02.06.2017 Views

DR R617 20pp A4 Arena low res

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

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 />

PB0401

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!