Rome to Marrakech
Trip Details
Combine the best of Western Europe with a Moroccan sojourn on this unforgettable 50-day adventure. Cycle through the Tuscan countryside, hike the velvet-grassed valleys of Lauterbrunnen, discover the champagne caves in Reims, rattle through Lisbon on a city tram, laze on the beaches of the Algarve, and finally end the odyssey among the colour and chaos of Marrakech. Taste each region along the way - from the simplicity and flavour of Ligurian cuisine to the aromatic pleasures of Loire Valley wine, tastebud-tickling piri-piri in Portugal and the rich flavour of Jerez sherry, not to mention the tapas of Spain and the tagines of Morocco.
Itinerary
Day 1 Rome
Between exploring the Colosseum, admiring the gilded tombs of St Peter's Basilica and wandering through atmospheric piazzas, travellers will be enchanted by the 'Eternal City'.
Days 2-5 Lucca/Pisa/Florence
See the landscape transform from Romanesque cities to rolling hills and olive groves on a train journey to Tuscany. Cycle alongside the scenic Serchio River, glimpse Michelangelo's David in Florence, marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa and retreat to cosy apartments in Lucca in the evenings.
Days 6-7 Cinque Terre
Weave through the charming, hillside villages of the Cinque Terre, taking the stunning, coastal path above the sea. Perhaps even cool off with a dip in the azure waters below.
Days 8-9 Milan/Stresa
Stroll through the ever-fashionable Milan and marvel at its magnificent Duomo. Travel by train to pristine Stressa, which boasts magnificent views of the Alps. Board a ferry and explore the beautiful Borromean Islands - perhaps take in the hanging gardens of the romantic palatial residence on the shores of serene Lake Maggiore.
Days 10-11 Lucerne
Discover the idyllic surrounds of Switzerland's historic heart. Cruise placid Lake Lucerne, learn the story behind the emotive Lion Monument or ride the world's steepest cogwheel railway up Mt Pilatus.
Days 15-16 Dijon/Beaune
Embark on an French odyssey of indulgence in Dijon, renowned for its boeuf bourguignon and mustard. A day trip to Beaune, where Burgundy's best wines are produced, is a tempting introduction to the Cote d'Or.
Days 17-18 Reims
Raise a glass to a city renowned for its bubbles and royal ties. Visit champagne caves for an insight into the drink's effervescent magic.
Days 19-22 Paris
Wander along the Seine and be enchanted by the city that has inspired artists and lovers throughout the ages. There is plenty of time to explore, so peruse the art-filled corridors of the Louvre, ascend the Eiffel Tower or visit the Sacre Coeur in vibrant Montmartre.
Days 23-24 Tours
Cycle through the countryside of the Loire to the chateau and gardens of Villandry.
Day 25 Bordeaux
Get lost in Bordeaux's World Heritage-listed Old Town, or just kick back with a glass of the area's famous wine.
Days 26-28 Dordogne Region
Enjoy fine food, medieval architecture and slow, winding rivers in this picturesque region.
Days 29-30 Pyrenees
Spend a day hiking in the foothills of the Pyrenees for breathtaking scenery and clean, crisp air.
Days 31-32 San Sebastian
Hang out with the locals on a sandy beach then scale Mt Urgull to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the bay.
Days 33-34 Segovia
This walled town holds a treasure trove of architectural wonders just waiting to be explored, including Alcazar, a fairytale castle perched on a cliff.
Days 35-36 Madrid
Marvel at masterpieces in the Museo del Prado or relax in the Parque del Buen Retiro. Later, experience the city's lively after-dark atmosphere.
Day 37 Salamanca
Admire the quirky Casa de las Conchas then pull up a chair at a Plaza Mayor cafe and sample tapas washed down with sangria.
Days 38-39 Coimbra
Enter Portugal to blast those tastebuds with alheiras and piri-piri, then indulge in the region's renowned red wines.
Days 40-41 Lisbon
Rattle through the capital on a tram, before visiting the hilltop citadel for magnificent, panoramic views across terracotta rooftops.
Days 42-43 The Algarve
Head straight to the Algave's beautiful beaches to enjoy sunshine, a swim and some well-deserved relaxation.
Day 44 Jerez
Take a bodega tour and sample some of this town's world-renowned sherries.
Days 45-46 Chefchaouen
Cross the Strait of Gibraltar to Africa. Discover enchanting Chefchaouen on a stroll through narrow, cobblestone streets and past blue-washed houses.
Days 47-48 Fes
Encounter a city suspended in time. For an unforgettable experience, watch the sun set over the medina as the melodic call to prayer echoes through the streets.
Days 49-50 Marrakech
Haggle with locals in the souqs then perhaps celebrate the end of the journey with a grand Moroccan feast.
Days 12-14 Swiss Alps
View the spectacular Trummelbach Falls while taking in crisp, alpine air. Be sure to try traditional Swiss treats such as fondue and rosti. Why not head to the peak of the Schilthorn for a James Bond experience?