Worldwide Rail Holidays 2021 – 1st Edition

The Railway Touring Company Worldwide Rail Holidays 2021 1st Edition

Georg Trueb

Welcome Dear Customer, Welcome to our 2021 holiday brochure. 2020 has been a challenge for us all but as the world paused and we all faced uncertainty, we have been busy behind the scenes and working hard planning to ensure that you can get back to experiencing the best from our holidays.

You may decide to have a staycation within the UK, visiting our beautifully varied and wonderful country, or have the desire now more than ever before to explore the world. Whatever your choice we have lots to tempt and inspire you.

Our passion for steam and all things rail is clear within our itineraries, and our holidays are planned to ensure that you enjoy the experience of travelling by rail. With many holidays offering privately chartered excursions, boat cruises, mountain-top lunches and free time to explore, our holidays really do offer something for everyone.

With 23 years experience providing high-quality holidays we will give you an experience that you can treasure forever. We are members of the Travel Trust Association and ATOL so you can rest assured that by booking with us you will have financial protection.

So take a look at what we have planned for 2021‌ Cuba, Peru, Switzerland, Norway, Poland‌ the list goes on.

The team and I here in Norfolk are ready to assist you with any questions you may have, so please get in touch.

Stay safe and well and I look forward to welcoming you back in 2021.

Kelly Osborne Managing Director.

The Railway Touring Company.

24 EST. 1997

Front cover image: Andrew Thompson

Worldwide Rail Holidays 2021 United Kingdom The Great Britain XIV

April

4–7

The Shetlander

May / September

8–9

The Cock O’the North

May–June / August–September

10 – 11

The Summer Highlander

June / September

12 – 13

Arran and Kintyre

June

14 – 15

Heart of Scotland

July

16 – 17

The Far North and Orkney

July / August

18 – 19

Snowdonia and the Northern Fells

July

20 – 21

English Lakes

July / September

22 – 23

The Western Isles

July–August

24 – 25

The West Country Explorer

August

26 – 27

The East Anglian

September

28 – 29

Steam and Christmas Markets in Saxony and Silesia

December 2020

30 – 31

Christmas and New Year in the Swiss and Italian Alps

December 2020–January

32 – 33

Highlights of Germany, Harz Mountains, Saxony and Baltic Coast

January

34 – 37

Highlights of Switzerland in Winter

January–February

38 – 39

Snow and Steam in Austria and Bohemia

February

40 – 41

Railways and World War II History in Poland

March

42 – 43

Spring Steam Gala

March

44 – 45

Spring in Saxony

April

46 – 47

Steam in Wolsztyn and North Western Poland

May

48 – 49

Steam in Austria, Hungary and Czech Republic

May

50 – 51

Tyrol and the Dolomites

May–June

52 – 53

Steam in Bohemia and Moravia

June

54 – 55

Swiss Bernese Oberland

June / July / August / September

56 – 57

Cruising around the Austrian Lakes

June–July

58 – 59

Rail and Fjords of Norway

July

60 – 61

Lake Constance and Four Countries

July

62 – 63

Alpine Steam Express

July

64 – 65

Steam in Austria and Silesia

August

66 – 67

Highlights of Germany in Summer – Steam in Berlin and the Harz Mountains

August

68 – 69

The Black Sea Express

September

70 – 71

Cruising and Steam in Northern Germany

September

72 – 73

Autumn Steam in Saxony

September

74 – 75

Autumn in Alsace

October

76 – 77

Highlights of Switzerland in Autumn

October

78 – 79

Autumn in Venice and Northern Italy

November

80 – 81

Steam and Christmas Markets in Saxony and Silesia

December

82 – 83

Sri Lanka – The Viceroy Special

February

84 – 87

Cuba Steam Safari

March

88 – 91

Golden Triangle with Shimla

September / October / January ’22

92 – 95

Peru and Bolivia

October

96 – 99

Europe

World

Important Information Booking Information Reservation Form

100 – 102 103 3

Bob Green

Bob Green

Alan Weaver

The Great Britain XIV Friday 16th April to Saturday 24th April 2021 Our Great Britain tour this year is packed with steam highlights, transporting you in style through the magnificent landscapes of England, Scotland and Wales.

• Delight in a whirlwind first day travelling from London King’s Cross on the East Coast Main Line, through York, Newcastle and along the North Sea coast to Edinburgh.

• Experience the spectacular Forth Bridge crossing and Highland Main Line to Inverness via Perth, Pitlochry and over the Drumochter Summit, before heading south to Stirling, where we spend two nights.

• Enjoy the spectacular scenery and a night in the Lake District, before the North Wales coastal line takes you past Chester into Wales. After a comfortable stop in Cardiff you move through Somerset and Devon over some steep gradients to experience the famous sea wall run at Dawlish.

• Penzance is your next stop for a two-night stay in Cornwall before your epic holiday ends steam-hauled as always via Taunton and Westbury to join the ‘Berks & Hants’ line to Reading, travelling through the Vale of Pewsey to Newbury and back to London.

Friday 16th April Steam hauled London to Edinburgh via York Your nine-day steam-hauled holiday tour starts from London’s King’s Cross station, heading northwards on the busy East Coast Main Line (ECML) through the North London suburbs. Hauled by A1 Class Pacific steam locomotive No.60163 Tornado, speed picks up as you pass through Hertfordshire and into the open countryside. The towns of Welwyn and Stevenage flash by as you head towards the cathedral city of Peterborough. You continue along the ECML and pass through Little Bytham, where LNER A4 Pacific ‘Mallard’ achieved the world speed record for steam traction descending Stoke Bank in 1938. Grantham, Newark and Retford fly by as you near Doncaster, the ancestral home of such famous 4

locomotives as ‘Flying Scotsman’ and ‘Mallard’.

Travelling through scenic South Yorkshire your train then steams to York, famous for its historic Minster cathedral, one of the largest in Northern Europe. Here your locomotive will be changed to Princess Royal Class steam locomotive No. 6201 Princess Elizabeth for the journey northwards to Newcastle and Edinburgh. Leaving York, you continue on the ECML through Thirsk, Northallerton and Durham to Newcastle, crossing the Tyne on the lofty King Edward Bridge. You then follow the former North Eastern Railway route through Morpeth and past coastal Alnmouth, where you start to get glimpses of the North Sea. Speeding past Holy Island and Bamburgh Castle, your train crosses the famous Royal Border Bridge over the Tweed before reaching Berwick. Just after Berwick you cross the Scottish border and follow the

spectacular coastline through Dunbar. Journey’s end today is at Edinburgh Waverley for overnight accommodation in a centrally-located hotel.

Saturday 17th April Travel further north over the Forth Bridge to Inverness The scene is set today for a spectacular railway journey over the Forth Bridge and Highland Main Line to Inverness. Steam hauled by Merchant Navy Class steam locomotive No. 35018 British India Line we depart Edinburgh Waverley in the morning and head towards the Firth of Forth, crossing the famous Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following the coastal route through Kirkcaldy you’ll have outstanding views across the Forth estuary. After Ladybank you follow the single-line through the Howe of Fife towards the ‘Fair City’ of Perth, located on the

river Tay. You then travel northwards towards the site of Stanley Junction, and join the former Highland Railway’s route to Inverness.

Working hard against the gradient, the line follows the river Tay and the A9 through to Dunkeld. You pass through Strathtay and reach the charming Victorian Highland town of Pitlochry. Still climbing, you negotiate the narrow, wooded Pass of Killecrankie en route to Blair Atholl and its splendid castle. A severe 20-mile climb then follows through barren terrain to Drumochter Summit, 1484 feet above sea level. Descending gradients then take you past Dalwhinnie distillery to Aviemore, a popular modern skiing centre and the gateway to Speyside. Leaving Aviemore, there’s more climbing ahead as your steam locomotive tackles the 10-mile climb to Slochd Summit, 1315 feet above sea level. A long descent to Inverness follows, with tight curves and viaducts all the way. You’ll spend the night in Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands.

Sunday 18th April Return over the highland line to Stirling After your brief stay in Inverness, you retrace the previous day’s route over the Highland line back through Aviemore as far as Perth, again hauled by 35018 British India Line, before heading for Stirling via the Strathearn Valley, including a long climb to Gleneagles, famous for its golf course. Now running through Strathallan to Dunblane, the train steams onwards to Stirling, with its historic castle overlooking the surrounding area. We will spend two nights in the historic city of Stirling, noted for its wellpreserved castle and cultural connections to William Wallace.

Monday 19th April Optional excursion to Edinburgh and over the Forth Bridge to Fife Today is free to explore the many sights of Stirling, or even venture a little further beyond to the Trossachs or perhaps visit the impressive Falkirk Wheel. There is also the option of an excursion behind 6201 Princess Elizabeth over a scenic circular route via Edinburgh, The Forth Bridge and through Fife back to Stirling.

Your optional excursion heads southwards away from Stirling with Princess Elizabeth around 10am in the morning. We climb the steep gradient through Bannockburn, the scene of the famous 1314 battle between Robert the Bruce and the English, to Larbert, followed by another series of climbs through to the new town of Cumbernauld in North Lanarkshire.

The industrial belt is traversed as we pass

through Coatbridge and Mossend to join up with the West Coast Main Line at Motherwell.

We now have a ten-mile climb through Wishaw and Carluke as we head for Carstairs, where there will be a stop for water.

The WCML continues south as we take the former Caledonian Railway’s line to Edinburgh.

Another lengthy climb takes us over the summit at Cobbinshaw before we descent the gradient along the edge of the Pentland Hills through Midcalder and Slateford, with views in the distance towards the Forth estuary. Our train will take the southern Suburban line around Edinburgh before we enter the Capital from the east via the tunnel beneath Calton Hill and approach Edinburgh Waverley.

We continue our journey westwards through Princes Street Gardens and onwards past the airport to Dalmeny, after which we cross the Firth of Forth on the spectacular Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entering Fife at North Queensferry, we follow the coastal route through Burntisland and Kirkaldy, were there are outstanding views across the Forth estuary.

At Thornton South Junction, we leave the main line to Dundee and Perth and take the North British line through Cardenden and Dunfermline.

At Charlestown Junction, we leave the main line to Edinburgh via the Forth Bridge and take the freight only north Forth line. This single-track line served the former Longanet power station and there are good views across the Forth as we follow the coastline through Culross.

The Kincardine road bridge crosses the Forth at Longanet, where we will pause to water our steam locomotive before heading towards the new station at Alloa Town. We now approach the suburbs of Stirling where we aim to arrive around 5pm, concluding our interesting and contrasting circular tour via the Central Lowlands of Scotland.

Tuesday 20th April South into England to Grange over Sands via the Cumbrian Coast Your journey southwards continues today across the upper and lower Clyde Valley, with the scenery changing from Borders greenery and rolling hills to coastal views across the Irish Sea. Your steam locomotive, 6201 Princess Elizabeth, begins the journey south from Stirling, running via Cumbernauld to Law Junction, where we meet up with the West Coast Main Line. After Carstairs, you then face a steady climb along the Clyde Valley as far as Beattock Summit. The long descent of Beattock Bank will give your fireman a rest as the train picks up speed through Annandale towards Lockerbie.

Continued overleaf.

Tour Summary Premier Class Firth of Forth Explorer option

£3495 £289

Single supplement £395 First Class £2695 Firth of Forth Explorer option £199 Single supplement £350 Premier Class price includes: • Eight nights accommodation and breakfast (when not served on the train) in 3 and 4-star hotels • 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 6 dinners silver served at your seat • At seat drinks service • Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage • Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Escorted throughout First Class price includes: • Eight nights accommodation and breakfast in 3-star hotels • Morning and afternoon tea service • A daily light meal served at your seat • At seat drinks service • Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage • Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Escorted throughout Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Class and First Class for a supplement of £185 per person (subject to availability). The Firth of Forth excursion tour is optional and priced per person.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing. All routes and locomotive selections are subject to change, changes will be advised in advance.

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UK TOUR – 9 Days

5

John Shuttleworth

Bob Green

Crossing the border at Gretna, you’ll enjoy a break at Carlisle while we change locomotives before continuing via the Cumbrian Coast line to Grange-over-Sands hauled by Jubilee Class locomotive No.45690 Leander. The Irish Sea is in view as you pass through Maryport, where on a clear day you can see across to Galloway and even the Isle of Man. Industrial Workington and Whitehaven still show the scars of the heavy industry once extensive along this section of line. There are also tantalising views of the Lake District as you head south through Ravenglass, frequently cutting inland and around sharp bends on the approach to Barrow-in-Furness.

The line then crosses the Leven Estuary on a lengthy viaduct beyond Ulverston, with views of Morecambe Bay indicating journey’s end at Grange-over-Sands. It is now a coach transfer to your hotel and an overnight stay in Bowness-onWindermere.

Wednesday 21st April West Coast Main Line and the Welsh Marches After a night in the heart of the Lake District, you transfer by coach to Grange-over-Sands to re-join your train for the journey to Cardiff, steam hauled by Royal Scot Class steam locomotive No.46115 Scots Guardsman. Skirting Morecambe Bay, the line passes through Carnforth and heads south through Lancaster to Preston. Following the West Coast Main Line, you reach Warrington, where your steam locomotive takes the Chester line through Frodsham, where it stops for water. After Chester, you follow the North Wales coastal 6

line past the Chester ‘Roodee’ Racecourse and branch off at Saltney Junction to enter Wales. Reaching Rossett, there’s a long climb up a 1-in-82 gradient to Gresford Bank and the border town of Wrexham. Pleasant countryside follows through Chirk and Gobowen as the line follows the border, before moving into Shropshire and progressing southwards towards Shrewsbury on the river Severn. Now following the Welsh Marches route, your train climbs hard towards Church Stretton, overlooked by the Long Mynd. Pretty Stokesay Castle flashes by after Craven Arms as you continue southwards through Ludlow and Leominster, arriving at historic Hereford in mid-afternoon. Your steam locomotive will be watered here while you stretch your legs. Continuing your journey along the ‘North and West’ line, you cross the England/Wales border a number of times.

The long climb from Pontrilas to Llanvihangel Summit will be the highlight of the day before passing through Abergavenny and on to more climbing up to the summits at Nantyderry and Pontypool Road. It’s then downhill all the way to Caerleon and over the river Usk to Newport.

Your final destination for the evening is the vibrant Welsh capital, Cardiff, just a short distance away.

Thursday 22nd April Steam to Cornwall via the Somerset Levels and Dawlish Today, you leave Wales and make your way via the Severn Tunnel back to England and to the City of Bristol, from where you run across the Somerset Levels, passing through Bridgwater

Bob Green

before a water stop is taken at Taunton.

Your steam locomotive Princess Coronation Class No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland, is now faced with a steep climb through the Blackdown Hills to Whiteball tunnel, before entering Devon.

You proceed to Exeter, with its impressive cathedral, and follow the Exe Estuary through to Dawlish Warren, to reach the tidal waters of the English Channel. Here your train runs along the famous Dawlish sea-wall right through to Teignmouth, where you head inland and follow the Teign Estuary to Newton Abbot.

Climbing starts once again up the formidable Dainton Bank, graded at 1-in-36 in places. Speed will be built up through Totnes for the next major obstacle, the long climb to Rattery on the edge of Dartmoor. Passing through classic Devonshire countryside you have distant views over the sea before descending to the naval city of Plymouth and a water stop. Leaving Plymouth, the route now heads west and approaches the famous Royal Albert Bridge over the Tamar, built by Brunel and opened in 1859. Crossing the river into Cornwall you follow the twists and turns of the main line to Penzance, through wooded valleys and over numerous viaducts. Truro Cathedral greets you as you pass through this ancient Cornish county town. On the way derelict chimneys still stand to remind one of the vital tin mining industry once prevalent in the area.

Finally, with views across to St Michael’s Mount, you reach Penzance, the end of the line from London Paddington, 305 miles from London, where you’ll stay for two nights.

Friday 23rd April Free Day in Penzance Today is a free day for you to explore the Penzance area and its many attractions and nearby towns.

Saturday 24th April Dawlish and the South Devon Banks to London The final day of your holiday sees you retracing steps steam hauled by 46233 Duchess of Sutherland back to Plymouth and Exeter via the Dawlish sea wall and the South Devon Banks, before continuing via Taunton and Westbury to join the ‘Berks & Hants’ line to Reading.

The line runs through pleasant countryside, including the Vale of Pewsey, with its many connections to Neolithic habitation. There’s a gradual climb to contend with at Savernake to test your locomotive, but otherwise it’s a fairly easy run through the rolling valleys and alongside the Kennet and Avon Canal with the pumping station at Crofton visible from the line.

After Newbury, home of the famous racecourse, you pick up speed to Reading, where the train stops to set down passengers. Continuing via Ascot towards London, you arrive at London Victoria in the evening, concluding your magnificent and unique nine-day steam hauled journey through England, Scotland and Wales.

Tour Summary Premier Class Firth of Forth Explorer option

£3495 £289

Single supplement £395 First Class £2695 Firth of Forth Explorer option £199 Single supplement £350 Premier Class price includes: • Eight nights accommodation and breakfast (when not served on the train) in 3 and 4-star hotels • 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 6 dinners silver served at your seat • At seat drinks service • Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage • Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Escorted throughout

Bob Green

First Class price includes: • Eight nights accommodation and breakfast in 3-star hotels • Morning and afternoon tea service • A daily light meal served at your seat • At seat drinks service • Allocated seat in a British Railway MK 1 first class open carriage • Coach transfers, where necessary, to hotels • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Escorted throughout Bob Green

Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Class and First Class for a supplement of £185 per person (subject to availability). The Firth of Forth excursion tour is optional and priced per person.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing. All routes and locomotive selections are subject to change, changes will be advised in advance.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner April 2021

Bob Green

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UK TOUR – 9 Days

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The Shetlander Friday 7th May to Friday 14th May 2021 Friday 17th September to Friday 24th September 2021 Discover the timeless beauty of the remote Shetland Islands on this ever-popular tour to the most northern outpost of the UK. • Following a high-speed trip north to Aberdeen, you cross to Shetland for a 4-day exploration of its rugged shorelines, windswept rolling hills and rich cultural heritage.

• Visit the island’s outstanding natural and historical attractions and discover its stunning rock formations, unspoiled beaches and ancient archaeological sites.

• Enjoy the local arts and crafts, breath-taking landscapes and local wildlife, with highlights including trips to ancient Scalloway Castle, St Ninian’s Isle and Isbister, the most northerly point on Shetland accessible by coach.

• On your return to the Scottish Mainland you’ll cap this fascinating holiday with a relaxing stay at St Andrews, one of Scotland’s most historic and elegant cities, steeped in golfing lore and crammed with beautiful architecture.

• With added extras including a trip to Dundee to visit Captain Scott's ship HMS Discovery and a steam trip on the Caledonian Railway at Brechin, this highlight-packed Scottish holiday is not to be missed!

Friday London to Aberdeen Your adventure begins in the plush First-Class lounge at London King’s Cross, for a midmorning departure from London to Aberdeen.

Travelling along the East Coast Main Line aboard the HST 125 trainset, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as the train travels north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. You cross the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges and arrive in Aberdeen in late afternoon, checking into your conveniently located city centre hotel.

The rest of the evening will be spent at leisure in the ‘Granite City’, exploring this hub of Northeast Scotland. (L)

8

Saturday Steam at the Caledonian Railway and Ferry Crossing to Shetland After breakfast, a road coach transfers you from your hotel to Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway. A privately chartered steam train then takes you on the eight-mile round trip from Brechin to Bridge of Dun and back.

Freshly prepared sandwiches and refreshments will be provided at the railway buffet. After lunch you return to Aberdeen and visit the ‘Fitties’, a charming old fishing village nestling on the north side of the harbour. In the afternoon you return to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for an overnight crossing to Lerwick. The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of

Scotland before passing through the open North Sea. After dinner you retire to your private cabin for the night. (B L D) Sunday Tour of the Central Shetland Mainland; Scallaway Castle and Museum After an all-night sail you reach Lerwick on the Shetland Mainland and have breakfast on the ship before disembarking. Your tour of the Central Mainland of Shetland starts with a brief coach tour of Lerwick before heading west to Tingwall, where you’ll enjoy a guided visit to ‘Carol’s Ponies’, a local crofter who breeds Shetland ponies. Moving on, you head to the

island of West Burra to view the beautiful sandy beach of Banna Minn, after which you make your way back to visit Scalloway Castle and Museum.

In early afternoon you have a scenic drive to Lerwick to visit the Iron Age tower ruins of the Broch of Clickimin on its outskirts. To round off a feature-packed day, you’ll visit the impressive Fort Charlotte, built between 1652-1653 during the First Anglo-Dutch War to keep the Dutch fleet at bay. In the late afternoon, you check in to your hotel and later dine there with your fellow travellers. (B D) Monday South Shetland Mainland Shetland’s largest island has a size of 967 km2 (373 square miles), making it the third largest Scottish and fifth largest British island.

Today you’ll explore the scenic highlights of its southern Mainland. You first head for the unspoilt beaches at St Ninian's Isle, connected to the Mainland by the longest ‘tombolo’ in the UK. Look out for the seal colony on the beach as you go past. At the Croft Museum at Dunrossness you’ll experience what life was like in a 19th century croft. Continuing south to Sumburgh Head, the coach stops for you to photograph the sea birds, with a possibility of seeing puffins, nesting on the steep cliffs. You may never get so close to puffins again! In the afternoon you visit the wonderfully preserved prehistoric and Norse settlement of Jarlshof, before heading back to Lerwick. En route you’ll stop off at the Hoswick Visitor Centre in Sandwick and take in the views of the uninhabited island of Mousa, which has one of the best preserved brochs (round tower) in Shetland. In the late afternoon you return by road coach to Lerwick and dine at your hotel.

(B D) Tuesday Northern Mainland Today is dedicated to the discovery of the natural wonders of Shetland’s northern Mainland. Heading north through the wild landscape, you make your way to Hellister and visit the amazing Shetland Jewellery centre, where traditional Celtic rings and pendants are crafted. You now head up to North Roe passing glorious scenery and, if conditions are amenable, you press on to Isbister, the most northerly point on Mainland accessible by coach. On the

return journey you’ll visit Hillswick, where you can see the hooch kettles that were used to treat nets and sails, and then the stunning, rugged cliffs at Esha Ness. You then pay a quick visit to Tangwick Haa Museum, which preserves the history of Northmavine peninsula. There’ll be no shortage of photographic opportunities today to capture the amazing wildlife and scenery.

After a very full day you return to your hotel for an evening meal. (B D) Wednesday Western Mainland On your last day on Shetland you explore the westernmost part of the Mainland. On your journey west, you first stop at Mavis Grind for a photo stop. This is a narrow isthmus separating the North Sea from the Atlantic, just 108 ft wide at its narrowest point. Continuing on you’ll visit the visitor centre at Jamieson's Spinning Mill at Sandness, a fantastic retail outlet for Shetland knitwear. Still further on you see the coastline at its best with views across to the island of Papa Stour. Returning to Lerwick you stop off at the scenic fishing villages of Walls and Voe, before rounding off your visit to these wonderful Isles with a visit to the awesome Shetland Museum.

You’ll sail back to Aberdeen on a late afternoon departure by ferry enjoying a unique opportunity to watch Fair Isle slip by on the port side as you enjoy your evening meal. (B D) Thursday Aberdeen to St Andrews After your overnight crossing you arrive in Aberdeen. Following breakfast on board the ferry, your coach takes you south to Dundee for a visit to Captain Scott's ship HMS Discovery.

You will then be driven to St Andrews to drop your cases off at your hotel before enjoying free time to explore this wonderful university town.

(B D) Friday Return to London Your Scottish adventure concludes with a return to London, travelling First Class on an East Coast Main Line HST. You board the train at Leuchars and again travel over the Forth Bridge via Edinburgh and Newcastle southwards. Lunch will be served on the train in First Class as you travel. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1725

Single supplement £325 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London to Aberdeen and return from Leuchars with at-seat dining • 5 nights bed and breakfast at good quality 3-star hotels • 2 nights bed and breakfast in a private cabin during our ferry crossings • 6 dinners and 3 lunches • All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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UK TOUR – 8 Days

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Bob Green

The Cock O’the North Thursday 27th May to Wednesday 2nd June 2021 Thursday 26th August to Wednesday 1st September 2021 Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Scotland’s northern outposts on our ever-popular ‘Cock O’ the North’ rail and road tour.

• E xplore this rugged terrain by extensive train, road coach and ferry transport, starting with a First-Class journey on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ from London to Inverness.

• Steam on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William, taking in the famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct on one of the greatest railway journeys in the world.

• Enjoy two heritage rail trips in one day, on the Strathspey Railway in the shadow of the Cairngorms, and on the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. • Discover the Kyle of Lochalsh on a trip along the most scenic line in Britain, followed by a fascinating two-day stay on the Isle of Skye, including a guided tour highlighting its vibrant culture and spectacular attractions.

• With overnight stays at comfortable hotels, outstanding cuisine, and point-to-point road coach transport for your luggage included, this is a Scottish holiday tour not to be missed!

Thursday ‘Highland Chieftain’ to Inverness From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland. This train follows the route of the East Coast Main Line (ECML) via historic connections and through magnificent landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First Class comfort. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue via Newcastle, Edinburgh and Perth, and join the Highland Main Line to travel through the beautiful Scottish Highlands to Inverness.

At Inverness you check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for two nights. Dinner will be served this evening in the hotel restaurant. (L D) 10

Friday Strathspey Railway; Keith & Dufftown Railway This morning you travel by road coach to Aviemore to join a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage railway line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip affords outstanding views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join your road coach to travel from Aviemore to Dufftown, and have lunch in the ‘Buffer Stop’, a railway restaurant car.

The return trip by vintage diesel rail car takes you on the 11-mile long Keith and Dufftown Railway, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. This so-called ‘Whisky Line’ passes through dense pine forests, by the tranquil

waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. To end an eventful day, you visit a traditional Highland whisky distillery before returning to the hotel in Inverness.

(B L D) Saturday Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh by Train After a traditional Scottish breakfast your luggage is collected from the hotel and transported by privately chartered road coach to your next hotel. You then leave Inverness and travel by train to Kyle of Lochalsh, an idyllic location on the northwest coast of Scotland at the entrance to another sea inlet, Loch Alsh.

This line has been voted one of the most scenic in Britain and passes through forests, alongside lakes overshadowed by mountains, and along

the shores of Loch Carron, a sea inlet. A road coach then takes you over the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye and on to Portree. On the way there are spectacular views inland of mountains and seaward of the islands in the Sound of Raasay, which boasts the deepest water in the UK Continental Shelf at 1,062 feet, Portree is the island’s main town and is known for its picturesque harbour. Here you check in to The Royal Hotel, your base for the next two nights.

(B D) Sunday Tour of Skye You have the benefit of a tour guide today as you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. The island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Returning to Portree there’ll be ample time to look around and enjoy a fish and chip lunch. Afterwards you’ll visit the north of the island, with highlights including the Flora MacDonald Memorial Cross and the romantic and historic Dunvegan Castle, ancient home of the MacLeods. Skye is rightly renowned for its vibrant culture, spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife, examples being the golden eagle, sea eagle, red deer and otter, and your coach will stop whenever possible for film and photo opportunities. After an exciting day you return to your hotel in Portree. (B L D) Monday Ferry to Mallaig; ‘The Jacobite’ Steam Train After breakfast, say farewell to Portree as you head south by road coach to Armadale to catch the ferry to Mallaig, a boat journey of around thirty minutes. On arrival at Mallaig there’ll be time to explore the village and have lunch before joining ‘The Jacobite’ steam train to Fort William. This unforgettable 42-mile route has been described as one of the great railway

journeys of the world. ‘The Jacobite’ takes you through some of Scotland’s most outstanding scenery, beginning with the sea views to the islands of Eigg and Rum. It crosses the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete, and offers a spectacular vista down Lochaber’s Loch Shiel. On arrival at Fort William you rejoin the road coach for the journey to Inverness. En route you pass through the many lochs of the Great Glen and travel the whole length of the famous Loch Ness.

At Inverness you once again check in to The Best Western Hotel and Spa for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D) Tuesday Leisurely Morning, Loch Cruise and Inverness After a leisurely breakfast you embark on a Canal & Loch cruise with an inclusive visit to the Urquhart Castle. After a short transfer from the hotel, your journey starts at Dochgarroch Lock, sailing through the famous man-made part of the Caledonian Canal onto the world-famous waters of Loch Ness. Once ashore you have the opportunity to explore the ruin of the historic Urquhart Castle. After your visit, you’ll have ample time to explore the town of Inverness with an opportunity to enjoy some retail therapy.

In the evening you will regroup for a Farewell dinner in the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1695

Single supplement £345 Price includes: • First Class rail travel to Inverness and return, from London, Peterborough or York, with at-seat dining • 4 nights dinner bed and breakfast at The Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness • 2 nights dinner bed and breakfast at a good quality 3-star hotel in Portree • 4 lunches • Our own road coach to transport luggage for the duration in Scotland leaving you free to enjoy the train rides and other journeys • First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Mallaig to Fort William • Standard Class rail travel between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh (First Class not provided on this train) • All visits, train travel, transfers and tours as detailed in the itinerary • Reserved seats • The services of a tour manager

Wednesday The ‘Highland Chieftain’ back to London There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express for the return journey to London. Relax in your FirstClass seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth. You continue to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on the journey south.

(B L)

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:49 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:54 Inverness 20:04 07:55

Bob Green

* Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

UK TOUR – 7 Days

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Bob Green

Bob Green

The Summer Highlander Monday 7th June to Saturday 12th June 2021 Monday 13th September to Saturday 18th September 2021 Explore the splendour of Scotland’s culture and landscape on this unique summer tour to the scenic Scottish Highlands.

• Tour highlights include a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, and rail journeys from both the Kyle of Lochalsh and on the ‘Far North’ to Inverness.

• Discover the inherent romance of the picturesque Isle of Skye on a ferry and road trip and explore the famous northern outpost of John O’Groats.

• Immerse yourself in Scottish heritage at Dunrobin Castle and the Castle of Mey, and sample traditional Scottish culinary delights at diverse venues, including a whisky distillery.

• Visits to both the Strathspey and the Keith & Dufftown ‘Whisky Line’ heritage railways are included, the latter being the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. • With a wide variety of cultural and culinary delights also on offer, you’ll experience first-hand the glorious appeal of this rugged land when you book for this outstanding holiday travel tour.

Monday ‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station, you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ passenger train for the journey north to Scotland, following the route of the scenic East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in First Class comfort. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue along the ECML to Darlington and on to Newcastle and Edinburgh. At Perth you join the Highland Main Line and travel through the amazing Scottish Highlands. Leaving the train at Kingussie a road

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coach takes you to Fort William where you check in to your hotel, where dinner will be served in the restaurant this evening. (L D) Tuesday ‘The Jacobite’; the Isle of Skye; by train to Inverness Today a major tour highlight awaits with a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig through magnificent Scottish scenery. Mountains, glens, streams, lochs and the sea combine in an unending collage of outstanding views. En route you cross the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete and featured in a

number of films and TV series. You’ll have an hour in Mallaig to explore this attractive fishing port and take lunch before boarding the ferry for Armadale on Skye. A road coach then transports you through Kyleakin and Broadford along the coast of this picturesque island. You cross the famous Skye Bridge and return to the mainland at Kyle of Lochalsh. The late afternoon service train to Inverness then takes you along one of Europe’s most scenic railway lines.

Running alongside Loch Carron, with superb views of lochs and mountains, you’ll pass through dense forests en route to Inverness.

You then check in to the Best Western Hotel and Spa in Inverness, your base for the next four nights (B)

Wednesday Dunrobin Castle After breakfast you depart by road coach for Dunrobin Castle. Travelling north, you cross Kessock Bridge on to the Black Isle, travel alongside Cromarty Firth and over Dornoch Firth to the village of Golspie on the North Sea coast.

A piper will greet you on arrival at Dunrobin Castle, the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland.

This impressive castle stands on high terraces and affords wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond. There’ll be time to visit the castle and its grounds, including a falconry display, before lunch.

Afterwards there’ll be more time to explore the castle gardens and museum before you return by road coach to your hotel in Inverness. (B L) Thursday The Far North Today there’s a trip by road coach to the iconic village of John O’Groats. The route from Inverness follows the A9 trunk road, which hugs the North Sea coast for much of the way from Golspie to Wick, giving spectacular views. John O’Groats is the well-known starting point for charity events travelling the greatest length of Britain to Land’s End. It has a tiny harbour and, if the weather is good, there are views across the Pentland Firth to the Orkney Islands. You continue a few miles west to the Castle of Mey, where a light lunch will be served.

The castle was restored from a near ruin by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother for use as a holiday home. Further on, at Thurso Railway Station, you join a ScotRail service train for Inverness. The railway takes a different route to the road, initially crossing isolated moorland, thus providing a fresh perspective on the region’s wonderful scenery. The railway line meets the North Sea coast at Helmsdale and follows the coastline, often running between the road and

the sea. It’s not uncommon to see seals basking on the shore on this section of the route.

On arrival at Inverness you return to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Friday The Strathspey and Keith & Dufftown Railways This morning you travel by road coach to Aviemore to join a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage railway line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip affords outstanding views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join your road coach to travel from Aviemore to Dufftown, and have lunch in the ‘Buffer Stop’, a railway restaurant car.

The return trip by vintage diesel rail car takes you on the 11-mile long Keith and Dufftown Railway, the most northerly heritage railway in the UK. This so-called ‘Whisky Line’ passes through dense pine forests, by the tranquil waters of Loch Park, and along the winding valley of the River Isla. To end an eventful day, you visit a traditional Highland whisky distillery before returning to the hotel in Inverness. (B L D) Saturday The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London There’s an early breakfast at your hotel before you transfer to Inverness Railway Station and join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express for the return journey to London. Relax in your FirstClass seat as you travel once more through the scenic Highlands. You climb to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and follow the valley of the River Tay to Perth and then to Edinburgh to join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on your journey south. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1530

Single supplement £295 Price includes: • First Class rail travel on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ and on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train • Standard Class rail travel between Kyle of Lochalsh and Inverness and between Thurso and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains) • 5 nights accommodation in hotels • 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinners • All visits, train and ferry travel, and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:48 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:57 Kingussie 19:15 ------Inverness ------- 07:55 * Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

UK TOUR – 6 Days

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Arran and Kintyre Saturday 12th June to Friday 18th June 2021 Explore the diverse delights of Western Scotland on this unique holiday to the picturesque Isle of Arran and the scenic peninsula of Kintyre.

• Discover the striking landscapes of Arran, ranging from sandy beaches and rolling fields to an interior capped by the towering Goatfell peak. Arran truly is ‘Scotland in Miniature’!

• Enjoy three days based in Brodick at the refined Auchrannie Resort, and visit Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park with a later excursion to Lochranza distillery, and the chance to watch and photograph some stunning wildlife.

• Other Arran highlights include the double cascade at Glenashdale Falls, the ancient stones at Machrie Moor and the grand, converted villas along the 2-mile-long Whiting Bay. • Moving on to Kintyre for three nights you’ll visit remote Davaar Island, see the famous Mull of Kintyre and explore Campbeltown with its three whisky distilleries, all the while enjoying some of the finest scenery in all Scotland.

• From exquisite cuisine to lusty off-the-beaten-path excursions along coast and fell, this quintessential Scottish holiday is definitely not to be missed.

Saturday 12th June London to Brodick Your holiday starts in the First-Class lounge at London Kings Cross Station where you board a LNER service to Edinburgh. You then travel in spacious comfort up the East Coast Main Line (ECML), with an easy interchange at Edinburgh Waverley onto a ScotRail service to Glasgow Central and onto Ardrossan Harbour.

There you change onto the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry for the one-hour crossing to Brodick, Arran’s principal town. Here you check into the Auchrannie Resort, where you’ll be based for the next three nights. Dinner is at your hotel this evening. (L D)

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Sunday 13th June Brodick Castle and Gardens; Goatfell and Lochranza Distillery After a leisurely breakfast this morning you’ll have time to look around bustling Brodick before a scheduled late morning visit to Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park. A quintessential Victorian estate, this is the only island country park in the whole of Britain. The Castle houses an outstanding collection of period furniture, silverware, porcelain, paintings and sporting trophies. The estate features a range of habitats from the formal walled gardens to wild woodland walks, all against a backdrop of stunning views over Brodick Bay. You’ll see the wild Ayrshire coast on one side, with towering Goatfell peak on the other. After your visit you’ll have a coach trip along the east and north coasts of the island to the whisky distillery at Lochranza, for a

guided tour and a ‘wee dram’. There’ll be several stops along the way for bird watching and photography at scenic vantage points, so you can begin to immerse yourself in the amazing landscapes of Arran. Dinner will be served back at your hotel this evening. (B D) Monday 14th June Nature and scenery of southern and central Arran Today a relaxed tour of the south of Arran awaits, with stops at the sweeping 2-milelong Whiting Bay, the village of Kildonan, the turbulent Glenashdale Falls and the Standing Stones at Machrie Moor. Whiting Bay is the third largest of Arran's settlements after Lamlash and Brodick and retains much of the quiet gentility of an earlier era, although many grand villas have since been converted to hotels, guest houses and

restaurants. The double cascade at Glenashdale Falls is a delight to view and the ancient stones at Machrie Moor are a fine example of a Neolithic centre of ritual and domestic activity, scattered across a lonely moorland. It’s a day for trail walking, bird watching, wildlife photography and marvel at the views and countless natural highlights. Dinner will be served back at your hotel this evening. (B D) Tuesday 15th June Western Arran and on to Kintyre Today you travel through the heart of Arran by coach, with road stops at some striking vantage points, before taking the island’s main road for a drive along Arran’s West coast. At Lochranza village you’ll enjoy the views of the ruined stone castle, originally built as a hall-house in the late 1200s or early 1300s, before boarding the CalMac ferry for a 30-minute crossing over to Claonaig on Kintyre. Your comfortable road coach then takes the scenic main road along the west coast of Kintyre south to Campbeltown, once again stopping at the most picturesque nature spots. You arrive later at the graceful Royal Hotel in Campbeltown, overlooking the delightful working harbour, replete with fishing boats and leisure craft. Dinner is at your hotel this evening. (B D) Wednesday 16th June Davaar Island, Dunaverty Beach and Mull of Kintyre Today is dedicated to exploring the very southern tip of the Kintyre peninsula, including rocky Davaar Island, located just east of Campbeltown and only accessible by a causeway road. You’ll also discover Dunaverty Beach and the famous Mull of Kintyre, made famous

by Paul McCartney’s song of the same name.

This is a beautiful area, combining rugged cliffs and coastline facing the North Atlantic, with secluded and often deserted, golden sandy beaches. It enjoys a special climate all of its own, as evidenced by the many palm trees growing out in the open, and often has better weather than much of the rest of Scotland. You return to Campbeltown in the late afternoon and look forward to a silver-served dinner at your Royal Hotel. (B D) Thursday 17th June Leisure in Campbeltown and Machrihanish Dunes After several active days, it’s time for a more relaxing morning at leisure in wonderful Campbeltown. Located on a deep bay sheltered

by Davaar Island and the surrounding hills, Campbeltown has three whisky distilleries (out of a one-time 28) and was once the whisky capital of the world! In the afternoon your coach then takes you to the sandy Machrihanish Dunes on the western coast of Kintyre, just outside Campbeltown and home to a famous links golf course. Enjoy the undulating dunes and the wonderful coastline scenery. Dinner is back at your hotel tonight. (B D) Friday 18th June Return to London You’ll rise early today for the crossing on the direct CalMac ferry from Campbeltown to Ardrossan Harbour, which only runs on two days of the week. During the trip, you’ll again have excellent views of Arran as the ferry rounds the island to the south. From Ardrossan Harbour you continue on to Glasgow Central on a fast, electric service with ScotRail. From there it’s a trip on a Virgin Pendolino train in First Class comfort back to London. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1695

Single supplement £275 Price includes: • 6 nights Half-board accommodation at hotels • 1 lunch • All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary • All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • Rail travel from London to Brodick and from Glasgow to London • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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UK TOUR – 7 Days

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Heart of Scotland Wednesday 7th July to Tuesday 13th July 2021 Scotland is a rugged country full of scenic and cultural surprises, as you’ll discover for yourself on this highlightpacked holiday tour to its wild, spectacular heart.

• With stays in historic Inverness, the city of Stirling, then Rothesay on the Isle of Bute, you’ll explore all the unique cultural and natural attractions grouped around the Trossachs, the Cairngorms, and Bute.

• Steam highlights include a cruise on Loch Katrine aboard steam launch ‘Sir Walter Scott’, and a trip on the Strathspey Steam Railway heritage line in the shadow of the Cairngorms.

• Visit Culloden near Inverness and explore the scene where the Battle of Culloden took place in 1746, in the final confrontation of the 1745 Jacobite Rising.

• Enjoy a cruise on Loch Lomond, sailing past the lands of some of the ancient Scottish Clans, followed by lunch and a ferry transfer to the Isle of Bute.

• You’ll also discover the diverse wildlife in and around both of Scotland’s National Parks, showcasing the variety of flora and fauna in the rugged Scottish landscape.

• From unspoilt beaches to inspiring coastlines, with convenient point-to-point transfers on ScotRail service trains and by private coach included, this is a unique holiday opportunity for seasoned traveller and newcomer alike.

Wednesday 7th July London to Inverness on the ‘Highland Chieftain’ From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ passenger train for the journey north to Scotland, following the route of the scenic East Coast Main Line (ECML). A light lunch will be served at your seat as you travel First Class in relaxed, spacious comfort, as nearly the length of Britain rattles past. Your train stops at York, taking on those connecting by service train from Peterborough before continuing via Newcastle and Edinburgh to historic Inverness, where you will spend the next two nights at the Best Western Hotel & Spa. A welcome dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (L D) 16

Thursday 8th July Sightseeing in Inverness; Tour of the Battlefield at Culloden Today you have a free morning to sightsee in Inverness, the northernmost city of Scotland and famous for its Victorian-era marketplaces, cathedrals and museums. A visit here should also include a walk over the Ness Bridge and a stroll along the banks of the river, which offers beautiful views of this bustling city. You’ll be able to have lunch before you have a trip to Culloden in the early afternoon. The last ever pitched battle to be fought on British soil took place here on 16th April 1746 on Drummossie Moor, overlooking Inverness. You’ll enjoy a private tour around the battlefield and a visit to the feature packed Museum. On the way back to Inverness,

you’ll also visit Clava Clairns, an ancient burial site dating back over 4000 years. Once again, dinner will be served at your hotel this evening.

(B D) Friday 9th July Strathspey Steam Railway This morning you travel from Inverness to Aviemore before joining a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip on the railway offers wonderful views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join the road coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park and

stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich. Afterwards your road coach transfers you to Stirling, where you check in to the Stirling Highland Hotel, where dinner will be served.

(B D) Saturday 10th July Steam Cruise on Loch Katrine and Stirling Castle This morning you transfer by coach from Stirling along scenic roads to nearby Loch Katrine, set in the Centre of the Trossachs National Park.

You’ll then enjoy a 2-hour lake cruise on the world-famous steamship ‘Sir Walter Scott’ to Stronachlachar from Trossachs Pier, taking in the inspiring landscape that influenced Sir Walter Scott, Coleridge and Wordsworth. On returning you’ll take a light lunch at the restaurant on the Pier. Afterwards you transfer by coach again to Stirling Castle for a guided tour of the grounds of one of the largest castles in Scotland, surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs.

The castle sits atop Castle Hill, an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation. After your tour there’ll be time to look around Stirling, taking in the historic Old Town and the picturesque Back Walk footpath that encircles it. Dinner will be taken at your hotel this evening. (B L D) Sunday 11th July Loch Lomond After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, you transfer by road coach to Loch Lomond.

Enjoy a scenic cruise on Loch Lomond taking in the breathtaking beauty of the loch and the surrounding scenery whilst enjoying refreshments on board the boat. Afterwards you travel to a lakeside venue to enjoy lunch.

You’ll spend the afternoon sightseeing by coach before travelling over to the Isle of Bute on the Calmac ferry from Wemyss Bay. On arrival in Rothesay you check in to your conveniently located hotel where you will spend the next two nights. Dinner will be served at the hotel this evening. (B L D)

can watch the large colony of seals on their rocky perches, and enjoy panoramic views over to Arran, the sandy beaches at Ettrick Bay and the remote scenery of North Bute as far as Rhubodach. In the afternoon, you visit the impressive Victorian Gothic Revival estate at Mount Stuart and the scenic beaches and coves at Kilchattan Bay. The spirit of nineteenthcentury invention is embodied in Mount Stuart, and this neo-gothic mansion was one of the most technologically advanced houses of its age. It was the first home in the world to have a heated swimming pool and be purpose-built with electric lights and central heating. Kilchattan Bay is a settlement of Victorian houses and villas that lies on the south west shore of a largely east facing bay with a mile-wide mouth offering views to the isle of Great Cumbrae, three miles to the east. After your rewarding day out, dinner will again be served at your hotel in Rothesay. (B D) Tuesday 13th July Ferry crossing to Wemyss Bay, train to Glasgow Central, return to London In the morning you’ll have some leisure time in Rothesay before taking the lunchtime CalMac ferry from Rothesay to Wemyss Bay. From Wemyss Bay you take the direct ScotRail service to Glasgow Central, changing onto a Avanti Pendolino and continuing in First Class luxury over the entire length of the West Coast Main Line back to London Euston. For extra excitement this route passes through outstanding scenery at the mountain summits of Beattock and Shap. You arrive back in London in the evening. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1455

Single supplement £195 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London King’s Cross to Inverness by East Coast express train and from Glasgow Central to London Euston by Avanti Pendolino service • Standard Class rail on Scotrail services • 6 nights Half-board hotel accommodation • 4 lunches • All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • All road coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Monday 12th July Mount Stuart and the scenery of Bute Today you discover the outstanding natural and cultural highlights on the Isle of Bute, 33 miles from Glasgow and the most accessible of the westerly isles from the Scottish Central Belt, including the famed sea colony at Scalspie.

The reddish sand of Scalpsie Bay is set against the backdrop of the Isle of Arran, and there are two viewpoints from which you can see the area’s fascinating resident wildlife and take in the amazing landscapes. At Seal View you UK TOUR – 7 Days

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The Far North and Orkney Thursday 8th July to Friday 16th July 2021 Thursday 12th August to Friday 20th August 2021 The rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and Islands take centre-stage on this popular tour to one of the most extraordinary places in Northern Europe.

• E xplore both of Northeast Scotland’s steam traction heritage railways, the Royal Deeside Railway west of Aberdeen and the Caledonian Railway at Brechin.

• Experience a midsummer ‘White Night’ when the sun never entirely sets, on a sea ferry trip to the enchanting island of Orkney.

• Explore Orkney’s pristine beaches, stunning coastline and mystical rock formations during your 3-day visit, including a distillery visit and a trip to the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage Site.

• Journey back to the mainland over the most northerly railway in the UK, taking in lunch at John O’Groats before travelling on the spectacular Far North Line via Thurso to Inverness.

• Cap your memorable holiday with a trip on the nostalgic heritage Strathspey Steam Railway and a visit to the formidable artillery fortification at Fort George.

Thursday London to Aberdeen Your adventure begins in the First-Class lounge at London Kings Cross, for a mid-morning departure from London to Aberdeen.

Travelling along the East Coast Main Line aboard the HST 125 train, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks and a light lunch as you travel north via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh, crossing the stunning Firth of Forth and Tay Bridges.

You arrive in Aberdeen late afternoon and check into your city centre hotel. The rest of the evening is spent at leisure. (L)

traction heritage railways during the next two days, starting with the Royal Deeside Railway.

This delightful standard gauge railway features a two-mile round trip through rural scenery and gentle rolling hills, running close to its namesake river. There’ll be photo opportunities en route and a ‘false arrival’ staged at the station.

Afterwards, lunch is taken at the Milton Crathes Brasserie followed by a visit to Crathes Castle, replete with turreted towers and walled gardens.

There’ll be plenty of time to explore this stylish estate before your road coach takes you back to Aberdeen. (B L)

Friday Steam at the Royal Deeside Railway and Crathes Castle You’ll visit both of Northeast Scotland’s steam

Saturday Steam at the Caledonian Railway and Ferry Crossing to Orkney After breakfast your coach transfers you to

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Brechin, home of the Caledonian Railway.

A privately chartered steam train takes you on the eight-mile round trip from Brechin to Bridge of Dun and back. Light snacks and refreshments are provided, afterwards there’s time to visit Brechin’s historic Cathedral and Round Tower.

You then return to Aberdeen and board the modern ferry for a six-hour evening crossing to Kirkwall. The ferry sails within sight of the north-eastern coast of Scotland before entering the open North Sea. Dinner is served on board.

You reach Kirkwall at 11pm, as the sun is setting, an experience common to the far north during summer solstice. You disembark and transfer to your centrally located hotel. (B L D)

Sunday At leisure in Kirkwall and a visit to the Highland Park Distillery You are free to relax and explore the quaint town of Kirkwall at your own pace. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by its vibrant artisan scene, diverse galleries and craft shops.

Orkney’s capital boasts many historical buildings, such as the 12th century St. Magnus Cathedral, the most northern cathedral in the British Isles.

In the afternoon you visit the Highland Park whisky distillery, where world-famous Scotch has been produced since 1798. Dinner is served at your hotel. (B D) Monday Exploration of Neolithic Orkney You embark this morning on an exciting exploration of mainland Orkney by coach.

Among the highlights are the wonderful and fascinating landmarks that form the ‘Heart of Neolithic Orkney’ World Heritage Site to the west of Kirkwall. You’ll have plenty of time to discover the tremendous natural beauty and cultural legacy at Maes Howe, Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar and the Standing Stones of Stenness. You’ll visit the delightful fishing port of Stromness, where you can explore and purchase lunch. In the afternoon, following your visit to Skara Brae, you’ll see the breathtaking sea cliffs at Yesnaby before returning to Kirkwall. (B) Tuesday Orkney Beaches, Italian Chapel, Broch of Gurness and Brough of Birsay Today you’ll discover the pristine beaches of the southern, eastern and northern Orkney shores and the so-called ‘Churchill Barrier’ causeway roads, built for defensive purposes during World War II. En route you’ll visit the iconic Italian chapel, one of the most loved cultural attractions on Orkney. In South Ronaldsay you venture south to the fishing town of Burwick, with fine views across the Pentland Firth to John O’ Groats. After lunch back in Kirkwall it’s time to explore the outstanding archaeological site at Broch of Gurness, just across the water from the sparsely populated Orkney island of Rousay.

You end the day by experiencing the natural beauty of the Brough of Birsay, on the northern tip of mainland Orkney. At low tide you can even walk over to the uninhabited island of Birsay.

After your exciting day out, reconvene back at the hotel for dinner. (B D) Wednesday Ferry Crossing over the Pentland Firth, Train Journey to Inverness This morning you return to the Scottish

mainland. Your coach takes you from Kirkwall to Stromness for the ferry crossing over the famed Pentland Firth, past the Old Man of Hoy and St. John’s Head to Scrabster, near Thurso.

From Scrabster you continue by coach to the iconic village of John O’ Groats, the most north eastern village on the British mainland, where you can buy lunch. Afterwards you continue to Wick and board a ScotRail service train on the stunning Far North Line for the spectacular railway journey via Thurso to Inverness. Initially the tracks cross over moorland, passing through isolated mountain landscapes, before hugging the coast again and running within sight of seals basking on the rocky shores. Numerous firths are navigated before the train eventually reaches Inverness, hub of the Scottish Highlands.

You’ll spend two nights at the Best Western Hotel and Spa in the heart of the city, with ample time to explore in the evening. (B) Thursday Strathspey Steam Railway and Fort George Today you travel by coach to nearby Aviemore before joining a steam train on the Strathspey Railway. This heritage line shares the main line railway station at Aviemore and runs to Boat of Garten and Broomhill (‘Glenbogle’ in the BBC series Monarch of the Glen). The return trip provides wonderful views of the Cairngorm Mountains. You re-join the coach to travel from Aviemore into the heart of the nearby Cairngorms National Park, where you stop for a short stroll along the banks of Loch Morlich.

You return back to the hotel, where lunch will be served, before enjoying an afternoon visit to Fort George. Following the 1746 defeat at Culloden of Bonnie Prince Charlie, George II created the ultimate defence against further Jacobite unrest. The result, Fort George, is the mightiest artillery fortification in Britain, if not Europe. Afterwards, you enjoy a Farewell meal at the hotel. (B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1595

Single supplement £295 Price includes: • 8 nights accommodation with breakfast at hotels • 5 lunches and 4 dinners • All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary • All rail, bus and boat journeys as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • Rail travel from London to Aberdeen and from Inverness to London • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Friday Return to London on the Highland Chieftain After an early breakfast you transfer to Inverness Railway Station to join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ express train for your return journey. Relax in your comfortable First-Class seats as you travel through the scenic Highlands. The train climbs to Drumochter summit, the highest in the UK, and then follows the valley of the River Tay to Perth.

You continue to Edinburgh where you join the ECML onwards to Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross. A light lunch will be served on the journey south. (B L) UK TOUR – 9 Days

19

Phil Jones

Georg Trueb

Snowdonia and the Northern Fells Friday 16th July to Thursday 22nd July 2021 Experience the very best of British steam on this highlight-packed steam rail tour through the magnificent landscapes of Cumbria and North Wales.

• While based for 2 nights in historic Liverpool you’ll travel on main line steam over the famous Settle to Carlisle Railway, with major attractions along the line including the magnificent 24-arch Ribblehead Viaduct.

• Enjoy a steam trip along the picturesque North Wales Coast line to Bangor, running beside the Irish Sea and passing through several seaside resorts before transferring to Llandudno.

• Steam up the dramatic Conway Valley to Blaenau Ffestiniog on The Welsh Mountaineer and discover the endless variety of ‘Great Little Trains’ on the railways of Snowdon Mountain, Ffestiniog, Fairbourne, Talyllyn, Welshpool and Llanfair, and the Vale of Rheidol.

• A definitive tour highlight is a trip over the rebuilt Welsh Highland Railway, one of the rail wonders of the 21st century, from Caernarfon to Porthmadog through the magnificent Snowdonia National Park.

• With overnight stays in comfortable hotels, fine cuisine and efficient luggage transfers, this unique steam tour is the ideal way to explore these outstanding landscapes in relaxed comfort and style.

Friday 16th July Exploring Liverpool Your tour begins at a City Centre Hotel in Liverpool, located opposite Lime Street Station and your base for the next two nights. Arrive as early as possible and explore this fine city at your leisure. Dinner will be at your hotel this evening.

(D) Saturday 17th July The Settle to Carlisle Railway Today you join the ‘Cumbrian Mountain Express’ steam train at Lime Street Station and your journey begins with an impressive departure hauled by one of the Carnforth pool steam locomotives. Breakfast will be served at your seat soon after. You head north to Preston and Carnforth and skirt the Lake District before 20

entering the Lune Valley. Your fully extended steam locomotive ascends to the summit of Shap Fell before descending through Penrith North Lakes, pausing at Carlisle for a two-hour break to explore this Border City. Leaving Carlisle you join the Settle and Carlisle Railway, climbing up through Langwathby and Culgaith and pausing for water at the market town of Appleby.

Through stunning scenery you climb the steep gradient to Ais Gill summit and traverse Dent Dale, from where the Peaks of Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-Ghent dominate the landscape. There are over twenty major viaducts and fourteen tunnels on the line culminating in the magnificent 24-arch Ribblehead Viaduct.

On the way back to Liverpool you enjoy a fourcourse dinner, silver-served at your seat, before returning to the Holiday Inn for the night. (B D)

Sunday 18th July Steam along the North Wales Coast After breakfast you take your reserved FirstClass seat on the ‘North Wales Coast Express’ special steam train at Liverpool Lime Street Station and journey along the West Coast Main Line to Warrington. On leaving Chester you cross the River Dee and enter Wales, running along the Dee Estuary and then beside the Irish Sea as your train passes Prestatyn and Rhyl. This coastline is known for its stunning beaches and, at Colwyn Bay, fantastic views of the Great Orme headland. You pass through several small seaside resorts on the Irish Sea coast before arriving at Bangor. Here you transfer by road coach to Penrhyn Castle for a short visit. This dramatic neo-Norman castle was built in the early 19th century for a

wealthy Welsh family. Crammed with fascinating objects, its stable block contains an industrial railway, a doll collection, and model railway museums. Afterwards your coach takes you across Anglesey to Holyhead to rejoin your steam train for the return journey to Llandudno.

You take the short walk to the Imperial Hotel there and check in for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D) Monday 19th July Steam on the Snowdon Mountain and Welsh Highland Railways This morning you transfer to Llanberis Station for a steam-hauled trip on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, with superb summit views, weather permitting. Back in Llanberis there is free time to explore this delightful Snowdonian town and have lunch. In the afternoon you take a trip on the Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon to Porthmadog, through the magnificent Snowdonia National Park.

This fantastic 25-mile journey, steam hauled by a two-foot narrow gauge Garratt locomotive, begins close to Caernarfon Castle. It takes you through spectacular mountain scenery, the village of Beddgelert, which owes its fame to the legendary tale of Prince Llewelyn ap Iorwerth, and the famous Aberglaslyn Pass. On arrival at Porthmadog you return by road coach to the Imperial Hotel in Llandudno for dinner. (B D) Tuesday 20th July A steam spectacular to Blaneau Ffestiniog; the Ffestiniog Railway After breakfast you take a ride on the 3’6” gauge Great Orme Tramway, Britain's only cable-hauled street tramway, from Llandudno Victoria Station to Great Orme Summit Station. Then you go on to Llandudno Junction Station to join ‘The Welsh Mountaineer’ steam train to Blaenau Ffestiniog.

You’ll be hauled by a steam locomotive along this incredibly steep branch line, climbing uphill into Snowdonia through Betws-y-Coed and Pont-yPant to Blaeneau Ffestiniog. There’ll be a couple of hours to explore Blaeneau Ffestiniog and have lunch before you travel on the Ffestiniog Railway to Porthmadog. There you transfer to Portmeirion, where the surreal TV spy drama

‘The Prisoner’ was filmed in the 1960s, for dinner and an overnight stay at The Hotel Portmeirion. (B D) Wednesday 21st July Steam on the Fairbourne and Talyllyn Railways After breakfast you transfer by road coach to Fairbourne for a return journey on the Fairbourne Railway. This 12¼” gauge railway runs for 3.2 km (2 miles) alongside the beach to the end of a peninsula at the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, one of the most spectacular locations along the Cambrian Coast. You continue by coach to nearby Tywyn where you travel on the narrow gauge Talyllyn Railway (TR).

The TR is notable for being the first preserved railway in the United Kingdom. This 2’3” gauge railway runs for 11.7 km (7.25 miles) to Nant Gwernol. On return to Tywyn there’ll be time for lunch and a visit to the narrow-gauge railway museum there. You then transfer by coach from Tywyn to Aberystwyth for dinner and an overnight stay at the Marine Hotel. (B D) Thursday 22nd July Vale of Rheidol and Welshpool and Llanfair Railways Today you travel steam-hauled on the Vale of Rheidol Railway from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, where unique waterfalls have attracted many thousands of visitors since the 18th century, including William Wordsworth, who wrote about the ‘Torrent at the Devil’s Bridge’.

From Devil’s Bridge you transfer by road coach to Welshpool and after lunch in the town you begin your journey on the picturesque 2’6” gauge Welshpool and Llanfair Railway.

There’s an enjoyable steam-hauled ride through the delightful Banwy Valley to Llanfair Caereinion to follow, before you return to Welshpool. From there you journey to Liverpool by road coach, for your homeward journey. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1895

Single supplement £325 Price includes: • 6 nights accommodation with breakfast in 3 or 4-star hotels • 5 breakfasts in hotels and one on the train • 6 dinners • All train and tramway travel as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and coach transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Please note: Locomotives will be confirmed nearer the time of departure.

Andrew Thompson

UK TOUR – 7 Days

21

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway

English Lakes Thursday 22nd July to Tuesday 27th July 2021 Thursday 16th September to Tuesday 21st September 2021 Discover the delights of the English lakes by vintage motor vessel, steam train and steam yacht on this featurepacked holiday tour to Cumbria.

• Based at an elegant hotel in the resort town of Bowness-on-Windermere, you’ll enjoy cruises on vintage vessels on Lake Windermere and Ullswater.

• Steam train highlights include a trip on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway and an exclusive exploration of the legendary 15-inch narrow gauge railway ‘La’al Ratty’.

• Enjoy a lake-themed cruise on Coniston Water aboard the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’, followed by lunch at the 400-year-old ‘Sun’ pub in Coniston.

• Other holiday highlights include visits to the Victorian neo-gothic Wray Castle and the Haverthwaite engine shed.

• Outstanding scenery, excellent cuisine and the convenience of short point-to-point travel distances by private road coach all add to your enjoyment on this relaxed, highlight-packed holiday in England’s idyllic Lakeland.

Thursday First Class rail travel to Windermere Your holiday begins in the First-Class lounge at London Euston Station before boarding a midmorning/early afternoon Avanti Trains Pendolino service. You’ll travel in sumptuous comfort at a top speed of 125mph along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) to Oxenholme in the Lake District. Here you change trains and take a First TransPennine Express service for the journey to Windermere. From Windermere station you’ll have a short coach transfer to the delightful village of Bowness-on-Windermere, located on the banks of Lake Windermere. Your hotel for the duration of the tour will be the Laura Ashley, Belsfield Hotel. You then have some leisure time to explore Bowness before dinner at your hotel in the evening. (D) 22

Friday Lake Windermere cruise; Steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway After breakfast you board the stylish vintage motor vessel ‘Swan’ for a forty-minute cruise through outstanding Cumbrian lake scenery to Lakeside at the southern end of Lake Windermere. This triple-deck ship was originally built by Vickers in 1938, and is now an iconic fixture on England’s largest lake. The lake pier is adjacent to Lakeside Railway Station and here you join a connecting steam train on the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway, a former branch line of the Furness Railway (FR), originally opened in 1869. You’ll travel the entire length of the line to Haverthwaite with plenty of time to visit the impressive engine shed there, with its collection of historic steam

and diesel locomotives. Crossing the footbridge to the woodland viewing and picnic area you can buy souvenirs in the gift shop and sample the delights of the licensed Station Restaurant, with locally sourced produce and homemade speciality dishes. In the afternoon you return by steam train to Lakeside and from there by connecting ship to Bowness. You’ll dine at your hotel this evening. (B D) Saturday Steam boat cruise on Coniston Water; Wray Castle Today you visit Coniston Water, the third largest lake in the Lake District, for a lake-themed cruise on the restored Victorian steam yacht ‘Gondola’. Originally launched in 1859 to carry railway passengers, The Illustrated London News at the time described it as “a perfected

combination of the Venetian gondola and the English steam yacht”. The preserved steamer is now cared for and operated by the National Trust. Following the cruise, you’ll have lunch at ‘The Sun’ in Coniston, a 400-year-old pub with exposed beams, stone walls, flagstone floors and a local Brathay slate bar top. It’s situated beneath the Cumbrian Fells and has an elevated view over the village of Coniston. Later you transfer by road coach to Ambleside for the ferry to Wray Castle, a Victorian neo-gothic building with grounds that include part of the shoreline of Lake Windermere. There will be a visit to the castle after which you can explore the adjacent gardens at your leisure. You return to your hotel in Bowness for dinner. (B L D)

Sunday Scenic cruises on Lake Windermere and Ullswater This morning you explore the northern half of Lake Windermere on board a classic motor vessel sailing from Bowness to Ambleside at the northernmost extremity of the lake. MV ‘Tern’, is a steam powered yacht built in 1891 and converted to diesel in 1956. After the 30-minute voyage to Ambleside Pier you’ll join a private road coach for the onward journey to Grasmere, where there will be a coffee stop. Continue by coach from Grasmere to Keswick, travelling via Dunmail Raise and Thirlmere. On arrival at Keswick, you enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant before your road coach takes you on to Pooley Bridge. Here, you have an afternoon cruise on one of the celebrated Ullswater ‘Steamers’ on the second largest lake in the Lake District.

Ullswater is one of the most beautiful English lakes, comparable to Lake Lucerne in Switzerland because of its mountainous backdrop.

You’ll see the spectacular waterfall of Aira Force, midway along the lake on the western side and cruise the length of the lake from Pooley Bridge

to Glenridding. You rejoin the road coach for the return journey via scenic country roads to Bowness and dinner at your hotel in the evening.

(B L D) Monday Steam train on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway A tour highlight awaits today as you travel by road coach to Ravenglass, a small coastal village with Roman connections located at the estuary of the rivers Esk, Mite and Irt. The famous 15inch gauge Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (La'al Ratty) has its terminus adjacent to the Cumbrian Coast railway line station. The line runs for 7 miles (11.3 km) from Ravenglass to Dalegarth Station near Boot in the Eskdale Valley.

You’ll be given a day rover ticket for use on the line, which operates an intensive timetable of steam and diesel trains, so you can explore at your own pace. Options include alighting at intermediate stations to film or photograph the passing trains, and it’s only a short walk from the terminus at Dalegarth to the village of Boot and its two pubs. The railway is popular for its open carriages providing superb sightlines of the surrounding scenery, but there are enclosed carriages depending on the weather. After your day on the railway you return to Windermere by road coach in the late afternoon. You dine with fellow guests at your hotel this evening – a fitting climax to a fabulous tour. (B D) Tuesday Homeward bound After breakfast at the hotel you transfer by road coach to Windermere Railway Station.

Passengers who joined the tour at Windermere will travel home independently, the remainder will join a train to Oxenholme Lake District for the return to London Euston again in the FirstClass comfort of an Avanti Pendolino train. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1395

Single supplement £165 Ground only £1285 (Windermere – Windermere with own travel to/from Windermere) Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London Euston to Oxenholme Lake District and return by Avanti Trains Pendolino • Standard Class rail travel from Oxenholme Lake District to Windermere (20 minutes)* • 5 nights Half-board hotel accommodation • 2 lunches • All rail and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • A one day rover ticket for use on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager *The First Transpennine Express trains running the short distance between Oxenholme Lake District and Windermere have insufficient first class seats to accommodate our party.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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UK TOUR – 6 Days

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Bob Green

The Western Isles Monday 26th July to Tuesday 3rd August 2021 Discover the scenic splendour of the mountains, glens and lochs of Northwest Scotland and the Western Isles on this unique holiday travel tour.

• Enjoy a lake cruise and excursion on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train, one of the great railway journeys of the world, following an overnight stay next to Loch Lomond.

• Cross remote Rannoch Moor as you head for Fort William to stay by Loch Linnhe with Britain’s highest mountain, majestic Ben Nevis, as the backdrop.

• Savour a sea ferry transfer and epic coach tour of the Isle of Skye, before you head to Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides for two nights, including a guided tour of the outstanding local sights.

• Explore the North West Highlands with a ride to Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, featuring some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular coastlines.

• Other tour highlights include a road trip to Dunrobin Castle, a falconry display, dolphin sightings and photo opportunities galore on this ultimate Scottish travel tour.

Monday 26th July ‘Highland Chieftain’ to Scotland From the comfort of the First-Class Lounge at London King’s Cross Station you join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the scenic journey to Scotland, following the East Coast Main Line (ECML) through increasingly spectacular landscapes. A light lunch will be served at your seat as you speed on in sumptuous First-Class style. Stopping at York to take on passengers who have travelled by service train from Peterborough, you continue your journey along the ECML via Newcastle and Edinburgh and on to Stirling. From there a coach takes you to The Lodge on Loch Lomond for dinner and overnight accommodation. The Lodge prides itself on excellent customer service and is located in beautiful countryside on the banks of Loch 24

Lomond with stunning views of both the Loch and Ben Lomond. (L D) Tuesday 27th July Lake Cruise on Loch Lomond; north to Fort William After a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a stroll by the Loch, a road coach takes you the short distance to Tarbet. From here a private cruise on Loch Lomond is scheduled, with a light lunch taken on board. Afterwards you rejoin the coach for the return trip to Arrochar and Tarbet Station to catch a train north to Fort William.

The route passes through spectacular scenery, crossing the remote Rannoch Moor. Fort William is located in a prime position on Loch Linnhe with the majestic Ben Nevis, which at 4,406 feet is Britain’s highest mountain, as the backdrop.

Your train arrives late afternoon when you check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Wednesday 28th July ‘The Jacobite’ and over the Sea to Skye A major tour highlight is a trip on ‘The Jacobite’ steam train. This unforgettable 42-mile route has been described as one of the great railway journeys of the world. The train runs from Fort William to Mallaig through some of the most magnificent scenery that Scotland has to offer.

Mountains, glens, streams, lochs and the sea combine to provide an unending collage of outstanding views. En route you cross the world famous 21-arch Glenfinnan Viaduct, built entirely of concrete and featured in a number of films and TV series. You’ll have around two hours in

Mallaig to explore the village and fishing port and find lunch, before boarding the ferry for Armadale on the Isle of Skye. You then travel on the road coach, which has followed the tour with the luggage, to your hotel in Portree, the island’s main town and well known for its picturesque harbour. (B D) Thursday 29th July Coach tour of Skye; Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides This morning you explore the fascinating Isle of Skye by road coach. Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides and the island’s peninsulas radiate from a mountainous centre dominated by the Cuillin, the rocky slopes of which provide some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. The Black Cuillin mountain range is the only truly alpine environment in Britain and has twelve summits above 3,000 feet. Your coach pauses a few times for photo opportunities as it crosses Trotternish, the northern peninsula of Skye, to Uig. Here you join a ferry for the one and half hour crossing to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. Although not an island itself, Harris is the southern and more mountainous part of Lewis and Harris. You travel through the exposed countryside to the island’s capital, Stornoway, and the hotel where you will stay and dine for the next two nights. (B D)

July 2009 there were no Sunday ferry services to or from Stornoway. You’ll then take a ferry across ‘The Minch’, maybe sighting dolphins en route, and return to the mainland at Ullapool.

The road coach from Ullapool then goes north to Lochinver, a pleasant village with a beautiful harbour and a magnificent mountain backdrop.

You’ll stay at the luxurious Inverlodge Hotel, set on a hillside overlooking the bay, for the next two nights. All rooms present amazing views and deer often appear on the lawns outside. (B D) Sunday 1st August By road to the North West Scottish Highlands There’s a day trip by road coach today, to discover the remote and impressive landscape of the North West Highlands. You pass through magnificent mountain scenery with striking lochs and glens, and maybe catch a glimpse of some uncommon wildlife. You begin to notice the wild sea as you travel near to the coast at Scourie.

Your destination is Durness on the far north coast of Scotland, an area of unspoilt beaches backed by cliffs. The surrounding coastline is some of Europe’s most isolated and spectacular, where sea birds, seals, porpoises and minke whales may be seen. You stop in the village and take time for lunch. In the afternoon you return by coach to the hotel at Lochinver. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2099

Single supplement £395 Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London to Stirling and Inverness to London with at-seat dining • 8 nights half board accommodation in 3-star hotels • 5 Lunches • All visits, train, boat and ferry travel, and coach transfers as detailed in the itinerary • First Class rail travel on ‘The Jacobite’ from Fort William to Mallaig • Standard Class rail travel between Arrochar and Fort William and Golspie and Inverness (First Class not provided on these trains) • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner July/August 2021

Friday 30th July Guided tour of The Isle of Lewis Today a guided coach tour of the Isle of Lewis awaits you. The Isle of Lewis is at the North west corner of the Hebrides and has a rich cultural heritage. From the neat Victorian homes lining the streets of Stornoway, to the stretching white sands of Bosta on Great Bernera in the east, where the clear Atlantic waters sound the evocative toll of the Time and Tide Bell, Lewis is an island of exciting contrasts and diverse experiences. Places of particular interest include the Butt of Lewis cliffs and lighthouse, Carloway Broch, Lewis Bridge and the Callinish Standing Stones, an impressive stone circle comparable to Stonehenge. Lunch will be taken during the tour and dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B L D) Saturday 31st July Free time in Stornaway; ferry to Ullapool; north to Lochinver This morning you’ll have some free time to explore Stornoway and a choice of visiting Lews Castle and grounds, the impressive war memorial, or the harbour area. Observance of the Christian Sabbath, Sunday, had long been a unique aspect of the island’s culture and until

Monday 2nd August Dunrobin Castle and Inverness Today you travel east by road coach along isolated mountain roads passing through Lairg and Golspie before arriving at Dunrobin Castle, the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland, on the East coast. This impressive castle stands on high terraces with wonderful views across its formal gardens to the North Sea beyond.

Enjoy exploring the castle and it’s grounds, including the falconry display. After which lunch will be taken, before transferring to Golspie Station to board a train to Inverness. You then transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

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Approx. timings Outward Return London King’s Cross 12:00 15:49 Peterborough 11:58* 15:26* York 13:54 13:54 Stirling 17:19 ------Inverness ------- 07:55 * Passengers from Peterborough change trains at York on both outward and return journeys.

Tuesday 3rd August The ‘Highland Chieftain’ to London After an early breakfast at the hotel you transfer to the railway station to join the ‘Highland Chieftain’ for the return journey to London.

You can relax again in First Class seats as you leave Inverness and pass through the wonderful Highlands en route to Perth, Edinburgh, Newcastle, York and London King’s Cross.

A light lunch will be served on the journey south.

(B L) UK TOUR – 9 Days

25

Bob Green

Bob Green

The West Country Explorer Saturday 14th August to Thursday 19th August 2021 Explore the delightful coastal and moorland scenery of the counties of Somerset, Devon and Cornwall on this outstanding holiday tour to the West Country.

• Your adventure begins and ends on special steam trains to and from London and features visits to iconic locations such as St. Michael’s Mount and Lands’ End. • Enjoy a paddle steamer cruise on the River Dart and steam train trips on a variety of heritage railways, like the West Somerset and the Dartmouth Steam Railways.

• Other tour highlights include travel by train over the legendary sea wall at Dawlish, and overnight stays in St. Ives, regularly voted the Best UK Seaside Town, and Torquay, sited on the famed ‘English Riviera’.

• Other railways to discover include the Bodmin & Wenford, and the South Devon Railway running along the stunning River Dart valley between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.

• You’re also sure to savour the many culinary delights of a region famous for its traditional production of cider, clotted cream, and pasties, on this wonderfully idyllic travel holiday.

Saturday 14th August London Paddington to Exeter Your adventure begins on a steam train from London Paddington Station for the trip to the West Country. You will travel in the comfort of ‘Premier Dining’ where breakfast will be served at your seat soon after departure. The route runs fast to Reading before taking the Berks and Hants Line through the Vale of the White Horse to Westbury. Crossing the Somerset Levels, you reach Taunton and at Norton Fitzwarren join the ‘Heritage’ West Somerset Railway. At Bishops Lydeard Station a ‘Manor’ class 4-6-0 steam locomotive will be attached to the front of your train. You then continue ‘double-headed’ on this scenic line to Minehead. Here a road coach transfers you to the Lynton and Barnstable Railway at Woody Bay in Devon. There you 26

enjoy a steam train journey along this narrowgauge railway line. You continue by road coach to Exeter. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at a hotel in Exeter this evening. (B D) Sunday 15th August Free time in Exeter Today is a free day to explore the sights of Exeter. The morning can be dedicated to visiting the historical sites of the city, including one of the oldest and most beautiful Cathedrals in the country. Stay in Cathedral quarter or head to Princess Hay where you will find a selection of lunch options to suit any taste. The afternoon can be spent in one of many excellent museums, galleries, or beautiful city parks. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your hotel in Exeter this evening. (B D)

Monday 16th August St Michael’s Mount and Lands’ End This morning you travel by service train from Exeter to Penzance. En route you pass along the famous sea wall at Dawlish and cross the Royal Albert Bridge over the River Tamar to enter Cornwall at Saltash. Travelling through the glorious Cornish countryside you can still see the evidence of its illustrious mining heritage.

At Penzance a road coach takes you to St. Michael’s Mount, a small tidal island in Mount’s Bay. Depending on the tide, you may be able to walk across the causeway to the island from Marazion, otherwise the boat will take you to the island, where you can purchase lunch.

After the visit you continue by coach to Lands’ End, the most westerly point of mainland England. It’s also the iconic location for

charitable events to and from John O’Groats in northeast Scotland. Later you return to Penzance with time to look around the town, with its Regency and Georgian architecture, working harbour and terminus railway station.

You transfer to St. Ives and book in to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. (B D) Tuesday 17th August St Ives, the Bodmin & Wenford Railway, and South Devon Railway After a leisurely breakfast and time to have a look around St Ives, you travel by road coach to Bodmin Parkway Station for a steam-hauled return trip to Boscarne Junction on the Bodmin & Wenford Railway. This includes a visit to the beautifully restored Bodmin General Station, the headquarters of the railway, where trains reverse direction of travel. In the afternoon you continue to the South Devon Railway for a return journey on the 7-mile track which runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. Afterwards, the coach transfers you to Torquay in Devon, again crossing the road bridge over the River Tamar at Saltash, with great views from a different vantage point of Brunel’s famous railway bridge.

You check in to a hotel in Torquay for dinner and overnight stay. (B D) Wednesday 18th August Steam on the Dartmouth Steam Railway and a paddle steamer cruise After breakfast you join a steam train at Paignton Railway Station for a scenic journey along the English Riviera on the Dartmouth Steam Railway. This standard gauge heritage railway runs from Paignton to Kingswear,

connecting with ferries crossing the River Dart to Dartmouth. There are expansive views over Torbay as the line climbs to Churston before it descends, passing Agatha Christie’s Estate at Greenway Halt, to the River Dart. It’s an aptly named Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

You then take the ferry to Dartmouth and board the coal-fired paddle steamer ‘Kingswear Castle’ for a leisurely estuary cruise. On returning there’s time to explore the narrow lanes and stone stairways of Dartmouth and discover its magical history. You return to Paignton by steam train and your hotel in Torquay. (B D) Thursday 19th August A visit to Dawlish, the Seaton Tramway and return to London Victoria This morning you travel by road coach to Dawlish for a few hours of free time. You can stroll on the expansive sands and along the famous sea wall right beside Brunel’s railway line. There will be time to watch and photograph the trains or simply enjoy the beaches and traditional refreshments. You continue by coach to Seaton, on the South Devon coast, to visit the Seaton Tramway. There’s a return trip on this narrow-gauge electric tramway, which operates open top double-deck trams over part of the former railway branch line to Seaton.

In the afternoon your road coach takes you to Weymouth. Here you board the ‘Dorset Coast Express’ steam train for the journey to London Victoria. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1275

Single supplement £165 Price includes: • Rail travel from and to London by special steam trains • 5 nights hotel accommodation with breakfasts • 6 dinners • All rail and road coach journeys as mentioned in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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UK TOUR – 6 Days

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©Sandringham Estate

The East Anglian Friday 3rd September to Thursday 9th September 2021 Experience the very best of East Anglia’s small railways and explore its unique landscape, from delightful coastal towns to vibrant cities, on this inspiring UK tour.

• Based in the historic towns of Norwich and King’s Lynn, you’ll enjoy steam trips on the Bure Valley, Mid Norfolk, Wells & Walsingham and North Norfolk lines.

• Discover ancient castles, quaint villages and unspoilt seaside towns as you steam across the stunning landscapes of the region behind historic steam locomotives.

• Enjoy an afternoon boat cruise on the Norfolk Broads, an extended visit to Her Majesty The Queen’s country estate at Sandringham, and a timeless trip to the North Norfolk seaside town Wells-next-the-Sea. • Other tour highlights include an epic steam-hauled excursion to Chester on the Cheshireman, a guided tour of Norwich Castle and visits to historic Castle Rising and Wymondham Abbey.

• With accommodation in 4-star hotels, sumptuous dining, plenty of time for sightseeing and the services of a tour manager included, this outstanding East Anglian tour holiday is a must for seasoned traveller and steam newcomer alike.

Friday 3rd September From London to Norwich in First Class comfort; tour of Norwich Castle Your tour starts at Liverpool Street Station, London this morning with a greeting from your Tour Manager. You then travel north in First Class accommodation through the scenic East Anglian countryside to Norwich. On arrival you check in to a centrally located 4-star hotel, your base for the next four nights. A coach then takes you to nearby Norwich Castle for a private guided tour, before you enjoy a welcome dinner at your historic hotel this evening. (D) Saturday 4th September Cheshireman over the Fens to Nuneaton; West Coast Main Line to Chester This morning you join The Cheshireman steam 28

train at Norwich train station for an impressive departure steam-hauled by one of the magnificent LMA Princess Royal Class locomotives No.6201 Princess Elizabeth or No.46233 Duchess of Sutherland.

Breakfast is served on the train as you cross the verdant Fenland landscape to the market town of Thetford. Your train then follows the crosscountry line through Stamford and continues westwards to pass Rutland Water towards Oakham. Carrying on into Leicestershire, you run through Melton Mowbray and follow the main line to Wigston Junction, where you branch off on to the Nuneaton and Birmingham line. Your route continues westwards through Hinckley to Nuneaton, where it joins the West Coast Main Line. Heading northwards, your steam locomotive can now get up to speed as you make for Tamworth and Lichfield. The line

splits at Colwich Junction and you follow the WCML through Shugborough Park to round Queensville Curve at Stafford. Continuing northwards through rural Staffordshire your steam loco works hard as it tackles the long climb to Whitmore Summit, before slowing to approach the major railway junction at Crewe.

The final part of your journey takes you across the Cheshire Plain past Beeston Castle to Chester. Here you have plenty of time to enjoy the local sights before enjoying a four-course, silver-served dinner at your seat on the return trip to Norwich. (B D) Sunday 5th September Free time in historic Norwich; steamhauled to Wymondham Abbey This morning is free for you to explore the wonderful medieval city of Norwich, which

boasts a magnificent Cathedral, with the bustling town centre only a short walk away. There are craft shops, department stores and the famous market to discover, with countless quaint pubs and cafes to relax in. Cobbled streets, halftimbered houses and winding lanes all add to the charm and timeless history of this vibrant University city. After lunch, a private coach takes you to Dereham for a steam-hauled trip on the Mid-Norfolk Railway. Savour an afternoon travelling under steam from Dereham to Wymondham Abbey, one of the grandest religious buildings in East Anglia. You’ll soak up the sights and sounds of the Norfolk countryside en route, and on the trip back to Dereham enjoy a delicious cream tea served at your seat before returning to Norwich and your hotel for dinner.

(B D) Monday 6th September Steam-hauled on the Bure Valley Railway; boat cruise on the Norfolk Broads After breakfast today you travel by coach to Aylsham and board a steam-hauled train on the Bure Valley Railway to Wroxham, a delightful town situated on the Norfolk Broads.

The man-made landscape of the Broads comprises over 125 miles of navigable lock-free waterways and a quick coach ride takes you to the bridge at Wroxham for an afternoon of cruising on the serene rivers and placid, reedfringed lakes of this National Park. After an adventurous afternoon you return to Wroxham with time to explore this charming little town on the river Bure, before heading back once more to your hotel in Norwich for dinner. (B L D) Tuesday 7th September Day trip to Wells-next-the-Sea; steamhauled along the North Norfolk coast Today you depart by coach to Wells-next-theSea, a timeless little seaside town on the North Norfolk Coast with harbour front and fishing vessels, long sandy beach and famous brightly coloured beach huts. From here you depart steam-hauled on the Wells and Walsingham Light Railway to Walsingham, before returning back to Wells for a leisurely lunch at one of its many restaurants, or to enjoy fish and chips on the sea front by the harbour. After lunch you travel by coach eastward along the coast to Sheringham, for a steam-hauled trip on the North Norfolk Railway to Holt, travelling by the coast and through the North Norfolk countryside

before returning to Sheringham. Here a private coach takes you to King’s Lynn where you checkin to a 4-star hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D) Wednesday 8th September Trip to Castle Rising; Afternoon exploration of Sandringham House and Gardens Following breakfast at your hotel this morning, you have free time before your coach transfers you to Castle Rising, a beautiful little village near King’s Lynn. It’s home to one of the largest, best preserved and most lavishly decorated keeps in England, surrounded by 20 acres of mighty earthworks. You’ll have time to visit the castle and explore before you continue by coach to Sandringham, home of the Queen’s Norfolk Country House.

Here you’ll have lunch in the restaurant before spending the afternoon immersed in the history and elegance of Sandringham House and its grounds. Sandringham is the country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen and has been the private home of four generations of British monarchs since 1862. The house is set in 24 hectares of stunning gardens and is at the heart of the 8,000-hectare Sandringham Estate.

After absorbing the atmosphere and culture of Norfolk’s most famous stately home you return to King’s Lynn for dinner and accommodation at your hotel. (B L D) Thursday 9th September Exploration of King’s Lynn; return to London You’ll enjoy another lavish breakfast at your hotel before you spend the morning exploring and shopping in the busy town centre and finding somewhere for lunch at one of Lynn’s many diverse eating places. King’s Lynn was one of England’s most important ports from as early as the 12th century, and fine old merchants’ houses stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House that overlooks the harbour. After a morning of discovery, you board a coach to take you back to Norwich before heading to the station to catch a train home. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1595

Single supplement £235 Price includes: • 6 nights accommodation with breakfast in 4-star hotels • 5 breakfasts in hotels and 1 on the train • 5 dinners in hotels and 1 on the train • 2 lunches • All train travel as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and coach transfers • The services of a tour manager Seat reservations from London and return are non reserveable. Return travel from Kings Lynn to Kings Cross is available upon request.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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UK TOUR – 7 Days

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Steam and Christmas Markets in Saxony and Silesia Thursday 3rd December to Friday 11th December 2020 Discover the festive splendour of Christmas Markets in Eastern Germany, Western Poland and Northern Czech Republic on this unique steam holiday exploring historic towns and cities in a Winter Wonderland landscape.

• This all-new winter tour based in the historic German cities of Leipzig and Görlitz. Offers travel refinement and a relaxed holiday experience for the seasoned traveller or Christmas Market newcomer alike.

• You’ll steam through 3 different countries on 3 different gauges, while sightseeing historic cathedral cities on classic 1920s tramways.

• The most idyllic narrow gauge railways in Saxony are a signature attraction of this holiday, including private charter trains on the Döllnitzbahn and Muskau Forest Railway, as well as famed ‘Plandampf¨ trains at Radebeul and Zittau.

• Enjoy the very best of Czech main line steam with a private charter train on the mountainous route from Liberec to Tanvald, crossing over stone-arched viaducts and running through thick evergreen forests.

• Best of all, the tour concludes with a private main line steam charter around the wonderful Silesian city of Wroclaw, the socalled ‘Venice of Poland.’

Thursday 3rd December London to Leipzig You travel to Leipzig from London St Pancras via Brussels and Frankfurt on Eurostar, Thalys and ICE high-speed services. On arrival, you check into your centrally located hotel, where a light dinner will be served. (D) Friday 4th December Leipzig Christmas Market; vintage tramway tour and Christmas Market in Halle You have free time to explore the architecture and ambiance of Leipzig, Germany’s eighth most populous city, and its famous Christmas Market.

In the afternoon, you have a scheduled excursion to the city of Halle, the birthplace of the classical 30

composer Händel in 1685. You’ll enjoy a private sightseeing tour of this historic town by vintage tramway, followed by some free time at the festive market. You return back to Leipzig by DB service train, before enjoying drinks and an evening meal at the Bayerischer Bahnhof.

One of the oldest preserved railway stations in the world, which features its own brewpub. (B D) Saturday 5th December Steam on the Döllnitzbahn with a Saxon Meyer locomotive and all new Kemmlitz extension Today you visit “a best kept secret” railway, located southeast of Leipzig. The Döllnitz Railway is one of many narrow gauge railways in Saxony which locals refer to as the ‘Wild

Robert’. You’ll have a four-cylinder 0-4-4-0 Meyer type steam locomotive, pulling the steam train over the 20.2 km long preserved railway with two branch lines. From the provincial town of Oschatz you make your way to the villages of Glossen and Kemmlitz. En route, you’ll experience street running in Oschatz before stopping in Mügeln, which features one of the largest narrow gauge yards in Germany.

Several photo stops will be staged. A special highlight is the steam-hauled journey over the newly re-opened, 2.6 km long branch line from Nebitzschen–Kemmlitz. Lunch will served at a typical German restaurant in Oschatz.

Late afternoon you return to Leipzig by DB service train. (B L)

Sunday 6th December Steam at the Lössnitz Railway, Dresden Christmas Market; Arrival to Görlitz After breakfast you join a DB service train to Radebeul and visit the famed Radebeul to Radeburg steam railway. You’ll travel the full length of the line, passing through terraced vineyards and tranquil ponds, steaming beyond the famed Moritzburg Castle to Radeburg.

After returning to Radebeul, you continue by service train to Dresden for a visit to the city’s famous Christmas Market. You’ll have free time to look around Dresden’s enchanting old town before taking a service train to the beautiful city of Görlitz. Located right on the Polish border and known as “Görliwood”, due to it being the site of many major film productions, Görlitz boast stunning historic architecture. You stay at an elegant 4-star hotel near the station for the rest of the tour and enjoy a welcome dinner on arrival. (B D) Monday 7th December Steam at the Muskau Forest Railway and Pückler Park Visit; Trams and Culture in Görlitz Today an exciting private steam charter trip awaits you on the 600mm gauge Muskau Forest Railway, covering the two scenic branch lines from Weisswasser to Bad Muskau and Kromlau.

Your steam special then arrives at the spa town of Bad Muskau, with its charming local chateau and the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Pückler Park, a beautiful 19th century English landscape garden spanning both sides of the German-Polish border. There’ll be time to enjoy the chateau and gardens and also stroll across the River Neisse to Poland. Light refreshments will be provided on the train. You return back to Görlitz to visit the local Christmas Market or ride the Tarta vehicles on the local tram network using your complimentary rover ticket.

Dinner will be served at your hotel. (B L D) Tuesday 8th December Main line steam in the Giant Mountains of North Bohemia After breakfast you take a service train from Görlitz via Zittau to Liberec in the Czech Republic. This train journey is scenic and exciting, as the tracks pass through Poland no less than three times, traversing some stunning river viaducts. After arrival in Liberec, referred to as “Czech Innsbruck” you board your private charter steam train for an enchanting journey through the rural landscape of the Giant Mountains. Highlights along the way to Tanvald, include the curved stone-arched viaduct

at Smrzovka. Your train will be hauled by the rugged 0-6-0 tank engine 310.0134 dating from 1913. After your steam-hauled roundtrip there is time to visit the town centre of Liberec, with its landmark city hall, modelled after the Rathaus in Vienna. In the late afternoon you return back to Görlitz for dinner at the hotel. (B L D) Wednesday 9th December Steam and natural splendour in Zittau Another narrow-gauge highlight awaits today on the Zittau steam railway in Saxony, in the south eastern corner of Germany along the frontier with Poland and the Czech Republic. From Zittau the 12.2 km branch line proceeds to the resort town of Kurort Oybin, sited among picturesque hills and impressive rock formations. Enjoy a steeply graded, 3.8 km long stub from the junction station of Bertsdorf to Kurort Jonsdorf.

After traveling over the entire Zittau network behind an impressive 2-10-2 tank engine, you have time to visit the Old Town of Zitta.

Here you travel by service train over the scenic main line passing through Poland on its return to Gorlitz. Dinner is once again in the hotel restaurant. (B L D) Thursday 10th December Polish main line steam around Wroclaw; city sightseeing and Christmas Market Today’s programme adds an international flavour to your holiday. First you take a Polish service train From Görlitz/Zgorzelec on the newly electrified main line to Wroclaw Glowny.

There a private steam charter awaits you, hauled by a historic 0-6-0 tank engine. The unique spectacle of a small engine running on the main line with four-wheeled coaches provides excitement, as you cross over the River Odra and view the city’s spires from your compartment window. After refreshments back at Glowny station, you take a privately chartered tram for a sightseeing tour of the city, travelling over the landmark bridges and little river islands for which Wroclaw is known as the ‘Venice of Poland’. The tram tour concludes near the main market square, where you can then sample the local Christmas Market. You return to Görlitz by service train and enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers. (B D)

Tour Summary First Class

£2075

Standard Class

£1895

Single supplement £245 Ground only £1725 (Leipzig – Gorlitz) Price includes: • 8 nights’ accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotels in Leipzig and Gorlitz • 4 lunches and 7 dinners • First or Standard Class travel from London St Pancras to Leipzig and from Gorlitz to London • All seat reservations and transfers • Private charters as detailed in the itinerary • 3 day rover ticket • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Friday 11th December Return to London You return to London from Görlitz via Dresden Neustadt by rail, westward to Cologne and Brussel. (B)

EUROPEAN TOUR – 9 Days

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Christmas and New Year in the Swiss and Italian Alps Tuesday 22nd December to Saturday 2nd January 2021 Make it a Christmas and New Year to remember as you spend the holiday in a genuine Winter Wonderland, surrounded by the snow-capped Swiss Alps and enchanting Italian lakes.

• The tour includes a 15-Day Swiss Pass rail rover in First Class as well the extra journey on the world famous mountain railway to the Gornergrat, where you will see glaciers, the Matterhorn and unrivalled high altitude landscapes.

• Celebrate Christmas Day in style with a festive steamboat cruise with a refined 4-course dinner on Lake Lucerne.

• Additional paddle steamer cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Geneva are possible with the Swiss Pass.

• Make the most of your First Class Swiss Pass on 6 free days of the tour for individual discovery of the countless mountain railways, such as the Golden Pass, Glacier Express route and many more.

• Enjoy the best of Northern Italy during a trip on the iconic Centovalli narrow gauge railway through 100 valleys from Domodossola to Locarno, then relax in the Italianate towns of the Swiss Ticino.

• This tour is running on a half-board basis, with breakfast and dinner included every day at your centrally located, quality hotels in the mountainous towns of Brig and Bellinzona, thus providing excellent value and ideal comfort.

Tuesday 22nd December London to Brig by high speed rail You travel from London to Brig via Paris on Eurostar and TGV services. On arrival you check in to the 3-star Hotel Victoria, located directly across the street from the railway station.

A welcome dinner will be served at the hotel this evening. (D) Wednesday 23rd December Along the Glacier Express route to Zermatt, Gornergrat rack railway and Matterhorn Your tour starts with a real highlight as you take the scenic narrow gauge railway to Zermatt, following along the route of the famed Glacier Express. Then you transfer to the Gornergrat 32

Railway, ascending to 3089 metres. It’s Europe’s second highest railway, eclipsed only by the Jungfrau. From this high Alpine summit, enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding glaciers and a front view of the Matterhorn.

After refreshments at Gornergrat you can descend back down to Zermatt, with ample time to explore the car-free village centre that is lined by typical Swiss chalets. This initial group excursion will allow you to get familiar with the Swiss railway system, giving you useful insights on how to best use your Swiss Pass for individual trips on successive days. In the afternoon, there is still free time for individual discovery, before dinner back at the hotel in Brig. (B D)

Thursday 24th December Freedom of Switzerland with your First Class Swiss Travel Pass Today is the third day of validity for your 15-Day First Class rail rover. This allows you to travel anywhere in Switzerland on the extensive network of standard gauge and narrow-gauge railways, and includes travel on buses, trams, ferries and some mountain railways. The choice of where to go is yours, with highlights ranging from world-famous panoramic railways to ‘best kept secrets’ in the hinterland. Discover for yourself why Switzerland is so much fun to explore by public transport, with frequent, clockwork connections and easy, seamless interchange at all stations.

Your Tour Manager will be happy to advise you about attractive options and specific connections. (B D) Friday 25th December Festive Lake Lucerne steamboat cruise with Christmas lunch For Christmas Day, the memorable highlight is a gala cruise on the vintage 1901 paddle steamer ‘Uri’. A festive 4-course Christmas meal will be served to you in the ornate Belle Epoque salon of the ship, as you cruise over stunning Lake Lucerne with Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi in full view. Watch the big steam engine push the bright red paddle wheels, as the steamer gently glides over the water. After the cruise, you’ll have free time in Lucerne to explore this elegant city. Then you could use your Swiss Pass to travel back to Bern and Brig on a different railway route than in the morning, either travelling through the Emmental or over the Brünig Pass. In the evening, a light dinner will be served at the hotel. (B L D) Saturday 26th, Sunday 27th December, Monday 28th December Freedom of Switzerland with First Class Swiss Travel Pass For the next three days you have total freedom to discover all that Switzerland has to offer.

Aside from attractions like the nearby Bernese Oberland or Lake Geneva, you can explore the less-famous railway lines in the serene Gruyere region or make a side-step to Chamonix, France on the Mont Blanc Express, all offering iconic ‘little trains’, towering viaducts and mountain views. Excursions over the Oberalp Pass to the Rhaetian Railway are also possible. Each night, dinner is served at the hotel in Brig. (B D) Tuesday 29th December Mountain magnificence in the Bernese Oberland Today you may join your Tour Manager for a guided excursion to the world famous Bernese Oberland. After arriving to Interlaken by SBB service, you can explore the countless ‘Little Trains’ of the region and travel by scenic train to such famed mountain villages as Grindelwald, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen and Mürren, where you will be rewarded with the most amazing views of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. In case you would like to follow in the footsteps of James Bond, you can make the optional excursion to the summit of Mount Schilthorn, the filming location of “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. (B D)

Wednesday 30th December Journey on the Centovalli Railway in Northern Italy, Lake Maggiore in Locarno and Ascona; Arrive in Bellinzona The time has come to venture further south to Italy as well as Ticino, the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. While your luggage is directly forwarded by SBB’s excellent transfer service from hotel to hotel, you take a direct EuroCity train along the legendary Simplon Railway south to Italy. You change trains in Domodossola and then take the stunning Centovalli narrow gauge railway past 100 valleys and over numerous towering viaducts to Locarno.

After ample time to explore Mediterranean Locarno with its spacious piazza and a side-step to the adjacent lakeside village of Ascona, you take an SBB train to nearby Bellinzona, the capital of Ticino, Switzerland’s Italian speaking canton. In Bellinzona you are accommodated at the elegant Hotel Internationale, located opposite the station. Bellinzona is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its three hilltop fortresses. On arrival, dinner is served in the hotel restaurant. (B D) Thursday 31st December and Friday 1st January Railways and Funiculars of Ticino; along the Gotthard Railway and Swiss Riviera in Locarno and Lugano The mountain railways of Ticino are particularly exciting, as are the lakeside cities of Locarno and Lugano with their Mediterranean flair.

For all railway enthusiasts, the busy border station of Chiasso is also a must. You first make a group visit to the Madonna del Sasso funicular, for spectacular views from this Italianate basilica high above Locarno. Then you are free to travel the length and breadth of the Ticino railway network for the next two days, including the Gotthard summit route with its winding horseshoe curves, the Ponte Tresa narrow gauge railway or the main line along Lake Lugano towards Italy. You could even make good use of the 57 km long Gotthard base tunnel and make an easy day-trip to the Mount Rigi rack railway at Arth-Goldau. On both evenings you have dinner at the hotel in Bellinzona. On New Year’s Eve, complimentary drinks are included with your dinner to celebrate the New Year. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2495

Single supplement £245 Ground only £2200 (Brig – Bellinzona) Price includes: • 11 nights half board at centrally located quality hotels (opposite the station) in Brig and Bellinzona • First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back (seats are reserved in standard premier carriages on Eurostar services) • A 15-Day Swiss Travel Pass national rail rover in First Class • Gornergrat mountain railway excursion • Festive Lake Lucerne Christmas Day Cruise with 4-course meal • SBB luggage transfer from Brig to Bellizona • Train tickets in Italy for excursion on Centovalli Railway • New Year’s Eve 3-course dinner with drinks included • All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days) • The services of a tour manager Optional Schilthorn excursion £35.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Saturday 2nd January 2021 Return to London After your exhilarating Christmas holiday you return to London via Paris by TGV and Eurostar services. (B) EUROPEAN TOUR – 12 Days

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Highlights of Germany, Harz Mountains, Saxony and Baltic Coast Tuesday 12th January to Tuesday 26th January 2021 Journey through a genuine Winter Wonderland on our ever-popular tour to Eastern Germany. Timber-framed houses, fairy-tale castles and romantic steam trains all add to the enchantment of this seasonal holiday.

• Discover first-hand the charm and culture of Central, Eastern and Northern Germany, staying in such fine cities as Erfurt, Dresden, Görlitz, Stralsund and Rostock.

• Ride on the famed ‘little trains’ that circulate on the renowned narrow-gauge networks of the Harz Mountains, Saxony and along the Baltic Coast.

• Visit iconic locations such as Drei Annen Hohne and Mount Brocken.

• Experience legendary German ‘Plandampf’ on eight different narrow-gauge steam railways, all with their own unique character.

• Enjoy private charters on wonderful heritage tramways in the historic cathedral cities of Halle and Görlitz, and a trip on the 1901 ‘dingle-dangle’ mountain monorail in Dresden.

Tuesday 12th January London to Erfurt Travel by Eurostar, Thalys and ICE high speed services from London St Pancras via Brussels and Frankfurt to Erfurt. On arrival check into your quality, centrally located hotel in the heart of Erfurt’s Old Town, where a welcome dinner will be served. (D) Wednesday 13th January Historic Erfurt and Heritage Tramways in Halle Located in the heart of Germany, Erfurt has countless spacious squares, proud Burgher Houses, old bridges and pedestrianised alleys.

This morning you explore its sights before an early afternoon service train trip to the nearby Cathedral city of Halle on Germany’s newest 34

high speed railway line. Here you enjoy a private charter trip on a heritage tramway replete with photo stops. You’ll have an opportunity to see the landmark cathedral and beautiful main market square with its characteristic spires before returning to Erfurt by service train in the late afternoon for dinner at your hotel. (B D) Thursday 14th January Steam in the Harz Mountains from Norhausen to Mount Brocken This morning you take a DB service train from Erfurt to Nordhausen before departing Nordhausen steam-hauled north to the junction station of Drei Annen Hohne. You travel steam-hauled over the long trunk line of the Harz narrow gauge network before a different steam locomotive takes over for the ascent up

Mount Brocken. Following refreshments and photo opportunities at the summit, you descend back to Drei Annen Hohne and then return to Nordhausen, completing over 130 km of steam travel for the day. Once back in Erfurt, dinner will be served at your hotel. (B D) Friday 15th January On to Dresden; Sightseeing by Vintage Tram, Historic Funicular and Mountain Monorail This morning you take a DB Intercity Express (ICE) service from Erfurt to Dresden, where you check in to your 4-star hotel. Here you’ll receive a complimentary public transport rover ticket, valid for the duration of your stay. You embark on a sightseeing tour of the city by privately chartered vintage tram, concluding at the ‘Blue

Wonder’ Loschwitz Bridge. You then ride the ‘dingle-dangle’ mountain monorail from 1901 before taking the adjacent 1895 funicular to the Weisser Hirsch summit terminus. From there a direct tram line takes you back to the city centre. The rest of the afternoon is for leisure in Dresden, before dinner is served at your hotel.

(B D) Saturday 16th January Steam to Radeburg with a Saxon VII K locomotive and Leisure in Dresden After breakfast, you visit the local narrow-gauge railway at Radebeul, where a 2-10-2 Saxon VII K tank locomotive takes you down the 16.5 km long line to Radeburg, pausing at Moritzburg Castle. The train returns to Radebeul by midday, from where you return to Dresden Hbf on a DB service train. You can then explore Dresden at your own pace and make good use of your complimentary public transport rover ticket to ‘bash’ the extensive tram network. (B) Sunday 17th January Steam at the Weisseritz Valley Railway to Kurort Kipsdorf Today you have a morning excursion to the recently re-opened narrow-gauge Weisseritz Valley Railway. You’ll be steam-hauled through Saxony’s ‘canyon landscape’ from FreitalHainsberg via Dippoldiswalde to Kurort Kipsdorf, along the river Weisseritz. Enjoy the panoramic views from the open balconies of your vintage carriage. You return to Dresden in the early afternoon, with time to further explore its many attractions. (B)

Monday 18th January Steam in the Ore Mountains from Cranzahl to Oberwiesenthal You travel on DB service trains from Dresden to Cranzahl, and board a steam train to travel over the iconic Fichtelbergbahn for the journey to Oberwiesenthal, the ‘St Moritz of Saxony’.

After free time in this resort town and photo opportunities with steam trains passing over the railway viaduct by the station, you return from Oberwiesenthal to Cranzahl by steam train in the afternoon and from there continue to Dresden on DB service trains. (B) Tuesday 19th January Vintage Tramways in Görlitz After morning leisure in Dresden, a service train takes you over the scenic line via Bautzen to Görlitz, Germany’s easternmost city, a popular location for major film productions. Görlitz also boasts a pocket-sized tram network and you’ll explore the city on a privately chartered 1920s heritage tram. In the evening, a buffet dinner will be served at your comfortable hotel, located in an historic building near the station. (B D) Continued overleaf.

Tour Summary First Class

£2195

Standard Class

£1995

Single supplement £295 Ground only £1895 (Erfurt – Rostock) Price includes: • High Speed train travel from London to Erfurt and from Rostock to London • 10 dinners and 2 lunches • 4 nights accommodation with breakfast • All seat reservations and transfers • Public rover rail ticket • Interrail Global Pass Flex • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 15 Days

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Wednesday 20th January Steam in Zittau Today you travel from the city of Zittau on the 12.2 km narrow-gauge branch line to the resort town of Kurort Oybin. You’ll receive a daylong rover ticket to explore both lines and film the exciting double departure from Bertsdorf.

Impressive 2-10-2 tank engines run every day on the Zittau network and the historic town centre of Zittau is also worth a visit. In late afternoon you return by service train to Görlitz, crossing twice into Poland along the way. Another buffet dinner is served at your hotel tonight. (B D) Thursday 21st January Steam at the Muskau Forest Railway and Pückler Park Visit Today you have an exciting private steam charter on the 600mm gauge Muskau Forest Railway near the Polish frontier. You’ll cover the two different branch lines to Bad Muskau and Kromlau, with run-pasts along the way.

At lunch time, there’s time for refreshments in the namesake town of Bad Muskau with its charming local chateau and the famous UNESCO World Heritage Pückler Park. In late afternoon you return from Weisswasser by train to Görlitz (B L D).

Friday 22nd January Via Berlin to Stralsund on the Baltic Coast This morning you transfer cross-country to north-eastern Germany on secondary railway

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lines. From Görlitz you take a regional train to Cottbus, changing onto an electric double-decker for the fast run into Berlin. At Berlin’s main station you can use your validated Interrail ticket travel day on the city’s elevated Stadtbahn or Ring Railway on DB S-Bahn services.

Alternatively you can sightsee the nearby Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate. In midafternoon you continue on a DB Regional Express service to Stralsund, arriving by late afternoon. On arrival at your centrally located hotel a buffet dinner will be served. (B D) Saturday 23rd January At leisure in historic Stralsund; or individual discovery of the Baltic Coast with a Rail Rover You relax today in Stralsund, with the option of visiting the nearby university city of Greifswald or using your complimentary rail rover today to travel over the entire standard gauge network on the island of Rügen. Alternatively, you can travel to the island of Usedom and cover the branch lines to Peenemünde and Swinoujscie, Poland.

Your Tour Manager will be happy to advise on options. In the evening, a buffet dinner is served at the hotel (B D).

Sunday 24th January Steam on the Island of Rügen German Plandampf is centre stage today as you travel by service train to Putbus and then experience the island’s famous narrow-gauge ‘Racing Roland’ railway. The 24 km long line runs

via Binz to the seaside terminus Göhren.

After lunch you return to Putbus behind a different steam locomotive and continue by regular service train to Stralsund. Dinner is once again served at your hotel. (B L D) Monday 25th January Steam at the Molli Railway along the Baltic Coast Today you visit the 15.4-kilometre-long resort railway ‘Molli’. Famous for its street running section in Bad Doberan, this 900 mm gauge railway boasts lots of rugged German tank engines. You’ll have reserved seats for the northbound journey to Kühlingsborn on the Baltic Coast, before returning to Bad Doberan to film the street running there. In the afternoon you continue to nearby Rostock for a final night at a centrally located hotel. (B) Tuesday 26th January Return to London From the convenient, more westerly location of Rostock, you catch a mid-morning DB Intercity train directly to Cologne. From there it’s high speed rail onward to London St Pancras via Brussels. (B)

Tour Summary First Class

£2195

Standard Class

£1995

Single supplement £295 Ground only £1895 (Erfurt – Rostock) Price includes: • High Speed train travel from London to Erfurt and from Rostock to London • 10 dinners and 2 lunches • 4 nights accommodation with breakfast • All seat reservations and transfers • Public rover rail ticket • Interrail Global Pass Flex • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 15 Days

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Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

Highlights of Switzerland in Winter Monday 1st February to Monday 8th February 2021 Experience the white splendour of the Swiss Alps on this seasonal holiday to a genuine winter wonderland.

Trips on Switzerland’s most iconic mountain railways are conveniently included, giving you a chance to sample ‘the best of the best’.

• Initially based in the Swiss Riviera town of Vevey on Lake Geneva and then in the historic cities of Brig and Chur, you’ll stay in top-quality hotels featuring typical Swiss hospitality.

• Discover Switzerland’s spectacular mountain railways from west to east, including the Rochers-de-Naye, Golden Pass, Glacier Express, Gornergrat, Oberalp Pass, Rhaetian Railway, as well as the UNESCO designated Albula and Bernina lines.

• Travel aboard opulent ‘Belle Epoque’ Pullman Cars over the Golden Pass, plus enjoy private accommodation in the 1930s Art Deco Pullman coaches of the Rhaetian Railway for trips to Arosa and Tirano.

• Sample the amazing BLS ‘Blue Arrow’ on a private charter run in the Bernese Oberland. Journey back in time aboard this wonderfully dynamic streamliner dating from 1938, allowing you to sit next to the driver.

• See impressively engineered railways up close and get the best high-altitude views of the Matterhorn from the Gornergrat summit station.

• Go ’peak-hopping’ on rack railways, funiculars and aerial cableways, whilst exploring local towns and castles with complimentary public transport rover tickets.

Monday 1st February London to Vevey Travel on Eurostar and TGV via Paris to Geneva, then by SBB service train to Vevey, on the northern shore of Lake Geneva. Here you check in to the 4-star Hotel Astra, conveniently located opposite the station. A welcome dinner will be served at the hotel tonight. (D) Tuesday 2nd February Swiss Riviera and Mont Pelerin Funicular; Rochers de Naye Rack Railway You start your holiday by exploring Vevey and Lake Geneva’s famed ‘Swiss Riviera’. You catch a funicular to the terraced vineyards high above 38

the lake, reaching a formidable observation point at the summit of Mont Pelerin. Later on, you can use your complimentary, public transport rover ticket to take the trolleybus route to Montreux and see the medieval Chillon Castle.

Early afternoon you board a rack railcar for the steep journey from Montreux to the summit of Rochers de Naye, 2042 metres above sea level. From the top there are panoramic views of the French and Swiss Alps. You return to Montreux, for a further look around town or ride on another local funicular before returning back to Vevey. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Wednesday 3rd February Golden Pass in Pullman coaches; Blue Arrow railcar in the Bernese Oberland Today you travel in style from Montreux via Gstaad to Zweisimmen over the Golden Pass in elegant ‘Belle Epoque’ Pullman coaches on the Golden Pass Classic train. The line climbs to the highest point, near Saanenmöser, at 1279 metres. In Zweisimmen you board the vintage 1938 BLS ‘Blue Arrow’ with luxurious passenger accommodation and open cab vestibules, allowing you to sit or stand beside the driver.

The route winds through the Simmental Valley to Spiez and along Lake Thun to Bern.

You’ll have free time to visit the medieval city of Bern, before travelling back to Lake Geneva

via the Gruyere foothills and Lausanne. Back in Vevey you’ll have a free evening to enjoy dinner at a lake-side venue of your choosing. (B) Thursday 4th February Glacier Express route to Zermatt; Gornergrat Railway; the Matterhorn This morning you board an SBB service train from Vevey station to Visp, where you’ll travel on a panoramic narrow-gauge train for the final section of the Glacier Express route. This scenic railway line winds through rocky valleys and over steep inclines to reach Zermatt.

Here you transfer to the Gornergrat rack railway, ascending to 3089 metres above sea level.

It’s Europe’s second highest railway, eclipsed only by the Jungfrau. From this high Alpine plateau, enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding glaciers and a fabulous front perspective of the Matterhorn.

After refreshments at Gornergrat you can film the passing trains in their characteristic chocolate-brown livery, before riding back down to Zermatt. You’ll have some time to look around car-free Zermatt, with its rows of wooden chalets and stone churches. Then you board another panoramic narrow gauge train for the onward journey on the Glacier Express route to Brig. You’ll spend the night in this historic, elegant city, which has become famous as a major railway junction and gateway to nearby Italy. Your hotel is conveniently located near the railway station and dinner will be served in the hotel restaurant. (B D) Friday 5th February On the Glacier Express and via the Oberalp Pass to Chur A true highlight awaits, as you step aboard the legendary Glacier Express and travel in First Class accommodation on one of the world’s most famous trains! Enjoy the sleek dome cars with their grandiose windows as well as the refinement of on train catering, for the half-day journey from Brig to Chur. The Glacier Express initially traverses the narrow valleys of the Obergoms, before travelling through Andermatt and climbing up to the breath-taking Oberalp Pass. From there you descend through the Surselva region and along the Rhine Gorge, arriving in Chur, one of Switzerland’s oldest cities. You check into a centrally located hotel with free time to explore, before dinner is served. (B L D)

Saturday 6th February Rhaetian Railway from Chur to Arosa by private Pullman Coach; Ascent to the Weisshorn Today you experience the famous Rhaetian Railway in a privately chartered, original 1930s Pullman car. Aside from the luxury of deep cushioned chairs, large panoramic windows give fine views of the mountainous landscape, as you traverse the impressively engineered 25 km branch line from Chur to Arosa. The route climbs 1155 metres via tunnels and bridges, including the 284-metre-long Langwieser Viaduct, first opened in December 1914. On arrival in Arosa you take the cableway to the summit of the 2653 metre Weisshorn, where majestic views await.

You return to Arosa in the early afternoon, with ample time to explore the town and stroll along the picturesque lake. Later, you reboard the RhB train and private Pullman car for the return trip to Chur. You have the evening to explore the heart of the medieval old town. (B) Sunday 7th February Albula Railway to Pontresina; Bernina Railway to Tirano by private Pullman coach Another signature attraction awaits, as you journey over both the UNESCO-designated Albula and the Bernina railways. From Chur you take an express train over the beautiful Albula line to Samedan and Pontresina.

This allows you to ride over the iconic Landwasser Viaduct and experience the countless horseshoe curves that make the Albula line renowned around the world. In Pontresina you change onto the Bernina Railway and are once again accommodated in a private Pullman coach for the journey over the wonderful Bernina pass, the only Swiss trans-alpine railway that climbs over the ridges between north and south without using a tunnel. Enjoy the ascent to the summit at Alp Grüm and the spiralling descent to Poschiavo, before the famed circular viaduct is reached at Brusio and you finish your journey amidst palm trees in Italy. In Tirano, you stop for lunch (wine included) and have time for a stroll to the basilica, before continuing back north in your Pullman coach.

On returning to Pontresina you travel back to Chur over the Albula line aboard another RhB express service. A farewell dinner is served at your hotel. (B L D)

Tour Summary First Class* £2395

First Class travel from London St. Pancras International to Vevey and Return from Chur.

First Class travel within Switzerland where possible.

Single supplement £225 Ground only £2095 (Vevey – Chur) Joining the group at the Hotel. First Class travel throughout Switzerland, where possible.

Price includes:

• 4 Nights Accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel Astra, Vevey • 1 Night Accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel Ambassador, Brig • 3 Nights Accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel ABC, Chur • 2 lunches and 5 dinners • All privately chartered vintage trains as detailed in the itinerary • First Class travel on Golden pass panoramic train (Montreux to Zweisimmen) • First Class travel on Glacier Express including lunch on-board (Brig – Chur) • All train travel and transfers • SBB luggage transfers from hotel to hotel • Seat reservations (where possible) • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner *Please be advised that First Class travel will be allocated in Standard Premier carriages on Eurostar services.

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Monday 8th February Return to London Today you return to London from Switzerland, travelling via Chur, Zürich and Paris on RhB, SBB, TGV and Eurostar trains. (B) EUROPEAN TOUR – 8 Days

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Alex Loidl

Alex Loidl

Snow and Steam in Austria and Bohemia Tuesday 16th February to Tuesday 23rd February 2021 Discover the rich culture and wonderful landscapes of Austria and the Czech Republic on this wonderful winter holiday packed with unique steam attractions.

• Travel steam-hauled on a private charter train on the rarely visited Steyrtalbahn in Upper Austria, as well as the famous Gmünd narrow gauge network to Litschau, using original motive power from the Austro-Hungarian era and featuring numerous run-pasts for filmers.

• Be among the first to travel steam-hauled on the re-opened Mariazellerbahn branch line to Bischofstetten on a private charter with the original 0-8+4 articulated locomotive Mh 6.

• Travel on private charter trains and comfortable OBB service trains on scenic railway routes ‘off the beaten path’ through the serene Austrian hinterland, to enchanting locations such as the Kamp Valley and the towns of Horn and Zwettl.

• Enjoy steam in the Czech Republic on the south branch of the impressive JHMD narrow gauge network from Jindrichuv Hradec to Nova Bystrice with the mighty Polish-built tender locomotive Px48 1916.

• Based in the magnificent Austrian capital city of Vienna and the charming countryside town of Gmünd on the Czech border, you’ll enjoy quality hotels and traditional Austrian hospitality.

Tuesday 16th February Arrive to Vienna You arrive in Austria’s capital around mid-day, following a morning flight from London.

After a direct transfer from the airport you check into your centrally located hotel, where you’ll be based for the next three nights.

You can spend the rest of the day exploring iconic Vienna at your leisure, using the complimentary public transport rover ticket supplied, valid for the duration of your stay in the city. A welcome dinner is served at a nearby restaurant. (D) Wednesday 17th February Vienna at leisure and steam at Strasshof with 17c372 After breakfast you’ll still have the morning to 40

further explore Vienna and all of its wonderful sights, including the dense tram network and busy main line railway stations. Then you rejoin the group in the early afternoon for a trip to the famed Strasshof railway museum and steamshed, located just north of the city. The site hosts one of the largest collections of preserved and operational steam locomotives in Central Europe and has many iconic tank and tender locomotives dating from the Austro-Hungarian era. Indeed, the archaic 4-4-0 tender locomotive 17c372 dating from 1891 will be in steam and provide cab-ride opportunities up and down the expansive, mile-long museum yard.

Naturally, attractive filming options will also be staged. After a good outing, you return to Vienna by late afternoon, with the evening still free to spend at leisure. (B)

Thursday 18th February Steam at the Steyrtalbahn This morning you’ll travel by ÖBB service train to the historic city of Steyr. There you board a private charter train to travel the full length of the preserved narrow gauge Steyrtalbahn from Steyr Lokalbahnhof to Grünburg. Along the pretty route, the early 20th century tank engine hauling your “little train” consisting of classic green coaches will pause numerous times for photos at the prettiest locations. After travelling for 17 km, the train reverses at the terminus Grünburg and returns by steam to Steyr.

You then enjoy lunch at a typical Austrian restaurant in Steyr’s picturesque medieval town centre. In the late afternoon you return to Vienna by ÖBB service train. (B L)

Friday 19th February Steam on the Mariazell Railway and scenic Kamp Valley Railway After breakfast you take a high speed train from Vienna to St. Pölten, the provincial capital of Lower Austria. There you join an exclusively chartered steam train on the spectacular Mariazellerbahn, Austria’s longest and most famous narrow gauge railway. Your private charter train of First Class carriages is hauled by the vintage 1908 0-8+4 articulated tender locomotive No. Mh 6. You first steam from St. Pölten to the junction station Obergrafendorf and then as a special attraction continue on the non-electrified branch line to Bischofstetten.

This line only just re-opened in 2019, after being mothballed for almost a decade. Because there are no regular service trains on this branch, it will be possible to stage numerous run-pasts along the way. After the private charter train returns from Bischofstetten to Obergrafendorf, there is time for a visit to the extensive depot facilities there, before a nice lunch at the local brewpub.

In the early afternoon you get to sample one of the Mariazellerbahn’s modern, Swiss-built electric trains for the return to St. Pölten, before changing onto an ÖBB service for the afternoon trip from St. Pölten, over the Danube to Krems and onto Horn and Sigmundsherberg, thus travelling the full length of the idyllic and rather rural Kamp Valley Railway. In Sigmundsherberg you change onto another service train for the short sprint to Gmünd. You arrive to Gmünd in the early evening, while your luggage has already been transferred there earlier, by fast forwarding service. In Gmünd you spend the next 4 nights at the wonderful Hotel Goldener Stern, a beautiful countryside inn featuring all the hallmarks of Austrian hospitality. A buffet dinner is served at the hotel each night. (B L D) Saturday 20th February Main line steam in Austria’s Waldviertel Today is dedicated to discovering the picturesque Waldviertel (Forest District), in the northernmost part of Austria. After a direct transfer from Vienna to Zwettl, you travel steam-hauled on the freight-only branch line to Waldhausen. En route you pass over the spectacular 240m long Zwettl viaduct. Your rugged 0-8-0 tank engine 92.2271 of 1919 vintage will stage several run-pasts over the bridge, offering photo and film opportunities.

After reaching the terminus at Waldhausen, the

locomotive will run-round and steam back via Zwettl to the junction station of Schwarzenau, along the Vienna to Gmünd. From Schwarzenau, you return directly to Gmünd by service train.

A buffet lunch is served today in the delightful bistro car on the train, while dinner will be taken at the hotel. (B L D) Sunday 21st February Narrow-gauge steam from Gmünd to Litschau with Mh.1 Gmünd is home to an extensive narrow-gauge network and today you take a private charter hauled by the classic Austro-Hungarian 0-8+4 type articulated steam locomotive Mh.1 over the idyllic branch line from Gmünd to Litschau, deep in the Austrian hinterland. Framed by rolling fields and dotted small towns, the line meanders north towards the Czech border. Along the way your train poses for photos, with run-pasts added for extra fun. You return to Gmünd by steam train, in time for a late lunch at the hotel.

Later, dinner will once again be served at your hotel. (B L D) Monday 22nd February Steam in South Bohemia Today you spend your day in Bohemia and make the short drive from Gmünd to Jindřichův Hradec, where the Czech Republic’s premier narrow gauge railway is based. The privately operated Jindřichův Hradec Místní Dráhy (JHMD) runs two separate branch lines and today you’ll travel over the scenic 32 km southern line, which passes through so-called ‘Czech Canada’. Your train will be hauled by the Polish-built 0-8-0 tender locomotive Px48 1916 to the terminus at Nová Bystřice. Here you take lunch at a typical Czech restaurant in the town’s main square, including complimentary beer and wine. Afterwards there’s a road coach trip to visit the historic town of Třeboň, with its chateau, Baroque town square, city ramparts, and traditional castle brewery. In the evening you again have dinner at the hotel in Gmünd.

(B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1925

Single supplement £195 Ground only £1795 (Vienna – Gmünd*) Price includes: • Flights from London to Vienna and return • 7 nights hotel accommodation with breakfasts in 3 or 4-star hotels • 5 lunches and 5 dinners • All specially chartered steam and vintage diesel trains as detailed in the itinerary • All specially chartered trips on heritage trams • All train and road coach travel as detailed in the itinerary • All transfers and visits as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager *Transfer from Gmünd – Vienna with the group is possible on request.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Tuesday 23rd February Return to London After breakfast, you have a direct transfer from Gmünd to Vienna airport, for a mid-day flight back to London. (B)

Andrew Thompson

EUROPEAN TOUR – 8 Days

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Railways and World War II History in Poland Saturday 6th March to Monday 15th March 2021 See some of the most important and fascinating WWII sites in the Polish cities and countryside, on a tour that combines history and culture with First Class railway travel, private tramway rides and scenic river cruises.

• An all new tour that takes you to the cities of Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw to see remarkable historical sites such as the Warsaw Ghetto, Oskar Schindler’s Factory, Krakow’s Aviation Museum, the Gliwice Radio Tower and the ‘Great Escape’ Stalag Luft Prisoner Camp in Zagan • Visits to the Kazimierz Jewish quarter in Krakow and the re-opened synagogue and Holocaust remembrance site in Oświęcim, with an optional visit from the Oświęcim town centre to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.

• Stay at centrally located hotels in Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw, near to all the historic sites, with plenty of leisure time to see the other historic and cultural attractions. You will also be given a complimentary public transport rover ticket in all three cities, ideal to discover the expansive tramway networks.

• First Class point-to-point travel on PKP Intercity services between the different cities, including the Express Intercity Premium (EIP) high speed train between Warsaw and Krakow.

• Privately chartered river cruises in Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw (the ‘Venice of Poland’), including complimentary refreshments onboard. Additionally, a privately chartered vintage tram ride in Wroclaw will give you an opportunity to sightsee at ease.

Saturday 6th March Arrive to Warsaw Fly directly from London to Warsaw, before travelling by train from the airport to the city centre. Your hotel is located just outside of the landmark Warszawa Centralna railway station.

After a welcome lunch, you will be given a complimentary public transport rover ticket to use at leisure on the extensive tram and metro system. (L) Sunday 7th March Warsaw Ghetto, Ghetto Museum and Uprising Memorial; Warsaw Old Town and River Vistula Sunset Cruise Today you visit the sites and remains of the 42

former Warsaw Ghetto, including admission to the Warsaw Ghetto Museum. From there you travel to the Memorial and sites of the Warsaw Uprising, organised by the Polish Resistance in late summer 1944. Next up is the nearby Old Town, which was largely destroyed during the war, but comprehensively rebuilt afterwards.

Among the attractive sites are the Royal Palace and colorful main square with mermaid statue.

You have refreshments at E. Wedel, the city’s most famous Grand Cafe. After free time exploring, you rejoin the group for a sunset cruise on the River Vistula, with complimentary refreshments. (B L)

Monday 8th March From Warsaw to Krakow, River Vistula sunset cruise Travel in First Class on the flagship Express Intercity Premium (EIP) high speed train of PKP to Krakow, one of the most attractive cities in Europe and the cradle of Polish history.

You check into your centrally located hotel where lunch is served, before enjoying time at leisure.

In the late afternoon you enjoy a sunset cruise on the River Vistula, sailing past the hilltop Wawel Castle and other prominent landmarks.

Light snacks and complimentary drinks are included on the boat. (B L)

Tuesday 9th March Kazimierz Jewish Quarter in Krakow and visit to Oskar Schindler’s Factory in the former Krakow Ghetto Today you see the vibrant Jewish Quarter Kazimierz, with the opportunity to explore inside several of the beautifully preserved synagogues and Jewish cemeteries. You can also visit the locally based municipal museum. Lunch is served at a traditional Jewish restaurant, before taking the tram across the river to to Krakow-Zablocie, the site of the former Jewish ghetto.

Where the main district square has been turned into an evocative memorial with oversized, vacant chairs, commemorating the heroes of the Ghetto. Nearby is the site of Oskar Schindler’s enamel factory, where several hundred Jews were successfully employed and saved from death at the concentration camps. The story of Oskar Schindler was made famous by Steven Spielberg’s 1992 feature film ‘Schindler’s List’.

Today, the factory has been turned into a museum, providing an immersive experience about the history of Oskar Schindler’s activities and life in Krakow during the Nazi occupation.

After the museum visit, you have more free time in the city. (B L) Wednesday 10th March Trip to Oświęcim and optional visit of Auschwitz concentration camp The town of Oświęcim is west of Krakow, you will travel by local train from Krakow to visit the restored town synagogue, which serves as remembrance site and Holocaust museum.

After a light lunch in the historic town centre of Oświęcim, there is an optional visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in the afternoon, which narrates first-hand the horrors of the Holocaust. You return to Krakow by train either in the afternoon or early evening, depending on the optional camp visit. (B L) Thursday 11th March Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow and leisure in the city The Polish Aviation Museum has one of the finest collections of 1930s and 40s aircraft in Europe, with countless iconic planes of Polish, German, French, British and American origin.

In addition to historic bi-planes, the architecturally impressive museum showcases 22 extremely rare war planes built before 1941.

After the museum visit, there will be more free time to individually enjoy Krakow. (B)

Friday 12th March Visit to the Gliwice Radio Tower in Upper Silesia; Arrival to Wroclaw You travel westbound from Krakow to Silesia on a direct PKP train to Gliwice. Located in the Silesian coal-mining region, Gliwice was German until 1945. Gliwice is the location of one of the most impressively engineered towers in Europe, the 118 m (387 ft) tall wooden Radio Tower built by German Reichspost in 1935. On 31 August 1939, the Nazi SS staged a fake 'Polish' attack on the Gliwice/Gleiwitz radio station, which was later used as justification for Hitler’s long-planned invasion of Poland. The transmitter tower was never destroyed and remains the tallest wooden structure in Europe, locally known as the “Eiffel Tower of Silesia”. After your visit, you travel by Intercity train to Wroclaw.

On arrival, you check into your centrally located hotel and enjoy a group dinner. (B D) Saturday 13th March Discovery of Wroclaw by heritage tramway and River Odra Dinner Cruise Wroclaw is one of the finest cities in Central Europe traditionally known as “The Venice of Poland” thanks to the urban landscape along the River Odra and numerous canals and pedestrianised islands. You sightsee the attractive centre of Wroclaw on a privately chartered heritage tram dating from the 1920s, before an afternoon at leisure. In the evening you rejoin your fellow travellers for a dinner cruise on the River Odra, which will take you past the impressive cathedral and several of the iconic bridges. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1395

Single supplement £285 Ground only £1295 (Warsaw – Wroclaw) Price includes: • 9 nights accommodation with breakfast at centrally located, quality hotels • Flights from London to Warsaw and Wroclaw to London • 5 lunches and 3 dinners • First Class rail travel on PKP Intercity services with seat reservations, Standard Class travel on local trains, when First Class is not available • All privately chartered river cruises and vintage tramway rides as detailed in the itinerary • Complementary public transport rover tickets in Warsaw, Krakow and Wroclaw • Museum and site admissions to all the attractions and memorials as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner March 2021

Sunday 14th March A visit to the ‘Great Escape’ Stalag Luft prisoner camp in Zagan You take a direct train westbound from Wroclaw to Zagan, on arrival there’s a short transfer to the Stalag Luft 3 prisoner camp site. Which has a well preserved museum with wooden prisoner barracks, guard towers and the famed “Harry” tunnel. The site was made famous by the 1963 Hollywood production “The Great Escape” starring Steve McQueen. You return to Wroclaw in the afternoon by train from Legnica. A farewell dinner is served at the hotel. (B D)

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Monday 15th March Return to London You have a return flight from Wroclaw to London in the late afternoon, giving you time to still enjoy the city and its attractions before the flight. (B) EUROPEAN TOUR – 10 Days

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Spring Steam Gala Tuesday 23rd March to Monday 29th March 2021 Combine ‘rare track’ with ‘rare traction’ on this unique European holiday tour with epic trips behind ancient 19th century steam locomotives on scenic secondary lines.

• You’ll be hauled by some of the most unusual steam locomotives in Continental Europe, including a beautiful 4-4-0 ‘American’ locomotive built for the Jura-Simplon Railway in 1891, plus a 137-year old tank engine.

• Ride on steam trains through serene landscapes ‘off the beaten path’, including the re-opened Wasen branch line in Emmental, the lake-side Seetalbahn between Lenzburg and Lucerne as well as the Bauma - Hinwil heritage railway in Zurich Oberland.

• See the extensive main line steam locomotive collection at the Brugg roundhouse and other depots, with private guided visits and locally-based engines in steam.

• Journey by private steam charter train on the busy SBB main line aboard the unique, vertical-boiler steam motor No. 31 dating from 1902.

• An included 4-day Swiss Travel Pass national network rover ticket in the class of your booking allows for flexible travel and individual discovery during ample free time on your tour.

Tuesday 23rd March London to Basel by high speed rail You travel from London St Pancras International via Paris to Basel SBB on Eurostar and TGV services, making the most of Western European high speed rail. On arrival in Basel you check into the elegant Hotel Victoria, opposite the station. This will be your hotel for the duration of the tour, you will receive a complimentary public transport rover ticket to use in the Basel city zone. A welcome dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant in the evening. (D) Wednesday 24th March Brugg roundhouse visit with live steam and main line steam with SBB steam motor railcar 44

After a ride over the Bözberg line from Basel to Brugg, a private steam shuttle hauled by a 0-4-0 industrial tank engine takes you from Brugg to the local roundhouse for a guided tour of the roundhouse and steam workshop, which includes most of the Swiss national collection.

After turntable photography and lunch, you continue aboard the one-of-its-kind steam motor railcar on a circular main line tour via Lupfig and Lenzburg to Rupperswil, before reversing and returning via Holderbank to Brugg. From there you continue with the vertically-boiler steam motor railcar on ‘freight-only’ track via Baden Oberstadt and the expansive Limmattal freight yard Zürich HB. There will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way, allowing you to film the unique steam motor with its attractive dark

green livery and single driven axle. Returning to Basel by SBB service train. (B L) Thursday 25th March Steam in the Emmental over freightonly lines from Huttwil to Wasen Your first day of steam action takes you to the pastoral farmland of Emmental, famed for its grazing cows and cheese. The Emmental is renowned for scenic railway routes and attractive bylines. After arriving in Huttwil by service train, you visit the local steam shed which includes tank engines of Swiss and German provenance, a special attraction is a unique box cab locomotive. You depart Huttwil on a Swiss-built tank engine from 1907 over the attractive byline to Sumiswald, before continuing

on the recently re-opened branch line to Wasen.

All of these lines are freight-only. You have lunch at a typical Swiss inn at Wasen, before returning by steam to Huttwil. Run-pasts and photo stops will be staged on these beautiful lines. For your afternoon return to Basel, you will be free to make best use of your Swiss Travel Pass, on its first full day of validity. (B L) Friday 26th March Steam with legendary 4-4-0 engine on an unusual branch line Built in 1891 by the famous Emil Kessler works in Esslingen, Germany, the ‘American’ type steam locomotive Nr. 35 is a tank engine rather than a tender locomotive. This marvellous machine is a signature attraction of the tour and a core member of the Swiss national collection.

Originally built for the Transalpine Jura-Simplon Railway, today it will haul your private charter train, with equally impressive and opulent coaching stock, on the scenic branch line from Oensingen to Balsthal and back. Inclusive of a shed visit in Balsthal and lunch served on the train. After the private charter finishes, you have the rest of the day to explore the Swiss railway system using your Swiss Travel Pass. (B L) Saturday 27th March Steam in the Zürich Oberland with the 133-year old tank engine “Schwyz” More archaic 19th century motive power awaits you today, as you venture deep into the green hills of Zürich Oberland and travel on Switzerland premier standard gauge heritage railway from Bauma to Hinwil. Just recently, the Bauma station complex has been comprehensively redeveloped and now features an original, 4-bay station canopy dating from 1859, which was first built for Basel and then moved to Bauma. This amazing structure lends great atmosphere to your steam train departure aboard a green train of ancient four-wheeled coaches hauled by the railway’s oldest operating locomotive, the 0-6-0

tank engine “Schwyz”, from 1887. This will haul your private charter train over the full length of the scenic secondary line to Hinwil, pausing for photos and run-pasts in some fantastic locations.

You cross over the stone-arched viaduct at Neuthal before reaching the quaint village of Bäretswil for lunch.

Once at the junction station of Hinwil, you can watch the locomotive take water, before you return by steam train to Bauma. For the return to Basel, you are once again free to choose your preferred route, perhaps opting for the scenic lines via Rapperswil, Samstagern and Lucerne.

(B L) Sunday 28th March Double-headed steam on the Seetalbahn with ancient tank engines The Seetalbahn is a scenic secondary line between Luzern and Lenzburg, which passes two rural lakes in a long valley with vineyards and fruit orchards. Originally built with British capital by the ‘Lake Valley of Switzerland Railway Company’, the route opened in 1883.

The original locomotive, green tank engine No. 6 ‘Beinwyl, is still preserved and in running order. This attractive loco will haul your train from Hochdorf to the junction station of Emmenbrücke. Along the way some steep gradients will need to be overcome, with the support of No. 456, dating from 1894. With the nearby Alpine peaks in sight, this is main line steam at its best. Lunch is served in the train’s buffet car, after your final steam outing you are free to visit nearby Lucerne or use your Swiss Travel Pass for individual travel. (B L) Monday 29th March Return to London by high speed rail After a great week of steam, outstanding scenery and hopefully sunny spring weather, you return to London St Pancras International, once again travelling via Paris on TGV and Eurostar services. (B)

Tour Summary First Class

£2560

Standard Class

£2295

First Class

£2460

Standard Class

£2195

4-day Swiss Travel Pass in First Class.

4-day Swiss Travel Pass in Standard Class.

Ground only (Basel – Basel) 4-day Swiss Travel Pass in First Class.

Ground only (Basel – Basel) 4-day Swiss Travel Pass in Standard Class.

Single supplement £275 Price includes: • 6 nights accommodation with breakfast at a centrally located, quality hotel in Basel • 5 lunches and 1 dinner • First or Standard Class rail travel from London to Basel and Return • All privately chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary • 4-Day Swiss Travel Pass national rover ticket in the class of your booking • Local Basel tram ticket provided by hotel • Seat reservations (where possible) • The services of a tour manager Please be advised that First Class travel will be allocated in Standard Premier carriages on Eurostar services.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 7 Days

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Niels Kunick

Niels Kunick

Spring in Saxony Wednesday 7th April to Friday 16th April 2021 Inspiring landscapes in glorious spring colour are the backdrop to this enchanting holiday tour to Eastern Germany, which coincides with Dresden’s Steam Locomotive Festival and features lots of other travel by steam train and steamboat.

• Based in centrally located 4-star hotels in the historic cities of Dresden and Görlitz, there’s time to explore their stunning landmarks using complimentary public transport rover tickets.

• Enjoy extensive steam travel by land and water in and around Saxony on narrow-gauge trains and genuine paddle steamers, with private sightseeing tours on chartered heritage tramways in both Dresden and Görlitz.

• Experience German ‘Plandampf’ on three different Saxon narrow-gauge railways, including the re-opened Weisseritztalbahn to Kurort Kipsdorf.

• Gain full access to the annual Dresden steam locomotive gala and roundhouse festival.

• Enjoy private steam charters at the 15-inch Dresden Park Railway with an iconic ‘Pacific’ steam locomotive, and at the expansive Muskau Forest Railway, including the new branch line to Schwerer Berg.

Wednesday 7th April London to Dresden Travel by train from London St Pancras via Brussels and Frankfurt to Dresden. On arrival you check into your city centre hotel where you’ll receive a complimentary public transport ticket, valid on all local trains, trams, buses and ferries for the duration of your stay. A welcome dinner is served in the hotel restaurant. (D) Thursday 8th April Private vintage tram tour of Dresden; Heritage Monorail and Funicular in Loschwitz; Paddle Steamer Cruise on River Elbe This morning you embark on a private sightseeing tour of Dresden with a classic Tatra tram, finishing at the iconic Loschwitz ‘Blue Wonder’ Bridge, dating from 1893.

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You disembark next to the local funicular, which transports you past old vineyards and villas up to an open observation point. After the funicular round-trip you ride a unique 1901 mountain monorail, for breath-taking views of the city and the Elbe Valley. Afterwards, lunch is served in the Schillergarten beer garden, one of the finest such venues in Dresden. You return to the city centre embankment on one of Dresden’s nine authentic side-wheel paddle steamers, the oldest and largest paddle steamer fleet in the world.

The rest of the afternoon and evening can be spent at leisure, using your public transport ticket to explore all the local sights. (B L)

Today you visit Germany’s premier 15-inch line, the Dresden Park Railway. Travelling behind a 1920s 4-6-2 ‘Pacific’ steam locomotive you cover the entire 5.6 km long circular within the ‘Grosser Garten’ park on a private charter, pausing for run-pasts. The visit concludes with a guided tour of the shed and workshop.

After free time in the city you visit the nearby 16.5 km Radebeul-Radeburg steam railway, passing the Moritzburg castle. At the Radeburg terminus, your locomotive takes on water, before returning to Radebeul. From there you travel back to Dresden by the scenic overland tramway route or DB service train. (B)

Friday 9th April Steam at the Dresden Park Railway and at the Lössnitz Narrow-Gauge Railway

Saturday 10th April Dresden steam locomotive gathering and roundhouse festival A tour highlight awaits today as you visit

Dresden’s famous brick-built roundhouse to enjoy one of Germany’s premier steam galas, one of the largest annual gatherings of main line steam locomotives in Central Europe. From all over Germany as well as neighbouring countries, large main line tender locomotives gather at Dresden’s rail yard. Turntable photography, short distance cab rides and lots of railway history displays are a few of the attractions to be enjoyed. The heritage locomotive depot of Dresden’s Transport Museum is also open.

In the afternoon, several main line steam locomotives will also be on display at Dresden’s landmark main station, providing more excellent opportunities for photography and fun festival ambiance. (B) Sunday 11th April Paddle Steamer Cruise on the River Elbe through Saxon Switzerland Today you explore more of Saxony by water on an authentic late 19th century paddle steamer with oscillating steam engine. You cruise from Königstein in the heart of Saxon Switzerland through the National Park to Pillnitz Palace, the former summer residence of the Saxon kings, where you change paddle steamers to continue your cruise. You return back to the centre of Dresden to see its famed ‘Canaletto’ panorama with the rebuilt Frauenkirche cathedral, Academy of Arts and the Baroque Chateau overlooking the river. (B) Monday 12th April Leisure in Dresden and steam at the Weisseritz Valley Railway to Kurort Kipsdorf Enjoy some sightseeing before taking an afternoon excursion to one of Saxony’s most impressive narrow-gauge railways, steam-hauled through a ‘canyon landscape’ over the re-opened Weisseritz Valley Railway.

This spectacular journey from Freital-Hainsberg via Dippoldiswalde to Kurort Kipsdorf, takes you along the River Weisseritz past cliffs, bridges and lakes. With the re-opening to Kurort Kipsdorf, the full 26 km long branch line can once again be accessed by steam train. Enjoy superb views from your open-top observation car, before returning to Dresden in the early evening. (B) Tuesday 13th April Steam at the Muskau Forest Railway and Pückler Park Visit Today you have a trip to the 600mm gauge Muskau Forest Railway near the Polish frontier.

From the railway’s base in Weisswasser, you’ll cover all three of the forest railway’s branch lines on a private steam charter, with numerous run

pasts staged for film and photo opportunities.

This includes the recent 3 km extension to Schwerer Berg, skirting the edge of one of the world’s largest lignite mining areas, with spectacular views of its ‘moon landscape’.

Your steam-hauled special then arrives at the spa town of Bad Muskau, and the UNESCO World Heritage Pückler Park, a famous 19th century English landscape garden. You have time to view the local chateau and gardens and stroll across the River Neisse to Poland, before continuing to Görlitz. An evening dinner is served at your hotel. (B L D) Wednesday 14th April Steam in Zittau Another narrow-gauge highlight awaits today as you visit the Zittau steam railway in Saxony, in the south-eastern corner of Germany along the frontier with Poland and the Czech Republic.

From Zittau the 12.2 km branch line leads to the resort town of Kurort Oybin. There’s also a short 3.8 km long stub from the junction station of Bertsdorf to Kurort Jonsdorf to savour.

You’ll be given a day-long rover ticket for a chance to experience both lines and film the double departure from Bertsdorf. In the evening you return by service train to Görlitz, with the line crossing into Poland twice. Dinner is once again served at your hotel. (B D) Thursday 15th April At leisure with a Saxony Rail Rover Ticket; Optional Steam in Zittau Today is designed to give you one more day of leisure and opportunity to use your complimentary regional rover pass.

Allowing you to explore some of the area’s railway lines, such as the recently re-opened trunk line to Hoyerswerda. You can use your rover ticket to return to Zittau for an additional day of riding the steam trains. The Görlitz tramway is also covered by your rover ticket, should you wish to dedicate more time to its wonderful Old Town and the Polish sister city Zgorzelec across the footbridge of the River Neisse. Bautzen and Löbau are also nearby historic cities that are well worth a visit for sightseeing and enjoying the best of Germany “off the beaten path”. A farewell dinner is served at the hotel. (B L D)

Tour Summary First Class

£2250

Standard Class

£2050

Single supplement £325 Ground only £1895 (Dresden – Gorlitz) Price includes: • First or Standard Class rail travel from London to Dresden and return from Gorlitz • 9 nights accommodation in quality 4-star hotels with breakfast • 4 dinners and 3 lunches • Complimentary 7-day Dresden public transport ticket and 1-day ZVON regional rail rover in Görlitz included • All rail trips and excursions as detailed in the itinerary, including admission to the Dresden steam locomotive festival • Paddle steamer cruise • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Friday 16th April Return to London You return to London St Pancras, travelling on high speed trains via Frankfurt, Cologne and Brussels. (B)

EUROPEAN TOUR – 10 Days

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Steam in Wolsztyn and North Western Poland Friday 7th May to Thursday 13th May 2021 Enjoy a full-throttle experience of Continental main line steam from the heart of Poland to the Baltic seaside on a special one-off tour that will appeal to both steam aficionados and seasoned ‘track bashers’ alike.

• Based initially in the historic city of Poznan, you’ll have ample time to explore its rich cultural heritage, impressive architecture and expansive tram network using your complimentary travel rover ticket.

• Experience a steam adventure behind the impressive Pt47-65 locomotive as you head to the seaport city of Szczecin, covering both the main line route as well as some rare track.

• Enjoy four full days of mainline steam in exclusively reserved First-Class comfort on excursions to Swinoujscie on the Baltic Sea, the popular resort of Kolobrzeg, and Zbaszynek on the Warsaw – Berlin mainline.

• Europe’s last active main line steam shed is one of the signature attractions of you tour as you experience ‘Plandampf’ behind a Class Ol49 tender locomotive around Wolsztyn, a visit to the roundhouse there and also have a private photo charter to Powodowo.

Friday 7th May Flight to Poznan You fly directly from London Luton to Poznan in Western Poland and on arrival transfer to your conveniently-located city centre hotel.

After check-in there is some free time for a look around the attractive city centre or to go trainspotting at the nearby main station, before you have a welcome dinner at a typical Polish brew house in the historic Old Town (D).

Saturday 8th May Main line steam with Pt47-65 via Rzepin to Szczecin Today you travel behind the 2-8-2 tender locomotive Pt47-65 on the Polish main line.

You join the special train of the Wolsztyn Experience at the former border station Zbaszynek and then travel in a reserved First Class coach, with only 4 passengers 48

accommodated in your 6-seat compartment for added comfort. The train has a bar car where drinks and light snacks are available throughout the tour. You first travel on the Warsaw – Berlin main line westward to Rzepin, then head north to the historic seaport city of Szczecin (Stettin).

On arrival in Szczecin you check into your centrally-located hotel near the station and enjoy some sightseeing in the city or explore the extensive tramway network. Whatever option you choose, your luggage will have been directly transferred by coach from Poznan to await you at the hotel, where you stay for the next three nights. Once again, you will be issued with a complimentary tram network ticket for the duration of the stay. (B)

Sunday 9th May Main line steam to Swinoujscie on the Baltic Coast Another full day on the Polish main line beckons today, as you make a steam-hauled day-trip on your special train from Szczecin to the Baltic port city of Swinoujscie. Your outward journey heads north on the east side of the Szczecin lagoon via Goleniow and up to Miedzyzdroje through the scenic Wolin National Park before arriving in Swinoujscie, in the land of 44 islands, an unusual region of north-western Poland that consists of several dozen islands and islets of which three are inhabited. Swinoujscie is located on one of these, Wolin, the biggest sea island in Poland.

Your return journey to Szczecin follows the same route with a detour via Kamien Pomorskie. (B)

Monday 10th May Main line steam to Kolobrzeg on the Polish seaside After breakfast today your main line steam train takes you to the popular Polish seaside resort Kolobrzeg, on the Baltic Sea. On the outward journey you travel via Szczecin Port Centralny east to Stargard on the Ina river, then south-east across marshland to Choszczno before turning north to Bialogard and then on to Kolobrzeg.

On the return your steam train travels via the coastal town of Ustronie Morskie before turning south to Gryfice and on to Szczecin. (B) Tuesday 11th May Main line steam from Szczecin via Gorzow and Skwierzyna to Zbaszynek and Wolsztyn For the final day of your big main line tour, Pt4765 takes you from Szczecin southeast towards Poznan, taking the unusual route via Gorzow Wielkopolski, Miedzyrzecz, Wierzbro, Skwierzyna and finally Zbaszynek on the Warsaw – Berlin main line. From there you continue by steam to Wolsztyn, where you will stay at a nearby luxury resort hotel for the next two nights. (B D) Wednesday 12th May ‘Plandampf’ around Wolsztyn, roundhouse visit and private photo charter to Powodowo The famed steam mecca Wolsztyn provides a fitting end to your landmark steam tour, as you get to experience the world’s last standard-

gauge mainline steam shed, where mighty tender locomotives continue to haul regular service trains running on all-stations stopping services. You join the mid-morning ‘Plandampf’ service and experience the impressive Class Ol49 tender locomotives, with their characteristic 2-6-2-wheel alignment. You’ll have time to visit the iconic Wolsztyn roundhouse and view the collection of stored locomotives, pausing to take pictures while the locomotives are re-fuelled by crane. After lunch another highlight awaits, as you have a private photo charter train on the disused branch line to Powodowo, allowing the locomotive crew to stage run-pasts for filming and photography. You return to your elegant resort hotel in the late afternoon and dine with your fellow travellers, to cap the tour in fine fashion. (B L D) Thursday 13th May Return to London You have a direct transfer from the resort hotel to Poznan airport and from there a non-stop flight back to London Luton. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price £1845 Single supplement £195 Ground only £1745 (Poznan – Poznan) Price includes: • Direct Flights from London Luton to Poznan and Poznan to London Luton • 6 Nights hotel accommodation with breakfast • 1 lunch and 3 dinners • All steam and rail services as detailed in the itinerary • Public transport tram rovers in Poznan and Szczecin • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • All transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 7 Days

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Steam in Austria, Hungary and Czech Republic Monday 17th May to Tuesday 25th May 2021 Travel behind some of the largest and most impressive main line steam locomotives in Central Europe against a backdrop of historic cities and outstanding landscapes on this exciting one-off tour.

• Enjoy an eclectic line-up of unique main line steam locomotives in Austria, Hungary and the Czech Republic, including the recently overhauled 4-8-0 flagship 424.009 and on a circular trip out of Budapest.

• The ancient Hungarian 4-4-0 Nr. 204 from 1900 as well as the Austrian 4-4-0 tender locomotive 17c372 from 1891 are also signature steam attractions, including visits to the Budapest railway heritage park and the Strasshof depot north of Vienna.

• Discover the majesty and elegance of the popular Swedish-built NOHAB diesel locomotives on a private charter train with luxury coaches from Budapest along Lake Balaton and over unusual backcountry lines to the enchanting city of Pecs in southern Hungary.

• Enjoy a main line steam charter through the Moravian wine growing region in the south of the Czech Republic on a scenic branch line bash to Pohorelice behind the rugged main line tank engine 213.901 from 1954.

• Experience narrow-gauge steam with private charters at the Budapest Children’s Railway, the Prater 15 inch railway in Vienna and at the Mariazellerbahn Krumpe in rural Austria.

Monday 17th May Arrive to Budapest, Dinner on the Danube After an early morning flight to Budapest, you check into an elegant city centre hotel, here you’ll receive a public transport rover ticket.

Dinner is served on the “Kossuth” paddle steamer, moored on the River Danube, offering some of the best views in the city. (D) Tuesday 18th May Steam with Nr. 204 at Buda Roundhouse, Steam at Budapest Children’s Railway, Buda Rack Railway After breakfast, you visit the famed Budapest 50

railway heritage park with its iconic roundhouse.

There the vintage 1900 4-4-0 tender locomotive Nr. 204 will haul your private steam charter train on the mile long branch line, staging run-pasts and a turntable show for filmers. Another private steam charter awaits at the Budapest Children’s Railway. From Hüvösvölgy you travel the 12 km Children’s Railway behind a historic tank engine.

At the railway’s western terminus, you return back to Buda and transfer to the New York Palace in Pest, one of the most opulent historic grand cafes in the world. Here you’ll have lunch, before travelling on the castle funicular, designed

by British engineers dating from 1870, where you can enjoy views of the famous sites at the hilltop. The rest of the day is free to make full

use of your transport rover ticket. (B L) Wednesday 19th May Large circular main line steam trip with 424.009 to Cegled and Kecskemet Today the 4-8-0 locomotive 424.009 hauls your private charter train, composed of luxurious First-Class coaches from the Austro-Hungarian era. Departing from Nyugati Station, built in 1877 by Gustave Eiffel, your coal-fired steam train travels eastbound via Cegled to Kecskemet. After visiting the nearby town and Art Nouveau buildings, your charter continues to Lajosmizse. You complete a large circular journey before returning to Budapest Keleti. Lunch and dinner will be served in the dining car. (B L D)

Thursday 20th May With a NOHAB along Lake Balaton and via unusual secondary lines to historic Pecs Today you experience one of the iconic GM-designed, NOHAB-built 6-axle diesel locomotives, delivered to Hungary in the 1960s.

Tall and majestic with distinctive rounded noses, your NOHAB will pull your private charter train with luxurious Swiss Schlieren coaches and dining cars. Travelling along the southern banks of Lake Balaton, you traverse on to “rare track” and venture on scenic secondary routes via Fonyod and Kaposvar to Pecs. You’ll have free time to see the beautiful landmarks in the historic old town, before your charter returns to Budapest on the direct Intercity route via Dombovar. Lunch and dinner will be served in the dining car. (B L D) Friday 21st May On to Vienna, City Sightseeing by private charter tram The today you travel First Class from Budapest to Vienna, arriving into Austria’s largest city by mid-day and checking into your elegant hotel.

A privately chartered tramway takes you on a scenic sightseeing tour of the famed Ring Road and the historic city centre, past the Imperial Palace, Opera House and Neo-Gothic City Hall.

Alighting the tram you visit one of Vienna’s Grand Cafes for high tea. You’ll have free time to explore the city, making use of your transport rover ticket. (B L) Saturday 22nd May Steam at the Prater Railway, Steam at Strasshof and Prater Ferris Wheel After breakfast you take an OBB service train to the famed Strasshof railway museum and steam shed. The site hosts one of the largest collections of preserved and operational steam locomotives in Central Europe and has many iconic tank and tender locomotives dating from the AustroHungarian era. The 4-4-0 tender locomotive 17c372 dating from 1891 will be in steam and provide cab-ride opportunities up and down the mile-long museum yard. In the afternoon you return to Vienna and ride the Prater 15 inch railway. This 4 km long line in Vienna’s largest park dates from 1928 and has two beautiful 4-6-2 “Pacific” steam locomotives. You make a full roundtrip with picture opportunities, before riding the iconic Prater Ferris Wheel. Built by Royal Navy engineers in 1897 it was made famous by the British film “The Third Man” with Orson Welles. (B L)

Sunday 23rd May Steam on the Mariazell Railway with Mh. 6 from St. Pölten to Bischoffstetten Following breakfast you take a high speed train from Vienna to St. Pölten, the provincial capital of Lower Austria. There you join an exclusively chartered steam train on the spectacular Mariazellerbahn, Austria’s longest and most famous narrow gauge railway. Your private First Class carriages are hauled by the vintage 1908 0-8+4 articulated tender locomotive No. Mh 6. You steam from St. Pölten to the junction station Obergrafendorf and continue on the nonelectrified branch line to Bischofstetten.

This line only re-opened in 2019 and with no regular service trains on this line, it is possible to stage numerous run-pasts along the way.

After the private charter train returns from Bischofstetten to Obergrafendorf, there is a visit to the depot, before lunch is served at the local brewpub. In the afternoon you sample one of the Mariazellerbahn’s modern, Swiss-built electric trains to St. Pölten, where you continue on the high speed line back to Vienna. (B L) Monday 24th May Main Line Steam in the Czech Republic through the Moravian Wine Country The holiday concludes with steam in a third Central European country, as you take an international train from Wien Hbf to Brno and then join a private charter train to travel through the scenic South Moravian winegrowing region hauled by the rugged 1950s tank engine 213.901. Your journey starts at the city’s main station and travels south through vineyards and landscapes on the “freight only” branch line to Pohorelice. Along the way, several photo stops and run-pasts will also be staged. Lunch and complimentary drinks will be served in the bistro carriage of the train. After getting the best of Czech steam and railway culture, you return to Brno and from there take another international express back to Vienna. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2395

Single supplement £395 Ground only £2295 (Budapest – Vienna) Price includes: • Flights from London to Budapest and Vienna to London • 8 nights hotel accommodation with breakfasts • 7 lunches and 3 dinners • All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary • Complimentary public transport tickets in Budapest and Vienna • All train and road coach travel as detailed in the itinerary • All transfers and visits as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Tuesday 25th May Return to London After a morning and afternoon to still spend at leisure in Vienna to enjoy all the city has to offer and to take advantage of your public transport rover to ride on the trams, you have a direct evening flight back to London. (B)

EUROPEAN TOUR – 9 Days

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Tyrol and the Dolomites Tuesday 25th May to Thursday 3rd June 2021 Make an inspiring mountain holiday to the beautiful regions of North and South Tyrol in Austria and Italy, travelling by steam train, mountain funicular and main line ‘Crocodile’.

• A new tour featuring many stunning mountain railways, including the Mendelbahn and Raschötzbahn in South Tyrol, plus the Ferrovia Trento-Malé-Mezzana in Trentino.

• Sample the very best of Austrian Alpine steam with iconic “Plandampf” trains on the Zillertalbahn and a private steam charter on the Pinzgau Railway with the elegant 2-6-2 tender locomotive 73-019.

• A day-trip to nearby Bavaria and the most spectacular railways in the German Alps is an added bonus, including the Karwendelbahn and Ausserfernbahn.

• Travel in First Class style and comfort over the mighty Brenner Pass, as you reach Italy by rail on a classic EuroCity train.

• Conveniently based in just two centres, at elegant hotels in Innsbruck and Bolzano, which showcase the very best of traditional Tyrolean hospitality.

Tuesday 25th May Arrive to Innsbruck, mountain excursion on the Hungerburg funicular You have a direct flight from London Gatwick to Innsbruck. After checking into your centrally located hotel, you make a round-trip on the impressively engineered Hungerburg funicular, which first opened in 1906 and rebuilt in 2007 in a new futuristic style. At the summit station of the funicular, enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountain ranges. You return to the hotel for a welcome dinner. (D) Wednesday 26th May Steam in Zell am See at the Pinzgau Railway; Krimml Waterfalls, Gerlos Pass In the morning you board a loco-hauled OBB service train through the Tyrolean Alps to the famous resort town of Zell am See. There, the 52

beautiful “high speed” steam loco 73-019 awaits to haul a private charter train on the Pinzgau narrow gauge railway through a broad mountain valley along the River Salzach. This elegant 2-6-0 tender locomotive was built in 1913 in Budapest and will take you along the 52 km long branch line to the terminus Krimml. Photo stops at the most scenic locations are included.

After lunch there is time to see the remarkable Krimml waterfalls, before contining by mountain road over Gerlos Pass to Zell am Ziller and Jenbach, completing one of the top road trips in Austria. From Jenbach you return to Innsbruck

by OBB train. (B L) Thursday 27th May Steam at the Zillertalbahn Today you visit one of Austria’s most famous narrow gauge railways and enjoy the best of “Plandampf”, as you travel the full length of

this mountainous branch line from Jenbach to Mayrhofen and back again by historic steam train. Along the way, the Ziller Valley is framed by high peaks and beautiful scenery that is quintessentially Tyrolean. Enjoy the acoustics of the hard-working steam as it hauls the train over the branch line. You return to Jenbach by steam train before returning to Innsbruck by OBB service. (B L) Friday 28th May Alpine Railways of Bavaria with the Karwendelbahn and Ausserfernbahn You venture to Germany and discover two lesser known standard gauge routes. First you board an ÖBB service train and journey on the formidably engineered Karwendelbahn via Seefeld to the German resort Garmisch.

Along the way, you will notice how this railway dating from 1912 ascends steep gradients and

travels along cliff edges, continuing on the remote Ausserfernbahn to Reutte, back in Austria. The Ausserfernbahn is almost 100 km long and was built in stages from 1895 to 1913.

From Reutte the railway continues to Kempten, the principal town in the Bavarian Allgäu region.

You return to Innsbruck by train, travelling via München and Starnberg, completing a fantastic circular journey. (B L D) Saturday 29th May Vintage tramway on the Stubaitalbahn; train over the Brenner Pass to Italy Today you journey on Austria’s most scenic overland tramway, the Stubaitalbahn, which climbs steep gradients above the city and heads into the remote mountain valley to the south.

Along the 18 km long journey to Fulpmes in a vintage railcar dating from 1909, you travel over trestle viaducts and pause at the best vantage points. From the rural Stubaitalbahn, you have impressive views of the Brenner main line railway, over which you will then travel in the afternoon on a classic locomotive-hauled EuroCity train in First Class. The Brenner railway is one of the most important Transalpine routes and will serve as a fitting entry to Italy. You arrive in Bolzano and check into your centrally located hotel where dinner is served. (B D) Sunday 30th May In the Trentino Alps on the Trento Mezzana narrow gauge railway Time to sample the best of Northern Italy, as you take an FS train from Bolzano south to Trento. Here one of northern Italy’s longest and most scenic narrow gauge railways operates on a 66 km (41 mile) long branch line that leads westwards through Trentino towards the Swiss border. The railway was recently extended from the former terminus Malé to Mezzana.

Today you enjoy the refinement and comfort of a private charter train, to make a full return journey on this wonderful narrow gauge railway.

Lunch will be provided and photo stops will also be included. Your charter train returns to Trento in the late afternoon, where you travel by service train back to Bolzano. Dinner is served at the hotel. (B L D).

Monday 31st May Dolomite mountain magnificence at the Raschötzbahn funicular; culture in Brixen The Raschötzbahn/Resciesa is located east of Brixen in the heart of the Dolomites. One of Italy’s most scenic yet less known mountain railways beckons. The funicular is over 2.5 km

long and climbs gradients up to 47%. There are fantastic views of the valley below and once at the summit, there are grand impressions.

The funicular was recently modernised and features Swiss equipment. After enjoying free time for birdwatching or photography at the summit, you return down to the village of St. Ulrich/Ortisei. Before your return to Bolzano, there is free time at the cathedral city of Brixen.

(B L D) Tuesday 1st June Mendelbahn mountain funicular, terraced vineyards and Ritten Railway Today you visit Südtirol’s other iconic mountain funicular, the breathtaking Mendelbahn, which is located south of Bolzano, in an area famous for its fruit orchards and terraced vineyards.

The 2.3 km long Mendelbahn funicular has very steep 64% gradients. You enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, before making an afternoon visit to South Tyrol’s only narrow gauge railway, the Rittnerbahn above Bolzano. This idyllic line runs on a sun-drenched plateau high above the valley and has historic, teak-bodied trains.

You will travel over the whole line, sampling both the modern Swiss trains, while also benefitting from a private charter with one of the old teak trains. In the evening, dinner is back at the hotel in Bolzano. (B L D) Wednesday 2nd June Puster Valley main line through the Dolomites and Austrian charter train with a “Crocodile” locomotive After breakfast you travel the full length of the Puster Valley railway from Fortezza via San Candido to Lienz in Austria. The Puster Valley main line connects Italian South Tyrol with Austrian East Tyrol and is particularly scenic.

Winding its way through the valleys shaped by the Rivers Puster and Drau, the railway line traverses the very heart of the Dolomite mountains. You make the first leg of the journey on an Italian service train. On arrival at the Austrian border station of Sillian, you transfer onto a private charter formed of classic Swiss Schlieren coaches hauled by the iconic “Austrian Crocodile” 1020.018 dating from the 1940s.

On the “Südbahn Express” you travel in style to Lienz, with photo stops along the way.

After lunch and free time in Lienz, you return by train to Bolzano for a farewell dinner back at the hotel. (B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1999

Single supplement £325 Ground only £1895 (Innsbruck – Bolzano) Price includes: • Return flights from London • 9 nights accommodation with breakfast at centrally located, quality hotels in Innsbruck and Bolzano • 7 lunches and 7 dinners • All rail travel and transfers as detailed in the itinerary, including direct luggage transfer from Innsbruck to Bolzano • All privately chartered trains, steam journeys and other attractions as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Thursday 3rd June Return to London You transfer by coach transfer to Verona airport for a direct flight back to London Gatwick. (B) EUROPEAN TOUR – 10 Days

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Steam in Bohemia and Moravia Tuesday 8th June to Wednesday 16th June 2021 The historic cities of Prague and Brno and the rural landscapes of the Czech Republic create a superb backdrop to this unique tour, packed with main line and narrow-gauge steam highlights.

• E xplore the ‘Golden City’ of Prague and Moravia’s capital Brno on private charter trips by luxury tram, classic car and vintage boat.

• Sample an eclectic line-up of unusual main line steam locomotives, including big tank engines that have only just returned to service after decades out of use.

• Experience lots of ‘rare track’ excursions with private charter trips on scenic countryside routes and unusual branch lines.

• Enjoy private sunset cruises aboard historic 1930s ships in Prague and the Moravian Wine Country south of Brno.

• Visit the Kolin and Mladejov narrow-gauge railways on private steam charters, including the recent track extensions on both.

• For a holiday rich in culture, nature and history, with luxury hotel stays in two convenient city locations, look no further than this relaxed steam tour of unsung European destinations.

Tuesday 8th June Arrival in Prague; City Sightseeing on vintage cars; Sunset cruise on River Vltava Following a direct flight to Prague you book into an elegant city centre hotel for a welcome lunch.

After a look around the Old Town, you enjoy a private sightseeing tour in delightful classic cars with open, convertible roofs. In the evening you then embark on a privately chartered sunset cruise on the River Vltava aboard an historic motor vessel dating from the 1930s. (L D) Wednesday 9th June Classic Prague by luxury tram and steam at the Kolin Sugar Beet Railway This morning you board a smart luxury tram for a sightseeing tour of Prague, with complimentary drinks served aboard. See the city’s premier landmarks while criss-crossing the River Vltava 54

on its famous bridges. The tour concludes near the hilltop Prague Castle, looking down on the rooftops and spires of the city, before you have lunch at an elegant Grand Café. In the afternoon you transfer from Prague’s historic main station on a service train to Kolin in Central Bohemia, where you ride the entire length of the reopened 600 mm narrow gauge railway, including the most recent extensions. This delightful railway runs through fields and forests and will also pause for run-pasts. Motive power is provided by a rugged industrial tank engine and, weather permitting, your private charter train will be formed of semi-open ‘fresh air’ summer coaches, providing excellent views of the passing scenery. After a visit to the local steam shed, you return to Prague by service train to spend the evening at leisure in the city. (B L)

Thursday 10th June Main line steam off the beaten path in North Bohemia Main line steam takes centre stage today, as you first steam through the rolling hills of North Bohemia past hilltop castles and impressive rock formations in the region known as ‘Czech Paradise’. Your private steam train is formed of traditional green coaches and hauled by an old tank engine dating from the Austro-Hungarian era. You travel steam-hauled over on the main line on ‘rare track’, taking the route from the junction station of Turnov to Jicin, then onwards to Kopidlno and on the freight-only line via Dolni Bousov to Bakov nad Jizerou and finally again Turnov, thus completing a large circular journey for the day. Lunch and drinks will be served in the bistro car of the train. In the late afternoon you return to Prague. (B L)

Friday 11th June Main line steam in Central Bohemia from Luzna to Kralovice This morning you board a Czech Railways service train hauled by an impressive ‘Goggle’ type diesel locomotive. Travelling westward, you reach Luzna u Rakovnika, home to a large collection of steam locomotives at the Czech Republic’s premier railway museum. You have time to visit the roundhouse and grounds and see the collection, before a private steam charter takes you on the unusual line via Rakovnik to Kralovice. You have lunch at a typical Czech countryside inn and pause for plenty of photo stops. Traction today will either be provided by a Class 354 4-6-2 tank engine or a Class 423 2-8-2 tank engine. After arriving at Kralovice, you return by steam train to Luzna, before taking a service train back to Prague. (B L) Saturday 12th June Steam in Moravia at the Mladejov narrow-gauge railway; arrival at Brno Today you explore the other principal region of the Czech Republic, Moravia. You arrive in the town of Mladejov by service train and visit the local industrial museum, which holds an impressive range of tank engines. It’s also the base of the namesake 11 km long 600 mm narrow-gauge railway, on which you’ll enjoy a private charter in semi-open summer coaches through rolling fields, up several hills and into dense forests. You make the full-length return journey and have lunch at the museum grounds in Mladejov. Afterwards you travel by service train onward to Brno, arriving in Moravia’s principal city by early evening. You have dinner at a centrally located hotel, where your luggage has already been directly transferred. (B L D) Sunday 13th June Vintage trams and leisure in Brno After a lie in and a leisurely breakfast, you have time to have a look around the charming Old Town of Brno, framed by the hilltop Petrov Cathedral and Spilberk Fortress. There is much Viennese charm in this splendid city, located close to the Austrian border. In the early

afternoon you enjoy a private sightseeing tour on a wood-bodied teak tram, covering the highlights of the city’s expansive tram network.

Every effort will also be made to secure a ride behind Brno’s famous steam tramway locomotive ‘Caroline’ at the local technical museum, although this can never be guaranteed in advance, so is therefore only a potential option.

A free evening caps a relaxed day in the city. (B) Monday 14th June Main line steam in Moravia from Brno to Oslavany; Wine country sunset cruise You return to the Czech main line on a private charter train behind the rugged 2-8-2 tank engine 433.001 from the late 1940s. You travel from Brno south-westward and cover the branch line to Oslavany, pausing along the way for photos and lunch. You return to Brno in the evening for a welcome sunset cruise with dinner on the local Nove Mlyny lake aboard a vintage vessel. This pretty reservoir is located in the heart of the South Moravian Wine Country, not far from the Austrian border and the Austrian Weinviertel wine-growing region. (B L D) Tuesday 15th June Main line steam in Eastern Moravia with 525.101 A ‘big beast’ provides a fitting steam finale to your memorable tour, as you steam in Eastern Moravia from Veseli nad Moravou to the spa town of Luhacovice, hauled by your big 0-10-0 tank engine, only recently overhauled after decades out of service. Travelling through the tranquil rural scenery of Eastern Moravia, you once again get to experience the hallmarks of the picturesque Czech railway network.

Your train will stop as usual for photos along the way, while lunch will be taken in Luhacovice.

After returning to Veseli nad Moravou by steam train, you return to Brno on a service train. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1995

Single supplement £325 Ground only (Prague – Brno)

£1895

Price includes: • Flights from London to Prague and Brno to London • 8 nights hotel accommodation with breakfasts • 7 lunches and 3 dinners • All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary • All specially chartered trips on heritage trams and vintage ships • All train and road coach travel as detailed in the itinerary • All transfers and visits as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner June 2021 Mon

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Wednesday 16th June Return to London You conclude your memorable Czech holiday with a direct flight back to London. (B)

EUROPEAN TOUR – 9 Days

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Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

Swiss Bernese Oberland Wednesday 16th June to Wednesday 23rd June 2021 Wednesday 14th July to Wednesday 21st July 2021 Wednesday 11th August to Wednesday 18th August 2021 Wednesday 15th September to Wednesday 22nd September 2021 Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Switzerland on this tour to the Bernese Oberland, famed for its shimmering lakes and soaring Alpine peaks, including the towering Jungfrau and the magnificent Eiger.

• Based in the mountain village of Wengen, you’ll explore the Bernese Oberland on Switzerland´s outstanding railway system.

• Enjoy extensive scheduled travel on famous mountain rack railways, including the Brienz Rothorn Railway and Jungfrau Railway to the ‘Top of Europe’.

• Discover the Swiss capital Bern on a two-hour steam tram tour, and enjoy peaceful boat cruises on Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

• There’s also a thrilling excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area to enjoy, famous for its outstanding views and wildflower gardens.

• Experience unrestricted travel on Swiss trains, trams and buses in tour free time thanks to your complimentary Bernese Oberland Regional Pass.

Wednesday London to Wengen via Basel You travel First Class by Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord.

Transferring to Paris Gare de l'Est you then journey to Basel in Switzerland via Strasbourg.

You join a high-speed service at Basel to Interlaken Ost, before continuing on the narrowgauge lines of the Bernese Oberland Railway (BOB) to Lauterbrunnen and the Wengernalp Railway (WAB) to the mountain village of Wengen.

Here you check into the 4-star Sunstar Alpine Hotel, your base for the tour. A light dinner will be served at your hotel this evening.

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You’ll receive a 6-day Bernese Oberland Regional Pass for easy exploration of the surrounding areas. (D) Thursday Free day for exploration in and around Wengen After breakfast, you can either relax at the hotel and make use of its wonderful facilities or take a stroll through the village where the British allegedly ‘invented’ downhill ski racing. A more energetic option is to hike to one or more of the incredible local viewpoints. Another alternative is to use your Regional Pass to visit the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten illuminated glacier-waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible

only by a tunnel-lift. Yet another option is to visit the car-free village of Mürren by cable and mountain railway from Lauterbrunnen, with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (B D) Friday Lake Brienz Cruise; Steam on the Brienz Rothorn Railway This morning you travel by train to Interlaken to enjoy a leisurely steamship cruise on Lake Brienz to Brienz at its eastern end. You join a steam train on the 800mm gauge Brienz Rothorn Railway (BRB), Switzerland’s oldest rack railway and climb 1,678 metres (5,505 ft) from Brienz to Rothorn Kulm Station, just below the summit of

Brienz Rothorn Mountain. After free time at the summit to enjoy lunch, you return to Brienz for an exclusive visit to the BRB depot to view the locomotives and workshop facilities there. In the afternoon you return to Wengen by train where you can relax before dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D) Saturday Excursion to Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’ A real tour highlight awaits today on a trip to the famous Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’.

You’ll travel on a WAB train to Kleine Scheidegg before joining a JB train en route to the highest railway station in Europe.

The train stops twice at points where there are large windows in the rock face for passengers to admire the views. The ‘Top of Europe’ itself is a high-altitude building connected to the underground Jungfraujoch Railway Station by a tunnel. There’s a choice of restaurants in which to take lunch, and a permanent exhibition about the Jungfrau Railway and the Alps. For the return back to Wengen you can either travel the same route by train from Kleine Scheidegg to Wengen or travel from Kleine Scheidegg on to Grindlewald at your own leisure, then make your way back to Wengen via Lauterbrunnen. On your return dinner will be served at the hotel. (B D) Sunday Bern Steam Tram; Cruise on Lake Thun Today you travel by train to the Swiss capital, Bern, for a two-hour tour of the city by legendary steam tram. The metre gauge 0-6-0 tramway locomotive pulls a classic wooden carriage with open-ended balconies. You’ll pass many of Bern’s historic landmarks, including the famous Zytglogge clock tower. In the afternoon there’s time to visit the shops along the arcaded walkways, or the famous Bear Park and nearby River Aare. Later, you’ll take a service train to Thun to board a boat for the onward journey. Cruising along Lake Thun you have uninterrupted views of famous mountain peaks like the Niederhorn, Niesen, and Jungfrau.

You then disembark at Interlaken West Railway Station and return by train to Wengen via Lauterbrunnen. (B D) Monday Free day to use your Regional Pass; Optional visit to the Schilthorn Today is free to use your Regional Pass.

Your first option is a trip to the summit of the Schilthorn, overlooking the valley of Lauterbrunnen and reached by a cable car from

the village of Mürren. At the summit there’s a panoramic revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, once the location of a James Bond film, and free entrance to the Bond World interactive exhibition. A mountain excursion surcharge is payable for this trip but if booked in advance you can take advantage of our special discounted price. The second option is a visit to Lucerne.

The city is located on Lake Lucerne, in sight of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi in the Swiss Alps.

You’ll get to Interlaken using WAB and BOB trains from where metre gauge Zentralbahn express trains go direct to Lucerne, a great experience in itself. The route follows the scenic Brünig Line beside Lake Brienz and the River Aare to Meiringen, where the train reverses and climbs over the Brunig Pass using a rack system. The terminus station at Lucerne is opposite the landing stage from which passenger boats, including paddle steamers, serve lakeside communities. The Chapel Bridge is a landmark of Lucerne and the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Other places of interest include the Old Town of Lucerne, the Lion Monument, and the Swiss Museum of Transport. (B D) Tuesday Excursion to Schynige Platte Today you enjoy an excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area, famous for its wildflower gardens and views of the majestic mountain scenery. You travel by WAB train to Lauterbrunnen and BOB train to Wilderswil, the junction for the 800mm gauge Schynige Platte Railway from 1893, one of Switzerland’s pioneering lines. The cog train climbs at a sedate 12 kph up to Schynige Platte, passing many panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, eventually revealing the glistening giants of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains to the south. (B D) Wednesday Return to UK After breakfast in the hotel it is time to say your farewells and take local trains to Lauterbrunnen and Interlaken. You then travel by express train from Interlaken to Basel before changing trains and continuing to Paris Gare de L’Est via Strasbourg. There you transfer to Paris Gare du Nord and take a Eurostar service back to London St. Pancras International. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1795

Single supplement £115 Optional extra

£35

Mountain excursion surcharge to visit ‘The Schilthorn’ Price includes: • 7 nights half board at Sunstar Hotel including complimentary beverages from the minibar (beer, mineral water, soft drinks, refilled daily) and free use of hotel facilities including WiFi, swimming pool, sauna and steam bath • First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back • A standard class Regional Pass valid for days 2 to 7 for travel around the Bernese Oberland • All rail, tram and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • All escorted visits as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days) • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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July 2021

August 2021

September 2021

EUROPEAN TOUR – 8 Days

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Cruising around the Austrian Lakes Wednesday 30th June to Wednesday 7th July 2021 Paddle steamers, steam trains, mountain railways and, best of all, fantastic Alpine landscapes all feature on this wonderful holiday tour of the Austrian Lake District.

• Conveniently based in Salzburg throughout, you’ll enjoy a truly relaxed and refined tour itinerary, with ample time for personal leisure and travel exploration in the city included.

• Experience no less than six of Austria’s finest and most tranquil mountain lakes on private charter cruises featuring genuine paddle steamers, vintage motor vessels and elegant salon ships.

• Enjoy a fantastic river cruise aboard the Danube’s last operational paddle steamer, the majestic ‘Schönbrunn’ from 1912.

• Combine scenic journeys by water with mountaineering excursions on steam-powered rack railways, steep funiculars and panoramic gondolas, taking you to some of Europe’s most spectacular peaks.

• The iconic ‘little trains’ of Austria feature prominently on this holiday, and journeys on the idyllic Taurachbahn and Zillertalbahn narrow-gauge railways let you sample both ‘Plandampf’ and private charter travel with plenty of run-pasts and photo stops.

Wednesday 30th June Arrive to Salzburg; leisure in the city with rover ticket After a direct morning flight from London to Salzburg you arrive in the birth city of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart by mid-day. After a quick transfer to your comfortable centrally located hotel, you enjoy a light lunch and receive a Salzburg Card local transport rover ticket, allowing full access to the city’s local train and trolleybus network, as well as the popular fortress funicular and vertical elevator to the top of the Mönchsberg, from where you can enjoy some of the fine views of the spires and rooftops of this UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as the nearby mountains. The rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to spend at leisure before returning to your hotel for a welcome dinner.

(L D) 58

Thursday 1st July Paddle cruise on Wolfgangsee and steam at the Schafberg rack railway After breakfast you transfer by coach to Wolfgangsee, for an enchanting charter cruise on this serene Alpine lake aboard the historic 1873 paddle-wheeler Kaiser Franz Josef.

You then ascend to the summit of nearby Mount Schafberg by steam locomotive on its famed rack and pinion railway, the steepest steam-powered rack railway in Austria. From the top you’ll have stunning views of a myriad of glistening lakes and distant glaciers. You descend back down the mountain by steam train and then return to Salzburg in the afternoon, where dinner is served in the hotel restaurant. (B L D)

Friday 2nd July Private charter cruises on the Mondsee and Hallstättersee More cruises on tranquil lakes await today, as you venture south from Salzburg to the so-called Salzkammergut region. You first have a cruise on the idyllic Mondsee, including lunch aboard the ship, before venturing to Hallstatt for a private cruise on the namesake Hallstättersee. With its tall church spire and colourful houses, Hallstatt is a picture-perfect mountain village, probably the most-photographed small town in Austria.

You get the best views of Hallstadt from the boat, but also have time to look around the town centre of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

In late afternoon you return to Salzburg with a scenic drive over pretty mountain roads.

Dinner is served tonight in the hotel restaurant.

(B L D)

Saturday 3rd July Tauernbahn scenic railway, cruise on Millstättersee, steam at Taurachbahn After breakfast you board an OBB service train for the scenic southward journey on the Tauernbahn main line, comfortably accommodated in First Class. This is one of Austria’s most spectacular railway corridors and from the train windows you’ll have fabulous views of deep valleys, hilltop castles and long viaducts. After two hours, you arrive in Spittal to enjoy another privately chartered lunch cruise on the nearby Millstättersee. This rural lake is especially popular for water sports and is framed by several mountain ranges. After the cruise, you drive north to Mauterndorf, base of the narrowgauge Taurachbahn. On this pretty heritage railway, an ancient tank engine hauls your private charter train from Mauterndorf to Tamsweg, pausing for photos and run pasts along the way.

Enjoy the very best of Austria’s famed ‘little trains’ on this enchanting line. After returning to Mauterndorf there’s time to have a look around the historic town centre and the local castle, before making the coach transfer back to the Tauernbahn and the Bischofshofen main line station. From there it’s just a short train ride on the Intercity back to Salzburg, capping another great day out on land and lake. (B L) Sunday 4th July Paddle steamer cruise on the Traunsee, vintage electric railcar charter This morning you travel to the beautiful lakeside town of Gmunden in the heart of the Austrian Alps, to enjoy a genuine paddle steamer cruise on Lake Traunsee aboard the iconic Gisela of 1871, one of the oldest operational steamboats in the world. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch aboard the ship surrounded by incredible scenery with amazing Alpine views. On returning to Gmunden there’s time for a stroll around town before making a mountain-top excursion on the aerial gondola to the summit of Mount Grünberg.

At an altitude of 987 metres above sea level, this panoramic vantage point affords fantastic views of the mountains to the south and Austria’s

plains along the River Danube to the north.

After descending back down to Gmunden, you return to Gmunden railway station on Austria’s shortest urban tramway and then take an OBB service train onward to Salzburg. (B L) Tour Summary Monday 5th July Paddle steamer cruise on the Danube aboard the majestic ‘Schönbrunn’ Another tour highlight awaits today, as you travel on Austria’s last preserved Danube paddle steamer. Built in 1912, the ‘Schönbrunn’ is named after the royal summer palace in Vienna and is truly regal. Driven by a huge, inclined marine steam engine, the ship has spacious decks and elegantly appointed lounges and saloons.

You’ll cruise on the Danube from Linz, the historic city where the paddle steamer is based, and lunch will be served aboard the steamer. (B L)

Tour price

Tuesday 6th July Steam in Tyrol at the Zillertalbahn and steam at the Achenseebahn Your tour concludes with double steam highlights as you travel in First Class on an OBB service train from Salzburg to Jenbach, where you first ride on the narrow-gauge Zillertalbahn to the mountain terminus of Mayrhofen.

The Zillertalbahn is renowned around Europe for its regular ‘Plandampf’ trains in summer and offers beautiful views of the typical Tyrolean landscape. Once back in Jenbach, you travel on the other local line, the antique rack railway, for the ascent up to the Achensee. At the Achensee, you board a vintage motor vessel dating from the early 20th century for a private charter cruise, capping your memorable holiday in fine fashion. You return from Achensee to Jenbach on the rack railway, and then travel back to Salzburg once again in First Class on an OBB service train. A farewell dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B L D)

• All specially chartered trips on heritage trams and vintage ships

£2095

Single supplement £325 Ground only £1995 (Salzburg – Salzburg) Price includes: • Flights from London to Salzburg and back to London • 7 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast • 7 lunches and 4 Dinners • All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All train and road coach travel as detailed in the itinerary • All transfers and visits as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Wednesday 7th July Return to London After breakfast, you have a direct transfer to Salzburg airport, for a morning flight back to London (B)

EUROPEAN TOUR – 8 Days

59

Mike Hyde

NSB

Mike Hyde

Rail and Fjords of Norway Saturday 10th July to Monday 19th July 2021 Explore the magnificent Norwegian fjords on this outstanding holiday tour, travelling on one of the finest railway systems in Europe through some of its most stunning scenery.

• Your adventure begins in southern Norway in the grand capital Oslo, continuing with overnight stays in Bergen, Kristiansand, Hamar, and Ålesund.

• During your tour you’ll experience steam travel on four preserved railway lines: the Krøderbanen, Urskog-Hølandsbanen, Gamle Vossebanen and The Setesdalsbanen Narrow-Gauge Railway.

• Enjoy sightseeing in Bergen, a city surrounded by hills and fjords. Sights of note include the old city, the fish market, the busy quayside, and the home of composer Edvard Grieg.

• Experience the thrills of the electric Flåm Railway, one of the steepest railway lines in the world, and a full day’s cruise along the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Norway’s most spectacular fjords.

• Among many other highlights is a visit to the National Railway Museum at Hamar to see the National Collection and a trip on the steam operated museum line there.

Saturday 10th July Tour of Oslo You take a morning flight from London Heathrow to Oslo and check in to your hotel for a 2-night stay. In the afternoon you have a sightseeing tour of this rapidly developing city.

Norway has eighteen hours of daylight at this time of year and your tour takes full advantage.

(D) Sunday 11th July Steam on the Krøderbanen and Urskog-Hølandsbanen Railways Today you take a private road coach to Krøderen and join a steam-hauled train with teak carriages on the Krøderbanen, Norway’s longest preserved railway line. You’ll travel 26 km to Vikersund and back. In the afternoon your road coach takes 60

you to Sørumsand for a chartered trip aboard a steam-hauled train on the Urskog-Hølandsbanen line. There’ll be photographic run pasts staged on this 750mm gauge preserved railway, once part of the Oslo-Stockholm main line. You return to your hotel in Oslo in time for dinner. (B L D) Monday 12th July Spectacular Mountains and Fjords en Route to Bergen Today you leave Oslo on the morning train to Bergen for one of the greatest railway journeys in the world. The route climbs to high altitude at 1,303 metres (4,267 feet), passing lush forests, snow-capped mountains, sparkling lakes, and thundering waterfalls. After Finse, the highest station on the line, your train continues across barren and windswept mountain plateaux with

everlasting snow as a stunning backdrop.

You pass through tunnels and beside deep fjords as you descend to Bergen to arrive midafternoon. The remainder of the day is free for sightseeing in Bergen, a city surrounded by hills and fjords. Sights of note include the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the fish market, busy quayside, and the home of Edvard Grieg.

Alternatively, you can take the famous funicular railway to the top of Mount Fløien for panoramic views over the city and out to sea. Bergen will be your base for the next three nights. Dinner is not included this evening giving you the opportunity to try one of Bergen’s excellent restaurants. (B)

Tuesday 13th July Cruise on Sognefjord and Riding the Flåm Railway Bergen is the gateway to the fjords and today you board a ship for a cruise along the Sognefjord to Balestrand and Flam.

Sognefjord is Norway’s largest fjord and the second longest in the world at over 200 km (127 miles). Cliffs surrounding the fjord rise almost sheer from the water and pretty villages cling to the steep sides. You arrive at Flåm for lunch ashore, before an afternoon ride on the electric Flåm Railway, one of the steepest railway lines in the world. It climbs 865 metres in 20 kilometres through spectacular scenery to Myrdal Station.

The train stops by the famous Kjosfossen waterfall for film and photo opportunities.

You then change trains at Myrdal for the journey back to Bergen. Dinner is at your hotel this evening. (B D) Wednesday 14th July Bergen and Garnes to Midttun After a free morning to explore Bergen, you transfer mid-afternoon by road coach to the Gamle Vossebanen, a heritage railway near Garnes. Here you join a chartered train from Garnes to Midttun, and return hauled by an ex-main line steam locomotive. The line is 18 km long and photographic run pasts will be staged as you pass through the Arna Valley. Later you return to Bergen by road coach for dinner in the hotel restaurant. (B D) Thursday 15th July Cruise to Stavanger; Kristiansand Today you leave Bergen on the morning ferry for Stavanger, enjoying a relaxing cruise through the calm coastal waters of the south-western islands.

After a transfer by road coach from Stavanger Harbour to the railway station you board a train for Kristiansand and an overnight stay. (B D)

Friday 16th July The Setesdalsbanen Narrow Gauge Railway This morning after breakfast you travel by road coach to Grovane to join a steam charter train on the Setesdalsbanen. This 1067mm narrow-gauge railway has some rare types of locomotives, including two delightful Dubbs tank locomotives, built in 1894. Later you join a regular train from Kristiansand to Hamar via Oslo for an overnight stay. (B D) Saturday 17th July Hamar Railway Museum; Train to Ålesund This morning you visit the National Railway Museum at Hamar to view the national collection and take a trip on their steam operated museum line. You then board an early afternoon train to Andalsnes and continue by road coach to Ålesund. This is Norway’s fishing capital and it is situated on several islands. You stay overnight in Ålesund and have dinner in the hotel. (B D) Sunday 18th July Cruise the Geirangerfjord Today, you experience a full day’s cruise along the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is one of Norway’s most spectacular fjords and is rightly famous for its spectacularly high scenic waterfalls. You should arrive back in Ålesund by the early evening, with plenty of time to explore this Art Nouveau seaside town.

Overnight accommodation and dinner are in Ålesund again tonight. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2395

Single supplement £325 Ground only (Oslo – Oslo)

£2245

Price includes: • Return flights London to Oslo • 9 nights hotel accommodation in 3 and 4-star hotels including breakfasts • 1 lunch and 8 dinners • Rail travel as detailed in the itinerary • All transfers • All travel advertised by ship and road coach • The services of a tour manager Alternative flight options available upon request.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Monday 19th July Return to London You transfer by road coach from Ålesund to Andalsnes to join a service train to Oslo Airport for a late afternoon flight back to London. (B)

Mike Hyde Mike Hyde

EUROPEAN TOUR – 10 Days

61

Robert Horlacher

Lake Constance and Four Countries Sunday 11th July to Saturday 17th July 2021 Discover the region around one of Europe’s most beautiful lakes as you travel on privately chartered boats and trains in four different European countries, framed by historic resort towns and towering Alpine pinnacles.

• Based at an elegant 4-star hotel in the Swiss cathedral city St. Gallen, you’ll visit Switzerland, Austria and Germany and travel over the entire railway network of Liechtenstein.

• An all-inclusive dinner cruise aboard the elegant Belle Epoque paddle steamer Hohentwiel on Lake Constance is a tour highlight, as well as fantastic steamboat cruises on Lake Zurich and Lake Greif, on the oldest Swiss steamer in active service.

• Narrow-gauge highlights include steam charters on the idyllic Bregenzerwald railway, running through rural scenery in Western Austria, and on the picturesque Appenzell narrow-gauge network, as well as the Montafon branch line in Austria.

• Thrilling mountain top adventures in store include scenic summits in the Swiss Alps at Ebenalp and in the Austrian Alps at Schruns, as well as First Class travel on the Voralpen Express panoramic train in Eastern Switzerland.

• Vintage vessels, iconic steam trains, romantic locations and stunning scenery and cuisine all combine to make this a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Sunday 11th July Arrive in St. Gallen, Evening Dinner Cruise on Luxury Motor Yacht After a direct morning flight from London to Zurich and a short Intercity connection to St. Gallen, you arrive in this UNESCO-designated cathedral city by early afternoon. You will stay for the full duration of your holiday at the 4-star Einstein hotel in the heart of the Old Town.

After check in, you’ll have free time to explore St. Gallen or watch the trains and trams at the railway station. In the evening you transfer by SBB service train to Rorschach on the Swiss side of Lake Constance, where you enjoy a dinner cruise on the luxurious motor yacht ‘Emily’.

As you wine and dine on this 1930s yacht, the sun sets over the Swiss Alps and majestic Mount Säntis. (D) 62

Monday 12th July Scenic cruise and steam by land and water along the River Rhine After breakfast you take an SBB service train along Lake Constance to the namesake town of Konstanz. Here you board a vintage vessel for a cruise on the Lower Part of Lake Constance (Untersee) and the Upper Rhine River to the medieval town of Stein am Rhein. Enjoy a light lunch before taking a private charter trip on the local narrow-gauge steam railway and embarking on a private steamboat cruise on the Rhine aboard an historic steam launch.

In late afternoon you again board a vintage vessel and complete the rest of the cruise from Stein am Rhein to Schaffhausen, passing under the wooden covered bridge at Diessenhofen.

In Schaffhausen you can photograph the trains

passing over the landmark 1895 river viaduct before taking an SBB service train over the iconic Rhine Falls viaduct and witness Europe’s largest and widest waterfall. You arrive back to St. Gallen in the early evening, having completed an epic circular journey for the day. (B L) Tuesday 13th July Steam in Vorarlberg at Bezau, Visit to Lindau, Paddle Steamer cruise on the ‘Hohentwiel’ This morning you explore Vorarlberg, Austria’s westernmost state, close to Lindau and bordering Germany, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. You’ll first visit the mountainous Bregenzerwald narrow-gauge railway, running from Bezau to Schwarzenberg and passing over two impressive viaducts. After lunch at the

railway station in Schwarzenberg, a U.25 type steam locomotive runs you back to Bezau, for a scenic drive to the Bavarian lake-side resort Lindau, famous for its Old Town located on an island on the lake, with the harbour framed by a 19th century lighthouse and impressive lion statue. After sightseeing in Lindau, you have a dinner cruise scheduled in the Bay of Bregenz on the stately 1913 paddle steamer ‘Hohentwiel’, still powered by the original Escher Wyss compound steam engine and featuring polished brass, mahogany wood panelling, a tall smokestack and opulent dining salons. (B L D) Wednesday 14th July Mountain Railways in the Swiss Appenzell and Ebenalp Summit Mountain top adventures in Switzerland await today, on the country’s famed narrow-gauge railways and aerial cableways. After a quick transfer from St. Gallen to Herisau, you travel First Class on a private heritage train with half-open summer coaches to the terminus of Wasserauen, at the foot of Mount Säntis.

After lunch-time refreshments at the local railway museum, you take an aerial cableway to the nearby summit Ebenalp, for views of the nearby mountains and Lake Constance. You descend to Wasserauen and travel via Gais back to St. Gallen, covering most of the narrow-gauge network. Back in St. Gallen, you continue on the narrow-gauge line to Trogen, rising high above Lake Constance with stunning views of the lake and quaint towns nestled in the hills.

On your return there’s still time to experience the Mühlegg funicular, located practically on the doorstep of your hotel. After your special day out in the Swiss Alps, you spend the late afternoon and evening relaxing in St. Gallen. (B L) Thursday 15th July Main line charter train in Austria; Mountain Magnificence in the Montafon Region; Railways of Liechtenstein A tour highlight awaits today travelling on an iconic, semi-streamlined Austrian railcar over the scenic Vorarlberg main line from Feldkirch via Bludenz and then through rare track on the mountainous branch line to the Alpine resort of Schruns. You arrive in time for lunch at a typical Austrian inn, before making a mountain-top excursion to the local summit. Back in the valley you continue by railcar to Feldkirch, change onto a service train for a trip to neighbouring Lichtenstein, clearing its entire railway network in the process. At the Swiss border station of Buchs SG you change onto an SBB doubledeck Regional Express for a direct ride back to

St. Gallen, with views of the Rhine Valley and Appenzell peaks during the journey. (B L) Friday 16th July Steamboat ‘Greif’ on Lake Greif and Lake Zürich paddle steamers; Voralpen Express Panoramic Train This morning, after taking an SBB Intercity train from St. Gallen to Zurich, you sail the full length of Lake Zurich aboard the genuine 1909 paddle steamer Stadt Zurich. With the Glarus Alps in full view, you reach the medieval city of Rapperswil.

In early afternoon you continue by SBB service train to Uster, for a unique private charter cruise on Switzerland’s oldest steamboat, the venerable Greif from 1895. This coal-powered screw steamer with wooden superstructures sails on its namesake lake just southeast of Zurich.

In late afternoon you return to St. Gallen, travelling First Class on the Voralpen Express panoramic train through the scenic Toggenburg Region. (B D) Saturday 17th July Scenic Cruise on Lake Walensee, Return to London After breakfast you transfer from St. Gallen to the boat pier at Unterterzen on Lake Walensee, for a fabulous charter cruise on one of the most spectacular mountain lakes in the world.

Many people travel by rail along the banks of Lake Walensee between Chur and Zürich, but few experience the trip on one of the elegantlyappointed salon ships that sail on the lake.

The Walensee is framed by wonderfully rugged scenery and has steep, fjord-like cliffs on all sides. To cap your memorable holiday in fine fashion, you enjoy lunch and complimentary wine on the boat while taking in the views.

After the cruise, you have a direct transfer to Zurich Airport, where your luggage will await you after transfer. You then board a late afternoon flight back to London, arriving in the UK by evening. (B L)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1895

Single supplement £295 Ground only £1795 (St. Gallen – St. Gallen) Price includes: • Flights from London to Zurich and return • Intercity rail connection from Zurich to St Gallen • 6 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast • 5 lunches • 3 dinners • SBB service train connections • Dinner cruise • All private charters, boat rides and excursion as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Daniel Eichenberger

EUROPEAN TOUR – 7 Days

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Georg Trueb

Alpine Steam Express Sunday 18th July to Sunday 25th July 2021 Against the backdrop of the picturesque Swiss and French Jura Mountains, glamorous steam locomotives, historic steamboats and towering peaks all feature prominently on this outstanding Alpine holiday tour.

• Based in the Baroque city of Solothurn, you’ll travel on privately chartered steam trains and steamboats at unusual locations mainly off the beaten path.

• Many steam highlights appear for the very first time in our programme, including the Swiss Val-de-Travers and Vallée de Joux regions, as well as the French Coni-Fer steam railway near Pontarlier.

• Enjoy a private steam charter on the extensive Chemins de Fer du Jura metre gauge network in the Franches Montagnes of Western Switzerland, where mighty Mallet engines roam, including unique steam train street running in La-Chaux-deFonds.

• Cruise aboard genuine paddle steamers on Lake Geneva, Lake Thun, Lake Neuchatel and Lake Biel, for delightful afternoon and sunset cruises. An evening river cruise on River Aare is an additional attraction.

• Experience the amazing 0-8-0 rack and adhesion locomotive No.704 at the high altitude Furka Railway, over one of the most breathtaking mountain railways in the world on the original summit line of the Glacier Express.

• Go ‘peak-hopping’ on funiculars and cableways in the Jura Mountains to such panoramic yet lesser known peaks as Mount Chaumont and Mount Weissenstein.

• Fully explore the region’s tram and rail network with the additional freedom and flexibility of a First Class 4-Day Swiss Travel Pass.

Sunday 18th July London to Basel; Transfer to Solothurn You travel First Class by Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord.

Transferring to Paris Gare de l’Est you then journey to Basel in Switzerland via Strasbourg.

A short transfer takes you to Solothurn, your base for the holiday. You check into your hotel and have time to relax before a welcome dinner is provided at an elegant mountain lodge. (D)

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Monday 19th July Mountain Magnificence at the Weissenstein; narrow gauge railways around Solothurn After a relaxing morning you journey by local railway and aerial cableway to the summit of Mount Weissenstein, Solothurn’s local ‘high hill’ and part of the Jura Mountains range.

From the summit there are stunning views of the expansive Swiss Midlands and the high Alpine peaks to the south. Returning back to Solothurn by cableway and train. Then take advantage of a complimentary local public transport rover dayticket to individually explore the scenic narrow

gauge railway lines to Langenthal and St. Urban.

Dinner is served at your hotel tonight. (B D) Tuesday 20th July Steam with a Mallet locomotive in the Franches Montagnes The hills of the Swiss Jura Mountains form the backdrop to today’s steam excursion on the extensive Chemins de Fer du Jura narrow-gauge network, hauled by a powerful Henschel Mallet locomotive. You journey via Saignelegier and Le Noirmont to La-Chaux-de-Fonds, through remote landscapes in one of Switzerland’s most isolated regions. Your locomotive battles several

gradients before concluding with tram-like street running in the city of La-Chaux-de-Fonds.

Lunch is taken on the train in the bistro coach before you return over the same route to the shed at Pré Petitjean. For the return to Solothurn you are free to use your complimentary Swiss Travel Pass, with the option to travel on the other CJ narrow-gauge line to Tavannes.

Afterwards, travelling back on the main line via Biel to Solothurn. (B L D) Wednesday 21st July Steam in the Jura Mountains at Vallée de Joux; Paddle Steamers on Lake Geneva Today, use your Swiss Travel Pass to take a scenic ride on an SBB service train along the Jura lakes and mountains to Le Pont in the remote mountain valley Vallée de Joux.

Here, one of the most attractive yet unknown Swiss steam railways operates in a stretch of landscape nestled between forests, lakes and hills. This ‘rare track’ is again combined by ‘rare traction’ with No.8494 hauling your private main line charter train from Le Pont to Les Brassus, returning back to Le Pont. Lunch will be served in the bistro car, while the railway’s open balcony gondola coach allows you to stand right behind the footplate of the tank engine, creating a memorable experience and providing opportunities for filming or photography.

Afterwards, you transfer on an SBB service train to Lake Geneva. Your Swiss Travel Pass allowing you to ‘boat-hop’ on several of the different steamers that will be operating on the lake, while enjoying the incredible landscape of Lac Leman.

In the evening, return to Solothurn on one of the many different scenic lines. (B L) Thursday 22nd July High altitude steam at the Furka Railway with giant rack tank No.704; evening steamboat cruise on Lake Thun This morning, after an exciting journey by standard and narrow-gauge service trains from Solothurn via the Gotthard Railway and Andermatt to Realp, you board a heritage train hauled by the rack and adhesion giant locomotive No.704, with 0-8-0-wheel alignment and externally visible traction gear. Travel over Switzerland’s premier Alpine steam railway to the Furka summit, pausing for a photo stop, descending through the short summit tunnel and arriving above Gletsch, with the Rhone Glacier in plain sight. Afterwards, you continue on the last section of this heritage railway to re-open in 2011, on spiral tunnels down to Oberwald, before taking an MGB train on the stunning line to Brig. In Brig travel over the Lötschberg

summit line to Thun, where you board the magnificent paddle steamer “Bluemlisalp” from 1906 for a wonderful sunset dinner cruise. (B D) Friday 23rd July Steam in the Swiss Val-de-Travers and at the French Coni-Fer This morning, after arriving in Travers by SBB service train, a famous Swiss ‘Tigerli’ tank engine will haul your private charter train via Fleurier over the unusual St. Sulpice branch line, which hasn’t seen passenger traffic since 1973.

Here, you visit the large steam locomotive collection of the VVT group, and a false arrival of the ‘Tigerli’-hauled train will be staged for photo opportunities. Afterwards, transfer by coach across the French frontier past impressive hill-top castles to the French heritage railway Coni-Fer near Pontarlier. This remote standardgauge line features a fleet of ‘Tigerlis’, running on what has been preserved of the old Pontarlier – Vallorbe line. Your train traverses hilly scenery, pausing along the way for photo stops and a run past. After lunch, you return by coach to Switzerland and carry on to Neuchatel by service train, where you enjoy a mountain-top excursion on the local funicular to the peak of Mount Chaumont, one of the finest look-out points in the Jura Mountains. From there you return to Solothurn for the evening. (B L D) Saturday 24th July Paddle steamer cruise on the Jura lakes, along Switzerland’s longest waterway Today, experience the nostalgia of the vintage 1912 paddle steamer ‘Neuchatel’, which sails from its name-sake city. Steam along the longest waterway located entirely within Switzerland, sailing on multiple lakes and canals from Neuchatel to Biel, past vineyards and wetlands, with the Jura Mountains towering to the west.

In Biel, transfer onto the Aare river boat for a relaxing cruise to Solothurn, passing under the covered wooden bridge at Büren and going through one of Switzerland’s best bird spotting locations. You return to Solothurn in the late afternoon, with dinner provided at the hotel tonight. (B D)

Tour Summary First Class

£2575

Standard Class

£2455

Single supplement £295 Ground only £2275 (Solothurn – Solothurn with First Class Swiss Pass) Price includes: • 7 nights accommodation at 4-star H4 Hotel Solothurn • 6 Dinners and 3 Lunches • First or Standard Class rail travel from London to Basel and Return • First Class 4 Day Swiss Pass • Paddle steamer cruise • Private charters as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Sunday 25th July Return to London After breakfast you transfer from your hotel to Basel. Here you take the High speed train to Strasbourg before changing trains and continuing to Paris Gare de L’Est. There you transfer to Paris Gare du Nord and take a Eurostar service back to London St. Pancras International. (B) EUROPEAN TOUR – 8 Days

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Steam in Austria and Silesia Friday 6th August to Saturday 14th August 2021 Experience main line steam in the Austrian Alps and narrow-gauge steam in the picturesque Czech countryside on this relaxing summer holiday tour.

• Based in the vibrant cities of Vienna in Austria and Ostrava in Moravian Silesia, you’ll enjoy sightseeing tours in both with a ride on the Prater Ferris Wheel in Vienna and the Dolni Vitkovice cultural park in Ostrava.

• Exciting narrow-gauge steam highlights include the annual steam gala at the Gurkthalbahn in Carinthia, two remote narrowgauge steam railways in the Czech Republic, and steam at the 15-inch Prater Park railway in Vienna.

• Experience mighty main line freight locomotives on private charters both in Austria and Poland, behind the recently refurbished tender locos 52.4984 and Ty42-24.

• Enjoy big engine steam at the Strasshof railway museum near Vienna as an added attraction and visit the site of the incredible wooden Gliwice Radio Tower in Poland, where World War II was triggered.

Friday 6th August Arrive to Vienna This morning you fly from London to Vienna, arriving in Austria’s capital city by mid-day.

You check into a centrally located quality hotel and have a warm lunch. For the rest of the day you are free to take advantage of your complimentary public transport rover ticket and discover the sights and scenes of Vienna at leisure. (L) Saturday 7th August Sightseeing Vienna; Prater Ferris Wheel; Steam at the Prater Railway and Strasshof Railway Museum After breakfast, you enjoy a private charter tram trip around Vienna’s historic city centre and along the famous Ring Road, seeing the principal landmarks, including the Imperial Palace, State Opera House and Houses of Parliament.

Your tour concludes with a ride on the Prater 66

Ferris Wheel, built by British engineers in 1899.

You then traverse the adjacent 15-inch steam railway, hauled by a vintage 1920s ‘Pacific’ type 4-6-2 locomotive through the Prater Gardens on this 4 km long 1920s park railway.

An OBB service train then takes you from nearby Praterstern station to Strasshof, site of Austria’s largest steam locomotive collection.

After lunch in Strasshof, you’ll have a full tour of the museum grounds, including a ride on one of the local tender locomotives. In late afternoon you return to Vienna by local train, with more time to explore this vibrant city. (B L)

now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its impressively engineered stone-arched viaducts, seamlessly blending into the mountain landscape. In the late morning you arrive in southern Austria, where the rural Gurkthalbahn narrow-gauge railway is staging its annual steam gala today. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience several steam locomotives in service, through the rural landscape of Carinthia. You have lunch at the railway and are given a tour of the local steam shed. In the afternoon you return to Vienna by way of the Semmering railway. (B L)

Sunday 8th August Semmering Railway and Steam Gala at the Gurkthalbahn in Carinthia Today you travel in the Austrian Alps over the scenic Semmering Railway from Vienna to Carinthia. This is Europe’s first trans-Alpine railway, built between 1848 and 1854 and

Monday 9th August Main line steam with 52.4984 to Gutenstein and Mattersburg A tour highlight awaits today, as you enjoy a first day of main line steam travel in the hills south of Vienna. Motive power is provided by the large 2-10-0 freight locomotive 52.4984,

which only just returned to active service in late 2019. Formerly in use with OBB, the big tender locomotive will haul your private charter train from Turmau via Wiener Neustadt on the idyllic branch line to Gutenstein, where steam traction rarely ventures. Lunch will be served in the buffet car on the train. You then continue from Gutenstein and the Wiener Neustadt south avoiding curve to the historic town of Mattersburg near the Hungarian border, passing over an impressive elevated viaduct.

From Mattersburg you return on the main line via Mödling to Wien, with an option to stay on the steam train back to Trumau, completing a round trip for the day. The evening is once again spent at leisure in Vienna. (B L) Tuesday 10th August Steam at the Zbysov narrow gauge railway in Moravia, arrive to Ostrava Today Czech narrow-gauge steam takes centre stage, as you visit the delightful narrow-gauge railway at Zbysov, south of Brno. A powerful tank engine will pull you over the full length of the line, pausing for run-pasts and photos.

After a good Czech lunch, you continue to Ostrava on a Czech Railways service train, arriving in the capital of Moravian Silesia by late afternoon. You check into your centrally located hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. (B L D) Wednesday 11th August Steam in Moravian Silesia on the Osoblaha narrow gauge railway A very special narrow-gauge railway trip is in store today, as you take a Czech Railways service train from Ostrava via Opava to Tremesna and then board a private steam charter on the idyllic line to Osoblaha, on the doorstep of Poland.

This remote yet serene railway runs through gentle fields and soft rolling hills, framed by church towers and dotted villages. The rugged 0-8-0 tank engine will pause for pictures and run pasts, as lunch refreshments are served on the train. After a good day out by steam and a full return journey on the 20 km long branch line, you return to Ostrava by Czech service train and then have dinner again at the hotel. (B L D)

Thursday 12th August Main line steam in Polish Silesia with Ty42-24 and Gliwice Radio Tower Today you venture into Polish Silesia and the urban conglomeration of Katowice and Gliwice, just 45 minutes by road from Ostrava. You travel directly to the railway museum at Pyskowice, where the large 2-10-0 freight locomotive Ty42-42 will be in steam and haul your exclusive private charter around several highly unusual industrial lines, with a maximum of ‘rare track’.

On the museum grounds, run pasts will also be staged. Afterwards you continue to the landmark Gliwice radio tower, often called the ‘Eiffel Tower of Silesia’. Standing 118 metres high, it’s the world’s highest wooden tower and occupies a very significant chapter in history, as the Nazis staged a phony attack on the tower in September 1939, as a pre-text to commence World War II and invade Poland. You return to Ostrava in the early evening. (B L D) Friday 13th August Vintage tram around Ostrava, visit to Vitkovice cultural park In the morning you enjoy a private charter tram ride aboard a classic, semi-streamlined Tatra 2 vehicle, based on the American PCC design. You’ll see the main landmarks and also visit the local tram depot, before viewing the fascinating Dolni Vitkovice cultural park, where former steel mills have been converted into an attractive public space, with a special blend of contemporary and classic architecture. The rest of the afternoon is for leisure in Ostrava and you can use your complimentary public transport rover ticket to further explore the city’s extensive tramway and trolleybus network, or to simply relax in the Old Town. (B L) Saturday 14th August You return to the UK on a direct flight The time has come to return home. You first travel to Vienna on a direct express train and then have a direct flight from Vienna back to London. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1995

Single supplement £325 Ground only £1895 * (Vienna – Ostrava ) Price includes: • Return flights from London to Vienna • 8 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast at centrally-located, quality hotels • 8 lunches and 3 dinners • Travel on all charter trains and other scenic trains as detailed in the itinerary • Journey on all steam trains and other heritage transport as detailed in the itinerary • Multi-day public transport rover tickets in Vienna and Ostrava • All transfers • The services of a tour manager *Return to Vienna option available upon

request. Flight Alternatives are also available upon request.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 9 Days

67

Highlights of Germany in Summer – Steam in Berlin and the Harz Mountains Monday 16th August to Thursday 26th August 2021 Enjoy a late summer holiday to Germany for relaxing river cruises, vintage transport in the vibrant capital Berlin and the famed steam trains of the Harz Mountains.

• Enjoy steam by land and water, as you first cruise on the river Havel in Potsdam aboard the vintage 1908 steamboat “Gustav”, then storm up Mount Brocken on the iconic 2-10-2 tank engines to the highest point in Northern Germany.

• Take a steam train journey at the Wulheide Park Railway in Berlin, travel on the heritage tramway in Woltersdorf and sample five different river cruises at scenic locations around the capital, including Berlin Mitte, Köpenick, Potsdam, Brandenburg and Szczecin, Poland.

• The short sidestep to Poland with a daytrip rail excursion to the historic port city of Szczecin (Stettin) with a cruise on the River Odra adds geographic variety to the holiday.

• This relaxed holiday takes place after the peak period of the German school holidays, when the Harz Mountains are less busy, but still have the most intensive ‘Plandampf’ steam timetable in operation.

• Spend 3 days in the Harz Mountains with an unlimited 3-day rover ticket, valid on all the famed “Plandampf” steam services.

Monday 16th August London to Berlin by high-speed rail With Eurostar and ICE services via Brussels and Cologne. Accommodation at a centrally located 4-star hotel in Berlin. Meet your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner in the hotel restaurant. (D) Tuesday 17th August Berlin Technical Museum, Time at leisure, Museum Island Sunset Cruise After a leisurely breakfast, you collect your complimentary multi-day public transport rover ticket, which allows you full flexibility and individual travel in the city. You then visit the Technical Museum in western Berlin, which has one of the finest collections of old locomotives, 68

aircraft, cars and stationary steam engines in Europe. The museum is built around an old freight yard and two former roundhouses.

The guided excursion there will allow you to get familiar with Berlin’s layout and public transport network. Following the visit, you will have free time to discover the city at your own pace. In the evening you rejoin the group for a sunset dinner cruise with complimentary drinks on the River Spree in the city centre, passing all the major landmarks and the famed museum island on a vintage ship. (B D)

Wednesday 18th August Woltersdorf heritage tramway and Köpenick cruise Today you take an overground S-Bahn service to Woltersdorf, a charming village on the eastern edge of Berlin, which is noteworthy for its heritage tramway that leads to a small lake.

You have a private charter tram ride on a classic tram dating from 1913, which unusually has no enclosed cabs, allowing the driver to stand on the open balcony. You visit the tram depot, before enjoying time at leisure in Berlin.

You then depart on another evening dinner cruise, along the Eastside Gallery, Ostbahnhof, famed turret bridge at Warschauer Strasse to the historic Köpenick District. (B D)

Thursday 19th August Potsdam Palaces, vintage tramway and steamboat cruise in River Havel to the “Bridge of Spies” This morning you have free time and the opportunity to see the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag or Checkpoint Charlie, all of which are in close proximity of your hotel. In the afternoon you take a DB double-deck train to nearby Potsdam for a vintage tramway ride through the historic Dutch Quarter, past the Russian Colony and famed old town gates. To cap the day, you once again enjoy a dinner and sunset cruise, travelling on the River Havel aboard the genuine tall-stacked steamboat “Gustav” from 1908.

The scenic cruise will take you to the “Bridge of Spies”, where prisoner exchanges were made between East and West during the Cold War. You will also see the site of the 1945 Potsdam Conference, where Churchill, Stalin and Truman met. (B D) Friday 20th August Rail excursion to Szczecin Poland, private charter cruise on River Odra, sightseeing by vintage tramway Today you add some international flair to the holiday, by making the railway trip from Berlin north-east to the historic Baltic port city of Szczecin in Poland. This will allow you to sample Polish railways, see the city’s historic old town on a privately chartered tramway, before making a private harbor cruise on the River Odra, seeing all of the city’s principal landmarks and expansive port facilities from the water. In the early evening you return to Berlin by service train. (B L) Saturday 21st August Steam at the Wulheide Park Railway and leisure in Berlin In the southeast of Berlin, the Wulheide district features one of the largest park railways in Germany, built with 600 m gauge. For today’s steam running, you visit the railway and travel over the full length of the network. Like other cities in Central or Eastern Europe, the railway’s stations are operated by Children, under the supervision of adults. Following this delightful steam excursion, you have a final evening to make the most of Berlin and all that Germany’s vibrant capital has to offer. (B)

of Wernigerode. While your luggage is directly transferred and forwarded to the next hotel by coach, you travel by rail and pause along the way in the historic city of Brandenburg for a lunch time cruise on the River Havel. You then continue by rail via Magdeburg and Halberstadt to the beautiful town of Wernigerode, famed for its well preserved old town, rows of colorful timber-framed houses and impressive hilltop castle. Dinner will be served at the hotel, after arrival (B L D) Monday 23rd August to Wednesday 25th August Steam, nature and culture in the Harz Mountains For the next 3 days you are free to enjoy maximum steam, natural beauty and cultural heritage in the unique setting that is the Harz Mountains. You will have a 3-day unlimited rover ticket, allowing you to travel on all steam services in the Selke Valley and to Mount Brocken. Best of all, standard gauge transfer tickets from Quedlinburg to Wernigerode are also included. Storm to the summit of Mount Brocken as often as you like, enjoy trainspotting and railway photography at the Wernigerode yard with unique observation tower or storm over the steep embankments from Gernrode to Alexisbad. Your Tour Manager will be pleased to advise you of all the timetabled services and best connections, so you can maximize steam or individualize the excursions to best suit your taste. Every evening, dinner will be included back at the hotel in Wernigerode. (B D) Thursday 26th August Return to London by high speed rail The time has come to return to London.

You first have a direct and fast coach transfer from Wernigerode to Hannover Hbf, where you board an ICE service westbound to Cologne.

From there you continue by high speed train via Brussels to London St. Pancras. (B)

Tour Summary First Class

£2275

Standard Class

£1975

Single supplement £295 Ground only £1775 (Berlin – Wernigerode*) Price includes: • High Speed train travel from London to Berlin and from Hannover to London • 10 nights accommodation with Breakfast at 4-star hotels in Berlin and Wernigerode • 8 dinners and 2 Lunches • All specially chartered steam trains, rail journeys and boat cruises as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • Public transport rover tickets • The services of a tour manager *Transfer to Hannover Hbf is also available

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Sunday 22nd August Brandenburg River Cruise, arrival to Wernigerode and the Harz Mountains Today the time has come to transfer from the city to the countryside, as you make your way to the Harz Mountains and the charming town EUROPEAN TOUR – 11 Days

69

Janez Smole

Janez Smole

Janez Smole

The Black Sea Express Friday 10th September to Monday 20th September 2021 Travel in style on the Royal Train from Sofia to the Black Sea and back on this luxury steam tour in magical Bulgaria. This is an ideal holiday tour both for rail enthusiasts and those wanting to experience steam travel and tourism in a country that remains one of Europe’s hidden gems.

• The Royal ‘Corona Express’ Train hails from the time of King Boris III, and your luxurious coaches will be hauled by a variety of powerful locomotives as you travel to the coast in style.

• Enjoy overnight stays in top class hotels in Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Velingrad, Bansko and Burgas on the Black Sea Coast, with a crossing over the high Balkan Mountains.

• Experience two days of steam on the scenic narrow-gauge Rhodope Mountains line hauled by the impressive 2-10-2T loco 609⁷⁶ and visit the Rila Monastery, the most famous monastery in Bulgaria.

• Travel a total of 1095 km steam hauled by SIX iconic locomotives, including the 2-8-2 Swiss-built loco 01.23 and the 2-10-0 16.27, as well as the world’s largest working tank engine 46.03!

• Enjoy visits to the famous old town of Veliko Tarnovo or the Gorna Orjahovitsa loco depot and Asenovo Steam Reserve, and a sightseeing tour of Sofia before discovering the Black Sea Coast on a day trip to the sea resort of Nesebar, the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea.’ Friday 10th September Fly to Sofia; private tram tour Morning flight from London Heathrow to Sofia the capital of Bulgaria with British Airways.

On arrival check in to your city centre hotel before enjoying a private tram tour of the sights.

Marvel at the onion-domed churches, Ottoman mosques and Red Army monuments in a city that boasts many of Bulgaria’s finest museums, galleries and restaurants. A welcome dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (D) Saturday 11th September Suburbs of Sofia tour by Royal Train Today you experience the Royal ‘Corona Express’ Train for the first time, consisting of specialised cars and historic carriages of King Boris III (1894 70

–1943), hauled by the recently restored 0-8-0 freight locomotive 26.26 (Henschel 1908).

After a circuit of the outer Sofia suburbs you take the branch line to Bankya, for a short break before returning to Sofia. Dinner is served at your hotel. (B D) Sunday 12th September Steam with the Royal Train to Gorna Orjahovitsa; bus to Veliko Tarnovo Today you travel by Royal Train from Sofia to Pleven Zapad behind the 2-8-2 No 01.23 locomotive (made in Switzerland in 1935), before the powerful 2-10-0 16.27 (WLF 1948) takes over to haul you to Gorna Orjahovitsa, the biggest railway centre in Northern Bulgaria.

From here you transfer by coach to Veliko

Tarnovo, where you spend the next two nights.

(B D) Monday 13th September Tour of Veliko Tarnovo OR visit the Gorna Orjahovitsa depot and Asenovo Steam Reserve Today you have two options, the first being a guided walking tour of the old town of Veliko Tarnovo. Discover the medieval capital of Bulgaria, with houses in the old town over 200 years old. You’ll also visit Veliko Tarnovo’s most significant monument, the medieval fortress Tsarevets, sited on a hilltop overlooking the town and surrounded by the river Yantra. Your second option today is a must for rail fans, a trip by bus to first visit Gorna Orjahovitsa locomotive depot

to see active steam locomotives, and then to Asenovo Steam Reserve to see the preserved rare steam locomotives there. Dinner is served back at your hotel. (B D)

crosses the river, makes a 180 degree turn and heads off along a side valley, eventually reaching Velingrad. Dinner is again served at the hotel.

(B D)

Tuesday 14th September Across the Balkan Mountains to Stara Zagora; on to Burgas and the Black Sea After breakfast, you steam across the Balkan Mountains on the Royal Train, hauled once more by your rugged 2-10-0 16.27 steam locomotive from Veliko Tarnovo to Stara Zagora via Dabovo.

You’ll enjoy the rich and diverse landscape as you travel across lowlands, hilly plains, river valleys and the high Balkan Mountains. From Stara Zagora your Royal coaches will be hauled by ‘Pacific’ style loco 05.01 (Krupp 1941) to Burgas, on the Black Sea, for a two-night stay. (B D)

Saturday 18th September Narrow-gauge to Dobronishte behind 609⁷⁶; on to Bansko Today you travel on the last remaining public narrow-gauge line in Bulgaria hauled by 609⁷⁶ over the summit of the Rhodope Mountains from Velingrad to Dobronishte, with photo opportunities. Due to its superbly engineered spiral tunnels, this branch line has been called the ‘Rhaetian Railway of the Balkans’. As the tank engine battles the steep gradients, plenty of steam spectacle is on offer, although some diesel assistance is required to climb through the tunnels up to the summit at Avramovo station, 1267 metres above sea level and the highest station in Bulgaria. The line then passes Razlog and Bansko, before reaching the terminus at Dobrinishte. You return to Bansko by coach and check in to your hotel, for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Wednesday 15th September The Black Sea Coast to Nesebar Today you’ll enjoy a coach trip to Nesebar on the Black Sea, where you can sightsee this ancient city and the nearby beaches, which stretch for several kilometres along the coast. The ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’ is one of the major seaside attractions on the Black Sea Coast. It consists of two parts separated by a narrow man-made isthmus with the ancient part of the settlement on the peninsula and the more modern section on the mainland side. You return to your hotel in Burgas for dinner and overnight accommodation.

(B D) Thursday 16th September Burgas to Septemvri and Velingrad Today your Royal train travels from Burgas back to Stara Zagora hauled by 4-6-2 No 05.01.

You then travel the 160 km to Septemvri behind an electric locomotive before a coach transfer to the spa town of Velingrad in the Rhodope Mountains for a two-night stay. (B D) Friday 17th September Narrow-gauge in the Rhodope Mountains with steam loco 60976 After breakfast, you travel from Velingrad to the start of the 760 mm narrow-gauge line at Septemvri with the choice of an optional Septemvri depot visit. You then join a special steam charter hauled by 2-10-2 tank engine 609⁷⁶, built by Chrzanow in Poland in 1949 and one of the most powerful of its gauge in the world. The initial 39 km of the 760 mm narrow-gauge line from Septemvri to Velingrad first opened in 1926. When the line reaches Varvara, it enters the gorge of the Cepina river and climbing starts in earnest. At Dolene the line

Sunday 19th September Visit to Rila Monastery; Steam back to Sofia Today you visit the world-famous Rila Monastery by bus, before travelling on your private train from Dupnitsa to Sofia hauled by the very special 2-12-4 tank loco No 46.03, the only standard gauge 12-coupled steam loco working in the whole world. Rila Monastery is the most famous monastery in Bulgaria, now under UNESCO protection. The 4-floor residential part of the complex consists of 300 monks’ cells, 4 chapels, an abbot’s room, a kitchen, a library and guestrooms for donors. The exterior of the monastery has high stone walls cut through by small windows. It’s also worth visiting the monastery’s museum, which hosts the famous Raphael’s Cross, made of a whole piece of wood (81cm x 43cm) and named after its creator.

On reaching Sofia you check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2695

Single supplement £295 Ground only (Sofia – Sofia)

£2495

Price includes: • Flights from London Heathrow and return • Accommodation in excellent hotels with breakfast and evening meals • Light lunch on the train operating days • All train and coach travel as detailed in the itinerary, with all transfers • Services of UK and local tour guides • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Janez Smole

Monday 20th September Optional visit to Sofia locomotive depot; evening flight to London Heathrow airport Today you have the option of a visit to the Sofia locomotive depot or some free time to explore Sofia further before an evening flight on British Airways to London Heathrow. (B) Janez Smole

EUROPEAN TOUR – 11 Days

71

Cruising and Steam in Northern Germany Monday 20th September to Sunday 26th September 2021 Discover the delights of Germany’s northern coast by steamboat and steam train on this relaxing holiday to Hamburg and the Baltic seaside.

• Experience first-hand the allure of the Hanseatic cities of Hamburg, Lübeck, and Wismar, seeing these attractions both by land and water.

• Enjoy different private charter cruises on historic steamboats, including a unique steam launch from 1876, a mighty steampowered icebreaker from 1911 and a luxurious paddle steamer from 1905.

• Sample the very best of the famous German ‘Plandampf’ and delightful steam trains running to the seaside, first with a visit to the ‘Molli’ for the remarkable street-running in Bad Doberan, and a trip to the idyllic Kappeln heritage railway for a private steam charter with a Swedish-built tank engine.

• The private charter cruises will allow for you to rub shoulders with the great ocean liners and huge container ships in the port of Hamburg, sail on Baltic waters in Wismar and enjoy steam on the River Schlei near the Danish border.

• Based throughout at a centrally located quality hotel in Hamburg, this relaxing holiday includes a visit to the spectacular ‘Miniatur Wunderland’ model railway.

Monday 20th September London to Hamburg by high speed rail You travel from London St. Pancras International to Hamburg Hbf, using Eurostar and ICE high speed trains. The route takes you via Brussels and Cologne. On arrival, you check into your centrally located hotel, where you will be issued with a complimentary public transport ticket which is valid for the duration of your stay.

Dinner will be served at the hotel. (D) Tuesday 21st September Elbe River cruise in Hamburg aboard steam-powered icebreaker After a leisurely breakfast, your day starts with an immediate highlight, as you experience a truly unique steamboat for an unusual pleasure cruise!

Aboard Germany’s only steam-powered ice72

breaker to work on a river, you will explore the fascinating Hamburg skyline and expansive port facilities, rubbing shoulders with great ocean liners and huge container ships. Built in 1911, the coal-fired steamer “Elbe” sails on its namesake river, giving fabulous views of the ever-changing scenery and providing you with full access to the wheelhouse and boiler room. A buffet lunch will be served on board the ship during the mid-day cruise. After the cruise concludes, you will have free time to explore Hamburg and all of its attractions at your own pace, making good use of your complimentary rover ticket. (B L) Wednesday 22nd September Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg; Alster River sunset cruise aboard steam launch “St. Georg”

The incredible Miniatur Wunderland is much more than the largest model railway attraction in the world, it is a uniquely entertaining display with different geographic layouts in HO scale over 8 miles of track. It’s easily possible to spend half the day there, you will be free to pace yourself and use your time to explore the nearby Elbphilharmonie observation terrace or any other points of interest in the city. In the evening your group reassembles for a delightful sunset cruise on the inland River Alster. Your privately chartered vessel for the evening is the historic steamboat ‘St. Georg’ from 1876, one of the oldest operational vessels in the world. You will enjoy this tranquil sightseeing tour of a different part of the city, including refined residential districts. You can watch the hard-working steam engine from the main deck of the boat, where

you can see the engineer at work. A buffet dinner (including wine) will be served during the cruise as the sun sets over Hamburg. (B D) Thursday 23rd September Steam at the Molli Railway and Baltic Cruise from Wismar Today you visit one of the most iconic steam trains in all of Germany, the 15.4-kilometrelong resort railway ‘Molli’. Famous for its street running section in Bad Doberan, this 900 mm gauge railway boasts lots of rugged German tank engines. You’ll have the benefit of a reserved coach, as the train steams northbound to Kühlingsborn on the Baltic Coast. You’ll enjoy views of the sandy beaches at Heiligendamm and take in the street-running action in the centre of Bad Doberan. On the return to Hamburg you pause in the beautiful Hanseatic city of Wismar for a cruise on the Baltic Sea. This will allow you to sightsee the city, with its beautiful spires and brick-built guild houses, whilst also seeing the island of Poel. Lunch is once again included today. (B L) Friday 24th September Individual discovery with your Interrail Ticket Today you have the unlimited use of your Interrail rover ticket, which allows you to explore the entire German railway network at ease, in the class of your booking. You could travel to the nearby Hanseatic city of Lübeck and the port of Travemünde, take the famed Marschbahn to Westerland on the North Sea Island Sylt, travelling over the landmark Hindenburg Dam with iconic diesel locomotive haulage, or you could take an express ICE train to Berlin.

The choice is entirely yours and your Tour Manager will be pleased to advise you of alternative options and timetable connections. (B)

Saturday 25th September Steam at the Kappeln heritage railway with a Swedish tank engine; Paddle Steamer Cruise on the River Schlei from Schleswig with paddle steamer ‘Freya’ In the morning you take a DB service train from Hamburg over the iconic Rendsburg High Bridge spanning the Kiel Canal to the historic city of Schleswig. From there it's a short coach transfer to the town of Kappeln, near the Danish border. In Kappeln you enjoy a private steam train charter on the 14.6 km long branch line to Süderbrarup. Your heritage train will be hauled by a mighty Swedish-built 2-6-2 tank engine dating from 1952. Along the way, run-pasts will be staged and lunch will be served in the bistro car on the train. After some free time to sightsee the historic towns of Kappeln and Schleswig, you embark on another genuine tour highlight for an exquisite private charter dinner cruise on the luxurious paddle steamer ‘Freya’ dating from 1905. Full dinner catering and complimentary drinks are included. Immerse yourself in the maritime charm of the ship, replete with mahogany wood, polished brass and stately saloons. The ‘Freya’ only visits the River Schlei once a year, so this is a unique opportunity to enjoy exclusive steam travel at an unusual location, with its tranquil, almost Scandinavian coastal landscapes. After the dinner cruise, you return to the hotel in Hamburg. (B L D) Sunday 26th September Return to London You return to London St. Pancras International via Cologne and Brussels, travelling on ICE, Thalys and Eurostar services. (B)

Tour Summary First Class

£1895

Standard Class

£1755

Eurostar, ICE and other German service trains.

Eurostar, ICE and other German service trains.

Single supplement £395 Ground only £1595 (Hamburg – Hamburg) Price includes: • First or Standard Class travel from London to Hamburg and return • 4 Day Global Inter-rail Pass in the class of booking • 6 nights accommodation with breakfast at a centrally located quality hotel in Hamburg • Complimentary public transport rover ticket for Hamburg • 3 lunches and 3 dinners, including drinks • All specially chartered steam trains and steamboats as detailed in the itinerary • All rail, road and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary, including Miniatur Wunderland model railway in Hamburg • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager Please be advised that First Class travel will be allocated in Standard Premier carriages on Eurostar services.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 7 Days

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Autumn Steam in Saxony Thursday 23rd September to Wednesday 29th September 2021 Enjoy inspiring landscapes, spectacular autumn colour and exhilarating steam travel on land and water on this magical holiday tour in Eastern Germany.

• Based in a centrally located 4-star hotel in Dresden for the tour duration.

• Enjoy steam travel by land and water in and around the city on narrow-gauge trains and genuine paddle steamers.

• Ample time to enjoy Dresden and its stunning landmarks and ambience using a complimentary issued travel rover ticket.

• Experience German ‘Plandampf on 4 different narrow-gauge railways on 2 different gauges, including the re-opened Weisseritztalbahn to Kurort Kipsdorf.

• Private steam charter at the 15-inch Dresden Park Railway with an iconic ‘Pacific’ steam locomotive.

• See the famed national park in the heart of ‘Saxon Switzerland’ on a private charter on the scenic Kirnitzschtal tramway.

Thursday 23rd September London to Dresden Travel by train from London St Pancras via Brussels and Frankfurt to Saxony’s capital city Dresden. On arrival you check in to a 4-star city centre hotel, which is your base for the tour.

On arrival you’ll receive a complimentary public transport ticket, valid on all local trains, trams, buses and ferries for the duration of your stay.

(D) Friday 24th September Paddle steamer cruise to Pillnitz Castle; Vintage Monorail in Loschwitz You’ll enjoy a sightseeing cruise of Dresden on a 19th century paddle steamer. You steam upstream on the River Elbe to Pillnitz Palace.

En route you pass vineyards, villas and the 1893 ‘Blue Wonder’ Loschwitz steel bridge.

Stopping at Loschwitz on the way back you take the local funicular to the summit for views of the city. You descend back to Loschwitz by mountain 74

monorail dating back to 1901.

Afterwards you have time to explore Dresden’s local tram network using your public transport ticket or to visit the local museums and sights.

(B) Saturday 25th September Steam at the Dresden Park Railway and at the Lössnitz Narrow Gauge Railway Today you visit Germany’s premier 15-inch line, the Dresden Park Railway. Travelling behind a classic 1920s 4-6-2 ‘Pacific’ steam locomotive covering the entire 5.6 km long circular line within the ‘Grosser Garten’ park, pausing for several run-pasts. The visit concludes with a guided tour of the shed and workshop.

After free time in the city you visit the nearby 16.5 km Radebeul-Radeburg steam railway just outside Dresden, which passes the Moritzburg castle. The local vineyards offer wonderful autumn colours at this time of year. At the

Radeburg terminus, your locomotive takes on water before travelling back to Radebeul, continuing to downtown Dresden on either the scenic overland tramway route or by frequent DB service train. In late afternoon and evening you have time at leisure in the city. (B) Sunday 26th September Steam at the at the Weisseritz Valley Railway Another steam highlight awaits today on an excursion to the re-opened narrow-gauge Weisseritz Valley Railway. You’ll be steam-hauled through the region’s ‘canyon’ landscape from Freital-Hainsberg to Kurort Kipsdorf along the River Weisseritz, passing cliffs, narrow bridges and lakes on the way. Enjoy the panoramic views from your open-top observation car.

After the full round-trip you return to Dresden, with free time to enjoy and explore the city once more. (B)

Monday 27th September Narrow-gauge steam in Zittau Another narrow-gauge highlight awaits today on the Zittau steam railway in Saxony, on the German border with Poland and the Czech Republic. From Zittau the 12.2 km branch line runs to the resort town of Kurort Oybin.

There’s also a short 3.8 km long stub from the junction station of Bertsdorf to Kurort Jonsdorf to enjoy. Using a complimentary day-long rover ticket you can explore both lines and film the double departure from Bertsdorf.

Impressive 2-10-2 tank engines run every day on the Zittau network with two or three in steam.

Rocky cliff formations frame the line around Oybin. You return in late afternoon to Dresden by service train. (B D) Tuesday 28th September Heritage Tramway in the ‘Saxon Switzerland’ National Park at Bad Schandau This morning you make a quick transfer on a direct train to Bad Schandau and enjoy a private charter journey on the Kirnitzschtal tramway.

Travelling on an original 1920s tramway, the route runs from the spa town of Bad Schandau

to the waterfalls at Lichtenhain. Along the way there’ll be several photo stops staged in the Saxon Switzerland National Park. To cap the excursion, you enjoy a guided shed visit in Bad Schandau, before returning to Dresden on the scenic main line from Bad Schandau via Königstein on a direct service train. (B L D) Wednesday 29th September Return to London You return to London St Pancras, travelling on high speed trains via Frankfurt, Cologne and Brussels. (B)

Tour Summary First Class

£1495

Standard Class

£1345

Single supplement £195 Ground only £1195 (Dresden – Dresden) Price includes: • First Class or Standard class rail travel from London to Dresden and return • 6 Nights accommodation in a 4-star hotel with breakfast • 3 Dinners and 1 Lunch • Complimentary 7-day Dresden public transport ticket included • All rail trips and excursions as detailed in the itinerary • Paddle steamer cruise • The services of a tour manager Please be advised that First Class travel will be allocated in Standard Premier carriages on Eurostar services.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 7 Days

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Georg Trueb

Autumn in Alsace Thursday 7th October to Thursday 14th October 2021 Enjoy the famous wine-making region of Alsace in full autumn splendour by steam train on this enchanting holiday in eastern France.

• Based in the vibrant city of Colmar, you’ll explore the region on privately chartered steam trains on all the preserved railways in Alsace and a forest railway in nearby Lorraine.

• Tour highlights include excursions into nearby southern Germany and a visit to the impressive steam Abreschviller Forest Railway in Lorraine, hauled by an 0-4-4-0T Mallet type steam locomotive.

• Discover the medieval heart of Basel on a sightseeing tour by vintage tram, followed by a scenic river cruise including lunch aboard a classic motor vessel on the River Rhine.

• There’s also a visit to the Alsatian vineyard town of Eguisheim and to the city of Mulhouse to savour, with the excellent French National Railway Museum and the one-of-its kind Bugatti Museum both located there.

• Short transfer distances from Colmar to all the featured attractions make this a truly relaxed and engaging tour, the perfect opportunity to see France with a completely new perspective.

Thursday 7th October London to Colmar You travel by Eurostar from London St. Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord, before a transfer to Paris Gare de l´Est for the onward journey by TGV express to Strasbourg, where you change onto a regional service to Colmar.

You check in to your elegant, centrally located hotel in the heart of this picturesque town.

The rest of the day is free to explore and discover the timber-framed houses and quaint canals of historic Colmar.

Friday 8th October Vintage tram tour and scenic river cruise in Basel This morning you transfer by locomotive-hauled French Railways (SNCF) service train to Basel, across the border in Switzerland. You then enjoy 76

a sightseeing tour of this vibrant city by vintage tram, including one of the few preserved opensided tram trailers in Switzerland.

Crossing the River Rhine, you’ll see the medieval town centre, the cathedral and the ornate city hall. Afterwards you board a vintage motor vessel for a lunch cruise on the River Rhine.

Your classic red-funnelled ship oozes charm and boasts wood-panelled dining saloons. A buffet lunch, complete with dessert, will be served as you cruise through Swiss, German and French waters. After the cruise there’ll be free time to explore the city centre before you return to Colmar by SNCF service train in late afternoon.

(B L)

Saturday 9th October Steam along the Rhine; visit to historic Breisach After breakfast you travel by road coach to visit the Chemin de Fer Touristique du Rhin, located in the nearby town of Volgelsheim.

This standard-gauge railway operates both French and German steam locomotives hauling Austrian carriages with balconies. You’ll traverse the 13 km (8 mile) line from Volgelsheim to the Sans Souci Quay at Marckolsheim, where the River Rhine and canal separate. Afterwards you continue by road coach to the historic city of Breisach in Germany, on the opposite side of the River Rhine, famous for its charming old town and impressive Gothic cathedral, located on a scenic hilltop. Lunch will be taken at a charming German inn and you’ll then explore the town. Afterwards you return to Colmar by road coach. (B L)

Sunday 10th October Steam on the Thur Doller Railway; visit to the vineyard town of Eguisheim Today you visit the enchanting Train Thur Doller Alsace, which operates a 13 km (8 mile) long standard-gauge branch line from Cernay to Sentheim, along the foothills of the Vosges Mountains and crossing the River Doller.

The railway features a rake of authentic photogenic coaches dating from the late 19th century. A powerful early 20th century steam tank locomotive hauls you over this preserved line on a privately chartered train at a time when there is no regular traffic, so numerous run pasts can be staged. A typically French buffet lunch will be served at the station building in Burnhaupt, where you’ll visit the shed and see the railway’s extensive collection of historic rolling stock. At the end of the return journey you travel by road coach to Colmar via the ‘Alsatian Wine Route’, stopping for a visit to the delightful little village of Eguisheim, one of the most famous vineyard towns in France, before returning to dine with fellow travellers at your hotel. (B L D) Monday 11th October Steam in the Black Forest of Germany; visit to historic Freiburg The German theme continues today as you visit the Kandertalbahn, located on the very tip of Southern Germany, near Basel. This 12.9 km (8 mile) long branch line runs through rural scenery in the Kander Valley. Your train comprises an early 20th century German steam tank locomotive with matching period carriages, and a buffet lunch of regional delicacies will be served when you reach the end of the line at Kandern.

There will be plenty of photo opportunities until you return to Colmar by road coach later, stopping to visit the historic city of Freiburg im Breisgau, a German city noted for its medieval university and cathedral. (B L) Tuesday 12th October Museums and trams in Mulhouse Today you travel by train to Mulhouse, famous for its outstanding museums, especially the ‘Cité

du Train’ and ‘Cité de l’Automobile’, respectively the largest railway and automobile museums in Europe. You’ll receive a rover ticket for the city’s urban tram network, which you’ll use to travel to the ‘Cité du Train’, the national railway museum of France and one of the largest and most amazing collections of technically unique steam locomotives in the world. The vast collection of classic cars in the nearby ‘Cité de l’Automobile’ is also worth a visit. The remainder of your time in Mulhouse will be free to explore its medieval city centre, with both French and Swiss architecture, the pedestrianised Place de la Réunion main square, and St. Stephen’s church. In the evening you return to Colmar by service train. (B) Wednesday 13th October Steam at the Abreschviller Forest Railway Today you make a side-step from Alsace and visit nearby Lorraine. At Abreschviller you will find a remarkable 'hidden gem' in the form of the local forest railway, which operates steam locomotives on the unusual 700 mm gauge.

You are comfortably accommodated on the railway's 'Belle Epoque' luxury coach and hauled by a 0-4-4-0T Mallet type steam locomotive dating from 1906. Running through dense forests and crossing the Red Saar River, the train will pause for photos and run-pasts near the village of Grand Soldat. At the terminus of the line, you will also see an old saw mill. Once back in Abreschviller, you still have time to visit the local steam shed and see the other stored steam locomotives, before returning to Colmar. In the evening you have a farewell dinner at the hotel.

(B L D) Thursday 14th October Colmar to London You say a fond ‘au revoir’ to Alsace today and return to Paris by TGV express train.

You transfer from Paris Gare de l´Est to Gare du Nord and board a Eurostar service to London St. Pancras International. (B)

Tour Summary First Class

£1995

Standard Class

£1655

Includes First Class on Eurostar, TGV and other SNCF service trains.

Includes Standard Class/Second Class on Eurostar, TGV and other SNCF service trains.

Single supplement £225 Ground only £1475 (Colmar – Colmar) Price includes: • 7 nights accommodation with breakfast • 5 lunches and 2 dinners • All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary • All rail, road, tram and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • All visits as detailed in the itinerary • Rail travel from London to Colmar and back • Rover ticket for the Mulhouse urban tram network • All seat reservations and transfers • The services of a tour manager Please be advised that First Class travel will be allocated in Standard Premier carriages on Eurostar services.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 8 Days

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Highlights of Switzerland in Autumn Thursday 14th October to Wednesday 20th October 2021 Enjoy the very best of spectacular Alpine railways in Switzerland, France and Italy, while relaxing on historic steamboats in the Bernese Oberland, for an enchanting holiday by land and lake.

• Experience Alpine splendour during the most colourful time of the year, when nature puts on its best clothes.

• Enjoy an epic line-up of world famous panoramic railways, including the Glacier Express route to Zermatt, the Gornergrat rack railway to the Matterhorn, the Schöllenen Gorge to Andermatt, the Lötschberg summit route to the Bernese Oberland, the Centovalli narrow gauge in Northern Italy and the brand-new ‘Treno Gottardo’ over the original Gotthard summit route from 1882.

• Cruise on beautiful Lake Thun for a private charter on the venerable steamboat ‘Spiez’ from 1901, Switzerland’s largest as well as oldest screw steamer, which only just returned to service in 2020 after more than a half century out of steam.

• Make the most of your 4-Day Swiss Travel Pass in First Class, allowing you flexible mobility during the tour and time for individual rail discoveries on a full free day.

• The tour benefits from a relaxed pace, First Class rail travel and just one convenient base in Brig, at the typically Swiss Hotel Victoria opposite the station.

Thursday 14th October London to Brig You travel from London St Pancras International to Brig via Paris and Geneva, using Eurostar and TGV high speed services. You arrive to Brig in the evening and check into the 3-star Hotel Victoria, which is conveniently located opposite the railway station. A welcome dinner is served at the hotel. (D) Friday 15th October Mountain Railways to Saint Bernard Pass; Alpine splendour in Verbier After breakfast you take an SBB service train through the scenic Rhone Valley and past the two fortresses at Sion, before reaching the junction station Martigny. There one of Switzerland’s “best kept secrets” waits for 78

you, as you discover the stunning standard gauge branch lines towards the famed Saint Bernard Pass. You travel by train through pristine landscapes on both branch lines to Orsieres and Le Chable, before taking the direct cableway from the Le Chable terminus to the famed mountain village of Verbier. This is one of Switzerland’s most enchanting and best preserved chalet villages, located at a sunny perch high above the valley, offering superb views in multiple directions. After lunch in Verbier you return to Martigny and Brig by train, with time for a break in Sion to see the historic old town and mountain top fortresses. (B L D)

Saturday 16th October Lötschberg Summit Route, Mountain Magnificence in the Bernese Oberland and private steamboat cruise on Lake Thun This morning you take a BLS service train over the spectacular Lötschberg summit route, which first opened in 1913. Travelling via Kandersteg and Frutigen, you enjoy one of the most breathtaking main line railway journeys in Switzerland before reaching the historic city of Thun. There you board the tall-stacked screw steamer ‘Spiez’, the largest such steamboat in Switzerland. This Sulzer-built icon dates from 1901 but was dieselized in the 1950s. After a lengthy overhaul, the ship has been equipped with a brand-new, Swiss-built, V-shaped steam engine and once again is genuinely steam-

powered. You have the benefit of a private charter cruise on Spiez, including light lunch refreshments, as you sail via Oberhofen to the namesake town of Spiez. You return by steamer to Thun in the early afternoon and then are free to make the most of your first day of travel validity on the Swiss Pass, by exploring more of the famed mountain railways in the Bernese Oberland. You could venture to Zweisimmen and Lenk and then take the Golden Pass route to Montreux, or travel up to Grindelwald.

The choice is yours! After you reconvene with the group in the evening in Brig, another dinner is served at the hotel. (B L D) Sunday 17th October Glacier Express route to Zermatt; Gornergrat Railway; the Matterhorn After breakfast you board another MGB service train for the journey from Brig via Visp to Zermatt. Nominally this is the final section of the Glacier Express route.This scenic railway line winds through rocky valleys and over steep inclines to reach Zermatt. Here you transfer to the Gornergrat rack railway, ascending to 3089 metres above sea level. It’s Europe’s second highest railway, eclipsed only by the Jungfrau.

From this high Alpine plateau, enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding glaciers and a fabulous front perspective of the Matterhorn.

After refreshments at Gornergrat you can film the passing trains in their characteristic chocolate-brown livery, before riding back down to Zermatt. You’ll have some time to look around car-free Zermatt, with its rows of wooden chalets and stone churches. Then you board another panoramic narrow gauge train for the return journey on the Glacier Express route to Brig. (B D) Monday 18th October Simplon Railway, Centovalli Railway, Madonna del Sasso funicular, Gotthard Railway and Schöllenen Gorge Railway Today is another signature day of the tour and the relaxed itinerary really packs in a ‘highlight reel’ sequence of stunning panoramic trains.

You first travel on the world famous Simplon Railway through the Simplon Tunnel from Brig to Domodossola, thus making an exciting visit to Northern Italy. From there you board onto the connecting narrow gauge train with its large panoramic windows for a wondrous journey through the Italian Vigezzo Valley to the Swiss border. At the border station Camedo a vintage 1960s heritage train is waiting for you as a private charter formation, to take you through the Swiss Centovalli Region to Locarno.

In Locarno you step outside of the station to take the local funicular past rows of Mediterranean palm trees to the gorgeous Madonna del Sasso basilica, perched on a plateau high above the city and the expansive Lake Maggiore. After free time for refreshments and maybe a visit to Locarno’s beautiful piazza, you continue on the brand-new‘Treno Gottardo’ panoramic train via Bellinzona, Biasca and Airolo on the original Gotthard summit route from 1882 to Göschenen. Experience this major European north-south railway as the train spirals along horseshoe curves. After reaching Göschenen on the north side of the Gotthard summit tunnel, you continue on the steeply graded Schöllenen Gorge Railway to Andermatt.

This line is mainly cut through cragged cliffs and steep rocks. At the resort town of Andermatt, you board another MGB service for journey along the Glacier Express route and the Goms Valley back to Brig, thus completing an amazing circular journey through two countries and three different Swiss Cantons. (B D) Tuesday 19th October Day of individual discovery of your First Class Swiss Travel Pass, optional visit to Chamonix and Mont Blanc Today you can make the most of your First Class Swiss Travel Pass and all the exciting freedom and flexibility that this popular ticket affords.

In Brig, you are ideally situated to easily reach and explore more exciting mountain railways.

Among the many options that you have, you could travel to Lake Geneva and ride on the large paddle steamers there or take the mountain railways high above the Swiss Riviera towns of Montreux and Vevey.

Alternatively, venture to Bex or Aigle and ride on 2, 3 or all 4 of the spectacular narrow gauge railways there, to destinations such as Leysin, Les Diablerets, Champery and Villars. A truly iconic journey is the train trip from Martigny on the steeply graded Mont Blanc Express to Chamonix in France. There are many other attractive options and your Tour Manager will be pleased to advise you and assist you with timetable connections. In the evening you rejoin your fellow travellers for a final tour dinner at the hotel in Brig. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2095

Single supplement £195 Ground only (Brig – Brig)

£1825

Price includes: • First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back (seats are reserved in standard premier carriages on Eurostar services) • 6 nights half board at Hotel Victoria in Brig, including breakfast and dinner each night • 2 lunches • A 4-Day Swiss Travel Pass rail rover in First Class • All rail, tram and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary • All escorted visits as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days) • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Wednesday 20th October Return to London You return to London by way of Geneva and Paris on SBB, TGV and Eurostar trains. (B)

EUROPEAN TOUR – 10 Days

79

Autumn in Venice and Northern Italy Thursday 4th November to Thursday 11th November 2021 Seek out the sunshine of southern Europe and embark on a glorious late autumn holiday to Italy’s Adriatic coast.

• Enjoy a week in Venice and Northern Italy when the temperatures are not so hot, the autumn colours are at their peak and the tourist numbers are significantly reduced.

• With just one base for the entire holiday, conveniently located near the Venezia Mestre railway station, one of the major railway junctions in Northern Italy, you are only a few minutes from the world-famous Venetian Lagoon.

• Experience magical Venice by day and night with the freedom and flexibility of a 7-Day public transport rover that covers all iconic Vaporetto boats, plus the local tramway, monorail and other ferries.

• Take advantage of your included Interrail ticket for flexible travel on the attractive Italian railway network for 6 different days and go sightseeing or ‘track-bashing’ wherever you like. Visit historic cities like Verona, Ferrara or Udine, or explore the nearby Dolomites and Alpine railway lines.

• With organized visits to Padua and Trieste also included, this relaxed holiday represents fantastic value for money, letting you discover the diverse attractions of north-eastern Italy at your own pace.

Thursday 4th November Arrive in Venice and at leisure along the canals After a direct morning flight from London Gatwick to Venice, you have a short onward transfer from Marco Polo airport to your comfortable centrally located hotel, close to the Venezia Mestre railway station. This is one of the major junction stations in Northern Italy and it’s just 5 mins from here by frequent, loco-hauled service train to the Venezia Santa Lucia station on the lagoon. At Mestre station, you can also access Venice’s two separate tram lines.

After checking into your hotel and having a welcome Italian lunch, you take the Trenitalia train across the causeway to the lagoon.

Stepping out of the station you can then explore Venice on foot or by the iconic and fun 80

Vaporetto ferry boat. You’ll also be issued with a 7-day public transport pass valid on all Vaporetto services, plus the local tramway, monorail and other ferries and buses. You are then free to explore such famous landmarks like the Rialto Bridge and San Marco individually, to truly experience the vibe and ambiance of this globally unique destination. (L) Friday 5th November At leisure in Venice and first day of Interrail validity One afternoon in Venice is hardly enough and today you’ll have more time and opportunity to continue your exploration of Venice and all its magnificent attractions. Additionally, you might use this time to ‘bash’ all of the local Vaporetto lines and travel over the entire tramway

network. Today is also the first day of validity for your Interrail Pass, allowing you to venture further afield for cultural sightseeing or more railway-based discovery. (B) Saturday 6th November Tramways and culture in Padua It only takes 14 mins by Intercity train from Mestre to the beautiful and world-famous city of Padua (Padova in Italian) and this gorgeous city is your destination this morning. You’ll first get to see the city from the vantage point of its single tramway line, before alighting in the historic city centre with its arcaded streets, grand squares and impressive palaces and churches. Padova is everything you would expect from an antique Italian city, replete with Roman remains and glorious basilicas. After a welcome

group lunch in the city, you are free to spend the afternoon in Padua or venture further afield with your Interrail ticket. There are several attractive coastal lines worth investigating, and the cities of Ferrara or Vicenza are also in striking range.

(B L) Sunday 7th November Along the Adriatic Coast to Trieste This morning you take a loco-hauled Trenitalia service along one of Italy’s prettiest main line routes from Mestre via Monfalcone to Trieste, the easternmost city in the country. You will have breath-taking views of the Adriatic Sea en route and when you arrive at the elegant Trieste Centrale station, it’s just a short walk to the beautiful landmarks of this smart port city.

Feel the old Austro-Hungarian charm of this pocket-sized, world class destination. After lunch near the main piazza, you visit the re-opened and truly impressive Campo Marzo railway station, now a splendid museum and formerly the terminus of the former Südbahn route from Vienna. Should Trieste’s iconic funicular tramway to Villa Opicina also have re-opened as scheduled, you’ll enjoy a trip on this wonderful 5 km long tram line, that only uses original heritage vehicles dating from the 1930s.

After such a good day out, you have a fast and speedy return in the late afternoon on a ‘Freccia’ high speed service, allowing you to experience first-hand Italy’s ‘Ferrari on steel wheels’. (B L)

Monday 8th November to Wednesday 10th November Individual discovery of Northern Italy with your Interail Pass For the next 3 days you are free to use your Interrail Pass to see Italy at your own pace and go to those places or on those railway lines that interest you most. From a cultural point of view, amazing cities like Verona, Bologna or even Milano are all within easy reach, as a daytrip from Mestre. You might also be tempted to head north to the Dolomites, where autumn colours are at their peak at this time of the year and places like Südtirol are particularly inviting.

There are also iconic mountain branch lines to Edolo or Calalzo, which are superbly enjoyable journeys. The choice is yours and your Tour Manager will be happy to advise you about options and timetable connections. Go ‘track bashing’ or immerse yourself in all the amazing culture and architecture that only Italy can offer.

Naturally, spending more time to simply relax in Venice and spend quality time on the lagoon is also an option. Dinner is served at the hotel restaurant each evening, inclusive of a farewell dinner to say goodbye to your fellow travellers.

(B D) Thursday 11th November Return to London You say ‘Ciao’ to Italy as you return to the UK with a direct flight to London Gatwick. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£1295

Single supplement £145 Ground only £1165 (Venice – Venice with First Class Interrail Pass) Price includes: • Direct return flights from London Gatwick to Venice • 7 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast at the Leonardo Royal Hotel • 3 Lunches and 3 Dinners • All rail trips as detailed in the itinerary • All seat reservations and transfers • A 7-Day public transport rover ticket for Venice, valid on the local trams and vaparetto boats • A 6-Day Interrail Pass in First Class • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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EUROPEAN TOUR – 8 Days

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Steam and Christmas Markets in Saxony and Silesia Thursday 2nd December to Friday 10th December 2021 Discover the festive splendour of Christmas Markets in Eastern Germany, Western Poland and Northern Czech Republic on this unique steam holiday exploring historic towns and cities in a Winter Wonderland landscape.

• This all-new winter tour based in the historic German cities of Leipzig and Görlitz. Offers travel refinement and a relaxed holiday experience for the seasoned traveller or Christmas Market newcomer alike.

• You’ll steam through 3 different countries on 3 different gauges, while sightseeing historic cathedral cities on classic 1920s tramways.

• The most idyllic narrow gauge railways in Saxony are a signature attraction of this holiday, including private charter trains on the Döllnitzbahn and Muskau Forest Railway, as well as famed ‘Plandampf¨ trains at Radebeul and Zittau.

• Enjoy the very best of Czech main line steam with a private charter train on the mountainous route from Liberec to Tanvald, crossing over stone-arched viaducts and running through thick evergreen forests.

• Best of all, the tour concludes with a private main line steam charter around the wonderful Silesian city of Wroclaw, the socalled ‘Venice of Poland.’

Thursday 2nd December London to Leipzig You travel to Leipzig from London St Pancras via Brussels and Frankfurt on Eurostar, Thalys and ICE high-speed services. On arrival, you check into your centrally located hotel, where a light dinner will be served. (D) Friday 3rd December Leipzig Christmas Market; vintage tramway tour and Christmas Market in Halle You have free time to explore the architecture and ambiance of Leipzig, Germany’s eighth most populous city, and its famous Christmas Market.

In the afternoon, you have a scheduled excursion to the city of Halle, the birthplace of the classical 82

composer Händel in 1685. You’ll enjoy a private sightseeing tour of this historic town by vintage tramway, followed by some free time at the festive market. You return back to Leipzig by DB service train, before enjoying drinks and an evening meal at the Bayerischer Bahnhof.

One of the oldest preserved railway stations in the world, which features its own brewpub. (B D) Saturday 4th December Steam on the Döllnitzbahn with a Saxon Meyer locomotive and all new Kemmlitz extension Today you visit “a best kept secret” railway, located southeast of Leipzig. The Döllnitz Railway is one of many narrow gauge railways in Saxony which locals refer to as the ‘Wild

Robert’. You’ll have a four-cylinder 0-4-4-0 Meyer type steam locomotive, pulling the steam train over the 20.2 km long preserved railway with two branch lines. From the provincial town of Oschatz you make your way to the villages of Glossen and Kemmlitz. En route, you’ll experience street running in Oschatz before stopping in Mügeln, which features one of the largest narrow gauge yards in Germany.

Several photo stops will be staged. A special highlight is the steam-hauled journey over the newly re-opened, 2.6 km long branch line from Nebitzschen–Kemmlitz. Lunch will served at a typical German restaurant in Oschatz.

Late afternoon you return to Leipzig by DB service train. (B L)

Sunday 5th December Steam at the Lössnitz Railway, Dresden Christmas Market; Arrival to Görlitz After breakfast you join a DB service train to Radebeul and visit the famed Radebeul to Radeburg steam railway. You’ll travel the full length of the line, passing through terraced vineyards and tranquil ponds, steaming beyond the famed Moritzburg Castle to Radeburg.

After returning to Radebeul, you continue by service train to Dresden for a visit to the city’s famous Christmas Market. You’ll have free time to look around Dresden’s enchanting old town before taking a service train to the beautiful city of Görlitz. Located right on the Polish border and known as “Görliwood”, due to it being the site of many major film productions, Görlitz boast stunning historic architecture. You stay at an elegant 4-star hotel near the station for the rest of the tour and enjoy a welcome dinner on arrival. (B D) Monday 6th December Steam at the Muskau Forest Railway and Pückler Park Visit; Trams and Culture in Görlitz Today an exciting private steam charter trip awaits you on the 600mm gauge Muskau Forest Railway, covering the two scenic branch lines from Weisswasser to Bad Muskau and Kromlau.

Your steam special then arrives at the spa town of Bad Muskau, with its charming local chateau and the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Pückler Park, a beautiful 19th century English landscape garden spanning both sides of the German-Polish border. There’ll be time to enjoy the chateau and gardens and also stroll across the River Neisse to Poland. Light refreshments will be provided on the train. You return back to Görlitz to visit the local Christmas Market or ride the Tarta vehicles on the local tram network using your complimentary rover ticket.

Dinner will be served at your hotel. (B L D) Tuesday 7th December Main line steam in the Giant Mountains of North Bohemia After breakfast you take a service train from Görlitz via Zittau to Liberec in the Czech Republic. This train journey is scenic and exciting, as the tracks pass through Poland no less than three times, traversing some stunning river viaducts. After arrival in Liberec, referred to as “Czech Innsbruck” you board your private charter steam train for an enchanting journey through the rural landscape of the Giant Mountains. Highlights along the way to Tanvald, include the curved stone-arched viaduct

at Smrzovka. Your train will be hauled by the rugged 0-6-0 tank engine 310.0134 dating from 1913. After your steam-hauled roundtrip there is time to visit the town centre of Liberec, with its landmark city hall, modelled after the Rathaus in Vienna. In the late afternoon you return back to Görlitz for dinner at the hotel. (B L D) Wednesday 8th December Steam and natural splendour in Zittau Another narrow-gauge highlight awaits today on the Zittau steam railway in Saxony, in the south eastern corner of Germany along the frontier with Poland and the Czech Republic. From Zittau the 12.2 km branch line proceeds to the resort town of Kurort Oybin, sited among picturesque hills and impressive rock formations. Enjoy a steeply graded, 3.8 km long stub from the junction station of Bertsdorf to Kurort Jonsdorf.

After traveling over the entire Zittau network behind an impressive 2-10-2 tank engine, you have time to visit the Old Town of Zitta.

Here you travel by service train over the scenic main line passing through Poland on its return to Gorlitz. Dinner is once again in the hotel restaurant. (B L D) Thursday 9th December Polish main line steam around Wroclaw; city sightseeing and Christmas Market Today’s programme adds an international flavour to your holiday. First you take a Polish service train From Görlitz/Zgorzelec on the newly electrified main line to Wroclaw Glowny.

There a private steam charter awaits you, hauled by a historic 0-6-0 tank engine. The unique spectacle of a small engine running on the main line with four-wheeled coaches provides excitement, as you cross over the River Odra and view the city’s spires from your compartment window. After refreshments back at Glowny station, you take a privately chartered tram for a sightseeing tour of the city, travelling over the landmark bridges and little river islands for which Wroclaw is known as the ‘Venice of Poland’. The tram tour concludes near the main market square, where you can then sample the local Christmas Market. You return to Görlitz by service train and enjoy a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers. (B D)

Tour Summary First Class

£2075

Standard Class

£1895

Single supplement £245 Ground only £1725 (Leipzig – Gorlitz) Price includes: • 8 nights’ accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotels in Leipzig and Gorlitz • 4 lunches and 7 dinners • First or Standard Class travel from London St Pancras to Leipzig and from Gorlitz to London • All seat reservations and transfers • Private charters as detailed in the itinerary • 3 day rover ticket • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Friday 10th December Return to London You return to London from Görlitz via Dresden Neustadt by rail, westward to Cologne and Brussel. (B)

EUROPEAN TOUR – 9 Days

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Sri Lanka – The Viceroy Special Saturday 13th February to Sunday 28th February 2021 Explore ‘the finest island in the whole world’ (Marco Polo) on the impressive Viceroy Special Train as you discover the exotic wildlife, holy Buddhist sites, verdant landscapes, unspoilt beaches and rich colonial heritage of this beautiful island in the Indian Ocean.

• Your ‘Viceroy Special’ train comprises two air-conditioned lounge cars and a restaurant and bar car, hauled by British-built Edwardian steam locomotives of the classic 4-6-0 type or diesel locomotive.

• Staying at the best hotels you journey on the Viceroy Special past tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and lush forests as you visit the outstanding historical sites of an island whose recorded history stretches back 2,500 years.

• Countless tour highlights include visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a trip to the sacred Buddhist ‘Tree of Enlightenment’ and a jeep safari to Minneriya National Park, heavily populated by wild elephants.

• Discover Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural centre and the sacred city of Buddhism, now a UNESCO World Heritage site and visit the Temple of the Tooth, housing one of Sri Lanka’s most important relics – a tooth of the Buddha.

• With fine cuisine, luxury accommodation and travel and an abundance of photo opportunities, this exotic holiday is a must for even the most seasoned traveller and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those new to steam travel tours.

Saturday 13th February Fly to Colombo You leave London on a mid-morning indirect flight to Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo.

spectacular route into the hills, and on arrival at Kandy transfer to the luxury 5-star Mahaweli Reach Hotel, where you can relax for the rest of the afternoon before dinner. (B L D)

Sunday 14th February Steam train from the Airport to Kandy via Elephant Orphanage You arrive at Colombo Airport early morning and transfer to the nearby railway station. Here you join the Viceroy Special, a chartered train hauled

by B1 class 4-6-0 steam locomotive No.340 ‘Sir Thomas Maitland’. Breakfast and lunch will be served on the train as you travel to Kandy.

En route you stop to visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, one of Sri Lanka’s most popular animal attractions. Later you continue along the

Monday 15th February Kandy to Nuwara-Eliya, the highest town on Sri Lanka Today your special train will be hauled by a diesel locomotive as you travel from Kandy into the sublime green heights of Sri Lanka’s hill country, passing tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and verdant forests. You stop at Nanu Oya village, from where you transfer by road coach to Nuwara Eliya, the highest town on the island. It boasts many colonial style homes with English-type lawns and gardens looking

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out across a placid lake. You enjoy a visit to the Hakgala Botanical Gardens following which the rest of the day is free to relax. You’ll stay at the impressive Grand Hotel tonight, where dinner will be served. (B L D) Tuesday 16th February Nuwara-Eliya to Badulla and back After an early breakfast you transfer by coach to the Nanu-Oya Railway Station for a oneday excursion on the Viceroy Special along the highlands railway to the mountain terminus station of Badulla. This rail journey is rated one of the world’s best. The rolling hills are strewn with tea plantations, gushing streams and cascading waterfalls. En-route, photo stops at Pattipola Summit Level (15 minutes),

Idalgashinna View Point (5 Minutes), a run Past at Demodera Nine Arch Bridge (30 minutes) and a photo stop at Demodera Loop (15 minutes) will be staged. Lunch, tea and coffee will be served on the train. On this scenic journey you descend from the heights of Nuwara Eliya at nearly 2,000 metres down to Badulla at 680 metres on the banks of the Badulu Oya (river). The railway features numerous spirals, loops, spectacular viaducts and quaint colonial stations. You then enjoy a sightseeing tour of Badulla by tuk tuks, before returning to Nuwara Eliya by either coach or on board the train. You stay overnight again at The Grand Hotel. (B L D) Wednesday 17th February Nuwara-Eliya This morning, you have a guided tour of Nuwara-Eliya scheduled, which includes a visit to the Pedro Estate Tea Plantation & Factory.

The rest of the day has been kept free for you to explore Nuwara-Eliya, the self-styled ‘Little England’ set in a scenic valley at the base of the island’s tallest mountain, Piduruthalagala.

Colonial-era bungalows, Tudor-style hotels, well-tended hedgerows and pretty gardens abound here, and the parks, Lake Gregory, the post office and the market place offer excellent reasons to stroll around. You stay overnight again at The Grand Hotel. (B L D) Thursday 18th February Viceroy Special to Kandy This morning you re-join the diesel hauled Viceroy Special at Nanu Oya. The train descends between mountain ranges through thickly wooded areas to the interior of the island at Kandy for a tour of this sacred city of Buddhism.

Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhala Kings, is Sri Lanka’s cultural centre, and has now become a UNESCO World Heritage site. A tour highlight is the famous Temple of the Tooth, housing one of Sri Lanka’s most important relics – a tooth of the Buddha. In the evening you visit the Kandy Lake Club for a memorable cultural pageant and to watch a fire-walking show.

Overnight accommodation is at the Mahaweli Reach Hotel this evening. (B L D) Friday 19th February Golden Temple; Lion’s Rock You travel by road coach this morning to Habarana, en route you stop off at Dambulla to visit the impressive Golden Temple, a multicave complex containing statues and paintings.

Following lunch at Habarana you visit the 600-foot-high ‘Lion’s Rock’. This massive ancient fortress and palace ruins is surrounded by one of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world.

Your accommodation tonight is at the luxury Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Habarana. (B L D) Saturday 20th February Minneriya National Park; Steam Train to Trincomalee This morning after breakfast, you have a Jeep safari to Minneriya National Park, which is heavily populated by wild elephants, after which you join a special train, hauled by steam locomotive No.251, at Gal-Oya Junction Station and travel north-eastwards via to Trincomalee, sited on one the world’s finest natural harbours.

Lunch is served on the train. On arrival at Trincomalee you visit the Fort Fredrick and the famous Hindu Temple built on Swami Rock within the fort area. In the evening you transfer to the 4-star Chaaya Blu Hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Sunday 21st February By steam from Trincomalee to Passekudah (Batticaloa) After breakfast you re-join the Viceroy Special at Trincomalee Station. Your train will be hauled by steam locomotive No.251 as you return first to Galoya Junction. Here you change direction and head south-eastwards along the Batticaloa branch line. Lunch is served on the train.

On arrival at Valachchenai you transfer to an idyllic beach resort. In the afternoon you enjoy a tour of Batticaloa, situated on the flat Indian Ocean eastern coastal plain where three lagoons and several islands link to the mainland by bridges. Your sightseeing tour includes a walk around the parapet of the small fort, and visits to the Catholic Church and Mahatma Ghandi Park. You stay overnight stay at Uga Bay Beach Resort. (B L D) Monday 22nd February Batticaloa beach resort leisure Batticaloa enjoys a spectacular coastal position surrounded by idyllic lagoons with palm-filtered sunlight glancing off the water. Batticaloa District is also home to the pristine beaches of Kalkudah and Passikudah Bay, and you are free to explore the area today, with options to join a boat trip and do some sightseeing, or simply relax and enjoy the unspoilt natural beaches.

In the afternoon you can enjoy a sightseeing tour of Batticaloa. You spend the night at Uga Bay Beach Resort once more. (B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£5695

Single supplement £935 Ground only £5050 (Colombo – Colombo) Price includes: • 14 Nights hotel accommodation • 15 Breakfasts, 14 lunches and 14 dinners • All rail travel shown • All visits, coach journeys and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary • All entrance fees • The services of a National Tour Guide • The services of a tour manager Beach Extension Price £495 Single supplement £295 Price includes: • 3 nights Full board accommodation • Ground transfers 16 day tour for the same price as our 15 day tour in 2019.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Continued overleaf.

WORLD TOUR – 16 Days

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Tuesday 23rd February Steam Train to Maho This morning you travel by road coach to Habarana. Your train will have left Batticaloa the day before and will be waiting for you. Steaming south-westwards, you pass through areas where elephants roam wild in the jungle. At Maho Junction, your locomotive changes to diesel and travels northwards to Kankesanthurai and back to Jaffna. This journey has only been possible since peace was restored in Northern Sri Lanka and the Northern Line reconstructed. The route mainly runs through open country, across the North Central plains. At Elephant Pass, it crosses the lagoons to enter the Jaffna Peninsula.

On arrival at Jaffna itself, you transfer to the Jetwing Jaffna Hotel for overnight accommodation and dinner. (B L D) Wednesday 24th February City tour of Jaffna Jaffna Peninsula is a region characterised by fields of Palmyra palms, technicolour temples, holy springs and miles of coastline.

After breakfast, you have a city tour scheduled to see its notable buildings, such as the Public Library, Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, and Jaffna Fort. The afternoon is free for further sightseeing and leisure. Overnight accommodation is again at the Jetwing Jaffna Hotel (B L D) Thursday 25th February Anuradhapura, the ancient capital Following breakfast this morning you travel diesel hauled to Anuradhapura, arriving around lunch for an afternoon tour of one of the 86

historic capitals of Sri Lanka, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred city features many ancient ruins, including huge bell-shaped stupas built of small sun-dried bricks, temples, sculptures, palaces, and ancient drinking-water reservoirs. You’ll visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhiya ‘Tree of Enlightenment’, alleged to be the oldest living tree in the world. Tonight, you are accommodated in a tranquil setting at the Palm Garden Hotel. (B L D) Friday 26th February Steam to Mount Lavinia Today you travel on the Viceroy Special diesel hauled to Maho Junction. Here you change locomotives and travel southwards under steam through Polgahawela Junction, where you join the main line to Colombo Fort and Mount Lavinia Station. On arrival, you check in to the adjacent Mount Lavinia Hotel, an impressive colonial building at this beach resort. In the afternoon there’s an optional visit by road coach to the Dematogoda locomotive depot to view an interesting collection of both broad and narrowgauge steam locomotives. A drive around the city of Colombo is also scheduled. In the evening, you return to the Mount Lavinia Hotel for overnight accommodation. (B L D) Saturday 27th February Mount Lavinia to Galle by ‘Viceroy Special’ Train Today you set off on the last leg of your journey aboard the Viceroy Special. Departing Mount Lavinia you steam south through outer suburbs and along the coast. The line frequently runs

parallel to the beach allowing great sea views.

Lunch is served on board before you arrive in Galle for a tour, finishing at the World Heritagelisted old fort complex known as the ‘Ramparts of Galle’. Annexed by the Portuguese in the 16th century and extensively fortified by subsequent Dutch and British custodians, the fort has a remarkable old-world atmosphere after 500 years of occupation. The minimalistic, stately and elegant Lighthouse Hotel is another Sri Lankan gem designed by the famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Your farewell dinner and accommodation tonight is at the Jetwing Lighthouse Hotel Galle overlooking the Indian Ocean. (B L D) Sunday 28th February Return to UK After breakfast in the hotel, if you have not opted for the beach extension you transfer to the airport for your direct flight back home. (B) BEACH EXTENSION Sunday 28th February to Tuesday 2nd March (Both days Inclusive) 3 Day Beach Extension If you have opted for the Beach Extension you transfer by road coach from Lighthouse Hotel Galle to the RIU Ahungalla Hotel for three nights full board accommodation (B L D) Wednesday 3rd March Return to UK You have a morning departure from the hotel for your afternoon flight direct to London Heathrow.

(B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£5695

Single supplement £935 Ground only £5050 (Colombo – Colombo) Price includes: • 14 Nights hotel accommodation • 15 Breakfasts, 14 lunches and 14 dinners • All rail travel shown • All visits, coach journeys and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary • All entrance fees • The services of a National Tour Guide • The services of a tour manager Beach Extension Price £495 Single supplement £295 Price includes: • 3 nights Full board accommodation • Ground transfers 16 day tour for the same price as our 15 day tour in 2019.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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WORLD TOUR – 16 Days

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Cuba Steam Safari Saturday 13th March to Sunday 28th March 2021 Impressive colonial architecture, fantastic white beaches, classic steam locos and an infectious Latin feel make this exotic country well worth the visit on this highlight-packed rail tour.

• Enjoy sightseeing in Cuba’s capital Havana, with a visit to a tobacco factory and a sun set classic car ride, and travel on a privately chartered Budd railcar along the Cuban mainline.

• Take a trip on the Rafael Freyre narrow-gauge railway, the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Cuba’s cane railroads, behind a Baldwin 2-8-0, following the route of a sugar cane train to Altuna.

• Visit the curve at Barjay – the ‘most famous photo spot in Cuba’ – and have afternoon adventures at Rafael Freyre with classic locos steaming just for you.

• There’s a morning city tour of Santiago to savour with time for sightseeing, and a steam hauled journey to Guantanamo with fantastic views across the Bay to the famous US Naval Base.

• Discover Cienfuegos, Cuba’s so-called ‘Pearl of the South’ on a coach trip and enjoy a ride along the coast to Trinidad, all cobbled streets and classic Spanish colonial architecture.

• With stays at luxury hotels and resorts, fabulous cuisine, the services of a Tour Manager and relaxing interludes between epic steam adventures, this tour is a must for seasoned traveller and steam newcomer alike.

Saturday 13th March Arrive in Havana You fly mid-morning from London to Havana, arriving in the evening. After a short coach transfer, you check into your 4-star hotel Havana Libre where you will have dinner. (D) Sunday 14th March Tour of Havana On your first full day in Cuba you enjoy a morning sightseeing tour of Cuba’s fascinating capital. After lunch you visit the tobacco factory and later take a ride in a classic car as the sun sets. Afterwards, you return to the Hotel Havana Libre for dinner. (B D)

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Monday 15th March Cuban Mainline Tour Today you join a privately chartered selfpropelled diesel multiple unit Budd railcar for an inspiring journey along the Cuban mainline, through Santa Clara and Camaguey and on to Cacocum, where you take the branch line to Holguin. There’s a bar on the train and a tasty boxed lunch will be provided. All drinks and refreshments are free. From Holguin you transfer by coach to your 4-star hotel, the all-inclusive Hotel Playa Pesquero, for dinner and evening refreshments. (B L D)

Tuesday 16th March Private charter to Rafael Freyre narrow-gauge cane railroad After a leisurely breakfast you depart early for Rafael Freyre, the most beautiful of all Cuba’s surviving narrow-gauge railways. This 2’6” gauge operation was undoubtedly the ‘jewel in the crown’ of Cuba’s cane railroads, with extensive operations through beautiful countryside in north-eastern Cuba. Taking one of the Baldwin 2-8-0s on a special charter, you’ll follow the route of a sugar cane train eastwards to Altuna and – if possible – beyond. On the return journey you’ll enjoy some exciting run pasts before returning to Hotel Playa Pasquero.

(B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£4895

Single supplement £495 Ground only £4195 (Havana – Havana) Price includes: • Return flights from London to Havana • 14 nights hotel accommodation and breakfast • 12 lunches • 14 dinners Wednesday 17th March Barjay Curve Photo Opportunities at Rafael Freyre You have a couple of options today, the first sees you return to Rafael Freyre, this time to head west with an empty cane train hauled by a Baldwin 2-8-0. You return to the Mill late morning, heading for lunch at the hotel before the afternoon’s entertainment, a classic 0-6-0 steamed especially for you at mid-afternoon at Rafael Freyre, with the 0-6-0 and a 2-8-0 also available for photos on the famous Barjay curve.

You return to Hotel Playa Pasquero for dinner and overnight accommodation. Alternatively, you may choose to spend the day simply relaxing at your fabulous ‘all inclusive’ beach resort.

(B L D) Thursday 18th March Bayamo This morning you transfer by coach to Bayamo where you join your steam passenger train hauled by 2-8-0 1757 to Yara. From here your locomotive will haul an empty cane train to Bartolome Masso Mill, providing some wonderful photo opportunities along the way.

Dinner and overnight accommodation will be in Bayamo. (B L D) Friday 19th March Santiago Re-joining your passenger train at Bayamo station today, you’ll be steam hauled by 2-8-0 1590 to Santiago along this scenic line dotted with high viaducts and dramatically steep gradients. Arriving in Santiago, you’ll check in for a stay at the 4-star Hotel Melia Santiago de Cuba. (B L D)

Saturday 20th March Option of Santiago sightseeing or a trip to Guantanamo Bay Again, today you have a choice of things to do.

Choose from a morning city tour of Santiago with a free afternoon sightseeing, or join a steam hauled train at San Luis for the superbly scenic journey to Guantanamo. Provided you arrive at Guantanamo on time you’ll continue by railcar along the branch line to Caimanera, with fantastic views across the Bay to the famous US Naval Base of Guantanamo Bay. Afterwards you return to Hotel Melia Santiago by coach. (B L D) Sunday 21st March Budd railcar to Moron This morning a comfortable coach takes you to Santiago station, for a chartered railcar trip to Moron. You arrive at Moron station a little after lunch and join a steam hauled train for a ride around a 5km stretch of the former rail system serving the cane fields. From there, you transfer by coach to your excellent hotel in Moron.

(B L D)

• All train travel, transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary • Charter and special trains as per itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Monday 22nd March The Florencia Gorge; Port of Caibarien and back with a Baldwin After breakfast you transfer to Moron station where a Baldwin 2-8-0 (from Ciro Redondo Mill) will be waiting to take you on a dramatic journey to Florencia, passing through a fabulous Gorge where you’ll enjoy some great run pasts.

From there you continue to the former Marcelo Salado Mill, where there’s a collection of interesting ex-Minaz steam locomotives held.

In the afternoon you have a special steam charter train to the Port of Caibarien and back with a Baldwin mogul.

Continued overleaf.

WORLD TOUR – 16 Days

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Afterwards you transfer to an all-inclusive 4-star hotel at Cayo Santa Maria. (B L D) Tuesday 23rd March Special charter to Fomento Today you transfer to J.M Perez Mill after breakfast, and join your special steam hauled charter train on the stunning line that runs through the hills to Fomento, running along high embankments and tall viaducts, and which used to run right through to Trinidad. Returning to J.M Perez Mill, you’ll dine and stay overnight in Cayo Santa Maria. (B L D) Wednesday 24th March Steam to Cienfuegos You’ll transfer to Canajuani station this morning to catch a special steam hauled charter train, taking the main line to Santa Clara and on to Cienfuegos, Cuba’s so-called ‘Pearl of the South’. The Sierra del Escambray mountains rise as a pretty backdrop to the cityscape, and its impressive boulevard runs along the Jagua Bay, with its quiet waters and refreshing breeze.

After a short sightseeing tour of this attractive city you transfer to hotel Jagua for dinner and an overnight stay. (B L D) Thursday 25th March Coach along the coast to Trinidad After breakfast you take a coach ride along the coast to Trinidad, a city of cobbled streets and classic Spanish colonial architecture. It’s an extravaganza of beautiful palaces, airy squares, and colonial homes, so well preserved that it is 90

also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trinidad boasts some fine museums, and a choice of restaurants where you can buy lunch. In the afternoon you’ll pick up your private charter train at Trinidad for a journey along the valley to Iznaga. You return by train to Trinidad and transfer by coach to the hotel Jagua in Cienfuegos. (B D) Friday 26th March Australia and Esteban Hernandez Fresh this morning from yesterday’s trip, you board a coach for the former Australia Mill where you’ll visit the fascinating steam locomotive collection before taking a steam hauled train ride on the museum train.

From there you head for the narrow-gauge railway at Esteban Hernandez for an exciting train ride hauled by Baldwin steam locomotive 1329. From there it’s onwards to Varadero where you check in to your beachside all-inclusive hotel for dinner. (B L D) Saturday 27th March Visit to the Jose Smith Comas Museum; steam to Martinez Prieto Mill If you feel like a break, today’s the day to enjoy a free morning relaxing on the beach. If not, there’s a visit to the steam collection at Jose Smith Comas museum arranged, followed by a private steam hauled charter with an empty cane train down the ‘freight only’ line to the picturesque town of Cardenas. This route is packed with superb photo opportunities!

You return to your hotel in Varadero for lunch

before setting off for Havana and a visit to M Martinez Prieto Mill, where you’ll see tank locomotive 1205 in steam, shunting in the yard.

Then it’s onwards to Havana airport by coach, to (reluctantly) check in for the late afternoon flight bound for London (B L) Sunday 28th March Fly back to London You arrive back at London in the morning.

Tour Summary Tour price

£4895

Single supplement £495 Ground only £4195 (Havana – Havana) Price includes: • Return flights from London to Havana • 14 nights hotel accommodation and breakfast • 12 lunches • 14 dinners • All train travel, transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary • Charter and special trains as per itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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WORLD TOUR – 16 Days

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Amit Chopra

Amit Chopra

Amit Chopra

Golden Triangle with Shimla Thursday 9th September to Wednesday 22nd September 2021 Thursday 7th October to Wednesday 20th October 2021 Thursday 6th January to Wednesday 19th January 2022 Discover the legacy of British colonialism and the enchanting history, architecture and culture of Northern India on this epic sightseeing tour of its most impressive sights.

• You’ll stay first in Delhi, with plenty of sightseeing among the greatest monuments in Indian history, including the National Rail Museum, the Red Fort and India Gate.

• Enjoy a broad-gauge steam ride and experience narrow-gauge thrills behind a locomotive from Kalka to Shimla.

• Visiting Shimla, the former hill town in the Indian Himalayas which became the summer capital of British government officials and military attaches, you’ll see all the sights, including the famous Gaiety Heritage Theatre and the impressive Christ Church.

• In Jaipur, the ‘Pink City’ you’ll visit Amer Fort and the iconic Temples and Palaces of a city famous for its extravagant gems and jewels, truly reflecting the royal character of a bygone era.

• Other tour highlights include a visit to the Taj Mahal – one of the seven Wonders of the World, the World Heritage Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and Agra Fort – all yours to discover and enjoy on this once-in-a-lifetime trip to the enigmatic East.

Thursday Depart for India You board an overnight flight from London Heathrow to Delhi.

Friday Arrive Delhi; National Railway Museum visit After a traditional welcome at New Delhi International Airport you transfer by exclusive air-conditioned coach to your reserved hotel.

In the afternoon you visit the National Railway Museum, with its many iconic steam and electric exhibits. Dinner is at your hotel this evening. (D)

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Saturday Delhi to Rewari After breakfast, you transfer to Delhi Cantonment railway station to board the main line steam hauled train hauled by either Fairy Queen (EIR No. 22), the world’s oldest locomotive, or (most likely) WP locomotive No. 7161. You can photograph your loco and meet its crew before making your way through Delhi’s western outskirt to arrive at Rewari Junction just after noon. Enjoy a packed lunch on-board in the heritage saloon car before visiting the heritage Steam Centre, consisting of 7 to 9 steam locomotives of broad and metre gauge along with a museum and exhibits. There may be another loco in steam at the shed. In late afternoon, you board a regular service train from

Rewari Junction to Delhi Cantt railway station.

You’ll be met on arrival and transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. (B L D) Sunday Guided City tour of Delhi This morning you enjoy a guided tour of the historic city of Delhi, a city that has been built, destroyed and re-built over seven times.

Highlights of your tour include: a cycle rickshaw ride in Old Delhi, being peddled through the old part of the city to see the magnificent havelis, the tiny shops, and wholesale trading of almost everything you can think of; Raj Ghat – the magnificent memorial to Mahatma Gandhi; the Red Fort – residence of the Mughal emperor of India for nearly 200 years until 1857; Jama

Masjid-Mughal –built between 1644 and 1656

by Emperor Shah Jahan, constructed by more than 5000 workers and originally called Masjidi-Jahan-Numa, meaning ‘Mosque commanding view of the world’; the 42-metre-high India Gate, commemorating the 70,000 Indian soldiers who lost their lives fighting for the British Army during the World War I; Laxmi Narayan Temple – also known as Birla Mandir, one of Delhi’s major tourist attractions; and President House – The official residence of the President of India, located at Raisina Hill in New Delhi. After your fascinating tour, you return to your hotel for dinner. (B D) Monday Delhi to Chandigarh You have an early morning check out from the hotel before transferring to New Delhi railway station to board 12011 Kalka Shatabdi Express to Chandigarth, bordered by the state of Punjab to the north, the west and the south, and by the state of Haryana to the east.

On arrival in Chandigarh you disembark and check into your hotel. In the afternoon you have a short orientation tour of Chandigarh city, visiting the Rock Garden and Sukna Lake.

Dinner and overnight accommodation will be at your hotel today. (B D) Tuesday Kalka to Shimla This morning you take the train on to Kalka station, and transfer to the narrow-gauge line platform to board an exclusive chartered vintage railcar bound for Shimla. You’ll enjoy the fascinating, scenic 96.5 kilometre ride on this historical Kalka-Shimla ‘Toy Train’ line with its 105 tunnels and single and double arch bridges.

The leisurely journey from Kalka to Shimla climbs the foothills of the Himalayas and negotiates an altitude difference of 1400 metres.

Shimla straddles an eight-mile long ridge, with buildings clinging to the green hillsides.

The British started coming here in the 1820s as a refuge from the summer heat and by 1864 Shimla, nicknamed The Queen of Hills, was the official summer capital of the British Raj. You arrive by early evening and are transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay. (B L D) Wednesday Shimla to Kathleeghat by steam After breakfast, you walk down the Mall road or are transferred by road to Shimla railway station to board an exclusive steam charter train ride hauled by KC 520 for a trip to Kathleeghat.

You return to Shimla by 4x4 jeep for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Thursday Sightseeing in Shimla After breakfast today you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Shimla, including its main shopping centre, the Mall. The Ridge is an open space that runs from east to west along the Mall, connecting to the Scandal point on the west. Scandal point, at an altitude of nearly 8000 feet is Shimla’s highest peak and offers a beautiful view of the town and of the snow-covered Himalayas. Also on the Mall is The Gaiety Heritage Theatre – a remarkable piece of Victorian-theatre architecture, a miniature version of London’s Royal Albert Hall.

Among many other highlights is Christ Church, the second oldest church in Northern India.

Inside are stained-glass windows representing faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience and humility. (B D) Friday Shimla to Delhi You enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel and a free morning in Shimla before transferring by coach to Kalka. On arrival at Kalka station, you board the 12012 Kalka Shatabdi Express scheduled to arrive at Delhi railway station late evening. Dinner will be served on board.

On arrival in New Delhi, you transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. (B D) Saturday Delhi to Agra After an early breakfast, you transfer to Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station to board a train for Agra hauled by the 12050 Gatimaan Express – India’s first semi-bullet train. Breakfast will be served on board and when you arrive mid-morning you’ll enjoy a guided visit of the Itimad-Ud-Daulah, also known as Baby Taj, often described as a ‘Jewel Box’ and regarded as a draft of the Taj Mahal. You’ll visit a local marble factory to witness the inlay work of precious stones also known as Pietra dura, which is the same art of stonework illustrated on the Taj Mahal & Baby Taj. You then check in to your hotel. In the early evening, you visit Agra Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in red sandstone. It was originally mentioned in 1080 AD and came into the limelight when great Mughal emperor Akbar (grandfather of Shah Jahan) made Agra his capital in 1558 and made major changes to the fort’s structure. Later Shah Jahan added a white marble palace inside the fort. (B D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2695

Single supplement £650 Ground only (Delhi – Delhi)

£2095

Price includes: • Return flights from London to Delhi and Delhi to London return • 12 nights hotel accommodation and breakfast • 3 lunches • 12 dinners • All train travel, transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary • Charter and special trains as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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WORLD TOUR – 14 Days

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Amit Chopra

Sunday Dawn visit to Taj Mahal You’ll rise early today to enjoy a dawn visit with your guide to the famous wonder of the world – the Taj Mahal, built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. One of the best views of the Taj is during dawn with fewer people around. The porous nature of Taj’s white marble helps it absorb light and thus reflecting different shades of white making it look even more stunning for pictures.

You’ll have a relaxing hour or so to enjoy the views through different angles. Taj, as a symbol of love, has many stories to tell.

The perfectly symmetrical monument dating from 1653 AD took 22 years and 20000 labourers to complete. After your visit you return to your hotel for breakfast. Later, you transfer to Bharatpur, enjoing a guided visit of Fatehpur Sikri en route. This city originally belonged to the Rajput clan, but was re-found in 1569 by the great Mughal emperor Akbar. It is here that the legends of Akbar and his famed courtiers, the nine jewels or Navaratnas, were born. Fatehpur Sikri is one of the best-preserved collections of Indian Mughal architecture in India. You then transfer to a heritage palace hotel in Bharatpur.

In the early evening, you have a guided walking tour of Bharatpur village – you can walk amidst the fields, observe the village life and learn something of its 1000 year old history. (B L D) Monday Bird watching in the National Park After breakfast, you have a guided tour of Bharatpur bird sanctuary by rickshaw with your 94

naturalist guide. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary was established in 1956 and is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world, with over 360 species of birds, 117 of which are local.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it used to be a part of the private shooting reserve of the Maharaja of Bharatpur. Here you can see storks, 80 species of duck, Chinese coots, kingfishers, spoonbills, sarus cranes and several birds of prey.

Around noon you are driven to Jaipur, the Pink City of India. It’s the capital and largest city of the Indian state of Rajasthan.

Founded on 18th November 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the ruler of Amer, the city today has a population of 3.1 million. In 1876 Jaipur was coloured in terracotta pink to welcome Prince Albert, and henceforth named the ‘Pink City’. (B D) Tuesday Jaipur sightseeing After an early breakfast you have a busy day ahead as you enjoy guided excursions to Amer Fort (Amber Fort), the City Palace Museum, Birla Temple, Hawa Mahal Palace and Jantar Mantar. You’ll ascend to Amber Fort to visit this white marble and red sandstone monument.

Construction was started in 1592, but it took its present form during the reign of Raja Jai Singh.

City Palace Museum is a palace complex in Jaipur, the capital of the Rajasthan state, India.

It was the seat of the Maharaja of Jaipur, the head of the Kachwaha Rajput clan. It’s a unique complex of several palaces, pavilions, gardens and temples.

Hawa Mahal Palace, built by the poet king Sawai Pratap Singh, is another Jaipur landmark.

This five-storey building overlooking the busy bazaar street is a fascinating example of Rajput architecture and artistry, with its delicately honeycombed pink sandstone windows (jharokhas). Jantar Mantar is a collection of architectural astronomical instruments, built by Maharaja (King) Jai Singh II between 1727 and 1734. The observatory has been inscribed on the World Heritage List as ‘an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period’.

After such a rich day, in late afternoon you’ll wind down by visiting a hand block-printing factory to view local arts and crafts. (B D) Wednesday Return to UK After breakfast at your hotel you transfer to Jaipur airport to board a flight to Delhi.

On arrival, you switch to International departures to board your onward flight to London. (B)

Tour Summary Tour price

£2695

Single supplement £650 Ground only (Delhi – Delhi)

£2095

Price includes: • Return flights from London to Delhi and Delhi to London return • 12 nights hotel accommodation and breakfast • 3 lunches • 12 dinners

Amit Chopra

• All train travel, transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary • Charter and special trains as detailed in the itinerary • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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WORLD TOUR – 14 Days

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Peru and Bolivia Monday 4th October to Saturday 23rd October 2021 From day one, this tour is so full of history, culture and amazing sights it’s difficult to know how to describe its countless incredible highlights!

• After a city tour of Peru’s capital Lima, you travel by train on the second highest railway in the world, with stunning gorges and epic tunnels to negotiate.

• E xperience the world’s highest paved road by road coach en route to Abancay city to see the famous Sayhuite stone and Sacred Valley of the Incas.

• Visit the ancient Incan heartlands, the Salt mines of Maras, and world-famous Machu Picchu, then tour Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incas and home to the famous Temple of the Sun. • Cruise across Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world, to Bolivia for more archaeological delights. The Uyuni Salt Flats are another highlight, as is a visit to the silver mine at Pulacayo, before a trip to the amazing archaeological site of Tiwanaku tops them all!

• With narrow gauge delights in Lima included and the epic journey to Puno via La Raya Pass, together with visits to a Bolivian train ‘cemetery’ and rail museum certainly this trip is not to be missed.

• For a spectacular and special holiday treat, for railway enthusiast and travel newcomer alike, there’s no better way to experience the incredible culture, scenery and cuisine of South America than on this epic tour.

Monday 4th October Flight to Lima, capital of Peru You have an indirect evening flight from London to Lima.

Tuesday 5th October Arrive Lima rest of the day free to acclimatise You arrive in Lima in the morning and transfer to the Casa Andina Select Hotel in Lima for two nights. Lima is the capital and largest city of Peru, situated on the desert coast overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Dinner is not included this evening, so you can explore the local district with plenty of cafés, pubs and restaurants to choose from for your evening meal.

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Wednesday 6th October Lima city tour; Gold Museum visit and historic tramway You have a morning sightseeing tour in Lima, visiting the modern and colonial parts of the city.

Lima boasts impressive buildings of distinctive Moorish architecture. It’s a bustling metropolis, the cultural and business centre of Peru, with a busy, historic centre, traditions, craft markets, and unique cuisine. In the afternoon, you visit the Gold Museum and the golden treasures of the Incas. You also may visit a park where a 500-mm narrow-gauge railway operates using a 1926 built 0-4-0T steam tank locomotive.

Later you visit the Barranco district of the city, where a restored electric tram operates.

Dinner is at your hotel tonight. (B L D) Thursday 7th October Over the Andes by train to Huancayo Your adventure begins today at Lima Desamparados Station, climbing into the mountains on the Central Railway, Ferrocarril Central del Peru, the most important standard gauge railway line in the country. It begins at the Pacific Port of Callao and climbs into the Andes Mountains, reaching its summit at 15,686 feet near Galera Station, descending to La Oroya (12,000 feet) and Huancayo (10,700 feet) traversing 69 tunnels, 58 bridges and 6 zigzag

bends. You’ll need warm clothing for photo stops as there is a dramatic drop in temperature!

Lunch is provided on the train. At Huancayo, you transfer to the Hotel Presidente for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Friday 8th October Huancayo to Huancavelica This morning you travel from Huancayo to Huancavelica by specially chartered station wagon. Pausing at Chilca Station, you visit the repair shop and assembly plant where old steam machines are set in a living museum.

Passing through outstanding Andean scenery with soaring condors, stunning gorges, epic tunnels you’ll have photo opportunities galore with a packed lunch en route. On arrival in Huancavelica you check in to the Presidente Hotel. Later, you enjoy a Scissors Dance Show, an impressive demonstration of typical Andean art, skilfully performed by dancers with scissors!

You return to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Saturday 9th October By road to Ayacucho Today you travel by private road coach to Ayacucho. This scenic journey takes you past old silver mines and an abandoned railway before ascending into the Andes. You’ll be on one of the highest paved roads in the world. You’ll have a packed lunch en route again today.

Ayacucho was founded by the Spaniards in 1540, and its architecture reflects Spain’s influence over the centuries. It’s famous for 33 churches, one for each year of Jesus’ life. On arrival, you check in to the Hotel Plaza, with time to explore the colonial city centre before dinner. (B L D) Sunday 10th October Abancay by road coach You travel by private road coach high up into the southern Peruvian Andes, to Abancay, passing through outstanding mountain landscapes.

You cross the Huamina Pass (4,390 metres) and descend to the villages of Chumbes and Ocros.

After crossing the Pampas River Bridge, you reach Chinchero. It’s 88 km (54.75 miles) from Chinchero to Andahuaylas and the journey takes around 21 hours as the road winds sinuously through the mountains. There’s a continuous climb to reach Saracocha before descending through the towns of Santa María de Chicmo and Talavera. You continue from Andahuaylas, through the towns of San Jerónimo and Quishuara (3,450 metres). Crossing the mountain pass of Crusccassa (4,000 metres) to the city of Abancay. Tonight, dinner and overnight accommodation is in Hotel de Turistas. (B L D)

Monday 11th October The Sayhuite stone and Sacred Valley of the Incas You leave Abancay by private coach on a spectacular journey eastward across the rugged south western Andes Mountains, with a short detour en route to visit the archaeological site of Sayhuite. An important feature here is the Sayhuite stone, a roughly spherical shaped monolith carved with more than 200 geometric shapes and animal figures representing the Inca world. You cross the impressive valley of the Apurimac River as it flows in narrow gorges twice the depth of the Grand Canyon.

Travelling through the majestic Willkapampa mountain range, you pass north of Cusco, the capital city of the Incas. Corn, barley, quinoa, tea, and coffee are grown in this area.

You arrive at the valley of the Urubamba River, the so-called Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Travelling on to Yanahuara you check into the Casa Andina Premium Hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Tuesday 12th October Salt mines of Maras; Sacred Valley narrow gauge to Aguas Calientes Today you visit the incredible salt mines of Maras, a spectacular complex of nearly 3000 wells in use since the days of the Incas.

Saltwater bubbles to the surface from a spring called Qoripujio and is channelled towards the wells. The sun evaporates the water and the salt remains to be sold at market. Later you go to the circular terraces of Moray, an impressive archaeological site believed to have been a research station set up by the Incas to test and experiment with crops. After lunch, you transfer to Ollantaytambo Railway Station and board a PeruRail service train for the journey along the 914 mm (3 feet) narrow gauge line to Aguas Calientes. The carriages have panoramic windows that offer incomparable views of the mountainous terrain along the Urubamba Valley.

There’s a short walk to your hotel before dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Tour Summary Tour price

£5695

Single supplement £765 Ground only (Lima – La Paz)

£4795

Price includes: • Flights from London to Lima and return from La Paz • Internal flight in Bolivia • 17 nights hotel accommodation • 16 breakfasts, 15 lunches and 15 dinners • Transfers • All rail and coach travel • Entrance to all attractions mentioned (Moon Temple at Machu Picchu not included) • Local guides • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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Wednesday 13th October Machu Picchu An early morning trip by bus to the impressive ruins of the 15th century Inca citadel Machu Picchu. You’ll have a three-hour guided tour through this famous archaeological complex, going through several plazas with many historic edifices, including the famous Temple of the Sun, the Inti Huatana, or solar clock, the Temple of the Three Windows and the Condor Sector.

Continued overleaf.

WORLD TOUR – 20 Days

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There’s a buffet lunch in Sanctuary Lodge before returning by bus to Aguas Calientes Station, to board a PeruRail train for the journey to Cusco.

You transfer to Casa Andina Hotel for overnight accommodation and have dinner in a local restaurant. (B L D) Thursday 14th October Cusco city sightseeing This morning, you enjoy a sightseeing tour of Cusco, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

See the many historical Inca and Spanish colonial monuments, including the Inca Koricancha (Temple of the Sun) which forms part of the 17th century Santo Domingo Cathedral. You’ll also visit the Piedra de los Doce Angulos to see the amazing Inca walls of huge carved stone blocks that fit perfectly together. The tour then takes you high into the mountains overlooking the town, for panoramic photos.

The afternoon is free for you to explore or just relax. In the evening, you dine at a traditional local restaurant. (B L D) Friday 15th October First Class to Lake Titicaca via La Raya Pass This morning you transfer to Cusco Railway Station to join a service train to Puno in First Class comfort, with lunch on board, along this standard gauge line, listed among the 25 greatest railway journeys of the world. The train stops at La Raya Pass, the highest point on the route, with exquisite views of the snowcapped mountains. Puno is on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world 98

and the largest lake in South America.

You transfer to Posada Del Inca Hotel in Puno for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Saturday 16th October Across Lake Titicaca to Bolivia After breakfast you return to Lake Titicaca and board a specially chartered hydrofoil for the crossing to Bolivia. Your first port of call is Copacabana, and a visit to the Cathedral which houses the statue of La Virgen de la Candelaria (the Dark Virgin), reputed to have miraculous healing powers. You continue to the Island of the Moon and visit the Temple of the Virgins of the Sun (Inak Uyu) where the most beautiful Incan women were offered in sacrifice to their gods.

Then visit the Island of the Sun to see the Inca Staircase and the Inca Fountain and taste its sacred waters, reputed to bestow eternal youth and happiness. Lunch is served at the Uma Kollu archaeological restaurant followed by a visit to a handicraft market. After lunch, you continue your cruise to Huatajata and the Andean Roots Eco Village, a museum and exhibition about the culture and history of the local Aymaras and the Incas. There are replica mud houses of the Chipaya people and the tortora boats used by explorer Thor Heyerdahl for his expeditions across the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. You then travel by road coach to the Ritz Apart Hotel in La Paz for dinner and overnight accommodation.

(B L D)

Sunday 17th October Road coach to Oruro; Express train to Uyuni You travel by road coach to the city of Oruro.

This former mining city was once an important railway hub but today it is famous for its UNESCO listed Carnaval de Oruro religious festival. There are very few passenger trains in Bolivia, and you join one of the twice-weekly Expreso del Sur trains to Uyuni, operated by La Empresa Ferroviaria Andina S.A. (FCA) who run the Expreso del Sur and the Wara Wara on this metre gauge route to the border with Argentina.

The former is more luxurious and faster, using modern trains equipped for comfortable longdistance travel with adjustable seats. You arrive at Uyuni late and transfer to the Palacio de Sal hotel in Colchani, where dinner will be served.

(B L D) Monday 18th October Salar de Uyuni, Isla Incahuasi and Colchani After breakfast, your day is dedicated to the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat covering an area of 10,582 km2 (4,086 square miles). It’s covered by a salt crust over a pool of brine exceptionally rich in lithium. You’ll see the locals extracting salt for marketing. The Salar is a major breeding ground for several species of pink flamingos. You’ll also visit Incahuasi Island, characterised by the presence of giant cacti. This island provides spectacular views of the Salt Flat and photographs of the amazing surroundings. You continue to Tunupa, a dormant volcano and visit Coquesa, a village at

the base of the volcano. From here it’s a short hike of about ten minutes to visit the Mummies of Chullpa’s Cemetery. Back in Colchani there are gift shops selling handicrafts made of salt.

At sunset you return to your hotel in Uyuni for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Tuesday 19th October Pulacayo historic mining centre and Uyuni train cemetery Today you visit the world’s second largest silver mine at Pulacayo. Now a virtual ghost town, the mining centre retains an amazing collection of mine infrastructure including the mansion of Aniceto Arcehe, the President of Bolivia who built the mine and Bolivia’s first railway line. Nearby is a collection of rusting steam locomotives, including Bolivia’s first steam locomotive, El Chiripa, and the train that was robbed by legendary bandits Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, including a wooden railcar that bears the bullet holes from the attack.

In the afternoon, you visit the Train Cemetery to see derelict steam locomotives plus the remains of carriages, wagons and railway equipment rusting in this hostile environment. You return to Uyuni by coach and to Joya Andina Airport to board a flight to La Paz. On arrival at La Paz you transfer to the Ritz Apart Hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Wednsday 20th October Guaqui and Tiwanaku Today you travel by road coach from La Paz to the port town of Guaqui, where train ferries once operated on Lake Titicaca. You visit the former railway workshops and train museum of the Guaqui Railway. After lunch in El Barco you travel by road coach to the archaeological site of

Tiwanaku, the ritual and administrative capital of a major Pre-Incan state power for approximately five hundred years and thought to be the world’s oldest city. Some have hypothesized that Tiwanaku’s modern name is related to the Aymara term taypiqala, or ‘stone in the centre’, alluding to the belief it lay at the centre of the world. These pre-Inca ruins date back to 1580 BC. After your fascinating visit, you return to your hotel in La Paz for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D) Thursday 21st October Sightseeing in La Paz You have a morning sightseeing La Paz, the highest capital city in the world. Overlooking the city is the towering triple-peaked Illimani, always snow covered and visible from several locations.

The city is renowned for the Black Market and Witches Market. Calle Jaen is one of the few places with preserved colonial buildings and boasts several interesting museums. Sagarnaga Street is the main tourist area and a market with craft and souvenir shops and cafes.

Just outside the city is the Moon Valley, where over the centuries the elements have created an odd landscape, like a desert filled with stalagmites. You have a free afternoon to spend in La Paz and relax. (B) Friday 22nd October Flight back to the UK You depart the hotel early in the morning to check in for the early departure of our indirect flight back to London.

Saturday 23rd October Arrive back to the UK Arrive in London in the morning.

Tour Summary Tour price

£5695

Single supplement £765 Ground only (Lima – La Paz)

£4795

Price includes: • Flights from London to Lima and return from La Paz • Internal flight in Bolivia • 17 nights hotel accommodation • 16 breakfasts, 15 lunches and 15 dinners • Transfers • All rail and coach travel • Entrance to all attractions mentioned (Moon Temple at Machu Picchu not included) • Local guides • The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

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WORLD TOUR – 20 Days

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Booking Information The attraction of trains. By their very nature, trains, especially steam hauled

trains, attract enthusiasts. Our tours will always include a number of photographic opportunities in the form of false starts and run pasts where this is practical and possible. Where possible, we also arrange locomotive footplate rides, museum and depot visits. Many of our customers do not have the same exclusive interest in trains shown by some enthusiasts; therefore, we keep in mind the need to diversify our tour programmes. We do this by including visits to castles and historic houses, and to wildlife parks, using accommodation in resort style hotels, and providing free time for shopping and exploring. Nevertheless the main attraction and therefore the emphasis of our tours is travel by train, which includes the nostalgia, the companionship on board, and the passing scenery. We consider that those travelling on our tours will see more scenery and in greater comfort than by road coach or cruise liner.

their passports after returning back to the UK. We assume our customers are British Citizens whose passport shows they have a right to reside in the UK. If a customer has a passport of another country or state, or one that indicates restrictions on return to their country of origin, then they must please contact us prior to booking and well in advance of intended use. We will advise customers of the requirements and processing arrangements for visas where they are required. We will offer any help we can in arranging customers’ visas. Health advice is dependent upon the destination, medical history and current health of each customer participating in a tour and we cannot assume any responsibility. Customers MUST seek advice from their GP or a travel medical centre.

Pre-tour and travel documents. We will send out information to tour customers

Schedules and services. We arrange and advertise tours in good faith. Many

for visa and general planning purposes when appropriate, usually at the ‘balance due’ time. If there is nothing significant to communicate then we will simply acknowledge that the customer’s balance of payment has been received.

Fire risk. In many countries at times of exceptionally dry weather, coal fired steam

We prepare and send a booklet of information to tour customers for all tours.

This includes a passenger list with first or ‘known as’ names, where advised, (to check on an old acquaintance, aide-memoir for names during the tour); the latest known itinerary with as much detail as necessary (including meal times/locations); emergency and general contact details; and usually some general and specific information about features of the tour programme. This is intentionally a small part of the information available and tour customers are advised to research and obtain detailed reference material, maps, schedules etc. appropriate to their particular interests. Air travel tickets are usually sent to us for onward despatch less than two weeks before travel – please don’t panic! Rail tickets are often group travel documents held by the Tour Manager.

In this case tour customers will be provided with joining instructions, which must please be observed since the party cannot progress until all members are present.

Tickets, vouchers and coupons for onward travel during a tour, are usually held and distributed by the Tour Manager.

scheduled railway organisations – train operators and track operators – only work two months ahead and therefore cannot confirm final schedules to us until that ‘window’.

Likewise we cannot confirm and advise final numbers for a tour until full balances have been received from tour customers. Tours may be subject to occasional rescheduling or re-routing. The nature of steam trains is that breakdowns, delays and substitutions have to be accepted. Every genuine effort will be made to ensure that each of our tours runs as planned and advertised, or as close to it as possible. locomotives may be banned from operating and diesel or electric traction may have to be substituted. Oil fired steam locomotives however are normally still allowed to operate. The Railway Touring Company cannot accept any responsibility for steam bans during times of high fire risk.

Seat reservations and overnight travel arrangements. On some trains seat reservations are by individual seats, on others by block booking or complete carriage.

Since the railways concerned make the allocations, we have to accept and be flexible about the seating arrangements. Where overnight travel is necessary we will arrange either to stay in a convenient hotel en route, to use one of the newer ‘hotel trains’, or to book Standard Class twin berth sleeper car trains (First Class is often single berth).

These decisions are made on the basis of the length of the journey, the range of scenery likely to be missed by overnight travel, and the accommodation options available.

Porterage. Some tours include porterage between stations and hotels; some include full luggage transfers between hotels, using either a supplementary road coach or scheduled ‘luggage in advance’ facilities. Porterage, where advertised, is included in the cost. However, there will be occasions when porters are not available or included and it will be each customer’s responsibility to handle their own luggage.

Accommodation. We aim to use 3 or 4-star designated hotels throughout our tours as this offers us the standards of hospitality, catering and service that we would wish for our customers.

We also seek out establishments which are either conveniently located for the railways in order to minimize transfers, or which afford some unique character. Where we cannot meet either of these criteria we ensure the best and most comfortable accommodation is available.

Single supplements. We are pleased to advise that we do not financially benefit

from single supplement charges. Supplement charges only apply due to hoteliers charging higher rates for rooms that are solely occupied. All of our prices listed are per person based on two persons sharing. Therefore, any room that is solely occupied does incur a charge, whether it be a single or double room. If a double room is preferred please state your preference at the time of booking in order for us to obtain a quote, double rooms for single use may be slightly more expensive than the single supplement stated. All other elements of our tours are priced on a per person rate, so no extra fees are applied for solo travellers.

Food and drink. Meals will be taken on trains, boats, planes, in hotels and restaurants and even al-fresco, picnic or packed! Mindful of the diversity of our customer’s tastes we try to adopt a ‘middle of the road’ approach when choosing menus. We must also accept the limitations of on-board catering and marvel at the success that chefs regularly achieve in the confines of train kitchens. Hotel and restaurant meals are usually a set menu, with options for special dietary needs. If customers have any special dietary requirements they must please ensure we know them at the time of booking. In this way we can make the necessary arrangements for customers with special requirements. Some of our tours include alcoholic and soft drinks and coffee, in which case this is clearly stated in tour information. Otherwise customers are responsible for their own refreshments.

Passports, visas and health issues. Customers are responsible for holding the necessary and appropriate travel documentation for their journey. For tours outside the UK, customers must ensure that there is at least six months validity remaining on

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Travel insurance. Many customers arrange their own travel insurance. The Railway Touring Company cannot assume any responsibility relating to travel insurance issues and customers should ensure that they are familiar with procedures should an incident occur. This is especially important with medical cover since we do not undertake to obtain medical attention, but to hand over the customer to an appropriate and suitable authority.

Infirmity and disability. Tour managers are responsible for the general care and well-being of the whole group and are neither available, nor trained or insured for individual ‘personal’ care.

Each tour, by way of the trains and terrain being visited, presents its own opportunities and restrictions. Customers should ascertain the suitability of the itinerary and facilities available relevant to their own needs. We are happy to discuss customers’ concerns with them before they commit to a booking. We will attempt to accommodate and resolve any needs or problems caused by undisclosed mobility/dietary/general health issues but cannot accept responsibilities beyond those stated above. We would especially draw the attention of customers to the tours that visit high-altitude locations and the resulting possibility of cardiovascular and respiratory problems.

Confidentiality, privacy and mailing Lists. Customers’ names and addresses have been obtained as a result of their response to advertisements, having been a previous customer or enquirer, or a referral from some other party. We do not share these details with anyone outside Warren Travel Ltd. trading as The Railway Touring Company or The Railway Touring Company Ltd. Customer’s personal details such as credit card numbers, travel arrangements, companions etc. will only be kept to be used within the requirements of tour operating. We are registered under the Data Protection Act. If one customer wishes to communicate with another customer, then please forward the stamped envelope/package to us. We will add the address and post on the mail. We will not divulge any addresses or telephone numbers. Please refer to our website for information regarding our Privacy Policy ensuring you fully understand it.

Your acceptance of our Privacy Policy is deemed to occur upon your first use of Our Site.

Financial protection. We are licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority and hold ATOL Number T7149. This ensures that in the event of the failure of our Company, customers’ money will be protected. If customers are on holiday at the time of Company failure, arrangements will be made for them to complete their holiday and return home.

The flights we provide are supplied by other ATOL holders and are protected by their bonds. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.

Payments for flights. The payments that customers make for their flights are held by us in our trust account, on behalf of the ATOL holder who is supplying the flight, until the date that we pass the money to that ATOL holder. The ATOL holder supplying the flight will issue an ATOL confirmation invoice to confirm their contract with the customer. We will forward this to the customer no later than the day after we have received it.

Booking Information The Travel Trust Association (TTA)

The TTA is a trade association of travel agents and travel organisers, established to provide financial protection for the customer.

The TTA lays down strict guidelines on how the customer’s funds should be handled, and each member must adhere to those guidelines.

Every TTA member pays the customer’s funds into a designated trust account which is supervised by an independent trustee; a Banker, Chartered or certified Accountant or Solicitor.

Why your travel arrangements are totally safe with the Travel Trust Association

The Travel Trust Association (TTA) recognises that for many people a holiday is the one chance to really relax – so it is important that customers are able to feel completely confident about their travel arrangements from the moment they make their booking. By choosing an approved TTA Member, customers can be sure that their travel plans are totally secure. These arrangements exceed the statutory levels of consumer protection.

Customer’s funds are secured in Trust by the Travel Trust Association Trustees.

Travel Trust Association 2 Crown Square Woking GU21 6HR 01483 545 780 www.traveltrust.co.uk The holidays in this brochure that include air travel are ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is T7149.

ATOL protects customers from losing their money or being stranded abroad. It does this by carrying out financial checks on the firms it licenses and requiring a guarantee, called a bond, to be lodged with them.

If a firm goes out of business, the CAA will make a refund to the customer, or if already abroad on holiday, arrange for the customer to complete their holiday and fly home.

Status

The Railway Touring Company is a direct sell tour operator and retail travel agent. All parts of a customer’s holiday are covered by our TTA membership (number T726X), and the air travel for all of our customers’ holidays is covered by our ATOL membership (number T7149).

Warren Travel Ltd, trading as The Railway Touring Company, acts as a booking agent for the service providers whose terms and conditions of booking and carriage apply to our tours.

Copies of these terms and conditions will be obtained from the relevant service providers and forwarded to customers on request. Tours will be confirmed and take place subject to minimum and maximum numbers booking.

Railway components of a tour are provided subject to the serviceability of motive power and stock, and the operating conditions prevailing at the time of the tour. In the event of a failure to operate services as advertised then ‘best’ alternatives will be provided.

Programme and prices

Details of each tour programme and its cost are published in our tour brochure, in leaflets, by correspondence, or by amendments notified to customers. Customers are required to acknowledge their acceptance of this information.

Payments

All tour bookings should be accompanied by payment of a deposit per person as follows: £100 for travel in the UK £150 for travel within Europe £350 for travel beyond Europe A confirmation of booking will be sent to customers which includes a statement of their account and a balance due date.

The balance of payment is required in time for us to pay our suppliers, usually twelve weeks before travel. There are occasions when we are required to pay for group tickets earlier than this and the balance due date will reflect this. During the period of time that we are establishing a viable tour group, deposits are fully refundable. Once we have confirmed the operation of a tour then deposits are not refundable. Due to the high costs involved with debit and credit card transactions our preferred methods of payments for balance payments are cheque or bank transfer.

Fidelity insurance

It is a requirement that all tour bookings be covered by Fidelity Insurance. This is a financial protection insurance that protects the customer’s money until the tour takes place.

The cost of this insurance is included in the tour price.

Customer cancellation

We have the following customer cancellation policy for all of our tours: Cancellation prior to 12 weeks before tour departure – loss of deposit Cancellation between 8-12 weeks prior to tour departure – 25% refund of tour cost Cancellation less than 8 weeks prior to tour departure – no refund

Passports, visas and health

Customers are responsible for ensuring that they have the correct travel documentation for tours, and this includes passports, visas and health certificates. We are willing to give advice on passport and visa requirements but customers should seek professional guidance on medical related matters. We shall obtain guidance from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and tourist board where a security risk exists or arises in respect of a tour destination. This information will then be passed on to tour customers.

Prices

Prices are determined against known exchange rates, fuel costs and tax regimes prevailing at 3rd October 2019. The exchange rates used for prices quoted in this brochure are as follows: £1 = 1.11 Euros £1 = 1.22 US Dollars £1 = 1.20 Swiss Francs £1 = 90.12 Indian Rupees £1 = 19.0 South African Rands £1 = 1.80 Australian Dollars £1 = 11.17 Norwegian Krones £1 = 1.27 Cuban Pesos

24 EST. 1997

In the event of significant changes we must reserve the right to amend prices.

A NO SMOKING policy will be pursued where we have the control or influence over the service that we are providing on our tour.

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Booking Information Our chartered steam trains

Whenever possible we hire steam trains for our exclusive use. This allows us the flexibility, within operational parameters, to run to our requirements. It also enables us to stop the train for photographs of the scenery; the train itself; and sometimes staged train movements, known as run-pasts. We can often arrange for tour customers to ride on the footplate of the locomotive, should they wish, but at their own risk. Since our tours often number around 40 customers there are occasions when we have access to older trains with limited capacity, and sometimes to facilities not normally available to large groups or individuals. However, on occasions due to popularity and where space permits this number can be exceeded.

Scheduled trains

Where we travel by scheduled train, with few exceptions, we travel First Class in reserved seats or reserved carriages. This has proven to be much better value for money since the additional space, comfort and lack of crowding are obtained at a worthwhile supplement compared with Standard Class travel.

Alternative airports, independent travel and extensions

Our customers come from throughout the UK and overseas. Wherever possible we choose flights which allow connections from local airports, and prices for these connecting flights start at around £149 return. Most overseas tours allow for independent travel arrangements whereby customers may extend their stay, stop en route, or make their own travel arrangements. We can provide a ‘ground only’ quotation for all of our tours so that overseas customers and independent travellers can make their own way to and from the tour joining point.

Extra tours and tour updates

Throughout the year we keep pace with an ever-changing world. It is often possible to initiate new tours after our brochure has gone to press, and to make alterations to published information, so please check our website for the most up-to-date information.

Website – www.railwaytouring.net

Our web site provides details of all our tours plus information about additional tours and amendments to our tour programme. Don’t forget to bookmark our web site amongst your favourites. We welcome contributions of photographs that customers have taken on our tours and that they are willing for us to use in publicity materials.

Booking information

Customers should ensure that they read all our Booking Information before booking a holiday with us.

Pre-tour and post-tour UK hotels and holiday parking

We are able to arrange customers’ pre-tour and post-tour hotel accommodation, car parking, coach and train travel, and connecting flights.

Customers may wish to consider staying overnight before and/or after travel on one of our tours. A night in a conveniently located hotel before departure or after return can mean that the customer begins or ends the tour more rested and relaxed. It may also avoid the frustrations and anxieties of early morning and late evening travel.

Pre-booked car parking can also be arranged for customers.

Examples:Airport hotels with holiday parking • Gatwick from £110 per room • Heathrow from £139 per room • Stansted from £125 per room Secured airport parking • Gatwick from £8.75 per day • Heathrow from £9.00 per day • Stansted from £6.25 per day Travel by road coach from and to the customer’s local town together with overnight hotel accommodation can be arranged. Prices are available on request. Rail tickets from and to the customer’s home railway station to the tour departure point can only be booked where two or more passengers are travelling together. Prices are available on request.

The prices quoted above are correct at the time of print and may be subject to change and can vary depending on your preferences.

UK connecting flights

We are willing to make enquiries and, where possible, arrange connecting flights from the customer’s local airport to the main tour departure point. Prices are available on request.

Travel insurance

Due to changes in the travel insurance regulations we are no longer able to sell travel insurance direct to our customers. We can however recommend and send to customers details of travel insurance through Holiday Extras, in conjunction with the Travel Trust Association. Please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to receive details of this insurance.

Covid-19

All passengers are reminded to make themselves aware of our on-board safety measures surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, any social distancing measures or Government guidelines that are in place at the time of travel are to be adhered too in order to keep yourselves, other travellers and staff safe at all times. You can find all of this information on our website under Covid-19 – The Safe Way or by requesting a copy of our Covid-19 guidance leaflet. We do not accept any liability for travellers that are unable to participate on their pre-booked holidays, should they be taken ill, chose not to travel or decide to cancel their holiday.

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Reservation Form Title.................. Forename............................................................ Surname.......................................................... DOB*...............

Title.................. Forename............................................................ Surname.......................................................... DOB*............... *DOB = Date of Birth Please ensure your names are as they appear in your passport.

Address of first named............................................................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................................................................................... ..............................................................................................................................Phone........................................................

Please reserve the (tour title).......................................................................................................................................................

Indicate your requirements/preferences: Twin bedded room ■ Double bedded room ■ Single room(s) ■ (Please tick) Where options are available for the tour (i.e. choice of travel) please clearly state your choice(s). ............................................................................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

Please also specify any dietary or health related requirements. ............................................................................................................................................................................................... ...............................................................................................................................................................................................

The deposit is £350 per person outside Europe, £150 per person within Europe and £100 per person for UK tours. The balance/full fare is due 12 weeks before travel; dates will be advised on your confirmation. As stated in our booking information a Fidelity Policy will be added at the time of booking.

I enclose a cheque (payable to THE RAILWAY TOURING COMPANY CLIENT ACCOUNT).

Please charge my credit or debit card for: £................................ deposit ■ full fare ■ (Please tick) Card Number......................................................................................................

Expires...............................................................................................................

Start Date...........................................................................................................

Please accept my booking on the terms and conditions as stated in the RTC Worldwide Rail Holidays 2021 brochure information pages and on our website, railwaytouring.net Please sign and date...................................................................................................................................................................

Please send this form to: The Railway Touring Company, 14A Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1JN

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The Railway Touring Company 14a Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1JN Phone: 01553 661 500 – Fax: 01553 661 800 Web: www.railwaytouring.net – E-mail: enquiries@railwaytouring.co.uk Design and Artwork - LucidSynergy Ltd - www.lucidsynergy.com