13-day grand traversing in southern Yunnan through Dali, Lijiang, Tacheng, Cizhong, Meili, Benzilan and Shangri-la, a voyage of breathtaking landscapes and wonderful cultures for adventurous travelers. Discover China's rich ethnic diversity as you walk one part of the Ancient Tea and Horse Road between Dali, Shaxi and Lijiang. En route you'll meet Naxi and Bai ethnic minority people whose old ways endure. Hike into the Meili Snow Mountains and explore untamed and wild terrains at the most sacred mountain in the world. Bike beside pristine highland lakes, journey into valleys and climb up mountains, enjoying the wonderful world of wildlife including golden snub-nosed monkey and impressive flora. Being awed by natural scenery, you'll also be spoilt by delightful boutique accommodation and authentic Yunnan and Tibetan cuisines throughout the journey.

Yunnan, which literally means 'South of the Clouds', is home to some of the most diverse cultures, ecology, and landscapes in China. With verdant low-lying valleys, spectacular white-capped mountains, rustic towns and villages and vibrant ethnic minority communities, Yunnan has long inspired both poets and travelers. As a very distinct part of China, Yunnan is home to the 'Eighteen Oddities', eighteen aspects of life that distinguish it from other provinces.

On this grand traversing journey, you'll explore Yunnan's stunning landscapes, experience minority culture, and travel along part of the Ancient Tea and Horse Road. Travel to the southeastern tip of the Tibetan Plateau to discover this collection of exquisite world-class retreats that blend harmoniously into their surroundings. Rise with the sun to a view of Yunnan's tallest and holiest summit. Practice yoga amidst fertile mountain valleys and immerse yourself in rich Tibetan culture as you taste local cuisine and chant sutras with a Lama. You'll have plenty opportunities to explore local traditions, sample country cooking and enjoy tea ceremonies.

Away from colourful tales and adventures by day, you’ll stay and rest in 5-star or boutique hotels by night. All the hotels' architecture and interiors strongly reflect an influence from the local cultures with contemporary design touches and offering stunning views.

This trip is considered a moderate adventure. Moderate adventure includes full days outside the hotel, with drives of up to 3 ½ hours on mainly well-maintained, paved roads. We may spend up to 4-5 hours walking, hiking or biking. However, we can tailor make itinerary to suit your fitness level.

Though you'll be traveling in some of China's most spectacular mountainous regions, high altitudes often make activities more difficult. In the unlikely event of altitude sickness, emergency evacuation measures will be taken. Your field guides is well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies. However, travel insurance is highly recommended.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?  We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

An unforgettable 8-day adventure aboard Le Champlain as you enrich your world and explore the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Isles, sail through the spectacular beauty of the Norwegian Fjords, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site in Bryggen, discover the charm of Eilean Donan Castle and learn more onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts.

Embark on a journey starting in Bergen, Norway, where you can explore the historic Bryggen Hanseatic wharf. Sail to Flåm and enjoy a scenic train ride through Norway's beautiful landscapes. Visit Oden village near Jostedalsbreen National Park to witness the magnificent Briksdal Glacier. Explore Lerwick in the Shetland Islands and discover the ancient settlement of Jarlshof. Head to Kirkwall in Orkney and marvel at the Standing Stones of Stenness. Explore Loch Linnhe and Fort William, surrounded by the stunning landscape of Glencoe. Conclude your journey in vibrant Glasgow, known for its artistic heritage and architectural landmarks.

Le Champlain, a luxury and intimate ship, has been expertly designed for your comfort and relaxation. The ship features innovative and environmentally friendly equipment that adds to its elegant design and creates a unique atmosphere, in line with the whole PONANT universe. Its 92 staterooms and suites offer finesse, cozy intimacy, and a sense of well-being. These accommodations are equipped with private amenities and benefit from soft, gentle light throughout the day.

Your luxury trip includes 7 nights of accommodation aboard the exquisite Le Champlain, with all meals covered during the voyage, and two restaurants on board. You'll receive daily cabin service and a 3-in-1 polar expedition jacket to ensure your comfort during the trip. Additionally, an expert expedition team will guide you and plan the best adventures for an enriching and memorable experience.

Escape to the tranquility and slow-paced luxuries of cruise life as you venture on this expansive 8-day adventure to explore the beautiful region of the Scottish Isles and the Norwegian Fjords.

View & Download Itineraries 

08 June 2024 Departure | Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Cruise (Bergen - Glasgow)

15 June 2024 Departure | Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Cruise (Glasgow-Bergen) 

NOTE: The itinerary is indicative. No two expedition cruises will be the same, with each expedition crafted by the experienced Masters and Expedition Leaders. Throughout the expedition we may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your expeditionary experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. We suggest that you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Discover the many faces of Tasmania with this 10-day self-drive package that showcases The Heartlands, The Western Wilds, The Northern Forage and the Great Eastern Drive.

Tasmania is a compact island with well-built roads that make it the ideal self-drive holiday destination. This package showcases the best of the Island’s must-see sights: Hobart, Strahan, Cradle Mountain, Launceston, the Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park. In between these iconic destinations, you have the freedom to find the things you need – fresh air, fantastic food and wine – and much you never expected.

Departing from Hobart, follow the Lyell Highway inland through lands traditionally owned by Tasmanian Indigenous Peoples, settled by Europeans in the early 1800s, and farmed and loved by generations of Tasmanians ever since. Along the way, pass gorgeous Georgian towns such as New Norfolk and the fabulous Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

In the harbourside town of Strahan, immerse yourself in the Western Wilds. Cruise the Gordon Rivers’ perfect reflections and learn the stories of rogues and rivals fighting for a share of untold mining riches. Then, venture to Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, an ancient realm of temperate rainforests and alpine plains, indominable mountains and glacial valleys. Hike the best parts of the world-famous Overland Track and stay in one of the Lonely Planet’s Top 10 Most Extraordinary Places To Stay.

The midpoint of your journey brings you to The Northern Forage. Bordered by the wild coastline of Bass Strait, a journey across this part of Tasmania is a chance to slow down, forage or follow your food from paddock to plate at some of the most fertile farms and pasture in Australia. Stop at farm-gate stalls, distilleries and cellar doors for tastings, and to meet the makers. You’ll spend a night in Launceston, one of Australia’s oldest cities and a vibrant hub for food and wine.

Cap off your adventure on the Great Eastern Drive. From the Bay of Fires to Freycinet National Park, discover long white sand beaches, dramatic coastline, and the time and space to unwind. Cruise crystal clear waters, marvel at orange-lichen coloured boulders, kayak beneath pink granite mountains, and hike to the iconic Wineglass Bay, routinely voted one of the world’s best beaches. You’ll return to Hobart with a greater appreciation of life’s simple luxuries.

This 10-day self-drive package includes 9-nights in handpicked, boutique accommodations in Hobart, Strahan, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, Launceston, Bay of Fires, Freycinet National Park and Richmond on a twin share basis. Select meals are included as well as activities and experiences as listed in the itinerary.

Experience Tasmania’s highlights in slow pace – and in style – with this relaxed 10-day self-drive package that takes you full circle around the Island. There is no better way to see Tasmania than on the open road.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?

We specialise in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Escape to a tropical paradise on this luxury, 8-day cruise of Indonesia from Bali to the Komodo National Park. Experience some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling, walk among colossal Komodo dragons and marvel at some of the most spectacular coastal landscapes on Earth.  

Departing from Bali (or Labuan Bajo), Indonesia, set sail on the luxurious Aqua Blu cruise ship for an in-depth exploration of the Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the surrounding islands. Dive and snorkel Indonesia’s famous Coral Triangle: home to more than 1,000 species of marine life including manta rays, sea turtles, reef sharks and even sperm whales. Get up close and personal with the Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard, in its natural habitat. Hike the iconic green-capped hills of Padar Island for fairy tale views of ocean and islands that look like out-of-this-world. Feel the sand between your toes at Pantai Merah, one of just seven pink beaches in the world. The list goes on!

When you’re not out exploring, relax and unwind on board the 5-star Aqua Blu cruise ship. Catering to just 30 guests, the Aqua Blu guarantees best-in-class personalised luxury in this breathtaking region. Sip a cocktail in the Sky Lounge Bar. Mingle with other guests in the Alfresco dining area. Splash around in the jacuzzi or laze on the lounge day beds. Multi-award-winning chef and restauranteur Benjamin Cross ensures a first-class dining experience showcasing the full repertoire of flavours from Indonesia, Europe and the Mediterranean.

This luxury, 8-day cruise runs in both directions from Bali to the Komodo National Park and is all inclusive. Enjoy 7-nights’ accommodation in a Category 3 cabin on a twin share basis (upgrades available at an extra cost). All meals, activities and experiences are included.

Discover Eden on land and sea on this once-in-a-lifetime voyage of the of the legendary Komodo National Park and surrounding islands. Experience the best in diving and snorkelling and lose yourself in the region’s untouched natural beauty.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

Discover the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand’s most popular 'Great Ride' - the Queenstown Trail on this full-supported, luxury cycling holiday that includes one of the country’s best wine regions: the Gibbston Valley.

On the shores of Lake Wakatipu starts a great journey, over 130kms of off-road trails taking you from Queenstown to Gibbston via historic Arrowtown.

Departing from Queenstown, ease into your adventure along the Frankton Track and Kelvin Peninsula Trail, taking in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu and the Frankton Arm. Breathe in the thyme-scented air along the Twin Rivers Trail and enjoy a lazy circuit of Lake Hayes, where the Remarkables mountain range can be seen above and reflected in the near-perfect mirror of the lake. Cycle to Gibbston via Arrowtown and discover a historic goldrush town lined with tiny miners’ cottages, house shops, galleries, bars and restaurants – not one from an international chain. Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s “Valley of the Vines” and indulge in a 5-star culinary experience complete with world-class wines.

In the evenings, relax and unwind in your handpicked, 5-star accommodation at one of the Gibbston Valley’s best lodge and spas. Retreat to your gorgeous villa and sip world-class local wines overlooking the vineyards. Pamper yourself with body treatments, luxury facials and signature spa packages such as “vinotherapy”, which uses different parts of the grape and vine to benefit the skin.

Included in this 3-day, fully catered cycling adventure is 2 nights’ in 5-star accommodation on a twin share basis. All cycling equipment – trail bike, helmet, panniers repair kit and odometer – is provided along with a supporting vehicle for on road support. Return transfers from Queenstown are also included.

Vine and dine your way across Queenstown on this luxury cycling holiday and tick off one of New Zealand’s best rides.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?  We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Tap into the majestic mountains of Italy on a grand 6-day active adventure exposing you to sheer alpine bliss in the Dolomites. Be a part of the fairy tale as you hike and bike through an assortment of postcard-perfect sceneries and immerse in a lovely mix of Austrian and Italian cultures, surrounded by invigorating mountain air and spectacular limestone settings.

Your thrilling adventure begins in Bolzano, after which you shuttle to the village of Ortise. Ride a gondola to the top of the Seceda cliff. Bike through the meadows and forests of the Seiser Alm as you pedal past the Schlern massif down to the storybook village of Selva in Val Gardena. Take in vistas of nearby Sella and Sasso Lungo massifs from high above the Badia Valley. Enjoy wholesome Tyrolean dishes like canederli (bread dumplings). Pedal through the sweeping Badia Valley with vistas of the Fanes mountain group. Take in scenic views and wildflowers while hiking along the Pralongia plateau. Tour an open-air World War I museum with a local guide. Explore rural cirques, sighting marmots and edelweiss. Visit the stylish Corso Italia in the elegant resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo, nestled below the cliff where people go to see and be seen. Enjoy a leisurely morning or traverse an old railroad feasting your sight on the scenic views of the D'Ampezzo Dolomites before transferring to Venice airport, where your incredible journey ends.

This package includes 5 nights in 5 star hotels on a twin-share basis. You will be escorted by two support vans and three tour leaders on each departure for an average 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio. With multiple walking options to choose from each day accommodating varied activity levels and giving you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region at your own pace. An experience tailored to suit your priorities and personal style; walk in true comfort.

Witness nature in diverse forms and colours, introduce your taste buds to new flavours, experience luxury and comfort, and be the main character in this adventure movie for 6 exciting days.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.