archipelago.

England: Coast to Coast Self-Guided Vacation—Explore the English Lake District from Irish Sea to North Sea. Along the way, you’ll explore three different national parks, and discover why this region inspired the words of English naturalist poet William Wordsworth.

Switzerland: Zürich, Wengen & Zermatt Self-Guided Vacation—Explore the Alps on foot and by rail as you discover the peaks and valleys of this unique alpine region. Between walks, your tour includes rides on a cog-wheel train and aerial cable car in the Wengen region, funicular rides in Wilderswil and Sunnegga, and a passenger train to Lauterbrunnen. Between walking and riding the rails, you’ll see more of the Alps than you may have thought possible!

England: The Cornwall Coast Self-Guided Vacation—Walk along Cornwall’s splendid coast as Atlantic Ocean waves pummel the rocky shores.  You’ll spot ample wildlife—including shore birds and seals playing in the surf. As the tide recedes from the island of St. Michael’s Mount, a submerged cobbled walkway beckons you to explore the island’s ancient monastery and castle.

Maine: Portland, Camden & Acadia National Park Self-Guided Vacation—Explore the splendid scenery and wildlife around Bar Harbor—perhaps spotting dolphins, seals, and whales playing in the peaceful blue waters around this New England island paradise.

Whiskey (and Wine) in the Jar

Whether your tastes run towards fine Scotch, smooth Irish whiskey, Italian red wine, or Portuguese vinho verde, we’ve got just the thing to tantalize your palate.

Scotland: The Scottish Highlands & Cairngorms National Park Self-Guided Vacation—Discover Scotland, land of Scotch whiskey, and experience whiskey tastings in unique local distilleries—including Balvenie and Glenfiddich.

Nova Scotia: Cape Breton Island Self-Guided Vacation—On this stunning Self-Guided Walking Adventure, you’ll not only tour the Glenora Distillery and taste its fine malts—you’ll also stay right on site at the charming Glenora Inn. What could be better?

Italy: Umbria & Assisi Self-Guided Vacation—Discover the Umbrian organic wine tradition in a visit to the Terramante Winery along the banks of the Tiber River. Sample small batch wines from Sangiovese, Sagrantino, and Syrah grapes—and learn why this terroir is renowned for its fine vintages.

Portugal: Sintra & Rota Vicentina Self-Guided Vacation—Discover the breathtaking coastal reaches of Portugal—famous for the Alentejo wine region. In the northern regions, you’ll also discover the effervescent vinho verde, a “green wine” unique to Portugal.

Mouthwatering Menus

Italy: Genoa & the Cinque Terre Self-Guided Vacation—If you love Italian cuisine, this incredible Self-Guided Walking Adventure is for you! As you explore the magical region near the Italian Riviera, you’ll find fresh lemons, ripe olives—and master chefs who know just how to showcase the flavors. You’ll even learn to make authentic Ligurian pesto during an included cooking class.

France: Provence & St. Rémy Self-Guided Vacation—This region of southern France is renowned for the flavors of its fine herbs—including lavender, verbena, rosemary, and thyme. As you explore this delightful region on foot, the fresh scents of citrus and olive fill the air. This is truly the region to experience Provençal cooking at its finest!

California: San Francisco to Point Reyes Self-Guided Vacation—With an array of world-class restaurants, California is a destination known for its superlative wine and cuisine. As you explore San Francisco, Sausalito, Muir Beach, and Point Reyes, you’ll find incredible opportunities to sample the best seafood, vintages, and creative cuisine the region has to offer.