Arvonia 2011_V5_Q8_Layout 1
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Arvonia 2011_V5_Q8_Layout 1
ARVONIA British & Continental Coach Holidays 2011 www.arvonia.co.uk Welcome to the Summer 2011 holiday selection… …from Arvonia, a family run business firmly established as one of North Wales leading Coach Tour Operators specialising in quality British & Continental holidays for over 30 years. Holidays by coach gain in popularity every year as more people discover not only how relaxing it is to sit back in air-conditioned comfort and enjoy the views but also the outstanding value on offer. Compare the quality, high standards and what’s included in the price of an Arvonia Holiday and rest assured that it is sure to represent exceptional value for money at a price that’s hard to match. Choosing a holiday with Arvonia ensures high standards throughout plus the following benefits: 4 Friendly and knowledgeable reservations staff offering any help or advice that you may require when choosing the holiday that is suitable for you. INTRODUCTION 4 Convenient local pick-up points available throughout North Wales. 4 A wide choice of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets ranging from friendly, family run hotels to luxurious 4 & 5 star properties with superb leisure facilities. 4 Most holidays and short breaks include dinner, bed & breakfast. 4 All holidays over 3 days duration include a programme of excursions. 4 Professional driver / couriers providing high standards of safe driving combined with a friendly and caring approach ensuring that you enjoy a relaxing, carefree and happy holiday. 4 The most modern and environmentally friendly fleet of coaches operating from North Wales providing high levels of luxury, comfort and safety. 4 Guaranteed Financial Security – booking with Arvonia ensures that you have complete peace of mind that your money and holiday are totally secure. Arvonia are fully bonded under the Confederation of Passenger Transport Bonded Coach Holiday Scheme. This guarantees that in the unlikely event we cannot fulfil your booking you will receive a complete refund or arrangements will be made for the completion of your holiday if it has already started. Group Travel Visit Our Website & Book On Line Log on to our website at www.arvonia.co.uk where you can book a holiday or pay a balance with complete confidence using our secure online facility 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No phone or postal charges, it’s really easy and so convenient – just follow a few simple prompts to navigate through the process and within minutes you can easily book your chosen holiday. Your booking will then be processed and shortly a confirmation of your reservation will be in your inbox. That’s it – simple and secure and all from the comfort of your own home. 2 We warmly welcome enquiries from private groups and offer a complete service for all your travel requirements from day trips and weekend breaks to inclusive holiday arrangements with hotel accommodation, plus theatre and concert tickets, tour guides and itinerary planning. We regularly have the pleasure of working with many groups including corporate clients, probus clubs, retirement associations, sports and social clubs, or just groups of family and friends. Whatever your requirements just give us a call and let us take the strain out of making your group travel arrangements. Private Hire Our luxury coaches are also available for private hire to any destination in the UK or throughout the rest of Europe. Whatever your requirements may be either for small or large groups, business or pleasure, you can rest assured that your travel arrangements will be in good hands. We have many years experience of all forms of coach travel requirements and you can be sure of a professional service from our administration staff and drivers, top quality executive class coaches and a commitment to customer care and satisfaction. Day Excursions Destinations include city & shopping trips, stadium tours, canal cruises, stately homes, flower shows, scenic drives, historic railways, plus many other events, attractions and shows. Call us for a copy of the current programme. Gift Vouchers The Ideal Birthday, Special Occasion or Christmas gift for friends or family. Modern Luxury Coaches Sit back, relax and enjoy your travel experience on board one of our luxury coaches which all benefit from the latest developments in technology, providing ultimate levels of comfort and safety. All coaches feature: 4 Air Suspension 4 Fully automated climate control system 4 Luxurious interior finish with comfort plus reclining seats, safety belts, armrests, adjustable footrests, seat back tables and glove nets 4 Toilet & washroom facilities 4 Tinted & double glazed panoramic windows 4 Top class audio & pa systems. For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk DATE DESTINATION 08-10 Hampton Court Flower Show 18 08-10 Tall Ships 2011 28 11-15 Bournemouth 14 11-15 Scottish Highlands & the Jacobite 31 11-16 Eastbourne 16 16-17 Shrewsbury & Iron Bridge 16-17 16-23 April / Ebrill PAGE Knowsley & Gullivers World Jersey by Air DESTINATION Isle of Wight PAGE 27-28 Knowsley & Gullivers World 27-28 Chatsworth & the Peaks 38 28-30 Mountains of Mourne 35 29-02 Falmouth 12 29-02 Fort William & Skye 32 29-02 Cardiff 10 15 6 September/ Medi 5 DATE DESTINATION PAGE 6 02-10 Italian Dolomites 47 25 03-04 Yorkshire & the Pennines 8 Cardigan Bay & Pembroke 11 16-25 Chique Cote d‘Azur 39 04-08 17-22 Falmouth 12 04-08 Galway & the Shannon 34 17-21 Torquay 13 05-09 Bournemouth 14 DATE DESTINATION PAGE DATE DESTINATION PAGE 18-22 Lincolnshire Delights 22 05-09 Ayrshire Coast 30 04-08 Warner Nidd Hall 26 29-03 Santander & the Picos de Europa 49 18-22 Ayrshire Coast 30 09-12 Paignton 13 17 Port Sunlight & Southport Disneyland Paris 37 Thames Valley & Downton Abbey 10-11 11-15 Southport 22 11-15 Warner Sinah Warren 26 22-25 8 11-15 Southport 22 30-02 11-15 Newquay 12 30-03 Cardiff 10 23-24 Anderton Boat Lift 5 11-18 Switzerland Glacier Express 44 6 30-03 Paignton 13 23-24 Leeds & York 7 12-16 Oban Bay 31 30-08 Austrian Tyrol Seefeld 43 24-31 Basque Coast & Bordeaux 51 13-23 Polish Explorer 53 25-29 Northumbria 23 17-18 Harrogate Flower Show 6 25-29 Warner Holme Lacy 26 17-18 Shrewsbury Iron Bridge 5 PAGE 25-29 Cardiff 10 17-24 Jersey by Air 25 28-03 Hebridean Odyssey 32 18-22 Jersey by Air 25 19-23 Warner Nidd Hall 26 19-22 Eastbourne 16 PAGE 19-23 Bantry Bay 33 37 23-25 Glasgow 28 Norwich & Sandringham 20 25-30 49 26 Santander & the Picos de Europa Tewkesbury & The Cotswolds 21 16-17 Harrogate Flower Show 17-21 Bideford 14 17-21 Eastbourne 16 17-21 Bristol & Bath 21 18-22 Dunoon 30 June / Mehefin DATE DESTINATION 22-25 Cardiff 10 05-09 Derry & Belfast 35 22-26 Medieval Brugge 36 05-09 Cardigan Bay & Pembroke 11 22-26 Yorkshire Highlights 24 06-10 Newquay 12 23-24 Liverpool 9 06-10 Scarborough 24 25-29 Southampton & Isle of Wight 15 11-12 Liverpool 19 12-17 Brittanny St Malo 38 01-05 Thames Valley & Downton Abbey 17 12-17 Tenby & Pembrokeshire 10 01-05 Warner Cricket St Thomas 13-17 Tewkesbury & the Cotswolds 21 01-05 Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru 11 26-30 Paignton 13 London 19 26-30 Torquay 13 26-30 Scarborough 24 28-01 29-02 29-02 30-01 London Port Sunlight & Southport 8 DESTINATION Warner Thoresby Hall 13-17 Bideford & North Devon 18-19 Yorkshire & the Pennines 18-25 Jersey by Air PAGE 19-23 May / Mai DATE 13-17 9 26 14 August / Awst DATE 01-04 04-07 DESTINATION Disneyland Paris 05-08 Thames Valley & Downton Abbey 17 25 05-14 Italy Lake Como 45 Loch Fyne & Argyll 29 07-11 Dunoon & Argyll 30 DATE DESTINATION County Cork 33 08-12 Woburn & Bletchley 19 8 October / Hydref PAGE 02-06 Woburn & Bletchley 19 19-23 02-06 Cambridge 02-06 Cambridge & Constable Country 20 19-24 Eastbourne 16 08-12 Scarborough 24 02-11 Portugal’s Costa Verde 52 20-28 Norway’s Western Fjords 54 08-12 Bristol & Bath 21 03-07 Dunoon & Argyll 30 13 12-14 Edinburgh Tattoo 28 03-07 Paignton 13 7 13-14 Shrewsbury Flower Show 8 10-14 Glasgow & The Trossachs 29 20 05-09 Dutch Bulbfields & Amsterdam 36 24-27 Paignton 09-13 Bournemouth 14 25-26 Sail & Steam 09-13 Killarney & Ring of Kerry 34 25-26 British Airways Concorde 5 13-14 Manchester Ship Canal 7 10-14 Newquay 12 09-13 Warner Cricket St. Thomas 26 26-30 Isle of Man 25 14-18 Historic Winchester 16 10-14 Warner Littlecote 26 11-17 Heidelberg & Black Forest 41 27-01 Medieval Brugge 36 15-19 Killarney & the Ring of Kerry 34 14-22 Austrian Lakes Fuschl 42 14-15 Leeds & York 7 27-01 Killarney & the Ring of Kerry 34 15-19 Medieval Brugge 36 17-20 County Durham 23 14-21 Jersey by Air 25 15-19 Oban Bay 31 17-21 Torquay 13 16-20 Glasgow & The Trossachs 29 10 16-20 Torquay 13 DATE DESTINATION 16-20 Eastbourne 16 01-11 Magic of Tuscany 21-24 Reims & Champagne Country 37 02-03 Manchester Ship Canal 22-26 Southport 22 03-07 22-26 Historic Winchester 16 04-07 27-29 Chelsea Flower Show 18 04-08 28-29 Shrewsbury & Iron Bridge 5 04-09 28-29 Chatsworth & the Peaks 6 08-10 Glasgow July / Gorffenaf 15-19 Yorkshire Highlights 24 17-21 Cardiff PAGE 19-21 Legoland & London Eye 17 21-31 Lake Garda & Venice 46 48 20-21 Southport Flower Show 9 23-27 Falmouth 12 7 20-21 Anderton Boat Lift 5 23-29 Moselle, Trier & Luxembourg 40 Southport 22 20-21 Sail & Steam 7 24-28 Eastbourne 16 County Durham 23 20-27 Jersey by Air 25 24-29 Brittany St. Malo 38 Oban Bay 31 20-31 Costa Maresme Calella 50 27-30 London 19 Isle of Wight 15 21-25 Isle of Man 25 28-31 Warner Alvaston Hall 26 28 21-26 Eastbourne 16 31-04 Oban Bay 31 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 3 HOLIDAY DIARY 2011 Holiday Diary DATE 22-27 Holiday Information To Make a Booking HOLIDAY INFORMATION To reserve seats on your chosen holiday simply telephone a member of our reservations team, they will be delighted to check availability and provide answers to any queries you may have. A provisional booking can be held for 5 working days, (unless within four weeks of departure), if you wish to forward a deposit cheque. Alternatively your booking can be confirmed immediately by simply quoting your credit* or debit card number. All provisional bookings will be cancelled automatically unless the appropriate booking form and deposit has been received. Should you wish to make your booking in person we would be delighted to see you at our Travel Office in Llanrug *Surcharge applies to credit card payments. Travel Office Opening Hours Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm Saturday 9.00am – 12.30pm Sunday & Bank Holidays Closed Deposits (a) £50.00 per person on all British and Continental Coach Holidays. (b) Air holidays-as per operator’s conditions. Special Requests Should you have any special requests, please ensure they are advised at the time of booking and noted on the booking form, we will then forward them to the relevant hotels and carriers. We regret however that such special requests cannot be guaranteed. On all our tours bedrooms are allocated without any guarantee of views. Town centre hotels particularly are often built with no view whatsoever. Some hotels may hold functions that cause noise, this unfortunately is beyond our control. a double bed with an additional foldaway bed which may not always be of the same standard and reduce room space. We therefore do not advise the reservation of triple rooms for three adults. In some European countries a bedroom classified as a twin may have a double bed base with separate mattresses and bedding. There is usually a limited number of low floor rooms available and requests for this accommodation must be made in the ‘Special Requests’ section of the booking form. Requests will be forwarded to the hotel(s), however room allocations are entirely at the hotel’s discretion. If lifts are available at a hotel the facility will be shown on the holiday page. Single rooms are limited and often incur at a supplementary charge, levied by the hotel. If applicable this charge is shown on the relevant tour page Tea & Coffee Making Facilities Most hotels in the UK now include facilities for making hot beverages, however it is very unusual for this facility to be found in Continental hotels. Accommodation Seat Allocation Requests for particular seats can be made at the time of booking. All allocations are made in order of booking, therefore early booking is advisable if you prefer seats near the front of coach. It is possible that for operational reasons, a coach of different seat configuration may be used and we must therefore reserve the right to alter a seating plan and re-allocate seats other than those you have booked, although this will be avoided as far possible. We shall have no liability in relation to any such change of specification. Specific seats will not be allocated on feeder coaches. Travel Documents Porterage may not be available at some hotels and when available may incur an extra charge. Itineraries, luggage labels and travel tickets confirming pick-up points and departure times will be forwarded approximately seven to ten days before departure. No Smoking Care for the Disabled In line with current legislation it is illegal to smoke whilst on board any of our coaches. Regular stops will be made en-route to all destinations. The holidays in this brochure have been carefully planned to include as much of interest as possible. Inevitably some holidays include lengthy periods of travel and some walking on sightseeing excursions. Additionally, hotels may have steps to contend with and may not have lifts. We will try our best to look after disabled passengers, however it is important that you contact us to discuss any requirements you may have. We can then check the suitability of your chosen holiday to your particular disability before making a reservation. Also please state clearly in the special requests section of the booking form if you wish to bring a wheelchair. We will accept lightweight wheelchairs or walking aids up to a maximum weight of 15kg providing that we have been notified in advance and they can be folded for stowage in the luggage compartment. Porterage Group Bookings Discounts are available for groups of 16 or more, or alternatively special arrangements could be made for an additional pick-up point (within a designated area). En Suite Facilities All holidays include accommodation in rooms with private facilities. This may be provided by either bath or shower, plus WC. Please restrict your luggage to one medium sized suitcase per person, maximum weight 20kg. A separate small bag can also be taken for overnight stops on continental holidays (if preferred). Please note we cannot accept responsibility for luggage or personal belongings carried or left on our coach, feeder service, or subcontracted vehicles. Reductions for Children Many hotels offer reduced rates for children when sharing a room with two adults. Prices are available on request. Luggage IMPORTANT: We regret that wheelchairs over 15 kg in weight or battery powered scooters cannot be accepted. Drivers cannot be expected to provide assistance to passengers that involves any form of carrying or lifting of a person on or off the coach. Meals British Tours: On most British tours English breakfast is included and a choice of menu is offered for evening meals with tea or coffee served afterwards. European tours: Breakfast is usually continental style. Dinner menus will normally offer food associated with the country in which you are staying. Whilst we always prefer that our clients receive a choice of menu we regret that a number of hotels on the continent may only offer a 3 course set menu. Tea and coffee are usually charged as extras. Special Diets: If you require a special diet please inform us at the time of booking, this will be notified to the relevant hotel(s). On certain holidays the hotels used are tourist class and whilst offering value for money they may not have the full facilities to cope with special diets. Any extra costs incurred in providing special diets must be paid directly to the hotel. Entertainment Some hotels arrange additional entertainment that could include music, dancing, film shows, bingo, etc. Entertainment offered by hotels is normally indicated in the hotel description on the holiday page. The nature and frequency of the entertainment presented is at the discretion of the hotel and therefore not guaranteed and may be withdrawn if there is insufficient numbers in the hotel. Joining Points Please ensure that you are at the exact departure point at least ten minutes before your scheduled pick up time and that you are clearly visible to the driver. Feeder services do operate from certain departure points and mini buses or taxis may be used. In some hotels triple rooms may contain 4 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk over 100 years until it was closed in 1983. Restoration started in 2001 and the boat lift was re-opened in 2002. It is one of only two working boat lifts in the United Kingdom. Also included is a boat trip on the River Mersey together with some free time in Salford Quays and Liverpool on this fascinating overnight break, a must for all boating and engineering enthusiasts. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel to Anderton in time to have a look around the visitor centre before an hour long cruise on the River Weaver and our trip on the Anderton Boat Lift. We continue to Salford Quays for the remainder of the afternoon, before checking in to our hotel. This evening relax and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel. DAY TWO: We depart the hotel and travel to Liverpool for a River Mersey Explorer cruise on board one of Mersey Ferries iconic ships. The remainder of the day is spent at leisure to explore Albert dock or some of Liverpool’s many other attractions. We depart for home late afternoon. MARRIOTT MANCHESTER AIRPORT HHHH Situated on the outskirts of Manchester the four star Marriott Manchester Airport Hotel is ideally located to explore the surrounding area. All the en suite bedrooms have air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, internet access, iron and board, trouser press, hairdryer, safe and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant, bar, lounge area and leisure club with indoor swimming pool. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Sat 23 July Sat 20 August DURATION PRICE 2 days 2 days £89 £89 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, River Weaver cruise, Anderton boat lift and River Mersey Cruise. Supplement Single Room £25 Join us for an interesting weekend visiting the medieval town of Shrewsbury and the Telford Ironbridge Gorge Museum, designated as a world heritage site and once described as ”the most extraordinary district in the world”. Today the Gorge is home to 10 amazing museums that pay tribute to what happened in this great valley almost 300 years ago. The area is also complemented by many restaurants and shops nestled around the world famous Iron Bridge. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel south to the Ironbridge world heritage site on the outskirts of Telford. The remainder of the day is free to look around the various attractions at the Iron Bridge at your own leisure. We depart late afternoon and travel the short journey to our hotel. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening. DAY TWO: Today we visit the medieval market town of Shrewsbury. There will be plenty of free time to look around its famous black and white timber framed buildings, the Abbey or maybe take a cruise along the river Severn. We depart for home mid afternoon. HOLIDAY INN TELFORD HHHH Situated with its own grounds on the outskirts of Telford town Centre. All the en-suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, internet connection, iron & board, hair dryer and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar area plus a leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool & gym. Lift to all floors. British Airways Concorde Have you ever wondered what it would be like to fly supersonic on board Concorde? Unfortunately this wonderful aeroplane is no longer in use so you will not be able to experience the feeling of travelling at supersonic speed, but you can experience the famous aircraft itself with a guided tour of Concorde at her new home in Manchester Airport’s aviation park. Visit the flight deck, sit in one of the famous leather seats in the front cabin and learn about some of the aircraft’s famous passengers including the Queen and where she used to sit whenever she flew with Concorde. Itinerary DAY ONE: We head to Manchester Airport for our Concorde tour and some free time to look around the aviation park. Continue to Manchester where you can visit either the city centre or Salford Quays. This evening relax and enjoy an included dinner. DAY TWO: We depart the hotel and travel to Liverpool. Enjoy some free time for shopping in Liverpool One, visit Albert Dock or maybe take a Mersey Ferries cruise for a view of this famous city from the water. We depart for home during the afternoon. RENAISSANCE MANCHESTER HHHH The four star Renaissance Hotel is located in the heart of Manchester, only a stone’s throw away from the main shopping area. All the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, radio, iron & board, trouser press, hair dryer and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar area. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sat 28 May 2 days £99 Sat 16 July 2 days £99 DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sat 17 September 2 days £99 Sat 25 June 2 days £89 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus admission pass to Ironbridge. Supplement Single Room £20 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast plus Concorde tour Supplement Single Room £25 5 CITY & LEISURE BREAKS Anderton Boat Lift Shrewsbury & The Anderton Boat Lift provides a 50-foot The Ironbridge vertical link between two navigable waterways, the River Weaver and the Trent and Mersey Gorge Museum Canal. Built in 1875, the boat lift was in use for Harrogate Flower Show CITY & LEISURE BREAKS Chatsworth & The Peaks Enjoy this delightful short break which combines the rugged and beautiful scenery of the Peak District with the splendour of Chatsworth House, home to the Duke & Duchess of Devonshire. Chatsworth is set in expansive parkland backed by wooded, rocky hills rising to heather moorland and contains a unique collection of priceless paintings, furniture, books and other artefacts. Chatsworth has also been selected as the United Kingdom's favourite country house on several occasions. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel across the Pennines to visit the pretty little village of Castleton, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Peak District situated at the head of the lovely Vale of Hope. We continue to Sheffield in the early afternoon where the remainder of the day is spent at leisure in the city centre. Enjoy an included dinner at the hotel this evening. DAY TWO: After a leisurely breakfast we travel the short distance to Chatsworth House where there will be plenty of time to look around this fantastic building and excellent gardens. We depart for home in the late afternoon, arriving in our local area in the evening. HILTON SHEFFIELD HHHH Situated in a relaxing quayside location, the four star Hilton Sheffield hotel is only a few minutes walk from the city centre. All the en suite bedrooms feature satellite television, telephone, hairdryer, iron and board plus tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar plus a leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Lift to all floors. Itinerary DAY ONE: We join the motorways and cross the Pennines into Yorkshire and on to Harrogate Flower Show at the Great Yorkshire Show-ground. The remainder of the day can be spent exploring this prestigious Flower Show that attracts the very top nursery exhibitors from across the UK. We depart Harrogate late afternoon and travel to our hotel in time for our included evening dinner. DAY TWO: After a leisurely breakfast the rest of the day is free to commence exploring the numerous shops and attractions including the Leeds Armouries in the city centre. We depart for home in the late afternoon. HILTON LEEDS CITY HHHH The four star Hilton Leeds City is conveniently situated in the heart of Yorkshire’s biggest city close to the main shopping areas. All the en suite bedrooms are equipped with satellite television, telephone, iron & board, trouser press, hair dryer and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and relaxing bar plus the Living Well health club with indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpool, spa and a fully equipped gymnasium. Lift to all floors. Knowsley Safari Park & Gulliver’s World Enjoy a super value action packed and fun filled weekend visiting two of the North West’s most popular family attractions, Knowsley Safari Park at Prescot in Merseyside and Gulliver’s World at Warrington. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel to Knowsley and the take a drive through the Safari Park to see the magnificent animals including Lions, Tigers, Elephants, Rhinos and Giraffes! There will also be plenty of time to enjoy the other attractions including the Sea Lion Show, Amusement Rides, Bug House and the Woodland Walk. We depart late afternoon and travel to our hotel in time for an included dinner. DAY TWO: We travel the short distance to Warrington and the Gulliver’s World Theme Park where the rest of the day is free to enjoy the thrills and spills of this family based attraction. We depart for home late afternoon. CROWNE PLAZA LIVERPOOL JOHN LENNON AIRPORT HHHH A magnificently restored Art Deco building situated just a short drive from Liverpool city centre. All the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, iron & ironing board, trouser press, hairdryer, mini bar and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and the central club lounge and bar area. Lift available. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sat 28 May 2 days £99 Sat 16 April 2 days £99 Sat 16 July 2 days £99 Sat 27 August 2 days £99 Sat 17 September 2 days £99 Sat 27 August 2 days £99 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus admission to Chatsworth House. Supplement Single Room £15 6 Harrogate’s Flower Shows are amongst the best in the country and we are giving you the opportunity to visit both the Spring and Autumn shows. The shows feature more than 90 of the country’s leading horticultural nurseries displaying their skills in stunning floral displays and inspiring arrangements, plus stylish garden accessories, innovative garden tools and expert advice from specialists on hand to share their know-how. The majority of the show is under cover providing an excellent day out whatever the weather. Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner & breakfast, plus admission to Harrogate Flower Show. Supplement Single Room £15 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus admission to Knowsley Safari Park and Gullivers World. Supplement Single Room £20 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Manchester Ship Canal Leeds caters for all tastes and ages offering a wide selection of fashion shops for him and her, as well as a variety of speciality shops. The magnificent city of York, surrounded by its imposing walls and medieval gates has numerous award winning attractions to explore. Stroll around the delightful old cobbled streets with their half timbered houses, take a cruise on the river, marvel at the Gothic masterpiece of York Minster in whose foundations lie the original layers of York’s history. The museums are excellent and there is a fantastically varied shopping area, you’ll find its no wonder that York has been labelled England’s finest historic city. Itinerary Mersey Ferries fascinating six-hour cruise, a truly memorable journey along a 35-mile stretch of canal. It includes a lively commentary giving a revealing insight into the facts, the history and the dramas of one of Britain’s major waterways. The cruise takes in spectacular scenery leaving its passengers with an awe-inspiring sense of how its construction shaped the city of Manchester and the North West of England. Itinerary DAY ONE: We head for Liverpool and board the Mersey Ferry for our relaxing and informative journey along the Manchester Ship Canal. On arrival in Manchester we transfer to the city centre and the Renaissance Hotel. This evening relax and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel. DAY TWO: After breakfast some free time in the city or join us for a visit to Salford Quays, home of the Imperial War Museum and the Lowry centre. We depart for home late afternoon. DAY ONE: We join the motorways and cross the Pennines into Yorkshire and on to the city of Leeds. The rest of the day is free to commence exploring then in the evening enjoy dinner at the hotel and perhaps sample the city night-life. DAY TWO: We travel to the city of York where you can visit some of the famous attractions such as York Minster, The Railway Museum, the Shambles, the Castle Museum and the Jorvik Centre. We depart for home late afternoon. HILTON LEEDS CITY HHHH Conveniently situated in the heart of Leeds, close to the main shopping areas. All the en suite bedrooms are equipped with satellite television, telephone, iron & board, trouser press, hair dryer and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar plus the Living Well health club with indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, steam room and gym. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sat 14 May 2 days £79 Sat 23 July 2 days £79 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £15 Steeped in history and natural scenic beauty, the Leeds Liverpool Canal is a truly fascinating waterway with charming buildings and spectacular scenery, and what better way to discover it than onboard a traditional canal boat. On this weekend break you will also have the opportunity to ride on the East Lancashire Railway’s steam train from Rawtenstall to Bury and enjoy visits to the attractive spa town of Harrogate, plus the Oswaldtwistle Mills and the market town of Bury. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel north into the Yorkshire Dales and the market town of Skipton where we join our canal boat for a cruise, watching the world go by at four miles per hour. Depart late afternoon and travel to our hotel, the four star Hilton. This evening enjoy an included dinner at the hotel. DAY TWO: Following breakfast we travel to Lancashire and visit the Oswaldtwistle Mills before taking our seats on the Steam Train for a ride from Rawtenstall to Bury. © Sheldon Fleming RENAISSANCE MANCHESTER HHHH The four star Renaissance Hotel is located in the heart of Manchester, only a stone’s throw away from the main shopping area. All the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, radio, iron & ironing board, trouser press, hair dryer and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar area. Lift to all floors. HILTON BRADFORD HHHH The Hilton Bradford hotel is conveniently located in the city centre. All the en suite bedrooms feature satellite television, radio, direct dial telephone, hairdryer, iron and ironing board and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar with views of City Hall. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sat 02 July 2 days £119 Sat 25 June 2 days £89 Sat 13 August 2 days £119 Sat 20 August 2 days £89 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus the Manchester Canal Cruise. Supplement Single Room £25 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, canal cruise and steam train ride. Supplement Single Room £15 7 CITY & LEISURE BREAKS Leeds & York Sail & Steam CITY & LEISURE BREAKS Port Sunlight & Southport Step back in time on this overnight break with an included visit and guided tour of Port Sunlight model village on the Wirral Peninsula. Port Sunlight was built by William Hesketh Lever in 1888 for the employees of Lever Brothers soap factory, 800 houses were built, together with allotments and public buildings including the Lady Lever Art Gallery, a cottage hospital, schools, a concert hall, open air swimming pool, church, and a temperance hotel.. Port Sunlight contains 900 Grade II listed buildings, and was declared a Conservation Area in 1978. We also visit the seaside resort of Southport renowned for its tree-lined boulevards, floral displays and pavement cafes. Itinerary DAY ONE: We head for Southport where the remainder of the day is then free to explore the resort or spend some time in the shopping areas. We leave Southport late afternoon and travel to our hotel. This evening relax and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel. DAY TWO: We depart the hotel and travel the short distance to Port Sunlight. On arrival there will be an opportunity to look around the interesting museum before we re-board the coach for a guided tour of the village. We depart for home late afternoon. CROWNE PLAZA LIVERPOOL JOHN LENNON AIRPORT HHHH A magnificently restored Art Deco building situated just a short drive from Liverpool city centre. All the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, iron & ironing board, trouser press, hairdryer, mini bar and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and the central club lounge and bar area. Lift available. Enjoy a super value weekend break taking in the fantastic scenery of the Pennine Hills and visiting some renowned Yorkshire towns and cities. The Pennine Hills are a low-rising mountain range in northern England and southern Scotland, and are often refereed to as the backbone of England. During this short break we visit Holmfirth, the setting for the BBC's longrunning comedy Last of the Summer Wine, spend some time in Leeds and stop off in Skipton and the Boundry Mill Stores in Colne. Itinerary DAY ONE: Today we travel into the outstanding beauty of the Pennines, visiting Holmfirth before continuing to Leeds and the four star City Inn Hotel. This evening enjoy an included dinner at the hotel. DAY TWO: Following a leisurely breakfast we depart the hotel and travel the short distance to the everpopular Market town of Skipton with its canal basin, tree lined high street and 900 year old castle. Following some free time to look around we begin our journey home, stopping at the Boundry Mill Stores in Colne before continuing back to North Wales. CITY INN LEEDS HHHH The four star City Inn Leeds hotel is located in the revitalised Granary Wharf area of the city centre and is only a short walk from the shopping and cultural attractions. All of the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, internet access, iron & board, hairdryer, plus tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant, bar area and the spectacular Skylounge located on the 13th floor of the hotel and featuring fabulous views across the city. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sat 30 April 2 days £89 DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE £89 Sat 18 June 2 days £69 Sat 03 September 2 days £69 Sat 10 September 2 days Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus admission and guided tour at Port Sunlight. Supplement Single Room £20 8 Yorkshire & The Pennines Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £30 Shrewsbury Flower Show Enjoy an overnight break to the Shrewsbury Flower Show, the world’s longest running horticultural show held in the picturesque setting of Shrewsbury’s beautiful 29-acre Quarry Park. Explore the exhibits at this famous show set under a large number of Marquees featuring flower displays and fruit and vegetables, plus the sale of arts and crafts and various forms of music and entertainment. There will also be some free time to take in the sights of Telford or visit the Ironbridge Gorge Museum. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel south into Shropshire and the town of Shrewsbury for our visit to the annual flower show at Quarry Park, a flourishing institution that has been running every August since 1875 and offers an opportunity to see over 3 million flowers in one go. Following free time to look around the show we depart late afternoon and travel on to our hotel at Telford. This evening enjoy an included dinner at the hotel. DAY TWO: Following breakfast spend a day at leisure in Telford town centre or join us for an optional visit to the Ironbridge Gorge Museum, designated as a world heritage site and once described as the most extraordinary district in the world. A collection of ten museums that pay tribute to what happened in this great valley almost 300 years ago. (Admission fee payable). We depart for home late afternoon. HOLIDAY INN TELFORD HHHH Situated with its own grounds on the outskirts of Telford town Centre. All the en-suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, internet connection, iron & board, hair dryer, plus tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar area plus a leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool & gym. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Sat 13 August DURATION PRICE 2 days £99 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus admission to the Flower Show. Supplement Single Room £20 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Liverpool City Break The Southport flower show is internationally renowned as the largest independent flower show in the country The magnificent 75,000 sq. ft Grand Floral Marquee houses hundreds of beautiful displays by professional exhibitors from all over the country. You certainly don’t need to be an avid gardener to enjoy this event, the show has something for everyone with over 200 trade stands to explore in addition to the floral displays, plus bands playing and events taking place in the central arena. Itinerary DAY ONE: We head for Southport where the remainder of the day is then free to visit the Flower Show. We leave Southport late afternoon and travel to our hotel. This evening relax and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel. DAY TWO: We depart the hotel and travel the short distance in to Liverpool city centre. Enjoy some free time for shopping in Liverpool One, visit Albert Dock or maybe take a Mersey Ferries cruise for a view of this famous city from the water. We depart for home late afternoon. CROWNE PLAZA LIVERPOOL JOHN LENNON AIRPORT HHHH A magnificently restored Art Deco building situated just a short drive from Liverpool city centre. All the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, iron & ironing board, trouser press, hairdryer, mini bar and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and the central club lounge and bar area. Lift available DEPARTURE Sat 20 August DURATION PRICE 2 days £89 Price includes overnight accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus admission to the flower show. Supplement Single Room £20 Liverpool, the European Capital of Culture for 2008 and UNESCO World Heritage Site is now established as one of Europe’s most exciting city-break destinations with a terrific blend of attractions, distinctive shopping, vibrant nightlife, unique maritime heritage and characteristic culture. You will find almost every form of retail therapy in Liverpool, the city centre boasts some of the largest big-name High Street stores in the country. Itinerary DAY ONE: Depart North Wales and head to Liverpool, arriving during the morning. The remainder of the day is then free for shopping or sightseeing and to enjoy the vibrant city nightlife with numerous restaurants, bars and clubs to suit all tastes. DAY TWO: A further day at leisure in the city for shopping or to explore, perhaps a visit to the Albert Dock, the Beatles Story, one of the many museums, the city’s cathedrals or maybe a cruise on the Mersey. We depart late afternoon for our homeward journey HILTON LIVERPOOL HHHH The Hilton Liverpool is ideally situated in the heart of the stunning new development Liverpool One, with spectacular views over the historic Liver Buildings, Albert Dock and Chavasse Park, plus access to a vast array of shops, restaurants and bars. All the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, telephone, hairdryer, iron & board, room safe and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features three restaurants and a bar. Lift to all floors. Manchester City Break The shopping capital of the North West with a great mix of high-street chains, exclusive fashion stores and individual traders. From the Triangle centre in the heart of the city, to the Trafford Centre on the outskirts, this is one city where you can really shop ‘till you drop! With overnight accommodation in the city centre this is an excellent opportunity to combine some shopping together with a night out to sample some of Manchester’s restaurants and nightlife. Itinerary DAY ONE: We drive to Manchester where the day is free for shopping. The Arndale Centre is one of the largest city centre shopping malls in Britain plus there are many other fine shops, including Selfridges & Harvey Nicholls. This evening its time to enjoy some of Manchester’s vibrant night-life. DAY TWO: Further free time in the city or a visit to the Trafford Centre, established as one of the major shopping centres in Britain with shops and stores of all sizes. We leave for home in the late afternoon. CITY INN MANCHESTER HHHH A four star hotel located near Piccadilly Station, within walking distance of the main shopping and nightlife areas. All the en suite bedrooms feature floor to ceiling windows, air-conditioning, CD & DVD players, satellite television, iron & ironing board, direct dial telephone, mini bar and tea & coffee making facilities. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sat 23 April 2 days £89 DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sat 11 June 2 days £89 Sat 19 November 2 days £89 Sat 26 November 2 days £89 Sat 26 November 2 days £89 Sat 03 December 2 days £89 Sat 03 December 2 days £89 Price includes overnight accommodation with breakfast. Supplement Single Room £20 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Price includes overnight accommodation with breakfast. Supplement Single Room £50 9 CITY & LEISURE BREAKS Southport Flower Show BRITISH HOLIDAYS Cardiff City Break The vibrant, cosmopolitan capital of Wales magically combines the old with the new. Its stunning castle with 2000 years of history stands a short distance away from the futuristic Millennium Stadium and in the newly developed Cardiff Bay area red bricked buildings and old wharfs sit next to new piers and glass fronted restaurants. Old industrial cranes are now modern sculptures and the new boardwalks are lit by old-fashioned streetlights while the immaculate Pierhead Building dating from 1896 sits alongside the iconic Millennium Centre. The recently opened St David’s Shopping Centre was specifically designed for the capital city and incorporates key Welsh features including culturally inspired artwork and the use of the Welsh language. Excursions Included • Accompanied by a local guide we head into the Rhondda Valley, the home of Welsh coal and the birthplace of the legendary Tom Jones. A short stop at the Heritage Park then we continue via the Afan Valley and Forest Park to Port Talbot and on to Swansea. Our return journey takes us through the Vale of Glamorgan via Bridgend and Cowbridge. • A half day drive to Blaenafon for a visit to the ‘Big Pit’, one of the National Museums of Wales designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Take a tour in the Mining Galleries and see exhibitions in the pit-head baths and historic colliery buildings then go 300 feet underground with a real miner to see what life was like for the thousands of men who worked at the coal-face. (5 day tours only). HOLIDAY INN CITY CENTRE HHHH Excursions Included • A full day travelling west around the coast to the historic town of Pembroke who’s centrepiece is the magnificent Norman Castle, regarded as one of the finest and best preserved strongholds in the country. From here we continue via St Brides Bay to the city of St. David’s, named after the patron saint of Wales. Dominated by its impressive cathedral that dates back to the 12th century, St Davids is the smallest city in Britain, designated as a conservation area by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. • A short day commencing with a visit to the charming little resort of Saundersfoot, then continue on to Pendine Sands where Sir Malcolm Campbell set his famous world land speed records. Finally we visit Laugharne, home to Wales’ most famous poet and writer, Dylan Thomas CLIFFE NORTON HOTEL HH DURATION PRICE Friday 22 April* 4 days £225 Monday 30 May 5 days £309 Monday 25 July 5 days £309 Monday 29 August 5 days £309 Monday 17 October 5 days £309 * Easter Break Price includes accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £5 per night 10 One of the prettiest and most popular resorts in Wales, renowned for its lovely golden beaches and picturesque harbour, a unique Victorian town that has escaped modernisation and has a fascinating history dating back thousands of years. Attractions include the 13th-century town walls, the Five Arches Barbican and the 15th-century St. Mary's Church, plus the Tudor Merchant's House now a museum and art gallery. For those who enjoy walking there is also the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, part of Britain's only coastal National Park, or just off shore lies the monastic Caldey Island which can be reached on a pleasant boat trip from the harbour. • A half day drive across the bluestone Preseli Mountains and along the Teifi Valley to picturesque Cenarth. A charming conservation village and renowned beauty spot with delightful waterfalls, a 17th century flour mill and the National Coracle Centre, an ancient form of water transport. Conveniently located in the city centre between the Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Castle. Following an extensive modernisation programme completed in 2008 the Holiday Inn has been transformed into a sleek, light and modern design. All bedrooms have been refurbished and feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, telephone, trouser press, iron & board, plus tea / coffee tray. Facilities include the Junction Restaurant and bar, plus the Callaghan’s Sports Bar. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Tenby & Pembrokeshire The Cliffe Norton is a privately owned Grade II early 19th Century listed building, situated in an enviable position above lush cliff gardens with panoramic views across the bay and harbour and only a two minute walk from the town centre. Facilities include a restaurant and cosy bar/lounge with dance floor where regular entertainment is featured. The bedrooms are all en suite with TV and tea/coffee making facilities. A lift serves most floors. DEPARTURE Sunday 12 June DURATION PRICE 6 days £309 Price includes five nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £15 / Sea View £15 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk © Ben Bore (Rhys)_flickr A spectacular landscape of rugged cliffs, award-winning beaches, wooded estuaries and wild inland hills. A place of sanctuary for wildlife and regular visits from Dolphins, porpoises and seals attracted by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. The ancient market town of Cardigan set on the River Teifi estuary was formerly a busy shipbuilding port and was the home of the first Welsh Eisteddfod. See the 19th century Guildhall, the focal point of the town built in Gothic architectural style, plus the quaint narrow streets with their traditional shops, inns and eating places, many with their original Georgian and Victorian fronts. Excursions Included • A visit to the coastal resort of New Quay, one of the busiest holiday resorts on Cardigan Bay with its fine beaches that extend in a golden arc around the bay. Continue along Cardigan Bay to Aberystwyth where we spend the afternoon exploring the resort or alternatively take an optional ride on the narrow gauge railway to Devils Bridge. The journey takes approximately an hour in each direction as the train overcomes a height difference of over 600ft, affording superb views of the Rheidol Valley. • We take a drive along the Pembrokeshire Coast to visit St Davids, the smallest cathedral city in Britain. On then via Pembroke with its magnificent castle to the popular resort of Tenby, a town steeped in ancient history surrounded by its imposing 13th Century stone walls. (An opportunity to take a boat trip to Caldey Island) • A half day to the pretty market town of Carmarthen, located on the west bank of the River Towy, renowned as the birthplace of Merlin the Welsh Wizard. (Optional visit to the National Botanic Garden of Wales). CLIFF HOTEL & SPA HHH Mae Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru’n un o wylfeydd mawr y byd sy’n denu dros 160,000 o ymwelwyr yn flynyddol. Yn gymysgedd eclectig o ddiwylliant, cerddoriaeth, celfyddyd a phob math o weithgareddau ar gyfer pobl o bob oed, mae rhywbeth at ddant pawb ar y maes yn ystod wythnos gyntaf mis Awst bob blwyddyn. Mwynhewch yr holl gystadlaethau gwahanol a gynhelir yn y Pafiliwn, gan gynnwys tair seremoni dan nawdd yr Orsedd - y Coroni, y Fedal Ryddiaith a’r Cadeirio - ac ymfalchiwch yng nghyfeillgarwch a miri y maes a’r tyrfeydd o bob oedran sy’n heidio yno o bob cwr a chornel o’r wlad. Amserlen • Bydd cludiant dyddiol ar gael o’r gwesty i’r maes ac yn ôl. Bydd ein bws yn gadael yr Eisteddfod ar ôl y seremoni coroni ar y Dydd Gwener. The three star Cliff Hotel is located on the coast at Gwbert on Sea, approximately two miles from Cardigan town. Set on a headland the hotel enjoys spectacular views over Cardigan Bay and the Pembrokeshire Heritage Coastline. Facilities include the hotel’s own golf course, plus a health spa with a salt water hydro spa, steam room, jacuzzi, sauna, heated loungers, a state of the art gym, plus spa treatment rooms. All bedrooms feature satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee tray. Lift available. DEPARTURE Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru Wrecsam A’r Fro 2011 HILTON DOUBLETREE CAER HHHH Gyda lleoliad ar gyrion Caer ac wedi ei amgylchynu gan ddeuddeg acer o erddi dirweddwyd, mae’r gwesty yn cynnig cyfleusterau a chysuron modern gyda steil ac addurn traddodiadol. Ym mhob ystafell mae aerdymheru, teledu lloeren, mynediad i’r rhyngrwyd, ffôn, sychwr gwallt, a chyfleusterau gwneud tê a choffi. Mae yna bwll nofio a chanolfan ffitrwydd, bar a bwyty ar gael ac hefyd lifft i bob llawr. DURATION PRICE Sunday 05 June 5 days £255 DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sunday 04 September 5 days £255 Dydd Llun 01 Awst 5 diwrnod £349 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £nil (limited availability) Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Pris yn cynnwys 4 noson gwely, brecwast a cinio nos . Atodiad Ystafell Sengl £80 11 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Cardigan Bay Newquay BRITISH HOLIDAYS Falmouth Heralded as the 'jewel of the Cornish Riviera', Falmouth is one of the most popular of Cornwall's South Coast resorts that forms part the county's Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A charming old port with a rich history and a year round mild climate that allows sub-tropical plants to flourish in the colourful parks and gardens. Falmouth also boasts the world’s third largest natural harbour, overlooked by Pendennis Castle, plus inviting beaches and delightful narrow cobbled streets with olde-worlde inns and historical buildings. From its origins as a small fishing village Newquay has become the premier resort on Cornwall’s rugged northern coastline, famous for its magnificent beaches and those huge Atlantic rollers that make it one of Europe’s finest surfing venues. There are nice cliff top paths & seaside walks to enjoy and the town centre has a good range of shops, a picturesque harbour, and plenty of cafes & bars. Newquay is also an ideal location for exploring some of Cornwall’s unspoilt villages, superb landscapes, rolling hills and rugged moorlands. Excursions Included Excursions Included • We travel via Marazion for some fine views of St Michaels Mount before arriving in Penzance with its long sweeping promenade. On then to picturesque St Ives, one of the most quaint and attractive towns in Cornwall with its golden sand beach, narrow cobbled streets and colourful granite cottages that earn it the reputation of being an artists paradise. • A visit to the bustling city of Truro with its flowing rivers, picturesque Georgian streets, 18th and 19th century town houses and the magnificent Victorian Cathedral that dominates the city. On then to the popular resort of Newquay with its magnificent coastline and spectacular beaches with those huge Atlantic Rollers which make it a very popular surfing venue. • Full day to the attractive harbour town of Looe with its picturesque narrow streets, old inns and bustling quayside, also well known for its shark fishing. We continue to the former smuggler’s haunt of Polperro, a lovely old village with tiny winding streets and a jumble of cottages on a steep valley slope. • Full day commencing with a visit to the picturesque fishing village of Boscastle with its medieval core and distinctive harbour. On then to Tintagel, a pretty village whose castle ruins are associated with the legends of King Arthur. Finally we visit the delightful old harbour town of Padstow on the Camel Estuary, also well known as Rick Stein Country. Explore the quaint narrow streets and interesting shops and maybe take a walk to the headland for some fabulous views of the estuary and distant hills. FALMOUTH BEACH HOTEL HHH ESPLANADE HOTEL HHH Situated just 20 yds from the beach and within easy walking distance of the town, enjoying superb sea views with a spectacular panorama from Pendennis Castle to the Helford River. Facilities include a choice of bars with live entertainment and a superb leisure complex with swimming pool, sauna, solarium, jacuzzi and fitness centre. All bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, telephone, and tea / coffee tray. Lift available. (Please note that this hotel is completely non smoking) DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE The Esplanade is in a superb location with a panoramic outlook across Fistral Beach. Facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sauna, solarium and spa bath. There is also a choice of bars with regular entertainment, plus a lounge area and coffee shop where you can sit and enjoy the views. All bedrooms are en-suite with satellite TV, telephone and tea/coffee facilities. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE 5 days £239 Sunday 17 July 6 days £399 Monday 11 April Monday 29 August 5 days £335 Monday 06 June 5 days £265 Sunday 23 October 5 days £259 Monday 10 October 5 days £229 Price includes accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplements per person per night: Single Room £nil (limited availability) Sea View Room £12 12 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplements per person per night: Single Room £nil (limited availability) Sea View Room £5 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Paignton One of Britain’s most famous resorts situated at the heart of a magnificent coastline. Fashionable since Victorian times and often referred to as the 'English Riviera' Torbay is blessed with a mild climate, sparkling blue waters, blue-flag beaches and beautiful gardens for that relaxing stroll. The resort has a distinct Mediterranean feel created by its palm tree lined promenade, hotels and villas perched high on the surrounding hillsides, plus some fabulous boats moored in the harbour and marina. Excursions Included • Full day travelling via the South Devon coastline through Shaldon, Teignmouth & Dawlish to the city of Exeter with its fine twin tower cathedral, underground passages and historic quayside, plus excellent shopping. On then to visit the elegant Regency resort of Sidmouth, described as the quintessential English seaside resort and winner of a gold award in the Britain in Bloom competition. • Half day tour to see the wild and rugged scenery of the beautiful Dartmoor National Park and a visit to lovely old village of Widecombe in the Moor with its thatched buildings, delightful old church and tea shops. • Short day via the historic town of Totnes to the picturesque port of Dartmouth, home of the Royal Naval College. Explore the fascinating shops and art galleries, see the timber framed Butterwalk and delightful cobbled quaysides. (6 day tour only) HEADLAND HOTEL HHH Situated in two acres of grounds overlooking Meadfoot Beach, the Headland enjoys stunning views across Torbay. Facilities include an outdoor heated swimming pool, the Romanoff Restaurant, a quiet lounge, plus an entertainment lounge and dance floor. All bedrooms have bath or shower, telephone, television and tea/coffee tray. A lift is available to most rooms. Please note the hotel is located on a hilltop however courtesy transport is available to and from the town centre at certain times of the day. Please note this hotel is completely Non Smoking DEPARTURE Nestling in the centre of the English Riviera between two rugged headlands lies the popular traditional sea-side resort of Paignton with its sandy beach and colourful pier. The town has a nice long promenade and quaint harbourside for those relaxing strolls, picturesque parks and gardens, plus a good selection of shops to explore. Excursions Included • Full day via the historic town of Totnes and the Dart Valley to Buckfast Abbey, then on to the city of Plymouth with its renowned maritime heritage. Attractions include the famous Hoe with its memorials and statue of Sir Francis Drake, plus the Citadel, the Elizabethan Barbican with its quaint old narrow cobbled streets and the Plymouth Aquarium, plus the magnificent new shopping centre. • Short day via the South Devon coastline travelling through Shaldon, Teignmouth & Dawlish to visit the elegant Regency resort of Sidmouth. (5 day tours only) PALACE HOTEL HHH In a superb location on Paignton Green directly opposite the seafront and beach and just a short level stroll from the town centre. All the en suite bedrooms are equipped with colour television, telephone and tea / coffee tray. Facilities include a restaurant, bar and lounge area, plus a health club with swimming pool, spa bath, gymnasium and beauty treatment centre. Lift available to most floors. QUEENS HOTEL HHH A popular hotel in a flat level position just a few hundred yards from the town centre and seafront. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, bar, entertainment room, restaurant and a large patio area. All the en suite bedrooms feature television, telephone, radio and tea/coffee tray. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE HOTEL DURATION PRICE £229 Friday 29 April Palace 4 days £175 £319 Monday 30 May Queens 5 days £229 Palace 4 days £199 DURATION PRICE Monday 16 May 5 days Sunday 17 July 6 days Monday 26 September 5 days £249 Friday 24 June Monday 17 October 5 days £215 Friday 09 September Palace 4 days £219 Monday 03 October Queens 5 days £229 Price includes four/five nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus nightly entertainment. Supplement Single Room £nil (limited availability) Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Price includes accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £nil (limited availability) 13 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Torquay © Blue Sky 4691_flickr BRITISH HOLIDAYS Bideford Picturesque North Devon has some of the most beautiful coastline in the British Isles with miles of golden sands, breathtaking cliffs and quaint unspoilt fishing villages. Nestling alongside the River Torridge estuary lies the pretty medieval market town of Bideford, a town full of charm and history with many narrow streets largely untouched by time and a magnificent 24 arch bridge that spans the river. Once an international port and shipbuilding centre Bideford’s maritime history includes sending ships to fight the Armada. Today the narrow town centre streets lead down to the pleasant tree lined quay which bustles with fishing vessels, cargo and pleasure boats. Bournemouth The popular resort of Bournemouth has been attracting visitors ever since its birth in the 19th century, and today it is as much of a tourist attraction as ever. Essentially Victorian in character, it is justly described as the Garden City of the South with over 2000 acres of superb parks and gardens. There are miles of glorious seafront with golden beaches, a superb pier, excellent shopping arcades and a wide choice of theatre entertainment. Excursions Included Excursions Included • A visit to the ancient market town of Barnstaple which lays claim to be the oldest borough in the United Kingdom. Today it is a thriving town with lots of quaint alleyways and fine buildings including the parish Church, St Anne's Chapel Museum and the old Three Tuns Tavern. We continue on to see the picturesque twin towns of Lynton and Lynmouth, spectacularly situated on the northern edge of the Exmoor National Park. An opportunity to take a ride on the ingenious water-powered lift that travels between these two historic towns from Lynmouth nestling at the foot of the cliffs to Lynton perched 500 feet above. • Full day excursion travelling via the New Forest to Portsmouth, the flagship of maritime England whose attractions include the Historic Dockyard with those famous ships HMS Victory, the Mary Rose and HMS Warrior. The new Spinnaker Tower located on the Waterfront is a 170 metre tall visitor attraction where you can ‘walk on air’ and enjoy breathtaking views over the South Coast. • A short day commencing with a drive through Instow with its fine beaches and extensive views of the sea and the rivers Taw and Torridge. On then to the popular seaside resort of Ilracombe, known as the 'jewel' of the North Devon coast. A nice coastal town that has received several awards in the Britain in Bloom competition with white washed houses, grand Victorian villas, plus a quaint harbour and quayside. DURRANT HOUSE HOTEL HHH Dating back to the 1800's the family run Durrant House is the largest hotel in Bideford, located on the outskirts of Bideford overlooking the estuary. It has recently undergone extensive renovation to return it to its former glory. Facilities include the oak-panelled Olive Tree restaurant and the Appledore Bar, plus the Venetian ballroom where regular entertainment is featured. There is an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, sun shower and gymnasium. All rooms have en-suite Italian marble bathrooms, tea & coffee making facilities, clock radio, hairdryer, TV, plus iron & board, Lift available. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sunday 17 April 5 days £199 Monday 13 June 5 days £249 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £48 per person 14 • Short day to the city of Salisbury with its abundance of historical buildings throughout the city including the majestic Salisbury Cathedral, Britain’s tallest, standing at 123 metres. We return via the New Forest with a stop at Burley, a delightful traditional New Forest village with picturesque thatched cottages and ponies roaming freely. HERMITAGE HOTEL HHH Following excellent reports received after our first season at this hotel we are very pleased to feature the Hermitage again for 2011. Set in one of the finest locations in Bournemouth the hotel is just minutes from the resort’s beautiful beaches and gardens with the convenience of being directly opposite the Pier, Central Gardens and the BIC Centre. In addition you are just steps away from the sea, charming shops and a variety of entertainment. Facilities include the AA Rosette award winning restaurant and bar, all bedrooms feature satellite TV, Internet access, trouser press and iron, telephone, hairdryer, plus tea and coffee facilities. Lift available. (Please note that this hotel is completely non-smoking). DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Monday 09 May 5 days £319 Monday 11 July 5 days £329 Monday 05 September 5 days £329 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplements Single Room £nil (limited availability) Sea View Room £25 per person For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Just a short ferry ride across Solent Water lies the Isle of Wight, an island of great natural beauty with a wealth of attractions, often referred to as 'England in Miniature'. With an incredibly diverse range of landscapes and over half its land mass designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Isle of Wight has been a popular holiday destination since Victorian times. The resort of Shanklin is one of the most picturesque towns on the island with an attractive promenade and beach, delightful parks and gardens, plus the quaint Old Town with its pretty thatched cottages, pubs and tea-rooms. Nearby is the woody ravine of Shanklin Chine, known for its wild flowers and waterfalls. Excursions Included • A full day travelling via Ventnor and Brighstone to Alum Bay to see the unusual multi coloured cliffs and some fine views of the Needles, the Island’s famous landmark. We then visit the resort of Yarmouth with its delightful harbour and marina and finally to Cowes, the renowned yachting resort. • Short day excursion visiting Bembridge with its pretty harbour and windmill, then on to Ryde, the island’s largest town with an elegant esplanade, attractive Georgian and Victorian buildings, plus its half mile long pier. • Half day excursion visiting the quaint village of Godshill with its church, model village and lovely thatched cottages, then on to Newport, the island’s capital town with its fine Jacobean and Georgian houses lining the River Medina. SHANKLIN HOTEL HHH Set in a nice cliff top position with magnificent views of Sandown Bay and the surrounding countryside and just a few minutes walk from the town, old village and the lift to the esplanade. Facilites include an indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, gym, and games room, plus the restaurant, bar, lounges and the Starlight Entertainment Room and dance floor. All the en suite bedrooms feature satellite TV, telephone and tea & coffee tray. A Lift serves most rooms. Please note that this hotel is totally non smoking. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Monday 04 July 6 days £365 Monday 22 August 6 days £365 Price includes five nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus return ferry crossings. Supplements per person per night: Single Room £nil (Limited availability) Side Sea View or Crescent room £5 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Southampton & The Isle of Wight Hampshire is a unique county of rolling green hills, tranquil villages and ancient forests, combined with vibrant cities and a rich cultural heritage. Southampton is a wonderful city to explore with its waterfront, lovely parks and gardens, plus the delightful Old Town, regarded as one of the gems of England. The Isle of Wight is truly unique and known as ‘England in Miniature’. Enjoy the island’s mix of rolling countryside, golden beaches, chalk cliffs, pretty olde worlde villages and traditional seaside resorts. Excursions Included • A full day to the city of Southampton, one of the country’s busiest deep-water ports that handles some of the world’s largest cruise liners. Perhaps follow the QE2 Mile, the pedestrian route that runs through the heart of the city from the Cenotaph down to the waterfront at Town Quay. It links the city’s parks, new cultural quarter, shopping high street, old town and waterfront. • Full day to the Isle of Wight travelling by ferry from Portsmouth across the Solent to Fishbourne. Explore some of the fine scenery around this lovely island, plus seaside resorts, picturesque villages and Alum Bay with its unusual multi-coloured cliffs and fine views of the Needles, the Island’s famous landmark. • A short day visit to Chichester, a lovely city with history on every corner from its Tudor Market Cross to the magnificent Norman cathedral and the Roman city walls which can still can be walked on after nearly two thousand years. MARRIOTT MEON VALLEY HHHH Located in the Meon Valley at Shedfield on the outskirts of Southampton, set in some 225 wooded acres of rolling countryside on England's southern coast. The hotel has undergone a £5 Million renovation to the lobby, restaurants, bar and all the bedrooms. Facilities include two superb golf courses, plus a leisure club with swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, gymnasium and beauty treatment rooms. All bedrooms have luxurious bedding, hairdryer, satellite TV, tea & coffee facilities, plus room safe. Lift available. DEPARTURE Monday 25 April DURATION PRICE 5 days £295 Price includes four nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner plus ferry crossing to the Isle of Wight Supplement Single Room £80 15 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Isle of Wight Eastbourne The elegant seaside resort of Eastbourne enjoys a glorious location on the South Coast with an excellent sunshine record. The resort is nice and flat for that relaxing stroll and is distinguished by its lovely wide promenade lined with benches to sit and admire Eastbourne's famous Carpet Gardens. The resort has a good variety of shops to explore plus the magnificent Victorian Pier, museums, cinemas and dancing as well as concerts played on the attractive Edwardian bandstand. BRITISH HOLIDAYS Excursions Included • Full day travelling via the Sussex Coast to visit Chichester, a lovely city with history on every corner including it’s a magnificent Norman cathedral. We return via Arundel with an opportunity to explore the castle, the seat of The Dukes of Norfolk set in 40 acres of grounds and gardens and home to priceless works of art • Full day commencing with a visit to the historic town of Battle, dominated by its Abbey built on the site of the battle of Hastings in 1066. On then to the lovely Cinque port of Rye, a fortified hilltop town with cobbled streets and huddled houses, once surrounded by the sea. We return via Hastings. • Half day visit to Royal Tunbridge Wells with its delightful colonnaded walkway known as The Pantiles, home to a variety of small specialist shops, antique shops and open-air cafés. The Chalybeate Spring at the northern end of the Pantiles still flows and visitors can still sample the water served in the traditional manner by a costumed 'Dipper' (6 day tours only). CAVENDISH HOTEL HHHH Excursions Included • Enjoy a visit to the Waterfront city of Portsmouth, the flagship of maritime England whose attractions include the Historic Dockyard with those famous ships HMS Victory, the Mary Rose and HMS Warrior, plus the Spinnaker Tower, a striking new viewing tower where you can walk on air! • Half day to the city of Salisbury with its abundance of historical buildings throughout the city including the majestic Salisbury Cathedral, Britain’s tallest, standing at 123 metres. • A visit to Beaulieu, one of the South of England’s top visitor attractions set in the heart of the New Forest. A great day out with lots for everyone to enjoy including the world famous National Motor Museum, the James Bond Experience and the World of Top Gear, plus Palace House, historic Beaulieu Abbey and the delightful gardens. (Admission fee payable) WINCHESTER HOTEL HHHH DURATION PRICE Sunday 17 April 5 days £249 Monday 16 May 5 days £279 Sunday 19 June 6 days £399 Monday 11 July 6 days £409 Sunday 21 August 6 days £409 Monday 19 September 5 days £329 Monday 24 October 5 days £259 Price includes accommodation with dinner and breakfast Supplements per person per night: Single room £12 Sea View Rooms (twin/double) £10 / Executive Rooms (twin/double) £15 16 Some of the main claims to fame of this unspoilt cathedral city are that Jane Austen is buried here, modern cricket was born here and that it is home to King Arthur's mystifying Round Table, where it has stayed in the Great Hall for the past 600 years. Winchester was England's ancient capital for 500 years, steeped in history and packed with historic buildings including the magnificent 11th century Winchester Cathedral with its medieval paintings and spectacular architecture. From legend and lore to awe inspiring architecture Winchester is a treasure trove of English heritage to explore. Optional Excursion A majestic hotel in a premier sea front position on Eastbourne's Grand Parade. The hotel has recently been totally refurbished to a very high standard while keeping the unique features of this fine Victorian styled building. Facilities include the Coronet Bar, sun lounge and residents lounge, plus the Marine Restaurant with its panoramic sea views. All the en suite bedrooms feature satellite TV, telephone and refreshment tray. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Historic Winchester A delightful boutique style hotel with contemporary, spacious interiors, ideally located in the heart of the city. Facilities include an air-conditioned fitness suite with the latest Technogym equipment, a heated swimming pool, steam room, sauna and spa pool. All the en-suite bedrooms are air-conditioned and include an iron & board, safe, television, internet access and in room fridge. Lift. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sunday 22 May 5 days £259 Sunday 14 August 5 days £259 Price includes three or four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £15 per night For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Join us for a long weekend break to the Thames Valley and spend three nights at the luxurious newly built Hilton Hotel at Reading. Enjoy a visit to Royal Windsor where you can walk around an official residence of The Queen, the largest occupied castle in the world that has been a Royal Palace and fortress for over 900 years. We also visit the picturesque riverside town of Henley on Thames and the magnificent Highclere Castle, the setting for the immensely popular TV drama ‘Downton Abbey’. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel south to Reading and the Hilton Hotel, our home for the next three nights. Some free time to explore or maybe enjoy the excellent leisure facilities before evening dinner. DAY TWO: A visit to the riverside town of Henley on Thames before continuing on to Royal Windsor. Visitors to the castle can walk around the State Apartments and see the Drawings Gallery where regular exhibitions of treasures from the Royal Library are mounted, plus the Queen Mary's Dolls' House, a miniature mansion built to perfection. St. George's Chapel is the burial place of ten sovereigns, home of the Order of the Garter, and setting for many royal weddings. DAY THREE: Today we will be joined by a local guide for a drive in the Thames Valley and the Chilterns, plus a visit to Highclere Castle. Home to the Earl & Countess of Carnarvon the castle has been the magnificent setting for the TV costume period drama ‘Downton Abbey’. The Castle’s history has a connection with ancient Egypt as the 5th Earl, along with Howard Carter, discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun and the castle also houses an Egyptian Exhibition. DAY FOUR: We check out and travel to the historic city of Oxford, one of the most charming cities in Britain, famous the world over for its University and place in history, home to some of the most famous buildings in the world. Depart mid afternoon and continue our journey home to North Wales. Legoland & The London Eye At Legoland® Windsor, the entertainment is certainly hands-on. Children can take to the road, soar through the skies and sail the seas in complete safety. Over 55 interactive rides, live shows, building workshops, driving schools and a unique mix of interactive attractions, all set in 150 acres of beautiful parkland. A different sort of family theme park, Legoland puts the “fun” in family trips with something geared towards every family member and dozens of things to enjoy together. Launched in 2000 the London Eye has already won over 75 awards for international tourism, architectural quality and engineering achievement and has now welcomed over 30 million visitors. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel south via the motorways for check in to the four star Marriott Slough/Windsor hotel. An opportunity to make use of the facilities in the superb leisure club and swimming pool before an included evening dinner. DAY TWO: We spend the day at Legoland, discover kid-powered rides, cool building challenges, a unique mix of interactive attractions, exhilarating coasters, shows that pull the audience into action plus much more. DAY THREE: This morning we drive in to the city of London for an inclusive ride on the award winning London Eye, the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel. Travel 135 meters into the London skyline for some unique and spectacular views over the capital city. Some free time follows for shopping or sightseeing, we depart mid afternoon and return home to North Wales. MARRIOTT HEATHROW/ WINDSOR HHHH HILTON READING HHHH A newly built contemporary hotel, located just a short drive from Reading's historical city centre. All the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite TV, internet access, mini bar and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar plus a leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Friday 29 April 4 days £179 Friday 22 July 4 days £189 Friday 05 August 4 days £189 Price includes three nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, admission to Highclere Castle, gardens and exhibition, plus the services of a local guide. Supplement Single Room £45 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Conveniently located for Legoland. The hotel’s facilities include a restaurant, coffee shop, cocktail bar and a leisure club with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and fully equipped gymnasium. All the spacious, comfortable bedrooms feature en suite facilities, satellite TV, high-speed internet connection, telephone, hairdryer, iron & board, mini-bar, plus tea & coffee tray. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Friday 19 August DURATION ADULT CHILD (up to 12yrs) 3 days £209 £129 Child rate applicable when sharing with 2 full paying adults. Please note triple & quad rooms will have 2 double beds Price includes two nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, admission to Legoland, plus the flight on the London Eye. Supplement Single Room £40 17 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Thames Valley & Downton Abbey © Magnus D_flickr Hampton Court Flower Show BRITISH HOLIDAYS Chelsea Flower Show One of the UK’s most popular flower shows when the best in gardening and horticulture are brought together for one week in May. The show has been held annually at the Royal Hospital Chelsea since 1913 and attracts exhibitors from many countries around the world. The prestigious displays are pure inspiration, the last word in both traditional and futuristic garden design with magnificent floral displays, model gardens and much, much more at this classic event. The enchanting Hampton Court Palace and surrounding parklands provide an idyllic setting for the world's largest annual flower show which benefits from a wonderful location alongside the River Thames. With its fabulous show gardens, floral marquees, competitions, hanging baskets and window boxes, a superb range of flowers, plants and gardening accessories, plus gifts and gadgets the Flower Show is packed with ideas and inspiration. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel south to the city of Reading for check in to the four star Hilton Reading Hotel where we stay for the next two nights. DAY TWO: Following breakfast we travel to Chelsea and spend the day exploring the delightful Flower Show, returning to the hotel in time for dinner. DAY THREE: We check out this morning and travel to the historic city of Oxford, one of the most charming cities in Britain, famous the world over for its University and place in history, home to some of the most famous buildings in the world. We depart mid afternoon and continue our journey home to North Wales. HILTON READING HHHH A newly built contemporary hotel which offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, just a short drive from the historical city centre of Reading. All the en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite television, direct dial telephone, radio, internet access, mini bar and tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar plus a leisure club with indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Friday 27 May DAY ONE: We travel south to Buckinghamshire and visit the picturesque town of Henley on Thames, then continue on to the four star Marriott Heathrow / Windsor Hotel where we stay for two nights. DAY TWO: A full day visit to the spectacular flower show at Hampton Court. Explore the numerous show gardens, see celebrity experts, watch demonstrations and pick up practical and innovative ideas from top garden designers. DAY THREE: A morning visit to Royal Windsor, an opportunity to explore the town and maybe visit the famous castle or take a cruise on the River Thames before we depart for our journey home to North Wales. MARRIOTT HEATHROW / WINDSOR HHHH The hotel’s facilities include a restaurant, coffee shop, cocktail bar and a superb leisure club with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and fully equipped gymnasium. All the spacious, comfortable bedrooms feature en suite facilities, satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer, iron & board, mini-bar, plus tea & coffee tray. Lift to all floors. DURATION PRICE DEPARTURE 3 days £195 Friday 08 July Price includes two nights accommodation with English breakfast and dinner, plus admission to the Chelsea Flower Show. Supplement Single Room £30 18 Itinerary DURATION PRICE 3 days £205 Price includes two nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus entrance to Hampton Court Flower Show. Supplement Single Room £40 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Woburn, Bletchley & Duxford Museum One of the world’s greatest cities with numerous renowned attractions such as the "Changing of the Guard", Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament, St Paul's Cathedral, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus and the Tower of London to name but a few. London’s theatre’s, museums and art galleries are the finest in the world and there is no better place for shopping with the famous department stores of Knightsbridge, Oxford Street and Regent Street, plus the exclusive designer outlets in Bond Street. Excursions Included • A visit to Bletchley Park where seeing one of the Enigma Machines will undoubtedly be a highlight of the day. Take a look inside the ornate Victorian Mansion that was headquarters to intelligence staff during the War and wonder around the many different attractions and displays such as the museum of computing, the Churchill Collection, a 1940’s garage, the post office, home front display and the model railway. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure for our journey south to London, arriving in the capital in the early afternoon for check in to the Hilton Metropole Hotel. The remainder of the day is then free to commence some shopping or sightseeing and enjoy the city nightlife. DAY TWO & THREE: At leisure to explore the Capital - perhaps a visit to the superb museums or the Tower of London, maybe a sightseeing tour, a river cruise, or a ride on the London Eye for a bird’s eye view - the choice is just endless. DAY FOUR: Some further leisure time in the city, afternoon departure from the hotel at 15.00 for our homeward journey. HILTON METROPOLE HHHH • The Imperial War Museum displays nearly 200 military and civil aircraft as well as maritime exhibits. Hangar one contains the pick of Duxford's British Collection including Concorde, the Lancaster and Mosquito. The award-winning American Air Museum houses an outstanding collection of historic American military aircraft from a First World War biplane to supersonic jets. The Land Warfare Hall houses tanks, vehicles and artillery displayed in dramatic battlefield scenes and exhibitions include the Battle of Britain, The Normandy Experience and Monty. BEDFORD SWAN HOTEL HHHH The 18th century Swan Hotel is located on the Embankment overlooking the River Ouse. Following a recent major refurbishment all bedrooms are now airconditioned and feature bath & shower, LCD television, fridge, safe, tea & coffee tray, plus iron & board. Facilities include restaurant, lounge and bar, plus a leisure club with a delightful Roman Bath inspired swimming pool. Situated on Edgware Road, a few minutes walk from Oxford Street. All bedrooms feature air conditioning, satellite TV, hair dryer, trouser press, iron & board, mini bar and tea & coffee tray. Facilities include two restaurants, snack bar, lounge, plus swimming pool, sauna, steam room and fitness centre. Lift. DEPARTURE • Delightful Woburn Abbey and the Safari Park. Touring the Abbey covers three floors, including the vaults, with 18th Century furniture, silver and gold collections and a wide range of porcelain on display. In particular the Abbey is celebrated for housing one of the most important private art collections in the world. Stroll through the delightful gardens and enjoy a drive through the Safari Park for a close encounter with some of the world's most magnificent and endangered animals. DURATION PRICE DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Thursday 28 April 4 days £289 Monday 02 May 5 days £329 Thursday 04 August 4 days £289 Monday 08 August 5 days £329 Thursday 27 October 4 days £289 Price includes three nights accommodation with full English Breakfast. Supplement Single Room from £54 per night Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus all admission charges. Supplement Single Room £60 19 BRITISH HOLIDAYS London City Breaks An interesting new holiday based in Bedfordshire with visits to Bletchley Park, Woburn Abbey and the Imperial War Museum. Bletchley Park was the historic site of secret British code-breaking activities during WWII and home of the famous Enigma decoding machine. Beautiful Woburn Abbey has been the home of the Dukes of Bedford for nearly 400 years, steeped in a vast amount of history and home to world-renowned collections. The Imperial War Museum at Duxford is Europe's premier aviation museum as well as having one of the finest collections of tanks, military vehicles and naval exhibits in the country. BRITISH HOLIDAYS Norwich, Sandringham Cambridge & & Norfolk Lavender Constable Country The picturesque Norfolk countryside, a delightful and serene area with rivers teeming with wildlife, pretty windmills, winding lanes, quaint villages, plus historic churches and market towns. The charming city of Norwich is the most complete medieval city in England, dominated by its splendid 12th century castle and the finely preserved and unique Norman Cathedral which boasts the largest cloisters in England and the second tallest spire in the country. Much of the original city wall can still be seen along with merchant houses and quaint cobblestone lanes with half timbered shops. Excursions Included • We take a drive through the heart of the Norfolk Countryside towards the coast for a visit to Norfolk Lavender, England's premier lavender farm set amongst beautiful tranquil gardens. See the famous Lavender Fields and the intriguing Lavender Oil Distillery. From here we continue to the nearby Sandringham Estate, the much-loved country retreat of Her Majesty The Queen. Explore the house and the acres of beautiful gardens plus the Museum with its collections of Royal vehicles, rare ceramics and memorabilia. • We travel to the busy yachting centre of Wroxham, the capital of the Norfolk Broads. Enjoy an included river trip along the tranquil waterways of the Broads, the UK’s largest nationally protected wetland and an important area for wildlife. Following the cruise we take a drive via Horning to Potter Heigham, one of the major boating centre's on the Broads with its famous medieval bridge, then on via Stalham to the North Norfolk coast and visit the resort of Sheringham. Discover the lovely Suffolk countryside and beautiful picturesque villages that are often better known as ’Constable Country’, an area that inspired the famous painter John Constable and featured in many of his paintings. The city of Cambridge is one of the most attractive cities in Britain, situated on the picturesque River Cam. A great wealth of architecture is just part of the splendour of this city, its crowning glory being King’s College Chapel. Enjoy a stroll along the grass-covered banks of the river and maybe take a ride in a punt to appreciate the architectural splendour of the riverside colleges. Excursions Included • Full day visit to the splendid city of Cambridge. Discover the countless charms of this wonderful city where there is a real sense of living history almost everywhere you look. The University and its 31 colleges dominate the centre with atmospheric cobbled courts, chapels, gardens and bridges. • Full day exploring the timeless beauty of rural Suffolk. We travel to Dedham in the heart of Constable Country whose church tower features in many of his paintings, then to East Bergholt where he was born and also to Flatford Mill, pictured in his most famous painting The Hay Wain back in 1821. Finally we stop in the picturesque Tudor village of Lavenham with its profusion of half-timbered medieval cottages. • Half day visit to the historic market town of Bury St Edmunds with its cathedral, delightful Abbey Gardens and the smallest pub in England. MARRIOTT HUNTINGDON HHHH HOLIDAY INN NORWICH NORTH HHHH This luxurious fully air-conditioned hotel is located on the outskirts of Huntingdon. Facilities include the Brooke's Restaurant where you can enjoy a meal in elegant surroundings, also a Cocktail Lounge, Coffee Shop, plus a fully equipped leisure club with gymnasium and 15m swimming pool. All of the air-conditioned en-suite rooms feature satellite TV telephone, hairdryer, mini-bar and tea/coffee tray Lift available. An excellent four star hotel situated on the outskirts of Norwich City centre. Facilities include the Spirit Health Club with a superb 13-metre swimming pool, plus, sauna, steam room, spa and fully equipped gymnasium. All the en suite bedrooms have been upgraded with new soft furnishings and air conditioning and feature satellite TV, telephone, mini bar, trouser press and tea/coffee tray. Lift. DEPARTURE Monday 01 August DURATION PRICE 5 days £295 DEPARTURE Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus Norfolk Broads Cruise and admission to Sandringham House & Gardens Supplement Single Room £80 20 DURATION PRICE Monday 02 May 5 days £249 Sunday 02 October 5 days £249 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast Supplement Single Room £80 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Bristol, Bath & The Cheddar Gorge Located at the confluence of the Rivers Severn and Avon Tewkesbury is regarded as one of the best medieval black and white townscapes in the country with its fine half-timbered Tudor buildings, overhanging upperstoreys and ornately carved doorways. Tewkesbury's crowning glory has to be its magnificent 12th century Abbey; a beautiful building with the highest Norman tower in England that dominates the southern edge of the old town. In recent years the City of Bristol has undergone a renaissance and has now become one of the UK’s top visitor destinations. A lively city set around an historic harbour with fascinating architecture, a rich cultural heritage and mix of award winning attractions. Bath is regarded as one of the world's most beautiful cities, designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Nourished by natural hot springs this magnificent city presents iconic attractions and some of the finest architectural sights in Europe. Excursions Included • A day to explore the medieval townscape of Tewkesbury with its many Tudor timber-framed buildings and the delightful Abbey with its long nave and Romanesque tower. Discover the hidden charms along the narrow alleyways where the eaves of crooked timber buildings nearly touch and maybe visit the Merchants House and Tewkesbury Museum. In the afternoon we board a riverboat for an included sightseeing cruise on the River Severn. • The picturesque Cotswolds, a delightful landscape of rolling hills and lovely honeystoned villages. We visit Bourton on the Water with its model village and railway, also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ with its bridges crossing the River Windrush. On then to Stow on the Wold with its market square, ancient cross, town stocks and elegant town houses. Finally we see Broadway, famous for its antique shops. • A visit to the delightful town of Cheltenham, regarded as the most complete Regency town in England. Cheltenham has many attractions including its superb architecture; wide tree lined avenues, stylish shopping, plus art galleries and museums. Pittville Park with its scenic lakes and bridges and colourful flowerbeds is also home to the Pittville Pump Room, a magnificent Grade 1 listed building opened in 1830 where visitors today still have the opportunity to "take the famous waters". • We spend a day in Bristol to explore its attractions. The revitalised harbour is lined with bars, restaurants and cafes, many housed in converted warehouses, and the Waterfront is home to two of Britain’s most historic ships, Brunel’s SS Great Britain and The Matthew. Away from the water’s edge winding streets lead to elegant parks and squares, historic buildings such as Bristol Cathedral and other key attractions including the City Museum and Art Gallery. • A visit to the city of Bath with its iconic attractions and stunning architecture. Stroll around the flower filled streets, parks and gardens, take a trip back through time in the museums and maybe visit the Jane Austen Centre, a shrine to the city's most famous resident. See famous sights such as the Pump Rooms and Roman Baths, beautiful Bath Abbey, plus the magnificent Crescent and Pulteney Bridge. • A morning visit to the popular resort of Weston Super. After lunch we take a drive through the spectacular Cheddar Gorge to Wells, England’s smallest cathedral city, then on to Glastonbury, a place of legends and mystery, associated with King Arthur and the Holy Grail. DOUBLETREE BY HILTON BRISTOL SOUTH - CADBURY HOUSE HHHH HILTON PUCKRUP HALL HHHH Situated at Congresbury in North Somerset, set in a semi-rural location with a backdrop of woodland and wonderful views across the Bristol Channel and beyond. Facilities include the restaurant, the living room and the lounge bistro and sports bar, plus the newly opened Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill. All the airconditioned bedrooms feature Sweet Dreams Experience beds. Refresh shower, flat screen TV, desk with internet access, tea and coffee facilities, safe, plus iron & board. Lift available. Located on the outskirts of Tewkesbury in 140 acres of parkland, the luxurious Hilton Puckrup Hall has its own 18-hole championship golf course and spa. Facilities include the Balharries Restaurant and Terrace Bar, plus indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, gym, plus the Escape Spa which offers a range of treatments. All bedrooms are air-conditioned with flat screen TV, desk and easy chair, hairdryer and coffee maker. Lift available. DEPARTURE Excursions Included DURATION PRICE DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Monday 13 June 5 days £259 Sunday 17 April 5 days £239 Monday 26 September 5 days £259 Monday 08 August 5 days £259 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus river cruise. Supplement Single Room £60 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £80 Dinner at the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill (subject to availability) 21 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Tewkesbury & The Cotswolds BRITISH HOLIDAYS Lincolnshire Delights Savour the delights of tranquil Lincolnshire, a land where gentle landscapes meet meandering rivers and ancient church spires pierce the skyline. A major part of Lincolnshire are the Fens which have a character and beauty of their own, criss-crossed by miles of peaceful waterways. More to the north of the county lie the rolling hills of the Wolds, designated an Area of Outstanding National Beauty. Approach the city of Lincoln from any direction and you cant fail to see the magnificent silhouette of the cathedral stretching to the skies, brooding over 2000 years of history. Excursions Included • A visit to the delightful city of Lincoln where the past and present is all around from the cobbled streets and antiques to the modern art scattered throughout the city. Lincoln’s historic heart lies within the Bailgate area where you’ll find the magnificent triple towered Cathedral. Lincoln Castle originally built by William the Conqueror is one of the finest remaining Norman Castles in the country, used as a castle, a prison and a court for over 900 years. To view the city from another angle perhaps visit the Brayford Waterfront and take a sightseeing river cruise. • We take a drive through the Lincolnshire countryside and visit the market town of Boston, dominated by the 14th century church, known as ‘The Boston Stump’. With its incredible 272ft high tower, this is the largest parish church in England. Boston is also home to the Maud Foster Windmill, the tallest in England built in 1819 and still working daily. On then to Spalding, located at the centre of the Britain’s flower industry and famous for its annual flower parade. A peaceful market town on the River Welland with an attractive waterfront boasting grand Georgian terraces, treelined streets and pretty riverside walks. • A visit to Stamford, one of the finest Georgian stone towns in England with a fine selection of 17th and 18th century houses and medieval buildings that reflect its past – over 600 listed buildings, with six churches standing within a square mile. BELTON WOODS HOTEL HHHH A beautifully appointed hotel set in 475 acres of tranquil Lincolnshire countryside, boasting three challenging and picturesque golf courses. In addition to superb golfing facilities, Belton Woods offers Spa and fitness facilities with treatment rooms, swimming pool and gymnasium. All the luxurious en suite bedrooms feature satellite TV, hairdryer, trouser press, iron & board, plus hospitality tray. Lift available. All rooms on ground or first floor. DEPARTURE Monday 18 July The charming Victorian resort of Southport is renowned for its beautiful coastline, lovely parks and gardens, the large seafront marine lake, plus miles of golden sands and Britain's longest pier. Completely refurbished this fabulous pier features a tram which travels the mile long journey to the seaward end where there is a pavilion. Leafy tree-lined Lord Street with its Victorian Arcades is one of the country’s finest shopping boulevards, flanked by shops on one side and gardens and fountains on the other, which forms the heart of this unspoiled, traditional seaside town, the best known resort on the Lancashire coast. Excursions Included • A visit to the vibrant city of Liverpool with an included guided tour of all the main sights. Renowned for its architecture Liverpool has numerous listed buildings, plus the Waterfront, the historic Albert Dock, two Cathedrals, plus numerous art galleries and museums. An opportunity to hop aboard a Mersey Ferry and take a River Explorer Cruise for some magnificent views of the city. • A drive into the picturesque Yorkshire Dales where we visit the popular market towns of Settle with its famous viaduct and Skipton with its canal basin, tree lined high street and 900 year old castle. SCARISBRICK HOTEL HHH Ideally situated in the heart of Southport's tree-lined main boulevard, this traditional hotel offers high standards of accommodation, cuisine and service. Facilities include a coffee lounge, restaurant, choice of three bars, plus a Leisure Club with air-conditioned gym, leisure pool, spa, sauna and steam room. All bedrooms are en-suite with satellite TV, telephone, trouser press, hairdryer and tea/coffee facilities. Lift also available. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Monday 11 April 5 days £199 Sunday 22 May 5 days £275 DURATION PRICE Sunday 03 July 5 days £275 5 days £279 Sunday 11 September 5 days £275 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £100 22 Floral Southport Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast Supplement Single Room £nil (Limited availability) For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk County Durham Northumbria is the most northerly county in England with a delightful coastline boasting miles of award winning beaches, rocky headlands, delightful coves, fishing villages and medieval castles, all designated as an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore the delights of this coastline and enjoy a visit to the magnificent historic city of Durham with its numerous attractions including the stunning Norman castle and Cathedral, a listed World Heritage Site that has dominated the skyline for nine centuries. Excursions Included Excursion Included • We take a drive along the coast via Amble, Warkworth and Alnmouth to visit delightful Alnwick with its magnificent castle and gardens. Alnwick town itself is a medieval market town with many fine Georgian buildings. The castle, which was used a location for Harry Potter films, is one of the largest inhabited castles in England, proudly known as 'The Windsor of the North'. In the stunning gardens you can see the Grand Cascade, the Poison Garden, the Ornamental Garden, water sculptures, the Bamboo Labyrinth, and explore the amazing tree house, the largest in Europe. MARRIOTT ROYAL COUNTY HHHH Situated on the banks of the River Wear with delightful views of the Castle and Cathedral. Part of hotel dates back to the 17th century, offering modern amenities while preserving historic charm and exquisite features such as antiques and original prints. Leisure facilities include an indoor pool, spa and sauna and there is a pleasant conservatory and bar in which to relax. All bedrooms feature satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer, trouser press and mini bar, plus adjustable climate control and Internet service. Lift available. DEPARTURE • We take a drive along the coast via Amble, Warkworth and Alnmouth to visit delightful Alnwick with its magnificent castle and gardens. Alnwick is a nice medieval market town with many fine Georgian buildings. The castle, which was used a location for Harry Potter films, is one of the largest inhabited castles in England, proudly known as 'The Windsor of the North'. In the gardens you can see the Grand Cascade, the Poison Garden, the Ornamental Garden, water sculptures, the Bamboo Labyrinth, and the amazing tree house. • A short day to Newcastle Upon Tyne with its magnificent Millennium Bridge. Perhaps take a river cruise, explore Gateshead Quays and Visitor Centre, plus the Baltic Centre with its five floors of modern art and magnificent views of the Tyne. • A half day visit to Hartlepool and its marina development, home to the awardwinning Historic Quay, a reproduction of an 18th century seaport portraying the experience of life at the time of Nelson, Napoleon and the Battle of Trafalgar. The centrepiece of the Quay is HMS Trincomalee, Europe's oldest floating warship built in 1817. MARRIOTT SUNDERLAND HHHH Sunderland's only four star hotel located on the seafront at Seaburn overlooking Whitburn Sands, two miles north of the city centre. Facilities include the Promenade Restaurant and Mariners Bar, plus indoor swimming pool and gymnasium. All the bedrooms are airconditioned and feature Marriott’s luxury bedding, flat screen satellite TV, trouser press, hairdryer, telephone, iron & board, plus tea / coffee tray. Lift to all floors. DURATION PRICE Monday 04 July 4 days £219 DEPARTURE Monday 17 October 4 days £219 Monday 25 July Price includes three nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £75 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 DURATION PRICE 5 days £289 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £100 / Sea View £50 23 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Northumbrian Coast The panoramic view of Durham Castle and Cathedral has been described as 'one of the finest architectural experiences of Europe,' and together they are now listed as a World Heritage site. History is written into the narrow cobbled streets of this beautiful city, located on the picturesque River Wear. The magnificent Norman Cathedral is undoubtedly the highlight of the attractions and around the compact city centre there are museums, galleries, delightful medieval buildings, plus the quaint cobbled streets and ancient bridges of the old town. Yorkshire Highlights A five day break to Yorkshire that includes some excursions with a TV theme, based at the luxurious Marriott Hollins Hall Hotel & Country Club, set in its own tranquil surroundings at Shipley in the heart of Yorkshire. Discover some of the highlights of this delightful county in the North of England with its wonderful scenery that has been a natural setting for many films and TV shows over the years. BRITISH HOLIDAYS Itinerary DAY ONE: Our outward journey takes us into the northern Peak District for a visit to the Pennine village of Holmfirth, the location for the popular BBC TV series ‘Last of the Summer Wine’, the world's longest-running sitcom. Continue to Hollins Hall with time to relax before dinner. DAY TWO: We drive to the nearby village of Esholt, originally used for some of the exterior filming of Yorkshire TV's popular soap opera ‘Emmerdale’. (All filming now takes place at a purpose built set). Continue to the famous village of Haworth, see the Bronte Parsonage where the Bronte sisters grew up and wrote most of their famous works including Wuthering Heights. We then spend the afternoon in the city of Bradford with an optional visit to the Industrial Museum. DAY THREE: We drive across the Yorkshire Moors to the popular seaside town of Whitby with its maze of alleyways, narrow streets and busy quayside, all overlooked by its ancient abbey ruins. From here its on to Goathland, better known as Aidensfield in the ITV drama ‘Heartbeat’ Here we board the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway and step back in time for a ride to Pickering, the on back to the hotel. DAY FOUR: We spend the day in the magnificent City of York with its numerous award winning attractions. Stroll around the delightful old cobbled streets with their half timbered houses, take a cruise on the river, marvel at the Gothic masterpiece of York Minster or maybe visit the excellent museums. DAY FIVE: We check out and travel to the delightful market town Skipton with its canal basin, tree lined high street and 900 year old castle. Some time to explore before we continue on home to North Wales. MARRIOTT HOLLINS HALL HHHH Yorkshire’s premier seaside resort with two splendid bays separated by a headland and the ruins of Scarborough’s medieval castle. South Bay is the oldest resort area with shops, cafes and Victorian lifts to take you down to the beach and the promenade. The resort has a bustling harbour and boasts some of the finest parks and gardens in the country, together with excellent shopping facilities and a good choice of entertainment. Excursions Included • We take a leisurely drive along the southern tip of the Yorkshire Moors and visit the picturesque villages of Thornton Le Dale and Helmsley. On then to see Castle Howard, regarded as Yorkshire's finest historic house & estate. Home to the Howard family for over 300 years, Castle Howard is a magnificent 18th-century residence set within 1,000 acres of breathtaking landscapes with stunning architecture, world-renowned collections and idyllic gardens. • A scenic drive along the Yorkshire coastline to the unspolit seaside resort of Filey with its quaint fishermans cottages and Edwardian houses. We continue to Flamborough Headland to see the magnificent views, the lighthouse and the 400 ft chalk cliffs, then finally we visit the popular resort of Bridlington with its long promenade, golden beaches, bustling harbour and the historic old town to explore. ESPLANADE HOTEL HHH Situated on the South Cliff with superb views of the bay and just a short walk from the town centre and beach. The hotel is three star rated and ETB four crowns (commended). One of the main features is the bay window in the Landau Restaurant that provides superb views of the castle and harbour. All the bedrooms are en-suite with colour TV, telephone, tea / coffee tray. Lift to all floors. Originally built in 1878 this excellent hotel features two restaurants and the Hollins Bar, a leisure club with gymnasium, swimming pool, sauna, steam room, solariums and Beauty suite, plus an 18-hole championship golf course. All the en suite bedrooms feature satellite TV, hair dryer, trouser press, iron & board, mini bar and hospitality tray. Lift available. DEPARTURE Scarborough DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE DURATION PRICE Monday 06 June 5 days £279 Friday 22 April 5 days £259 Monday 08 August 5 days £289 Monday 15 August 5 days £259 Monday 26 September 5 days £259 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus the steam train ride. Supplement Single Room £100 24 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus admission to Castle Howard. Supplement Single Room £nil (limited availability) For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Isle of Man The largest of the Channel Islands Jersey is situated on the edge of the Gulf Stream just a few miles off the coast of France. The Island enjoys a pleasant warm climate with the best sunshine record in the British Isles and is conveniently just a short flight away. There are some 45 miles of coastline with sweeping bays in the south giving way to dramatic cliffs in the north, offering spectacular scenery plus an abundance of historical sights. St Helier has plenty to interest with museums, galleries, lovely parks and gardens, plus the absence of VAT is a distinct bonus when it comes to exploring the shopping precinct. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel to Manchester Airport for the outward flight to Jersey. On arrival at St Helier you will be met by you resort representative and transferred to your chosen hotel. During your stay your representative will reserve seats on any excursions that you may wish to join. A wide choice of full and half day tours are available on Jersey, plus you can take a day trip to Guernsey or to the sleepy island of Sark where there are no cars, just bicycles and horse drawn carts. DAY EIGHT: We return to the airport for the flight back to Manchester and the coach transfer back to North Wales. AMBASSADEUR HOTEL - ST CLEMENT HHH Enjoying a fabulous sea front location this hotel overlooks the wide sands of St Clement’s Bay and is just a few minutes bus ride from the centre of St Helier. Facilities include a quiet lounge, restaurant and bar, plus a sun terrace and outdoor swimming pool. All bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone and hospitality tray. Entertainment is provided on some evenings. Lift to all floors. MONTEREY HOTEL HHH Located on the outskirts of St Helier within easy walking distance of the town centre. Facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, steam room and mini gym, reception lounges, restaurant and bar. All bedrooms en suite with satellite TV, hairdryer, telephone and tea / coffee tray. Lifts available. DEPARTURE In the heart of the Irish Sea off the north west coast of England lies the Isle of Man. A unique self-governing kingdom with its own parliament, renowned for its relaxed pace of life and a wealth of attractions including the island’s Victorian railway systems and the world’s largest working water wheel. Enjoy fabulous scenery with enchanting glens, uncrowded beaches, medieval castles and beautiful parks and gardens. Our holiday base is the resort of Douglas, the capital of the island. A lively town with a magnificent bay and promenade, colourful gardens, plus the award winning Manx museum and those famous old horse drawn open trams. Itinerary DAY ONE: Travel to Heysham where we board the Steam Packet ferry for an afternoon sailing to Douglas on the Isle of Man. On arrival we make the short journey along the promenade to the Sefton Hotel where we stay for the next four nights. DAY TWO: At leisure to relax and explore Douglas, perhaps take a ride on a horse drawn tram or the Victorian railway to the summit of Snaefell Mountain. DAY THREE: A full day tour to see the famous Laxey Wheel, the world's largest surviving water wheel, before heading to the harbour town of Ramsey. After lunch we continue to Grove House, an early Victorian villa which is now a museum, then visit the historic fishing port of Peel, famous for its Castle and those delicious Manx kippers. DAY FOUR: Another full day tour that takes us to the south of the island. Gain some fascinating insights into Manx traditions at the Cregneash Village Folk Museum and visit Calf Sound at the southern tip of the island before continuing to Castletown, the island’s former capital. DAY FIVE: Following breakfast this morning we board our ferry for the return crossing to Heysham and then continue our journey home to North Wales. SEFTON HOTEL HHHH The four star Sefton Hotel is perfectly situated in a prime location on the promenade. The hotel is a sympathetic mixture of a fine restored Victorian hotel and a new extension set round a unique indoor atrium water garden. All the en suite bedrooms feature satellite television, direct dial telephone, internet access, hair dryer, iron and board, trouser press, safe and tea / coffee making facilities. The hotel also features an award winning restaurant, bar area, library and spa. Lift to all floors. DURATION AMBASSADEUR MONTEREY Saturday 14 May 8 days £529 £579 Saturday 18 June 8 days £569 £629 Saturday 16 July 8 days £579 £649 Saturday 20 August 8 days £579 £649 DEPARTURE Saturday 17 September 8 days £529 £619 Transfers to and from Manchester Airport, return flights to Jersey with local hotel transfers, seven nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus the services of a local representative. Supplements (per person): Ambassadeur - Single Room £8 per night / Sea View £5 per night Monterey – Single Room on request / Superior room £3 per night Arvonia Coaches Ltd act as retail agents for Destination Specialists – ATOL protected 9503 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 DURATION PRICE Sunday 26 June 5 days £409 Sunday 21 August 5 days £419 Sunday 18 September 5 days £419 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and full English breakfast, plus return ferry crossings. (Does not include any admission charges) Supplement Single Room (sole occupancy of double room) £220 25 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Jersey by Air BRITISH HOLIDAYS Warner Leisure Hotels Exclusively for Adults Some of the beautiful properties in the Warner Leisure Hotels portfolio are Grade I and II listed buildings, while others are remarkable for their stunning countryside or coastal settings. All are surrounded by immaculate gardens and have a relaxed and informal ambience, some of the Historic Country Hotels have also been awarded the prestigious AA 4-Star status and Rosettes for dining. All hotels feature indoor and outdoor sport and leisure facilities plus swimming pool, sauna, steam room and fitness suite. At Warner the emphasis is on great entertainment, every evening is different offering an exciting variety of live performances with music, dancing and comedy. Nidd Hall - Harrogate Thoresby Hall - Nottingham Built in the grandest Baronial Style, parts of this grade II listed Georgian Hall date back to the 14th century. Situated on the outskirts of Harrogate, the house is surrounded by 45 acres of beautiful gardens and lawns that culminate in an ornamental lake, providing the perfect surroundings. 26 A magnificent Victorian country house standing in extensive grounds at Newark, on the edge of Sherwood Forest. The ornate architecture of Thoresby Hall is truly stunning, explore this Grade 1 listed mansion and experience the grandeur of the Great Hall and elegant State Rooms. Thoresby is not only a celebrated hotel but also a luxurious spa retreat. Excursions Included Excursions Included • Full day City of York • Short day Herriott Country • Optional half day Harrogate • Full day City of Lincoln • Full day Matlock, Bakewell & Chesterfield • Optional half day Nottingham For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Holme Lacy House – Hereford Sinah Warren – Hayling Island This well-appointed and comfortable Warner Character Hotel is located on the tip of Hampshire’s Hayling Island, overlooking the beautiful Langstone Harbour and the sparkling waters of the Solent. Originally a 15th Century health farm run by monks and now an excellent hotel with numerous amenities in a lovely seaside location, described as a tranquil paradise of pines and flowers, sea-birds and butterflies Set in the heart of the Wye Valley near Hereford, this fabulous country mansion combines graceful grandeur with a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. A grade I listed building, dating back to the 17th century, with high ceiling halls, stunning staircases and drawing rooms. With stunning views of the parklands and gardens Holme Lacy combines the tranquillity of the countryside with the benefits of a top class hotel. • Full day Tewkesbury & Gloucester • Short day City of Worcester • Optional half day Ross on Wye • Full day Portsmouth • Short day Winchester • Optional half day Chichester Littlecote House – Wiltshire Alvaston Hall – Nantwich A delightful half-timbered Victorian country house located in leafy Cheshire near the old riverside town of Nantwich and the restful Water Gardens at Stapeley. The magnificent entrance and reception hall features a superb stained-glass window and a large fireplace enlivened with Italian ironwork, you can also appreciate the Victorians’ love for Elizabethanesque panelling and ceilings and the fine ‘Baroque’ boudoir, and superb Georgianstyle fireplaces and ceilings. A 15th century Tudor mansion located at Hungerford in the picturesque rolling hills of Wiltshire. The elegant Tudor architecture and stunning parkland setting make it easy to see why Henry VIII thought it the perfect place to court Jane Seymour. Experience the tranquillity of the Cromwellian chapel, plus the Long Gallery, Dutch Parlour and the Chinese Drawing Room. Excursions Included • Full day Winchester & Salisbury • Full day Royal Windsor • Optional half day Marlborough Excursions Included • Full day Buxton & Peak District • Full day Shrewsbury & Telford Cricket St. Thomas Somerset Located near Chard in Somerset, this Manor House is famous as the setting for the TV series to ‘The Manor Born’. Nestling in its own picturesque valley this beautiful building retains historic features such as the Grand Hall and sweeping staircase, plus the lovely oak panelled dining room. Guests can also visit a wildlife park located within the grounds. Excursions Included • Full day Sidmouth & Exmouth • Full day Dorchester & Weymouth • Optional half day Lyme Regis WARNER PRICES 2011 NIDD HALL - HARROGATE Monday 04 April Monday 19 Sept 5 days £314 5 days £359 THORESBY HALL - NOTTINGHAM Monday 13 June 5 days £359 HOLME LACY HOUSE - HEREFORD Monday 25 July 5 days £359 LITTLECOTE HOUSE - WILTSHIRE Monday 10 October 5 days £359 CRICKET ST. THOMAS - SOMERSET Monday 09 May Monday 01 August 5 days £339 5 days £359 SINAH WARREN - HAYLING ISLAND Monday 11 April 5 days £282 ALVASTON HALL - NANTWICH Monday 28 October 4 days £269 All Warner Holidays include accommodation in en suite bedrooms with dinner and breakfast, use of all leisure facilities, plus cabaret & entertainment every night. Information and Bookings 01286 675175 27 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Excursions Included Excursions Included Edinburgh Military Tattoo Tall Ships 2011 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Glasgow City Break The Tall Ships Races are an internationally acclaimed annual competition held every summer in European waters which has visited hundreds of ports in its 53 year history. Between 70 and 100 vessels crewed by young people from over 30 countries world-wide take part in this unique event. In 2011 Greenock will be hosting part of the Tall Ships' Races, a great opportunity to see some of the world's most beautiful sailing ships with their graceful lines, huge masts and miles of rigging bedecked with bunting which is sure to be a truly magnificent spectacle. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel north through the Border Region into Scotland and on to the city of Glasgow for check in to the luxurious five star Hilton Hotel where we stay for the next two nights. DAY TWO: We spend the day at the nearby port of Greenock in Inverclyde, situated along the broad coastal reach of the River Clyde with lovely views towards the Argyll Hills and Scottish Highlands. Enjoy the Tall Ships experience on the port’s Waterfront and the great atmosphere of the Tall Ships village where visitors will be able to board some of the beautiful vessels. The day is scheduled to conclude with a grand firework display to light up the docks. DAY THREE: This morning we return to Greenock to watch the famous 'Parade of Sail', see the whole fleet in glorious full sail as they bid a grand farewell and leave port, a truly glorious sight. We then say farewell to Greenock and commence our homeward journey. The Edinburgh Military Tattoo was first performed in 1950 as the Army’s contribution to the Edinburgh Music Festival. Today, with its unique blend of music, ceremony, entertainment and theatre, set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, it is without doubt one of the world’s greatest shows. Enjoy the colour, pomp and pageantry when massed pipes and drums, dancers and display teams put on a dazzling spectacle that ends with the lone piper high on the battlements above the Castle, a sight that creates lasting memories of a wonderful evening’s entertainment. Itinerary DAY ONE: We head north through the Scottish Border Region and on to the city of Edinburgh for check in to the Kings Manor Hotel where we stay for two nights. Dinner included at the hotel tonight. DAY TWO: Following breakfast a short transfer into the city centre to spend the day at leisure exploring the famous city sights or alternatively you may wish to join our optional guided city tour. This evening enjoy the highlight of the visit and take your seats at the castle for the Military Tattoo Performance. The coach will provide transfers to and from the castle, however please note there is a short hill to walk up to the castle entrance. DAY THREE: Following breakfast we check out and head south back through the Border region and on home to North Wales. HILTON GLASGOW HHHHH KINGS MANOR HOTEL HHH A superb five star rated hotel centrally situated just minutes away from the shopping and entertainment areas of the city. This stylish hotel features Minsky’s Brasserie, Camerons Restaurants and a nice relaxing bar, plus the Living Well health club with swimming pool, sauna, steam room and fitness suite. All of the luxury air-conditioned bedrooms feature flat screen TV, telephone, hair dryer, trouser press, mini bar and hospitality tray. Lift available Situated in Edinburgh`s Portobello district in the eastern suburbs of the city, close to Holyrood Park. Facilities include a health club with indoor pool, spa bath, steam room, and sauna, plus a restaurant, bar/lounge, and coffee shop. All bedrooms feature satellite TV, telephone and tea /coffee tray and trouser press. Lift to all floors (Please note the hotel is totally non-smoking) DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Fri 08 July 3 days £179 Price includes two nights accommodation with English breakfast Supplement Single Room £40 28 DEPARTURE Fri 12 August DURATION 3 days Today the City of Glasgow has become one of the liveliest and most cosmopolitan short break destinations in Europe, reborn as a centre of style and vitality set against a backdrop of outstanding Victorian architecture. Glasgow boasts world famous art collections, the best shopping in the United Kingdom outside London, and the most vibrant and exciting nightlife in Scotland. A must see is the splendour of Scotland's best known architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, whose style adorns many unique attractions throughout Scotland's largest city. Itinerary DAY ONE: We head north through the Border Region into Scotland and on to the Glasgow Hilton where we stay for the next two nights. DAY TWO: A full day at leisure to explore the city. Art and culture are important in Glasgow life where galleries and museums are in abundance with a choice of over 20 including the renowned Burrell Collection. Explore the Waterfront and perhaps take a river trip or a city sightseeing tour bus. No visit would be complete without experiencing the city's shopping with high street stores, designer labels, and speciality outlets to explore, with welcome pit-stops in the cafe culture around the Italian Centre, Merchant Square and the Buchanan Galleries. DAY THREE: A further morning at leisure in the city to relax or explore some more. We depart mid afternoon and commence our homeward journey. HILTON GLASGOW HHHHH A superb five star rating hotel centrally situated just minutes away from the shopping and entertainment areas of the city. This stylish hotel features Minsky’s Brasserie, Camerons Restaurants and a nice relaxing bar, plus the Living Well health club with swimming pool, sauna, steam room and fitness suite. All of the luxury air-conditioned bedrooms feature flat screen TV, telephone, hair dryer, trouser press, mini bar, hospitality tray. Lift available. PRICE DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE £269 Fri 08 July 3 days £179 Fri 23 September 3 days £179 Price includes two nights accommodation with breakfast, dinner on Friday evening, plus admission to the Tattoo on Saturday evening. Supplement per person: Single Room £65 Price includes two nights accommodation with breakfast. Supplement Single Room £40 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Explore two of Scotland’s most famous cities, spend a day in the land of Scots heroes William Wallace and Rob Roy and experience the natural beauty of the Trossachs in Scotland’s first National Park. Set against a backdrop of outstanding Victorian architecture the City of Glasgow is one of Europe’s most popular visitor destinations, full of culture with over 20 museums & galleries. The capital city of Edinburgh offers numerous attractions including its magnificent castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile. Excursions Included • A visit to the city of Glasgow where galleries and museums are in abundance including the renowned Burrell Collection and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery which holds works from Van Gogh, Monet and Botticelli. The Glenlee Tall Ship in Glasgow Harbour is another main attraction, giving an insight into the early days of ship building in the city. Explore the Waterfront and perhaps take a river trip or a city sightseeing tour. • We travel via the picturesque Campsie Fells into the Trossachs, known as ‘Scotland in miniature’ A visit to Aberfoyle before we travel over the Duke’s Pass and on to Loch Katrine, to experience the natural beauty which inspired Sir Walter Scott’s poems. (Optional boat cruise). We continue to Stirling with is the magnificent castle sitting high on a craggy rock, plus the impressive Wallace Monument, built in commemoration of the legendary Scottish hero. Loch Fyne & Argyll A delightful new scenic tour to the idyllic west coast of Scotland, an area of outstanding natural beauty where mountain peaks soar majestically in the distance and spectacular scenery is all around. To explore this beautiful area our chosen hotel is set in a tranquil location near Inveraray, directly above the shores of picturesque Loch Fyne, renowned for the growing of oysters in its clear fertile waters. Located in the Argyll and Bute region of Scotland, Loch Fyne extends some 41 miles inland from the Sound of Bute, making it the second longest sea loch in Scotland. Excursions Included • A morning to explore Inveraray, home to the Duke of Argyll's unique gothic style castle and the Inveraray Jail Living Museum, one of Scotland’s top attractions with costumed characters plus sounds and smells that bring the old courtroom and former county prison back to life. Afternoon drive to Tarbet and along the shores of Loch Lomond to Luss, featured in the TV soap ‘Take the High Road’. • We travel via Loch Awe and the Pass of Brander to Oban, the oldest and most popular resort in the Western Highlands situated in a lovely picturesque bay. We return via Lochgilphead and along the shores of Loch Fyne. • We take a lovely scenic drive via the Argyll Forest Park and the shores of magnificent Loch Eck which cuts through the centre of the Cowal Peninsula. We visit the enchanting Benmore Botanic Gardens, then continue on to the popular resort of Dunoon with its nice long promenade, Victorian Pier and wonderful panoramic views across the Firth of Clyde. • A full day visit to Edinburgh, Scotland’s Capital city that is a real delight to explore with architecture that varies from the lofty buildings of the medieval Old Town, to the grace of the Georgian New Town. See attractions such as the Palace of Holyroodhouse, famous Edinburgh Castle, the 17th century warrens of the Old Town and the historic Royal Mile, the walk of kings and queens that is a must to enjoy Edinburgh at its historical best. • We travel via Glen Aray and along the shores of Loch Awe, then climb over the Pass of Brander and on to Oban. One of Scotland’s most popular holiday resorts Oban is situated in a lovely sheltered bay in the Western Highlands where the views of the mountains, lochs and islands have captivated artists, authors, composers and poets for centuries. We return to our hotel via Lochgilphead and along the shores of Loch Fyne. THE WESTERWOOD HOTEL & GOLF RESORT HHHH LOCH FYNE HOTEL HHH The Westerwood Hotel is situated in a peaceful location with fine views of the Campsie Hills and with its own 18-hole championship golf course as a delightful backdrop. All the en-suite bedrooms include bath with separate shower, satellite television, telephone, trouser press or ironing facilities, hairdryer, plus tea & coffee tray. The hotel also features a bar and restaurant plus a leisure club with an indoor pool, spa and fitness centre. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE This excellent 3 star hotel enjoys a beautiful lochside location close to the village of Inveraray. The hotel has a large bar/lounge in which to relax overlooking the loch and a traditionally decorated ground floor restaurant. Each of the 71 bedrooms feature all the modern facilities including satellite TV, tea/coffee tray, telephone, hairdryer and trouser press. The spa and leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, plus an outdoor hot tub giving guests the chance to enjoy a lazy summer evening in a state of total relaxation. Lift available. DURATION PRICE Monday 16 May 5 days £239 DEPARTURE Monday 10 October 5 days £239 Sunday 19 June Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £80 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 DURATION PRICE 5 days £335 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £75 29 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Glasgow, Edinburgh & The Trossachs Ayrshire Coast BRITISH HOLIDAYS Dunoon, Oban & The Kyles of Bute Known as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands’, the popular resort of Dunoon lies in a delightful picturesque setting on the Cowal Peninsula, regarded as one of the finest scenic locations in Scotland. Surrounded by the rolling hills and woodlands of the Argyll Forest Park Dunoon is located on the western shores of the Firth of Clyde, where Loch Long and Holy Loch join the sea. There are two fine bays, some lovely gardens, a nice long promenade for that relaxing stroll, plus the Victorian Pier with its wonderful panoramic views across the Firth of Clyde. Excursions Included • We take a lovely scenic drive via the Argyll Forest Park and the shores of magnificent Loch Eck which cuts right through the centre of the Cowal Peninsula. We continue around the tip of Loch Fyne to Inveraray, home to the Duke of Argyll's splendid castle and Inveraray Jail, then on to the popular holiday resort of Oban, set on a curved esplanade around the bay with fine views towards the Western Isles. • A day of spectacular scenery following narrow winding roads through the hills towards Glendaruel, then on to Colintraive for a short ferry ride across the Kyles of Bute to the Isle of Bute. Here we visit the principal town of Rothesay with its splendid Victorian frontage, the glorious esplanade gardens and 800 year old ruin of Rothesay castle. From here relax and enjoy the views as we take a drive around the coastline of this lovely island before returning to the mainland. ESPLANADE HOTEL HHH A long established family owned and run hotel offering a warm, friendly welcome and service, situated on Dunoon’s traffic free west bay promenade with superb views over the Clyde. There is a sun terrace above the hotel gardens plus the restaurant and bar with entertainment provided on most evenings including a traditional Scottish evening with Pipers and highland dancers. The hotel bar is also renowned for its selection of some 120 Scottish malt whiskies. All bedrooms are en suite with television, telephone and tea/coffee tray. A lift serves most rooms. (Please note this hotel is completely non smoking) DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Monday 18 April 5 days £219 Sunday 07 August 5 days £289 Monday 03 October 5 days £219 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, including a Highland Night, plus return ferry crossings from Gourock to Dunoon and Colintraive to the Isle of Bute. Supplement per person: Single Room £20 / Sea View Room £32 Premier Sea View Room £52 30 A delightful corner of Scotland situated on the beautiful Clyde Coast, famous for its golf courses, ancient castles and as the birthplace of Robert Burns, Scotland's National Bard. The beautiful Ayrshire countryside was the inspiration for many of his fine verses, an area with stunning views of soft rolling hills and dramatic coastlines. Ayrshire is also the gateway to some of Scotland’s finest islands and this holiday offers an opportunity to visit the delightful Isle of Arran with its rugged and mountainous scenery, one of the most southerly Scottish Islands known as ‘Scotland in Miniature’. Excursions Included • A visit to the popular seaside resort of Ayr, the largest of the Clyde Coast towns, located in the heart of Burns Country. On then to nearby Alloway, birthplace of world famous Robert Burns, Scotland’s celebrated bard. The heritage park offers visitors an opportunity to experience the heritage of Burns in the environment that provided his inspiration. Pay a visit to the bard’s birthplace at Burns Cottage and see the original manuscript of his best-known work “Auld Lang Syne”, plus the recently opened museum that houses the most important Burns collection in the world. • We take a drive along the Ayrshire Coast to visit the magnificent 18th century Culzean Castle, perched on a rocky promontory set amongst some 600 acres of woodland and formal gardens, with superb panoramic views of the Firth of Clyde and Isle of Arran. One of the grandest country houses in Ayrshire the castle houses an armoury display that is the largest collection of its type in existence, plus the Oval Staircase, the masterpiece of Scottish architect Robert Adam who also designed many of the rooms. Optional Excursion • A full day visit to the Isle of Arran, travelling by ferry from the port of Ardrossan. Known as 'Scotland in miniature'. Arran is a fascinating and surprising island, it has an unrivalled range of landscapes, covering the whole spectrum of Scottish scenery. Enjoy a tour of the granite peaks and deep valleys in the north, the sandy bays around the coast, the heather-clad moorlands in the south, plus a visit to Brodick, the island’s principal town. An opportunity to visit Brodick Castle and it’s colourful landscaped gardens. MENZIES IRVINE HOTEL HHHH Located on the outskirts of Irvine approximately 10 to 15 minutes walk from the town centre. The hotel features its own 9 hole golf course and facilities include a Brasserie restaurant, cocktail bar and a spacious lounge area. All the comfortable bedrooms feature satellite television, iron & board, hairdryer and tea / coffee tray. (The hotel does not have a lift but all rooms are on the ground or first floor). DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Monday 18 July 5 days £259 Monday 05 September 5 days £259 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus admission to Culzean Castle & Gardens. Supplement Single Room £60 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Oban Bay A delightful holiday to the Highlands with the undoubted highlight being a return trip from Fort William to Mallaig in the first class section of the famous Jacobite Steam Train. Voted as the top railway journey in the world this 84 mile round trip takes you past a list of impressive extremes. It starts near the highest mountain in Britain (Ben Nevis), visits Britain's most westerly mainland railway station (Arisaig), passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain (Loch Morar) and the shortest river in Britain (River Morar) and finally arrives next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe - Loch Nevis. Excursions Included • We drive north to Fort Augustus where the Caledonian Canal meets Loch Ness and see the remarkable ‘ladder of locks’. We then continue along the shores of Loch Ness in search of the elusive legendary monster before arriving in the ancient city of Inverness, the bustling capital of the Highlands with its castle and fine specialist shops. • The highlight of the holiday – the Jacobite Steam Train departing from Fort William mid-morning. The train stops at Glenfinnan village where Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard in 1745, then crosses the famous 21 arch viaduct (used in the Harry Potter movies) from where there are spectacular views down to Loch Shiel. Another stop at Arisaig station then on past the silver sands of Morar to Mallaig. Some time to explore this busy fishing port and ferry terminal to Skye before boarding the train again for the journey back to Fort William. ALEXANDRA HOTEL HHH Monday 11 July • Full day via Loch Linnhe to Fort William, nestling beneath the mighty Ben Nevis, an opportunity to take a cable car ride into the Nevis Range for some spectacular views. Continue to Glencoe, the most famous glen in Scotland with some of the finest scenery in the central Highlands. Enjoy a visit to the award winning Glencoe Visitor Centre. • Short day to the shores of Loch Fyne for a visit to Inveraray, one of Scotland's most beautiful historic towns. Attractions include the Gothic style Inveraray Castle, home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll, the Maritime Museum and the Inveraray Jail Living Museum, one of Scotland’s top attractions with costumed characters, sounds and smells that bring the old courtroom and former county prison back to life. Optional Excursion • The Isle of Mull, travelling by ferry from Oban to Craignure. Enjoy a lovely scenic drive across the Isle of Mull, travelling through Glen More and along the shores of picturesque Loch Scridain to Fionnphort. From here a short ferry crossing the Holy Island of Iona, an historic place of pilgrimage with its Abbey, Benedictine Nunnery and the Reilig Oran - the burial place of Kings. CALEDONIAN HOTEL HHH Known as Oban's landmark building, the historic Caledonian Hotel enjoys a superb central location by the harbour, This fine hotel offers stylish, contemporary comfort with facilities including two restaurants, a bar and lounge area. All bedrooms are en suite with TV, telephone and tea / coffee tray. Lift available. ROYAL HOTEL HHH Originally built in 1895 the Royal’s Victorian facade dominates the town square. It is nicely located in the centre of town, close to the harbour and ferry terminal. Facilities include a lounge bar and restaurant, all bedrooms feature en suite facilities, television, telephone and tea/coffee tray. Lift to all floors. Ideally located in the centre of Fort William close to all the shops and amenities. Facilities include two restaurants and a bar, plus comfortable lounge areas. All bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, telephone, radio and tea / coffee tray. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Excursions Included DURATION PRICE 5 days £359 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus first class return tickets for the Jacobite Steam Railway. Supplement Single Room £32 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 DEPARTURE HOTEL DURATION PRICE Monday 04 July Royal 5 days £299 Monday 15 August Royal 5 days £309 Monday 12 September Caledonian 5 days £319 Monday 31 October* Caledonian 5 days £179 * House Party Break Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room - Royal £32, Caledonian £80 31 BRITISH HOLIDAYS Scottish Highlands & The Jacobite Train A firm favourite - one of Scotland’s most popular holiday resorts, situated in a lovely sheltered bay in the Western Highlands. The views of the mountains, lochs and islands have captivated artists, authors, composers and poets for centuries. This picturesque town with its Victorian Villas and hotels lining the esplanade and harbour owes its popularity to the Victorians, Oban also had the Royal seal of approval from Queen Victoria who called it ‘one of the finest spots we have seen’. There are interesting shops to explore including the Caithness Glass showrooms, plus Oban Distillery and the World in Miniature Exhibition. Hebridean Odyssey BRITISH HOLIDAYS Fort William & Magical Skye The beautiful Western Highlands of Scotland, an area of dramatic scenery with towering mountains, majestic lochs & glens, wonderful misty isles, plus highland culture and a fascinating clan history. To explore this beautiful region we stay in the popular resort of Fort William, the largest town in the Western Highlands set on the shores of Loch Linnhe with magnificent Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain creating a spectacular backdrop. Excursions Included • Full day to the magical Isle of Skye commencing with a drive along the ‘Road to the Isles’ passing the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct and the White Sands of Morar to reach Mallaig. From here we take a ferry to Armadale on the Isle of Skye and continue to Portree, Skye’s main town which centres round a pretty harbour. We return to the mainland via the Skye Bridge, then on through dramatic scenery passing the Five Sisters Peaks to Invergarry and finally through the Great Glen back to Fort William. • Full day travelling north to Fort Augustus where the Caledonian Canal meets Loch Ness. Here we see the remarkable ladder of locks that lowers vessels down to the loch level. Continue along the shore of Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for ‘Nessie’, to Inverness, the Capital of the Highlands. Optional Excursion • A short journey to the nearby Nevis Range mountain gondola system, a highly acclaimed visitor attraction. The gondolas transport visitors from 300 up to 2150 feet with breathtaking views of the Great Glen, Ben Nevis, and surrounding areas. Ideally located in the centre of town, close to all the shops and amenities. Facilities include two restaurants and a bar, plus comfortable lounge areas. All bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, telephone, radio and tea / coffee tray. Lift to all floors. Guests are also welcome to use the leisure facilities at the sister hotel. Monday 29 August DAY ONE: We head north through the Scottish Borders and on to East Kilbride for an overnight stay at the Holiday Inn. DAY TWO: Continue along the shores of Loch Lomond and on to the resort of Oban. Here we board a Caledonian Macbrayne ferry for a relaxing cruise along the Sound of Mull and on to the Isle of Barra, a chance to enjoy some fine views of other islands. We spend the next two nights at the Isle of Barra Hotel. DAY THREE: A day at leisure to relax and enjoy this peaceful island, considered by many to be the most beautiful little island in Britain, just five miles across by eight miles long with stunning coastal scenery, white sand beaches, remarkable wildlife and diverse flora and fauna. (Optional tour by mini coach) DAY FOUR: Seven islands in one day! A morning crossing from Barra to the tiny Isle of Eriskay, the ‘Whisky Galore’ island famous for its ponies. Take the causeway across to South Uist where the west coast is a continuous sandy beach while the east is dominated by mountainous peaks. Continue to Benbecula, then onward to North Uist, a relatively flat island covered with peat bogs. Another scenic ferry crossing takes us to the Isle of Harris, then the final leg is to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis and the Cabarfeidh Hotel where we stay for the next two nights. DAY FIVE: Today we are joined by a local guide for a fascinating excursion exploring the delights of Lewis including the collection of stone circles at Callanish, known as the “Hebrides Stonehenge”, the ancient thatched “blackhouses”, the Broch at Dun Carloway, plus a visit to a tweed mill. DAY SEVEN: We head south towards the Border region and on via the motorways to North Wales. HOTELS Accommodation throughout the tour will be provided in comfortable hotels that include en-suite facilities, television, telephone and tea / coffee tray. DURATION PRICE 5 days £319 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast. Supplement Single Room £32 32 Itinerary DAY SIX: A morning at leisure in Stornoway, then an afternoon ferry crossing to Ullapool. Continue through some wonderful mountain scenery to the Spey Valley area and an overnight stay at the Nethybridge Hotel. ALEXANDRA HOTEL HHH DEPARTURE A delightful island-hopping holiday in the Outer Hebrides where you can experience the enchanting scenery and relaxed pace of life that is enjoyed in these remote regions. The scenery is fascinating in its variety and the ferry crossings are an excellent way to view the many outlying islands. Enjoy a cruise from Oban along the Sound of Mull to the Isle of Barra, then see the tiny Isle of Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula, North Uist, plus the Isles of Harris and Lewis. A wonderful tour encompassing the sheer beauty of these extraordinary Scottish islands. DEPARTURE Thursday 28 July DURATION PRICE 7 days £615 Price includes six nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus cost of all ferry crossings and services of a local guide Supplement Single Room £105 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Bantry Bay Located in the south-western corner of Ireland, Co Cork is the largest of all the Irish counties and in many ways the most varied. Rich farmlands and river valleys contrast with wild sandstone hills and a magnificent coastline shaped by the Atlantic into picturesque bays, rocky headlands and golden sands. Set amongst the many attractions of County Cork lies our holiday base, the famous and picturesque village of Blarney, one of the most legendary places in Ireland rich in folklore, nostalgia and legend all surrounded by wonderful scenery. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel across Anglesey to Holyhead for the ferry to Ireland. Continue south along the Irish Coast to County Cork and the Blarney Woollen Mills Hotel where we stay for the next four nights. DAY TWO: A morning at leisure in Blarney Village, an opportunity to explore the Woollen Mills and stroll through the gardens to see the famous Blarney Castle where legend has it that by kissing the Blarney Stone in the castle tower one can receive the ‘gift of the gab’. Afternoon visit to Kinsale, a delightful town with a long waterfront, quaint narrow streets, a beautiful natural harbour and its 17th century fort, also regarded as the gourmet capital of Ireland. DAY THREE: This morning we visit the city of Cork, nestled at the head of the River Lee. On then the port of Cobh and the Heritage Centre, dedicated to the story of the mass emigration during the great famine. Experience the tales of life aboard the emigrant ships. The tragedy of the Titanic is also featured with artefacts from the ship exhibited. Cobh (formerly Queenstown) was the last port of call of the ill-fated ship. DAY FOUR: A visit to the Jameson Irish Whiskey Heritage Centre at Midleton for a tour of the distillery and tasting. Continue on to the seaside town of Youghal with its fine beaches, one of the best examples of a Norman walled port in Ireland with quaint streets and Victorian shop fronts. DAY FIVE: We travel back to the ferry port for the afternoon sailing to Holyhead and home to North Wales. BLARNEY WOOLEN MILLS HOTEL HHH Situated in the picturesque village of Blarney next to the famous Blarney Woollen Mills. Facilities include a gymnasium plus Grill Bar, the Mill Restaurant and Christys Bar. All bedrooms are furnished with traditional decor and feature satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer, and tea/coffee making facilities. Lift available. (Please note this is a non-smoking Hotel) DEPARTURE Sunday 19 June DURATION PRICE 5 days £319 Price includes four nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner, return Irish Sea crossings, plus Jameson Distillery Tour & tasting. (Arvonia Clients will also receive a 10% discount at the Blarney Woollen Mills shop). Supplement Single Room £45 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 Picturesque West County Cork, an area of the glorious Emerald Isle that offers so much variety. A place of beauty where the landscape continuously changes, renowned for its rugged mountain scenery, craggy coastlines, stunning beaches, lush river valleys, mystical lakes and colourful coastal villages. In the heart of the county lies the town of Bantry, a busy little market town and fishing port with brightly decorated houses and streets, plus a nice town square and promenade, all in a wonderful setting overlooking Bantry Bay. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel across Anglesey to Holyhead for the ferry crossing to Ireland. On arrival we continue via Portlaoise and Cahir into County Cork and on to the Maritime Hotel at Bantry Bay where we stay for the next four nights. DAY TWO: A day at leisure in Bantry to relax and explore. An opportunity to visit the historic Bantry House and Gardens, the ancestral home of the Earls of Bantry, one of Ireland's most attractive Great Houses full of treasures collected from all parts of the world. Enjoy magnificent views over the bay from the terraced gardens. (Optional afternoon boat trip to see the Italian Gardens on Garinish Island). DAY THREE: A full day excursion with some spectacular scenery as we tour the Beara Peninsula which links Glengariff in Co Cork with Kenmare in Co. Kerry. See the stunning peaks of the Caha Mountains contrasting with the rugged indented coastline, plus beautiful beaches and colourful villages. We visit Castletownbere, the principal town on the peninsula with a large natural harbour, home to one of Ireland’s largest fishing fleets. DAY FOUR: This morning we take a drive to Mizen Head at the extreme southwestern tip of Ireland. See the award winning Maritime Museum and Heritage Attraction set in a spectacular location high above the swirling Atlantic Ocean where the currents meet from the west and south coasts. An opportunity to walk across the arched suspension bridge and visit the Mizen Signal Station. (Please note there is a large number of steps to reach the suspension bridge). Afternoon at leisure in Bantry. DAY FIVE: We travel back to the ferry port for the return Irish Sea crossing to Holyhead and on home to North Wales. MARITIME HOTEL HHHH A luxury four star hotel situated in a lovely location in the centre of Bantry overlooking picturesque Bantry Bay. The hotel is decorated in a modern style and is fully equipped to provide the highest levels of comfort. Facilities include the Ocean Restaurant and Maritime Bar, plus luxuriously appointed bedrooms with plasma TV, internet access, iron and board, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryer and room safe. The Club Maritime has a large swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gymnasium. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Monday 19 September DURATION PRICE 5 days £349 Price includes four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus return Irish Sea crossings. Supplement Single Room £65 33 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Highlights of County Cork CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Killarney & The Ring Of Kerry Situated in Ireland’s picturesque south west corner the Killarney National Park has a delightful blend of mountains, lakes, and waterfalls that combine to make it one of the Emerald Isle’s principal tourist destinations. Killarney town is a world renowned tourist centre, where ‘jarveys’ take their horse drawn ‘jaunting cars’ through the narrow streets and byways, as they have done since Victorian times. Amongst the many attractions are Ross Castle, Muckross House & Gardens, the Folklife Museum and walking trails along the lakeshore. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel across Anglesey to Holyhead for our Irish Sea crossing, then continue via Portlaoise and Limerick to Killarney for check in to your chosen hotel. DAY TWO: A day at leisure to relax and explore this bustling little town, perhaps take a cruise on the lake, vist Muckross House or take a ‘jaunting car’ ride. DAY THREE: We tour the spectacular ‘Ring of Kerry’, regarded as the most beautiful and renowned day tour in Ireland. We follow the coast road around the Iveragh Peninsula and through constantly changing vistas of beautiful seascapes, mountains, beaches and cliffs. DAY FOUR: Another day of scenic delight as we tour the ‘Dingle Peninsula’. We travel around Tralee Bay to Dingle, a thriving colourful fishing port backed by the Brandon Mountains. On then around Slea Head whose unsurpassed beauty was the setting for the epic film ‘Ryan’s Daughter’. DAY FIVE: We travel back to the ferry port for our return sailing to Holyhead and on home to North Wales. GLENEAGLE HOTEL HHH Enjoy top class cabaret and entertainment every night at this excellent hotel, situated in landscaped gardens on the outskirts of Killarney. Facilities include two restaurants, a ballroom, OD’s Chestnut Tree Bar, over 25’s Nite Club, residents bar, gift shop, hair and beauty salon, plus superb leisure facilities. All bedrooms are en-suite with colour TV, radio and telephone. Lift available to most floors. BREHON HOTEL HHHH From the stylish lobby, the chic designer bar, to the softly lit restaurant, the Brehon is very impressive. Facilities include the luxurious Angsana Spa equipped with state of the art facilities. Each bedroom features individual climate control, satellite TV, trouser press, iron & board, plus a luxurious marble bathroom with bathrobe & slippers. Lift to all floors. (Entertainment available at the Gleneagle Hotel). DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Gleneagle Brehon Galway & The River Shannon A great new tour to Ireland based in the centre of the Emerald Isle at Ballinasloe, the largest town in County Galway after Galway City. Located at the mouth of Galway Bay, Galway City is both picturesque and lively, one of Ireland’s oldest cities that has changed considerably over the years and now features a fascinating mix of new and ancient architecture. The River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland flowing through 13 counties and dividing the west from the east. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel across Anglesey to Holyhead for our Irish Sea crossing, then continue west to Ballinasloe and the Carlton Shearwater Hotel where we stay for four nights. DAY TWO: A morning at leisure to explore Ballinasloe. Afternoon visit to the nearby walled town of Athlone, home to several historical landmarks, most notably the Norman Castle that dominates the town. Enjoy an included cruise on the River Shannon through delightful unspoilt scenery and hear tales about the history of the river and Lough Ree from your captain ‘Viking Mike’. DAY THREE: Today we visit the city of Galway, known as the ‘City of Tribes’ with its ancient monuments such as St. Nicholas’ Church, Lynch’s Castle and the Spanish Arch, plus the Old Claddagh fishing village, the Cathedral, the city museum and Eyre Square. DAY FOUR: A visit to Birr Castle to view the magnificent gardens, arguably the greatest gardens in the Republic of Ireland. See Ireland’s Historic Science Centre and the 72 inch Great Telescope – designed and built in the 1840’s by the third Earl of Rosse and remaining the largest in the world for 75 years. (Please note the castle itself is not open to the public). DAY FIVE: We return to the ferry port for a crossing back to Holyhead and home. CARLTON SHEARWATER HOTEL HHHH This excellent 4 star hotel and spa resort is located at Marina Point on the Shannon river, just minutes walk from all the local amenities. Facilities include the bar and restaurant, which are stylish and welcoming, plus a leisure club with swimming pool, sauna, steam room, gymnasium and treatment rooms. All bedrooms are spacious and luxuriously furnished with hairdryer, flat screen satellite TV, tea/coffee making facilities and complimentary broadband. Monday 09 May 5 days £329 £359 Monday 27 June 5 days £349 £379 DEPARTURE Monday 15 August 5 days £369 £399 Sunday 04 September Price includes four nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner, plus return Irish Sea crossings. Supplement Single Room - Gleneagle £70 / Brehon £95 34 DURATION PRICE 5 days £359 Price includes four nights accommodation with breakfast dinner, return Irish Sea crossings, Athlone river cruise and admission to Birr Castle. Supplement Single Room £75 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk The Mountains of Mourne Enjoy a true taste of Northern Ireland and discover the unspoilt beauty of this delightful region that has so much to offer. Steeped in history, tradition and folklore this is also a land of magnificent scenery and unique charm. The stunning Antrim Coast Road with its famous Giants Causeway is regarded as one of the finest scenic drives in Ireland. Both the delightful walled city of Derry and vibrant Belfast with its distinctive landmarks are now revitalised and have joined the ranks of Europe’s most popular visitor destinations. Join us for a luxury weekend break to the Emerald Isle and explore the Mountains of Mourne, the most picturesque mountain range in Northern Ireland with 12 peaks including the mighty Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland’s highest mountain which sweeps down to the sea at Newcastle Beach. A magical destination to visit with lush green forests and glorious sandy beaches, a region that has been internationally recognised as an area of outstanding natural beauty. The popular seaside resort of Newcastle lies on the north east coast and boasts one of Northern Ireland's most famous beaches, situated at the foot of the Mourne Mountains in the shadow of Slieve Donard. Itinerary DAY ONE: Travel across Anglesey to Holyhead for the ferry to Ireland, continue on via Monoghan, Omagh and Strabane to Derry for two nights at the Everglades Hotel. DAY TWO: This morning we are joined by a local guide for a tour of all the main sights around the city regarded as one of the best preserved walled cities in Europe. A walk around the top of the walls is included which provides unique views of the colourful cityscape and the many facades of this fascinating city, located on the banks of the River Foyle. DAY THREE: Today we travel along the stunning Antrim Coast and see the famous Giants Causeway, a unique mix of hexagonal rock formations at the heart of this magnificent coastline. We also include a visit to the famous Bushmills Whiskey distillery for a tour and tasting before continuing on to Belfast and the Europa Hotel where we stay for two nights. DAY FOUR: Enjoy a guided tour of all the city sights and famous landmarks including Queens University, City Hall, the political wall murals, the enormous cranes used in the construction of the Titanic, plus the magnificent Stormont Estate and Parliament Buildings. Itinerary DAY ONE: Travel across Anglesey to Holyhead for the ferry to Ireland, then head north via Drogheda and Dundalk to the medieval town of Carlingford. Home to many historic buildings and the12th century King John’s Castle, the town is located on the shores of Carlingford Lough with fine views of the Mountains of Mourne. From here we continue along the shores of the Lough to Newry and on to Newcastle for two nights at the Slieve Donard Hotel. DAY TWO: This morning we travel via Dundrum Bay, the fishing port of Ardglass and Strangford Lough to Downpatrick and its fine cathedral, reputed to be the burial place of St Patrick. In the afternoon a lovely scenic drive through the stunning Mountains of Mourne and the Silent Valley boasting a vast range of flora and fauna, and rich in heritage, myths and legends. We return to Newcastle via Rostrevor and Kilkeel. DAY THREE: We leave Newcastle and head south to the ferry port for our return sailing to Holyhead and home to North Wales. DAY FIVE: We check out and head south back to the ferry port for our return Irish Sea crossing to Holyhead and home. HASTINGS HOTELS HHHH The Europa and Everglades hotels are luxurious four star properties owned and managed by the independent Hastings group who ensure a warm Irish welcome. Facilities at both hotels are excellent and bedrooms are furnished to very high standards with satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer, trouser press, iron & board and tea/coffee tray. Lifts available. DEPARTURE Sunday 05 June DURATION PRICE 5 days £379 Price includes four nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner, return Irish Sea crossings, plus a tour and tasting at Bushmills Distillery, and the services of local guides. Supplement Single Room £110 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 SLIEVE DONARD RESORT & SPA HHHH One of the most popular hotels in Northern Ireland nestling at the foot of the Mourne Mountains in six acres of grounds and in a spectacular setting by the sea. Following a recent £15 million development and refurbishment programme this Victorian hotel now features a superb spa offering a wide choice of treatments, plus a 20 metre swimming pool, amethyst steam room, rock sauna and drench showers, plus a high tech fitness studio. All 178 bedrooms are finished in tasteful, traditional styles with every modern comfort, and most enjoy magnificent views of the stunning coastline, gardens or mountains. DEPARTURE Sunday 28 August DURATION PRICE 3 days £239 Price includes two nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner, plus return Irish Sea crossings Supplement Single Room £60 35 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Derry, Belfast & The Antrim Coast CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Medieval Brugge This beautifully preserved Flemish gem is one of the prettiest and most perfectly preserved medieval cities in Europe. Once a thriving port the prosperity of its merchants is evident in the handsome gabled houses, ornate guildhalls and majestic churches. Take a trip on the picturesque canals to experience the city's remarkable peace and calm or a gentle ride along the narrow cobbled streets in a horse-drawn carriage. Savour the tiny lace parlours, chocolate boutiques and old curiosity shops of this delightful city, aptly dubbed the 'Venice of the North'. Excursions Included DAY ONE: Early departure to Folkestone for a journey through the Eurotunnel to France. Continue on to Belgium and our hotel in the delightful city of Brugge. DAY THREE: A full day excursion to Brussels, Belgium’s Capital City. See the famous sights including the stunning Grand Place and City Hall, the cheeky Mannekin Pis bronze statue, plus the beautiful 13th-century Gothic Cathedral, the Atomium, the Royal Palace, the Japanese Tower and Chinese Pavilion, plus the Parliament Buildings. DAY FOUR: A visit to the pretty little town of Sluis, situated just across the border in Holland. A typical Dutch town with canals, windmills, cheese shops and traditional clog-makers. From here we continue along the coast to visit Ostend, Belgium’s premier seaside resort with its fine beaches and promenade, a bustling harbour and marina, plus delightful parks and gardens to explore. DAY ONE: Travel to Hull where we board a luxury P&O cruise-ferry for an overnight sailing to Rotterdam. These superb ships have extensive facilities including restaurants, casinos, bars, cinemas and lounges with live entertainment. DAY TWO: We disembark this morning and travel to Lisse for our visit to the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens, known as the “Greatest Flower Show on Earth”. Enjoy walking through the vast array of colours, in a beautiful park intersected by canals & lakes. Following our visit we continue on to Amsterdam and the Tulip Inn Hotel where a welcome drink awaits. DAY THREE: A full day at leisure to explore Amsterdam with its renowned museums, diamond factories, the famous Anne Frank’s House and Amsterdam’s focal point – Dam Square. A great way to see the city is on a relaxing boat trip along the canals. DAY FOUR: We check out and travel to the beautifully preserved historic city of Delft, famous for its Delft Blue Porcelain. Perhaps take a canal boat ride in the historic traffic free inner city. Continue to Rotterdam for the return overnight sailing to Hull. DAY FIVE: We return to the Eurotunnel terminal at Calais for our journey back to Folkestone and home to North Wales. DAY FIVE: After disembarking in Hull we head home to North Wales. MARTINS HOTEL HHH In an excellent central location just behind the city’s 13th century belfry, a modern hotel known for its trendy style and warm atmosphere. Facilities include the Martins Bar and Arthies Restaurant offering endless speciality beers on tap and on the menu authentic Brugois cuisine from snacks to the jewels of Flemish gastronomy. All bedrooms feature air conditioning and flat screen televisions, rich deep colours, silk taffeta curtains, leather headboards and brocade bedspreads combined with minimalist furniture in light oak. Lift available DURATION PRICE Friday 22 April 5 days £359 Monday 27 June 5 days £329 Monday 15 August 5 days £339 MERCURE AAN DE AMSTEL HHHH A modern four star hotel located on the waterfront in the south of Amsterdam, just minutes from the city centre by tram or metro. The hotel features two restaurants, a cafe bar, fitness area, sauna and steam bath. All the en suite bedrooms feature air-conditioning, trouser press, mini bar, hairdryer, telephone and safe. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Thursday 05 May Price includes four nights accommodation with hot & cold buffet style breakfast, plus return Eurotunnel journeys. Supplement Single Room £110 36 As well as its bicycles, trams, glass-topped boats and famous night-life, Amsterdam has a rich and exciting culture with many famous attractions, plus of course the tall gabled buildings, narrow tree-lined streets and tiny bridges interlaced by hundreds of canals. In springtime the bulbfields of Holland produce an explosion of colour with their magnificent displays, the most famous being the Keukenhof Gardens at Lisse. This 80 acre site boasts an array of colour compiled of millions of tulips, narcissi, daffodils and hyacinths and is one of the most photographed sites in the world. Itinerary DAY TWO: A day at leisure to explore the delights of this beautiful medieval city. DEPARTURE Dutch Bulbfields & Amsterdam DURATION PRICE 5 days £297 Price includes return North Sea crossings in two berth inner en suite cabins, two nights accommodation at the Mercure Hotel with hot & cold buffet breakfast, plus admission to Keukenhof Gardens. (Meals not included on board ship) Supplement per person: Single Room & Cabin £85 Cabin with window £12 / Cabin with twin beds £12 Pre-booked buffet style breakfast and dinner on board ship in the Carvery Restaurant - eat as much as you like! £44 per person return. For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Disneyland Resort Paris Reims & Champagne Country Let the magic begin - enjoy the superb parades and shows, thrilling rides and attractions of the five distinctive lands. Explore Main Street U.S.A,® Fantasyland, Frontierland, Adventureland and Discoveryland. Go wild in the West, join the pirates on the high seas, wander in the labyrinth with Alice, travel back in time or fast-forward into the future – the question is where to start! Right next door to Disneyland Park you can discover the magical world of cinema and television at Walt Disney Studios Park - 4 cinemagical studio lots featuring thrilling attractions and spectacular shows. Meet your favourite Disney Characters, take the Studio Tram Tour and see an action ‘Stunt Show Spectacular’ Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Folkestone for a journey through the Eurotunnel to Calais, then on to The Radisson Blu Hotel at Disneyland where we stay for the next three nights. DAYS TWO & THREE: Two full days at leisure to enjoy all the razzmatazz, atmosphere and magic of Disneyland. Your included pass allows you unlimited access to the Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Maybe take a stroll through the Disney Village, brimming with dining, cinemas, dancing and live entertainment venues. A free shuttle bus service operates every 20 minutes between the hotel and the theme-parks from 08.30 to 20.00 allowing you complete freedom to come and go as you please. DAY FOUR: We return to Calais for our Eurotunnel journey back to Folkestone and home to North Wales. RADISSON BLU HOTEL AT DISNEYLAND PARIS HHHH Conveniently located for the theme-parks this 250-room luxury hotel is set amidst the lush fairways and greens at Golf Disneyland®. Facilities include two restaurants, a relaxing bar and a top-of-line spa, plus a fully equipped fitness area, sauna, steam bath and indoor swimming pool. All the comfortable rooms feature cable television, coffee and tea-makers, Flat screen LCD television, free high-speed internet, hair dryer, individual climate control, inroom safe and mini bar. Lift available Known principally for its Champagne and gourmet cooking the City of Reims is one of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities in France. It offers visitors an amazing choice of fine restaurants and brasseries, excellent shopping, great nightlife and of course world-famous Champagne houses, plus countless art galleries and buildings with varied architectural styles that date from as early as the 3rd century. The Angel of Reims smiles down on visitors from the portal of one of the most spectacular cathedrals in France, whilst the Porte de Mars is the largest triumphal arch in the Roman world. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early morning departure to Folkestone for a journey through the Eurotunnel to Calais, then on to the Champagne City of Reims and the Mercure Hotel where we stay for three nights. Time then to sample one of the excellent restaurants or Bistro’s and maybe enjoy some city nightlife. DAY TWO: A free day to explore the attractions of this lovely city with an included visit to the famous Mumms Champagne cellars. After a short film visitors are taken down into the cellars to see how champagnes are made and to learn about the history of the house. The visit concludes with a tasting of the House’s signature champagne, G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge. DAY THREE: Today we take a drive to the southern champagne region and visit the lovely medieval town of Troyes, located on the banks of the River Seine. Troyes is the historic capital of the Champagne region, a real delight to explore with magnificent listed buildings including 16th century wood panelled dwellings and churches with beautiful stained glass windows. The historic centre was even constructed in the shape of a champagne cork, a strange phenomenon and without doubt quite unique. DAY FOUR: We leave Reims this morning and travel back to Calais for a return Eurotunnel journey to Folkestone and home to North Wales. MERCURE REIMS CATHEDRAL HOTEL PRICE The Mercure Reims Cathedral is ideally located in the town centre close to the Cathedral and Champagne Houses. Facilities include a bar and restaurant. All bedrooms are en-suite with airconditioning, satellite TV, hairdryer and room safe. Lift available. DEPARTURE DURATION 3/4 persons 2 persons 1 person Child Mon 30 May 4 days £299 £319 £399 £219 DEPARTURE Mon 01 August 4 days £319 £339 £419 £239 Saturday 21 May Price includes three nights accommodation with hot & cold buffet breakfast, 2 day admission pass plus return Eurotunnel journeys. Child rate applicable from 3-11 years when sharing with 2 adults Information and Bookings 01286 675175 DURATION PRICE 4 days £259 Price includes three nights accommodation with hot and cold buffet breakfast, return Eurotunnel journeys and tour of the Mumms Champagne Cellars. Supplement Single Room £85 37 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS ® CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Brittany - St Malo Brittany is one of the most popular holiday destinations in France with miles of beautiful coastline providing sheltered sandy bays, quaint little harbours, dramatic rugged cliffs, and pretty estuaries. There are also lovely old historic towns to explore including the fortified port of St Malo with its granite walls, castle, museums and a maze of charming narrow streets that are a joy to discover, not to mention the enticing bars, cafes, shops, boutiques and excellent restaurants. the afternoon in the fashionable town of Dinard with its Victorian Villas, known as the ‘garden city by the sea’. Optional boat trips available around the estuary or back to St Malo. DAY FIVE: We leave St Malo this morning and head back to Abbeville for another overnight stay at the Ibis Hotel. DAY SIX: We head back to Calais for our return ferry crossing to Dover and home to North Wales. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Dover for a ferry crossing to France, then continue south to Abbeville for an overnight stay at the Ibis Hotel. DAY TWO: Continue through Normandy via Rouen and Caen to Brittany and the lovely medieval walled town of St Malo. We stay for three nights at the Escale Oceania Hotel, where accommodation is provided on a bed & breakfast basis allowing you the opportunity to sample some of the excellent restaurants in the town. DAY THREE: A morning visit to Mont St. Michel, one of the most spectacular and famous tourist sights in France. Marvel at the unique location of this splendid granite abbey, perched on a rock-island in the middle of a sandy bay, accessible by winding cobbled streets lined with 15th century houses. A walk through the streets is like stepping back in time and a magnificent view of the coast awaits those energetic enough to ascend the Abbey’s towers. We return via the little fishing port of Cancale, famous for its Oyster Beds. Remainder of the day at leisure in St Malo, perhaps take a ride on the tourist train around the town. DAY FOUR: Today we travel to Dinan, a medieval town unique in Brittany, standing on a crag above the River Rance and completely surrounded by ramparts. Explore the picturesque town with its timber-framed houses, cobbled streets and a 12th century Basilica, then maybe enjoy lunch at a one of the harbour eateries. We spend ESCALE OCEANIA HOTEL HH This excellent quality two star hotel is situated directly on the seafront, within a ten-minute stroll to the city walls. The hotel is made up of two buildings connected by the underground car park. Between the buildings is an outdoor garden terrace for guests to relax during summer months. The bar is located in the open plan reception area with large windows and views onto the beach. All the bedrooms are modern and comfortable with satellite TV and hairdryer. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sunday 12 June 6 days £399 Monday 24 October 6 days £369 Price includes five nights accommodation with cold buffet breakfast, plus return Channel ferry crossings. Supplement Single Room - June £180 / October £150 38 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk The ever popular and world-renowned Cote d’Azur, home to beautiful coastlines, haunts of the rich and famous and the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The delightful resort of Cannes is regarded as the ‘Jewel in the Crown’ of the French Riviera, fashionable and stylish with beautiful beaches and a wonderful Mediterranean climate. Take a stroll on the illustrious palm lined ‘Boulevard de la Croisette’ and explore the chic boutiques and designer shops on the Rue D’Antibes. Admire the luxury yachts in the marina and discover the quaint narrow streets and inviting restaurants in Le Suquet, the old town, from where there are some great views of the resort. Nice & Grasse: A short day trip taking us firstly to Grasse, a typical Provencal village nestled against a hillside, regarded as the perfume capital of the world. A visit to the Perfumerie Fragonard is included. From here we continue to Nice, the largest resort on the Mediterranean Coast known as the Capital of the Cote d’Azur. Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and admire the architecture of the hotels from the Belle Epoque period. DAY NINE: We say farewell to Cannes this morning and travel back via Marseilles and Lyon to Dijon where we have an overnight stay. DAY TEN: Continue north to Calais for our return Eurotunnel journey to Folkestone and on home to North Wales. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Folkestone for a journey through the Eurotunnel to Calais, then on to our overnight hotel at Lille in Northern France. DAY TWO: We continue south on the autoroutes via Reims and Dijon to Macon for another overnight stay. DAY THREE: This morning we pass Lyon and Marseilles and arrive in the Côte d‘Azur to spend six nights at the Quality Hotel Embassy in Cannes. DAYS FOUR TO EIGHT: At leisure in Cannes to relax and enjoy the resort and its attractions with the following excursions included: Monaco & Monte Carlo: Enjoy some spectacular scenery as we travel along the Corniche Coast Road to visit world famous Monaco, a tiny principality perched on a cliff-top with the opulence of Monte Carlo spread below. A tax haven for the rich and famous having the highest per capita income in the world. Explore the tiny cobbled streets of Monaco, maybe visit the late Prince Rainier’s Palace and the Oceonographic Museum, relax on the luxurious Casino Square and admire the millionaire’s supercars. QUALITY HOTEL EMBASSY HHH In an ideal location at the head of the main pedestrian shopping street, the Rue D’Antibes and just a five minute walk to the famous Boulevard de La Croisette. Facilities include a breakfast room, restaurant, piano bar, jacuzzi, plus a roof terrace and garden. All the spacious air-conditioned bedrooms are en suite with satellite TV, hairdryer and room safe. Lift available. DEPARTURE Saturday 16 July DURATION PRICE 10 days £729 Price includes nine nights accommodation with dinner and buffet breakfast including one special regional dinner, afternoon tea with cakes & pastries, tea/coffee after dinner, one musical entertainment evening, half price drinks from 6-8pm (at resort hotel only) plus return Eurotunnel journeys. Supplement Single Room £215 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 39 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS The Chic Cote d’Azur CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Moselle, Trier & Luxembourg Scattered with so many vineyards that have contributed greatly to establishing its fine reputation, the valley of the River Moselle is one of the principal tourist destinations in Germany. It is here that winegrowers produce some of the top international wines and where you will find one of the most successful combinations of rich, ancient culture and countryside. Trier is Germany's oldest city and many Roman monuments and remains can still be seen including the Porta Nigra that marks the entrance to the city centre. Standing some 30 metres high the gate is claimed to be the largest preserved Roman City Gate north of the Alps and is designated as a World Heritage Site. Itinerary DAY ONE: Travel across the Pennines to Hull where we board a luxury P&O cruiseferry for an overnight sailing to Rotterdam. These superb ships have extensive facilities including restaurants, casinos, bars, cinemas and lounges with live entertainment. Accommodation is in 2 berth inside cabins with shower and toilet. DAY TWO: Leaving Rotterdam we travel through Belgium into Germany and on to the Park Plaza Hotel in Trier where we stay for the next four nights. DAY THREE: Today we meet our local guide for a walking tour of the city. Highlights will include the famous Porta Nigra Gate, the ruins of the amphitheatre and baths, the medieval Main Market, plus the mighty facades of St. Peter’s Cathedral and the Church of Our Lady with the Roman Audience Hall and the Throne Room. Afternoon at leisure. DAY FOUR: We take a drive down the Moselle Valley to Bernkastel, known as the 'Pearl of the Moselle' with its 400 year old half-timbered houses, the Renaissance town hall and the much admired, 'Spitzhauschen' (pointed house). We continue on to the charming old town of Cochem with its medieval gateways and historic market place, all overlooked by the magnificent Reichsburg Castle. During our time in Cochem we have an included river cruise to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Moselle. DAY FIVE: Today we visit Luxembourg City, the capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, a small country of around 1000 square miles, bordered by Belgium, Germany & France. On arrival we meet our guide for a tour around this lovely city. Stroll through the Petrusse Gorge, see the old town with its imposing fortresses and the Ducal Palace. In the afternoon enjoy some wine and champagne tasting at the caves of Bernard-Massard in Grevenmacher before returning through the Mullerthal, known as Little Switzerland. DAY SIX: We leave Trier this morning and travel back through Belgium into Holland and on to the Rotterdam Europort for our return overnight sailing to Hull. DAY SEVEN: We disembark and commence our journey back to North Wales, arriving home during the afternoon. PARK PLAZA HOTEL HHHH Regarded as one of the finest hotels in Trier, located just a few minutes walk from the famous Porta Nigra and Cathedral. Facilities include a restaurant, lobby piano bar and Mediterranean inner courtyard, plus a health club with sauna, steam baths and massage treatments. All bedrooms are air-conditioned and feature bath or shower, cable television, Internet access, coffee and tea making facilities, hairdryer, iron & board, mini-bar and room safe. Lift to all floors. DEPARTURE Sunday 23 October DURATION PRICE 7 days £560 Price includes return overnight sailings between Hull and Rotterdam with accommodation in two berth en suite inner cabins, (meals not included on board ship), plus four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast in Trier, services of guides in Trier and Luxembourg, Moselle River Cruise, plus wine and champagne tasting. Supplement(s) per person: Single Room & Cabin £140 Cabin with twin lower beds £12 / Cabin with window £12 / Pre-booked buffet style breakfast and dinner on board ship in the Carvery restaurant £44 40 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Located on the banks of the river Neckar the picturesque city of Heidelberg is one of the best known and most beautiful cities in Germany. Steeped in tradition and history Heidelberg is home to Germany's oldest university and is famous for its romantic Castle that dominates the skyline and towers above the old quarter with its maze of little streets. Another major attraction is the famous Old Bridge with its west and east towers, built back in 1788. At the south end of the bridge are many restaurants and cafes with the Old Town just minutes away. At the north end lies the "Philosophenweg" footpath from where there are great views over the whole city. Itinerary DAY ONE: Travel across the Pennines to Hull where we board a luxury P&O cruise-ferry for an overnight sailing to Rotterdam. These superb ships have extensive facilities including restaurants, casinos, bars, cinemas and lounges with live entertainment. Accommodation is provided in twin bedded inside cabins with en suite facilities. DAY TWO: Leaving Rotterdam we travel to the German border and on to the Renaissance Hotel at Karlsruhe where we stay for the next four nights. DAY THREE: Today we visit the city of Heidelberg for an opportunity to see the magnificent castle, the focal point of Heidelberg containing elements of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, located some 300 metres above the city. The castle gardens, the Great Vat (world’s largest wine barrel) and the remarkable Pharmacy Museum are also worth a visit. Experience the romantic charm of the old quarter with its maze of little streets and explore the town wall with its medieval bridge gate. DAY FOUR: A day at leisure to explore Karlsruhe, known as the ‘green city’ with more than 50% of its area covered by gardens and forests. The 19th century pyramid is Karlsruhe's most famous landmark, located on the Market Square along with the Baroque style town hall and municipal church. There are several interesting museums and the magnificent Baroque palace is a sight not to be missed with its delightful gardens and the Baden State Museum. DAY FIVE: We explore the Northern Black Forest today commencing with a stop at Pforzheim, the centre of the jewellery and watch making industries. From here we continue through delightful scenery to Calw, a traditional Black Forest town with quaint shops, street cafés, galleries and pubs, which blend with the historical walls and timbered houses in the old part of the town. On then to the famous spa resort of Baden Baden, known for its thermal springs and elegant casino, plus the old quarter full of exclusive boutiques, cafés and bars. DAY SIX: We leave Karlsruhe this morning and travel back to Holland and the Rotterdam Europort for our return overnight sailing to Hull. Time to relax and enjoy the on board facilities once more. DAY SEVEN: We disembark in Hull and commence our journey back to North Wales, arriving home during the afternoon. RENAISSANCE HOTEL HHHH Enjoy charming Baden-style hospitality at the centrally located Renaissance Karlsruhe Hotel.Facilities include the Restaurant Zum Markgrafen, the cocktail bar and wine tasting bar. All the bedrooms feature air conditioning with individual control, luxurious bedding, bathroom amenities, bathrobe, hair dryer, tea/coffee maker, plus iron and board. Lift available. DEPARTURE Wednesday 11 May DURATION PRICE 7 days £438 Price includes return overnight sailings between Hull and Rotterdam with accommodation in two berth en suite inner cabins, plus four nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast in Karlsruhe. (Meals not included on board ship). Supplements per person Single Room & Cabin £90 Cabin with twin lower beds £12 Cabin with window £12 / Pre-booked buffet style breakfast & dinner in the carvery restaurant £44 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 41 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Heidelberg & The Black Forest CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Austrian Lakes – Fuschl The scenic beauty of Austria is legendary, a land of crisp mountain air, lush green meadows, pine clad forests and crystal clear lakes. Fuschl is a picturesque village set in an idyllic location on the eastern shores of tranquil Lake Fuschl in the beautiful Salzkammergut region, Austria’s premier lake district. This beautiful unspoilt village lies in the heart of a nature reserve and is a haven of calm and tranquillity where you can sit and relax on the lakeside promenade and watch the world go by. At night the friendly bars and cafés offer a very warm welcome to everyone along with the strains of traditional zither music. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Dover for an afternoon Eurotunnel crossing to Calais, then on to our overnight hotel at Lille in northern France. DAY TWO: Today we travel via Belgium and Luxembourg into Germany for another overnight stay at Karlsruhe. DAY THREE: Continue via Stuttgart and Munich into Austria and on to Lake Fuschl where we spend the next five nights at the Seerose Hotel. DAY FOUR: A day at leisure in Fuschl with the option of joining your hosts for a guided village walk, then maybe sit and relax on the shores of the lake and enjoy the peace and tranquility or take a stroll along the waters edge. DAY FIVE: Today we visit the beautiful city of Salzburg, famed as the setting for the film ‘The Sound of Music’ and the birthplace of Mozart, all dominated by the magnificent Hohensalzburg Fortress. A wonderful city to explore full of Baroque architecture, impressive spires and picturesque narrow streets with their ornate wrought iron signs. Explore the old centre and discover Mozart’s Square, the magnificent Dom (cathedral) and the splendid Mirabell Gardens. DAY SIX: A spectacular lakes tour today which takes us along the banks of the neighbouring Lake Wolfgang and on to the charming little thermal spa town of Bad Ischl. From here we continue to Lake Traunsee, one of the largest lakes in the Salzkammergut where we visit the resort of Gmunden with its nice long esplanade and delightful Town Hall Square. On then via Lake Attersee to Mondsee with its lovely little coffee and pastry shops plus the church featured in the Sound of Music where the wedding between Julie Andrews as Maria and Christopher Plummer as the Baron took place. DAY SEVEN: Another day of delightful scenery as we travel into the Bavarian Alps and along the Königsee River Valley to visit the town of Berchtesgaden, location of the famous Eagles Nest, built as a holiday retreat for Adolf Hitler. An optional trip will be available here by special bus up the spectacular Eagles Nest Road then through a marble-like stone tunnel that leads to a brass elevator. This travels up through the rock to the Eagle’s Nest building, a stunning alpine setting with amazing views. (Fee payable locally). DAY EIGHT: We leave Fuschl this morning and head back through Germany and into France for an overnight stay at Metz. DAY NINE: Continue northwards to Calais for a return Eurotunnel journey to Folkestone and home to North Wales. SEEROSE HOTEL HHHH A warm welcome awaits at the traditional and family run four star Seerose Hotel, ideally located right on the shore of picturesque Lake Fuschl. The hotel was completely renovated in 2006 and is now nicely decorated whilst still retaining its typical Austrian charm. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool featuring panoramic windows with lake views, plus a sauna and solarium. All bedrooms have either bath or shower and separate WC and are equipped with hairdryer, cable TV, safe and telephone. All rooms also have a balcony with either lake or mountain views. Lift available. DEPARTURE Friday 14 October DURATION PRICE 9 days £589 Price includes eight nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus return Eurotunnel journeys. Supplement Single Room £115 42 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk One of Austria’s best known resorts, renowned for its location on a sunny plateau some 1200 metres high in the Austrian Alps, surrounded by stunning peaks and lush green meadows with spectacular views on all sides. A friendly, picturesque and cosmopolitan resort with a great atmosphere and a nice traffic free centre where you’ll find welcoming bars, quaint cafés, a wide selection of shops and even its own casino. The resort has twice been the venue for the Winter Olympics and features numerous sports facilities. There are also many flat and well-marked walks to enjoy plus chair lifts and cable cars to take you into the mountains for some truly spectacular views. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Dover for an afternoon ferry crossing to Calais, then on to our overnight hotel at Lille in northern France. DAY TWO: Today we travel through Belgium and Luxembourg, then into Germany for another overnight stay in the Stuttgart area. DAY THREE: Continue via Stuttgart, Ulm and Munich into the Austrian Tyrol and the delightful resort of Seefeld where we spend the next six nights at the Hotel Central. DAY FOUR: A day at leisure to relax and explore the delights of Seefeld. Perhaps take a horse-drawn buggy ride around the town and into the surrounding meadows. See the town’s fairytale ornate houses and the much photographed onion-domed Seekirchl church, or maybe just sit and relax at a café terrace and watch the world go by. Alternatively take a cable car ride into the mountains to admire the superb views. DAY FIVE: Today we visit Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol, where you can see famous places such as the Marie Theresa Strasse, the old town with its ornate architecture and famous Golden Roof, plus the Imperial Palace and St Jakob's Cathedral. We continue to the superb Swarovski Crystal World exhibition, one of the most famous museums in Austria where visitors are enchanted by beautiful crystal craftsmanship and its visual effects. See the world’s biggest crystal and some breathtaking decorative pieces. DAY SIX: More delightful Tyrolean Scenery as we take a drive over the Europa Bridge, the second highest road bridge in Europe, and onto the fairytale Brenner pass. We visit the typical Tyrolean town of Vipiteno located just over the Italian border, renowned for its leather goods. DAY SEVEN: A day out to Bavaria commencing with a drive across the Fern Pass. Enjoy fantastic views of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain as we travel on to Medieval Fussen and across the border into Bavaria. We visit the spectacular fairytale castle at Neuschwanstein, built by King Ludwig II in 1886 and today one of the most popular visitor attractions in Europe. We return via Oberammergau, a picturesque village with traditionally painted houses and a bustling town square, home of the world renowned Passion Play that takes place every ten years. DAY EIGHT: A further day at leisure in Seefeld to enjoy the facilities and surroundings or join us on an optional excursion to the Stubai Glacier. We travel through the picturesque Stubai Valley to Mutterberg and the lower station of the glacier cable car. Here we commence a spectacular ride up to Jochdohle at a height of 3150 metres where you can enjoy a café latte in the highest mountain restaurant in Austria. DAY NINE: We leave Seefeld this morning and travel into France for an overnight stay at Metz area. DAY TEN: Continue north to Calais for an afternoon ferry crossing to Dover and home to North Wales. HOTEL CENTRAL HHHH A warm welcome awaits from your hosts at this excellent family run four star hotel, located in the heart of Seefeld. Facilities include a restaurant and bar with a fine wine cellar, plus the Wellness Centre with fragrant steam baths, Finnish sauna, fitness room, infrared cabin, solarium and Jacuzzi as well as massages and beauty treatments. The comfortable bedrooms are decorated in bright birch wood and feature all the modern facilities. DEPARTURE Monday 30 May DURATION PRICE 10 days £669 Price includes nine nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus return Channel crossings. Supplement Single Room £112 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 43 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Austrian Tyrol – Seefeld CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Swiss Alps & The Glacier Express A superb Swiss Alpine holiday that includes a journey through the spectacular mountain region on board the world famous Glacier Express, probably the slowest “express” train ride in the world. A journey of unchallenged beauty with stunning views that simply cannot be seen from the road. We stay in two beautiful locations, firstly the alpine resort of Davos, Europe's largest mountain resort with a beautiful natural landscape, then on to Zermatt, a delightful resort with stunning views of the world famous Matterhorn. Zermatt is a real delight, enjoy the pure mountain air in this traffic-free environment where only electric powered vehicles are allowed. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Folkestone for a journey through the Eurotunnel and on to our overnight hotel in the Champagne city of Reims. DAY TWO: We journey on into Switzerland and the popular ski resort of Davos, the highest and largest alpine resort in Europe. On arrival we check in to the four star Central Sporthotel at Davos Platz where we stay for the next three nights. DAY THREE: A day at leisure to relax and explore Davos, located right in the heart of the Alps and surrounded on all sides by wonderful scenery. An opportunity to take a cable car ride into the mountains for some stunning views. All guests will receive a visitor card allowing free transport on local buses and mountain rail and cable cars in Davos. DAY FOUR: An excursion to St.Moritz, one of the most renowned holiday resorts in the world, home to some of the rich and famous. A chic, elegant and exclusive resort with a cosmopolitan ambience, located some 1800m above sea level in the Upper Engadine. DAY FIVE: The highlight of the holiday today – our coach will journey on alone as we depart on the famous Glacier Express and amble through ever changing scenery traversing mountains and valleys to reach our destination at Zermatt. On arrival you will be transferred to the Park Hotel by electric bus. DAY SIX: Spend a day in this lovely traffic free resort, overlooked by the mighty Matterhorn, an ideal spot for relaxing and admiring the views. Alternatively take a trip on the Gornegratt Mountain Railway for some spectacular views as it climbs to over 10,000ft. DAY SEVEN: Sadly we say farewell to Switzerland and head back into France for another overnight stay at Reims. DAY EIGHT: To Calais for a return Eurotunnel journey to Folkestone and home to North Wales. CENTRAL SPORTHOTEL DAVOS HHHH A classic and traditionally decorated four star hotel located in Davos Platz. All 95 bedrooms are decorated in a classic alpine style and are well equipped with hairdryer, satellite TV, mini-bar and safe and each bedroom has its own balcony. The hotel offers spacious seating areas to relax in either the bar or lounge, guests can also take advantage of the hotels leisure facilities including sauna, steam bath and a small indoor swimming pool. Lift available. PARK HOTEL BEAU SITE HHHH Located in the chic resort of Zermatt, this four star hotel has superb views of the Matterhorn. An elegant hotel that exudes luxury and warmth throughout, the 66 bedrooms are beautifully furnished and feature satellite TV, mini-bar and hairdryer. The hotel also features a relaxing lobby bar, two restaurants and a leisure centre. The swimming pool has stunning views of the Matterhorn which makes a swim at sunrise a remarkable experience! Lift available to some floors. DEPARTURE Sunday 12 September DURATION PRICE 8 days £769 Price includes five nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast at main resorts, two nights accommodation with breakfast at overnight hotels, Glacier Express journey from Davos to Zermatt, plus return Eurotunnel journeys. Supplement Single Room £118 44 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk The natural beauty of the Lombardy region with its impressive mountain ranges and miles of gorgeous lakeside settings makes this part of Italy something special and one of the most famous destinations is Lake Como, regarded as the prettiest lake in Italy. A favourite retreat of Shelley and Wordsworth, Lake Como has been a popular resort since the days of the Roman Empire. The dramatic snow capped mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to the blue waters, glorious gardens and the stately villas dotted along the shoreline. Our holiday base is the resort of Cadenabbia, situated on the western shore of the lake. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Folkestone for our journey through the Eurotunnel to France, then on to Lille for an overnight stay. DAY TWO: We travel south through Belgium and Luxembourg into Germany and on to our second overnight hotel at Stuttgart. DAY THREE: We climb up through the beautiful Swiss Alps and cross into Italy, then on to Lake Como and the Grand Hotel at Cadenabbia where we stay for the next five nights. Time to take a stroll by the lake or relax with an aperitif before dinner. DAY FOUR: Enjoy a leisurely day and perhaps take a ferryboat across the lake to delightful Bellagio. Known as the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’ this beautifully preserved old town with its quaint narrow streets and picturesque waterfront is considered to be one of the prettiest in Italy. DAY FIVE: Today we travel to Lake Lugano, described as one of the most impressive lakeside resorts in Europe. We visit the main resort of Lugano, overlooked by the Mt. San Salvatore. Explore the town and perhaps take a ride on the nearby cog railway to enjoy some great views over the lake and surrounding area. DAY SIX: Some stunning mountain scenery today on our excursion to the popular Swiss resort of St Moritz, one of the most renowned holiday resorts in the world. Chic, elegant and exclusive with a cosmopolitan ambience located 1800m above sea level in the Upper Engadine. DAY SEVEN: Today we visit Como, the oldest town on the lake with a distinctly Italian Renaissance feel, the focal point being the large central piazza. Explore the wonderful cathedral, the historic monuments and the lovely medieval walled town. Optional return to Cadenabbia by ferry boat to enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Como and see some of the amazing villas that are dotted around the lake. DAY EIGHT: We leave Lake Como this morning and travel back through Switzerland and into Germany, then on to Stuttgart for another overnight stay. DAY NINE: Continue northwards back to Lille for our final overnight stay. DAY TEN: Return to Calais for our Eurotunnel journey back to Folkestone and home to North Wales. GRAND HOTEL CADENABBIA HHHH Fully refurbished just a few years ago the four star Grand Hotel Cadenabbia dates back to 1820 and is one of the finest hotels on Lake Como. Located on the lakeside in Cadenabbia this large and historic property has the air of a bygone era and benefits from commanding views over the lake and Bellagio. The hotel boasts spacious public areas, the highlight being the rooftop bar, terrace and restaurant which together offer spectacular views across the lake. The 192 bedrooms are all well sized, elegantly furnished and feature air conditioning, telephone, hairdryer, safe and satellite TV. Lift available DEPARTURE Friday 05 August DURATION PRICE 10 days £699 Price includes nine nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, plus return Eurotunnel journeys. Supplement(s) per person: Single Room £145 / Lake View £40* Lake View & Balcony £83* *at resort hotel only and subject to availability. Information and Bookings 01286 675175 45 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Classic Lake Como CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Lake Garda & Venice Explore some of Europe’s finest Lakeland scenery where tree-clad mountains descend into crystal clear waters and frame the pretty towns and villages dotted along the shoreline. Garda is the largest of the Italian Lakes stretching between the Alps and the Dolomites with diverse scenery ranging from low-lying countryside on its southern shores, rising to cliffs and pine forests in the north. Riva del Garda is a very popular resort in a stunning location at the northern tip of the lake overshadowed by spectacular mountains. The delightful Old Town is centred around a 12th century fortress and clock tower with a maze of narrow streets, full of inviting little shops and pavement cafés. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Dover for an afternoon ferry crossing to Calais, then on to our overnight hotel at Lille in northern France. DAY TWO: Today we travel through Belgium and Luxembourg, then into Germany for another overnight stay at Karlsruhe. DAY THREE: Continue via Munich and the Inn Valley to Austria, then over the spectacular Brenner Pass into Italy and on to Lake Garda where we spend the next six nights at the Hotel Luise. DAY FOUR: A day at leisure to explore the delights of Riva del Garda, perhaps take a boat trip to the resort of Limone on the opposite shore of the lake. DAY FIVE: We drive to the southern end of the lake and visit delightful Sirmione, uniquely located at the end of a peninsula. One of the oldest and most popular resorts on the lake famous for its medieval centre, moated castle and lovely piazzas. DAY SIX: A full day excursion to the magnificent and unique city of Venice, one of the most romantic cities in the world. An artistic centre of world fame with treasures such as the Basilica of St Mark, the Ducal Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs, plus of course the network of canals and those famous gondolas. (Waterbus fare payable locally). DAY SEVEN: Today we visit the quaint lakeside resort of Lazise, a medieval walled town with a myriad of pretty, cobbled and winding streets, lined with small boutique shops, cafés and typical stores selling local fare. We continue to nearby Bardolino, renowned for its excellent red wines. Explore the quaint traffic-free streets that wind their way down to the town’s impressive main square. DAY EIGHT: A visit to Verona, one of Italy’s oldest cities famous for its Opera festival performed at the beautiful Roman Arena in the historic centre of the city. See the famous Juliet's balcony as immortalised in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Recently awarded the status of a "World Heritage Site", Verona has a unique range of art-works and monuments enclosed within the city walls. DAY NINE: Leaving Lake Garda we head back across the Brenner Pass and through Austria, then on to Karlsrhue for another overnight stay. DAY TEN: Continue north to Lille for our final overnight stay. DAY ELEVEN: To Calais for the return ferry to Dover and home to North Wales. HOTEL LUISE HHHH An attractive modern design hotel located near the centre of Riva del Garda and just 200 metres from the lake shore. Facilities include the Limonaia restaurant, lounge bar, outdoor heated swimming pool and the lobby area with its unusual exhibition of baggage labels, dating back from the nineteenth century. All bedrooms are en suite and air-conditioned with satellite TV, Internet connection, telephone, safe, minibar & hairdryer. Lift available. DEPARTURE Friday 21 October DURATION PRICE 11 days £669 Price includes ten nights accommodation with dinner and buffet breakfast, plus return Channel ferry crossings. Supplement per person: Single Room £160 46 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Fai Della Paganella The majestic Dolomites, one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain regions with its own unique dramatic scenery, set in a beautiful area of Northern Italy. A blend of towering snow-capped mountains, picturesque lakes and lush fertile valleys with fruit trees and vines dotted with Tyrolean style hamlets. With breathtaking scenery each and every way you turn this region offers a myriad of lovely scenic days out, truly an awe-inspiring area to explore. The Paganella plateau is located in the middle-western area of the Trentino region, between the mountain bearing its name and the spectacular Brenta Dolomites. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Folkestone for a journey through the Eurotunnel to Calais and on to our overnight hotel at Lille in Northern France. DAY TWO: We continue via Belgium and Luxembourg into Germany for our second overnight stay near Stuttgart. DAY THREE: Continue via Munich and the Inn Valley to Innsbruck, over the spectacular Brenner Pass into Italy and on to Fai Della Paganella in the Trentino Region of the beautiful Dolomites for five nights at the Paganella Hotel. DAY FIVE: Today we enjoy a scenic drive through the Western Dolomites to Merano, one of the most beautiful spa towns in the South Tyrol, surrounded by a stunning backdrop of mountains and meadows. Explore the vibrant centre, stroll along the flower lined promenade and perhaps take the chair lift for some fine views. We return via the Adige valley wine route and Lake Caldaro. DAY SIX: A day of spectacular scenery in the Brenta Dolomites commencing with a drive up the Val di Sole to Cles, then over the Campo Carlo Magno Pass to Madonna di Campiglio. At an altitude of 1550 metres this chic resort is one of the most famous winter and summer resorts in Europe, attracting thousands of tourists every year. From here or route takes us down towards Tione di Trento, then via the lovely village and alpine lake of Molveno. DAY SEVEN: Today we travel south to the tip of Lake Garda for a visit to the very popular resort of Riva Del Garda, set on the northern point of this stunningly beautiful and largest Italian lake. Explore the delightful Old Town, centred around a 12th century fortress and clock tower with a maze of narrow streets full of inviting little shops and inviting pavement cafés to enjoy some lunch. DAY EIGHT: We leave the Dolomites this morning and travel back through Austria and Germany into France for an overnight stay at Metz. DAY NINE: Continue northwards to Calais for our return Eurotunnel journey to Folkestone and home to North Wales. DAY FOUR: A day at leisure to simply relax and enjoy the mountain scenery. Maybe join Fausto, the hotel owner, for a walk and a picnic in the surrounding countryside. PAGANELLA HOTEL HHH A friendly family run three star hotel where a warm welcome can be assured from Fausto and his family. A typical chalet style dwelling featuring a cosy bar, a traditional restaurant, a comfortable lounge and sitting area, plus a wellness centre with sauna, jacuzzi and Turkish bath. Bedrooms are well appointed with satellite TV, telephone and hairdryer. Lift available. DEPARTURE Friday 02 September DURATION PRICE 9 days £569 Price includes eight nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner including a candelit Trentino dinner with music, one picnic lunch, unlimited wine & water with dinner, free bar between 6pm – 10.30pm (at main resort hotel only), quiz/games night, Grolla evening in the bar, wine tasting evening, plus return Eurotunnel journeys. Supplement Single Room £105 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 47 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS The Italian Dolomites CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS The Magic of Tuscany With an abundance of art and architecture, a wealth of archaeological treasures and stunning scenery Italy's attractions have been luring visitors for centuries. Some of the country's most iconic sights include the leaning tower of Pisa, the historic city of Florence and the famed landscapes of Tuscany with vineyards, cypress trees and hilltop hamlets. Our base for this holiday is the lovely thermal spa resort of Montecatini Terme, an elegant town in liberty/art deco style with delightful tree-lined avenues surrounding large parks and gardens where you can find the thermal springs housed in beautiful ornate buildings. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure for our journey south to Dover and an afternoon ferry crossing to Calais, then on to our overnight hotel at Lille in Northern France. DAY TWO: We continue south on the French autoroutes for our second overnight stay at Mulhouse. DAY THREE: We climb through the beautiful Swiss Alps to the Gotthard tunnel that will take us into Italy, then continue on to Tuscany and the lovely spa resort of Montecatini Terme where we stay for six nights. DAY FOUR: At leisure to explore the delights of Montecatini, perhaps take a ride on the funicular railway that climbs up to the delightful square in Montecatini Alto, the original medieval part of the town from where there are spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside. DAY FIVE: A visit to the magnificent city of Florence, the artistic and cultural capital of Europe, birthplace of the Renaissance Movement. The city is synonymous with the names of Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Botticelli and Galileo and has many famous sights such as the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery and the stunning Ponte Vecchio Bridge lined with pretty overhanging shops. Florence is also at the heart of Italy's fashion industry and designer shops abound. (The most convenient route to the centre of Florence is by train, avoiding long walks from the parking areas on the city outskirts. Group will be escorted). DAY SIX: We travel to Pisa where on an immense green lawn there is quartet of medieval masterpieces in gleaming white marble. Admire the Duomo and the Baptistery, the Camposanto and the famous leaning Tower itself, then stroll around Pisa's arcaded streets filled with Romanesque churches and squares. On then to the beautiful Tuscan town of Lucca. Within its Renaissance walls, Lucca boasts a wealth of palaces, museums, churches and piazzas. DAY SEVEN: We take a drive through the delightful Tuscan countryside with its vista of vineyards and olive trees to visit San Gimignano, the 'City of Beautiful Towers'. A charming and well preserved hill town famous for its numerous towers. On then to the medieval city of Siena, surrounded by its superbly preserved walls and filled with fine examples of Gothic architecture plus one of the world's most unique piazzas, shaped like a shell. DAY EIGHT: A further day at leisure to relax and explore Montecatini. DAY NINE: We travel back through Switzerland and into France for another overnight stay at Mulhouse. DAY TEN: Continue north to Lille for our final overnight stay. DAY ELEVEN: To Calais for our return ferry crossing to Dover and on home to North Wales. HOTEL ARISTON HHHH An excellent family owned hotel situated in the heart of the thermal area of Montecatini, a very short distance from the spas and the town centre where you can shop in the most prestigious fashion stores. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, a comfortable lounge area and terrace. All the air-conditioned en suite bedrooms feature satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer and mini-bar. Lift available. DEPARTURE Friday 01 July DURATION PRICE 11 days £649 Price includes ten nights accommodation with breakfast & dinner, local train from Montecatini to Florence, plus return Channel ferry crossings. Supplement Single Room £145 48 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk The northern Spanish port and resort of Santander is the capital of the Cantabria Province, located in a large bay with long stretches of fine sandy beaches, an elegant and dynamic city with an incredible natural backdrop of sea and mountains. There is plenty to explore with areas of beautiful public gardens and elegant tree lined streets, lovely esplanades, a glorious casino, plus pedestrian shopping streets and terrace cafes. The area is known as Green Spain, and has lush and verdant landscapes with gems such as the Picos de Europa Mountains and the beautiful northern coastline with its sandy coves, hidden harbours and delightful medieval villages. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure for our journey south to Plymouth where we board the Brittany Ferries afternoon sailing to Santander. Once on board you will be allocated your air-conditioned cabin with en suite facilities, then its time to start enjoying the excellent facilities as you cruise towards Spain. DAY TWO: We arrive in Santander late afternoon and disembark, then make the short journey to the Santemar Hotel where we stay for the next three nights. DAY THREE: Today we explore the picturesque Cantabrian coastline and visit delightful Santillana del Mar, famous for its wonderful medieval buildings and cobbled streets, a unique and fascinating town that has now been listed as a World Heritage Site. On then to Comillas, described as one of the most beautiful towns in Cantabria with cobbled streets, open squares, nice beaches and historic buildings including the incredible El Capricho designed by Anton Gaudi. DAY FOUR: We take a drive into the stunning Picos de Europa Mountain range, travelling to the quaint village of Potes, nestled snugly into a hillside. On then to Fuente De for a spectacular cable car ride which climbs 750m up to a viewpoint some 1850m above sea level. From here there are fantastic views of the mountains and the Picos de Europa National Park. (Fare payable locally). DAY FIVE: Enjoy a morning at leisure in Santander before we board the Brittany Ferry for a mid afternoon sailing back to the UK. Time to relax and enjoy the ship’s facilities once more. DAY SIX: We dock in Portsmouth in the afternoon and return home to North Wales. SANTEMAR HOTEL HHHH The Santemar Hotel is the largest hotel in Northern Spain, located near the Casino and Sardinero Beach and within walking distance of the centre. Facilities include a restaurant, bar, concierge, internet room and shopping mall. All bedrooms feature marble bathrooms, air-conditioning, WiFi, telephone, satellite TV, piped music, mini bar and room safe. Lift available. BRITTANY FERRIES Brittany Ferries magnificent fleet of ships all feature superb on-board facilities with a choice of restaurants and lounges, cinemas, live music and dancing, stylish shopping malls, plus a swimming pool and leisure area. Cabins are all airconditioned and have en suite facilities. DEPARTURE DURATION PRICE Sunday 29 May 6 days £375 Sunday 25 September 6 days £375 Price includes three nights accommodation with buffet breakfast, plus two nights accommodation on board ship in inside en-suite cabins. (Meals not included on ship) Supplement(s) per person: Single Room & Cabin £120 Inside cabin with twin beds £38 / Outside cabin with twin beds and window £75 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 49 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS © kurtxio_flickr Santander & The Picos De Europa CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Calella The Costa Maresme DAYS THREE TO TEN: At leisure in Calella to relax and enjoy the lovely climate with the following excursions included: The sunshine coast of Spain has long been a popular destination for British holiday makers and the relaxed resort of Calella on the Costa de Maresme is one of the firm favourites. The resort boasts more than 3km of fine beaches backed by a palm-lined promenade and the charming old part of town is centred around the church of Santa María, a Neo-classical building with a Baroque main front. The town is filled with quaint winding narrow streets where you will find shops, bodegas, bars and international restaurants plus a range of entertainment to suit all tastes. Dalmau Park is a pleasant spot for a stroll leading to the lighthouse that has become an emblem of the town, rising above a headland that dominates the beautiful Bay of Calella. Itinerary City of Barcelona: The vibrant capital of Catalonia, a city of magnificent architecture and beautiful buildings. See the Olympic Stadium and Gaudi’s unfinished cathedral, the famous Sagrada Familia. There is excellent shopping in the famous Ramblas where street entertainers abound adding to the city’s unique character. Lloret & Tossa: A drive along the beautiful Mediterranean coastline to Lloret De Mar, the biggest and most well known resort on the Costa Brava. On then to Tossa de Mar, one of the prettiest and best preserved resorts on the coast with a delightful Old Town, set in a picturesque horseshoe sandy bay. Gerona & Besalu: The medieval city of a thousand sieges, home to many Catalan Romanesque structures and its imposing Gothic Cathedral, Continue to Besalu with its intriguing little shops, historic churches and its striking Roman Bridge. DAY ONE: Depart in the early hours and travel south to Folkestone for a morning Eurotunnel crossing to Calais. Continue south via the autoroutes to Dijon for an overnight stay. Platja d’Aro & Pals: A visit to the resort of Platja d’Aro, then on to the medieval village of Pals. The old quarter, known as El Pedro, contains many historic buildings. As well as spectacular views of the coastline and mountains, Pals has delightful cobbled streets, and ancient village walls and archways to stroll through and explore. DAY TWO: Our journey continues via Orange and Perpignan into Spain, then on to the resort of Calella and the Volga Hotel where we stay for the next nine nights. DAY ELEVEN: We say farewell to Calella and travel back to Dijon for another overnight stay. DAY TWELVE: Continue to Calais for our return Eurotunnel crossing to Folkestone and home to North Wales. HOTEL VOLGA HHH A firm favourite with Arvonia clients ideally situated in the centre of Calella, just 50 metres from the seafront and promenade. All bedrooms are en suite with airconditioning, balcony, safe box, satellite TV and telephone. Facilities include a swimming pool and sun terrace with bar service, buffet style restaurant and a bar lounge featuring regular entertainment. Lift available. DEPARTURE Saturday 20 August DURATION PRICE 12 days £689 Price includes accommodation with dinner and breakfast at resort, two nights accommodation with breakfast at overnight hotels, plus return Eurotunnel journeys. Supplement Single Room £196 50 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Enjoy a mini cruise to Northern Spain, two nights in the lovely city of San Sebastian, the summer capital of Spain, followed by three nights in Bordeaux and a final night in the romantic city of Paris. Situated on the Bay of Biscay the fashionable resort of San Sebastian features lovely sweeping beaches and grand architecture, plus a mix of ancient and modern with a charming old quarter and a contrasting modern city. The Bordeaux region is famous throughout the world for its fine wines and the city of Bordeaux was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2007. Set on the banks of the River Garonne in the Aquitaine Region of south-west France, historic Bordeaux with its 18th century architecture is a delight to explore. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early hours departure for our journey south to Plymouth and an afternoon sailing to Santander. Facilities on board include a choice of restaurants and lounges, two cinemas, live music and dancing, stylish shopping malls, plus a swimming pool and leisure area. Cabins are all air-conditioned and have full en suite facilities. DAY TWO: Arriving in Santander this morning we cruise in past golden beaches and the former Royal Summer Palace. After disembarking we head along the Northern Spanish coastline to San Sebastian, the cultural hub of the Basque country where we stay for the next two nights. Time then to commence exploring the city with its contrasting old and new sectors divided by the River Urumea. DAY THREE: A full day excursion to Pamplona, a city rich in history & culture best known for the tradition of the Running of the Bulls. A guided tour is included to experience the diversities of attractions that the city offers from stunning architecture to modern high end shopping. DAY FOUR: A further morning at leisure in San Sebastian, maybe take a trip up to Monte Igueldo on the funicular railway for some spectacular views. This afternoon we head on into Southern France and the city of Bordeaux where we stay for three nights. DAY FIVE: An included guided walking tour to see all the city sights. Bordeaux was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site in 2007 and is regarded as an 18th century architectural gem with attractions such as the Place de la Bourse with its statues and fountains, the Grand Theatre and the Pont de Pierre, a 500 metre stone bridge constructed in 1822. Afternoon at leisure for personal sightseeing or to just relax and soak up the atmosphere in a riverbank café. DAY SIX: Today we explore the nearby area of the Dordogne and spend a morning in the picturesque town of Bergerac, combining a beautiful old town and gentle countryside. Take a stroll around the attractive medieval half-timbered streets with boutique style shops and shady squares with their open-air cafes. No trip to the Bordeaux Region is complete without a visit to a vineyard and this afternoon we include an opportunity to sample some fine wine at Chateau Figeac, the largest estate in the commune of Saint-Emillion, with 40 hectares of vines. DAY SEVEN: We leave Bordeaux this morning and head north to the famous city of Paris for an overnight stay at the Novotel Paris Ouest Rueil Malmaison. DAY EIGHT: Continue heading north to Calais for a journey through the Eurotunnel to Folkestone, then on via the motorways home to North Wales. HOTEL SAN SEBASTIAN HHHH Located just a few metres from the Ondarreta beach and around a ten minute drive from the old town area. Completely refurbished a few years ago all the 90 spacious bedrooms feature air-conditioning, satellite TV, hairdryer, safe and minibar. Facilities include a bar, restaurant and café bar, pus solarium, terrace and garden area. (Lift available but please note that there are approximately ten steps down to the restaurant). MERCURE BORDEAUX CENTRE HHH A modern purpose built hotel located in the commercial district of Bordeaux, a short distance from the historic centre. Each of the 194 bedrooms has been refurbished in a modern contemporary style and offers facilities including hairdryer, satellite TV, and air conditioning. The restaurant enjoys a welcoming contemporary décor and there is also a bar decorated in a similar style. Lift available. DEPARTURE Sunday 24 July DURATION PRICE 8 days £759 Price includes Overnight sailing with twin bedded inside cabins, six nights accommodation with dinner and buffet breakfast, guided tours in Pamplona & Bordeaux, wine tasting in St Emillion, plus a Eurotunnel journey from Calais to Folkestone. (Does not include any meals on board ship) Supplement per person: Single Room & Cabin £190 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 51 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Basque Coast & Bordeaux CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Costa Verde, Porto & The Duoro Valley 115 feet). On arrival in Regua we transfer to the railway station for a train journey back to Porto and on to the hotel. This lovely region of Portugal known as the Green Coast boasts an almost unbroken coastline of white sandy beaches backed by green pines and dense woods. To the north of the city of Porto lies the popular holiday resort of Povoa de Varzim, both a traditional fishing town and a cosmopolitan summer resort. At one end is the picturesque fishermen’s quarter with brightly painted boats and womenfolk mending their nets. whilst the northern end of Póvoa has all the modern facilities, a lively mix of beach side cafés, bars, restaurants, hotels and its 1930’s style casino. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure for our journey south to Plymouth where we board the Brittany Ferries flagship the ‘Pont Aven’ for its afternoon sailing to Spain. Facilities on board include a choice of restaurants and lounges, two cinemas, live music and dancing, stylish shopping malls, plus a swimming pool and leisure area. Cabins are all air-conditioned and have full en suite facilities. DAY TWO: We arrive in the port of Santander, cruising in past golden beaches and the former Royal Summer Palace. We then disembark and travel south to Palencia for an overnight stay at the Europa Centro Hotel. DAY THREE: We continue our journey through Spain and into Portugal, then on to the Costa Verde and the Axis Hotel in the resort of Povoa de Varzim where we stay for the next five nights. DAY FOUR: This morning we travel to the quayside at Vila Nova de Gaia and board a riverboat for a delightful cruise along the Douro river to Regua with lunch included on board. Relax and admire the wonderful landscapes as we meander along the river and pass through the locks of Crestuma and Carrapatelo (the highest in Europe at DAY FIVE: A day at leisure to relax and explore Povoa de Varzim. DAY SIX: Today we visit Porto, the second largest city in Portugal built on the right bank of the river Douro. One of the symbols of the city are the six bridges that connect both sides of the river. Discover the delights of this wonderful city on a guided tour that includes a visit to a Port Wine Cellar to learn about the production of Portugal’s most famous export. DAY SEVEN: Our day commences with a visit to Guimaraes, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site with its medieval streets and preserved monuments. On then to Braga, the religious capital of Portugal with its Baroque mansions, cathedral and the vast Archbishop's Palace. The hilltop Bom Jesus shrine, located just outside the town is one of the most famous places of pilgrimage in Portugal with wonderful views over the town. DAY EIGHT: After breakfast we say farewell to the coast and cross the border back into Spain and on to Palencia for another overnight stay. DAY NINE: We return to Santander for an afternoon sailing on the Pont Aven back to the UK. Time to relax and enjoy the ship’s facilities once more. DAY TEN: We dock in Portsmouth this morning and commence our return journey to North Wales AXIS VERMAR HOTEL HHHH The four star Axis Hotel enjoys a fine location on the sea front overlooking the white sand beach and the Atlantic Ocean with nice gardens, a large outdoor swimming pool and easy access to the beach. All the bedrooms have a bright pleasant décor and feature satellite TV, hairdryer, and air conditioning. The hotel has a large open plan ground floor restaurant with traditional décor overlooking the hotel gardens, and a separate bar with dance floor. DEPARTURE Sunday 02 October © varunshiv_flickr 52 DURATION PRICE 10 days £725 Price includes seven nights accommodation with dinner and breakfast, wine and water with dinner, two nights inside cabin accommodation, Duoro Valley river cruise with included lunch, train from Regua to Porto, services of a guide in Porto. (Meals not included on ship) Supplement per person: Single Room & Cabin £145 Inside Cabin with twin beds £38 / Outside Cabin with twin beds and window £75 For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Discover some of the cultural and historical highlights of a country that becomes more and more popular as a tourist destination with every year that passes. One of the largest countries in central Europe, Poland offers a huge amount to see and do from the wild and beautiful scenery of the mountainous south to the stunning and historic cities with their magnificent medieval centres and architectural delights, all just waiting to be explored. We spend two nights in Wroclaw, one of the country’s most beautiful cities before travelling on to spend another four nights in the attractive mountain resort of Zakopane. Itinerary DAY ONE: Early departure to Dover for a Channel ferry crossing to Calais, then continue on into Belgium for an overnight stay at the NH Hotel in Genk. DAY TWO: We travel across the border into Germany and on past Hannover to Magdeburg for our second overnight stay at the Ramada Hotel. DAY THREE: This morning we continue on to the south of Berlin and cross the border into Poland, then on to the beautiful old city of Wroclaw for a two night stay at the Park Plaza Hotel. of the Tatra National Park. The town has a pretty centre to explore with beautiful wooden houses and churches, plus a good selection of shops, cafés, restaurants and Poland’s longest pedestrianised street. For some superb panoramic views of Zakopane perhaps take a ride on the funicular railway to the top of mount Gubalowka. DAY SEVEN: Today we take a drive into the Dunajec Valley and the Tatra Mountains, passing through picturesque small towns and villages. Visits will include the village of Chocholow with its old wooden houses, many around 150 years old, plus the famous 15th century medieval wooden church at Debno, one of the protected UNESCO World Heritage Sites. DAY EIGHT: A visit to the city of Krakôw with an included guided walking tour. Explore Poland’s oldest and most visited city, full of charm and beautiful architecture with Renaissance churches, spiralling gothic towers, galleries, sculptures and winding narrow streets with intriguing cafes and shops. The large medieval market square and the Cloth Hall are the focal points forming the heart of the Old Town area and the gothic Royal castle and cathedral on Wawel Hill should not be missed. DAY NINE: We leave Zakopane this morning and travel back into Germany for an overnight stay at the NH Hotel in Dresden. DAY FOUR: This morning we are joined by a local guide for a walking tour around the centre of Wroclaw, one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Poland built on 12 islands with some 120 bridges crossing scenic waterways making it known as the ‘Polish Venice’. Today we see some of the city’s many sites including the Old Town, the impressive gothic cathedral and the main town square, brimming with historic buildings and charming pavement cafés. DAY TEN: Travel back across Germany into Belgium for another overnight stay at the NH Hotel in Genk. DAY FIVE: We leave Wroclaw and commence our journey towards Zakopane with a stop en-route at the Auschwitz Museum and Memorial. Established in 1947 by the Polish Government on the site of the largest Nazi concentration camp, the scene of the worst human atrocity of modern times. A guided tour will enable you to gain an insight of the events that took place, truly a very moving experience. Following the tour we continue to the heart of the Tatra Mountains and the five star Hotel Litwor in Zakopane where we stay for four nights. HOTEL LITWOR ZAKOPANE HHHHH DAY SIX: A day at leisure in Zakopane, Poland’s best known mountain resort set in a stunning location, surrounded by the mountains DAY ELEVEN: To Calais for our return Channel crossing to Dover and on home to North Wales. Zakopane’s only five star hotel, ideally situated in the centre of Zakopane beside the main pedestrianised street. Facilities include the Koneser restaurant and bar plus indoor swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. All bedrooms are air-conditioned and feature bathrooms with underfloor heating, satellite TV, mini bar, telephone, safe box and hairdryer. DEPARTURE Tuesday 13 September DURATION PRICE 11 days £799 Price includes ten nights hotel accommodation with dinner and breakfast, services of guides, plus return Channel ferry crossings. Supplement Single Room £245 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 53 CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Polish Explorer CONTINENTAL HOLIDAYS Norway’s Western Fjords Since the withdrawal of the Newcastle to Bergen ferry route in 2008 there has been no direct services operating between the UK and Norway. Many enquiries are still received for holidays to this beautiful country and we are therefore pleased to offer this alternative which includes cruise ferry crossings between Harwich and Esbjerg on Denmark’s west coast and some unrivalled touring through the unique landscapes of Scandinavia. The scenic beauty of Norway is legendary, one of the great natural wonders of the world, sculpted by the glaciers of the Ice Age. A spectacular vista of towering snow capped mountains, picturesque valleys and cascading waterfalls descending into deep blue fjords. Itinerary DAY ONE: We travel south to the Harwich International Port where we board the DFDS cruise ferry ‘Dana Sirena’ for the sailing to Denmark, due to depart at 17.45. Time to relax and enjoy the ship’s facilities that include a choice of dining options from café bar to a la carte and Steakhouse restaurants, plus the Columbus Club entertainment lounge and bar. DAY TWO: We arrive at Esbjerg in Denmark at 13.00 then after disembarking we journey through the Danish countryside to Åarhus in east Jutland for an overnight stay at the Scandic Plaza Hotel. DAY THREE: Depart from Åarhus and travel via Alborg to Hirtshals on the northern coast of Denmark. Here we board a Color Line fast-craft ferry and sail to Kristiansand on the southern coast of Norway, then continue on to Sandnes for overnight stay at the Quality Hotel Residence. DAY FOUR: A great day traversing fjords and islands en route to Voss. We travel across bridges and through tunnels that connect the islands, then a short ferry crossing over the Skudenesfjord. Continue north to Valevag, then another fjord crossing to Halhjem and on to the lakeside town of Voss, one of Norway's most popular resorts in the heart of “Fjord Country”. We spend three nights at the historic four star Fleischers Hotel. 54 DAY FIVE: A day at leisure in Voss or an option to take the famous Norway in a Nutshell excursion. Board the train at Voss and travel to Myrdal in the snow-covered mountains, then a journey on the Flam Mountain Railway. A spectacular descent down through twisting tunnels in and out of the mountain to reach the resort of Flam some 2800 feet below. From here enjoy a cruise to Gudvangen sailing along the narrow Aurlandsfjord and Naeroyfjord with steep cliffs rising on both sides and dramatic waterfalls. Finally we board a local coach for the return drive to Voss, climbing up to the famous Stalheim viewpoint en-route. DAY SIX: A leisurely morning followed by a spectacular drive across the Vikafjell Mountain Road to the shores of the magnificent Sognefjord and the little town of Vik. Here there will be an opportunity to visit the richly decorated Hopperstad Stave Church, one of the oldest in Norway built around 1140. DAY SEVEN: We leave Voss this morning and commence our journey to Norway’s southern coast that will take us through a variety of landscapes. We travel through the Hardangerfjord orchards before traversing the spectacular Haukelifjell High Mountain Pass and descending into the Telemark Region. Continue through the beautiful Setesdal Valley and on to Kristiansand for an overnight stay at the Quality Hotel. DAY EIGHT: This morning we board the Color Line fast ferry for our sailing back to Hirtshals in Denmark, then on to Esjberg for the evening sailing on the DFDS cruise ferry back to Harwich. DAY NINE: We arrive in Harwich at mid-day and disembark then commence our journey home to North Wales. FLEISCHERS HOTEL HHHH A charming traditional wooden hotel in a superb location overlooking Vangsvatnet Lake, originally built in 1889 and still run by the Fleischer family. The hotel has been discreetly modernised without losing its original features. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, the Magdalane Restaurant and Fredrik’s Bar, plus a large terrace overlooking the lake. All bedrooms feature satellite TV, telephone, hairdryer and mini bar. The hotel does have a lift but there are a few steps on some floors. DEPARTURE Monday 20 June DURATION PRICE 9 days £879 Price includes two nights accommodation in outside twin lower berth cabins (no bunks) with shower & toilet, reserved seats on the fast ferry crossings, six nights hotel accommodation with dinner and breakfast (Meals not included on board ship) Supplement(s) per person: Single Room & Cabin £165 Optional Norway in a Nutshell Excursion £75 (includes train from Voss to Myrdal, Mountain railway descent to Flam, fjord cruise to Gudvangen, plus local coach journey to Stalheim and back to Voss) For online bookings visit www.arvonia.co.uk Autumn/Spring Selection A selection of British & Continental holidays departing between January & March featured in our Autumn 2010 / Spring 2011 programme. For further details of any these holidays please contact our reservations team on 01286 675175 or log on to our website at www.arvonia.co.uk January DATE DESTINATION DAYS PRICE 03 – 07 Torquay 5 £129 03 – 07 Warner Alvaston Hall 5 £202 03 – 07 Warner Cricket – Inclusive Drinks 5 £259 07 – 09 London City Break 3 £139 07 – 09 Cardiff City Break 3 £119 10 – 14 Warner Holme Lacy 5 £263 14 – 16 Cardiff Theatre – Mamma Mia 3 £179 16 – 20 Loch Lomond – All Inclusive 5 £199 17 – 21 Warner Thoresby Hall 5 £263 17 – 21 Torquay 5 £139 21 – 23 Harrogate & York 3 £99 21 – 24 Torquay 4 £99 24 – 28 Falmouth 5 £189 28 – 30 Cardiff City Break 3 £129 29 – 30 Leeds & Peak District 2 £49 DATE DESTINATION 01 – 08 Cote d’Azur – Cannes 8 £479 02 – 04 Madame Butterfly – Albert Hall 3 £219 PRICE 04 – 07 Cotswolds &Oxford 4 £174 February DAYS March DAYS PRICE DATE DESTINATION 04 – 07 Norwich & the Broads 4 £149 05 – 08 Dusseldorf Carnival 4 £239 07 – 11 Warner Nidd Hall 5 £263 07 – 11 Cumbria & the Settle Railway 5 £219 07 – 11 Eastbourne 5 £199 07 – 11 Highland House Party 5 £199 07 – 16 Renaissance Italy 10 £519 11 – 14 Historic Winchester 4 £189 11 – 13 Cardiff City Break 3 £129 12 – 23 Sunshine Spain – Calella 12 £599 11 – 15 Falmouth 5 £209 14 – 18 Warner Littlecote 5 £313 13 – 17 Loch Lomond All Inclusive 5 £229 14 – 18 Isle of Wight 5 £211 13 – 17 Lakeland – Grange Over Sands 5 £189 16 – 19 St Patricks Day – Tramore 4 £209 14 – 18 Isle of Wight 5 £201 18 – 20 Harrogate & York 3 £109 18 – 20 Glasgow City Break 3 £139 18 – 21 Paris – Six Nations Rugby 4 £209 18 – 20 Harrogate & York 3 £99 21 – 24 Cardiff City Break 4 £179 18 – 21 Warner Alvaston Hall 4 £233 21 – 25 Eastbourne 5 £229 19 – 20 Leeds & Peak District 2 £49 21 – 25 Torquay 5 £179 19 – 26 Swiss Riviera – Montreux 8 £499 25 – 27 London City Break 3 £149 20 – 27 Austrian Lakes – Fuschl 8 £469 25 – 27 Glasgow City Break 3 £149 21 – 25 London City Break 5 £199 25 – 28 Norwich & the Broads 5 £159 21 – 25 Ayrshire Coast 5 £189 28 – 01 West Coast & Galway 5 £289 22 – 25 Southport 4 £139 28 – 01 Warner Lakeside 5 £219 28 – 04 Paignton 5 £169 28 – 01 Ayrshire Coast 5 £199 28 – 04 Scarborough 5 £169 28 – 01 Scarborough 5 £179 Information and Bookings 01286 675175 55 ARVONIA The Square, Llanrug, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 4AA Telephone 01286 675175 Fax 01286 671126 Email info@arvonia.co.uk www.arvonia.co.uk