Itinerary for: Islands of New England (CWWINE)

Departs
from your home address in the UK - 'tour only' option available without flights
on request.

New England’s miles of sandy beaches, majestic coasts, and rolling surf invite relaxation. The Islands of New England tour spends eight days exploring New England’s charms, from the cobblestone streets of Nantucket to a traditional cranberry bog. Step back in time at Plimoth Plantation. Enjoy a lobster feast and a gourmet meal on the Cape Cod Dinner Train. Visit Boston and Providence, the Gilded Age mansions of Newport, the lively artist colony of Provincetown and the beautiful island of Martha’s Vineyard.

Cape Cod Dinner Train

All aboard! When the whistle blows on the Cape Cod Central, your culinary adventure begins. On Day 7, enjoy a delicious gourmet meal in the company of your friends and fellow passengers as you take in the vistas of scenic Cape Cod.

The natural woodlands, lush marshes, the colours and beauty of the cranberry bogs are all lovely sights; their beauty and charm are enhanced when seeing them by train. For more than 150 years, railroading through Cape Cod has enjoyed a rich and colourful history.

The award-winning Cape Cod Dinner Train was featured among the top three dinner trains nationwide by TV Food Networks' Dining on the Train and was also showcased on the PBS programme Great Scenic Railroad Journeys. As you make your way between Hyannis and the Cape Cod Canal on this lovely three-hour journey, remember there's nothing better than wonderful food, great company and beautiful scenery complemented by the unique rhythm of a train.

Itinerary

Day 1: Providence, Rhode Island - Tour Begins 

Join Collette on a journey highlighting the natural beauty and traditional charm of New England. Your tour begins in Providence, the capital of Rhode Island.

Day 2: Providence - Newport - Providence 

This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Providence, "America's Renaissance City." Following your city tour, visit a community enrichment centre for underprivileged youth that is sponsored by the Collette Foundation. Next, depart for Newport, the "Yachting Capital of the East." Travel along breathtaking Ocean Drive en route to Bellevue Avenue which is lined with 11 historic mansions representative of America's Gilded Age. Begun in the 1800's as summer "cottages," 7 of the 11 mansions have been designated National Historic Landmarks. You will have the opportunity to tour the Marble House, one of these architectural marvels. As you explore the gorgeous summer home of Mr. and Mrs. William Vanderbilt, you will gain an understanding of why Newport became known as a legendary resort. (B,D)

Day 3: Providence - Boston, Massachusetts - Providence 

Depart Providence and travel north to the exciting city of Boston. Let Boston's historical charm envelop you during a tour highlighting Beacon Hill, the Old South Meeting House, Boston Public Gardens, the historic North End, Old North Church, the U.S.S. Constitution and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Then, use your leisure time to stroll along the famed Freedom Trail, a 2.5 mile walking path along the streets of Boston showcasing the city's historical sites, or explore the lively marketplace in Faneuil Hall. (B)

Day 4: Providence - Cape Cod, Massachusetts 

Today you'll tour a traditional New England cranberry bog and learn about dry harvesting. Then, step back in time with a stop in the celebrated city of Plymouth where the Pilgrims landed in 1620. See legendary Plymouth Rock and board a reproduction of the Mayflower, the 102-passenger ship used by the Pilgrims for the 65-day journey from England. Experience the Pilgrim way of life with a visit to Plimoth Plantation, a re-creation of a 17th-century village. Tonight, indulge in a traditional, savoury New England lobster feast. (B,D)

Day 5: Cape Cod - Martha's Vineyard - Cape Cod 

A ferry ride transports you to the beautiful island of Martha's Vineyard. Known for visits by presidents and royalty, this summer home of many artists, writers and celebrities is full of surprises. A local guide will show you all the highlights of "the Vineyard," including quaint gingerbread-styled cottages and a once-famous whaling port, resplendent with sea captain's homes and widow's walks. Later, depart the island and cruise back to Cape Cod. (B, D)

Day 6: Cape Cod - Nantucket - Cape Cod 

Step aboard the Nantucket ferry complete with all the luxuries of first-class ferry service, en route to Nantucket. Upon arrival you'll set out on a tour exploring the beauty of this idyllic island, from cobblestoned Main Street to its beaches and lighthouses. During leisure time explore the island's waterfront where yachts bob in the harbour or perhaps shop for a famous Nantucket basket. (B)

Day 7: Cape Cod - Hyannis - Provincetown - Cape Cod 

Your day begins with a tour of Hyannis. Catch a rare glimpse of the Camelot era as you travel through Hyannisport, home of the Kennedy compound, and visit the poignant Kennedy Memorial. Visit charming Provincetown, a lively artist colony, famous for its crafts and bright, Cape Cod flair. Your evening features a dazzling farewell dinner onboard an elegant dinner train. Indulge in a fabulous meal while you sit back and watch the beautiful Cape Cod scenery roll by. (B)

Day 8: Cape Cod - Boston

Depart for home.

Day 9: Arrive UK.