Take Six - Autumn Offers

Transcription

Take Six - Autumn Offers
Take Six - Autumn Offers
f o r
d i s c e r n i n g
t r a v e l l e r s
Offers for Autumn & Early Winter 2014
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Autumn is the perfect time of year for a short break, and we have selected some of our favourite destinations
for the coming months. As the summer fades, an escape to warmer climates becomes an increasingly
appealing proposition, and it is the perfect opportunity for a few days of warm sunshine. Autumn also sees
gastronomic restaurants reopen, opera seasons resume with their autumn and winter programmes and new
exhibitions open across Europe.
We have selected the autumn’s best relaxing holidays and cultural city breaks, inspired by some of our
favourite hotels, personal experiences and Europe’s most outstanding monuments, museums and
theatres. For those who enjoy travelling with a group of like-minded companions we have included
some of our most successful escorted Cultural Tours & Music Holidays. In addition we have
asked our experts to choose a selection of their favourite long haul destinations such as India, Sri
Lanka and Southern Africa for those seeking an escape to warm winter sunshine.
Finally, if you are considering a winter holiday, turn to the back page for some festive inspiration
– whether it is an arctic adventure or glühwein and carols in a mediaeval city.
We look forward to hearing from you soon.
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Ted Wake - Joint M.D. & Director of Sales & Marketing
Six of the Best Classic City Breaks
Prices are per person and include flights (Eurostar for Paris), transfers, accommodation with breakfast, Kirker Guide Notes to restaurants, museums and
sightseeing, and the services of the Kirker Concierge to book concert, opera and ballet tickets or reserve a table for a delicious dinner.
Rome
This attractive hotel is located in
the heart of Venice, just a five minute
stroll from St. Mark’s Square. Formerly a
patrician Venetian palace, the Ca’ dei Conti
has been transformed into a boutique hotel
with 35 rooms, all with elegant
Venetian furniture in
the classic 18th
Century style.
4 nights for the
price of 3 all year
- price from £749,
saving £120
Includes Doge’s Palace, Accademia or Guggenheim
tickets and water taxi transfers.
Located just five minutes’ walk
from the Coliseum in the
heart of ancient Rome. All
65 bedrooms in this restored
19th Century town house are
furnished with great taste. The
large rooftop terrace overlooks
a 4th Century Convent.
4 nights for the price of 3 all
year (including a Sunday)
- price from £695, saving £128
Includes entrance tickets to the
Vatican Museum & Sistine
Chapel or Villa Borghese.
Salzburg
Monaco
Sacher Salzburg ***** Deluxe
Metropole ***** Deluxe
Under the same family ownership as the Sacher in Vienna,
the Sacher Salzburg offers turn of the century style and 120
individually furnished bedrooms. Enjoy elegant dining in
the main restaurant with wonderful castle and river views,
and traditional hospitality in the Zirbelstube. Delicious
coffee and pastries are served in the ‘Café Sacher’, cocktails
in the piano bar.
4 nights for the price
of 3 until
27 November
- price from £799,
saving £125
Published September 2014
Seville
Capo d’Africa
**** Superior
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Ca’ dei Conti **** Superior
4 nights for the price of 3 all
year - price from £695, saving
£135
Includes 48 hour museum pass,
Seine cruise & Metro tickets.
on
The Royal is housed in an
attractive building dating
from the 19th Century and
has a wonderful location
a stone’s throw from the
Arc de Triomphe and the
Champs Elysées. The 58
bedrooms are all furnished
in a classical style.
Venice
al
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Paris
Royal ****
Casa No. 7
A boutique private hotel
Built in 1847 and owned by
the charming Gonzalo del Rio
(a member of the GonzalezGordon sherry family), Casa
No.7 is a delightful town
house with just six beautifully
furnished bedrooms, and a
fine collection of antiques
and works of art. This is a real
Spanish home located in the
heart of the old town.
4 nights for the price of 3 all
year (excl. Fri & Sat night stays)
- price from £585, saving £90
Index
Six of the Best...
The Metropole is one of the
principality’s most famous
hotels. The 150 bedrooms are
spacious and very comfortable
and there is an excellent
restaurant (two Michelin stars)
with a large summer terrace,
an outdoor swimming pool
and a wonderful spa.
4 nights for the price of 3 until
31 October - price from £992
3 nights for the price of 2 in
November & December - price from
£585 per person, saving £330
City Breaks
Autumn Sunshine
City Walking Tours
Rural Retreats
Cathedral Cities
Small Museums
Literary Links
‘Palace’ Hotels
Opera Breaks
Kirker Team Favourites
Cultural Tours
Includes helicopter transfer on
departure or both ways from 1 Nov
Winter Holidays
Music Holidays
Long Haul Holidays
To make a booking or request a brochure
please contact your independent travel agent
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Six of the Best For Autumn Sunshine
As temperatures decline and the days get shorter, Southern Europe offers tempting destinations to escape for a few days of restorative sunshine,
alfresco lunches, relaxing swimming pools and verdant gardens.These are some of our favourite destinations in Italy, France, Spain and Portugal,
to enjoy both autumn holidays and winter short breaks.
Prices are per person and include flights, private transfers or car hire, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Andalucia
Sicily
Casa Vina de Alcantara
A superior country house hotel
Verdura Golf & Spa Resort ***** Deluxe
Located 10 minutes’ drive from Jerez, this handsome country house has
been immaculately restored by our good friend Gonzalo del Rio. With
just nine comfortable rooms, Alcantara has a unique atmosphere that is
more like a private house than a boutique hotel. There is a swimming
pool in the gardens surrounded by delightful pine woodland and
vineyards. Although there is no restaurant, the hotel serves a delicious
breakfast and there are good restaurants nearby. Sherry tasting and golf
can be arranged in Jerez and the
surrounding area.
4 nights for the price of 3 all year
(excl. Fri & Sat)
- price from £669, saving £81
Rocco Forte Hotels’ new venture is the most luxurious resort
Sicily has seen. It is situated on the sea, just outside Sciacca and 30
kilometres from the temples at Agrigento. There are 203 bedrooms,
two 18 hole golf courses and a 9 hole course. Several restaurants cater
for all tastes from fine dining to midday snacks on the private beach.
The Health Club has five Thalassotherapy pools and a restaurant
for those who prefer to stick to a strict regime or who have special
dietary requirements. There is also a large outdoor swimming pool
and all guests have access to the private pebble beach. Only an hour
away from Palermo airport, the
hotel is proving popular with
people looking for the latest stateof-the-art luxury.
4 nights for the price of 3 until
1 November
- price from £899, saving £177
St Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Côte d’Azur
Cascais
Royal Riviera ***** Deluxe
Senhora da Guia *****
This elegant hotel stands at the entrance to St. Jean-Cap-Ferrat and
has been a favourite for the affluent since its opening in 1904. It was
renovated by renowned hotelier Grace Leo-Andrieu who created a
stylish contemporary feel without compromising the Royal Riviera’s
history. There are 77 bedrooms in the main building and a further
14 rooms in the Orangerie in the delightful gardens. The rooms are
decorated in a beautiful Provençal style.
There is a swimming pool, a gastronomic
restaurant, ‘Le Panorama’, which looks out
over the gardens and a lighter menu is offered
at ‘La Pergola’. Prices are based on Superior
rooms with garden and sea view. Hotel open
until 26 November.
3 nights for the price of 2 from
1 October - 25 November
- price from £699, saving £194
A 30 minute taxi ride from Lisbon, this elegant retreat is within
the protected area of the Sintra Cascais Natural Park, close to the
magnificent beach at Guincho and just two miles from Cascais. Familyowned, it offers an intimate environment where the emphasis is on
personal service. The wonderful sea views can be enjoyed whether
you are lounging by the saltwater swimming pool, relaxing in the
landscaped gardens or sampling the delicious cuisine in the hotel’s
panoramic restaurant. There are 41 bedrooms and most have a balcony
or terrace – Kirker clients are accommodated in sea view rooms at
no additional charge. Additional
facilities include a fitness centre,
Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath.
Guincho is a must.
4 nights for the price of 3 from
1 October - 17 April 2015
- price from £575, saving £74
Valencia
Madeira
Melia Plaza **** Superior
Quinta Do Estreito **** Superior
Valencia enjoys a wonderful location on the Mediterranean and is one
of Spain’s best kept secrets – the perfect location for a civilised short
break. Enjoying one of the best locations in Valencia on Town Hall
Square, the Melia Plaza sits right in the heart of the old part of the
city. Behind its original, classical façade, a modern hotel has been built
offering considerable comfort and elegance. The hotel captures the
spirit of the ‘new’ Valencia – bright colours and bold design combine
with parquet floors throughout. Each of the 104 bedrooms is stylishly
furnished and there is also a small rooftop sun terrace with excellent
views over the city.
4 nights for the price of 3
all year if stay includes a
Sunday night
- price from £599, saving £70
Includes complimentary entrance ticket to the City of Arts and Sciences
Situated over 1,000 feet above sea level, the Quinta do Estreito is a
modern hotel located in the heart of Madeira’s principal wine growing
region. It is surrounded by landscaped gardens and tropical plants and
has some of the most spectacular views over the island’s southern coast.
The restored original manor house is now home to the ‘Bacchus’
gastronomic restaurant and the ‘Veranda’ bar where a delicious buffet
breakfast is served. The 48 stylish bedrooms have wood flooring, marble
bathrooms, sea views and large balconies. Light lunches and drinks
are served at the rooftop ‘Cypress Bar’ next to the sun terrace and
heated outdoor swimming pool
(covered in winter). The hotel
operates a complimentary shuttle
service to Funchal, a 15 minute
drive away.
7 nights for the price of 6 from
1 October - 26 December
- price from £755, saving £58
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
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Six of the Best City Walking Tours
There is no better way to explore a new city than to walk the streets with an expert local guide. A morning in the company of a Kirker guide can
bring the past and present of your destination to life, and in a number of our destinations we now include a walking tour for all Kirker clients at
no extra charge.
Prices are per person and include flights, transfers, accommodation with breakfast, a walking tour with an expert Kirker guide
and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Prague
One of Europe’s best preserved mediaeval
cities, with a fascinating recent history.
Casa Marcello ****
Located in the historical city centre
of Prague, in the delightful Josefov
district (the original Jewish quarter)
and adjacent to the 13th Century
St.Agnes Convent which was
founded by the sister of King Wenceslas I.
Although renovated, the hotel retains an air of monastic tranquillity
and has a terrace and garden where drinks may be enjoyed in summer.
There is a restaurant (open April to October), 31 simply furnished,
but comfortable bedrooms and a small spa offering wine therapy
treatments. Sauna. No lift.
4 nights for the price of 3 until 31 March 2015 - price from £649,
saving £69
All Kirker holidays to Prague include a three hour private walking tour with an
expert local guide.
Marrakech
A local guide is an essential
introduction to the colourful maze of
the ancient medina.
Riad El Cadi **** Superior
Just five minutes from Djemaa El
Fna Square the El Cadi combines
several original riads, to create a
series of connecting courtyards
which are decorated with the former
owner’s remarkable collection of ceramics, textiles and furniture. Each
of the 12 rooms is unique, and there is also a small swimming pool, a
hammam and an extensive rooftop terrace. The traditional riad design
consists of an open courtyard, with plants and fountains, surrounded
by rooms which face inwards, creating a tranquil, cool environment
even during the heat of the day.
3 night price from £689
All Kirker Holidays to Marrakech include a half day private walking tour of
the Medina with an expert local guide.
Istanbul
There is no better way to understand the
complex history of this ancient metropolis
than with a local guide.
Eresin Crown **** Superior
This comfortable hotel is in an
excellent location in the heart of the
Sultanahmet district. It was built on
the site of an Ottoman palace and many
of the archaeological finds uncovered during
the construction now form part of the hotel’s unique private museum.
The 59 rooms are decorated in a modern style with paintings from the
hotel’s collection. The bar and excellent ‘Mosaic’ restaurant are located
on the ground floor – in summer meals are served on the rooftop
terrace with its spectacular views across the old town.
3 night price from £979, saving £131
Price includes a half day private walking tour with an expert local guide.
Venice
Perfect for exploring on foot, the canals,
alleys and piazzas of Venice hold
many secret treasures which are best
unearthed with an expert local guide.
Londra Palace **** Deluxe
The Londra is managed by our
great friend Alain Bullo and is
now a member of Relais Châteuax.
It is one of our favourite hotels in Venice and Kirker
clients have always been especially well looked after. It has a bar,
a comfortable lounge, a restaurant, the ‘Do Leoni’ with a terrace
overlooking the lagoon and 53 bedrooms which are amongst the
finest in the city. All Kirker rooms have spectacular lagoon views at no
extra charge.
4 nights for the price of 3 all year - price from £1,098, saving £198
All Kirker clients in Venice on a Tuesday morning are invited to join the
Kirker Walking Tour for only £15.
Bruges
An historic merchant city, the streets, waterways
and architecture of Bruges reward patient
exploration on foot with small museums,
hidden churches and traditional workshops.
The Pand **** Deluxe
A beautifully restored 18th Century
mansion located just two minutes’ walk
from the Market Square, this is an award-winning boutique hotel
and has a very relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The 24 individually
furnished rooms include eleven junior suites decorated with Ralph
Lauren fabrics. There is a cosy bar, a stylish lounge and an attractive
breakfast room where a champagne breakfast is served and hot dishes
are prepared on the AGA.
3 nights for the price of 2 for Sunday - Wednesday arrivals until
5 January 2015 - price from £489, saving £145
Midweek guests at The Pand may join the complimentary city walking tour.
Florence
Kirker’s expert guides provide an invaluable
insight into the intrigue, conflicts and art of
Renaissance Florence.
Antica Torre di via Tornabuoni 1
(a boutique residence)
This beautiful 13th Century property is a
few minutes’ walk from the Duomo. It is
considered to be one of mediaeval Florence’s most historic ‘tower houses’
and has preserved many architectural characteristics, including two
magnificent roof terraces where you can enjoy breakfast or an evening
aperitif whilst taking in the panoramic views of the city.The seven
renovated rooms in the Palazzo Gianfigliazzi, where Kirker clients will be
accommodated, are some of the most stylish and comfortable in Florence.
Complimentary lunch for 3 night stays until 31 October
- price from £975
3 nights for the price of 2 from 1 November to 31 March
- price from £722, saving £130
Price includes a three hour private walking tour with an expert local guide.
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
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Six of the Best Rural Retreats
A few days in one of our countryside hotels is the perfect way to relax and enjoy time away from the usual humdrum routine. Speak to your
independent travel agent for advice so that we can recommend the perfect property with just the right blend of style and comfort combined with an
excellent restaurant and perhaps an opportunity for swimming, walking or a private guided tour at a cultural site nearby.
Prices are per person and include flights, car hire, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Umbria
Dordogne
Villa Milani **** A historic residence
Moulin de L’Abbaye **** Deluxe
Located in a prominent position above the historic Umbrian town of
Spoleto, just under two hours drive from Rome, this beautiful villa
was built in 1880 by the famous Roman architect Giovanni Milani as
a private summer residence. Restored to its original splendour by his
great-granddaughter Giovanna and her husband Luigi Capobianchi,
it is a fascinating and stylish place to stay. The villa is surrounded
by a park filled with oak trees and olive groves and the views of
the town and the Umbrian countryside are spectacular. There are
just 11 bedrooms – each of which
is decorated with wonderful
antiques (the most impressive is
the unique tower room with its
four walls of glass – supplement
on request). Hotel open until 31
October.
3 nights for the price of 2 all year
- price from £579, saving £119
Situated on the banks of the river Dronne in the heart of Brantome,
two hours from Bordeaux, the Moulin de L’Abbaye is a charming
and friendly ivy-clad hotel divided into three separate buildings. The
mill itself provided the town with flour, wool and electricity and now
houses the comfortable lounge bar and restaurant situated on the
river’s edge with a tree-shaded terrace. The 20 rooms are beautifully
furnished and decorated in a classical and cosy French style and are
also located in an annexe opposite as well as in a 13th Century town
house which is the former home of the town’s abbot and is on the
other side of the river, a five
minute walk. No lift. Hotel open
until 3 November.
Florence
Salzkammergut
Villa La Massa ***** Deluxe
This noble 16th Century residence is set within extensive gardens on
the banks of the River Arno, 15 minutes from the centre of Florence,
Villa La Massa offers exactly the right balance for those looking to
combine culture and relaxation. The 37 bedrooms are decorated in
traditional Florentine style with local fabrics and antiques from the
hotel’s collection. There is a summer swimming pool in the peaceful
gardens, an excellent riverside restaurant, a tennis court, a brand new
spa and bicycles for guests to explore the surroundings. Wine tasting
in the vaulted cellar and cooking classes with Executive Chef, Andrea
Quagliarella can be arranged
upon request.
3 nights for the price of 2 from
28 September - 2 November
- price from £798, saving £195
3 nights for the price of 2 until
3 November
- price from £589, saving £95
Schloss Fuschl ***** Deluxe
This romantic castle, with its perfect lakeside setting lies in its own
parkland, has beautiful views of the peaceful Fuschlsee and its
surrounding mountains and yet is just 20 minutes from Salzburg.
Facilities include a luxury spa designed in a ‘Fin de Siecle’ style with
indoor pools and an outdoor sauna. The gastronomic restaurant serves
superb Eurasian cuisine, whilst the 16th Century vaulted ‘Schloss Bar
and Restaurant’ serves Austrian specialities. The ‘vinotek’ vaulted cellar
has an extensive selection including rare Bordeaux and Austrian wines
and light meals are available on the lakeshore jetty. The Schloss Fuschl
has 94 rooms plus six private lakeside cottages and all are beautifully
furnished.
4 nights for the price of 3 from
1 November - 22 December
- price from £739, saving £120
Andalucia
Mallorca
Hacienda de San Rafael
A deluxe country house hotel
Valldemossa **** Deluxe
Located in the heart of the country some 25 miles from Jerez and
Seville, this is without doubt one of our favourite hotels in Spain.
Our good friends – the Reid family – have converted their elegant,
very Spanish former farmhouse into a small, luxurious hotel. The
11 bedrooms are very well furnished and are set around a flowerfilled courtyard. There is a beautiful sitting room, a dining room, an
air-conditioned library with TV, gardens, and an open-air swimming
pool with sun terraces. Three Casitas
have been built in the Hacienda’s
grounds. Each is air-conditioned
and has a bedroom, a separate
living room, a bathroom with
separate shower and a private
garden.
4 nights for the price of 3 in
October - price from £998,
saving £185
Located 15 minutes’ drive from Palma and just five minutes’ walk
from the historic town of Valldemossa, this delightful hotel is one
of the best on the island. The building dates from the late 19th
Century and sits in tranquil terraced gardens with some of the most
wonderful views imaginable. There are just 12 bedrooms decorated
in traditional country style with beamed ceilings and terracotta tile
floors, many have terraces. There is a relaxing lounge, a cosy bar and
a wonderful restaurant which is already a
favourite with Mallorquins. There is
a wonderful outdoor swimming
pool in the gardens. Hotel open
until 5 November.
4 nights for the price of 3
in October - price from £859,
saving £167
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
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Six of the Best Cathedral Cities
Some of Europe’s most spectacular and enduring monuments are the cathedrals, which provide an enduring reminder of the power and faith of
former generations and a testament to the engineering prowess and artistic skill of the craftsmen who constructed them, often over a period of several
centuries. Not only are they breathtaking landmarks, but many also contain spectacular collections of art, relics and stained glass windows.
The Kirker Concierge can arrange private guided tours including a cathedral visit.
Prices are per person and include flights, transfers, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Toledo
One of the masterpieces of Spanish Gothic architecture,Toledo’s
spectacular cathedral also contains a collection of paintings including
Van Dyck, Goya and the famous former resident El Greco.
Eugenia de Montijo **** Deluxe
This elegant hotel is located just 300 metres from the cathedral. It is a
Renaissance building and was the palace of the Empress Eugenia de
Montijo, the wife of Napoleon III. Decorated throughout in classical
style, it has 40 comfortable rooms, a light and airy lounge and a
gastronomic restaurant, ‘Belvis’, which is overseen by Adolfo Munoz,
a local chef of great repute (restaurant open Tuesday to Saturday).
The hotel’s wonderful spa has
incorporated elements of the old
Roman and Arabic architecture.
4 nights for the price of 3 all year
- price from £789, saving £75
Seville
The Cathedral of Seville, constructed to showcase the city’s
extraordinary mercantile wealth in the 15th Century, not only
surpassed Istanbul’s Haghia Sophia but has remained the largest
cathedral in the world ever since.
Doña Maria ****
A characterful hotel which stands opposite the cathedral in the
Barrio Santa Cruz – the labyrinthine Jewish quarter in the centre of
Seville’s old city. The cool Andalucian décor
extends from the comfortable lounge to
the individually furnished bedrooms
and to the rooftop terrace and open-air
summer swimming pool, with its
spectacular views of the cathedral and
Giralda tower.
4 nights for the price of 3 until
13 November
- price from £599, saving £86
Paris
An iconic landmark, Notre Dame de Paris, with its gruesome gargoyles
and flying buttresses, has become a symbol of the city for almost
800 years.
Notre Dame *** Superior
This is probably one of the most expensive small three star hotels in
Paris. But it’s worth it.You’re paying for location (right on the busy
Quai St. Michel waterfront on the Left Bank) and
for the quality. Twenty one steps lead up
to the first floor, lift and reception/bar
with beamed ceilings where breakfast
is served overlooking the cathedral.
There are 26 small bedrooms decorated
in vibrant colours. Rooms reserved
for Kirker clients look directly onto
the River Seine and Notre Dame
Cathedral.
Cologne
Visible for miles in every direction, the great twin spires of Cologne
Cathedral make for one of the most imposing façades in the world, and
the soaring vaulted interior is no less astonishing.
Excelsior Hotel Ernst *****
Perfectly situated in the heart of Cologne, in the tall shadow of the
iconic cathedral, the Excelsior Ernst has been welcoming guests for
150 years. Privately-owned, it is
the city’s Grand Dame and exudes
an air of tradition and elegance.
All 142 bedrooms are individually
decorated using antiques and
original paintings and some
overlook the cathedral.
3 night price from £621
Dresden
Constructed in the 18th Century Dresden’s Cathedral of the Holy Trinity
was restored to its Baroque splendour after suffering damage in the Second
World War, and stands opposite the famous Semper Opera House.
Bülow Palais ***** Superior
This delightful Relais & Châteaux hotel is the sister property of
the Bülow Residenz and is located just around the corner in the
same peaceful cobbled streets. It has been built in keeping with the
historic Baroque surroundings and in contrast, the interior is in a
contemporary style with bold colours and elegant furniture. The 58
bedrooms have been decorated with the
same care and finesse as the public
areas, creating a cosy and luxurious
environment.
3 nights for the price of 2 from
1 October - 21 November
- price from £639, saving £115
Milan
The largest cathedral in Italy, Milan’s Duomo was only completed in
1965 after a process which began in 1386.Today the myriad spires
form a focal point at the centre of the city and a spectacular backdrop
to the Piazza del Duomo.
Carlton Baglioni ***** Deluxe
Very well located on the Via Senato, the Carlton Baglioni is only 10
minutes’ walk from the cathedral and La Scala. Milan’s most famous
shopping street,Via della Spiga is right on the
doorstep.The hotel has an attractive lounge
and café bar furnished with antiques, a
famous gastronomic restaurant and 92
classically decorated bedrooms. The
Guerlain spa offers a comprehensive
range of restorative treatments.
3 night price from £699
3 night price from £629
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
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Six of the Best Small Museums
Whilst everyone should visit the world’s greatest galleries from the Hermitage to the Louvre, with their vast collections and famous artists,
discerning travellers also enjoy discovering the smaller museums and former private collections which are too often overlooked in favour of more
famous neighbours.We have selected six of our favourites, with tickets included, but the Kirker Concierge can recommend hidden treasures in many
of our destinations and will help with advance tickets where necessary.
Prices are per person and include flights, transfers, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Florence
Bruges
Bargello Museum
Housed in a former prison, the Bargello is home to one of the world’s
finest collections of Renaissance sculpture, including masterpieces by
Michelangelo, Donatello and Bernini.
Groeninge Museum
A delightful discovery in mediaeval Bruges, the Groeninge Museum
showcases one of the finest collections of Flemish and Belgian painting
from Van Eyck to Magritte.
Relais Santa Croce ***** Deluxe
Giunone e Pavoni
Bartolomeo Ammannati
A recent restoration has returned this hotel
to its original splendour. All 24 bedrooms are
beautifully decorated with a combination of
antique and designer elements; many overlook the
Florence skyline. The elegant ‘Guelfi e Ghibellini’
restaurant combines traditional Tuscan recipes with
contemporary flair.
4 nights for the price of 3 all year
- price from £1,170, saving £247
3 nights for the price of 2 from 1 Nov - 27 Dec
- price from £738, saving £155
Heritage **** Superior
The privately owned Heritage is a charming Relais & Châteaux
property with an excellent location just 100 metres from the Market
Square and within easy walking distance of all of Bruges’ main
attractions. It is housed in an attractive classical building dating from
1869 and is decorated in a
traditional style.
4 nights for the price of 3 in
November & December
- price from £489, saving £103
Groeninge Museum
© Sarah Bauwens
Includes Uffizi Gallery, Accademia or Bargello tickets
Includes a three day (72 hour) museum pass providing complimentary entrance
to 16 different locations in Bruges, including The Groeninge Museum
Lisbon
Madrid
Gulbenkian
The extraordinary collection of Armenian industrialist Calouste
Gulbenkian includes ancient artefacts, Oriental, Islamic and Classical art
as well as a remarkable collection of decorative arts and Lalique glassware.
Thyssen
Almost opposite the Prado, the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza is a former
private collection which includes works from 14th Century Italy up to
the French Impressionists, Cubists and Abstract Expressionists.
Tivoli Lisboa *****
Located on the main Avenida de Liberdade, close to the Botanical
Gardens, the Tivoli offers extensive lounges and the rooftop ‘Terraco
Grill’ with superb views of the castle,
river and old town. There is a heated
outdoor swimming pool (open all
year) with gardens and sun terraces.
3 night price from £697 until 31 Oct
3 nights for the price of 2 from
Still Life
1 Nov - 31 Mar 2015 - price from
Claude Monet
£589, saving £86
Includes a 48 hour Lisboacard providing free entrance to 25 of the city’s best
museums and monuments, free use of the bus, tram and metro network
Villa Real *****
Overlooking the Plaza de las Cortes, the
Villa Real is opposite the Parliament building
and the Thyssen museum. The Prado and
the Reina Sofia museums are also within
walking distance. Its 115 rooms are furnished
in a traditional and elegant style. The hotel
has a stylish bar and restaurant which
offers contemporary cuisine in a casual and
fashionable atmosphere.
3 night price from £649
Young Knight in a Landscape
Vittore Carpaccio
© Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza
Includes Prado, Thyssen or Reina Sofia museum tickets
Paris
Venice
Musée Jacquemart-André
A personal collection accumulated by Édouard André and Nélie
Jacquemart in their home, this museum offers an intimate exploration
of high-quality painting and sculpture in a grand domestic setting.
Museo Correr
Set within the south wing of St Mark’s Square, this unique museum
contains a picture gallery, a collection of Canova sculpture and a
fascinating exhibition on the history of Venice itself.
Portrait of Mathilde de Canisy,
Marquise d’Antin
Jean-Marc Nattier
Victor Hugo ***
A very good quality, well maintained, familyrun hotel located some 10 minutes’ walk
from the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs
Elysées. Comfortable lounge, bar, attractive
breakfast room where buffet breakfast is
served and 76 well furnished bedrooms with
tea and coffee making facilities.
4 nights for the price of 3 all year if stay
includes a Sunday night
- price from £569, saving £93
Includes a 48 hour Museum Pass which gives you complimentary access to
over 60 museums, including the Musée Jacquemart-André
Palazzo Sant’Angelo **** Superior
The Sant’Angelo, with its excellent location between the Rialto
and Accademia Bridges, is housed in a grand Venetian palazzo. The
building has been lovingly transformed into a charming boutiquestyle hotel with just 28 bedrooms,
some of which overlook the Grand
Canal. All the rooms are decorated in
a rich, traditional Venetian style.
4 nights for the price of 3 all year for
Sunday & Monday arrivals
Pianta Venezia
- price from £779, saving £136
Joseph Heintz the Elder
Includes guaranteed entrance tickets for the Museo Correr, Doge’s Palace and the
National Archaeological Museum
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
6
Six of the Best Literary Links
Novelists, poets and journalists have always travelled for inspiration, and it is on these travels that they sometimes created their finest works,
influenced by the surroundings and people they encountered. Revisit some of the most evocative literary locations in Europe with our six of the
best hotels with links to famous writers.
Prices are per person and include flights, transfers, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Rome
d’Inghilterra **** Deluxe
The Victorian Romantic poets were always drawn to the ‘Eternal
City’, and the d’Inghilterra was a favourite of Byron, Keats and
Shelley in the 19th Century. Mark Twain also stayed here whilst
writing ‘The Innocents Abroad’ in 1867, and the excellent location,
close to the bottom of the Spanish Steps has also made it a popular
Kirker favourite for many years. It has been described as among
the 20 most charming hotels in the world and all 88 bedrooms
are individually furnished, either with antiques or in a more
contemporary style. There are several small and cosy lounges, an
intimate bar and a restaurant,
which has a terrace for alfresco
dining.
4 nights for the price of 3 all year
- price from £992, saving £222
Includes Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel or Villa Borghese tickets
Paris
Pont Royal **** Superior
In the artistic heart of the Left Bank, the Pont Royal has long held
a reputation as a favourite haunt of writers in Paris, from Ernest
Hemingway and Henry Miller, to Albert Camus, who all exchanged
ideas with the era’s intellectuals and artists in the bar. Today this
traditional hotel is surrounded by
designer shops, art galleries, cafés and
restaurants, and has still maintained
its ‘club’ character’. The hotel has 75
comfortable bedrooms, a small Japanese
garden and Joel Robuchon’s popular
restaurant ‘L’Atelier’, which is open
every day for lunch and dinner.
3 night price from £779
3 nights for the price of 2 from 1 Nov 31 Mar - price from £580, saving £145
Includes 48 hour museum pass, Seine cruise & Metro tickets.
Lake Maggiore
Ravello
Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees ***** Superior
Villa Cimbrone ***** Deluxe
George Bernard Shaw was a fan of this grand lakeside hotel in Stresa,
and Ernest Hemingway not only stayed here but set part of his famous
novel ‘A Farewell to Arms’ in the hotel. Set in its own extensive park
and overlooking the lake, this Belle Epoque style hotel still attracts
discerning travellers with its combination of tradition, history, and
excellent modern facilities. The hotel has subtropical gardens, a
large summer swimming pool, a tennis
court, water sports and a spa with a small
indoor pool. There is a bar, a lounge
and an excellent restaurant with lakeside
terrace. All 153 bedrooms are comfortably
furnished (Kirker clients will be allocated
rooms with balconies).
3 nights for the price of 2 all year for stays
including a Sunday night
- price from £689, saving £144
During the ownership of the Beckett family, many of England’s
leading literary lights came to stay here, from Vita Sackville-West who
helped to create the spectacular gardens, to Virginia Woolfe, TS Eliot
and DH Lawrence. All were attracted by Ravello’s glorious panoramic
views. Since the 12th Century, the Villa Cimbrone has been
transformed from a monastery to a private villa and finally to a small
luxury hotel. It is now one of the region’s loveliest family-owned
hotels, and its 19 antique furnished bedrooms all have wonderful
views of either the spectacular coast
or the elegant Cimbrone gardens.
There are several beautiful public
lounges, a large outdoor summer
swimming pool and a very highly
regarded restaurant.
5 nights for the price of 4 all year
- price from £1,194, saving £192
Istanbul
Juan-les-Pins
Pera Palace Jumeirah *****
Belles Rives **** Deluxe
Agatha Christie is said to have found her inspiration for ‘Murder on
the Orient-Express’ whilst residing in room 411 at the Pera Palace. It
first opened in 1892 to accommodate passengers from the OrientExpress, and reopened in 2010 after a painstaking restoration. The
aptly named ‘Agatha’ restaurant, pays tribute to the three major stops
of the former Orient-Express, by serving
a combination of French, Italian and
Turkish cuisines. The ‘Patisserie de Pera’
offers delicious hand-made cakes, while
the ‘Kubbeli Saloon’ with its ornate
high ceilings, is the perfect setting for
afternoon tea. The Spa has a traditional
Turkish bath, steam room, jacuzzi, sauna
and indoor jet stream pool.
3 night price from £995
In the 1920’s, this delightful villa was the private home of F. Scott
Fitzgerald and his wife Zelda who did much to transform a sleepy
fishing village into the glamorous haven that Juan-Les-Pins is today.
It was opened as a hotel in 1929 by the Estene family who still run
it today. It is located in a tranquil spot on the sea, a ten minute stroll
from the centre of town. There are 43 bedrooms, each decorated in
an Art Deco style which reflects the jazz-filled days of the Fitzgeralds.
The hotel has a small private sandy beach and guests may use
the pool at their sister hotel the Juana. The elegant restaurant, ‘La
Passagere’, with its large summer terrace
overlooking the water, is excellent.
3 nights for the price of 2 from
6 October - 25 April 2015
- price from £526, saving £92
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
7
Six of the Best ‘Palace’ Hotels
As 19th Century grand tourists began to travel in ever greater numbers, they began to demand ever grander accommodation. New hotels opened
across Europe with lavish palatial buildings – some converted from private palaces – offering opulently furnished accommodation, attentive service
and fine dining.Today, many of these hotels, some privately-owned, are still iconic institutions, lovingly preserved and restored, which offer guests a
chance to appreciate the historic grandeur and unique ambience of staying in a ‘palace’. Perfect for a special occasion.
Prices are per person and include flights, private transfers, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Madeira
Reid’s Palace ***** Deluxe
Reid’s Palace opened in the 19th Century, has a majestic setting on
cliffs overlooking Funchal Bay and is one of the world’s most famous
hotels offering superb service and a tranquil, civilised atmosphere.
There are three seawater swimming pools including two large
heated pools with sun terraces and one on the rocks below where sea
bathing is also an option. The ‘Pool Terrace’ restaurant has an extensive
lunch menu and bar service. There are 10 acres of landscaped gardens,
the famous bridge room where games can be arranged and a well
equipped fitness room.
The 164 bedrooms are decorated
in pastel colours with traditional
décor and all have balconies
or terraces with views of the
gardens or Funchal Bay.
3 night price from £989
Cannes
Majestic ***** Deluxe
This famous ‘palace’ hotel has a great location, close to the Palais des
Festivals and the port and sits in landscaped gardens. It is the most
luxurious hotel in Cannes and has recently undergone extensive
renovations. It now offers 305 beautiful bedrooms, combining classical
furnishings with the latest in-room technology. ‘Fouquets’ restaurant is
a superb French brasserie and has the same atmosphere as its Parisien
counterpart; in addition, ‘B. Sud’ serves a wide range of fresh seafood
by the hotel’s private beach in
summer.
4 nights for the price of 3 until
11 Oct & 18 - 25 Oct
- price from £795, saving £153
3 nights for the price of 2 from
31 Oct - 18 Nov & 22 - 29 Nov price from £559, saving £108
Seville
Vienna
Alfonso XIII ***** Deluxe
Palais Hansen Kempinski ***** Deluxe
The management and staff of this grand hotel have been looking
after Kirker clients for many years. The imposing edifice stands in
the city centre, opposite the Alcazar Palace, and has extensive gardens
and a large outdoor summer swimming pool, the perfect oasis
of calm away from the buzz of the city. Built in Moorish style, the
restaurant, lounges and bar are set around a traditional, tiled courtyard
with orange trees and
a fountain. The hotel
was recently closed
for a comprehensive
refurbishment, reopening
in 2012 fully restored to
its former glory.
3 night price from £899
San Remo
Royal ***** Deluxe
On the Italian Riviera dei Fiori, just one hour from Nice, San Remo
has fashionable shops and restaurants facing a long sandy beach. The
privately-owned Royal has been a favourite of the aristocracy and
celebrities since 1872. Clients have complimentary use of a private
beach. There are grand public rooms and 126 bedrooms, many with
balconies and sea views. The main restaurant, ‘Fiori di Murano’, also
has lovely sea views and there is an additional summer restaurant
for alfresco candlelit dining
in the park. There is a large
heated seawater swimming
pool open until October and a
luxurious spa. Hotel open until
3 November.
4 nights for the price of 3 until
2 November
- price from £869, saving £139
10 minutes’ walk from the Rathaus and 15 minutes from St. Stephen’s
Cathedral, the Palais Hansen was originally built as a hotel for the
World Exhibition in Vienna in 1873, and named after its architect,
Theophil Hansen. It has been restored to its former magnificence and
reopened in March 2013. The renovation is an elegant mix of NeoRenaissance architecture and detailing with contemporary interior
design; the result is a hotel with all the latest modern luxuries which
retains an unmistakable Viennese grandeur. There is a light, bright
lobby lounge and bar in the
glass covered central courtyard,
an additional bar, ‘Henri Lou’
and the Michelin-starred
restaurant Edvard.
Special reduction for 3 night
stays or longer all year in
Deluxe rooms - price from
£899, saving £118
San Sebastian
Maria Cristina *****
On the Basque coast of Northern Spain, San Sebastian is 75 minutes
from Bilbao and offers sandy beaches and delicious cuisine.The
Grande Dame of San Sebastian, this hotel is immaculate following a
refurbishment in 2012. It is located a short walk from the beach, the
old quarter with its famous ‘pintxos’ bars, the San Telmo Museum
and the casino, and provides the setting for the San Sebastian Film
Festival in September – the ‘Dry’ bar has a movie theme with many
signed photographs covering
the walls. The Cafe Saigon
serves Asian cuisine and has
views of the Urumen River
and Victoria Eugenia Theatre.
There are 136 renovated and
very comfortable bedrooms.
3 night price from £799
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
8
Six of the Best Opera Breaks
Whether you are a passionate opera aficionado or a curious novice, a night at the opera is highly recommended and the drama, music and the
spectacular surrounds of a grand opera house combine to create an unforgettable evening.The Kirker Concierge can secure the best seats for virtually
any opera in any city. For those who prefer to travel with a group of like-minded companions, ask about our escorted opera holidays to destinations
including Venice, Milan and New York.
Prices are per person and include flights, transfers, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Prague
Prague is a wonderful destination for opera lovers, with three theatres
offering year-round performances and excellent value for money.
Paris *****
Opposite the Municipal House, in the heart of the atmospheric old
town, the Paris is one of Prague’s best known traditional hotels and
one of the few where all the public rooms are still in the original
Art Nouveau style. These include a magnificent restaurant, a grand
staircase, lounge and the famous Café de Paris.
All of the 86 rooms have been renovated recently and are more
contemporary in style. A ‘wellness’
centre offers a jacuzzi, sauna,
solarium and ayurvedic
treatments.
3 nights for the price of 2 all
year, includes a walking tour price from £697, saving £131
Milan
With an orchestra conducted by Daniel Barenboim, the Teatro alla Scala
is one of the most revered stages in the world of opera.Whilst tickets are
regularly sold out by subscription, the Kirker Concierge can often still
obtain some of the best seats in the house.
Park Hyatt Milano ***** Deluxe
The Park Hyatt is set in a palatial building dating back to 1870.
The original façade remains, but the interiors have been beautifully
redesigned to create a stylish and luxurious hotel. It borders the
famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele arcade and is a short walk to the
Duomo. The 117 bedrooms combine the
contemporary with the classical with their
high ceilings, rich fabrics and sumptuous
furnishings. The ‘Vun’ restaurant has
recently been awarded a Michelin star.
3 nights for the price of 2 1/2 over weekend
stays all year - price from £989, saving £135
Opera tickets available from £55
Palermo
Italy’s largest house, the Teatro Massimo in Palermo is one of
Europe’s most important stages. After celebrating Wagner in 2013,
Palermo devotes most of its new season to Italian operas.
Centrale Palace **** Superior
Located in the historical centre, the Centrale Palace is just three
minutes’ walk from the Duomo and provides guests with good
value, comfortable accommodation. There are 63 bedrooms, an
elegant breakfast room, and a very
good rooftop restaurant (closed
Sundays) with outstanding views over
Palermo’s fascinating roofscape. The
hotel also has a sun terrace on the top
floor.
3 night price from £599
Opera tickets available from £330
Bordeaux
Opened in 1780, the Grand Theatre de Bordeaux is one of the most
important opera houses in Europe.
Continental ***
This city mansion, dating back to the 18th Century, is located in the
heart of Bordeaux in the cultural and commercial ‘golden triangle’
of the city. Entering from the pretty street, guests are greeted in a
comfortable lobby lounge
where the focal point is the
stately original staircase. The
hotel’s comfortable 49 rooms
and one duplex suite with
a panoramic terrace are all
furnished in a classical style.
Breakfast is served upstairs on
the mezzanine level.
3 night price from £435
Opera tickets available from £90
Venice
Rebuilt most recently in 2003,Venice’s Teatro la Fenice has truly lived
up to its moniker ‘the Phoenix’ having returned from the ashes twice to
its original 18th Century glory.
Monaco & Grand Canal **** Deluxe
The Monaco is one of Venice’s most famous hotels. The grand
staircase leads to a beautifully restored 18th Century former theatre.
The décor is contemporary and comfortable
and combines traditional Venetian elegance
with modern design. Located just 50
yards from St. Mark’s Square; the
Grand Canal flows directly in front
of the original wing. There are 99
comfortable bedrooms.
4 nights for the price of 3 all year
- price from £989, saving £207
Includes Doge’s Palace, Accademia or Guggenheim tickets and water taxi transfers.
Opera tickets available from £125
Opera tickets available from £75
Vienna
Under the direction of Franz Welser-Most, the Vienna State Opera is
not only renowned for quality, but it also offers one of the world’s busiest
schedules with performances almost every evening from September to June.
The Ritz-Carlton ***** Deluxe
Four historic Palais have been extensively renovated to create this
luxurious, contemporary design hotel. The 202 rooms and suites
are spacious and modern and comfort has not been compromised.
Austrian cuisine is available at ‘Dstrikt’ whilst the lobby lounge is ideal
for a traditional Austrian coffee or an
á la carte lunch or dinner. There is an
indoor swimming pool and spa with
six treatments rooms.
4 nights for the price of 3 from
1 October - 28 December
- price from £769, saving £118
Includes Vienna Masterticket providing entrance to the Leopold Museum and
the Kunsthistorisches Museum. Opera tickets available from £130
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
9
Six of the Best Personal Favourites
This selection of holidays has been chosen by some of the most experienced members of the reservations team who collectively have been arranging
tailor-made itineraries for Kirker clients for 70 years.
Prices are per person and include flights, private transfers (Sorrento only), accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Rosanna North - Reims
Reims, in the heart of the champagne region is only forty-five minutes from
Paris by train, which makes it a wonderful choice for an alternative short
break, or even for an extension to a holiday in the capital. Although heavily
bombed during both WW1 and WW2, the city still has some fascinating
historical sights – from ancient Roman ruins to the magnificent structure
of Notre Dame Cathedral. A walking tour with one of our expert guides
brings this vividly to life. Of course the main event – and the reason most
visitors come to Reims today –
is champagne! I would highly
recommend a tour and tasting
of one of the major champagne houses organised
by the Kirker Concierge. As a mere amateur
champagne drinker it gave me a fascinating insight,
including a tour of the cellars where we were taken
through each step of the production process –
finished off with a tasting. The ‘demi-sec’ – a perfect
combination of dry and sweet – was so delicious that
I bought a bottle myself.
Kelly Rogers - Lille
Lille’s attractive centre surprised me: three main squares make up the
heart of the town where you will find some of the city’s finest buildings –
reminders of its past as a centre of the Flemish wool trade. The old town
of “Vieux Lille” is a collection of narrow streets, lined with beautifully
decorated 17th and 18th Century buildings, flamboyant with carved
stonework, their ground floors now chic shops.You must not miss the Palais
des Beaux-Arts – a museum which houses France’s second-most important
art collection after the Louvre. At only 1 hour and 20 minutes from St.
Pancras, Lille is incredibly convenient for a
short break. I would highly recommend
staying for a couple of days, and suggest the Kirker
hotel L’Hermitage Gantois. Exposed walls and original
timbered ceilings give a feel of authenticity mixed with
all the facilities you would expect of a 4* superior hotel.
There are a number of excellent restaurants, ask the
Kirker Concierge for more information and to prebook a table for dinner.
Ted Wake - Sorrento
I love southern Italy and have recently been lucky enough to enjoy a short
family break to Sorrento. It has been a while since I was last there and I
had forgotten what a wonderful experience it is to stay in this unique part
of the world. I can highly recommend a stay at the renovated 5* Deluxe
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, which is now run by our good friend
Nicolino Grigio. There are two things that Kirker clients must do: firstly,
you should stay in a room overlooking the Bay of Naples (a little more
expensive, but the iconic view of Mount
Vesuvius is priceless); and secondly, you
must ask the Kirker Concierge to book
a table at the hotel’s excellent Terrazza Bosquet Michelin
starred restaurant – it is a sublime experience and for me
(not to mention Mrs Wake and the Wakelets) it was a key
highlight of our holiday. We also enjoyed a day trip to
Paestum with a private guide looking at the magnificent
Greek temples – and a thoroughly enjoyable stay on Capri
including a visit to Axel Munthe’s fascinating Villa San
Michele in AnaCapri.
Grand Hôtel des Templiers
**** Superior
Once a 19th Century residence, the Grand
Hôtel des Templiers is now a charming little
hotel located in the centre of Reims, just a
short walk from the cathedral. It is tastefully
decorated throughout with a homely
atmosphere. The 17 bedrooms continue the
19th Century appeal and are attractively
decorated with period furniture and bold
print wall coverings. There is a lounge bar and
an indoor swimming pool with sauna and
hammam.
3 nights for the
price of 2 from
1 October 31 December
- price from £457,
saving £111
Hermitage Gantois **** Superior
Located in a quiet, residential area of the city,
just 10 minutes’ walk from the Opera House,
the Hermitage Gantois, was an ancient hospice
dating back to the 15th Century. It has an
elegant fine dining restaurant, a more informal
brasserie (closed on Sundays) and a stylish
bar. The rooms are all individually furnished
and are located either around the courtyard
and the flower-filled patio or overlook the
streets of Lille. The interior decoration of
the hotel and its 67 rooms and junior suites
(supplements available on request) cleverly
combines the rich history of the building with
contemporary
design.
3 night price
from £463
Excelsior Vittoria ***** Deluxe
The Excelsior Vittoria is Sorrento’s top
hotel and offers the highest levels of service.
Overlooking the harbour and the iconic
silhouette of Vesuvius, it is just a short
stroll from the town centre. Well furnished
throughout with 97 rooms, there is a bar, two
restaurants, a stylish lounge and large terrace
overlooking the Bay of Naples. The hotel has
an outdoor summer swimming pool in the
extensive private gardens, with poolside bar.
Prices based on rooms with a seaview balcony.
4 nights for the price of 3 in October
- price from £978, saving £200
3 nights for the price of 2 from
1 November - 27 December
- price from £739, saving £160
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
10
Six of the Best Personal Favourites
Our expert reservations staff regularly travel to a wide range of destinations to visit hotels, research museums, galleries and restaurants so that we can offer
the most up-to-date advice and recommendations.
Prices are per person and include flights, private transfers, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Esther Smit – Lake Orta
The Italian Lakes are an excellent destination for a one or two week
holiday, but they can also make for a wonderful four night short break as
they are easily accessible from Milan Malpensa airport in less than an hour.
The most famous lake is of course Como – and it is strikingly beautiful,
with dramatic mountains all around – but for me Lake Orta was the
biggest surprise. Located west of both Lake Como and the other larger
lake, Lake Maggiore, Orta is smaller and less well known than the others,
but as a result it is also very charming and
peaceful. The picturesque town of Orta
San Giulio, with its cobbled streets, colourful local shops
faces towards the elegant island in the middle of the lake,
which is cloaked in mist in the mornings giving it an
enchanting and almost mediaeval feel. In town there are
several delicious local restaurants with lovely views of the
lake and the stunning backdrop, or for a real gastronomic
experience, ask the Kirker Concierge to reserve a table at
the Michelin-starred restaurant of the Villa Crespi, located
on the hillside, five minutes by taxi from the town.
Dominic Rossi – Marseille
For those who enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Mediterranean cities
such as Barcelona or Nice, now is the time to discover Marseille. France’s
second city is the capital of Provence, and home to delicious regional
cuisine, including sun-ripened olives, speciality breads and pastries, fresh
seafood and the famous Bouillabaisse fish stew flavoured with garlic and
saffron. Enjoying an alfresco lunch on the waterfront in the Vieux-Port,
accompanied by a local Provencal Rosé or a glass of aniseed
flavoured Pastis, is an essential experience.
Fresh from a year in the spotlight as
European City of Culture in 2013, Marseille has benefited
from extensive investment, including new museums
such as the striking MuCEM, so there has never been a
better time to visit. If you would like to explore further
afield, the Chateau D’If (made famous by “The Count
of Monte Cristo”) is a short ferry ride away, and the
attractive fishing village of Cassis is 20 minutes by train.
Restaurant reservations are essential as the best are often
full - ask the Kirker Concierge to recommend and book
a table.
Alex Carey – Turin
I have recently returned from Turin, and it is a great city for a short break.
Although it is often overlooked in favour of Milan and Rome, Turin has a
fascinating history and was the first capital of Italy after unification in 1861.
With the snow-capped alps in the background, you are frequently reminded
that Turin is very close to the French border, and there is a noticeably
Gallic ambience – the wide boulevards and
imposing façades date from the era of
Napoleonic rule. The Royal Palace
is extremely interesting, with its
unusual architecture. There are also many museums,
most notably the Egyptology Museum and Museum
of Cinema which are world-renowned – Kirker
clients receive complimentary entrance to both.
The city’s most famous treasure, the Turin
shroud, will be on display for the first time in
5 years from 19 April to 25 June 2015 – speak
to the Kirker Concierge now to book advance
tickets.
Villa Crespi **** Deluxe
Built in 1879, this is a unique villa in Moorish
style with elaborate stonework, intricately
patterned floors and frescoed ceilings. The
acclaimed restaurant has two Michelin stars
and serves beautifully presented Mediterranean
dishes. There are flower-filled gardens that lead
to the lake shore – if you would like to swim,
the lake is three minutes’ walk, alternatively,
there is a swimming pool at their sister hotel
which is one kilometre away.
4 nights for the price of
3 all year - price from
£995, saving £175
Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port
***** Superior
The Sofitel has a great position between the
forts at the entrance to the Old Port and the
scenic backdrop of Marseille. Its 134 rooms are
spacious and all have a marine-inspired decor.
The hotel offers fine Mediterranean cuisine in
its gastronomic 7th floor restaurant, which has
wonderful panoramic views of Marseille. The
stylish lounge bar for drinks and lighter meals
has views out over the port. Leisure facilities
include a spa
and an outdoor
swimming pool.
3 nights for 2 when
booking superior
rooms all year price from £795,
saving £181
Grand Hotel Sitea **** Superior
Opened in 1925, this traditional 4 star hotel
is located in the historical centre. It is proud
of its long history of providing excellent
service and hospitality and the atmosphere is
calm and relaxed. The restaurant ‘Carignano’
with its Empire-style decoration is famous
for traditional Piemontese cuisine. Guests can
enjoy a cocktail in the ‘American’ bar or in the
small courtyard garden during the summer.
There are 114 bedrooms decorated in classical
style.
3 night price
from £549
Includes 72 hour Torino card.
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
11
Six of the Best Cultural Tours
Our escorted Cultural Tours & Music Holidays consist of small exclusive groups in the company of an expert lecturer and are designed for those
with an interest in history, art, gardens, architecture and music. For a copy of our dedicated brochure please ask your independent travel agent.
Prices include flights, transfers, accommodation with breakfast, meals as described, a full programme of sightseeing, entrance fees and gratuities and
the services of the Kirker Tour Lecturer.
GENOA & THE LIGURIAN RIVIERA
A SEVEN NIGHT TOUR | 6 OCTOBER 2014
Stretching between Monaco and Tuscany and with a dramatic range of
mountains as its backdrop, Liguria is one of the most beautiful coastal
regions in Italy. Palm trees, pastel-coloured villas, gardens and unspoilt
seaside villages all combine to make it the very essence of Italy. We will
visit Genoa, once a great maritime centre ruled by powerful Doges, and
explore the area known as le Cinqueterre.
There will also be time to relax
and enjoy the delightful
resort of Santa Margherita,
overlooking the Gulf of
Tigullio, where we stay at
the charming 4* Deluxe
Grand Hotel Miramare.
Price from £2,396 for
seven nights including five
dinners and two lunches
(one at the Hotel Splendido
in Portofino).
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ALBANIA, GREECE & MACEDONIA
AN ELEVEN NIGHT TOUR | 1 OCTOBER 2014
Explore the stunning landscapes and antiquities of the
southern Balkan region. From Durrës, an important trading
post on the Via Egnatia which linked Rome with Byzantium,
to Butrint, a remarkably well preserved archaeological site dating
back to the 7th Century BC, we will discover Albania’s wealth
of ancient history. Crossing through into Greece, we will visit the
citadel of Ioannina on the shores of Lake Pamvotis, and the rock
monasteries of Metéora. We will then
enter Macedonia and spend some
time exploring the churches
and monasteries of Bitola,
ancient Heraklea, St. Naum
Monastery and the beautiful
lakeside town of Ohrid.
Price from £1,957 for eleven
nights including all meals.
THE WESTERN FRONT
A SIX NIGHT TOUR | 15 OCTOBER 2014
Our six night tour to the Western Front will include stays in Ypres,
Arras and Amiens.Visits include the Flanders Fields Museum,
Messines Ridge, Paschendael, the French cemetery at Notre Dame
de Lorrette, the
German Cemetery
at Neuville, the Vimy
Tunnels, Tilloy and
the Battlefields of
Bullecourt, Cambrai
and the Somme. The
tour will travel by
Eurostar between
London St.Pancras
and Lille.
Price from £1,489
for six nights
including six dinners.
EXTREMADURA & CASTILLE
A SEVEN NIGHT TOUR | 20 OCTOBER 2014
This tour explores the heart of real Spain with visits to two of its
most historic and unspoilt regions. Travelling through the open
rural landscapes of Extremadura – the land beyond the Duero – and
Castille, you will experience the sense of romance and remoteness
unique to Spain. Our two-centre itinerary is
based first in Trujillo from where
we visit beautiful Cáceres and
the important Roman site in
Mérida. The last four nights
are spent in the walled city of
Ávila with visits to Salamanca,
Segovia and El Escoriál.
Price from £1,984 for seven
nights including five dinners
and one lunch.
THE BAY OF NAPLES
A FIVE NIGHT TOUR | 5 NOVEMBER 2014
This is one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in the world,
dominated by Vesuvius, with views across to Capri and the Sorrento
peninsula. Our tour will include visits to Pompeii, Herculaneum and
to Poppaea’s opulent Villa Oplontis. In Naples itself we will visit the
Archaeological Museum with its treasures from the entire region and
also go to see some lesser-known sites – the ruins of the Acropolis at
Cumae, Pozzuoli with
its great amphitheatre
and the bleak
landscape at Solfatara.
We stay in deluxe
rooms with views over
the bay at the
5* Grand Hotel
Parker’s in Naples.
Price from £1,497
for five nights and all
dinners.
CARCASSONNE & ALBI
A SIX NIGHT TOUR | 15 OCTOBER 2014
This popular tour is based at the pinnacle of the mediaeval citadel
of Carcassonne from which we explore the richly diverse and
beautiful region of south west France. The area is best known for the
Albigensian Crusades from the 11th Century, a period of turbulence,
bloody battles and massacres. We visit the rose pink city of Albi and
travel to the Mediterranean
for a day at Collioure,
a charming fishing
village associated
with many
artists.
Price from
£1,965 for six
nights including
three dinners.
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
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Six of the Best Music Holidays
We offer a broad range of music holidays including opera and concerts - and are delighted to highlight a number of our favourites here. Some, such
as the Ischia Music Festival and Music Cruises, are run exclusively for Kirker clients, whilst others include
sought-after tickets at a famous opera house.
Prices include flights, transfers, accommodation with breakfast, meals as described, a full programme of sightseeing, entrance fees and gratuities and
the services of the Kirker Tour Lecturer.
THE 8TH KIRKER ISCHIA MUSIC FESTIVAL
THE KIRKER CHOPIN FESTIVAL IN MALLORCA
A SEVEN NIGHT HOLIDAY | 13 OCTOBER 2014
A SIX NIGHT ESCORTED HOLIDAY | 1 OCT 2014
Join pianist Tim Horton on the idyllic island of Ischia for six exclusive
concerts at La Mortella, the former home of Sir William & Lady Walton.
Tim will be joined by classical guitarist Gary Ryan, tenor Thomas Hobbs,
violinist Elisabeth Perry and violist Simon Rowland-Jones.
Our 2014 Chopin Festival is based in picturesque
Banyalbufar, on the glorious north coast of Mallorca.
Our concerts are held in the lovely concert hall overlooking the garden,
next to the villa where the Waltons lived.We stay at the 4* Albergo San
Montano in the small resort of Lacco Ameno, a few minutes’ drive from
La Mortella with spectacular views of the Bay of
Naples.
Price from £1,998 for seven nights
including seven dinners and seven concerts
(six exclusive Kirker concerts and one
concert given as part of the Walton Trust
regular concert series)
Pianist Benjamin Frith, soprano Ilona Domnich, and the young
and exciting guitarist Manus Noble will play three concerts at the
monastery in Valldemossa. They will be joined by the actors Miranda
Richardson and Guy Paul, and pianist Lucy Parham, in two evenings
of words and music telling the tale of the passionate relationship
between Frederic Chopin and his mistress. Our programme of
sightseeing includes visits to Deià, Lluc, the
romantic gardens of Alfàbia and Palma.
Price from £1,698 for six nights
including six dinners, two lunches and
five concerts
THE KIRKER MUSIC FESTIVAL AT SEA
CRUISING THE NORWEGIAN FJORDS
TENERIFE - CANARY ISLANDS MUSIC FESTIVAL
AN ELEVEN NIGHT HOLIDAY | 11 MAY 2015
Our holiday includes two performances in the spectacular Auditorio de Tenerife.
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the concert hall is located by the sea in the
island’s capital, Santa Cruz.The concerts are given as part of the annual music
festival held throughout the islands.
Our tour to the fascinating volcanic island of Tenerife is based at the
5* Hotel Botanico in the harbour town of Puerto de la Cruz.
The hotel is surrounded by six acres of lush cultivated gardens,
of which we will enjoy a guided tour, before
visiting a selection of gardens on the
island, including the Botanical
Garden of Tenerife, the Sitio Litre
Orchid Garden and the Parque
Taoro Water Garden.
Price from £2,226 for seven nights
including four dinners, two lunches
and two concerts.
Liverpool - Ålesund - Geirangerfjord - Olden - Nordfjord
Bergen Eidfjord & Hardangerfjord - Stavanger - Liverpool
Enjoy a series of exclusive chamber music concerts by highly acclaimed
musicians on board the Black Watch during our spring music cruise. The
music programmes have been planned by violist, composer and Kirker
Director of Music Simon Rowland-Jones.
Sailing along the west coast of Scotland and across the North Sea to
Norway, the Black Watch will explore some of Norway’s deepest and
longest fjords and its most spectacular and
dramatic scenery.
Prices from £1,895 per person for eleven
nights including all concerts, talks and
interviews, full board throughout and two
private drinks parties.
THE 3RD VALLETTA INTERNATIONAL
BAROQUE MUSIC FESTIVAL, MALTA
A SEVEN NIGHT HOLIDAY | 10 JANUARY 2015
Surrounded by the Mediterranean, a visit to Malta and the Valletta
International Baroque Music Festival is a splendid way for music lovers
to celebrate the start of the New Year.
Malta has a kind winter climate and the numbers of visitors to this
fascinating island are few and far between, allowing those attending
the Festival to enjoy the island at its best. Our base is the 4 * Deluxe
Phoenicia Hotel overlooking Valletta’s
magnificent harbour and from here we
shall enjoy a varied programme of
sightseeing.
Price from £1,989 per person for seven
nights, including four dinners, two
lunches and tickets for six concerts.
A SEVEN NIGHT HOLIDAY | 30 JANUARY 2015
MUSICAL ST. PETERSBURG
A FIVE NIGHT HOLIDAY |12 NOVEMBR 2014
Our tour will focus on the world class performances of music, opera and ballet
which take place every evening at St. Petersburg’s theatres and concert halls.
Our tour will include a visit to two apartments not generally open
to the public, those of Shostakovich and Mussorgsky, saved for the
city by the great cellist Rostropovich. We will also visit the RimskyKorsakov Museum and the Alexander Nevsky cemetery
where many Russian composers are buried. No visit
to St. Petersburg would be complete without a visit
to the Hermitage, and we also visit the Catherine
Palace at Pushkin, as well as enjoying a half-day
panoramic tour of the city. We will be based at
one of St. Petersburg’s finest hotels, the 5 *
deluxe Astoria, a Rocco Forte Hotel.
Price from £2,349 per person for five nights
including three performances, four dinners and
Russian visa.
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
13
Six of the Best Long Haul Holidays
For those seeking a new destination for a more unusual short break or perhaps a longer tailor-made intinerary, Kirker also offers a range of destinations
beyond Europe which can be visited for a long weekend.With expert planning, a mid-haul short break can be a refreshing and exhilarating experience
whether it means art galleries and shopping in the Big Apple, warm sunshine and fascinating history in Oman, or cigars, mojitos and salsa in Havana.We
will take care of any necessary visas, Kirker transfers will meet you at the airport, and do ask us for the latest special fares for flight upgrades, to make the
journey part of the holiday experience.
Havana, Cuba
A unique experience, Havana is a city bursting with life, from mojitos and music to cigars and revolutionary history. The old town of
Havana Vieja boasts elegant Spanish colonial architecture, classic 1950s American cars, a wonderful modern art museum and one of the
world’s great ballets. With reform on the agenda, now is the time to visit before the city changes beyond recognition.
Saratoga ***** Superior
The Saratoga is a stylish contemporary hotel that first opened in the 1930s but was re-launched in 2005
following an extensive rebuilding programme and it has quickly established itself as Havana’s finest
hotel. It commands an excellent position overlooking the elegant dome of the Capitolio Parliament
building, on the edge of Havana’s old town, with spectacular views from its rooftop terrace. The
96 bedrooms have designer bathrooms and we recommend a junior suite overlooking the Paseo del
Prado. Other facilities include a restaurant and two bars on the lower floors, a gym and spa.
4 night price from £1,896 in November and£1,555 in December
Includes return Virgin Economy flights, return private transfers with an English-speaking assistant, 4
nights’ accommodation with breakfast staying at the Hotel Saratoga in one double junior suite, Cuban
tourist visa, Kirker Guide Notes, the services of the Kirker Concierge, and a full day in the company
of an expert local driver and guide in a classic car, including a walking tour of Havana Vieja, lunch, one
museum visit, rum or cigar tasting session and evening dinner and show.
Speak to your independent travel agent for a tailor-made quotation.
Muscat, Oman
For a dose of guaranteed sunshine, regardless of the time of year, Muscat is one of our favourite destinations. Not only is Oman blessed with a
warm climate, but it also boasts a fascinating history and there is much more to excite the discerning traveller here than in some of its more brash
neighbours. The capital itself is a city of elegant architecture and traditional souks, as well as the spectacular Grand Mosque, and further afield
visitors will discover romantic dunes, ancient settlements and mediaeval forts – ask the Kirker Concierge to arrange for a day in the company of a
driver and one of our expert local guides.
Al Bustan Palace ***** Deluxe
Set against a backdrop of rugged mountain scenery, the Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton hotel, overlooks
nearly 200 acres of private landscaped gardens and its own sandy beach which extends over one kilometre
along the azure blue waters of the Gulf of Oman. This hotel is a wonderful place in which to relax and
guests will be provided with excellent service from the friendly staff. Located just 10 kilometres from
Muscat (the hotel provides guests with a complimentary daily shuttle-bus service) it was built in 1983 as
a private palace and has a very impressive entrance hall with a golden dome and an air of opulence that
is unique to Arabia. There are 200 rooms and 50 suites all with a balcony.
4 nights for the price of 3 from 5 - 31 January 2015 price from £1,585, saving £259
Includes return economy class flights, return private transfers, Kirker Guide Notes and the services of the
Kirker Concierge to arrange excursions and private guided tours.
Speak to your independent travel agent for a tailor-made quotation.
New York
The Big Apple is one of the world’s most exciting cities, and an exhilarating destination at any time of the year. Art and music lovers have an
embarrassment of riches to choose from: world-class opera at the Met and some of the finest art galleries and museums, including MoMA and
the Frick Collection. There are also excellent restaurants and wonderful shops – perhaps perfect for some Christmas shopping. New York has
much to tempt the discerning traveller, and with the advice of the Kirker Concierge, can make for a memorable short break experience.
Le Parker Méridien **** Superior
Situated on fashionable West 57th Street, Le Parker Méridien is steps away from Fifth Avenue shopping,
Central Park, MoMA, Carnegie Hall and Broadway theatres. Large (731 bedrooms), and with a buzzy
atmosphere, this is a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore the city. Rooms are
pleasantly furnished using cherry and cedar woods and those rooms on the higher floors have good
views of Central Park or the Manhattan skyline. There are several restaurants; ‘Norma’s’ serves an awardwinning breakfast, ‘Knave’ is an all day cafe and bar and there is also a burger bar serving fast food to
order. Le Parker has a large wellness spa where you can enjoy a soothing massage or swim in the indoor
swimming pool with its fantastic views out across Central Park.
3 night price from £1,555 - Includes return economy class flights, return private transfers, Kirker Guide
Notes and the services of the Kirker Concierge to arrange opera, ballet or concert tickets, museum entrance
and private guided tours, or to reserve a table at a recommended restaurant.
Speak to your independent travel agent for a tailor-made quotation.
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
14
Six of the Best Long Haul Holidays
We are also experts in longer tailor-made holidays to destinations including Southern Africa, India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.We have selected
some of our favourite itineraries for autumn and winter, but please speak to your independent travel agent to request one of our dedicated brochures
and for a tailor-made quotation.
Southern Africa & Cape Town
Whilst we are drawing towards winter, in the southern hemisphere it is coming into spring and summer, and this is the perfect time to plan a
holiday to Southern Africa. As there is only a two hour time difference from the UK, Cape Town can make for a surprisingly practical short break,
with very little jetlag. However, our Southern Africa experts would be delighted to recommend a longer tailor-made holiday to include visits to the
Cape vineyards, Boer battlefields and of course a safari to search for the ‘Big Five’.
For the perfect winter escape, we recommend a seven night holiday combining the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town with the
magnificent coastline at Hermanus. There could not be a more spectacular setting than the Cape, with Table Mountain in the
background, and the glorious Cape Town waterfront is a wonderful place to spend a long weekend soaking
up the warm weather, delicious local wines and breathtaking views. From Cape Town it is only 75 miles
to the beautiful bay at Hermanus, framed by dramatic mountains, and famous for its reputation as a great
meeting point for Southern Right Whales and Humpbacks – visit before the end of November to see this
spectacular natural display.
Price from £2,445 per person for a seven night holiday in October.
Includes return economy class flights, private transfers, 4 nights’ accommodation staying at Winchester
Mansions (4*), Cape Town and 3 nights’ accommodation at Ocean Eleven (4*), Hermanus, Kirker Guide
Notes and the services of the Kirker Concierge to arrange private guided tours, whale-watching and wine
tastings or to reserve a table at a recommended restaurant.
Speak to your independent travel agent for a tailor-made quotation.
India
India’s great national parks reopen in the autumn after the long, hot summer, and from November to June they offer some wonderful wildlifespotting opportunities – including the treasured (and highly endangered) Royal Bengal Tiger. For the ultimate Indian experience, we recommend
combining a tailor-made tour of the Golden Triangle with visits to two of the country’s finest National Parks.
No visit to India would be complete without first discovering New Delhi, the Rajput city of Jaipur and the spectacular Taj Mahal in Agra. After
absorbing their history and atmosphere, we would recommend heading to the National Parks of Bandhavgarh and Kanha in Madhya Pradesh in search
of the elusive tiger – there are also deer, wild boar, nilgai antelope, Indian bison, leopards, blue bulls and bears within the
parks as well as countless varieties of birdlife. Kanha is one of the most picturesque of India’s major tiger reserves.
The undulating land provides the only habitat of the barasingha (swamp deer) and is home to an interesting
natural history museum. Bandhavgarh National Park has the highest density of tigers in the region. In the park,
you will have the opportunity to ride with an expert mahout on an elephant-back safari, an experience we
highly recommend.
“The Golden Triangle and Search for the Bengal Tiger” - price from £2,865 per person for a 12 night
holiday in high season: (October – March).
Includes all international and domestic flights, rail travel from Delhi to Agra, private air-conditioned vehicle
with English speaking driver for all transfers, accommodation with breakfast staying in 4 star hotels (full
board arrangements included for game lodges). Private tours with a driver and guide in Old Delhi, New
Delhi, Agra (including the Taj Mahal) and Jaipur as well as five private game drives in Bandhavgarh and
three in Kanha are also included.
Speak to your independent travel agent for a tailor-made quotation.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a country of towering Buddhas, ancient cities, verdant tea plantations, Colonial towns, historic golf courses and golden beaches. The
island’s compact size means that with careful planning, it is perfectly possible to see all these wonderful sites in two weeks whilst travelling at a
relaxed pace.
One of our favourite itineraries for a two week holiday includes ancient sites in the north, tea plantations in the highlands, wildlife in the far south and
time to relax on the beaches of the south-west coast. From the Cultural Triangle of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, travel to the Imperial capital of
Kandy – home to the colourful Temple of the Tooth. Then take the scenic railway from Kandy up to the cool hill town of Nuwara Eliya, surrounded
by lush tea plantations, before descending to the south coast and the Yala National Park – one of the world’s best places
to spot leopards. The last few days can then be spent enjoying the sandy, palm-fringed beaches around the
historic port town of Galle. Or, for a twin-centre holiday combining culture and a remote island beach stay,
you can fly to the Maldives in under two hours from Colombo.
“Hidden Highlights of Sri Lanka” - price from £2,749 per person for a 14 night holiday (high season)
Includes international flights, rail travel from Kandy to Nanu Oya, private air-conditioned vehicle with
English speaking driver for all transfers, accommodation with breakfast. Private tours with a driver/guide
in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Minneriya National Park, the cave temples at Dambulla, the Elephant
Orphanage at Pinnewala, Botanical Gardens and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, tea plantations in
Nuwara Eliya and two game drives in Yala National Park are also included.
Speak to your independent travel agent for a tailor-made quotation.
for reservations please contact your independent travel agent
15
Winter Holidays
Now is the perfect time to start planning a winter escape and Kirker offers a wide range of fascinating destinations for the winter months.Whether
it is a short break to one of the atmospheric European Christmas markets, a holiday over the festive period itself, or perhaps a tailor-made holiday
to search for the Northern Lights in Iceland or Scandinavia – our experts will help to plan the perfect solution to your winter wanderlust.
Prices are per person and include flights, private transfers or car hire, accommodation with breakfast and the services of the Kirker Concierge.
Northern Lights
This winter is again expected to offer excellent conditions for viewing the spectacle of the
Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. The best destinations to spot the phenomenon are northern
Scandinavia and Iceland, where Kirker’s excellent local guides will give you the highest possible
chance of seeing the lights in action. Our range of accommodation includes comfortable city hotels,
rustic cabins and lodges, the spectacular Ice Hotel in Lapland and Hurtigruten ships on the
Norwegian coast. Speak to your independent travel agent for a tailor-made quotation.
Borg **** Superior, Reykjavik
This stylish Art Deco hotel overlooks the central square and has a quirky contemporary twist. Its ‘Silfur’ restaurant
has an outstanding reputation and is one of Reykjavik’s most popular dining venues. The 56 rooms are decorated to a very
high standard.
4 nights for the price of 3 from 1 October - 30 April 2015 - price from £1,045, saving £127
Includes return economy class flights, return private transfers, Hunt for the Northern Lights excursion, Kirker Guide Notes
and the services of the Kirker Concierge to arrange private guided tours, or to reserve a table at a recommended restaurant.
Christmas Markets
Kirker offers a range of short breaks to Europe’s most atmospheric Christmas Markets which take place across Central and Eastern Europe
from late November onwards. Popular destinations include Berlin, Munich, Prague and Budapest, and there are also wonderful markets
accessible by Eurostar in Bruges, Paris, Brussels and Lille. Speak to the Kirker Concierge for more details of market opening dates or call
020 7593 2288 to request a copy of our Christmas Markets mini-brochure.
Die Swaene **** Deluxe, Bruges
A 15th Century patrician town house owned and run by the Hessels family, the Die
Swaene, with its excellent canal-side location in the heart of the city, is one of the most
beautiful hotels in Bruges. This small hotel (24 rooms in the original building and 10 in
an old building on the opposite bank of the canal) has a wonderful atmosphere and is
furnished throughout with antiques and Objets d’Art. There is a lounge, bar and a small
indoor swimming pool and sauna (charge payable locally for sauna).
3 nights for the price of 2 for Sunday - Wednesday arrivals from 3 November - 23 December
Price from £398 per person, saving £118
Christmas in Vienna
A FIVE NIGHT ESCORTED HOLIDAY | 22 DECEMBER 2014
Staying at the 5* Deluxe Ritz Carlton and including one opera and one ballet at the Vienna State Opera:
Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker and Die Zauberflöte by Mozart
Christmas is a magical time in Vienna when the city presents itself at its very best. Exquisitely decorated shop windows and elegant Christmas
lights adorning the thoroughfares make it impossible not to be swept up in the Christmas spirit.
Our Christmas holiday will include two performances at the State Opera as well as a comprehensive sightseeing programme.Vienna has some of the
world’s greatest galleries and museums and we will visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum the Belvedere where we see works by Gustav Klimt, including
The Kiss and many other works by Austrian artists.
The 5* Deluxe Ritz Carlton is very centrally located, on Vienna’s famous Ring. A grand former palace, it has been beautifully renovated combining the
building’s historic features with contemporary style bedrooms. The hotel has well-appointed public rooms including an atmospheric bar and Austrian
Steak House. We will include two dinners and lunch on Christmas Day.
Price from £2,047 for five nights including flights, transfers, accommodation with breakfast, two dinners and Christmas Day lunch, one opera and one
ballet at the Vienna State Opera, all sightseeing and gratuities and the services of the Kirker Tour Lecturer.
Agents details:
To book or request a brochure please
contact your independent travel agent
WWW.BALDWINSTRAVEL.CO.UK
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Published September 2014. Terms and conditions apply. Prices are per person based on 2 sharing. Subject to availability.