1
Western Daily Press, Tuesday, October 8, 2013 WDP-E01-S3
Travel Bright ideas
2 TRAVEL TUESDAY OCTOBER 8 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS
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Cook with River Cottage chefs or take to a racetrack Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall is widely known for his uncompromising commitment to seasonal, ethically produced food and has earned a huge following through his River Cottage TV series and books. Now you can join the team of accomplished River Cottage chefs for a one-day cookery school. This is a fun and informal introduction to cooking where you will be introduced to a whole host of different techniques and ideas that should stand you in good stead to get cooking at home. During the course you will create a seasonal starter, a main course and a dessert. You will be introduced to a variety of skills needed in a kitchen, whilst sampling and cooking some delicious and classic River Cottage
See the Mona Lisa during a trip to Paris that includes a visit to the Louvre recipes, all in the wonderful surroundings of ‘Britain’s most-filmed far mhouse’. The River Cottage visit is just one of a number of great experiences we can offer. For example, if you fancy yourself as a bit of a Jenson Button – aka the Frome Flyer – try our karting day out for two. You and a friend will have a blast racing around a purpose-built track in a couple of small but powerful go karts. These karts pack some punch, so give it all you’ve got as you hurtle your way up to the chicane then whizz your way around corners at controlled speeds. There’s an impressive selection of
locations across the UK to choose from for this adrenaline-pumping experience. Each venue boasts different features, such as flyovers and banked turns, indoor or outdoor tracks. No matter which venue you choose, you’ll be getting a fantastic track in an experience to remember. Maybe you prefer something rather more sedate, taking tea in the afternoon, for example. Well, now you can with a sumptuous afternoon tea for two at one of the prestigious 4 or 5 star luxury Marriott Hotels across the UK and Ireland. Your Afternoon Tea may vary slightly depending on which hotel you choose, but in each case you will be able to experience a classic English Afternoon Tea including a selection of finely-made finger sandwiches, delicious home-made pastries and scones, and a choice of fine teas and coffees (and if you’re still not full after all of that, you’ll be able to purchase your choice of additional refreshments!). If the lure of some Continental travel is proving too hard to resist, then don’t. Join our Italian Dolomites Winter Magic six-day trip. Immerse yourself in Bella Italia and enjoy a relaxing holiday with winter sparkle. This break combines La Dolce Vita with the enchanting scenery of the Italian Dolomites, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. We spend three nights in the pretty resort of Fondo, set high above the Val di Non Valley, and enjoy tours around two regions – Trentino, which lies to the west, and the South Tirol, which lies at the northernmost point of Italy and bears a distinctive Austrian feel. Our holiday concludes with an overnight stay in the stylish city of Milan, where you will find a wonderful blend of Italian history and modern city life.
Taking part in a cookery school with the team of accomplished River Cottage chefs, main picture; try a karting day out if you fancy yourself as a bit of a Jenson Button or Lewis Hamilton
Delightful Days Out RIVER COTTAGE COOKERY SCHOOL FOR ONE
at TV’s famous River Cottage farmhouse
karting action
traditional treat
for one person
for one person
for two people
Price includes: • One day cookery course at Hugh Fearnley-
Whittingstall’s River Cottage featured on TV • Join the River Cottage Chefs for five practical sessions and one demo session • Samples, tastings and snacks throughout the day • Three-course meal • Tractor ride from the car park to the farm and back • Cancellation Indemnity
Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm
MARRIOTT AFTERNOON TEA FOR TWO
with a choice of 8 fine hotels
foodie treat
£230
Call us on 0844 472 4583
GO KARTING FOR ONE
Fast and furious
Quote
BRS
£49
Price includes: • Choice of 23 locations around the UK • Safety briefing and initial instruction • Issue of helmets and overalls • Karting session - allow approx 1-2 hours for your visit • Cancellation Indemnity
£59
Price includes: • Enjoy a sumptuous traditional afternoon tea at a luxury Marriott hotel • Choice of eight 4 and 5* Marriott hotels around the UK • Finger sandwiches, home-made pastries and scones with clotted cream and preserves • Fine selection of teas and coffees • Cancellation Indemnity
A wide range of other experiences available
Calls cost 5ppm from a BT landline, other operators may vary. Experiences are subject to availability. Any applicable discounts have already been deducted. Postage not included, starts from £2.49. For further terms, please contact Acorne Plc. Acorne is wholly independent of dmg::media and Local World. When you respond, dmg::media, Local World and their Travel partners 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; please let us know if you are happy for us to do so.
WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY OCTOBER 8 2013 TRAVEL 3
WDP-E01-S3
Let the power of flowers spur you on to a garden holiday Prepare to be dazzled by our trips to some of Europe’s most delightful floral hotspots. Let’s start with our Best of the Dutch Bulbfields four-day coach holidays which whisk you across the Channel to visit what is acknowledged as being “The world’s most beautiful spring garden.” It’s the Keukenhof Gardens, a 32hectare site planted with some seven million flower bulbs. When they bloom they become a magnificent spectacle, unique throughout the world – an explosion of colour which has become one of Holland’s most popular tourist attractions. But our trip doesn’t stop there. Also included is a visit to vibrant Amsterdam and the historic city of Bruges, dubbed “The Venice of the North.” Back on home shores we offer a three-day break to visit the island of Lindisfarne and the Alnwick Garden. The latter is one Britain’s most exciting contemporary gardens. See how it has been transformed from a derelict site into a world-class attraction –
7m
Number of flower bulbs planted at the 32-hectare Keukenhof Gardens Closer still are the delights of Paris and our four-day trip to the French capital includes visits to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre Dame. Known as the City of Light, Paris is a cultural treasure chest that brims with riches; magnificent architecture, iconic monuments, beautiful gardens, stylish shops, world-class museums, delicious cuisine – the list is endless. Join us as we explore the very heart of this enchanting city and visit three of the most iconic places. Travel 200m up the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking views from this signature spire; marvel at the sight of the Mona Lisa and other priceless works of art in the world famous Louvre; and explore the masterpiece of gothic architecture that is the Notre Dame. With transfers to and from Paris and the company of our experienced tour manager, this is a great value break to one of the world’s greatest cities.
Afternoon tea at a prestigious 4 or 5 star luxury Marriott Hotel is a real treat
through the Duchess of Northumberland’s bold vision – on this greatvalue break. Also included are visits to historic Durham, Bamburgh and the fabled island of Lindisfarne. Still up north, why not take a twoday trip to the Harrogate Spring Flower Show in April next year? Kick-start the gardening year with this great-value event held at the Great Yorkshire Showground, this hugely popular annual event is regarded as one of the best of its kind in the country. Finally, head West to Torquay, the star of the English Riviera, then head for two of Cornwall’s gardening delights. See plants from around the globe in the gigantic “biomes” of the ever-growing, ever-changing Eden Project, and marvel at the “Lost Gardens” of Heligan – rediscovered after 70 years of neglect.
From top, Alnwick Garden, the Eden Project and the ‘Lost Gardens’ of Heligan, three of the delightful floral hotspots that you can visit on one of our trips
Excellent Escorted Tours CLASSICAL SPAIN
7 days from
£599
Selected departures March to November 2014
per person
LAKES AND MOUNTAINS OF AUSTRIA
Selected departures May to October 2014
Andalucía is one of the most beautiful corners of Europe, where the excesses of modern life do not seem to have taken root and travellers are welcomed as honoured guests. Immortalised by the writings of Ernest Hemingway and beloved by Orson Welles, it is the Spain of Carmen, Figaro and Flamenco. Rich with the legacies of the Moors and Romans, its charm and serenity will captivate you.
Austria is as close to perfection as you can get: the mighty snow-capped alpine peaks tower above lush green pastures, nourished by crystal clear melt-water streams and dotted with historic wooden farmhouses – whilst the air hangs heavy with the sweet scent of newly-mown hay. The magnificent Austrian Alps, the awesomely beautiful Lake District of Salzkammergut, plus astonishingly beautiful baroque Salzburg - home of Mozart and the great composers, all quite literally take your breath away.
Return flights to Malaga from London Gatwick,
Return scheduled flights from London Gatwick or Birmingham, other airpost also available
Bristol or Birmingham, other airpost also available
Call us on 0844 472 4605
Quote
BRI
8 days from
£929 per person
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 unless stated otherwise, and are applicable to selected departure dates. These holidays and included excursions are subject to availability. Single rooms 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.
4 TRAVEL TUESDAY OCTOBER 8 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS
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Excellent Escorted Tours BRUGES, YPRES & THE FIRST WORLD WAR BATTLEFIELDS
Departing 14 March 2014 Coach travel from Bristol
PARIS, THE EIFFEL TOWER, THE LOUVRE & NOTRE DAME Departing 14 March 2014 Coach travel from Bristol
4 days from
4 days from
£265
£279
per person
per person
2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the First World War, so this is a unique chance to visit these moving places at a very special time and remember the courage and honour of all those who fought, as well as the men and women who followed in their footsteps to become today’s soldiers.
Join us in Paris, the City of Light and enjoy breathtaking views from The Eiffel Tower, marvel at the Mona Lisa and other priceless works of art at The Louvre, and then simply explore this fabulous city.
The price includes:
• Private coach travel from your local area • Return ferry crossing from Dover to Calais • Three nights’ bed and continental breakfast • Tour of Paris by coach • Ticket to the top of the Eiffel Tower • Entrance to the Louvre Museum • Visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral
• • • • • •
Private coach travel from your local area Three nights’ bed and continental breakfast Visit to Bruges, Ypres and Tyne Cot Cemetery Guided tour of Bruges Entrance to Talbot House including the famous cup of tea Services of a Tour Manager
ITALIAN DOLOMITES WINTER MAGIC
Departing 24 February & 8 March 2014
The price includes:
GLACIER EXPRESS WINTER MAGIC
Departing 14 February & 21 March 2014
5 days from
6 days from
£779
£699
per person
per person
Rail travel from your local area for just £39
Rail travel from your local area for just £39
The price includes:
Join our 5 day tour for the experience of a lifetime as we travel aboard the world’s slowest express train, which carves a spectacular route through the heart of the Swiss Alps.
• Return Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris • Coach transfers to/from Paris Gare du Nord/Paris Gare de Lyon • One night bed and breakfast in Turin • Rail travel from Turin to the Dolomites • Three nights’ half board in the Dolomites • Tour of the South Tirol Dolomites, visiting Merano and Vipiteno • Tour of the Trentino Dolomites visiting Molveno and Madonna di Campiglio • Rail travel from the Dolomites to Milan • One night bed and breakfast and free time in Milan
Call us on
0844 472 4545
Quote
BS
The price includes: • Return Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord • Four nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation • Journey on the Golden Pass Line to Lucerne • Visit to Alt Goldau and Mount Rigi • Glacier Express trip from Chur to Brig • Visit to the Swiss Capital of Bern • A cruise on Lake Thun
For more information on Bruges or Paris visit:
Or for Italian Dolomites or Glacier Express visit:
www.bristolep.diamondhols.co.uk
www.diamondrailholidays.co.uk
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.
WDP-E01-S3
WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY OCTOBER 8 2013 TRAVEL 5
The Falls of Feugh, at Banchory in Royal Deeside. Along the valley of the River Dee, the Scottish region is home to some of the finest scenery in the British Isles
Area of stunning natural beauty is a breath of fresh air Daniel Evans travels to Royal Deeside in the heart of Scotland and finds a sumptuous welcome fit for a king For a blend of stunning nature and royal history, it is hard to beat a trip to Royal Deeside. The region that lies in the heart of Scotland, along the valley of the River Dee, is home to some of the finest scenery in the British Isles. Nestled in the quaint village of Banchory is Tor-na-Coille – an imposing looking mansion which was home during my wife and I’s two-night, summer stay. The hotel has 25 individually designed en-suite bedrooms, with a variety of views including Scolty Hill – a challenging peak we would hike up – and the parkland of Banchory golf course. Built in 1873 as a mansion at a cost of £1,000, Tor-na-Coille still exudes Victorian elegance. It was converted into a hotel at the turn of the century and has retained a
great deal of its original character and architectural features, which work well alongside some modern decor twists. Our room was spacious and luxurious, providing picturesque views of the surrounding scenery from the front of the hotel. But, by all accounts, every room is slightly different with its own individual characteristics. The quality of food we enjoyed was befitting of a top-grade restaurant, celebrating seasonal, local produce from the rich Royal Deeside region. All of our courses were perfectly executed, from the crab pot and tartare of roe deer starters, through the turbot with lobster and Aberdeenshire lamb mains; to our beautifully presented and exquisite desserts. The chefs also made our meal even more enjoyable with some surprises in the form of an extra appetiser at the start of the meal and an amuse bouche to cleanse our pallettes before our final course. With the long day of walking we had planned for our second day, my
Tor-na-Coille has 25 individually designed en-suite bedrooms, while Scolty Hill, some 981ft up, rewards those who make it to the top with panoramic views
wife and I needed a hearty breakfast – and we got one. The full Scottish and the smoked salmon and scrambled eggs were extremely generous portions, while retaining the quality of the meal we enjoyed the night before. The service at the hotel could not be faulted. From the welcome when we arrived, to the advice on places to visit during our stay, to their flexibility when we requested an early breakfast so that we could catch our early flight. A hire car is a must if you want to see the castles, lochs, woodland and distilleries of Royal Deeside. Aberdeen airport is home to all the main operators, including Europcar, which provided our transport during our stay. Royal Deeside is arguably most famous for being home to Balmoral Castle, the summer home of the royal family. When we visited, only part of the castle was open but it still provided an informative peek into the world of the Windsors when they retire to the estate. We were, however, able to explore the perfectly maintained grounds and gardens. As you would expect on a break in Scotland, there are plenty of castles to take in. Another popular destination is Crathes Castle, which is surrounded by woodland to the east of Banchory. This late 16th-century castle owned by the Burnett family sits on land given as a gift by King Robert the Bruce in 1323. Perhaps a little over-priced at £12 per adult compared to £10 at Balmoral, it still provides a memorable experience with its towers, turrets and historic stories.
Some of the rooms still retain their original painted ceilings and collections of family portraits and furniture, while visitors can also explore the outstanding flower garden. For keen walkers, this particular Scottish region is ideal, with a number of designated trails and footpaths that allow you to explore the intriguing and challenging landscape. For the more seasoned hikers, Scolty Hill, some 981ft up, provides a tough but rewarding route. We were determined to reach the summit, and once we had gritted our teeth and made it to the top, the outstanding panoramic views made it all worth it. And, if one has a head for heights, one can scale the 20m tower at the top of the hill to get even more of a bird’s eye view of the stunning surroundings that stretch for miles. All in all, Royal Deeside is an ideal location for a short break for nature lovers and walkers. And for those who want a slice of luxury and quality to wind down after a long day exploring the rich region, Tor-na-Coille offers just that at very reasonable prices.
TRAVEL FACTS
Tor-na-Coille hotel and restaurant, Inchmarlo Road, Banchory, Royal Deeside, Scotland, AB31 4AB, 01330 822242, www.tornacoille.com There are various seasonal and special offers at Tor-na-Coille, but prices range from £115-£240 per room per night for dinner, bed and breakfast; and £85£180 for bed and breakfast. For information and car hire prices from Europcar, visit www.europcar.co.uk/ or call 0871 3841087.
6 TRAVEL TUESDAY OCTOBER 8 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS
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Fabulous Flora BEST OF THE BULBFIELDS
LINDISFARNE AND THE ALNWICK GARDEN
Departing 17 April and 4 May 2014
Departing 6 June and 13 September 2014 4 days from
4 days from
£219
£225
per person
per person
A springtime visit to the famous Dutch Bulbfields is a never forgotten experience! This superb value break includes a visit to Keukenhof Gardens where acres of daffodils, crocuses, narcissi and hyacinths carpet the ground in a riot of colour!
Visit Alnwick one of the world’s most exciting gardens with its Grand Cascade, famous Poison Garden and fabulous Tree House, and enjoy a tour of Northumbria’s beautiful Heritage Coastline including Holy Island, or Lindisfarne as it’s often known, cradle of English Christianity, on this wonderful break.
Price includes:
Price includes:
• Return coach travel from the local area • Channel crossings via ferry/Eurotunnel • Three nights’ bed and continental breakfast accommodation in a three-star hotel within easy reach of Keukenhof Gardens • A visit to Keukenhof Gardens • A visit to Amsterdam • A visit to Bruges • The services of a tour manager
• Return coach travel from the local area • Three nights’ dinner, bed and English breakfast accommodation at the three-star Holiday Inn, Washington • Entrance to The Alnwick Garden • Visits to York, Bamburgh and Lindisfarne • The services of a tour manager
HARROGATE SPRING FLOWER SHOW
EDEN AND THE LOST GARDENS OF HELIGAN
Departing 26 April 2014
Departing 9 May, 20 June and 19 September 2014 2 days from
4 days from
£105
£239
per person
Banish those winter blues and kick-start the gardening year with this great value break to England’s first big flower show of the year – the Harrogate Spring Flower Show. Held at the Great Yorkshire Showground, this hugely popular annual event is regarded as one of the best of its kind in the country, and always delights garden enthusiasts. This break also includes a visit to the captivating city of York, where there’s always so much to see and do. This truly is a break to delight all garden enthusiasts!
Price includes: • Return coach travel from the local area • One nights’ dinner, bed and English breakfast accommodation at a comfortable hotel in the Yorkshire area • Entrance to the Harrogate Spring Flower Show • A visit to York • The services of a tour manager
Call us on 0844 472 4655 Quote WDP Or visit us www.newmarket.travel/wdp
Alternatively, for your free brochure, tick brochure(s) required, complete the coupon and send to: Newmarket Holidays, FREEPOST KT2720, Worcester Park, KT4 8BR (NO STAMP REQUIRED)
per person
Explore the unique, ever-changing, ever-growing Eden Project with its iconic ‘biomes’ housing exotic flora from around the world, marvel at the breathtaking lost acres of Heligan, re-discovered after 70 years of neglect and stay in beautiful coastal Torbay. This fascinating break is a treat at any time of year!
Price includes: • • • • • •
Return coach travel from the local area Three nights’ dinner, bed and English breakfast accommodation in a comfortable hotel in Torbay Entrance to The Eden Project and the Lost Gardens of Heligan Visit to Clark’s Shopping Village in Street Entertainment on at least one evening The services of a tour manager
Best of the Bulbfields – GBC Lindisfarne and The Alnwick Garden – ACS Harrogate Spring Flower Show – HFS Eden and the Lost Gardens of Heligan – ELH
Name ..................................................................
WDP
Address .......................................................................... ....................................................................................... Telephone....................................................................... Email ..............................................................................
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 Ltd. ABTA V787X. 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.
WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY OCTOBER 8 2013 TRAVEL 7
WDP-E01-S3
D, E, F… 8 days from
8 days from
£1499
£1129
per person
THE ELBE, BERLIN, DRESDEN & PRAGUE RIVER CRUISE
per person
DORDOGNE, ALBI & CARCASSONNE
Selected departures June to October 2014
Selected departures May to October 2014
The delightful and historic Elbe, once the border of the Holy Roman Empire, is one of Europe’s most undiscovered rivers and yet its hinterland has some world-class cities and places of interest. We start in culturally thriving and blossoming Berlin and, in the centre of it all, the beautiful Reichstag. Then as the Elbe wonderfully meanders through rural Germany we visit Meissen, famous for its exquisite porcelain, and then berth in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, Dresden. Finally we will reach Prague where years of Royal patronage have created the masterpiece you see today.
Immerse yourself in deepest France and a hauntingly beautiful landscape, slashed by deep, twisting gorges, lined by craggy cliffs filled with sparklingly pure rivers and studded with wonderfully unchanged medieval, honey-coloured villages. On this holiday you have tours of the astonishing pre-historic cave paintings at Lascaux, walking tour of Sarlat – perhaps the most picturesque town in the Dordogne and of the dramatic 13th century fortress city of Carcassonne. Along with visits to the attractive medieval villages of Domme, Rocamadour and Roque-Gageac, blend this with Toulouse-Lautrec’s Albi and the 13th century fortress town of Carcassonne and the result is breath-taking.
Price includes:
Price includes:
• Flight from a choice of regional airports • Beautifully appointed four-star superior cabins with hotel standard beds, private bathrooms and river views on the four-star Swiss Ruby • Tours of Berlin and Dresden • Tour of Prague, central Europe’s jewel and one of the world’s most beautiful capitals • Visits to Potsdam, Sanssouci Palace and Wittenberg
• Visit and tour of the Meissen porcelain studio • Full board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day • Services of an experienced cruise manager
• Return flights from Manchester, other airports available, or return standard class reserved seat on Eurostar and French high-speed train from London St. Pancras International • Seven nights three-star superior and four-star half-board accommodation • Walking tours of medieval Sarlat and Carcassonne • Tour of the astonishing pre-historic cave paintings at Lascaux
• Travel by traditional boat through the river Dordogne valley • Visits to Domme, Rocamadour, Albi, Roque-Gageac and Cahors • Visit to the formal gardens at Marqueyssac with their amazing panoramic views • Escorted by an experienced tour manager
14 days from
8 days from
£1499
£879
per person
per person
CRUISE THE HEART OF EUROPE
DUBROVNIK, THE DALMATIAN COAST AND MONTENEGRO
Selected departures June to November 2014
Selected departures April to October 2014
There are many vessels cruising European rivers but few ships can match the luxury and elegance of the four-star superior Serenade 2 or the five-star Lord Byron. Boasting superb cuisine and the most comfortable surroundings possible.
Croatia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and the Hapsburgs, all have left their legacies. Lord Byron christened Dubrovnik ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’; the Dalmatian coastline is one of the most dramatic in Europe; and if you can imagine what the Mediterranean was like thirty years ago, Montenegro is probably it. This matchless blend of history, Mediterranean ambience, with truly stunning natural beauty, refreshingly free from tasteless development, is on the discerning traveller’s map. On this tour we visit Mostar, home of the famous bridge; Split, with a tour of the Diocletian’s monumental palace and Trogir with its charming port; you also have tours of Dubrovnik and Montenegro.
Price includes: • Standard class reserved seat on Eurostar from London St. Pancras or flight from a choice of regional airports (at a supplement) • Beautifully appointed four-star superior and five-star cabins with hotel standard beds, private bathrooms and river views on either the four-star superior Serenade 2 or five-star Lord Byron • Admire the stunning scenery of the Rhine Gorge, Main and Danube • Guided tours of Koblenz, Würzburg, Vienna and Budapest • Stop in picturesque Boppard • Rüdesheim - a true Rhineland wine town • Tour of Nuremberg - steeped in ancient & modern history
Call us on 0844 472 4605
• Visit to Mainz, the medieval city of Regensburg and Melk Abbey - the Benedictine monastery • See Miltenberg - one of Germany’s best preserved medieval towns • Experience Wertheim - one of the most attractive medieval towns in Germany • Walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bamberg • Stop in Passau - the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers • Full-board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day • Services of an experienced cruise manager
Quote
BRI
Price includes: • Return flights to Dubrovnik or Split from East Midlands or Manchester, other airports available • Seven nights three and four-star, half-board hotel accommodation • Tours of Dubrovnik and Montenegro
• Visits to Krka National Park with its stunning waterfalls, Mostar, Split and medieval Trogir • Escorted by an experienced tour 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 rooms/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. Holiday 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.
8 TRAVEL TUESDAY OCTOBER 8 2013 WESTERN DAILY PRESS
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Lambinon is awarded that coveted star. Those wanting a taste of the Michelin action can head to Le Bibent, run by popular French chef and chocolatier Christian Constant. It’s on the Capitole square, a perfect place for people watching. Here you can get a set lunch menu for just 30 euros, a snip given its baroque surroundings. But fine food isn’t just restricted to the city. A visit to the surrounding countryside brings me to Chateau de Mayragues, in the Gresigne natural oak forest. Alan Geddes, a Scotsman, and his wife Laurence have been producing wine at this biodynamic vineyard for 30 years. They even open up their beautiful home to guests, with two large rooms available to stay in. While in the region, it’s worth visiting the tourist office museum telling the story of how wines have been produced in the region since the first Benedictine monastery was built in the 10th century. I was sorely tempted to get stuck into another round of wine tasting and stay the night at Chateau de Mayragues, but I was lucky enough to get a room at La Reserve. The Queen Mother, The Queen actress Helen Mirren and Queen guitarist Brian May have all stayed here, making it quite the royal hangout. I felt pretty regal myself, sitting out on the terrace overlooking the River Tarn, glass of champagne in hand. I was in for a treat with some dazzling creations from the chef Sebastien Faramond, including a chocolate dessert with popping candy that was one of the best things I have ever eaten. The hotel is also the perfect base to explore Albi, the birthplace of artist Toulouse Lautrec. The beautiful town is dominated by Cathedrale SainteCecilea – a cathedral of staggering proportions which has been likened to a fortress. I can’t resist a peek inside and am blown away by the scale and intricate stonework and paintings of its interior. But it’s the Toulouse Lautrec museum that really draws me in. Set in a former bishop’s palace opposite the cathedral, it houses the world’s biggest collection of the artist’s work. Culture fans can also visit his childhood home at Chateau du Bosc, a short drive away, and be shown around by his great niece – for that added level of authenticity. Despite its small size and village feel, Albi too has Michelin stars. Restaurant L’Esprit du Vin has a novel approach, with chef (and Albi native) Daniel Enjalran likening his food to the complexities and layers of flavours in wine. There is no menu here; guests instead simply write down what they do not eat, and the culinary magicians in the kitchen create dishes from what’s in season. From that staggering cathedral in Albi, to the Capitole Square in Toulouse, you won’t tire of things to see in the region, and could spend days happily strolling over its cobbled streets. Just make sure you leave plenty of room in your suitcase – and your waistband.
Tempting Tarn has delicious treats around every corner France is world-famous for its gourmet cuisine and Lauren Turner gorged on a gastronomic glut on a tour of the south-west region of Le Tarn No matter how hard I try, I can’t seem to get my suitcase shut. Sitting forlornly on the bed is a bag of pink garlic bulbs, purchased from a farm close to Albi, a small town just outside Toulouse. A round of stinky cheese and a few bottles of biodynamic wine will also have to stay this side of the Channel. It’s probably for the best, as my clothes are already smelling decidedly Gallic. To be honest, the cheese – gloriously oozy Epoisses, so soft it could be eaten with a spoon – is so pungent it could probably walk home itself. In the end I manage to rehome the garlic with the head chef at my hotel, La Reserve, so everyone is happy. Still, I bet the Queen Mother, who stayed at this fabulously chic five-star bolthole twice, it having been the only place she’d slept that wasn’t a palace or private residence, never had this problem. I really have had the ‘eyes bigger than my belly’ issue going on during my four-day visit to France’s southwest region of Le Tarn. With so many delicious treats around every corner, it’s impossible to resist picking a few up along the way.
Take Toulouse’s Victor Hugo covered market. It’s been at the heart of city life for more than 120 years, with residents and local restaurants alike stocking up with supplies from the specialist stalls – there are more than 100. It really is a foodie paradise, with off-the-boat-fresh oysters from Maree Toulousaine, black pork of Bigorre, crusty baguettes, ornate ice cream cakes made by a company called Octave, whiffy Roquefort and vast bags of crispy fried bits of duck fat (think pork scratchings with a certain je ne sais quoi).
‘Delights in store include slow-cooked egg with mackerel and nutty shards of parmesan crisps’ I’m more than happy meandering around the walkways for an hour. The Victor Hugo also sells vast jars of cassoulet, one of the specialities of the region that I’m told you really must try. It’s at the J’Go restaurant that I encounter this meaty wonder. Bubbling and garlicky, the giant terracotta pot of cassoulet looks mouth-watering with its confit duck and pork, braised sausages and mounds of white beans. However, as a pescatarian, the sight and smell of
this classic dish is the closest I’ll get to experiencing it. The French, it has to be said, don’t fully grasp the concept of not eating meat and I have to turn down foie gras on multiple occasions. Those wanting to try the controversial delicacy in a distinctly unusual way should head to Philippe Faur, famous for his savoury ice creams. Eschewing the foie gras flavour, I go straight for the black truffle variety. And yes, truffle of the fungal rather than chocolate variety! Slightly salty, slightly sweet and with the most amazing aroma, it’s a deliciously bizarre experience. But I decide to stick to what I truly enjoy – those cheeses. Xavier has to be the grand fromage in Toulouse, a mecca for lactose lovers, with tours of its cheese cellars available for a small price. It’s here that I also discover that white wine, rather than red, goes best with cheeses. Toulouse boasts six Michelinstarred restaurants. Hoping to join their ranks is young chef Pierre Lambinon whose Le Py-R is a whitewalled subterranean oasis. It’s special, but far from stuffy, and I immediately feel relaxed as I sit at one of the large round tables. Delights in store include slow-cooked egg with mackerel and nutty shards of parmesan crisps, and succulent white fish with white beans and mozzarella. It surely can’t be long before
TRAVEL FACTS
From main picture, a view of Sainte-Cecile Cathedral of Albi overlooking Tarn river, a market in Tarn, a bubbling pot of cassoulet, and luxurious La Reserve
Lauren Turner travelled to Toulouse with easyJet (www.easyjet.com). Flights from London Gatwick to Toulouse start from £31.99 each way. Double rooms at La Reserve (www.lareservealbi.com) start from 248 euros (£207), not including breakfast. Double rooms in Le Pere Leon, Toulouse (www.pere-leon.com) start from 85 euros (£71). For more information, visit www.toulouse-tourisme.com and www.tourisme-tarn.com