Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains + Washington
Visit historical battlefields and colonial towns, then marvel at the scenery of the Kentucky Bluegrass Country and the spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains.
Extend your holiday with a few extra days in Washington DC. If you wish to see more of the sights, perhaps the Old Town Trolley that loops around the city, stopping at various museums and monuments, could be of interest.
Your Itinerary
DAY 1: UK - Washington DC.
Fly to Washington where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 2: Washington DC area - Gettysburg.
The day begins with a visit to Mount Vernon, the beloved home of George and Martha Washington, overlooking the banks of the Potomac River. Afterwards, cross the Mason-Dixon Line into Pennsylvania with a visit to the hallowed Gettysburg Battlefield, site of the decisive campaign of the Civil War, and where Abraham Lincoln delivered his immortal Gettysburg Address in November 1863.
DAY 3: Gettysburg - Harpers Ferry - Luray Caverns - Shenandoah National Park.
Head for Harpers Ferry, where in 1859 John Brown made his ill-fated raid on the US arsenal. En route, stop at Luray for a guided tour of the spectacular caverns, before continuing up to the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains with magnificent vistas of the Shenandoah Valley.
DAY 4: Shenandoah National Park - New River Gorge - Beckley.
Journey through lumber and limestone country into wonderful West Virginia. After a lunch break in Lewisburg, a Civil War battlefield, travel to Fayetteville with a stop at New River Gorge Bridge, the world's largest steel-span bridge rising 876 feet above the river. The more adventurous may wish to take an optional float trip down the New River, a perfect way to see the West Virginia backcountry. Then on to Beckley, the heart of West Virginia's 'smokeless' coal industry.
DAY 5: Beckley - Lexington.
Before entering Kentucky we stop in the state capital - Charleston, the one time home of Daniel Boone. As you cross the state border, the scenery changes to the green pastures and columned estates of Kentucky bluegrass country and the backdrop for the movie Seabiscuit. Arrive in Lexington, the 'Heart of the Bluegrass'. This morning, it's time for a fascinating visit to the Kentucky Horse Park. Legends like Man o' War and Secretariat conquered the racing world from here. The visit includes the International Museum of the Horse, the Hall of Champions, where famous horses from the past enjoy their retirement, the Parade of Breeds, and many other exhibits and demonstrations.
DAY 6: Lexington - Bardstown.
Travel the Bluegrass Parkway and stop at Sinking Spring Farm, where Abraham Lincoln was born. A replica of the original log cabin is preserved as a shrine to him. Next, visit a true working whiskey distillery, and learn about the production of the very finest Kentucky Straight Bourbon, for which Kentucky is famous. Overnight in Bardstown, Kentucky's second-oldest city.
DAY 7: Bardstown - Gatlinburg.
This morning's journey takes you along Kentucky's scenic backroads. After lunch it's on to Corbin for a short visit to Colonel Sander's original fried chicken restaurant, which is now a museum. This afternoon, visit the fascinating Museum of Appalachia, with 65 acres of farmland and a number of historic cabins, barns, and other buildings, even a frontier privy! The next two nights are in Gatlinburg, nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains.
DAY 8: Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg, one of America's most popular mountain retreats, offers something for everyone. You might want to spend a day at world famous Dollywood, an 88 acre landscaped theme park inspired by Dolly Parton and her love for the mountains, family, and country music. Tonight's optional outing features the Dixie Stampede, an action packed evening filled with thrilling horse riding stunts, spectacular special effects, and phenomenal music.
DAY 9: Gatlinburg - Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Asheville area.
Drive right through the centre of the Smokies, along the spectacular Newfound Gap Road peaking at 5,046 feet, then into North Carolina. Stop at the 7,500 acre grounds of Biltmore Estate, built by George Vanderbilt, grandson of the famous railroad magnate, Cornelius Vanderbilt. Then onto the dramatic Chimney Rock. Take an elevator carved through solid rock up to the granite monolith for views over Hickory Nut Gorge. Overnight in the Asheville area, hometown of American author Thomas Wolfe.
DAY 10: Asheville area - Lexington area.
The Blue Ridge Parkway runs from the Great Smokies to Shenandoah National Park without a single traffic light along its 470 mile route. Take in a portion of the Parkway today, from Fancy Gap to Roanoke. Stop at the tranquil setting of Mabry Mill, one of the most photographed spots in the country. This afternoon visit Natural Bridge, a 215 feet high arch in a wooded setting, once owned by Thomas Jefferson. George Washington's initials are still visible on the cliffside, from his work here as a young surveyor.
DAY 11: Lexington area - Richmond - Williamsburg.
This morning's highlight is the graceful home of the third President, Thomas Jefferson. The estate, named Monticello, reflects Jefferson's skills as an artist, architect, and designer. It is the only house in the US that is on the United Nations' World Heritage List of international treasures. We follow with a short sightseeing tour of Richmond, capital of the Confederacy in the Civil War. The day ends in Williamsburg, between the James and York Rivers, where the very earliest European settlers established their first colonies.
DAY 12: Williamsburg.
Today is dedicated to Colonial Williamsburg, where American heritage is proudly preserved in the reconstructed buildings and historical displays. Take a stroll down quaint streets and browse through homes, gardens, taverns, shops and exhibits. In the Hall of Burgesses, listen as costumed interpreters debate the controversial steps that led to the Declaration of Independence.
DAY 13: Williamsburg - Washington DC area.
This morning return to Washington DC. Upon arrival, included sightseeing with a local guide shows you the graves of American heroes, including those of John F Kennedy and his brother Robert, in beautiful Arlington National Cemetery. Your guided sightseeing tour of the capital continues with photo stops at Capitol Hill and the White House, and visits to the Lincoln, Vietnam, and National WWII Memorials. This evening, join the optional evening outing featuring dinner followed by an illumination tour of Washington's famous memorials.
DAY 14 to 15: Washington DC.
Continue your stay at your Washington Hotel for the next two nights. If you wish to see more of the sights, perhaps the Old Town Trolley that loops around the city, stopping at various museums and monuments, could be of interest.
DAY 15: Washington.
A full day at leisure to visit the sights of the capital. Perhaps spend time at the Smithsonian museums or re-visit the White House.
DAY 16: Washington DC - UK.
Transfer to Washington airport for your overnight flight home.
DAY 17: Home Landing in the UK.
Crowne Plaza, Old Town Alexandria
Immerse yourself in charming Alexandria - a city 50 years older than Washington DC and rich in American history. A perfect hub for exploring Alexandria and Washington DC, the Crowne Plaza offers inviting accommodation, superb service and a picturesque location.
Location: Located on the revitalised waterfront of the Potomac River in Alexandria's Historic Old Town. Close to shops, restaurants, and historic homes. Conveniently located for access to downtown Washington.
Facilities: Restaurant; fitness centre; dry cleaning/laundry service; air-conditioning; safety deposit boxes at reception.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; coffee-maker; hairdryer; iron/ironing board.
Optional Excursions
To help you plan and make the most of your holiday, below is a list of optional excursions available to you.
Historic Gettysburg Dinner
Dine in Gettysburg, and drift back over 200 years of history while enjoying casual fine dining at the oldest, most historic home in town! This is a colonial restaurant where candlelit elegance, superior food, and gracious service bring back the sights, sounds and tastes of two centuries ago. Subject to availability.
$28 (US Dollar)
Dollywood
Dolly's one wish for you during your visit to Dollywood is that the wonder of the Great Smoky Mountains will touch your heart. Experience a theme park with wholesome fun and entertainment featuring music, crafts and rides.
$55 (US Dollar)
Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Pigeon Forge
Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show offers food, fun, and excitement all in one! The stars of Dixie Stampede are 32 magnificent horses along with beautiful southern belles and gallant heroes, competitive events, a friendly North/South rivalry, illusions, comedy, a fabulous four-course feast and a "Stand on your feet" patriotic finale written by Dolly Parton herself entitled "Color Me America." Dinner show lasts approximately 3 hours.
$47 (US Dollar)
Williamsburg Colonial Tavern Dinner
All menus trace America's culinary heritage from its British ancestry and celebrate the transformation of dishes through the use of ingredients commonly found in the colonies. Enjoy this evening dining experience made possible by Colonial Williamsburg chefs!
$55 (US Dollar)
Washington DC by Night & Dinner at Old Europe Restaurant
Begin your evening at a popular local restaurant "Old Europe", then continue with an illumination tour of several of the most famous memorials, as well as the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
$47 (US Dollar)
Old Town Trolley Tour of Washington DC
Welcome Abroad! Colorful anecdotes, humorous stories and historical information are combined into a fast moving two hour narrative that will both entertain and educate. Start the tour at any one of 17 stops and you can hop off the trolley at your favorite sites. Trolleys will roll by at least every thirty minutes, then reboard and continue with the tour until you return to your starting point. Tours begin daily at 9:00am.
$35 (US Dollar)
Please note that optional excursions and prices are subject to change.
Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains + Washington 15 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and accommodation options. Then select your holiday from the calendar.
Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains + Washington 15 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and accommodation options. Then select your holiday from the grid.

| Earlier Dates | Date | Depart From | Price from PP | Later Dates | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Jun 2012 |
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Historic Trails & Blue Ridge Mountains + Washington
Price from £1929.00
Holiday Highlights
- Mount Vernon
- Gettysburg Historic battlefield
- Harpers Ferry National Park
- Shenandoah National Park
- Lexington Kentucky Horse Park
- Gatlinburg
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Departures from
- Birmingham
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
- London Heathrow
- Manchester
Departures between
02 Jun 2012 to 29 Sep 2012
NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable). Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our air-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme
© Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. All holidays and offers are subject to availability.
