Grand New England - 12 Days
12 Days
Boston
Boston
*****
Tauck
An autumn fall foliage tour paints New England landscapes with bold, Impressionist colours that surprise, delight, energise and mesmerise, and awaken the visionary in you.
This excursion through Grand New England offers more than the visual excitement of a fall foliage tour. Enjoy exclusive filmed vignettes by filmmakers Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan that share personal stories and take you behind the scenes of their films. See American history in a new light in places where it was made, then re-made by poets, painters and icon-makers... the Revolutionary heart of Boston, the Berkshire retreats of Norman Rockwell and Edith Wharton, and the Gilded Age mountain resort at Bretton Woods. Travel through lush forests and fertile fields sweet with fragrant air, rich in tradition and brimming with antique charm. Search out the elusive soul of New England from Boston to Portland, from fishing boats to the summit of Mount Washington... in the taste of fresh lobster and maple syrup, and in the dazzled eye of the beholder.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Boston
A transfer is included from Logan International Airport to InterContinental, a contemporary waterfront luxury hotel in Boston's vibrant Fort Point neighbourhood, overlooking the harbour and just a short walk from the Seaport District, Rose Kennedy Greenway, and the historic Freedom Trail. Join us at the hotel this evening for a welcome reception and dinner; the dazzling reds, golds and oranges that accent Boston's cityscape are a colourful prelude to your fall foliage tour.
Day 2: Boston, the Cradle of America
This morning, you'll have a choice between two guided sightseeing experiences to explore Boston's historic core. One option is a guided tour by coach, offering a relaxed overview of the city's major landmarks. The other is a guided walking tour, which follows a route through key portions of the Freedom Trail and the North End, covering approximately 2 to 2.5 miles along sidewalks and cobblestone streets. Both tours begin near the Old North Church and Paul Revere Mall and conclude at Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, where guests can enjoy free time to explore at their own pace. For those who prefer not to walk back, a return transfer to the hotel will be available following the guided portion of the morning. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure to discover more of Boston on your own; lunch and dinner are not included.
Day 3: The Mount & The Clark in the literary Berkshires
Begin today's travels in the Berkshires, long a retreat for artists and writers, at The Mount – the hilltop Georgian mansion of Edith Wharton. The celebrated author of The House of Mirth and The Age of Innocence called it her "first real home." Wharton was also a consummate entertainer – you'll feel like one of her guests at a private lunch overlooking her bucolic grounds. Continue on to Williamstown for a docent-led tour of the internationally renowned Clark Art Institute ("The Clark"), one of the few institutions in the US combining a public art museum with research and academic programs. Arrive late afternoon at your historic resort in Manchester, Vermont. Note: On Mondays and holidays when The Clark is closed, enjoy an alternate visit to the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge – dedicated to the beloved illustrator who spent the last 25 years of his life in this small Berkshire town, and displaying many of his original works and his studio.
Day 4: Hildene's Lincoln legacy
The classic New England town of Manchester, Vermont is tucked between the Green Mountains and the Taconic Range, and is home to Equinox Mountain, the Taconics' tallest peak. This morning, it's off to Hildene, the Georgian Revival mansion of President Abraham Lincoln's son Robert who served as US Secretary of War and minister to Great Britain, and his wife Mary Harlan Lincoln. The 1905 Georgian Revival-style mansion – which today is on the National Register of Historic Places and is furnished largely with Lincoln family furniture and artifacts – remained in the Lincoln family until 1975, and has since been restored and maintained by a non-profit group. Dinner is included this evening.
Day 5: Visit to Fort Ticonderoga – and sweet traditions
Depart Manchester this morning for Fort Ticonderoga; built by the French in the 18th century, near the southern end of Lake Champlain, it is renowned for its strategic importance during the French and Indian War and as the site of the first American victory in the Revolutionary War. This afternoon, enjoy a special visit – to Lake Champlain Chocolates. Proud to be a second-generation, family-owned Vermont company, they "dare to do better, driven by our passion to change the world one delicious chocolate at a time." They believe in using business as a force for good. One hundred percent of their chocolate is fair trade, grown with sustainable farming practices, while helping to build stronger cacao-growing communities. Return late afternoon to your hotel; dinner is at your leisure this evening.
Please note: When Fort Ticonderoga is closed, you'll visit Fort William Henry, a living history museum that brings the drama of 18th-century frontier battles to life. Located at the southern end of Lake George, the fort offers a glimpse into colonial-era military life amid beautiful lake and mountain scenery.
Day 6: Shelburne Museum of Art and Americana and a Lake Champlain cruise
Continue exploring Vermont's classic New England landscapes as you make your way to Shelburne for a visit to the Shelburne Museum of Art and Americana. Spread over 45 acres, this unique museum holds a vast collection of prints, paintings, folk art and quilts reflecting 19th-century American life, in historic buildings – including barns, a meeting house, a jail, a lighthouse, and a railroad station – in a village-like setting around the Ticonderoga, a 220-ft. steamboat that once ferried passengers and livestock on Lake Champlain. This afternoon, set off on a scenic narrated cruise along Lake Champlain, where you'll hear stories and gain a deeper understanding about the region's history and natural beauty as you take in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. You'll return to the hotel in the late afternoon, with the rest of the day free to enjoy Burlington at your leisure.
Day 7: From the Green Mountains to the White Mountains
Head out from the Green Mountains of Vermont via the state capital, Montpelier, and the elegant gold-domed State House. Just outside the city, Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks offers you a taste of pure maple syrup and an education in how it's made, from the tapping of trees to the distillation of sap and the subtle shades and grades that result from an art they've perfected over eight generations in the family business. Later today, discover the artistry and history of Vermont's granite industry on a guided tour of the Vermont Granite Museum. Housed in a historic manufacturing plant, the museum showcases traditional stonecutting techniques, impressive sculptures, and the region's cultural heritage, offering a fascinating glimpse into the craft that shaped local communities. Travel into the White Mountains of New Hampshire. arriving in Bretton Woods for a two-night stay at the historic Omni Mount Washington Resort, one of New England's last grand resort hotels. Since its opening in 1902, this palatial hotel has been a magnet for presidents, robber barons and celebrities; Babe Ruth and Thomas Edison loved to golf here. In 1944, the World Bank was established here in the Gold Room; the stunning mountain landscapes outside glow with the same golden colour palette.
Day 8: The Mount Washington experience
Begin your morning with a drive to The Glen House, basecamp for adventurers trekking up Mt. Washington, where a wildlife presentation precedes your climb. Next, embark on your trek to the summit of Mt Washington in vans. The harshest winter weather on the planet can be found at the summit, where a wind speed of 231 mph was once recorded in 1932, and the stone houses are anchored to the ground with chains. Run by the state of New Hampshire, Mount Washington Observatory is a special organization that is usually only visited by members – as a Tauck guest, you'll have special access and a talk by one of the experts (pending availability) who will brief you on their work in this unique environment. It's a day for indulging in the colourful quintessence of a fall foliage tour as you wind down New England back roads to return to your luxury resort at Bretton Woods. Dine as you please this evening.
Day 9: Maine Maritime Museum and a classic Maine lobster dinner
Your journey continues this morning as you make your way toward the final leg of your New England adventure, Maine. This afternoon, visit the Maine Maritime Museum for a closer look into Maine's seafaring history with its vast collection of various objects and rare documents related to the state's maritime heritage and its direct impact, from ancient times to modern day. Tonight, you're off to dinner at a Maine staple – Cook's Lobster & Ale House. Established in 1955, Cook's started as a small, one room take-out stand, and has since grown into a national icon including being featured as a property in the Maine edition of Monopoly! Enjoy a classic Maine lobster dinner before returning to your hotel. Tomorrow, you'll continue on to Portland.
Day 10: A day in Portland
Arrive this morning in Portland, Maine, where you begin the day with a fascinating walking tour. You'll be guided through the historic "Old Port," a rich and interesting section of the city, on a journey back through time over the cobblestones of a working waterfront with insights of Portland's past and present. The "Old Port" is today a bustling connection between the present waterfront and the growing community of Maine's largest city and active commercial port – see how Portland has been shaped over the years by its unique geographical location on the southern coast of Maine. Have lunch at a local harbour restaurant, and then a Tauck exclusive when you join a local lobsterman who takes you out into the harbour aboard his working boat for an authentic, hands-on experience in the lobstering trade. Portland has developed quite a good reputation for its craft beer; a tasting this afternoon, at New England's first craft brewery since Prohibition, Geary Brewing Co., provides an opportunity to sample some innovative varieties. Dinner is on your own this evening.
Day 11: Along the spectacular coastline of Maine to Kennebunkport
Say farewell to Portland today beginning with a visit this morning to Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine (dating back to 1791) – a favourite subject of photographers and artists. Journey south along the beautiful, rugged Maine coast to coastal Kennebunkport, best known for its long, sandy beaches, abundance of lighthouses and fresh seafood delights. Return early this afternoon back to Portland for an afternoon at leisure, exploring this city however you wish. Tonight, join us for a farewell reception and dinner back at your hotel as your New England adventure comes to a close.
Day 12: Journey home
After breakfast, travel from Portland Harbor Hotel to Boston. Tour ends: 12:00 PM at Logan International Airport, Boston. Airport transfers are included. Flights shouldn't be booked before 2:00 PM; allow a minimum of 2 hours for check-in. Ask at booking about extending your stay with additional hotel nights.
Includes
- 11 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can we book flights through you ?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms
Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.
Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.
For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.
How much walking with be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities
Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms.
While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience.
The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.
The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.