How to show your clients the untouched hidden gems of Europe

Saint Matrin Church in Kintzheim, a village in Bas-Rhin - Alsace region of France

As far as destinations go, Europe will never go out of style. How could it, with such a diverse selection of cultural, historical and culinary wonders?

What has gone out of style for many travellers, is cookie-cutter tours showcasing the ‘best of’ hit list of Europe’s most popular (and most crowded) destinations.

If you want to create a bespoke, personal experience that strays from the tourist trail and gives your clients a look at a destination through the eyes of a local, look no further than Back-Roads Touring. For well over 30 years, Back-Roads has been crafting personalised and bespoke experiences for small groups of like-minded travellers.

Here’s how they do it.

Keep it intimate

Female Friends Enjoying Italian Ice-Cream

With a maximum size of 18 people on most tours, you won’t feel like just another sheep in the heard. A smaller size ensures Back-Road’s passionate tour leaders can add extra personal touches to your clients itinerary and add spice to a destination with local knowledge. It also means access to smaller, bespoke accommodation like a classic country inn or an elegant chateau.

Not to mention, an intimate group means more intimate experiences, like Back-Roads’ brand new offering, A Traditional Alsace Christmas. Here, your client will experience quaint medieval villages brimming with atmospheric Christmas markets, traditional arts and deliciously festive foods best enjoyed with a tight-knit tour group.

Slow, steady and scenic

Mountain pass with a curvy road

Think winding country lanes, rugged coastlines, breathtaking mountain passes and evocative landscapes. Travelling via luxury mini-coaches, your clients can take the scenic route beyond the reach of large vehicles.

And the best part? There is no rush. Back-Road’s itineraries leave plenty of time to enjoy each step of the journey, whether your clients are exploring a historic home, enjoying a local delicacy or indulging in a wine tasting session they can do so knowing they won’t be rushed.

These elements allow the tour operator to craft trips like their newly launched Treasures of Scotland itinerary, which steps away from the county’s well-trodden haunts in favour of enchanting lochs, haunting glens and imposing mountains. Best enjoyed slow.

Local, immersive experiences

Italy_City_TripType_ItalianIndulgence_BEHIIRV_Season_Cooking

‘Immersive experiences’ has become somewhat of a buzzword, however, there is no escaping that cliche here. As the name suggests, Back-Roads takes the less trodden path, not simply dropping by the top sights and major cities, but delving deeper into a destination as it is seen through the eyes of those who know it best: the locals who call it home.

Give your client the hidden gems and local favourites they seek and allow them access to fascinating cultures, stories, and, most importantly, food. Back-Roads places a special emphasis on local cuisine, with visits to local producers, food and wine tastings and even cooking classes.

On the new Headlands of Ireland tour, your client can nourish their curiosity with centuries of enthralling history and rural charm, sampling local hospitality, intriguing legends and firmly ingrained traditions.

Stray from the tourist trail

Does all of the above sound like something your clients might enjoy? There’s plenty more where that came from, with Back-Road’s newly launched 2020 Europe product offering.

Boasting nine new tours, two new countries and 20 improved itineraries, there’s sure to be something for even the most discerning of travellers.

Wow your clients with spectacular sights with the new Northern Lights: A Lapland Winter itinerary, with otherworldly icy seas and spectacular natural light shows topped off with a trip to Santa’s Village in Rovaniemi with a stop at a reindeer farm and a castle made of snow along the way.

Find out more about Back-Roads 2020 Europe offering here.

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back-roads touring immersive off the beaten track