The Experts In Small Group Touring

Transcription

The Experts in Small Group Touring
Small Group and Tailor-Made Tours
UK & EUROPE
WINTER 2014/15
Valid until March 2015
Finland ⊕ Great Britain ⊕ Switzerland ⊕ Italy ⊕ Austria
⊕ Germany ⊕ Czech Republic ⊕ Poland ⊕ Slovakia ⊕ Hungary
CONTENTS
Why Travel with Back-Roads Touring?
3
Tailor-Made Tours
4
Winter in Europe
5
Culinary & Authentic Local Experiences
6
Charming Accommodation
7
The Amazing Northern Lights NEW8-9
A Family Christmas in Lapland NEW10-11
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay
12
Heart of England
13
Switzerland: The Top of Europe
14-15
Fall in Tuscany NEW16-17
Austria: A Winter Wonderland
18-19
Vienna Ball Season NEW20-21
Bavaria & the Romantic Back-Road
22-23
From Berlin to Bohemia
24-25
Eastern Europe Winter Escape
26-27
Grand European Winter Getaway
28-29
Frequently Asked Questions
30
Terms & Conditions
31
Rothenburg Christmas Market - Copyright Germany Tourist Board
THE EXPERTS IN SMALL
GROUP TOURING
EXPERIENCE THE BACK-ROADS TOURING DIFFERENCE
With over 25 years’ experience in small group and tailor-made tours
across the UK and Europe, Back-Roads Touring is truly the original small
group touring company. By limiting our group sizes to a maximum of 18
passengers, we are experts at providing a friendly, relaxed and flexible
form of touring. In fact, our belief in the advantages of small group
travel underpins everything that we do – from the type of vehicles that
we use, to the places we visit and the accommodation that we hand
select. In many ways, it couldn’t be further from a typical coach touring
experience.
Most of our groups travel in luxury mini-coaches that have been built to
the highest of European standards, with many boasting leather seats,
fridges and panoramic windows and roofs. Unlike conventional large
coaches, our luxury mini-coaches can go almost anywhere a car can go.
So as part of a Back-Roads tour you can reach places that conventional
coach touring groups can only dream of. From exploring the heart of
medieval towns and villages, to enjoying the spectacular, snow-speckled
scenery along winding mountain roads, you can be assured that BackRoads Touring will take you beyond the tourist facade of our European
destinations to experience an unparalleled balance of renowned and
lesser known sites.
But the advantages of traveling the “Back-Roads” way do not stop
at our vehicles. As part of a smaller, select group we can open doors
for you in all sorts of unexpected ways. Thanks to our small group
philosophy, Back-Roads Touring can offer you a handpicked portfolio
of Charming Accommodation. Forget large hotels or soulless freeway
motels, with Back-Roads Touring you will enjoy a true European
experience in small, intimate properties full of local character. No two
hotels are the same and so prepare yourself for trips that include stays in
traditional inns, medieval castles and alpine chalets.
Front Cover. Copyright Visit Finland
2 | www.backroadstouring.com
Also look out for our Culinary Experiences which enable you to enjoy
truly authentic, locally sourced cuisine: learn how to make mince pies
in the Cotswolds, enjoy a traditional Swiss cheese fondue or a hearty
Tuscan banquet.
Keeping to small groups also allows us to set a more relaxed pace after all, the tour is your holiday so no long drives and no early starts. We
also build in plenty of free time to ensure that you have the chance to
see things for yourself, socialise with other members of your group and
to get to know your knowledgeable Back-Roads Tour Leader.
We’re delighted to introduce our UK and European Winter programme
for 2014/15. From magical Christmas markets to the mesmerizing
Northern Lights, join us as we journey through the back-roads of
Finland, Great Britain, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Germany, the Czech
Republic, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary.
“I wanted to register how absolutely brilliant we found the tour. Our tour
leader must rate as the best ever. He was incredibly knowledgeable
and personable. The itinerary for this trip was well balanced and the
pace as relaxed as promised. It was a pleasure leaving the decision
making in such competent hands. Loved the fact there was time for a
relaxed breakfast before setting out each day, and that staying more
than one night in a location allowed you to unpack a little. There was
enough private leisure time to satisfy most people I’m sure. A final,
and important, plus for the company was the decision to travel almost
exclusively off the major roads and through the small regional centers.”
Renate Adams, Australia
The Cotswolds
WHY TRAVEL WITH
BACK-ROADS TOURING?
✓ SMALL GROUP SIZES
A maximum of 18 passengers allows for a more flexible, relaxed
way of touring. This means we can take you to places, from intimate
restaurants to boutique hotels, which you just wouldn’t be able to go to
on a traditional large coach tour.
✓ AUTHENTIC LOCAL EXPERIENCES
We take you to places away from the standard tourist trails. By going
beyond the tourist facade you get to experience more local food, crafts,
history and culture. From the Viennese Flower or Coffeehouse Owners’
Ball in Austria to a local reindeer farm in Lapland.
✓ BACK-ROADS NOT FREEWAYS
Unlike large coaches, our mini-coaches can go almost anywhere a car
can. We take the roads less traveled, through tiny medieval villages and
along spectacular mountain passes; you will always be traveling on more
back-roads than freeways as we believe the journey is as important as
the destination.
✓ CHARMING LOCAL ACCOMMODATION
We use quality local accommodation that reflects the character of
your destination. From traditional inns to castle hotels, every style of
accommodation is in keeping with its surrounds and gives every tour the
authenticity we value at Back-Roads Touring.
✓ LEISURELY PACE
The good news is that our tours rarely leave our accommodation prior
to 8.30am. In fact, many departures are after 9am. After all – you are
on holiday! Our relaxed tour pace will also ensure that you have plenty
of time to explore on your own and socialise with your Tour Leader and
other group members.
✓ CULINARY EXPERIENCES
Our included Culinary Experiences enable you to enjoy truly authentic,
locally sourced and produced cuisine. Dine at iconic restaurants, take
cooking classes using regional ingredients and enjoy food and wine
tastings at local producers.
BACK-ROADS BENEFITS
✓✓PAST PASSENGER DISCOUNT*
✓✓ MULTI-TOUR DISCOUNT*
Traveled with Back-Roads Touring before? Book on to one of our tours
We’ve designed our itineraries, and scheduled departure dates, so you
again and receive a 5% discount (promo code BRTPP5%)! It’s our way of can easily combine a number of different tours and see even more of the
saying thank you for your trust and loyalty.
UK and Europe with Back-Roads Touring. And what’s more – it pays to
do so! Book two tours before March 2015 for a 2.5% discount (promo
code BRTMT2.5%), three tours for a 5% discount (BRTMT5%) and
*Terms and conditions apply. All discounts must be requested at time of booking and will apply to the
basic tour price. Past Passenger, Multi-tour and other discounts can be combined up to a maximum
four tours for a 7.5% discount (BRTMT7.5%). It’s easy to find out which
discounted value of 10% per tour. Past Passenger discount is only available for people who have
tours can be combined together – simply see the Combines With box on
previously traveled with Back-Roads Touring. Multi-tour discounts will be applied in order of value, with
no discount applicable to the most expensive tour and the highest discount applied to the cheapest
individual tour pages.
tour in the booking. Multi-tour discount will be applied to tours booked at the same time only.
www.backroadstouring.com | 3
Accommodation tailored to your exact requirements
“Now that our trip is complete, I wanted to write to thank you for all of your efforts, particularly in the early stages of inquiries and
planning. In a word, the trip was magnificent - it exceeded all of our expectations in every regard. Our Tour Leader immediately
became a member of our family and took care of every aspect of our tour flawlessly. His knowledge of local culture and history is
quite extensive, as I’m sure you know, but it added another dimension to our travels which really served to enrich our experience - it
was like having a local expert in attendance at each of our many venues. He went above and beyond the call of duty and handled all
of our requests perfectly – it all exceeded our expectations!” Ned Corcoran, Easton, United States
TAILOR-MADE TOURS
PERSONALISE YOUR TOUR FOR A TRULY UNIQUE EXPERIENCE
Back-Roads Touring’s private, tailor-made service offers bespoke
tours throughout the UK and Europe. Perfect for groups of friends, or a
family, Tailor-Made Tours can design and deliver a tour to your individual
requirements, from start to finish.
Whether you have a specific itinerary in mind or just a few ideas about
the types of places you’d like to go to, we’ll work with you to plan
a holiday of a lifetime. Whilst some of our customers want to base
their tailor-made experience on one of our standard tours, with a
few additions or alterations, others wish to do something completely
different.
Of course all of our tailored tours are still true to the Back-Roads Touring
spirit: your group will travel through the back-roads in our luxury minicoaches and you’ll have truly unique, authentic experiences, from the
food you eat to the accommodation you stay in. Your driver/Tour Leader
will be an integral part of the experience and will be on-hand to ensure
all of your personal requirements are met. You can literally sit back and
enjoy the ride, safe in the knowledge that all of the planning and logistics
have been taken care of.
We have run a diverse range of bespoke tours throughout the years,
including ones tailored around Christmas markets, film locations, family
history and cuisine.
We can tailor a tour to suit any budget. Share your vision with us at
[email protected].
Work with us to design the itinerary
THE TAILOR-MADE DIFFERENCE
✓✓ Tours catered to your exact requirements
✓✓ Personal service and professional delivery
✓✓ Flexible itineraries
✓✓ Small group sizes (4-18 people)
✓✓ Luxury mini-coaches
✓✓ Dedicated, knowledgeable driver/Tour Leader
✓✓ Varied, unique accommodation
✓✓ Travel through the back-roads
✓✓ Genuinely authentic cultural experiences
Neuschwanstein Castle
WINTER IN EUROPE
FROM CHRISTMAS MARKETS TO WINTER WONDERLANDS
Traveling in the UK and Europe in winter is a truly magical experience:
Christmas trees draped in dazzling lights take center stage in old town
squares where the aroma of mulled wine and cinnamon drifts in the air from
colorful wooden stalls; the Alps, shrouded in pristine powder snow, glisten
against the brilliant-blue sky and afford breath-taking, dream-like views; and
exquisite ballrooms, dressed in chandeliers and charged with the refined
sounds of the orchestra, host opulent, society dances.
During the festive months, traditional street markets throughout the UK and
Europe sell candied fruit, hot punch and ornate Christmas decorations. Enjoy
the air of excitement on these atmospheric streets filled with the aroma of
spice and roasted chestnuts. It is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit.
Visit one of the nativity scenes famous in Prague or Krakow, or do a spot of
Christmas shopping along the narrow streets lit with sparkling lights. During
December we visit some of the most celebrated Christmas markets in the
world including Bath, Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, Innsbruck, Vienna, Frankfurt,
Rothenburg, Berlin, Dresden, Prague, Brno, Krakow and Budapest.
Surely the ultimate Christmas destination has to be the home of Santa
himself – Lapland. A true winter wonderland, its dense swathes of birch,
pine and spruce forests are laden-down with thick, untouched snow and its
magnificent frozen lakes are the playground for ice-fishermen. Visit Santa’s
Grotto, a reindeer farm and even enjoy a sleigh ride through the snow. And
then there’s the Aurora Borealis (better known as the Northern Lights). The
Arctic Circle is the best place in the world to catch the dancing green, red and
blue lights.
Rothenburg - Copyright Germany Tourist Board
Europe reveals hidden delights all throughout the Winter season. The
gastronomy of Tuscany is one of the most celebrated in the world and during
Fall you’ll be able to see how olive oil is produced and indulge in foodie
festivals sampling such delicacies as pecorino cheese and white truffles.
Vienna celebrates Carnival at the beginning of the year with its unrivalled Ball
Season. Ladies and gentlemen gather to waltz, sip champagne and show-off
their glamorous wardrobe in Austria’s finest venues – you’ll feel like you’re in a
movie set.
Swiss Fondue - Copyright Switzerland Tourist Board
Tasting the local cuisine should be an important part of any holiday and indeed Back-Roads Touring ensures that particular
emphasis is placed on food and drink within our tours. Our included Culinary Experiences enable you to enjoy truly authentic,
locally sourced and produced cuisine. Dine at local, intimate restaurants, take cooking classes using regional ingredients and
enjoy food and wine tastings at local producers. Our included Authentic Local Experiences ensure you’ll really get to know the
people, customs and history of a region. See demonstrations by local producers, partake in local events and customs and visit
areas far away from the typical tourist trail.
CULINARY & AUTHENTIC
LOCAL EXPERIENCES
Copyright Kaffeesiederball
ICE-FISHING
Lapland, Finland
VIENNA BALL SEASON
Vienna, Austria
APPLE STRUDEL SHOW
Vienna, Austria
BUDAPEST’S PANTRY
Budapest, Hungary
On this guided ice-fishing
excursion, deep within the Arctic
Circle, learn how to drill a hole in
a frozen lake and catch a fish in
the icy waters. In Lapland, icefishing is ‘Everyman’s Right’ in that
you can fish anywhere you wish
without a permit and in midwinter
the few light hours around midday
are the best time to try. A lunch of
grilled sausages and soup by the
campfire will help you warm up
after your ice-fishing experience!
Balls in Vienna take place during
the Carnival season – midJanuary to mid-February – with
approximately 150 different events
taking place nearly every day.
Attended mostly by locals, they are
an extravagant affair for all to enjoy
(most children in Austria learn
how to waltz). You’ll be dancing
the night away and enjoying the
Carnival atmosphere, at either
the Coffeehouse Owners’ Ball at
Vienna’s Imperial Palace or the
Flower Ball at Vienna’s City Hall.
Look on as a professional pastry
chef hand-bakes original Viennese
apple strudel, considered one of
the national foods of Austria, at
the bakery within the stunning
surrounds of the Cafe Residenz
in the Schonbrunn Palace. Learn
how this traditional Viennese
dessert is made and take away the
recipe so you can try making it for
yourself at home. You’ll be unable
to resist a piece of freshly baked
strudel, accompanied by piping
hot coffee, by the time the show
is over.
At the ‘Wooden Spoon’ restaurant
within Budapest’s Central Market
Hall, sample the everyday dishes
Hungarian housewives cook at
home. Try dishes such as goulash
or tarragon meat soup, potato
and dumplings, stuffed cabbage
or paprika and Varga strudel cake
or poppy seed biscuit. After this
experience you will have seen
what the stallholders have to offer
for yourself and are free to shop
like a Hungarian housewife!
Rods at the ready on our NEW
A Family Christmas in Lapland
and The Amazing Northern Lights
tours (p. 8-9 & 10-11).
Dance the night away on our
Austria: A Winter Wonderland and
NEW Vienna Ball Season tours
(p. 18-19 & 20-21).
Oodles of strudel on our Austria:
A Winter Wonderland and NEW
Vienna Ball Season tours
(p. 18-19 & 20-21).
Delve into Budapest’s Pantry on
our Eastern Europe Winter Escape
and Grand European Winter
Getaway tours (p. 26-27 & 28-29).
Castello di Montegufoni
Our accommodation, whether a traditional inn, alpine chalet or castle hotel, is carefully selected to always reflect the character
and charm of the destination you are staying in. Some properties are situated in a stunning setting or have interesting historical
and architectural heritage; whilst others may be chosen for their owner-hosted welcome or excellent cuisine. Character is not
a substitute for quality and comfort however and at all of our hotels you’re guaranteed an en-suite, a great night’s sleep and
delicious food. There is a choice of twin, double or single rooms and while room sizes in older European buildings may vary, each
room will have its own unique style and character.
CHARMING ACCOMMODATION
CHARACTER & QUALITY
SANTA’S HOTEL AURORA
Lapland, Finland
CASTELLO DI MONTEGUFONI
Tuscany, Italy
BERNERHOF HOTEL
Grindelwald, Switzerland
ALTES BRAUHAUS
Rothenburg, Germany
True to its name, this small and
charming hotel is a fantastic place to
see the lights with north-facing rooms
and even its own Northern Lights
alarm system. Each room has its
very own sauna and the chalet-style
furnishing – with wood panelling and
roaring fires – makes for a cosy, festive
stay. Nestled within the forest, the
hotel is situated in tiny Luosto, deep
inside the Arctic Circle. Curl up against
the log fire and subject to weather
conditions watch the Northern Lights
dance from the window.
Dating back to the 12th century, this
magnificent castle was originally
owned by the Ormanni family,
famous for featuring in Dante’s Divine
Comedy. Castello di Montegufoni
has opened its doors to nobility,
aristocracy, writers and artists
throughout its colorful history and
in WWII masterpieces by Domenico
Ghirlandaio, Sandro Botticelli and
Giotto were hidden at Montegufoni for
safe-keeping and later returned to the
Uffizi Gallery in Florence.
The views from this hotel are truly
spectacular. Located in the center of
the small glacier village of Grindelwald,
the Bernerhof overlooks the
magnificent Eiger Mountain. Whether
you’re sipping a hot chocolate on the
spacious terrace or simply relaxing on
your balcony, you’ll be able to enjoy
the spectacular scenery all around
you. The hotel has a typically alpine
atmosphere and is complete with
checked red and white curtains and
wood panelled walls.
Situated in the heart of the medieval
town of Rothenburg, this family
run hotel is surrounded by winding
cobbled streets and romantic halftimbered houses. In 1905 it was
bought by master brewer Josef
Beugler. In 1984, the Beugler family
renovated the old brewery buildings to
create this small and charming hotel.
The spacious rooms are all individually
decorated and bear traces of the
building’s past with beautiful exposed
beams.
You’ll find Castello di Montegufoni
nestled in the Tuscan countryside
on our NEW Fall in Tuscany tour
(p. 16-17).
Sit back and enjoy the view
at the Bernerhof Hotel on our
tour (p. 14-15).
In the heart of the romantic city of
Rothenburg, enjoy the charm of
Altes Brauhaus on our Bavaria &
the Romantic Back-Road tour
(p. 22-23).
Try and catch the Northern Lights
at Santa’s Hotel Aurora on our
NEW The Amazing Northern
Lights and A Family Christmas in
Lapland tours (p. 8-9 & 10-11).
NErW
fo
2015
The Northern Lights - Copyright Visit Finland Tourist Board
The Aurora Borealis, more commonly called the Northern Lights, are a truly stunning natural phenomenon, and Finnish
Lapland is one of the most beautiful destinations to see them. By traveling with us, you have a chance to discover everything
this region has to offer in a small group, away from the masses. Experience the best of Lapland the "Back-Roads" way.
THE AMAZING NORTHERN LIGHTS
ROVANIEMI AND LUOSTO
5 DAYS / 4 NIGHTS FROM $3375 PER PERSON
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Enjoy private reindeer and
husky safaris for a true
Lappish experience
✓✓Stay at the Santa’s Hotel
Aurora, famous for its
“Northern Lights alarm
system” and north-facing
bedroom windows, in Luosto,
a small resort, away from the
crowds
✓✓Learn the art of ice fishing
with a local guide
✓✓Sample delicious traditional
Lappish cuisine
Day 1 Rovaniemi – Luosto We meet this morning in Rovaniemi,
the capital of Finnish Lapland. After
a short pre-tour briefing with our
Back-Roads Tour Leader, we board
our mini-coach and journey through
the magical scenery of snowcapped forests. As we travel further
north, we cross the Arctic Circle and
collect our warm winter clothing
before we arrive in Luosto, a
charming winter destination in the
heart of Finnish Lapland. After
checking in to our accommodation
for the next four nights and learning
about its “Northern Lights alarm
system”, we go for a short walking
tour in this quiet town before
enjoying some free time to relax. We
meet tonight for a delightful
welcome dinner and a chance to try
some of the local specialties, such
as reindeer-based dishes and
Lappish bread. (D)
Day 2 Luosto The "foodies" amongst us will be
particularly excited as we roll up
our sleeves for a cooking lesson
this morning. We learn how to
prepare traditional Finnish cuisine
with a local chef before we sit down
together to enjoy with what we have
just prepared. This afternoon, we
drive through snowy landscapes
to a local reindeer farm. On arrival,
we have some free time to walk
amongst these peaceful animals,
before we join a fun-filled sleigh
ride pulled by reindeers. We stop
halfway to warm up with a hot drink
around a campfire and listen to our
local guide as they tell us stories
about life in Lapland. After returning
to the reindeer farm, we make our
way back to Luosto for an evening
at leisure. (B, L)
Day 3 Luosto This morning is yours to unwind and
explore Luosto at your own pace.
You may choose to browse the local
shops for souvenirs, or enjoy the
private sauna in your hotel room.
This afternoon, we head to a nearby
lake or river for a thrilling ice-fishing
experience! Our local guide teaches
us how to drill a hole in frozen water
and to find the best spot for fishing.
After warming up by the campfire
with a hot drink, we make our way
back to Luosto. This evening, enjoy
dinner in a local restaurant, which
serves traditional Lappish cuisine.
Later we join a night safari on board
snowmobiles. As we drive through
enchanted scenery, we hope to be
lucky enough to see the famous
Aurora Borealis (subject to weather
conditions). During the evening, we
take a break to sit by an open fire
with a snack and warm berry juice,
a celebrated local drink. Finally we
drive back to our hotel in Luosto.
(B, D)
Day 4 Luosto There is time this morning to sleep
in and relax at the hotel. Later we
transfer from Luosto to a local
husky farm, where we learn more
about these friendly dogs. The
farm owners will explain to us how
they take care of their huskies and
ensure their well-being. We then
embark on a husky ride through
the snowy forest and white plains
of Finnish Lapland. Again, there is
a chance to warm up with some
coffee around a campfire during the
safari, before we head back to the
farm. Upon our return into Luosto,
we enjoy a delicious farewell dinner
together in the hotel’s restaurant for
a last chance to sample delicious
Lappish cuisine. (B, D)
Day 5 Luosto – Rovaniemi We check out of our hotel this
morning and return to Rovaniemi,
where our tour sadly comes to an
end. (B)
Mobility: All of our tours involve
walking and require our guests to
board and disembark our vehicles
several times a day making these
tours unsuitable for those with
reduced mobility.
FINLAND
Fells of Lapland
Warm up by the bonfire
Ice-fishing
"A unique opportunity to experience the famous Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights the “BackRoads” way. With viewing conditions currently at their best for 10 years, there hasn't been a
better time in recent years to experience this unique natural phenomenon."
Steve Reynolds, General Manager, Back-Roads Touring
TAILOR THIS TOUR
We are specialists in tailor making
unique small group journeys, so
if you have a group of 4 or more,
and like the idea of tailoring this,
or a similar itinerary just for you,
why not contact us at
[email protected]?
Santa’s Hotel Aurora, Luosto
****
COMBINES WITH Vienna Ball Season (p. 20-21)
Pre/Post tour - City Hotel
Rovaniemi, Rovaniemi ****
from $159 pp BB basis.
Visit a husky farm
INCLUSIONS
»»
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4 nights’ accommodation
Back-Roads tour leader
Driver & mini-coach transportation
European breakfast daily
Winter clothing rental
3 x evening meals
1 x lunch
Finnish Cooking Class
Local guides for Lappish
experiences
»» Included Entrances: Reindeer
safari, ice fishing excursion,
Northern Lights snowmobile
experience & husky dogs safari
For tour exclusions please see
our FAQ’s on page 30.
Visit our website for further
details on these hotels.
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2015
*On some occasions the accommodation
we use may vary from what has been
published.
Santa’s Hotel Aurora
CODE: BRWNL
Feb: 23
Mar: 02
Twin/Double$3375 Single $4045
RUSSIA
FINLAND
LUOSTO
SWEDEN
Rovaniemi
The Northern Lights - Copyright
Finland Tourist Board
If you have a QR code reader
on your mobile, scan the code
to visit our website.
NErW
fo
2014
Lapland
Finnish Lapland is without doubt one the best destinations to capture the magical spirit of Christmas: endless snow-capped
forests, reindeer sleigh rides, ice fishing combined with hearty Finnish cuisine all make for a truly unforgettable experience.
This will be a fairy-tale Christmas to always remember for the whole family.
A FAMILY CHRISTMAS IN LAPLAND
YOUR CHANCE TO MEET SANTA
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Discover Finnish Lapland with
a small group, staying in a
smaller resort away from the
crowds
✓✓Walk amongst reindeers at a
local farm
✓✓Enjoy a delicious Finnish
Christmas buffet
✓✓Relax in your own private
sauna in your hotel room
Day 1 Rovaniemi – Luosto We all meet in Rovaniemi this
morning for a quick pre-tour briefing
with our Back-Roads Tour Leader.
We then board our mini-coach and
drive north through stunning endless
snowy landscapes, crossing the
Arctic Circle en route, stopping on
the way to collect our warm winter
clothing. Upon arrival in Luosto, a
small and friendly destination in the
heart of Finnish Lapland, we enjoy a
short walking tour of this lovely town
before we spend the rest of the
afternoon at leisure. Some may
decide to warm up and relax in their
own private sauna. Tonight enjoy a
delicious dinner together in the
hotel’s restaurant. (D)
Day 2 Luosto Today is dedicated to all things
Christmas! We walk through the
nearby woods, admiring the snowcovered forests and plains on the
way, as we search for the perfect
Christmas tree. Back in Luosto
our day is filled with Christmas Eve
activities. Enjoy a fun cooking lesson
to learn how to make delicious
Finnish Christmas pastries while
enjoying a glass of “glogi”, the
local celebrated festive drink. After
decorating our beautiful handpicked Christmas tree, we get to
fulfil one of our childhood dreams
by meeting Santa Claus! There is
then some time to relax and get
ourselves ready, for dinner. Enjoy a
scrumptious traditional Christmas
feast, which consists of a typical
Finnish buffet with plenty of hot
and cold dishes to choose from. All
children in Finland receive their gifts
on Christmas Eve, so you may open
up your presents tonight this year.
(B, D)
Day 3 Luosto After staying up late last night, we
have a chance to unwind today with
plenty of time to relax. This morning,
you may choose to either attend
a traditional Christmas morning
Lutheran church service or walk
around town and soak up the festive
atmosphere. Later we travel to a
local lake or river where we meet
around a campfire for a hearty lunch
made of fried sausages and hot
soup. It is then time for an exciting
ice-fishing lesson: our local guide
will teach us how to drill a hole in
frozen water and catch fish. Upon
our return to Luosto later today, we
enjoy a lovely dinner together in a
local restaurant offering delicious
Finnish dishes. (B, L, D)
to warm up with some coffee and
a snack as our local guide tells us
about the life of a reindeer herder
and the local traditions. We make
our way back to the farm with our
reindeers and then transfer back to
Luosto for our farewell dinner. (B, D)
Day 4 Luosto A fabulous day awaits, as we drive
through beautiful white countryside
to a local reindeer farm. Reindeers
are extremely important to the
local population as a means of
transportation, as well as in
traditional cuisine. They are also a
key symbol of Lapland and are part
of many legends and stories, the
most famous being Santa Claus’
sleigh with its flying reindeers. Upon
arrival at the farm, we have some
free time to wander, watch the
reindeers and perhaps even feed
the animals ourselves. We then
enjoy a true Lappish experience as
we learn how to “drive” a reindeer
before joining a reindeer sleigh ride
through snowy landscapes and
forests. We break around a campfire
reduced mobility.
Day 5 Luosto – Rovaniemi We check out of our
accommodation this morning and
drive back south to Rovaniemi,
where our tour sadly finishes. (B)
FINLAND
Meet the real Santa - Copyright Finland Tourist Board
“Finland is most certainly the best destination to celebrate Christmas away from home. Snowcapped forests, infinite white plains and delicious cuisine combined with true local experiences
will create a magical and unforgettable journey through Lapland.”
Johanna Gaudot, Product Assistant, Back-Roads Touring
TAILOR THIS TOUR
[email protected]?
Santa’s Hotel Aurora,
Luosto ****
COMBINES WITH Switzerland: The Top of Europe
(p. 14-15). Grand European Winter
Getaway (p. 28-29).
Decorate your hand-picked Christmas tree
- Copyright Finland Tourist Board
Try and catch the Northern Lights Copyright Finland Tourist Board
Sleigh bells ring... - Copyright Finland Tourist Board
Pre/Post tour - City Hotel
Rovaniemi, Rovaniemi ****
INCLUSIONS
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
Winter clothing rental
4 x evening meals
1 x lunch
Local guides for Lappish
experiences
»» Included Entrances: Christmas
Eve activities, ice fishing excursion
& reindeer safari
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
*On some occasions the
accommodation we use may vary
from what has been published.
CODE: BRWLAP
Dec: 23
Santa’s Hotel Aurora
RUSSIA
Adult Twin/Double
Adult Single
Child 4-12 years sharing
room with adult
Child under 4 years sharing
room with two adults
$3035
$3695
$2545
$1845
FINLAND
LUOSTO
SWEDEN
Rovaniemi
Visit a reindeer farm
Torchlight procession - Copyright Scottish
Viewpoint Edinburgh - Andrew Wilson
Linlithgow Palace - Copyright Scottish
Viewpoint Edinburgh - D. Barnes
Hogmanay in Edinburgh - Copyright Scottish Viewpoint Edinburgh - P. Tomkins
The Scots have a long tradition and rich history associated with New Year’s Eve, which they call Hogmanay. With
spectacular events, incredible live bands, ceilidh dancing and one of the world’s greatest firework displays, welcome in 2015
with Back-Roads Touring at the world famous Hogmanay Street Party!
EDINBURGH’S HOGMANAY
DUNFERMLINE, FIFE & EDINBURGH
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Stay in a centrally located
hotel in Edinburgh
✓✓Mingle and party with the
locals at Hogmanay
✓✓Sample delicious local food
over festive dinners
Day 1 Edinburgh – Dunfermline
– Fife – Edinburgh This morning, we depart Edinburgh
and head to Dunfermline, once the
capital of Scotland. Dunfermline’s
royal and monastic past dominates
the town that boasts a Royal Palace
and a 12th century Abbey. From
here we travel to Loch Leven, the
largest loch in the Scottish
Lowlands. Here, the enchanting
Loch Leven Castle lies on a peaceful
inlet. We then pass medieval St
Andrews, regarded as the home of
golf and known for its university
where William met Kate! This
evening enjoy a welcome drinks
reception followed by a three-course
dinner. (D) Day 2 Edinburgh – Linlithgow –
Hogmanay Celebrations Today we travel to Linlithgow to visit
the magnificent ruins of Linlithgow
Palace, set in a beautiful park
overlooking the Linlithgow Loch.
Discover the history of this great
Royal Palace whose origins date
back to the 13th century. Back in
Edinburgh the remainder of the
day is yours to relax at your leisure
or perhaps visit Edinburgh Castle.
This evening enjoy a festive dinner
followed by the world famous
Hogmanay street party. Upon your
return to the hotel warm yourself up
with festive mince pies and mulled
wine. (B, D)
Day 3 Edinburgh Today is devoted to Edinburgh.
We spend the morning exploring
this fascinating city, meandering
down medieval lanes that hold over
a thousand years of history and
tradition. This afternoon you have
free time to explore at your leisure
or visit the Christmas market. This
evening we enjoy a final dinner
together. (B, D)
Day 4 Edinburgh – Royal Yacht
Britannia – Edinburgh Our first port of call today is the
Royal Yacht Britannia. Launched in
April 1953, the ship was the Queen’s
floating residence for 44 years.
Now permanently berthed in Leith,
Edinburgh, visitors can explore
the five main decks which house
the Royal Apartments, the Crew’s
Quarters and the Engine Room.
Returning to Edinburgh around
lunchtime our tour ends. (B)
Fife
Dunfermline
Linlithgow
3 EDINBURGH
INCLUSIONS
»»
»»
»»
»»
Back-Roads driver/Tour Leader
Mini-coach transportation
Full Scottish cooked breakfast
daily
»» 3 x evening meals
»» Included Entrances: Linlithgow
Palace, Edinburgh Street Party
ticket & Royal Yacht Britannia
reduced mobility.
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
CODE: BRWHOG
Dec: 30
CHARMING
ACCOMMODATION
Carlton Hotel, Edinburgh ****
COMBINES WITH Pre/Post tour - Carlton Hotel,
Edinburgh **** from $132 pp
BB basis.
A Family Christmas in Lapland
(p.10-11).
Grand European Winter Getaway
(p. 28-29).
details on this hotel.
published.
GREAT BRITAIN
Browse gifts at the Christmas
markets - Copyright Visit Bath
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage Copyright Visit England
Bath Christmas Market - Copyright Visit Bath
See some of the Heart of England’s most iconic attractions at a time when there are fewer visitors, and soak up the seasonal
atmosphere at one of the region’s traditional Christmas markets. Visit Harry Potter film locations in Oxford and Lacock,
explore quaint Cotswold villages, enjoy local ale by the log fire of an olde English pub and dine on quality produce sourced
from the best local suppliers.
HEART OF ENGLAND
OXFORD, BATH, LONGLEAT & AVEBURY
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Learn how to make traditional
British mince pies
✓✓Behind the scenes tour of
Longleat Stately Home
✓✓Walk amongst the stones at
Avebury, away from the tourist
crowds
Day 1 London – Oxford –
Cotswolds Relax as we travel through the
beautiful English countryside to
Oxford, one of the most famous
university cities in the world. Enjoy a
walk among the golden-stone
buildings and ‘dreaming spires’ to
Christ Church College. This
afternoon we meander through
country lanes and quaint Cotswold
villages, before arriving in Chipping
Campden. Tonight we enjoy a
welcome dinner together. (D)
Day 2 Cotswolds – Stratfordupon-Avon – Cotswolds This morning is a feast for literary
enthusiasts and history buffs as
we visit Shakespeare’s Stratfordupon-Avon to discover Ye Olde
England and Holy Trinity Church.
En route we will stop at a thatched
farmhouse where the young
William Shakespeare courted Anne
Hathaway. Later we return to our
delightful Cotswolds base where we
will learn how to make mince pies,
accompanied by mulled wine. (B)
the house. We then continue to the
UNESCO World Heritage Standing
Stones of Avebury, one of the most
important megalithic monuments in
Europe. Upon our return to London
the tour ends. (B)
Day 3 Cotswolds – Lacock – Bath Our first visit this morning is to
Lacock, which has been used in
countless television and movie
productions. We wander the historic
village streets and visit the Abbey
then continue to Bath. Listed as
a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
Bath is truly one of Europe’s most
attractive cities. (B)
Day 4 Bath This morning, our walking tour takes
us to the restored Roman Baths,
the towering 15th century Abbey,
the Georgian Royal Crescent and
the fascinating Pulteney Bridge.
This afternoon is yours to spend
at leisure to visit Bath’s Christmas
Market, a Christmas shopper’s
heaven, with more than 130
traditional wooden chalets. (B, D)
Day 5 Bath – Longleat – Avebury
– London Departing Bath, our first stop is at
Longleat, an English stately home
and the seat of the Marquises of
Bath, for a behind the scenes tour of
INCLUSIONS
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
Driver/tour leader
Full English breakfast daily
2 x evening meals
Mince pies & mulled wine
Included Entrances: Christ
Church College, Shakespeare’s
Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s
Cottage, Lacock Abbey, Roman
Baths, Longleat House & Avebury
Stone Circle
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
CODE: BRWHOE
Dec: 01, 08, 15
CHARMING
ACCOMMODATION
Kings Hotel, Chipping
Campden ***
Abbey Hotel, Bath ***
Pre/Post tour - Grange
Wellington Hotel, London ****
published.
CHRISTMAS MARKET
VISITING DATES
Bath: 04 & 11 Dec
COMBINES WITH Switzerland: The Top of Europe
(p. 14-15).
(p. 18-19).
Grindelwald
Experience Switzerland, the capital of the magnificent Alpine region, as the locals would: by train. Each journey is as exciting
as it is relaxing, passing through magnificent scenery of white snow-capped mountains and Alpine lakes. Visit traditional
Christmas markets throughout the country, stay in a charming Swiss Alpine village, journey to the ‘Top of Europe’ and
sample local Swiss culinary delicacies on this fantastic winter getaway.
SWITZERLAND: THE TOP OF EUROPE
TRAVEL ACROSS SWITZERLAND BY RAIL
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Explore Switzerland by rail,
with the locals
✓✓Marvel at the beautiful Swiss
Alpine scenery from your
charming accommodation
✓✓Taste a traditional Swiss
cheese fondue
Day 1 Zurich This morning’s walking tour of
Zurich will visit Augustinergasse, an
old, narrow street with many
colorfully painted oriel windows that
connects the bustling
Bahnhofstrasse with the picturesque
Old Town. We also see the 12th
century Grossmunster Church and
St. Peter’s Church. For a glorious
view over the Old Town we will head
to Lindenhof. This afternoon visit
Zurich’s Christmas markets: the
largest is the indoor market, with
over 160 wooden chalets and a 50ft
Christmas tree decorated with
5,000 Swarovski crystals; the oldest
takes place in the Old Town and the
most modern in the city center.
Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner in a
local restaurant. (D)
Day 2 Zurich – Lucerne We travel from Zurich to Lucerne
by train and then enjoy a
delightful walking tour of this
enchanting city by foot. See the
medieval Chapel Bridge, as well
as the Museggmauer. At a local
chocolatier, learn how chocolate
originated and what made it into the
delectable indulgence it is today. We
spend the rest of the afternoon at
Lucerne Christmas Market. Located
in the Old Town, it offers unique
handicrafts and gifts, as well as
Lebkuchen, nidelzeltli toffees, spices
and, of course, mulled wine. (B)
Day 3 Lucerne – Mount Rigi –
Lucerne After a scenic boat ride from
Lucerne to Vitznau, we then board
the cog railway, which was Europe’s
first-ever mountain railway, up to
Mount Rigi. Known locally as the
‘Queen of the Mountains', from the
top we hope to enjoy breath-taking
panoramic views over the Swiss
Alps towards France and Germany.
This afternoon we return to Lucerne
by cable car and boat. Tonight we
will enjoy dinner together. (B, D)
Day 4 Lucerne – Grindelwald This morning we travel by train to
the charming village of Grindelwald
via Interlaken. This afternoon enjoy a
short guided walk around the village
where you have an opportunity
to learn about the Velogemel – a
single-track, steerable snow bike
that is unique to Grindelwald. The
rest of the day is for you to spend at
your leisure. (B)
through the Old Town, learn more
about the city‘s 800-year history,
marvel at the late Gothic Cathedral
(Munster), the Clock Tower
(Zytglogge) and the 13th century city
gate. We then visit Bern Christmas
Market before we enjoy a farewell
dinner together. (B, D)
Day 5 Grindelwald –
Jungfraujoch – Grindelwald The highlight of any tour to
Switzerland is the railway journey to
the Jungfrau. At 3454 metres this
is Europe’s highest altitude railway
station, often referred to as the
‘Top of Europe’. Declared a natural
World Heritage Site by UNESCO,
visitors can enjoy this incredible
world of ice, snow and rock. Visit
the impressive Ice Palace and
experience panoramic views from
the Sphinx Observation Terrace.
Dinner this evening will be in a local
restaurant, where you will have the
chance to try a real Swiss cheese
fondue. (B, D)
Day 7 Bern – Emmental – Zurich The Swiss have a long cheese
making history, producing over
400 different varieties of cheese,
including Emmental, which has been
produced since the 13th century.
At the Emmental cheese dairy learn
about the art of making cheese,
Swiss-style, and see how cheese
is made the old-fashioned way.
We then continue by mini-coach to
Trubschachen to visit the Kambly
biscuit factory where we have some
free time to look around the Visitor
Center and sample some delicious
biscuits. Our tour ends in Zurich. (B)
Day 6 Grindelwald – Bern Today’s train journey takes us to
Bern, the capital of Switzerland. The
attraction of this city is its ambience:
the perfectly preserved medieval
street plan has made it a UNESCO
World Heritage Site. On a stroll
board and disembark the trains
reduced mobility.
SWITZERLAND
Lucerne
Alpine train
Kirchstrasse Church, Zurich
“The highlight of any tour to Switzerland is the Jungfraujochbahn, Europe’s highest railway – a
journey of spectacular mountains, glaciers, breath-taking views and stunning scenery. To see
the Jungfrau covered in snow, away from the summer crowds, was a liberating experience. ”
Alix King, Product Manager, Back-Roads Touring
TAILOR THIS TOUR
[email protected]?
Hotel Montana, Zurich ***
Hotel de la Paix, Lucerne ***
Hotel Bernerhof, Grindelwald ***
Hotel Bristol, Bern ****
COMBINES WITH Edinburgh’s Hogmanay (p.12).
From Berlin to Bohemia (p. 24-25).
Pre/Post tour - Hotel Montana,
Zurich *** from $139 pp BB
basis.
Swiss cheese fondue
INCLUSIONS
»» 6 nights’ accommodation
»» Back-Roads Tour Leader
»» 1st class rail travel and mini-coach
transportation
»» European breakfast daily
»» 4 x evening meals
»» 24-hour Zurich card
»» Chocolatier in Lucerne
»» Boat, cog railway & cable car to
Mount Rigi
»» Train to Jungfrau
»» Included Entrances: Grindelwald
museum, Emmental cheese dairy
farm & Kambly biscuit factory
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
Visit our website for further details
on these hotels.
*On some occasions the accommodation we
use may vary from what has been published.
View from Hotel Bernerhof
CODE: BRSWI
Dec: 01, 08, 15, 22
Twin/Double$3575 Single$4185
1 ZURICH
SWITZERLAND
Emmental
1
LUCERNE 2
BERN
2 GRINDELWALD
Jungfraujoch
Bern - Copyright Swiss Tourist Board
Mount Rigi
CHRISTMAS MARKET
VISITING DATES
Zurich: 01, 08, 15 & 22 Dec
Lucerne: 09 & 16 Dec
Bern: 06, 13, 20 & 27 Dec
If we are unable to visit any market listed above,
due to unforeseen changes in opening times,
we will substitute this with an alternative activity.
Fall in Tuscany
Every November, the olive harvest in Tuscany is an important social occasion where families get together to pick the olives
and press them for the first extra virgin olive oil. On this unique tour we will take part in the olive fall with an Italian family,
meet a number of local producers of cheese, wine and balsamic vinegar, learn how to make Fall Tuscan dishes and celebrate
the gastronomically precious white truffle at a festival in San Miniato.
FALL IN TUSCANY
SAN GIMIGNANO, SIENA, SAN MINIATO & CHIANTI
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓ The ultimate truffle experience
in San Miniato
✓✓ Stay in a family owned, 12th
century castle with original
frescoes & sweeping views of
the Tuscan landscape
✓✓ Enjoy a rich Tuscan banquet
accompanied by Prosecco &
quality wines
✓✓ Relax in the therapeutic waters
of Saturnia thermal baths
✓✓ Learn the secrets of traditional
Tuscan cuisine from a local
chef
Day 1 Florence – San Gimignano
– Monteriggioni – Pienza This morning meet your BackRoads Tour Leader and fellow
traveling companions in Florence.
From here we drive to San
Gimignano, known for its intact
medieval streetscapes and
enchanting rural setting. We then
continue through rolling green hills
and olive groves to Monteriggioni,
where there will be time at leisure to
explore this delightful village. Our
final destination today is Pienza,
whose historic center has been
recognised by UNESCO as one of
the best planned Renaissance
towns. Here we will enjoy a welcome
dinner together. (D)
Day 2 Pienza – Montepulciano –
Pitigliano At a local cheese producer we
discover how the local pecorino
cheeses are made and sample
pecorino in the many stages of
ageing from soft and fresh to hard
and complex. Later we drive to
Montepulciano, a well preserved
hilltop town in Tuscany's Orcia
Valley. This area produces some of
Italy’s most elegant and expressive
wines, which we will taste during
lunch. Tonight enjoy an evening at
leisure in Pitigliano, also known as
‘Little Jerusalem’ with its ancient
Jewish quarter and picturesque
medieval center. (B, L)
Day 3 Pitigliano – Saturnia –
Pitigliano After a morning exploring Pitigliano,
we drive to Saturnia, one of the
most ancient cities in Italy, dating
back to the 2nd century B.C. Here
we visit the thermal baths, where the
37.5°c waters have therapeutic and
relaxing properties. Well-known by
the Etruscans and Romans, legend
has it that its springs are born in
the exact point where Jupiter's
thunderbolt fell in a battle against
Saturn. After a relaxing afternoon
we return to Pitigliano for an evening
at leisure. (B)
Day 4 Pitigliano – Massa
Marittima Enjoy a visit to a family run olive
mill where we take part in all
stages of olive oil production, from
harvesting olives in the groves
surrounding the mill to tasting the
freshly pressed oil and learning
how to recognise the nuances of
its flavour. Later we continue to
our rural accommodation in Massa
Marittima where we will learn how to
make Fall recipes from the Tuscan
countryside. Afterwards, sit down
and enjoy the dinner that you helped
to prepare. (B, D)
Day 5 Massa Marittima – Siena –
Castello di Montegufoni Today the grandeur of the Tuscan
countryside continues as we head
to medieval Siena, with its array of
majestic buildings, drawn together
by winding cobbled alleyways and
steep steps. After tasting traditional
balsamic vinegar in the Chianti
region, we continue to Castello di
Montegufoni, a family-owned, 12th
century castle, situated on a large
estate comprising vineyards and
olive trees with sweeping views of
the Tuscan landscape. Restored in
the 17th century by the noble family
of Acciaioli, the castle features a
magnificent tower similar to the
Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. (B, D)
Day 6 Castello di Montegufoni
– San Miniato – Castello di
Montegufoni November is the month of the
Festival of the White Truffle of San
Miniato, where producers of wine,
cheese and cold meats gather
together to celebrate the rich
flavours of this iconic region. Taste
white truffles and discover a number
of truffle based products such as
truffle oil, pastes, sauces and other
preserves. After spending much
of the day joining in with the local
festivities, we return to our Tuscan
castle for a hearty Tuscan banquet
accompanied by quality wines. (B,
D)
Day 7 Castello di Montegufoni –
Florence After a relaxing start to the day, we
leave the tranquillity of the Tuscan
countryside behind and return to
Florence where our tour ends. (B)
ITALY
Siena
Pasta with truffles
Famous winding road of Val d’Orcia
"Widely regarded for its natural beauty and local produce, this tour gives a unique insight into
harvest season in Tuscany. Sample freshly pressed olive oil, taste local wines and enjoy a selection
of some of the region's finest produce, set against a landscape of autumnal golds and yellows."
reduced mobility.
TAILOR THIS TOUR
[email protected]?
Pienza Hotel ***
Pitigliano Hotel ***
Massa Marittima Hotel ***
Castello di Montegufoni,
Chianti ***
Olive harvesting
INCLUSIONS
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
3 x evening meals
1 x Tuscan banquet
1 x lunch including quality wines
Tuscan cookery class
Pecorino cheese & balsamic
vinegar tasting
»» Included Entrances: Saturnia
thermal baths & Cathedral of
Siena
Pre/Post tour - Pitti Palace Hotel,
Florence *** from $81pp BB
basis.
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
CODE: BRWHT
Nov: 11, 18
Visit our website for further details
on these hotels.
*On some occasions, the accommodation we
use may vary from what has been published.
Castello di Montegufoni
COMBINES WITH CASTELLO DI
MONTEGUFONI 2
Berlin to Bohemia (p. 24-25).
(p. 18-19).
FLORENCE
San Gimignano
Monteriggioni
Siena
PIENZA
1
MASSA MARITTIMA
Montepulciano
1
Saturnia
2
PITIGLIANO
Chianti
Salzburg
Visiting historic Christmas markets, held in cities, towns and villages throughout Austria is becoming increasingly popular.
With a stunning backdrop of the snow-covered Alps it’s a magical time of year to explore the cities of Innsbruck, Salzburg and
Vienna. Taste local beers and wines, sample traditional hearty Austrian cuisine and wander through lively Christmas markets
on this fabulous journey.
AUSTRIA: A WINTER WONDERLAND
TYROL REGION, CESKY KRUMLOV & VIENNA
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Sample typical Austrian
cuisine and beverages in a
brewery and in a heuriger
✓✓Marvel at the mountainous
scenery of the Wachau valley
✓✓Discover how the famous
Apple Strudel cake is made
✓✓Enjoy a behind the scenes
tour of the Chocolate
Museum
✓✓A private visit to the Spanish
Riding School
Day 1 Munich – Neuschwanstein
– Innsbruck This morning we travel along the
Bavarian country roads to the Castle
of Neuschwanstein, where you can
enjoy incredible views before
continuing to Linderhof Palace,
Ludwig II’s smallest but most
extravagant palace. This evening
visit the Innsbruck Christmas
Market, before we meet for a
welcome dinner in a local restaurant.
(D)
Day 2 Innsbruck – Bergisel –
Innsbruck This morning, walk through
Innsbruck’s Old Town to see the
famous Golden Roof, the Old Town
Hall and St. James's Cathedral.
We then continue to the Bergisel
Ski Jump for wonderful views of
Innsbruck. At Wattens we visit the
famous Swarovski Crystal World,
before we drive back to Innsbruck.
(B)
Day 3 Innsbruck – Kitzbuhel –
Waidring – Salzburg Today we drive to Kitzbuhel,
an internationally renowned ski
resort. After exploring its charming
medieval center, we drive through
the mountains of Waidring. Weather
permitting; we take the cable car
up Steinplatte, for panoramic views
of the snow covered Tyrol region,
before continuing to Salzburg. (B)
Day 4 Salzburg Enjoy a walking tour of Salzburg’s
historic center, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site. See the magnificent
Hohensalzburg Castle and visit
Mozart’s Birthplace. This afternoon
visit Salzburg Christmas Market,
a feast for all the senses; sample
regional delicacies such as hot
punch and home-made pastries.
Dinner tonight will be in a traditional
brewery for a hearty Austrian meal
accompanied by a local beer. (B, D)
Day 5 Salzburg – Koenigssee –
Salzburg This morning we tour one of the salt
mines near the German border. We
stop at Koenigssee, a picturesque
emerald-green lake surrounded
by high mountains and then visit
Oberndorf village, the birthplace
of the carol Silent Night. Back
in Salzburg, enjoy an evening at
leisure. (B)
Day 6 Salzburg – Cesky Krumlov Today we travel to Cesky Krumlov,
stopping en route in Mondsee, one
of the prettiest towns in Austria. Our
next stop is in the Muhlviertel in the
north of Upper Austria, where beer
has been brewed for more than
500 years. After a tasting in one of
Muhlviertel breweries, we continue
to Cesky Krumlov where we enjoy
dinner together. (B, D)
Day 7 Cesky Krumlov – Vienna This morning we visit Melk
Abbey, one of the world’s most
famous monastic sites. We then
travel through the Wachau valley,
before reaching Vienna, our final
destination. Upon arrival enjoy an
evening at leisure in Austria’s cultural
capital. (B)
Day 8 Vienna Our first visit this morning is to the
Spanish Riding School for a private
guided tour through the venue and
the stables. This afternoon is yours
to explore the Christmas markets;
the market in City Hall Square sells
Vienna’s traditional Christmas drink:
aromatic berry punch. This evening
we enjoy a wine tasting session at
a heuriger, a typical Viennese small
winery, before we sit down for our
final dinner together. (B, D)
Day 9 Vienna We head first to Schonbrunn Palace
this morning. After a tour of this
magnificent residence, we enjoy
an apple strudel show at the Old
Bakery of the Palace. We explore
the Palace’s Christmas Market
before a behind the scenes tour
of the Chocolate Museum this
afternoon. Lucky, for those with a
sweet tooth, there will be plenty of
tasting opportunities. (B)
reduced mobility.
AUSTRIA
Innsbruck - Copyright Innsbruckphoto
Christmas decorations from Vienna
Vienna Christmas Market
“Enjoy magnificent scenery filled with alpine lakes, pretty villages and jagged snow-capped
peaks, experience traditional Tyrolean hospitality and warm up with a glass of schnaps.”
Leona Williams, Tour Leader, Back-Roads Touring
TAILOR THIS TOUR
[email protected]?
Hotel Innsbruck, Innsbruck ****
Hotel Stadtkrug, Salzburg ****
Hotel Mlyn, Cesky Krumlov ****
Hotel Post, Vienna ***
COMBINES WITH Bavaria & The Romantic BackRoad (p. 22-23).
Eastern Europe Winter Escape (p.
26-27).
Pre tour - Laimer Hof am Schloss
Nymphenburgh, Munich *** from $102
pp BB basis.
Post tour - Hotel Post, Vienna *** from
$83 pp BB basis.
Hotel Post
CESKY KRUMLOV 1
2
VIENNA
SALZBURG 3
2
Neuschwanstein Castle
CHRISTMAS MARKET
VISITING DATES
GERMANY
MUNICH
Waidring
Kitzbuhel
Koenigssee
AUSTRIA
AUSTRIA
CODE: BRWMTV
Nov: 30
Dec: 07, 14, 21
CZECH REPUBLIC
INNSBRUCK
4 x evening meals
1 x beer tasting
Apple strudel show
Included Entrances:
Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof
Palace, Bergisel ski jump, Swarovski
Crystal World, Steinplatte cable car,
salt mines, Hohensalzburg Castle,
Mozart’s Birthplace, Melk Abbey,
Schonbrunn Palace, behind the
scenes Chocolate Museum tour &
private tour of the Spanish Riding
School
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
*On some occasions the accommodation we use may
vary from what has been published.
Bergisel
INCLUSIONS
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Visit our website for further details on
these hotels.
GERMANY
Enjoy some Austrian pretzels
Innsbruck: 30 Nov, 07, 14 & 21 Dec
Salzburg: 04, 11, 18 & 25 Dec
Vienna: 07, 14 & 21 Dec
Schonbrunn Palace: 08, 15 &
22 Dec
Vienna Ball - Copyright Kaffeesiederball
Vienna, universally acknowledged as the capital of music in Europe, is the host to dozens of magnificent events during Ball
Season. Back-Roads Touring has handpicked two of its most celebrated Balls for you to discover on this fabulous five-day
tour of Austria's capital. Explore this vibrant city and see for yourself everything it has to offer, from its refined cuisine and
quality wines to its cultural heritage.
VIENNA BALL SEASON
FLOWER OR COFFEEHOUSE OWNERS' BALL
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Enjoy a sightseeing tour of
Vienna travelling with the
locals on a tram
✓✓Private dance lesson to learn
the Viennese waltz
✓✓Sample delicious cuisine in a
coffeehouse and in traditional
restaurants
✓✓Taste quality local wines in a
heuriger
✓✓Enjoy an exclusive private
tour of the cellars at Palais
Coburg, one of the world's
most exclusive private wine
collections
Day 1 Vienna This morning we meet our BackRoads Tour Leader and fellow
traveling companions, before
boarding a local tram to enjoy an
introductory sightseeing tour of this
beautiful and vibrant city. This
afternoon we make our way to the
famous Schonbrunn Palace to learn
more about the life of the Habsburgs
during our tour of this majestic royal
residence. Here we enjoy an apple
strudel show in the kitchen of Cafe
Residenz and stay a little longer to
enjoy a slice of this delicious pastry
with a hot drink. Later we travel
back to our charming hotel base for
the next four nights. Tonight enjoy a
delicious welcome dinner together
in a local restaurant and taste
traditional Austrian cuisine. (D)
Day 2 Vienna We first head to the lively and
exciting Naschmarkt, Vienna’s
most animated market. Here we
explore its countless stalls, which
offer cuisines from all around the
world, as well as local delicacies.
After spending most of the morning
here, we have some free time in
the UNESCO Heritage listed Old
Town. This afternoon is entirely
yours to wander the narrow cobbled
streets and to discover its many
shops, restaurants and traditional
coffeehouses at your own pace. The
neo-gothic Old City Hall, with its
321-ft high tower, is definitely worth
a photo stop. We meet again later
as we drive to a heuriger, a typical
small winery much appreciated by
the locals of Vienna. Upon arrival,
we have a tasting session of local
quality wines, before we enjoy
dinner in a tavern with live music.
(B, D)
Day 3 Vienna We make our way to the
internationally renowned Spanish
Riding School of Vienna, for a
private tour of the venue and the
stables. We then enjoy lunch
together in one of Vienna’s famous
coffeehouses. Treat yourself to
dessert and try the highly addictive
Kaiserschmarrn, a traditional raisintopped pancake. This afternoon
we drive to the magnificent Palais
Coburg. Located in the heart of
Vienna, it was built on the former
defence walls of the city. This
incredible building also holds one of
the largest collections of rare wines
in Europe. We have a chance to
enjoy a private tour of the cellars as
well as an exclusive tasting session
with a sommelier, before we make
our way back to the hotel for an
evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 4 Vienna Our first visit this morning is to
Vienna’s MuseumsQuartier, also
known by the locals as the MQ,
the eighth largest cultural area in
the world. The MQ hosts several
institutions, spread over 60,000
square metres. Modern art
museums, events and exhibitions
facilities, as well as quirky museum
shops, can all be found here.
Baroque and modern architecture
are both represented for a unique
experience. In order to fully enjoy the
Ball tonight, we attend a Viennese
waltz lesson where we have a
chance to learn the basic steps of
this world-famous dance. Back in
our charming accommodation we
relax and get ourselves ready. After
a delicious farewell dinner in a local
restaurant, we make our way to the
Ball by horse drawn carriage, for
an unforgettable night of dancing
waltzes and listening to wonderful
music in a truly beautiful and unique
setting. We are transferred back to
our hotel after the Ball. (B, D)
Day 5 Vienna Our tour finishes after breakfast this
morning. (B)
reduced mobility.
AUSTRIA
Wine cellar in Palais Coburg - Copyright Palais Coburg Hotel Residence
Spanish Riding School - Copyright Vienna Tourist Board
"Vienna comes to life during Ball Season, and this tour offers a rare opportunity to experience
some of the locals' best kept secrets. Behind the scenes wine tasting and dining, and a private
tour of the Palais Coburg wine cellars, home to one of the most valuable private wine collections
in the world, are topped off with a ticket to one of the capital's famous black tie Balls."
TAILOR THIS TOUR
[email protected]?
Hotel Altstadt, Vienna ****
COMBINES WITH The Amazing Northern Lights
(p. 8-9)
Dance the night away Copyright Vienna Tourist Board
Apple Strudel Show
Pre/Post tour - Hotel Altstadt,
Vienna **** from $120 pp BB
basis.
INCLUSIONS
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Back-Roads Tour Leader
3 x evening meals
1 x lunch
Apple strudel show
2 x wine tastings
Vienna card
Included Entrances: Schonbrunn
Palace, private tour of the Spanish
Riding School, private tour of the
Cellars of Palais Coburg, waltz
dancing lesson & entrance to
either the Flower or Coffeehouse
Owners' Ball
details on this hotel.
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2015
*On some occasions, the accommodation
published.
Hotel Altstadt
CODE: BRWVB
Jan: 13 - Flower Ball
Feb: 03 - Coffeehouse
Owners' Ball
City Hall
Dress Code: Ball gown or Black Tie.
These can be hired locally but need to
be reserved in advance.
Spanish Riding School
HOTEL ALTSTADT VIENNA
4
Horse drawn carriage to the Ball
- Copyright Vienna Tourist Board
Palais Coburg
Rothenburg
The towns and cities along the Rhine valley provide an idyllic and festive setting for a romantic Christmas getaway. Fairytale castles, striking cathedrals and beautiful half-timbered towns, with their rich history and medieval market squares,
captivate visitors from all over the world. Explore festively lit Christmas markets where the aromas of mulled wine and
cinnamon drift through the air.
BAVARIA & THE ROMANTIC BACK-ROAD
HEIDELBERG, ROTHENBURG & MUNICH
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Travel on the historic
Romantic Road at a leisurely
pace
✓✓Taste local wines in
Heidelberg Castle
✓✓Visit a traditional brewery
set within the walls of a
monastery
✓✓Sample typical Christmas
delicacies while visiting the
beautiful and lively German
Christmas markets
Day 1 Frankfurt – Heidelberg We depart from Frankfurt this
morning and leisurely drive to
Darmstadt, famous for its Art
Nouveau buildings. Upon arrival, we
visit its lively Christmas market on
the main square with the Ducal
Palace in the background. We also
glimpse at its colorful chapel before
we continue to Heidelberg, one of
the most picturesque destinations in
Germany and home to many historic
treasures. This afternoon we enjoy a
walking tour of the historic Old Town
and see the Main Street, the Old
Stone Bridge and Karl’s Gate, which
was built in the 18th century. We
also visit Heidelberg Old University
before our welcome dinner together
this evening. (D)
Day 2 Heidelberg This morning we visit the imposing
Heidelberg Castle, which dominates
the city’s skyline. Once a Gothic
masterpiece, today its ruins have a
rugged charm and are considered
the symbol of German romanticism.
We stay a little longer in the castle
for a tasting of local wines. This
afternoon we have plenty of free
time to explore the city’s Christmas
market at leisure. Located within the
grounds of Heidelberg Castle, this
picturesque market is steeped in
tradition and is considered to be the
most iconic event in the city. Spend
this evening at leisure. (B)
Day 3 Heidelberg – Rothenburg Today we drive from Heidelberg to
Rothenburg, known as the town of
eternal Christmas. With a backdrop
of impressive medieval architecture,
the Rothenburg Christmas Market is
nothing short of a fairy-tale. We also
visit the German Christmas Museum
here, with displays and exhibitions
about the celebration of Christmas.
(B, D)
Day 4 Rothenburg – Wurzburg –
Bamberg – Rothenburg After breakfast we enjoy the sights
and sounds of the Christmas Market
of Wurzburg, as well as a visit to
the Wurzburg Residence, built in
the 18th century. We then travel
to Bamberg, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site and home to one of
Europe’s largest intact old town
centers. See many sights including
the Old Town Hall, the Old Court, St.
Martin's Church and the Cathedral.
Bamberg is truly a wintry town full of
romance. The music of advent and
the Route of Nativity Scenes are just
some of the elements that fill this
World Heritage city with a special
kind of magic. This evening is at
leisure in Rothenburg. (B)
Marienplatz, the market offers its
visitors a magical experience, with
a daily Alpine Christmas concert
and displays of stunning Bavarian
glassware. (B)
Day 5 Rothenburg – Romantic
Road – Munich Today we travel along the Romantic
Road to Munich. A trade route
during the Middle Ages, Germany’s
Romantic Road still retains much
of its medieval character. The road
often winds through forgotten
sections of countryside, connecting
walled towns and picturesque
villages such as Augsburg, the
oldest city in Bavaria. Upon arrival
in Munich there will be time to visit
the Christmas market. Held on the
Day 7 Munich Our tour finishes after breakfast this
morning. (B)
Day 6 Munich – Oberammergau –
Ettal Abbey – Munich Our journey along the Bavarian
country roads brings us to
Oberammergau, world-famous
for its passion play. There will be
time for sightseeing before we
drive to Ettal Abbey a Benedictine
monastery where we have a chance
to sample locally produced beer,
before we drive back to Munich.
This evening we enjoy traditional
Bavarian cuisine for a wonderful
farewell dinner together. (B, D)
reduced mobility.
GERMANY
Explore Rothenburg Christmas Market - Copyright Germany Tourist Board
Enjoy beer tasting at Ettal Abbey
Beautiful Bavaria
"Wander around the market stalls sampling gluhwein and chocolate coated fruits; eat traditional
German foods such as bratwurst sausages and pretzels, and enjoy a stein in a local beer hall.”
Leona Williams, Tour Leader, Back-Roads Touring
TAILOR THIS TOUR
[email protected]?
Bayrischen Hof, Heidelberg ***
Hotel Altes Brauhaus, Rothenburg ****
Laimer Hof am Schloss
Nymphenburgh, Munich ***
COMBINES WITH Heart of England (p. 13).
(p. 18-19).
CODE: BRWGER
Nov: 30
Dec: 07, 14
Hotel Altes Brauhaus
CHRISTMAS MARKET
VISITING DATES
GERMANY
Bamberg
Wurzburg
2
HEIDELBERG 2
ROTHENBURG
3 x evening meals
1 x wine tasting
1 x beer tasting
Included Entrances: Heidelberg
Castle, Rothenburg Christmas
Museum, Wurzburg Residence &
Ettal Abbey
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
Visit our website for further details on these
hotels.
FRANKFURT
INCLUSIONS
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Pre tour - Hotel Astoria, Frankfurt ***
from $85 pp BB basis. Post tour - Laimer
Hof am Schloss Nymphenburgh,
Munich *** from $102 pp BB basis.
*On some occasions the accommodation we use may
vary from what has been published.
Frankfurt
Romantic Road
GERMANY
CZECH
REPUBLIC
Heidelberg: 01, 08 & 15 Dec
Rothenburg: 02, 09 & 16 Dec
Bamberg: 03, 10 & 17 Dec
Munich: 04, 11 & 18 Dec
2 MUNICH
Ettal Abbey
Oberammergau
Augsburg - Copyright Germany Tourist Board
Berlin’s Gendarmenmarkt Christmas Market
More and more visitors are captivated by the magic of traditional German Christmas markets each year. Winter is a
wonderful time of year to explore Berlin, Potsdam and Dresden and visit romantic villages on a fascinating winter journey
that ends in Bohemia, a historical region of Eastern Europe. Prague, with its beautiful spires and cobblestoned streets, is also
a beautiful winter delight waiting to be discovered.
FROM BERLIN TO BOHEMIA
BERLIN, DRESDEN & PRAGUE
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Dine at Clarchens Ballhaus,
Berlin’s legendary dance hall
✓✓‘High tea’ experience at
Meissen where the world
famous Meissen Porcelain is
brought to life
✓✓Enjoy views over Prague,
away from the bustle of the
city, at Vysehrad Castle
✓✓Visit local pubs to discover
the traditional Czech beer
culture
Day 1 Berlin After meeting your Back-Roads Tour
Leader and fellow travelers, we visit
the Christmas Market at
Charlottenburg Palace, one of the
most famous Christmas markets in
the capital. We then continue to
Marchenhutte, the fairy-tale theatre
that brings many of the Grimm
brothers’ stories to life. Tonight we
enjoy traditional German food for
dinner at Clarchens Ballhaus, an
authentic 1920's dance hall, which
has seen illegal duelling, Nazi
dancing bans, wartime destruction
and communist black-marketeering.
(D)
Day 2 Berlin Today we visit the Soviet War
Memorial at Treptower Park, which
is the only place in Berlin where you
can still see a Swastika. We will also
stop at the East Side Gallery to see
what remains of the Berlin Wall and
visit Karl Marx Allee. This afternoon
is yours at leisure for independent
sightseeing or to explore Berlin’s
numerous other Christmas markets.
Be captivated by the magical festive
atmosphere of Gendarmenmarkt
Christmas Market and enjoy live
entertainment including jugglers,
acrobats, dance troupes and
choirs, together with a glass of the
celebrated gluhwein, a German hot
mulled wine with brandy. (B)
Day 3 Berlin – Potsdam –
Meissen – Dresden Our first visit today is Potsdam, one
of Germany’s most beautiful World
Heritage Sites. Here we will visit the
enchanting palace of Sanssouci,
built for Frederick the Great’s
personal use and set amongst
glorious parkland. Our next stop is
in Meissen, where we visit the local
porcelain manufacturer and learn
more about their “white gold”. We
stay a little longer to warm up with a
cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate
served in real Meissen Porcelain.
This evening we enjoy dinner
together in Dresden. (B, D)
Day 4 Dresden On this morning’s walking tour
of Dresden we will see many of
the city’s main sites including the
‘Procession of the Dukes’ mosaic,
the Cathedral, the Semper Opera
House and Zwinger Palace.
Built in 1709 during the reign of
Augustus the Strong, Dresden’s
Zwinger Palace is famous around
the world for its beautiful Baroque
architecture and the remarkable
sculptures adorning the gallery
walls. This afternoon we will explore
Striezelmarkt, Germany’s oldest
Christmas market, dating back to
1434, which transforms the city into
a winter wonderland. Spend this
evening at your leisure. (B)
Day 5 Dresden – Terezin
Memorial – Prague After leaving Dresden, our first stop
today is at the Terezin Memorial, a
tragic symbol of the sufferings of
the tens of thousands of innocent
people who died here during
the Nazi occupation. We then
continue to Prague where we
take a stroll around the Prague
Christmas Market, set in the heart
of Prague’s Old Town Square.
Brightly decorated wooden huts sell
traditional Czech food, gingerbread,
homemade sausages, mulled wine,
handicrafts and the ever-popular
trdelnik roll. (B, D)
Day 6 Prague Today we travel as the locals do and
take the tram to Vysehrad Castle.
Located away from the bustle of
Prague’s city center, Vysehrad
comprises several interesting
historical sights, including the
Romanesque Rotunda of St. Martin
and the Gothic Church of Sts. Peter
and Paul. The park offers wonderful
views of the city below. This
afternoon we join a tour to indulge in
one of the things Prague is famous
for – beer! We will visit legendary
beer halls and pubs whilst learning
about the Bohemian lifestyle and
listening to stories about beer
culture from the Middle Ages,
through the Communism period, to
the present day. (B)
reduced mobility.
GERMANY TO
CZECH REPUBLIC
Charles Bridge, Prague
Stratford-upon-Avon
2
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
Wander the streets of Prague
“I’m particularly fond of the German Christmas markets: from the bustling Gendarmenmarkt in
the center of Berlin to the traditional Striezelmarkt in Dresden, which dates back to 1434. Don’t
forget to try the "gluhwein" (mulled wine with cinnamon sticks, star anise, citrus, sugar and Lacock
vanilla pods) “mit or ohne schuss" (with or without a shot of rum or liquor).”
Neven Kovacic, Tour Leader, Back-Roads Touring
Stonehenge
TAILOR THIS TOUR
[email protected]?
Monbijou Hotel, Berlin ****
Hotel Bayerischer Hof, Dresden ****
Hotel Modra Ruze, Prague ****
COMBINES WITH A Family Christmas in Lapland
(p.10-11).
Eastern Europe Winter Escape
(p. 26-27).
Monbijou Hotel
CHRISTMAS MARKET
VISITING DATES
2
Potsdam
Berlin: 26 Nov, 03, 10 & 17 Dec
Dresden: 29 Nov, 06, 13 & 20 Dec
Prague: 01, 08, 15 & 22 Dec
POLAND
DRESDEN
2
Terezin Memorial
CZECH
REPUBLIC
PRAGUE 1
Dresden - Copyright Dresden Tourist Board
Windsor
Back-RoadsCastle
driver/Tour Leader
LONDON
3 x evening meals
Prague beer tour
Included Entrances:
Charlottenburg Palace Christmas
Market, Sanssouci Palace,
Salisbury
Meissen Porcelain manufacturer,
Zwinger Palace, Terezin Memorial
& Vysehrad Castle
CODE: BRWBDP
Nov: 26
Dec: 03, 10, 17
*On some occasions the accommodation we use
may vary from what has been published.
Meissen
INCLUSIONS
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TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
these hotels.
GERMANY
Christmas stollen
Pre tour - Monbijou Hotel, Berlin ****
Post tour - Hotel Modra Ruze,
Prague **** from $74 ppp BB basis.
BERLIN
Oxford
Prague’s Old Town square & Christmas Market
Experience the wonders of the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary, each full of fascinating history and beautiful
landscapes. Enjoy the Czech Republic’s lively capital, Prague, explore the former royal capital of Poland, Krakow, and visit
medieval Bratislava before finishing in Budapest, now one of Europe’s finest, grandest and most picturesque cities. This is a
true journey of discovery across Eastern Europe.
EASTERN EUROPE WINTER ESCAPE
PRAGUE, BRNO, KRAKOW, BRATISLAVA & BUDAPEST
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Enjoy a glass of warm wine on
top of Chleb Peak in Slovakia
✓✓Discover Prague’s turbulent
past during its WWII
occupation
✓✓Taste traditional Hungarian
housewife dishes in
Budapest’s Central Market
Hall
✓✓Visit Brno, one of the oldest
medieval European towns
Day 1 Prague Arrive in Prague at your leisure. This
evening meet your Back-Roads Tour
Leader and fellow travelers for a
delicious welcome dinner together.
(D)
Day 2 Prague Today we gain an insight into
Prague’s darkest days during the
terror of the Nazi occupation. We
visit the battleground of the Old
Town, discover the last hideout of
Prague’s resistance and explore
the Army Museum. This evening
take a stroll around the Prague
Christmas Market at your leisure.
Brightly decorated wooden huts sell
traditional Czech food, gingerbread,
homemade sausages, mulled wine,
handicrafts the ever-popular trdelnik
roll. (B)
Day 3 Prague – Brno This morning we travel to Brno, the
largest city in the historical region
of Moravia. Brno’s Old Town is one
of the best-preserved medieval
towns in Europe and home to many
historical sites. Later visit Brno’s
Christmas Market and browse its
many stalls selling Christmas treats,
gifts, souvenirs and Christmasrelated entertainment, before our
dinner this evening. (B, D)
Day 4 Brno – Auschwitz – Krakow Today we cross the border into
Poland. We stop at Auschwitz
concentration camp, which was
built and operated by the Third
Reich during World War II. We then
continue to Krakow, one of the
oldest and most beautiful cities in
Eastern Europe. Spend this evening
at your leisure. (B)
Day 5 Krakow This morning walk through the
Old Town and enjoy the scores of
beautiful sights before visiting the
Wawel Hill Royal Castle and the
Wawel Cathedral, which has been
destroyed and rebuilt several times
over the centuries. This afternoon
is entirely yours to enjoy Krakow
and its festive and lively Christmas
market, located in Rynek Square
and surrounded by Baroque and
Gothic architecture. We will enjoy
a traditional Polish dinner together
tonight. (B, D)
Day 6 Krakow – Mala Fatra
National Park – Zilina Today we cross the border into
Slovakia and drive to Mala Fatra
National Park. Weather permitting,
we ascend the 1,646 metre high
Chleb Peak by cable car and
enjoy a glass of warm wine at the
summit. After lunch in a traditional
restaurant, we continue to Zilina
where we enjoy an evening at
leisure. (B, L)
Day 7 Zilina – Bratislava From Zilina we travel to the
beautifully preserved 13th century
Cerveny Kamen (Red Stone) Castle.
This afternoon in Bratislava, the
capital of Slovakia, we visit the
Presidential Palace and historical
Old Town, a small square lined
with colorful, ornate buildings. The
evening is at leisure for independent
exploration. (B)
Day 8 Bratislava – Budapest Today we transfer to Budapest. In
the Castle District, on the Buda side
of the town, we walk through the
streets of the historical city center
to Holy Trinity Square and Matthias
Church. After the interior visit of the
church, we walk to the Fishermen’s
Bastion which offers us a breathtaking panorama on the city. Later
we explore the Christmas market,
located in the heart of the city,
where you can browse over one
hundred wooden pavilions, before
we enjoy a delicious farewell dinner.
(B, D)
Day 9 Budapest This morning we head to the city’s
oldest indoor market, the Central
Market Hall, for a taste of everyday
dishes that Hungarian housewives
cook at home. Sample a selection
of traditional dishes, accompanied
by quality wines. Later we enjoy a
relaxing cruise along the Danube
River before our tour ends. (B)
reduced mobility.
CZECH REPUBLIC
TO HUNGARY
Mala Fatra National Park, Slovakia
Stratford-upon-Avon
Enjoy some spiced mulled wine
Budapest’s Matthias Church
2
Oxford
“The festive season is one of the best times to visit Eastern Europe with Christmas markets
Windsor
in old town squares in villages, towns and cities. From Prague’s chocolate
box-like
beauty to
Castle
LONDON
Lacock
Budapest’s grandeur, you’ll find gorgeous, twinkling lights, unique Christmas gifts, and delicious,
hearty fare.”
Stonehenge
Lucy Cook, Marketing Manager, Back-Roads Touring
Salisbury
TAILOR THIS TOUR
[email protected]?
Hotel Cyro, Brno ***
Hotel Metropolitan, Krakow ****
Hotel Dubna Skala, Zilina ****
Hotel Devin, Bratislava ****
Boutique Hotel Zara, Budapest ****
COMBINES WITH Pre tour - Hotel Modra Ruze,
Prague **** from $74 pp BB basis.
Post tour - Boutique Hotel Zara,
Budapest **** from $83 pp BB basis.
Heart of England (p.13).
From Berlin to Bohemia (p. 24-25).
CODE: BRWCZH
Dec: 01, 08, 15, 22
Hotel Modra Ruze
POLAND
Auschwitz
KRAKOW
2
CZECH REPUBLIC
POLAND
BRNO
1
Mala Fatra National Park
ZILINA
1
SLOVAKIA
AUSTRIA
1
BRATISLAVA
HUNGARY
HUNGARY
1
Fishermen’s Bastion Budapest
4 x evening meals
1 x lunch
‘Taste the good things in
Budapest’s pantry’ tour
»» Warm wine on Chleb Peak
»» Danube River cruise
»» Included Entrances: Auschwitz
concentration camp, Wawel
Castle & Cathedral, cable car
to Chleb Peak, Cerveny Kamen
Castle, Matthias Church &
Fishermen’s Bastion
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
*On some occasions the accommodation we use
may vary from what has been published.
CZECH
REPUBLIC
INCLUSIONS
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GERMANY
these hotels.
PRAGUE 2
A Bratislava square
BUDAPEST
CHRISTMAS MARKET
VISITING DATES
Prague: 02, 09, 16 & 23 Dec
Brno: 10 Dec
Krakow: 05, 12 & 19 Dec
Budapest: 08, 15, 22 & 29 Dec
Hungarian Parliament Building, Budapest
Winter is a wonderful time of year to experience the wonders of Germany, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary,
each full of fascinating history and beautiful landscapes. Be captivated by the magic of traditional German Christmas
markets, enjoy Prague, with its beautiful spires and cobblestoned streets, explore the former royal capital of Poland, Krakow,
and visit medieval Bratislava before finishing in Budapest, one of Europe’s most picturesque cities.
GRAND EUROPEAN WINTER GETAWAY
EXPLORE FIVE FASCINATING COUNTRIES
THE BACK-ROADS
DIFFERENCE
✓✓Dine at Clarchens Ballhaus,
Berlin’s legendary dance hall
✓✓Discover Prague’s turbulent
past during its WWII
occupation
✓✓Visit Brno, one of the oldest
medieval European towns
✓✓Taste the good things in
Budapest’s pantry
Day 1 Berlin Visit the Christmas Market at
Charlottenburg Palace and enjoy
dinner at Clarchens Ballhaus, which
has seen illegal duelling, Nazi
dancing bans, wartime destruction
and communist black-marketeering.
(D)
Day 2 Berlin In East Berlin visit the Soviet War
Memorial at Treptower Park and
see what remains of the Berlin Wall.
Explore Berlin’s numerous other
Christmas markets at leisure. (B)
Day 3 Berlin – Potsdam –
Meissen – Dresden Visit the enchanting palace of
Sanssouci in Potsdam before
continuing to Meissen where we
warm up with a cup of tea, coffee or
hot chocolate served in real Meissen
Porcelain. (B, D)
Day 4 Dresden Enjoy a walking tour of Dresden
including a visit to Zwinger Palace.
This afternoon explore Striezelmarkt,
Germany’s oldest Christmas market,
dating from 1434. (B)
Day 5 Dresden – Terezin
Memorial – Prague Discover the Terezin Memorial, a
tragic symbol of the sufferings of
the tens of thousands of innocent
people who died here during the
Nazi occupation. Later stroll around
the Prague Christmas Market, where
brightly decorated wooden huts sell
traditional Czech food and the everpopular trdelnik roll. (B, D)
resistance and explore the Army
Museum. (B)
a glass of warm wine at the summit.
Later we continue to Zilina. (B, L)
Day 8 Prague – Brno In Brno, the largest city in the
historical region of Moravia, we
explore one of the oldest and bestpreserved medieval towns in Europe.
Later, we visit Brno’s Christmas
Market before dinner this evening.
(B, D)
Day 12 Zilina – Bratislava From Zilina we travel to the beautifully
preserved 13th century Cerveny
Kamen (Red Stone) Castle. In
Bratislava, we visit the Presidential
Palace and historical Old Town. (B)
Day 9 Brno – Auschwitz – Krakow Crossing into Poland we stop at
Auschwitz concentration camp,
which was built and operated by the
Third Reich during World War II. We
then continue to Krakow where we
spend an evening at leisure. (B)
Day 6 Prague We travel by tram to Vysehrad Castle,
which offers wonderful views of the
city below. This afternoon we join a
tour to indulge in one of the things
Prague is famous for – beer! (B, D)
Day 10 Krakow Walk through the Old Town and
enjoy the scores of beautiful sights
before visiting the Wawel Hill Royal
Castle and the Wawel Cathedral.
This afternoon explore Krakow and
its Christmas market at your leisure
before our traditional Polish dinner
together. (B, D)
Day 7 Prague Today we gain an insight into
Prague’s darkest days during
the Nazi occupation. We visit the
battleground of the Old Town,
discover the last hideout of Prague’s
Day 11 Krakow – Zilina Today we cross the border into
Slovakia and drive to Mala Fatra
National Park. Weather permitting,
we will ascend the 1,646 metre high
Chleb Peak by cable car and enjoy
Day 13 Bratislava – Budapest In Budapest’s Castle District we walk
through the streets of the historical
city center to Holy Trinity Square,
Matthias Church and the Fishermen’s
Bastion. Later explore the city’s
Christmas market before our farewell
dinner. (B, D)
Day 14 Budapest We head to the Central Market Hall
to sample a selection of traditional
Hungarian dishes, accompanied
by quality wines. Later we enjoy a
Danube River cruise before our tour
ends. (B)
reduced mobility.
GERMANY TO
HUNGARY
The Reichstag, Berlin
LONDON
stop
h point
Prague’s Astronomical Clock
Prague’s Old Town square with Christmas Market
“This tour really does have it all. Spanning Germany, the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia and
Hungary, it not only covers Berlin, Prague, Krakow and Budapest, but also lesser-known gems
such as Brno, Mala Fatra National Park and Bratislava.”
Neven Kovacic, Tour Leader, Back-Roads Touring
TAILOR THIS TOUR
and like the idea of tailoring this, or
a similar itinerary just for you, why
not contact us at
[email protected]?
Monbijou Hotel, Berlin ****
Hotel Bayerischer Hof, Dresden ****
Hotel Cyro, Brno ***
Lacock
Hotel Metropolitan, Krakow ****
Hotel Dubna Skala, Zilina **** Stonehenge
Hotel Devin, Bratislava ****
Boutique Hotel Zara, Budapest ****
COMBINES WITH Heart of England (p.13).
(p.14-15).
Stratford-upon-Avon
2
Oxford
Windsor
Castle
LONDON
Salisbury
Hotel Metropolitan
Pre tour - Monbijou Hotel, Berlin **** from $112 pp BB basis.
Post tour - Boutique Hotel Zara, Budapest **** from $83 pp BB basis.
Visit our website for further details on these hotels.
*On some occasions the accommodation we use may vary from what has been published.
BERLIN
2
Church of our Lady, Dresden
INCLUSIONS
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
»»
7 x evening meals
1 x lunch
Prague beer tour
‘Taste the good things in
Budapest’s pantry’ tour
»» Warm wine on Chleb Peak
»» Danube River cruise
»» Included Entrances: Charlottenburg
Palace Christmas Market,
Sanssouci Palace, Meissen
Porcelain manufacturer, Zwinger
Palace, Terezin Memorial, Vysehrad
Castle, Auschwitz concentration
camp, Wawel Castle & Cathedral,
cable car to Chleb Peak, Cerveny
Kamen Castle, Matthias Church &
Fishermen’s Bastion
TOUR DATES &
PRICING 2014
CODE: BRWGEG
Nov: 26
Dec: 03, 10, 17
GERMANY
Potsdam
Meissen
CHRISTMAS MARKET
VISITING DATES
DRESDEN
2
POLAND
POLAND
Terezin Memorial
PRAGUE
Auschwitz
3
KRAKOW
2
CZECH
CZECH
REPUBLIC
REPUBLIC
BRNO
1
1
Zilina
SLOVAKIA
AUSTRIA
1
BRATISLAVA
HUNGARY
HUNGARY
Treat yourself this Christmas
1
BUDAPEST
Berlin: 26 Nov, 03, 10 & 17 Dec
Dresden: 29 Nov, 06, 13 & 20 Dec
Prague: 30 Nov, 07, 14 & 21 Dec
Brno: 10 Dec
Krakow: 05, 12, 19 & 26 Dec
Budapest: 08, 15, 22 & 29 Dec
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE TYPICAL AGE OF A
BACK-ROADS TOURING CLIENT?
There tends to be a fairly wide range of
ages, but broadly speaking our clients are
in the 40-75 age group.
IS IT NECESSARY TO HAVE A GOOD
LEVEL OF MOBILITY?
Yes, you need to be fit enough to
participate fully. Please bear in mind that
you will have to negotiate getting on and
off the vehicle on a regular basis, walking
to attractions, managing stairs in the hotels
and showers over the bath. We frequently
use traditional-style hotels and many will
not have lifts or ground-floor rooms. If you
are in any doubt as to whether our tours
are suitable for you, please check with us.
I HAVE SOME HEALTH ISSUES. WILL
THIS BE A PROBLEM?
If your health problem is minor and you
can manage it without the need for
additional care or special facilities, then we
should be able to accept you. Again, it is
best to check. Do remember that our Tour
Leaders are just that, and they cannot be
expected to act in a caring capacity at the
expense of other group members.
ARE YOU ABLE TO CATER FOR MY
DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
We will do our best to satisfy your dietary
needs, please ensure that any restrictions
are made clear to us at the time of booking
so we can pass the information on to our
hotels.
WHAT MEALS ARE INCLUDED?
Breakfast is included daily. We also include
some lunches and dinners, either in the
hotel or in a local restaurant. You will have
some free evenings to try the local cuisine
independently. One thing to remember,
dinner times in Europe are likely to be later
than you might be used to: 7.30pm at the
earliest and often later in France and Italy.
AM I EXPECTED TO LEAVE
GRATUITIES?
It is common in the UK and Europe to
leave a small gratuity in restaurants and
cafes if you have received good service
(typically 10% on top of the bill). It is usual
to give your driver/Tour Leader a tip at
the end of the tour if he/she has done a
good job. The amount is entirely at your
discretion, and is not mandatory, but it is
always much appreciated.
WHAT GRADE OF HOTEL DO BACKROADS USE?
We generally use a 3-star / 4-star standard
of accommodation ranging from country
inns to town center hotels and the
occasional castle! Rather than going by the
official grading (based solely on facilities
rather than the standard), we base our
choices on quality. In all properties the
rooms have en-suite bathrooms.
WHAT KIND OF ROOM SHOULD I
BOOK?
When booking we need to know whether
you want a twin room (two single-sized
beds in a room) or a double room (one
standard-sized bed for two people).
Please tell us at the time of booking what
your choice is as the room types are not
interchangeable.
I AM A SINGLE TRAVELER. IS IT
POSSIBLE TO SHARE A ROOM?
We do not ‘match up’ single travelers,
because we find that in a small group
scenario this does not work. There is a
common misconception that a single
room is ‘more expensive’. In reality a single
room is often less expensive than a double
room, the difference being that the cost of
a double room is shared by two people as
opposed to a sole occupant. Often single
rooms in European hotels have one single
bed, although in some hotels the single
traveler will have a double room for their
own use.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW
ABOUT THE HOTELS?
Many of the traditional properties we use
are older buildings rather than purpose
built hotels. Often the rooms are different
shapes and sizes and may be smaller than
you might be used to. Often hotels do not
have lifts: in many cases this is because
they are not allowed to as they are ‘listed’
or protected buildings.
DO YOU INCLUDE ENTRANCE FEES
TO ATTRACTIONS?
Unlike many tour companies who charge
everything as extras, we include a selection
of entrances in the price. Those inclusions
are clearly stated in the brochure and on
our website. Any other entrance fees will
be at your own expense.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I
BRING?
We travel in mini-coaches and so boot
space is limited. You are only entitled to
one piece of main luggage of a standard
size of no more than 158cm and not
weighing more than 20kg. In addition you
may bring one small carry-on bag per
person. If you have more luggage please
make arrangements to store it while you
are out on tour as we will not be able to
carry this on the coach.
ARE BACK-ROADS TOURS
SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?
Our tours are designed principally for
adults, but we will consider accepting
children aged 12 or over on request. The
exception to this is ‘A Family Christmas in
Lapland’ which is suitable for children and
adults of all ages. Please note that triple
and family rooms are not always available.
CAN YOU DESCRIBE A TYPICAL DAY
OUT ON TOUR?
Days can sometimes be fairly long, but we
take our time and avoid rushing from place
to place. Stops are made frequently during
the day to avoid extended periods of time
on the coach. On a typical day, we might
leave at 9am and arrive back at our hotel
at 5pm.
We do endeavour to build in time for rest
and relaxation.
HOW FLEXIBLE ARE BACK-ROADS
TOURING’S ITINERARIES?
There are certain visits included in our
itineraries which are fixed and included in
the price. However outside of these there
is some flexibility to adapt the itinerary
according to such things as the weather,
special events and group wishes. One of
the beauties of small-group touring is that
we can be much more relaxed and flexible
in our approach. If you have a specific
request which is not on the itinerary, we
will do our best to accommodate it, but
this will depend on the agreement of your
fellow-travelers and the judgement of the
Tour Leader.
ARE BACK-ROADS TOURS ALWAYS
GUARANTEED TO RUN?
As a general rule we will run our tours with
a minimum of four people, at which point
we will usually guarantee it. Guaranteed
tours are identified on our website, and
your travel agent will be able to advise you
of the on-going status. If we are forced to
cancel a tour, you will be advised at least 6
weeks in advance.
CAN YOU EXPLAIN WHAT A DRIVER/
TOUR LEADER IS?
Our driver/Tour Leaders have all passed a
stringent government test allowing them
to drive our vehicles and conduct tours.
The small nature of our groups means
that he/she becomes your travelling
companion rather than just a Tour Leader,
which makes for a much more rewarding
experience. On some tours in mainland
Europe (e.g. Italy, Austria and Finland) we
will often use a driver in addition to a Tour
Leader as this makes for better operation
of the tour in these particular areas.
DO I NEED TO TAKE OUT TRAVEL
INSURANCE FOR MY TRIP?
You must always ensure you are fully
insured when travelling overseas, and we
require all Back-Roads Touring participants
to have suitable and adequate cover.
We will ask for your insurance details at
the beginning of the tour and hold them
securely. Please check that your insurance
includes covering cancellation fees in the
instance you are forced to cancel your
tour prior to departure due to unforeseen
circumstances.
DO YOU HAVE A POLICY ON
SMOKING?
Virtually all countries in Europe have now
implemented a total smoking ban in
public places, and the local laws must be
followed. It goes without saying that no
smoking is allowed on our vehicles.
WILL I NEED A VISA?
It is your responsibility to obtain any visas
which might be necessary to enable you
to visit and holiday in Europe. Make sure to
check with your local consular office as to
any visa requirements for the countries you
are visiting.
HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON MY
TOUR?
The maximum number we carry is
18 (average group size is 10) and the
minimum 4. Tours with a separate driver
and Tour Leader will have a maximum of
18 passengers; tours with a driver/Tour
Leader only will have a maximum of 15.
Your Tour Leader will usually implement
a daily seat rotation on the vehicle so
you can get to know your fellow travelers
better and enjoy the view from a different
perspective each day.
WHAT KIND OF VEHICLES DO YOU
USE?
In the UK we own a fleet of comfortable
Mercedes Mini-Coaches. In Continental
Europe, we hire in vehicles of a similar
standard and specification. On tours with
fewer passengers we might use Mercedes
Vitos as an alternative.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF
TRAVELLING IN A SMALL GROUP?
Unlike a large coach company we can
offer a truly personal experience as we
can explore the local region in greater
depth. You will meet like-minded travelers
and enjoy the convenience of your own
personal driver/Tour Leader, who will
impart their local knowledge and ensure
you visit sites that the mainstream tourist
typically misses out on. The dynamic of a
small group is one of the main benefits of
travelling with Back-Roads Touring.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN A BACKROADS TOURING TOUR?
• Airfares to Europe. Air travel must be
booked independently and the flight
details given to us. It is your, or your
travel agent’s, responsibility to let us have
this information in a timely manner.
• Driver/Tour Leader gratuity is at your
discretion.
• Lunches (unless otherwise stated),
social drinks, meals on ‘free nights,’
items of a personal nature and entrance
fees when not accompanied by our
driver/Tour Leader.
• Occasional optional evening theatre/
festival visits and entrances not detailed
in the tour inclusions.
• Incidental expenses, such as room
service incurred at hotels. All expenses
are to be settled prior to leaving the
accommodation.
• Laundry costs and any shipping
charges for the return of purchases
made on tour, or for the return of
property lost on tour.
• Pre and post tour accommodation
and transfers.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
BOOKING CONDITIONS BACK-ROADS TOURING
It is our intention to set out clearly and simply the
responsibilities which we at Back-Roads Touring Co.
Limited (UK Company No. 02473373, hereafter referred
to as “Back-Roads Touring” “Us” “Our” or “We”) have to
You, your heirs, executors and assigns and any member
of your party and their heirs, executors and assigns (“You”)
and which You, in turn, have to us when a contract is made
between us. You should therefore read and understand the
contents. When you make a booking, you are confirming
that you understand our booking conditions and have
accepted them on behalf of yourself and all members of
your party. Your contract will be with Back-Roads Touring
Co. Limited which will act as the tour operator. A contract
will exist as soon as we issue a confirmation invoice in
response to your request for a booking and the deposit has
been paid by you either to your travel agent or directly to us.
BOOKING YOUR HOLIDAY
1. Bookings can be made through your travel agent or
with Us directly and should be secured with a deposit of
$200 per person per tour paid at time of booking. This
deposit is non-refundable unless we cancel your tour.
We reserve the right in our absolute discretion to refuse to
accept any booking without specifying a reason. If you
are booking within 42 days of departure, then full payment
is required at the time of booking. Your booking is taken
to be confirmed, and accepted, in respect of all persons
travelling, when we issue a confirmation invoice. If your
booking is made through a travel agent, we will address
all correspondence to that travel agent. All monies paid
by you to the travel agent will be held by them for and on
behalf of Us.
2. If you arrange your holiday direct with Us, all
correspondence and communications will be sent to the
address of the first person listed in the booking file, unless
you specify otherwise. Balance of all payments is required
at least six weeks prior to your tour departure date. If you
do not pay within this period we may have to treat your
booking as cancelled in which case we have the right to
withhold your deposit.
3. Alterations or cancellations by you after your booking
has been accepted will be subject to the provisions of
clauses 5 to 10 of these terms and conditions.
4. Prices quoted in our brochure are calculated on the
basis of costs and exchange rates as at 1 Dec 2013.
These prices may go up or down to allow for variations
in transportation costs, and we reserve the right to alter
prices and other particulars contained in our brochures
and on our website accordingly. Changes will be made
known to you before you book. We will give you the up
to date price of your chosen holiday, which will also be
updated and displayed on our website. Once you have
accepted this price and a booking has been confirmed,
that price is guaranteed and will not be subject to variation
or surcharges unless you require changes to be made to
your booking.
5. You must clearly state all your requirements at the time
of booking. If you or anyone named on your booking want
to change any aspect of your booking you must tell Us as
soon as possible, preferably in writing. We will do our best
to accommodate your changes but you will have to pay a
change fee of $60 per person per change. You will incur
the fee if you wish to change to a tour of a shorter duration
or wish to change to a tour with a different departure
date. If you wish to change to a tour of a longer duration
no change fee will be payable but you will need to pay the
difference in the cost of the tour.
6. If a change is made to your booking less than six weeks
before your scheduled departure date, cancellation fees
will apply (see clause 10 below), unless you are changing
to an earlier departure date of the same tour, in which
case an amendment fee of $60 per person will apply.
If any changes have occurred, a new invoice will be
provided to you which will specify all costs associated
with your booking including any cancellation/change fees.
7. If any person named on a booking is prevented from
travelling as a result of illness, the death of a close
relative, jury service or any other reason which we accept
as significant, we may agree to that person’s booking
being transferred to another person who satisfies all the
conditions applicable to the tour, provided reasonable
written notice (at least 21 days) is given to Us of the
intention to transfer the booking before the date of
departure. In this case, both persons will be jointly and
severally liable to Us for full payment of the holiday cost
(or, if part of the price has been paid, for payment of the
balance) and for any additional costs arising from the
transfer.
SPECIAL REQUESTS
8. Where special requests (e.g. diet, room type, etc) are an
important factor in the choice of holiday, you must advise
Us when the booking is made. We are happy to pass your
request on to the hotel, but cannot guarantee that it will be
accommodated. The provision of any special request does
not constitute a term of your contract with Us unless we
have confirmed it in writing.
CANCELLATION BY YOU OR US
9. Cancellation of a booking by you must be made
in writing and sent to Back-Roads Touring, Level 1, 107
Power Road, London, W4 5PY, UK an oral message is
insufficient. This avoids any misunderstanding. We will not
treat a booking as cancelled until written notice is received
by us (fax or email is acceptable). If the cancellation is
received six weeks or more before departure, only the
deposit is forfeited and any other payments made upfront
will be refunded.
10. If the cancellation is within six weeks of the
departure date, the following charges will apply:
Days before departure
% holiday costs forfeited
Over 42 days
Deposit
42-29 days
50%
28-0 days
100%
CANCELLATION OR MODIFICATION BY US
11. Every effort will be made to operate all holidays as
advertised but it must be remembered that our tours
are planned up to twelve months in advance. We use
independent suppliers such as hotels etc., over whom we
have no direct control. On occasions, changes do have
to be made and we reserve the right, at our discretion,
to modify or cancel any holiday, accommodation
or arrangement at any time. Most of these changes
are minor. However, if we consider them a material
modification we will endeavour to advise you or your
travel agent as soon as reasonably possible and if you
accept them, they will form part of the contract between
you and us.
12. In the case of any material modification or
cancellation, we will, if possible, provide you with the
following three alternatives:
(1) an alternative tour of equivalent or superior quality
and equivalent price, if available on the dates you wish
to travel;
(2) an alternative tour of a lower quality together with a
refund of the difference in price between the package
purchased and the substitute package; or
(3) cancellation with a full refund of all monies paid
including your deposit.
13. A material modification is one which has a serious
effect on your holiday and includes, for example, a change
of departure date, departure point, or change of departure
time of more than twelve hours, which may, depending
on your circumstances, cause substantial inconvenience
to you.
We do not consider a change of hotel or accommodation
as material.
14. We will use our best endeavours not to materially
modify or cancel the holiday within six weeks of the
date of departure unless compelled to do so because of
circumstances beyond our reasonable control (referred
to as “force majeure” as described in clause 27 below).
If material modification or cancellation is made to
your holiday within six weeks of the departure date for
reasons other than force majeure or non-payment by
you, and you wish to accept these changes, you will
receive compensation in accordance with the following
table: Period before scheduled departure date that we
notify you or your travel agent of material modification or
cancellation
Compensation offered per booking
• Over 42 days
nil
• 42-29 days
$50
• 28-14 days
$75
• 13-7 days
$100
• 6-0 days
$200
15. Certain holidays may require a minimum number of
participants and in the event that there are insufficient
participants by the date falling six weeks before the
scheduled departure date, we will be entitled to cancel
the holiday upon informing you that we are doing so,
whereupon all monies paid by you for your Back-Roads
Touring tour shall be refunded to you, but no further
compensation will be paid.
16. We reserve the right to alter or substitute the type
of vehicle mentioned in the brochure, depending on the
number of participants on the particular holiday or tour,
which may vary from tour to tour. In general, the maximum
group size is 18 clients.
OUR LIABILITY TO YOU
17. Subject to your rights under consumer laws and clauses
20 and 21 below, we accept responsibility if due to fault on
our part, any part of your holiday arrangements that occur
after your Back-Roads Tour has commenced is not as
described in the brochure, or not of a reasonable standard.
We also accept liability if you or any member of your party is
killed or injured as a direct result of an activity forming part
of those holiday arrangements failing to be as described
and of a reasonable standard.
18. We do not accept responsibility if and to the extent
that any failure of your holiday arrangements, or death
or injury is not caused by any fault of ours, or our agents
or suppliers; but is attributable to your own acts or
omissions, or to the acts or omissions of a third party
unconnected with your holiday arrangements or to
unusual or unforeseeable circumstances or events which
could not have been anticipated or avoided by us, our
servants, agents, or suppliers even with the exercise of
all due care.
19. For claims which do not involve personal injury, illness
or death, the most we will have to pay if we are liable to
you is the total price you as the person affected, paid for
your holiday (excluding insurance premiums and change
fees). We will only have to pay this maximum amount if
everything has gone wrong and you have received no
benefit from your holiday.
20. Subject to clause 17 above, if any failure in your
holiday arrangements or damage arising from the nonperformance or improper performance of the services
involved in your travel package or tour relates to, or if you
or any member of your party is killed, injured or becomes
ill during or as a result of carriage by aircraft, ship, train or
coach forming part of the holiday arrangements booked
before departure in your trip with Us, our liability to pay
compensation and/or the amount of compensation we
will pay is limited in accordance with the liability of the
carrier under any international convention which governs
such services. International Conventions which may apply
include, but are not limited to, the following: in respect of
carriage by sea, the Athens Convention 1974; in respect of
rail carriage, the Berne Convention 1961; and, in respect
of carriage by road, the Geneva Convention 1973. The
terms of these conventions are incorporated into and form
part of your contract with Us. You should also be aware
that these conventions may limit or remove the carrier’s
liability to you and the amount which the carrier has to
pay to you in the event of damage, death or personal
injury. You should also know that the carrier will rely upon
its ‘conditions of carriage’ which may limit or remove the
carrier’s liability to you and limit compensation under
international conventions.
21. If we make any payment to you or any member of your
party for death, personal injury or illness, you must give
Us or our insurers the rights you may have to take action
against the person or organisation responsible for causing
the death, personal injury or illness and you must cooperate
fully with Us in seeking recovery of any payment we may
make to you.
22. Where, as a result of circumstances beyond our
control, we are obliged to change or end your holiday
after departure, but before the end of your holiday, we
will not pay compensation or reimburse you for expenses
incurred. You should have adequate travel insurance for
your holiday and claim via your insurance company for any
loss or out-of-pocket expenses you incur as a result of the
change or premature end to your holiday. In the event that
any claim is made directly with Us and notwithstanding
these terms and conditions we are held to be responsible
for that claim, our liability to pay compensation and/or the
amount of compensation will be limited in accordance
with the conventions referred to in clause 20 above.
23. If however after departure, a significant portion of
the services you have contracted for is not provided or
we become aware that we will be unable to procure a
significant proportion of the services to be provided:
(a) we will make suitable alternative arrangements, at no
extra cost to you, for the continuation of the package and
will, where appropriate, compensate you for the difference
between the services to be supplied under our contract
with you and those supplied; and
(b) if it is not possible to make the arrangements referred
to in clause 23(a) above, or these arrangements are
not accepted by you for good reasons, we will, where
appropriate, provide you with equivalent transport back
to the place of departure or to another place to which you
have agreed and will, where appropriate, compensate you.
24. Every effort will be made to operate the tours in this
brochure or on our website, but there may be a necessity
to vary the itinerary, or delays may occur for a variety of
reasons beyond our control. In the instance that we are
unable to visit a site included in the list of entrances due
to seasonal opening hours, we will offer a reasonable
alternative in fitting with the itinerary. You will therefore
need to undertake the tour of your choice with a flexible
attitude.
25. All our tours are conducted in English.
26. No refund can be made for services not used once
the tour has begun, howsoever this eventuality may be
occasioned, including where you decide to leave the tour
early. The final decision on the itinerary and the content
of the tour will be taken by the Back-Roads Tour Leader,
as appointed by Us, taking into account the interests of the
group as a whole.
INSURANCE
35. It is a condition of booking that you and all members
of your party take out comprehensive travel insurance
before you travel on your Back-Roads Tour and that it is
adequate for your needs. Your insurance must include
cover for cancellation, medical and repatriation expenses,
personal injury, death, cover for loss of baggage, money
and valuables, personal liability, delay, curtailment,
missed departure and legal expenses. If you suffer from
a disability or medical condition you should disclose
this to insurers. Insurance cover offered by credit card
companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements
are often not sufficiently comprehensive to cover these
things. Your travel insurance should be taken out at time
of booking.
36. You also agree to indemnify Us against all third-party
actions taken against Us in respect of actions, accidents
or damages caused by or to you arising from your
participation in the holiday.
37. In the event of you making a claim against Us for
services rendered on your trip, you agree to sign over to
Us, any rights to take action against the supplier or any
other person or party that you have a complaint or legal
right against and to co-operate fully with Us should we or
our Insurers wish to enforce those rights which have been
assigned to Us.
38. In the event of you not making a claim under your
insurance policy by the date falling five days before the
maximum length of time permitted by your policy for
making claims, you shall assign, by letter sent by special
delivery post to Us not less than five days prior to the said
specified maximum time, the benefit of the insurance
policy to Us and give immediate notice of such an
assignment to the Insurer.
EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY
27. Force Majeure
27.1 We do not accept liability for any loss, damage or
expense resulting from a force majeure event. Force
majeure means unusual and unforeseeable circumstances
beyond our reasonable control or the control of our
suppliers, the consequences of which neither Us nor our
suppliers could avoid even with all due care, including, but
not limited to, war or terrorist activities, threatened or actual,
civil unrest, riot, industrial action, threatened or actual,
adverse weather conditions, fire, flood, drought, natural or
nuclear disaster, closures, unforeseen alterations to public
transport schedules, changes imposed by rescheduling
of aircraft or boats, unavoidable technical problems with
transport, machinery or equipment, power failure, epidemic
or outbreaks of illness or any other event outside our control
the consequences of which could not have been avoided
even if all due care had been exercised, which either delays
or extends the tour, compels a change in the holiday
arrangements or its cancellation.
27.2 We will not accept responsibility for any client who
contravenes any law or regulation of any of the countries
visited while on the tour.
28. Health and Medical Conditions
28.1 If you, or any member of your party have a medical
condition or disability which may affect your holiday you
must tell Us at time of booking so we are able to advise
as to the suitability of your chosen arrangements. We
may ask you to complete a medical assessment form
to assist Us. If we reasonably feel we are unable to
properly accommodate the particular needs of the person
concerned, we reserve the right to decline the booking
or ask for the person to be accompanied by a person
who is able to provide full assistance to them throughout
their tour.
28.2 All participants on a Back-Roads Tour must be in
good health as walking is a fundamental part of these
tours. Our tours are not suitable for anyone with physical
or mental disabilities, or restriction of movement.
28.3 You should also be aware that your fellow travelers
may be of a wide age range and from various nationalities.
COMPLAINTS
39. In the unlikely event of any dissatisfaction with the
accommodation or any other services provided by Us,
you must report it immediately to your Back-Roads Touring
tour leader so that prompt efforts can be taken to find
appropriate solutions to the problem. It is unreasonable
to take no action whilst on holiday, but then write a letter
of complaint upon return. Failure to notify the tour leader
of any problem immediately or at the earliest opportunity
in writing or any other appropriate form, may result in your
ability to claim compensation from Us being extinguished or
at least reduced. If your complaint is about the tour leader
please contact the Back-Roads Touring head office directly.
Refer to our tour documents for full contact details.
40. Any complaint made to Us after the holiday has
finished should be made in writing within 28 days of
holiday completion. In the event you do not notify Us in
writing within 28 days, this may affect the company’s
ability to investigate your complaint and may impact on
the way that your complaint is dealt with. In consequence,
this may affect your rights under this contract.
YOUR LIABILITY TO US
29. You must comply with all Government laws,
regulations, local customs and foreign exchange
regulations of each of the countries visited whilst on tour.
Should we detect any contravention of any relevant law,
regulation or custom, you may be asked to leave the tour
without a refund of the tour fees you have paid.
30. No passenger will be permitted to embark or continue
on the trip while their mental or physical condition is, in
the reasonable opinion of any representative of BackRoads Touring, or any tour leader, hotel manager, or
other person in authority, such as to render him or her
incapable of caring for himself or herself, or whereby their
behaviour is causing danger to themselves or to other
passengers, damage to property, or persistently affecting
the enjoyment of others. We reserve the right to terminate
your holiday immediately in such a situation.
31. We will not be responsible for expenses resulting in
such persons being precluded from completing the tour
for any reason, nor will we be able to refund them any part
of their trip cost.
32. In all cases we will notify you of the situation and the
reasons why we have taken any action against or towards
you. We will have no obligation to arrange for your return
to the point of departure.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
33. Please ensure you carefully read your confirmation
invoice, tickets and all other documents we send to you as
soon as you receive them, and contact your travel agent,
or Us if any information appears to be incorrect. We regret
that we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified
of any inaccuracy in any document within 14 days of Us
sending them to you or your travel agent. While we will do
our best to rectify any changes made outside this time, it
is your responsibility to meet any additional costs which
may be involved, except in the case of an error made
solely by Us and where there is good reason for you not
contacting Us within the specified time.
34. Each passenger is responsible for ensuring that
all necessary travel documents (e.g. passports, visas,
vaccination certificates etc.) are valid and effective. We
strongly recommend that you verify current information
with your travel agent. We will not be liable to make any
refund or pay compensation if you or any member of your
party is unable to proceed with the holiday as planned
because of incorrect or missing personal documents.
DATA PROTECTION
41. Information about you and members of your party,
including your names, contact details and any special
needs, disabilities or dietary requirements, is collected
by Us when you request information or make a booking
with Us. You are responsible for ensuring that other
members of your party are aware of our booking terms and
conditions and this privacy policy, and that they consent
to you acting on their behalf in your dealings with Us. We
have measures in place to protect the personal booking
information held by Us. However, in order to make your
booking and ensure that your travel arrangements run
smoothly, we need to use the information you provide to
Us and pass it on to relevant suppliers. The information
may also be provided to public authorities such as
customs or immigration for security and anti-terrorism
purposes, if required by them, or as required by law.
We will only pass your information on to persons
responsible for your travel arrangements.
42. This applies to any sensitive information that you
give to Us such as details of any disabilities, dietary
requirements or religious beliefs. If we cannot pass this
information on to the relevant suppliers, whether in the
EU or not, we will be unable to provide your booking and
we cannot accept your booking. In making this booking,
you consent to this information being passed on to the
relevant persons. You have the right to ask Us in writing
for a data subject access request to obtain a copy of
the information which we hold about you. You will be
charged a fee for this. Any requests should be addressed
to the Company Secretary, Back-Roads Touring Co.
Limited, Level 1, 107 Power Road, London, W4 5PY, UK.
SMOKING
43. We operate a non-smoking policy on our vehicles,
although we make frequent stops for breaks.
LUGGAGE
44. There are strict weight limits in Europe and the UK
for vehicles when fully loaded, therefore we have limited
luggage capacity. Therefore you are only entitled to one
piece of main luggage of a standard size of no more than
158cm and not weighing more than 20kg. In addition you
may bring a daypack. If you are carrying more luggage than
this allowance we are within our rights to refuse to carry
additional bags and you will be responsible for making
alternative storage arrangements.
GENERAL
45. No servant or representative of Back-Roads Touring
has any right to alter, vary or waive any of these terms
and conditions, nor do they have the right to undertake
any liability whatsoever on behalf of Back-Roads Touring
unless such alteration, variation, waiver or undertaking
is in writing and signed by a duly authorised representative
on behalf of Us.
46. All contracts with Back-Roads Touring are governed
by UK Law and are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of
the UK Courts.
47. You understand that future Back-Roads Touring
advertising or publicity material may include statements
made by passengers, or their photographs, and
you consent to such use of your comments and/or
photographic / video likeness.
Get the latest news and offers by
signing up to our E-newsletter at:
backroadstouring.com/newsletter
Call: 1877 3304850
Email: [email protected]
Share, collaborate and connect on our
Facebook page at:
facebook.com/backroadstouringco
Level 1, 107 Power Road
London, W4 5PY, UK
Back-Road Touring Co. Ltd UK
Registration number 02473373
Browse and research on our
website at:
backroadstouring.com
Finland ⊕ Great Britain ⊕ Switzerland ⊕ Italy ⊕ Austria
⊕ Germany ⊕ Czech Republic ⊕ Poland ⊕ Slovakia ⊕ Hungary

The Experts In Small Group Touring

Transcription

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