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SAVE<br />
UP TO £100pp<br />
ON SELECTED HOLIDAYS<br />
Explore<br />
EUROPE<br />
BY RAIL<br />
SUMMER - AUTUMN - WINTER 2017<br />
BOOK BY 30 JUNE 2017 – DON’T MISS OUT!
Amazing destinations,<br />
incredible experiences<br />
Venture into the mountains on the Jungfrau Exp<strong>res</strong>s or Little Trains of the Pyrenees; escape to the coast<br />
on St Tropez, Nice & Monte Carlo or the Italian Riviera of F<strong>low</strong>ers; relax in a lakeside paradise in Slovenia<br />
or enjoy island life on Corsica. There are so many fantastic itineraries to choose from and you can save<br />
up to £100 per person when you book by 30 June 2017.<br />
We look forward to welcoming you soon.<br />
UP<br />
TO<br />
SAVE<br />
£100pp<br />
ON SELECTED HOLIDAYS<br />
BOOK BY 30 JUNE<br />
2017<br />
Booking is easy<br />
Simply call 01858 438 328<br />
Monday to Friday 9am–5.30pm & Saturday 9am–1pm<br />
This page: Corte, Corsica; front cover: Vernazza, Italy<br />
PEACE OF MIND<br />
As members of ABTA we are a fully bonded and licensed tour<br />
operator, with air holidays protected by ATOL. We also have a<br />
24 hour emergency line for when you are on holiday, which is<br />
answered by our On-call service at any time. So you can enjoy<br />
complete peace of mind when booking with us.<br />
2 To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
Great reasons<br />
to book with us<br />
CONTENTS<br />
Introduction............................................................2<br />
Contents...................................................................3<br />
NEW Settle to Carlisle Railway...................... 4<br />
NEW Little Trains of Norfolk..........................5<br />
Scotland’s Iconic Railways................................ 6<br />
Great Little Trains of the Rhine Valley........7<br />
Monet’s Gardens, Chart<strong>res</strong>, Versaille<br />
& Loire Valley......................................................... 8<br />
St Tropez, Nice & Monte Carlo..................... 9<br />
Highlights of Corsica.........................................10<br />
WHY BOOK WITH ARENA RAIL HOLIDAYS?<br />
• Here at <strong>Arena</strong> Rail Holidays, we put you first, right from the start.<br />
• So much is included so you get the most out of your holiday – there are<br />
no hidden extras.<br />
• Expertly planned and managed itineraries to ensure everything runs smoothly<br />
for you.<br />
• Escorted by an experienced Tour Manager after check-in at London.<br />
• Booking is easy, simply call our knowledgeable Holiday Advisors who take care<br />
of everything for you.<br />
Italian Riviera of F<strong>low</strong>ers...................................11<br />
Tuscany, The Cinque Terre<br />
& the Riviera of F<strong>low</strong>ers...................................12<br />
Lake Geneva & the Mont Blanc Exp<strong>res</strong>s...13<br />
Lake Bled & the Mountains of Slovenia....14<br />
Jungfrau Exp<strong>res</strong>s..................................................15<br />
Liege, Valkenburg & Aachen<br />
Christmas Markets..............................................16<br />
Christmas on the Italian Riviera....................17<br />
Christmas on the French Riviera..................18<br />
Christmas or New Year Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s...19<br />
Little Trains of the Pyrenees.........................20<br />
So much<br />
included<br />
• Unique itineraries, expertly<br />
planned<br />
• Return travel by Eurostar<br />
from London on all European<br />
rail holidays<br />
• Comfortable accommodation<br />
in carefully selected hotels<br />
One of our Holiday Advisors<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN LONDON<br />
To really make the most of your holiday, you can travel to London the day before<br />
your holiday and stay in a hotel close to St Pancras for just £99 per room. You can also<br />
stay in London on the return leg of your journey too.<br />
Simply book any of the above options by calling our Holiday Advisors.<br />
• Many meals and excursions<br />
• Flights and overseas transfers<br />
on selected holidays<br />
• Services of an experienced<br />
Tour Manager<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
3
NEW<br />
Settle to Carlisle Railway<br />
& Yorkshire Steam<br />
North Yorkshire Moors Railway<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Four nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in Yorkshire<br />
• Coach transfers for our excursions<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Return journey on North Yorkshire<br />
Moors Steam Railway<br />
• Free time in Whitby<br />
• Return journey on the Settle-Carlisle<br />
Railway<br />
• Journey on the Wensleydale Railway<br />
• Visit to Wensleydale Cheese<br />
Creamery<br />
• Steam train journey on the Embsay<br />
& Bolton Abbey Railway<br />
5<br />
DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£429<br />
There’s no finer way to see the classic scenery of Yorkshire than being pulled along by a<br />
steam train with the smell of smoke and the sound of the whistle taking you back in time.<br />
This is exactly what the North Yorkshire Moors Railway offers and our return journey will<br />
be one to remember, with free time in the historic coastal town of Whitby. We also enjoy a<br />
steam train trip along the edge of the Yorkshire Dales as well as an incredible return journey<br />
along one of the last great mainline railways to be built in the country, the Settle-Carlisle<br />
Railway, which crosses a staggering mosaic of landscapes. So join us for railways galore from<br />
the dales to the moors, with a cheeky taste of creamy, crumbly Wensleydale cheese.<br />
Day 1: Yorkshire<br />
Make your own way to our hotel, where you<br />
meet our Tour Manager and enjoy a relaxing<br />
evening.<br />
Day 2: North Yorkshire Moors Railway<br />
This morning we are taken by coach to the little<br />
market town of Pickering for a return journey<br />
on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, one<br />
of the world’s greatest heritage railways. The<br />
route takes us from Pickering to Whitby, passing<br />
through 24 miles of Yorkshire’s amazing scenery.<br />
We also have some free time to explore Whitby,<br />
which boasts some of the best fish and chips<br />
in the UK and has links to Captain Cook and<br />
Dracula!<br />
Day 3: Settle-Carlisle Railway<br />
Today we enjoy a return journey on the Settle-<br />
Carlisle Railway so you can sit back and admire<br />
the scenery from both directions. This line pays<br />
testament to the ingenuity of 19th-century<br />
railway engineers as it travels over 72 miles<br />
through the North Pennines, Eden Valley and<br />
Yorkshire Dales, crossing 19 viaducts and passing<br />
through 14 tunnels. The Ribblehead viaduct is a<br />
particular highlight with 24 arches and a highest<br />
point of 32 met<strong>res</strong>.<br />
Day 4: Wensleydale Railway & Embsay<br />
& Bolton Abbey Railway<br />
This morning we enjoy a journey on the<br />
Wensleydale Railway, a heritage line offering<br />
fantastic views of the Yorkshire Dales. Next we<br />
visit the highest market town in England, Hawes,<br />
and the Wensleydale Creamery Visitor Centre<br />
where we enjoy a demonstration and a cheeky<br />
tasting. We then travel to Bolton Abbey for a<br />
return journey on the charming Embsay and<br />
Bolton Abbey Steam Railway<br />
Day 5: Home<br />
After breakfast you are free to check out of our<br />
hotel and depart at leisure. You could take the<br />
opportunity to visit the city of York, home to<br />
the National Railway Museum which offers free<br />
entry and is home to thousands of objects from<br />
over 300 years of railway history.<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REUYO05<br />
17 July 2017..................................................................£429<br />
4 September 2017...................................................£429<br />
Single room supplement.......................................£95<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Craiglands Hotel, Ilkley<br />
This grand Victorian hotel combines modern<br />
comforts and facilities with a warm welcome,<br />
and is only a short walk from the historic spa<br />
town of Ilkley and the spectacular Ilkley moor.<br />
The <strong>res</strong>taurant menu featu<strong>res</strong> excellent locally<br />
sourced ingredients and the room itself has an<br />
adjoining bar and french windows that open out<br />
onto a terrace. There’s also a lounge with a log<br />
fire as its centrepiece, and the en suite<br />
bedrooms which are perfect for a <strong>res</strong>tful<br />
night’s sleep.<br />
The Craiglands Hotel<br />
The Ribblehead viaduct<br />
4 To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
NEW<br />
Little Trains of Norfolk<br />
Bure Valley Railway<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Four nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in Norwich<br />
• Coach transfers for our excursions<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Steam train journey on the Bure<br />
Valley Railway<br />
• Cruise on the broads aboard the<br />
Southern Comfort Mississippi<br />
Paddle Boat<br />
• Free time in Wroxham, Horning<br />
and Holt<br />
• Journey on the Bittern Line<br />
• Steam train journey on the<br />
Poppy Line<br />
• Visit to Cromer<br />
• Steam train journey on the Mid<br />
Norfolk Railway<br />
• Entrance to Sandringham<br />
Feted for its big skies, glorious coast, tranquil rivers and crimson-red poppy fields, Norfolk<br />
is definitely a place to stop and enjoy the view. It’s also a place where life moves at a s<strong>low</strong>er<br />
pace – even the royal family come here to wind down. Add to this the nostalgic feeling<br />
you get when travelling along heritage railways with a little steam train chugging away up<br />
front and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable experience. We include no less<br />
than four different railway journeys on this short break, along with plenty of time to<br />
explore each destination, plus a cruise on the Norfolk Broads and a visit to Sandringham<br />
Estate. If the charms of Norfolk are good enough for the Queen, that’s a good enough<br />
reason for us to go!<br />
Day 1: Norfolk<br />
Make your own way to our hotel, where you<br />
meet our Tour Manager and enjoy a relaxing<br />
evening.<br />
Day 2: Bure Valley Railway & the Southern<br />
Comfort Mississippi Paddle Boat<br />
This morning we board our coach and travel to<br />
the market town of Aylsham to join the Bure<br />
Valley Railway. This delightful route takes in some<br />
of the most unspoilt countryside as it crosses<br />
17 bridges and passes through idyllic villages to<br />
reach Wroxham, known as the ‘capital of the<br />
Norfolk Broads’. You have some free time here<br />
before we travel to the pretty village of Horning<br />
and board the Southern Comfort Mississippi<br />
Paddle Boat for a cruise on the Broads. The route<br />
takes us along the Bure river, passing thatched<br />
cottages, windmills and Norfolk reed beds, with<br />
an excellent commentary which also points out<br />
the water birds.<br />
Day 3: The Bittern Line, the Poppy Line<br />
& Cromer<br />
Today we are taken to Norwich station where<br />
we join the Bittern Line, named after the<br />
wading bird, for a journey to Sheringham. We<br />
then join the North Norfolk Railway, which is<br />
affectionately known as the Poppy Line, and<br />
enjoy a scenic trip along the coast and through<br />
heathland to the lovely town of Holt. After some<br />
free time here we head to the nearby seaside<br />
<strong>res</strong>ort of Cromer and enjoy the <strong>res</strong>t of the day<br />
at leisure.<br />
Day 4: Mid Norfolk Railway & Sandringham<br />
Wymondham is our destination today where<br />
we join the Mid Norfolk Railway for a steam<br />
train journey through the heart of Norfolk<br />
countryside. We alight from the train in Dereham<br />
and are taken by coach to Sandringham, country<br />
<strong>res</strong>idence of the Queen. Here you are free to<br />
admire the beautiful grounds and explore the<br />
house, which has knowledgeable guides on hand<br />
to talk to visitors.<br />
Day 5: Home<br />
After breakfast you are free to check out of<br />
our hotel and depart at leisure; you could even<br />
take the opportunity to explore some more of<br />
Norfolk.<br />
5<br />
DAYS<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REUNO05<br />
14 September 2017..................................................£379<br />
Single room supplement.......................................£95<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Mercure Norwich Hotel<br />
Enjoy a hearty Norfolk welcome at the 4 star<br />
Mercure Norwich Hotel which offers<br />
contemporary bedrooms, delicious food, a<br />
popular health club and high speed Wi-Fi<br />
throughout. This hotel is ideally located for our<br />
excursions, giving easy access to the Norfolk<br />
Broads and the coast, and it is only three miles<br />
from the centre of Norwich. It also has a bar<br />
offering a range of wines, beers, spirits and soft<br />
drinks for you to enjoy after a day exploring.<br />
Mercure Norwich Hotel<br />
FROM<br />
£379<br />
The Norfolk Broads<br />
Cromer<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
5
Scotland’s Iconic Railways<br />
Travel along some of the greatest railways in the world on this exhilarating break and<br />
discover the outstanding beauty of the Scottish Highlands. From the foot of Ben Nevis, we<br />
join the West Highland Line for an unforgettable journey to Mallaig, passing lochs and glens<br />
and crossing the incredible 21-arch viaduct of Harry Potter fame. Our next railway treat is<br />
the Kyle Line, the original ‘Great Railway Journey of the World’ as featured in Michael Palin’s<br />
popular documentary series, with dramatic sections carved out of solid rock. Our final trip<br />
is aboard the Strathspey Steam Railway, the longest, most scenic steam heritage railway in<br />
Scotland, which cuts through the Cairngorms national park.<br />
Day 1: London – Inverness<br />
Your holiday begins when you meet our Tour<br />
Manager at London King’s Cross and board the<br />
train for Inverness, where we spend a relaxing<br />
evening in our hotel.<br />
Day 2: Inverness<br />
After a hearty breakfast we board our private<br />
coach and set off for a memorable journey along<br />
the world famous Malt Whisky Trail, which includes<br />
a guided tour of one of the distilleries and a ‘wee<br />
dram’ to try. We then return to our hotel.<br />
Day 3: West Highland Line<br />
Today’s excursion takes us to the town of Fort<br />
William, framed by the sho<strong>res</strong> of Loch Linnhe<br />
and Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. This<br />
is where we join the West Highland Line for a<br />
journey along one of the most scenic railways<br />
in Britain. We disembark in Mallaig, an attractive<br />
fishing port, and enjoy some free time before we<br />
return to our hotel.<br />
West Highland Line<br />
Day 4: Kyle Line<br />
We head to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands,<br />
for a journey along the Kyle Line. This single track,<br />
as featured on Michael Palin’s Great Railway<br />
Journeys of the World, takes us through miles of<br />
breathtaking scenery as it climbs the Highlands,<br />
passing wooded hillsides and lochs before<br />
reaching the quaint village of the Kyle of Lochalsh.<br />
We take a scenic drive around the southern side<br />
of the peninsula en route to our hotel.<br />
Day 5: Strathspey Steam Railway<br />
After breakfast we travel to one of Scotland’s<br />
premier <strong>res</strong>orts, Aviemore, and board the<br />
Strathspey Steam Railway to Broomhill. The<br />
sounds and smells of this beautiful journey<br />
al<strong>low</strong> you to relive a bygone age, whether you<br />
remember the days of steam or not. We return<br />
to our hotel.<br />
Day 6: Inverness – London<br />
This morning we board the train from Inverness<br />
Central station for the return journey to London<br />
King’s Cross.<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return rail journey from London<br />
King’s Cross to Inverness or make<br />
your own way to Inverness *<br />
• Private coach travel in Scotland<br />
• Five nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in Carrbridge<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Coach trip along the Malt Whisky<br />
Trail<br />
• Visit to a whisky distillery<br />
• Single journey on the West Highland<br />
Line<br />
• Single journey on the Kyle Line<br />
• Single journey on the Strathspey<br />
Steam Railway<br />
6DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£599<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REULT06<br />
27 September 2017................................................ £599<br />
11 October 2017....................................................... £599<br />
Single room supplement.....................................£109<br />
*<br />
Join direct and receive a £60pp reduction<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs King’s Cross 12:00<br />
Arrives Inverness 20:04<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Inverness 07:55<br />
Arrives King’s Cross 15:51<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Carrbridge Hotel or similar<br />
A warm welcome awaits you at the family-run<br />
Carrbridge Hotel, which nestles in the<br />
spectacular Cairngorm national park. The<br />
building itself dates back to the early 19th<br />
century and has been sympathetically extended<br />
and refurbished over the years. In the Grill<br />
Room Restaurant enjoy delicious food before<br />
chatting with friends over a drink in the bar.<br />
Carrbridge Hotel<br />
Inverness<br />
Kyle Line<br />
6 To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
Vulkan Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to<br />
Brussels<br />
• Return rail from Brussels to Cologne<br />
and connecting rail journey to Remagen<br />
• Five nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in Remagen<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Visits to Cologne, the Ahr valley and<br />
Rüdesheim<br />
• Boat trip along the Rhine<br />
• Journey on the Dragon Rock Railway<br />
• Horse-drawn carriage ride in the<br />
Ahr valley<br />
• Journey on the Vulkan Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
Great Little Trains of the Rhine Valley<br />
6DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£659<br />
Journey through a storybook landscape of towering hilltops, ancient castles, enchanting<br />
fo<strong>res</strong>ts and old-world towns, which are all infused with history and legends, and bound<br />
together by the mighty Rhine. Our relaxing holiday is a wonderful way to see this famous<br />
river valley as we step aboard the Vulkan Exp<strong>res</strong>s –a delightfully p<strong>res</strong>erved railway that<br />
whisks you up the Eifel mountains, we also enjoy a journey on the Dragon Rock Railway,<br />
the home of German legend; ride in a horse-drawn carriage in the beautiful Ahr valley,<br />
take a scenic boat trip along the Rhine and discover the highlights of the magnificent city<br />
of Cologne and the pretty wine town of Rüdesheim – all of which is enjoyed from our<br />
riverside base with rail travel throughout.<br />
Day 1: London – Remagen<br />
We journey from London to Brussels by Eurostar,<br />
where we join the high-speed rail connection to<br />
Cologne. From here we take a local train along<br />
the Rhine to Remagen and check in at our hotel,<br />
our base for the next five nights.<br />
Day 2: Cologne<br />
Our rail journey today takes us to Cologne, a city<br />
dominated by its magnificent gothic cathedral.<br />
A climb up the south tower to the viewing<br />
platform rewards you with extensive views<br />
across the city and the Rhine. The architecture<br />
is striking, from Romanesque churches, simple<br />
post-war and classic modern buildings, to many<br />
historic monuments. A walk into the medieval<br />
old city reveals the lively old market square<br />
and historic town hall, the oldest in Germany.<br />
Cologne also offers excellent shopping and is<br />
of course most famous for its eau de cologne<br />
legacy. We travel by rail for a short stay in Bonn,<br />
before enjoying a scenic boat trip along the<br />
Rhine which takes us to Königswinter. From<br />
here we take a journey on a small train up the<br />
Drachenfels (Dragon Rock). This is the most<br />
famous of the seven Siebengebirge mountains<br />
and, according to legend, is where Siegfried slew<br />
the dragon who lived in a cave on the mountain.<br />
Although you aren’t likely to spot any dragons<br />
on your train ride, the scenery is striking. After<br />
a delightful return journey, we take a train and a<br />
ferry across the Rhine and return to our hotel.<br />
Day 3: Ahr Valley<br />
We travel by train along the Ahr valley, an area<br />
of broad plateaux and narrow gorges where<br />
pictu<strong>res</strong>que half-timbered towns nestle in the<br />
landscape and castles crown hill summits. This is<br />
the most northerly of Germany’s wine-producing<br />
regions that is mostly dedicated to the production<br />
of red wines. Seldom is this wine exported so<br />
our special excursion to Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler<br />
will give us the opportunity to sample some and<br />
purchase a souvenir bottle or two, as well as enjoy<br />
a horse-drawn carriage ride.<br />
Day 4: Vulkan Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
We enjoy a nostalgic ride on the Vulkan Exp<strong>res</strong>s, a<br />
privately owned narrow gauge train. The journey,<br />
through one of the most scenic valleys of the<br />
Rhine, takes 1½ hours, passing castles, crossing<br />
viaducts and going through a tunnel as we ascend<br />
the Eifel mountains to the village of Engeln.<br />
Day 5: Rüdesheim<br />
Today we travel through the Rhine Gorge by<br />
train, passing the legendary Lorelei to reach<br />
the quaint wine town of Rüdesheim. The<br />
Drosselgasse is the hub, lined with taverns<br />
serving the Rheingau region’s finest riesling wines.<br />
The Niederwald monument, which depicts the<br />
mythical figure of Germania, can be reached by<br />
cable car, where spectacular views of the Rhine<br />
valley and castles can be enjoyed. The ruins<br />
of Ehrenfels Castle is another idyllic location,<br />
surrounded by vineyards above the Rhine Gorge.<br />
Day 6: Remagen – London<br />
We depart our hotel in the morning and retrace<br />
our route to Brussels, where we join Eurostar for<br />
the return to London.<br />
Cologne<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: RERHV06<br />
7 August 2017........................................................... £659<br />
11 September 2017.................................................. £659<br />
Single room supplement.......................................£70<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 08.55<br />
Arrives Remagen 16.47<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Remagen 11.08<br />
Arrives St Pancras 17.03<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Hotel Pinger, Remagen<br />
This 3 star establishment is owned by the Pinger<br />
family, who have been running hotels in the area<br />
since 1938. It is conveniently located close to<br />
the railway station and the town centre, and<br />
offers comfortable rooms all of which have en<br />
suites, TVs and telephones. Public areas include<br />
a <strong>res</strong>taurant, coffee shop, bar with seating area<br />
outside for relaxing, sauna and plunge pool. The<br />
hotel also has a lift.<br />
Hotel Pinger, Remagen<br />
Eifel National Park<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
7
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
• Three nights’ half board<br />
accommodation with wine*<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Visit to the Palace of Versailles<br />
• Visit to Chart<strong>res</strong><br />
• Excursion to the Loire valley visiting<br />
Amboise and Château de<br />
Chenonceau<br />
• Visit to Monet’s Garden<br />
*Wine (¼l) or water (½l), and coffee are<br />
included with dinner<br />
Monet’s Garden, Chart<strong>res</strong>, Versailles<br />
& the Loire Valley<br />
Versailles<br />
4<br />
DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£449<br />
Fol<strong>low</strong> in the footsteps of two of the greatest artists of all time, along with the powerful<br />
kings and queens of France who left behind a legacy of majestic chateaux. Just some<br />
of the highlights we enjoy include the home of Claude Monet, one of the founders of<br />
imp<strong>res</strong>sionist painting, where you can stand on the bridge to admire the water lilies he so<br />
loved to paint, and the world famous Palace of Versailles, built by the ostentatious Sun<br />
King – Louis XIV. We also venture into the Loire valley, known as the ‘valley of the kings’, to<br />
visit the home of Leonardo da Vinci and the magnificent Château de Chenonceau, which<br />
straddles the Cher river and is linked to a long list of noble <strong>res</strong>idents who fell in love with<br />
the place. Based in Rambouillet, in the Île-de-France, we are in the perfect place to enjoy a<br />
fascinating holiday, as we explore the regions of France that inspired artists, aristocrats and<br />
architects alike.<br />
Day 1: London – Paris – Rambouillet<br />
We journey aboard Eurostar from London to<br />
Paris and meet our coach for the transfer to our<br />
hotel near the quaint town of Rambouillet.<br />
Day 2: Versailles and Chart<strong>res</strong><br />
After breakfast we visit the Palace of Versailles,<br />
the most extravagant of chateaux, befitting the<br />
ego of Louis XIV. Our included entrance lets<br />
you see the palace’s most famous places: the<br />
Hall of Mirrors, Grand Apartments of the King<br />
and Queen, and the King’s Bedchamber. In the<br />
afternoon we travel to Chart<strong>res</strong> for free time to<br />
explore the half-timbered medieval streets and<br />
the iconic cathedral with its magnificent 12thcentury<br />
stained glass windows.<br />
Day 3: The Loire valley<br />
Today we venture into the Loire valley to visit<br />
the elegant town of Amboise; its majestic<br />
château overlooking the Loire river is the final<br />
<strong>res</strong>ting place of the great Leonardo da Vinci. In<br />
the afternoon we visit Château de Chenonceau,<br />
a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture which<br />
spans the Cher river. Learn about the influential<br />
women who <strong>res</strong>ided here, including Diane de<br />
Poitiers and Catherine de Medici, and see the<br />
treasu<strong>res</strong> inside, including the room of Five<br />
Queens and the living room of Louis XIV.<br />
Day 4: Monet’s Garden – London<br />
This morning we travel by coach to the small<br />
village of Giverny, home to Claude Monet for<br />
over 40 years. The gardens here are among the<br />
finest in France and the inspiration for many of<br />
his great works, with beautiful plants and the lily<br />
pond with its famous green Japanese bridge and<br />
weeping wil<strong>low</strong>s. In the afternoon we join our<br />
Eurostar connection for the return from Paris to<br />
London, arriving back in the early evening.<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: RECHM04<br />
15 September 2017................................................. £449<br />
7 October 2017........................................................ £449<br />
Single room supplement.......................................£60<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 11.31<br />
Arrives Paris 14.47<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Paris 17.13<br />
Arrives St Pancras 19.39<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Best Western Hotel Amarys Rambouillet<br />
This comfortable 3 star hotel is perfectly<br />
located on the edge of Rambouillet fo<strong>res</strong>t,<br />
between Chart<strong>res</strong> and Versailles. The<br />
guestrooms are the perfect place to relax, with<br />
soft lighting, satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, and an<br />
en suite. There’s also a cosy bar and seasonal<br />
outdoor swimming pool on site. The hotel<br />
serves a generous buffet breakfast and the<br />
<strong>res</strong>taurant serves tasty seasonal menus.<br />
Amarys Rambouillet<br />
Monet’s Garden<br />
Château de Chenonceau<br />
8 To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Lille<br />
or Paris<br />
• Return TGV from Lille or Paris to<br />
St Raphaël<br />
• Seven nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in St Raphaël<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Visits to St Tropez, Nice and<br />
Monte Carlo<br />
.........................................................................<br />
Optional excursion available:<br />
• Visit to St Paul de Vence......................£25<br />
Monte Carlo<br />
St Tropez, Nice & Monte Carlo<br />
8DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£849<br />
The Côte d’Azur, on the French Riviera, is one of the most stylish coastlines in the world, a<br />
playground for the rich and famous who come here to enjoy long sunny days beneath<br />
sapphire skies. But you don’t have to be rich – or famous – to holiday here. With<br />
accommodation in St Raphaël, a pretty town on the Mediterranean, we take you to some<br />
of the most well-known places where not only can you experience the glitz and glamour,<br />
but also the natural beauty of this area, which was once filled with sleepy fishing villages.<br />
There’s also plenty of time to explore the <strong>res</strong>ort, relax on the beach and unwind in this<br />
delightful destination.<br />
Day 1: London – St Raphaël<br />
We journey from London to Lille or Paris by<br />
Eurostar and continue by TGV to St Raphaël, our<br />
base for the next seven nights.<br />
Day 2: St Raphaël<br />
Today is free for you to relax in our traditional<br />
Côte d’Azur <strong>res</strong>ort. Situated between Cannes<br />
and St Tropez, St Raphaël has many highlights<br />
including the Basilica of Notre Dame de la<br />
Victoire, the pictu<strong>res</strong>que old port and its bustling<br />
marina, pretty belle époque buildings which<br />
line the seafront, and a stunning coastline with<br />
sheltered bays and fine sandy beaches.<br />
Day 3: St Tropez<br />
The destination for jet-setters the world over,<br />
St Tropez has a glamorous reputation yet it still<br />
maintains the charm of a small fishing village.<br />
Our excursion takes us by boat, avoiding the<br />
traffic and taking in the coastal scenery along<br />
the way. Spend some time around Vieux Port<br />
and admire the luxury yachts; explore La Ponche,<br />
the oldest and most attractive part of town;<br />
St Tropez<br />
take a walk to the 16th-century citadel and<br />
enjoy fantastic views; watch games of pétanque<br />
beneath the plane trees in Place des Lices; stroll<br />
from beach to beach along the coastal path –<br />
there’s plenty to enjoy.<br />
Day 4: Nice – Monte Carlo<br />
This morning we take the train to Nice, which<br />
is celebrated for its Promenade de Anglais – it’s<br />
the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, gazing out<br />
across the Mediterranean and enjoying a crêpe<br />
from one of the stalls. The old town is filled with<br />
historical monuments including the Palace de<br />
Justice – a grand 19th-century mansion, and the<br />
domed cathedral of Sainte-Reparate. Taking a<br />
short rail journey along the coastline, our next<br />
destination is Monte Carlo, a playground for the<br />
rich and famous and home to the renowned<br />
grand prix circuit and exquisite harbour. Admire<br />
the casino, walk around the gardens or, for a<br />
small cost, you can take a circular bus tour.<br />
Day 5: St Raphaël<br />
Take the opportunity to venture into the<br />
surrounding hills and explore one of the quaint<br />
towns – Frejus is only a short walk away and is<br />
home to many Roman sites.<br />
Day 6: St Paul de Vence<br />
Our optional coach excursion today takes us<br />
to the village of St Paul de Vence. The winding<br />
streets exude beauty, with vine-covered stone<br />
walls and elegant fountains and statues; even the<br />
cobblestones are laid in floral patterns. Due to its<br />
hilltop location, you can also catch breathtaking<br />
views of the mountains and sea.<br />
Day 7: St Raphaël<br />
Today is free for you to relax and explore at<br />
leisure.<br />
Day 8: St Raphaël – London<br />
We depart on the late-morning train to Lille, where<br />
our Eurostar connection returns us to London.<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: RESTM08<br />
12 September 2017.................................................£849<br />
Single room supplement..................................... £120<br />
Sea view room supplement.............................. £105<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 06.50<br />
Arrives St Raphaël 17.09<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs St Raphaël 11.23<br />
Arrives St Pancras 19.03<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
The Hotel Continental, Saint Raphael<br />
This 3 star hotel is a centrally situated elegant<br />
<strong>res</strong>idence in St Raphael on the seafront<br />
boulevard just 45 met<strong>res</strong> along from the beach.<br />
All bedrooms are en suite with air conditioning,<br />
satellite TV, mini bar, hairdryer, safe and on the<br />
first floor. Buffet breakfast will be served at the<br />
hotel and evening meal will be at a nearby local<br />
<strong>res</strong>taurant ( included in cost )<br />
Hotel Continental<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
9
SAVE £100pp<br />
Highlights of Corsica<br />
Little Trains & Spectacular Scenery<br />
Relax and unwind on the little French island that basks in the Mediterranean sun. Known as<br />
‘l’ile de beaute’, Corsica is home to some of the most pictu<strong>res</strong>que railways in Europe. These<br />
little trains run on single tracks and pass amazing scenery as they travel across mountains<br />
and along coastline, stopping at quaint villages along the way. From the mountainous heart<br />
of Corsica to the capital city of Ajaccio on the coast, we travel aboard the little trains and<br />
stay in four popular towns so you can enjoy the highlights of the different corners of this<br />
beautiful island.<br />
Day 1: London – Nice<br />
We journey aboard Eurostar from London to Lille<br />
and continue by rail to Nice, where we check in<br />
to our overnight hotel.<br />
Day 2: Nice - Bastia<br />
An afternoon ferry crossing takes us to Corsica.<br />
We arrive in Bastia, on the northern tip of the<br />
island, and travel onward to our hotel.<br />
Day 3: Bastia<br />
Enjoy a full day exploring the town of Bastia. The<br />
old port is a good place to start, where you can<br />
wander through the quaint streets and admire<br />
the Italianate architecture. Place St Nicolas is the<br />
social hub of the town and a great place to soak<br />
up the atmosphere with views across the sea and<br />
a statue of Napoléon. There’s also the citadel<br />
which offers rewarding views.<br />
Day 4: Bastia – Calvi<br />
After breakfast we join the Trinicellu (Little Train).<br />
This narrow gauge railway is an experience not to<br />
be missed, fol<strong>low</strong>ing the coast with spectacular<br />
views of gold red mountains plunging into the<br />
deep blue sea and passing through Ile de Rousse<br />
and the village of Ponte Leccia. On arrival in Calvi<br />
we transfer to our hotel, our base for the next<br />
two nights.<br />
Day 5: Calvi<br />
The small town of Calvi is in an idyllic location<br />
with a large sheltered bay to the front and<br />
mountains behind. A walk around the castle<br />
Corte<br />
Calvi<br />
ramparts offers wonderful views, after which<br />
you can venture into the cobbled streets to see<br />
the house which is said to be the birthplace of<br />
Christopher Columbus.<br />
Day 6: Calvi – Corte<br />
After breakfast we join the little train for the<br />
journey to Corte, the ancient capital in the heart<br />
of Corsica where we stay for two nights.<br />
Day 7: Corte – Ajaccio<br />
Corte is surrounded by amazing mountain<br />
scenery, with the citadel rising high up from a<br />
rocky outcrop. The town is a delight to explore,<br />
thriving with a cosmopolitan air along with the<br />
bustle of pavement cafés and bars, and if you<br />
fol<strong>low</strong> the narrow streets up to the citadel you<br />
can enjoy wonderful elevated views. Later in<br />
the day we board the train for Ajaccio for our<br />
two-night stay. This route is ranked as one of<br />
the most scenic railways in the world, crossing<br />
the Vecchio viaduct engineered by Gustav Eiffel,<br />
of tower fame, before passing through the<br />
Vizzavona Fo<strong>res</strong>t, a swathe of lofty laricio pines<br />
and chestnut trees.<br />
Day 8: Corte – Ajaccio<br />
Enjoy a full day in Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica.<br />
After breakfast we board the train for the<br />
journey to Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica. This<br />
route is ranked as one of the most scenic railways<br />
in the world, crossing the Vecchio Viaduct before<br />
passing through the Vizzavona Fo<strong>res</strong>t. On arrival<br />
in Ajaccio you can enjoy some free time before<br />
we check in at our hotel for an overnight stay.<br />
There are many statues and streets named after<br />
Napoléon Bonaparte who was born here in 1769.<br />
Day 9: Ajaccio – Marseille<br />
We take the ferry to Toulon and continue by<br />
coach to our overnight hotel in Marseille.<br />
Day 10: Marseille – Lille – London<br />
We travel by TGV to Lille and join Eurostar for<br />
our return to London.<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Lille<br />
• TGV from Lille to Nice and Marseille<br />
to Lille<br />
• Return daytime ferry crossings to<br />
Corsica<br />
• Seven nights’ half board<br />
accommodation on Corsica<br />
• One night’s bed and breakfast in Nice<br />
• One night’s bed and breakfast in<br />
Marseille<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Train journey from Bastia to Calvi<br />
• Train journey from Calvi to Corte<br />
• Train journey from Corte to Ajaccio<br />
• Free time in Bastia, Calvi, Corte and<br />
Ajaccio<br />
10<br />
DAYS<br />
NOW FROM<br />
£1249<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: RECOR10<br />
8 September 2017...................................NOW £1299<br />
22 September 2017.................................NOW £1249<br />
Single room supplement.................................... £249<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 06.50<br />
Arrives Nice 18.05<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Marseille 09.14<br />
Arrives St Pancras 16.03<br />
YOUR HOTELS<br />
Hotel Azuréa, Nice or similar<br />
Holiday Inn Exp<strong>res</strong>s Marseille-Sainte Charles,<br />
Marseille or similar<br />
On Corsica<br />
Hotel Chez Walter, in Lucciana (Bastia)<br />
This 3 star hotel is located in the area of Bastia.<br />
The en suite bedrooms are air-conditioned and<br />
have a TV, there is <strong>res</strong>taurant with a terrace<br />
overlooking the garden and an outdoor<br />
swimming pool.<br />
Hôtel Méditerranée or similar (Calvi) or similar<br />
The hotel is located in the centre of Calvi and is<br />
within walking distance to Calvi harbour and<br />
beach. All bedrooms are en suite with access to<br />
Wi-Fi and there is lounge/bar area. A full buffet<br />
breakfast is served at the hotel and evening meal<br />
will be at St Christophe Hotel across the road.<br />
Hotel de la Paix, Corte or similar<br />
This family-run hotel is the perfect place for<br />
experiencing traditional Corsica and is just a<br />
short walk from the heart of the ancient capital.<br />
There is a <strong>res</strong>taurant, TV area, and all of the<br />
bedrooms are en suite.<br />
Hotel Club Marina Viva Ajaccio or similar<br />
This 3 star hotel is situated in a beautiful estate,<br />
bordered by a sandy beach and 17 minutes from<br />
Ajaccio. The en suite bedrooms have a private<br />
balcony or terrace and TV, there is also two<br />
<strong>res</strong>taurants a bar and an outdoor swimming<br />
pool. Free Wi-Fi is available in public areas.<br />
10 To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
SAVE £100pp<br />
Italian Riviera of F<strong>low</strong>ers<br />
San Remo<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
or Lille<br />
• Return TGV from Paris or Lille to Nice<br />
• Return coach transfer to our hotel<br />
• Six nights’ half board accommodation<br />
in Diano Marina<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• San Remo and the hilltop village of<br />
Dolceacqua<br />
• Pictu<strong>res</strong>que Portofino<br />
.........................................................................<br />
Optional excursion available:<br />
• Menton – the ‘pearl of France’,<br />
and Hanbury Botanical Gardens..... £39<br />
7<br />
DAYS<br />
NOW FROM<br />
£699<br />
With the warm sea breeze of the Mediterranean and the shelter of the Maritime Alps, this<br />
beautiful stretch of Italian coast is the perfect suntrap where a colourful paradise of exotic<br />
plants and f<strong>low</strong>ers nestles among pastel-coloured towns filled with old-world elegance.<br />
Based in the charming <strong>res</strong>ort of Diano Marina, we spend six nights in our seafront hotel<br />
– a favourite among our customers – and enjoy some quiet days by the sea, along with<br />
the chance to visit surrounding highlights. San Remo in particular is known as the ‘city of<br />
f<strong>low</strong>ers’ and hosts the liveliest f<strong>low</strong>er market in Europe, while further along the coast we<br />
find the pretty fishing village of Portofino, regarded as the jewel of the Italian Riviera.<br />
Day 1: London – Diano Marina<br />
We journey aboard Eurostar from London to<br />
Paris or Lille and continue by TGV to Nice, where<br />
we are taken by coach to Diano Marina, on the<br />
beautiful Italian Riviera.<br />
Day 2: Diano Marina<br />
Today is free for you to spend at leisure in our<br />
pretty <strong>res</strong>ort, surrounded by hills and coast. You<br />
can relax in our hotel and enjoy the facilities,<br />
head to the fine sandy beach, or venture into the<br />
old town to browse the shops and sample local<br />
delicacies. There’s also an 11th-century castle<br />
where traces of the town’s ancient past can be<br />
found. If you want to explore further afield,<br />
the nearby medieval village of Cervo, with its<br />
combination of cobbled alleys, terraces, arches<br />
and rooftops, is a delightful place to visit.<br />
Day 3: Dolceacqua & San Remo<br />
The hilltop village of Dolceacqua enjoys a<br />
picture perfect setting and is filled with striking<br />
architecture. The Nervia river runs through its<br />
heart, separating the village into two parts –<br />
the oldest called Terra, which is dominated by<br />
the Doria Castle, and the newest called Borgo.<br />
Dolceacqua<br />
Both are connected by a spectacular medieval<br />
bridge, described by Claude Monet as “a jewel of<br />
lightness”. We also visit San Remo, Italy’s answer to<br />
France’s Monte Carlo. The atmospheric old town,<br />
known as ‘La Pigna’, is tightly packed with buildings<br />
that cling to a steep hill. There are also two<br />
ports where you can see luxurious yachts, busy<br />
shopping streets and broad tree-lined boulevards.<br />
Day 4: Portofino<br />
We travel by coach to Santa Margherita and take<br />
the ferry to enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery on<br />
our way to Portofino. This pretty c<strong>res</strong>cent-shaped<br />
village retains all of its traditional charms, despite<br />
its jet-set reputation. You can explore the harbour<br />
with its brightly coloured buildings, fol<strong>low</strong> one<br />
of the scenic pathways to the beach or the light<br />
house, or visit the 16th-century hilltop castle and<br />
enjoy wonderful views across the Mediterranean<br />
to the French island of Corsica.<br />
Day 5: Diano Marina<br />
We enjoy another free day in <strong>res</strong>ort.<br />
Day 6: Menton & Hanbury Gardens<br />
Join our optional excursion to visit the French<br />
<strong>res</strong>ort of Menton, renowned for its annual<br />
Lemon Festival. Take a walk into the old town,<br />
which is a warren of quirky lanes and alleyways<br />
that lead out to the Promenade du Soleil and<br />
a beautiful sandy beach. Our next stop is the<br />
Hanbury Botanical Gardens, the inspiration of<br />
English businessman Sir Thomas Hanbury. Visitors<br />
can fol<strong>low</strong> pathways that wind through 45 ac<strong>res</strong><br />
of plants, fountains and statues, leading down to<br />
a little café by the sea.<br />
Day 7: Diano Marina – London<br />
We check out of our hotel this morning and<br />
retrace our route to meet Eurostar for the return<br />
to London.<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REROF07<br />
6 October 2017.........................................NOW £699<br />
Single room supplement.......................................£95<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 08.58<br />
Arrives Nice 20.37<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Nice 09.27<br />
Arrives St Pancras 19.03<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Hotel Palace, Diano Marina or similar<br />
This 3 star hotel is perfectly located in front of<br />
a sandy beach, with the old town and the<br />
shopping centre easily reached along the<br />
seaside promenade. All of the bedrooms are<br />
well furnished and equipped with air<br />
conditioning, satellite TV, balcony, safe,<br />
hairdryer, magnifying mirror, telephone and<br />
Wi-Fi. Enjoy sea views from the <strong>res</strong>taurant,<br />
which serves a range of dishes using delicious<br />
local products along with a wide variety of<br />
selected wines. There is also a wellness room<br />
with a sauna and Jacuzzi, and a rooftop terrace<br />
where you can admire the views across the bay.<br />
Hotel Palace<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
11
Tuscany, the Cinque Terre<br />
& the Riviera of F<strong>low</strong>ers<br />
Enjoy the simple pleasu<strong>res</strong> of Italy on this classic tour, which combines the historic and<br />
scenic delights of Tuscany with a relaxing stay on the glorious Riviera of F<strong>low</strong>ers. Admire<br />
the leaning tower of Pisa, find sanctuary in the spa town of Montecatini Terme, explore the<br />
enchanting Cinque Terre, walk among the open air museum that is Florence, discover the<br />
hidden city of Lucca, and then check in at our favourite seafront hotel in Diano Marina –<br />
it’s the perfect end to our Italian experience!<br />
Day 1: London – Turin<br />
We take the Eurostar service from London to<br />
Paris, where we change trains and join the TGV to<br />
Turin in northern Italy.<br />
Day 2: Pisa<br />
After a leisurely breakfast we take the train<br />
to Pisa, on a route that offers views of the<br />
Mediterranean Sea while passing through lovely<br />
<strong>res</strong>orts. Our coach takes us from the station<br />
into the historic centre of Pisa, known as the<br />
‘Piazza dei Miracoli’ which translates to ‘Square<br />
of Miracles’, where you will find the Baptistery<br />
of St John, the cathedral and the famous Leaning<br />
Tower. After some free time to admire the<br />
surroundings, we travel by coach to Montecatini<br />
Terme for our four-night stay.<br />
Day 3: Montecatini Terme<br />
Enjoy a day at leisure in Montecatini Terme –<br />
Italy’s most famous spa town, tucked away in<br />
the heart of Tuscany. It has a wonderful air of<br />
the belle époque period about it, with stunning<br />
architecture and a central park. The historic<br />
funicular railway takes you up to the hill town<br />
of Montecatini Alto for panoramic views of the<br />
area.<br />
Day 4: The Cinque Terre<br />
Today we explore one of Italy’s most enchanting<br />
coastal regions, the Cinque Terre. These five<br />
villages perch on sheer cliffs which overlook the<br />
sea and are surrounded by hills and vineyards.<br />
We explore four of the villages, making our<br />
first stop in Manarola where you can explore<br />
the tiny harbour, piazza and colourful houses,<br />
before taking a local train to Riomaggiore. We<br />
are then taken by boat to the ancient fishing<br />
village of Monterosso. You can take a dip in the<br />
azure sea and enjoy a delicious Liguarian lunch<br />
(not included) in one of the <strong>res</strong>taurants, before<br />
we continue to Vernazza to explore the narrow<br />
lanes and steep stairways known as ‘carruggi’.<br />
We continue by rail along the coast to La Spezia,<br />
before returning by coach to our hotel.<br />
The Cinque Terre<br />
Day 5: Florence<br />
The capital of Tuscany, Florence, is our<br />
destination by rail today. Florence is like an<br />
open air museum, so the best way to explore is<br />
by walking through the cobbled streets, freely<br />
admiring the piazzas and palazzos which were<br />
designed by illustrious artists such as Brunelleschi<br />
and Michelangelo. You can join our guided tour<br />
to get your bearings and see some of the main<br />
sights, before spending the afternoon at leisure.<br />
Day 6: Lucca & the Italian Coast<br />
Lucca is arguably one of Tuscany’s best-kept<br />
secrets, hidden by ancient ramparts and gardens<br />
that surround the old city. Explore Anfiteatro<br />
Square; climb the Guinigi Tower which has<br />
an ancient oak tree growing on top; wander<br />
along the typical antique dealers’ street. In the<br />
afternoon we return to Pisa and take the train to<br />
Diano Marina for a relaxing four-night stay in our<br />
seafront hotel.<br />
Day 7 to 9: The Italian Riviera of F<strong>low</strong>ers<br />
For the next three days you can relax and soak<br />
up the sun in Diano Marina. Enjoy miles of sandy<br />
beach, coastal walks and the old town; you can<br />
even visit the nearby medieval village of Cervo –<br />
with its combination of cobbled alleys, terraces,<br />
arches and rooftops, it’s a delightful place to<br />
explore. We also offer an optional excursion to<br />
San Remo and Dolceacqua. San Remo is Italy’s<br />
answer to the French <strong>res</strong>ort of Monte Carlo,<br />
where you can explore the atmospheric old town<br />
and the ports filled with luxurious yachts. The<br />
hilltop village of Dolceacqua enjoys a picture<br />
perfect setting, with the Nervia river running<br />
through its heart and the spectacular medieval<br />
bridge described by Claude Monet as “a jewel of<br />
lightness”.<br />
Day 10: Diano Marina – London<br />
After checking out of our hotel we are taken by<br />
coach to Nice and join the TGV to Paris or Lille<br />
for our Eurostar connection to London.<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
or Lille<br />
• TGV from Paris to Turin and Nice to<br />
Paris or Lille<br />
• One night’s bed and breakfast in<br />
Turin<br />
• Four nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in Montecatini<br />
Terme<br />
• Four nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in Diano Marina<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Visits to Pisa and Lucca<br />
• Free day in Montecatini Terme<br />
• Tour of the Cinque Terre<br />
• Florence by rail and guided walking<br />
tour<br />
• Scenic Italian coast train journey<br />
.........................................................................<br />
Optional excursion available:<br />
• San Remo and Dolceacqua.................£25<br />
10<br />
DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£1059<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: RETRF10<br />
10 September 2017...............................................£1059<br />
Single room supplement..................................... £120<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 09.17<br />
Arrives Turin 20.18<br />
Day 2: Departs Turin 10.50<br />
Arrives Pisa 14.51<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Nice 11.04<br />
Arrives St Pancras 20.02<br />
YOUR HOTELS<br />
Hotel Dock Milano, Turin or similar<br />
In Turin we stay at the Hotel Dock Milano or<br />
similar, which offers comfortable facilities.<br />
Hotel Brennero e Varsavia, Montecatini<br />
Terme<br />
This traditional hotel is family run. It’s in the<br />
perfect location being only a short walk from<br />
the heart of Montecatini Terme, and has all the<br />
modern comforts needed. Guestrooms have an<br />
en suite along with air conditioning, TV, safe and<br />
hairdryer. There’s also a living area, bar, TV room<br />
and <strong>res</strong>taurant where you can enjoy Tuscan and<br />
international dishes.<br />
Hotel Palace, Diano Marina<br />
This 3 star hotel is perfectly located in front of a<br />
sandy beach with the old town easily reached<br />
along the promenade. All of the bedrooms are<br />
equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV,<br />
balcony, safe, hairdryer, telephone and Wi-Fi.<br />
Enjoy sea views from the <strong>res</strong>taurant, which<br />
serves a range of dishes There is also a sauna<br />
and Jacuzzi, and a rooftop terrace where you<br />
can admire the views across the bay.<br />
12 To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
Lake Geneva & the Mont Blanc Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
Staying in a popular mountain village high above the Rhône valley, you can enjoy incredible<br />
views on this tour around the Alps of France and Switzerland. Climb to the dizzy heights<br />
of Rochers de Naye for stunning vistas of Lake Geneva, journey aboard the Mont Blanc<br />
Exp<strong>res</strong>s to visit the ‘alpine capital of the world’, admire the scenery from the GoldenPass<br />
Line panoramic train and absorb the unique atmosphere of Montreux. All excursions are<br />
included along with half board accommodation, making this a truly rewarding experience.<br />
Day 1: London – Leysin<br />
We travel aboard Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
and join the TGV to Geneva and connecting<br />
trains to reach the Swiss mountain village of<br />
Leysin, our base for the next six nights.<br />
Day 2: Leysin<br />
Relax and enjoy a free day in <strong>res</strong>ort. Leysin stands<br />
1,250 met<strong>res</strong> above altitude, on a sunny ledge<br />
above the Rhône valley. The town is a popular<br />
tourist centre which dates back to the middle<br />
ages and attracts people throughout the winter<br />
and summer. Highlights include the Berneuse<br />
cable car, where you will find a glass revolving<br />
mountaintop <strong>res</strong>taurant, and there are many<br />
hiking paths which offer panoramic views.<br />
Day 3: Montreux<br />
Nestled in a sheltered bay on Lake Geneva, the<br />
quaint town of Montreux is called the capital of<br />
the Vaud Riviera because of its exceptionally mild<br />
climate. We travel here by rail for plenty of time<br />
at leisure; stroll along the promenade, visit the<br />
beautiful Château de Chillon, or take a cruise on<br />
the lake – there’s so much to enjoy.<br />
Day 4: Mont Blanc Exp<strong>res</strong>s – Chamonix<br />
We join the Mont Blanc Exp<strong>res</strong>s for a magical<br />
return journey which ascends to the breathtaking<br />
heights of Chamonix Mont Blanc. This French<br />
<strong>res</strong>ort lies at the foot of Mont Blanc and is<br />
known as the ‘alpine capital of the world’ after it<br />
hosted the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924.<br />
The lively town is great to explore, with many<br />
shops and <strong>res</strong>taurants, and there are a range of<br />
cable cars and mountain railways which fol<strong>low</strong><br />
some of the most spectacular routes in the<br />
world, such as the Aiguille Du Midi.<br />
Day 5: Rochers de Naye<br />
We return to Montreux by rail and join the rack<br />
railway which takes us past fo<strong>res</strong>ts, meadows and<br />
rocks up to Rochers de Naye. At 2,045 met<strong>res</strong><br />
above sea level, this is one of the most beautiful<br />
vantage points of the region, where you can<br />
Montreux<br />
GoldenPass Line<br />
enjoy spectacular views of the Vaud Riviera, Lake<br />
Geneva and the surrounding Alps – on a clear day<br />
you can see the Eiger, the Mont Blanc Massif and<br />
Geneva’s famous waterspout.<br />
Day 6: GoldenPass<br />
Today we enjoy two scenic railway journeys. The<br />
first travels from Brig aboard the 100-year-old<br />
Lötschberger Exp<strong>res</strong>s, which offers wonderful<br />
views of the Rhône valley as it passes through<br />
narrow gorges and high mountains. At Spiez<br />
we change trains and travel to Zweisimmen to<br />
join the GoldenPass for a panoramic journey to<br />
Montreux, which passes green pastu<strong>res</strong>, fo<strong>res</strong>ts,<br />
streams and vineyards, with views of Lake<br />
Geneva.<br />
Day 7: Leysin – London<br />
We depart our hotel in the morning and<br />
retrace our route to Paris, where the Eurostar<br />
connection returns us to London.<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
• Return TGV from Paris to Geneva and<br />
connecting trains to Leysin<br />
• Six nights’ half board accommodation<br />
in Leysin<br />
• Free time in Leysin<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Visits to Montreux and Chamonix<br />
Mont Blanc<br />
• Journey on the Mont Blanc Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
• Journey on the rack railway to<br />
Rochers de Naye<br />
• Journey on the GoldenPass Line<br />
• Journey on the Lötschberger Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
The itinerary and order of excursions<br />
are subject to change.<br />
7<br />
DAYS<br />
Central Résidence & Spa<br />
FROM<br />
£899<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REGEN07<br />
6 October 2017.......................................................£899<br />
Single room supplement......................................£125<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 07.31<br />
Arrives Leysin 18.23<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Leysin 09.58<br />
Arrives St Pancras 19.39<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Central Résidence & Spa, Leysin<br />
Enjoy 3 star accommodation with a family<br />
atmosphere in the heart of Leysin, surrounded<br />
by magnificent views of the Alps. All of the<br />
bedrooms face south with a balcony and have<br />
an en suite, TV, safe and hairdryer. Relax in the<br />
lobby bar, read in the library, play table tennis or<br />
pétanque in the garden, or take advantage of<br />
the spa and fitness centre which includes an<br />
indoor swimming pool, log wood sauna and<br />
Jacuzzi. There’s also a <strong>res</strong>taurant where you can<br />
enjoy an excellent choice of dishes together<br />
with the wonderful ambience.<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
13
Lake Bled & the Mountains of Slovenia<br />
Julian Alps<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
• TGV from Paris to Munich and Turin<br />
to Paris<br />
• Connecting rail journeys including<br />
a scenic trip across the stunning<br />
Austrian Alps<br />
• One night’s bed and breakfast in<br />
Munich<br />
• Two nights’ bed and breakfast in<br />
Ljubljana<br />
• Five nights’ half board<br />
accommodation at Lake Bled<br />
• One night’s bed and breakfast in<br />
Turin<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Guided tour of Ljubljana fol<strong>low</strong>ed by<br />
free time<br />
• Coach trip through the Julian Alps<br />
Nestling in the foothills of the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is an enchanting scene from a<br />
childhood fairytale, with its crystal clear glacial waters and emerald green fo<strong>res</strong>ts. A<br />
stunning rail journey through the Austrian Alps, stopping to visit the Slovenian capital of<br />
Ljubljana, leads us to this magical landscape where we spend time exploring the secret<br />
beauty of Slovenia.<br />
Day 1: London – Munich<br />
We journey from London to Paris by Eurostar<br />
and continue by TGV to Munich where we check<br />
in at our overnight hotel.<br />
Day 2: Munich – Villach – Ljubljana<br />
We continue our rail journey which fol<strong>low</strong>s a<br />
stunning route through the Austrian Alps and<br />
across the border into Slovenia. We alight from<br />
the train in Ljubljana – the quaint capital city of<br />
Slovenia where we spend the next two nights.<br />
Day 3: Ljubljana<br />
With its hilltop castle and riverside location,<br />
Ljubljana is a wonderful place to visit, so we<br />
have set aside a full day for you to enjoy here. Its<br />
compact size makes it easy to explore and there<br />
are treasu<strong>res</strong> at every turn, including Dragon<br />
Bridge, the Franciscan church, the triple bridge,<br />
and the funicular railway up to the castle. Our<br />
included city tour ensu<strong>res</strong> you miss none of<br />
the highlights (entrance/attraction costs not<br />
included).<br />
Day 4, 5 & 6: Lake Bled<br />
We take a short coach journey to our next<br />
destination – the peaceful and beautiful <strong>res</strong>ort<br />
of Lake Bled, where we spend the next few<br />
days at leisure. A walk around the lake is highly<br />
recommended. At 6 kilomet<strong>res</strong> it can take<br />
a couple of hours, but there’s definitely no<br />
rush, with plenty of places to stop and drink<br />
in the scenery or even take a dip in emerald<br />
green water. For a small fee you can also take<br />
a traditional wooden pletna boat (there are<br />
no noisy motorboats on Lake Bled) to visit the<br />
Church of Maria, which rises from a tiny islet in<br />
the middle of the lake, or you can hire your own<br />
rowing boat for a more personal experience.<br />
Day 7: Julian Alps<br />
Today we venture into the Julian Alps on our<br />
included coach excursion. The route takes us<br />
into the heart of the mountains of Slovenia’s<br />
only national park – Triglav, crossing the highest<br />
mountain pass of Vršič and passing through the<br />
beautiful Socǎ river valley. We make a stop at<br />
the small town of Bovec, which is surrounded by<br />
magnificent scenery, before coasting down the<br />
Predil mountain pass and crossing the border<br />
into Italy, where we spend some time on the<br />
shore of the small but spectacular Lake Predil.<br />
Day 8: Lake Bled<br />
Enjoy a further day at leisure in the beautiful<br />
surrounds of Lake Bled. Bled Castle is another<br />
highlight that’s well worth a visit during our stay.<br />
Complete with towers, ramparts, moats and a<br />
terrace, it’s a stunning example of a medieval<br />
fort<strong>res</strong>s and its position on a cliff top 100 met<strong>res</strong><br />
above the lake offers breathtaking views.<br />
Day 9: Lake Bled – Turin<br />
We leave our lakeside paradise and enjoy a scenic<br />
train journey which fol<strong>low</strong>s a section of the<br />
famous Bohinj line to Nova Gorica on the Italian<br />
border. We continue by train to Turin and check<br />
in at our overnight hotel.<br />
Day 10: Turin – London<br />
We take the morning train to Paris and board<br />
Eurostar for our return to London.<br />
10<br />
DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£1199<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REBLE10<br />
5 September 2017..................................................£1199<br />
Single room supplement......................................£175<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 11.31<br />
Arrives Munich 21.37<br />
Day 2: Departs Munich 12.18<br />
Arrives Ljubljana 18.31<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Turin 10.15<br />
Arrives St Pancras 19.39<br />
YOUR HOTELS<br />
Maritim Hotel, Munich or similar<br />
Hotel Dock Milano, Turin or similar<br />
City Hotel, Ljubljana<br />
Hotel Astoria, Lake Bled<br />
Lake Bled<br />
14<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
SAVE £50pp<br />
Jungfrau Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
Jungfrau Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
• Return TGV from Paris to Strasbourg<br />
• Connecting rail journeys to Basel and<br />
Mürren<br />
• One night’s half board<br />
accommodation in Basel*<br />
• Six nights’ half board accommodation<br />
in Mürren<br />
• Cheese tasting evening<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Guided village tour of Mürren<br />
• Journey on the Jungfrau Railway to<br />
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe<br />
• Visit to Trümmelbach Falls<br />
• Cable car to Schilthorn<br />
• James Bond breakfast at the Piz<br />
Gloria revolving <strong>res</strong>taurant<br />
• Funicular railway trip to<br />
Allmendhubel<br />
Staying in the mountain village of Mürren, we enjoy some of Switzerland’s most spectacular<br />
scenery on this unforgettable alpine adventure – venture to the ‘Top of Europe’, enjoy<br />
a special James Bond breakfast 2970 met<strong>res</strong> above sea level, explore Europe’s largest<br />
subterranean waterfalls, and so much more. With half board accommodation and all<br />
excursions included, it’s a great way to discover the chocolate box charm of the Swiss Alps.<br />
Day 1: London – Basel<br />
We journey aboard Eurostar to Paris and<br />
continue by TGV to Strasbourg, where we take<br />
the train to Basel for our overnight stay. This<br />
beautiful Swiss city lies on the banks of the<br />
Rhine river, at the point where the countries of<br />
Switzerland, France and Germany meet.<br />
Day 2: Basel to Mürren<br />
Travelling by rail and cableway, we reach the<br />
car-free mountain village of Mürren which is<br />
our base for the next six nights. The views here<br />
are spectacular, stretching out across a deep<br />
valley to the famous rock faces and glaciers of<br />
the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, with the mighty<br />
Schilthorn towering above.<br />
Day 3 & 4: Mürren<br />
Enjoy plenty of free time in Mürren, starting<br />
with our included village tour. Mürren lies on a<br />
terrace 1,650 met<strong>res</strong> above the Lauterbrunnen<br />
valley, making it the highest continually inhabited<br />
village in the region. You can enjoy magnificent<br />
views at almost every turn and the absence of<br />
traffic makes it all the more peaceful. If you want<br />
to explore further afield, there are around 200<br />
Mürren<br />
kilomet<strong>res</strong> of walking trails which branch out<br />
from the village and are well signposted, taking<br />
you up or down the valley with several trains<br />
and lifts to help. On one evening we also enjoy a<br />
cheese tasting buffet.<br />
Day 5: Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe<br />
We travel to Kleine Scheidegg for an included<br />
journey on the Jungfrau Railway, which tunnels<br />
through the mountains of the Eiger and along<br />
the slope of the Mönch to deliver you to the<br />
Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe. At 3,454 met<strong>res</strong>,<br />
this is Europe’s highest altitude railway station<br />
where you can enjoy breathtaking views. There<br />
are two stops along the way for you to marvel at<br />
the mountainous world before reaching the top,<br />
where there are further viewing platforms on the<br />
Aletsch glacier or in the Ice Palace.<br />
Day 6: Trümmelbach Falls<br />
The Lauterbrunnen valley is often called the valley<br />
of 72 waterfalls, one of which we visit today<br />
– the Trümmelbach Falls. These are the largest<br />
subterranean waterfalls in Europe and the only<br />
glacier waterfalls in the world that are accessible<br />
underground by lift, galleries, tunnels, paths and<br />
platforms. It’s a spectacular place to visit.<br />
Day 7: Schilthorn & Allmendhubel<br />
Today’s excursion takes you by cable car to the<br />
summit of the Schilthorn, where you can enjoy<br />
amazing 360° views of more than 200 mountains,<br />
including the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau – on a<br />
clear day you may even catch a glimpse of Mont<br />
Blanc. Schilthorn achieved world fame when<br />
scenes for the James Bond film On Her Majesty’s<br />
Secret Service were shot here, featuring the<br />
revolving <strong>res</strong>taurant Piz Gloria. We visit the<br />
<strong>res</strong>taurant for an exclusive James Bond breakfast,<br />
before taking the funicular to Allmendhubel – a<br />
mountain which overlooks our <strong>res</strong>ort of Mürren.<br />
Day 8: Mürren – London<br />
We check out of our hotel after breakfast and<br />
retrace our route to Paris, where we join Eurostar<br />
for the return to London.<br />
8DAYS<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REJUN08<br />
11 September 2017...................................NOW £1349<br />
Single room supplement.....................................£190<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 11.31<br />
Arrives Basel 19.42<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Basel 12.21<br />
Arrives St Pancras 19.39<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Hotel Alpenruh, Mürren or similar<br />
The Hotel Alpenruh offers a quiet, cultivated<br />
atmosphere, located on a sunny plateau with<br />
views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. All of<br />
the en suite bedrooms have a hairdryer,<br />
telephone and cable TV. The cosy bar is the<br />
perfect place to relax after a day of exploring<br />
and there’s a wide selection of regional,<br />
international and seasonal specialities to enjoy<br />
in the <strong>res</strong>taurant. There’s also a sun terrace and<br />
free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. It’s<br />
a home from home and your hosts will ensure<br />
you have a comfortable stay.<br />
Hotel Alpenruh<br />
NOW FROM<br />
£1349<br />
*Dinner taken in a local <strong>res</strong>taurant<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
15
SAVE £<strong>20pp</strong><br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to<br />
Brussels l Return rail to Liège<br />
• Three nights’ bed and breakfast in<br />
Liège<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Visit to Liège Christmas Village<br />
• Visit to Aachen Christmas Market<br />
• Visit to Valkenburg Christmas Market<br />
• See the Valkenburg Christmas Parade<br />
• Visit to the Disneyland® Ice Dreams<br />
Festival<br />
Liège, Valkenburg<br />
& Aachen Christmas Markets<br />
Valkenburg Christmas Markets<br />
4<br />
DAYS<br />
NOW FROM<br />
£369<br />
Enjoy a trio of Christmas markets as we visit the countries of Belgium, Germany and the<br />
Netherlands on this festive break. Wander among the stalls of Liège Christmas Village,<br />
experience the atmosphere of Aachen Christmas Market and explore the unique Velvet<br />
Cave under the town of Valkenburg, before rounding off with Disney’s enchanted Ice<br />
Dreams Festival.<br />
Day 1: Liège Christmas Village<br />
We journey from London to Brussels by Eurostar<br />
and continue by rail to Liège. You are then<br />
free to explore the Christmas village in Place<br />
St Lambert and Place du Marche, which sells<br />
all kinds of handicrafts, souvenirs and delicious<br />
treats.<br />
Day 2: Aachen Christmas Market<br />
Today we travel by rail to the spa town<br />
of Aachen in Germany, where the streets<br />
and squa<strong>res</strong> surrounding the cathedral are<br />
transformed into a festive paradise. The Aachen<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: RELIE04<br />
27 November 2017........................ NOW £369<br />
4 December 2017........................... NOW £389<br />
Single room supplement............... from £90<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Husa La Couronne, Liège<br />
This 3 star hotel is set in one of the most<br />
emblematic buildings in Liège and is in the<br />
perfect location opposite the Liège Guillemins<br />
station. The well appointed rooms offer<br />
comfort and modern facilities, with heating, air<br />
conditioning, a safe and free Wi-Fi. There is also<br />
a café/bar on site.<br />
Husa La Couronne, Liège<br />
Valkenburg<br />
decorated floats and costumed dancers that pass<br />
through the town.<br />
Day 4: Disneyland® Paris Ice Dreams, Liège<br />
This morning we visit the Disneyland® Paris<br />
Ice Dreams Festival in Liège, where dazzling<br />
ice decorations of Disney characters offer the<br />
warmest of season’s greetings. We then set off<br />
on the return journey.<br />
Aachen<br />
Market has a particularly friendly atmosphere,<br />
where locals and tourists enjoy the spirit of<br />
Christmas; plus there’s a huge array of gifts and<br />
goodies that make the perfect stocking fillers.<br />
Day 3: Valkenburg Christmas Market<br />
Today we visit a unique Christmas market in<br />
the caves that run beneath the Dutch town<br />
of Valkenburg. The walls display mysterious<br />
carvings, inscriptions and sculptu<strong>res</strong> which will<br />
be illuminated in festive light, with stalls selling<br />
unique gifts, exquisite handicrafts and culinary<br />
delights. At 7pm we enjoy a magical parade of<br />
Ice Dreams, Liege<br />
16 To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
SAVE £50pp<br />
Christmas on the Italian Riviera<br />
Menton<br />
The sweeping Italian Riviera is the perfect backdrop for enjoying this special time of year.<br />
Hugged by the Maritime Alps and the warm waters of the Ligurian Sea, it offers beautiful<br />
scenery and an inviting climate, together with charming <strong>res</strong>orts which echo old-world<br />
glamour. We stay in one such place, Diano Marina, where you have plenty of time to switch<br />
off and relax, and you can also join our included excursion to experience the style and<br />
panache of the neighbouring French Riviera on a trip to Monte Carlo, fol<strong>low</strong>ed by free time<br />
in the sleepy coastal town of Menton.<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
or Lille<br />
• Return TGV from Paris or Lille to Nice<br />
• Welcome drink at our hotel<br />
• Five nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in Diano Marina<br />
• A traditional Italian Christmas Eve<br />
candlelit dinner and Christmas lunch<br />
• Hot chocolate and panettone on<br />
Christmas Eve after midnight mass<br />
• Wine tasting at our hotel and a live<br />
music evening<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Walking tour of Diano Marina and<br />
the medieval village of Cervo<br />
• Visit to Monaco, Monte Carlo<br />
and Menton<br />
Optional excursion available:<br />
• San Remo and the hilltop village<br />
of Dolceacqua........................................... £30<br />
6DAYS<br />
NOW FROM<br />
£699<br />
Day 1: London – Diano Marina<br />
We journey aboard Eurostar from London to<br />
Paris or Lille and continue by TGV to Nice. From<br />
here we travel by coach to Diano Marina, where<br />
we check in at our hotel and unwind with a<br />
welcome drink.<br />
Day 2: Diano Marina & Cervo<br />
Today is free for you to spend at leisure in our<br />
pretty <strong>res</strong>ort, which is surrounded by hills and<br />
coastline. You can relax in our hotel and enjoy<br />
the facilities, head to the fine sandy beach, or<br />
venture into the old town to browse the shops<br />
and sample local delicacies. There’s also an<br />
11th-century castle where traces of the town’s<br />
ancient past can be found. If you want to explore<br />
further afield, you can join our Tour Manager for<br />
a pleasant walk to the medieval village of Cervo.<br />
Day 3: Christmas Eve in Diano Marina<br />
Relax in our <strong>res</strong>ort or join our optional excursion<br />
visiting Dolceacqua and San Remo. The hilltop<br />
village of Dolceacqua enjoys a picture perfect<br />
setting, with the Nervia river running through<br />
its heart and the spectacular medieval bridge<br />
connecting it. San Remo is Italy’s answer to the<br />
French <strong>res</strong>ort of Monte Carlo, where you can<br />
explore the atmospheric old town and the port<br />
filled with luxurious yachts. This evening we<br />
enjoy a traditional Italian Christmas dinner by<br />
Diano Marina<br />
Monte Carlo<br />
candlelight at our hotel and our Tour Manager<br />
will walk to the local church for anyone wanting<br />
to attend midnight mass, fol<strong>low</strong>ed by hot<br />
chocolate with panettone on our return.<br />
Day 4: Christmas Day in Diano Marina<br />
Merry Christmas! Relax in <strong>res</strong>ort and enjoy a<br />
traditional Italian Christmas lunch at our hotel.<br />
Day 5: Boxing Day in Monaco, Monte Carlo<br />
& Menton<br />
Today you can explore the French Riviera on<br />
our included excursion by coach. First we visit<br />
Monaco, which overlooks a glorious stretch of<br />
the Mediterranean coast, and enjoy free time in<br />
the popular area of Monte Carlo. Our final stop<br />
is Menton, a sleepy coastal town filled with little<br />
alleyways, pastel coloured villas and lush gardens<br />
that cascade towards the sea.<br />
Day 6: Diano Marina – London<br />
We retrace our route to the Eurostar and return<br />
to London.<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REXIR06<br />
22 December 2017........................NOW £699<br />
Single room supplement................from £75<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Hotel Palace, Diano Marina<br />
This 3 star hotel is perfectly located in front of<br />
a sandy beach with the old town and the<br />
shopping centre easily reached along the<br />
seaside promenade. All of the bedrooms are<br />
well furnished and equipped with air<br />
conditioning, satellite TV, balcony, safe,<br />
hairdryer, magnifying mirror, telephone and<br />
Wi-Fi. You can enjoy delicious meals and sea<br />
views in the <strong>res</strong>taurant and there is also a<br />
wellness room with a sauna and Jacuzzi, and a<br />
rooftop terrace where you can admire the<br />
views across the bay.<br />
Hotel Palace<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
17
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Lille<br />
• Return TGV from Lille<br />
• Five nights’ bed and breakfast in<br />
St Raphaël<br />
• Dinner on one night plus a<br />
Christmas Day lunch<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Visit to St Tropez<br />
• Visit to Aix-en-Provence<br />
Optional excursion available:<br />
• Visit to Monaco and Monte Carlo... £30<br />
Monte Carlo<br />
Christmas on the French Riviera<br />
including St Tropez & Aix-en-Provence<br />
6DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£749<br />
Do something different this year and celebrate the festive season on the Côte d’Azur,<br />
where you can enjoy the near-tropical climate, the impossibly blue sea and – most<br />
importantly – the time to switch off and relax. The charming <strong>res</strong>ort of St Raphaël is our<br />
base, and for good reason, as there is a little harbour to explore, beaches to stroll along,<br />
a coastal footpath leading to a volcanic mountain range, an exceptional choice of leisure<br />
activities, and a colourful old town where you can savour the Mediterranean way of life.<br />
Day 1: London – St Raphaël<br />
We journey aboard Eurostar from London to Lille<br />
and continue by rail to St Raphaël, our coastal<br />
retreat for the next five nights.<br />
to visit at this festive time, with grand squa<strong>res</strong>,<br />
tree-lined boulevards, hundreds of fountains and<br />
an eclectic mix of architectural styles.<br />
Day 4: Christmas Day in St Raphaël<br />
Merry Christmas! Enjoy a relaxing morning and<br />
maybe take a stroll along the promenade to<br />
admire the sweeping views of the Mediterranean.<br />
You can then indulge in a Christmas Day lunch<br />
and spend the <strong>res</strong>t of the day at leisure.<br />
Day 5: Boxing Day in St Raphaël – optional<br />
Monaco<br />
Boxing Day is spent relaxing in St Raphaël and<br />
enjoying the wonderful festive atmosphere of<br />
the French Riviera or you can join our optional<br />
rail excursion to the principality of Monaco,<br />
which is renowned for its magnificent harbour,<br />
luxury yachts, casino and grand prix circuit. Later<br />
this evening we enjoy a farewell dinner at our<br />
hotel.<br />
Day 6: St Raphaël – London<br />
We travel by TGV from St Raphaël to Lille to<br />
connect with our Eurostar train to London.<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REXFR06<br />
22 December 2017.......................................£749<br />
Single room supplement..............from £145<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Best Western Plus Hotel La Marina<br />
The Best Western Plus Hotel La Marina is<br />
located in Saint Raphael, nestled on the<br />
waterfront of the French Riviera. It is ideally<br />
situated on the Santa Lucia harbour of Saint<br />
Raphael overlooking the beautiful<br />
Mediterranean Sea. Each well-appointed, newly<br />
renovated room at the modern Best Western<br />
Plus Hotel La Marina featu<strong>res</strong> cable satellite TV,<br />
refrigerator, coffee/tea maker and hairdryer.<br />
Other hotel amenities include a fitness club,<br />
outdoor swimming pool with poolside dining,<br />
sauna and Wellness Centre.<br />
Best Western Plus Hotel La Marina<br />
St Raphaël<br />
Day 2: St Raphaël – St Tropez<br />
Enjoy a leisurely morning in St Raphaël and in the<br />
afternoon you can join our included excursion<br />
to St Tropez. This jet-set destination with its<br />
miles of golden beaches was put on the map<br />
by Brigitte Bardot in the 1950s, yet it still retains<br />
much of its rustic fishing village charm. We return<br />
to St Raphaël where you can choose one of the<br />
many enticing <strong>res</strong>taurants for your evening meal<br />
(not included).<br />
Day 3: Christmas Eve in Aix-en-Provence<br />
Today we travel to Aix-en-Provence, which is<br />
filled with noble heritage having been the home<br />
of the Counts of Provence. It’s a wonderful place<br />
Aix-en-Provence<br />
18 To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk
Christmas or New Year<br />
Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s Magic<br />
Spend this Christmas or New Year in the heart of the Swiss Alps and enjoy a world full<br />
of festive magic. Surrounded by the magnificent peaks of the Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch<br />
mountains, we enjoy a cruise on Lake Thun, a horse and carriage ride through our beautiful<br />
<strong>res</strong>ort of Interlaken and a trip on the legendary Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s. It’s a festive holiday you’ll<br />
never forget.<br />
CHRISTMAS ITINERARY<br />
Day 1: London – Interlaken<br />
We journey from London to Paris by Eurostar<br />
and join the high-speed trains to Strasbourg<br />
where we change for Interlaken. Our hotel is<br />
within walking distance from the station where<br />
we check in and enjoy a relaxing evening.<br />
Day 2: Christmas Eve in Bern & Lake Thun<br />
Cruise<br />
Today we visit the beautiful capital of<br />
Switzerland, which enchants visitors with its high<br />
quality lifestyle and unique atmosphere. Next,<br />
we take the train to Thun for a cruise on Lake<br />
Lake Thun<br />
Thun. This is a wonderful way to enjoy the winter<br />
scenery as we make our way back to Interlaken<br />
for a traditional Swiss Christmas Eve dinner,<br />
fol<strong>low</strong>ed by d<strong>res</strong>sing the Christmas tree and<br />
mulled wine.<br />
Day 3: Christmas Day in Interlaken<br />
Merry Christmas! Horse-drawn carriages are a<br />
special feature of Interlaken, so we have included<br />
a ride along the famous Höhematte to the old<br />
Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
town centre. We return to our hotel around<br />
midday and enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch,<br />
before spending the <strong>res</strong>t of the day at leisure.<br />
Day 4: Boxing Day on the Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
Enjoy a world of winter mountain scenery as we<br />
travel from Chur to Brig aboard the legendary<br />
Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s. This amazing railway journey<br />
takes us through the alpine heart of Switzerland,<br />
passing through tunnels and across bridges.<br />
You will want to keep your camera at the ready<br />
throughout our journey to capture this stunning<br />
winter landscape. This is the perfect way to<br />
spend Boxing Day.<br />
Day 5: Lucerne & Mount Rigi<br />
We join the GoldenPass Line to visit the<br />
pictu<strong>res</strong>que city of Lucerne. After a couple of<br />
hours to enjoy the sights, we take a boat trip on<br />
Lake Lucerne and then join the cogwheel railway<br />
up Mount Rigi.<br />
Day 6: Interlaken – London<br />
We check out of our hotel and travel by rail to<br />
Lille, where we meet Eurostar for the return<br />
to London.<br />
NEW YEAR ITINERARY<br />
Our New Year itinerary includes similar<br />
excursions just in a slightly different order.<br />
Days 1 & 2: As per the Christmas itinerary.<br />
Day 3: We visit Lucerne and take the<br />
cogwheel railway up Mount Rigi.<br />
Day 4 New Year’s Eve: We enjoy our trip on<br />
the Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s fol<strong>low</strong>ed by a delicious<br />
seven course gala dinner at our hotel.<br />
Day 5 New Year’s Day: Today is spent in<br />
Interlaken. Enjoy an open air concert and a<br />
fireworks display instead of the horse and<br />
carriage ride.<br />
Day 6: As per the Christmas itinerary.<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Eurostar from London to Paris and<br />
Lille to London<br />
• Connecting rail journeys to Interlaken<br />
• Five nights’ bed and breakfast in<br />
Interlaken<br />
• Welcome drink at the hotel<br />
• Traditional Swiss Christmas Eve<br />
dinner and d<strong>res</strong>sing of the Christmas<br />
tree (Christmas itinerary only)<br />
• Traditional Christmas Day lunch or a<br />
New Year’s Eve gala dinner<br />
• New Year’s Day concert and fireworks<br />
in Interlaken (New Year itinerary only)<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Visit to the Swiss capital of Bern<br />
• Cruise on Lake Thun and<br />
Lake Lucerne<br />
• Horse and carriage ride in Interlaken<br />
(Christmas itinerary only)<br />
• Free time in Interlaken<br />
• Journey on the Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s from<br />
Chur to Brig<br />
• Visit to Lucerne<br />
• Cogwheel railway trip up Mount Rigi<br />
6DAYS<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Christmas Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s Magic<br />
Tour code: REGXX06<br />
23 December 2017................................................£1079<br />
Single room supplement.........................from £160<br />
New Year Glacier Exp<strong>res</strong>s Magic<br />
Tour code: REGXN06<br />
28 December 2017................................................£1079<br />
Single room supplement.........................from £160<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Hotel Carlton Europe, Interlaken<br />
This 3 star hotel is located on the famous high<br />
street, the Höheweg, which is an ideal position<br />
close to the railway station and within easy<br />
walking distance of the town. All the en suite<br />
bedrooms are uniquely furnished and include<br />
radio, TV, telephone, hairdryer and<br />
complimentary tea and coffee facilities. Three<br />
<strong>res</strong>taurants are on site and you can relax in the<br />
bar and lounge area.<br />
Hotel Carlton Euope, Interlaken<br />
FROM<br />
£1079<br />
To book call us on 01858 438 328 and quote <strong>R617</strong> or visit us at www.arenarailholidays.co.uk<br />
19
2017<br />
FEATURING CLASSIC RAIL TOURS | RESORT-BASED EXPLORERS | SHORT BREAKS | LAKES & MOUNTAINS<br />
Little Trains of the Pyrenees<br />
Day 1: London – Roses<br />
We journey aboard Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
and continue by rail to Perpignan where we are<br />
transferred to the unspoilt town of Roses on the<br />
Costa Brava, our base for the next seven nights.<br />
Day 2: Roses Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
Enjoy a morning at leisure and relax in our hotel,<br />
take a stroll around the old town of Roses, or<br />
head to the wide, sandy beach. In the afternoon<br />
we head towards the citadel on the seafront<br />
where we join the Roses Exp<strong>res</strong>s. This delightful<br />
little road train is pulled by an ornate tractor and<br />
climbs into the hills of the Cap de Creus national<br />
park to give you spectacular views across Roses.<br />
Day 3: The Yel<strong>low</strong> Train of the Pyrenees<br />
Today we spend the day in France and the<br />
French Pyrenees on our included excursion. Our<br />
first stop is the medieval walled city of Thuir,<br />
which nestles at the foot of the Pyrenees and is<br />
surrounded by vineyards. Here we taste some<br />
local wine before travelling to Villefranche to join<br />
the Yel<strong>low</strong> Train for an unforgettable journey<br />
through the Pyrenees. Sit back and relax as the<br />
line winds its way up the Tet valley, through<br />
fo<strong>res</strong>ts and tunnels and across ravines and<br />
viaducts. We alight from the train at the small<br />
mountain village of Font Romeu and return to<br />
our hotel by coach.<br />
Day 4: Roses<br />
Do as much or as little as you choose with a day<br />
at leisure in Roses.<br />
The Yel<strong>low</strong> Train of the Pyrenees<br />
The Pyrenees mountain range is a special realm which remains largely unexplored<br />
compared to its alpine counterpart and totally unspoilt. The little trains that traverse these<br />
jagged peaks, with their brightly coloured carriages and panoramic windows, are a fantastic<br />
way to get around and we include three of the best on this unique railway break.<br />
Day 5: Núria Valley Railway of the Pyrenees<br />
Today’s journey is in Spain on the Núria Valley<br />
Rack Railway, which is twinned with the Jungfrau<br />
Rack Railway in Switzerland. It’s the only means<br />
of transport that accesses the valley, so you are<br />
guaranteed breathtaking views of mountains and<br />
meadows as we climb more than 1,000 met<strong>res</strong>,<br />
and with the help of a local guide we can learn<br />
more about this remote region.<br />
Day 6: The Red Train of the Pyrenees<br />
Enjoy another day in the French Pyrenees in<br />
the company of a local guide. This time we join<br />
the Train du pays Cathere et du Fenouillèdes<br />
(affectionately called the Red Train), which passes<br />
through a land of vineyards and castles as it<br />
s<strong>low</strong>ly climbs over an imp<strong>res</strong>sive 60 kilomet<strong>res</strong><br />
from Rivesalets to Axat. We enjoy some free<br />
time in the pretty town of Axat, high in the Aude<br />
valley, before returning to our hotel by coach.<br />
Day 7: Figue<strong>res</strong> & Dalí Museum<br />
This morning our excursion is to the Catalan<br />
town of Figue<strong>res</strong>. A mix of architectural styles<br />
can be found in the old town along with various<br />
cultural attractions, the most popular being<br />
the Dalí Museum which we include entry to.<br />
This amazing building is dedicated to the town’s<br />
most famous son, Salvador Dalí, and is highly<br />
recommended for anyone visiting northern Spain.<br />
Day 8: Roses – London<br />
We leave the Spanish coast behind and retrace<br />
our route to Paris, where we join Eurostar for the<br />
return to London.<br />
YOU R HOLIDAY<br />
INCLUDES<br />
• Return Eurostar from London to Paris<br />
• Return TGV from Paris to Perpignan<br />
• Connecting rail/coach journeys<br />
• Seven nights’ half board<br />
accommodation in Roses<br />
• Wine served with dinner<br />
• Services of our Tour Manager<br />
Plus the fol<strong>low</strong>ing excursions:<br />
• Journey on the Roses Exp<strong>res</strong>s<br />
• Visit to Thuir with wine tasting<br />
• Journey on the Yel<strong>low</strong> Train in the<br />
Pyrenees<br />
• Journey on the Núria Valley Railway<br />
• Journey on the Red Train in the<br />
Pyrenees<br />
• Visit to Figue<strong>res</strong> and entrance to the<br />
Dalí Museum<br />
8DAYS<br />
FROM<br />
£759<br />
DATES & PRICES<br />
Tour code: REPYR08<br />
27 August 2017......................................................... £859<br />
15 & 19 September 2017.......................................£849<br />
2 October 2017........................................................ £769<br />
9 October 2017........................................................£759<br />
Single room supplement.......................................£99<br />
Sea view room supplement...................from £88<br />
Travel Insurance<br />
Please call for details<br />
All prices shown are per person<br />
PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES<br />
Outward journey<br />
Departs St Pancras 08.31<br />
Arrives Perpignan 19.04<br />
Return journey<br />
Departs Perpignan 10.53<br />
Arrives St Pancras 19.39<br />
YOUR HOTEL<br />
Hotel Coral Platja Elit, Roses<br />
This 3 star colonial-style hotel is located on the<br />
seafront a short walk from the centre of Roses.<br />
All of the bedrooms have a warm<br />
Mediterranean decor and modern amenities<br />
including an en suite, hairdryer, mini fridge, TV,<br />
safe, air conditioning and a balcony. The hotel<br />
has a swimming pool, <strong>res</strong>taurant and a terrace<br />
with a sea view.<br />
TO BOOK CALL<br />
01858 438 328<br />
and quote <strong>R617</strong><br />
REGISTER<br />
NOW FOR<br />
OUR 2018<br />
BROCHURE<br />
DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF EUROPE<br />
GLORIOUS<br />
HOLIDAYS<br />
BY RAIL<br />
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing. Reservations are subject to availability and our booking conditions which are available on request or online at<br />
www.arenarailholidays.co.uk. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other unless otherwise stated and are subject to availability. All prices are correct at<br />
the time of going to print. If you no longer wish to receive information of this nature via post or email please call the number above stating your preferences.<br />
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