Quebec and New England Discovery

16 days, Self-guided, Minimum 2 People, Daily May to September

This all-encompassing itinerary whisks you from the cosmopolitan streets of Montreal through New York State's Adirondack Mountains to the scenic delights of New England returning via charming Quebec City. This is a region of surprisingly wild scenery - the winter Olympic site of Lake Placid, the Green Mountains of Vermont and the White Mountains of New Hampshire including the highest mountain in eastern North America, Mount Washington (1920 metres). The coastal glories of Maine's Acadia National Park include dense estuarine forest, rocky shores, sheer granite cliffs, sandy beaches and glacier carved mountains creating a unique home for a variety of plant and animal species.

Take advantage of the favourable exchange rate and enjoy fresh Atlantic lobster in Maine, Ben and Jerry's gourmet ice-cream in Burlington and mouth-watering crepes in Quebec City. The hiking throughout is magnificent plus options to swim and canoe or simply soak up the gorgeous New England ambience. With the support of detailed route notes and ample time allowed for stretching your legs this is the perfect way to experience all the highlights these regions offer following a route less travelled. Perfect at any time in the summer - but the Fall colours are magnificent!

Days 1 and 2. Outbound to Montreal

Take a daytime flight to Montreal and enjoy a relaxing first day in the heart of the city's thriving bistro and boutique quarter.

Days 3 and 4. The Adirondacks

Drive the scenic route over the border to the Adirondacks. This region in northern New York State is an immense blue and green space in which to relax - most people are surprised to find such amazing wilderness here! It contains 3,000 lakes and 2,000 miles of hiking trails, the nation's largest trail system, ranging from mountain summits to isolated waterfalls to forest glades. You can choose your grade of trail from your scenic base in Lake Placid.

Days 5 and 6. Vermont

Take the ferry over to Burlington in Vermont and continue to the charmingly typical American town of Stowe. From here hike up the state's highest mountain, Mount Mansfield (1340 metres).

Days 7 to 9. The White Mountains of New England

Drive into the heart of Franconia State Park via the dramatic Flume Gorge. The 'Presidentials' section of the White Mountains offer numerous trail options including the highest, Mount Washington which is a stiff but rewarding climb.

Days 10 to 12. Maine's Acadia National Park

Head to the coast and some breathtaking windswept Atlantic panoramas. The geography of Acadia National Park ranges from meadows and marshes, dense evergreen forests, granite cliffs, glacier-carved mountains (including Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the US Atlantic coast) to sandy beaches. Everywhere the ocean makes its presence felt, whether by sight, sound or smell. Choose between hiking the many trails, sea kayaking, biking or just relaxing. The town of Bar Harbour has great restaurants and curio shops and is a fitting base for your time here.

Days 13 and 14. Quebec City

Return north to Canada and the beautiful cultural city of Quebec. Explore the narrow, cobbled streets, terraced restaurants and hidden boutiques of this UNESCO heritage site. Enjoy the street entertainment and convivial cafe atmosphere this very French city has to offer.

Days 15 and 16. Homeward

Return to Montreal and fly overnight back to the UK.