What's New

London: 28 February, 2022: Leading luxury global tour operator, Scott Dunn introduces a new collection of destination itineraries – ‘Perfect Pairings’, which elevate the idea of the  ‘long weekend’ to another level. The team has curated themed itineraries, which pair the heart of much loved destinations throughout the world, with somewhere a little more off-grid: crowd-free countryside, mountain hideaways, unexplored coastline and charming villages.

From hiking through rural Andalucia to exploring the ancient antiquities of Southern Italy, from the unchartered wilderness of the Utah’s Moab and Zion deserts to the Teotihuacan Pyramids of Mexico, Scott Dunn has tapped into their network of local, on the ground contacts to offer five and six-night trips, which take a deep dive into culture, adventure, culinary offerings, rest and wellness. The Perfect Pairings itineraries will include genuinely unique and hard-to-come-by experiences – Michelin starred cooking lessons, behind-the-scenes tours, out-of-hours access and private visits to world-renowned attractions, to name a few.  As part of the journey, guests will stay at boutique and characterful properties, which offer an authentic feel for the destination – whether it’s within a bustling city or deep in the wilderness.

ITALY

UNCOVER THE CULTURAL TREASURES OF ANCIENT TAORMINA AND THE UNTOUCHED BEAUTY OF UNESCO PROTECTED VAL DI NOTO

Discover the rich history of Southern Italy, dating back to 664BC through exclusive experiences including visits to private noble palaces and gardens and a one-to-one session with the curator of an ancient library in Catania

Beginning at the neo-classical Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo in the beautiful town of Taormina, guests are instantly immersed in Sicilian culture, beginning with a visit to the Teatro Greco in the company of a prominent expert Sicilian astronomer, who will introduce the fascinating topic of the connection between Sicilian archaeology and astronomy. Diving further into the town’s incredible history, guests will enjoy a private tour of the Catania library with a one-to-one sit-down with the Curator to uncover the storied past. The next stop is  Il San Corrado di Noto, the first boutique resort of its kind in Val di Noto, Sicily’s renowned UNESCO World Heritage destination.  A highlight of south-eastern Sicily, Val di Noto is home to eight historic towns, all built in the elaborate southern Baroque style. Here, guests will enjoy access to a private noble palace belonging to one of the oldest families in Noto, followed by an exclusive dinner. This is coupled with a visit to the private garden of a Sicilian marquis – allowing a real insight into the cultural history of the destination.
HOW: Prices start from £6,300 per person based on 5 nights

EXPERIENCE AUTHENTIC PUGLIA – LECCE & APULIAN COAST

Delve into the heart of Italy’s heel, from sampling aperitivo at a Palace in Lecce to sunset sailing and a private musical performance at the Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate

Follow in the footsteps of Lecce’s great families at Palazzo Bozzi Corso, where 18th-century splendour is intertwined with modern art and design. A stone’s throw from the Duomo and Basilica Santa Croce, this 10-suite mansion offers the chance to step back in time, living life as it was enjoyed by the city’s cloaked elite. Here, guests will enjoy exclusive access to a private palace in Lecce for an aperitivo like no other. Next on the agenda is an incredible musical performance at the evocative Abbey of Santa Maria di Cerrate, a hidden gem immersed in a landscape of ancient olive groves. After the historic Lecce, guests will enjoy the laid-back rural Puglian coastline with a stay at the gracious Masseria Torre Maizza. Standing since the 16th century, Masseria Torre Maizza watches over a Apulian plot that’s in sight of the Adriatic Sea. To truly experience the carefree glamour of the south-Italian coast, guests will embark on a sunset sailing trip around picture-perfect Polignano a Mare ending with a spectacular supper at Grotta Palazzese Restaurant – one of the world’s most exclusive restaurants located inside a natural cave overlooking the sea.
HOW: Prices start from £5,900 per person based on 6 nights

SPAIN

BIKE AND HIKE THROUGH RURAL SEVILLE & ANDALUCIA

Discover Seville away from the crowds and experience the best culinary ‘bites’ in the region

Guests will begin their adventure at Corral del Rey, tucked away on one of the narrow streets of Seville’s old quarter. This whitewashed boutique hotel is a reinvention of a 17th-century casa boasting panoramic views of the city. Here, guests will gain insight into authentic Sevillian life by dining with a local, enjoying a privately guided walking tour away from the crowds and discovering the best ‘bites’ in the region on a foodie safari by bike. This is complemented with a stay at Finca La Donaira – an organic farm, equestrian centre and discreetly luxurious eco-retreat set high in the Serranía de Ronda, Andalucía. Guests can hike and bike to their heart’s content in the Sierra de Grazalema National Park, or try horse riding as the estate is complete with 70 Lusitano horses, a dressage area plus lessons and trails for everyone from novice to experienced.
HOW: Prices start from £4,400 per person based on 5 nights 

EXCLUSIVE FOODIE EXPERIENCES IN OLD TOWN BARCELONA AND THE CATALAN COAST

Guests will have exclusive access to a private gourmet tapas tours and Michelin-starred cooking masterclasses

Guests will kick-start their journey at Cotton House Hotel, a hidden oasis right in the heart of bustling Barcelona and can indulge in a private gourmet tapas tour in Old Town Barcelona, where their expert guide will take them through the winding streets of the Gothic quarter, while sampling  delicious Iberian tapas. The foodie adventure continues the next day with an exclusive private Michelin-starred cuisine cooking workshop. Guests will learn the secrets of Mediterranean cuisine from a Michelin starred Chef to create a complete menu of signature dishes. The trip will then travel to the enchanting and tranquil Catalan countryside for the final few days staying at Mas de Torrent Hotel & Spa, where  e-bikes are available to take a private tour of the stunning local vineyards followed by a gastronomic lunch with the owners of an 18th century former farmhouse.
HOW: Prices start from £3,878 per person based on 5 nights

PORTUGAL

DISCOVER HIDDEN GEMS IN LISBON AND ALENTEJO

Enjoy exclusive access to protected monuments in Lisbon and private visits to authentic palaces and world renowned wineries

Staying at Bairro Alto, located in the heart of Lisbon, guests have the city on their doorstep. During a privately guided tour, marvel at the magnificent Jeronimos Monastery ahead of opening hours before boarding a private iconic yellow tram for a trip through the seven hills of Lisbon. Returning downtown, guests will gain exclusive access to the Church of Sao Roque – usually hidden away from the public. The following day venture to the rolling hills of Sintra and enjoy an after-hours private visit to the iconic Pena Palace boasting sweeping views of the valley, forest and sea. Just over an hour south of the city is the region of Alentejo, where guests will  stay at Sao Lourenco do Barrocal – a 780-hectare estate home to meadows, vineyards and a winery, centuries-old olive groves, stables, an orchard and walled gardens. From here, guests will enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the renowned  Dona Maria Winery as well as a private tasting and can fully immerse themselves in the Alentejo countryside for true relaxation.
HOW: Prices start from £6,800 per person based on 6 nights

MOROCCO

DIVE INTO THE RED CITY OF MARRAKECH BEFORE UNWINDING IN OCEAN PARADISE OUALIDIA

Sink into secret terraces, charming gardens and a myriad of exclusive experiences in colourful and chaotic Marrakech followed by total tranquility in Oualidia

Staying at the iconic palace hotel on the edge of the medina, Royal Mansour, this Moroccan adventure kicks off in style. Guests will enjoy exclusive experiences to uncover the best of the destination, beginning with a private tour of Villa Oasis – Yves Saint Laurent’s Marrakech home. This is followed by a day of exploring (by foot or mule) the breathtaking landscapes and fascinating Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains. Bidding farewell to Marrakech, the next stop is towards the Atlantic coast of Morocco. With peaceful beaches and an11km stretch of lagoon, Oualidia is a haven for seafood and beach lovers. Staying at La Sultana Oualidia, guests will discover the incredible culinary delights of the region. Relish locally grown oysters from Oualidia’s lagoon and enjoy a private guide via fishing boat to explore the farms whilst learning how to shuck for lunch. Guests can also enjoy a plethora of activities including paddle-boarding, fishing, swimming, surfing, bird-watching or horse riding.
HOW: Prices start from £7,100 per person based on 6 nights

 MEXICO

A CULINARY JOURNEY FROM MEXICO CITY TO OAXACA

Venture off the tourist trail with authentic tastings and market tours led by private local guides and highly regarded chefs

Indulge in this fascinating foodie adventure beginning at Las Alcobas, a boutique property located in Mexico City’s fashionable Polanco district. The first exclusive experience is an out-of-hours private tour of the National Museum of Anthropology to learn about the various cultures that once thrived in Mesoamerica. Next up is a visit to Medellin Market, in the heart of La Roma, for a hands-on experience and a private cookery class led by two locally renowned chefs. From here guests will travel to Oaxaca where they will be based at Casa Oaxaca – a former 18th century colonial house home to one of the city’s finest restaurants which is a temple to the inventive cuisine of the region. Here guests will embark on an Oaxaca delicacies night-time tour as well as a visit to the Teotitlan Market followed by a cooking session with a Zapotec family. As the city produces over 90% of Mexico’s Mezcal – the trip wouldn’t be complete without a private tour to learn about the fascinating process.
HOW: Prices start from £2,400 per person based on 6 nights

US

THE MESMERIZING LANDSCAPES AND RAW WILDERNESS OF ZION & MOAB

Hike and bike the endless trails and iconic landscapes of two majestic national parks in Utah

Guests will touch down in Utah and be whisked off to the raw wilderness of Zion, staying at the sublime Cliffrose Lodge with the Virgin River running through the rambling grounds. Guests will rise early to hike a scenic trail just outside of Zion before reaching a scenic location for a private yoga session. After lunch guests will explore Zion’s canyonlands on a mountain biking adventure, guided through a thrilling mix of climbs and fast-flowing downhill sections. The trip culminates at Hoodoo Moab, a hidden gem hotel tucked away next to Moab’s majestic red stone rocks. Guests will go on an adventure-filled day of hiking through the Arches and Canyonlands national parks, soaking up the views of the valley. The excitement continues with a rafting adventure on the Colorado River and an exhilarating horseback ride through the dreamy desert landscape of the ranch land in the Professor Valley.
HOW: Prices start from £7,600 / $10,000 per person based on 5 nights

RUGGED MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES IN JACKSON HOLE & MONTANA

Soak up the fascinating landscapes with a wildlife safari and hikes through The Rockies and Yellowstone National Park

Guests will arrive at Hotel Terra, in the heart of Teton Village, where they will have the chance to explore the boutiques and crafts from local artisans, with an abundance of foodie experiences. The adventure begins with a unique wildlife safari through Grand Teton National Park, visiting the Antelope Flats, an Elk refuge and Mormon Row to catch a glimpse of the bison and pronghorn herds. At a nearby ranch, a real-life cowboy will take guests on a horse-back ride, soaking up the incredible views of the Grand Tetons. The adventure continues with a floating river trip down the vast Snake River, looking out for otters, beavers and ospreys. Guests will then travel south to Sage Lodge in Yellowstone National Park to explore the backcountry geysers and hike along secluded canyons, soaking up the majestic Lamar Valley, The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, Obsidian Cliffs and thundering waterfalls.
HOW: Prices start from £9,200 per person based on 5 nights

–Ends-

Scott Dunn is one of the world’s most experienced luxury tour operators. With offices in the UK, America and Asia, its global team of travel specialists offer guests round-the-clock support, arranging bespoke holidays and honeymoons with exceptional five-star service. As well as creating tailor-made itineraries, Scott Dunn also operates highly professional Explorers Kids Clubs in select destinations throughout the world. The tour operator launched an exclusive, ‘invitation-only’ platform for its most discerning travellers, Scott Dunn Private, at the start of 2021.

For more information please contact:

[email protected] +44 (0) 20 7078 0295