Crown Escapes was born from a profound love for Australia's diverse landscapes and a vision to share their beauty with travelers seeking authentic experiences. In 2012, founders Victoria Ashford and Marcus Thompson embarked on a cross-country journey that would change their lives forever. After years working in corporate tourism, they recognized a gap in the market for premium, intimate guided tours that prioritized genuine connection with nature over rushed itineraries and superficial sightseeing.
Starting with just one vintage touring coach and a handful of carefully planned routes through the Blue Mountains, Crown Escapes quickly gained recognition for its unique approach to Australian travel. Victoria's background in environmental science and Marcus's expertise in Indigenous cultural heritage created a foundation for tours that were both educational and transformative. They assembled a team of passionate local guides who shared their commitment to sustainable tourism and storytelling excellence.
Over the past twelve years, Crown Escapes has grown from that single route to over fifty distinctive journeys spanning the entire continent. We've guided thousands of travelers through the crimson heart of the outback, along pristine coastlines where ocean meets ancient forest, and into remote wilderness areas where modern life feels like a distant memory. Yet despite our growth, we've never lost sight of our founding principle: every journey should feel personal, every landscape should inspire wonder, and every traveler should return home transformed by the experience.
Today, Crown Escapes stands as Australia's most trusted name in premium guided tours, recognized not just for the destinations we showcase, but for the way we showcase them. Our commitment to small group experiences, expert local guides, and flexible itineraries ensures that each journey unfolds at a natural pace, allowing for spontaneous discoveries and meaningful connections with both land and fellow travelers.
