Self-Drive: Country Inns of New England

12 days from £1855 per person

Charming country inns are a popular type of accommodation for those visiting New England. The warm hospitality, high levels of service and hearty breakfasts, combined with comfortable spacious rooms and fabulous facilities are just some of the reasons these authentic inns are enjoyed by many.

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!

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

Itinerary Highlights

Enjoy staying in a selection of New England’s finest country inns, renowned for offering warm hospitality, home cooked breakfasts and an attractive quaint charm.

Wander aimlessly along miles of golden sandy shores, enjoy outdoor activities and visit pretty coastal villages in Cape Cod, an area of sheer natural beauty.

Lace up your boots and head to the White Mountain National Forest near Jackson, offering over 1,200 miles of hiking trails and 700 miles of biking paths winding you through striking sceneries.

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Country Inns of New England

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 Boston (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 Barnstable town, 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 Barnstable, Cape Cod: Honeysuckle Hill Inn (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 Barnstable, Cape Cod: Honeysuckle Hill Inn (or similar)

Day 4 Cape Cod to Essex, Connecticut – 148 miles

After breakfast today you will travel around two and a half hours through Rhode Island and along the stunning Connecticut coastline until you reach the historical village of Essex. Essex forms part of one of the oldest regions in America. 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 Essex: Copper Beach Inn (or similar)

Day 5 Essex to Manchester, Vermont – 170 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: Wilburton Inn (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: The Snowflake Inn (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: The Snowflake Inn (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: Maine Stay Inn & Cottages (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: Maine Stay Inn & Cottages (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: Maine Stay Inn & Cottages (or similar)

Day 11 Kennebunkport to Boston – 84 miles/ Boston to the UK

After breakfast, check out of your country inn and begin your 2 hour journey back to Boston International Airport; stop off at the historical town of Salem if you have time. When you reach the airport, drop your hire car off and board your international flight back to the UK. (B)

Day 12 Arrive UK

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

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Hotel accommodation and taxes
Car hire as specified

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature
Meals unless specified

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.

Self-Drive: Country Inns of New England

12 days from £1855 per person

Itinerary Highlights

Itinerary: Self-Drive: Country Inns of New England

What To Do Next?

What's included

What's not included

Guide to Price

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