Colours of New England Escorted Tours

Welcome to Boston, the Cradle of American Liberty. Upon arrival at Logan International Airport, transfer independently to your hotel where will you will meet your Tour Director.

Along the route north of Boston lies almost four centuries of history as well as some of the East Coast’s finest beaches and seascapes. Your first stop today is Salem, the site of the infamous 17th century witch trials and birthplace of American novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne. Continuing along the coast you’ll stop to gaze at Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse, the most photographed lighthouse in America. Passing through Portsmouth, the oldest community in New Hampshire known for its thriving fishing community and historic buildings, your next stop will be Kennebunkport. Kennebunkport is home to the palatial summer estates of prominent politicians, including the 41st U.S. President, George Herbert Walker Bush. From Kennebunkport it’s on to Portland, Maine’s largest city and home to the state’s oldest lighthouse and one of its most beloved. This evening, join us for a traditional lobster dinner (optional).

The drive northeast on Route 1 from Portland to Bar Harbor is nothing short of enjoyable. Out the window you’ll see the state’s jagged coastline and rocky beaches lapped by rhythmic waves of the Atlantic. You’ll pass through quaint villages where local fishermen mark their grounds with colourful buoys prior to arriving in the small town of Bar Harbor. Known for its stunning coastal beauty, Bar Harbor has a world renowned ambiance that blends seashore community, Downeast character, and the famous Maine Lobster. This evening, a classic New England Clam Bake brings the shore straight to your table (optional).

Your journey today takes you inland towards the spectacular scenery of the White Mountains, the “rooftop of New England,” whose landscape is dotted with enchanting covered bridges, picturesque towns and villages, and historic sites. En route experience breathtaking mountain vistas, pristine forestry and world renowned foliage.

Today, traverse the White Mountains that divide the states of New Hampshire and Vermont to Stowe, a classic 200-year old village nestled beside Vermont’s highest peak, majestic Mt. Mansfield. Continue through Burlington on Lake Champlain and stunning views of open meadows, farmlands and forests to Vermont’s Green Mountains. With their dense forests, the Green Mountains are home to bears, moose, wild turkey, and deer.

Leaving Vermont, you’ll enter the smallest state in the Union, Rhode Island. Home to spectacular coastal scenery and awe-inspiring architecture, Newport is considered by many a shining gem in the coastal crown of New England. And nowhere is Newport’s natural beauty more on display than on its Cliff Walk. Here, between the pounding surf of the Atlantic Ocean and sprawling lawns, sit the famed Gilded Age mansions that once were the summer playgrounds for socialite families such as the Astor’s and Vanderbilt’s. Visit one of these opulent mansions for a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the privileged from a bygone era.

From the opulence of Newport you’ll continue to the unspoiled natural beauty of Cape Cod where picturesque beaches with high sand dunes, never-ending sea, lighthouses rising along the coast, and gorgeous sunsets await.

A short 45 minute ferry ride from Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is the jewel of New England. Spread over 100 square miles are six towns, each with its own proud history and unique character, historic sea captains’ homes, charming gingerbread cottages, a quaint fishing village, five majestic lighthouses and the nation’s oldest operating carousel. While exploring miles of pristine beaches, dramatic clay cliffs, rural landscapes and picturesque waterways you’ll find Martha’s Vineyard is more than just lobsters and clams.

Today begins with a visit to Plymouth, the town where English colonists first made a home in New England. See Plymouth Rock, where according to tradition the passengers of the Mayflower first set foot in the “New World,” views of Plymouth Harbor and the Mayflower II, a replica of the original Mayflower (onboard admission not included). Returning to Boston, you’ll retrace the steps of the Freedom Trail which may include a stroll beside Boston Common, King’s Chapel, the Boston Massacre site, and numerous pubs and taverns where America’s Founding Fathers toasted freedom. Enjoy lunch at one of Boston’s many restaurants where you may wish to try a steaming hot cup of traditional New England Clam Chowder (optional). Afterwards, explore Quincy Market, Boston’s first marketplace from the 1800’s, now home to boutiques, cafés and shops.

Transfer independently to Logan International Airport for your departure flight.