Greece - Athens Ios, Santorini

The Cyclades Islands - The warm colours of the Greek earth, the unique light reflecting off the houses, and the blue of the clear, calm sea, these are the elements that make a picture of Greece (Frommer's 99). The secret to the Greek Islands is never to over plan. A light structure, interesting tours and great people all make a perfect tour. Fly to Athens, spend three nights in Athens, then 4 nights in Ios and 5 nights in Santorini before flying back to Toronto. This is a very relaxed trip, lots of free time, lots of suggested ways to fill it.  Ios represents our first chance to unwind and just enjoy the many beaches and lovely coves and the village of Chora with its many restaurants and taverns and overall charm. Santorini considered the jewel of the Cyclades Islands.

Italy - The Tuscany Region

Fly to Florence, then spend 7 nights at the beautiful LeTorri Villa , 35 km outside of Florence.
LeTorri is a typical Tuscan holiday villa. Erected in the XIVth century, it is a spacious and elegant family-run farmhouse situated in the heart of Tuscany.  The villa is located on the top of a hill, surrounded by the natural beauty of vineyards and olive groves, reflecting the Tuscan landscape. This renaissance villa has been beautifully and fully restored. It boasts a swimming pool, an area to have a relaxing barbeque and enchanting gardens.

Accommodation is in fully equipped, self-catering apartments.

Enjoy 5 days of touring the Tuscan countryside and cities with our personable, qualified local guides.  The guides are fully certified to drive into the back roads of the cities and villages showing us the real Tuscany.  Their wealth of local knowledge make these tours very personal.

France

Fly to Paris and stay 2 nights, before departure with our escort to the city of Reims in the Champagne region. While in Reims, visits will include the Cathedral Notre Dame and the Pommery Champagne facility. Departing from Reims our tour takes us to the city of Beaune located in the Burgundy region for 3 nights. While in this region visits include: the Hospice De Beaune, regional wine caves and open markets featuring local products and fine French linens. Departing Beaune our travel takes us to the lower Loire Valley with visits that include; Vezelay and Sancerre. Continuing to the Loire Valley following the route of Joan of Arc. Visiting chateaux along the route. Accommodations for 3 nights in our hotel in the city of Tours allowing time to appreciate the chateaux and specialties of this region. Return to Paris with optional extra night bookings.