4 Vacation Ideas Away from the Crowds
Published Monday, February 7th 2022 - Updated Tuesday, February 15th 2022
Here are four spectacular vacation ideas where you won't need to fight the crowds. You'll enjoy plenty of pampering as well as private drivers and private guides to unique activities and sightseeing.
ITALY - TUSCANY AND UMBRIA
A vacation to the Italian Countryside is the ultimate destination for culinary lovers. You will learn about the Italians’ passion for food and wine and immerse yourself in the heart of the country. And the mountains, the sunsets, and the overall vibe are exceptional.
Tuscany – There are many smaller, less-visited areas of Tuscany where you can avoid crowds. Visit charming villages and enjoy wine tastings at historic vineyards. Enjoy horseback riding and wellness spas, all at the most charming farmhouse-style properties surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
Umbria – This region of Italy is like Tuscany but considerably less-crowded. Explore ancient walled cities and medieval hilltop towns. Learn about the art of olive oils and black truffles. Monti Sibillini National Park offers biking, horseback riding, ziplining, whitewater rafting, and paragliding. This spectacular area is lush and mountainous.
FRANCE - THE LOIRE VALLEY AND PROVENCE
The French Countryside is magical. These are two spectacular regions where hotels are intimate, set in open fields, and often surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
The Loire Valley - Discover a quieter region famous for its fairytale castles, lovely wines, and beautiful landscapes. The Loire Valley has over 300 castles, sunflower fields, vineyards, and charming medieval towns. The castles are rich in Renaissance architecture. Some are now hotels for a true immersion into this magnificent region. Spend your days touring historic castles, visiting the most charming towns, and tasting the local wines.
Provence – It is renowned for its incredible Roman ruins, which you will find across the region. In Provence, there are so many smaller and undiscovered towns away from the crowds. You’ll find many vineyards where you can take a wine tour and taste the locally made wines. Exploring the Provençal markets in the area should not be missed. Most villages have a market featuring local foods and products.
PORTUGAL - THE AZORES AND DOURO VALLEY
The Azores - These nine islands off the coast of Portugal are still a hidden gem. In the Azores, you’ll enjoy lovely towns with mosaic cobblestone streets. Not far from these quaint towns, you can experience hot springs, hike to waterfalls, and explore beautiful gardens throughout the islands. The Azores also offers mountain biking, canoeing, surfing, and infinite coastal hikes.
The Douro Valley – This is one of the most spectacular and oldest wine regions in the world. The Douro River flows between the hills of rolling vineyards. The hotels in the Douro Valley are intimate and beautiful with views of the breathtaking landscape and often provide vine-filled terraces over the tranquil river. We arrange for private visits to historic wineries where you get to tour the property and enjoy tastings and lunch. Guided hikes, bicycle tours, and private boat tours complete your stay in this magnificent region with less crowds.
CHARTER A PRIVATE YACHT
Whether in the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, yacht charters are personal, private, and exclusive. You enjoy the entire yacht for just you and your family and friends. Your discreet crew is devoted to only you. Whether you want the privacy of cherished family time or the pleasure of only interacting with the people with you, a private yacht charter provides just that.
I hope these ideas are helpful as you start dreaming about your next vacation. I will be honored to help you plan a customized vacation away from all the crowds.
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