Bluegrass Beats & Smoky Mountain Retreats

Fly from the UK to Charlotte, USA.

Kick things off in Charlotte, where modern buzz meets Southern charm. Stretch your legs in leafy parks, enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene and take in skyline views before setting off—an energising prelude to the scenic Smoky Mountains ahead.

Your next stop is Greenville. This small city punches well above its weight, with a walkable downtown, waterfall views at Falls Park on the Reedy and a surprisingly strong food scene. Stretch your legs along the Liberty Bridge, browse local boutiques or grab a riverside drink before dinner. Greenville is relaxed, creative and refreshingly easy—an ideal pause between city life and mountain calm.

Slow the pace with three nights at the Sanctuary Treehouse Resort in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the world’s first and largest interactive treehouse resort. Wrapped in forested hills and fresh mountain air, this is your chance to truly switch off. Discover scenic drives, gentle hikes and hidden viewpoints, then add a splash of local flavour with a moonshine and wine tasting in true Dolly Parton country. Rustic, peaceful and just a little bit wild, it’s the perfect Smoky Mountain reset before the music cities return.

Spend two nights in the heart of Music City, where music fills the streets day and night. From Broadway’s honky-tonks to legendary recording studios, experience iconic venues, rising stars, and the city’s vibrant food scene. Whether you’re country-curious or a devoted music fan, Nashville pulses with energy, history, and a soundtrack that stays with you long after you leave.

Continue north to Owensboro, proudly known as the Bluegrass Music Capital of the World. Stroll along the Ohio River, savour local barbecue, and soak up authentic music heritage in a town where Kentucky’s roots and small-town warmth come alive.

Spend two nights in Louisville, where bourbon culture and sporting history collide. Explore the pageantry, legends, and traditions of America’s most famous horse race at the Kentucky Derby Museum, then wander historic neighbourhoods, visit distilleries, and soak up the city’s buzzing dining scene. Louisville blends old-school Southern character with a modern edge—and does it all with a glass raised.

Round off the journey with three nights in Lexington at 21c Museum Hotel, set in the heart of Bluegrass Country. Rolling horse farms, elegant streets and deep musical roots define this final stop. The Lexington Bluegrass Cocktails & Bites Walking Tour adds a deliciously social way to explore local flavours and stories. It’s a polished yet playful finale—where culture, countryside and cocktails come together before your journey home.

Drive from Lexington to Cincinatti/Covington, then fly to the UK.