Day 1
Boston Arrival
Depart London Heathrow – 11:05
Arrive Boston – 13:10
Journey Time – 7 hours
On arrival we recommend that you DO NOT collect your car but rather take one of the metered cabs (approximate fare ~ $25.00 ~ this is not included in your prepaid holiday cost) from the airport to your accommodation. We recommend this as you will be tired and will only pay high fees to park the vehicle during your 3 days in the city. Of course if you do prefer to collect your vehicle on arrival or would like us to arrange private transportation for you to your hotel, this can be done for an additional cost.
One of the most attractive cities in America, Boston is famous for everything from the Red Sox and Paul Revere to Cheers and clam chowder. With a history stretching back to the first colonists the city mingles its past with its present, its tradition with innovation. Home to Harvard, America’s first university, the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the famous Boston Symphony Orchestra and Museum of Fine Arts the city is part history lesson, part modern metropolis, offering attractions to suit every taste and interest.
For an introduction to the city take a “Hop on, Hop Off” trolley tour with the guide pointing out all the historic sites and attractions, or walk the Freedom Trail, a well-preserved pedestrian path that weaves in and out of historic neighbourhoods. Between landmarks, you can shop the fabulous stores on Newbury Street, or browse the antique shops and distinctive red brick buildings of Beacon Hill. Perhaps lunch in lively Quincy Market or a delicious authentic Italian meal in the North End.
Take time to visit the New England Aquarium or the nearby Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum to take part in the famous event that forever changed the course of American history! Just outside the city another attraction worth a visit is the John F Kennedy Memorial Library that displays the life and times of the 35th President of the United States.
The Eliot Apartment Suites are situated at the intersection of Commonwealth and Massachusetts Avenues in Boston’s fashionable Back Bay, the elegant suites of the Eliot offer the finest in modern comfort and technology. Major Boston attractions, restaurants and shopping are only a stroll away, making this the ideal base for exploring the sights of Boston. The property has two onsite restaurants, 24-hour room service, concierge service, dry cleaning and laundry facilities as well as a business centre. Accommodations include a kitchenette with fridge, microwave, coffee maker, linen and towels provided, TV in living area and bedrooms, complimentary WIFI and daily housekeeping. Valet parking is available at additional charge.
Overnight – Boston (Eliot apartment suites)
Days 4 to 8
The White Mountains
This morning collect your car rental before leaving Boston on Route 95N cross the border into New Hampshire and Route NH-16N to North Conway and the short drive on Route-302W to the Nordic Resort in Bartlett near Jackson, NH. Settled in the early 17th century by English and Scots the state was named for Hampshire in England and because of the large amount of granite rock found here is known as the Granite State. However New Hampshire is really known for its scenic beauty with forests, mountains, river carved valleys and more than a thousand lakes offering a panoramic wonderland.
The White Mountains National Forest is a natural attraction and the scenic Kancamagus Highway follows what once was an Indian trail and is recognized as one of the most beautiful drives on the east coast. A trip on the Mount Washington Cog Railway takes you to the summit of this 6,288 feet mountain that offers 10-mile views in all directions on a clear day. Horse riding, hiking, wild life tours and for the more adventurous zip lining in the mountains are all possible activities.
Time should also be allowed for touring the Lakes Region including the 72 square mile Lake Winnipesaukee that has 274 islands and offers daily scenic cruises on the M/S Mount Washington. New Hampshire is also a tax-free state and North Conway is crammed with big-name factory outlet stores offering bargains galore!
Nordic Village Resort is located near Jackson not far from North Conway and a gateway to the White Mountains National Forest, offering a choice of well-equipped and comfortable one and two bedroom condos. The Nordic Village is set on almost 165 acres, along a one-mile stretch of road that winds up the side of a mountain. Most of the condos are designed to provide some of the finest views of the Mount Washington Valley and panoramic views of Cranmore Mountain, North Conway, Black Mountain and surrounding areas. The famous scenic Kancamagus Highway, North Conway Outlet Stores, and Mount Washington & Cog Railway are just a short drive away. The resort has an outdoor pool (summer), children’s playground, fitness centre, hiking trails, and family entertainment including Wildlife Encounter and Movie Nights. Accommodation facilities include a fully equipped kitchen, TV, complimentary internet access, patio, deck or balcony, towels and linen while daily housekeeping can be arranged at an additional charge.
Overnight – The White Mountains (Nordic Village Resort Condos)
Days 8 to 10
Stowe and the Green Mountains
Today a scenic journey through the White Mountains National Forest passing Crawford Notch State Park (entrance fee) where there are a number of popular family hikes offering stunning views of the surrounding area. Shortly after passing the town of Littleton cross the border into the Green Mountain State of Vermont one of the country’s most attractive and rural states where you will find moutain views along with quintessential New England Villages, town greens, historic churches and covered bridges. The town of Stowe, is a short distance from Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, which overlooks The Stowe Mountain Lodge, home for the next two nights. Downtown, you’ll find refreshing dining and shopping that’s true to Vermont. Nearby in Waterbury you’ll find Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, where tours are available, and 45 minutes drive away is Burlington on the shores of Lake Champlain, named after the explorer Samuel de Champlain and the second largest freshwater lake in the country.
Stowe has been a destination for world travelers for well over a century and the Vermont‐Alpine style of the lodge reflects the beauty of the green mountains found throughout the seasons. That resonates in every aspect of the Stowe Mountain Lodge which draws inspiration from the area’s covered bridges, sparkling lakes, rambling woodlands and majestic peaks. Each guest room is designed to feel like it’s truly a part of the mountain. Natural Vermont woods and stones provide a contemporary take on the natural beauty of New England and oversized windows in every guest accommodation allow you to soak in breathtaking mountain views. Accommodation facilities include a fully equipped kitchen with microwave and dishwasher, iron and ironing board, high speed wireless internet, washer/dryer in 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites only, in room dining (additional charge), LCD flatscreen TV, dining table and chairs, daily housekeeping, private terrace with lovely views. One bedroom unit (sleeps 5), has one bathroom (950 sq.ft. approx.) with king bed in the bedroom and sleeper sofabed in living area. Two bedroom unit (sleeps 6), has two bathrooms (1200 sq.ft. approx.) and either king bed or 2 x double beds in each bedroom with sleeper sofabed in living area. Three bedroom unit (sleeps 8) has three bathrooms (1600 sq.ft. approx.) with either king bed or 2 x double beds in each bedroom and a sleeper sofabed in living area.
Overnight – Stowe (Stowe Mountain Lodge)
Days 10 to 15
Cape Cod
Route RI-24N crosses into Massachusetts merging into Route I-195E and then MA-25E which leads to Cape Cod.
The famous peninsular of Cape Cod juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and has some of the best beaches and warmest waters on the east coast as well as some of the prettiest villages. You’ll have time to explore the Cape over the next few days and one excursion is to the colourful and fascinating little town of Provincetown at the very tip of Cape Cod. Whaling ships ruled the harbour in the 1800’s and it’s still a fishing port today, but now the fishing fleet goes as far as the Grand Banks for cod and haddock. Being surrounded by water on three sides Provincetown has the perfect light so favoured by artists and the town is renowned for its vibrant art community and has attracted a wide spectrum of people who have made it their home. Artists live side by side with traditional fisherman and during the summer Commercial Street is filled with the most cosmopolitan mix of people, exploring the art galleries, tiny seafood restaurants, shops, narrow streets and pretty gardens. During the morning explore the town, then after lunch enjoy a whale watch cruise (weather permitting) for an exciting adventure to view these majestic marine mammals. Whale watch cruises are also available from Barnstable Harbour just a few miles from the Green Harbor Resort.
Time also to spend a day visiting pretty Nantucket Island with its cobblestone Main Street shaded by giant elm trees and magnificent homes of merchants and ship captains making it one of the best-preserved towns in New England. A fully narrated tour is available that offers a truly interesting view of America’s most scenic little island. In just over an hour, become acquainted with the “Little Grey Lady,” famous as the world’s foremost whaling port in the 18th century. Included are The Old Mill, “Sconset” Village with its rose-covered cottages, Low Beach, Sankaty Head Lighthouse, Cranberry bogs and Nantucket moors.
Another excursion by ferry is to the lovely island of Martha’s Vineyard. A Mecca for summer visitors the island is host to the rich and the famous, including film stars and American Presidents. An island tour provides a great overview of the Vineyard with the gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs, Gay Head cliffs in scenic Aquinnah and a beautiful pass through idyllic, historic Edgartown one of New England’s most elegant communities. Main Street is a picture book setting with its harbour and waterfront. See the stately white Greek revival houses built by the whaling captains and the old Lighthouse at the mouth of Edgartown Harbor.
Green Harbor is an idyllic resort situated on Lewis Bay, central Cape Cod, within easy reach of Hyannis and all its shops, restaurants, museums and theatres. Spread over 7.5 acres in a secluded setting with a private beach, this beautiful resort is in an ideal location for exploring the Cape and offers many activities that make it a superb location for families. Resort facilities include a private beach, with lounge chairs and beach towels provided, heated swimming pool, children’s club, laundry facilities, bicycle and rowing boat rentals, miniature golf, shuffleboard, a wide variety of family friendly summer activities – face painting, beach yoga, nature walks, arts and crafts, outdoor parking. Accommodation facilities include fully equipped kitchen, TV and telephone, complimentary wireless internet access, towels & linens, private deck/balcony with maid service and cribs available at additional cost.
Overnight – Cape Cod (Green Harbor Resort)
Day 15
Boston
US – 6W leads to the Sagamore Bridge and Route MA-3N that passes by Plymouth en route to Logan Airport. Perhaps visit Plimoth Plantation near Plymouth, a living history museum depicting life in 1627 with time for lunch before driving to the airport to return your rental car and taking your flight home.
Depart Boston – 21:30
Arrive London Heathrow – 08:05 (Next Day)
Journey time – 6 hours 35 minutes
