Defined by dramatic coastlines, sweeping moorlands, and hidden river valleys, England’s West Country is a region of layered history and distinct local character. Based at the spectacular Bovey Castle, we will spend a week exploring the contrasting heritage of Devon and Cornwall. Our itinerary balances grand architectural statements with intimate, lived-in treasures—from the definitive “upstairs-downstairs” opulence of Lanhydrock and the refined Adam interiors of Saltram, to the eccentric 16-sided walls of A la Ronde and the legendary harvest displays at Buckland Abbey. Led by American Ancestors’ Curt DiCamillo, we will traverse the majestic, mist-veiled heights of Dartmoor, tour fortified medieval manors and Georgian manses, and step inside stunning private and historic gardens along England’s southwestern frontier.

A la Ronde. Photo by Beck / Wikipedia.