Classic Collection Holidays Lakes Mountains 2019

January-December 2019

Tailor-made luxury from the leading specialist holiday company

Lakes & Mountains 2019 Austria, Italy, Slovenia & Switzerland

price promise 100% financial protection private transfers scheduled, charter & no frills flights from your local airport

Tailor-made service

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Luxury lakes & mountains

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Two & multi centre holidays

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Perfect family memories

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Mountain hiking & cycling

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Explore beautiful gardens

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Christmas markets & winter pursuits

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Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

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Your travel options

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AUSTRIA 24 Seefeld 26 Mayrhofen 28 Kitzbuhel 30 Salzgammergut Lakes Fuschl & St Wolfgang

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Salzburg 38 Vienna 40 ITALY 44 Lake Como

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Lake Garda

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Lake Maggiore

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Verona 62 Milan 64 Venice 66 SLOVENIA & CROATIA

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Escorted coach tour

70

Split cruises

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Lake Bled

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SWITZERLAND 76 Swiss Rail Journeys

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Zurich NEW 82 Lake Lucerne

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Bernese Oberland

90

Bern NEW 98 Montreux Riviera

100

St Moritz & Sils

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Zermatt 110 Lake Lugano

114

Swiss Rail Pass

118

Booking conditions

120

Holiday information

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Flights 123

Our price promise to you In the unlikely event that you find a more competitive price at the time of booking, we guarantee to match the price, and offer an additional ÂŁ10 per adult saving. see page 120.

freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113 We are open every day until 10pm Monday to Saturday 9am-10pm & Sunday 10am-10pm

We can book Fully inclusive holidays including hotel, private transfers or first class rail travel, and flights from your local airport Fully inclusive self drive holidays including hotel and ferry or Eurotunnel channel crossings

Celebrating 30 years of personalised luxury

Hotel plus private transfers or first class rail travel and car hire

Based in Worthing on the

Hotel plus private transfers or first class rail travel

tailor-making award-winning

Hotel plus car hire Hotel only

Sussex coast, we’ve been luxury holidays since 1988.

We’ve featured hotels around Italy’s romantic lakes for many

Train travel throughout Italy and Switzerland and from the UK

years and, together with

Reasons to book with us

the mystical Plitvice Lakes

Expert team with detailed knowledge of our hotels and resorts

delighted to also bring you the

We can book interconnecting, family-style, specially-adapted, and ultra-luxury rooms and suites

of Austria and Switzerland;

Long standing relationships with hoteliers, airlines, car hire and transfer companies

beautiful Bled in Slovenia and National Park in Croatia, we’re fantastic mountainous regions altogether in one brochure.

From my own personal point of view, I have great memories of Austria particularly

Regular health and safety checks at all hotels

recommending Salzburg with

Representatives available for advice and assistance

Sound of Music. In Switzerland,

We do the research so you don’t have to spend hours online

hikes from Kleine Scheidegg

We’re 100% bonded and licensed so your money is safe

then, of course, there are

Excellent value holidays Price Promise guaranteed

boasting incredible scenery.

its links to Mozart and The there’s one of my favourite down to Grindelwald and some amazing rail journeys; all

Our reservations and concierge experts are here to assist and they look forward to helping create your perfect holiday.

Managing Director

Tailor-made for you Our customers expect excellence, and from the moment that you contact us, you’ll know that we offer a professional and flexible service. We know and love our resorts and hotels, and if there’s any additional detail that you need, we’ll simply contact our overseas staff or hotel partners to ensure that you are booking exactly the holiday you’ve dreamed about. We can easily book a scheduled, charter or no frills flight from your local airport,

and we normally include private airport transfers, or first class rail transfer in Switzerland, for your arrival and departure; although we can book a hire car if you prefer. All our hotels have superb choices of premier rooms, junior suites and suites - sometimes even presidential suites! And to ensure that you make the most of your holiday, we include a complimentary mini-guide book with your travel documents.

Ebner's Waldhof, Austria

Lake Geneva from Montreux, Switzerland

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Weggis Village & Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

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Personalised for you

At the airport

In resort

We tailor each holiday individually which

Via Lounge Pass, we can book airport

Our overseas staff are delighted to share the

means you can fly from your local airport for

lounges because, as you know, enjoying

love of their resorts and their considerable

whichever duration suits you best.

complimentary refreshments in a

local knowledge. Classic customers do,

Customers love giving feedback about their

comfortable lounge is a great way to relax

however, tend to be well-seasoned travellers

holidays and one of the most highly rated

once airside. Additionally, we can book a

so our resort management are discreet and

aspects, in addition to our specially chosen

personalised VIP meet and greet service

unobtrusive. Because of the diverse nature

luxury hotels, is our private airport transfers in

with Ace Handling for any outbound,

of our Lakes & Mountains programme, most

resort which are (normally) automatically

inbound or transit journey; a fantastic service

of our representation is carried out by

included.

to book especially if you’re travelling with

telephone and we generally endeavour to

small children.

contact you at the beginning of your stay to

Award-winning service

ensure that you’re happy, and we’ll always

Before you travel, our UK concierge team

Accessibility

delight in giving advice about local sights,

can recommend and assist with booking

We have a specialist team experienced in

recommended restaurants, traditional

restaurants, private excursions, concerts,

helping with specific holiday needs whether

customs, regional wines and culinary tips.

opera and theatre tickets and entry to

due to restricted mobility or a hidden

You’ll also be given a 24-hour contact

sporting events and, once you arrive on

disability. The team are available for advice

number for further assistance.

holiday, you can contact our

and guidance and are happy to contact

representatives or use the superb hotel

our overseas managers and hoteliers with

Awards & ratings

concierge services to help you make the

regards to professional pool equipment,

Since 2005 we’ve been the lucky recipients

most of your time away.

accessibility requirements and the overall

of most major travel industry accolades and

suitability of resorts and hotels. Do also let us

our reception area is filled with awards and

Our hotels

know if you need travel assistance at airports

framed certificates! But, more importantly,

We’re renowned for promoting the best four

or with resort transfers so that we can do our

from our holiday questionnaire feedback,

and five-star luxury hotels and our hotels

utmost to ensure your journey can run as

we’re able to show percentage ratings

have a good selection of room types and

seamlessly as possible.

according to how highly our customers

suites, so you can choose between

ranked their experience, and this is shown

standard, lake and mountain views,

Complimentary child seats

interconnecting, family-style and specially

For youngsters between 2 and 11 years, we

adapted.

offer complimentary inflatable booster seats

Hotel recommendations

for you to take on holiday, and keep! Once

Most of our hotels are high quality properties

Dining & all inclusive

you’ve booked, we’ll put you in touch with

offering a plethora of facilities and we have

Flexible dining encourages you to alternate

Bubblebum who will send the seat/s to you

highlighted recommendations for spa and

between your hotel and local restaurants.

or your travel agent.

golf, and where all inclusive is available.

You can book and pay for as many, or as

under each hotel description.

We’ve also identified families and adults only

few, hotel evening meals as you wish; simply

Private transfers

properties although in the latter we cannot

decide on specific nights when you arrive.

We automatically include private transfers

confirm a total absence of children as,

Some hotels offer all inclusive packages

for the journey between the airport and your

although the hotels don’t promote to

which normally include all meals and drinks

hotel and, although occasionally these are

families or offer child reductions, they might

plus children’s clubs and non-motorised

operated by public taxi or minibus, they are

have accepted a booking with youngsters

sports although, as all inclusive options vary,

always booked for your own private use.

through another holiday company.

it’s wise to check with us beforehand as to

We’ll also book private transfers between

what’s actually included.

hotels or resorts if you’ve booked a two or

How to book

multi centre trip. In Switzerland transfers are

Our website is informative and inspirational

Flexible flying

normally by first class train (although private

but to gain the most from our personalised

We book flights from any UK or Irish airport

transfers can be arranged).

holiday service, and because such a high

so you have the option to choose the dates

level of expertise isn’t available online, we

and holiday duration to suit you. We’re

Car hire

prefer to chat to you or your travel agent

happy to book scheduled, charter and low-

For some local sightseeing, you might like to

about your holiday requirements. Our

cost airlines; even private jets for the utmost

have a hire car delivered to your hotel for

website offers the facility to order a

privacy. And, where available, we can

part of your holiday, or you might prefer the

brochure, request a holiday quotation and

book cabin upgrades, priority boarding,

total independence of a fly drive trip where

contact us via LiveChat, but we really want

pre-allocated, extra legroom and premium

you pick up the car from the airport. Simply

you to call our friendly reservations team so

seating, plus in-flight meals and additional

let us know your preference and we’ll

they can help you book the best holiday at

luggage.

organise your holiday accordingly.

the right price. And, so that it doesn’t cost

Relax & travel

New hotels

A lovely way to start your holiday is to be

Every year our customers are keen to find

driven to the airport by our award-winning

out what’s new. If we’re featuring a property

partners at Tristar Worldwide Chauffeur

for the first time, we’ve highlighted this

Services. Or, if you prefer to drive, we can

beside its star rating. The term ‘new’ may

book airport hotels and car parks through

mean that the hotel is a newly opened

our travel partners, FHR.

hotel, or re-introduced, or featured by us for

you anything to call, our freephone numbers are manned until 10pm every evening.

the very first time.

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Classic value

Brochure details & prices

We visit each of our destinations to ensure

Great care is taken in producing our

that we only feature the highest quality

brochures although it is inevitable that

properties, and this gives us the opportunity

details may change after printing. Our ‘from’

to enjoy great personal relationships which in

prices on each hotel page are shown as a

turn allows us to negotiate the very best

guide and we will confirm the current price

offers. On each hotel page we detail Classic

when you book. Plus, as part of our

value which may include early booking

commitment to high quality service, we will,

offers, complimentary room or board

of course, advise you of any changes to

upgrades or special seasonal rates. We do

relevant details at this stage. Please note

continue to negotiate after the brochures

that all holidays and Classic value offers

are published so it’s worth giving us a call.

shown in this brochure are subject to

Plus, of course, there’s our price promise

availability and all holidays are 100%

which ensures that we’ll match competitors’

financially protected under ATOL 5837 and

prices although there is some small print

by ABTA W5429.

detail regarding this promise in our booking Lake Bled, Slovenia

Two & multi centres Many of us enjoy numerous short breaks and longer holidays each year and, because all our holidays are personalised, you can take as many holidays as you wish, for whichever duration suits. Additionally, you may like to combine the contrasting scenery between a bustling city and a lake or the mountains; simply ask our reservations team to help with your choice of two or multi centre trips. We can put together lots of different itineraries until you’re happy with the result, and the price! We’ve made some two centre suggestions on page 11.

Hotel only Before your holiday, you might be flying on a business trip or you might be meeting friends and family who live abroad. Whatever the reason, if any of your party wants to organise their own travel arrangements, we are happy to book the hotel accommodation only. Plus we can easily include private resort transfers if you let us know the arrival and departure times of your flights.

Holiday vouchers For honeymoons or weddings abroad, holiday vouchers make the perfect gift for friends and family; call our customer relations team for details.

Last minute bookings Owing to the individual character and popularity of many of our properties, all the best rooms and suites do tend to get booked well in advance although, if you are looking for a last minute short break or holiday, do give us a call to see what’s available.

conditions.

Loyalty reward

AITO We are proud to be members of the Association of Independent Tour Operators

To reward loyal customers, we offer a £40

www.aito.com which represents the UK’s

per booking discount when you book your

leading independent holiday companies

next holiday. This amount doubles to £80 per

and travel agents. It encourages

booking when you travel to the same Classic

exceptionally high standards of quality and

hotel within a year, if your hotel is

service and, as members, we agree to

participating in our hotel loyalty scheme.

abide by AITO’s Code of Conduct and

Simply let your travel agent or our

adhere to its Quality Charter.

reservations team have the details of your previous Classic holiday when you next

Travel & health advice

book.

Before you go, you should seek up to date

Classic Ambassadors

advice from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO)

We enjoy a very high satisfaction rating.

www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice about

Around 98% of our customers state on their

travel to, and within, your chosen

questionnaires that they’ll travel with us

destination, noting the importance of

again and will recommend us to their friends

regularly checking for the latest information.

and family. This is important to us as we rely

Additionally, with regards to vaccinations

on loyal customers returning and referring us

and health advice, you should check

to their friends. We’d love you to be an

with your GP surgery or

Ambassador and, if you’ve already travelled

www.travelhealthpro.org.uk for specific

with us and, on your recommendation, your

recommendations.

friends or family book a Classic holiday, simply contact us with the relevant booking

Weddings & groups

details. As a thank you for being a Classic

Some of our destinations are perfect for

Ambassador, we’ll send both you and your

weddings. Additionally, owing to the

friends a complimentary bottle of

flexibility of flights with different airlines, we

champagne, either directly to you, or via

can easily organise your wedding party or

your travel agent.

groups for conferences or incentive travel.

When to travel

Simply contact our specialist team who will be delighted to assist with your plans.

Some of the resorts in this brochure feature hotels which provide year-round holidays

Honeymoons & hideaways

although during quieter holiday months, you

Many of our hotels are perfect for

may find that there are fewer facilities and

honeymoons, anniversaries and special

attractions available in some areas. Similarly,

birthday celebrations and we’re always

restaurant choices in hotels may be limited

delighted to help you choose. The Classic

during less busy times and amenities may be

value sections on each hotel page highlight

restricted by seasonal demand so, if specific

hotels particularly suited to honeymooners

hotel facilities or events or attractions are

with many offering complimentary room

important to you, please get us to check

upgrades, flowers and sparkling wine to

their availability before confirming your

newly-weds; they may ask for proof of the

holiday booking.

happy event so do carry a copy of your marriage certificate!

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Tailor-made for you

Glacier Express, Switzerland

Lake Fuschl, Austria

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Luxury lakes & mountains Introducing our wonderful new collection of luxury hotels in the most beautiful regions of Austria, Italy, Slovenia and Switzerland.

Magnificent scenery, invigorating mountain air and refreshingly clear, pure melt waters are just some of the elements that make a holiday surrounded by lakes and mountains so pleasurable.

Feel free to add as much walking, hiking and cycling as you wish but don’t forget to punctuate your

Grindelwald, Switzerland

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energetic pursuits with relaxing boat trips on vintage paddle steamers and lake ferries or with iconic rail journeys across some of the world’s most beautiful mountain terrain. Or bring majestic iconic peaks to you via cable car gondolas and historic cog railways. At the end of each day, enjoy fine gastronomy and top class wines. This is the chance, not just to holiday, but to sample life in all its varied resplendence.

Lake Bachalpsee, Grindelwald, Switzerland

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Lakes . . .

Multi centre holidays

Picture perfect lakes can effortlessly win

Make great use of your time away by visiting

over the hearts of visitors. Sail through a mild

another resort; adding variety and

summer’s evening at dusk. Enjoy the mystical

excitement often makes you feel like you’ve

mood of autumn mists above rippling

been away for longer. Switzerland, in

waves. You can tour the magnificent bays of

particular, with its legendarily efficient

lakes in a variety of crafts from simple boats,

transport network and iconic rail journeys,

lake ferries and elegant yachts to historic

lends itself to multi centre trips. Or, add a

steamers.

cultured city break to time spent in the mountains. For inspiration and guidance, our

. . . & mountains

expert reservations team are happy to

Our mountain resorts are dominated by

discuss various possibilities with with you and

Europe’s highly celebrated iconic peaks and

see page 11 for some suggestions of our own.

awe-inspiring glaciers. Cable cars and cogwheel railways transport visitors to

Iconic rail journeys

sparkling, snow-peaked mountain tops with

Some of the world’s highest, oldest and most

the freshest of air, the bluest of skies and, of

leisurely mountain railways are at your

course, the most fabulous panoramic views.

disposal throughout this expansive area of

Matterhorn, Switzerland

central Europe. Switzerland alone offers three

Gastronomy & wine

of the world’s best mountain railway journeys:

The richness of these landscapes is reflected

Glacier Express, Golden Pass and Gotthard

in their traditions and gastronomy. Wonderful

Panorama Express.

Family memories & romance Reminiscences of childhood adventures are life affirming and there’s nothing quite like a

locally sourced ingredients, prepared and

family picnic, an all-day mountain hike, a

cooked at the peak of their freshness, make

long cycle ride through a picturesque valley,

for some unforgettable regional dishes. After

or simply messing around by a sunshine filled

a day of exercise you’ll be pleased to know

lakeshore, to create the most treasured life-

that many desserts served contain more

long memories. And, on the other hand,

than sufficient calories to replace those

what could more be more romantic than

expended. Allow a little space to sample

walking hand in hand by glistening

some of world’s finest and most revered

lakeshores to backdrops of crisp, high, snowy

wines.

peaks.

Hiking & biking There are fantastic walking opportunities in and around all the areas that we’ve chosen.

From gentle, lakeside strolls to challenging mountain trails, you can join a guided hike, enlist the services of an experienced professional guide, or go at your own pace armed with a local guide book and map.

Vienna

Cards which discount transport costs are often available; helpful in getting you to the

Salzkammergut Lakes

start of your adventure as efficiently and cost effectively as possible. There’s also a

Salzburg

wealth of road cycling and mountain biking with road routes and mountain

Seefeld

trails ranging from entry level to expert; or there are e-bikes with electric motors for hire, to help up the steeper hills.

Wellness & spa For the ultimate in relaxation and wellbeing, do make time to enjoy some of Europe’s finest hotel spas although please be aware that

Lake Lucerne

Interlaken

AUSTRIA

Mayrhofen

Lake Lugano

Montreux Zermatt

Lake Maggiore

St Moritiz

Milan Turin

Lake Bled Ljubljana

Lake Como

less modest in saunas and steam check on specific dress or ‘undress’

Kitzbuhel

SWITZERLAND

mainland Europeans do tend to be rooms than we British. We can easily

Innsbruck

SLOVENIA

Lake Garda Venice Verona

CROATIA

ITALY

codes if this is important to you.

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The best of both worlds TWO & MULTI CENTRE HOLIDAYS

Mountains, lakes, railway journeys, five star hotels, rural idylls, city culture, relaxation, outdoor activities, watersports, sightseeing; you wouldn’t think that this would all be available in one holiday.

But with Classic, because we tailor make every holiday, you can pick a two or multi centre trip to include everything you want! We

have detailed some itineraries to give you some ideas, and also an indication of the price.

But these are just a few ideas; simply call with your requirements.

Nothing is too much trouble for us.

Although it might take us a bit longer than normal for more complicated requests and itineraries.

Interlaken, Austria

Sirmione, Lake Garda, Italy

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Glacier Express, Switzerland

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Itinerary suggestions to inspire . . .

Bern to Lake Geneva

by GoldenPass

A tale of two lakes

Take in the delights of Switzerland’s

Enjoy the mild climate and beauty of Lake

charming and quaint capital with a stay at

Lucerne whilst staying in chic luxury at Hotel

the Bellevue Palace, the government’s own

des Balances. Then take the wonderful five

guesthouse situated next to the Parliament

hour Gotthard Panorama Express route firstly

buildings. Having explored the city’s

by lake cruise to Fluelen, then by rail to

galleried and cobbled streets, don’t miss a

Lugano. In a fantastic parkland location with

visit to the Einstein museum. Make your

great Lake Lugano views, Park Hotel Principe

journey to the Montreux Riviera by

comes with a high recommendation.

GoldenPass along one of Switzerland’s most

Spend 3 nights at Hotel des Balances, Lucerne (page 89) and 4 nights at Park Hotel Principe, Lugano (page 117); flights to and from Zurich.

Prices from £1,204 per person*

scenic rail routes to stay at the lakefront Grand Hotel du Lac in lovely Vevey.

Spend 3 nights at Bellevue Palace, Bern (page 99) and 4 nights at Grand Hotel du Lac, Vevey (page 105) with flights to and from Geneva or out to Zurich, home from Geneva.

Prices from £1,441 per person*

From castle to palace Schloss Fuschl, a fairytale castle overlooking pristine Fuschlsee, near Salzburg, is great for exploring the picturesque Salzkammergut Lakes. From Fuschl it’s a 3 hour private transfer to Vienna and the centrally located Hotel Imperial boasting the grandeur of its

Grindelwald & Montreux station, Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof is Grindelwald’s leading hotel and perfect for

Mountain scenes & lake views

trips to Kleine Scheidegg and Jungfraujoch.

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa,

Another scenic rail journey transfers you from

Interlaken, provides an elegant location for

Grindelwald to Montreux in just 3½ hours

exploring some of the most spectacular

where we recommend Grand Hotel Suisse-

mountain panoramas in the world. Enjoy a

Majestic for its great location with fantastic

memorable scenic six hour journey by boat

Lake Geneva views.

Spend 4 nights at Schloss Fuschl (page 36) and 3 nights at Hotel Imperial, Vienna (page 42); flights to Salzburg, home from Vienna.

Prices from £1,830 per person*

Spend 3 nights (half board) at Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof, Grindelwald (page 94) and 4 nights (bed and breakfast) at Grand Hotel Suisse-Majestic, Montreux (page 103); flights to Zurich, home from Geneva.

Prices from £1,264 per person*

Italy & the legendary train

Switzerland & Glacier Express

Fly to Verona and stay at Lake Garda’s

Enjoy the magnificence of the Matterhorn at

elegant Villarosa Hotel before a two hour

Parkhotel Beau Site in Zermatt before

private transfer to Venice to stay at Baglioni

travelling on the legendary Glacier Express

Hotel Luna. Explore this fantastically romantic

(see page 79 for details of this, probably the

city prior to boarding legendary Venice

world’s slowest express) across the

Simplon-Orient-Express for a special

mountains to the relaxed and charming

overnight journey to London.

Alpine style Crystal Hotel in St Moritz.

Spend 7 nights at Villarosa Hotel (page 52), 3 nights at Baglioni Hotel Luna (page 67) and 2 days aboard Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (page 20).

Prices from £3,912 per person*

Spend 3 nights at Parkhotel Beau Site, Zermatt (pages 112-113) and 3 nights at Crystal Hotel, St Moritz (page 109); flights to and from Zurich.

Prices from £1,917 per person*

palace origins.

Trümmelbach Waterfall, Grindelwald, Switzerland

Just beside the small mountain railway

and first class rail before checking in at regal Hotel Splendide Royal on the lakeside promenade in Lugano.

Spend 3 nights at Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, Interlaken (page 92) and 4 nights at Hotel Splendide Royal, Lugano (page 115); flights to and from Zurich. Prices are also available to include a shorter 4-hour scenic first class rail transfer between Interlaken and Lugano.

Prices from £1,802 per person*

From Switzerland to Italy Combine a stay in the spectacular scenery of the Jungfrau for mountain pursuits and sightseeing before heading south by rail to Stresa to enjoy magnificent views over the outstandingly beautiful Lake Maggiore.

Beausite Park Hotel in Wengen is highly regarded for its fantastic location, warm friendly atmosphere and excellent cuisine.

Hotel La Palma is centrally located in Stresa and its rooftop Sky Bar with stunning lake view and lovely pool is a fantastic spot for sundowner cocktails.

Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

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Image courtesey of Lucerne Tourism Ltd.

Spend 3 nights (half board) at Beausite Park Hotel, Wengen (pages 96-97) and 4 nights (half board) at Hotel La Palma, Stresa (page 59) with flights out to Zurich, home from Milan.

Prices from £1,409 per person*

*All prices are based on two adults sharing on a bed and breakfast basis (except where stated), and include return flights from the UK and normally include private transfers from the airport to your hotel and between locations; except Switzerland where first class rail travel is included instead of private transfers.

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Perfect family memories

Reminiscences of childhood treats are life affirming and there’s nothing quite like a family picnic, an all day hike in the mountains, horse-riding or cycling along picturesque valleys or messing around on the lakeshore and splashing in the water to create the fondest of life-long memories.

There are exciting mountain railway adventures with funicular and cable car rides to many an alpine peak and Switzerland, in particular, offers unparalleled vistas and discounted travel

Mount Pilatus toboggan run, Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

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passes with complimentary fares to under 16’s (see pages 118-119).

For thrill seekers there are adventure parks with ropes and zips, via ferrata excursions and rock-climbing adventures, toboggan runs and scooter trails whilst the lakes offer paddle boarding, wind and kite surfing, sailing and swimming. Dotted around are interactive exhibitions, child-friendly museums and themed trails, and even a day’s outing on the Chocolate Train from Montreux.

Lake Fuschl, Austria

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For children

Complimentary child seats

Facilities for younger guests are highlighted

For youngsters between 2 and 11 years, we

Family friendly

on the hotel pages and may include

offer complimentary inflatable booster seats

Many of our hotels offer

separate pools, paddling pools or sections of

for you to take on holiday, and keep! Once

interconnecting rooms, children’s pools,

the main pool specifically for children, mini

you’ve booked, we’ll put you in touch with

play areas and children’s clubs and we

clubs for youngsters of varying ages,

Bubblebum who will send the seat/s to you

can highly recommend the following

dedicated play areas, babysitting services,

or your travel agent.

hotels for families with young children.

menus. Our featured hotels normally provide

Children’s clubs & babysitting

Austria

high chairs, and cots (payable locally), and

Many hotels have babysitting services and

Top of the recommendations comes

many feature sports facilities designed to suit

some run children’s clubs. Babysitting

Ebner's Waldhof, Fuschl am See with a

the whole family. Some hotels provide

services and children’s clubs are payable

children’s club 5 days a week,

kettles, fridges and sometimes even

locally in resort and our reservations team

playroom, adventure playground,

microwaves, and if any of these additional

can advise you about specifics when you

stable-home for pony petting, lovely

facilities are important to you, simply contact

book.

family outdoor pool and the hotel’s

early meal times and special child-friendly

own private lakeside beach; plus, in the

our reservations team for details.

surrounding area, there are hikes

Child prices

Guaranteed interconnecting rooms

Many hotels offer substantial reductions and

Many of our hotels are able to offer

biking around Lake Fuschl.

sometimes free stays to the first child

interconnecting rooms and suites.

(normally 2-11 years) when they share a

Switzerland

Interconnecting rooms may be requested for

room with two full fare paying passengers.

your arrival at the hotel, although wherever

Beausite Park Hotel Wengen offers a

Children enjoying reduced prices can only

possible, we will guarantee these at the time

be accommodated where there is sufficient

of booking.

children’s menu in the restaurant and a playroom. Hotel Waldhaus Sils has interconnecting rooms, a club for 3-12

space and it may be that a child price can only be given in a superior or deluxe room or

Single occupancy

suite because the standard room can only

Whether travelling alone or with friends and

accommodate two guests. Where there is

family, some of our guests prefer not to share

sufficient space in a room for four

a bedroom or suite and wish to book a

occupants, a reduction may be available

single room or a twin room or suite for sole

for a second child. Many child-friendly hotels

occupancy. We can easily give you an

offer reductions to older children and

instant price which, if applicable, will also

children staying in separate rooms (i.e. not

include the additional charge levied for sole

sharing with an adult), and some hotels are

use of a private transfer.

willing to give discounts or even free stays to children sharing a room with one adult

suitable for little legs and some leisurely

Forest Fun Park, Zermatt, Switzerland

year olds, a playroom and playground and, for teens aged 12 and above, there are organised excursions and activities during high season. The Kids Corner at Fairmont Le Montreux Palace is free for children aged 4-12 and operates mid July to mid August and there are interconnecting rooms and a children only section in one of the restaurants.

Ebner's Waldorf, Austria

(normally under these circumstances the adult will pay the equivalent of a sole use supplement).

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13

Mountain hiking & cycling Exploring on foot is one of the very best ways to appreciate the spectacular scenery and good starting points for discovering the best walks are the local tourist offices as many run complimentary guided walking programmes, and some of our hotels feature their own weekly programmes of guided walks with professional guides. Must-do scenic trails are best started from the top stations of the mountains

where there’s often a choice of plateau strolls, gentle forest walks and numerous challenging hikes; each giving the opportunity to spot flora, animals, and birds of prey in spectacular surroundings.

Detailed maps are normally available from tourist offices, some downloadable for your phone or iPad, and trails are well signposted often with approximate timings as well as distances.

Zermatt-Matterhorn, Switzerland

Zermatt-Matterhorn, Switzerland

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Austria Austria offers spectacular, accessible

Cycling

scenery. Cable cars and railways carry you

Many of our featured resorts,

to peaks from which hiking and walking trails

particularly in Austria and Switzerland,

for all levels are well marked. A star of

are hotspots for cyclists who

summer hiking is Kitzbuhel with 1,000km of

appreciate the limitless opportunities

hiking trails; the local tourist office offers free

and well maintained roads. There are

guided hikes five times a week from mid-

cycles and mountain bikes for hire as

May until late October. Salzkammergut is

well as further two-wheeled fun on

perfect for gentle strolls along lakeshore and

scooters and dirt-bikes. To make light

woodland trails whilst Mayrhofen is a hikers’

work of the hills, e-bikes with small

paradise with access to the tall peaks of the

electric motors, are available to rent.

Zillertal Alps. Seefeld is a start point for 650km

Cycle routes and mountain bike trails

of walking, hiking, fixed rope and Nordic

range from easy, which can be

walking routes; The King’s Trail is a

attempted on most rental bikes, to

challenging three hour walking route across the summits and the Culture Hiking Trail features numerous historical monuments.

Italy There’s a magic to walking in the Italian

expert, for which a higher level of Jungfrau, Switzerland

Switzerland

fitness and cycling confidence is needed. Kitzbuhel has 14 specific routes featured in a tourist office guide book and mountain bikers have a

Switzerland has more than 65,000km of well

Lakes, heightened by the brooding

dedicated map with 800km of trails.

signposted way-marked trails and The Swiss

presence of rugged mountains and the

Mayrhofen offers 800km of cycle and

National Park features 21 hiking routes

aching romance of the region’s emerald

mountain bike routes, some climbing

comprising 80km of trails whilst the Engadine

waters. For more challenging walking, Lake

to 2,000m whilst the Zillertal Valley

Valley offers a total of 580km. Above Lake

Garda rewards whilst, the meadows,

Cycle Path runs along the broad

Geneva, terraced vineyards of Lavaux form

vineyards and woodlands surrounding Lakes

valley floor, ideal for leisure cyclists

a wonderful backdrop for walkers and the

Maggiore and Como veer towards gentler

and families. Seefeld is widely

Montreux quayside extends along the shores

rambles.

renowned as one of the most multi-

for views of the mountains. Walk the history-

faceted biking areas in the Alps.

Slovenia

themed Swiss Path around Lake Lucerne or take cable cars and funiculars to Bre and

Walking and hiking around Bled is a

San Salvatore from Lake Lugano. In the

delightful way to discover the wild beauty of

Jungfrau area, from Kleine Scheidigg enjoy

the Julian Alps, including Triglav, the

a three hour hike down to Grindelwald or,

country’s highest mountain. Relaxed lakeside

less than two hours to Wengen. And for

and woodland walks and mountain hikes

courageous walkers, there's a thrill walk at

are a great way to discover Slovenia’s

Birg above Murren; starting at 3,000m, only

traditional rural life.

the brave will glance down through the mountainside’s exciting glass bridge.

Higher altitude, lower temperatures Beneath clear skies, temperatures can drop one degree centigrade for each 100m climbed and you need to be aware when visiting high resorts such as St Mortiz (1,822m), Murren (1,650m) or travelling to the top of cable cars at Glacier 3000 or Jungfraujoch where, at 3,466m, temperatures will be cooler than in the warm valleys below.

Above 3,000m, air is noticeably thinner and the sun’s rays can easily burn so covering up with long sleeves and high factor sun screen is recommended. At these higher altitudes the drier air means you breathe out more moisture so it’s important to keep hydrated, drinking more water than normal. As those who frequent the mountains know, weather conditions change rapidly without warning and it’s advisable to carry additional layers of clothing and a waterproof whether you’re hiking, cycling or simply sightseeing.

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15

Explore beautiful gardens

Playing an important part within the history of European art and architecture, the delightful gardens of Italy and Austria tend to fall into two distinct categories.

Formal Baroque gardens were designed to follow geometric layouts and planted with artificially trimmed plants and trees, and often on an enormous scale, complex, and rich with the ornamentation of classical statues and sweeping vistas. In later

years, the desire to make gardens convey a more natural style resulted in the development of the landscape-style garden based on the forms of the surrounding topography. Austrian gardens tend to be on a palatial scale, island gardens of the Italian lakes are among the most beguiling in the world, and Swiss gardens often reflect the importance of preserving its very beautiful natural environment.

Mirabell Palace & Gardens, Salzburg, Austria

Isola Bella Gardens, Lake Maggiore, Italy

16

Belvedere Gardens, Vienna, Austria

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Austria

Italy

Mirabell Gardens, Salzburg

Isola Bella Gardens, Lake Maggiore

Opened in 1854, the Mirabell Gardens are a

Commissioned by Count Carlo Borromeo in

gem of garden architecture. The underlying

1632, Isola Bella Garden is an extraordinary

geometrical form, rich floral ornamentation,

Baroque ship-like dreamscape situated in

precisely trimmed trees, decorative urns and

the lake and only accessible by boat.

balustrades are all typical of early Baroque

Wrought iron gates and grassy piazzas give

landscaping. Subsequent redesigns include

way to huge, overblown statues and

latticed walkways flanked by linden and

architectural adornments, including an

beech trees and a hedge theatre. The

immense, wedding cake amphitheatre

Grand and Pegasus fountains enrich the

topped by the Borromeo unicorn. Open

beauty of the garden whilst the dwarf

from mid-March to late October, entry is

garden, the oldest of its kind in Europe,

approximately €15 although free to RHS

features 28 white marble statues. Open daily

members.

from 6am to dusk, admission is free.

Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens, Schonbrunn Gardens, Vienna

Lake Maggiore

Schonbrunn Palace is Vienna’s no. 1

Set aside approximately 1½ hours to

attraction not least for its accompanying

discover the stunning botanical garden at

park and Baroque garden, created to

Villa Taranto in Pallanza. It’s the creation of

Slovenia

outshine Versailles. The Orangery is the

Captain Neil McEacharn who, in the 1930’s,

Ljubljana Botanic Gardens

world’s longest, the Great Palm House, an

set out to construct an English garden which

Ljubljana Botanic Gardens are an oasis of

impressive iron-framed structure. There are

today hosts more than 20,000 species in a

green close to the centre of the city.

Roman ruins, a butterfly house, an English

truly beautiful setting between mountain

Established in 1810, the gardens are home to

garden, a French garden and a maze, plus

and lake. Open daily from mid-March to

more than 4,500 different species and

the highlight, the Great Parterre, a vast

end of October, admission is €10 with

subspecies. One third of them are endemic

sculpted garden including 32 mythological

reductions for children.

to Slovenia, while the rest originate from

statues in front of the Neptune Fountain and

Isola Bella Gardens, Lake Maggiore, Italy

other parts of Europe and other continents.

a small hill crowned by the Gloriette, a vast

Villa Carlotta Gardens, Lake Como

The gardens, collaborating with many

facade with café and observation deck.

Dating from the 17th century, there are

botanical gardens worldwide, are involved

Open daily from 8.30am, admission is

delightful terraces of geometrical

in scientific research and play an important

payable with reductions for Vienna Card

flowerbeds, small basins, gargoyles and

role in the protection of Slovenia's

holders and children.

fountains although the gardens really owe

endangered, vulnerable and rare species.

their reputation to colourful springtime

Open daily, there’s a €3 per person charge

displays of rhododendron and azalea. There

for admission to the tropical glasshouse.

are many varieties of camellia, century old cedar and sequoia, huge plane trees,

Switzerland

tropical plants, a rock garden, the ferns

Villa Ciani Gardens & Park, Lake Lugano

valley, a Japanese bamboo garden and a

Overlooking the lake, Villa Ciani gardens are

museum. Open daily from 10 March to 5

a delightfully pretty place to stroll. In the

November, admission is €10 for the museum

shade of centuries-old trees, paths meander

and garden with reductions for children.

amongst beautiful wide flower beds adorned with statues and fountains, winding

Villa Ciani Gardens & Park, Lake Lugano, Switzerland

through beautifully manicured English style, bright green lawns. From the boathouse to the river, the landscape is less formal, dotted with indigenous oak, lime, linden, maple and sycamore. Open daily, admission is free.

Alpine Garden at Schynige Platte Surrounded by the mighty trio of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau peaks, visitors to the Schynige Platte Alpine Garden can admire over 600 plant species, more than two thirds of Switzerland’s entire Alpine flora, in their natural habitat high above the Swiss treeline.

Created in 1928 from Alpine meadows this garden was the very first of its kind. The garden is accessed directly from the platform of the Schynige Platte station with complimentary entry to rail ticket holders.

Both garden and railway are open from late

Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria

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May/early June to late October.

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17

Winter in the lakes and mountains of Europe is magical as snow clad mountains and icy lakes glisten in the brightest sunshine. Outside the air is invigorating, inside there’s the cosy warmth of open fires and steaming mulled wine. There’s a wonderland of cross country trails, snow-shoe hikes, curling and ice skating on frozen lakes, horse drawn sleigh rides through snowy lanes, tobogganing, mountain

excursions to the highest peaks, and winter kayaking plus the chance to indulge in serious relaxation in Europe’s finest hotel spas. During November and December the captivatingly traditional Christmas markets fill the air with scents of sizzling bratwurst, hot coal braziers, fragrant spicy punch, and roasting chestnuts.

Christmas markets & winter pursuits St Wolfgang, Switzerland

Christmas market, St Wolfgang, Switzerland

18

Christmas market, Vienna, Austria

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Christmas markets

Switzerland

Austria

Lucerne 30 Nov-19 Dec

Wolfgangsee 23 Nov-23 Dec

At Lucerne’s Christmas market 70 wooden

Wolfgangsee hosts some of the most

stalls huddle around Franziskanerplatz in front

magical of all Christmas markets; travel from

of Santa Maria Church. A huge advent

market to market by festive lake boat

wreath adorns the fountain and hundreds of

services to St Wolfgang, Strobl and St Gilgen.

pretty lights, and candles four metres high,

Each market has its own theme from

illuminate the winter skies. Brass bands and

candles, torchlight and warming braziers, to

choirs, crepes and mulled wine add to the

Baroque stalls and exquisite nativity scenes.

festive atmosphere whilst shoppers select

The centrepiece is a vast floating lantern.

traditional wooden toys, colourful knitted

There’s also the Advent steam train which

hats and scarves, hand-crafted jewellery

ascends the snowy Schafberg Mountain.

and delightful candles. There’s a lakeside fairy tale ice-rink and a traditional market on Mount Pilatus, 2,000m above sea level.

Salzburg 22 Nov-26 Dec Choral singing from the cathedral and the chiming bells of Baroque churches sound

Montreux

the approach of Christmas at Salzburg’s

24 Nov-24 Dec

centuries-old festive market. The delicious scent of gingerbread and spice fills the air above a mouth-watering array of edible treats. Stalls sparkle with jewellery, baubles, festive decorations and toys. On Mozartplatz the ice rink beckons, and skaters are welcomed with warm punch and cinnamoninfused mulled wine.

Vienna 17 Nov-24 Dec Vienna has been hosting Christmas markets since 1298; the streets of the city lend themselves to the Christmas spirit, and, nowadays, advent sees the Boulevard Ringstrasse sparkle with twinkling lights. The City Hall Square fills with the aroma of festive baking, hot punch and roasting chestnuts, and myriad stalls selling seasonal treats, handicrafts and decorations. City Hall Park is transformed into a skating and curling rink, and magical installations for children tell the story of Christmas.

Italy Verona 18 Nov-26 Dec Elegantly illuminated and beautifully decorated wooden houses inhabit Verona’s Piazza dei Signori in the run-up to Christmas.

Vendors sell stylish glass ornaments, wooden carvings and ceramics, as well as gastronomic specialities and delicious Christmas cakes. Mulled wine, bratwurst, stollen fruit cake and lebkuchen biscuits are

Montreux Noël is quite an event. The Christmas market features over 150 illuminated chalets along Grand Rue and the quays of Lake Geneva. There’s a Magic Garden with illuminated sculptures and sound and light shows while the Elves Village, in the gardens of Casino Barriere, invites children to visit Santa’s workshops, meet his reindeer and enjoy various circus and marionette performances. At weekends, a medieval enchantment sees the Chateau de Chillon transform into a world of magical characters on stilts, jugglers, storytellers and dancers. Santa Claus’ house is within the grotto at Rochers de Naye and his sleigh, doubtless guided by Rudolph’s red nose, flies over the shores of Lake Geneva.

Christmas Market dates for 2019 were not available at the time this brochure went to print, although dates are usually very similar each year they can vary and some of the activities promoted here may only occur on certain days. Whilst we have taken every care to ensure that published dates are accurate, we recommend that you check details with us prior to booking if a particular event during the Christmas Market festivities is important to the enjoyment of your holiday.

served amidst the colours, lights and sounds of Christmas.

Winter pursuits Once the numerous lakes freeze over there’s curling, ice skating, ice yachting, kayaking and even ice fishing whilst back on snow-covered mountains and pastures there are winter hikes with snow-shoes. For fun and action, snow-bikes give an adrenalin rush for downhill fun and snow-tubes, soft rubber rings, are popular with children of all sizes. Those searching for romance need look no further than a horse-drawn sleigh ride where only the crunching of snow and tinkling of sleigh bells can be heard.

Zermatt-Matterhorn, Switzerland

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19

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express The legendary Venice SimplonOrient-Express offers an overnight travel experience unlike any other. As you board you step back into a more gracious, elegant age where your personal cabin steward attends to your every comfort and will show you to your private cabin boasting gleaming wood marquetry, polished brass, soft towels and crisp linen. Your cabin provides a restful retreat offering panoramic

20

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views of ever changing landscapes as the train travel through the Swiss, Austrian and Italian Alps. Dining on board is divine; start with an aperitif in Bar Car '3674', famous for its delicious cocktails, then on to one of the three restored dining cars where softly muted lighting enhances the relaxed mood, and fine linen, sparkling silverware and superb crystal set the scene for an experience to remember.

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London to Venice Normally, customers from the UK book the

Itinerary

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from London

London-Venice

to Venice and return to the UK by air, but we

Depart London mid-morning on either a

can of course book this most luxurious of

Thursday or Sunday aboard the Belmond

trains as a return journey, London-Venice-

British Pullman and arrive in Venice in the

London. Or, you may prefer to start your

late afternoon the next day (either Friday

holiday with a flight to Venice and end your

or Monday). As this brochure goes to print,

holiday extravagantly by returning to the UK

trains are scheduled to depart from

on the train. Whichever you prefer simply let

London Victoria station at 10am, and arrive

our reservations team organise your itinerary

at 5.25pm the following day at Santa Lucia

for you. Please note that itinerary details are

station in Venice. However, timings may be

correct at time of brochure printing,

subject to change and will be confirmed

however they may be subject to alteration.

on your travel documents.

For guests who begin their train journey in London, you will board the art deco

As you board the gleaming carriages of

carriages of its sister train, Belmond British

the Belmond British Pullman train at London

Pullman, for a silver service brunch as the

Victoria station, simply sit back and enjoy a

train makes its way to Folkestone before

Opera lovers

silver service brunch and a Bellini cocktail

boarding a private coach for your channel

As the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express stops in

as you make your way to the south coast.

crossing.

Verona shortly before its arrival in Venice you

On arrival at Folkestone your hostesses

can alight here to enjoy four days in this

escort you onto the coach transfer shuttle

historic city and the world-famous operas in

service through the Channel Tunnel to

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express operates

the Arena di Verona. As a guide, a short

France.

on the Continent every year between mid-

three-night break to Verona travelling

March to mid-November; it is a delightful

overnight from London to Verona on the

way to travel at any time during this season,

train, staying in Due Torri Hotel (page 63) for

and we’re happy to book either a return

2 nights and returning by air to London costs

journey on the train for you, or the outbound

from £3,013 per person in April and from

or return journey combined with flights either

£3,063 per person in May, based on two

from London to Venice, or Venice to London.

adults sharing a twin cabin on the train.

When to go

We can tailor make your holiday to your own personal requirements, simply let us know the dates that you would like to travel and your choice of hotel/s. As a guide, a short fortnight break to Venice travelling overnight from London to Venice on the train, staying in Baglioni Hotel Luna (p67) for 3 nights and returning by air to London costs from £3,585 per person in April, and from £3,720 per person in May, based on two adults sharing a twin cabin on the train.

Once in France, at Calais Ville, the immaculate carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train awaits your arrival. After settling comfortably into your private cabin, you have time to relax and then dress for dinner. You can never be overdressed on the Venice Simplon-OrientExpress train. For dinner, men are asked to

Vienna by luxury train Another fabulous treat is to enjoy the luxury of an overnight Venice SimplonOrient-Express journey between Venice and Vienna (depart 5.45pm, arrive 9.45am the next day) or from Vienna to London (depart 2.02pm, arrive 5.30pm the next day). These exclusive journeys in May, September and October are limited to just three a year; please contact us for dates and prices.

wear a suit and tie and women dress in smart attire, but many guests like to don black tie or evening dress for the occasion.

You’ll no doubt wish to sample an aperitif or two before making your way to one of the three magnificent restaurant cars where you will be served a delicious fourcourse evening meal prepared by one of the many skilled French chefs. And when you are eventually ready to retire, you’ll be delighted to return to your cabin which will have been transformed into a cosy bedroom by your Cabin Steward.

After a relaxing night, you’ll awake to the magnificent scenery of the Swiss Alps as a continental breakfast is served in your cabin. Spend the morning in the Bar Car chatting to fellow guests over coffee before a leisurely three-course lunch which is served in another of the beautiful restaurant cars. While away the afternoon with a visit to the on board boutique to purchase souvenirs or simply relax in your cabin and admire the passing scenery as the train travels through the Italian Dolomites. Later, afternoon tea is served in your cabin and all too soon it is time to prepare to disembark as the train crosses the Venetian Lagoon and pulls into Venice’s Santa Lucia station.

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21

Your travel options Most of us appreciate the speed of flying to our chosen holiday destination and, because our expert Classic team can book any flight from any airport in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, you simply choose your departure airport, day, date and time. Our flexibility also means that you could fly in to one airport in Europe and back from another, whatever suits you best.

We also appreciate, however, that there’s more to travel than by air, and we understand that some customers prefer, for personal, environmental or romantic reasons, not to fly and, as we tailor-make each and every holiday, we can include return rail travel from the UK, or Channel crossings by Eurotunnel or ferry if you’d prefer to take your own car.

Jungfrau, Switzerland

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Fly direct

Rail travel via Paris

Most Classic customers prefer to fly from their

With good rail links between the UK and

local airport whenever possible and we are

Europe, travel by rail can be enjoyable and

able to book direct scheduled, charter or no

stress free. European trains are frequent,

frills flights from a wide range of UK airports

comfortable, punctual and reliable. When

although we can also book connecting

you travel by rail, you can decide on the

flights through Gatwick and Heathrow with

route and services you want to use (high

British Airways from your local airport. Once

speed, overnight, local) as well as the

you reach your destination, we normally

places you’d like to stop along the way.

organise private transfers to whisk you to

If you’ve lots of time to spare, you could

your hotel although you may elect to drive a

even leave your bags in the luggage

hire car from the airport or, in Switzerland, we

facilities in Paris and spend time exploring

Europe by Eurostar

recommend onward travel by first class rail.

before joining your onward connection.

In under 17 hours, take the Eurostar to

It’s always up to you, however, to choose

Or before travelling on to your final

Paris and board an overnight sleeper

what mode of transport suits you best. Simply

destination, you could stay for a couple of

train to arrive in Venice the next morning;

let us know your preferences.

nights in France’s capital; see our Cities

perhaps not quite as romantic as the

brochure or ask for details about booking

Venice Simplon-Orient Express journey but

Fly & drive

one of our featured Paris hotels as part of

fun none-the-less. The quickest rail

We can organise a fly drive holiday

your two centre or multi centre trip.

journeys comprise the Eurostar from St Pancras, Ebbsfleet or Ashford with journey

combining your favourite hotel choices with the flexibility of driving your own hire car

Legendary Swiss Railways

straight from the airport; a great way of

It’s easy to travel from London to Paris or

two and three hours; there are three

discovering your destination, basing yourself

Brussels by Eurostar and onwards to Zurich or

seating options available: standard,

in different hotels along the way. We tailor-

Geneva where the Swiss transport system is

standard premier with comfier seating

make every holiday and are delighted to

legendarily efficient with a delightfully

and a light meal, and business premier

help create your own preferred itinerary

joined-up network of railways, buses, lake

which includes an at-seat three course

within any of our featured resorts. Do give us

steamers, mountain railways and cable cars.

meal and drinks, or breakfast on the

a call to discuss your ideas.

Although we are happy to quote for private

morning services.

road transfers if requested, we recommend,

Once you reach Gare du Nord in Paris,

Self-drive from the UK

and include as standard, scenic first class rail

We can book Eurotunnel or P&O ferry

transfers in our holidays to Switzerland.

crossings from Dover or Folkestone to Calais.

Importantly, if your holiday includes rail

Taking your own car to mainland Europe

transfers then you will be provided with a

provides you with the ultimate in flexibility

First Class Swiss Card which also offers

and freedom and the opportunity to take

around 50% reduction on the purchase of

your time and perhaps spend a night or two

any additional tickets (representing the

in a hotel along the way. Please call us to

equivalent of a public half fare card worth

discuss various options and prices.

around £100). If you have any under 16’s travelling with you, you will be provided with

Rail travel in Europe

a Swiss Family Card allowing the children to

Travel by rail and you avoid expensive

travel free of charge on the Swiss public

airport car parks, lengthy check-ins and

transport network and most mountain

hefty baggage fees. You can carry more

excursions, provided they are travelling with

luggage with fewer restrictions than when

at least one parent holding a valid Swiss

you fly plus you can enjoy comfortable

Card.

times to Paris or Brussels taking between

you can then join an overnight sleeper train from Gare de Lyon for Milan, Verona or Venice. These journeys involve a short taxi ride, or a two stop Metro transfer between Gare du Nord and Gare de Lyon in Paris. For Austria, take the Eurostar to Brussels then onwards by ICE to Cologne and on by the sleeper service to Vienna. For Slovenia, Eurostar to Paris, onwards by TGV-Lyria to Zurich followed by the sleeper service to Ljubljana.

Switzerland can be reached in a day via Eurostar to Paris or Brussels, with onward journeys dependent upon your final destination. Please note that there are varying classes of seats and many

seating and can move around throughout

different types of overnight sleeper

your journey. Trains within Europe provide an

compartments and you should contact

efficient high speed service between cities.

us to find out more about various

Catering services are usually provided by

specifics and prices.

coffee bars or restaurants, and it is worth paying additional supplements, normally minimal, to travel first class for the most

Schedules Do please bear in mind that although

enjoyable of rail experiences.

timings vary little from year to year, it is

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

more than six months ahead of your

Venice is possibly the world’s most romantic city in the world and with Classic, you can travel overnight from London by the worldfamous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (see pages 20-21); perfect for a special anniversary or land-mark celebration.

not possible to confirm Eurostar seats travel date, and for some high-speed European trains, the timings cannot be confirmed, nor the seats booked, until three months prior to travel. We can, however, book the rest of your holiday, giving an indication of the total price, and then finalise the details as the various rail options become available to book.

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23

Welcome to Austria Mountain peaks, majestic architecture, museums, Mozart and music, plus the sound of it, are ineluctably linked to Austria and provide numerous reasons why this relatively small country in the heart of Europe is Britain’s favourite destination for a summer holiday amongst high peaks and scenic lakes. Outdoor and urban cultures co-exist beautifully. The stunning beauty of the Alpine hinterland, its flower-filled

meadows and sheer mountain flanks dissected by vista-friendly railways, gives way to the Baroque masterpiece that is Salzburg and the Imperial splendour of Vienna. Austria also boasts some of Europe’s most diverse museums and avantgarde architecture in addition to the most sophisticated of bars, cafés and restaurants where tradition and contemporary chic combine effortlessly.

Walking in Kitzbuhel

Shafbergbahn train, St Wolfgang

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Mayrhofen

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The great outdoors Austria offers spectacular scenery which is wonderfully accessible. Cable cars and scenic alpine railways carry you to stunning mountain peaks overlooking sparkling lakes.

Hiking, walking and cycling trails for all levels and abilities are well marked and easily manageable. The leisurely progress of boats on water often sets the tempo for a relaxing holiday and, throughout the Austrian Lake District, ferries, paddle steamers and rowing boats compete to transport you as serenely, and on lakes such as Fuschl where motorised transport is proscribed, as silently, as possible.

Lidos and terraces, with sun loungers and lakeside cafés, add to the sense of peace, tranquillity and enjoyment.

Lake Wolfgangsee

Cuisine Viennese cuisine is often conflated with

sauerkraut and dumplings. Saftgulasch is a

Austrian cuisine but, although Viennese

Art & culture

beautifully tender beef stew; an Austrian twist

cuisine has spread throughout Austria, the

To say that the Habsburgs were enthusiastic

of the traditional Hungarian dish. Some sweet

regions also have their own unique variations

patrons of the fine arts and music is

Viennese dishes include Palatschinken,

and a gastronomic heritage reflective of the

something of an understatement. They

pancakes similar to French crêpes, filled with

reach of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire

channelled huge amounts of money into

jam, strudel pastries are filled with apples,

into Italy, Hungary, Bohemia, Germany and

both whilst collecting castles and palaces on

milk-cream or apricots and Kaiserschmarrn

the Balkans. For an introduction to the

a monumental scale. The country is the world

are shredded pancakes served with fruit

variety of Austrian cuisine, the Naschmarkt in

capital of classical music with 10,000 music

compotes. Austrian cakes are so good

Vienna is a great starting point. An ethnic

devotees attending concerts in lavishly

they’re bad and none better or worse than

melting pot full of exotic scents, there’s row

gilded concert halls almost every evening.

Sachertorte; two layers of chocolate cake

after row of food stalls selling fruit,

Music festivals in Salzburg and Bregenz are

smothered with apricot compote to be

vegetables, spices, seafood, pastas, pickles,

staged against uplifting lakeside and

enjoyed with coffee in a typical Kaffeehaus.

mountain backdrops and people dance the

breads and cheeses. Between the stalls are small bistros, as varied and culturally diverse as the market itself. Naschmarkt is open every day apart from Sunday; get there early to absorb the sights and flavours at their best and freshest. Traditional Austrian dishes heavily depend on pork, beef, chicken, turkey and goose. Of course, there’s Wiener schnitzel, veal coated in breadcrumbs, and also Tafelspitz, boiled beef, Beuschel, a ragout of veal lungs and heart, and Selchfleisch, smoked meat with

Austrian etiquette

Viennese waltz at more than 400 balls a year.

But Austrian air is not only filled with music but

Formal greetings and good manners are

with visual art and stunning architecture and

important, and almost compulsory, in Austria.

more than one hundred museums exhibit

When meeting someone you'll more than

significant world artworks from every era.

likely hear Gruss Gott, whatever the time of day. Not only is it customary, but it is also

Resorts

expected, that you will return the same

Seefeld offers outstanding beauty and

salutation. In coffee houses and restaurants

positively brims with Tyrolean culture. Hiking

the waiter will expect to hear Herr Ober, Mr

and cycling routes are plentiful and varied

Waiter, from diners seeking attention.

and there are numerous festivals and events to enjoy throughout the summer. Mayrhofen is a lively village and one of the most popular summer resorts in the Tyrol, offering an unrivalled range of activities, excursions and events. Charming, medieval Kitzbuhel is a fascinating place to explore; it hosts many international festivals, concerts and open-air events and is a superb area for walking and cycling. Mountains, operetta and some of the most staggeringly beautiful alpine scenery define the Salzkammergut. This is the land of lakes where shorelines, mountain foothills and woodland trails are a heaven for gentle walkers.

St Wolfgang

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Seefeld As popular in summertime as it is in winter, Seefeld perches high on a sunny plateau surrounded by the craggy limestone peaks of the Alps.

This Tyrolean village boasts numerous luxury hotels together with a winning combination of gentle lakeside walks and much more challenging Alpine hikes.

Formerly an ancient farming village and important trading station, Seefeld is located 20km to the northwest of Innsbruck.

Important since medieval times, the village provides its own attractions and landmarks with the photogenic, and many a jigsaw maker’s favourite, the Seekirchl chapel, located at the entrance to the village.

Considered to be the symbol of Seefeld, it’s a picture-perfect, onion-domed white Tyrolean church set against the backdrop of piercingly blue skies, snow-capped peaks and lush, verdant pastures strewn with alpine flowers; you can almost hear the clamouring of the cowbells. Additional sights include the former monastery of the Hotel Klosterbrau

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and the late-Gothic parish church of St Oswald. In Seefeld itself, the centre is pedestrianised with a range of boutiques, cafés, restaurants and bars and many visitors take the short scenic train journey directly from Seefeld for a day out in the charming old town of Innsbruck with its wealth of medieval and imperial architecture, sophisticated boutiques and wide selection of both typical and fine dining restaurants.

Events Events in Seefeld, such as August’s Blumencorso, a flower festival, with floats and giant flower carpets, draws visitors from near and far. A weekly produce market is held in the square and the village festival is held in July when candles are lit, live music performed and stalls proffer a wide selection of traditional delicacies. The craft fair is a celebration of traditional Tyrolean handicrafts and, held at the beginning of September, it helps keep local traditions alive. Many nearby village squares host regular open-air concerts; these range from local bands to visiting Russian Cossacks or touring American school bands. The church still plays a pivotal role and religious processions are regular summer events.

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Seefeld card Seefeld hotels provide guests with an Olympia Region Seefeld card offering access to a programme of complimentary guided walks, free admission to some events and venues and reductions on others, plus a small one-off charge for free use of local buses.

Lake Wildsee Seefeld’s Lake Wildsee, located to the south of the village, is a much-loved spot with locals and visitors for swimming, walking, sunbathing and picnicking. It’s a 45 minute stroll around the lake, a perfect way to spend a first morning or afternoon and is popular with those seeking some relaxation in the sun, bathing, reading, snoozing or spotting the many squirrels and birds. The lakeshore boasts one of Seefeld’s three Kneipp water therapy areas featuring a water-treading basin, an arm basin and a resting area for when you’ve had your fill of the refreshing, invigorating waters. Not surprisingly, this whole Seefeld area is popular all summer; August tends to be the hottest month, June and July are warm but can be quite wet, whilst April, May and September are the driest and possibly the best times to visit.

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AUSTRIA I Seefeld

ASTORIA RESORT H H H H H superior

recommended spa

Seefeld Outstanding wellness complex and award-winning cuisine Enjoying a peaceful location in an impressive

light lunch is also included for half board

20,000m2 park and with glorious views of the

guests. The impressive ASTORIA Activ Alpin

Tyrolean mountains, the luxurious and chic

Spa offers a wonderful selection of pools, an

Astoria Resort is one of the 24 best hotels in

interconnecting indoor and outdoor pool, a

Austria and boasts a superb wellness

20m infinity lap pool and large outdoor

complex, first class cuisine and personal

Jacuzzi as well as a fabulous natural

service. Extensively refurbished in 2017, guest

swimming lake sited in the immaculately kept

rooms are chic and modern with a warm

gardens. The new Spa Chalet with its

and cosy ambiance. The award-winning

panoramic treatment rooms and spa

restaurant boasts 14 Gault Millau points

facilities caters for those who prefer to

awarded for the 9th year in a row, and

indulge in the nude. A variety of activities are

features a sumptuous breakfast buffet and

organised daily, and the surrounding area is

an exquisite 7-course gourmet dinner, and a

ideal for hiking, cycling and golf.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l ASTORIA Aktiv Alpin Spa with 20m lane infinity outdoor pool, indoor and outdoor panoramic pool, natural swimming lake with Alpine beach, heated saltwater outdoor whirlpool, saunas, steam bath, laconium, Kneipp facility, fitness room, relaxation, area l Spa Chalet with nude facilities, treatment rooms, panoramic sauna, steam bath, shower temple, heated outdoor whirlpool and terrace l Aqua fitness, Qi Gong, cardio workouts, guided hiking tours, Pilates, e-bike hire l Restaurant with breakfast buffet and waiter service 7-course gourmet dinner including salad buffet and cheese board, light lunch, afternoon cake buffet, bar with live piano music (6 times a week), cigar lounge l Conservatory, sun terrace l Reduced green fees and courtesy shuttle to Wildmoos golf club l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 82 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary Seefeld discount card for discounts on a variety of local activities Complimentary guided hiking programme (mountain and hiking) Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 14 (sharing room)

we HIGHLY recommend . .

YOUR OWN RELAXATION PLAN If you register your interest in advance before you arrive by completing the hotel’s questionnaire, an experienced trainer will design an individual and customised schedule of activities and relaxation for you to tailor as you wish before, or when, you arrive. There’s no obligation, of course, but it’s a lovely personalised service to help you enjoy your holiday to the full.

Junior suite grand deluxe

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Half board includes Welcome drink and canapés, hot and cold breakfast buffet, light lunch, afternoon cake buffet, variety of teas, 7-course gourmet dinner with salad buffet and cheese board

www.classic-collection.co.uk I freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1401-£3010 Extra nights from £162 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a Karwendel double room with bath and separate shower and French balcony (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Innsbruck airport on Tuesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes from Innsbruck approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Salzburg

UPGRADES per person per night Karwendel deluxe (max 2) from £27-£73 Harmelekopf junior suite (max 3) from £27-£73 Seefelder Spitze suite (max 4) from £76-£137 Alpine chic wellness junior suite (max 3) from £76-£137 Seefelder Joch wellness junior suite (max 3) from £76-£137 Panorama suite (max 2) from £96-£196 Olympia suite (max 3) from £96-£196 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Mayrhofen Lively, energetic and as traditional as you wish, Mayrhofen is one of the most visited summer resorts in the Tyrol. There’s spectacular scenery, magnificent walks amid gorgeous valleys, kaffeehaus coffee and cakes culture, Tyrolean music and an unrivalled range of summertime events and activities.

One of the most picturesque corners of the Tyrol and a hiker’s paradise during summer, Mayrhofen is set amidst the natural beauty of the Zillertal Alps National Park, the cradle of alpine tourism, and enjoys easy access to some of the tallest peaks in the region, many of which are higher than 3,000 metres. The two mountains between which Mayrhofen sits are Penken and Ahorn whose white winter slopes transform into lush Alpine pastures offering numerous summer activities.

Penken is arguably one of the most spectacular places to visit in Austria and is easily accessed by cable car from the centre of Mayrhofen. Similarly, Ahorn is served by the largest panoramic glass

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gondola in Austria which can transport up to 160 people at any one time. It takes little more than six minutes to reach the plateau which offers spectacular views and fine restaurants and is the starting point for many hikes and trails.

Attractions Tyrolean hospitality and a traditional way of life is evident in the many cafés, craft shops and bars of Mayrhofen. After a day’s hiking in the Alps many walkers while away evenings listening to Tyrolean music and watching traditional dancing at the Europahaus or at one of the delightful summer music festivals. Other festivities include the Almabtrieb, or cattle drive, where livestock, elaborately decorated with flowers and bells especially for the occasion, are brought down into the valleys in September after months grazing on the high Alpine meadows. Attractions close to Mayrhofen include the spectacular Krimml waterfalls, about an hour’s drive away, Lake Achensee, the medieval town of Rattenberg in the Inn Valley, and Swarovski Crystal World, near Innsbruck. For getting around the resort it’s worth buying a Zillertal Activcard for free travel on buses, some trains and cable cars.

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The Zillertal Alps National Park Sitting above Mayrhofen and stretching to cover an area of several hundred square kilometres, the Zillertal Alps National Park is a high alpine conservation area with narrow gorges, glaciated summits, large crystal deposits, 80 glaciers, innate, cultivated landscapes and an extraordinary biodiversity.

There's something to suit everyone, from guided hikes, herbal walks, plateau strolls and challenging ascents to numerous cycle and mountain bike routes alongside the fauna and flora, within this, the largest protected area of the Tyrol. In every sense this is a high-mountain national park, extending from an altitude of 1,000 to over 3,500 metres. The park is home to unique vegetation and rare animal species, which have lived in harmony with hikers, climbers and nature lovers for more than 150 years.

Discover first-hand the characteristics of these cultural landscapes and whilst doing so, assist the park in their conservation work and help towards the preservation of this unique region.

We tailor-make all holidays and can book scheduled, charter or no frills flights from your local airport to Innsbruck or Salzburg.

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AUSTRIA I Mayrhofen

Elisabeth Hotel H H H H superior

only adults

Mayrhofen Modern Tyrolean chic In the centre of Mayrhofen, Elisabeth Hotel is

A 5-course menu of exquisite culinary delights

a blissful retreat exclusively for adults and

is served in the evenings, whilst breakfast is a

boasts fine service, gourmet dining and

tempting buffet, and, after a day hiking in

comfortable accommodation. A modern

the mountains, a delightful selection of

and chic take on the traditional Tyrolean

afternoon snacks await. The wonderful spa

chalet with typical warm wood panelling

features an inviting 17m indoor pool, several

and natural stone used throughout, interiors

types of saunas and a range of indulgent

are complemented by contemporary

beauty treatments. Guests can take

designer furnishings; the fireplace lounge is a

advantage of the complimentary hiking

fabulous spot for relaxing evenings. Bright,

programme as well as hire e-bikes and

comfortable guest rooms and suites are

explore the wonderful Zillertal valley. This

tastefully decorated and furnished in a

hotel is only suitable for adults and does not

harmonious blend of past and present.

allow children under the age of 16 years.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature cable TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Elisense Spa with massage and beauty treatments, saunas, steam bath, indoor pool with whirlpool, gym l E-bikes to hire l Restaurant with breakfast buffet and show kitchen, waiter service 5-course dinner and weekly themed evenings, bar, lounge, wine cellar l Sun terrace l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 70 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary hiking programme Complimentary outdoor parking Dining half board included

we HIGHLY recommend . .

EXPLORING BY E-BIKE Getting out and about by bicycle in the mountains is a great way to explore.

E-bikes, with their small electric motors are readily available for hire and make light work of the hills. Local guides offer guided rides choosing from 800km of cycle trails. Tranquil lanes in small hidden valleys are waiting to be discovered and it’s an easy ride along the broad flat 31km of the Zillertal Valley Cycle Path.

Premium relax room

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

29 May-3 Nov 7 nights from £1258-£1358 Extra nights from £119 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in an authentic mountain view room with shower room and balcony (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Innsbruck airport on Tuesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Innsbruck approximately 2 hours 15 minutes from Salzburg

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe mountain view (max 2) from £10 Premium mountain view (max 2) from £28 Prestige suite mountain view (max 2) from £47 Authentic room mountain view sole use from £50 Bed & breakfast reduction from -£7 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Kitzbuhel Silver and copper were the 16th century routes to wealth for Kitzbuhel and its enviable reputation for prosperity still persists today amidst the designer shops and elegant cafés which adorn the medieval cobbled streets, occupying the vibrantly coloured buildings that make up Glitzy Kitz.

Dating back to medieval Bavaria, Kitzbuhel is one of Austria’s most famous towns in the Tyrol and is an intriguing place to explore. Its frescoed buildings huddle around the Church of St Catherine which casts a long, high Gothic shadow over proceedings; and of those, there are many. From the buzz generated by pavement cafés filled with shoppers happy to spend in the numerous designer boutiques, to the many concerts, local festivals and open-air events that the village-yet-affluent-feel of the place encourages. It was in 1893, with the christening of the first alpine ski run in Austria, that Kitzbuhel’s reputation as the most legendary sports town in the Austrian Alps

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was born. Set in a broad valley basin between the Kitzbuhel Alps and the Kaiser mountains to the north, this is a fantastic area for walking and cycling especially with its scenic and relatively flat valley paths. On the outskirts, Lake Schwarzsee offers great opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and watersports.

Summer activities The star of summer sporting events is hiking, and Kitzbuhel boasts 1,000km of hiking trails for all ability of walker. There are flat valley paths and it’s easy to explore the wide alpine pastures; home to colourful flower meadows and picture-postcard grazing cows and it’s worth visiting the local Tourist Office for details of their five times a week complimentary guided hiking (mid-May to late October). Kitzbuhel is a hotspot for cyclists and road riders who appreciate the well maintained roads and limitless opportunities; there are 14 specific routes featured in a small handy guide book whilst mountain bikers have a dedicated map with 800km of trails; e-bikes are available to rent for help on the hills. The Music Festival, from 16-17 August 2019, showcases many musical genres although traditional Austrian and

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European rock tend to top the bill most years. The Food Festival brings street cuisine to the Tyrol with food trucks, outdoor kitchens and stalls passionately demonstrating creative cookery.

Kitzbuheler card The centre of Kitzbuhel is predominantly traffic-free, which makes wandering the medieval streets all the more pleasant. A very efficient local bus service is complemented by rail services from two train stations. Lifts including the Kitzbuheler Horn and Hahnenkamm cable cars, accessible from the centre of town, are open throughout the summer to enable enjoyment of the wonderful views. Purchase a Kitzbuheler Alpen Summer Card for free travel where you want, when you want.

Dining Kitzbuhel features a number of awardwinning restaurants alongside contemporary cafés and family run mountain huts serving hearty and typically Tyrolean goulash and schnitzel. The town boasts its own brewery which also serves food to accompany the Huberbrau Stuberl beers and lagers.

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AUSTRIA I Kitzbuhel

Tennerhof Gourmet & Spa de Charme Hotel H H H H H Kitzbuhel Fabulous views and highly acclaimed, award-winning restaurant Enjoying breathtaking views of Kitzbuhel and

restaurant; awarded with 17 Gault Millau

the world-famous Hahnenkamm, delightfully

points and ranked as one of Austria’s best

traditional Tennerhof Gourmet & Spa de

restaurants for over 30 years, expect

Charme Hotel dates back to the 17th

outstanding regional creations by the award-

century and offers first class service. Set in an

winning chef (Thu-Sun, reservation required).

elevated position in private gardens, this

Romantic candlelit dining is also possible on

family run luxury hotel features individually

the garden terrace. The modern spa features

designed and simply charming guest rooms

a large garden and sunbathing lawn and a

and suites furnished with family heirlooms. A

heated outdoor as well as an indoor pool.

delicious breakfast is served each morning in

There is hiking and mountain biking right on

the main restaurant, where lunch and dinner

the doorstep with tennis and several golf

are also available. Alternatively, dine at the

courses nearby. A member of Relais &

highly acclaimed Kupferstube gourmet

Châteaux and Leading Spa Resorts.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Outdoor swimming pool l Spa de Charme with massage and beauty treatments, sauna, steam room, relaxation room, indoor heated pool l Hotel restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Kupferstube gourmet restaurant with 17 Gault Millau points (Thu-Sun, reservation required), bar, wine cellar l Fishing l Complimentary WiFi l Complimentary shuttle service to golf courses l Direct access to Nordic walking, hiking and mountain biking routes l 4 golf courses and tennis courts locally l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 39 bedrooms and suites & 3 chalets

Early booking offers please call us for early bookings offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Honeymooners complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, plus a room upgrade (subject to availability on arrival) Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 15 (sharing room)

Deluxe room

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

31 May-29 Sep 7 nights from £1582-£1852 Extra nights from £133 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a standard room with bath (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Salzburg airport on Mondays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Innsbruck approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Salzburg

UPGRADES per person per night Superior garden view (max 2) from £15 Deluxe (max 2) from £38 Junior suite (max 3) from £53 Senior suite town view (max 3) from £67-£114 Kaiser suite Maximilian town+m'tain view (max 4) from £128-£176 Kaiser suite Franz Josef town+m'tain view (max 4) from £138-£195 Family suite (max 6) from £304-£361 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Salzkammergut Lakes Salzkammergut is Austria’s Lake District; an area of outstanding natural beauty bejewelled with almost 70 crystal clear lakes. Numerous cycling and hiking trails introduce astonishingly beautifully coloured landscapes, heady scents of flowers, purity of still waters and the absolute majesty of the limestone massifs.

St Wolfgang

Sometimes known as the tenth province of Austria, Salzkammergut stretches out to the east of Salzburg in the central Bavarian region of the Austrian Alps. Its diversity in such a relatively small area is quite unique. It is blessed with enchanting landscapes, delightful valleys, towering mountains, welcoming people and a plethora of cultural events. Much of the region is remote wilderness and there are plentiful isolated areas where peaceful, glassy waters provide limitless opportunities for boating, swimming, fishing or just contemplating on the shore, breathing in nature. Salt was once the white gold of the Salzkammergut and the mines Lake Wolfgangsee

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that made it famous now provide an interesting journey back in time to the settlers of the Iron Age, the Celts and Romans.

Renowned for its hiking and cycling, the 320km long Salzkammergut Long Distance Walking Trail opened in October 2016. The Salzkammergut Cycle Way covers 345km, passing 13 of the lakes and some of the most picturesque villages of the region.

Fuschl Am See Delightful Fuschl am See is tucked away beneath pine forests, gentle hills and mountains on the shores of its serene lake, rightly famed for its emerald waters. As there are no motor boats to disturb the peace, swimming through, or rowing upon, the crystal clear water is particularly pleasurable whilst electric boats provide quicker progress if desired. Fuschl is great for walking, and there’s no better place to start than the promenade around the lake with its shady, tree-lined path passing secluded beaches and small villages, before graduating on to the more challenging hikes of Schober Mountain. Wartenfals Castle is a local 13th century ruin of interest, affording stunning views of the lake. The friendly cafés and bars of Fuschl offer a warm Austrian welcome and

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are perfect for a mid-morning coffee and cake, plus a nightcap or two before bed.

Just 20km from Salzburg, it’s a great base from which to explore the whole of this lovely lakes region.

St Wolfgang Rustic, alluring and charming St Wolfgang lies on the banks of the Wolfgangsee and is framed by its picturesque lakeside church and clapper-board boathouses. The lake plays a dominant role in the life of the town; boat excursions to nearby St Gilgen are particularly popular as are trips on the delightfully original paddle steamers. A must do is the historic Schafberg cog railway, one of the oldest and steepest in Austria; a 30 minute ride takes you to the top of the area’s highest mountain at 1,800m boasting a panoramic view over the glittering lakes of the Salzkammergut. The cobbled streets of St Wolfgang are lined with pretty painted houses and shops and the 14th century church is packed with art treasures. Often the streets come alive in the evenings with brass bands, operetta and classical music concerts. St. Wolfgang is perfectly placed for day excursions to nearby Salzburg.

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Sightseeing

Walking & hiking Walks in and around Fuschl can include visits to the old water mill, the herb garden and the restorative Kneipp Water Garden for hydrotherapy treatments. A 12km circumnavigation of the lake can be interspersed with invigorating swimming or bathing stops and a must do whilst you’re here is a visit to the legendary Schloss fishery and restaurant where whole smoked trout is a famed speciality. If hiking is more your thing, you’ll enjoy the mountain climb up the Schober to the Wartenfels ruins for views of three of the lakes: Fuschl, Mondsee and Hintersee. There are marked trails stretching for more than 130km around St Wolfgang and steeper paths into the hills behind the village lead past traditional farms and unspoiled countryside, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, before taking you up into the mountains. Strobl is a relaxed two hour stroll away and hikers to Zinkenbachklamm and Vormaueralm are rewarded with the ultimate views of the area. All trails are well signposted with waymarks detailing destination and walk numbers.

Cycling

View from Shafberg peak

Road cycling is particularly popular in the area round the lakes and Fuschl am See was proud host to the Eddy Merckx Classic road race in 2015 and 2016.

Additionally there are many superb cycle paths and bike trails in the mountains and across the regions’ valleys. For more leisurely rides, e-bikes are an easy and comfortable way to explore.

Attractions & festivals

Lake Wolfgangsee

Lake Wolfgangsee

Zwolferhorn cable car, St Gilgen

Schafberg cog railway

We tailor-make all holidays and can book scheduled, charter or no frills flights from your local UK airport to Salzburg.

Classic Concierge For further details of excursions and sightseeing possibilities, and to book prior to travel, please

No visitor to St Wolfgang should miss a trip on the historic cog railway to the top of the Shafberg and the views of the many glittering lakes far below. In St Gilgen take the vintage cable car up to the summit of the Zwolferhorn Mountain for stunning views of Wolfgangsee and surrounding areas, in Bad Ischl board the cable car for Katrin Alm, one of the sunniest spots in Upper Austria or enjoy a tour of the Kaiservilla, once the summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I. Trips to Salzburg are extremely popular as are outings to pretty Berchtesgaden and the waterside village of Halstatt. Operetta evenings in St Wolfgang are weekly from June to September, the Elderflower festival is in late June and Summer Night Festivals vary through the summer. Purchasing a Salzkammergut Card gives various reductions in the locality including discounts on buses, cable cars and ferry rides, local attractions, leisure facilities and various activities.

call our dedicated team on 0800 008 7289.

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Salzkammergut Lakes I AUSTRIA

Ebner's Waldhof

Surrounded by unspoilt nature, Ebner’s

H H H H superior

Salzkammergut lake district. The Ebner family,

Fuschl am See

who have run this hotel for three generations,

recommended spa ideal for families

Waldhof is located on the eastern shore of the emerald Lake Fuschl, in the heart of the

have a keen sense of Austrian hospitality, and the ambience is familial, intimate and charming. There are two excellent restaurants from which to select traditional Austrian delicacies, and light, healthy options. The magnificent wellness and spa area covers three floors with six different saunas, an indoor pool and an outdoor

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A WINTERTIME VISIT Summer is beautiful, but winter is magical.

The air is invigorating and there’s tobogganing, snow-biking, curling, iceyachting and cross-country skiing. Imagine horse-drawn sleigh rides, day trips to magical, musical Salzburg, guided winter hikes and snow-shoe adventures through glittering landscapes. Indoors it’s warm and cosy; Gemütlichkeit is the equivalent to hygge!

heated saltwater pool, waterfall, whirlpool and diving pool. In addition to sunbathing on the lawns, the shingle beach leads down to the crystal clear waters of Lake Fuschl where there are rowing boats, paddleboards and kayaks or take the idyllic lakeside trail, enjoy the facilities of the Waldhof golf club (complimentary twice weekly taster sessions) or visit the stables which are home to petting ponies. Close to the festival city of Salzburg, yet surrounded by countryside, Ebner’s Waldhof offers the best of both worlds.

“A wealth of facilities & an intimate ambience”

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AUSTRIA I Salzkammergut Lakes

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Outdoor swimming pool l Waldhof Spa with treatments, indoor pool, whirlpool, 6 saunas, vitality bar l Fitness area, tennis court, archery, 9-hole golf course, mountain bikes, touring bikes and e-bikes l The Main House Restaurant, Gutl Restaurant, Waldhof Alm mountain restaurant l Weekly herbal workshop and sunset boat trip l Children's club and childcare (3+years, supervised 5 days/week) l Evening entertainment with live music l The Waldhof Rossl stables l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 125 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary afternoon snack and cake buffet, plus use of rowing boats, kayaks and paddle boards Golf reduced green fees available for Waldhof Golf Course, plus complimentary golf taster sessions twice a week Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 13 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Half Board includes Breakfast buffet, 4-course dinner with hors d’oeuvre, salad and cheese buffet l Lunch snack buffet of light dishes l Afternoon cake buffet (coffee extra)

Ansitz Schafberg room

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1126-£1473 Extra nights from £115 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a Stammhaus Feldberg side lake view room (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Salzburg airport on Mondays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 45 minutes from Salzburg approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Innsbruck

UPGRADES per person per night Stammhaus Filbling lake view (max 2) from £15 Stammhaus Schafberg side lake view (max 2) from £21 Villa Filbling lake or side lake view (max 2 or 2+2) from £9 Villa Schafberg lake view (max 2 or 2+3) from £26 Ansitz Schafberg lake view (max 2 or 2+3) from £29-£98 Ansitz Osterhorn 1 bed suite forest view (max 2 or 2+3) from £54-£141 Ansitz Osterhorn 2 bed suite lake view (max 4 or 4+3) from £69-£164 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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35

Salzkammergut Lakes I AUSTRIA

Schloss Fuschl A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa H H H H H superior Fuschlsee, Hof bei Salzburg Legendary castle in stunning lakeside setting Beautifully located by Lake Fuschl and

lunch menu of regional specialities and fine

dating back to 1450, Schloss Fuschl has been

international gourmet cuisine in the evenings.

carefully restored and modernised whilst

Experience delightful Austrian coffee house

retaining its historical heritage and its unique

culture or a quiet drink at the Schloss Bar. The

collection of paintings by Old Masters lends

spa is a spacious wellness oasis with an

an air of grandeur. There is a choice of

indoor pool, a range of pampering

elegant and luxurious accommodation with

treatments and a workout area. Recreational

park or lake views; seven extravagant suites

facilities include a 12km long trail around the

are located in the castle tower and for the

lake for walking and jogging, lake fishing, a

ultimate in privacy, lake cottages along the

9-hole golf course, swimming in the lake with

lakeshore boast a sauna, terrace and open

direct access from the hotel’s jetty, and

fireplace. Culinary delights await in the

Salzburg is a mere 20 minutes away by car.

restaurant with its irresistible buffet breakfast,

we HIGHLY recommend . .

GERHARD’S SMOKED FISH Expert fisherman, Gerhard, welcomes locals and visitors alike to the lakeside Castle Fishery for his traditionally rustic fish snacks; normally freshly smoked fish served in a simple bread bun. Also available to purchase, direct from the smoker, his vacuum packed fish; perfect to bring home. Back in the hotel, freshly caught fish from the on-site fishery is served in the multi award-winning Schloss restaurant.

Castle Fishery

Deluxe room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Bathing jetty l Spa with treatments, steam bath, sauna, outdoor whirlpool, indoor heated pool, fitness room l Nordic walking, jogging, bicycles, fishing, 9 hole golf course (par 62) l Schloss Restaurant (15 Gault Millau points) with breakfast buffet, Austrian lunch and international cuisine for dinner, Schloss bar & cigar lounge, jetty boathouse for light meals and drinks (seasonal) l Babysitting service on request l WiFi throughout l Diana Chapel, Sissi Museum l Boutique l Parking l Vintage car tours, boat tours, boat rental available l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 110 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early bookings offers and savings Honeymooners complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability on arrival) Dining half board bookable for entire stay Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 12 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1153-£2834 Extra nights from £138 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a grand deluxe lake view with bath and separate shower (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Salzburg airport on Mondays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 45 minutes from Salzburg approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from Innsbruck

UPGRADES per person per night Junior suite lake view (max 3) from £93-£108 Suite park view (max 4) from £123-£231 Tower suite park or lake view (max 2) from £261-£540 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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AUSTRIA I Salzkammergut Lakes

Romantik Hotel Im Weissen Rossl H H H H superior St Wolfgang Delightful hotel with fine dining Romantik Hotel Im Weissen Rossl dates back

and stunning setting on the lake offers

to the 1470s and, set beside Lake Wolfgang,

Austrian specialities, and breakfast is a hearty

enjoys an enviable location in the heart of

buffet each morning. Further facilities include

the town, where many of the rooms with a

a luxury spa and wellness area with lovely

balcony reap the rewards of the beautiful

views, and a fabulous lido with heated

view. The hotel, which is also known as the

outdoor floating pool which blends into the

White Horse Inn, was brought international

lake itself. A selection of watersports are

fame as the setting for an operetta and has

available and there are hikes to enjoy

played host to stars of stage and screen.

around Lake Wolfgang or on the Schafberg

Certified sommeliers match Austrian fine

mountain, which is also popular with

wines to the cuisine created by the award-

mountain bikers.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

SUPPER AT THE FISHING LODGE Enjoy a rustic evening in the casual atmosphere at White Horse Fishing Lodge about 7.5km from St Wolfgang. As long as there’s sufficient numbers, the hotel’s staff organise an evening outing twice a week and, although you pay for the meal, there’s complimentary transport included.

Freshly smoked local Rossling char and other delicious local dishes are served; it’s

winning chefs at the Romantic Restaurant,

a delightful evening not to be missed.

whilst Seerestaurant with its wonderful terrace

Rossl room with balcony

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Lido with outdoor heated pool l Spa with beauty and massage treatments, sauna, steam bath, indoor pool, fitness room l Romantic Restaurant with buffet breakfast and waiter service in evening, Seerestaurant with Austrian cuisine, Badstuberl snack restaurant, Kaminbar, Felsenkeller wine cellar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 91 bedrooms and suites

Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Dining flexible plan available see page 5 Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 14 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £968-£1481 Extra nights from £90 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a double Rosslgasse room with bath or shower room and balcony (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Salzburg airport on Mondays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 1 hour from Salzburg approximately 3 hours from Innsbruck

UPGRADES per person per night Double lake view (max 2+1) from £32 Rossl mountain view (max 2 or 2+2) from £60-£77 Rossl lake view (max 2+1) from £75-£100 Family (max 2 or 2+2) from £19 Suite (max 2 or 2+2) from £75-£100 Rossl suite lake view (max 2 or 2+2) from £125-£164 Half board from £19 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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37

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Salzburg Undoubtedly one of Europe’s loveliest cities, Salzburg is a Baroque masterpiece set against an operatic backdrop of mountains, forests and rivers. The birthplace of Mozart, it boasts a rich history of music and art whilst the city’s Summer Festival and Christmas market are particular highlights.

Considered the Baroque jewel of the Austrian Alps, Salzburg sits on the banks of the Salzach River with the looming Hohensalzburg Fortress giving the city its unique silhouette; initiated

by Archbishop Gebhard in 1077, this is the largest completely preserved castle in central Europe. Below, Salzburg’s charming Old Town is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site where the maze of narrow cobbled streets gives an undeniable medieval atmosphere contrasting in part with the many grand tall houses and arcaded courtyards that have been re-faced and updated in Italianate Baroque and neo-classical styles. Art galleries, gardens and museums are plentiful and the Leopoldskron Palace & Hohensalzburg Castle

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magnificent Salzburger Dom Cathedral, with its richly decorated marble facade and mighty dome, is the ecclesiastical heart of the city and an unmissable architectural highlight. Salzburg represents quintessential Austria with many landmarks familiar to us through the various singing exploits of Maria and the family von Trapp children in the widely watched and much-loved film, The Sound of Music.

Mozart & music Music is everywhere in Salzburg. Long before Rodgers and Hammerstein’s score for the Sound of Music indelibly linked the stone steps of the city’s Mirabell Gardens to eight notes of a musical scale, conjoined schnitzels with noodles, when everyone knows it should be potatoes, and gave Austria a fictitious anthem, Edelweiss, which some people still believe to be Austria’s national song, there was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. And, as much of the city is now as it was when Mozart lived here 250 years ago, you can visit his place of birth, the cathedral where his parents married, his family residence and even the café, Tomaselli, where he indulged his passion for almond milk. Additionally, for the pleasure of locals and visitors alike, the

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Salzburg Music Festival takes place every summer. Founded by Max Reinhardt and Richard Strauss in the 1920’s, it is one of the world’s finest musical gatherings.

Attractions Not surprisingly, given that the life of the von Trapp Family is inseparably linked to Salzburg, there is a wide variety of lively Sound of Music tours: on foot, on bicycle, or by horse drawn carriage, with or without a singing guide! Salzburg also comes alive in winter when the medieval ambiance shines with the festive glow of its celebrated Christmas market. In 2019, from 22 November to 26 December, the lights will be lit, there’ll be incense in the air and choral singing from the cathedral steps. Stunning nativity scenes are annotated with the warming sounds of brass and traditional wind instruments. Salzburg is the perfect city to explore on foot or bike, or by the enviably reliable public transport system. A Salzburg Card permits free and discounted use of transport and entry in to most museums and attractions.

We tailor-make all holidays and can book scheduled, charter or no frills flights from your local airport to Salzburg.

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AUSTRIA I Salzburg

Sheraton Grand Salzburg H H H H H Salzburg On the edge of Mirabell Gardens Set right on the edge of the glorious Mirabell

piano bar with its summer terrace is a great

Gardens and facing the 17th century

spot for refreshing cocktails, or coffee and

Mirabell Palace, five star Sheraton Grand

pastries. In addition, there is an on-site fitness

Salzburg is ideally located for discovering the

centre with gym, sauna, steam bath and

city’s historical landmarks, culture and

massage treatments.

shopping; the old town is a mere ten minute walk away, with Mozart’s birthplace and the famous shopping street Getreidegasse about 15 minutes on foot. Tastefully furnished guest

Mirabell Gardens, Salzburg

rooms and suites have park or city views. The hotel’s elegant Mirabell Restaurant tempts with culinary delights, restaurant taste.it. offers a classic Italian menu, and the cosy

Deluxe room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Fitness centre with gym, sauna, steam bath, massage facilities l Restaurant Mirabell with international and local cuisine, Italian restaurant taste.it. l Piano bar and terrace l Complimentary WiFi throughout l Access to public indoor pool at Kurhaus Spa l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 166 bedrooms and suites

Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £657-£1236 Extra nights from £126 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic room, bath with shower (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Salzburg airport on Mondays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes from Salzburg approximately 2 hours 20 minutes from Innsbruck

UPGRADES per person per night Executive (max 2) from £50-£127 Club garden view (max 3) from £177-£270 Junior suite city view (max 3) from £296-£399 King suite (max 3) from £397-£609 Classic sole use from £151-£340 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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39

Hofburg Palace

Vienna Stunning collections of Old Masters, a dazzling musical heritage, equine brilliance, choral magnificence, opulent café culture and an audacious confection of architectural styles; Vienna has it all; and that it’s steeped in history and loaded with charisma, heaps additional icing on the Viennese cake.

Few are cities as enchanting and captivating as Vienna. Musically and culturally it is one of the world’s richest cities with a wonderful assortment of galleries and palaces, bars and cafés, shops and street markets. It’s a capital that charms and seduces with an almost endless inventory of things to see and do, whenever you visit. In April, the gardens and parks blossom whilst outdoor festivals and open-air parties crowd May and June.

One of world’s largest free musical festivals, Donauinselfest, boasting more than 2,000 acts encompassing every musical genre and drawing an estimated 3 million visitors, occupies an island in the Danube in late Christmas market

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June. The cooling river and canals take the heat out of July and August, although concert halls, the state-run opera and theatres are closed. September is milder, ideal for exploring the countryside and enjoying the new season’s cultural calendar.

Winter glows with Christmas markets and the ball season sweeps you off your feet from New Year to spring.

Music, art & dining Vienna is alive with music, hardly surprising given that the back-catalogue of the city’s formidable musical heritage includes the works of Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert, Strauss, both senior and junior, and Brahms and Mahler. Performances are frequent and the venues appealing; be it the gold and crystal of the State Opera House, the fine acoustics of the Musikverein, home to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, or the variation of the multistage Konzerthaus. The Viennese appreciation of the finer things in life extends to wining and dining at all price points. There are opulent coffee houses serving spectacular cakes, pub-like Beisln dishing up hearty portions of wiener schnitzel and goulash; an astonishing number of Michelin-starred restaurants, whilst fine

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Austrian wines can be sampled in Vinothek wine bars and the more rustic Heurigen wine taverns. Food for the soul is available at the Museum of Fine Arts amongst the works of Rembrandt, Rubens and numerous Old Masters, with flavours of contemporary art residing in the Museums Quartier.

Architecture & palaces For a city brimming with majestic architecture, central Vienna is surprisingly compact and navigation easy. Most notable sights are concentrated within Ringstrasse, Emperor Franz Josef’s circular boulevard around the inner city. Here, Hofburg Palace incorporates Imperial Chapel where the Vienna Boys' Choir sings Sunday Mass, and the famed Spanish Riding School is home to the elegant equine ballet of Lipizzaner stallions. There’s the State Opera House, Burgberg Theatre and museums aplenty, and the Imperial Apartments with their stunning chandeliers. Palaces include the Baroque Schloss Belvedere and the immense summer residence of the Habsburgs, Schloss Schonbrunn. Further architectural treasures include City Hall and St Stephen’s Cathedral.

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Sightseeing

Vienna State Opera Weiner Staatsoper is one of the world’s most important opera houses. Closely allied to the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, its productions are prodigious boasting close to 60 operas and 10 ballets each year. Eighty minutes prior to each performance, standing room tickets from as little as €4 are sold; popular with all ages, they now have an almost legendary clientele which is merciless in showing its displeasure with a performance and even louder in voicing approval. The Season runs from late September to early June.

Leopold Museum In an art-collecting career spanning 1950 to 1994, Rudolf Leopold amassed more than 5,000 works valued at more than €550 million. He sold them to the Austrian government for a bargain €160 million, and the Leopold Museum was born; a huge collection of mainly 19th-century and modernist Austrian artworks.

Schloss Schonbrunn The Habsburgs' opulent summer palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site with 1,441 rooms. See 26 of them on an Imperial Tour, or all 40 that are open to the public, on a Grand Tour. Audio guides explain all you need to know about the exquisite interiors, or pay a supplement to learn more from a tour guide.

Belvedere Park

Kunsthistorisches Museum One of the exceptional experiences of any trip to Vienna, this sumptuous neoclassical palace overflows with works by Europe’s finest painters, sculptors and artisans. Amidst a very fine crown, the picture gallery is undoubtedly the jewel.

Vienna Boys Choir

Natural History Museum

Vienna State Opera House

Vienna card A superb public transport system makes for swift progress across the city, and a Vienna Card allows free use of all buses, underground and trams plus discounted entry to many attractions.

An acclaimed concert hall where Music meets Theatre (MuTh), is the relatively new home of the Vienna Boys' Choir where Friday afternoon choral sessions run alongside a full and varied menu of dance, drama, opera, classical, rock and jazz performances; plus Maximilian’s is a great coffee shop!

Spanish Riding School A Viennese institution, this matchless equestrian ballet is performed by graceful Lipizzaner stallions to classical music under glistening chandeliers.

We tailor-make all holidays and can book flights from your local airport to Vienna.

Hofburg Palace Schonbrunn Palace

Classic Concierge For further details of excursions and sightseeing possibilities, and to book prior to travel, please

This resplendent, immense palace owes its size and architectural diversity to various rulers; it was the home of the Habsburgs from 1273 to 1918 and now houses numerous worthy museums.

call our dedicated team on 0800 008 7289.

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41

Vienna I AUSTRIA

HILTON VIENNA PLAZA H H H H H NEW for 2019 Vienna Modernist design, impeccable service Located on Vienna’s majestic Ringstrasse, one of the finest addresses in the city, the impeccable Hilton Vienna Plaza has a style all of its own which is redolent of the city’s rich heritage, harmoniously blending modernist art deco design with a timeless understated elegance. The striking black and white Carrara marble floor in the lobby provides an impressive entrance whilst over a thousand works of art decorate the building.

The hotel is renowned for its warm welcome and attention to detail in all aspects of

Features All rooms feature air-conditioning, cable TV, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Fitness room, sauna l Emile Brasserie with 14 Gault Millau points l Executive lounge for Executive room stays with complimentary breakfast and refreshments throughout the day and evening l Business centre l WiFi throughout l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 254 bedrooms and suites

service. Guest rooms are spacious and

Classic valuE Dining half board bookable for entire stay (excl.

25 & 31 Dec) Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £518-£893

comfortable and upgrading to an Executive

Extra nights from £87 per person per night

room provides for use of the Executive

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a guest city view room with bath or shower room (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Vienna airport on Tuesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

lounge where complimentary drinks and snacks are available. A seasonal menu of Austrian and French inspired cuisine is

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes

showcased in Brasserie Emile and awardwinning cocktails are served at Emile’s bar.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Executive room

Hotel Imperial A Luxury Collection Hotel H H H H H Vienna A palace of Imperial grandeur The wonderfully grand Hotel Imperial is Vienna’s most lavish hotel and has played host to royalties, composers, classical music lovers and discerning travellers in search of impeccable service and outstanding accommodation since 1873. Uniquely located on Ringstrasse boulevard in the heart of Vienna opposite the famous concert hall The Wiener Musikverein, home to the Vienna Philharmonic orchestra, the hotel is ideally placed for discovering the city’s many sights.

Luxurious guest rooms and palatial suites are ornately decorated with precious antiques, chandeliers and sumptuous fabrics; a

Features

Classic valuE

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Fitness room l Opus Michelin star restaurant, Café Imperial Wien for breakfast, 1873 - HalleNsalon lounge bar l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 138 bedrooms and suites

Offer stays on selected dates save £21-£23 per adult per night (min 2 nights) Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 12 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

personal butler service is provided in some of the larger suites. The Michelin awarded Opus

2 Jan-27 Dec 3 nights from £888-£1077

restaurant offers contemporary haute cuisine,

Extra nights from £209 per person per night

whilst traditional Austrian specialities,

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic city view room with bath and separate shower (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Vienna airport on Tuesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

champagne buffet breakfast and the famous Imperial Wien Torte can be enjoyed at the Café Imperial Wien. The stylish 1873 -

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes

HalleNsalon lounge bar is ideal for cocktails and occasional jazz evenings.

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PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Deluxe room

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AUSTRIA I Vienna

Hotel Bristol A Luxury Collection Hotel H H H H H Vienna Ideally placed for opera lovers In a wonderful location in the heart of the

House where in summer live performances

city and right opposite the Vienna State

are displayed on large screens outside. The

Opera, luxurious Hotel Bristol has been the

acclaimed Bristol Lounge restaurant offers

we HIGHLY recommend . .

WATCHING LIVE-STREAMED OPERA FROM YOUR ROOM

focal point of Vienna’s cultural life since 1892

contemporary fine dining in a superb art

Three times weekly during April, May, June

and is renowned for its Viennese charm and

deco ambiance, and where in the

and September, the State Opera live-

personal service. The hotel is within walking

afternoon, a delightful English high tea can

streams up to three ballet or opera

distance of all major sights including St

be enjoyed to gentle piano music, whilst the

performances on a large LCD screen

Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace and

atmospheric American bar is perfect for

outside the Opera House. You can watch

the Albertina Museum as well as the city’s

relaxing moments and sparkling cocktails.

on the street but, if you book an Opera

most famous market, the Naschmarkt.

Guests also have complimentary use of a

View Room with a special request for a

Refined and elegantly classic guest rooms

fitness room.

good view of the screen opposite, you

and lavish suites feature modern amenities;

can enjoy from the comfort of your own

some rooms have views over the Opera

room or balcony.

Classic room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Fitness room l Bristol Lounge a la carte restaurant, Bristol Bar l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 150 bedrooms and suites

Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Offer stays on selected dates save £16-£44 per adult per night (min 3 nights) Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £665-£1180 Extra nights from £83 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic city view room with bath (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Vienna airport on Tuesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Executive city view (max 2) from £14-£32 Deluxe city view (max 3) from £23-£53 Classic opera view (max 2) from £23-£53 Deluxe opera view (max 2) from £45-£113 Grand deluxe city view (max 2) from £67-£158 Junior suite city view (max 2) from £111-£252 Penthouse suite city view (max 3) from £376-£587 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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43

Welcome to Italy Playgrounds of the rich and famous for centuries, and home to poets, artists and composers, the Italian lakes are areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Lake Como is widely regarded as the most breathtaking. Lake Maggiore boasts a snow-capped mountain backdrop to the enchanting Borromeo Islands and Lake Garda’s scenery is fjord-like in the north with gently sloping hills in the south. Verona, world famous for its outdoor summer opera season and the original

setting for three of Shakespeare’s plays is an enticing city for culture and cuisine. Cosmopolitan and sophisticated Milan is Italy’s second largest city and boasts prestigious museums, a magnificent Gothic cathedral, world renowned opera at La Scala and elegant boutique-lined avenues with excellent restaurants and cafés. Venice, famed for its waterways, gondolas, palaces, basilicas and grand squares, has a legendary history that is simply unparalleled.

Lake Como

Verona

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Sirmione, Lake Garda

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Activities on the lakes Lombardy region’s Lake Como offers numerous opportunities for mountain biking, walking and hiking along trails with professional guides who adore sharing their local knowledge. On the water there are group sailing lessons, water skiing, wake boarding, diving, canoeing and fishing, plus the botanical gardens of Villa Carlotta are a must see. Interestingly, further to the east, Lake Garda has a climate which perfectly suits exotic and rare plants as seen in the Heller Botanic Garden on its Gardone Riviera and the lake lends itself to kite-surfing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding alongside the usual plethora of watersports.

On dry land the topography presents opportunities for Nordic walking and

Verona

Lake Maggiore

climbing, and there are numerous way marked trails for hikers, road cyclists and mountain bikers. For walkers and hikers, Verbania, on the western shoreline of Lake Maggiore is the gateway to the Val Grande National Park, Monte Rosa and the Ossala Valley. It’s also home to the stunning botanical garden at Villa Taranto plus it’s one of the best start points for boat trips in the region. Nearby Stresa sits at the foot of Mount Mottarone and cable car rides to the summit are a delight. There is also the chance to ride the Lake Maggiore Express, a narrow gauge railway which, via 83 bridges and 31 tunnels, winds its way through the spectacular scenery of beach and chestnut woods and alpine pastures. Must-sees in this area include the Borromeo Islands and the Baroque palace and astounding gardens of Isola Bella and Isola Madre.

Two centre holidays Combine a stay in any of these beautiful lake regions with a few days in Venice, Milan or Verona to make the most of the variety that this area of northern Italy has to offer.

Summer v Christmas

country but nowadays world-class olive oil is

A mild climate ensures a profusion of

equally as prevalent in the preparation of

beautiful flowers and luxurious plants in an

many dishes. Fresh pasta, very common in

area which is often referred to as the garden

the north, made with soft flour and eggs is

of Europe - and many of the magnificent

wrapped around flavoursome fillings.

botanic gardens in the region are

There are as many types of Italian bread as

celebrated for their spring flowerings. Spring

there are Italian towns, but predominant in

and autumn are particularly delightful owing

the north are grissini, the crisp breadsticks,

to warm, sunny weather and fewer crowds.

and the dense rye flour based bauernbrot.

The hotter temperatures of high summer are

Regional differences are very apparent in

tempered by gentle breezes off the lakes

the salt, or air, cured meats. Pork is the meat

and mountains. Although the season

of choice, although beef, poultry and game

generally runs from Easter to October, the

is not unknown, prosciutto-styled ham, called

cities can be visited year round and Verona

speck, is particularly abundant in the north.

in particular is known for its Christmas markets

For desserts, tiramisu is a staple although the

from late November through December.

lakes are famed for their fresh fruit, apple cake, almond butter and, of course,

A taste of Italy

Panettone. Although many regions feature

‘Italian’ cookery only exists outside Italy,

very diverse offerings, what they have in

within the country itself, food carries a

common is a devotion to high quality

regional rather than a national title. If the

ingredients cooked at the peak of their

way to our hearts is through our stomachs,

ripeness.

then Italy is the most beloved of all nations.

Part of the essence of Italy is its food. Butter

The world's largest wine maker

used to predominate in the north of the

Italy is the world’s largest wine producer by volume, representing a third of global production. Grapes are grown in almost every region. The system of Italian wine classification rates the finest wines as those from Peidmont, Veneto and Tuscany although Chianti and Soave are considered the evergreen favourites of the north.

Venice

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For our full range of holidays to Italy please see our dedicated brochure or view online

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Lake Como Surrounded by the foothills of the Alps and arguably the most beautiful of all the Italian Lakes, Como is surrounded by a rich and varied landscape where mountains plunge dramatically into deep waters and 18th century villas and luxurious gardens and parks rise up magnificently along the shoreline.

Cernobbio

Located in the Lombardy region, Lake Como is the deepest and the third largest lake in Italy after Garda and Maggiore and boasts the longest shoreline. It is reputedly the most enchantingly romantic of the Italian lakes, with a rugged beauty of soaring mountain peaks, gentle foothills and lakeside towns and small villages; its magnificent scenery has attracted scores of composers, artists and poets from Verdi and Liszt, to Wordsworth, Shelley and Byron, plus the rich and famous including Pliny the Younger, George Clooney and James Bond’s Daniel Craig. The lake is shaped much as an upsidedown letter Y with the towns of Como and Bellagio

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Lecco sitting right at the end of the southwestern and southeastern branches respectively. The small towns of Bellagio, Menaggio and Varenna are situated at the intersection of the three branches of the lake, and a boat service operates regularly between them. Of course, fantastic regional dining includes freshly caught fish from the lake and there are local wine tastings and samplings readily available.

Around the lake The town of Como is famed for its silk production and features a beautiful historic centre and a handsome Gothic-Renaissance cathedral. In an unrivalled setting on the wooded promontory that divides the Lecco and Como arms of the lake, beautiful Bellagio enjoys one of the most scenic positions in Italy and is known as the Pearl of the Lake, whilst Menaggio is a pleasant vibrant resort ideal for boat trips and trekking in the hills and Cernobbio on the southwestern lake shores is famous for the grandiose villas built here in the 16th to 18th centuries. Just to the south of Menaggio lies Tremezzina (formerly Tremezzo); a popular resort surrounded by gardens on the warm and sheltered western shore.

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When to visit The season runs from Easter to October with hot summer July and August days tempered by gentle breezes. Spring and autumn are particularly popular as they are warm, sunny and less crowded.

Activities Group dingy sailing lessons including children’s sessions for young keen sailors are popular. Speed boats can be hired and there’s waterskiing, wakeboarding, jet-skiing, canoeing, diving and fishing. There are numerous mountain biking, walking and hiking trails with maps and itineraries or you can hire professional guides who love to share local knowledge. Some hotels have tennis courts and spas and there are numerous golf courses a short drive away.

Day trips include Bergamo, Lugano, and Lakes Garda and Maggiore and, for opera buffs, Milan’s La Scala, and Verona’s famed outdoor arena are within reach. For garden lovers, don’t miss the numerous villas including Villa Carlotta in Tremezzina with its fantastic art collection. The must-do experience is a trip across the lake whether by excursion or private boat hire, or even experiencing it from above in a sea-plane!

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ITALY I Lake Como

GRAND HOTEL VILLA SERBELLONI H H H H H deluxe

hotel loyalty

Bellagio Elegance on the shores of Lake Como In a splendid setting on a promontory in Lake

The guest bedrooms overlook the beautifully

Como the luxuriously elegant Grand Hotel

lush Italian gardens. There’s an outdoor

Villa Serbelloni first opened its doors in 1873.

swimming pool by the water’s edge, an

Over the years many royal and aristocratic

indoor pool, and a beauty farm and fitness

guests plus film stars and politicians have

centre. The lakefront Mistral restaurant offers

relaxed in the tranquil surroundings and

a fine dining experience serving excellent

enjoyed the impeccable service and fine

haute cuisine, and the more informal La

dining proffered by this historic hotel. Built in

Goletta a la carte restaurant features an

neo-classical style, this Belle Epoque villa with

Italian menu. During warm, sunny days, lunch

its wonderful marble staircase boasts lavish

and dinner can be enjoyed al fresco on the

interiors adorned with period furniture,

patio overlooking the lake.

antique Persian carpets, Murano chandeliers, frescoes and original paintings.

Classic room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Outdoor seasonally heated swimming pool, indoor heated pool, children’s indoor heated pool l Villa Serbelloni SPA beauty farm l Fitness centre with squash, sauna, Turkish bath l Two tennis courts l Mistral lakefront restaurant serving Italian haute cuisine (elegant, long sleeved attire required for dinner), La Goletta a la carte restaurant serving typical Italian cuisine and snacks l Several lounges, bars l Gardens l Small private beach l Private mooring facilities l Children’s playground l Nearby sport facilities include watersports, mountain biking, horse riding and golf l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 95 bedrooms and suites

Offer stays 5 Apr-9 May & 15 Sep-31 Oct save up to £52 per adult per night (min 4 nights) Honeymooners complimentary flowers and bottle of house wine in room on arrival Complimentary use of fitness room, Turkish bath and sauna Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Deluxe room

5 Apr-3 Nov 7 nights from £1888-£2465 Extra nights from £218 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic park view room, bath with shower (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Milan Malpensa airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available, including flights to Milan Linate airport) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 60 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe lake view (max 3) from £169-£196 Executive lake view (max 4) from £464-£520 Senior suite lake view (max 4) from £725-£786 Single park view from £121-£142 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Lake Como I ITALY

GRAND HOTEL TREMEZZO H H H H H luxury

hotel loyalty recommended spa

Tremezzina A Liberty style hotel with breathtaking lake views Enjoying enviable views of Lake Como, the

or the new rooftop suites with panoramic

Liberty-style Grand Hotel Tremezzo first

terraces and Jacuzzis. There are three

opened its doors in 1910, attracting Europe’s

swimming pools including a floating pool in

most cultured and wealthy patrons. Set in

the lake, tennis and fitness centre, and the

wonderful, extensive parkland bordering the

state of the art T Spa offers delightful ESPA

famous 18th century Villa Carlotta botanic

treatments and a relaxation area overlooking

gardens, the hotel features objects typical of

the lake. Dining choices include romantic al

the Belle Epoque and the interior is adorned

fresco dining boasting sublime lake views

with frescoes, rich fabrics and antique

and Italian gourmet fare at the La Terrazza,

furniture. Guest rooms overlook the beautiful

whilst the L’Escale Trattoria & Wine Bar is ideal

gardens or the lake and we particularly

for casual dining or a simple aperitif.

recommend the historical suites with their breathtaking views of Bellagio and the lake,

Deluxe room with lake view

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Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, flat screen satellite TV, DVD player, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l 2 outdoor seasonally heated swimming pools including a floating pool on the lake l T Spa with indoor infinity pool, water massage facilities, outdoor Jacuzzi, panoramic relaxation area and salt relaxation room, hammam suite, sauna, Mediterranean sauna and steam bath, nail studio, private spa suite and a wide range of ESPA treatments l Fitness centre over three floors l 2 hectare private park with jogging track l Tennis, billiards l La Terrazza gourmet restaurant, L'Escale Trattoria & Wine Bar restaurant, T Beach (seasonal) on the deck of the floating pool, T Pizza (seasonal), T Bar with terrace, piano bar l Private boats for tours of the lake l Nearby amenities include watersports, mountain bikes, horse riding, boat hire and golf l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 90 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Honeymooners complimentary fruit or chocolates and a bottle of sparkling wine in room on arrival (min 3 nights, certificate required) Complimentary use of tennis courts, fitness centre and entry to the spa Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

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10 Apr-2 Nov 7 nights from £1814-£3199 Extra nights from £245 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a prestige park view room, bath with shower and some with balcony (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Milan Malpensa airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available, including flights to Milan Linate airport) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 60 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe park view (max 3) from £56-£80 Prestige lake view (max 2+1) from £74-£142 Deluxe lake view (max 3) from £148-£277 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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ITALY I Lake Como

PALACE HOTEL H H H H Como Centrally located historical palace Set in beautifully kept landscaped gardens

la carte restaurant with lovely views over the

on the shores of Lake Como and within a

lake offers excellent Italian and

short stroll of Como Cathedral and the

Mediterranean cuisine using the freshest

town’s many restaurants and boutiques, the

seasonal local produce. Located in the

historical Palace Hotel comprises the 19th

garden, Bar Ceccato is a pleasant venue in

century Art Nouveau Plinius building and the

which to enjoy an ice cream, a light snack or

classic Pianella wing. Comfortable and

an early evening cocktail.

classically furnished guest rooms and suites offer a choice of views with splendid lake, cathedral, or town centre panoramas; rooms in the Plinius building have recently been renovated. A tasty buffet breakfast is available each morning and the splendid a

Classic room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Antica Darsena a la carte restaurant serving Mediterranean, local and regional cuisine, Garden Bar Ceccato, bar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 94 bedrooms and suites

Offer stays on selected dates save £7-£13 per adult per night (min 3 nights) Honeymooners complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability on arrival) Dining flexible plan available see page 5, childrens meals paid locally Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Junior suite

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £772-£1259 Extra nights from £69 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic city or cathedral view room with bath or shower (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Milan Malpensa airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available, including flights to Milan Linate airport) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 50 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Superior garden and side lake view (max 3) from £35-£56 Classic city or cathedral view sole use from £54-£96 Half board from £50 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Lake Garda The Italian Lakes are beautiful and often the playground of choice for the rich and famous. Specifically, Lake Garda’s scenery is fjord-like in the north with gently sloping vineyard-covered hills to the south. It enjoys a wonderful Mediterranean climate; perfect for watersports and lakeside activities.

View of Sirmione & Lake Garda from Scaligera Castle

Towering mountains descend to meet atmospheric shorelines in this Italian Lake District; aptly named because of the many literary connections to many romantic poets.

Lake Garda is the largest and most eastern of the lakes and features fjord-like cliffs in the north and gentle hills covered with vineyards, olive groves and lemon orchards to the south. It boasts a wonderful climate with mild summers and mellow winters and, due to its clear clean waters, is a particular favourite for every type of watersport. There are pretty towns and lakeside villages to be discovered by cruising, motoring, cycling or hiking and, during summer, opera in nearby Verona.

Gargnano

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Cuisine The area around Lake Garda is renowned for locally produced, delicate olive oil, fragrant lemons, and Bardolino, Lugana and Custoza wines; wine tours and excursions are easy to book. Fresh fish, straight from the lake features high on menus, and traditional icecream is an absolute must.

Charming towns & villages Charming towns and villages fill Lake Garda’s shores. The southern lively resort of Desenzano boasts lovely beaches and a charming piazza with al fresco cafés whilst elegant Gardone Riviera’s promenade still hosts intellectual cafés and artistic trattorias.

The small town of Gargnano is peaceful and quiet, and lovely Tremosine enjoys cascading waterfalls, ancient olives and chestnut trees.

Magical Limone features traditional fishermen’s houses, narrow winding streets and fragrant lemon groves and, in the north, medieval Riva del Garda, sheltered by Monte Rochetta, has a picturesque fishing harbour and a 14th century fortress. To the south, Sirmione, enticingly set on a 4km narrow peninsula is prized for its strategic location and photogenic roman fortifications of Rocca Scaligera, complete with

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drawbridge. Further east, Garda, once a fishing village, now a colourful resort, is adored by wine connoisseurs for its proximity to the Bardolino vineyards and, nestling amidst olive groves, charming Malcesine is famed for scenic walks from the Monte Baldo funicular.

Activities The mild climate is perfect for exotic and rare plants and there are numerous gardens and parks; most notably, Heller Botanic Garden near Gardone Riviera which boasts art installations and exotic flora amidst a myriad of streams and waterfalls. On the lake itself, there are boat excursions and exclusive trips plus windsurfing, sailing, diving, kite surfing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding.

Close-by, there’s canyoning and the Gardaland theme park, horse riding, golf, guided hikes, Nordic walking and climbing and, for lovers of two wheels, there’s road cycling and mountain biking with way marked trails for all abilities. For opera lovers, there’s Verona’s world famous open-air arena which, every summer, plays host to major works by great composers; our UK concierge service is pleased to advise and book tickets.

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ITALY I Lake Garda

Hotel Continental Thermae & Spa H H H H

recommended spa

Sirmione Panoramic lake views in a central yet tranquil location Situated on the shores of Lake Garda and set

whilst junior suites have a garden view. The

close to the centre of the small historic town

swimming pool with built-in Jacuzzi is set in

of Sirmione Sul Garda, Hotel Continental

pretty gardens, where a morning swim can

Thermae & Spa enjoys a picturesque location

be followed by a delicious al fresco breakfast

with wonderful uninterrupted views, and

on the terrace and some time relaxing on

offers peace and tranquillity for a relaxing

the private jetty. Additionally, a thermal pool

and enjoyable stay. Retaining many of its

with natural sulphurous water at 36oC is

original features, including Murano glass

connected to the wellness centre where

chandeliers and a marble staircase, the hotel

soothing massage and spa treatments are

has been renovated with a contemporary

available.

feel. Rooms are decorated with fine fabrics in a classical or modern style, all with balcony or terrace, and offering partial lake view,

Superior double room with partial lake view

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Outdoor swimming pool l Wellness centre with massage and treatments, thermal pool, sauna, steam bath, emotional showers, relaxation area with salt wall and iodine therapy l A la carte restaurant, bar and lobby bar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 57 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Honeymooners complimentary bottle of sparkling wine in room on arrival Complimentary entry to wellness centre with sauna, steam bath, emotional showers, salt wall and iodine therapy (treatments payable locally) Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

16 Mar-25 Oct 7 nights from £1024-£1738 Extra nights from £96 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a superior partial lake view room, bath with shower, balcony (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Verona airport on Fridays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 45 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Junior suite garden view (max 3) from £37 Junior suite pool & lake view (max 3) from £62 Superior partial lake view sole use from £99 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Lake Garda I ITALY

VILLAROSA HOTEL H H H H Desenzano del Garda Contemporary and stylish Boasting wonderful views over Lake Garda,

and with panoramic views over the lake,

the beautiful Villarosa Hotel is set near a small

there’s a seasonally heated circular outdoor

beach area and just a short stroll away from

pool and Jacuzzi. Light lunches and cocktails

the historic area of Desenzano with its

are available at the poolside Lunch Space

ancient churches and museums, shops and

restaurant whilst acclaimed Rose & Sapori

coffee houses. The contemporary and chic

Restaurant provides the setting for candlelit

interiors feature stylish design touches that

evening dining with exquisite Italian gourmet

contrast beautifully with the neoclassical style

cuisine. On warm days a lavish buffet

exterior, and the elegant guest rooms and

breakfast can be enjoyed al fresco on the

suites are decorated to high standards with

terrace. There are delightful walks along the

modern, clean lines and neutral tones, each

shore, and the romantic town of Verona is

featuring stylish furniture and a balcony.

only 30 minutes’ drive away.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A LUXURY TWO CENTRE Fly to Verona, transferring to Villarosa Hotel for a week or so of elegant lakeside leisure before travelling onwards by train or private transfer to Venice to stay at iconic Hotel Danieli with its stunning rooftop views.

Explore this most romantic and fascinating of cities prior to boarding the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express for the scenic journey back to London. Contact us for itineraries and prices.

Surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens

Superior room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Outdoor pool with Jacuzzi l Fitness area l Breakfast buffet on the terrace, Rose & Sapori restaurant with choice of a la carte or half board dining and catering for celiac and vegetarian diets, lobby bar, poolside Lunch Space restaurant (seasonal) l Complimentary bicycles l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 62 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Honeymooners, anniversaries & birthdays complimentary flowers or bottle of wine in room on arrival Dining flexible plan available see page 5 (excl.

Mondays) Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room)

1 Feb-31 Dec 7 nights from £733-£1349 Extra nights from £59 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a standard room, bath with shower, balcony or terrace (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Verona airport on Fridays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 45 minutes

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

UPGRADES per person per night Superior garden or pool view (max 3) from £10-£13 Junior suite lake view (max 3) from £25-£45 Suite lake view (max 3) from £42-£64 Standard sole use from £32-£126 Half board from £43 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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ITALY I Lake Garda

Hotel Savoy Palace H H H H Gardone Riviera Romance and fabulous views of Lake Garda Set in the charming town of Gardone Riviera,

evenings. Dedicated to the local poet and

Hotel Savoy Palace has played host to

playwright Gabriele d'Annunzio, who

famous 20th century dignitaries such as

frequently stayed at the hotel and whose

Winston Churchill, and will take you back to

work was inspired by his many mistresses, the

the romantic days of the Belle Epoque and

Muse’s Bar provides a delightfully

Art Nouveau eras with an interior adorned

comfortable atmosphere for an aperitif or

with marble, stone and precious woods and

after dinner drink.

most rooms boast fabulous views of Lake Garda. Lush green gardens envelope the hotel, and the pool is set in the lawn where guests may rest and enjoy a poolside lunch or light snack. The Angelo Landi restaurant offers al fresco dinners on warm summer

Deluxe room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, minibar and safe l Outdoor swimming pool l Sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room, massage and fitness room l Angelo Landi restaurant offering Italian and international cuisine l Muse’s Bar and terrace l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 60 bedrooms

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Honeymooners & anniversaries complimentary sparkling wine in room on arrival Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room)

12 Apr-12 Oct 7 nights from £1095-£1554 Extra nights from £107 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a standard room, bath with shower (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Verona airport on Fridays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 60 minutes

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

UPGRADES per person per night Superior lake view (max 2) from £15-£21 Deluxe lake view (max 3) from £37-£41 Prestige lake view (max 3) from £68-£70 Standard sole use from £54-£77 Bed & breakfast reduction from -£14 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Lake Garda I ITALY

LEFAY RESORT & SPA LAGO DI GARDA H H H H H superior

recommended spa

Gargnano Breathtaking views over Lake Garda await Set high on the hillside above Lake Garda in

Verona marble. Rich buffet breakfasts and

the splendid Upper Garda Park and enjoying

exquisite evening meals are served in the

breathtaking views, this luxurious retreat

main restaurant, La Grande Limonaia and

prides itself on its eco-sustainability. Designed

Trattoria La Vigna offers an informal

in the style of traditional lemon houses typical

atmosphere and local specialities, plus the

of this region, and with a focus on minimal

bar is perfect for watching the sunset. At the

environmental impact, Lefay Resort & SPA

heart of the resort is the 3800m wellness

Lago di Garda is an integrated series of

temple that includes saunas, pools and

individual low rise buildings merging with the

relaxation areas, and there’s a stunning

hillside. Spacious guest suites, featuring a

panoramic outdoor pool, a fitness path

balcony or terrace with magnificent lake

around the park and delightfully therapeutic

views, are contemporarily furnished using

gardens. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of

local olive and walnut woods and red

the World & Healing Hotels of the World.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature bio-climatization, LED full HD TV, minibar and safe l Outdoor swimming pool l Spa with a comprehensive range of treatments, thalassotherapy, hydrotherapy, phytotherapy, whirlpool, salt-water lake, indoor pool, saunas, relaxation area, fitness area l Park with running circuit, wellness path and therapeutic gardens l La Grande Limonaia restaurant serving fine cuisine, Trattoria La Vigna, Sala Caminetto, lounge bar, pool bar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 93 suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Offer complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and entry to La Luna Nel Lago Salt Lake (once per stay), plus one lunch at Trattoria La Vigna (excl. drinks) min 5 nights Honeymooners complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, early check-in (noon) & late check- out (6pm) subject to availability on arrival, plus one entry to La Luna Nel Lago Salt Lake (wedding certificate required) Dining half board bookable for entire stay

2

Prestige junior suite

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

31 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1447-£2621 Extra nights from £149 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a prestige junior suite lake view, bath with shower, sitting area, balcony or terrace (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Verona airport on Fridays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 75 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe junior suite lake view (max 2) from £19-£31 Family suite lake view (min 3, max 2 or 3+2) from £11-£98 Exclusive suite lake view (max 2) from £185-£350 Prestige junior suite lake view sole use from £93-£175 Half board from £64 Full board from £89 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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ITALY I Lake Garda

AQUALUX HOTEL SPA SUITE & TERME H H H H superior

recommended spa

Bardolino Relaxing, contemporary with wonderful cuisine Located close to the town of Bardolino on

for children. Buffet breakfast and half board

the shores of Lake Garda, with a backdrop

dinner is served in the Italian Taste restaurant

of the green hills of Monte Felice, Aqualux

whilst light dishes and snacks are available at

Hotel Spa Suite & Terme is built in an

the Sparkling Lounge or pool terrace during

aesthetically alluring, contemporary design

the summer. Relaxing times can be enjoyed

priding itself on eco-sustainability and is ideal

at the fabulous spa and wellness area with its

for those in search of a holiday with a focus

vast array of massage and beauty therapies,

on wellness. Spacious luxurious guest rooms

saunas, Jacuzzi, caldarium and, for the

and suites are elegantly furnished and

ultimate in pampering, an exclusive private

decorated in neutral, earthy tones and, at

spa area and a ladies only section. The

the hotel’s heart an impressive pool

nearest lakeside beach is 500m away.

landscape with seamless movement from outdoor to indoor pools, plus a separate pool

Comfort room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Outdoor swimming pool, saltwater pool, whirlpool, children’s pool l 4 indoor pools l Wellness & spa area with massage and beauty treatments, various saunas, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi, caldarium, relaxation area, exclusive private spa area, ladies only area l Fitness centre l Buffet restaurant Italian Taste, Sparkling Lounge serving light dishes and snacks, pool bar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 125 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Offer receive 15% discount on spa treatments, a bottle of Viola limited edition olive oil, 8-minute solarium, plus an aperitif in the pool bar lounge per stay (restrictions apply, min 7 nights) Honeymooners complimentary bottle of Bardolino wine, plus a 25-minute aroma back massage per couple (min 2 nights) Dining half board bookable for entire stay (excl.

24, 25 & 31 Dec) Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 10 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £908-£1373 Extra nights from £89 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a comfort vineyard or village view room with shower room, balcony or terrace (max 4), flights from Gatwick to Verona airport on Fridays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 45 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Aqua pool view (max 3 or 2+2) from £5-£12 Family suite pool view (max 3 or 2+2) from £45-£67 Garden suite garden view (max 3 or 2+2) from £52-£93 Round suite village or pool view (max 3 or 2+2) from £80-£115 Comfort vineyard or village view sole use from £48-£86 Half board from £26 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Isola Bella

Lake Maggiore The romantic region around Lake Maggiore boasts a snow-capped mountain backdrop to the enchanting Borromeo Islands, an exceptionally mild climate, pretty towns and, with the resort of Stresa, and the great city of Milan nearby, it’s perfect for an activity-filled or relaxing holiday.

Lake Maggiore

Thanks to romantic poets, Byron, Shelley and Ruskin, Lake Maggiore’s translucent quality is attributed to unrequited lovers’ teardrops and, together with its temperate microclimate, the region became a preferred hideaway for 19th century aristocrats who built palatial villas. With its shores in Piedmont and Lombardy, even reaching the Swiss Ticino canton to the north, this long narrow lake is famed for elegant palm-lined promenades and the jewel-like Borromeo Islands: Isola Bella with enchanting gardens, Isola dei Pescatori, a quaint, picturesque fisherman’s island, and Isola Madre, noted for its botanical garden.

Isola Bella gardens

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Verbania

When to visit

On the western shoreline, Verbania is a great starting point for boat trips and, for walkers and hikers, it’s the gateway to Val Grande National Park, Monte Rosa and the Ossala Valley. Evening strolls along the waterfront are delightful and colloquially referred to as The Lake Garden, the town boasts truly outstanding gardens.

A mild climate ensures a profusion of beautiful flowers and luxurious plants in an area oft referred to as The Garden of Europe.

Spring and autumn are delightful owing to warm, sunny weather and fewer crowds.

Stresa A 100 year old holiday resort and the lake’s most captivating town, Queen of the Lake, Stresa, is a fashionable resort at the foot of the majestic Mottarone peak. Visitors enjoy Liberty style buildings, an immaculate, garden-lined promenade, a lakeside beach and the old quarter with narrow cobbled streets. There are island excursions and a cable car ride to Monte Mottarone for spectacular views. Stresa is a resort of culture and visitors shouldn’t miss Villa Ducale which dates from the late 18th century, it houses the International Centre for Rosminian Studies, or the large grounds and zoological park around Villa Pallavicino. Milan with its Gothic cathedral and fashionable shopping is easily accessible as a day trip by train.

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Lake Maggiore Express This delightful day trip begins by train in Stresa. At Domodossola, you board the narrow gauge railway and the little train winds its way up through spectacular scenery of beech and chestnut woods, alpine pastures, mountains and waterfalls crossing 83 bridges and travelling through 31 tunnels.

After lunching in Locarno in Switzerland, explore the town or ride up the funicular to the Madonna del Sasso Sanctuary before your delightful cruise along the lake past the Borromeo Islands, back to Stresa.

Activities There are road cycles and mountain bikes for rent and private guides can be hired for hiking; especially delightful is trekking in Val Grande National Park. Kayaking lessons can be booked and there’s a zip line at Valle Intrasca. Must sees include the Borromeo Islands and Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens.

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ITALY I Lake Maggiore

Villa & PALAZZO AMINTA H H H H H deluxe

recommended spa

Stresa A warm Italian welcome and a wonderful spa Once a sophisticated private residence, the

also available. Le Isole restaurant offers

luxurious Villa & Palazzo Aminta has been

delightful gourmet dishes, and I Mori with its

lovingly restored by the Zanetta family who

splendid views of the lake, features

offer a warm Italian welcome to all their

innovative Italian a la carte cuisine along

guests. Surrounded by camellia and

with a first class wine list. The hotel has a spa

rhododendron, and overlooking Lake

with numerous beauty treatments and

Maggiore’s magnificent Borromeo Islands,

wellness programmes and there’s a

and close to the road between Baveno and

complimentary shuttle service for the 1km trip

Stresa, the hotel’s interior boasts antique

to the centre of Stresa. There’s an outdoor

furniture, rich fabrics and traditional frescoes.

pool, a private beach and three moorings at

Guest rooms are individually and sumptuously

Lake Maggiore, and guests will undoubtedly

furnished and each features a balcony or

enjoy boat trips to the Borromeo Islands. A

terrace with park views; lake view rooms are

member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, minibar and safe l Outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace l Palazzo Aminta Beauty & Spa with fitness area, Jacuzzi, sensory showers, massage, beauty treatments and therapies l Complimentary bicycles l Restaurant Le Isole with a la carte gourmet menu, Restaurant I Mori a la carte with Italian menu l Bar, piano bar, the Tapestry Lounge l Private beach l Gardens, car parking l Complimentary WiFi l Complimentary shuttle service to Stresa l 3 boat moorings l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 71 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Offer stay 3 nights or more 1-31 May and save up to £16 per adult per night Honeymooners & silver wedding anniversaries complimentary bottle of sparkling wine Complimentary daily shuttle service to Stresa centre Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A RAIL & LAKE DAY TRIP Enjoy the spectacular Centovalley mountain railway trip to Switzerland, returning by leisurely lake cruise. The rail journey stops in typically Italian Domodossola where the market square is perfect for a coffee before deciding whether to lunch at Locarno at the end of the train journey, or at Ascona’s harbour; one of the many pretty stopping points on the way back along the lake to Stresa.

Junior suite

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

5 Apr-27 Oct 7 nights from £1336-£1616 Extra nights from £148 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a superior park view room, bath with shower, balcony or terrace (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Milan Malpensa airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available, including flights to Milan Linate airport) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 60 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe partial lake view (max 3) from £36-£40 Deluxe lake view (max 3) from £129-£133 Junior suite lake view (max 3) from £218-£229 Superior park view sole use from £166-£203 Bed & breakfast reduction from -£13 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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57

Lake Maggiore I ITALY

GRAND HOTEL DES ILES BORROMEES H H H H H Stresa Renowned residence in an enchanting lakeside setting Enjoying enchanting views of the lake and

adorned with period artworks, beautiful

the Borromeo Islands and only a short stroll

chandeliers and cool marble. Classically

from the centre of Stresa, the splendidly

furnished guest rooms enjoy views of the

imposing Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees is

lavish gardens, and lake view rooms and

set in extensive grounds containing ancient

suites are also available. Excellent facilities

trees and wonderful Japanese and Italian

include a restaurant serving fine Italian

style gardens. The hotel opened in 1863,

cuisine in a stylish setting, two outdoor

playing host to many a famous guest

swimming pools and gym, and luxurious spa

including Clark Gable, John Steinbeck and

with a small indoor pool. Local facilities

Ernest Hemingway who mentions the hotel in

include a range of watersports on the lake,

his literary work, A Farewell to Arms; the

plus horse riding and golf.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

FRESHLY CAUGHT FISH FOR LUNCH Book a day’s rover ticket for sailings to the delightful Borromeo Islands. Attempt an early start and spend at least a couple of hours on Isola Bella exploring the palazzo and gardens before heading over to tiny, captivating Isola Pescatore where there are numerous excellent restaurants where you can linger over the longest of lunches which, not surprisingly, feature the best of

grandest suite is named in his honour. Behind

freshly caught fish.

its elegant façade, the stylish residence is

Double room with lake view

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi and safe l 2 outdoor swimming pools l Spa club with a wide range of therapies and massage, small indoor pool, gym l Borromeo Restaurant serving fine Italian cuisine and gluten free meals can be arranged for those with dietary requirements l Bar, lounge, poolside snack bar l Complimentary WiFi l Watersports, horse riding and golf courses nearby l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 179 bedrooms and suites

Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Honeymooners complimentary sparkling wine in room on arrival (min 4 nights) Dining flexible plan available see page 5 (min 3 nights consecutive) Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

3 May-12 Oct 7 nights from £1198-£1291 Extra nights from £146 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a double garden view room, bath with shower, some with balcony or terrace (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Milan Malpensa airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available, including flights to Milan Linate airport) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 60 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Double room lake view (max 3) from £59 Junior suite lake view (max 2 or 2+2) from £108 Double room garden view sole use from £132 Half board from £56 Full board from £99 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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ITALY I Lake Maggiore

HOTEL LA PALMA H H H H

recommended spa

Stresa Stunning lake views Located across the road from the lakeside

the day and features a spacious sun terrace

and promenade, and a short five minute

with a Jacuzzi pool; perfect for relaxing days

walk from the town centre of Stresa,

in the sun. There is a spa with a range of

classically elegant Hotel La Palma offers

massage and beauty treatments as well as a

gorgeous lake views from its delightful

sauna and steam room, and a fitness room

gardens and terraces. Traditionally styled

with panoramic views of the surroundings,

guest rooms and suites feature balcony and

and just across the road is a shingle beach

a view of the mountains or the lake. The

and the hotel’s outdoor pool.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

THE EXCLUSIVE LOCATION FOR SUNDOWNER COCKTAILS Pre-dinner drinks at Hotel La Palma’s Sky Bar are an absolute must if you’re staying in Stresa. You can socialise and listen to music whilst enjoying the tremendous range of delicious aperitifs plus, of course,

restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and

the view is simply superb with a panorama

excellent Italian and international cuisine in

of glittering lake and picturesque islands;

the evenings, and during warm summer

all surrounded by majestic mountains

months the stylish Sky Bar on the rooftop

whose peaks are lit as the sun sets behind

offers light lunches and snacks throughout

the hotel.

Deluxe room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV WiFi, minibar and safe l Outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi pool, heated Mar-Nov l Spa with massage and beauty treatments, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, salt cabin, emotional showers l Fitness room l Restaurant serving Italian and international cuisine, bar with snacks, Sky Bar l Reading room, lounge l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 120 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary use of fitness room and wellness centre, plus access to private shore Dining half board bookable for entire stay Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

8 Mar-16 Nov 7 nights from £802-£1195 Extra nights from £75 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic room with shower, some with balcony (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Milan Malpensa airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available, including flights to Milan Linate airport) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 60 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Superior side lake view (max 3) from £10-£25 Deluxe lake view (max 3) from £22-£80 Junior suite lake view (max 4) from £71-£172 Classic sole use from £34-£86 Half board from £31 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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59

Lake Maggiore I ITALY

Grand Hotel Bristol

HHHH

Stresa Elegance and sophistication with panoramic lake views On the shores of Lake Maggiore, and close

swimming in the pool or relaxing in the

to the centre of Stresa, lies Grand Hotel

outdoor Jacuzzi. Lunches are served at the

Bristol. Originally built in a stunning neo-

Grand Salon and Restaurant Baveno offers a

classical design, the hotel has undergone a

refined dining experience for long lunches

complete refurbishment and is a

and romantic candlelit dinners.

sophisticated and elegant hotel adorned with crystal chandeliers, tapestries, marble, and Tiffany glassware. Guest rooms are spacious and finely decorated, and suites offer sumptuous furnishings with marble and mosaic bathrooms. Guests will delight in strolling around the lush gardens enjoying the panoramic views of the Borromeo Islands,

Standard room with lake view

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning (15 Jun-15 Sep), satellite TV, WiFi and minibar l Some interconnecting rooms l Heated indoor swimming pool l Outdoor swimming pool (15 May-15 Sep), outdoor Jacuzzi l Sauna and fitness corner l TV room l 2 restaurants l Bar and winter garden l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 260 bedrooms and suites

Honeymooners complimentary sparkling wine, plus a room upgrade (subject to availability on arrival) Complimentary WiFi 1GB/day per device Dining flexible plan available see page 5 Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Apr-27 Oct 7 nights from £801-£1082 Extra nights from £72 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a twin or double room, with bath with shower, and some with balcony (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Milan Malpensa airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available, including flights to Milan Linate airport) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 60 minutes

UPGRADES per person per night Twin or double side lake & pool view (max 3) from £19 Superior side lake & pool view (max 3) from £25 Junior suite lake view (max 2) from £93-£135 Suite lake view (max 2+1) from £135-£240 Senior suite lake view (max 2+1) from £246-£356 Twin or double sole use from £43-£56 Half board from £31 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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ITALY I Lake Maggiore

GRAND HOTEL MAJESTIC H H H H Verbania Pallanza Belle Epoque sophistication by the lakeside Located in Verbania, just a few minutes’ walk

Exquisite Italian cuisine and panoramic views

from Pallanza, Grand Hotel Majestic provides

over the lake can be savoured in the

an oasis of tranquillity with magnificent

elegantly chic La Beola restaurant, and

sweeping views over Lake Maggiore.

during the summer months, the Portico

Originally dating back to 1870 this impressive

provides a delightful restaurant setting. The

hotel has played host to many heads of

enchantingly secluded gardens lead to a

state, artists and musicians including Claude

private jetty, boat mooring and small sandy

Debussy and Arturo Toscanini. Built in true

beach at the lakeside, and additionally

Belle Epoque style it has been carefully

there’s a tennis court and wellness centre

restored to its original splendour by the

with indoor pool, plus locally, the area is

Zuccari family, and the beautiful interiors and

wonderful for cycling, kayaking, walking and

classically styled and spacious rooms and

climbing, and golf. A member of Small Luxury

suites reflect refinement and sophistication.

Hotels of the World.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Wellness centre with indoor pool, lake view gym, beauty centre with a range of therapies, sauna l Tennis court l Rossini restaurant serving breakfast, La Beola restaurant offering traditional Italian and international cuisine, Il Portico restaurant (seasonal) with views over the gardens, Bar Toscanini, La Terrazza Bar, lounges l Gardens l Private jetty and beach l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 80 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Honeymooners complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability on arrival) Dining half board bookable for entire stay, children’s meals paid locally Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

Junior suite deluxe with lake view

18 Apr-5 Oct 7 nights from £932-£1159 Extra nights from £101 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a superior entrance view room with shower room and some with balcony or terrace (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Milan Malpensa airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available, including flights to Milan Linate airport) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 60 minutes

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

UPGRADES per person per night Superior partial lake view (max 2) from £16-£20 Deluxe partial lake view (max 2) from £34-£40 Duplex junior suite land view (max 3 or 2+2) from £66 Deluxe junior suite partial lake view (max 3 or 2+2) from £114 Suite partial lake view (max 2+1) from £236-£248 Duplex suite lake view (max 3 or 2+2) from £236-£248 Half board from £35 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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61

Verona opera arena

Verona World famous for its outdoor opera and the original setting for three Shakespeare plays, Verona is an enticing small city boasting a wonderful blend of culture and gastronomy and is perfect for a short break or a two centre trip combined with Lake Garda.

Excepting Rome, Verona, once called Piccola Roma, has more Roman ruins than any other Italian city and the majestic remains of ancient times is cleverly woven into the fabric of the walls, roads and villas.

Also evident are medieval and renaissance palaces, merchants' houses, statues and towers of the Piazza delle Erbe, and the neighbouring, more charming, Piazza dei Signori. By the River Adige, this prosperous small city is a wonderful blend of history, music, cobbled streets and classical wines.

Shakespeare chose Verona for his starcrossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, and now Casa di Giulietta, with its attendant balcony, is one of the city’s most popular attractions.

Ponte Scaligero

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When to visit

Two centre holidays

For milder weather and fewer visitors, visit during late spring or early autumn although Verona’s magic really comes to life in summer with its opera, festivals and al fresco opportunities as long as you’re fine with the heat and the crowds.

Verona can be combined with stays in Venice or as part of a longer holiday twinned with nearby Lake Garda.

Arena di Verona The major attraction, of course, is the worldfamous arena; an imposing Roman amphitheatre that holds 15,000 opera-lovers.

Expensive seats are available although locals know to pay minimal charges to sit on the less comfortable marl-stepped seats.

Dominating Piazza Bra, the arena has hosted concerts since 1913 when it, the world’s largest outdoor opera venue, was inaugurated to celebrate Giuseppe Verdi’s life. Watching a performance here is as much about the vast spectacle as it is about the music. The 2019 summer season includes works such as Carmen, Aida, La Traviata and Tosca and the programme features 47 performances between 21 June and 7 September and, for advice and tickets, contact our concierge service.

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Cuisine Verona’s culinary traditions feature locally grown ingredients from the Veneto Plain including the relatively humble potato which appears in the guise of gnocchi. Tortellini and risotto feature highly and almost all meat dishes are served with polenta, another staple ingredient. An abundance of rivers and lakes ensure that freshwater fish is often the star of the daily menu whilst famed typical local wines include Soave and Valpolicella.

Sightseeing In addition to the much publicised icons of Juliet’s balcony and the world famous open air arena, there’s art at Galleria d’Arte Moderna Achille Forti, beautiful gardens and a delightfully romantic maze in the renaissance landscapes at Giardino Giusti, an 84m high watchtower, Torre dei Lamberti, offering fantastic panoramas and Ponte Pietra, an ancient bridge with a fascinating history.

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ITALY I Verona

Il Sogno di Giulietta Relais de Charme NEW for 2019 Verona Romantic and exclusive Enjoying the most romantic location in the heart of historic Verona, boutique hotel Il Sogno di Giulietta occupies a charming 14th

Elegant room

century building opening onto the famous

Features

Classic valuE

courtyard of Juliet’s House, and in the

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l 24 hour reception l Small lounge l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 16 bedrooms

Complimentary ticket to Juliet's House Museum per person Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room)

evenings the enchanting courtyard is reserved exclusively for the guests of the hotel. Each of the 16 beautifully elegant and

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

individually decorated guest rooms feature parquet flooring, beamed ceilings, and period furniture; some rooms look directly onto the courtyard, others the pedestrianised shopping street Via Capello. There is a small

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £466-£1048

lounge, and a continental breakfast is served

Extra nights from £71 per person per night

in the privacy of your room each morning.

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in an elegant city view room, bath with shower (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Verona airport on Fridays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Although there is no restaurant in the hotel, the concierge team delight in helping with dinner recommendations and reservations,

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes

as well as requests for special occasion romantic gestures and surprises.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Luxury room

DUE TORRI HOTEL H H H H H Verona Sophistication in the heart of Verona Renowned for its warm Italian welcome, first class service and fine cuisine, Due Torri Hotel is romantically situated in the very heart of Verona, close to both the celebrated Arena di Verona and Juliet’s famous balcony. Originally a medieval Palazzo, the hotel has played host to many prominent guests. It has been lovingly restored with lavish and sumptuous interiors reflecting a refined atmosphere, combined with an impressive collection of antique objets d’arte and period furniture. All of the individually styled and comfortable guest bedrooms are beautifully furnished with

Features

Classic valuE

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, safe l Sala dell’ Aquila serving breakfast, Due Torri Lounge & Restaurant for regional and national cuisine, Gourmet Grill Restaurant on the Panoramic Terrace, bar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 89 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Complimentary drink voucher for the panoramic terrace 22 Jun-26 Aug (min 2 nights) Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room)

authentic period pieces, Murano glass

Offers may be restricted during opera premieres or fairs

chandeliers and vibrant wallpapers. Exquisite cuisine, along with a wide selection of

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £574-£1243

prestigious wines from the area, can be

Extra nights from £107 per person per night

enjoyed in the elegant restaurant, awarded

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic room, bath with shower (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Verona airport on Fridays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Three Forks by Michelin, and in summer the exclusive Panoramic Terrace with splendid views over the city is the perfect spot for

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes

cocktails or a pre-opera dinner. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Deluxe room

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63

Milan Duomo

Milan Italy's second largest city, fashionable and sophisticated Milan boasts prestigious museums, excellent restaurants and delightful cafés, elegant boutique-lined avenues, bustling busy markets, a magnificent Gothic cathedral and most notably, the world-renowned La Scala opera house.

Cosmopolitan, stylish, energetic and economically powerful, Milan is Italy’s most important city with regards to fashion, industry, and commerce. The city boasts numerous museums, monuments and churches, and a shopping district with exclusive designer boutiques set in elegant 18th century palazzo easily rivalling London’s Bond Street and New York’s Fifth Avenue.

Nightlife is vibrant with an avant-garde theatre scene, nightclubs aplenty, La Scala for opera lovers; cocktails in historic Bar Cova are a must, then dinner in one of many superb restaurants. The city boasts romance, culture and style; perfect for a short break or twinned with Lakes Maggiore or Como.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping mall

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Teatro alla Scala The largest theatre in Europe and world famous for opera, its opening season has become Milan’s greatest social event. See www.teatroallascala.org or contact our concierge team for details.

Cuisine The colourful cuisine of the Lombardy region is simple and tasty including such classics as risotto alla Milanese, veal-based osso buco and cotoletta alla Milanese, and, due to the fast based lifestyle of city dwellers, is home to the paninoteca, the Italian sandwich bar.

Sightseeing Many of Milan’s sights are concentrated in and around the centre including Santa Maria delle Grazie where Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper is on display, Teatro alla Scala, and the grandiose Gothic cathedral, Duomo di Milano, which, with its pink-hued marble from Candoglia, 135 spires and 3,200 statues, took almost six centuries to complete. To the northwest of Piazza del Duomo is Castello Sforzesco, a sprawling 15th century fortress housing several museums and a gallery in attractive grounds. Brera is the city’s traditional artisan area and home to one of

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Italy’s most prestigious art collections in the Pinacoteca di Brera. Exploring further afield, there is the great charterhouse Certosa di Pavia, the most spectacular monument in the region, plus there’s picturesque Monza and delightful Bergamo, both easily reached from the city.

Shopping This city is famed for its fashion, contemporary Italian creativity and style; all of which are an essential part of the Milan ethos. For haute couture, the fashionable shopping district known as Quadrilatero d’Oro (rectangle of gold) includes Via Montenapoleone, Via Mazoni, Via Sant’Andrea and Via della Spiga. One of the world’s oldest shopping malls dating back to 1867, the glass-roofed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, located near the Duomo is home to Prada’s flagship store. For high street labels head for the Brera area or Corso di Porta Ticinese, or visit one of the many outlets for reasonably priced designer labels.

We tailor-make all holidays and can book flights from your local airport to Milan.

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ITALY I Milan

NH Collection Milano President H H H H H Milan Conveniently located for the Duomo Located in Milan’s historic centre, NH Collection Milano President is a stylish and contemporary city hotel with chic interiors and designer furnishings, and set a ten

Features

Classic valuE

minute walk from the famous Duomo and

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Fitness centre l Verziere restaurant, Bar Le Colonne, Bar Panhini l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 274 bedrooms and suites

Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

the fashionable boutiques of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and Via Montenapoleone the hotel is an ideal base for a city break. Wellappointed and elegantly modern guest rooms and suites feature private balcony or

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

terrace and some rooms enjoy panoramic views of the cathedral. A generous buffet breakfast is served each morning and in the

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £462-£773

evenings Milanese specialities and

Extra nights from £84 per person per night

international cuisine can be savoured in the

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a superior city or internal view room, bath with shower, balcony or terrace (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Milian Linate airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

hotel’s sophisticated Verziere restaurant.

A menu of light meals and snacks are available at the Le Colonne bar where the daily happy hour is the perfect time for trying

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes

a speciality cocktail.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Premium room

BAGLIONI HOTEL CARLTON H H H H H Milan Elegance in the heart of Milan Located in Milan’s fashion quarter, the luxurious Baglioni Hotel Carlton boasts refined clientele and high levels of service and is the perfect base from which to discover Milan’s sights, many of which are within easy walking distance. It’s a truly sophisticated hotel and guest rooms are elegantly decorated, the famed restaurant serves delicious Milanese cuisine and Caffe Baglioni is a popular meeting place and offers afternoon tea and a great variety of cocktails. For total relaxation Spiga 8 Spa provides a range of beauty treatments, Turkish bath and gym.

Features

Classic valuE

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Spiga 8 Spa with beauty treatments, sauna, Turkish bath and fitness equipment l Baretto al Baglioni offering light Milanese gastronomy l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 87 bedrooms and suites

Offer stay 2 nights or more on selected dates and save £30-£85 per adult per night Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 15 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £685-£1349 Extra nights from £157 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic street or courtyard view room with shower room (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Milan Linate airport on Thursdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Classic room

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Welcome to Slovenia & Croatia

For such a delightfully compact country, Slovenia’s scenery never fails to impress anyone who visits.

The country’s northern border with Austria boasts a particularly unspoilt alpine region with hugely tranquil, sometimes eerily silent, simply glorious lakes. There are magical fairy-tale castles, magnificent valleys and deep river gorges, fragrant pine forests, delightful meadows, colourful orchards and traditional villages and tiny hamlets where the way of life appears unchanged over the centuries.

In addition to Croatia’s magnificent Dalmatian coastline and islands, this is a country of natural beauty with delightful pine woods, vineyards, ancient olive groves and lavender fields, the pink-hued Biokovo mountain range and the stunning lakes and waterfalls of Krka and Plitvice Lakes national parks, plus culturally significant UNESCO World Heritage sites. We can easily twin Croatia and Slovenia and we offer an escorted 6 day tour taking in both countries (see pages 70-71).

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

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Slovenia Lake Bled The areas around the lakes of Bled and Bohinj are particularly beautiful with dense forests set beneath the majestic snow-clad peaks of the world renowned Julian Alps.

Bled, a popular health spa since the 19th century, boasts a mild climate, fresh mountain air and thermal waters at Lake Bled in which a wooded island is home to a picturesque Baroque church, and where dramatically perched on a sheer cliff overlooking the eastern end, the imposing 11th century Bled Castle, now a museum and restaurant, boasts breathtaking views.

Our featured area in Bled in the northwest of the country typically enjoys a delightful alpine microclimate with cold winters and

Lake Bled & Bled Castle

very warm summers.

Activities Less than 20km from Bled, Slovenia’s highest mountain, the triple-peaked Triglav, is at the centre of the country’s only national park.

Outstandingly beautiful, it is home to a range of fauna and flora, picturesque trails, gorges and valleys, verdant pine forests and pastures and, of course, magnificent Lake Bohinj with its kilometres of walks and hiking routes along rivers and past waterfalls, through valleys and gorges. There are wonderful walks and way marked hiking routes including the Soca River trail, Savica Waterfall route, Vrata Valley and Pokljuka Gorge, plus the Radovna cycling trail and serious mountaineering on Mount Triglav.

Exhilarating rafting and canyoning is also available on River Soca, and Bled is wellplaced for golf with seven different courses within an hour’s drive; Bled golf course, in a fabulous setting, is just 4km away.

Cuisine Slovenian cuisine is heavily influenced by its next door neighbours: Italy, Austria, Hungary

Croatia

with pine-clad mountain backdrops. Its

Plitvice Lakes

historical and architectural significance has

Nestled in dense forest, Plitvice Lakes are

earned it a rightful place as a UNESCO World

arguably one of the world’s most beautiful

Heritage site and encircled by ancient walls,

natural phenomena and, not surprisingly,

the stunning Old Town with its cobbled streets

boast UNESCO World Natural Heritage status

and narrow alleyways boasts an 18th century

for their stunning scenery, huge varieties of

cathedral, a 14th century Dominican

flora and fauna, hidden caves and a total of

Monastery and the Gothic Renaissance

sixteen travertine-style lakes connected by

Rector’s Palace housing the Cultural Historical

spectacular waterfalls. The oldest and largest

Museum. There are markets and boutiques, a

of eight national parks, Plitvice is incredibly

myriad of dining and nightlife opportunities

striking and one of the most visited

around the Stradun, whilst Mount Srd cable

attractions in Croatia. Each season is

car offers great views. During July and

beautiful with flower filled meadows in the

August, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival,

spring, lush greenery in summer, wonderful

Croatia’s most celebrated cultural event,

rich red hues in the autumn and, during the

boasts fantastic music and theatre.

winter months, there’s a magical landscape shrouded with ice and snow.

Split Croatia’s second city, Split, boasts cultural

Dubrovnik

and historical sites aplenty with the core of

Dubrovnik, described by George Bernard

the city housed within the protective walls of

Shaw as heaven on earth, is an outstanding

the two thousand year old Diocletian’s

historic city with the surrounding area

palace; a UNESCO World Heritage site simply

bordered by wonderful coasts of pebble and

bursting with historic monuments, chic bars,

sand beaches and amazing coves and inlets

sophisticated cafés and elegant boutiques.

Also encircled by the walls is the majestic

and Croatia. This has resulted in a great

Cathedral of St Domnius whose belfry affords

variety of flavours with the most popular local

magnificent views over the city, and a

dishes tracing their roots to hearty, traditional

colonnaded sunken square called the

fare. Seasonal locally sourced, often

peristyle; itself home to a delightful café.

foraged, produce is popular and wild

Inland the outstanding scenery of gorges,

mushrooms are a national favourite although

waterfalls and delightful lakes includes the

the main focus is meat, especially pork, plus

UNESCO protected Plitvice Lakes and the

game when in season. Desserts favour fruit

river Krka and its national park.

and nuts in cakes and stuffed dumplings, plus there’s the celebrated Bled vanilla and cream cake, kremsnita. Slovenian wines are of a high standard, especially from the Goriska Brda region, pear brandy is a common local tipple and the coffee is served strong and black, Italian style.

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The best of Slovenia & Croatia 6 DAY ESCORTED COACH TOUR

Take a week long escorted tour to marvel at the outstanding natural beauty of both Slovenia and Croatia. Staying in carefully chosen 4 star hotels, and travelling by luxury minivan or coach, enjoy the companionship of your fellow travellers as you explore the picturesque countryside, mountains and lakes, and delve into the past of historic cities. At the end of the tour, you may choose to extend your holiday by boarding one of our

charming small ship cruises to explore Croatia’s stunning coastline and its scenic islands.

Should you prefer a land-based stay, select a few days or a week in the delightful city of Split, on the lovely island of Brac or beautiful Hvar, the Queen of the Dalmatian islands. Our escorted tour, the perfect way to see both countries, starts in Venice, ends in Split, and runs between late April and the end of September.

Bled Castle & Mount Triglav, Slovenia

Zadar, Croatia

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Lake Bled, Slovenia

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Split, Croatia

our featured hotels within our Italy brochure for one night or maybe a romantic short break before the start of your escorted tour.

6 days (5 nights) Itinerary Monday

Day 1 Venice - Postojna - Bled Drive from Italy into neighbouring Slovenia, admiring the scenery en route to the captivating Postojna Cave. Tour the 24km long cave system by train, marvel at the 10,000 capacity underground concert hall and visit the world’s only subterranean post office. Continue onto magical Lake Bled, and take a traditional Pletna boat to visit the 15th century church which sits atop an island in the lake. Overnight in Bled for 2 nights.

Tuesday

Day 2 Bled - Lake Bohinj - Julian Alps - Bled Discover Slovenia’s enchanting mountain region on the way to Bohinj Lake. Visit the tiny medieval Church of St John the Baptist with its exquisite frescoes. There’s a cable car ride to the top of Mount Vogel to admire the stunning views of the lake and the high peaks of the Julian Alps.

Friday

Sunday

Day 5 Zagreb - Plitvice National Park - Zadar

From Split to the UK, or your next destination.

Visit the stunning and heavily forested Plitvice National Park, where 16 crystalline lakes tumble into each other via a series of waterfalls and cascades. In continually changing formations the mineral-rich waters carve through the rock. Clouds of butterflies

Wednesday

drift above the wooden footbridges and

Day 3 Bled - Ljubljana - Zagreb

pathways that snake around the edges of

A guided walking tour of Slovenia’s

the park and across the rumbling water.

picturesque capital, Ljubljana, awaits. This

Overnight in Zadar.

decorative city is a mosaic of medieval architecture, Baroque facades, attractive bridges, uneven rooftops and decorative doorways. Overnight in Zagreb for 2 nights.

Tour only prices from £1,717 per person Prices are based on two adults sharing. The price comprises 5 nights half board in 4 star hotels (standard rooms), six lunches, the services of your English speaking tour director, at your disposal throughout, and all elements described in the above itinerary. Please contact us to discuss your preferred arrangements.

SLOVENIA & CROATIA I Escorted coach tour

Fly from the UK to Venice and stay in one of

Saturday

Day 6 Zadar - Krka National Park - Split

*At this point, you can choose to head to Split

A morning tour of Zadar and its ancient

airport for your flight home on Saturday evening.

heritage precedes the journey to Krka

Subject to flight timings, you may prefer to stay overnight in Split for a return home on Sunday. Or

Thursday

National Park, a magical place of waterfalls

Day 4 Zagreb

and gorges, where the Krka River gushes

A tour of Zagreb will reveal the Baroque

through a canyon 200 metres deep. The

atmosphere of Croatia’s capital city, with its

area’s remoteness attracting monks who

Croatia’s coastline - please see pages 72-73.

fortified upper town, historically important

constructed their monasteries here. Travel

Alternatively, you could choose to stay on in Split or

centre, picturesque open-air markets, green

onwards to Split*

maybe on one of the islands - please refer to our

parks and craft-based shopping opportunities. After a traditional lunch your time is your own.

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you may simply wish to extend your holiday. Having visited the country’s interior you may like to join one of our small ship cruises for a week exploring

Croatia brochure for hotel details. Our knowledgeable reservations team will be delighted to discuss the best options available to you.

Plitvice National Park

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Discover Croatia SMALL SHIP CRUISES

Discover the beauty of the South Dalmatian islands with their medieval towns, Mljet with its national park and the UNESCO listed cities of Split and Dubrovnik with their fascinating history. Join an eight day cruise on board M/S Mama Marija or M/S Ambassador both starting in Split and ending in Dubrovnik, or M/S Sea Swallow starting and ending in Split, and making the most of the coastline’s many tranquil bays and coves for swimming and snorkelling along the route.

Zagreb

Plitvice Lakes National Park

oatia

On board The fully qualified captain and crew will prepare a welcome dinner on the first night, breakfast on board each day and lunch on board on six days: they will clean your cabin midweek, and will be pleased to recommend local restaurants for dinner each night. Normally, there’s plenty of time every day to relax, swim and explore although the cruise itinerary may be modified to suit local weather conditions. It is advisable to bring a beach towel (or available at €7/ week).

You may wish to tip the captain and crew at the end of the cruise which, although discretionary, the norm tends to be approximately €65 per guest.

ar

Trogir

SPLIT Bol

Vis Bisevo

Hvar

BRAC ISLAND

HVAR ISLAND

KORCULA ISLAND

Korcula Town

Sipan/Slano Mljet

M/S SEA SWALLOW M/S MAMA MARIJA

Montenegro

DUBROVNIK Budva Becici

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Podgorica

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8 days from Split M/S Mama Marija is a 47m long deluxe cruiser with 18 double or twin cabins fully equipped with air-conditioning, WiFi, safe, satellite TV, and window or porthole, plus en suite shower room with WC and hair dryer.

The upper deck comprises an airconditioned salon-restaurant with a bar and

cruise itinerary Split-Dubrovnik

lounge area, and there's a covered terrace,

Day 1 Saturday Embark in Split for dinner and overnight on board.

a platform for easy access to the water for swimming and on the upper deck there's a Jacuzzi. As well as a buffet breakfast a set lunch will be provided onboard for five days.

An alternative cruiser, M/S Ambassador, is

Day 2 Sunday Enjoy a guided city tour of UNESCO-listed Split in the morning before departing for another UNESCO-listed town, Trogir for a guided tour. Lunch on board, dinner in local restaurant of your choice.

also available for this route.

Day 3 Monday Set sail for Bol and its famous beach, Zlatni Rat. Lunch on board whilst sailing towards Hvar and an evening tour of Hvar Town, with dinner at your leisure in a local restaurant.

Day 4 Tuesday Cruise to the island of Bisevo and its magical Blue Cave and onto Vis Island; lunch on board. Evening and dinner at your leisure.

CROATIA I Small ship cruises

M/S MAMA MARIJA

Day 5 Wednesday In the morning head for Korcula and a tour of the town. Lunch on board, dinner at your leisure.

Day 6 Thursday Set sail for Mljet National Park before continuing to Sipan Island. Lunch on board and Captain’s Dinner with live music on board in the evening.

20 Apr-19 Oct 7 nights from £1367-£1733 Prices per person based on bed and breakfast and lunch in a standard cabin, flights from Gatwick to Split airport on Saturdays (other departure days, flights and durations available) & include private transfers.

Day 7 Friday Cruise past the Elaphiti Islands on the way to Dubrovnik for a guided tour of the highlights of Dubrovnik Old Town. Lunch on board, dinner in a restaurant of your choice.

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes Tourist and port taxes are payable locally, budget approximately €25 per person. Please note all bills including local tourist and port taxes are to be settled in cash.

Day 8 Saturday Disembark in Dubrovnik after breakfast.

PLEASE CALL US FOR CABIN UPGRADES

Standard cabin

M/S SEA SWALLOW 8 days from Split M/S Sea Swallow is a brand new 49m deluxe motor cruiser with the latest state of the art amenities and twin or double cabins equipped with air-conditioning, satellite LCD TV, WiFi, safe and a porthole or a window, plus en suite shower room with WC. The upper deck comprises an air-conditioned salon-restaurant, bar and lounge area with LCD TV and WiFi and at the front of the cruiser a 180 degree lounge area with large viewing windows. There is a furnished terrace and a platform for easy access to the water for swimming, and a sun deck with loungers and an Elegance rooftop Jacuzzi. As well as a buffet breakfast a set lunch will be provided onboard for five days.

Artist impression

cruise itinerary Split-Split Day 1 Saturday Embark in Split for dinner and overnight on board.

Day 2 Sunday Morning departure towards Bol with its vast golden pebble beach and after lunch, head to Hvar Island for a tour around Hvar Town with opportunity to dine at one of the local restaurants.

1 Jun-5 Oct 7 nights from £1425-£1871

Day 4 Tuesday Cruise to UNESCO World Heritage site of Dubrovnik arriving in the afternoon for a tour of the city. Lunch on board, evening and dinner at your leisure.

Day 5 Wednesday After breakfast cruise past the Elaphiti Islands en route to Korcula Island and a tour of the town. Lunch on board and afternoon arrival with a swim en route. Dinner in restaurant of your choice.

Day 6 Thursday Head for beautiful Vis Island with a swim stop before arriving in the afternoon.

Lunch on board, dinner in restaurant of your choice.

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast and lunch in a standard cabin, flights from Gatwick to Split airport on Saturdays (other departure days, flights and durations available) & include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 30 minutes.

Day 7 Friday Cruise to the island of Bisevo and its magical Blue Cave and onto Split for a city tour after lunch on board. Dinner at your leisure.

Tourist and port taxes are payable locally, budget approximately €25 per person. Please note all bills including local tourist and port taxes are to be settled in cash.

PLEASE CALL US FOR CABIN UPGRADES

Artist impression

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Day 3 Monday Morning departure heading for Mljet Island for a walk around the lakes of Mljet National Park. Lunch and dinner on board.

Day 8 Saturday Disembark in Split after breakfast.

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Lake Bled I SLOVENIA

GRAND HOTEL TOPLICE H H H H H Bled Legendary hotel beside fairytale Lake Bled Located on the shore, enjoying enchanting

fabulous al fresco lake shore setting. The

views over Lake Bled, distinguished Grand

Aperitiv bar will delight with its gentle piano

Hotel Toplice, part of Sava Hotels & Resorts,

music, and Jezero terrace bar serves

has hosted numerous eminent visitors over

cocktails and light snacks. The wellness

the years. Exuding a delightful air of grandeur

centre is a small oasis of tranquillity featuring

and elegance in the reception areas this

three saunas, a range of beauty treatments

refurbished hotel features individual 1930’s

and with Roman style columns surrounding

styled rooms and lavish opulent suites with

the lovely indoor thermal pool (22C) fed

antique furnishings. Culinary delights await

directly from a spring, three saunas and

with the Grand Restaurant serving buffet

beauty treatments. A member of Small Luxury

breakfasts and four course evening meals

Hotels of the World.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

Views over Bled You’ve come to enjoy the water, so it’s definitely a good idea to upgrade to a room or suite with a lake view. There are simply fabulous panoramic vistas of the lake, the castle and the island with its picture-postcard church and it’s easy to while away hours on your balcony watching the sun glistening as the traditional Pletna boats carry visitors to the

with speciality buffets whilst renowned a la

island.

carte Julijana offers beautiful cuisine in a

Suite with lake view

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, cable TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Wellness Centre Luisa Studio with massage and beauty treatments, indoor swimming pool with thermal water from lake spring, 3 saunas l Grand Restaurant with buffet breakfast and four course evening meals and speciality buffets, Julijana a la carte restaurant, Aperitiv bar, Jezero bar (seasonal) l Bridge room l Boathouse with rowing boat hire l Private lakeside lido l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 87 bedrooms and suites

Honeymooners complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability on arrival) Complimentary use of pools at Wellness Ziva at Hotel Golf Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 4 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £854-£1384 Extra nights from £85 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a standard park view room with bath or shower room, some with balcony (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Ljubljana airport on Mondays (other departure days and flights available including flights to Venice & Trieste, Italy and Pula & Zagreb, Croatia) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 45 minutes from Ljubljana,120 minutes from Zagreb and Trieste

UPGRADES per person per night Standard lake view (max 2) from £19-£25 Suite lake view (max 3) from £62-£68 Standard single park view from £37 Standard lake view sole use from £93-£111 Bed & breakfast reduction from -£9 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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SLOVENIA I Lake Bled

HOTEL PARK H H H H Bled Wonderful setting; perfect for lakeside activities In a splendid central Bled location on the

Pizzeria is located on the promenade

lake shore, refurbished Hotel Park, part of

overlooked by the hotel, and Park Café

Sava Hotels & Resorts, enjoys wonderful views

serves deliciously light Bled cream cake; sales

of the lake, its fairytale castle and the Julian

nearing 12 million slices since 1953! There’s a

Alps and the spacious rooms and suites

large rooftop indoor pool with heated

feature a balcony and park or lake views.

thermal waters, a sun terrace with loungers

Buffet breakfasts and evening meals are

and breathtaking lake views, a whirlpool and

served in Park restaurant, there is a bar with

sauna as well as the Thai Centre and guests

occasional piano music, and the rooftop bar

have access to thermal pools in nearby Ziva

boasts enchanting views of the lake and

Wellness Centre. Bled Golf Course is 4km

surroundings. Additionally, the intimate a la

away.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

Trips across the lake A delightful way to cross to the island is by traditional Pletna. Made by the local craftsmen and dating as far back as 1590, this wooden flat-bottomed boat has room for 20 and is rowed by professional Pletna oarsmen although they’ll let you have a go if you’re keen. You can also hire your own Pletna, but then you’ll definitely have to row it yourself!

carte restaurant Julijana, in sister property Grand Hotel Toplice, offers fine dining, Rikli

Suite with lake view

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning (lake view rooms), satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Rooftop indoor swimming pool (loungers) l Whirlpool, sauna, Thai centre l Fitness room and services of a qualified mountain biking guide, excellent hiking locally and tennis, volleyball, basketball and mini golf in the vicinity l Park buffet restaurant, Rikli Pizzeria, Park café, Aperitiv Bar, lounge, rooftop bar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 217 bedrooms and suites

Honeymooners complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability on arrival) Complimentary use of indoor pool and gym Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 11 Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

21 Mar-31 Dec 7 nights from £686-£928 Extra nights from £59 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a standard park view room with shower room and balcony (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Ljubljana airport on Mondays (other departure days and flights available including flights to Venice & Trieste, Italy and Pula & Zagreb, Croatia) and include private transfers.

Private transfer time approximately 45 minutes from Ljubljana, 120 minutes from Zagreb and Trieste

UPGRADES per person per night Standard lake view (max 2) from £13 Suite lake view (max 3 or 2+2) from £56-£68 Standard park view sole use from £25-£37 Bed & breakfast reduction from -£7 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Welcome to Switzerland Extraordinary railway journeys take you from palm fringed lake shores to sparkling glaciers. Belle Epoque paddle steamers ferry you from chic, contemporary cities to medieval villages complete with fairy tale castles. And, if it’s pure air above glistening mountain peaks that you crave, you’re never too far from a cable car or funicular. Presumably, the Swiss transport system is as legendarily

efficient as it is to allow visitors the chance to see the many places, which demand, ever so politely to be visited, in this particularly picturesque part of Europe.

Switzerland’s beauty, purity, hospitality and efficiency make it a most perfect destination for any summer holiday whether for a family holiday, or for a bit of romance.

Hiking in Zermatt

76

Mount Pilatus, Lake Lucerne

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Image courtesey of Lucerne Tourism Ltd.

Lake Stellisee & Matterhorn

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Image courtesey of Lucerne Tourism Ltd.

Cheese & chocolate There’s far more to Swiss cuisine than chocolate and cheese, but they’re a good starting point. Switzerland has always been at the forefront of chocolate production and it was Swiss pioneers Daniel Peter, Rodolphe Lindt and Frederic Neuhaus who were the first to produce milk, fondant and praline, chocolate, respectively. It would be easy to explore Switzerland travelling from cheese

Cycling in Zermatt

Mount Rigi Railway, Lucerne

dairy to cheese dairy. Each region of Switzerland has its own type; there’s soft, melting Vacherin, aromatic Appenzeller, full-

The great outdoors

A variety of resorts

Ancient historic markets, festivals which

Zermatt is surrounded by marvellous scenery

celebrate Swiss folklore, flag waving

and encircled by some of Europe’s highest

competitions and outdoor alp horn concerts

mountains and glaciers. St Moritz’s reputation

annotate the seasons and the calendar, and

as a destination of choice for the world’s

add a rich veneer of heritage to an already

elite is legendary; it offers emerald forests,

beautiful landscape. Switzerland has been

silver lakes, proud peaks and Sils is a

an enthralling proposition for travellers ever

delightful, if diminutive, lakeside community

since the days of the Grand Tour and its

which add further charm to the Engadine

landscape certainly makes a big statement.

Valley. Interlaken, one of the famed resorts of

There is the daunting reputation of the Eiger

the Bernese Oberland, offers impressive views

and the mesmeric topographical perfection

up to the towering peaks of the Jungfrau

of the Matterhorn. And what’s more, there’s

massif, and is the starting point for exploring

little need for mountaineering skills; trains,

the whole region. Grindelwald lies at the foot

historic cog railways and cable cars simply

of the dramatic ledges of the Eiger's sheer

bring the mountains to you. Lake Geneva,

north face. Traffic-free Wengen can only be

Scenic rail travel

known also as Lac Leman, is one of the

reached on foot or via rack railway, and

Thanks to the joined-up efficiency of the

largest lakes in Western Europe; a still and full

Murren, perched on a ledge above the

Swiss network of railway, paddle steamer,

body of water for contemplation and

Lauterbrunnen valley, is another traffic-free

bus, mountain railway and cable car, the

reflection. Another famed expanse of Swiss

delight. Beside beautiful expanses of water

country is easy to get around. Many resorts

water, ringed by snow-peaked mountains of

are medieval Lucerne, with its historic bridges

and hotels provide complimentary guest

many a legend, the complicated shape that

and ramparts, tiny but lovely Weggis, and the

is Lake Lucerne enjoys a scenic variety that is

vibrant and magnificent Belle Epoque town

unique; the mild climate a contradiction of

of Montreux famous for its jazz, chocolate,

its fjord-like landscape. Vintage paddle

Freddie Mercury and Charlie Chaplin.

flavoured Sbrinz, and the world famous Emmental and Gruyere. Any of these making a fondue or raclette a delightful culinary experience. Gschwellti is a jacket potato with cocktail gherkins, onions and pickled fruit.

Alplermagronen is a potato gratin with stewed apple. Rosti is a flat, hot cake made of grated, potatoes, fried in hot butter and, Birchermuesli, the oh-so-good-for-you breakfast of oats, yoghurt, grated apple and almonds, was developed in early 1900 by Swiss doctor, Maximilian Oskar Bircher-

steamers and elegant saloon motor vessels transform lake tours and the glacier

Travelling light

encrusted mountains and green, green

In order that you can travel unencumbered,

pastures are simply perfect for hiking and

we’re delighted to offer a special service to

biking.

transfer luggage from your UK departure airport to your destination. See page 119 for details and prices.

Glacier Express

Image courtesey of swiss-image.ch/AndreaBadrutt

Brenner.

cards offering free local transport and additionally there’s a wide range of travel passes available; see pages 118-119 for details. Scenic first class return rail transfers from your arrival airport to your hotel are automatically included in our holidays although you can opt for private road transfers if you prefer. However, if your holiday Image courtesey of Lucerne Tourism Ltd.

already includes rail transfers then you’re entitled to up to 50% reduction on the purchase of additional tickets, plus under 16’s travel free of charge on the Swiss public transport network and most mountain excursions when travelling with a parent holding a valid ticket.

Mount Rigi cable car

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Switzerland’s rail network is legendary for its efficiency and is a fantastic stress-free way to travel through the amazing scenery. Our holidays to Switzerland include first class rail transfers from Zurich and Geneva airports and, additionally, over the next three pages we’ve highlighted three fabulous itineraries that each include an iconic journey by rail. Firstly, there’s a 7-day itinerary combining Switzerland’s most popular scenic rail trip aboard the Glacier Express from St Moritz to Zermatt with a day trip to Italy by Bernina Express.

Next an 8-day itinerary featuring three of Switzerland’s most iconic rail journeys, the GoldenPass, the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express. Finally an 8-day itinerary travelling the breadth of the country, from Zurich to Geneva featuring the GoldenPass with stays in Lucerne, Interlaken and Montreux.

Swiss rail journeys

Glacier Express

St Moritz

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SWITZERLAND I Scenic Rail Journeys

7 day scenic rail holiday featuring

The Glacier Express & Bernina Express Enjoy the beauty of mountain lakes, the glamour of St Moritz and a spectacular day trip to Tirano in Italy on the Bernina Express before travelling by legendary Glacier Express to Zermatt and the majesty of the Matterhorn. Climbing to an altitude of 2,033m to cross the Oberalp Pass, this spectacular eight hour journey across the high Swiss Alps from St Moritz to Zermatt is dubbed the slowest express train in the world as it wends its way over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels.

Glacier Express

Day 4 Transfer to Zermatt by Glacier Express

Today you take the most popular scenic rail trip in Switzerland on, possibly, the world’s

7 day Itinerary

slowest express train. Enjoy a breathtaking

Day 1 From the UK to St Moritz

journey through dramatic scenery in the

Fly from your choice of UK airport to Zurich

comfort of spacious panoramic carriages

followed by a scenic first class rail transfer

and be amazed at the feat of engineering

(approximately 4 hours) to St Moritz where

as it is explained via the on-board

you will be collected from the railway station

commentary. You should definitely book

by a driver from your chosen hotel (see

lunch, both the one course and three

pages 107-109). Overnight in St Moritz.

courses are excellent, and after this fantastic eight hour journey of a lifetime, you’ll be met

Day 2 Time to explore

at Zermatt railway station by a driver from

Your chance to explore St Moritz and the

your chosen hotel (pages 111-113). Overnight

stunning scenery of the Upper Engadine

in Zermatt.

region with its high peaks and beautiful mountain lakes. A complimentary pass from

takes about an hour each way via a series of

There’s time today to explore lovely, car-free

cars to reach the peaks for free and there’s

Zermatt. Wander through the old town with

lots of options for hiking on numerous

traditional wooden houses bedecked with

waymarked trails. Overnight in St Moritz.

colourful flower-filled window boxes or enjoy shopping in boutiques and artisan food

Day 3 Day trip on Bernina Express

walking trails and the Gornergrat mountain

most spectacular routes across the Alps and,

railway (ticket included) takes you up to

on this classic three hour rail journey, you’ll

3,089m where the air is cool and the views of

enjoy stunning scenery as the train climbs

the Matterhorn superb. There are numerous

over the 2,253m Bernina Pass. There are

stops for great photo opportunities.

amazing views of snow-capped mountains

Overnight at your chosen hotel in Zermatt.

and blue-green glaciers and there’s the

mountain lifts including Europe’s highest cable car which carries you high over gaping glacial crevasses to the fantastic world of ice and snow that is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise with its 360 degree view of mountain peaks in Switzerland, Italy and

stores. Out of town there are numerous

The Bernina Express operates on one of the

A half-day excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise is included. The journey

Day 5 The Gornergrat mountain railway

the hotel means you can use local cable

Day 6 Matterhorn Glacier Paradise

France. Overnight in Zermatt.

Day 7 Depart for UK

Today, enjoy first class train travel back to Zurich airport (approximately 4 hours) for your flight home.

excitement of Brusio’s circular viaduct

Prices from £1,684 per person

before reaching Tirano in Italy for

Based on two adults sharing, three nights bed and breakfast at Hotel Crystal, St Moritz in a classic village view room, three nights half board at Parkhotel Beau Site Zermatt in a classic double room including all elements of the above itinerary and flights from Gatwick to Zurich on Wednesdays (other flights available) and one piece of hold luggage. This itinerary includes first class train travel and timed seat reservations for the Glacier Express and Bernina Express. Please contact us for prices for alternative hotels, flights, dates and durations.

Supplement for Excellence Class on Glacier Express £387 per person

BASEL

the opportunity to explore and

ZURICH

enjoy lunch prior to re-boarding for the return journey to St Moritz.

BERN

An on-board

Brienzer Rothorn ∆

commentary in English is

∆ Mt Rigi Weggis Fluelen

∆ Stanserhorn

Gstaad MONTREUX

LAKE GENEVA

Chur Davos

∆ Mt Titlis

INTERLAKEN

available. Overnight in St Moritz.

LUCERNE Mt Pilatus ∆

Grindelwald Wengen ∆ Eiger Murren ∆ Schilthorn ∆ Monch ∆

ST MORITZ

Jungfraujoch

Bellinzona

GENEVA

ZERMATT

Matterhorn ∆ ∆ Gornergrat

LAKE LUGANO LAKE MAGGIORE

Tirano (IT)

(1 Jan-23 Oct)

LUGANO

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For many, the highlight of a Swiss holiday is travelling the railway routes which criss-cross this scenic country, passing by shimmering lakes and snow-capped peaks. This fantastic 8 day rail journey combines three iconic Swiss railways in just one wonderfully entertaining week. From the beauty of Montreux on Lake Geneva over to Interlaken by GoldenPass Line, then by Glacier Express to the glamour of St Moritz, and finally a day on the Bernina Express to Italy for, what else but, lunch.

Day 5 Jungfraujoch visit

Day 1 From the UK to Montreux Riviera

As no tour of this region is complete without

Fly from your choice of UK airport to Geneva

visiting the highest railway station in Europe,

and then enjoy your first class rail transfer to Montreux, or Vevey, where you’ll enjoy strolling along the lakeside promenade and exploring the town. Overnight at your chosen

Interlaken

Image courtesey of Interlaken Tourism swiss-image.ch

Three Classic Journeys

Bernina Express Image courtesey of swiss-image.ch/ChristophBenz

Scenic Rail Journeys I SWITZERLAND

8 day scenic rail holiday featuring

we’ve included rail tickets for a trip up to the Jungfraujoch. With views of the Eiger along the way, the journey offers breathtaking panoramas over the mighty Aletsch glacier.

hotel in Montreux or Vevey for two nights.

Day 6 Glacier Express to St Moritz Day 2 At leisure by Lake Geneva

Perhaps the most iconic trip of all. From the

Enjoy the attractions of the Montreux Riviera.

comfort of your panoramic carriage enjoy

Taste the wine at the Lavaux vineyards or scale the 2,000 metres to Rochers de Naye by historic cog railway. The Chocolate Train carries you from Montreux to the Cailler chocolate factory and the picturesque

the eight hour journey through the dramatic scenery; the Rhine Gorge is a stunning

Day 8 Depart for UK

highlight, the Landwasser Viaduct an

Relax in your first class carriage on the

incredible feat of engineering. With so much

journey to Zurich airport (approximately 4 hrs)

to see, passengers are grateful for the

for your flight home.

cheesemaking town of Gruyeres.

leisurely pace, and excellent, included, three course lunch. Overnight for two nights at your

Prices from £1,811 per person

Day 3 To Interlaken by GoldenPass Line

chosen hotel in St Moritz.

Based on two adults sharing on a bed and breakfast basis, two nights at Grand Hotel Suisse Majestic in Montreux in a comfort city view room, three nights at Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage in Interlaken in a classic room and two nights at Hotel Crystal in St Moritz in a classic room, including all fixed elements of the above itinerary and return flights from Gatwick to Zurich on Wednesdays (other flights available) and one piece of hold luggage. (Activities of your choice during ‘at leisure’ times are not included). This itinerary includes first class train travel and timed seat reservations for the Glacier Express, Golden Pass and Bernina Express journeys (Bernina Express reservation for St Moritz-Tirano with return timing of your choice). Please contact us for prices for alternative hotels, flights or optional extras.

Montreux’s Mediterranean ambience is left behind; the fairytale mountain landscapes of Chateau d’Oex and Gstaad take over, before changing trains at Zweisimmen. Enjoy the coastline of Lake Thun, dotted with Romanesque churches, before arriving at Interlaken. Overnight for three nights in

Day 7 Day trip on the Bernina Express

The journey from St Moritz to Tirano in Italy, takes around three hours. Travel between snow-capped peaks, over the Bernina Pass at a height of 2,253m, and round the circular viaduct at Brusio. Reach Tirano in time for a light lunch (lunch not included) and to

Interlaken.

explore the town. Return to St Moritz.

Day 4 At leisure in the Jungfrau

Combine a cruise on Lake Brienz with a steam train trip to the top of Brienzer

BASEL

Rothorn. Or take lunch in Schilthorn

ZURICH

at Piz Gloria, the revolving mountain top restaurant made famous in the classic James

BERN

Bond movie On Her

Brienzer Rothorn ∆

Majesty’s Secret Service. If

Gstaad MONTREUX

LAKE GENEVA

opportunities in

makers’ workshops

Chur Davos

∆ Mt Titlis

Grindelwald Wengen ∆ Eiger Murren ∆ Schilthorn ∆ Monch ∆

ST MORITZ

Jungfraujoch

Interlaken, there are always chocolate

Cogwheel train to Rochers de Naye

∆ Mt Rigi Weggis Fluelen

∆ Stanserhorn

INTERLAKEN

you tire of the almost unlimited shopping

LUCERNE Mt Pilatus ∆

Bellinzona

GENEVA

ZERMATT

Matterhorn ∆ ∆ Gornergrat

Tirano (IT)

LAKE LUGANO LAKE MAGGIORE

LUGANO

to attend.

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The Golden Pass Route Arguably one of the most scenic routes in Switzerland, the Golden Pass line travels through three of the country’s most picturesque regions, including Lucerne, the Jungfrau and Montreux with plenty of time in each to explore and discover.

Day 4 Jungfraujoch: Top of Europe

BASEL

A highlight of every Swiss visit is the

ZURICH

famous mountain railway ride to the Jungfraujoch. At 3,454m, it’s Europe’s highest station

BERN

where the panoramic

Brienzer Rothorn ∆

views are unparalleled.

Gstaad MONTREUX

LAKE GENEVA

degree cinema and

Davos

Wengen ∆ Eiger ∆ Murren ∆ Monch ∆

ST MORITZ

Schilthorn

Jungfraujoch

Bellinzona

GENEVA

minimum of six hours.

8 day Itinerary

Chur

∆ Mt Titlis

Grindelwald

hall, Ice Palace, 360

round trip takes a

∆ Mt Rigi Weggis Fluelen

∆ Stanserhorn

INTERLAKEN

There’s an observation

Snow Fun Park. The

LUCERNE Mt Pilatus ∆

ZERMATT

Matterhorn ∆ ∆ Gornergrat

Tirano (IT)

LAKE LUGANO LAKE MAGGIORE

LUGANO

Overnight in Interlaken.

Day 1 From the UK to Lucerne

Fly from the UK to Zurich and enjoy a scenic

Day 5 Schilthorn & 007

one hour transfer by first class rail to Lucerne.

Travel by rail and cable cars to the 2,970m

Day 7 Wine or Chocolate & Cheese

Overnight in your chosen hotel in Lucerne

Schilthorn. The views of the Lauterbrunnen

Enjoy wine tasting in Rivas and the UNESCO

(pages 86-89).

valley on the ascent and the panoramic

vineyards of the Lavaux Vinorama; a three

mountain vistas of Monch, Eiger and

hour excursion including a short rail journey

Day 2 Paddle steamer lunch cruise

Jungfrau are breathtaking. Entry to

from Montreux. Or for a supplement of £42

Board an historic paddle steamer at noon for

interactive Bond World 007 is included and

per person choose a full day trip aboard the

a gentle hour and three-quarters cruise on

the round trip takes a minimum of four hours;

Chocolate Train stopping for chocolate

beautiful Lake Lucerne (operates by motor

longer if you lunch at slowly revolving Piz

tasting at Maison Cailler and cheese

vessel 11 Sep-24 May). Relax and enjoy a

Gloria restaurant, of Bond’s On Her Majesty’s

sampling at the medieval market town of

delicious two course lunch of regional meat,

Secret Service fame. Overnight in Interlaken.

Gruyeres. Overnight in Montreux.

SWITZERLAND I Scenic Rail Journeys

8 day scenic rail holiday featuring

fresh fish or locally sourced vegetarian specialities. Back in Lucerne, visit the bustling

Day 6 Golden Pass to Montreux

Day 8 Depart for UK

Aldstadt with its cobbled streets and 14th

From Interlaken, the Golden Pass Panoramic

Today, enjoy a one and half hour first class

century ramparts and covered bridges.

train follows the banks of Lake Thun before

rail journey to Geneva airport for your flight

Overnight in Lucerne.

rising to the green alpine pastures of the

home.

Simmental. Pass by flowering meadows and Day 3 Lucerne to Interlaken

traditional villages before a possible change

Travel for two hours by rail along the scenic

to a different gauge railway in Zweisimmen.

Golden Pass route. Initially following the

There’s superb alpine forest views and, once

banks of Lake Lucerne, the route climbs

through the tunnel, you emerge into

through quintessentially Swiss countryside,

vineyards and beautiful views of Lake

and past picturesque villages and beautiful

Geneva. Disembark in Montreux after this

lakes to Brunig Pass. Beneath snow-covered

magnificent three to four hour journey. For

peaks, the train passes Meiringen and the

VIP views at the front of the train during July

Sherlock Holmes-famed Reichenbach Falls

and August, there's a £15 per person

before descending to Lake Brienz and

supplement. Overnight at your chosen hotel

Interlaken. Overnight at your chosen hotel in

in Montreux (pages 102-104).

Interlaken (pages 92-93).

Prices from £1,888 per person Based on two adults sharing on a bed and breakfast basis, two nights in a standard double old town room at Hotel des Balances, Lucerne, three nights in a comfort double room with river or Jungfrau view at Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage, Interlaken, and two nights in a comfort double city view room at Grand Hotel SuisseMajestic, Montreux and includes all elements of the above tour, flights from Gatwick to Zurich on Wednesdays, returning to Gatwick from Geneva (other flights are available) and one piece of hold luggage. This itinerary includes first class travel on the railways and boat trip plus timed seat reservations for the Golden Pass between Interlaken and Montreux. Please contact us for prices for alternative hotels, flights and durations.

Image courtesey of swiss-image.ch/MauriceSchobinger

Seasonal variations Lunch cruise (daily: 1 Jun-31 Aug), Schilthorn (closed: 23-26 Apr & 11 Nov-6 Dec), Lavaux Vinorama (daily: Jun-Oct & Wed-Sun during Nov-May), Chocolate Train (daily: Jul-Aug, MonThu during May-Jun & Mon/Wed/Thu during Sep-Oct; does not operate Nov-Apr).

Note: Fete des Vignerons takes place in the Lavaux region 17 Jul-18 Aug and may affect availability of Lavaux Vinorama.

Golden Pass Panoramic Express

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Zurich Switzerland’s cosmopolitan city of Zurich is consistently ranked amongst the world’s highest for excellence in quality of life. More than just a global centre for banking and finance, it’s culturally vibrant, on-trend, and is beautifully situated on the River Limmat at the northern end of Lake Zurich.

Zurich boasts delightfully green open spaces, swimming is popular in the river, lake and numerous lidos, and the Uetliberg mountain which towers over Zurich’s rooftops, is easily reached by train. The city boasts a vast selection of eateries from inventive pop-up to Michelin star, and there’s heavenly confectionery and lakeside Badi-Bars. There are magnificent churches and narrow alleyways in the Old Town, plus numerous museums, galleries, concert halls and a fabulous opera house. In contrast to the medieval Old Town, former industrial ZurichWest has become a lively, hip neighbourhood with designer shops, contemporary galleries, and excellent

82

restaurant, bars, cafés and clubs. Go to Bahnhofstrasse for trendy shopping and the old Schipfe district for artisan handicrafts.

Although easy to discover on foot, a sightseeing cruise is a must; purchase a Zurich Card for unlimited (2nd class) travel by tram, bus, train, boat and cable car, plus free or reduced fee entry to many attractions.

Attractions Zurich’s most famous landmark, twin-towered Grossmunster church is, according to legend, built over the graves of Felix and Regula, the city’s two Christian martyrs, whilst graceful Fraumunster with its slender blue spire boasts Marc Chagall-designed stained-glass windows. Located next to the main railway station and reminiscent of a fairy-tale castle, the Swiss National Museum houses the country’s largest cultural and historical collection, whilst the impressive museum Kunsthaus, hosts a vast collection of art from the Middle Ages to more recent times including a comprehensive collection by Alberto Giacometti.

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Boat cruises See the city from a leisurely river cruise or catch a boat to Ufenau Island, idyllically situated in the middle of the lake.

Alternatively, travel further south on a longer boat journey to visit Rapperswil, Town of Roses.

Christmas markets From mid-November, yuletide is celebrated with Christmas markets, late-night and Sunday shopping, advent concerts, carol singing, and a candle-floating event on the River Limmat, plus don’t miss the impressive Swarovski crystal-studded Christmas tree.

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H H H H H NEW for 2019 Zurich Stylish riverside luxury In a unique position on the River Limmat and in the very heart of Zurich, the wellestablished Hotel Storchen is within easy reach of the city’s most popular landmarks

Features

Classic valuE

and is renowned for its friendly and

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, Nespresso machine and safe l La Rotisserie Restaurant, Barchetta Bar, Piazza, Cigar Bar l Complimentary WiFi l Boat pier l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 66 bedrooms and suites

Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

exemplary service. Modern, sophisticated interiors complement the historic building with elegant, inviting spaces, whilst the beautifully stylised guest rooms and suites

SWITZERLAND I Zurich

Hotel Storchen

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

boast views over the river or the picturesque old town. A Swiss buffet breakfast with the addition of a la carte choices is served at the river-facing La Rotisserie, where seasonal

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £929-£1163

culinary delights can be enjoyed for lunch

Extra nights from £234 per person per night

and dinner. Fine aperitifs are served in the

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic double room (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include first class rail transfers.

stylish Barchetta Cocktail Bar whilst the contemporary lounge is perfect for coffee.

During the summer, Italian-inspired dishes and

First class rail transfer time approximately 15 minutes

ice cream can be enjoyed al fresco on the piazza. The hotel also offers live jazz evenings.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Contemporary deluxe room with river view

Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich NEW for 2019 H H H H superior Zurich Historic hotel in central location Located opposite the main train station and adjacent to the famous pedestrian shopping street Bahnhofstrasse, family-owned Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich dates back to 1876 and beautifully combines classic charm with contemporary luxury whilst its long-time staff provide a friendly welcome and attentive service. Comfortable guest rooms and suites are furnished in a classically elegant style with the extra benefit of a butler service looking after the needs of guests in the evenings. An extensive buffet breakfast with champagne is available each morning,

Features

Classic valuE

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities, Nespresso coffee machine and safe l Boutique gym l La Soupière Restaurant, Café Gourmet, Schweizerhof Bar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 99 bedrooms and suites

Offer stay 2 nights or more and save £19-£30 per adult per night Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

whilst French and regional specialities are served for lunch and dinner in La Soupière.

Café Gourmet with its French brasserie-style

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £758-£951

atmosphere is perfect for a coffee break,

Extra nights from £174 per person per night

quick lunch or an intimate dinner. The bar is

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a standard double room with bath or shower (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include first class rail transfers.

the setting for occasional live music and dance nights, and additionally there is a boutique gym on-site and guests also have

First class rail transfer time approximately 15 minutes

complimentary access to Holmes Place & Spa just around the corner.

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PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Deluxe room

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83

Image courtesey of Lucerne Tourism Ltd.

Buergenstock lift

Lake Lucerne Ringed by snow-peaked mountains, Lake Lucerne enjoys a scenic variety quite unique in the Swiss lakes; the mild climate a contradiction to its fjordlike landscape. Occupying a wonderful position where the River Reuss meets the lake, picture-perfect Lucerne effortlessly wins the hearts of its many visitors.

Image courtesey of Lucerne Tourism Ltd.

With a dazzling river and lakeside confection of frescoed buildings, turreted walls, candycoloured houses, Belle Epoque hotels, sunny cobbled squares, Italianate cloisters, and waterfront promenades, Lucerne also boasts a charming, traffic-free, wonderfully wellpreserved medieval old town, separated by the River Reuss and linked by the extraordinary 14th century, dog-legged, timbered bridge of Kapellbrucke; its own interior replete with antique roof paintings.

Beyond the delightful cafés, traditional shops and designer boutiques, you’ll also find some serious museums and galleries such as the Sammlung Rosengart with its superb Chapel Bridge, Lucerne

84

collection of 20th century masters including Picasso and Klee. Meanwhile, concert-goers are spoiled by the acoustic brilliance of the searingly modern KKL, the waterfront Kultur and Kongresszentrum arena. Historic paddle wheel steamers and elegant saloon motor vessels regularly call in at the harbour, ferrying guests to pretty lakeside villages such as Weggis and to the nearby mountains.

Attractions Delightful Lucerne is compact enough to discover on foot. During the summer months the 14th century ramparts are open, enabling you to enjoy fine views of the old town before immersing yourself in the medieval atmosphere below. Early 17th century paintings depicting the Dance of Death, under the roof of the Spreuer Bridge, capture the spirit of the times. The absorbing Bourbaki Panorama, a circular mural, depicts moments from the Franco-Prussian war, and a vast cliff-face carving of a dying lion commemorates Swiss mercenaries killed by French revolutionaries in 1792. In the early 19th century, the steamships brought more and more distinguished visitors; Goethe, Wagner, and crowned rulers such as Queen Victoria, arrived to be inspired by the beauty

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of the lake. But Lucerne doesn’t only dwell on the distant past, modern sophisticates enjoy concerts in the brooding dark glass and steel KKL conference centre and in the numerous live music venues bordering the buzzing riverside.

Complimentary guest cards Lucerne Guest Card gives you free local bus and second class rail transport within the city, plus discounts on museums and other local attractions and is issued by your hotel.

Lake trips A steamer cruise across the lake on a sunfilled summer’s day is without doubt a wonderful experience. But equally, sailing through a mild summer’s evening towards the sea of lights that is Lucerne at dusk is just as unforgettable. As is the mystical mood on the lake during the autumn mist period, and when steamers cut steadily through the waves whipped up by the Fohn wind. Or try a trip in the cosy warmth of the saloon motor vessels, whilst the landscape passes by outside. You can tour the magnificent bays of Lake Lucerne aboard a variety of craft from elegant yachts to historic steamers.

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Sightseeing

Mount Pilatus A visit to Mount Pilatus is an exceptional experience at any time of year. Wonderful sightseeing, by your choice of train, boat, bus, cable car and mountain railway, is a feature of the round trip. The mountain offers walking and hiking trails for all ages, a rope park with zip wires, a summer toboggan run, play areas and restaurants.

In the summer it’s possible to travel from Lucerne to Alpnachstad by either boat or rail and take the cogwheel railway up to Pilatus Kulm at 2,032m whilst the year-round option is by bus to Kriens and cable cars to the summit.

Mount Rigi The summit of Mount Rigi offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view extending over 13 lakes as far as the Black Forest in neighbouring Germany. Visitors can choose from a 120km network of wonderful hiking trails. A wide variety of inviting mountain restaurants serving everything from mountain cheese fondues to Gault Millau award delicacies offer a chance to luxuriate amid spectacular scenery. There’s a rope park, playgrounds and horse and carriage rides. Ideally a trip from Lucerne starts with a cruise on a paddle steamer and onward to the summit by cable car from Weggis or by cogwheel mountain railway from Vitznau returning by mountain railway to Arth-Goldau and back to Lucerne by train.

View from Mount Rigi

Lake paddlesteamer

Mount Rigi Railway

Wagner, music & festivals For music-lovers there is the lakeside villa of Richard Wagner, which provides an intriguing look at his life and social circle. Lucerne is also celebrated for its world-class music festival which is divided into three separate seasons: Easter, summer and late autumn.

Concerts take place in the KKL conference venue and around town. The Rose Festival in July has developed into a summer festival by the lake; a lively mix of a festival, food stalls and entertainment.

We tailor make all holidays, and can book scheduled, charter or no frills flights from your local airport to Zurich.

Stanserhorn After riding the vintage railway from Stans to the middle station at Kalti, board the world’s first open top cable car for the journey to the top of the Stanserhorn at 1,900m. Known as ‘the lazy mountain’, it’s a place for idling and enjoying the view or a relaxed lunch in the revolving restaurant although there is a 30 minute circular hiking trail around the peak. To reach Stans, it’s a 20 minute train journey from Lucerne or, a relaxing boat trip to Hergiswil or Stanstad and onward to Stans by train.

Mount Titlis

Mount Pilatus Cogwheel Railway

Classic Concierge For further details of excursions and sightseeing possibilities, and to book prior to travel, please call our dedicated team on 0800 008 7289.

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The journey up Mount Titlis is a real adventure. Travel by train from Lucerne to Engelberg and then by revolving cablecar to 3,020m. Enjoy breath-taking 360 degree vistas, the Titlis Cliff Walk - the highest altitude suspension footbridge in Europe, and an ice cave which descends 20 metres below the surface of the glacier.

Take the Ice Flyer chairlift over the glacier to the Glacier Park for year-round snow fun including sled-boarding. As an alternative descent, take the cable car to the Gerschnialp station at 1300m and scoot down to the Engelberg station on a trotti bike before returning to Lucerne by train.

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Lake Lucerne I SWITZERLAND

Hotel Schweizerhof H H H H H Lucerne Historic grandeur meets contemporary design Set on the lakeshore promenade in Lucerne’s

award-winning fine dining restaurant Pavillon

historic old town and with stunning

or in the a la carte speciality restaurant

panoramic views of Lake Lucerne and the

Galerie where market-fresh cuisine is served

Alps, family-owned Hotel Schweizerhof has

each day and various award-winning chefs

been enchanting guests since 1845 and has

make the occasional guest appearance. The

played host to many a writer, musician and

hotel has a long-standing tradition of hosting

artist over the years. Behind its resplendent

a variety of Lucerne’s many festivals and its

neo-classical facade the reception areas

trendy bar with live music is often the spot for

fully reflect its 19th century splendour, with

after-show celebrations. Facilities include a

the sophisticated and contemporary style

wellness centre and a gym, with the Culture

guest rooms and suites each designed to tell

& Convention Centre and the impressive

a story about one of its past, illustrious guests.

lakeside lido, Lucerne Nationalquai, both

Culinary delights can be savoured at the

reached on foot in less than ten minutes.

Mount Rigi cable car

Junior suite

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV and home cinema, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Schweizerhof Wellness & Beauty with treatments, Finnish and bio saunas, aromatherapy, chromotherapy, hydromassage showers, 2 private spa suites, fitness room l Sun terrace l Galerie a la carte restaurant for regional cuisine, Pavillon a la carte fine dining restaurant l Schweizerhof Bar with live music and events l New Villa Schweizerhof a la carte restaurant, on the shores of Lake Lucerne, reached by complimentary shuttle bus in 5 minutes, serving local specialities l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 101 bedrooms and suites

Offers please call us for offers and savings Complimentary guest cards Lucerne guest card gives you free local bus and second class rail transport within the city, plus discounts on museums and other local attractions and is issued by your hotel Dining half board available to book and pay locally Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Excursions from Lucerne Mt Pilatus, Mt Rigi, Mt Titlis, Stanserhorn, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn - see page 119

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1456-£2070 Extra nights from £158 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a standard city view room with bath and separate shower (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Zurich approximately 3 hours 20 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Standard lake view (max 2) from £29-£46 Junior suite lake view (max 3 or 2+2) from £75-£92 Suite lake view (max 3 or 2+2) from £178-£195 Standard city view sole use from £107-£169 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

Advance booking recommended

86

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SWITZERLAND I Lake Lucerne

Art Deco Hotel Montana H H H H superior NEW for 2019 Lucerne Outstanding views and gourmet dining Award-winning Art Deco Hotel Montana

Kitchen Club offers a chef’s table concept

enjoys stunning views over Lake Lucerne from

and the rooftop Beach Club, complete with

its hillside setting only a short walk from the

whirlpool, is perfect for cocktails and delicious

city centre and linked to the lakeside by a

snacks. Boasting a precious collection of

short funicular ride. Dating back to 1910 the

whisky the legendary Louis Bar is a hotspot for

hotel has been tastefully renovated in a

live jazz, whilst for rum and cigar aficionados

contemporary art deco style with individually

there’s the Hemingway Rum Lounge and for

designed guest rooms and suites; choose a

those in need of some pampering and

lakeside room with balcony for spectacular

relaxation, a day spa.

vistas. Acclaimed fine dining restaurant Scala features creative Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and during warm days guests can choose to dine on the outdoor terrace. The

Double room with lake view

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Spa with massage and treatments l Rooftop Beach Club with whirlpool (May-Sep) l Scala Restaurant with 15 Gault Millau points and panoramic views over the lake and mountains, Kitchen Club, Louis Bar with live music, Hemingway Cigar Rum Lounge l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 61 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary guest cards Lucerne guest card gives you free local bus and second class rail transport within the city, plus discounts on museums and other local attractions and is issued by your hotel Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Excursions from Lucerne Mt Pilatus, Mt Rigi, Mt Titlis, Stanserhorn, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn - see page 119 Advance booking recommended

2 Jan-30 Dec 7 nights from £1528-£1855 Extra nights from £165 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a double hillside view room, bath or shower room (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Zurich approximately 3 hours 20 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Double lake view (max 2) from £34-£42 Double hillside view sole use from £89-£184 Double lake view sole use from £162-£251 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Lake Lucerne I SWITZERLAND

Seehotel Hermitage H H H H superior Lucerne Modern lakeside luxury In a privileged lakeside setting amidst

dishes with al fresco dining on the terrace

immaculately tended parkland, Seehotel

plus the hotel's open air restaurant Seegarten

Hermitage enjoys the most fabulous vistas

is open in the summer months. Guests can

across the lake from all areas of the hotel

take advantage of the hotel’s small wellness

and set within a 15 minute drive of Lucerne’s

corner and city bicycles, play a game of

picturesque old town is in a tranquil and

tennis, go for a refreshing dip in the lake or

relaxing spot, yet within easy reach of all that

practice stand up paddle boarding; or

Lucerne has to offer. Spacious and stylishly

simply lounge in the garden underneath the

modern guest rooms are comfortably

shade of a tree. There is a bus stop outside

furnished and boast spectacular views of the

the hotel for the 10-15 minute ride to central

lake and the mountains from its floor-to-

Lucerne.

ceiling windows. The chic restaurant serves a

Image courtesey of Lucerne Tourism Ltd.

delectable choice of Swiss and international

Mount Pilatus

Deluxe room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Wellness corner with sauna, steam sauna, steam bath, infrared cabin, fitness area l Tennis court, e-bikes and tandem e-bikes for hire, city bikes, paddleboards l Restaurant Hermitage, Terrace restaurant, Seegarten for informal outdoor dining in summer months, lounge bar l Children's playground l WiFi throughout l Hotel boat rental l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 69 bedrooms

Complimentary guest cards Lucerne guest card gives you free local bus and second class rail transport within the city, plus discounts on museums and other local attractions and is issued by your hotel Complimentary use of bicycles, e-bikes, tandem bikes, tennis courts and paddleboards Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Excursions from Lucerne Mt Pilatus, Mt Rigi, Mt Titlis, Stanserhorn, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn - see page 119 Advance booking recommended

1 Jan-30 Dec 7 nights from £1289-£1627 Extra nights from £134 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a superior new building lake view room with bathroom and French balcony (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Zurich approximately 3 hours 20 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe - new building lake view (max 2) from £16-£20 Premium - main building lake view (max 2) from £28 Family standard lake view (max 2+1) from £36-£42 Superior - new building lake view sole use from £69-£70 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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SWITZERLAND I Lake Lucerne

Hotel des Balances H H H H Lucerne Historic building with modern, boutique style interiors and fine dining Hotel des Balances enjoys a wonderful

its attractive lounge, bar and terrace boasts

riverside location in the heart of the old town

no fewer than 14 points from the influential

of Lucerne. Although it did not open its doors

French restaurant guide Gault Millau. The

as a hotel until 1837, this historically important

Hotel des Balances is situated in a vehicle

building dates back to the twelfth century

restricted zone, a flat 650m walk from

and it has been a popular meeting place

Lucerne railway station. It makes a perfect

throughout the ages; its painted rear facade

base for shopping and sightseeing tours in

and delightful riverside restaurant terrace are

Lucerne and further afield.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A TWIN LAKE HOLIDAY Stay in the chic luxury of Hotel des Balances to enjoy the mild climate and fjord like terrain round Lake Lucerne before taking a wonderful journey by vintage paddle steamer from Lucerne to Fluelen and onwards by rail to Lugano for

two of the most photographed motifs of

a stay in Park Hotel Principe’s fantastic

Lucerne. All guest rooms and suites have

parkland location, overlooking Lake

recently been completely renovated,

Lugano and 2km from the town centre.

blending historical flair with modern design.

Contact us for itineraries and prices.

The award-winning Balances restaurant with

Junior suite

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Restaurant Balances, bar & lounge, riverside terrace popular for lunch and evening dining (weather permitting, reservations required) l Complimentary WiFi l Valet parking service l Local activities and sightseeing include Lucerne guided city tour, historic paddle steamer cruises, cable car to the summit of Mount Pilatus, mountain railway to Mount Rigi for scenic hiking, Swiss Museum of Transport l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 56 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary guest cards Lucerne guest card gives you free local bus and second class rail transport within the city, plus discounts on museums and other local attractions and is issued by your hotel

Excursions from Lucerne Mt Pilatus, Mt Rigi, Mt Titlis, Stanserhorn, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn - see page 119 Advance booking recommended

Mount Rigi Railway

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1214-£1716 Extra nights from £125 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a standard Old Town view room with bath or shower room (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Zurich approximately 3 hours 20 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Standard river view (max 2+1) from £23 Standard old town view sole use from £22-£61 Standard river view sole use from £68-£107 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Harder Kulm viewpoint near Interlaken

Bernese Oberland

Image courtesey of Interlaken Tourism swiss-image.ch/MikeKaufmann

The Bernese Oberland is Switzerland’s Alpine heart, and the stunning landscape of the Jungfrau may certainly cause yours to skip a beat. It was sufficiently uplifting to make Victorians swoon, presided over, as it is, by glacier-encrusted monoliths of Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau; Ogre, Monk and Virgin.

Interlaken

Interlaken Interlaken is one of the most famous resorts of the Bernese Oberland and the classic starting point for exploring the region by train, bus or boat. Nestled between the sparkling waters of two beautiful lakes, Brienz, famous for its waterfalls, and Thun, feted for its fairy tale castles, between which flows the River Aare, the resort that is Interlaken offers impressive views up to the towering peaks of the Jungfrau massif. Hoheweg is the pretty town’s main street, bookended by railway termini and lined with flowers, cafés and shops, it assumes the persona of an Alpine staging post, serendipitously placed to Thun & Thun Castle

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amuse and entertain visitors en route to the mountains. Lake steamers distract you to other villages along the shores. The historic Jungfrau railway can haul you to the highest railway station in Europe, Jungfraujoch.

Adrenalin can be deployed abseiling, white water rafting and gliding, or there are numerous attractive boutiques, restaurants and cafés in which to idle away many hours.

Car-free Wengen & Murren Overlooking the Lauterbrunnen valley, Wengen can only be reached on foot or via the historic Wengernalpbahn rack railway.

The town enjoys a beautiful setting beneath the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau and is perfect for walks in the mountains and alpine meadows. You can climb to the Wengernalp, either directly in less than two hours or by way of the Mettlealp in three, or take the railway; each provides splendid views of the Trumleten valley. At the foot of the Schilthorn, Murren, perched on a ledge above the valley, developed into a popular resort in the late 19th-century and retains its ambiance by not allowing private vehicles in its narrow streets. Access to this rustic chalet village is from Lauterbrunnen by cable car followed by a narrow-gauge railway, or, past

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waterfalls and craggy rock faces, by cable car into the centre of the village. For those brave enough, there's a Thrill Walk at Birg above Murren and for adventure and white water enthusiasts, there’s paragliding, river rafting and canyoning.

Grindelwald A large village of narrow streets and picturesque chalets set among alpine meadows, picture-perfect Grindelwald lies at the foot of the dramatic ledges of the Eiger's sheer north face. To the left is the Mettenberg and the Wetterhorn. Both surpassing 3,000m, these peaks are the most characteristic landmarks of the Grindelwald valley of which both sides are easily accessed by railway and cable cars.

Additionally, there are two glaciers for exploring and there’s a small museum to learn about alpine life, local cheese-making, and the history of skiing and mountaineering.

Grindelwald also offers a zip wire and a fantastic cliff walk. Thanks to the mountain railways, buses and cable cars, all linking, of course, with Swiss efficiency, the whole of the Bernese Oberland is extremely accessible from this delightful world-famous village.

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Sightseeing

Bollywood & Ballenberg It’s not just the James Bond franchise that immortalized the Jungfrau on celluloid.

The picturesque landscapes have attracted the Indian film fraternity for decades. It started with Raj Kapoor’s Sangam in 1964 and, ever since, the green meadows, snow-capped Alps and pristine lakes have played body-double for the Kashmir Valley, providing the backdrop to more than 280 Bollywood romances. Unrelated but interesting, since the 1970’s, old farmhouses, bake houses and barns have been reassembled stone by stone in the Ballenberg Open Air Museum illustrating rural life in an authentic setting.

Jungfrau

First Cliff Walk, Grindelwald-First

Think snow covered peaks, flower strewn meadows, clear mountain lakes and the tinkling of distant cow bells. It’s an area encompassing Grindelwald, Wengen, Murren, offering a network of mountain railways and gondolas to the surrounding peaks. Switzerland’s most popular mountain railway lumbers south from Interlaken, criss-crossing pastures and barrelling through the Eiger to surface at Jungfraujoch. On clear days the spectacular 2½ hour journey is rewarded

by Black Forest and Italian Alps’ views.

The most picturesque scenery borders the Lauterbrunnen valley, overlooked by Murren; delightful for summer hiking.

Grindelwald, in the neighbouring valley, encourages walkers too, as does Wengen with 30km of marked trails including the route to the Kleine Scheidegg with its celebrated Eiger view.

Activities

Train journey to Jungfrau

Eiger

Jungfrau travel pass Although the hotel-supplied complimentary Gastekarte offers discounts throughout the region, the Jungfrau Travel Pass (see page 118) is worth purchasing as excursions such as Kleine Scheidegg, Schynige Platte and Harder Kulm are included; it’s a must-have for walkers, hikers and sightseers and is free for under 16’s with parents holding a valid ticket.

We tailor-make all holidays and can book scheduled, charter or no frills flights from your local UK airport to Zurich.

Wengen

Classic Concierge For further details of excursions and sightseeing possibilities, and to book prior to travel, please call our dedicated team on 0800 008 7289.

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The Jungfrau area offers 500km of trails; visit the Trummelbach Falls in the Lauterbrunnen valley and hike the Eiger Trail. Visit Piz Gloria, the revolving restaurant on the Schilthorn above Murren which appeared in the film On Her Majesty's Secret Service as the headquarters of Bond's nemesis Ernst Blofeld; nowadays, the interactive Bond World 007 exhibition is fun for all ages.

Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s home mountain, is scaled by funicular in ten minutes. Take the cogwheel railway to Schynige Platte for views of Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau en route to the Botanical Alpine Garden.

Brienzer Rothorn, Switzerland’s only steam powered mountain railway, provides an authentic Swiss experience; take the train from Brienz, one stop from Interlaken, for spectacular Bernese Alps views. The highlight of any visit to the Jungfrau is the famous mountain railway ride to the ‘top of Europe’, the 3,454m Jungfraujoch.

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Interlaken I SWITZERLAND

VICTORIA-JUNGFRAU Grand Hotel & Spa H H H H H superior

recommended spa

Interlaken First class luxury in a central location Set amid the mountains of the Bernese

whilst Ristorante e Pizzeria Sapori invites

Oberland and overlooking the Jungfrau,

guests to sample authentic Italian creations;

Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa will

the hotel’s sommelier will be delighted to

please the most discerning traveller with its

recommend one of the many fine vintages

timeless and understated elegance, modern

from the wine cellar. The Victoria Terrace

luxury and award-winning dining. Guest

offers sweet treats and finger foods,

rooms and suites are delightfully decorated

traditional English afternoon tea is served in

in a classic style, and complemented by

the bar at weekends and the Spa Bistro

modern amenities ensuring a comfortable

offers a selection of light refreshments. The

stay. A seasonally changing menu drawing

vast spa offers world class facilities including

inspiration from the region and south of

a spacious indoor pool and exclusive

France can be enjoyed in a refined setting

treatments and Better-aging programmes. A

at the La Terrasse fine dining establishment

member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Outdoor swimming pool l Spa Nescens with treatments, and Better-aging programmes, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, Finnish sauna, bio sauna, steam rooms, indoor pool, fitness room l La Terrasse fine dining restaurant with 15 Gault Millau points, Ristorante e Pizzeria Sapori, Victoria Terrace for snacks, Victoria Bar l WiFi throughout l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 216 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary Interlaken Guest Card entitles the holder to free passage on local bus and train services as well as reductions on entry to many attractions and facilities Complimentary fruits and bottle of water in room on arrival Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A FABULOUS RAIL JOURNEY Enjoy spectacular scenery in Interlaken, gateway to the Jungfrau, for a few days before enjoying a splendid rail journey along the Golden Pass line to Lucerne. A vintage paddle steamer lake trip to Fluelen is next, before another rail trip through St Gotthard tunnel, culminating in Lugano where we recommend staying at Villa Principe Leopoldo, 2km from the centre.

Contact us for itineraries and prices.

Deluxe room

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Excursions by rail from Interlaken Brienzer Rothorn, Schynige Platte, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn - see page 119 Advance booking recommended

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1 Jan-301 Dec 7 nights from £1845-£2852 Extra nights from £208 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a superior double Mount Harder or Interlaken view room with bathroom (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 2 hours 15 minutes from Zurich approximately 3 hours 15 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe double Jungfrau view (max 2) from £36-£70 Junior suite superior Mt. Harder or Interlaken view (max 2) from £27-£60 Junior deluxe suite Jungfrau view (max 3) from £63-£129 Bel air junior suite countryside view (max 2) from £121-£216 Premier suite Jungfrau view (min 4, max 2 or 2+2) from £132-£338 Deluxe duplex suite Jungfrau view (min 4, max 2 or 2+2) from £65-£224

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SWITZERLAND I Interlaken

Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage H H H H H Interlaken

Right by the River Aare and with spectacular

can choose to dine al fresco on the spacious

views of the imposing Eiger, Monch and the

terrace with enchanting views of the river.

eternally snow-capped Jungfrau, well-

Delightful afternoon tea is served daily and

established Lindner Grand Hotel Beau Rivage

Le Vieux Rivage bar offers refreshing cocktails

is well placed for the town centre, the

and a selection of light meals and snacks. In

railway station and Harder Kulm. Behind the

addition to a range of Clarins beauty

majestic facade the splendid interiors of

treatments, Finnish sauna and steam bath

polished marble columns and sparkling

and a gym, the Panorama Spa features a

chandeliers add to the timeless elegance.

spacious indoor pool.

Image courtesey of Interlaken Tourism swiss-image.ch

A grand old dame on the riverside

Sigriswil Suspension Bridge

A hearty Swiss breakfast buffet is provided each morning at the L’Ambiance, where in the evening delectable national and international cuisine is on offer and guests

Classic twin room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Panorama Spa & Beauty Centre with treatments, indoor swimming pool complex, Finnish sauna, steam bath, gym l L’Ambiance with buffet breakfast, Le Vieux Rivage bar for light dishes and snacks l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 101 bedrooms and suites

Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Singles stays 1 Jan-14 Apr in a single Jungfrau view room receive 1 free night in 3 on b&b Spa 20% discount on wellness treatments Complimentary Interlaken Guest Card entitles the holder to free passage on local bus and train services as well as reductions on entry to many attractions and facilities Complimentary transfer from/to Interlaken Ost railway station on arrival/departure Complimentary bottle of wine in room on arrival (min 7 nights) Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

Excursions by rail from Interlaken Brienzer Rothorn, Schynige Platte, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn - see page 119 Advance booking recommended

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1117-£1572 Extra nights from £103 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic room with bathroom (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 2 hours 15 minutes from Zurich approximately 3 hours 15 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Comfort river or Jungfrau view (max 2) from £14 Junior suite comfort river view (max 3) from £72 Single from £31 Single Jungfrau view from £53 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Grindelwald I SWITZERLAND

Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof H H H H H Grindelwald Welcoming, friendly and refined, this is Grindelwald’s leading hotel Built in typical chalet style and set against

four course evening menu is served in the

the imposing backdrop of the world

Alpenterrassen restaurant. The elegant

renowned Eiger and Lauberhorn mountains,

Schmitte offers an a la carte menu of a

the delightful Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof

fusion of Swiss, alpine and international

nestles peacefully in beautifully tended

cuisine, whilst Gaststubli is perfect for regional

gardens a few minutes walk from the centre

and Swiss specialities and fondues; guests

of Grindelwald and guests can expect a

have a choice of dining al fresco on the

warm welcome and comfortable

terrace at all three restaurants. The wellness

surroundings. Guest accommodation

area features an indoor swimming pool and

includes spacious and charming guest

the hotel is well placed for excursions to the

rooms, as well as more modern style superior

Jungfraujoch, Interlaken and lakes Thun and

suites enjoying views of the iconic north face

Brienz and for making the most of the hiking

of the Eiger. A generous buffet breakfast and

and mountain biking opportunities.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Spa & Wellness with indoor heated swimming pool, saunas, steam bath, sensory showers l Alpenterrassen with buffet breakfast, set menu and weekly themed buffet, Schmitte a la carte restaurant, Gaststubli a la carte restaurant, lobby bar l Babysitting available l WiFi throughout l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 61 bedrooms and suites

Offer please call us for savings on stays of 7 nights or more Complimentary porter service from/to Grindelwald station on arrival/departure Complimentary fruit basket and bottle of water in room on arrival, plus juices in the spa area Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

we HIGHLY recommend . .

VISITING THE TOP OF EUROPE A trip to the Jungfraujoch through the Eiger’s North Face is a Swiss must-do. The famous railway climbs to 3,454m where the vistas are simply stunning from the viewing platforms on the Aletsch Glacier and in the Ice Palace. Using your half fare card (included with your holiday transfer rail tickets), prices are from £72 per adult.

Advance booking with our concierge service is recommended.

Superior room

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1919-£2556 Extra nights from £209 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a comfort resort view room with bathroom (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 3 hours from Zurich approximately 3 hours 30 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119

Excursions by mountain railway from Grindelwald Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, Schynige Platte, Brienzer Rothorn - see page 119

MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

Advance booking recommended

Superior long stay Eiger view (max 3) from £18-£34 Junior suite long stay Eiger view (max 3) from £47-£62 Superior 1 bed suite long stay Eiger view (max 3) from £90-£107 Superior 2 bed suite long stay Eiger view (max 4) from £233-£311 Comfort single long stay resort view from £25-£40

UPGRADES per person per night

Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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SWITZERLAND I Murren

Hotel Eiger H H H H Murren First class accommodation in a friendly, homely atmosphere Located opposite the train station in car-free

benefitting from a balcony; uniquely themed

Murren, which is only reachable by cable car

suites include the decadent James Bond

from Lauterbrunnen valley, Hotel Eiger is an

suite and a spacious loft suite. A selection of

attractive, traditional alpine style hotel and

hot and cold dishes for breakfast ensures a

has been owned and managed by the

perfect start to the day and for dinner the

same family since first opening in 1886 and

elegant Eiger Saal restaurant offers a la carte

there is a friendly atmosphere and personal

choices or a four course menu for those on

touch making guests feel at home. Its

half board, alternatively the more rustic Eiger

stunning location affords views over the

Stubli features regional specialities. Wonderful

majestic Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau

mountain views can be enjoyed from the

mountains and modern style guest

indoor pool and Jacuzzi in the wellness area.

accommodation make the most of the

The hotel is well situated for excursions to the

hotel’s lovely setting with superior rooms

Schilthorn and Jungfraujoch.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature cable TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Wellness area with indoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, rain shower, massage room, relaxation room with mountain views, small gym, bio and Finnish saunas l Eiger Saal restaurant for breakfast and dinner, Eiger Stubli restaurant, lounge & terrace, Tachi Bar l WiFi throughout l Local activities and sightseeing include Jungfraujoch mountain railway (3,454m), cable car to the Schilthorn with the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant, Northface Trail hike, Saustal hiking l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 47 bedrooms

Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Complimentary porter service from/to Murren BLM station on arrival/departure Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A CABLE CAR RIDE TO THE SCHILTHORN Much celebrated in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, the scenes from the top of the Schilthorn are fabulous, as is lunch at slowly revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria. The interactive Bond World 007 exhibition is a lot of fun for everyone too. Using your half fare card (included with your holiday transfer rail tickets), prices are from £34 per person. Advance booking with our concierge service is recommended.

Standard room

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Excursions by mountain railway from MURREN Schilthorn, Jungfraujoch, Schynige Platte, Brienzer Rothorn - see page 119 Advance booking recommended

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1466-£2073 Extra nights from £111 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a standard room with bathroom (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time (incl cable car to Murren) approximately 3 hours 25 minutes from Zurich approximately 4 hours from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Superior mountain view (max 3) from £17-£23 Family (max 3) from £54-£64 Standard sole use from £73-£121 Superior mountain view sole use from £114-£155 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Wengen I SWITZERLAND

Beausite Park Hotel Wengen

Located amidst majestic parkland in a hiker’s

H H H H superior

Beausite Park Hotel Wengen offers

Wengen

breathtaking views of the Jungfrau Mountain

ideal for families

paradise and only a few minutes walk from the centre of car-free village of Wengen,

and the surrounding Swiss Alps. Guest rooms are spacious and light, and the renowned restaurant with its panoramic views, serves elegant five course evening meals. A host of facilities includes a spa centre with superb indoor swimming pool featuring an integrated whirlpool, plus a Jacuzzi, steam room, bio and Finnish sauna, tepidarium, a

we HIGHLY recommend . .

WALKING FROM KLEINE SCHEIDEGG Enjoy the fabulous 6.7km train journey to Kleine Scheidegg station for perfect mountain views of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. Enjoy a coffee or lunch before returning either by train or by foot. Hiking takes two hours down the classic, sometimes steep, trail and for the more hardy souls who’d like to walk up as well, the well-signposted round trip is approximately 5 hours.

fitness room and a relaxation room. Massage and beauty treatments are also available.

The hotel also has a terrace with beautiful gardens and a particularly delightful and refreshing organic swimming pond. The village centre, mountain railway station and the lower terminus of the WengenMannlichen cable car are just a few minutes walk away. The perfect base for exploring the Jungfrau area; Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, Eiger, Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen valley are all highly recommended days out.

“Highly regarded for its fantastic location & excellent cuisine”

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www.classic-collection.co.uk I freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113

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SWITZERLAND I Wengen

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Eco swimming pond l Spa Jungfrau with treatments, indoor pool with whirlpool, Jacuzzi, vitality showers, sauna, steam bath, fitness room l Panorama Restaurant, Rondo bar, lounge, terrace l Children’s playroom, children’s menu in restaurant l Complimentary WiFi l Local activities and sightseeing include 500km of walking and hiking, Jungfraujoch mountain railway (3,454m), rail and cable car to the Schilthorn with the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant, the Trummelbach Falls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley (hiking or by rail and bus) l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 40 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Spa receive 10% discount on massage and beauty treatments payable locally Complimentary transfer from/to Wengen station on arrival/departure Complimentary welcome chocolate and glass of sparkling wine in room on arrival Complimentary Wengen discount card for a variety of local activities Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st & 2nd child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

Excursions by mountain railway from Wengen Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, Schynige Platte, Brienzer Rothorn - see page 119

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Advance booking recommended

Double room with Jungfrau view

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1537-£2065 Extra nights from £153 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a double forest view room with bathroom (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 3 hours 10 minutes from Zurich approximately 3 hours 45 minutes from Geneva

UPGRADES per person per night Double Jungfrau view (max 2) from £23-£37 Junior suite Jungfrau view (max 2) from £52-£70 Family forest view (min 3, max 2 or 2+2) please call us for prices Family Jungfrau view (min 3, max 2 or 2+2) from £19-£40 Single forest view from £13-£35 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

Jungfraujoch The journey to the Jungfraujoch at 3,454 metres, is a highlight of every visit to Switzerland. Thrilling views, an international research station, glacier walks, snow fun and chocolate experience await.

For luggage transfer services see page 119

See page 119 for prices.

MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

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Parliament building

Bern Symbolised by name-sake bears and situated on the River Aare surrounded by exceptionally beautiful scenery, this Gateway to the Alps, Switzerland’s centrally located capital, Bern, is picture postcard pretty.

Enjoying UNESCO World Heritage status, it’s a casual and relaxed city where Einstein lived between 1903-1905.

Bern’s River Aare provides a beating heart for the city where surfing, paddle boarding and rafting are popular with visitors, and office workers take quick lunchtime dips in the summer. The imposing Parliament building on Bundesplatz features a fantastic 26-fountain water display whilst the medieval Old Town is characterised by stately sandstone buildings and narrow cobbled streets, plus there’s the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and an impressive 6km of vaulted stone arcades with boutiques and artisan outlets. Served by funicular, Gurten Mountain at 860m, boasts great city views from its observation tower. Our hotel guests are Paul Klee Museum

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provided with a Bern Ticket for free travel on public transport in selected zones although the city is easy to get around on foot or by bicycle as well as by bus and tram.

Attractions Stroll through the well preserved 12th century Old Town with its Renaissance fountains, take a guided tour of the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and see the city from the top of Munster church tower. For serial shoppers Bern’s famous vaulted arcades offer shade and boutiques ranging from stylish to quirky, with up to the minute fashion, colourful accessories, amazing stationery and even a shop that just sells buttons! There are a number of attractions found throughout the city celebrating Albert Einstein, who lived in Bern between 1903 and 1905 when he discovered the Theory of Relativity; as well as a museum, there’s Einstein House, Einstein Kaffee, a city tour and several benches in the great scientist’s honour. The impressive building housing the world’s largest Paul Klee collection, Zentrum Paul Klee, is a bold piece of contemporary architecture made of steel and glass and designed by leading Italian architect, Renzo Piano.

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River swimming The best start point for a river swim is the popular Marzili pool; those new to urban swimming might like to book a course with an experienced local before taking the plunge.

Christmas markets Throughout December, against a wonderful Old Town backdrop, the city’s Christmas markets are perfect for pre-season yuletide excitement as well as stocking up on delightful gifts. Munsterplatz is great for artisan products and handmade crafts, whilst Waisenhausplatz is a more traditional market.

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H H H H H superior

NEW for 2019

Bern Historic grand hotel Located in the heart of historic Bern, the grand Bellevue Palace dates back over 150 years and as the official hotel of the Swiss government hosts many distinguished guests.

Features

Classic valuE

Behind its authentic Belle Epoque facade, this

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, Nespresso machine and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Fitness centre, sauna l Restaurant Vue with 16 Gault Millau points, casual and trendy Restaurant NOUMI, Bellevue Terrace, Bellevue Bar, Le Lobby bar, Le Fumoir l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 126 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Offer stays on selected dates save £47 per adult per night (min 3 nights) Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

luxurious hotel offers languid elegance, excellent personal service and modern comforts. Elegantly appointed, guest rooms and suites blend classical décor with up-todate amenities; choose a deluxe room or a suite for wonderful Bernese Alp views.

SWITZERLAND I Bern

Bellevue Palace

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Breakfast is buffet style and in the evening culinary delights can be enjoyed in the

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £1094-£1198

superb period style setting of the Gault Millau

Extra nights from £237 per person per night

awarded Vue restaurant. In addition there is

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a standard double city or courtyard view room (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include private transfers.

legendary Bellevue bar, popular Le Lobby bar which boasts a Gin Menu featuring 99 different brands alongside classic cocktails

First class rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Zurich

and a fitness centre with rooftop terrace. A member of the Leading Hotels of the World.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Deluxe room

Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & The Spa NEW for 2019 H H H H H superior Bern Sleek fusion of history and modernity In a premier location close to the main station and Bern’s famous covered shopping arcades, Hotel Schweizerhof Bern & The Spa celebrates 160 years of welcoming guests in 2019, and continues to delight the discerning traveller with its excellent service.

Contemporary interiors complement the building’s historic architecture; impressive guest rooms and suites are designed in an understated, modern fashion with traditional touches. Breakfast is served in Jack’s Brasserie and features honey from its own rooftop beehives. At lunchtime and in the evenings this legendary restaurant offers a

Features

Classic valuE

All rooms feature Apple TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Wellness spa (500m2) with with treatment rooms, plunge pool, sauna, hammam, fitness room l Jack’s Brasserie restaurant with 14 Gault Millau points, Lobby Lounge Bar, Cigar Lounge, Sky Terrace l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 99 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary guest cards Bern guest card gives you free local bus and tram use within the city and is issued by your hotel Offer stays on selected dates save £20 per adult per night (min 3 nights) Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

seasonal menu of exquisite, market-fresh French and Swiss classics. The lobby lounge

1 Jan-31 Dec 3 nights from £1004-£1108

bar is a perfect spot to meet for a coffee,

Extra nights from £203 per person per night

refreshing drinks or a tasty snack and, on

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a charming king room with bathroom (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include private transfers.

sunny high summer days, the Sky Terrace bar offers stunning 360 degree views over the city. In addition, the on-site wellness spa

First class rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Zurich

provides pampering and relaxation. A member of the Leading Hotels of the World.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Deluxe boutique room

www.classic-collection.co.uk I freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113

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Montreux Riviera The magnificent Belle Epoque town of Montreux nestles in a sheltered bay at the eastern end of Lake Geneva. Surrounded by vineyards, and set against a backdrop of snow-covered mountains, it is, perhaps, most famous for its annual festival which these days features not only jazz, but much, much more.

Lavaux vineyard terraces & Lake Geneva

Montreux is the capital of the Vaud Riviera which boasts an exceptionally pleasing microclimate and the mild temperatures allow for a profusion of plants normally associated with the Mediterranean further to the south; pines, cypresses, palm trees, mulberry and magnolia all thrive here. The lakeside is enlivened with the colours and perfumes of exotic trees and flowers and ephemeral floral displays and plant sculptures can be viewed throughout the year. The Montreux quayside extends along the shores of Lake Geneva where walkers can admire the foliage and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding Chillon Castle

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mountains. Celebrity, as well as creativity, has also enriched Montreux. Since the 19th century, various artists developed a fond affection for the town and writers including Lord Byron, the Shelleys, Hans Christian Andersen, Victor Hugo and Charles Dickens spent long periods of time here. More modern artists include Charlie Chaplin and Freddie Mercury, both of whom, in a show of reciprocated fondness, have lakeside statues dedicated to them.

Chateau de Chillon Montreux is a wonderful base from which to explore the whole region of this Swiss Riviera by boat, train, bus or on foot and it’s easy to stroll along the 4km flower-bordered lake promenade to the medieval Chateau de Chillon. This charming 13th century fortress enjoys a splendid position overlooking Lake Geneva and its romantic disposition, when viewed from the lake, belies the heavy fortifications found on the land side. It was, perhaps, destined to become Switzerland’s most visited historic building from the moment Lord Byron carved his name into one of the pillars of the dungeon, following the publication of his celebrated poem, The Prisoner of Chillon. Rousseau, Dumas and

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Mary Shelley made mention of it and William Turner immortalised it in oils. If you’re willing to forgo the delightful 45 minute walk along the promenade to or from the chateau, trolley bus number one can take you there or, if you’d like to arrive in vintage style, maybe chug along the lake aboard a Belle Epoque paddle steamer.

Music & Montreux Music and Montreux seem inextricably linked.

The famous Montreux Jazz Festival, established in 1967, consumes the town for two weeks every July. Jazz aficionados lament the changing nature of the event as something of its musical purity, from times when Miles Davis and Ray Parker headlined, has been lost. Nowadays, you’ll find as many genres of music as you’ll find stars from the world of popular music; from hip hop to rock, Paul Simon to Lady Gaga. Freddie Mercury and Queen recorded seven albums in the Mountain Studios and it is possible to visit this lovingly preserved space in the Casino Barriere de Montreux, the studio’s original home. Classical music has its own dedicated event each year from late August to midSeptember.

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Sightseeing

Glacier 3000

Wine & cheese Switzerland’s wine-producing history is a little-known secret making for a pleasant surprise. The terraced vineyards of Lavaux, the largest Swiss winegrowing area, unfold above Lake Geneva for some 14km and the UNESCO listed status of the area pays tribute to these age-old vines. Open cellars provide opportunities to taste and the vines form beautiful backdrops to cruises on the lake or when sightseeing by train, car, bicycle or on foot. The Lavaux Passion wine festival takes place in early September and from there, it’s an easy move to the cheese of Gruyere, a delightful medieval town with samplings aplenty.

Trains & boats Montreux & Lake Geneva

Vevey Vevey, 7km east of Montreux, is noted for being Charlie Chaplin’s final home. The world headquarters of the food giant Nestlé were established here in 1867 and, eight years later, chocolatier Daniel Peter gifted the first ever chocolate bar to the world. Vevey exudes charm and chic with its diminutive but perfect old town. It offers fine dining and a clutch of unusual museums; The Alimentarium, dedicated solely to nutrition, shows how diet has changed through the ages. There’s a wonderful vegetable garden, and an eight metre high fork. Down on the waterfront there’s Charlie Chaplin’s statue and, for all other things Chaplin, including 30 wax figures, Chaplin's World is an interactive museum dedicated to the comedian’s life.

Vevey is known for its Saturday folk markets where, from mid-July to end-August, traditional craftsmen work whilst visitors purchase a wine-glass and numerous refills to the accompaniment of brass bands and folk music.

We tailor-make all holidays and can book flights from your local UK airport to Geneva.

Lavaux Express vineyard tour

The historic Rochers-de-Naye cog railway rises 2,000m to give panoramic Swiss and French Alpine views from the Eiger to Mont Blanc. The Golden Pass Express runs along the lakeshore and there are excellent rail links to Geneva for shopping and sightseeing. The so-called Chocolate train runs between Montreux and the Cailler-Nestlé factory for the chance to enjoy this finest of Swiss delicacies in Belle Epoque carriages. Meanwhile Belle Epoque paddle steamers have been navigating Lake Geneva, central Europe’s largest inland lake, for more than 140 years; offering fantastic journeys between France and Switzerland.

Glacier 3000

Rochers de Naye

Classic Concierge For further details of excursions and sightseeing

Just 41km from Montreux, Gstaad’s Glacier 3000 boasts views of 24 alpine summits over 4,000m. The top station with restaurant by award-winning architect Mario Botta is worth a visit alone, whilst the Peak Walk by Tissot, a 107m long bridge connecting the View Point with the main peak, Scex Rouge, combines a heady adrenalin rush with superb vistas.

possibilities, and to book prior to travel, please call our dedicated team on 0800 008 7289.

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Montreux Riviera I SWITZERLAND

Fairmont Le Montreux Palace H H H H H superior

ideal for families

Montreux Elegant ambiance complemented by excellent service In a splendid location in Montreux,

Guests can start the morning with a

overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps,

sumptuous buffet breakfast in the La

Fairmont Le Montreux Palace is one of

Palmeraie, enjoy lunch and magnificent

Switzerland’s most prestigious hotels, and

views at open air La Terrasse du Petit Palais,

built in 1906, a wonderful example of the

then dinner in the refined setting of MP’s Bar

architecture of the Belle Epoque era. The

& Grill or at the Montreux Jazz Café and finish

official hotel of the famous Montreux Jazz

off the evening with legendary cocktails and

Festival, it has played host to jazz legends

live music at chilled out Funky Claude’s Bar.

such as Quincy Jones, Miles Davis and BB

The Willow Stream Spa is a tranquil spot for

King. Luxurious guest rooms and suites exude

indulgent treatments and features an indoor

traditional elegance matched with modern

pool, whilst the inviting outdoor swimming

comforts; we highly recommend those which

pool sits in the immaculate gardens.

overlook the lake for their beautiful vistas.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

THE MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL During the world famous Montreux Jazz Festival (28 June to 14 July 2019), Funky Claude’s Bar plays host to some late night jamming throughout the two weeks. Now in its 53rd year, the festival draws huge numbers of music lovers to the three ticketed venues and there’s a wide variety of free programming which is popular with visitors and gives great opportunities for emerging artists to shine.

Signature room with lake view

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Outdoor swimming pool l Willow Stream Spa with indoor heated pool, whirlpool, steam room, 2 saunas, Jacuzzi, bubble loungers, fitness room l MP’s Bar & Grill, La Terrasse du Petit Palais for Mediterranean cuisine (seasonal), La Palmeraie for buffet breakfast, Montreux Jazz Café, The Lounge Bar, Funky Claude’s Bar l Kids Corner (4-12 years, mid Jul-mid Aug), babysitting available l WiFi throughout l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 236 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary Montreux Riviera Card offers free transport on the Mobilis Montreux Riviera bus network plus excellent reductions on many other services and attractions Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 12 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

CHRISTMAS MARKET From 22 November to 24 December, the gardens of the hotel transform into a winter wonderland at the heart of the famous Christmas Market of Montreux. Brightly-lit chalets, Santa’s flying sleigh, a lumberjack village, and concerts await you!

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1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1610-£2539 Extra nights from £180 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a Fairmont city view room with bath or shower room (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Geneva airport on Wednesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Geneva approximately 3 hours from Zurich For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Fairmont lake view (max 2) from £35-£46 Deluxe mountain or city view (max 3) from £17-£29 Deluxe lake view (max 3) from £64-£92 Signature lake view (max 2) from £115-£144 Junior suite lake view (max 3) from £172-£384 Signature suite lake view (max 3) from £252-£842 Fairmont city view sole use from £177-£303

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SWITZERLAND I Montreux Riviera

Grand Hotel Suisse-Majestic H H H H superior Montreux Modern facilities behind a Belle Epoque facade On the north shore of Lake Geneva in the

seasonal cuisine and the lounge bar is a

very heart of Montreux, Grand Hotel Suisse-

lovely spot for cocktails and once a week is

Majestic was built in 1870 and completely

the setting for wine tastings by regional

renovated in 2010. It enjoys fabulous

producers. Facilities also include a spa with

panoramic views and is an ideal starting

sauna and a workout room. The surrounding

point for walks along the promenade and

area is home to several castles, vineyards

boat excursions on the lake. Comfortable

and located opposite the train station, the

guest rooms and suites are attractively

hotel is handy for the panoramic train to

furnished in a classically elegant style and

Gstaad and the famous Chocolate train to

lake facing rooms are highly recommended.

the Cailler-Nestle chocolate factory at Broc.

The light filled restaurant with panoramic outdoor terrace overlooking the lake and the surrounding Alps serves market fresh,

Deluxe room with lake view

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Spa with sauna, workout room l Restaurant 45, Bar 45bis l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 155 bedrooms

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Complimentary Montreux Riviera Card offers free transport on the Mobilis Montreux Riviera bus network plus excellent reductions on many other services and attractions Dining half board available to book and pay locally

Excursions from Montreux Rochers de Naye, Glacier 3000 - see page 119 Advance booking recommended

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1134-£2023 Extra nights from £112 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a comfort city view room with bathroom (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Geneva airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Geneva approximately 3 hours from Zurich For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe lake view (max 3) from £23-£29 Comfort single city view from £68-£155 Deluxe single lake view from £115-£213 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Montreux Riviera I SWITZERLAND

Hotel Royal Plaza Montreux & Spa H H H H H NEW for 2019 Montreux Prime lakeshore location In an enviable location on the lakeshore and

lunch and dinner. Sinatra’s Bar is a cosily

within a ten minute stroll of the town centre

elegant setting for cocktails and the Sunset

and the Montreux Convention Centre, Hotel

Bar terrace perfect for an early evening glass

Royal Plaza Montreux & Spa enjoys stunning

of something chilled. In addition there is a

views over Lake Geneva and the Alps.

spa with indoor pool, hammam and sauna

Tastefully furnished guest rooms and suites

as well as a fitness centre for guests’ use.

offer modern comforts and feature mountain

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A DAY OUT BY CHOCOLATE TRAIN In the land of mountains, chocolate and cheese, visitors should not miss the opportunity to combine all three on this delightful rail journey. Departing from Montreux the train climbs through high

or lake views and, some, a private balcony

mountain meadows to the town of

or terrace. The restaurant and the two bars

Gruyeres for a visit to the town’s famous

all boast panoramic lake view terraces with

cheese factory, followed by a bus ride to

Café Bellagio serving a hearty American

Broc and a chocolate tasting and tour of

buffet style breakfast and specialising in

the Cailler chocolate factory.

modern and inventive French cuisine for

Standard room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilties and safe l Spa with beauty treatments, indoor swimming pool, sauna, hammam, fitness centre l Café Bellagio, Sinatra’s Bar, Sunset Bar, cigar lounge l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 154 bedrooms and suites

Offer stay 2 nights or more on selected dates and save £12-£29 per adult per night Complimentary Montreux Riviera Card offers free transport on the Mobilis Montreux Riviera bus network plus excellent reductions on many other services and attractions Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £837-£1784 Extra nights from £68 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a double city and mountain view room, bath with shower (max 2+1), flights from Gatwick to Geneva airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Geneva approximately 3 hours from Zurich For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Double lake & garden view (max 2) from £6-£12 Deluxe city & mountain view (max 2 or 1+2) from £6-£12 Deluxe lake view (max 2 or 1+2) from £17-£28 Junior suite lake view (max 2 or 1+2) from £34-£62 Executive suite lake view (max 2 or 1+2) from £167-£445 Double city & mountain view sole use from £65-£145

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SWITZERLAND I Montreux Riviera

Grand Hotel du Lac H H H H H superior NEW for 2019 Vevey, Montreux Riviera Belle Epoque hotel with exceptional views and exquisite dining Established in 1868 and located on the

menu of local delicacies. In summer the

shores of Lake Geneva, the splendid Grand

Marina Garden Lounge restaurant will delight

Hotel du Lac continues to entice guests with

with seasonal dishes that can be enjoyed by

fine dining, exceptional views and a relaxed

the lakeside or in the garden, and the Lime

Be sure to take the memorable cog

and welcoming ambiance. Luxurious guest

Pool Club offers a selection of snacks and

railway trip from Montreux through

rooms and suites feature a classically elegant

sweet treats. Henryk’s Bar with its Oriental

meadows and fields via Glion and Caux to

decor; deluxe rooms boast wonderful views

inspired décor is the setting for live music on

the rocky viewpoint at Rochers-de-Naye

of the mountains and the lake. Exquisite

some nights, comfortable sunloungers

offering an outstanding panorama over

Michelin star cuisine accompanied by the

surround the seasonally heated outdoor

Lake Geneva and the Swiss and French

finest wines of the Lavaux region,

swimming pool and personalised products

Alps, from the Eiger to Mont Blanc.

impeccable service and an intimate setting

and treatments are on offer at the spa.

Advance booking is recommended,

await at Les Saisons, whilst elegant Brasserie

A member of Relais & Chateaux.

please see page 119 for prices.

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A TRIP BY MOUNTAIN RAILWAY TO ROCHERS DE NAYE

La Veranda offers panoramic views and a

Superior room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, Nespresso machine and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Seasonal heated outdoor swimming pool l Spa with treatments, sauna, steam bath, fitness centre l Les Saisons Michelin star restaurant with 16 Gault Millau points, Brasserie La Veranda, Marina Garden Lounge restaurant (seasonal), Lime Pool Club, Henryk’s Bar, Wine Cellar, The Chef’s Table l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 50 bedrooms and suites

Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Complimentary Montreux Riviera Card offers free transport on the Mobilis Montreux Riviera bus network plus excellent reductions on many other services and attractions Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1262-£1557 Extra nights from £152 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a superior city view room, bath or shower (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Geneva airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Geneva approximately 3 hours from Zurich For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Deluxe lakes & Alps view (max 2) from £39-£67 Junior suite city view (max 3) from £50-£73 Junior suite lakes & Alps view (max 3) from £89-£128 Superior city view sole use from £156-£167 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Glacier Express

St Moritz & Sils Chic, elegant, exclusive. St Moritz’s reputation as a destination of choice for the world’s elite is legendary. Beautiful emerald forests, scenic silver lakes and proud snowy mountains all sparkle in the crisp and clear champagne sunshine. This part of Switzerland shines bright like a diamond.

St Moritz

St Moritz Set beneath the Albula Alps at an elevation of 1,800m St Moritz is the principal town of the Upper Engadine and is credited with having no fewer than 322 days of sunshine each year, all the better with which to view the seriously gorgeous scenery of this most alluring of valleys. Since 1864 this cradle of Swiss Alpine tourism has attracted royal families, celebrities and money, but the resort’s real riches lie without the designer boutiques and within the beautiful landscapes which provide a myriad of hiking trails once the snow has melted. Renowned for its winter sports, St Moritz is also extremely Lake St Moritz

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popular in the summer with cyclists, runners and hikers. On fine days in the height of summer, the Maloja wind blows creating excellent conditions for windsurfers and sailors allowing Lake Moritz to host the annual St Moritz Match Race which is part of the prestigious World Match Racing Tour; an excellent spectator sport given the action is in close proximity to the shoreline.

Sils Sils is a delightfully diminutive lakeside community and, with a population of just 800, boasts daily schedules on Europe’s highest passenger boat service. Given its beauty, it seems perverse that Switzerland has but one national park, the Swiss National Park, but it is, of course, meticulously preserved and protected. Within the park, there are 21 hiking routes comprising more than 80km of trails and, owing to strict regulations, the park is today very much as it was when it opened in 1914. Numerous species of alpine plants and animals flourish, with ibex, chamois, marmots and red deer among the wildlife frequently spotted by 150,000 annual visitors doing the only activity that is allowed; hiking. Guests staying at the Kulm and Waldhaus hotels for at least two

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nights benefit from complimentary travel passes on selected dates and routes which may include regional bus and train services, cable cars and chair lifts of the Upper Engadine region, plus the scheduled boat service between Sils and Maloja for the Waldhaus Hotel.

Activities & events The Engadine Valley, with its wonderful network of waymarked trails, offers a total of 580km for gentle strolling, challenging mountain hiking and Nordic walking; there’s also 400km of mountain bike tracks. Various modes of mountain transport carry bikes to sporting heights for ambitious downhill adventures whilst e-bikes open up brand new horizons for everyone. Alternatively, discover the terrain on horseback and for golfers there are four courses. For families there are playgrounds, picnic areas, bathing lakes, canoeing, paddle boarding, boating, inline skating, treetop climbing adventures, rope parks and exhilarating mountain scooters, plus a day trip on the iconic Bernina Express. Summer events include the elegant British Classic Car Rally, and the Food Festival which brings a 400m wooden table of indulgence to the streets of St Moritz.

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ideal for families

SWITZERLAND I Sils-Maria

Hotel Waldhaus Sils H H H H H Sils-Maria, near St Moritz The very best of old fashioned service and fine dining Located on a wooded hillside, a couple of

hospitality and a sophisticated half board

minutes’ walk from the centre of the village,

plan offers guests a lavish buffet breakfast

the historic and much-loved Hotel Waldhaus

and an elegant five course dinner menu.

Sils offers comfort and service without pomp.

There’s a comprehensive calendar of

Family-run, it is luxurious but not pretentious,

intimate events; visiting speakers, theatrical

genteel but not ostentatious. The hotel is

soirees and music recitals. Discover fine

grand yet cosy, and visitors from around the

picnic spots on a hosted deluxe picnic, or

world are enchanted; one of its many

enjoy a cooking and wine seminar. The hotel

famous patrons, Herman Hesse described it

is ideally situated for lakeside strolls,

as ‘paradise on earth’. Guest rooms are

watersports and bicycle hire or more

furnished in three distinct styles: Nostalgic,

challenging hikes into the mountains.

Modern and Classic. The kitchen is at the very heart of Waldhaus’ refined and warm

Junior suite

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Spa centre with treatment rooms, 2 indoor relaxation pools, outdoor whirlpool bath, saunas, 2 steam baths l Indoor pool, fitness room l 2 outdoor tennis courts, indoor tennis court, resident tennis pro l Dining rooms, Arvenstube a la carte restaurant, Chef’s Table in the hotel kitchen (reservation) l Children’s club (3-12 years), playroom, playground l Afternoon tea concerts l Live music and dancing every evening l Waldhaus museum, chapel l Local activities include hiking trails, Nordic walking and lakeside paths, horse and carriage rides, cable car to the peaks, mountain bikes and e-bike hire, golf l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 140 bedrooms and suites

Offer arrivals 14 Jun-20 Oct save £19-£24 per adult per night (min 5 nights) Complimentary Engadin Transport Pass for guests staying 2 or more nights gives free use of local cable cars and mountain railways from late June-mid October, on selected routes of local buses and trains from June-October, including the postbus to Val Bregaglia, and use of the scheduled boat service on Lake Sils from late June-early October Complimentary guided hikes five days per week during the summer Complimentary fruit and chocolates in room on arrival Complimentary transfer from/to St Moritz station on arrival/departure Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

Scenic Railway Excursions from St Moritz Bernina Express to Tirano (Italy) - see page 119 For Glacier Express to Zermatt Advance booking recommended

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

www.classic-collection.co.uk I freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1464-£2169 Extra nights from £152 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in an economy mountain view room with bathroom (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 3 hours 45 minutes from Zurich approximately 6 hours 30 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Standard 2b mountain view (max 2) from £36-£52 Superior 2a mountain view (max 3) from £89-£112 Junior suite 2a mountain view (max 2 or 2+2) from £109-£138 Economy single 1c mountain view from £41-£55 Superior single 1a mountain view from £115-£146 Economy 2d mountain view sole use from £117-£227

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St Moritz I SWITZERLAND

Kulm Hotel St. Moritz H H H H H superior St Moritz Historic and legendary hotel in superb setting Enjoying wonderful vistas of Lake St Moritz

regional specialities, award-winning Italian

and the surrounding mountains, prestigious

and classic haute cuisine. The legendary

and luxurious Kulm Hotel St. Moritz dates

Sunny Bar is the setting for great Jazz Club

back to 1856 when it laid the foundations for

concerts at weekends with appearances by

winter tourism in St Moritz and today

international musicians and the Miles Davis

before enjoying the stunning Matterhorn

continues to offer authentic hospitality and

smoking lounge serves a selection of drinks.

backdrop at elegant Grand Hotel

high standards. With a graceful and inviting

Facilities include a 9-hole golf course, tennis

Zermatterhof. Although enjoying the

ambiance the elegant, modern guest

courts, and for younger guests, a children’s

accolade of the world’s slowest express

accommodation enjoys views over the lake

club and indoor pool. The impressive spa

railway, the spectacular eight-hour Glacier

or the Corviglia and Piz Nair massif. The hotel

offers superb views over the alpine

Express, between St Moritz and Zermatt, is

prides itself on its delectable gourmet

landscape, an indoor and outdoor pool and

a must-do journey over 291 bridges and

offerings to suit every occasion and taste;

an array of treatments. A member of The

through 91 tunnels. Please contact us for

from a sumptuous breakfast buffet to

Leading Hotels of the World.

itineraries and prices.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Outdoor swimming pool l Kulm Spa with 11 treatments rooms, private spa suite, indoor pool, children’s pool, sauna, steam room, fitness room l Kulm 9-hole golf course, 3 tennis courts at Kulm Park l Grand restaurant for breakfast buffet and 6-course half board menu, The Pizzeria Italian trattoria, Chesa al Parc restaurant and Kulm Country Club, Miles Davis smoking lounge for drinks, Sunny Bar l Marmotta Kid’s Club (3-12 years) l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 172 bedrooms and suites

Complimentary room upgrade for stays 21 Jun31 August (subject to availability on arrival, min 3 nights) Complimentary transfers from/to St Moritz station on arrival/departure Complimentary Engadin Transport Pass for guests staying 2 or more nights gives free use of local cable cars and mountain railways from late June-mid October, and on selected routes of local buses and trains from June-October Dining half board bookable for entire stay Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A TWo CENTRE HOLIDAY

BY GLACIER EXPRESS Spend a few nights at Kulm Hotel St. Moritz

Superior room

Scenic Railway Excursions from St Moritz Bernina Express to Tirano (Italy) - see page 119 For Glacier Express to Zermatt please contact us for two centre holiday options

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Advance booking recommended

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1824-£3126 Extra nights from £193 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a standard village view room with bathroom (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 3 hours 45 minutes from Zurich approximately 6 hours 30 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Superior village view (max 3) from £12-£85 Superior lake view (max 3) from £41-£186 Junior suite lake view (max 3) from £161-£609 Superior mountain & village view (max 3) from £41-£186 Single village view (max 1) from £39-£149 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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SWITZERLAND I St Moritz

Roof terrace (open summer only)

Crystal HOTEL H H H H superior NEW for 2019 St Moritz Relaxed Alpine style and central location The charming Crystal Hotel enjoys a central

music some evenings in July and August.

location in the pedestrian zone of St Moritz

Additionally, during warm summer days

and offers a relaxed ambiance and friendly

guests can make the most of the roof terrace

service. The comfortable and cosy guest

with its splendid views and sunloungers. The

rooms and suites are furnished with traditional

tranquil on-site wellness centre features a

Engadine pinewood and feature modern

state of the art gym, steam bath and sauna

amenities. A hearty buffet breakfast is

and the local area is fantastic for mountain

viaduct. On reaching Tirano, Italy, you’ve

available each morning, the elegant Grissini

biking and hiking. A member of Small Luxury

the opportunity to explore and lunch

Restaurant, awarded 14 Gault Millau points,

Hotels of the World.

before re-boarding for the return trip. Using

we HIGHLY recommend . .

A DAY TRIP ON THE ICONIC BERNINA EXPRESS This two and a half hour rail journey from St Moritz includes spectacular scenery, the 2,253m Bernina Pass, and Brusio’s circular

serves Mediterranean and Italian gourmet

your half fare card (included with your

cuisine and La Cantinetta wine cellar will

holiday transfer rail tickets), prices are from

delight the wine connoisseur, whilst the piano

£60 per adult. First class travel and advance

bar is a cosy spot for a nightcap, and live

booking with our concierge recommended.

Double room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Roof terrace l Wellness centre with massage, gym, sauna, steam bath l Grissini Restaurant with 14 Gault Millau points, Crystal Piano Bar, La Cantinetta wine cellar, lounge l Occasional evening entertainment Jul-Aug l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 74 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Complimentary transfers from/to St Moritz station on arrival/departure Complimentary Engadin Transport Pass for guests staying 2 or more nights gives free use of local cable cars and mountain railways from late June-mid October, and on selected routes of local buses and trains from June-October Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1455-£2422 Extra nights from £142 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a classic room, bath with shower (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 3 hours 45 minutes from Zurich approximately 6 hours 30 minutes from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Junior suite city view (max 3 or 2+2) from £73-£175 Suite city view (max 3) from £150-£503 Single city view from £25-£32 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Zermatt cable car

Zermatt Dominated by the unmistakeable peak of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is surrounded by marvellous scenery and encircled by some of Europe’s highest mountains and glaciers. Easy walks through flower-filled meadows and wooded slopes reward with fabulous vistas; cable cars and cogwheel trains take you higher.

Since the mid-19th century, Zermatt has acquired a reputation as one of Switzerland’s plushest resorts. British mountaineer, Edward Whymper, first blazed the trail, reaching the top of the Matterhorn in 1865. Theodore Roosevelt followed in his footsteps 16 years later. And 13 years after him, Winston Churchill scaled the neighbouring, slightly higher, Monte Rosa. The pretty old town of Zermatt features quaint narrow streets full of colourful blooms, typified by Hinterdorfstrasse, Zermatt's oldest surviving street, and traditional 16th century wooden houses which, to maintain an unassailable distance between grain stores and rodents, Zermatt

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were built on stilts. Nowadays it’s a car-free village where Lilliputian electric buses carry people between train station and cable car terminus, and cyclists on e-bikes share space with horse-drawn carriages. There are vibrant cafés, designer boutiques, many traditional shops and a museum dedicated to Zermatt’s mountaineering past. The mountain train and cable cars give wonderful views of the Matterhorn and breathtaking panoramas of all the spectacular peaks.

Activities Journey on the Gornergrat cogwheel train for a spectacular view of Switzerland’s highest peak, the Dufourspitze. For the best Matterhorn views during the ascent, sit on the right. In summer there are trains which leave Zermatt at dawn to capture the majesty of an Alpine sunrise. At the south end of Zermatt the gondola cable car climbs to the Schwarzsee which is the start of a zigzag walk to the Hornli Hut on the slopes of the Matterhorn. Higher still there is summer skiing and snowboarding at Trockener Steg. Hire a dirt bike to enjoy the exhilaration of the slopes on wheels. The Forest Fun Park offers zip wires, suspension footbridges, ladders and treetop challenges at the foot of the

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Matterhorn. Zermatt offers more than 400km of marked paths for all abilities of walker.

Take advantage of the wonderful network of cable cars, gondolas and funiculars from the villages for gentle strolls and more challenging hikes.

Summer events Swiss National Day, 1 August, is marked by the sights and sounds of uniformed Alpine pipers and drummers, bonfires and fireworks whilst in mid-August, the Swiss Food Festival celebrates Swiss beer and wine, hog roasts and other delicacies. The second weekend in August sees Zermatt’s Folklore Festival host more than one thousand musicians whilst Zermatt Classic Music Festival is a two-week extravaganza towards the end of August.

Some events, such as open rehearsals and pre-concert talks, are free to attend. The Shepherd Festival is a two-day beauty contest for black-nosed sheep held in Schweigmatten, above Zermatt, each September, whilst for six weeks from early July, a vast herd of Blackneck glacier goats passes through Zermatt each morning and evening; black and white, long-haired, curious, lively and self-confident, the goats pick fights and flowers as they go.

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SWITZERLAND I Zermatt

Grand Hotel Zermatterhof H H H H H superior Zermatt A classic choice in the centre of town In a central location in car-free, picturesque

Borni with its 15 Gault Millau points showcases

Zermatt, distinguished Grand Hotel

the very best of alpine cuisine, whilst Swiss

Zermatterhof has been enticing guests since

fondues can be sampled in the cosy cheese

1879 with its attentive service, timeless

restaurant. Guests are encouraged to make

elegance and luxurious comforts; on arrival

the most of their time off by simply relaxing,

and departure guests are sometimes picked

enjoying decadently long breakfasts, spend

up and dropped off at the train station in

delightful afternoons in the drawing room

true style by horse and carriage. Classically

with tea and sweet treats, lounging in the

furnished guest rooms and suites offer

snug bar with a glass of wine and canapés

mountain views and some benefit from a

or indulging in a relaxing massage or a dip in

balcony. Brasserie Lusi offers an evening

the indoor pool at the spa. For the more

menu of simple French brasserie fare, or for

active there are tennis courts and a fitness

gourmet dining the Alpine Gourmet Prato

centre.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea & coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Vita Borni Spa with treatments, whirlpool, saunas, steam bath, alpine & ice grotto, private spa suite, indoor pool, fitness centre l Tennis courts l Brasserie Lusi with buffet breakfast and French style brasserie cuisine, Alpine Gourmet Prato Borni restaurant (Mon-Sat), Swiss cheese restaurant saycheese!, Ruden Bar, The Stars Bar with piano music l Babysitting available l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 69 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Offer stay 4 nights or more on selected dates and save £21-£111 per adult per night Complimentary CHF50 voucher for Vita Borni Spa or Swiss cheese restaurant per room 7 Jan-14 Apr (excl. 10-24 Feb, min 3 nights) Complimentary fresh fruit in room on arrival Complimentary transfers from/to Zermatt station in a horse-drawn carriage or electric bus on arrival/departure Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

we HIGHLY recommend . .

SEARCHING FOR MARMOTS Take the funicular from Zermatt to Sunnegga and enjoy the 15 minute walk or three minute shuttle journey to Lake Leisee with its beach, crystal clear swimming waters and glorious Matterhorn views. The lake isn’t deep so perfect for swimming and the area is popular for barbecues, picnics and relaxing. There’s a restaurant at Sunnegga, a children’s playground and a marmot watching station close-by.

Deluxe room

Excursions by mountain railway from Zermatt Gornergrat, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - see page 119 For Glacier Express to St Moritz please contact us for two centre holiday options

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Advance booking recommended

www.classic-collection.co.uk I freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1432-£3459 Extra nights from £135 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a small double mountain and village view room with bath or shower room (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 3 hours 30 minutes from Zurich approximately 4 hours from Geneva For luggage transfer services see page 119 MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

UPGRADES per person per night Double classic mountain & village view (max 2) from £22-£78 Double classic Matterhorn view (max 2) from £43-£104 Deluxe double mountain & village view (max 3) from £65-£129 Deluxe double Matterhorn view (max 3) from £86-£155 Suite mountain & village view (max 2) from £237-£464 Suite Matterhorn view (max 2) from £258-£490 Small double mountain & village view sole use from £61-£270

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Zermatt I SWITZERLAND

Parkhotel Beau Site

In a slightly elevated position with

H H H H superior

car-free Zermatt, Parkhotel Beau Site enjoys

Zermatt

a wonderful reputation based on its friendly

outstanding views of the Matterhorn and only a few minutes walk from the centre of

atmosphere, excellent staff and 110 years of genuine hospitality. Over recent years the hotel has been sympathetically renovated and the elegant guest rooms are comfortable and contemporary with warm colours and stylish details, many with mountain outlook and wonderful views of the Matterhorn peak. Renowned for its excellent

we HIGHLY recommend . .

ZERMATT TO THE ENGADIN BY GLACIER EXPRESS Spend a few days in Zermatt enjoying the magnificence of the Matterhorn before crossing the mountains to the much-loved Waldhaus in Sils Im Engadin (SEGL in Romansh), 10km south of St Moritz. The must-do rail journey by legendary Glacier Express from Zermatt to St Moritz is a spectacular eight hour journey on probably the world’s slowest express train! Contact us for itinerary options and prices.

cuisine, the hotel offers a lavish buffet breakfast, delicious five course evening meal, and theme nights including fondue, Swiss evenings, barbecue and gala dinners.

There's also a piano bar, with talented pianist, and a lounge with mountain-view terrace.

The newly renovated spa offers an indoor pool, steam bath, low-temperature sauna, Finnish sauna and infrared cabin as well as a relaxation room with original walls from 1907.

“A history of service, quality & fine Matterhorn views”

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SWITZERLAND I Zermatt

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Spa with treatments, saunas and relaxation room, whirlpool, steam room, indoor heated pool l Restaurant, piano bar, lounge & terrace l Games room l Complimentary WiFi l Local activities and sightseeing include Gornergrat cog-wheel railway climbing to 3,089m, hiking trails from Schwarzee to Hornli Hut at the Matterhorn base station and Gorner Gorge, Matterhorn Museum, paragliding, climbing and helicopter tours, Forest Fun Park for children with bridges, climbing ladders and zip wires l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 85 bedrooms and suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Spa 25% discount on first spa treatment (payable locally) Complimentary afternoon tea, coffee and cake buffet, plus a bottle of house wine in room on arrival Complimentary transfer from/to Zermatt station on arrival/departure Dining half board included Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 9 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

Excursions by mountain railway from Zermatt Gornergrat, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise - see page 119 For Glacier Express to St Moritz please contact us for two centre holiday options Advance booking recommended

Panoramic double room

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1425-£1954 Extra nights from £134 per person per night Prices per person based on half board in a classic hill view room with bath or shower room (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 3 hours 30 minutes from Zurich approximately 4 hours from Geneva

UPGRADES per person per night Panorama Matterhorn view (max 2+1) from £12-£22 Classic single hill view from £19-£28 Classic hill view sole use from £55-£85 Panorama Matterhorn view sole use from £74-£114 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

Matterhorn Paradise Don’t miss a ride on Europe’s highest cable car for breathtaking views of alpine peaks.

Peer into the precipices of the Theodul glacier, watch mountaineers climbing the Breithorn and visit the Glacier Palace.

For luggage transfer services see page 119

See page 119 for prices.

MOUNTAIN EXCURSIONS see page 119

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113

Morcote Village, Lake Lugano

Lake Lugano Lugano, in southern Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino canton, boasts a Swiss-Mediterranean architectural heritage combined with a gastronomic culture closely mirroring its neighbour, northern Lombardy. Lugano offers all the advantages of a world-class city combined with the cachet of a lovely small town.

Lake Lugano

Located in a bay on the northern edge of Lake Lugano and surrounded by mountains to the north, Lugano is the largest town in the Ticino canton and Switzerland's third most important financial centre. The pedestrianised historic town centre around Piazza della Riforma boasts buildings of an Italianate, Lombardian architectural style, museums, numerous restaurants and designer boutiques. Together with a packed calendar of events, visitors are invited to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy dolce far niente, sweet idleness in numerous gardens and parks including Parco Civico with its ancient trees and Belvedere Gardens where Lugano

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contemporary works of art are interspersed with magnificent camellia and magnolia.

There’s the San Lorenzo Cathedral to discover while followers of German writer and poet, Herman Hesse, will love his museum in Montagnola. Museo Cantonale d'Art features paintings by Klee, Jawlensky, Renoir and Degas, and there are guided tours of LAC, the Lugano Art and Cultural centre.

Lugano's top events The Lugano Festival, held from April to June, features numerous classical music events.

Plus there’s Pasqua in Città in March/April which provides intriguing and entertaining activities for young and old. Enjoying international acclaim and held over two weekends in June/July, is one of Europe’s most well-established jazz events, Lugano’s Jazz Festival with free open-air concerts for everyone. In autumn, there’s Blues to Bop including gospel and soul performances on stages and squares around the centre and, in October, there’s Festa d’Autunno, a massive party featuring authentic regional specialties and locally produced wines.

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Activities A must do is the Lugano Lake tour to the delightful fishing villages of Gandria and Morcote, plus there are trips to vineyards, guided city tours, professionally led hikes and cookery lessons available. For designer shopping, there’s the local boutiques of Via Nassa or Milan, just a day trip away.

Watersports include diving, sailing, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, wakeboarding and waterskiing, plus there’s cycling, mountain biking and e-bikes for hire. Cable cars and funicular railways whisk you to nearby peaks and the two closest mountains, San Salvatore and Brè, proffer viewpoints from the top of their respective funiculars.

From Monte Brè, you can walk down to Brè village whose typical Ticino centre is enhanced by quirky works of art and, from San Salvatore, walk down to Morcote where there’s a boat trip back across the lake. The Lugano City Card (5CHF) gives discounts on many excursions and sights. The Ticino Ticket is free for anyone staying overnight in the region, is issued to guests on arrival at their hotel and provides free public transport and discounts on cable cars, boats and many attractions in the Ticino region.

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SWITZERLAND I Lake Lugano

Hotel Splendide Royal H H H H H superior NEW for 2019 Lugano Regal and luxurious on the lakeshore Enjoying a privileged location on the lakeside

with local and seasonal produce and during

promenade and dating back to 1887,

summer guests can choose to dine al fresco

luxurious Hotel Splendide Royal has played

on the terrace to make the most of the

host to a number of distinguished visitors

superb views. In the evening the Belle

throughout its history and continues to entice

Epoque Bar is an intimate setting for aperitifs

its many loyal guests with elegant rooms and

and light piano music. The town centre with

suites, fine cuisine and discreet, personal

its numerous designer boutiques can easily

service. A buffet style breakfast is served in

be reached with a short walk along the

gracious surroundings at Blue Salon and the

pleasant lakeshore.

refined I Due Sud restaurant offers a gourmet menu of inventive Italian and Swiss cuisine.

The acclaimed lakeside La Veranda specialises in Mediterranean fare prepared

Executive deluxe room

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Blue Salon breakfast room, I Due Sud gourmet restaurant, La Veranda restaurant, Belle Epoque Bar, wine cellar l Complimentary WiFi l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 93 bedrooms and suites

Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Complimentary Ticino pass for use on local public transport on selected routes (buses and trains), plus excellent reductions on many other services and attractions Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1252-£1868 Extra nights from £151 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in an executive superior garden view room, bath with shower (max 3), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 2 hours 45 minutes from Zurich

UPGRADES per person per night Palace superior garden view (max 3) from £22 Executive deluxe lake view (max 3) from £44-£67 Palace deluxe lake view (max 3) from £65-£90 Junior suite lake view (max 3) from £175-£228 Executive superior garden view sole use from £70-£115 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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Lake Lugano I SWITZERLAND

THE VIEW LUGANO H H H H H

recommended spa

Lugano Award winning design hotel with sensational lake views Situated on the hills of Lugano Paradiso, a

breakfast and creative, exquisitely fresh

fifteen minute walk via a steep trail and

Mediterranean cuisine at lunch and elegant

many steps from the lake and the Monte San

dinners in the evening, whilst the bar tempts

Salvatore Park, The View Lugano opened in

with cocktails, an extensive wine list and

2015 and is a superbly chic, all suite boutique

gentle piano music. The ‘350’Terrace

hotel. The award winning design features

featuring a Pommery Champagne Bar is the

interiors in a blend of chrome, rich teak and

ideal place to sip cocktails at sunset. The spa

glass inspired by that of high-end yachts.

offers tailor-made treatments in addition to a

Luxurious and exclusive suites with a

hammam, saunas and a fitness centre, and

sophisticated contemporary décor, all offer

the sizeable indoor pool is a wonderful place

stunning lake views and large stylishly

to relax with heated whirlpool, hydro

furnished terrace. The gourmet a la carte

massage circuit and water jets. A member of

restaurant serves a daily continental

Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Features

Classic value

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Spa with treatments, hammam, saunas, salt room, thalassotherapy baths, Kneipp circuit, fitness centre l Indoor heated pool l Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi l A la carte restaurant, lobby bar serving snacks, pool bar l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 18 suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Honeymooners complimentary rose and flute of champagne on arrival Anniversaries complimentary flute of champagne on arrival Complimentary use of electric Smart cars and electric bicycles Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 11 (sharing room)

Junior suite

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £2356-£3438 Extra nights from £335 per person per night Prices per person based on bed and continental breakfast in a double junior suite lake view with bath and separate shower and terrace (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days, flights & durations available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 2 hours 45 minutes from Zurich

UPGRADES per person per night Suite lake view (max 3) from £452-£543 Half board from £127 Full board from £212 Additional upgrades available, please contact us

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H H H H Lugano An oasis of peace and quiet Standing at the top of Collina d’Oro and surrounded by wonderful nature, a ten minute drive from the centre of Lugano, Park Hotel Principe is a modern and well-

Features

Classic valuE

appointed hotel with a choice of bright

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar, tea and coffee making facilities and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Outdoor swimming pool l Sauna, fitness room l Kiso Spa at Villa Principe Leopoldo l 2 tennis courts, e-bike rental, table tennis, yoga l Café Leopoldo restaurant l Complimentary shuttle service to Lugano l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 39 bedrooms

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Offer stay 3 nights or more on selected dates and save £10-£27 per adult per night Dining half board bookable for entire stay Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 8 (sharing room)

and very spacious guest rooms elegantly furnished in a classic or a more modern style with balcony or terrace. A generous breakfast is served daily, with lunch and dinner featuring Mediterranean dishes and in summer dining is possible at one of the outdoor gazebos. Leisure facilities include a large, seasonally heated outdoor swimming

SWITZERLAND I Lake Lugano

PARK HOTEL PRINCIPE

Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £792-£1210

pool, plus tennis courts, sauna and Leo Club;

Extra nights from £63 per person per night

a fitness facility with a fully equipped gym

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a modern garden & vineyard or pool view room with bath and shower room and balcony or terrace (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 2 hours 45 minutes from Zurich

and a multitude of outdoor activities such as biking and fit walking. In addition, guests enjoy access to the spa at nearby Villa Principe Leopoldo and in high season the hotel provides a shuttle service to Lugano.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

Modern room

VILLA PRINCIPE LEOPOLDO H H H H H Lugano Refinement in exquisite setting A former prince’s residence dating back to the 19th century and exuding luxury and exclusivity, Villa Principe Leopoldo enjoys a fabulous location in exquisite parkland above the lake and 2km from the centre of Lugano. Enjoying sweeping views over the lake and surrounding mountains this historical boutique hotel offers airy suites furnished in an elegant style with comfortable sofas and precious fabrics. The refined and highly acclaimed gourmet restaurant serves sublime regional and Italian specialities with an impressive selection of fine wines to match. The terrace is the setting for breakfast

Features

Classic valuE

All rooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, WiFi, minibar and safe l Some interconnecting rooms l Outdoor swimming pool l DOT Spa l Fitness room, tennis courts l Breakfast room, Principe Leopoldo Restaurant with 17 Gault Millau points, lounge bar, piano bar l Complimentary shuttle service to Lugano l Not all facilities are complimentary and are subject to seasonal demand l 37 suites

Early booking offers please call us for early booking offers and savings Free night offers available for various durations (restrictions apply) Offer stay 3 nights or more on selected dates and save £18-£46 per adult per night Family discount available for 1st child aged up to 8 (sharing room) Classic Value is subject to availability and as confirmed at time of booking

during warm weather and the lounge bar offers an ample choice of drinks and

1 Jan-31 Dec 7 nights from £1313-£2026

stunning views accompanied by gentle

Extra nights from £133 per person per night

piano music. In addition to the heated

Prices per person based on bed and breakfast in a deluxe junior suite garden view with bath and shower room and balcony (max 2), flights from Gatwick to Zurich airport on Wednesdays (other departure days and flights available) and include first class rail transfers.

First class scenic rail transfer time approximately 2 hours 45 minutes from Zurich

swimming pool, two tennis courts, a fitness room and sauna, the DOT Spa offers personalised treatments using Villa Prinicipe’s own cosmetic line. A member of Relais & Chateaux.

PLEASE CALL US FOR ROOM & BOARD UPGRADES

One bedroom suite

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SWITZERLAND BY TRAIN, BUS & BOAT First class rail transfers between the airport and your hotel are included with our holidays although we can quote for private road transfers if required.

If your holiday includes rail transfers then you will be provided with a First Class Swiss Card which includes: l

Rail transfers to/from airport

Up to 50% reduction on the purchase of any additional tickets

l

Swiss Family Card if you have under 16’s travelling on the same booking

l

The Swiss Travel System offers visitors a variety of tickets for the entire Swiss public transport system. This includes the whole network of over 29,000km of train, bus and boat routes plus some mountain railways.

If you wish to do more travelling than covered by your Swiss Card, there are a wide range of additional travel passes to choose from. Children under 16 years travel free of charge provided they are travelling with at least one parent holding a valid Swiss Card or ticket.

Prices and information are subject to change and may fluctuate according to exchange rates.

All prices are per person.

SWISS TRAVEL PASS

SWISS CARD If your holiday includes rail transfers then you will be provided with a First Class Swiss Card.

This ticket covers your first class rail transfers to and from the airport. It also entitles you to up to 50% discount off the Swiss Travel network public train, bus, boat and mountain railways/cable cars during your entire stay (this represents the equivalent of a public half fare card worth approximately £100) as well as including a Swiss Family Card if you have any under 16’s travelling on the same booking.

SWISS FAMILY CARD The Swiss Family Card entitles children under 16 years to travel free of charge on the public transport network and most mountain excursions provided they are travelling with at least one parent holding a valid Swiss Card or Swiss Travel System ticket.

SWISS HALF FARE CARD If your holiday does not include rail transfers/ Swiss Card then you can purchase a Swiss Half Fare card allowing unlimited purchase of Swiss Travel network public train, bus, boat and mountain railways/cable cars at up to 50% discount. It is valid for one month. £104 per person

Available for 3, 4, 8 or 15 consecutive days.

The Swiss Travel Pass permits unlimited travel on the entire Swiss public transport network.

Travel on railways, boats and most bus routes including classic scenic routes, some mountain railways and local buses/trams in more than 90 cities. In addition you will receive upto 50% discount on the majority of mountain rail and cableways plus free admission to more than 500 museums.

Validity 3 days 4 days 8 days 15 days

1st Class £296 £358 £532 £648

2nd class £187 £226 £335 £412

SWISS TRAVEL PASS FLEX Available for 3, 4, 8 or 15 days within a 30 day period. Swiss Travel Pass Flex is the flexible option if you are not always on the move. You select the number of travel days and you only validate the ticket on the days you want to travel within one month. Validity and inclusion are identical to the Swiss Travel Pass although note that free admission to museums is only included on the validated dates of the ticket (ie the travel dates and not on the unused days in between).

Validity

(days within 1 month)

3 days 4 days 8 days 15 days

2nd class £214 £260 £374 £452

1st Class £339 £412 £595 £713

REGIONAL PASSES

JUNGFRAU TRAVEL PASS

TELL PASS

Every region of Switzerland has its own special charm, an abundance of attractions and delightful destinations to discover. And the best way to enjoy them is with a Regional Pass. All regional passes can be purchased at a reduced price using your Swiss Card and we can include any of the following travel passes in your holiday package. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

This great value pass offered for consecutive days covers many excursions in the Jungfrau Region such as Kleine Scheidegg, Schynige Platte, Harder Kulm, First, and Mannlichen (50% discount for Kleine Scheidegg-Jungfraujoch and Murren-Schilthorn); ideal for walkers and hikers as well as travellers wanting to explore the Alps.

The 5 and 6 day passes are also valid for cruises on Lake Thun & Lake Brienz.

The ideal pass for Central Switzerland and the Lake Lucerne region. Covering rail journeys until Einsiedeln, Andermatt and even Interlaken, as well as local transport in Lucerne and the mountain railways and cable cars in the region such as Mounts Rigi, Pilatus and Titlis.

BERNESE OBERLAND PASS Covers most of the mountain railways and cable cars in the Jungfrau region and reaching as far as the capital Bern and Lucerne (50% discount for Kleine Scheidegg-Jungfraujoch and Murren-Schilthorn). It also includes lake cruises on Lake Thun and Brienz as well as discounted entries to local attractions and museums.

20 Apr-31 Oct 19

3 4 5 6

days days days days

Reduced prices using Swiss Card or Swiss Half Fare Card

Standard full fare

2nd class 1st class

2nd class 1st class

£142 £165 £183 £196 Children under 6 yrs Free* Children 6-15 yrs £28

£171 £190 £227 £198 £221 £263 £220 £243 £292 £236 £261 £314 Free* Free* Free* £28 £28 £28

Flex Passes also available for either 3,4,5 or 6 days to use within a 15 day period - please contact us for details.

13 Apr-27 Oct 19

3 4 5 6

days days days days

Children under 6 yrs Children 6-15 yrs

Reduced prices using Swiss Card or Swiss Half Fare Card

Standard full fare

£105 £140 £121 £159 £136 £179 £148 £198 Free* Free* £23 £23

*When travelling with 1 parent holding a Jungfrau Travel Pass for any duration.

LAKE GENEVA-ALPS

1 Nov 1731 Oct 18

SUMMER 1 Apr 19-31 Oct 19

WINTER 1 Nov 18-31 Mar 19

2 days* 3 days* 4 days* 5 days* 10 days*

£166 £194 £212 £222 £277

£102 £129 £148 £157 £203

*Adult price. Child (under 16) price £28 when travelling with one parent holding a Tell pass for any duration.

ZERMATT PEAK PASS Ideal for walkers, hikers and sightseers alike, the Peak Pass offers unlimited travel on consecutive days on Zermatt’s mountain railways, cable cars and gondolas.

Covering the area around Lake Geneva, reaching from Geneva into the Bernese Oberland and the Valais, including boat cruises on Lake Geneva.

1 Jan-31 Dec 19

5 days 7 days

Reduced prices using Swiss Card or Swiss Half Fare Card

Standard full fare

2nd class 1st class

2nd class 1st class

£78 £97 5 days Child 6-15 yrs Free 7 days Child 6-15 yrs Free

£115 £97 £143 £139 £120 £175 Free £46 £69 Free £60 £88

Children under 6 travel free. Child prices apply when travelling with one parent holding a Lake Geneva Alps Pass for any duration.

www.classic-collection.co.uk I freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113

Reduced prices using Swiss Card or Swiss Half Fare Card 1May-30 Jun 19/ 1 Sep-30 Oct 19

2 days* 3 days* 4 days* 5 days* 6 days* Child under 9 Child 9-5 yrs

1 Jul-31 Aug 19

Standard full fare 1May-30 Jun 19/ 1 Sep-30 Oct 19

1 Jul-31 Aug 19

£135 £150 £180 £199 £152 £168 £203 £224 £170 £187 £226 £250 £187 £207 £249 £275 £204 £225 £272 £301 Free Free Free Free Free Free £28 £28

*Adult price

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EXCURSIONS & MOUNTAIN TICKETS We can include any of the following mountain excursions in your holiday package, please contact us to discuss your requirements. We recommend taking warm, waterproof clothing on these excursions even if it is sunny in the valley as it is much cooler at altitude and the weather can change very quickly. children under 6 years of age With the exception of the Chocolate Train and Bernina Express, children under 6 travel free when travelling with a ticket holder.

JunGfraujoch

Mount Rigi

Bernina Express

Mountain railway ride to the 3,454m Jungfraujoch. A round trip (from Interlaken) takes a min of six hours.

Paddle steamer journey (approx 1 hr) between Lucerne and Weggis or Vitznau and cogwheel railway/cablecar to/from Mount Rigi 15-30 mins.

Spectacular rail journey from St Moritz to Tirano in Italy.

Lunch in Italy and return. We recommend the regional train one way to allow a longer lunch break.

*Price varies according to season

Reduced prices using Swiss Card or Standard Swiss Half Fare Card full fare

from Interlaken 1st class Interlaken 2nd class Wengen Grindelwald Murren

Adult

Child 6-15 Adult

£87-£109* £81-£103* £69-£91* £72-£94* £82-£103*

Free £175-£205* £26 Free £162-£197* £26 Free £137-£181* £26 Free £143-£187* £26 Free £163-£207* £26

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

Child 6-15

Schilthorn Travel by rail and cable cars to the 2,970m Schilthorn. Travelling time (from/to Interlaken) is about two hours each way.

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

from Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15 Interlaken (2nd class) £53 Free £107 £26 Wengen £53 Free £106 £26 Grindelwald £54 Free £107 £26 Murren £34 Free £68 £26

from Lucerne

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

from Interlaken Rail both ways Boat both ways Boat & rail

Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15

£47 £62 £55

Free Free Free

£92 £125 £110

£26 £26 £26

A vintage railway ride followed by spectacular open top cable car to 1,900m. Allow half a day for this outing from Lucerne.

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

from Lucerne Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15 Return rail £40 Free £79 £23 Boat out, rail return £46 Free £93 £26

CHOCOLATE TRAIN Scenic rail journey to medieval Gruyeres for cheese factory visit followed by a tour and tasting at the Cailler chocolate factory. Full day excursion.

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

from Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15 Montreux 1st class £53 £44 £989 £62 Children 0-6 £44

Rochers de Naye Cogwheel railway ride to 1,980m (approx 1 hour each way) with views across Lake Geneva, marmot centre and Rambertia Alpine Garden.

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

Schynige Platte Nostalgic cogwheel railway ride to the Alpine Garden with views of Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. Allow a half day for this outing.

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15

from Interlaken

£31

Free

£62

£26

Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15

from Montreux

£31

*cogwheel railway up, cablecar down

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

from Lucerne Bus & cablecar Boat, cogwheel railway, cablecar, return by bus* Rail, cogwheel railway, cablecar, return by bus*

Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15

Free

£63

£27

Glacier 3000 Train, bus and cable car to 2,971m; a scenic couple of hours journey each way. Try the Peak Walk or Alpine Coaster.

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

Mount Pilatus The world’s steepest cogwheel railway and/or cable car(s) to the summit for walking and sightseeing. Approx 2½ hours each way.

£45 Free £91 £27

Stanserhorn

Brienzer Rothorn Steam powered cogwheel railway ride to 2,350m.

Travelling time (from/to Brienz) is around three hours.

Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15

from Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15 Montreux 1st class £71 Free £142 £26 Montreux 2nd class £61 Free £121 £26

Gornergrat Take the highest cogwheel railway in Switzerland to 3,089m for the best views of the Matterhorn. Approx 35 mins each way.

£35

Free

£69

£26

£47

Free

£94

£26

*Price varies according to season

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

£38

Free

£75

£26

Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15

Supplement for overnight stay at Hotel Pilatus Kulm including aperitif, dinner and breakfast from £154pp

from Zermatt

£33-£49* Free £66-£98* £26

Mount Titlis

MATTERHORN GLACIER PARADISE

Train to Engelberg, then a revolving cable car ride to over 3,000m. Cliff walk and chairlift options at top. Approx 1½ hours each way.

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

from Lucerne 1st class Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15 Cablecar return £72 Free £143 £27 Cablecar return including Ice Flyer £82 Free £154 £27

Europe’s highest cablecar reaching 3,883m to a viewing platform, Glacier Palace, shop and restaurant. 45 minutes each way. *Price varies according to season

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card

Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child

from Zermatt

£40-£51* Free £80-£102* £28

www.classic-collection.co.uk I freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113

Approx 2½ hours each way

from St Moritz

1st class

Reduced prices Standard using Swiss Card or full fare Swiss Half Fare Card Adult Child 6-15 Adult Child 6-15

B.Exp both ways £69-£81* £19-£31* £121-£131* £69-£77* B.Exp+regional train £56-£66* £10-£16* £112-£117* £60-£66* *Price varies according to season. Children 0-6 £10-£27.

LUGGAGE TRANSFER SERVICES If you are travelling via Zurich you can travel light by checking in your luggage at your departure airport and have it delivered directly to your destination. There’s also the option of having your luggage transported from destination to destination within Switzerland.

Express Flight Luggage to hotel From/to UK via Zurich only Outbound Check in your luggage with any airline at any UK airport and, provided your flight lands before 11.45am it can automatically be forwarded to one of the participating railway stations from where it will be delivered to your hotel the same day. If you land in Zurich later than 11.45am, the luggage will be delivered the following day. See below for exceptions*.

Homebound For the return journey you must have your luggage ready for collection the previous evening (or early the same morning for flights departing after 4pm). A through service to the UK is only available for flights with SWISS or Edelweiss Air. For all other airlines luggage needs to be collected at the airport station counter before proceeding to flight check-in.

SAME DAY

NEXT DAY*

Per item per direction

£18

£18

Consignment fee per booking per direction

£55

£32

Express Flight between hotels Within Switzerland Your luggage is collected directly from your hotel and delivered the same day to the hotel at your next destination*.

SAME DAY

NEXT DAY*

Per item per direction

£10

£10

Consignment fee per booking per direction

£55

£32

All transport services must be pre-booked.

Time/delivery conditions apply. *Luggage services to Montreux, Vevey and Lugano are only available on an overnight service either arriving the following day or, for services within Switzerland by collection the previous evening. *In the car-free resorts of Wengen, Murren and Zermatt luggage services are provided to the station only.

We can, on request, ask your hotel to assist with the collection/delivery of your luggage from/to the station.

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Booking conditions Our commitment to you 1. Provision of your holiday We will arrange for the provision to you of the services which make up the inclusive holiday as confirmed to you.

These services will be provided either directly by us or by independently contracted suppliers.

When you, or your travel agent, ask for your holiday booking to be confirmed, we allocate your chosen holiday to you and give confirmation of the booking at that moment. It is then that a firm contract exists between you and Classic Collection Holidays Limited (Registered in England no. 1512421) on the basis of these booking conditions. This also acts as your acceptance of our booking conditions and your holiday is secured from that moment.

If your holiday includes flight arrangements, you will be issued with an ATOL certificate immediately and, in any event, you will receive a holiday confirmation invoice verifying the details. All holidays and offers, including but not limited to Classic Value offers, advertised in the brochure are subject to availability and are as confirmed to you by telephone or on your Holiday Confirmation Invoice.

2. Your holiday price A. When you book All prices, supplements and offers shown in this brochure are based on costs at time of printing (23 October 2018) although we reserve the right to amend all prices, supplements and offers (up or down) when we receive notification of new costs. Hotels practice fluid pricing which means that costs may significantly increase during periods of high demand. Classic Value may not be available where we have exceeded our contractually pre-allocated rooms at certain hotels. Prices in this brochure include airline rates applicable at the time of printing and are subject to change.

The government charges a levy to cover financial protection in the event of an airline failure and we automatically add this to your invoice total at the booking stage. Once you have confirmed your holiday booking, the price is protected subject to clause 2D of these booking conditions. Please note that not all hotel features detailed are complimentary, and some are subject to seasonal demand.

B. VAT and Exchange rates Our VAT Registration number is 503 944 749 and all prices quoted in this brochure include VAT where relevant (at 20% at time of going to press). The brochure prices of holidays were calculated using exchange rates quoted in the Financial Times Guide to World Currencies on 15 October 2018 in relation to the following currencies: Euro 1.1344 and US Dollar 1.3160 Please note a) these rates are not comparable with note or tourist rates which are quoted in national newspapers b) hotel costs, transfers, resort representation, excursions, local taxes and part of the flight cost are typically paid in the currency of your holiday destination country.

Aviation fuel is paid in US Dollars. All of these costs are affected by changes in the cost of buying foreign currency, as per exchange rates listed above. We reserve the right to increase our prices in accordance with these booking conditions.

C. Price Promise If you can find the same flight inclusive holiday at a cheaper price at the time that you book, we undertake to match the price and will give an additional £10 per adult saving off any competitor’s price. In order to take advantage of our Price Promise, the component parts of the relevant holiday must be identical and we reserve the right to request confirmation in writing of the relevant competitor’s holiday price. Our Price Promise cannot be actioned retrospectively after a booking has been made, and it is only available on new bookings made during the validity of this brochure. Unfortunately we cannot always match prices where we believe our competitors have made a pricing error or where they are offering the holiday arrangements at a price below their operating costs. If a competitor’s price is greater than

120

£150 per adult and/or £50 per child below our price, we deem one of these two scenarios to be true and will not honour our Price Promise.

D. Surcharges (after booking) Once you have booked, the price of your holiday travel arrangements may be varied due to changes in transportation costs such as fuel, scheduled airfares and any other airline cost changes which are part of the contract between airlines (and their agents) and the tour operator or organiser, and also in respect of government action such as changes in VAT or any other government imposed changes. In the case of any small variation, an amount equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, and any amendment charges, will be absorbed or retained. For larger variations, this 2% will still be absorbed for increases but not retained from refunds. In either case there will be an administration charge of £1 per person together with an amount to cover agent’s commission.

In the unlikely event that this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 8% of the price of your holiday travel arrangements, you may cancel your booking and receive a full refund of all monies paid, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice.

E. Tourist tax Some regions and cities impose a tourist tax. Amounts often vary between region and hotel star rating and often are payable by customers locally on departure from their hotel.

Tourist taxes may be introduced or changed without prior notice and our reservations team are happy to advise current rates where applicable.

3. If your booking is changed It is unlikely that your booking will have to be changed, but we do plan the arrangements many months in advance, therefore we reserve the right to do so at any time. Most of these changes are very minor, but where they are major, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure.

A major change is one that is made to a major part of your holiday arrangements before departure, such as a change of your departure airport (except between London airports), resort area or time of departure or return by more than twelve hours, or offering accommodation with a lower category rating. If we have to make a major change you have the choice of the following: A accepting the changed arrangements as notified to you, B purchasing another available holiday from us, or C cancelling your holiday and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. Additionally, if we make a major change after you have paid the full balance of your holiday and you accept A, B or C you will be entitled to compensation on the scale shown below.

Period before scheduled departure within which a major change is notified to you or your travel agent:

Compensation per adult

More than 56 days 43-56 days 29-42 days 15-28 days 0-14 days

Nil £20 £30 £40 £50

Important note Compensation payments do not apply to changes caused by reason of war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial disputes, natural and nuclear disasters, fire, or other circumstances that may amount to force majeure.

4. If your holiday is cancelled We reserve the right in any circumstance to cancel your holiday and, in this event, we will return to you all money you have paid us or will offer you an alternative holiday of comparable standard to purchase. In no case, except for those beyond our control, will your holiday be cancelled after the balance is paid and in such cases compensation will be paid per clause 3.

www.classic-collection.co.uk I freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113

=5. What happens to complaints Disputes arising out of, or in connection with, this contract which cannot be settled amicably may be referred to arbitration if the customer so wishes, under a special scheme arranged by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. The ABTA scheme provides for a relatively simple and inexpensive method of arbitration on documents alone with restricted liability on the customer with regards to cost. Under the scheme, customers must pursue their claim within 12 months of the date of return from their holiday.

(Outside this time limit, arbitration under the scheme may still be available if the Company agrees, although the ABTA scheme does not require such agreement). The scheme does not apply to claims for amounts greater than £5,000 per person or £25,000 per booking, neither does it apply to claims which are solely in respect of physical injury or illness or their consequences.

However, the scheme can deal with compensation claims which include an element of minor injury or illness subject to a per person limit of £1,500 on the personal injury or illness element of the claim. Full details can be provided by us or www.abta.com 6. Our responsibility for your holiday We accept responsibility for ensuring that all component parts of the inclusive holiday, limited to items included on confirmation invoice, and subject to the paragraph entitled Air Passenger Rights below, are supplied to you as described in this brochure and to a reasonable standard. If any such part is not provided to your satisfaction due to the fault of our employees, agents, or suppliers, we will pay you appropriate compensation if this has affected the enjoyment of your holiday (see Important note in paragraph 3 above). Our liability in this respect is limited to a maximum of three times the value of the holiday. We must ask you however, to be patient and understanding in the event of unforeseen alterations to your holiday made by our suppliers over whom we have no direct control.

Air Passenger Rights Under EU law you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details of these rights will be publicised at EU airports and will also be available from airlines. However reimbursement in such cases is the responsibility of the airline and will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in paragraph 3. If your airline does not comply with these rules you can make a complaint via the Civil Aviation Authority www.CAA.co.uk 7. Excursions (whilst participating in arrangements made by us) Excursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of the holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract is with the operator of the excursion or tour and not with us and we are not responsible for the provision of the excursion or tour or for anything that happens during the course of its provision.

8. Personal Injury (whilst participating in arrangements made by us) We have taken all reasonable and proper steps to ensure that proper arrangements have been made for all the holidays which are advertised in this brochure and that the suppliers of the various services which will be provided to you as part of the inclusive holiday are efficient, safe and reputable businesses, and that they comply with the local and national laws and regulations of the country in which they provide those services. We have no direct control over the provision of services to customers by suppliers.

However, subject to the Notes below, we will pay to our customers the equivalent of such damages as they would be entitled to receive under English law in an English Court for

any airport I any airline I any day & duration

any personal injury to the customer, including illness or death, caused by the negligence, as understood in English Law, of the servants or agents of ourselves or of any of our suppliers contracted or sub-contracted by us to provide any part of the arrangements for your holiday as described in this brochure. With regard to any relevant international convention for example, the Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea, the Berne Convention in respect of travel by rail, and the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation, which limit the amount of compensation that you can claim for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage, we are to be regarded as having all benefit of any limitation of compensation contained in these or any conventions. Copies of these can be made available on request.

9. Personal Injury (unconnected with travel arrangements made by us) If you, or any member of your party, suffer death, illness or injury whilst overseas arising out of an activity which does not form part of your holiday arrangements or an excursion arranged through us, we shall at our discretion, offer advice, guidance and assistance. Where legal action is contemplated and you want our assistance, you must obtain our written consent prior to commencement of proceedings. Our consent will be given subject to you undertaking to assign any costs or benefits received, under any relevant insurance policy to ourselves. We limit the cost of our assistance to you or any member of your party to £5,000. Under your travel insurance cover, you must make an insurance claim under the legal expenses section in respect of any legal fees incurred abroad for that purpose.

Notes in respect of paragraphs 8 & 9 We would request that you (a) notify us of any claim for personal injury within 2 months of your return from holiday; (b) assign to Classic Collection Holidays any rights against a supplier or any other person or party you may have relating to the claim; and (c) agree to co-operate fully with us should our insurers wish to enforce those rights. This assignment is necessary to enable us to try to recover from suppliers any compensation paid to customers and associated costs as a result of personal injury to customers caused by the negligence of those suppliers. It is not our wish to profit from such assignment, and in the unlikely event of our recovering more than such compensation and costs, any excess will be paid to the injured customers.

hold that money as our agent from the time they receive it until they pay it to us. Deposits and balances paid to us can be made by bank transfer, cheque or card.

3. If you change your booking If you want to change any details of your booking (eg transfer to a different holiday, substitution of a passenger, departure date or airport), we will do our best to help as soon as we receive your request in writing. We charge an amendment fee of £25 per person named on the booking form for each detail of the booking to be changed and, in addition to the amendment fee, we will charge for any additional costs we incur in making the amendment/s. You should give us reasonable notice of changes and please note that it is highly likely that amendment costs will increase the closer the change is made to your departure date. If amendments to a booking are made, and the booking is subsequently cancelled, we reserve the right to charge the original cancellation charges that would have been payable prior to the amendment.

Your commitment to Classic Collection Holidays

Period before scheduled departure within which written holiday instructions are received by us

Amount of cancellation (% of total price)

More than 56 days 43-56 days 29-42 days 15-28 days 8-14 days 7 days or fewer

Deposit/initial payment 30% or deposit if greater 50% or deposit if greater 70% or deposit if greater 90% or deposit if greater 100%

1. Your holiday contract As soon as your holiday booking is confirmed, you must sign a booking form accepting our booking conditions. Your contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions which are governed by English law and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so. Any disputes arising will be heard in the English Courts unless you prefer the courts of Scotland or Northern Ireland.

2. Payment for the holiday You pay a deposit of £150 per person (or an agreed sum to cover non-refundable flight seats and/or hotel or other costs) when you book. This is your commitment until 8 weeks before departure when your final balance is due. You must pay the balance at least 8 weeks before departure.

For bookings within 8 weeks of departure, full payment is required at time of booking. If payment is not received as above, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled and your deposit/s would be forfeited. If you pay a travel agent for your holiday they will

IMPORTANT

Some arrangements (eg flights purchased from certain airlines and certain hotel bookings or other costs) may not be refundable or transferable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request may incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that particular part of the holiday arrangements.

Where the price varies depending on the number of persons travelling and the numbers are amended, the price will be recharged on the basis of the new party size. Any increase in price per person payable as a result of a part cancellation is not a cancellation charge and will not normally be covered by your chosen insurance. A separate cancellation charge will be levied in respect of bookings cancelled in accordance with paragraph 4 below. A new confirmation invoice will be issued as appropriate on which the cancellation charges will be shown.

4. If you cancel your booking You or any member of your party may cancel your booking, or part of it, once it has been confirmed, but the instructions will only be valid if in writing and signed by the person who confirmed the booking. Your written instructions should go either to the travel agent you booked with, asking them to notify us immediately, or if you booked direct, to our address. To compensate us for the expense of processing your booking, payment of cancellation fees are on the scale shown. The amount payable depends on when we receive your written instructions.

5. If you have a complaint If you have a complaint about your holiday please refer the matter to the supplier immediately (airline, hotel, car hire company etc). If further assistance is required our agent/representative in resort should be contacted. Matters can most easily be resolved for you on the spot when the supplier can see and understand the exact nature of any problems you have. It is unreasonable to take no action whilst on holiday, then complain afterwards. In the unlikely event that matters cannot be resolved to your satisfaction our agent/representative will ask you to record details on a holiday report form of which you will be given a copy, and you must then follow up your report by writing to our Customer Relations team within 28 days of returning from resort.

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6. Holiday illness If you, or any member of your party, become unwell whilst on holiday you must consult a local doctor in order to receive appropriate treatment and to obtain a full medical report. You must also report your illness as soon as reasonably practicable to our local or telephone agent/representative, the contact details of whom can be found on your travel documents.

Notes in respect of paragraphs 5 & 6 Failure to follow the procedures set out in paragraphs 5 and 6 above may reduce or extinguish any rights you have to claim compensation from us or any of our suppliers either in accordance with these booking conditions or otherwise.

7. Holiday participation We reserve the right to decline to accept or retain any person as a customer if their conduct is disruptive and affects the enjoyment of other holidaymakers, and we shall be under no liability for any extra costs incurred by such a person as a result of our doing so. Aircraft captains are legally entitled to deny boarding to any passenger presenting themselves at the aircraft who, at the captain’s absolute discretion, are unacceptably under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Any passenger who is denied boarding on the outbound flight for that reason, shall be deemed to have given notice of cancellation of his/her booking at that moment, and cancellation charges will apply in accordance with paragraph 4.

8. Your accommodation The accommodation provided is only for the use of passengers shown on the confirmation invoice as confirmed by us; subletting, sharing or assignment is prohibited.

9. Your travel ticket conditions When you travel with an air or sea or rail carrier, their conditions of carriage apply, some of which limit liability.

These conditions are often the subject of international agreements between countries, and copies of the conditions which apply are available for inspection at the travel agent where you book your holiday.

10. Travel Insurance It is a condition of booking with us that you and all members of your booking are adequately insured on holiday and that the insurance is suitable for your needs and the type of activities you will be undertaking as part of your holiday. We reserve the right to request written details of such policy. You are responsible for indemnifying us in full in the event that we incur any losses or expenses arising out of your failure to take out adequate insurance cover.

11. Data Protection & GDPR Classic Collection Holidays is registered under the Data Protection Act 1988 and deals with all personal data in accordance therewith. It is, of course, necessary for us to pass personal data to airlines, hotels, transportation companies, insurers and other agents in order that we can arrange your holiday. By confirming a booking with us, you have consented to allow the passing on of such data as we determine necessary for that purpose. Under the Data Protection Act, you have the right to inspect relevant personal information held by us. From 25 May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came into force and relevant information including our role as data controller, is detailed in the privacy policy statement on our website.

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Holiday information MAKING A BOOKING

If you book through a travel agent, they will check details and availability with us and if you accept these as satisfactory, a formal contract will exist between you and Classic Collection Holidays. If you make a booking directly with us, we will discuss and confirm the details of the holiday with you and, if you accept these as satisfactory, a formal contract will exist between you and Classic Collection Holidays and your credit card details will be taken at that time. In either event, you must pay the appropriate initial payment or, if within 8 weeks of departure, the full holiday price.

The booking form (downloadable from our website) and payment must reach us within 4 working days of the booking being confirmed and we reserve the right to cancel the booking and apply full cancellation charges if they are not received within this time. Late bookings made within 8 weeks of departure require that the total balance is paid immediately. Normal cancellation charges apply to late bookings should you subsequently cancel. Recommendations can be made by our team although the final decision as to hotel and resort suitability is ultimately your choice and we cannot be held liable for our suggestions. To help maintain our high levels of service, calls may be recorded.

Special requests such as adjoining rooms, dietary requirements etc, should be detailed under Special requests on the booking form.

We will inform the property management and/ or carrier of your requirements but we cannot guarantee that these will be met. Where additional local costs are involved, payment should be made directly to the supplier. If you have a disability or suffer mobility difficulties, please complete our Mobility Questionnaire before we confirm your booking. You may wish to research the suitability of your chosen property with Tourism for All 0845 124 9971/73 www.tourismforall.org.uk

BEFORE YOU TRAVEL

Passports, visas & travel advice Your passport, visa and immigration requirements are your responsibility and you should confirm these with relevant Embassies and/or Consulates. We do not accept any responsibility if you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport, visa or immigration requirements.

For British Citizens, a full ten-year passport is required for travel and it is recommended that your passport is valid for six months from your return date to the UK. Children under 16 must hold their own five-year passport. Contact the UK Passport Agency 0870 521 0410 or www.gov.uk/browse/abroad/passports for details. Please note that your name and initials on your flight tickets/documentation must match those on your passport. For up-to-date advice from the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office about travel to, and within, your chosen destination, please visit www.gov.uk/foreigntravel-advice noting that, as advice can change, it is important to check regularly for the latest information.

Vaccinations & health requirements In some countries it is wise, and sometimes obligatory, to have certain vaccinations. As regulations frequently change you should check with your GP’s surgery or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk for up to date information regarding health risks or vaccination requirements.

Travel documentation Your flight tickets including e-ticket information and holiday itinerary will normally be dispatched approx 10 days prior to departure although very late booking confirmations and e-ticket details may be forwarded by email only.

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UK airport charges To cover the cost of development or improvement works, some UK airports charge an airport improvement fee which is payable within the relevant check-in area. For example, at Norwich International Airport a development fee of £10 per adult (16 years+) is payable.

OUR BROCHURE & HOLIDAY DETAILS

Brochure accuracy This brochure was printed on 23 October 2018. Details are valid for departures from 1 November 2018 to 31 October 2019 or until publication of any revised edition, or you are notified otherwise by your travel agent or our reservations staff.

All the facts in this brochure are re-checked for accuracy by our staff and, where possible, our hoteliers, although of course it is always feasible, especially in low season, that facilities may be unavailable as hotels, especially those which are open all year round, will require maintenance (eg pools), redecoration and refurbishment. Service within hotels may change from time to time eg dining changes from traditional waiter service to buffet style.

Such events are regrettably beyond our control although we will alert you to significant changes at time of booking, or if you have already booked, we will contact you as soon as is reasonably possible if there is time before your departure.

Hotel details We are happy to advise hotel web addresses, but cannot accept responsibility for their accuracy.

Room types and upgrades Single rooms normally carry a supplement which is for the convenience of having a room to yourself and location/facilities may be inferior to that of a twin room. In family rooms and twin or double rooms that take additional beds, do note that the extra bed/s could be of a folding or convertible sofa type and beds for children may not be full adult-sized singles. When additional beds are put in a room, floor space will be reduced and cupboard access may be limited. Junior suites normally have a sitting area, and suites have a sitting area or separate sitting room. Ocean or sea view rooms enjoy views of the ocean/sea although foliage, buildings etc may sometimes interupt a full view. Ocean facing or sea facing rooms will face the ocean/sea but will normally be on lower floors where the view of the ocean/sea may be obscured through gardens/trees etc.

Side ocean view or side sea view rooms tend to offer a restricted view of the ocean or sea.

Please note that the main additional feature of any room category attracting a supplement may often be its view and that this will not necessarily include additional internal room facilities or amenities.

Room upgrade supplements are normally detailed on the hotel pages, but occasionally you may see the phrase on request which means that we will have to contact the hotel for up-to-date prices.

Hotel facilities normally incur a charge eg sun loungers, tennis, squash, mini-golf, pool table, watersports, entry to disco/nightclub, use of fitness/leisure and spa facilities, children’s clubs, cots, safety deposit boxes and car parking.

Air-conditioning Most hotels offer in-room airconditioning although this may be controlled centrally and might only be available at certain times of the year or subject to the prevailing weather.

Check in/out & duration of holiday On arrival at hotels, check in time is normally 4pm and check out 12 noon. Most hotels can provide luggage storage and changing room facilities if you arrive earlier or stay later, and you may be able to pay locally for a late check out from your room. The number of nights on your confirmation invoice refers to the number of nights reserved for you in your hotel. If you arrive very late at night or in the early hours of the morning, your accommodation is

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immediately available as it will have been reserved for the whole night and this will count as one of your holiday nights.

Meal arrangements Full board normally consists of breakfast, lunch and dinner; half board is breakfast and dinner. Breakfasts are normally served buffet style. Full board or half board arrangements are generally served in the main dining room and are based on a standard table d’hote menu although this normally includes a choice of dishes. Many hotels offer buffet style meals and some a combination of waiter and buffet service. A full a la carte menu is available for an extra cost in most of our hotels and customers should note that when half or full board is offered as a la carte dining, exclusions such as lobster, prawns etc may be available for a local supplement.

Most hotels offer the option of booking any number of nights on half or full board so that you can pay in the UK and decide which nights you wish to eat at the hotel when you arrive: simply ask our reservations staff for details.

All inclusive arrangements vary widely between hotels and where this concept is offered, it is wise to check specific details at booking stage as many hotels only include local spirits and wines and may limit your choice of restaurant or dining room. As with meal arrangements (above), if a full a la carte menu or restaurant is not included within the all inclusive concept, it may be available for an additional cost and exclusions such as lobster, prawns etc may be available for a local supplement.

Dress code Due to the sophisticated nature of many of our hotel restaurants, shorts and t-shirts are unacceptable for evening dining and slightly more formal attire is recommended.

Formal dress is normally required for gala dinners and if you’d like to find out further details of dress codes at a particular hotel, simply contact our reservations team.

Children & infants To take advantage of children’s prices, a child must normally be aged 2-11 years at the date of return and must share a room with two adults or full fare paying passengers, although some hotels offer special reductions for a second child sharing the room, or for older children, or for a child travelling with one adult, or where children share an interconnecting room. Children paying child prices can normally benefit from reduced half board supplements (when booking same board basis as adults) and will not normally be charged room supplements although if these are payable, relevant prices will be advised at time of booking. Normally children staying in their own room will be charged as full fare paying passengers including relevant room and half board supplements. Please note that infants and children’s dates of birth (on the date of return from holiday) must be advised on the booking form. Infants (under two years of age at date of return) pay a charge to cover our administration costs and additional charges may be levied for certain flights, interisland connections or business class cabins.

Hotels will charge locally for food and cots.

Please note that the regulations applied to the manufacture of cots in other countries are not as high as those in the UK and may not conform to British safety standards.

Child seats Although we can request child seats for private transfers in resort, they cannot always be guaranteed and in such cases we suggest that you bring your own.

Babysitting arrangements are available at many properties although the service will vary and the sitter may not remain in the room with the child. If you wish to use a babysitting service, you must arrange and pay for it locally with the sitter who is frequently a member of the hotel staff not qualified in child care.

Health & safety All our properties are checked regularly for compliance in respect of local regulations. However, guests must exercise

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caution particularly with regard to fire safety, swimming pools, balconies, lifts etc, where compliance may not be equal to British standards.

Resort development may be in progress and occasionally the work involved will result in building work being in evidence. We cannot forewarn of all developments, however, if the works taking place, either through noise or other inconvenience, is felt by us to affect your overall holiday enjoyment, we will supply all such information to you directly or via your travel agent. Many of our resorts are in popular holiday destinations which invariably have busy road networks so you may encounter some traffic disturbance especially during peak season.

Representation Due to the specialist nature of our programme it is not always practical to visit our guests in their hotel especially during multicentres, island hopping or fly drive holidays. All customers will be given emergency contact numbers and departure details will be confirmed on arrival in resort. Our resort representative or local agent will normally make contact within 24 hours of your arrival to ensure that everything is in order, although should you encounter any difficulties during your stay, please contact your hotel manager in the first instance, and if further assistance is required, simply contact our resort manager or local agent who will endeavour to resolve the problem.

Your holiday price includes

100% FINANCIAL PROTECTION

1. Return flights (or other transportation) between the UK and overseas (where applicable) 2. Luggage allowance as specified on your documentation 3. Private transfer, first class rail travel, or hire car between the overseas airport and your hotel (as detailed on our confirmation) 4. Accommodation and board basis as detailed on your confirmation 5. Services of our representative or local office/agent 6. Any additional items or pre-booked excursions as detailed on your confirmation

All the ex-UK flight inclusive holidays within this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme under ATOL number 5837. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL certificate (for further information about financial protection please see our booking conditions and www.atol.org.uk). For holidays and travel arrangements which do not include travel by air, your financial protection is administered by the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) under membership number W5429. In the unlikely event of our insolvency, the CAA and/or ABTA will ensure that you are not stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money you have paid to us for an advance booking. ABTA members help holidaymakers get the most from their travel arrangements, and assist them in the unlikely event that things do not go according to plan.

Under ABTA’s Code of Conduct, we maintain a high standard of service to our customers. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct, and the arbitration scheme, contact ABTA tel 0207 637 2444 or www.abta.com

Please note that refunds are not available for services provided but not utilised

Your holiday price excludes

1. Transport between your home and departure airport 2. Travel insurance (condition of booking) 3. Meals and refreshments en route, except those included on aircraft 4. Optional excursions 5. Cost of passports and relevant visas 6. Cots and local infant charges 7. Excess baggage including golf clubs etc 8. Locally payable tourist taxes (where relevant)

Sustainability We contribute annually to The Travel Foundation to offset emissions from our staff flights.

Visit www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk to see details of their work. Additionally we have recently formed an association with Travelife; a global sustainability organisation which works closely with hotels helping them to improve their social, economic and environmental impacts.

PLEASE NOTE Booking Conditions and Holiday details constantly change. Please see our website for up to date information.

Care for our environment The paper used in this brochure is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources.

Flights meals and snacks relevant to the time of day and flight duration, complimentary drinks (wine, beer and spirits), dedicated check-in desks and complimentary use of airport lounge facilities where you can relax before boarding. Club Europe passengers also enjoy an increased luggage allowance and two bags (each weighing a maximum of 23kg) per person are included in our prices.

Domestic flight connections via London So that our customers can take advantage of the flexibility and reliability of scheduled flights from London, we are pleased to offer domestic flights from all UK airports.

For duration of transfer time from airport to resort, please see the price panel on each hotel page.

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Upgrades British Airways’ flights offer a choice of cabin options dependent upon the route. Club Europe benefits include generous legroom and increased seat pitch,

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British Airways Many of our destinations are served by British Airways and we are proud of our Preferred Partner status with this airline. Two cabin options are available: Euro Traveller and Club Europe. British Airways’ Euro Traveller passengers in the main cabin enjoy the highest standards expected of British Airways

including generous legroom and increased seat pitch. Enjoying a partnership with Marks and Spencer, British Airways offers customers in the Euro Traveller cabin the opportunity to purchase a range of delicious savoury snacks and sweet treats, plus alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks are available to buy.

On board payment must be by credit or debit card or you can use your Avios points (cash is not accepted). One bag (maximum weight 23kg) per person is automatically included in our prices.

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Choice of flights We know that our customers like to fly from a local airport that is convenient to them and because we tailor-make every holiday to suit you, we are able to book scheduled, charter or no frills flights from a wide range of UK airports.

Please call our reservations team for further details regarding the services provided by different airlines.

AUSTRIA Innsbruck for Seefeld, Mayrhofen, Kitzbuhel INN

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AUSTRIA Salzburg for Kitzbuhel, Fuschl & St Wolfgang SZG

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AUSTRIA

Vienna VIE

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SWITZERLAND Zurich* ZRH

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✓

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SWITZERLAND Geneva* GVA

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SLOVENIA Ljubljana for Lake Bled LJU

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SLOVENIA Trieste for Lake Bled TRS

✓

ITALY

Milan Linate for Lakes Como, Maggiore, Lugano LIN

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✓

ITALY

Milan Malpensa for Lakes Como, Maggiore, Lugano MXP

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✓ ✓

✓

ITALY

Milan Bergamo for Lakes Como, Maggiore, Lugano BGY

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✓ ✓

ITALY

Venice Marco Polo VCE

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✓ ✓

ITALY

Venice Treviso TSF

ITALY Verona for Lake Garda VRN

✓

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✓

✓ ✓

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✓

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*Rail transfers depart from the airport. Flights may be on scheduled, charter or no frills airlines on a daily or weekly basis although some routes may not operate for the entire year. Flight durations differ from various UK airports and we're pleased to discuss all options and specific timings when you book. Business class seats are available on selected scheduled services, and premium, extra legroom seats and speedy boarding can be booked, when available, with relevant airlines.

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Reservations Freephone 0800 008 7288 Freephone 0800 820 3113 or 01903 823088 Admin & concierge Freephone 0800 008 7289 Freephone 0800 820 3112 or 01903 836621 Accounts Freephone 0800 294 9326 or 01903 836654 Email sales@classic-collection.co.uk Fax 01903 214945

www.classic-collection.co.uk Classic Collection Holidays Saxon House Little High Street Worthing West Sussex BN11 1DH United Kingdom

We are open every day until 10pm

Monday to Saturday 9am-10pm & Sunday 10am-10pm

To request copies of our brochures or to book your holiday visit your local travel agent or call our reservations team Freephone 0800 008 7288 or 0800 820 3113