DR Brochure 2nd ed R17 A4 68pp Arena

DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF EUROPE 

GLORIOUS 

HOLIDAYS 

BY RAIL 

2017 

FEATURING CLASSIC RAIL TOURS | RESORT-BASED EXPLORERS | SHORT BREAKS | LAKES & MOUNTAINS

Fabulous holidays by rail 

planned by experts 

We are delighted to present you with our full collection of holidays by rail departing in 2017, 

which gives you more options, more unique destinations and even more for your money. 

Whether you want to escape to a mountain villages, relax on the golden sand of the Cote 

d’Azur, or explore the green and pleasant land we call home, when you book with Arena Rail 

Holidays, you can rest assured that you’re in the hands of experts. 

We look forward to welcoming you on board. 

This page: Lake Annecy, France; front cover: Bosa, Sardinia 

2 To book call us on 01858 438 450 or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

“We have just returned from 

St Raphaël and would like to say 

what a wonderful holiday it was. 

The arrangements were all excellent 

and the real gem was our Tour 

Manager. From first to last she 

” 

worked tirelessly to ensure our 

holiday was a success. 

Alan Bramall, Mansfield 

Booking is easy 

Simply call 01858 438 450 

Monday to Thursday 8am–8pm, Friday 8am–6pm & Saturday 9am–5pm 

PEACE OF MIND 

As members of ABTA we are a fully bonded and licensed tour operator, with air 

holidays protected by ATOL. We also have a 24 hour emergency line for when you are 

on holiday, which is answered by our On-call service at any time. So you can enjoy 

complete peace of mind when booking with us. 

– 

RAIL HOLIDAYS 

FROM £379 

PER PERSON 

– 

4 DAY BREAKS 

TO 10 DAY 

JOURNEYS 

– 

INCLUDED 

MEALS AND 

EXCURSIONS 

ON MANY 

HOLIDAYS 

– 

EXPERIENCED 

TOUR 

MANAGER TO 

GUIDE YOU 

– 

To book call us on 01858 438 450 or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk 

3

Great reasons 

to book with us 

WHY BOOK WITH 

DIAMOND RAIL HOLIDAYS? 

• Here at Diamond Rail Holidays, we put you first, right from the start. 

• So much is included so you get the most out of your holiday – there are 

no hidden extras. 

• Expertly planned and managed itineraries to ensure everything runs 

smoothly for you. 

• Escorted by an experienced Tour Manager after check-in at London. 

• We’ve made it easier than ever for you to get to London St Pancras with 

reduced price travel from a railway station near you. 

• Booking is easy, whether you prefer to book online in your own time or 

to chat to our knowledgeable Holiday Advisors who can do it for you. 

See how 

much we 

include 

• Unique itineraries, 

expertly planned 

• Return travel by 

Eurostar from London 

on all European rail 

holidays 

• Comfortable 

accommodation in 

carefully selected hotels 

• Many meals and 

excursions 

• Flights and overseas 

transfers on selected 

holidays 

• Services of an 

experienced Tour 

Manager 

One of our Holiday Advisors 


CONTENTS 

“I must congratulate you on the choice 

of tour guide who was outstanding and 

looked after all the members of the 

tour in a most wonderful way. Nothing 

was too much trouble. The hotel 

” 

too 

was excellent, one of the best hotels 

we have stayed in for years. 

Ralph Bembridge, Guildford 

Calvi, Corsica 

Welcome to Diamond Rail Holidays .................................... 2-6 

UNITED KINGDOM 

Scotland’s Iconic Railways...............................................................7 

Settle to Carlisle Railway & Yorkshire Steam.........................8 

Little Trains of Norfolk.....................................................................9 

FRANCE 

Languedoc, Carcassonne & Avignon........................................10 

Lake Annecy, Chamonix & Mont Blanc....................................11 

St Tropez, Nice & Monte Carlo ........................................... 12-13 

Little Trains of the Pyrenees..................................................14-15 

Highlights of Corsica.................................................................16-17 

Monet’s Garden, Chartres, Versailles 

& the Loire Valley..............................................................................18 

GERMANY & AUSTRIA 

Great Little Trains of the Rhine Valley................................... 22 

Great Little Trains of Austria...................................................... 23 

SWITZERLAND, CENTRAL & EASTERN EUROPE 

Lake Geneva & the Mont Blanc Express..........................24-25 

Lake Bled & the Mountains of Slovenia...........................26-27 

Jungfrau Express...............................................................................28 

Before You Go – General Information.................................. 29 

Important Information & Booking Conditions............. 30-31 

ITALY 

Italian Riviera of Flowers................................................................19 

Tuscany, the Cinque Terre 

& the Riviera of Flowers.......................................................... 20-21 


5

You can rely on 

our expert team 

OUR HOLIDAY ADVISORS 

From your first enquiry to the day you travel, our Holiday Advisors are 

available to talk to you in person. They have many years’ experience 

within the travel industry and provide a dedicated service to you, 

giving you all the information and advice you need, whatever the stage 

of your booking. 

EXPERIENCED TOUR MANAGERS 

A vital part of your holiday is the added value that our Tour Managers 

bring. Not only do they take care of the detail, they are also a great 

source of information, especially if you are visiting places new to you, 

ensuring you have an amazing experience every step of the way. 

GROUP TRAVEL SERVICES 

If you have a group of 10 or more people, give our 

award-winning Group Travel Services team a call. 

A holiday by rail could be just what you’re looking 

for, plus you can take advantage of a range of 

group benefits such as discounts, free places and 

no single supplements. 

Simply call 

01858 435 650 


Scotland’s Iconic Railways 

TRAVEL ALONG SOME OF THE 

GREATEST RAILWAYS IN THE WORLD! 

West Highland Line 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 

• Return rail journey from London 

King’s Cross to Inverness 

• Private coach travel in Scotland 

• Five nights’ half board 

accommodation in Carrbridge 

• Services of our Tour Manager 

Plus the following excursions: 

• Coach trip along the Malt Whisky 

Trail 

• Visit to a whisky distillery 

• Single journey on the West Highland 

Line 

• Single journey on the Kyle Line 

• Single journey on the Strathspey 

Steam Railway 

6DAYS 

FROM 

£599 


Travel along some of the greatest railways in the world on this exhilarating break and 

discover the outstanding beauty of the Scottish Highlands. From the foot of Ben Nevis, we 

join the West Highland Line for an unforgettable journey to Mallaig, passing lochs and glens 

and crossing the incredible 21-arch viaduct of Harry Potter fame. Our next railway treat is 

the Kyle Line, the original ‘Great Railway Journey of the World’ as featured in Michael Palin’s 

popular documentary series, with dramatic sections carved out of solid rock. Our final trip 

is aboard the Strathspey Steam Railway, the longest, most scenic steam heritage railway in 

Scotland, which cuts through the Cairngorms national park. 

Day 1: London – Inverness 

Your holiday begins when you meet our Tour 

Manager at London King’s Cross and board the 

train for Inverness, where we spend a relaxing 

evening in our hotel. 

Day 2: Inverness 

After a hearty breakfast we board our private 

coach and set off for a memorable journey along 

the world famous Malt Whisky Trail, which includes 

a guided tour of one of the distilleries and a ‘wee 

dram’ to try. We then return to our hotel. 

Day 3: West Highland Line 

Today’s excursion takes us to the town of Fort 

William, framed by the shores of Loch Linnhe 

and Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. This 

is where we join the West Highland Line for a 

journey along one of the most scenic railways 

in Britain. We disembark in Mallaig, an attractive 

fishing port, and enjoy some free time before we 

return to our hotel. 

Day 4: Kyle Line 

We head to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, 

for a journey along the Kyle Line. This single track, 

as featured on Michael Palin’s Great Railway 

Journeys of the World, takes us through miles of 

breathtaking scenery as it climbs the Highlands, 

passing wooded hillsides and lochs before 

reaching the quaint village of the Kyle of Lochalsh. 

We take a scenic drive around the southern side 

of the peninsula en route to our hotel. 

Day 5: Strathspey Steam Railway 

After breakfast we travel to one of Scotland’s 

premier resorts, Aviemore, and board the 

Strathspey Steam Railway to Broomhill. The 

sounds and smells of this beautiful journey 

allow you to relive a bygone age, whether you 

remember the days of steam or not. We return 

to our hotel. 

Day 6: Inverness – London 

This morning we board the train from Inverness 

Central station for the return journey to London 

King’s Cross. 

Inverness 

Kyle Broomhill 

Mallaig 

Aviemore 

Fort William SCOTLAND 

By rail 

By coach 

IRELAND 

From/to 

London 

DATES & PRICES 

NORTH 

SEA 

ENGLAND 

Tour code: REULT06 

WALES 

23 June 2017...............................................................£609 

27 September 2017................................................ £599 

Single room supplement.....................................£109 

London 

Join direct and receive a £60pp reduction 

Travel Insurance 

6 days........................................................................£23.95 

All prices shown are per person 

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES 

Outward journey 

Departs King’s Cross 12.00 

Arrives Inverness 20.04 

Return journey 

Departs Inverness 07.55 

Arrives King’s Cross 15.51 

YOUR HOTEL 

Carrbridge Hotel or similar 

A warm welcome awaits you at the family-run 

Carrbridge Hotel, which nestles in the 

spectacular Cairngorm national park. The 

building itself dates back to the early 19th 

century and has been sympathetically extended 

and refurbished over the years. In the Grill 

Room Restaurant enjoy delicious food before 

chatting with friends over a drink in the bar. 

Strathspey Steam Railway 


7


Settle to Carlisle Railway 

& Yorkshire Steam 

North Yorkshire Moors Railway 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 

• Four nights’ half board 

accommodation in Yorkshire 

• Coach transfers for our excursions 



• Return journey on North Yorkshire 

Moors Steam Railway 

• Free time in Whitby 

• Return journey on the Settle-Carlisle 

Railway 

• Journey on the Wensleydale Railway 

• Visit to Wensleydale Cheese 

Creamery 

• Steam train journey on the Embsay 

& Bolton Abbey Railway 

5 

DAYS 

FROM 

£429 

There’s no finer way to see the classic scenery of Yorkshire than being pulled along by a 

steam train with the smell of smoke and the sound of the whistle taking you back in time. 

This is exactly what the North Yorkshire Moors Railway offers and our return journey will 

be one to remember, with free time in the historic coastal town of Whitby. We also enjoy a 

steam train trip along the edge of the Yorkshire Dales as well as an incredible return journey 

along one of the last great mainline railways to be built in the country, the Settle-Carlisle 

Railway, which crosses a staggering mosaic of landscapes. So join us for railways galore from 

the dales to the moors, with a cheeky taste of creamy, crumbly Wensleydale cheese. 

Day 1: Yorkshire 

Make your own way to our hotel, where you 

meet our Tour Manager and enjoy a relaxing 

evening. 

Day 2: North Yorkshire Moors Railway 

This morning we are taken by coach to the little 

market town of Pickering for a return journey 

on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, one 

of the world’s greatest heritage railways. The 

route takes us from Pickering to Whitby, passing 

through 24 miles of Yorkshire’s amazing scenery. 

We also have some free time to explore Whitby, 

which boasts some of the best fish and chips 

in the UK and has links to Captain Cook and 

Dracula! 

Day 3: Settle-Carlisle Railway 

Today we enjoy a return journey on the Settle- 

Carlisle Railway so you can sit back and admire 

the scenery from both directions. This line pays 

testament to the ingenuity of 19th-century 

railway engineers as it travels over 72 miles 

through the North Pennines, Eden Valley and 

Yorkshire Dales, crossing 19 viaducts and passing 

through 14 tunnels. The Ribblehead viaduct is a 

particular highlight with 24 arches and a highest 

point of 32 metres. 

Day 4: Wensleydale Railway & Embsay 

& Bolton Abbey Railway 

This morning we enjoy a journey on the 

Wensleydale Railway, a heritage line offering 

fantastic views of the Yorkshire Dales. Next we 

visit the highest market town in England, Hawes, 

and the Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre 

where we enjoy a demonstration and a cheeky 

tasting. We then travel to Bolton Abbey for a 

return journey on the charming Embsay and 

Bolton Abbey Steam Railway 

Day 5: Home 

After breakfast you are free to check out of our 

hotel and depart at leisure. You could take the 

opportunity to visit the city of York, home to 

the National Railway Museum which offers free 

entry and is home to thousands of objects from 

over 300 years of railway history. 


Tour code: REUYO05 

17 July 2017..................................................................£429 

4 September 2017...................................................£429 

Single room supplement.......................................£95 


5 days.........................................................................£19.95 


YOUR HOTEL 

Craiglands Hotel, Ilkley 

This grand Victorian hotel combines modern 

comforts and facilities with a warm welcome, 

and is only a short walk from the historic spa 

town of Ilkley and the spectacular Ilkley moor. 

The restaurant menu features excellent locally 

sourced ingredients and the room itself has an 

adjoining bar and french windows that open out 

onto a terrace. There’s also a lounge with a log 

fire as its centrepiece, and the en suite 

bedrooms which are perfect for a restful 

night’s sleep. 

The Risboro Hotel 

The Craiglands Hotel 

The Ribblehead viaduct 


Little Trains of Norfolk 

Bure Valley Railway 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


accommodation at the Mercure 

Norwich Hotel 

• Coach transfers for our excursions 



• Steam train journey on the Bure 

Valley Railway 

• Cruise on the broads aboard the 

Southern Comfort Mississippi 

Paddle Boat 

• Free time in Wroxham, Horning 

and Holt 

• Journey on the Bittern Line 

• Steam train journey on the 

Poppy Line 

• Visit to Cromer 

• Steam train journey on the Mid 

Norfolk Railway 

• Entrance to Sandringham 


Feted for its big skies, glorious coast, tranquil rivers and crimson-red poppy fields, Norfolk 

is definitely a place to stop and enjoy the view. It’s also a place where life moves at a slower 

pace – even the royal family come here to wind down. Add to this the nostalgic feeling 

you get when travelling along heritage railways with a little steam train chugging away up 

front and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable experience. We include no less 

than four different railway journeys on this short break, along with plenty of time to 

explore each destination, plus a cruise on the Norfolk Broads and a visit to Sandringham 

Estate. If the charms of Norfolk are good enough for the Queen, that’s a good enough 

reason for us to go! 

Day 1: Norfolk 

Make your own way to our hotel, where you 

meet our Tour Manager and enjoy a relaxing 

evening. 

Day 2: Bure Valley Railway & the Southern 

Comfort Mississippi Paddle Boat 

This morning we board our coach and travel to 

the market town of Aylsham to join the Bure 

Valley Railway. This delightful route takes in some 

of the most unspoilt countryside as it crosses 

17 bridges and passes through idyllic villages to 

reach Wroxham, known as the ‘capital of the 

Norfolk Broads’. You have some free time here 

before we travel to the pretty village of Horning 

and board the Southern Comfort Mississippi 

Paddle Boat for a cruise on the Broads. The route 

takes us along the Bure river, passing thatched 

cottages, windmills and Norfolk reed beds, with 

an excellent commentary which also points out 

the water birds. 

Day 3: The Bittern Line, the Poppy Line 

& Cromer 

Today we are taken to Norwich station where 

we join the Bittern Line, named after the 

wading bird, for a journey to Sheringham. We 

then join the North Norfolk Railway, which is 

affectionately known as the Poppy Line, and 

enjoy a scenic trip along the coast and through 

heathland to the lovely town of Holt. After some 

free time here we head to the nearby seaside 

resort of Cromer and enjoy the rest of the day 

at leisure. 

Day 4: Mid Norfolk Railway & Sandringham 

Wymondham is our destination today where 

we join the Mid Norfolk Railway for a steam 

train journey through the heart of Norfolk 

countryside. We alight from the train in Dereham 

and are taken by coach to Sandringham, country 

residence of the Queen. Here you are free to 

admire the beautiful grounds and explore the 

house, which has knowledgeable guides on hand 

to talk to visitors. 

Day 5: Home 

After breakfast you are free to check out of 

our hotel and depart at leisure; you could even 

take the opportunity to explore some more of 

Norfolk. 

5 

DAYS 

FROM 

£379 


Tour code: REUNO05 

8 June 2017................................................................. £399 

14 September 2017..................................................£379 



5 days.........................................................................£19.95 


YOUR HOTEL 

Mercure Norwich Hotel 

Enjoy a hearty Norfolk welcome at the 4 star 

Mercure Norwich Hotel which offers 

contemporary bedrooms, delicious food, a 

popular health club and high speed Wi-Fi 

throughout. This hotel is ideally located for our 

excursions, giving easy access to the Norfolk 

Broads and the coast, and it is only three miles 

from the centre of Norwich. It also has a bar 

offering a range of wines, beers, spirits and soft 

drinks for you to enjoy after a day exploring. 

Mercure Norwich Hotel 

The Norfolk Broads 

Cromer 


9

FRANCE 

DISCOVER THE UNSPOILT 

REGION OF LANGUEDOC 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 

• Return Eurostar from London to Lille 

or Paris 

• Return TGV from Lille or Paris to 

Agde 

• Seven nights’ half board 

accommodation in Cap d’Agde 



• Visits to Carcassonne, Pont du Gard 

and Avignon 

......................................................................... 

Optional excursion available: 

• Canal du Midi cruise and lunch........ £70 

Languedoc, Carcassonne & Avignon 

The beautiful region of Languedoc is often referred to as the ‘real south of France’, with 

an expansive landscape dominated by vineyards, traditional villages filled with charm, 

rocky outcrops crowned by castles, and a rich and varied coastline that stretches from 

the Camargue to the Pyrenees mountains. During our break you can relax and enjoy the 

Mediterranean lifestyle with plenty of free time in our resort of Cap d’Agde, and visit 

some beautiful places including Carcassonne, a fortified medieval city with a fairytale 

collection of towers and drawbridges, and the graceful city of Avignon, once the seat of 

papal powers. You can also enjoy a peaceful cruise along the Canal du Midi and admire the 

magnificent Pont du Gard. This is traditional France with a hint of history at its very best. 

Day 1: London – Cap d’Agde 

We journey from London to Lille or Paris via 

Eurostar and join the TGV to Agde in southern 

France, our base for the next seven nights. 

Day 2: Cap d’Agde 

Today is free to spend at leisure in our 

Mediterranean resort. Located at the foot of 

an ancient volcano, Cap d’Agde is based around 

a large marina where there are plenty of shops 

and restaurants. Activities are abundant, from 

glass-bottomed boat trips to snorkelling, or you 

can simply relax and unwind on one of the large 

sandy beaches. 

Day 3: Carcassonne 

We depart by coach and travel to the city 

of Carcassonne, designated a world heritage 

site. The old city is in fact a castle perched 

on a hilltop, flawlessly preserved with a moat, 

drawbridge and magnificent spires, making you 

feel like you have stepped back to medieval 

times. Walk the circumference of the walls for 

splendid views of the surrounding countryside 

and the modern city spread out below. 

Day 4: Cap d’Agde – Canal du Midi Cruise 

We enjoy another free day in resort. The small 

town of Agde itself is worth visiting, with 

impressive architecture including the Cathédrale 

St-Étienne. If you would like to venture further 

Carcassonne 

afield, the port of Setè is an interesting place. A 

highlight is a walk up to Mont St Clair, where you 

can enjoy magnificent views along with some 

of the best seafood in the world. We also offer 

an optional cruise along the Canal du Midi with 

lunch included. It’s the perfect way to relax as 

you glide by sun-drenched vineyards and quaint 

waterside villages. 


A further day is spent at leisure, giving you the 

freedom to do as much or as little as you wish. 

Day 6: Pont du Gard – Avignon 

Our included excursion today takes us to Pont 

du Gard, the 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct. 

Standing at nearly 50 metres, it was the highest 

bridge the Romans ever built. From here our 

route takes us to Avignon, city of the popes. On 

entering the walls of the city you will find ancient 

streets and courtyards lined with magnificent 

buildings. For a more secluded spot head to the 

Rocher des Doms, a beautiful hilltop park with 

wonderful views. 


Enjoy a final day at leisure. 

Day 8: Cap d’Agde – London 

We are transferred to the station and take the 

train to Lille or Paris, where we join Eurostar for 

our return to London. 

8DAYS 

FRANCE 

Carcassonne 

Canal du Midi 

By rail 

By coach 

FROM 

£849 

From/to 

Lille or Paris 

Avignon 

Cap D’Agde 

SWITZERLAND 

ITALY 

CORSICA 


Tour code: RELCA08 

12 June 2017................................................................£849 

Single room supplement...................................... £110 


8 days........................................................................£39.95 




Departs St Pancras 11.01 

Arrives Agde 20.14 


Departs Agde 08.46 

Arrives St Pancras 16.39 

YOUR HOTEL 

Hotel Capao, Cap d’Agde 

The 3 star Hotel Capao is built on one of the 

largest yacht marinas in the south of France, with 

direct access to one of the best beaches in the 

area where you can relax and soak up the 

atmosphere. The comfortable en suite bedrooms 

have a TV, telephone, minibar and hairdryer. 

There is also a restaurant on the beach and you 

can unwind in the outdoor pools or visit the 

health suite for some self-pampering. 

Hotel Capao 

Avignon 


NEW 

DISCOVER THE HEART 

OF THE FRENCH ALPS 

Lake Annecy, Chamonix & Mont Blanc 

Lake Annecy 

English 

Channel 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 

• Return Eurostar from London to Paris 

• Return TGV from Paris to Annecy 

• Three nights’ bed and breakfast 

• Free time in Annecy 


Plus the following excursion: 

• Journey on the Mont Blanc Express 

to Chamonix 

......................................................................... 

Optional excursions available: 

• Lake Annecy cruise................................ £30 

GERMANY 

4 

Paris 

DAYS 

from/to 

Paris 

FROM 

£449 

FRANCE 

Discover the quiet beauty of one of the purest lakes in the world before taking a scenic 

railway journey to the foothills of the highest mountain in the Alps. Lake Annecy is an ideal 

location for anyone looking to slow down for a few days and enjoy the simple pleasures 

of life, and our short break is an opportunity to do just that. We stay at the northern end 

of the lake in the town of Annecy, known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’ because of its crystal 

clear canals which wind through the centre. There’s plenty of time to explore the town and 

wander along the lake shore enjoying the serenity, before we join the Mont Blanc Express 

for an exciting journey in the Alps, passing spectacular scenery to reach the illustrious 

resort of Chamonix. 

Day 1: London – Lake Annecy 

We journey aboard Eurostar from London to 

Paris and join the TGV to Annecy, where we 

walk the short distance to our hotel and enjoy a 

relaxing evening. 

Day 2: Lake Annecy 

Enjoy a free day in Annecy. The combination of 

crystal clear canals, narrow traffic-free streets 

and colourful houses bedecked with flowers 

make it a delightful place to explore. There are 

also a number of important places in the town, 

including the Palais de I’Isle and the 13th-century 

Château d’Annecy, and there’s the popular picnic 

spot of Champs de Mars where you can cross 

Lovers’ Bridge and walk along the lake edge to a 

public garden and a beach. During the day you 

can also join our optional cruise on Lake Annecy 

for a wonderful perspective of the area. 

Day 3: Chamonix & the Mont Blanc Express 

Today we travel by coach to the town of 

St-Gervais-les-Bains and join the Mont Blanc 

Express for a scenic railway journey to Chamonix. 

This famous resort sits 1,035 metres above 

sea level in the shadow of Mont Blanc and is 

surrounded by glaciers, snowcapped peaks and 

lush green meadows. We have plenty of time to 

explore Chamonix and for even more spectacular 

views you could take the Aiguille du Midi cable 

car up Mont Blanc itself, or try the gentler 

Montenvers rack railway which takes you to 

the foot of the Mer de Glace glacier (additional 

journeys not included). 

Day 4: Lake Annecy – London 

We leave our peaceful retreat behind and travel 

back to Paris where we join Eurostar for the 

return to London. 

FRANCE 

St-Gervais-les-Bains 

Annecy Chamonix 

Lake Annecy Mont Blanc 

By rail 

By coach 

SWITZERLAND 

ITALY 


Tour code: REAMB04 

13 October 2017.......................................................£459 



4 days........................................................................£29.95 





Arrives Annecy 16.30 


Departs Annecy 09.31 


YOUR HOTEL 

Ibis Annecy Centre Vieille Ville, Annecy 

Stay in the heart of Annecy in this modern 

3 star hotel, which is just a short walk from the 

station and Lake Annecy. Each morning a 

delicious buffet breakfast is served from 6.30am 

to 10am, while the bar is a great space to relax 

with a drink. And when the day is done, the 

comfortable bedrooms are the perfect place to 

unwind and all feature an en suite with shower 

and hairdryer, air conditioning and Wi-Fi. 

Chamonix 

Ibis Annecy Centre Vieille Ville 


11

VISIT THE 

STYLISH 

FRENCH RIVIERA 

Paris 

St Tropez, Nice & Monte Carlo 

The Côte d’Azur, on the French Riviera, is one of the most stylish coastlines in the 

world, a playground for the rich and famous who come here to enjoy long sunny days 

beneath sapphire skies. But you don’t have to be rich – or famous – to holiday here. With 

accommodation in St Raphaël, a pretty town on the Mediterranean, we take you to some 

of the most well-known places where not only can you experience the glitz and glamour, 

but also the natural beauty of this area, which was once filled with sleepy fishing villages. 

There’s also plenty of time to explore the resort, relax on the beach and unwind in this 

delightful destination. 

By rail 

By coach 

SWITZERLAND 

From/to Lille 

ITALY 

FRANCE 

Nice 

Monte Carlo 

St Raphaël St Paul de Vence 

St Tropez 

CORSICA 

St Tropez 


YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


or Paris 

• Return TGV from Lille or Paris to 

St Raphaël 


accommodation in St Raphaël 



• Visits to St Tropez, Nice and 

Monte Carlo 

......................................................................... 


• Visit to St Paul de Vence......................£25 

FRANCE 

8DAYS 

FROM 

£799 

Day 1: London – St Raphaël 

We journey from London to Lille or Paris by 

Eurostar and continue by TGV to St Raphaël, our 

base for the next seven nights. 

Day 2: St Raphaël 

Today is free for you to relax in our traditional 

Côte d’Azur resort. Situated between Cannes 

and St Tropez, St Raphaël has many highlights 

including the Basilica of Notre Dame de la 

Victoire, the picturesque old port and its bustling 

marina, pretty belle époque buildings which 

line the seafront, and a stunning coastline with 

sheltered bays and fine sandy beaches. 

Day 3: St Tropez 

The destination for jet-setters the world over, 

St Tropez has a glamorous reputation yet it still 

maintains the charm of a small fishing village. 

Our excursion takes us by boat, avoiding the 

traffic and taking in the coastal scenery along 

the way. Spend some time around Vieux Port 

and admire the luxury yachts; explore La Ponche, 

the oldest and most attractive part of town; 

take a walk to the 16th-century citadel and 

enjoy fantastic views; watch games of pétanque 

beneath the plane trees in Place des Lices; stroll 

from beach to beach along the coastal path – 

there’s plenty to enjoy. 

Day 4: Nice – Monte Carlo 

This morning we take the train to Nice, which 

is celebrated for its Promenade de Anglais – it’s 

the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, gazing out 

Monte Carlo 

across the Mediterranean and enjoying a crêpe 

from one of the stalls. The old town is filled with 

historical monuments including the Palace de 

Justice – a grand 19th-century mansion, and the 

domed cathedral of Sainte-Reparate. Taking a 

short rail journey along the coastline, our next 

destination is Monte Carlo, a playground for the 

rich and famous and home to the renowned 

grand prix circuit and exquisite harbour. Admire 

the casino, walk around the gardens or, for a 

small cost, you can take a circular bus tour. 


Take the opportunity to venture into the 

surrounding hills and explore one of the quaint 

towns – Frejus is only a short walk away and is 

home to many Roman sites. 

Day 6: St Paul de Vence 

Our optional coach excursion today takes us 

to the village of St Paul de Vence. The winding 

streets exude beauty, with vine-covered stone 

walls and elegant fountains and statues; even the 

cobblestones are laid in floral patterns. Due to its 

hilltop location, you can also catch breathtaking 

views of the mountains and sea. 


Today is free for you to relax and explore at 

leisure. 

Day 8: St Raphaël – London 

We depart on the late-morning train to Lille, where 

our Eurostar connection returns us to London. 


Tour code: RESTM08 

12 September 2017.................................................£849 

Single room supplement..................................... £120 


8 days........................................................................£39.95 





Arrives St Raphaël 17.09 


Departs St Raphaël 11.23 


YOUR HOTEL 

Hotel Excelsior, St Raphaël 

This elegant 3 star hotel is right on the seafront 

promenade in the heart of St Raphaël. The 

rooms are all comfortably furnished with air 

conditioning, TV, safe and hairdryer. Enjoy 

freshly prepared cocktails or refreshing beers in 

the English-style pub, along with delicious meals 

in the restaurant or the outside terrace 

overlooking the sea. 

Hotel Excelsior 

Nice 


13

COLOURFUL TRAINS 

AND SPECTACULAR 

VIEWS 

Little Trains of the Pyrenees 

Forming the natural border between France and Spain, the Pyrenees mountain range 

is a special realm which remains largely unexplored compared to its alpine counterpart 

and totally unspoilt. The little trains that traverse these jagged peaks, with their brightly 

coloured carriages and panoramic windows, are a fantastic way to get around and we 

include journeys on three of the best, which encompass rolling meadows, wooded valleys, 

remote villages, spectacular viaducts and much more. Based in the pretty town of Roses 

on the Spanish coast, we spend our days on both the Spanish and French side of the 

mountains so you can really experience their scenic variety and cultural diversity. 

Villefranche de Conflent 

Axat Perpignan 

Font Romeu Thuir 

Núria 

Figueres Roses 

SPAIN 

By rail 

By coach 

FRANCE 

The Yellow Train of the Pyrenees 


YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


• Return TGV from Paris to Perpignan 

• Connecting rail/coach journeys 


accommodation in Roses 

• Wine served with dinner 



• Journey on the Roses Express 

• Visit to Thuir with wine tasting 

• Journey on the Yellow Train in the 

Pyrenees 

• Journey on the Núria Valley Railway 

• Journey on the Red Train in the 

Pyrenees 

• Visit to Figueres and entrance to the 

Dalí Museum 

FRANCE 

Day 1: London – Roses 

We journey aboard Eurostar from London to Paris 

and continue by rail to Perpignan where we are 

transferred to the unspoilt town of Roses on the 

Costa Brava, our base for the next seven nights. 

Day 2: Roses Express 

Enjoy a morning at leisure and relax in our hotel, 

take a stroll around the old town of Roses, or 

head to the wide, sandy beach. In the afternoon 

we head towards the citadel on the seafront 

where we join the Roses Express. This delightful 

little road train is pulled by an ornate tractor and 

climbs into the hills of the Cap de Creus national 

park to give you spectacular views across Roses. 

Day 3: The Yellow Train of the Pyrenees 

Today we spend the day in France and the 

French Pyrenees on our included excursion. Our 

first stop is the medieval walled city of Thuir, 

which nestles at the foot of the Pyrenees and is 

surrounded by vineyards. Here we taste some 

local wine before travelling to Villefranche to join 

the Yellow Train for an unforgettable journey 

through the Pyrenees. Sit back and relax as the 

line winds its way up the Tet valley, through 

forests and tunnels and across ravines and 

viaducts, including the Pont Gisclard suspension 

bridge and the Séjourné viaduct with its dramatic 

double-decker arches. We alight from the train 

at the small mountain village of Font Romeu and 

return to our hotel by coach. 

Day 4: Roses 

Do as much or as little as you choose with a day 

at leisure in Roses. 

Dalí Museum 

Day 5: Núria Valley Railway of the Pyrenees 

Today’s journey is in Spain on the Núria Valley 

Rack Railway, which is twinned with the Jungfrau 

Rack Railway in Switzerland. It’s the only means 

of transport that accesses the valley, so you are 

guaranteed breathtaking views of mountains and 

meadows as we climb more than 1,000 metres, 

and with the help of a local guide we can learn 

more about this remote region. 

Day 6: The Red Train of the Pyrenees 

Enjoy another day in the French Pyrenees in 

the company of a local guide. This time we join 

the Train du pays Cathere et du Fenouillèdes 

(affectionately called the Red Train), which passes 

through a land of vineyards and castles as it 

slowly climbs over an impressive 60 kilometres 

from Rivesalets to Axat. We enjoy some free 

time in the pretty town of Axat, high in the Aude 

valley, before returning to our hotel by coach. 

Day 7: Figueres & Dalí Museum 

This morning our excursion is to the Catalan 

town of Figueres, named after the sweet fig trees 

that once thrived here. A mix of architectural 

styles can be found in the old town along with 

various cultural attractions, the most popular 

being the Dalí Museum which we include entry 

to. This amazing building is dedicated to the 

town’s most famous son, Salvador Dalí, and 

is highly recommended for anyone visiting 

northern Spain. 

Day 8: Roses – London 

We leave the Spanish coast behind and retrace 

our route to Paris, where we join Eurostar for the 

return to London. 

8DAYS 

FROM 

£759 


Tour code: REPYR08 

16 June 2017...............................................................£869 

23 June 2017...............................................................£869 

27 August 2017......................................................... £839 

15 September 2017.................................................£849 

19 September 2017.................................................£849 

2 October 2017........................................................ £769 

9 October 2017........................................................£759 


Sea view room supplement................... from £88 


8 days........................................................................£39.95 





Arrives Perpignan 19.04 


Departs Perpignan 10.53 


YOUR HOTEL 

Hotel Coral Platja Elit, Roses 

This 3 star colonial-style hotel is located on the 

seafront a short walk from the centre of Roses. 

All of the bedrooms have a warm 

Mediterranean decor and modern amenities 

including an en suite, hairdryer, mini fridge, TV, 

safe, air conditioning and a balcony. The hotel 

has a swimming pool, restaurant and a terrace 

with a sea view. 

The Red Train of the Pyrenees 


15

FRANCE 

Highlights of Corsica Little Trains & Spectacular Scenery 

Relax and unwind on the little French island that basks in the Mediterranean sun. Known as 

‘l’ile de beaute’, Corsica is home to some of the most picturesque railways in Europe. These 

little trains run on single tracks and pass amazing scenery as they travel across mountains 

and along coastline, stopping at quaint villages along the way. From the mountainous heart 

of Corsica to the capital city of Ajaccio on the coast, we travel aboard the little trains and 

stay in four popular towns so you can enjoy the highlights of the different corners of this 

beautiful island. 

Day 1: London – Nice 

We journey aboard Eurostar from London to Lille 

and continue by rail to Nice, where we check in 

at our overnight hotel. 

Day 2: Nice – Bastia 

After breakfast we take a leisurely afternoon 

crossing to the Mediterranean island of Corsica. 

We arrive in the town of Bastia, on the northern 

tip of the island, and travel onward to our hotel. 

Day 3: Bastia 

Enjoy a full day exploring Bastia, which is filled 

with understated elegance. The old port is a 

good place to start, where you can wander 

through the quaint streets and admire the 

Italianate architecture clustered around the 

harbour. Above the port lies the citadel, built in a 

Genoese style, and a climb up here through the 

shaded gardens is well worth the awarding views 

of the sea and the countryside. The new town 

offers wider boulevards and impressive buildings 

from the 19th century. Place St Nicolas is the 

social hub of the town and a great place to soak 

up the atmosphere with views across the sea and 

a statue of Napoléon. 

Day 4: Bastia – Calvi 

After breakfast we join the Trinicellu (Little Train 

in Corsican). This narrow gauge railway is an 

experience not to be missed, following the coast 

with spectacular views of gold red mountains 

plunging into the deep blue sea and passing 

through pretty Ile de Rousse and the village of 

Ponte Leccia. On arrival in Calvi we transfer to 

our hotel, our base for the next two nights. 

Day 5: Calvi 

The small town of Calvi is in an idyllic location 

with a large sheltered bay to the front and 

mountains behind. You will have plenty of time 

to enjoy the many attractions as we spend the 

day at leisure. A walk around the castle ramparts 

offers wonderful views across the bay, after 

which you can venture into the cobbled streets 

to see the Cathedral of St Jean Baptiste and 

the house which is said to be the birthplace 

of Christopher Columbus. Down towards the 

Corte 

seafront the popular area of Quai Landry links 

the marina and the port, and is filled with 

bustling bars and cafés. 

Day 6: Calvi – Corte 

After breakfast we join the little train for the 

rail journey to Corte, the small and ancient 

capital tucked away in the mountainous heart 

of Corsica. It’s a great place to experience the 

traditional culture during our overnight stay. 

Day 7: Corte – Ajaccio 

Corte is surrounded by amazing mountain 

scenery, with the cragged beauty of the citadel 

Calvi 


THREE INCLUDED TRAIN JOURNEYS ON CORSICA 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


• TGV from Lille to Nice and Marseille 

to Lille 

• Return daytime ferry crossings to 

Corsica 


accommodation on Corsica 

• One night’s bed and breakfast in 

Nice 


Marseille 



• Train journey from Bastia to Calvi 

• Train journey from Calvi to Corte 

• Train journey from Corte to Ajaccio 

• Free time in Bastia, Calvi, Corte and 

Ajaccio 

FRANCE 

YOUR HOTELS 

Hotel Azuréa, Nice or similar 

This 3 star hotel is an ideal stopover in the heart of 

Nice, just steps from the famous Promenade des 

Anglais. The en suite bedrooms have air 

conditioning, satellite TV and Wi-Fi. In the morning 

you can enjoy a hearty breakfast in a room bathed 

in sunlight thanks to its large glass ceiling. 

Holiday Inn Express Marseille-Sainte Charles, 

Marseille or similar 

This hotel is just steps away from the TGV train 

station and a short stroll from the old port which is 

lined with cafés and restaurants. The bedrooms are 

spacious and comfortable with en suite facilities 

and a TV, and in the morning we enjoy a buffet 

breakfast with croissants and French cheeses. 

Hotel Orizonte, Cervione 

rising high up from a rocky outcrop. The town is 

a delight to explore, thriving with a cosmopolitan 

air along with the bustle of pavement cafés and 

bars, and if you follow the narrow streets up to 

the citadel you can enjoy wonderful elevated 

views. You will also find the Museum of Corsica 

in the citadel, which takes you on a fascinating 

journey of the history of the island (entrance not 

included). Later in the day we board the train 

for Ajaccio for our two-night stay. This route is 

ranked as one of the most scenic railways in the 

world, crossing the Vecchio viaduct engineered 

by Gustav Eiffel, of tower fame, before passing 

through the Vizzavona Forest, a swathe of lofty 

laricio pines and chestnut trees. 

Day 8: Ajaccio 

Enjoy a full day in Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica. 

There are many statues and streets named after 

Napoléon Bonaparte, who was born here in 1769, 

along with the National Bonaparte Museum. You 

can stroll around the squares and promenades, 

On Corsica 

Hotel Orizonte, Cervione (Bastia) or similar 

With direct access to Prunete beach, this 3 star 

hotel is in the perfect location for our two nights’ 

stay. The en suite bedrooms are air conditioned and 

each have a TV and Wi-Fi, and there are also two 

restaurants, a bar with a terrace and an outdoor 

swimming pool. 

Hotel Pascal Paoli, Algajola (Calvi) or similar 

This 3 star hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and 

is just 300 metres from the beach. The en suite 

bedrooms have air conditioning, hairdryer and TV. 

Meals are served in the restaurant or on the 

covered terrace, and there is also a bar, TV lounge, 

garden area and fitness centre. 

Hotel de la Paix, Corte or similar 

This family-run hotel is the perfect place for 

experiencing traditional Corsica and is just a short 

walk from the heart of the ancient capital. There is 

a restaurant, TV area, and all of the bedrooms are 

en suite. 

Hotel Castel Vecchio, Ajaccio or similar 

Our final day on Corsica is spent in this delightful 

3 star hotel, which is in the heart of Ajaccio 

opposite the pretty harbour. All the main sights 

are easily reached on foot and there is an outdoor 

swimming pool (seasonal), garden, terrace and bar. 

The en suite bedrooms have a private balcony 

and TV. 

Calvi 

admire the fabled cathedral, or relax in one of 

the many pavement cafés and watch the world 

go by. 

Day 9: Ajaccio – Marseille 

We leave Corsica behind and take the morning 

ferry to Toulon, where we continue by coach to 

our overnight hotel in Marseille. 

Day 10: Marseille – Lille – London 

We travel by TGV to Lille and join Eurostar for 

our return to London. 

Please note: The trains on Corsica are used 

by local residents as well as visitors, giving a 

wonderfully authentic feel to each journey. And 

you don’t have to worry about travelling with 

your luggage as our coach will transfer this for 

you. You can simply gaze out the window and 

enjoy the view. 

10 

DAYS 

To 

Lille 

FRANCE 

Marseille 

SPAIN 

Calvi 

to 

Toulon 

By rail 

By coach 

By ferry 

FROM 

£1349 

SWITZERLAND 

From 

Lille 

Nice 

Toulon 

Bastia 

Corte 

CORSICA 

Ajaccio 

from 

Nice 

ITALY 

CORSICA 


Tour code: RECOR10 

16 June 2017..............................................................£1399 

8 September 2017.................................................£1399 

22 September 2017...............................................£1349 

Single room supplement.................................... £249 


10 days......................................................................£44.95 





Arrives Nice 18.05 


Departs Marseille 09.14 



17

FRANCE 

Follow in the footsteps of two of the greatest artists of all time, along with the powerful 

kings and queens of France who left behind a legacy of majestic chateaux. Just some 

of the highlights we enjoy include the home of Claude Monet, one of the founders of 

impressionist painting, where you can stand on the bridge to admire the water lilies he so 

loved to paint, and the world famous Palace of Versailles, built by the ostentatious Sun 

King – Louis XIV. We also venture into the Loire valley, known as the ‘valley of the kings’, to 

visit the home of Leonardo da Vinci and the magnificent Château de Chenonceau, which 

straddles the Cher river and is linked to a long list of noble residents who fell in love with 

the place. Based in Rambouillet, in the Île-de-France, we are in the perfect place to enjoy a 

fascinating holiday, as we explore the regions of France that inspired artists, aristocrats and 

architects alike. 

Day 1: London – Paris – Rambouillet 


Paris and meet our coach for the transfer to our 

hotel near the quaint town of Rambouillet. 

Day 2: Versailles and Chartres 

After breakfast we visit the Palace of Versailles, 

the most extravagant of chateaux, befitting the 

ego of Louis XIV. Our included entrance lets 

you see the palace’s most famous places: the 

Hall of Mirrors, Grand Apartments of the King 

and Queen, and the King’s Bedchamber. In the 

afternoon we travel to Chartres for free time to 

explore the half-timbered medieval streets and 

the iconic cathedral with its magnificent 12thcentury 

stained glass windows. 

Day 3: The Loire valley 

Today we venture into the Loire valley to visit 

the elegant town of Amboise; its majestic 

château overlooking the Loire river is the final 

resting place of the great Leonardo da Vinci. In 

the afternoon we visit Château de Chenonceau, 

a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture which 

spans the Cher river. Learn about the influential 

EXPLORE THE REGIONS OF FRANCE THAT INSPIRED 

ARTISTS, ARISTOCRATS AND ARCHITECTS ALIKE 

Monet’s Garden, Chartres, Versailles 

& the Loire Valley 

Monet’s Garden 

women who resided here, including Diane de 

Poitiers and Catherine de Medici, and see the 

treasures inside, including the room of Five 

Queens and the living room of Louis XIV. 

Day 4: Monet’s Garden – London 

This morning we travel by coach to the small 

village of Giverny, home to Claude Monet for 

over 40 years. The gardens here are among the 

finest in France and the inspiration for many of 

his great works, with beautiful plants and the lily 

pond with its famous green Japanese bridge and 

weeping willows. In the afternoon we join our 

Eurostar connection for the return from Paris to 

London, arriving back in the early evening. 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


• Three nights’ half board 

accommodation with wine* 



• Visit to the Palace of Versailles 

• Visit to Chartres 

• Excursion to the Loire valley visiting 

Amboise and Château de 

Chenonceau 

• Visit to Monet’s Garden 

*Wine (¼l) or water (½l), and coffee are 

included with dinner 

4ENGLAND 

London 

DAYS 

Monet’s Garden 

By rail 

By coach 

£449 BELGIUM 

English 

Channel 

Chartres 

Loire Valley 

FROM 

Paris 

Versailles 

Rambouillet 

FRANCE 

NETHERLANDS 


Tour code: RECHM04 

15 September 2017................................................. £449 



4 days........................................................................£29.95 





Arrives Paris 14.47 


Departs Paris 17.13 


YOUR HOTEL 

Best Western Hotel Amarys Rambouillet 

This comfortable 3 star hotel is perfectly 

located on the edge of Rambouillet forest, 

between Chartres and Versailles. The 

guestrooms are the perfect place to relax, with 

soft lighting, satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, and an 

en suite. There’s also a cosy bar and seasonal 

outdoor swimming pool on site. The hotel 

serves a generous buffet breakfast and the 

restaurant serves tasty seasonal menus. 

SWITZER 

Versailles 

Château de Chenonceau 

Amarys Rambouillet 


Italian Riviera of Flowers 

With the warm sea breeze of the Mediterranean and the shelter of the Maritime Alps, this 

beautiful stretch of Italian coast is the perfect suntrap where a colourful paradise of exotic 

plants and flowers nestles among pastel-coloured towns filled with old-world elegance. 

Based in the charming resort of Diano Marina, we spend six nights in our seafront hotel 

– a favourite among our customers – and enjoy some quiet days by the sea, along with 

the chance to visit surrounding highlights. San Remo in particular is known as the ‘city of 

flowers’ and hosts the liveliest flower market in Europe, while further along the coast we 

find the pretty fishing village of Portofino, regarded as the jewel of the Italian Riviera. 

Day 1: London – Diano Marina 


Paris or Lille and continue by TGV to Nice, where 

we are taken by coach to Diano Marina, on the 

beautiful Italian Riviera. 

Day 2: Diano Marina 

Today is free for you to spend at leisure in our 

pretty resort, surrounded by hills and coast. You 

can relax in our hotel and enjoy the facilities, 

head to the fine sandy beach, or venture into the 

old town to browse the shops and sample local 

delicacies. There’s also an 11th-century castle 

where traces of the town’s ancient past can be 

found. If you want to explore further afield, 

the nearby medieval village of Cervo, with its 

combination of cobbled alleys, terraces, arches 

and rooftops, is a delightful place to visit. 

Day 3: Dolceacqua & San Remo 

The hilltop village of Dolceacqua enjoys a 

picture perfect setting and is filled with striking 

architecture. The Nervia river runs through its 

heart, separating the village into two parts – 

the oldest called Terra, which is dominated by 

the Doria Castle, and the newest called Borgo. 

Dolceacqua 

SPEND SIX NIGHTS IN 

A FLORAL PARADISE 

San Remo 

Both are connected by a spectacular medieval 

bridge, described by Claude Monet as “a jewel of 

lightness”. We also visit San Remo, Italy’s answer to 

France’s Monte Carlo. The atmospheric old town, 

known as ‘La Pigna’, is tightly packed with buildings 

that cling to a steep hill. There are also two 

ports where you can see luxurious yachts, busy 

shopping streets and broad tree-lined boulevards. 

Day 4: Portofino 

We travel by coach to Santa Margherita and take 

the ferry to enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery on 

our way to Portofino. This pretty crescent-shaped 

village retains all of its traditional charms, despite 

its jet-set reputation. You can explore the harbour 

with its brightly coloured buildings, follow one 

of the scenic pathways to the beach or the light 

house, or visit the 16th-century hilltop castle and 

enjoy wonderful views across the Mediterranean 

to the French island of Corsica. 

Day 5: Diano Marina 

We enjoy another free day in resort. 

Day 6: Menton & Hanbury Gardens 

Join our optional excursion to visit the French 

resort of Menton, renowned for its annual 

Lemon Festival. Take a walk into the old town, 

which is a warren of quirky lanes and alleyways 

that lead out to the Promenade du Soleil and 

a beautiful sandy beach. Our next stop is the 

Hanbury Botanical Gardens, the inspiration of 

English businessman Sir Thomas Hanbury. Visitors 

can follow pathways that wind through 45 acres 

of plants, fountains and statues, leading down to 

a little café by the sea. 

Day 7: Diano Marina – London 

We check out of our hotel this morning and 

retrace our route to meet Eurostar for the return 

to London. 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


or Lille 

• Return TGV from Paris or Lille to Nice 

• Return coach transfer to our hotel 

• Six nights’ half board accommodation 

in Diano Marina 



• San Remo and the hilltop village of 

Dolceacqua 

• Picturesque Portofino 

......................................................................... 


• Menton – the ‘pearl of France’, 

and Hanbury Botanical Gardens..... £39 

7 

DAYS 

FRANCE 

From/ 

to Paris 

or Lille 

By rail 

By coach 

By ferry 

FROM 

£799 

AUSTRIA 

SWITZERLAND 

ITALY 

Diano Marina 

Nice San Remo 

CORSICA 

Portofino 


Tour code: REROF07 

5 October 2017........................................................£799 



7 days.........................................................................£37.95 





Arrives Nice 20.37 


Departs Nice 09.27 


YOUR HOTEL 

Hotel Palace, Diano Marina or similar 

This 3 star hotel is perfectly located in front of 

a sandy beach, with the old town and the 

shopping centre easily reached along the 

seaside promenade. All of the bedrooms are 

well furnished and equipped with air 

conditioning, satellite TV, balcony, safe, 

hairdryer, magnifying mirror, telephone and 

Wi-Fi. Enjoy sea views from the restaurant, 

which serves a range of dishes using delicious 

local products along with a wide variety of 

selected wines. There is also a wellness room 

with a sauna and Jacuzzi, and a rooftop terrace 

where you can admire the views across the bay. 

ITALY 


19

ITALY 

Tuscany 

Tuscany, the Cinque Terre & the Riviera of Flowers 

Enjoy the simple pleasures of Italy on this classic tour, which combines the historic and 

scenic delights of Tuscany with a relaxing stay on the glorious Riviera of Flowers. We start 

with the city of Pisa and its legendary leaning tower, before finding sanctuary in the spa 

town of Montecatini Terme – a centre for wellbeing and relaxation. Here we discover 

the enchanting villages of the Cinque Terre on our included excursion, along with the 

flamboyance of Florence – an open air masterpiece of art and architecture, and the secret 

city of Lucca, returning to our spa retreat at the end of each day. We then take a scenic rail 

journey along the coast to our favourite seafront hotel in Diano Marina for the perfect end 

to our Italian experience. 

Day 1: London – Turin 

We take the Eurostar service from London to 

Paris, where we change trains and join the TGV to 

Turin in northern Italy. 

Day 2: Pisa 

After a leisurely breakfast we take the train to 

Pisa, on a route that offers tantalizing views of 

the Mediterranean Sea while passing through 

lovely resorts scattered along the coast. Our 

coach takes us from the station into the historic 

centre of Pisa, known as the ‘Piazza dei Miracoli’ 

which translates to ‘Square of Miracles’, where 

you will find the Baptistery of St John, the 

cathedral and the famous Leaning Tower. After 

some free time to admire the surroundings, we 

travel by coach to Montecatini Terme for our 

four-night stay. 

Day 3: Montecatini Terme 

Enjoy a day at leisure in Montecatini Terme – 

Italy’s most famous spa town, tucked away in 

the heart of Tuscany. It has a wonderful air of 

the belle époque period about it, with stunning 

architecture and a central park. The historic 

funicular railway takes you up to the hill town 

of Montecatini Alto for panoramic views of the 

area. There’s also a small castle, three churches 

and a large square with plenty of cafés. 

Day 4: The Cinque Terre 

Today we explore one of Italy’s most enchanting 

coastal regions, the Cinque Terre. These five 

villages perch on sheer cliffs which overlook the 

sea and are surrounded by hills and vineyards. 

We explore four of the villages, making our first 

stop in Manarola where you can explore the tiny 

harbour, piazza and colourful houses, before 

taking a local train to Riomaggiore. We are then 

taken by boat to the ancient fishing village of 

Monterosso, considered the pearl of the Cinque 

Terre. You can take a dip in the azure sea and 

enjoy a delicious Liguarian lunch (not included) 

in one of the restaurants, before we continue to 

Vernazza to explore the narrow lanes and steep 

Florence 

Dolceacqua 

stairways known as ‘carruggi’. We continue by rail 

along the coast to La Spezia, before returning by 

coach to our hotel. 

Day 5: Florence 

The capital of Tuscany, Florence, is our 

destination by rail today. Regarded as one of the 

most beautiful cities in Italy, Florence is like an 

open air museum, so the best way to explore is 

by walking through the cobbled streets, freely 

admiring the piazzas and palazzos which were 

designed by illustrious artists such as Brunelleschi 

and Michelangelo. You can join our guided tour 

to get your bearings and see some of the main 

sights, before spending the afternoon at leisure. 

Day 6: Lucca & the Italian Coast 

Lucca is arguably one of Tuscany’s best-kept 

secrets, hidden by ancient ramparts and gardens 

that surround the old city. Explore Anfiteatro 

Square; climb the Guinigi Tower which has an 

ancient oak tree growing on top; wander along 

the typical antique dealers’ street; and remember 

to try the local Bucellato, a sweet bread filled 

with raisins and aniseed. In the afternoon we 

return to Pisa and take the train to Diano Marina 

for a relaxing four-night stay in our seafront 

hotel. 

Day 7 to 9: The Italian Riviera of Flowers 

For the next three days you can relax and soak 

up the sun in Diano Marina. Enjoy miles of sandy 

beach, coastal walks and the old town; you can 

even visit the nearby medieval village of Cervo – 

with its combination of cobbled alleys, terraces, 


YOUR HOTELS 

Hotel Dock Milano, Turin or similar 

In Turin we stay at the Hotel Dock Milano or similar, 

which offers a warm welcome with comfortable 

facilities. 

Hotel Brennero e Varsavia, Montecatini Terme 

This elegant and traditional hotel is run by the 

Bruschetti family, who extend a warm welcome to 

all their guests. It’s in the perfect location for our 

holiday, being only a short walk from the heart of 

Montecatini Terme, and has all the modern 

comforts needed. Guestrooms have an en suite 

along with air conditioning, TV, safe and hairdryer. 

There’s also a cosy living area, bar, TV room and 

restaurant where you can enjoy famous Tuscan and 

international dishes. 

Hotel Palace, Diano Marina 

This 3 star hotel is perfectly located in front of a 

sandy beach with the old town and the shopping 

UNCOVER THE ESSENCE OF ITALY 

centre easily reached along the seaside promenade. 

All of the bedrooms are well furnished and 

equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, 

balcony, safe, hairdryer, magnifying mirror, 

telephone and Wi-Fi. Enjoy sea views from the 

restaurant, which serves a range of dishes using 

delicious local products along with a wide variety 

of selected wines. There is also a wellness room 

with a sauna and Jacuzzi, and a rooftop terrace 

where you can admire the views across the bay. 

Hotel Palace 

Tuscany 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


or Lille 

• TGV from Paris to Turin and Nice to 

Paris or Lille 


Turin 


accommodation in Montecatini 

Terme 


accommodation in Diano Marina 



• Visits to Pisa and Lucca 

• Free day in Montecatini Terme 

• Tour of the Cinque Terre 

• Florence by rail and guided walking 

tour 

• Scenic Italian coast train journey 

......................................................................... 


• San Remo and Dolceacqua.................£25 

GERMANY 

10 

FROM 

£999 

AUSTRIA 

DAYS 

SWITZERLAND 

FRANCE 

Turin 

Diano 

Marina 

By rail 

By coach 

ITALY 

The 

Cinque 

Terre Lucca 

CORSICA 

Montecatini 

Terme 

Florence 

Pisa 

ITALY 

arches and rooftops, it’s a delightful place to 

explore. We also offer an optional excursion to 

San Remo and Dolceacqua. San Remo is Italy’s 

answer to the French resort of Monte Carlo, 

where you can explore the atmospheric old town 

and the ports filled with luxurious yachts. The 

hilltop village of Dolceacqua enjoys a picture 

perfect setting, with the Nervia river running 

through its heart and the spectacular medieval 

bridge described by Claude Monet as “a jewel of 

lightness”. 

Day 10: Diano Marina – London 

After checking out of our hotel we are taken by 

coach to Nice and join the TGV to Paris or Lille 

for our Eurostar connection to London. 


Tour code: RETRF10 

10 September 2017...............................................£1059 

Single room supplement..................................... £120 


10 days......................................................................£44.95 





Arrives Turin 20.18 

Day 2: Departs Turin 10.50 

Arrives Pisa 14.51 


Departs Nice 11.04 


The Cinque Terre 


21


Great Little Trains of the Rhine Valley 

Journey through a storybook landscape of towering hilltops, ancient castles, enchanting 

forests and old-world towns, which are all infused with history and legends, and bound 

together by the mighty Rhine. Our relaxing holiday is a wonderful way to see this famous 

river valley as we step aboard the Vulkan Express, a delightfully preserved railway that 

whisks you up the Eifel mountains. We also enjoy a journey on the Dragon Rock Railway, 

the home of German legend; ride in a horse-drawn carriage in the beautiful Ahr valley; 

take a scenic boat trip along the Rhine; and discover the highlights of the magnificent city 

of Cologne and the pretty wine town of Rüdesheim – all of which is enjoyed from our 

riverside base with rail travel throughout. 

Day 1: London – Remagen 

We journey from London to Brussels by Eurostar, 

where we join the high-speed rail connection to 

Cologne. From here we take a local train along 

the Rhine to Remagen and check in at our hotel, 

our base for the next five nights. 

Day 2: Cologne 

Our rail journey today takes us to Cologne, a city 

dominated by its magnificent gothic cathedral. 

A climb up the south tower to the viewing 

platform rewards you with extensive views 

across the city and the Rhine. The architecture 

is striking, from Romanesque churches, simple 

post-war and classic modern buildings, to many 

historic monuments. A walk into the medieval 

old city reveals the lively old market square 

and historic town hall, the oldest in Germany. 

Cologne also offers excellent shopping and is 

of course most famous for its eau de cologne 

legacy. We travel by rail for a short stay in Bonn, 

before enjoying a scenic boat trip along the 

Rhine which takes us to Königswinter. From 

here we take a journey on a small train up the 

Drachenfels (Dragon Rock). This is the most 

famous of the seven Siebengebirge mountains 

and, according to legend, is where Siegfried slew 

the dragon who lived in a cave on the mountain. 

Although you aren’t likely to spot any dragons 

on your train ride, the scenery is striking. After 

a delightful return journey, we take a train and a 

ferry across the Rhine and return to our hotel. 

Day 3: Ahr Valley 

We travel by train along the Ahr valley, an area 

of broad plateaux and narrow gorges where 

picturesque half-timbered towns nestle in the 

landscape and castles crown hill summits. This is 

the most northerly of Germany’s wine-producing 

regions that is mostly dedicated to the production 

of red wines. Seldom is this wine exported so 

English 

Channel 

our special excursion to Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler 

will give us the opportunity to sample some and 

purchase a souvenir bottle or two, as well as enjoy 

a horse-drawn carriage ride. 

Day 4: Vulkan Express 

We enjoy a nostalgic ride on the Vulkan Express, a 

privately owned narrow gauge train. The journey, 

through one of the most scenic valleys of the 

Rhine, takes 1½ hours, passing castles, crossing 

viaducts and going through a tunnel as we ascend 

the Eifel mountains to the village of Engeln. 

Day 5: Rüdesheim 

Today we travel through the Rhine Gorge by 

train, passing the legendary Lorelei to reach 

the quaint wine town of Rüdesheim. The 

Drosselgasse is the hub, lined with taverns 

serving the Rheingau region’s finest riesling wines. 

The Niederwald monument, which depicts the 

mythical figure of Germania, can be reached by 

cable car, where spectacular views of the Rhine 

valley and castles can be enjoyed. The ruins 

of Ehrenfels Castle is another idyllic location, 

surrounded by vineyards above the Rhine Gorge. 

Day 6: Remagen – London 

We depart our hotel in the morning and retrace 

our route to Brussels, where we join Eurostar for 

the return to London. 

Hotel Pinger 

EXPLORE THE LEGENDARY 

RHINE VALLEY BY TRAIN 

Vulkan Express 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 

• Return Eurostar from London to 

Brussels 

• Return rail from Brussels to Cologne 

and connecting rail journey to Remagen 


accommodation in Remagen 



• Visits to Cologne, the Ahr valley and 

Rüdesheim 

• Boat trip along the Rhine 

• Journey on the Dragon Rock Railway 

• Horse-drawn carriage ride in the 

Ahr valley 

• Journey on the Vulkan Express 

6DAYS 

NORTH 

SEA 

Cologne 

BELGIUM 

Bonn 

Remagen 

Brussels Bad Neuenahr- 

Ahrweiler Koblenz 

Engeln 

Rüdesheim 

By rail 

NETHERLANDS 

FRANCE 

FROM 

£649 

GERMANY 


Tour code: RERHV06 

19 June 2017............................................................... SWITZERLAND£659 

11 September 2017.................................................. £659 



6 days........................................................................£35.95 





Arrives Remagen 16.47 


Departs Remagen 11.08 


YOUR HOTEL 

Hotel Pinger, Remagen 

This 3 star establishment is owned by the Pinger 

family, who have been running hotels in the area 

since 1938. It is conveniently located close to 

the railway station and the town centre, and 

offers comfortable rooms all of which have en 

suites, TVs and telephones. Public areas include 

a restaurant, coffee shop, bar with seating area 

outside for relaxing, sauna and plunge pool. The 

hotel also has a lift. 


Great Little Trains of Austria 

The Austrian Tirol is a picture perfect landscape, characterised by lush alpine meadows, 

crystal clear lakes and spectacular mountain ranges. It’s a destination that captivates all 

who visit and our itinerary is a great way to enjoy some of the highlights this region has 

to offer. With hotel accommodation in the heart of Kufstein – the pearl of the Tirol with 

its majestic castle and gentle flowing river, we include no less than four historic railway FRANCE 

journeys and two cruises which reveal a wealth of Austrian treasures. 

Day 1: London – Kufstein 

We journey from London to Paris by Eurostar 

and continue by TGV to Munich, where our 

awaiting coach takes us to Kufstein – the pearl of 

the Tirol and our base for the next seven nights. 

Day 2: Kufstein 

Today is free for you to explore our charming 

resort. The emblem of the town is its majestic 

fortress, which proudly stands on its own hilltop 

above the Inn river. This is where the world’s 

biggest open air organ can be heard after the 

daily midday bells ring out. Romerhofgasse is 

another highlight, a medieval lane in the old 

town, with overhanging arches, lanterns and 

ornate facades. 

Day 3: Zell am See, Pinzgau Train & Kitzbühel 

A coach journey into the neighbouring Salzburg 

region takes us to the resort of Zell am See. Here 

we join the Pinzgau train, considered the most 

attractive narrow gauge railway in Austria, and 

enjoy a panoramic journey through the Salzach 

valley to Mittersill. We continue by coach, 

stopping at the stylish resort of Kitzbühel. 

Day 4: Lake Wolfgangsee Cruise & 

Schafbergbahn Railway 

We travel by coach into the breathtaking region 

of Salzkammergut to visit the famous resorts of 

PICTURE PERFECT VIEWS OF MOUNTAIN 

RAILWAYS AND TRANQUIL LAKES 

Lake Achensee 

St Wolfgang and St Gilgen. Located on the shores 

of Lake Wolfgangsee, these picturesque towns 

offer a peaceful retreat amid stunning scenery. 

Enjoy an included cruise on the clear waters of 

Lake Wolfgangsee and an included journey on 

the Schafbergbahn Railway, a historic steam train 

to the summit of Mount Schafberg. 

Day 5: Kufstein or Innsbruck by train 

Enjoy another day at leisure in Kufstein, or 

perhaps make your way to nearby Salzburg, 

birthplace of Mozart and the location for 

The Sound of Music. You can explore the old 

town, Mirabell Gardens, the cathedral and 

Hohensalzburg Fortress. Innsbruck is also easily 

accessible by train from Kufstein. 

Day 6: Ziller Valley 

Today we include a full day coach excursion into 

the Ziller valley. From the town of Fügen, we join 

the Zillertalbahn Railway, which encompasses 

breathtaking views of mountain pastures and 

forests, leading up to the magnificent Zillertal 

Alps. During the journey we enjoy some music 

and a glass of local schnapps, before stopping at 

the famous ski resort of Mayrhofen. 

Day 7: Achenseebahn Railway & Lake 

Achensee Cruise 

Lake Achensee is our destination today, the 

largest lake in the Tirol. We travel by coach 

and stop at Jenbach to join the Achenseebahn 

Railway for a romantic journey, driven by the 

world’s oldest steam cog locomotives. On 

reaching the lake high in the mountains, you can 

enjoy an included cruise to Scholastika for more 

fabulous views of the Tirol. 

Day 8: Kufstein – London 

We travel by ICE trains to Brussels via Cologne, 

where we join Eurostar for the return journey to 

London. 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 

• Eurostar from London to Paris and 

Brussels to London 

• TGV from Paris to Munich 

• ICE from Munich to Brussels via 

Cologne 

• Seven nights’ bed and breakfast in 

Kufstein, the Austrian Tirol 

• Five four-course evening meals 



• Journey on the Pinzgau train 

• Visit to Kitzbühel and Mayrhofen 

• Cruise on Lake Wolfgangsee and 

Lake Achensee 

• Journey on the Schafbergbahn 

Railway, the Zillertalbahn Railway and 

the Achenseebahn Railway 

8DAYS 

By rail 

By coach 

FROM 

£979 

GERMANY 

AUSTRIA 

Munich 

Kufstein 

Jenbach 

Kitzbühel 

Fügen Zell am See 

SWITZERLAND Mittersill 

ITALY 

CZECH REPUBLIC 

SLOVENIA 


Tour code: REAUS08 

7 September 2017..................................................£999 



8 days........................................................................£39.95 





Arrives Munich 21.36 


Departs Munich 09.28 


YOUR HOTEL 

Hotel Goldener Löwe, Kufstein 

This comfortable, family-run hotel is situated in 

the heart of the town at the foot of the ancient 

fortress of Kufstein. All bedrooms are 

comfortably furnished with an en suite, 

telephone, satellite TV, and hairdryer. An 

extensive buffet breakfast is available each 

morning and in the evening you can choose 

from Tyrolean specialities or international 

dishes. Dinner is included at our hotel on days 

2, 3, 4, 6 & 7. 


Kufstein 


23

SWITZERLAND 

Lake Geneva & the Mont Blanc Express 

Staying in a popular mountain village high above the Rhône valley, you can enjoy incredible 

views on this tour around the Alps of France and Switzerland. Climb to the dizzy heights 

of Rochers de Naye for stunning vistas of Lake Geneva, journey aboard the Mont Blanc 

Express to visit the ‘alpine capital of the world’, admire the scenery from the GoldenPass 

Line panoramic train and absorb the unique atmosphere of Montreux. All excursions are 

included along with half board accommodation, making this a truly rewarding experience. 

Lake Geneva 

Day 1: London – Leysin 

We travel aboard Eurostar from London to Paris 

and join the TGV to Geneva and connecting 

trains to reach the Swiss mountain village of 

Leysin, our base for the next six nights. 

Day 2: Leysin 

Relax and enjoy a free day in resort. Leysin stands 

1,250 metres above altitude, on a sunny ledge 

above the Rhône valley. The town is a popular 

tourist centre which dates back to the middle 

ages and attracts people throughout the winter 

and summer. Highlights include the Berneuse 

cable car, where you will find a glass revolving 

mountaintop restaurant, and there are many 

hiking paths which offer panoramic views. 

Day 3: Montreux 

Nestled in a sheltered bay on Lake Geneva, the 

quaint town of Montreux is called the capital of 

Mont Blanc Express 

the Vaud Riviera because of its exceptionally mild 

climate. We travel here by rail for plenty of time 

at leisure; stroll along the promenade, visit the 

beautiful Château de Chillon, or take a cruise on 

the lake – there’s so much to enjoy. 

Day 4: Mont Blanc Express – Chamonix 

We join the Mont Blanc Express for a magical 

return journey which ascends to the breathtaking 

heights of Chamonix Mont Blanc. This French 

resort lies at the foot of Mont Blanc and is 

known as the ‘alpine capital of the world’ after it 

hosted the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924. 

The lively town is great to explore, with many 

shops and restaurants, and there are a range of 

cable cars and mountain railways which follow 

some of the most spectacular routes in the 

world, such as the Aiguille Du Midi. 

Day 5: Rochers de Naye 

We return to Montreux by rail and join the rack 

railway which takes us past forests, meadows and 

rocks up to Rochers de Naye. At 2,045 metres 

above sea level, this is one of the most beautiful 

vantage points of the region, where you can 


ENJOY SCENIC RAILWAYS AND STUNNING 

LOCATIONS AROUND THE ALPS 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


• Return TGV from Paris to Geneva and 

connecting trains to Leysin 


in Leysin 

• Free time in Leysin 



• Visits to Montreux and Chamonix 

Mont Blanc 

• Journey on the Mont Blanc Express 

• Journey on the rack railway to 

Rochers de Naye 

• Journey on the GoldenPass Line 

• Journey on the Lötschberger Express 

The itinerary and order of excursions 

are subject to change. 

SWITZERLAND 

Montreux 

Mont Blanc 

English 

Channel 

7 

DAYS 

FROM 

NETHERLANDS 

£899 

BELGIUM 

Paris 

FRANCE 

GERMANY 

By rail 

SWITZERLAND 

Zweisimmen Rochers AUSTRIA 

Spiez 

de Naye 

Montreux 

Brig 

Geneva Leysin 

ITALY 

Chamonix Mont Blanc 

enjoy spectacular views of the Vaud Riviera, Lake 

Geneva and the surrounding Alps – on a clear day 

you can see the Eiger, the Mont Blanc Massif and 

Geneva’s famous waterspout. 

Day 6: GoldenPass 

Today we enjoy two scenic railway journeys. The 

first travels from Brig aboard the 100-year-old 

Lötschberger Express, which offers wonderful 

views of the Rhône valley as it passes through 

narrow gorges and high mountains. At Spiez 

we change trains and travel to Zweisimmen to 

join the GoldenPass for a panoramic journey to 

Montreux, which passes green pastures, forests, 

streams and vineyards, with views of Lake 

Geneva. 

Day 7: Leysin – London 

We depart our hotel in the morning and 

retrace our route to Paris, where the Eurostar 

connection returns us to London. 


Tour code: REGEN07 

6 October 2017.......................................................£899 

Single room supplement......................................£125 


7 days.........................................................................£37.95 





Arrives Leysin 18.23 


Departs Leysin 09.58 


YOUR HOTEL 

Central Résidence & Spa, Leysin 

Enjoy 3 star accommodation with a family atmosphere in the heart of Leysin, surrounded by magnificent views 

of the Alps. All of the bedrooms face south with a balcony and have an en suite, TV, safe and hairdryer. Relax in 

the lobby bar, read in the library, play table tennis or pétanque in the garden, or take advantage of the spa and 

fitness centre which includes an indoor swimming pool, log wood sauna and Jacuzzi. There’s also a restaurant 

where you can enjoy an excellent choice of dishes together with the wonderful ambience. 

Central Résidence & Spa 


25

RELAX AMID 

STUNNING 

SCENERY 

Lake Bled & the 

Mountains of Slovenia 

Nestling in the foothills of the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is an enchanting scene from a 

childhood fairytale, with its little white church surrounded by crystal clear glacial waters, 

and emerald green forests that underline the distant mountains. A stunning rail journey 

through the Austrian Alps, stopping to visit the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana, leads us to 

this magical landscape where we spend time absorbing its unique peace and tranquillity. 

You can also join our excursion into the heart of Slovenia’s only national park, passing 

through the spectacular Socǎ river valley to reach the shores of Lake Predil, while another 

scenic railway takes us along part of the picturesque Bohinj line. So join us as we uncover 

the secret beauty of Slovenia on this relaxing holiday by rail. 

From 

Paris 

SWITZERLAND 

To 

Paris 

Turin 

GERMANY 

By rail 

By coach 

ITALY 

Munich 

CZECH REPUBLIC 

AUSTRIA 

Villach 

Julian Alps Lake Bled 

Ljubljana 

SLOVENIA 

CROATI 

BOSNIA 

HERZEGO 

Lake Bled 


YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


• TGV from Paris to Munich and Turin 

to Paris 

• Connecting rail journeys including 

a scenic trip across the stunning 

Austrian Alps 


Munich 

• Two nights’ bed and breakfast in 

Ljubljana 


accommodation at Lake Bled 


Turin 



• Guided tour of Ljubljana followed by 

free time 

• Coach trip through the Julian Alps 

CENTRAL & EASTERN EUROPE 

Day 1: London – Munich 

We journey from London to Paris by Eurostar 

and continue by TGV to Munich where we check 

in at our overnight hotel. 

Day 2: Munich – Villach – Ljubljana 

We continue our rail journey which follows a 

stunning route through the Austrian Alps and 

across the border into Slovenia. We alight from 

the train in Ljubljana – the quaint capital city of 

Slovenia where we spend the next two nights. 

Day 3: Ljubljana 

With its hilltop castle and riverside location, 

Ljubljana is a wonderful place to visit, so we 

have set aside a full day for you to enjoy here. Its 

compact size makes it easy to explore and there 

are treasures at every turn, including Dragon 

Bridge, the Franciscan church, the triple bridge, 

and the funicular railway up to the castle. Our 

included city tour ensures you miss none of 

the highlights (entrance/attraction costs not 

included). 

Day 4, 5 & 6: Lake Bled 

We take a short coach journey to our next 

destination – the peaceful and beautiful resort 

of Lake Bled, where we spend the next few 

days at leisure. A walk around the lake is highly 

recommended. At 6 kilometres it can take 

a couple of hours, but there’s definitely no 

rush, with plenty of places to stop and drink 

in the scenery or even take a dip in emerald 

green water. For a small fee you can also take 

a traditional wooden pletna boat (there are 

no noisy motorboats on Lake Bled) to visit the 

Church of Maria, which rises from a tiny islet in 

the middle of the lake, or you can hire your own 

rowing boat for a more personal experience. 

Julian Alps 

Day 7: Julian Alps 

Today we venture into the Julian Alps on our 

included coach excursion. The route takes us 

into the heart of the mountains of Slovenia’s 

only national park – Triglav, crossing the highest 

mountain pass of Vršič and passing through the 

beautiful Socǎ river valley. We make a stop at 

the small town of Bovec, which is surrounded by 

magnificent scenery, before coasting down the 

Predil mountain pass and crossing the border 

into Italy, where we spend some time on the 

shore of the small but spectacular Lake Predil. 

Day 8: Lake Bled 

Enjoy a further day at leisure in the beautiful 

surrounds of Lake Bled. Bled Castle is another 

highlight that’s well worth a visit during our stay. 

Complete with towers, ramparts, moats and a 

terrace, it’s a stunning example of a medieval 

fortress and its position on a cliff top 100 metres 

above the lake offers breathtaking views. 

Day 9: Lake Bled – Turin 

We leave our lakeside paradise and enjoy a scenic 

train journey which follows a section of the 

famous Bohinj line to Nova Gorica on the Italian 

border. We continue by train to Turin and check 

in at our overnight hotel. 

Day 10: Turin – London 

We take the morning train to Paris and board 

Eurostar for our return to London. 

10 

DAYS 

FROM 

£1199 


Tour code: REBLE10 

5 September 2017..................................................£1199 

Single room supplement......................................£175 


10 days......................................................................£44.95 





Arrives Munich 21.37 

Day 2: Departs Munich 12.18 

Arrives Ljubljana 18.31 


Departs Turin 10.15 


Hotel Astoria 

YOUR HOTELS 

Maritim Hotel, Munich or similar 

Hotel Dock Milano, Turin or similar 

We have hand-picked quality 3 star hotels which offer everything needed for a 

comfortable overnight stay, including en suite bedrooms and a restaurant. 

City Hotel, Ljubljana 

This award-winning hotel is right in the heart of Ljubljana and within easy walking 

distance from the railway station – the perfect combination for our stay. Each of 

the comfortable bedrooms have an en suite, toiletries, hairdryer, free Wi-Fi, TV, 

safe and ceiling fan or air conditioning. The hotel also features a sunny terrace 

with plenty of greenery, and a restaurant where you can enjoy delicious meals 

prepared by Chef Ana and her team. 

Hotel Astoria, Lake Bled 

Elegance and respect for nature are the hallmarks for this 3 star hotel, which 

nestles in the magical setting of Lake Bled just a short walk from the lake shore. 

The en suite rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including air 

conditioning, safe, minibar, telephone, TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. The chefs 

have designed a delicious menu which combines traditional Slovenian cuisines 

with modern dishes. You can also enjoy a range of saunas and treatments, and 

make use of the indoor or outdoor whirlpool (additional costs apply). 


27

SWITZERLAND 

NEW 

Jungfrau Express 

AN UNFORGETTABLE 

SWISS ALPINE ADVENTURE! 

Jungfrau Express 

YOU R HOLIDAY 

INCLUDES 


• Return TGV from Paris to Strasbourg 

• Connecting rail journeys to Basel and 

Mürren 

• One night’s half board 

accommodation in Basel* 


in Mürren 

• Cheese tasting evening 



• Guided village tour of Mürren 

• Journey on the Jungfrau Railway to 

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe 

• Visit to Trümmelbach Falls 

• Cable car to Schilthorn 

• James Bond breakfast at the Piz 

Gloria revolving restaurant 

• Funicular railway trip to 

Allmendhubel 

Join us for an unforgettable alpine adventure, taking you from the emerald green hills and 

meadows of our cosy resort to marvel at a breathtaking winter wonderland. Staying in 

the mountain village of Mürren, which nestles among the Swiss Alps and is only accessible 

by cable car, we enjoy some of Switzerland’s most spectacular scenery as we travel along 

dramatic railways. The first tunnels through the mighty north face of the Eiger and along 

the slopes of the Mönch to reach the Top of Europe – a high alpine world of ice, snow 

and rock. We then journey to the summit of Mount Schilthorn for a special James Bond 

breakfast surrounded by hundreds of snowcapped peaks. With half board accommodation 

and all excursions included, this is a great way to discover the charm of the Swiss Alps. 

Day 1: London – Basel 

We journey aboard Eurostar to Paris and 

continue by TGV to Strasbourg, where we take 

the train to Basel for our overnight stay. This 

beautiful Swiss city lies on the banks of the 

Rhine river, at the point where the countries of 

Switzerland, France and Germany meet. 

Day 2: Basel to Mürren 

Travelling by rail and cableway, we reach the 

car-free mountain village of Mürren which is 

our base for the next six nights. The views here 

are spectacular, stretching out across a deep 

valley to the famous rock faces and glaciers of 

the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, with the mighty 

Schilthorn towering above. 

Day 3 & 4: Mürren 

Enjoy plenty of free time in Mürren, starting 

with our included village tour. Mürren lies on a 

terrace 1,650 metres above the Lauterbrunnen 

valley, making it the highest continually inhabited 

village in the region. You can enjoy magnificent 

views at almost every turn and the absence of 

traffic makes it all the more peaceful. If you want 

to explore further afield, there are around 200 

kilometres of walking trails which branch out 

from the village and are well signposted, taking 

you up or down the valley with several trains 

and lifts to help. On one evening we also enjoy a 

cheese tasting buffet. 

Day 5: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe 

We travel to Kleine Scheidegg for an included 

journey on the Jungfrau Railway, which tunnels 

through the mountains of the Eiger and along 

the slope of the Mönch to deliver you to the 

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. At 3,454 metres, 

this is Europe’s highest altitude railway station 

where you can enjoy breathtaking views. There 

are two stops along the way for you to marvel at 

the mountainous world before reaching the top, 

where there are further viewing platforms on the 

Aletsch glacier or in the Ice Palace. 

Day 6: Trümmelbach Falls 

The Lauterbrunnen valley is often called the valley 

of 72 waterfalls, one of which we visit today 

– the Trümmelbach Falls. These are the largest 

subterranean waterfalls in Europe and the only 

glacier waterfalls in the world that are accessible 

underground by lift, galleries, tunnels, paths and 

platforms. It’s a spectacular place to visit. 

Day 7: Schilthorn & Allmendhubel 

Today’s excursion takes you by cable car to the 

summit of the Schilthorn, where you can enjoy 

amazing 360° views of more than 200 mountains, 

including the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau – on a 

clear day you may even catch a glimpse of Mont 

Blanc. Schilthorn achieved world fame when 

scenes for the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s 

Secret Service were shot here, featuring the 

revolving restaurant Piz Gloria. We visit the 

restaurant for an exclusive James Bond breakfast, 

before taking the funicular to Allmendhubel – a 

mountain which overlooks our resort of Mürren. 

Day 8: Mürren – London 

We check out of our hotel after breakfast and 

retrace our route to Paris, where we join Eurostar 

for the return to London. 

Hotel Alpenruh 

BELGIUM 

8DAYS 

From/to Paris 

FRANCE 

By rail 

FROM 

£1399 

Strasbourg 

GERMANY 

Basel 

AUSTRIA 

Allmendhubel 

Schilthorn 

Trümmelbach Falls 

Mürren 

SWITZERLAND 

ITALY 


Tour code: REJUN08 

11 September 2017..........................................£1399 

Single room supplement.............................. £190 


8 days................................................................. £39.95 





Arrives Basel 19.42 


Departs Basel 12.21 


YOUR HOTEL 

Hotel Alpenruh, Mürren or similar 

The Hotel Alpenruh offers a quiet, cultivated 

atmosphere, located on a sunny plateau with 

views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. All of 

the en suite bedrooms have a hairdryer, 

telephone and cable TV. The cosy bar is the 

perfect place to relax after a day of exploring 

and there’s a wide selection of regional, 

international and seasonal specialities to enjoy 

in the restaurant. There’s also a sun terrace and 

free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. It’s 

a home from home and your hosts will ensure 

you have a comfortable stay. 

*Dinner taken in a local restaurant 

28 

To book call us on 01858 438 450 or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

BEFORE YOU GO – GENERAL INFORMATION 

WHAT TO WEAR 

Casual clothing is acceptable on all of our 

holidays. We recommend layers and sturdy 

shoes for the train journeys and during the 

excursions. Some people do like to dress more 

formally in the evenings. 

LUGGAGE 

Whilst it can be tempting to pack everything, 

taking the right amount of luggage is crucial 

to a Diamond Rail Holiday. Porterage is not 

included so you will need to lift your own 

case on and off trains, on to luggage racks and 

carry it some distance between platforms, 

stations and hotels. We therefore recommend 

one small suitcase or holdall (wheels are an 

advantage) and one piece of hand luggage per 

person. For itineraries which include overnight 

train journeys we recommend you to pack 

toiletries in your hand luggage. 

TOUR SUITABILITY & MOBILITY 

Due to the nature of our holidays, they can be 

physically demanding – carrying your own 

luggage, getting on/off trains, changing 

platforms, walking to hotels, sometimes over 

uneven or cobbled ground. We therefore 

strongly recommend you check with us if you 

are in any doubt as to the suitability of a 

holiday, especially if you have a disability or 

limited mobility. With regards to children, the 

shorter duration holidays are suitable but the 

longer duration tours, which include overnight 

sleeper trains, or our more adventurous tours 

are not suitable for children under the age of 12. 

PASSPORT & VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR 

BRITISH CITIZENS 

A passport is essential for all holidays in this 

brochure and should be valid for at least three 

months beyond the date of return (six months 

for Switzerland and Spain). If you do not 

have a passport, you should enquire at your 

local Passport Office at least 12 weeks before 

departure. Holders of passports other than 

British Citizen passports should check with the 

relevant embassies for details of passport and 

visa requirements. It is your responsibility to 

ensure that all passport and visa requirements 

are met and are in order before you travel. If 

your passport is in the final year of its validity, 

you should contact the embassy or consulate 

of the country(ies) to or through which you 

are intending to travel before making travel 

plans. 

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS 

We request rail reservations many months 

in advance and although we do our best to 

follow the routes detailed in the itinerary 

there may be occasions when a different 

route, train and/or departure time is necessary 

due to timetable variations or seat availability. 

Seats are reserved on Eurostar, high-speed 

international trains and most other journeys 

but we regret we cannot guarantee any seat 

requests. Cabins are reserved for overnight 

sleeper trains. Reservations are requested in 

non-smoking accommodation, although at 

busy times we may be allocated some smoking 

seats. Seats are not reserved for coach 

transfers and excursions. 

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS 

Optional excursions will operate subject to 

weather conditions and minimum numbers 

for each excursion. Changes to the advertised 

optional excursion programme are rare, but we 

do reserve the right to amend the programme 

at any time. The order in which optional 

excursions operate may vary according to local 

circumstances. 

MEALS 

Where meals are included, you will normally 

eat as part of a group, at a designated time. If 

a choice of menu is offered it is possible that 

you will have to make your meal selection in 

advance. Breakfast is usually continental style 

(unless otherwise stated), which normally 

consists of tea/coffee, a choice of breads, rolls 

or croissants, cereals, fruit, cheeses and cold 

meats. Please advise at the time of booking 

whether you have any special dietary needs 

and we will do our best to accommodate you 

but this cannot be guaranteed. 

TIPPING 

Gratuities to local guides and your Tour 

Manager are at your discretion. 

HOLIDAY HANDBOOK 

Once you have booked and paid for your 

holiday we will send you a confirmation 

invoice along with a copy of our Holiday 

Handbook, which contains useful 

information and advice to help you plan your 

holiday and is a great point of reference 

for any queries you may have. 

But remember – we are still only a 

phone call away! 

DEPOSITS 2017 

per person 

dates 

Up to 5 days....................................... £150 

6 to 8 days.......................................... £250 

9 to 12 days......................................... £300 

13+ days................................................ £350 

Cagliari – see page 36 

29 To book call us on 01858 To book 438 450 call or us visit on 01858 us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk 438 450 or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk 29

IMPORTANT INFORMATION & BOOKING CONDITIONS 

FOR YOUR CONTRACT WITH ARENA TOURS LIMITED OF 2 BETTS AVENUE, MARTLESHAM HEATH, IPSWICH, IP5 3RH 

Your Holiday Contract 

When you make a booking, you become the ‘lead’ or first name on 

the booking and you guarantee that you have the authority to accept 

and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking 

conditions. These Booking Conditions, together with our privacy policy 

and any other written information we brought to your attention before 

we confirmed your booking, apply to your booking. References to 

“you” and “your” include the first named person on the booking and 

all persons on whose behalf a booking is made or any other person to 

whom a booking is added or transferred. 

We act in the following capacities: as a Package organiser, and as an 

agent to help you to arrange individual holiday products or to book 

packages with third party tour operators. Our obligations to you may 

vary depending upon which arrangements you book with us, and we 

have tried to set them out below as clearly as possible. Section A 

contains the conditions which will apply to all bookings. Section B 

applies to agency bookings and Section C applies to Package bookings 

which we sell as organiser. 

A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation receipt/ 

invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, 

which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English 

Courts. You may however choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland 

or Northern Ireland if you live there and wish to do so. 

Our booking conditions are designed to be easy to understand, 

however if you have any further questions then please contact our 

customer services team who will be happy to help you. 

Your Financial Protection and ABTA 

We provide full financial protection for our package holidays by way 

of our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number [ATOL10117] (Arena Tours 

Ltd). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday 

from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This list’s what is financially 

protected, where you can get information on what this means for you 

and who to contact if things go wrong. 

We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide 

you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable 

alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier can do 

so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide 

you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no 

extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the 

alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree 

to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract 

to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some 

cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in 

which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme 

(or your credit card issuer where applicable). 

“If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable 

to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an 

alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the 

Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a 

benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for 

such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any 

claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the nonprovision 

of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent 

(or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any 

such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has 

paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. 

The flights and flight inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected 

provided they are made available in the UK. For further information visit 

the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk 

If your holiday does not contain a flight, then these non-licensable 

package arrangements are covered by Financial Failure Insurance 

underwritten by HCC International Insurance Company PLC authorised 

by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and regulated by the 

Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation 

Authority. 

Where we provide accommodation only, then these arrangements 

are covered by Financial Failure Insurance underwritten by HCC 

International Insurance Company PLC authorised by the Prudential 

Regulation Authority (PRA) and regulated by the Financial Conduct 

Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority. 

We are a member of ABTA, [ABTA number Y6426]. We are obliged to 

maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. 

We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes 

which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we 

can’t resolve your complaint (see clause 12 below), go to www.abta.com 

to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and 

ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com. 

You can also access the European Commission Online Dispute (ODR) 

Resolution platform at http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/. This ODR 

platform is a means of registering your complaint with us; it will not 

determine how your complaint should be resolved. 

SECTION A – APPLICABLE TO ALL BOOKINGS 

1. Booking 

By making a booking, you agree on behalf of all persons detailed on the 

booking that you have read these terms and conditions and agree to be 

bound by them; you consent to our use of information in accordance 

with our Privacy Policy, and that you are over 18 years of age. 

The lead member of the party guarantees payment to us of the total 

holiday price and any other applicable charges. In the event of there 

being entitlement to a refund from our company, due to holiday 

cancellation/amendment, or for any other reason, such refund will be 

made to the lead member of the party. Instructions regarding changes 

and/or cancellations will be taken only from the lead member of the 

party. 

When you make your booking, you must pay the relevant deposit as 

specified at the time of booking, see clause 2 below. If you believe 

that any details on the confirmation receipt (or any other document) 

are wrong, you must advise us immediately as changes cannot be 

made later and it may harm your rights if we are not notified of any 

inaccuracies in any document immediately. 

Please check that all names, dates and timings are correct on receipt of 

all documents and advise us of any errors immediately. Any changes to 

these details will incur the charges stated below. Please ensure that the 

names given are the same as in the relevant passport. 

All Telephone bookings whether deposit or balance is subject to a 2% 

booking fee which is applicable to all Credit Card payments. No charge 

will be made for deposits and balances paid by Debit Card. All online 

bookings (where available on www.arenatravel.com) are subject to a 0% 

booking fee which is applicable to all card payments. 

2. Payment 

You will be required to pay a deposit as a minimum of £50.00 per person 

or make full payment for your booking at the time of booking. In some 

cases, the deposit may be higher: where, for example, we need to 

pre-purchase flights tickets, accommodation or other services. Where 

you only pay a deposit, you must pay the full balance by the balance 

due date notified to you, usually 90 days before your departure. If full 

payment is not received by the balance due date, we will notify the 

supplier who may cancel your booking and charge the cancellation 

fees set out in their Terms and Conditions. Where you have booked, a 

package organised by us, you will be subject to our cancellation charges, 

see Section C below. 

3. Special Requests 

If you have any special requests (for example dietary requirements, cots 

or room location), please let us know at the time of booking. We will 

pass on all such requests to the supplier but we do not guarantee that 

they will be met and we will have no liability to you if they are not. 

4. Insurance 

Adequate travel insurance is a condition of your contract with either us 

or the supplier in question, as applicable. You must take out a policy of 

insurance to cover you and your party against the cost of cancellation 

by you; the cost of assistance (including repatriation) in the event of 

accident or illness; loss of baggage and money; and other expenses. If 

we have issued your policy, please check it carefully to ensure that all the 

details are correct and that all relevant information has been provided 

by you (e.g. pre-existing medical conditions). Failure to disclose relevant 

information will affect your insurance. If you fail to travel with adequate 

insurance cover, we will not be liable for any losses in respect of which 

insurance cover would otherwise have been available. 

5. Accommodation Ratings and Standards 

Accommodation ratings are displayed as provided by our suppliers. 

These are intended to give a guide to the services and facilities you 

should expect from your accommodation. Standards and ratings may 

vary between countries, as well as between suppliers. We cannot 

guarantee the accuracy of any ratings given and no warranty is given 

or implied. 

Safety standards in some countries may differ from those applicable 

in the United Kingdom. All properties comply with applicable health 

and safety regulations. We strongly advise that all customers seek 

to minimise their exposure to injury by familiarising themselves with 

relevant safety information. 

6. Flight prices 

Prices and flight supplements are based on anticipated or latest known 

airfares for the flights and airlines featured. If a higher airfare applies at 

the time of booking, we may need to increase the price of your booking 

and we will advise you of this before your reservation is confirmed. 

Prices are based on flights from the airport specified in the booking 

description. Flights from alternative airports will incur a further charge. 

Scheduled flight charges and supplements are payable in full at the time 

of booking, and are non-refundable. 

7. Accommodation/Services Descriptions 

Our descriptions are based on information available at the time we 

agree a contract with the accommodation or other services supplier. 

It should be borne in mind that changes to descriptions may occur. 

Where such changes are brought to our attention we will use our best 

endeavours to ensure that our website description and reservations 

system are updated so that the changes may be notified to you at the 

time of booking. 

Please note that whilst the facilities in single, triple and quadruple 

rooms are comparable to twin or double-bedded rooms, it should be 

noted that single rooms are not always in the same area of hotels as 

twin rooms and, by their very nature, are small. Triple rooms are usually 

a standard twin/double room with an additional bed, which may be a 

sofa bed or of rollaway style. Quadruple rooms usually consist of a 

room with two double beds. 

8. Building Work 

From time to time, renovation or refurbishment and its associated noise 

are unavoidable at a hotel. Often, we do receive advance notice of 

when it will begin, in which case you will be informed prior to making 

your booking or within a reasonable time of us being notified. If in any 

case you have not been informed, and we consider the work will have a 

significant effect on your stay, we will then review the option of partial 

or full refund. 

9. Reduced mobility or disability 

We can make enquiries of the supplier about the suitability of 

arrangements for you and provide replies prior to booking. You must 

make all requests in advance before a booking is confirmed. 

10. Behaviour 

Please be aware that the booking conditions of the supplier will 

normally state that your stay can be terminated, with no refund, if the 

behaviour of your party falls below an acceptable standard. Suppliers 

will also often require you to pay for any damage you cause to the 

accommodation in resort. We are under no obligation to you if any 

event such as this occurs. You agree to indemnify us for the full amount 

of any claim (including all legal costs) made against us by the supplier or 

any third party because of your conduct. 

Please note that we have no control over the behaviour of other 

persons staying at or visiting your holiday accommodation and we are 

not responsible for any withdrawal or impairment of facilities/services 

or other loss or damage caused by them. Under no circumstances are 

you entitled to share your accommodation with, or sub-let it to, anyone 

other than the other members of your party. 

11. Passports, Visas and Health 

We can provide general information about the passport and visa 

requirements for your trip, but this is for guidance only and it remains 

your responsibility to check the requirements before you travel. 

Your specific passport and visa requirements, and other immigration 

requirements are your responsibility and you should confirm these with 

the relevant Embassies and/or Consulates. Neither we nor the supplier 

accept any responsibility if you cannot travel because you have not 

complied with any passport, visa or immigration requirements. Most 

countries now require passports to be valid for at least 6 months after 

your return date. 

We can provide general information about any health formalities 

required for your trip but you should check with your own doctor for 

your specific circumstances. Visit also http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/ 

Up to date travel advice can be obtained from the Foreign and 

Commonwealth Office, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice and/or 

www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo 

12. Complaints 

Where we are acting as agent, the contract for your arrangements is 

between you and the supplier and any queries or concerns should be 

addressed to them. If you have a problem whilst on holiday, this must 

be reported to the supplier or their local supplier or agent immediately. 

If we are acting as organiser in the provision of your package holiday 

and you find that you are in any way dissatisfied with our service or 

the service of one or more of the suppliers whose services make up 

the holiday, in order that we may have the opportunity to correct 

the matter, you must advise our tour manager, or local representative 

immediately. Should the tour manager or local representative not be 

able to resolve the situation, you should report the complaint in writing 

or by email to our head office at 2 Betts Avenue, Martlesham Heath, 

Ipswich, IP5 3RH, (email address enquiries@arenatravel.com) no later 

than 28 days after the completion of the holiday quoting your booking 

number. Only the lead name should write/email us. Please note that 

post-holiday claims can be made only directly to us and not to one 

of our suppliers. 

If you fail to follow this procedure, there will be less opportunity to 

investigate and rectify your complaint. The amount of compensation 

you may be entitled to may be reduced or you may not receive any at 

all depending upon the circumstances. 

See also information on ‘ABTA’ above. 

13. Financial Protection 

In relation to package holidays sold by us as organiser, the Package Travel 

Regulations require us to provide security for the monies that you pay 

and for repatriation in the event of our insolvency. We provide this 

security by way of an ATOL (number 10117) administered by the Civil 

Aviation Authority. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight 

inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This list’s 

what is financially protected, where you can get information on what 

this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. 

When we are acting as an agent, some of the travel arrangements that 

we sell may be protected in the case of the financial failure of the 

travel company. Please ask us about the protection that applies to your 

booking. If you receive an ATOL Certificate, then you will have ATOL 

protection. 

We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide 

you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable 

alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier can do 

so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide 

you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no 

extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the 

alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree 

to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract 

to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some 

cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in 

which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme 

(or your credit card issuer where applicable). 

14. Force Majeure 

Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions 

we will not be liable or pay you compensation if our contractual 

obligations to you are affected by any event which we or the supplier 

of the service in question could not, even with all due care, foresee 

or avoid. These events can include, but are not limited to war, threat 

of war, civil strife terrorist activity and its consequences or the threat 

of such activity, riot, the act of any government or other national or 

local authority including port or river authorities, industrial dispute, lock 

closure, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, chemical or biological disaster 

and all similar events outside our control or the control of the supplier 

concerned. 

15. Law and Jurisdiction 

These booking conditions all bookings made with us are governed 

by English law and the courts of England and Wales have exclusive 

jurisdiction. You may however choose the law and jurisdiction of 

Scotland or Northern Ireland if you live there and wish to do so. 

16. Conditions of Suppliers 

Many of the services which make up your holiday are provided by 

independent suppliers. Those suppliers provide these services in 

accordance with their own terms and conditions Those suppliers 

provide these services in accordance with their own terms and 

conditions which will form part of your contract with us. Some of 

these terms and conditions may limit or exclude the supplier’s liability 

to you, usually in accordance with applicable International Conventions. 

Copies of the relevant parts of these terms and conditions are available 

on request from us or the supplier concerned. 

17. Data Protection and Privacy 

Please see our data protection and privacy policy for full information 

regarding the way in which we use and store your personal data. 

The booking information that you provide to us will be passed on 

only to the relevant suppliers of your travel arrangements or other 

persons necessary for the provision of your travel arrangements. The 

information may therefore be provided to public authorities such as 

customs or immigration if required by them, or as required by law. 

This applies to any sensitive information that you give to us such as 

details of any disabilities, or dietary and religious requirements. Certain 

30 

To book call us on 01858 438 450 or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

information may also be passed on to security or credit checking 

companies. If you are traveling to the United States, the US Customs 

and Border Protection will receive this information for the purposes 

of preventing and combating terrorism and other transnational serious 

crimes. 

If you travel outside the European Economic Area, controls on data 

protection may not be as strong as the legal requirements in this 

country. If we cannot pass this information to the relevant suppliers, 

whether in the EEA or not, we will be unable to provide you’re booking. 

In making this booking, you consent to this information being passed 

on to the relevant persons. Full details of our data protection policy are 

available upon request. 

SECTION B: AGENCY BOOKINGS ARRANGEMENTS 

This section applies to bookings we make for you when acting as 

booking agent. 

18. Your contract 

When making your booking, we will arrange for you to enter into a 

contract with the supplier (tour operator/airline/cruise Company or 

other supplier) named on your receipt. Details will be given at the time 

of booking. As an agent, we accept no responsibility for the acts or 

omissions of the supplier or for the services provided by the supplier. 

The supplier’s Terms & Conditions will apply to your booking and 

we advise you to read these carefully as they do contain important 

information about your booking. Please ask us for copies of these if 

you do not have them. 

You may wish to purchase packages from tour operators booked 

through us as your agent, or individual flights, hotel, or other services 

featured on our website. Each component or package will be provided 

by different third party providers of the products you have selected. 

Your contract will be with the individual suppliers and not with 

us. Since you create your own travel arrangements by adding each 

component separately to create your own bespoke booking, this is not 

a package and therefore you are not protected under the Package Travel 

Regulations unless we specifically assist you in booking a package which 

is provided by a third-party tour operator. Until a component has been 

confirmed by the individual supplier, no contract has been formed. 

19. Cancellation and Amendment 

Any cancellation or amendment request must be sent to us in writing 

and will not take effect until received by us. If you cancel or amend 

your booking the supplier may charge the cancellation or amendment 

charge shown in their Terms and Conditions (which may be 100% of the 

cost of the travel arrangements) and you must pay us the cancellation 

or amendment charge stated below. 

Requests to alter bookings will be taken only from the lead member 

of the party. Where the request can be met, we will confirm the 

amendment by issuing a revised Confirmation Invoice. We will make 

an administration charge of up to £50 per person, per amendment 

(maximum £150 per booking reference number) which will be payable 

along with any price increase for the altered arrangements. In addition 

to our own administration charge, we will pass on any administration 

charges made by the relevant airline or other supplier(s). 

20. Changes or Cancellations by the Supplier 

We will inform you of any changes or cancellations as soon as 

reasonably possible. If the supplier offers alternative arrangements or a 

refund, you will need to let us know your choice within the time frame 

we stipulate. If you fail to do so the supplier is entitled to assume you 

wish to receive a full refund. We accept no liability for any changes or 

cancellations made to your arrangements by the supplier under your 

contract with them. 

21. Our Service Charges 

In addition to the amendment charges shown in clause 19 above, in 

certain circumstances we apply a service charge for the services we 

provide. These charges will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please 

note that the term Service Charge does not refer to us putting together 

a holiday package; it is our standard charge for the service of acting as 

booking agent. 

22. Payment 

If you have paid a deposit, you must pay the full balance by the balance 

due date notified to you. If full payment is not received by the balance 

due date, we will notify the supplier who may cancel your booking and 

charge the cancellation fees set out in their booking conditions. Except 

where otherwise advised or stated in the booking conditions of the 

supplier concerned, all monies you pay to us for arrangements will be 

held on behalf of the supplier(s) concerned. 

23. Our responsibility for your booking 

Your contract is with the supplier and its booking conditions apply. 

As agent, we accept no responsibility for the actual provision of the 

arrangements. Our responsibilities are limited to making the booking in 

accordance with your instructions. We accept no responsibility for any 

information about the arrangements that we pass on to you in good 

faith. However, if we are found liable to you on any basis whatsoever, 

our maximum liability to you is limited to twice the cost of your 

booking (or the appropriate proportion of this if not everyone on the 

booking is affected). We do not exclude or limit any liability for death 

or personal injury that arises because of our negligence or that of any of 

our employees whilst acting in the course of their employment. 

If for any reason any court or authority determines that we have acted 

outside of our agency status in any circumstances, or we confirm to 

you that we are the principal, we will be acting as principal rather 

than agent in relation to that booking. In such cases, we have a duty 

to select the suppliers of the services making up your booking with us 

with reasonable skill and care. We have no liability to you for the actual 

provision of the services, except in cases where it is proved that we have 

breached that duty and damage to you has been caused. Therefore, 

providing we have selected the suppliers/subcontractors with 

reasonable skill and care, we will have no liability to you for anything 

that happens during the service in question or any acts or omissions 

of the supplier, its employees or agents. The limitations contained in 

Section C of these booking conditions will also apply. 

SECTION C: PACKAGE HOLIDAY BOOKINGS 

This section only applies to Package Holidays booked with 

us as Organiser. Please note that if you book a package and 

we are not the Organiser, then we will be acting as agent 

and you must read sections A & B above, together with the 

terms and conditions of the relevant tour operator/supplier. 

24. Definition of Package: 

A “Package Holiday” exists if you book a pre-arranged combination of 

at least two of the following components when sold or offered for sale 

at an inclusive price and when the service covers a period of more than 

twenty-four hours or includes overnight accommodation:-(a) transport; 

(b) accommodation; (c) other tourist services not ancillary to transport 

or accommodation and accounting for a significant proportion of the 

package. Where you have booked a Package Holiday with us, we will 

accept responsibility for it in accordance with these Booking Conditions 

as an “Organiser” under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and 

Package Tours Regulations 1992. 

25. Pricing and Surcharges 

Changes in fees (including transportation costs, fuel costs, dues, taxes, 

fees such as landing taxes or embarkation/ disembarkation fees at 

ports/airports and exchange rates) and services mean that the price 

of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked your 

holiday. However, there will be no change to the cost of your holiday 

within 30 days of departure. In relation to package holidays, we will 

absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equivalent to 

up to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes 

insurance premiums and any amendment charges. If this means that you 

have to pay an increase of more than 10% of the price of your travel 

arrangements (excluding insurance premiums and amendment charges), 

you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we 

are able to offer one (if this is of equivalent or higher quality, you will 

not have to pay more but if it is of lower quality you will be refunded 

the difference in price), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of 

monies paid, except for any amendment charges and cancellation 

charges already incurred. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, 

you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date 

shown on your final invoice. Should the price of your holiday go down 

due to the changes mentioned above, by more than 2% of your holiday 

cost, then any refund due will be paid to you. However, please note 

that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and 

some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due 

to contractual and other protection in place. 

26. If We Change or Cancel Your Arrangements 

As we plan your holiday arrangements many months in advance we 

may occasionally have to make changes or cancel your booking and we 

reserve the right to do so at any time. Changes If we make a major 

change to your holiday, we will inform you as soon as reasonably 

possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the 

choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an 

offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from 

us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is 

of a lower value), or cancelling your holiday and receiving a full refund 

of all monies paid. In some cases, we will also pay compensation (see 

below). These options don’t apply for minor changes. Examples of 

minor changes include alteration of your outward/return flights by less 

than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to 

another of the same or higher standard, changes of carriers. Please note 

that carriers such as airlines used in the brochure may be subject to 

change. Cancellation We will not cancel your travel arrangements less 

than 6 weeks before your departure date, except for reasons of force 

majeure or failure by you to pay the final balance. We may cancel your 

holiday before this date if, e.g., the minimum number of clients required 

for a particular travel arrangement is not reached. If your holiday is 

cancelled you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an 

offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from 

us, if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is 

of a lower value). In some cases, we will pay compensation (see below). 

Insurance If we cancel or make a major change and you accept a refund, 

we will provide a full refund of your travel insurance premiums if you 

paid them to us and can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse 

your policy. 

Compensation If we cancel or make a major change we will pay 

compensation as detailed below except where the major change or 

cancellation arises due to reasons of force majeure. The compensation 

that we offer does not exclude you from claiming more if you are 

entitled to do so. 

IF WE CANCEL OR MAKE A MAJOR CHANGE TO YOUR HOLIDAY 

Period before departure in Amount you will receive 

which we notify you 

from us per person 

More than 56 days 

£ nil 

56 to 29 days £10 

28 to 14 days £15 

Less than 14 days £20 

Force Majeure. We will not pay you compensation if we must cancel or 

change your travel arrangements in any way because of force majeure, 

see clause 14 above. 

27. Cancellation by you 

Should you or any member of your party decide to cancel your/ 

their booking once it has been made, notification of the cancellation 

instruction will be required in writing from the lead member of the 

party. 

The effective date for cancellation is the date when we receive your 

written instructions at our registered office. Notification by email will 

be accepted and, for the purposes of calculating cancellation charges, 

emails will be treated as having been received by us 24 hours after 

they are sent. Receipt of emails will be acknowledged. We will have 

no liability to you in the event of emails not being received, or their 

delivery being delayed, for technical or other reasons. 

If you or any member of your party cancels, a charge is payable by 

the lead member of the party by way of agreed damages to cover our 

estimated losses, calculated on the scale set out below: 

Period before departure by Cancellation charge – shown as 

which written instructions a percentage of total price 

are received by us 

(excluding insurance premium) 

More than 

Loss of deposit/amount paid 

90 days at time of booking. 

89-29 days 50% or deposit (whichever is greater) 



Please note that for some flight bookings full payment will be required 

at the time your booking is made. Many flight bookings are nonchangeable 

and cannot be altered/cancelled without 100% cancellation 

charges being applied, even where such cancellation occurs shortly after 

the booking has been made. 

You may be able to make an insurance claim if the reasons for your 

cancellation fall within the terms of your insurance cover. 

28. Our Responsibilities to you in respect of Package Holidays 

1) We will accept responsibility for the arrangements we agree to 

provide or arrange for you as an “organiser” under the Package Travel, 

Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 as set out below. 

Subject to these booking conditions, if we or our suppliers perform or 

arrange your contracted holiday arrangements negligently, taking into 

consideration all relevant factors (for example following the complaints 

procedure as described in these conditions and the extent to which 

ours or our employees’ or suppliers’ negligence affected the overall 

enjoyment of your holiday), we will pay you reasonable compensation. 

Please note that it is your responsibility to show that we or our 

supplier(s) have been negligent if you wish to make a claim against us. 

2) We will not be responsible or pay you compensation for any injury, 

illness, death, loss, damage, expense, cost or other claim of any 

description if it results from: - 

(i) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of the person(s) affected; 

(ii) the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party unconnected with the 

provision of the services contracted for and which were unforeseeable 

or unavoidable; or 

(iii)unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond ours or our 

supplier(s) control, the consequences of which could not have been 

avoided even if all due care had been exercised; or 

(iv)an event which either ourselves or suppliers could not, even with all 

due care, have foreseen or forestalled. 

3) We limit the amount of compensation we may have to pay you if we 

are found liable under this clause: 

(i) for loss of and/or damage to any luggage or personal possessions 

and money, the maximum amount we must pay you in respect of these 

claims is £25 per person in total because you are assumed to have 

adequate insurance in place to cover any losses of this kind; 

(ii) for claims not falling under 3(i) above and which don’t involve injury, 

illness or death, the maximum amount we must pay you in respect of 

these claims is twice the price paid by or on behalf of the person(s) 

affected in total. This maximum amount will only be payable where 

everything has gone wrong and you or your party has not received any 

benefit at all from your booking. 

(iii) for claims in respect of international travel by air and sea, or any 

stay in a hotel, the extent of our liability will in all cases be limited as if 

we were carriers under the appropriate Conventions, which include The 

Warsaw/Montreal Convention (international travel by air); The Athens 

Convention (with respect to sea travel); The Berne/Cotif Convention 

(with respect to rail travel) and The Paris Convention (with respect to 

hotel arrangements). You can ask for copies of these Conventions from 

our offices. Please contact us. In addition, you agree that the operating 

carrier or transport company’s own ‘Conditions of Carriage’ will apply 

to you on that journey. When arranging transportation for you, we 

rely on the terms and conditions contained within these international 

conventions and those ‘Conditions of Carriage’. You acknowledge 

that all of the terms and conditions contained in those ‘Conditions 

of Carriage’ form part of your contract with us, as well as with the 

transport company and that those ‘Conditions of Carriage’ shall be 

deemed to be included by reference into this contract. 

4)In any circumstances in which a carrier is liable to you by virtue of 

the Denied Boarding Regulation 2004, any liability we may have to you 

under our contract with you, arising out of the same facts, is limited to 

the remedies provided under the Regulation as if (for this purpose only) 

we were a carrier. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct 

any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the 

transport provider or hotelier for the complaint or claim in question. 

5)It is a condition of our acceptance of liability under this clause that you 

notify any claim to ourselves and our supplier(s) strictly in accordance 

with the complaints procedure set out in these conditions. Where any 

payment is made, the person(s) receiving it (and their parent or guardian 

if under 18 years) must also assign to ourselves or our insurers any rights 

they may have to pursue any third party and must provide ourselves and 

our insurers with all assistance we may reasonably require. 

6)Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss 

or expense or other sum(s) of any description which based on the 

information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our 

accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we 

breached our contract with you. 

7) Excursions or other activities that you choose to book while you are 

on holiday are not provided by our company and do not form part of 

your contract with us. Such arrangements are therefore not covered 

by The Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 

1992. On occasions, local excursions and activities will be made available 

for sale via our local/agency staff. In such circumstances those staff will 

be acting as sales agents for the supplier(s) of the offered excursion/ 

activities. Therefore, unless you suffer personal injury or death caused 

by our negligence, we will not accept liability for any loss or damage 

you may suffer as a result of participation in a locally booked excursion 

or activity. 

8) We do not exclude or limit any liability for death or personal injury 

that arises because of our negligence or that of any of our employees 

whilst acting in the course of their employment. 

29. Delays, Missed Transport Arrangements and other Travel 

Information 

We cannot accept liability for any delay in your transport to or from 

the UK where the cancellation or delay is caused by adverse weather 

conditions, re-scheduling of times by an airline, decisions made by 

the port/airport authorities and/or the action of air traffic controllers, 

mechanical breakdown, strike, industrial action or otherwise. However, 

in certain circumstances, you may be able to make a claim under your 

insurance policy if the reasons for the delay fall within the terms of 

your insurance cover. 

30. Prompt Assistance in Resort 

If the contract we have with you is not performed or is improperly 

performed as a result of failures attributable to a third party 

unconnected with the provision of the services, or as a result of failures 

due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, 

the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due 

care had been exercised, or an event which we or our suppliers, even 

with all due care, could not foresee or forestall, and you suffer an injury 

or other material loss, we will offer you such prompt assistance as is 

reasonable in the circumstances. 


31

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