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Great Smoky Mountains

Exploring the great outdoors in the American South

14 days from £5,735pp

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Tour highlights

  • Get off the beaten trail on a 4x4 tour in the Great Smoky Mountains.

  • Explore historic Charleston and visit Fort Sumter, where the Civil War's first shots were fired.

  • Enjoy a luxurious retreat at Montage Palmetto Bluff, surrounded by the natural beauty of South Carolina's Lowcountry.

  • Self-drive along the majestic Blue Ridge Parkway, stopping to take in the scenic vistas along the way.

Price includes:

  • Scheduled international flights
  • Fully insured vehicle hire
  • All accommodation
  • 24-hour support while you travel
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Itinerary idea in detail

Includes international flights from a choice of UK airports, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

  • Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Chattanooga. Begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Nashville. Upon arrival, pick up your hire car and set off on a picturesque drive to Chattanooga.

  • Discover Chattanooga’s storied past while immersing yourself in its breathtaking outdoor offerings. Once a pivotal Civil War hub, the city now boasts historic sites alongside stunning natural scenery. Explore the trails of Lookout Mountain for panoramic views or stroll the Riverwalk, tracing the serene Tennessee River. Dive into history museums like the Battles for Chattanooga Museum.

  • Travel to Sevierville via Pigeon Forge, winding through sweeping vistas and lush hills. Experience the excitement of a 4x4 off-road tour through the Smoky Mountains, discovering historic homesteads, tumbling waterfalls and panoramic mountain views. Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with tales of the region’s history and its varied flora and fauna.

  • Indulge in a day of serene discovery amid the Great Smoky Mountains. We suggest a hike through the verdant forests and wildlife-rich trails, encountering waterfalls and mountain vistas. Afterwards, you may wish to unwind with a leisurely picnic by a babbling stream. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or craving a peaceful retreat, a day in the Smokys promises a mix of outdoor exploration and rejuvenation.

  • Journey from Sevierville to Asheville, winding through serene countryside and the forests of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Arrive at the magnificent Biltmore Estate, the historic masterpiece of George Vanderbilt, and immerse yourself in its grandeur, exploring 250 art-filled rooms and meticulously groomed gardens. You may wish to indulge in a wine tasting before returning to your accommodation on the estate.

  • Embark on a Smoky Mountains adventure with an exclusive full-day hike. Traverse vibrant forests, cascading waterfalls, and varied wildlife alongside your seasoned guide. You may visit scenic landmarks such as Clingmans Dome and Laurel Falls, taking in the views. Your privately tailored tour promises an unforgettable experience in nature’s embrace.

  • Continue your adventure to Blowing Rock via the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. You may wish to stretch your legs in Boone, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Explore the vibrant downtown, brimming with shops, galleries and local eateries before making your way to Blowing Rock to relax in its quaint ambience.

  • Enjoy a day to explore from your base in Blowing Rock, perhaps visiting the storied heights of Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain. As you wind your way through lush forests, meandering streams, and mountain vistas, you'll discover the rich history of these peaks. Sugar Mountain, named for the abundance of maple trees in the area, has been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts since the early 20th century. Beech Mountain, the highest town east of the Rockies, boasts a fascinating past as a summer retreat for affluent families in the late 19th century.

  • Continuing your journey south towards Charleston, we suggest you make a stop in the city of Greenville. Take a stroll along Main Street for its local chops and eateries or enjoy the city's vibrant arts scene. Driving onward to Charleston, where history, charm and culinary delights await.

  • Explore the rich history of Charleston on a guided walking tour. Learn about the city's evolution from its founding in 1670 through the Civil War to the present day. Highlights include Rainbow Row, a vibrant stretch of 18th century homes; The Battery, once a fort during the Civil War and now a park; mansions showcasing the area's historic architecture; and the Old Exchange Building, a historic gem with ties to the Revolutionary War and the reading of the Declaration of Independence.

  • Today, you will visit the site of the catalyst of the American Civil War with a journey to historic Fort Sumter. Cruise the scenic Charleston Bay with panoramic views of the city before delving into the stories of America’s deadliest conflict with knowledgeable National Park Rangers.

  • Begin the scenic drive to Bluffton, where miles of marshes, rivers and lush greenery unfold before you. On arrival, retreat to Montage Palmetto Bluff, surrounded by pristine wilderness, for ultimate relaxation. Enjoy your luxurious getaway surrounded by the timeless charm of the South Carolina Lowcounty.

  • Take a river cruise today from Montage Palmetto Bluff, exploring the May River and its pristine waterways. You may encounter the playful dolphins and varied wildlife thriving in their protected habitat, guided by knowledgeable experts sharing the rich history and culture of the Lowcountry. Soak in the vibrant ecosystem and storied past of the remarkable region.

  • Arrive home today to complete your journey.

Accommodation options

While the itinerary price reflects the suggested accommodation, Audley trips are 100% tailor-made, and a specialist can help you select the option best suited to your tastes and budget.

What our clients say about us

Audley Travel specialist Carla
Contact an American South specialist

The specialist who designs your trip to the American South will have explored the country many times and, in some cases, lived there. Their first-hand knowledge gives us the belief that no other travel company can match our expertise in helping you plan your trip.

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When to go

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Place Daily max temperature (°C) Monthly rainfall (mm)
Asheville
 
Charleston
 

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