Husband-and-wife team Isobel and David Lewis launched Cotswold Exploring with a 14-seat Sprinter 316 CDI Tourer, supplied by the Oxford branch of dealer Rygor.
Cotswold Exploring’s Sprinter is the BlueEfficiency model powered by the four-cylinder 163bhp engine driving through the optional seven-speed 7G-Tronic Plus automatic gearbox – and delivering 36.2 mpg.
One American guest says on TripAdvisor.com: “I am not big on guided tours but... I decided to give this a try. It was a spotless Mercedes van... its high windows allowed for good viewing as we travelled. Thank you for such a wonderful day.”
“You will be totally at ease with David at the wheel,” observes another TripAdvisor reviewer. “Their vehicle, a custom Mercedes touring van, provides the ultimate in luxury, comfort and superb visibility.
“They went the extra mile in so many ways in this perfectly sized vehicle to allow exploration of charming venues that motor coaches cannot access.”
“Their new Mercedes was a hit,” adds another American, while a Canadian couple also have no hesitation in recommending Cotswold Exploring.
“The tour guide and driver were very knowledgeable, courteous and helpful,” they report. “The minibus was new and comfortable.”
With former helicopter pilot David at the wheel, and qualified tour guide Isobel providing the informative and engaging commentary, they offer a choice of itineraries that introduce visitors to the Cotswolds.
Mrs Lewis, who speaks French and Spanish, began conducting walking tours of Oxford on a part-time basis some 12 years ago, while also working as British Airways cabin crew. Mr Lewis, meanwhile, has spent his entire career in aviation.