Behind the tourist façade, meeting 'locals', avoiding the tourist traps. Please note Back-Roads Touring Co. Ltd tours are designed for the reasonably active and involve some walking (especially on Continental tours). Some itineraries may not suit those with mobility problems. Please ask Handpicked Holidays if in any doubt.

Small groups mean that the daily schedule can be changed to take advantage of weather conditions, enjoy local events and the particular interests of passengers. Each evening the group discusses the following day's alternatives and there is scope for choice.

Days of variety with something for all. Seeing both famous sights (when the crowds have left) and the not so familiar.  Entrance fees (when with your guide) are included in the tour price.  Please note that the detailed itineraries printed in these web pages should be read as guidelines, sites listed should be regarded as those possible, not that all will be seen. You will be part of determining which are seen on a daily basis as the tour is moulded to suit participants.

No six a.m. morning calls, no rush to be at predetermined places, no fifteen-minute stops at places of interest, and definitely no 'commission' shopping stops. Please note that there are occasional and unavoidable longer drives on the longer tours when driving between major accommodation bases.   Inevitably, when travelling in company some will have different ideas of what is the ideal length of time to spend at specific sites.

You'll not be 'herded' and there'll be time to explore on your own in major towns (with Back-Roads' help, of course). On most tours there are opportunities for individuals to make alternative arrangements such as half day walks or visits to family or friends.

Back-Roads' specially designed Renaults and Mercedes Sprinters can travel anywhere a car can, reaching places the larger coach finds impossible. Luggage is generally stored under-floor and you sit high above the cars and hedgerows enjoying good all round views.

Occasionally six-seater multiple-purpose vehicles will be used if the number of tour participants is five or below.

One of Back-Roads' specially designed Renaults.

No constant packing and unpacking. Wherever possible you'll stay in a single accommodation and use this as a base for daily explorations.

Inns, farmhouses, castles and quaint B&Bs, each with its own particular charm. Back-Roads Touring Co. Ltd accommodation is chosen for their location, their architectural interest, the welcome and skills of their hosts and their intimate size.

All accommodation is of a high standard (the majority a three star, crown or similar rating) and all rooms are with private facilities unless age or architecture does not permit. Where there is sharing of facilities, it is never with more than one other room. Rooms are normally twin share. Limited single accommodation is available. Groups are sometimes split between adjoining or adjacent properties in smaller villages.

Back-Roads Touring Co. Ltd companion/guides, both male and female, boast a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. Authors, college professors, adventurers, photographers, ex-service officers, sailors and even a member of the Royal Household! They are philosophers, diplomats, historians and entertainers but, above all else, they are dedicated to ensuring your comfort, safety and enjoyment.

The very best of local cuisine, sampling regional favourites whenever possible. You'll dine at restaurants, pubs or at your accommodation. We even find a spot for the occasional picnic!  Traditional English, Irish and continental breakfasts (as appropriate),  and a quality two-course evening meal as a minimum are included in your tour price except where listed on individual itineraries.

Back-Roads has scores of departure dates so there is sure to be one that suits your time frame.  Unlike most other tour operators, once your booking has been accepted and you've paid your deposit, your tour will not be cancelled unless forced to do so by extreme cicrumstances beyond our control.  If you've invested your dreams in Back-Roads Touring, they'll try to make them a reality.   On rare occasions when there are only one or two persons booked on a tour, you'll be advised to give you the opportunity of cancelling the Back-Roads tour without cost, or transferring to another Back-Roads tour where there may be more participants.

WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET

REAL VALUE

Many tour companies advertise a low initial price to attract you.   Once on the tour, you find your purse or wallet is constantly open as you pay for additional options and extras.  Back-Roads tours are designed to be as inclusive as possible.  While Back-Roads avoids making direct cost comparisons with other coach tour companies (they're simply too different for it to be meaningful) what we do know is that the tours represent outstanding value for money.

Thousands of repeat clients can't be wrong. Back-Roads has a faithful following who have been taking their tours for years. With the ever-increasing popularity for small group touring, Back-Roads' appeal shows no sign of diminishing!

Do you need help in deciding which Back-Roads tour best suits your travel wishlist, interests or schedule? Contact Handpicked Holidays for personal service and reservations for Australian travellers.