Rome to Marrakech Overview

Travel to Italy. Explore the Colosseum, admire the gilded tombs of St Peter's Basilica, wander through atmospheric piazzas and be enchanted by the 'Eternal City' of Rome.

See the landscape transform from Italian cities to rolling hills and olive groves on a train journey to Tuscany. Cycle alongside the scenic Serchio River, glimpse Michelangelo's David in Florence, marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa and retreat to cosy apartments in Lucca in the evenings.

Travel by train, bound for La Spezia (approx 3 hrs). Cinque Terre ('Five Lands') is an area famed for the beauty of its coastline and its picturesque villages. Before the advent of the railway, its ancient systems of hillside footpaths were the villages' only link to the outside world. Walk along the famous path of the Cinque Terre. Olive groves and vineyards cover the mountains that plunge into the sea - the vistas here are breathtaking. If you're feeling energetic, walking the entire path (12 km, approx 5 hrs) will give you the best taste of the villages and countryside. However, you can jump on a train between any of the villages or to get back to our base whenever you want. Please note that some sections of the Cinque Terre path can be quite difficult with challenging uphill stretches, narrow paths, steep cliffs and foot bridges. Appropriate footwear (trainers or light hiking shoes) are required for this day. Cinque Terre path sections: - Riomaggiore to Manarola is easy and takes 25 minutes on a paved path. - Manarola to Corniglia is easy and takes about 50 minutes on a partly paved and partly rocky path. - Corniglia to Vernazza is medium level difficulty and takes about 1.5 hours on a rocky path. - Vernazza to Monterosso is more challenging and takes about 2 hours on a rocky path. Important note for 2013 departures. During October 2011 this region was hit by record flooding and serious mudslides, particularly Monterosso and Vernazza which were evacuated and closed for access. In addition, in the summer of 2012 a number of coastal walking paths were closed due to rockslides. Local authorities have since indicated that the restoration and repair work should be complete by summer 2013 and many walking routes will be re-opened, however, please be aware that there may be delays.

Stroll through the ever-fashionable Milan and marvel at its magnificent Duomo. Travel by train to pristine Stresa, which boasts magnificent views of the Alps. Board a ferry and explore the beautiful Borromean Islands - perhaps take in the hanging gardens of the romantic palatial residence on the shores of serene Lake Maggiore.

Discover the idyllic surrounds of Switzerland's historic heart. Cruise placid Lake Lucerne, learn the story behind the emotive Lion Monument or ride the world's steepest cogwheel railway up Mt Pilatus.

Visit the alps and view the spectacular Trummelbach Falls while taking in crisp, alpine air. Be sure to try traditional Swiss treats such as fondue and rosti. Why not head to the peak of the Schilthorn for a James Bond experience.

Travel to France and embark on an indulgent Dijon tour, renowned for its boeuf bourguignon and mustard. A day trip to Beaune, where Burgundy's best wines are produced, is a tempting introduction to the Cote d'Or.

Raise a glass to a city renowned for its bubbles and royal ties. Visit France's champagne caves for an insight into the drink's effervescent magic.

Wander along the Seine and be enchanted by Paris city, a place that has inspired artists and lovers throughout the ages. There is plenty of time to explore so peruse the art-filled corridors of the Louvre, ascend the Eiffel Tower or visit the Sacre Coeur in vibrant Montmartre.

Cycle through the French countryside of the Loire Valley to the chateau and gardens of Villandry.

Get lost in Bordeaux's World Heritage listed Old Town - or just kick back with a glass of the area's famous wine.

Enjoy fine French food, medieval architecture and slow, winding rivers in the picturesque Dordogne Region.

Spend a day hiking in the foothills of the Pyrenees for breathtaking scenery and clean, crisp air.

Travel to Spain and hang out with the locals in this charming north of Spain city. Scale Mt Urgull to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the bay.

Segovia's walled town holds a treasure trove of architectural wonders just waiting to be explored including Alcazar, a fairytale castle perched on a cliff.

Marvel at masterpieces in the Museo del Prado or relax in the Parque del Buen Retiro admiring Madrid monuments. Later, experience Madrid city's lively after-dark atmosphere.

Travel to Salamanca and admire the quirky Casa de las Conchas. Pull up a chair at a Plaza Mayor cafe and indulge in the must-do thing to do in Spain - sample tapas washed down with sangria!

Travel to Portugal to blast those tastebuds with alheiras and piri-piri before indulging in the region's renowned red wines.

Rattle through Lisbon on a tram before visiting the hilltop citadel for magnificent, panoramic views across terracotta rooftops.

Head straight to the beautiful beaches of Algarve, Portugal, to enjoy sunshine, a swim and some well-deserved relaxation.

Visit Jerez and take a bodega tour and sample some of this town's world-renowned sherries.

Cross the Strait of Gibraltar to Africa. Discover enchanting Chefchaouen on a stroll through narrow, cobblestone streets and past blue-washed houses.

Travel to the city of Fes, a city suspended in time. For an unforgettable experience, watch the sun set over the medina as the melodic call to prayer echoes through the streets.

Haggle with locals in Marrakech's souqs then perhaps celebrate the end of the journey with a grand Moroccan feast.