Planning a holiday is always a pleasure, but even more so during the grip of a dismal February. With tangible signs of better weather still weeks away in the UK, what better way to pass the time than by planning a Spring escape?

Rail holiday specialist Ffestiniog Travel has a tempting selection of escorted tours to some of Europe’s lesser-known destinations, all departing in May. Created for travellers keen to explore regions still relatively untouched by large-scale tourism, each itinerary blends relaxing rail journeys with cultural sightseeing, comfortable accommodation and convivial company, as well as ample time to explore independently as required. An experienced tour leader joins the group prior to departure in London and stays throughout the tour, joined by local professional guides to explain the history and traditions, as well as acting as interpreter.

Enjoy the myriad delights of a staycation this summer on an escorted Grand Tour of North Wales. Explore this beautiful part of the UK by steam railway, take a scenic cruise down the Llangollen canal, travel by train along the pretty Cambrian coast and visit an array of castles, gardens and monuments that are sure to leave lasting memories. Departing 9 June, the price is from £1,580 pp (two sharing) including eight nights’ full board (four in Betws-y-Coed, two in Llangollen, one each in Chester and Aberystwyth), all excursions and transfers as per the itinerary, and the services of a tour leader throughout. 

Enjoy The Magic of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong Delta on a 20-day escorted tour that combines scenic landscapes, colonial architecture and cruising in Vietnam before venturing through the Mekong Delta’s water villages to Cambodia, where Phnom Penh and the ancient wonder of Siem Reap await discovery. Departing 29 October, the price is from £3,100 pp (two sharing) including flights (London), 18 nights’ B&B (17 in hotels, one on a junk cruise), ten lunches, welcome & farewell dinners, rail travel and excursions as per the itinerary, the services of a tour leader from the UK and local guides. Two overnight flights. 

A must for rail enthusiasts and general sightseers alike, Japan ticks all the boxes when it comes to unforgettable holiday experiences. Taking in three of its main islands, Japan – A Land of Discovery blends escorted excursions to many of the country’s highlights with an array of tram and train journeys, plus a visit to the recently opened Kyoto Railway Museum. Departing 19 September, the price is from £4,990 pp (two sharing) including flights (London), a 14-day first class Japan Rail Pass, 16 nights’ B&B, welcome dinner, all rail journeys, excursions & transfers as per the itinerary, a tour leader from the UK and a local guide in Japan.