Discover Europe the Back-Roads Way – Small Groups, Extraordinary Experiences

Sometimes, the best journeys take you off the beaten track.
At DG Travel, we're often asked about holidays that offer something a little different. Not everyone wants to fly to their destination, travel in a large group or spend their holiday following the crowds. Increasingly, our clients are looking for smaller groups, interesting itineraries, beautiful destinations and the opportunity to really get to know the places they visit.
That's why we'd like to introduce you to Back-Roads Touring Co.
The chances are you've never heard of them, and in many ways, that's rather the point. Back-Roads doesn't cater for the masses. Instead, it specialises in thoughtfully designed, small-group touring holidays for travellers who appreciate a more personal and leisurely way of exploring.
And we think that's something worth discovering.
A Different Way to Discover Europe
There's the Europe you see from a motorway, and then there's the Europe you discover when you venture down its quieter roads.
Think charming villages, family-run restaurants, historic towns, beautiful countryside and those wonderful little places that rarely feature on the usual tourist itineraries.
Back-Roads Touring specialises in exploring the UK, Ireland and continental Europe, taking travellers beyond the familiar sights to discover the character, history and culture that make each destination so special.
Whether it's the rolling vineyards of Burgundy, the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, the ancient streets of Italy or the picturesque villages of Ireland, these are holidays designed to be enjoyed rather than rushed.
Small Groups Make a Big Difference
One of the things we particularly like about Back-Roads is its emphasis on smaller groups.
Anyone who has travelled on a large coach tour will know that, while they certainly have their place, they aren't necessarily for everyone.
Smaller groups offer a more relaxed atmosphere, greater flexibility and the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers. They're particularly appealing to those travelling alone, as well as couples and friends who enjoy meeting like-minded people along the way.
It also means visiting places that larger touring coaches simply cannot reach.
And rather than racing from one attraction to the next, there's time to stop, explore, enjoy a coffee in a village square or simply take in the view.
After all, surely that's what a holiday should be about?

It's the Little Experiences That Matter
Imagine discovering the secrets of traditional cheese-making in the French Alps, exploring medieval castles in Scotland or wandering through the historic streets of Florence.
Perhaps you'd prefer a lively traditional music evening in an Irish pub, a visit to a vineyard in Burgundy or discovering the quieter, less-visited corners of Italy and Malta.
These are the experiences that make a journey memorable.
Back-Roads' knowledgeable Tour Leaders play an important part in bringing each destination to life. Their local insight, personal recommendations and enthusiasm help travellers discover far more than they might from a conventional sightseeing itinerary.
It's about understanding a place, meeting its people and returning home with stories worth telling.
Nearly 40 Years of Touring Experience
Back-Roads has been creating small-group touring holidays for almost four decades.
During that time, the company has developed a style of travel that places the emphasis on carefully chosen accommodation, interesting itineraries, authentic experiences and a comfortable pace.
Their tours are designed for people who are curious about the world around them, who enjoy discovering something new and who appreciate that sometimes the journey itself is just as rewarding as the destination.
And with a wonderful selection of itineraries throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe, there's plenty to choose from.
Your Journey Starts with DG Travel
With nearly 40 years of experience in the travel industry ourselves, we know that finding the right holiday is about much more than simply choosing a destination.
It's about understanding how you like to travel, what interests you and what you want to get out of your time away.
We can help you explore the Back-Roads Touring collection, discuss the various itineraries and arrange the travel arrangements needed to make your holiday run smoothly.
And for those who would prefer not to fly, many European touring holidays can be combined with rail or other suitable travel arrangements, depending on where the tour begins and ends.
A Special Offer for 2027
Save £150* on selected Back-Roads Touring holidays departing in 2027 when booked before 14 November 2026.
If you've been thinking about exploring somewhere new, or perhaps revisiting a favourite destination but seeing it from a completely different perspective, this could be the perfect opportunity.
Contact DG Travel to discover the available tours, discuss your travel plans and find out more about this special offer.
Because sometimes, the most memorable places aren't found on the main road.
They're waiting to be discovered along the back roads.
*£150 saving subject to the tour operator's applicable promotional terms, conditions and eligibility. Please contact us for full details before booking.
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