Travel Western Daily Press 01 October 2013 by WDPissuu

Western Daily Press, Tuesday, October 1, 2013

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The glitz of Las Vegas on an American adventure

Travel

2 TRAVEL TUESDAY OCTOBER 1 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS

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Holidays as easy as ABC – in our global guide The next few weeks will see us bring you an A-Z of wonderful holidays taking in fantastic countries around the world from incredible spots in the UK to farflung destinations of your dreams, and everything in between! This week it is literally as easy as ABC… So let’s start with that US trip to discover America’s glorious western states on a fantastic-value escorted tour. Californian sunshine, stunning Pacific coastlines and visits to three of America’s most iconic cities – cosmopolitan San Francisco, starstruck Los Angeles and glitzy Las Vegas – as well as to the awesome Grand Canyon. Stay at Palm Springs for a one-night stay and take in this unique city – the perfect place to rest, relax and soak up the sun. You’ll love the breathtaking natural backdrop provided by the desert mountains – it’s easy to see why stars such as Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope had holiday homes here. Or maybe you’d prefer something closer to home? In Bruges you can unwind over a few days. Canals, chocolate and beer are just three of the attractions waiting for you in this beautiful, bewitching preserved medieval Belgian city. You will be captivated by the unique atmosphere of the historic Old Market Square, and if you can face the 366 steps to the top of the famous Belfry you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view. A less strenuous way to explore the city is by boat on the canal network, or by horse-drawn carriage. And don’t miss the chance to visit the brewery museum, or a tour of a chocolatier that still produces delicious chocolates using traditional methods. There is also an optional tour of First World War battlefields around Ypres and the war cemeteries of Passchendale. Truly, there is

something for everyone in the city of Bruges. Or how about Berlin, Dresden, Meissen and a visit to the infamous Colditz Castle prisoner of war camp? The outpouring of joy and energy that accompanied the fall of the Berlin Wall, now over 20 years ago, has rekindled Berlin’s legendary vibrancy and the city throbs with new life. Dresden is perhaps more sedate yet equally revelling in its renewed splendour. After severe bomb damage, it has now been almost completely restored. Another face of Germany is medieval Meissen, where the most stunningly beautiful porcelain is crafted by highly skilled artisans in the only factory in Europe where the processes are still completed entirely by hand. Berlin is one of the world’s most vibrant and exciting cities. There is so much to see – Checkpoint Charlie, the new Reichstag building designed by Norman Foster, the Unter den Linden boulevard, the Brandenburg Gate and the Holocaust Memorial. You can also visit the Palace of Sanssouci in nearby Potsdam, but you may prefer to spend as much time as possible in the city, seeking out its fine bars and restaurants and soaking up the atmosphere – and maybe try a beer from one of its many breweries. And so on to ‘C’ and the highlights of Catalonia. Barcelona, the self-confident and progressive capital of Catalonia is a tremendous place to visit. Probably the most prosperous city in the country, it has a sophistication and cultural dynamism way ahead of the rest of Spain, which is so strong you can feel it just walking around. Catalonia also boasts the best food in Spain. Well, that is what the Catalans themselves tell you and to be fair they perhaps have a point – but the only real test is to come with us and see for yourself.

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, offers culture and relaxation by the sea with a city vibe. One of the highlights for may visitors is the fantastic architecture you can enjoy all over the city

A 6 days from

£399 per person

AVIGNON, CARCASSONNE AND PROVENCE

Departing April to October 2014

A guided tour of Carcassonne and visits to Avignon and the Pont du Gard are amongst highlights of this escorted holiday that also offers a choice of hotels and exciting optional excursions.

3 days from

£169 per person

Price includes: • Return flights to France from Bristol • Five nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation at the Ibis Carcassonne Est (a choice of accommodation upgrades available for a supplement) • Return airport to hotel transfers • One suitcase allowance per person • Tour of Carcassonne • Visit to Avignon and the Pont du Gard • The services of a tour manager

Call us on 0844 472 4655

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THE GRAND NATIONAL AT AINTREE

Departing 4 April 2014

Experience the drama of the world’s greatest steeplechase on this three-day coach break to one of Britain’s most exciting sporting occasions. Included admission to Steeplechase Enclosure, plus overnight accommodation and a visit to Chester.

Price includes: • Return coach travel from the local area • Two nights’ bed and English breakfast in a good quality hotel in the North West area • Admission to the Steeplechase Enclosure at Aintree (Tattersalls Enclosure upgrade bookable at a supplement) • A short visit to Chester • The services of a tour manager

Or visit us www.newmarket.travel/wdp

Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Operated by Newmarket Promotions/Air Holidays Ltd. ABTA V787X/V7812, ATOL protected 2325. Prices are per person, based on two sharing. Subject to availability. Single supplements apply. Terms and conditions apply. These suppliers are independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

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Enjoy the best of what Britain has to offer The Chelsea Flower Show 2014 takes place next May. That will be its 101st year during which time it has been staged in the grounds of the famous Chelsea Hospital – save, that is, for interruptions caused by two world wars. It is, unquestionably Britain’s most prestigious flower show. It also boasts close associations with the Royal Family, who attend the opening day every year. Staging the event requires almost a month on site building the vast exhibition, and exhibitors run into the hundreds. And you can join us on a trip to this wonderful, visually stunning, annual event. Spend from around mid-afternoon until the evening on the first day wandering the show gardens, examining the rare and unusual plants in the spectacular floral pavilions, and seeking out advice from the gardening experts. The following day you can take a look at the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. One of the world’s leading botanic research institutions, Kew has a fascinating history of royal associations, and a magical mix of landscaped lawns, formal gardens, glasshouses and over 30,000 plants. From the springtime flowering cherries to the mangrove swamps of the Princess of Wales Conservatory there’s plenty to hold your interest. Don’t miss the fantastic Rhizontron and Xstrata Treetop Walkway – at 59 feet high, you’ll see trees from a totally new perspective. But if it’s stately homes you like, then the trip to Chatsworth House, one of the UK’s best attractions, should do the trick. It’s a treasure trove of history and artefacts in the beautiful surroundings of the Peak District, and more of the house is open to visitors than ever before. Our two-day break includes entrance to the house and gardens, one night dinner, bed and breakfast, as well as a tour of the Peak District – all at a fraction of the cost. Each Christmas, Chatsworth House sparkles with lights, candles and artfully arranged decorations. With carol singers, brass bands and a seasonal gift sale, this is a pre-Christmas experience you won’t want to miss.

Then, of course, you could always head further west from Bristol to the dazzling beaches, quaint fishing villages, flourishing gardens, delicious ice-cream and balmy temperatures of Cor nwall. We take you to favourite places and hidden gems as seen on the ITV series Cornwall with Caroline Quentin and Doc Martin which stars Martin Clunes, including the world famous port of Falmouth, the pretty resorts of St Ives and Penzance, and a 26-acre sub-tropical paradise. So join us for a relaxing break along Cornwall’s beautiful Riviera coastline. Or opt for our Clovelly and North Devon Delights, enjoying a delightful mix of picturesque villages, remote moorland and spectacular coastline that borders the mighty Atlantic Ocean. St Ives has golden sand, clear waters and variety of attractions. Its wonderful light has attracted artists since the 19th century and there are many well known names associated with the town. Life is centred around the harbour, but there are three other beaches to choose and many excellent restaur-

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The Chelsea Flower Show is a must for gardeners and garden lovers – don’t miss your chance to go...

A view of the Harbour in St Ives – one of the most picturesque towns in Cornwall

The Royal Botanic Gardens always look wonderful at any time of the year

the number of year’s the that the Chelsea Flower Show has been running

The rather grand Chatsworth House – a treasure trove of history

ants, which specialise in the most fantastic fish and seafood. A trip to St Ives will certainly keep you fit, with lots of steep pathways and cobbles, but life here is taken at a leisurely pace and if you fancy a gentler stroll along the coastal paths then why not? Also, don’t miss the Tate Gallery St Ives, which has some fascinating and extraordinary exhibitions. On our four-day break you can enjoy stunning scenery as we visit some of the most beautiful areas of Cornwall, including the privately owned village of Clovelly, which is set in a steep hillside and known around the world for its history and beauty. We also spend time in the seaside villages of Appledore, Lynton and Lynmouth.

A 16 days from

£1920 per person

5-STAR ALASKA CRUISE AND THE CANADIAN ROCKIES Departing April to September 2014

A cruise into some of the world’s most spectacular waters upon one of Holland America Line’s superbly appointed five-star ships is combined with a journey through the natural paradise of the Rocky Mountains and a stay in the beautiful Pacific Rim city of Vancouver, on this extraordinary – and extraordinary value – holiday.

Tour highlights: • • • • • •

Call us on 0844 472 4655

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Return flights from London Gatwick to Calgary, returning from Vancouver Fly to Calgary, home to the world famous ‘Stampede’ Explore Banff, the stunning capital of the Rockies Journey via sparkling Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway to Jasper Stay at Rockies resort Sun Peaks Board your five-star ship in Vancouver for an unforgettable seven night cruise

• • • • • • • • • • •

Cruise the fabled Inside Passage to Alaskan capital Juneau Skagway was gateway to the Yukon Cruise into breath-taking, UNESCO-listed Glacier Bay Colourful Ketchikan is Alaska’s ‘First City’ Vancouver is often voted ‘best place in the world’ to live Return airport to hotel transfers Seven nights’ room only accommodation at comfortable hotels in Banff (2 nights), Jasper (1 night), Sun Peaks Resort (1 night) and Vancouver (3 nights) Breakfasts in Banff Cruise includes full-board meal arrangements Comfortable coach travel throughout The services of a tour manager (excluding on cruise)

Or visit us www.newmarket.travel/wdp15360

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B 7 days from

5 days from

£679

£529

per person

BERLIN, DRESDEN, MEISSEN AND COLDITZ

BARCELONA & THE HIGHLIGHTS OF CATALONIA

Selected departures April to October 2014

On this intriguingly varied tour, we visit two of Europe’s great cultural centres: Berlin, once the East-West flashpoint, now reborn as a lively and dynamic city and Dresden, newly restored and possibly Germany’s most beautiful city once again. Combine this with stunning Meissen porcelain and the infamous Colditz Castle - probably the world’s most famous Prisoner of War camp and you have a varied and fascinating tour.

For many centuries Spain did not exist as a nation state, being more a collection of countries such as Aragon, Castille and, of course, Catalonia, which together with their capital city – Barcelona, Europe’s most ‘happening city’, is the destination for this unique tour.

Price includes: • Visit and tour of the Meissen porcelain studio • Return flights from East Midlands or Manchester, other airports also available • Visit to Colditz Castle, the famous Second World War prisoner camp • Four nights four-star superior accommodation, with breakfast • Escorted by an experienced tour manager • Guided tour of Berlin, rapidly becoming one of the world’s most fascinating cities • Walking tour of Dresden, ‘Florence of the Elbe’, home to one of the world’s greatest art collections and formerly capital of the Kings of Saxony

Price includes: • Return flights from East Midlands or Manchester, other airports also available • Six nights bed and breakfast in excellent quality four-star hotels • Guided tour of Barcelona – Spain’s most happening city! • Visit to the beautiful medieval city of Girona • Walking tour of Tarragona, the ancient Roman capital of Iberia

• Visit to the world famous monastery at Montserrat • Visit to Cava vineyard and discover the ancient art of wine making • Escorted by an experienced tour manager

8 days from

4 days from

£1199

£259

per person

BRUGES BY EUROSTAR

BURGUNDY, RIVER RHÔNE & PROVENCE

Selected departures November 2013 and March to November 2014

Selected departures May to October 2014

There can be few places left where you can totally switch off for a few days from the pressures of modern day living as completely as you can in Bruges. Its beauty and tranquillity are outstanding as befits the most perfectly preserved medieval town in Europe. This superb holiday includes an excellent range of escorted visits and tours and you’ll stay in an extremely comfortable hotel in the heart of this delightful city, which is sure to charm you.

On this truly enthralling cruise every day is full of fascination. Start in France’s gastronomic capital and explore the beautiful Saone and Rhone rivers, see the staggering amphitheatre at Arles and the huge aqueduct at the Pont du Gard. In Avignon see the Papal Palace and its stunning renaissance art collection. Van Gogh created arguably his greatest works in Provence and all this is set in some of France’s most stunning natural beauty – all waiting to be discovered on this wonderful cruise.

Price includes: • Return rail connections available on selected dates from over thirty regional stations* • Return standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London St. Pancras International. Upgrades available at a supplement • Return coach transfer from Lille to your hotel (approx 1 hour) • Three nights bed and breakfast at a choice of quality three or four-star hotels in a superb location, right in the heart of the old preserved town

Price includes:

Call us on 0844 472 4605

• Guided walking tour of historic Bruges, arguably the most perfectly preserved medieval town in Europe • Visit to a traditional chocolatier • Visit to Ypres and a tour of the First World War battlefields • Escorted by an experienced tour manager

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BRI

• Return rail connections available on selected dates from over thirty regional stations* • Standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London St. Pancras or flight from a choice of regional airports (at a supplement) • Beautifully appointed five-star cabins with hotel standard beds, private bathrooms and river views on the five-star Swiss Corona • Visit to Beaune, centre of the Burgundy wine region and wine tasting • Guided tour of Lyon, second city of France and its gastronomic capital

• • • • • • • •

Cruise the spectacular Rhone valley Visit to charming Vienne Tour of the astonishing Ardeche Gorges Guided tour of Arles, with its extraordinary Roman remains and home of Vincent Van Gogh Visit to the Pont du Gard Tour of superbly preserved, medieval Avignon and the stunning Pope’s Palace Full-board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day Services of an experienced cruise manager

Or visit us www.bririviera.co.uk

Request a brochure online: www.rivieratravel.co.uk/brochures

Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices are from, per person, based on two people sharing a twin room/cabin unless stated otherwise, and are applicable to selected departure dates. These holidays and included excursions are subject to availability. Single room/cabins available at a supplement. Some visa costs and local departure taxes may not be included. Prices and holidays are subject to availability and change, some holidays are subject to minimum passenger numbers. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel. Holidays organised by and are subject to the booking conditions of Riviera Travel, New Manor, 328 Wetmore Road, Burton upon Trent, Staffs DE14 1SP. ABTA V4744 and ATOL 3430 protected, a company wholly independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

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The Isle of Arran has plenty to offer anyone who loves the great outdoors

All aboard for a taste of luxury Fancy a bit of nostalgia, some relaxation and a touch of luxury? When why not relive rail travel’s glory days on board the fabulous British Pullman. You’ll enjoy a delicious five-course lunch and excellent service from liveried stewards. The train’s beautiful, comfortable, restored carriages include Audrey, Gwen and Vera – cars from the original Brighton Belle service. Once upon a time, it was film stars and royalty that were treated to the exquisite luxury of trains like the British Pullman. Imagine a wood-panelled Art Deco interior, tables set with gleaming silver and crystal, luggage in brass racks and a roomy armchair in which to glide through the scenery, and you’ve imagined your train – part of the renowned Venice Simplon Orient Express fleet. Depending on the time, day and duration of your trip, your journey will include at least one unforgettable

meal – a freshly prepared, fine-dining experience.

Brunch Brunch is served with a bellini, and may include a fruit cocktail followed by a dish of scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, as well as a selection from the bakery.

Lunch and dinner Any lunches and dinners served will be prepared on board, and feature the very best in seasonal fare, often reflecting the regions to be visited during the trip. Soup, a main course and a delicious dessert will be followed by a traditional British cheeseboard and coffee, with an additional starter completing the five-course menus. Your meal will be preceded by a glass of champagne and accompanied with one bottle of fine house wine per couple, selected by the experienced on-board sommeliers.

Afternoon tea Traditional afternoon tea aboard the train features finger sandwiches, freshly baked cakes and scones, tea, coffee and a glass of sparkling wine. Wherever possible, British ingredients are used – Cornish-grown tea, Devon clotted cream and a sparkling pink wine produced in Kent. From the southern tip of the UK, to the most northerly, Scotland has plenty to offer, and any trip to this country should take in the Highlands and the isles to really immerse yourself in the Scottish way of life. The islands that make up the firth of Clyde are the fifth largest group in Scotland, taking in Arran and Bute, Great Cumbrae and Holy Isle. Arran is just 20 miles long and ten miles wide but it has breathtaking landscapes as well as gorgeous villages, castles, standing stones and a rich history. You can enjoy the countryside, beaches, pubs and restaurants here as well as golf courses.

Bute is known for its beaches and forests and its only town, Rothesay, is linked by ferry to the mainland. Expect a sense of peace and tranquility on this tour. If you fancy enjoying the luxuries of the indoors, rather than the outdoors, you’ll love afternoon tea at the Ritz as part of a two-day London break. Enjoy a tour of this world-famous hotel, and sip a glass of complimentary champagne, but don’t forget to bring the plastic to take full advantage of shopping trips to Fortnum and Mason, and Harrods. Of course, you don’t have to buy anything, just taking a look around some of the fabulous shop floors displays is enough to keep many visitors entertained. There is also plenty of free time to enjoy whatever else you want to explore in one of the most exciting cities in the world. Make sure you make the most of it on this whirlwind trip.

Enjoy a trip on the British Pullman, above; or afternoon tea at the Ritz, top

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C CHATSWORTH HOUSE & THE PEAK DISTRICT Departing 25 May 2014 Coach travel from Bristol

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW, RHS GARDEN WISLEY & HAMPTON COURT Departing 22 May 2014 Coach travel from Bristol

4 days from

2 days from

£319

£90 per person

Chatsworth House is one of the UK’s best attractions, a treasure trove of history and artefacts in the beautiful surroundings of the Peak District, and in 2012 more of the house has opened to visitors than ever before. Our 2 day break includes entrance to the House and Gardens, one night dinner, bed and breakfast, as well as a tour of the Peak District - all at a fraction of the cost! All in all, this is a relaxing break at unbeatable value!

Price includes: • Private coach travel from your local area • One night stay with three course evening meal & cooked breakfast • Evening entertainment • Tour of the Peak District • Entrance to Chatsworth House and Gardens

CLOVELLY & NORTH DEVON DELIGHTS

Departing 11 July 2014 Coach travel from Bristol

per person

Visit the world’s most famous flower show and the flagship garden of the RHS, enjoy over 60 acres of internationally celebrated formal Palace Gardens at Hampton Court, and spend time exploring Royal Windsor and London.

Price includes: • Private coach travel from your local area • Three nights’ stay with three course evening meal & cooked breakfast • Entrance to Hampton Court Palace Gardens • Entrance to RHS Chelsea Flower Show • Entrance to RHS Gardens Wisley • Free time in Windsor and London

COLOURFUL CORNWALL ST IVES, PADSTOW & FALMOUTH

Departing 28 March 2014 Coach travel from Bristol 4 days from

4 days from

£219

£229

per person

The north Devon landscape is a delightful mix of picturesque villages, remote moorland and spectacular coastline that borders the mighty Atlantic Ocean. On our 4 day break you can enjoy this stunning scenery as we visit some of the most beautiful areas, including the privately owned village of Clovelly, which is set in a steep hillside and known around the world for its history and beauty. We also spend time in the seaside villages of Appledore, Lynton and Lynmouth, and there’s the chance to see the Royal Horticultural Society’s Rosemoor Garden.

Dazzling beaches, quaint fishing villages, flourishing gardens, delicious Cornish ice-cream and balmy temperatures – it’s easy to see why Cornwall is a perfect holiday destination. We take you to favourite places and hidden gems as seen on the ITV series ‘Cornwall with Caroline Quentin’ and ‘Doc Martin’ which stars Martin Clues, including the world famous port of Falmouth, the pretty resorts of St Ives and Penzance, and a 26 acre sub-tropical paradise. So join us for a relaxing break along Cornwall’s beautiful Riviera coastline.

The price includes:

• Private coach travel from your local area • Three nights’ stay with three course evening meal & cooked breakfast • Visits to Padstow, Falmouth, St Ives, Penzance and Port Isaac • Entrance to Trebah Gardens

• Private coach travel from your local area • Three nights’ stay with three course evening meal & cooked breakfast • Visits to Appledore, Lynton, Lynmouth, Barnstaple and Clovelly • Entrance to Clovelly

Call us on

0844 472 4545

The price includes:

Quote For information more visit: www.bristolep.diamondhols.co.uk BS

Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline. You may also be charged a connection fee. Mobile and other providers’ charges may vary. Prices are from, per person, based on two people sharing, are applicable to selected departure dates and may have been rounded up or down to the nearest pound. Any applicable discounts have already been deducted. These holidays and included excursions are subject to availability. Single rooms and regional departures are also subject to availability and a supplement may apply. Prices and holidays are subject to availability and change, some holidays are subject to minimum passenger numbers. Terms and conditions apply. Holidays are operated by various suppliers which are ABTA and/or ATOL bonded where applicable. These suppliers are independent of Local World. When you respond, the holiday supplier and Local World may contact you with offers/services that may be of interest. Please give your mobile or email details if you wish to receive such offers by SMS or email. We will not give your details to other companies without your permission.

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WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY OCTOBER 1 2013 TRAVEL 7

ABC 7 days from

£589 per person

AMSTERDAM, ANTWERP, GHENT & BRUGES CRUISE Departing 30 March 2014 Coach travel from Bristol Be enchanted by this seven-day cruise. We’ll introduce you to the highlights of the Netherlands, including Amsterdam, the city of diamonds. Then we’ll head to Belgium to admire its rich culture and history.

The price includes: • Executive return coach travel from a departure point near you • Return ferry crossing from Dover to Calais • Welcome drink, Captain’s get together and Party Night • En-suite cabin accommodation aboard the mps Amsterdam • Full board during your cruise • Entertainment every night of your cruise • Visits to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Dordrecht, Willemstad, Antwerp, Ghent and Bruges • Excursion to Delft

BRIGHTON & THE BLUEBELL LINE

ARRAN & BUTE SCOTTISH ISLAND HOPPER

Departing 22 May 2014 coach travel from Bristol 4 days from

Departing 13 April & 20 July 2014 coach travel from Bristol 5 days from

£229

£339

per person

From coast to royalty, you can relive the romance of steam as we glide through glorious Sussex countryside on a heritage railway, visit the home of one of The Queen’s official royal residences and relax on the beach – there’s something to offer for everyone.

The price includes:

• Private coach travel from your local area • Three nights’ stay with three course evening meal & cooked breakfast • Visits to Windsor and Tunbridge Wells • Journey on the Bluebell Railway • Free time in Lewes • Full day in Brighton

per person

In the deep sheltered water of the Firth of Clyde lie a chain of isles which have played an important role in Scottish history and boast breathtaking natural landscapes. From our base near to the cosmopolitan city of Glasgow, we visit three of these sheltered isles including the Isle of Arran, known as ‘Scotland in miniature’ due to its incredible variety of scenery, and the Isle of Bute, once the island retreat of Scottish Kings. Our island tours show all they have to offer, along with the chance to experience a peace and tranquillity far removed from modern-day life.

The price includes: • • • •

CHESTER, PORTMEIRION & WELSH MOUNTAIN STEAM

Private coach travel from your local area Four nights’ stay with three course evening meal & cooked breakfast Visits to of the Isle of Arran, Isle of Bute and Isle of Cumbrae Return ferry crossings

AFTERNOON TEA AT THE RITZ

Departing 20 June 2014 coach travel from Bristol

Departing 9 March 2014 coach travel from Bristol 3 days from

2 days from

£199

per person

If you appreciate the fine traditional architecture of yesteryear along with unspoilt landscapes, then you’re in for a real treat as we visit one of the oldest cities in Britain, the fantasy creation of Clough William-Ellis and travel on one of the top tourist attractions in Wales.

The price includes:

• Private coach travel from your local area • Two nights’ stay with three course evening meal & cooked breakfast • Visit to Chester • Entrance to Portmeirion • Journey on the Ffestiniog Railway from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Portmadog

Call us on

0844 472 4545

Quote

per person

This is something everyone should try at least once in a lifetime and with our 2 day break to London you can enjoy additional excursions that are quintessentially English.

The price includes:

• Private coach travel from your local area • One night bed and breakfast • Visit to Fortnum & Masons and Harrods • Tour Manager escort to The Ritz • Afternoon tea at The Ritz • A glass of Champagne at the Champagne Bar St Pancras • Free time in London

For more information on our Amsterdam Cruise:

www.rivercruiseline.co.uk

For all other holidays visit:

www.bristolep.diamondhols.co.uk

8 TRAVEL TUESDAY OCTOBER 1 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS

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the refreshingly ice-cold sea. We know we’re literally minutes from Calella, our destination for the next two nights, but the tiny cove is too inviting to walk past. Calella is the Costa’s most beautiful resort and Hotel Sant Roc is perched at the top, affording magnificent views. Our room, on the second floor, has a huge balcony overlooking the entire resort and, more importantly, the sea. We wake refreshed and happy that today is a “free” day – no walking, unless we want to make use of the many suggestions in the walking notes. But we choose a day lying on the coast that we are, otherwise, walking around. We get up early the next day to finish packing ahead of our bags being transferred by car to the next hotel. We are sad to leave Hotel Sant Roc and Calella but excited about what lies ahead. The forecast is for rain, so we quicken our step and arrive at Hotel Llevant in Llafranc just before the heavens open. We join others in the glass extension of the bar, where we watch people running for cover or sheltering as a river of rainwater rushes past the door. We get chatting to a couple in their 60s who have been coming to Llafranc for years and spy their huge goldfish bowl-style glasses of triple gin and tonics, then order some of our own! Surprisingly, we rise in good time to have breakfast the next day before starting the final walk of the holiday. We examine the gullies the rain has made on the beach and notice the sandbags in front of the few buildings. A tough climb takes us to the top of the hill and to a fantastic view of the town and Palafrugell below. Then it’s down some tricky pine forest tracks to the deserted pebbled bay of Cala Pedrosa where we spend some time skimming stones into the sea. Shortly afterwards, we come across another couple on the same InnTravel holiday. They are walking down the coast instead of up and have just come from our final hotel, which they say is stunning. We are spurred on by this as we descend another treacherous path which leads to the beach of Tamariu, where we top up our tanks with baguettes and local beer. We arrive to discover Hotel Aigua Blava is indeed stunning – colonial in style and full of well-heeled Brits. Our room is huge and has a balcony overlooking the beach, with views back to the larger Aigua Blava bay. We feast on a lovely menu of chicken pate tapa, poached eggs on ratatouille and brie, sole meunière and roasted duck, then sorbet and fried Catalan dough balls. The wine, recommended by the lovely waiter, is a full-bodied Catalan red. I wasn’t sure if I’d like a walking holiday, packing bags most nights and walking most days, but it was a perfect way to see the beautiful Costa Brava and to sample some fabulous hotels, food and drink.

The coastal path around La Fosca, on the Catalan coast, Spain, which takes in lots of beautiful views and beaches

Take steps to enjoy part of the Spanish coast on foot Swapping a swimming costume for sturdy boots, Debbie Murray takes a walking tour along this famous Spanish coastline As the waitress liberally pours whisky over the large slab of cake in front of us, we don’t feel a pang of guilt – because we know we’ll be walking it all off tomorrow. It’s the third day of our week-long walking holiday along the Catalan coast of Costa Brava, just north of Barcelona. We arrived in Calella yesterday afternoon, having already enjoyed two days of steady walking along this beautiful coastline. Our journey started in S’Agaro, an upmarket resort with a picture-postcard beach, where we relaxed in Hotel S‘Agaro’s seafront gardens and enjoyed a dip in the pool before dinner. The first walk, which was an ambitious 14km, took us from S’Agaro to La Fosca. A long and winding promenade, which starts outside the hotel, opposite Santa Pol beach, takes you past some lovely villas on the cliff tops and lots of beautiful views of beaches and bays below. Part of the route took us through a

small forest of pine trees which, as well as smelling lovely, rewarded us with great views of the boats bobbing on the Mediterranean Sea below. Descending to sea level, we were awe-struck by the magnificent yachts in the Punta Prima marina. Surrounded by modern villas, this is definitely the playground of the Costa Brava. After ambling across several small bays, we arrived at Platja d‘Aro. A 2km stretch of sand backed by highrise buildings, it is the modern part of the Costa. But this was not the longest beach on this first day’s walk. At a vast 4km in length, Sant Antoni de Calonge seems to go on forever, especially when you’re at the end of a long day’s trek. Thankfully there’s a promenade, which is a lot easier to walk on than shale and sand. And there are cafés and bars dotted between the hotels across the road from the beach. La Fosca is further inland and much quieter than Sant Antoni. When we arrived at Hotel Ancora (our tour operator, InnTravel, uses a network of hotels along the route of footpaths along the coast), the receptionist instantly handed us towels for the empty pool around the back. After taking a well-earned dip, we

were presented with our calorieladen slab of whisky-drenched cake. The following day’s walk is shorter – good news for our slightly aching limbs – and the last one for a couple of days, as tomorrow is a “free” day. With that incentive we have a spring in our step on today’s mostly cliff-top walk. There’s a lovely climb which, though sometimes steep, takes us through a beautiful forest of pine and cork trees. We hardly see another soul and spend time trying to improve our photography skills using our wild lush surroundings, the trees, flowers and insects, as subjects and inspiration. After descending from the forest we arrive in S’Alguer, a tiny cove with brightly-coloured fishermen’s cottages and boats on the cobbles in front. A family eat lunch at a table shaded by trees, and a woman outside another of the huts paints at an easel. We want to join them in their tiny piece of paradise but feel like intruders – and we have more walking to do. But not much more as, after cutting through some fields (still following the red and white markers which guide the official footpaths), we arrive back on the coast and at a lovely beach where we cool off in the

factfile – Costa Brava

Fornells beach in Costa Brava, above; just inside the church at Calella , top

Debbie Murray travelled as a guest of Inntravel (01653 617000; www.inntravel.co.uk) who offers a week’s walking holiday, Along the Catalan Coast, from £820pp based on two sharing, including seven nights’ half board accommodation (at five hotels en route), walking maps and notes, and luggage transfers. Flights and transfers are extra – recommended airports are Girona or Barcelona.