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FESTIVE BREAKS

2021

UK BREAKS | EUROPEAN TOURS BY RAIL

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 1 26/08/2021 15:10:06


UK PRE-CHRISTMAS BREAKS &

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS

Festive Delights of Chatsworth

& Ecclesbourne Valley Railway

4-5

Festive Delights & Historic Homes of Kent NEW

6

Festive Delights and Historic Homes of Yorkshire NEW 7

Historic Homes of Yorkshire for Christmas NEW

8

Stratford & a Shakespearean Christmas 9

EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKET

ESCAPES & CHRISTMAS BREAKS

Strasbourg and The Black Forest Christmas Markets 10

Transylvanian Christmas Markets 11

Glacier Express Christmas Magic 12

Festive Chateaux and Paris for Christmas 13

Christmas on the Italian Riviera 14-15

An Enchanting Christmas on Lake Bled 16-17

UK & EUROPEAN NEW YEAR FESTIVITIES

Stratford and a Shakespearean New Year 18

Festive Chateaux and Paris for New Year 19

New Year Glacier Express Magic 20-21

A New Year Celebration on Lake Bled 22-23

TWIXMAS

NEW

Magical Festive Country Homes of Yorkshire NEW 24

Paris

2 With our Price Guarantee, our holidays won’t be sold for less!

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We are proud to present to you our magical

range of festive breaks for 2021.

In this brochure you will find, not one, not two but five brand new itineraries for you to enjoy. Why not get yourself

geared up for the festivities with one of our new pre-Christmas breaks? Explore the beautiful peak district and be

dazzled by the decorations at the awe-inspiring Chatsworth house, experience York in all its festive glory in the

build up to Christmas, or simply relax and unwind in the tranquil setting of Kent.

Also included are our popular Christmas and New Year breaks with a chance to celebrate Christmas in the

warmer climes of Italy and there’s a New Year extravaganza in the Swiss Alps, where you can enjoy a magical ride

on the Glacier Express.

With so much to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find the perfect trip to treat yourself this festive season!

FLEXIBLE

BOOKING

Secure your holiday with a deposit

and the option to transfer your

booking to another date for free*

*Terms and conditions apply

OUR PRICE

PROMISE

Your holiday will not be sold for

less, furthermore if the price of

your holiday does increase, you

will not be asked to pay more

once you have booked!*

COVID

CANCELLATION

PROTECTION

insurance now available when

you book with us.

YOUR SAFETY

& WELLBEING

is our utmost priority – we’ll be

introducing stringent hygiene

and safety measures to help

keep you safe on holiday.

PEACE OF MIND

with our expert teams here in

the UK you’re in the best hands

members of ABTA and holders of

an ATOL license, all of our holidays

are financially bonded

To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.com

3

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DELIGHT IN A

FESTIVE DERBYSHIRE

Festive Delights of Chatsworth

& Ecclesbourne Valley Railway

NEW

Experience Derbyshire’s most exquisite historic homes in all their festive glory on this magical rail holiday.

Explore Hardwick Hall, Bolsover Castle and Chatsworth House and enjoy a ride on board the Ecclesbourne

Valley Railway with cream tea.

Photo credit: Chatsworth House Trust & DPC Photography

4 With our Price Guarantee, our holidays won’t be sold for less!

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 4 26/08/2021 15:10:17


YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Three nights’ half board

accommodation including a glass of

wine or beer each evening

• Coach transfers for our excursions

• Light lunch at Chatsworth House

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

YOUR RAIL JOURNEY

• A journey on the Ecclesbourne Valley

Railway with cream tea

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Entrance to Hardwick Hall & Gardens

• Discover the beautiful Bolsover Castle

• Experience the festive displays at

Chatsworth House and gardens

UK FESTIVE ESCAPES

4DAYS

FROM

£525

Day 1: North Derbyshire

Make your own way to our hotel in North

Derbyshire where you meet our Tour Manager

and enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner.

Day 2: Hardwick & Ecclesbourne Valley

Railway

After a leisurely breakfast we board the coach

to Hardwick. This was the Home of Elizabeth,

Countess of Shrewsbury, better known as Bess

of Hardwick. There is plenty of time to explore

Hardwick Hall and grounds before we head

away to Wirksworth for a return journey on the

Ecclesbourne valley railway. It’s time to sit back

and relax on board the train, as you are served a

cream tea along the way.

Day 3: Bolsover Castle & Chatsworth House

We will enjoy breakfast before boarding our

coach for a morning visit to Bolsover Castle.

On arrival, there’s time to explore the gardens,

grounds and Little Castle. Leaving Bolsover

Castle behind, we carry onto Chatsworth House.

Ecclesbourne Valley Railway

On arrival you will be given a light lunch voucher

to use at leisure, before you explore the grounds

and gardens. After which you head into the

stunning house itself.

Every festive season Chatsworth House never

fails to impress with it’s wonderful Christmas

display. It is mesmerising to walk through

beautifully decorated rooms, each one, a sight

to behold. You truly feel the magic of Christmas

at Chatsworth! We return to our hotel for dinner

this evening.

Day 4: Home

After breakfast, you’re free to check out of the

hotel and make your way home at leisure.

Please note: We cannot guarantee that all

our rail journeys will be steam hauled and the

running order of your itinerary may change

depending on availability. The final itinerary will

be confirmed in your final Travel Documents.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REUDDX04

26 November 2021 ..............................................£525

Single room supplement .............................£105

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

HOTEL CHECK-IN TIMES

Make your own way to and from hotel

Check in from 15.00

Check out 10.00

YOUR HOTEL

Breadsall Priory Marriott Hotel & Country

Club

Bordered by the natural beauty of the Peak

District National Park, the hotel benefits from

a gym with heated indoor pool, two golf

courses and a relaxing spa. All rooms feature

an en suite bathroom, tea & coffee making

facilities, a TV, complimentary Wi-Fi and safe.

There are two fantastic restaurants to choose

from; offering fresh, locally sourced best of

British dishes. Please note there is no lift at this

hotel.

Breadsall Priory

raphy

Bolsover Castle

Hardwick

To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.com

5

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EXPERIENCE A

FESTIVE KENT

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Three nights’ half board

accommodation at the four-star Deans

Place Country Hotel & Restaurant

• A drink with each evening meal

• Coach transfers for our excursions

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

YOUR RAIL JOURNEY

• A journey on the Kent & East Sussex

Railway, in a First-Class class open plan

carriage, with warming soup & roll,

a mulled wine, mince pie & juice

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• A private guided tour & seasonal

refreshments at Penshurst Place &

Gardens

• Visit enchanting Hever Castle, with the

story of Pinocchio incorporated into the

grounds

• Visit Scotney Castle- a Victorian

Christmas is the theme this year

Hever Castle

4DAYS

FROM

£525

Festive Delights and

Historic Homes of Kent

Enjoy a journey back in time on this festive break with a twist, as we enjoy visits to the

seasonally decorated Penhurst Place, Scotney Castle and Hever Castle. A first-class journey

on board the Kent & East Sussex railway, with festive treats included is also the perfect

addition to this magical break.

Day 1: Alfriston, South Downs National Park

Make your own way to our hotel in the South

Downs National Park where you will meet our

Tour Manager. Enjoy a relaxing evening with

dinner served in the hotel’s restaurant.

Day 2: Kent & East Sussex Railway and

Penshurst Place

After breakfast, we travel to Penshurst Place

for our private guided tour of this beautiful

property. Our tour concludes in the medieval

Baron’s Hall for seasonal refreshments, such as

Mince pies and Mulled wine. We continue by

coach to Tenterden for the Kent & East Sussex

Railway. On arrival to the station, we enjoy a

warming hot soup with a roll inside, before

heading out onto the platform to enjoy Carol

singing along with a warm cup of mulled wine.

After which we board the train, for a return

journey in a First-Class open plan carriage.

During the journey we enjoy a mince pie and

a soft drink, before arriving back at Tenterden

station.

NEW

Day 3: Scotney Castle and Hever Castle

After breakfast we head into the Kent

countryside for a visit to Scotney castle. Scotney

Castle is made up of two properties. A Victorian

Mansion, and the ruins of a medieval Castle,

surrounded by a moat. Explore the Victorian

Christmas inside the house, where the ground

floor is dressed with fragrant trees and twinkling

candles. Stroll through the grounds to admire

the views of the Moated Castle ruins. After a

leisurely visit to Scotney Castle, we continue

onto Hever Castle, a romantic 13th Century

moated castle, and childhood home of Anne

Boleyn. During the festive period Hever Castle

is adorned with trees and lights, inside and

out, this year’s Christmas theme is the story of

Pinocchio and will be incorporated around the

grounds. As dusk falls, watch as the castle and

trees are glowing with decorated lights.

Day 4: Home

After a leisurely breakfast, it is time for you to

check-out and make your way home.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REUHKX04

9 December 2021 .................................................£525

Single room supplement .............................£105

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

HOTEL CHECK-IN TIMES

Make your own way to and from hotel

Check in from 15.00

Check out 10.00

YOUR HOTEL

Deans Place Country Hotel & Restaurant

The four-star Deans Place Country Hotel &

Restaurant is set on the banks of the

Cuckmere River at the foot of the South

Downs National Park. Set in four acres of

fabulous gardens, the hotel has just 36

bedrooms, free WIFI, a public bar, guest

lounges plus a locally renowned, award

winning dining room. Bedrooms are

comfortably furnished and have flat screen TV

and tea & coffee making facilities. Car parking

is complimentary at the hotel and the nearest

railway station is Berwick which is around a

10-minute ride in a taxi. Please note there is no

lift at the hotel.

Penshurst Place

Scotney Castle

Deans Place Country Hotel

6 To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.com

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 6 26/08/2021 15:11:41


DISCOVER THE FESTIVE MAGIC

OF YORKSHIRE

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Three nights’ half board accommodation

at the four-star Parsonage Hotel & Spa

in Yorkshire

• A drink with each evening meal

• Light lunch vouchers on days two & three

• Coach transfers for our excursions

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Introductory guided tour of York

• Entrance to the magnificent

Castle Howard

• Visit to Harewood House

• Enjoy free time at the National Railway

Museum in York

UK FESTIVE ESCAPES

4DAYS

FROM

£495

Festive Delights and NEW

Historic Homes of Yorkshire

Embark on festive adventure and discover the historic homes and seasonally decorated

streets of Yorkshire and York on this four-day holiday.

Day 1: York

Make your own way to our hotel and enjoy a

relaxing evening with dinner and a drink.

Day 2: York & Harewood House

After breakfast we will head into the centre of

York and embark on an introductory walking

tour of York with a local guide. There’s time to

enjoy a cup of tea or coffee at leisure at one

of the many cafés in York, before we board

our coach and travel to Harewood House.

At Harewood this festive season, visitors will

experience ‘Upon A Christmas Wish’ created

by Lord Whitney. You will be immersed into the

Christmas story through beautifully decorated

festive rooms. We include a light lunch here

before we return to the hotel.

Harewood House

Day 3: National Railway Museum & Castle

Howard

After breakfast at the hotel, we travel by coach

into York where we visit the National Railway

Museum. After free time here to explore at

leisure, we make our way to Castle Howard.

Castle Howard at Christmas time offers a truly

magical experience, with magnificent and

beautiful decorations used to transform the

House for the Festive Season. We include a light

lunch here before we return to the hotel.

Day 4: Home

After a leisurely breakfast it is time for you to

check-out and make your way home.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REUYHX04

22 November 2021.............................................. £495

29 November 2021 ............................................. £495

Single room supplement .............................£105

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

HOTEL CHECK-IN TIMES

Make your own way to and from hotel

Check in from 15.00

Check out 10.00

YOUR HOTEL

The Parsonage Hotel & Spa

The four-star Parsonage Hotel & Spa is situated

in six beautiful acres of gardens and woodland

and is just a 15-minute drive from the historic

city of York. The hotel features Lascelles

restaurant where we will enjoy dinner, and also

owns The Fat Abbot gastro pub where you can

enjoy a drink during your time at leisure. As

well as the tranquil gardens, you will find the

Cloisters Spa available for relaxation. There’s a

swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room,

salt room and gym. The 62 bedrooms have

everything you could need during you stay,

including en-suite facilities with amenities, a

hairdryer, flatscreen TV, radio, free Wi-Fi and

tea & coffee making facilities.

The Parsonage Hotel & Spa

Castle Howard

York

Find us on Facebook

arenarailholidays

7

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A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS

IN YORKSHIRE AWAITS

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Four nights’ half board accommodation

at the four-star Parsonage Hotel & Spa

in Yorkshire

• Cream tea at hotel on arrival and a

drink with dinner

• Christmas Eve Carol singing with

mulled wine and mince pies

• Christmas Day Bucks fizz served

with breakfast

• Christmas Day lunch with welcome

drink

• Christmas Cake & evening Mini Buffet

on Christmas Day

• Boxing day Light Lunch at Castle

Howard

• Arrival Drink with Boxing Day Evening

Meal

• Coach transfers for our excursions

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Christmas Eve Entrance to Harewood

House, with an included Festive

Afternoon Tea

• Boxing Day Entrance to Castle Howard,

with an included light lunch

Historic Homes of

Yorkshire for Christmas

Explore two of Yorkshire’s most famous historic homes on this relaxing festive break. Roam

the seasonally decorated rooms at Harewood house before indulging in a festive afternoon

tea – the perfect treat. We will also visit Castle Howard, home of the Howard family for over

300 years. A divine Christmas dinner and a few festive treats also included make this the

perfect festive break.

Day 1: Yorkshire

Make your own way to the four-star Parsonage

Hotel & Spa in Yorkshire, where you will meet

our Tour Manager. Make sure to check in

between 14.30 and 16.00 to enjoy a Cream Tea

on arrival. Enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner

and a drink served in the hotel’s restaurant.

Day 2: Christmas Eve - Harewood House with

festive afternoon Tea

After a leisurely breakfast, we head to Harewood

House. At Harewood this Festive season,

visitors will experience ‘Upon A Christmas

Wish’ created by Lord Whitney. You will be

immersed into the Christmas story, through the

beautifully decorated rooms. After exploring

the delightfully adorned house, we head to

the Billiard Room, for our Festive Afternoon

Tea; wherever possible using produce from

the Harewood house walled Garden and

surrounding Harewood Estate - a delight for the

taste buds. Relax back at the hotel with some

Mulled wine and mince pies, as we listen to

Christmas Carols performed by a local village

singing group.

Day 3: Merry Christmas!

The big day is finally here, so let us start the day

with a glass of Bucks fizz with breakfast. After

breakfast why not take a stroll in the local area

or perhaps go for a Christmas Day swim in the

hotel pool. An arrival drink awaits you as you sit

down to your Christmas day lunch. Afterwards,

relax in the lounge, where you’ll be treated to

Castle Howard

NEW

some Christmas cake as you watch the Queens

speech on TV. This evening, we enjoy a Mini

Buffet; the perfect ending to our relaxing

Christmas Day.

Day 4: Boxing Day, Castle Howard

After a leisurely breakfast at the Hotel, we

head to Castle Howard. Set in the heart of

the Howardian Hills it is one of Britain’s finest

historic homes. Each year Castle Howard

is transformed for the festive season, with

magnificent and beautiful decorations, making

for a truly magical experience. We include a light

lunch here, leaving plenty of time to explore

Castle Howard and the beautiful grounds at

leisure, before we return to the Hotel. This

evening we enjoy an included arrival drink as

we make our way to the restaurant for our final

evening meal.

Day 5: Home

After a leisurely breakfast it’s time for you to

check-out and make your way home. Why not

take the short trip to York to explore the city

further or visit the National Railway Museum?

Harewood House

5

DAYS

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REUYXX05

23 December 2021 ............................................. £769

Single room supplement .............................£130

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

HOTEL CHECK-IN TIMES

Make your own way to and from hotel

Check in from 15.00

Check out 10.00

YOUR HOTEL

FROM

£769

The Parsonage Hotel & Spa

The four-star Parsonage Hotel & Spa is situated

in six beautiful acres of gardens and woodland

and is just a 15-minute drive from the historic

city of York. The hotel features Lascelles

restaurant where we will enjoy dinner, and also

owns The Fat Abbot gastro pub where you can

enjoy a drink during your time at leisure. As

well as the tranquil gardens, you will find the

Cloisters Spa available for relaxation. There’s a

swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room,

salt room and gym. The 62 bedrooms have

everything you could need during you stay,

including en-suite facilities with amenities, a

hairdryer, flatscreen TV, radio, free Wi-Fi and

tea & coffee making facilities.

8 To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.com

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 8 26/08/2021 15:13:13


A UNIQUE THEATRICAL

CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Four nights’ half board accommodation

in Stratford including a traditional

Christmas lunch

• All meals and entertainment as detailed

• Coach transfers for our excursions

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

YOUR RAIL JOURNEY

• Steam train journey on the

Gloucestershire & Warwickshire

Railway

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Shakespeare experience guided tour

– visiting Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

and Shakespeare’s Birthplace

• Tickets to see The Magician’s Elephant

at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre

UK CHRISTMAS BREAKS

5

DAYS

FROM

£695

Stratford & a Shakespearean

Christmas

Join us this Christmas and immerse yourself in all things Shakespeare, as we discover the

playwright’s birthplace, visit the quaint cottage of Anne Hathaway, and take in a Christmas

Eve performance of The Magician’s Elephant at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Day 1: Stratford-upon-Avon

Make your own way to our hotel in Stratfordupon-Avon,

where you will enjoy dinner and a

relaxing evening.

Day 2: Christmas Eve: Shakespeare

Experience & Royal Shakespeare Theatre

This morning we will be joined by a local

guide who will accompany us to visit two

key properties in Shakespeare’s history. We

will travel to Anne Hathaway’s cottage and

Shakespeare’s Birthplace, a small cottage

amongst the high street of Stratford. We will

have some free time for lunch, before we head

to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre to watch

a matinee performance of The Magician’s

Elephant - a musical adapted from Kate

DiCamillo’s prize-winning novel.

Day 3: Christmas Day: Merry Christmas!

Today is yours to soak up the atmosphere and

Stratford-upon-Avon

the festivities in the hotel. At lunchtime, you will

be served a traditional Christmas lunch with all

the trimmings.

Day 4: Boxing Day: Gloucestershire &

Warwickshire Railway

Today we enjoy a one-way trip on the

Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway. The

train travels along part of the route of the

former Western Railway’s main line. We alight in

Broadway where you will have some free time.

Day 5: Home

After breakfast we say goodbye to our

Shakespearean setting and depart at leisure.

Please note: We cannot guarantee that all rail

journeys will be steam hauled. The running

order of the itinerary will be confirmed in your

final travel documents.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: RESTX05

23 December 2021 ............................................. £695

Single room supplement .............................£180

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

HOTEL CHECK-IN TIMES

Make your own way to and from hotel

Check in from 15.00

Check out 10.00

YOUR HOTEL

Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon

The four-star Crowne Plaza hotel is located in

the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. The

tastefully decorated, modern rooms all feature

flat screen televisions, a telephone, tea and

coffee making facilities. The hotel provides

complimentary Wi-Fi and features a riverside

restaurant and terrace lounge bar with lovely

river views, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a

drink after a busy day of exploring. You can

also take advantage of the hotel’s heated

indoor pool and fitness centre, which also

features a sauna.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway

Find us on Facebook

arenarailholidays

9

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 9 26/08/2021 15:14:58


LIGHT UP THE FESTIVE SEASON

WITH SPECTACULAR MARKETS

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Return Eurostar from London to Paris

• Return TGV from Paris to Strasbourg

• Coach transfers throughout

• Three nights’ half board

accommodation in the Black Forest

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Visit the giant advent calendar of

Gengenbach

• Venture to the Freiburg Christmas

Market’s

• Begin your festivities at the famous

Strasbourg Christmas Market

4DAYS

FROM

£459

Strasbourg & the Black Forest

Christmas Markets

Light up the festive season with spectacular markets, from the ‘capital of Christmas’ in

Strasbourg, to fairytale Freiburg with its medieval squares and narrow lanes, and a visit to

the quaint town of Gengenbach to see the famous advent calendar.

Day 1: London – Gengenbach

We journey aboard the Eurostar from London

to Paris and join the high-speed rail network

to Strasbourg. From here we meet our coach

and are taken to the Black Forest town of

Gengenbach. Take in the festive atmosphere

whilst you stroll around this romantic town.

Day 2: Black Forest Christmas Markets

Today we visit the Freiburg Christmas Market.

With its historic setting amongst the traditional

timbered houses, this is a Black Forest delight and

one of the most beautiful markets in Germany.

Gengenbach

Day 3: Strasbourg Christmas Market

Enjoy a full day in Strasbourg, just over the

border in the Alsace region of France. Many

stalls are spread across 12 locations in the city

centre, making this one of the largest Christmas

markets in Europe. It is also one of the oldest,

with the first market held in 1570.

Day 4: Black Forest – London

We check out of our hotel after breakfast and

retrace our route to Paris, where we join the

Eurostar for the return journey to London.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: RESBF04

2 December 2021 ................................................ £459

5 December 2021 ................................................ £459

Single room supplement ............................... £45

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London 09.24

Arrives Strasbourg 15.41

Return journey

Departs Strasbourg 12.19

Arrives London 17.18

YOUR HOTEL

Hotel Baren, Oberharmersbach,

Black Forest

This comfortable and traditional three star

hotel is centrally located in the Black Forest

town of Oberharmersbach. The hotel has a

restaurant serving regional specialities. After a

day of festivities you can enjoy a restful night

in one of the cosy bedrooms, which are

furnished with wooden furniture and have an

en suite and a TV with satellite channels.

Hotel Baren

Freiburg

Strasbourg

10 To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 10 26/08/2021 15:15:19


FESTIVE TREATS AND RAIL

JOURNEYS AWAIT ON THIS

MAGICAL BREAK

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Return flights from London to Bucharest

• Connecting rail and coach journeys

with luggage transfers

• Six nights half board accommodation

• Three-course lunch in Bran Castle

Tea House

• Services of a local guide & experienced

Tour Manager

YOUR RAIL JOURNEYS

• Train journey from Bucharest to

Sinaia and from Sibiu to Calimanesti

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Bucharest guided walking tour and

Christmas Markets

• Guided walking tour of Sinaia, Brasov,

Sibiu & Sighisoara

• Entrance to Peles Castle, Parliament

Palace, Cozia Monastery & more

• Entrance, guided tour and a threecourse

lunch at Bran Castle

EUROPEAN FESTIVE ESCAPES

7

DAYS

FROM

£1049

Transylvanian

Christmas Markets

Join us for a Christmas market experience like no other, as we travel deep into the heart of

Transylvania. On this festive break not only will you enjoy two spectacular, rail journeys but

you will also see some of Romania’s most famous sites.

Day 1: London - Bucharest

Today we fly to Bucharest where our local guide

will meet us at the airport and transfer us to

our hotel. We will then head out on a walking

tour of Bucharest followed by time to take in

the Christmas Markets. Tonight, we will enjoy

a welcome dinner accompanied by a folklore

performance at a historic restaurant within

Bucharest Old Town.

Day 2: Bucharest – Sinaia - Brasov

After breakfast we’ll journey by train from

Bucharest to the mountain resort of Sinaia

alighting at the Royal Train Station, which is

also a stop for the famous Orient Express.

We’ll explore Sinaia on foot with a guided tour

before visiting Peles Castle. This masterpiece

of German new-Renaissance architecture is

undoubtedly one of the most stunning castles

in Europe.

Day 3: Brasov – Bran Castle - Brasov

After breakfast we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour

of Brasov; known as the ‘Crown of Transylvania’.

Entrance is included to one of the city’s main

highlights; the Black Church. Our tour will also

include a stop by Rope Street, the narrowest

street in Europe, and conclude back at the

Council Square where the Brasov Christmas

Markets await us. After some free time to

explore the markets we’ll make our way to Bran

Castle, the setting for Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’.

Upon arrival we’ll enjoy a delicious three-course

lunch in Queen Marie’s Tea House before

experiencing a guided tour.

Brasov

Day 4: Brasov – Sighisoara - Sibiu

Today we’re heading for Sighisoara one of the

world’s only medieval fortresses which is still

inhabited. Founded by the Transylvanian Saxons

and listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, we’ll

take a guided walking tour starting at the Clock

Tower, which we have included entrance to.

We’ll then drive onto Sibiu, one of the largest

cities in Transylvania, where we’ll enjoy dinner

this evening.

Day 5: Sibiu – Sibiel - Sibiu

After breakfast we will experience the heart of

Sibiu on a guided walking tour through the Old

Town. At the end of the tour there will be some

free time to enjoy the Sibiu Christmas Markets.

This evening we’ll venture to the nearby village

of Sibiel where we will enjoy a traditional dinner,

served by the local people, accompanied by

homemade wine and brandy.

Day 6: Sibiu – Calimanesti – Bucharest

We’ll start the day at Sibiu train station where

we will take a train journey from Sibiu along the

scenic route to Calimanesti. Upon arrival we

will visit the Cozia Monastery. Continuing our

journey we will head to Bucharest, where we will

enjoy a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

Day 7: Bucharest - London

After breakfast we include one final visit to

Parliament Palace, before our tour comes to

an end. We will then be transferred by coach

to Bucharest Airport for our return flight to

London.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: RETCM07

4 December 2021 ..............................................£1049

Single room supplement from ...............£200

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL FLIGHT TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London Heathrow 10.00

Arrives Bucharest 15.20

Return journey

Departs Bucharest 15.55

Arrives London Heathrow 17.25

YOUR HOTELS

Hotel Union Plaza, Bucharest or similar

The four star Hotel Union Plaza features a

restaurant and Sky Bar, offering stunning

views of the city. All 96 en suite bedrooms

feature a modern design and include

air-conditioning, Wi-Fi and TV.

Hotel Continental Forum, Sibiu or similar

The four star hotel dates back to 1912 but

boasts modern interiors, a restaurant, café and

a bar. You’ll find 134 bedrooms all complete

with en-suite bathroom, hairdryer and a

bathrobe and slippers, TV, desk, Wi-Fi and

air-conditioning.

Hotel Kronwell, Brasov or similar

The four star Hotel Kronwell features a stylish à

la carte restaurant, state-of-the art facilities

including an indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. All

rooms are en-suite with air conditioning and

are tastefully furnished.

Bucharest

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11

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A CHRISTMAS YOU’LL

NEVER FORGET

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Eurostar from London to Paris and

Lille to London

• Connecting rail journeys to Interlaken

• Five nights’ half board accommodation

in Interlaken

• A local tradition - Swiss Christmas Eve

dinner and the dressing of the

Christmas tree

• A special Christmas Day dinner

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

YOUR RAIL JOURNEYS

• Journey on the Glacier Express from

Chur to Brig

• Take a Cogwheel rail trip to the top

of Mount Rigi

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Visit to the Swiss capital of Bern

• Cruise on the beautiful Lake Thun and

Lake Lucerne

• Enjoy a horse and carriage ride in

Interlaken

• Visit the compact city of Lucerne

Glacier Express

Christmas Magic

Spend this Christmas in the heart of the Swiss Alps and enjoy a world full of festive magic as

we step aboard the legendary Glacier Express for one of the most exhilarating rail journeys

in the world.

Day 1: London – Interlaken

We journey from London to Paris by Eurostar

and join the high-speed trains to Strasbourg

where we change for Interlaken. Our hotel is

within walking distance from the station where

we check in and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Day 2: Christmas Eve in Bern and

Lake Thun Cruise

Today we visit the beautiful capital of

Switzerland, Bern. Must-see sights include the

ornate clock tower, the gothic cathedral which

rises above the old town and the rose garden,

where you can enjoy panoramic views. Next,

we take the train to Thun for a cruise on Lake

Thun. Enjoy the winter scenery as we make our

way back to Interlaken for a traditional Swiss

Christmas Eve dinner, followed by dressing the

Christmas tree and mulled wine.

Day 3: Christmas Day in Interlaken

Merry Christmas! Horse-drawn carriages are

a special feature of Interlaken, so we have

included a ride along the famous Höhematte to

the old town centre, where we take in the most

popular sights before returning to our hotel to

enjoy a special Christmas dinner.

Day 4: Boxing Day on the Glacier Express

Enjoy a world of winter mountain scenery as we

travel from Chur to Brig aboard the legendary

Glacier Express. You will want to keep your

camera at the ready throughout our journey to

capture this stunning winter landscape of frosty

mountain forests and glittering alpine meadows

blanketed in freshly fallen snow. This is the

perfect way to spend Boxing Day.

Lucerne

Day 5: Lucerne and Mount Rigi

We join the GoldenPass Line to visit the

picturesque city of Lucerne. After a couple of

hours to enjoy the sights, we take a boat trip

on Lake Lucerne and then join the cogwheel

railway up Mount Rigi, which offers breathtaking

views across the Alps with Lake Lucerne below.

Day 6: Interlaken – London

We check out of our hotel and travel by rail to

Lille, where we meet Eurostar for the return to

London.

Glacier Express

6DAYS

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REGXX06

23 December 2021 ........................................... £1595

Single room supplement ............................£300

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London 08.31

Arrives Interlaken 20.28

Return journey

Departs Interlaken 09.00

Arrives London 20.39

YOUR HOTEL

FROM

£1595

Hotel Carlton Europe, Interlaken

This three star superior hotel is located on the

famous high street, the Höheweg, which is an

ideal position close to the railway station and

within easy walking distance of the town. All

the en suite bedrooms are uniquely furnished

and include radio, TV, telephone, hairdryer and

complimentary tea and coffee facilities. Three

restaurants are on site and you can relax in the

bar and lounge area.

Hotel Carlton Europe

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Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 12 26/08/2021 15:16:19


EXPLORE OPULENT

BAROQUE CHATEAUX

OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Return Eurostar from London to Paris

• Four nights’ half board accommodation

including special festive evening meals

on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

• Welcome Drink

• Drinks served with evening meals;

wine, water plus tea & coffee

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Entrance & tour of the opulent Baroque

Château de Vaux le Vicomte

• Guided tour of the Château de Chantilly

• Entrance to the Montparnasse Tower,

offering panoramic views of Paris and

the Eifel Tower

• Guided tour of the Palace of Versailles

5

DAYS

FROM

£1049

EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS BREAKS

Festive Chateaux

and Paris for Christmas

Celebrate the festive season in style in the opulent surroundings of lavish French Châteaux

on this fabulous tour to Paris, the City of Light. Channel your inner royalty and marvel at

the magnificent architecture of some of France’s finest royal residences, as we explore the

Château de Vaux le Vicomte, Château de Chantilly and the stunning Palace of Versailles. So

treat yourself to a change of scenery this Christmas and immerse yourself in the beauty of

Paris on this unforgettable break.

Day 1: London – Paris

We journey aboard Eurostar from London to

Paris where our coach will transfer us to our

hotel and we’ll enjoy a welcome drink before

dinner.

Day 2: Christmas Eve:

Château de Vaux le Vicomte

After breakfast we board our coach and drive

to the opulent baroque Château de Vaux le

Vicomte. The Château was built between 1658

and 1661 and inspired King Louis XIV to build

the lavish Palace of Versailles. With extensive

grounds, beautiful tapestries and paintings and

a 350 year history, this magnificent Château is

recognised as a National Historic Monument of

France. This evening we return to our hotel for a

special Christmas Eve dinner.

Day 3: Christmas Day:

Château de Chantilly & Paris

Merry Christmas! After a leisurely breakfast, we

board our coach and drive to the Château de

Chantilly, one of the finest jewels in the crown

of France’s cultural heritage and a showcase

of preserved works where the charm of the

19th century continues to reign. We include a

guided tour of the Château followed by some

free time. Later, we enjoy a panoramic tour of

Paris by coach, where we will pass some of the

city’s iconic sites; including the Eiffel Tower and

the Champs Elysees. Don’t forget your camera

as there will be photo stops along the way! We

Paris

also include entrance up the Montparnasse

Tower. In just over 38 seconds you will be 200

metres above Paris and from the observation

deck, you can take in the very best view of

this beautiful city. We return to our hotel for

a delicious Christmas Day evening meal with

drinks included.

Day 4: Boxing Day: Palace of Versailles

After breakfast we visit the Palace of Versailles,

the most extravagant of Châteaux, befitting

the ego of Louis XIV. Our included entrance lets

you see the palace’s most famous places: the

Hall of Mirrors, Grand Apartments of the King

and Queen, and the King’s Bedchamber. This

evening we return to the hotel for dinner.

Day 5: Paris – London

After breakfast we transfer to Paris where we

join the Eurostar for our journey back to London.

Château de Vaux le Vicomte

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REPVX05

23 December 2020 ..........................................£1049

Single room supplement .............................£180

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London 10.24

Arrives Paris 13.47

Return journey

Departs Paris 15.13

Arrives London 16.39

YOUR HOTEL

Best Western Meudon Ermitage

The Best Western Meudon Ermitage is a

four-star hotel located in the south west of

Paris, on the edge of the Meudon forest.

Modernity and tradition sit together in

harmony, whether it’s in the restaurant, the bar

or in one of the comfy rooms. All the en suite

bedrooms are well furnished and equipped

with air-conditioning, satellite TV, a minibar

and Wi-Fi.

Best Western Meudon Ermitage

Château de Chantilly

To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

13

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SPEND THIS CHRISTMAS

RELAXING IN THE MILDER

CLIMES OF THE ITALIAN RIVIERA

Christmas on the Italian Riviera

It’s Christmas, and what better time to whisk yourself away to the beautiful setting of Italy? The sweeping

Italian Riviera is the perfect backdrop for enjoying this magical time of year. Hugged by the Maritime Alps

and the warm waters of the Ligurian Sea, it offers incredible scenery and an inviting climate. We stay in

one such place, Diano Marina, where you have plenty of time to switch off and relax. You can even join our

included excursion to experience the style and panache of the neighbouring French Riviera on our trip to

Monte Carlo, followed by free time in the sleepy coastal town of Menton.

Monte Carlo

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Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 14 26/08/2021 15:17:08


YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Return Eurostar from London to Lille

• Return TGV from Lille to Nice

• Five nights’ half board accommodation

in Diano Marina

• Welcome drink at our hotel

• Indulge in a traditional Italian Christmas

Eve candlelit dinner & Christmas lunch

• Enjoy a local festivity of hot chocolate

and panettone on Christmas Eve after

midnight mass

• You’ll love wine tasting at our hotel plus

an evening of live music

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Explore Diano Marina on our walking tour

• Visit the stylish destinations of Monaco,

Monte Carlo and Menton

Optional excursion available:

• San Remo and the hilltop village

of Dolceacqua £40

EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS BREAKS

Day 1: London – Diano Marina

We journey aboard Eurostar from London to

Paris and continue by TGV to Nice. From here

we travel by coach to Diano Marina, where we

check in at our hotel.

Day 2: Diano Marina

Today is free for you to spend at leisure or take

a walking tour with our Tour Manager in our

pretty resort. You can relax in our hotel and

enjoy the facilities, head to the fine sandy beach,

or venture into the old town to browse the

shops and sample local delicacies. There’s also

an 11th-century castle where traces of the town’s

ancient past can be found.

Day 3: Christmas Eve in Diano Marina

Relax in our resort or join our optional excursion

visiting San Remo and Dolceacqua. San Remo

is Italy’s answer to the French resort of Monte

Carlo, where you can explore the atmospheric

old town and the port filled with luxurious

yachts. The hilltop village of Dolceacqua enjoys

a picture perfect setting, with the Nervia river

running through its heart and the spectacular

medieval bridge connecting it. This evening we

enjoy a traditional Italian Christmas dinner by

candlelight at our hotel. Afterwards, our Tour

Dolceacqua

Manager will walk to the local church for anyone

wanting to attend midnight mass, followed by

hot chocolate with panettone on our return.

Day 4: Christmas Day in Diano Marina

Merry Christmas! Relax in resort and enjoy a

traditional Italian Christmas lunch at our hotel.

Day 5: Boxing Day in Monaco, Monte Carlo &

Menton

Today you can explore the French Riviera on

our included excursion by coach. First we visit

Monaco, which overlooks a glorious stretch of

the Mediterranean coast, and enjoy free time

in the popular area of Monte Carlo. Our final

stop is Menton, a sleepy coastal town filled with

little alleyways, pastel coloured villas and lush

gardens that cascade towards the sea. This

evening, relax and enjoy a final evening meal

and a wine tasting in our hotel.

Day 6: Diano Marina – London

We retrace our route to the Eurostar and return

to London.

Please Note: Due to the late arrival on day 1,

lunch and dinner will be provided on day 2.

6DAYS

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REXIR06

22 December 2021 .............................................£995

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

Twin/Double lateral sea view from .........£30

Twin/Double front sea view from .............£50

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London 07.55

Arrives Nice 20.07

Return journey

Departs Nice 09.27

Arrives London 19.03

YOUR HOTEL

FROM

£995

Hotel Palace, Diano Marina

This four star hotel is perfectly located in front

of a sandy beach with the old town and the

shopping centre easily reached along the

seaside promenade. All of the bedrooms are

well furnished and equipped with air

conditioning, satellite TV, balcony, safe,

hairdryer, magnifying mirror, telephone and

Wi-Fi. You can enjoy delicious meals and sea

views in the restaurant and there is also a

wellness room with a sauna and Jacuzzi, and a

rooftop terrace where you can admire the

views across the bay.

Carlo

Menton

Hotel Palace

To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

15

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THE FESTIVE BEAUTY

OF LAKE BLED

An Enchanting Christmas

on Lake Bled

The scenery of Lake Bled becomes all the more enchanting during wintertime. The flurries of tourists are long

gone and snowfall is virtually guaranteed on the mountaintops. It’s a place that is as beautiful as it is peaceful –

an ideal location to relax and enjoy the festive period. We have plenty of time set aside for you to do just that,

along with a visit to the quaint capital of Ljubljana where Christmas festivities are in full swing. You can even

explore the magical caves of Postojna. So join us in exploring a real winter wonderland, discovering the festive

beauty of Lake Bled.

The magic of Lake Bled

16 To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 16 26/08/2021 15:18:01


YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Return Eurostar from London to Paris

• TGV from Paris to Munich & Turin to Paris

• Connecting rail journeys including a

scenic trip across the stunning

Austrian Alps

• One night’s bed & breakfast in Munich

• Five nights’ half board accommodation

at Lake Bled

• One night’s bed and breakfast in Turin

• Indulge in your Christmas Day lunch at

Bled Castle

• Free time to relax on the shores of

Lake Bled

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Enjoy a guided visit to Ljubljana

• Entrance to the enchanting cave of

Postojna

EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS BREAKS

8DAYS

FROM

£1395

Day 1: London – Munich

We journey from London to Paris by Eurostar

and continue by TGV to Munich where we check

in to our overnight hotel.

Day 2: Munich – Villach – Lake Bled

We continue our rail journey which follows a

stunning route through the Austrian Alps and

across the border into Slovenia. We alight from

the train at Lake Bled and are taken by coach to

our hotel.

Day 3: Ljubljana

The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, is our

destination today. Its compact size makes it easy

to explore and there are treasures at every turn.

With its hilltop castle and riverside location,

Ljubljana is a wonderful place to visit, especially

when the festive fair and Christmas markets

are in full swing. The public squares are alive

with music concerts and entertainment. You

can warm yourself with a cup of mulled wine or

fragrant tea from one of the many festive stalls.

Day 4: Lake Bled

Enjoy a day at leisure. A walk around Lake Bled

is highly recommended to take in the views of

the island with the little Church of Maria and the

Ljubljana

traditional Pletna boats with the back drop of

the mountains.

Day 5: Christmas Day: Lake Bled

Merry Christmas! A particular highlight of this

special day is our delicious included lunch

taken inside the medieval walls of Bled Castle,

where you can enjoy heavenly views from more

than 100 metres above the lake. We also enjoy

a unique spectacle by the lake’s edge this

evening, when divers perform an enactment of

the Legend of the Sunken Bell before we return

to our hotel.

Day 6: Boxing Day: Postojna Caves

Today we visit Postojna Caves, a magical

underworld. We join a little train that winds

through a web of tunnels, passages, galleries

and halls filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

We are transferred back to the hotel this

afternoon where you have free time to explore.

Day 7: Lake Bled – Turin

We leave our lakeside paradise and travel by

coach and train to Turin for our overnight stay.

Day 8: Turin – London

We take the morning train to Paris and board

Eurostar for our return to London.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REBLX08

21 December 2021 ............................................ £1395

Single room supplement from ...............£240

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London 10.24

Arrives Munich 21.36

Return journey

Departs Turin 10.11

Arrives London 20.39

YOUR HOTELS

Maritim Hotel München or Best Quality

Hotel Dock Milano, Turin

These comfortable three star hotels each have

en suite bedrooms and a restaurant.

Hotel Astoria, Lake Bled

Elegance and respect for nature are the

hallmarks of this three star hotel, which nestles

in the magical setting of Lake Bled just a short

walk from the lake shore. The en suite rooms

are equipped with modern amenities

including air conditioning, room safe, mini bar,

telephone, TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. You

can also enjoy a range of saunas and

treatments, and make use of the indoor or

outdoor whirlpool (additional costs apply).

Bled

Postojna Caves

Hotel Astoria

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A UNIQUE THEATRICAL

NEW YEAR EXPERIENCE

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Four nights’ half board accommodation

in Stratford including a New Years Eve

Gala Dinner

• All meals and entertainment as detailed

• Coach transfers for our excursions

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

YOUR RAIL JOURNEY

• Steam train journey on the

Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Shakespeare experience guided tour

– visiting Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

and Shakespeare’s Birthplace

• Tickets to see The Magician’s Elephant

at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre

5

DAYS

FROM

£695

Stratford & a Shakespearean

New Year

The medieval town of Stratford-upon-Avon will be our base for this one-of-a-kind, New

Years’ experience. On this five-day rail holiday, you will be able to immerse yourself in all

things Shakespeare, as we discover the playwright’s birthplace, tucked away in the middle of

Stratford’s pretty high street. We will also visit the quaint cottage of Anne Hathaway, before

taking in a matinee performance of The Magician’s Elephant - a brand new musical adapted

from Kate DiCamillo’s prize-winning novel, at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. You will also

enjoy a fascinating steam train ride on the Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway before

celebrating the New Year in style at a fabulous five course gala dinner. There is no better way

to bring in the New Year!

Day 1: Stratford-upon-Avon

Make your own way to our hotel in Stratfordupon-Avon,

where you will meet our Tour

Manager and enjoy dinner and a relaxing

evening.

Day 2: Shakespeare Experience & Royal

Shakespeare Theatre

This morning we will be joined by a local

guide who will accompany us to visit two key

properties in Shakespeare’s history. We will

travel to Anne Hathaway’s cottage where you

can explore the history of the house and the

gardens. We will then go on to Shakespeare’s

Birthplace, a small cottage amongst the high

street of Stratford. We will have some free

time for lunch, before we head to the Royal

Shakespeare Theatre to watch a matinee

performance of The Magician’s Elephant

- a brand new musical adapted from Kate

DiCamillo’s prize-winning novel. It is directed

by Sarah Tipple (Associate Director for The Boy

in the Dress) and designed by Colin Richmond

(Wendy & Peter Pan).

We return to our hotel for dinner this evening.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Day 3: New Year’s Eve: Gloucestershire &

Warwickshire Railway

Today we travel by coach to Cheltenham where

we enjoy a one-way trip on the Gloucestershire

& Warwickshire Railway. The train travels

along part of the route of the former Western

Railway’s main line. We alight in Broadway

where you’ll have some free time in this quaint

picture postcard village. After some free time,

we return to our hotel ready for our New Year’s

Eve Gala Dinner.

Day 4: Happy New Year!

Today is yours to spend at leisure, doing as

much or as little as you like. Relax in the hotel

or explore Stratford-upon-Avon and take a

walk along the river, taking in the pretty halftimbered

buildings of this medieval market

town. Dinner is served at the hotel this evening.

Day 5: Home

After breakfast we say goodbye to our

Shakespearean setting and depart at leisure.

Please note: We cannot guarantee that all rail

journeys will be steam hauled. The running

order of the itinerary will be confirmed in your

final travel documents.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REUSTN05

29 December 2021 ............................................. £695

Single room supplement .............................£180

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

HOTEL CHECK-IN TIMES

Make your own way to and from hotel

Check in from 15.00

Check out 10.00

YOUR HOTEL

Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon

The four-star Crowne Plaza hotel is located in

the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. The

tastefully decorated, modern rooms all feature

flat screen televisions, a telephone, tea and

coffee making facilities. The hotel provides

complimentary Wi-Fi and features a riverside

restaurant and terrace lounge bar with lovely

river views, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a

drink after a busy day of exploring. You can

also take advantage of the hotel’s heated

indoor pool and fitness centre, which also

features a sauna.

Gloucestershire & Warwickshire Railway

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Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 18 26/08/2021 15:18:50


EXPLORE OPULENT CHÂTEAUX

AND VISIT PARIS THIS NEW YEAR

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Return Eurostar from London to Paris

• Four nights’ half board accommodation

in Paris

• Delicious New Year’s Eve dinner with

entertainment in a traditional Parisian

restaurant

• Welcome Drink

• Drinks served with evening meals;

wine, water plus tea & coffee

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Entrance & tour of the opulent Baroque

Château de Vaux le Vicomte

• Entrance and a guided tour of the

Château de Chantilly

• Panoramic coach tour of Paris including

photo stops

• Entrance to the Montparnasse Tower,

offering panoramic views of Paris and

the Eifel Tower

NEW YEAR UK BREAKS

5

DAYS

FROM

£1095

Festive Châteaux and

Paris for New Year

We challenge you to find a more stylish way to bring in the New Year, than being

surrounded by opulent French Châteaux. On this fabulous tour visiting Paris, the City of

Light, channel your inner royalty and marvel at the magnificent architecture of some of

France’s finest royal residences, as we explore the Château de Vaux le Vicomte, and the

beautiful Château de Chantilly. A panoramic tour of the French capital and a delicious Gala

Dinner in Paris add to this luxurious experience – this is a New Year celebration you won’t

forget in a hurry!

Day 1: London – Paris

We journey aboard the Eurostar from London

to Paris where our coach will transfer us to our

hotel. Upon arrival we will enjoy a welcome drink

before dinner.

Day 2: Château de Vaux le Vicomte

After breakfast we board our coach and drive

to the opulent baroque Chateau de Vaux le

Vicomte. The Chateau was built between 1658

and 1661 and inspired King Louis XIV to build

the lavish Palace of Versailles. With extensive

grounds, beautiful tapestries and paintings and

a 350 year history, this magnificent Chateau is

recognised as a National Historic Monument of

France. This evening we return to our hotel for

dinner.

Day 3: New Year’s Eve: Château de Chantilly -

New Year’s Eve in central Paris

This morning we board our coach and drive to

the Châteaux de Chantilly. We include a guided

tour of the Chateau followed by some free time.

This afternoon we will retrace our route back to

our hotel where we’ll have time to freshen up

for our New Year’s Eve dinner. Tonight we will

head to Restaurant Les Noces de Jeannette in

Paris, where we will enjoy a welcome glass of

champagne and canapés upon arrival, followed

by a delicious four-course meal including drinks

and entertainment.

Paris

Day 4: New Year’s Day: Panoramic Paris and

the Montparnasse Tower

Happy New Year! After a relaxing breakfast

and morning at leisure, we’ll board our coach

and drive to central Paris where we’ll enjoy a

panoramic coach tour of the city. We’ll pass the

most iconic sites including the Eiffel Tower and

the Champs Elysees. Don’t forget your camera

as there will be photo stops along the way! We

also include entrance up the Montparnasse

Tower. In just over 38 seconds you will be 200

metres above Paris and from the observation

deck, you can take in the very best view of this

beautiful city. We return to our hotel for our

evening meal.

Day 5: Paris – London

After breakfast we transfer to Paris where we

join the Eurostar for our journey back to London.

Château de Vaux le Vicomte

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REPNY05

29 December 2021 ...........................................£1095

Single room supplement .............................£180

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London 10.24

Arrives Paris 13.47

Return journey

Departs Paris 15.13

Arrives London 16.39

YOUR HOTEL

The Parc Hotel, Plessis - Robinson

The Parc Hotel is a three-star hotel in the heart

of the pleasant South West suburb of Le

Plessis-Robinson and very close to Versailles.

The hotel has a bar and restaurant.

Château de Chantilly

To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

19

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CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR

IN THE SWISS ALPS

New Year Glacier Express Magic

End the year with a snowy festive break to Switzerland. Journey on the slowest

express train the Glacier Express from Chur and travel on the GoldenPass Line to

Lucerne. Make this a New Year to remember.

Glacier Express

20 To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

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YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Eurostar from London to Paris

• Connecting rail journeys to Interlaken

• Five nights’ half board accommodation

in Interlaken

• Welcome drink at the hotel

• New Year’s Eve gala dinner

• New Year’s Day concert and fireworks

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

YOUR RAIL JOURNEYS

• Journey on the Glacier Express from

Chur to Brig

• Step aboard the GoldenPass Line and

travel to Lucerne

• Take a Cogwheel rail trip to the top

of Mount Rigi

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Visit to the Swiss capital of Bern

• Cruise on the beautiful Lake Thun and

Lake Lucerne

• Free time in Interlaken

EUROPEAN NEW YEAR BREAKS

Glacier Express

6DAYS

FROM

£1695

Day 1: London – Interlaken

We journey from London to Paris by Eurostar

and join the high-speed trains to Strasbourg

where we change for Interlaken. Our hotel is

within walking distance from the station where

we check in and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Day 2: Bern and Lake Thun Cruise

Today we visit the beautiful capital of

Switzerland. Must-see sights include the ornate

clock tower, the gothic cathedral which rises

above the old town, the rose garden where you

can enjoy panoramic views, and the numerous

fountains scattered around the city. Next, we

take the train to Thun for a cruise on Lake Thun.

This is a wonderful way to enjoy the winter

scenery as we make our way back to or hotel.

Day 3: Lucerne & Mount Rigi

We join the GoldenPass Line to visit the

picturesque city of Lucerne. The Chapel Bridge

with the water tower is the landmark of Lucerne

and the most photographed monument in

Switzerland. After a couple of hours to enjoy the

sights, we take a boat trip on Lake Lucerne and

then join the cogwheel railway up Mount Rigi,

which offers breathtaking views across the Alps

with Lake Lucerne below.

Day 4: New Year’s Eve on the Glacier Express

Enjoy a world of winter mountain scenery as we

travel from Chur to Brig aboard the legendary

Glacier Express. This amazing railway journey

takes us through the alpine heart of Switzerland,

passing through tunnels and across bridges.

Back at the hotel we enjoy a seven course gala

dinner, rounded off with a glass of champagne

at midnight.

Day 5: New Year’s Day in Interlaken

Happy New Year! Walk along the famous

Höhematte to the old town centre, where we

can visit the most popular sights. Enjoy the

open air concert and a firework display.

Day 6: Interlaken – London

We check out of our hotel and retrace our route

to the Eurostar and return to London.

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REGNY06

28 December 2021 ........................................... £1695

Single room supplement ............................£300

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London 08.31

Arrives Interlaken 20.28

Return journey

Departs Interlaken 09.00

Arrives London 20.39

YOUR HOTEL

Hotel Carlton Europe, Interlaken

This three star superior hotel is located on the

famous high street, the Höheweg, which is an

ideal position close to the railway station and

within easy walking distance of the town. All

the en suite bedrooms are uniquely furnished

and include radio, TV, telephone, hairdryer and

complimentary tea and coffee facilities. Three

restaurants are on site and you can relax in the

bar and lounge area.

press

Lucerne

Hotel Carlton Europe

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21

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CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR IN

STYLE ON BEAUTIFUL LAKE BLED

A New Year Celebration

on Lake Bled

Nestling in the foothills of the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is a scene from a childhood fairy tale. Celebrate the start of

the New Year on this enchanting break, where you can visit the magical caves of Postojna, take in the scenery

around the crystal clear glacial waters of the Lake and discover Slovenia’s beautiful capital Ljubljana. So join us in

this peaceful winter wonderland and relax as you prepare to see in the New Year in style.

The magic of Lake Bled

22 To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 22 26/08/2021 15:24:45


YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Return Eurostar from London to Paris

• TGV from Paris to Munich & Turin to Paris

• Connecting rail journeys

• One night’s bed & breakfast in Munich

• Five nights’ half board accommodation

at Lake Bled

• One night’s bed and breakfast in Turin

• New Year’s Eve Gala dinner

• Free time to relax on the shores of

Lake Bled

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Enjoy a guided visit to Ljubljana

• Entrance to the enchanting cave of

Postojna

8DAYS

FROM

£1549

EUROPEAN NEW YEAR BREAKS

Day 1: London – Munich

We journey from London to Paris by Eurostar

and continue by TGV to Munich where we check

in to our overnight hotel.

Day 2: Munich – Villach – Lake Bled

We continue our rail journey which follows a

stunning route through the Austrian Alps and

across the border into Slovenia. We alight from

the train at Lake Bled and are taken by coach to

our hotel.

Day 3: Postojna Caves

Today we visit Postojna Cave, a magical

underworld. We join a little train that winds

through a web of tunnels, passages, galleries

and halls filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Day 4: Lake Bled

Enjoy a day at leisure. A walk around Lake Bled

is highly recommended to take in the views of

the island with the little Church of Maria and

the traditional wooden Pletna boats against the

mountain back drop. Today we include a three

course lunch in a local restaurant, with the rest

of the afternoon free to explore.

Day 5: New Years Eve: Ljubljana

The capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana, is our

destination today. Its compact size makes

it easy to explore and there are treasures at

every turn. With its hilltop castle and riverside

location, Ljubljana is a wonderful place to visit

and our local guide will point out many of these

beautiful places on our included sightseeing

tour of the city. This evening we return to our

hotel to celebrate with a delicious seven course

gala dinner and live music to welcome in the

New Year.

Day 6: New Years Day: Lake Bled

Happy New Year! This morning you can enjoy

a leisurely breakfast at the hotel followed by

a free day to relax and enjoy your beautiful

surroundings.

Day 7: Lake Bled – Turin

We leave our lakeside paradise and travel by

coach and train to Turin for our overnight stay.

Day 8: Turin – London

We take the train to Paris and board the

Eurostar for our return to London.

Ljubljana

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REBLNY08

27 December 2021 ...........................................£1549

Single room supplement from ................£240

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

PROVISIONAL TRAIN TIMES

Outward journey

Departs London 10.24

Arrives Munich 21.36

Return journey

Departs Turin 10.11

Arrives London 20.39

YOUR HOTELS

Maritim Hotel München or Best Quality

Hotel Dock Milano, Turin

These comfortable three star hotels each have

en suite bedrooms and a restaurant.

Hotel Lovec, Lake Bled

This four star hotel is situated in the very heart

of Bled and enables guests to fully enjoy the

wonderful views across the lake and the

nearby mountains. The Grill Restaurant offers

guests dishes that are made from the freshest

local ingredients while the relaxation centre,

which features an indoor pool, saunas and

aromatherapy showers, is the perfect place to

unwind. The en-suite rooms are equipped with

modern amenities including air conditioning,

room safe, mini bar, hairdryer and TV.

Bled

Postojna Caves

Hotel Lovec

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23

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 23 26/08/2021 15:25:03


THE PERFECT WAY TO

CELEBRATE TWIXMAS

YOUR HOLIDAY

INCLUDES

• Three nights’ half board accommodation

in Yorkshire

• A drink with each evening meal

• Coach transfers for our excursions

• Services of our experienced Tour

Manager

TOURS & EXPERIENCES

• Introductory walking tour of York

• Enjoy a trip to Harewood House, with a

light lunch voucher

• Visit to the Market Town of Helmsley

• Entrance to Castle Howard, with a light

lunch voucher

4DAYS

FROM

£495

Magical Festive Country

Homes of Yorkshire

In need of a relaxing break in between Christmas and New Year? We have just the holiday for

you! Join us and visit some of Yorkshire’s most impressive historic homes, including Harewood

House & Castle Howard, each uniquely decorated to tell their own Christmas tale. We will also

spend time in the market town of Helmsley and enjoy a walking tour of the beautiful historic

York – the perfect way to spend the time in between Christmas and New Year.

Day 1: Yorkshire

Make your own way to the four-star Parsonage

Hotel & Spa in Yorkshire, where you will meet

our Tour Manager. Enjoy a relaxing evening

with dinner and a drink served in the hotel’s

restaurant.

Day 2: York walking tour & Harewood House

After a leisurely breakfast, we head to York for

an introductory walking tour, with a local guide.

There’s time after to enjoy a tea or coffee at

leisure at one of York’s many café’s, before we

board our coach and travel to Harewood House.

On arrival there is time for lunch before

exploring the House and gardens. Harewood

is one of England’s Treasure houses, and is the

family seat of the Lascelles family, built in the

18th century for Edwin Lascelles. In the 20th

Century the house was lived in by Princess

Mary the only daughter of George V, after she

married Henry Lascelles in 1922. Harewood

estate occupies a beautiful rural setting, with

100 acres of gardens, including the Lakeside

Bird Gardens. At Harewood this Festive season,

visitors will experience Upon A Christmas Wish

created by Lord Whitney. You will be immersed

into the Christmas story, through the beautifully

decorated rooms, across the State Floor & Below

stairs. Why not take a stroll around the beautiful

grounds to finish of our enjoyable visit.

Dinner is served in the hotel restaurant this

evening.

Day 3: Helmsley & Castle Howard

After a leisurely breakfast at the Hotel, we head

to the pretty little Market Town of Helmsley,

nestled in the North Yorkshire Moors National

Park. Time for a browse here before heading

off to Castle Howard. First created by Charles

Castle Howard

NEW

Howard the 3rd Earl of Carlisle, for over 300

years Castle Howard has been the home to

eight generations of the Howard family. Each

year Castle Howard is transformed for the

festive season, with magnificent and beautiful

decorations.

The grand interiors of Castle Howard

will be lavishly decorated, and a series of

theatrical installations, lighting, projection

and soundscapes will evoke all that we love

about this special time of year; with the iconic

30ft Christmas Tree adorned with over 3000

decorations providing a breath-taking highlight

in the Great Hall. We include a light lunch here,

leaving plenty of time to explore Castle Howard

and the beautiful grounds at leisure.

This evening we make our way to the restaurant

for our final evening meal.

Day 4: Home

After a leisurely breakfast it’s time for you to

check-out and make your way home.

York

DATES & PRICES

Tour code: REUYXT0421

27 December 2021 ............................................. £495

Single room supplement .............................£105

All prices shown are per person

Insurance & deposits – call for details

HOTEL CHECK-IN TIMES

Make your own way to and from hotel

Check in from 15.00

Check out 10.00

YOUR HOTEL

The Parsonage Hotel & Spa

The four-star Parsonage Hotel & Spa is situated

in six beautiful acres of gardens and woodland

and is just a 15-minute drive from the historic

city of York. The hotel features Lascelles

restaurant where we will enjoy dinner, and also

owns The Fat Abbbot gastro pub where you

can enjoy a drink during your time at leisure.

As well as the tranquil gardens, you will find

the Cloisters Spa available for relaxation.

There’s a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna,

steam room, salt room and gym. The 62

bedrooms have everything you could need

during you stay, including en-suite facilities

with amenities, a hairdryer, flatscreen TV, radio,

free Wi-Fi and tea & coffee making facilities

The Parsonage Hotel & Spa

Harewood House

24 To book call us on 01858 438336 or visit www.arenarailholidays.co.uk

Arena Rail Festive 2021 24pp.indd 24 26/08/2021 15:33:28

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