To add in to the excellent replies above as a way of example. Kona make the excellent Sutra, a traditional steel framed touring bike with 3 x 9 drivetrain, brooks saddle, mudguards etc:
https://konaworld.com/sutra.cfm
There are accounts online of folks who have been all over the world with the stock Sutra and the stock 40mm tires supplied will be more than comfortable on road as well as tackling easy off-road, like canal paths, gravel roads etc.
Then, if that's not good enough for some folk, they make the Sutra LTD. The LTD version has exactly the same frame as the normal Sutra, but with a 1 x 11 group set and hydraulic disc brakes.
I actually have the LTD myself and tour off-road quite extensively on it, the frame is very comfortable and forgiving, perfect for long days in the saddle. I currently have 44mm wide tires, but with clearance for much more if I wanted.
Either bike makes for a fantastic comfy long distance tourer and really no need for the complexities or weight of front suspension. The LTD even has the same fender and rack mounts as it's on-road cousin, so I could use either soft bags or traditional rack and panniers.