Self-Drive: Classic New England

13 days from £1800 per person

Route: Boston – Cape Cod – Norwich – Manchester – Jackson – Kennebunkport – Boston

Enjoy the highlights of New England on this 13-day self-drive journey. Starting in Boston, you’ll journey through contrasting landscapes as you visit the hook-shaped peninsular of Cape Cod; travel inland to one of America’s oldest and most beautiful towns, Essex, Connecticut, before reaching the contrasting mountain scenery of Vermont and New Hampshire. Enjoy local cuisine, learn about the region’s rich history and take part in the outdoor activities on offer - if you’re lucky you might even spot a whale along the scenic coastline of Kennebunkport. During your journey you will stay in several charming country inns. Enjoy warm hospitality, high levels of service and hearty breakfasts, as well as comfortable spacious rooms and fabulous facilities.

Day 1 UK to Boston

Today, begin your journey by boarding your international flight to Boston. On arrival you will collect your hire car from the airport and drive to your centrally located hotel. Pedestrian friendly and easy to explore, spend the rest of the day ambling through historical Boston at your own pace. Wander along the freedom trail, spot contrasting architecture or sample culinary delights at Quincy Market. (N)

Accommodation in Boston: Park Plaza (or similar)

Day 2 Boston to Cape Cod, Massachusetts – 70 miles

Check out of your hotel this morning and drive around an hour and a half to Hyannis, located on Cape Cod. When you arrive, check in to your first welcoming country inn of the holiday. Cape Cod is an area of sheer natural beauty where you will find miles upon miles of golden sandy shores, rolling sand dunes, an abundance of outdoor activities and pretty coastal villages. If you are travelling between the months of May to October, you might choose to join a whale watching tour, to spot the various species of whales that migrate to these waters to feed. (N)

Accommodation in Hyannis, Cape Cod: Anchor In Waterfront Lodge (or similar)

Day 3 Cape Cod

After breakfast, the day is free for you to continue exploring Cape Cod at your own pace. You might choose to jump on a ferry to spend the morning visiting the islands of Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard. Later on you might choose to go for a round of golf, visit one of the many beautiful beaches or go in search of some delicious fresh seafood or clam chowder. (B)

Accommodation in Hyannis, Cape Cod: Anchor In Waterfront Lodge (or similar)

Day 4 Cape Cod to Norwich, Connecticut – 127 miles

After breakfast today you will travel through Rhode Island and along the stunning Connecticut coastline until you reach the historical village of Norwich. Straight away you will notice well-preserved colonial and Federal-period architecture and fascinating museums providing plenty of information about the area’s rich history and iconic legacies. Head out on a riverboat to discover the charming Connecticut River or go for a stroll along the picturesque waterfront. (B)

Accommodation in Norwich: The Spa at Norwich Inn (or similar)

Day 5 Norwich to Manchester, Vermont – 174 miles

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on a 3 hour journey inland through Vermont’s blend of farmland, quaint villages and mighty mountain ranges until you reach Manchester, a small town tucked in the valley of the Green Mountains. Take today to explore your scenic surroundings; go on a drive through the mountains or enjoy gentle walking trails around the nearby hills. Make a visit to Hilden to see Abraham Lincoln’s family home or go fly fishing, a popular pursuit in Manchester. (B)

Accommodation in Manchester: The Manchester View (or similar)

Day 6 Manchester to Jackson, New Hampshire – 195 miles

After breakfast you’ll jump back in your car and drive north for around 4½ hours to Jackson, New Hampshire. Make stops to take photos of the picturesque countryside or break for lunch in Woodstock, the iconic festival town. Part of your drive takes you along the Kancamagus Highway, a stunning mountain road which is rated as one of America’s most beautiful byways. Jackson is a quintessential New England town, complete with white wooden houses and an eye-catching covered bridge located in the heart of the White Mountains National Forest. (B)

Accommodation in Jackson: Inn at Ellis River (or similar)

Day 7 Jackson

After enjoying breakfast this morning, the day is free for you to explore Jackson and the surrounding areas at your leisure. The White Mountain National Forest offers over 1,200 miles of hiking trails and 700 miles of biking paths; alternatively go in search of New Hampshire’s fabulous waterfalls, the vast Lake Winnipesaukee or the Aerial Tramway that sweeps to the top of Cannon Mountain. If you would prefer to stay closer to Jackson today, take the Conway Scenic Railroad through Crawford Notch or enjoy a picnic by the Jackson Falls in the heart of the village. (B)

Accommodation in Jackson: Inn at Ellis River (or similar)

Day 8 Jackson to Kennebunkport, Maine – 79 miles

After breakfast, you’ll start your 2 hour journey back towards the coast. New England’s largest state, Maine, is well known for its dramatic coastline, adventurous outdoor activities, rich heritage, over 60 working lighthouses and, of course, its famous tasty lobster. After a 2 hour drive you’ll reach the coastal town of Kennebunkport. Settle into your delightful country inn and head out to explore the town or relax on the beach. (N)

Accommodation in Kennebunkport: Captain's Collection (or similar)

Day 9 Kennebunkport

After breakfast, today is free for you to explore the Kennebunks at your own pace. Go for a drive and snap a picture of Walker’s Point - the Bush Compound, head out on a whale watching boat tour, hop from local museum to quirky craft store and leave plenty of time and space to enjoy some fresh lobster. (B)

Accommodation in Kennebunkport: Captain's Collection (or similar)

Day 10 Kennebunkport

After breakfast, today is again free for you to enjoy at your leisure. You might choose to explore the string of beaches that vary from golden sand to rocky coves, or sail out to sea on a Windjammer Cruise. This evening enjoy your evening meal beneath the mesmerising sky, a blend of purple and orange which makes for a really romantic setting. (B)

Accommodation in Kennebunkport: Captain's Collection (or similar)

Day 11 Kennebunkport to Boston – 84 miles

After breakfast, check out of your country inn and begin your 2 hour journey back to Boston; stop off at the historical town of Salem if you have time. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Accommodation in Boston: Park Plaza (or similar)

Day 12 Boston to the UK

Spend the morning and lunch at leisure in Boston before driving to the airport where you will drop your hire car off and board your international flight back to the UK. (B)

Day 13 Arrive UK

Today you will arrive back into the UK, where you will continue your journey home. (N)

Self-Drive: Classic New England

13 days from £1800 per person

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Pettitts guide to price for this itinerary would be £1800 per person

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Classic New England

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