Looking for inspiration for your next getaway? Here’s a selection of top picks from the 2024 holiday programme chosen by our very own Woods Travel team.
THE LAKE DISTRICT
KRISTY’S PICK – THE LAKE DISTRICT | 16 June 2024 | 6 Days | from £949pp
It is so tricky to pick just one! But, for me, you cannot beat the beautiful Lake District. The panoramic vistas that you see throughout the tour are simply breathtaking, even through the windows of the Inn on the Lake Hotel where we stay! I like that the varied itinerary means you can experience the Lakes from all angles – by road, by train and by boat. The cruise aboard the Ullswater steamer is calming and peaceful, but then there’s the excitement as you journey by coach through the huge mountains on the incredible Kirkstone Pass. There are many ‘wow’ moments on this tour, and I think that is why it’s one of my favourites.
Cruising the RHÔNE
GEORGIE’S PICK – CRUISING THE RHÔNE | 03 September 2024 | 9 Days | from £1,645pp
I love travelling abroad and find river cruises are such a unique and tranquil way to discover new regions. There’s nothing like gliding along the iconic waterways, taking in the sites from the sun deck. I think the Rhône cruise is particularly special as it sails through unspoiled landscapes of southern France, via the scenic regions of Provence and The Camargue. Also, the ships are an experience in themselves! They have a warm, welcoming atmosphere, luxurious decor, tranquil lounge areas and exquisite dining. I enjoy trying local delicacies, plus, the Rhône cruise includes an extraordinary meal at a Paul Bocuse restaurant, “the pope of gastronomy”!
HEBRIDEAN ODYSSEY
DRIVER PAUL’S PICK – HEBRIDEAN ODYSSEY | 16 September 2024 | 9 Days | from £1,535pp
I’d choose the Outer Hebrides as my pick because they are so different to anywhere I’ve been before, and I’ve seen many places! It is not often you find a chain of islands with untouched natural habitats and a unique way of life. And island-hopping means you see something different every day. The local guides are great and have lots of insights. The drive to get there is also magnificent – skirting around vast lochs, passing dramatic castles, gliding across causeways and navigating through 100-year-old bridges! It is a long drive (with plenty of stops!) but the sights are remarkable, so it’s definitely worth it.
BODMIN & BLOOMS
SALLY’S PICK – BODMIN & BLOOMS | 11 August 2024 | 5 Days | from £735pp
This tour stands out to me as not only does it offer everything I look for in a holiday – beautiful scenery, places to explore, time to relax – it also provokes great memories. I used to have a pet named fondly after the Cornish town of Bodmin, and I fell in love with the quaint fishing port of Mevagissey when my friend married there – I really like visiting, it is so idyllic! The Lost Gardens of Heligan are both magical and intriguing, and I’d thoroughly enjoy exploring the elegant Prideaux Place, watching the deer and taking in the country views from the terrace. Also, I really like that the hotel for this tour is family-owned and managed.