Worldwide Rail Holidays 2024-25

Welcome

Dear Customer,

Welcome to our Worldwide Rail Holidays Brochure 2024/25 Edition.

We are pleased to present you with our latest edition of our holiday programme. There are some new and exciting additions to our holiday programme for the remainder of 2024 and new places of interest for 2025.

To end 2024 in true Railway Touring Company style we invite you to join us on our newly designed Steam into the New Year tour. Finishing the old year in style with a steam blast at some of the most attractive Continental main line and narrow-gauge railways, including Mount Brocken, Prague, the Czech countryside, Nürnberg and the Free State of Bavaria.

We are also excited to announce the return of our Railways of the Raj India, revisit the Golden Days of the Raj, in India on this timeless railway tour of the old British colonial outposts in Northern and North-Bengal in East India staying in lovely and charming hotels.

For 2025, it is with pleasure to present to you our brand new Wild, Wild, West Adventure! Offering you a holiday of a lifetime, this 16-day journey takes you to the wild west of California, Nevada, and Utah. Whilst also visiting and riding on many of the historic and famous railroads of the Western United States.

Along with our new holidays 2025 sees the return of some of our classic rail holidays to Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Canada and Colorado.

With 27 years’ experience, we pride ourselves on our unique, interesting and one of a kind holidays specially designed with you in mind.

As members of the Travel Trust Association and ATOL you can rest assured that by booking with us you will have financial protection.

Take a seat, relax, and enjoy your read through our planned adventures. I look forward, very much, to welcoming you on board with us.

Kelly Osborne

Managing

Director

– The Railway Touring Company.

Worldwide Rail Holidays 2024/25

Autumn in Alsace

Thursday 3rd October to Thursday 10th October 2024

Enjoy the famous wine-making region of Alsace in full autumn splendour by steam train on this enchanting holiday in eastern France.

• Based in the vibrant city of Colmar, you’ll explore the region on privately chartered steam trains on all the preserved railways in Alsace and a forest railway in nearby Lorraine.

• Tour highlights include excursions into nearby southern Germany and a visit to the impressive steam Abreschviller Forest Railway in Lorraine, hauled by an 0-4-4-0T Mallet type steam locomotive.

• Discover historic Basel on a lunch cruise aboard a stylish vintage motor vessel.

• There’s also a visit to the Alsatian vineyard town of Eguisheim and to the city of Mulhouse to savour, with the excellent French National Railway Museum and the one-of-its kind Bugatti Museum both located there.

• Short transfer distances from Colmar to all the featured attractions make this a truly relaxed and engaging tour, the perfect opportunity to see France with a completely new perspective.

Thursday 3rd October

London to Colmar

You travel by Eurostar from London St. Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord, before a transfer to Paris Gare de l´Est for the onward journey by TGV express to Strasbourg, where you change onto a regional service to Colmar. You check in to your elegant, centrally located hotel in the heart of this picturesque town. The rest of the day is free to explore and discover the timber-framed houses and quaint canals of historic Colmar.

Friday 4th October

Scenic river cruise in Basel

This morning you board a locomotive-hauled French Railways (SNCF) service train for the journey from Colmar to Basel, just across the border in Switzerland. You then take a tramway on the short ride into the historic

city centre, alighting at the landmark red city hall. Just before lunchtime you alight at the river embankment and board a vintage motor vessel for a delightful lunch cruise on the River Rhine. Your classic red-funnelled ship oozes old-fashioned charm and boasts beautiful wood-panelled dining saloons. You’ll savour a sumptuous buffet lunch, complete with dessert, as you cruise through Swiss, German and French waters. After the cruise there’ll be free time to explore the city centre at your own pace. In the late afternoon you return to Colmar by SNCF service train. (B L)

Saturday 5th October

Steam along the Rhine; free time to enjoy Colmar

After breakfast you travel by road coach to visit the Chemin de Fer Touristique du Rhin, located in the nearby town of Volgelsheim.

This standard-gauge railway operates both French and German steam locomotives hauling Austrian carriages with balconies. You’ll traverse the 13 km (8 mile) line from Volgelsheim to the Sans Souci Quay at Marckolsheim, where the River Rhine and canal separate. Afterwards you return to Colmar by road coach. For the rest of the day you are free to relax in Colmar and further discover this outstanding destination with its ornate buildings and tranquil canals. (B D)

Sunday 6th October

Steam on the Thur Doller Railway; scenic cruise in historic Breisach

Today you visit the enchanting Train Thur Doller Alsace, which operates a 13 km (8 mile) long standard-gauge branch line from Cernay to Sentheim, along the foothills of the Vosges Mountains and crossing the River Doller.

Georg Trueb

The railway features a number of authentic photogenic coaches dating from the late 19th century. A powerful early 20th century steam tank locomotive hauls you over this preserved line on a privately chartered train at a time when there is no regular traffic, so numerous run pasts can be staged. A typically French buffet lunch will be served at the station building in Burnhaupt, where you’ll visit the shed and see the railway’s extensive collection of historic rolling stock. At the end of the return journey you travel by road coach to Colmar via the ‘Alsatian Wine Route’ on the way to the historic town of Breisach, Germany, where you board a stylish motor vessel for a welcome sunset cruise on the River Rhine, with coffee and cake included. (B L)

Monday 7th October

Steam in the Black Forest of Germany; visit to historic Freiburg

The German theme continues today as you visit the Kandertalbahn, located on the very tip of Southern Germany, near Basel. This 12.9 km (8 mile) long branch line runs through rural scenery in the Kander Valley. Your train comprises an early 20th century German steam tank locomotive with matching period carriages, and a buffet lunch of regional delicacies will be served when you reach the end of the line at Kandern. There will be plenty of photo opportunities before returning to Colmar by road coach later, stopping to visit the historic city of Freiburg im Breisgau, a German city noted for its medieval university and cathedral. (B L)

Tuesday 8th October

Museums and trams in Mulhouse

Today you travel by train to Mulhouse, famous for its outstanding museums, especially the ‘Cité du Train’ and ‘Cité de l’Automobile’, respectively the largest railway and automobile museums in Europe. You’ll receive a rover ticket for the city’s

urban tram network, which you’ll use to travel to the ‘Cité du Train’, the national railway museum of France and one of the largest and most amazing collections of technically unique steam locomotives in the world. The vast collection of classic cars in the nearby ‘Cité de l’Automobile’ is also worth a visit. The remainder of your time in Mulhouse will be free to explore its medieval city centre, with both French and Swiss architecture, the pedestrianised Place de la Réunion main square, and St. Stephen’s church. In the evening you return to Colmar by service train. (B)

Wednesday 9th October

Steam at the Abreschviller

Forest Railway

Today you make a side-step from Alsace and visit nearby Lorraine. At Abreschviller you will find a remarkable ‘hidden gem’ in the form of the local forest railway, which operates steam locomotives on the unusual 700 mm gauge. You are comfortably accommodated on the railway’s ‘Belle Epoque’ luxury coach and hauled by a 0-4-4-0T Mallet type steam locomotive dating from 1906. Running through dense forests and crossing the Red Saar River, the train will pause for photos and run-pasts near the village of Grand Soldat. At the terminus of the line, you will also see an old saw mill. Once back in Abreschviller, you still have time to visit the local steam shed and see the other stored steam locomotives, before returning to Colmar. In the evening you have a farewell dinner at the hotel. (B L D)

Thursday 10th October

Colmar to London

You say a fond ‘au revoir’ to Alsace today and return to Paris by TGV express train. You transfer from Paris Gare de l´Est to Gare du Nord and board a Eurostar service to London St. Pancras International. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

£2145

Includes First Class on Eurostar, TGV and other SNCF service trains.

Single supplement

Ground only

(Colmar – Colmar)

£255

£1795

Please be advised that First Class travel will be allocated in Standard Premier carriages on Eurostar services. Please note that ground only does not include rail or flight services from the UK and return or any transfers to or from your hotel(s) on the first and last day of your holiday. You will be responsible for arranging these yourself.

Price includes:

• 7 Nights accommodation with breakfast

• 5 Lunches and 2 dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All rail, road, tram and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary

• All visits as detailed in the itinerary

• Rail travel from London to Colmar and back

• Rover ticket for the Mulhouse urban tram network

• All seat reservations and transfers

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B

Swiss Bernese Oberland

Wednesday 16th October to Wednesday 23rd October 2024

Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Switzerland on this tour to the Bernese Oberland, famed for its shimmering lakes and soaring Alpine peaks, including the towering Jungfrau and the magnificent Eiger.

• Based in Alpine holiday Region of Grindelwald, you’ll explore the Bernese Oberland on Switzerland´s outstanding railway system.

• Enjoy extensive scheduled travel on famous mountain rack railways, including the Brienz Rothorn Railway and Jungfrau Railway to the ‘Top of Europe’.

• Discover the Swiss capital Bern on a two-hour steam tram tour, and enjoy peaceful boat cruises on Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

• There’s also a thrilling excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area to enjoy, famous for its outstanding views and wildflower gardens.

• Experience unrestricted travel on Swiss trains, trams and buses in tour free time thanks to your complimentary Bernese Oberland Regional Pass.

Wednesday 16th October

London to Grindelwald via Basel

You travel First Class by Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord. You then journey from Paris to Basel in Switzerland via Strasbourg. You join a high-speed service at Basel to Interlaken Ost, before continuing by regional train direct to Grindelwald. Here you check into the 4-star Kreuz & Post Alpine Hotel, your base for the tour. A light dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. You’ll also receive your 6-day Bernese Oberland Regional Pass for easy exploration of the surrounding areas. (D)

Thursday 17th October

Free day in Grindelwald; Optional excursion to Maison Gruyères and Maison Cailler

Today is free to stroll through the famous mountain village, embedded in a unique Alpine landscape at the foot of the Eiger north face. Making use of your Regional Pass you can visit the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten illuminated glacier-waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible only by a tunnel-lift. Alternatively, you have the optional excursion to Maison Gruyères and Maison Callier, travelling by train from Grindelwald to Interlarken Ost, you join the golden pass train to Montbovon. Here you take a connecting train to Gruyères, where you will visit the La Masion Gruyères. You then continue by Regional Bus to Broc, for a chocolate experience at La Maison Cailler, before returning to Grindelwald via Bern by train. Dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Friday 18th October

Lake Brienz Cruise; Steam on the Brienz Rothorn Railway

This morning you travel by train to Interlaken to enjoy a leisurely steamship cruise on Lake Brienz to Brienz at its eastern end. You join a steam train on the 800mm gauge Brienz Rothorn Railway (BRB), Switzerland’s oldest rack railway and climb 1,678 metres (5,505 ft) from Brienz to Rothorn Kulm Station, just below the summit of Brienz Rothorn Mountain. After free time at the summit to enjoy lunch, you return to Brienz for an exclusive visit to the BRB depot to view the locomotives and workshop facilities there. In the afternoon you return to Grindelwald by train where you can relax before dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D)

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

Saturday 19th October

Excursion to Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’

A real tour highlight awaits today on a trip to the famous Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’. You’ll travel by train to Kleine Scheidegg before joining a JB train en route to the highest railway station in Europe. The train stops twice at points where there are large windows in the rock face for passengers to admire the views. The ‘Top of Europe’ itself is a high-altitude building connected to the underground Jungfraujoch Railway Station by a tunnel. There’s a choice of restaurants in which to take lunch, and a permanent exhibition about the Jungfrau Railway and the Alps. For the return back to Grindelwald you can either travel the same route by train from Kleine Scheidegg to Grindelwald with the group or return at your own leisure. On your return dinner will be served at the hotel. (B D)

Sunday 20th October

Bern Steam Tram; Cruise on Lake Thun

Today you travel by train to the Swiss capital, Bern, for a two-hour tour of the city by legendary steam tram. The metre gauge 0-6-0 tramway locomotive pulls a classic wooden carriage with open-ended balconies. You’ll pass many of Bern’s historic landmarks, including the famous Zytglogge clock tower. In the afternoon there’s time to visit the shops along the arcaded walkways, or the famous Bear Park and nearby River Aare. Later, you’ll take a service train to Thun to board a boat for the onward journey. Cruising along Lake Thun you have uninterrupted views of famous mountain peaks like the Niederhorn, Niesen, and Jungfrau. You then disembark at Interlaken West Railway Station and return by train to Grindelwald. (B D)

Monday 21st October

Free day to use your Regional Pass; Panoramic Express and Stanserhorn Summit

Today is free to use your Regional Pass. First option is to travel into Central Switzerland via the scenic Brunig Pass on the LuzernInterlaken Panoramic Express. You ascend the Stanserhorn using a heritage funicular plus the world’s first “Cabrio” cable car, enjoying

incredible views across the region. Time at leisure at the summit. You return to Stans and head back to Grindelwald, this time alighting at Meiringen. Here we enjoy a behind-thescenes look inside the maintenance depot of Die Zentralbahn. We end our visit with a “surprise” aperitif, served in a unique venue. The second option is to visit Lucerne. The city is located on Lake Lucerne, in sight of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi in the Swiss Alps. You’ll get to Interlaken using WAB and BOB trains from where metre gauge Zentralbahn express trains go direct to Lucerne, a great experience in itself. The route follows the scenic Brünig Line beside Lake Brienz and the River Aare to Meiringen, where the train reverses and climbs over the Brunig Pass using a rack system. The terminus station at Lucerne is opposite the landing stage from which passenger boats, including paddle steamers, serve lakeside communities. The Chapel Bridge is a landmark of Lucerne and the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Other places of interest include the Old Town of Lucerne, the Lion Monument, and the Swiss Museum of Transport. (B D)

Tuesday 22nd October

Excursion to Schynige Platte

Today you enjoy an excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area, famous for its wildflower gardens and views of the majestic mountain scenery. You travel by train to Wilderswil, the junction for the 800mm gauge Schynige Platte Railway from 1893, one of Switzerland’s pioneering lines. The cog train climbs at a sedate 12 kph up to Schynige Platte, passing many panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, eventually revealing the glistening giants of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains to the south. (B D)

Wednesday 23rd October

Return to UK

After breakfast it is time to say your farewells and travel by regional train to Interlaken. You then travel by express train from Interlaken to Basel before changing trains and continuing to Paris via Strasbourg. There you transfer to Paris Gare du Nord and take a Eurostar service back to London St. Pancras International. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Optional excursion

£2195

£115

£125 Day 2 – La Maison Gruyères/La Maison Cailler

Optional excursion

£80 Day 6 – Panoramic Express and Stanserhorn

Price includes:

• 7 nights at the 4-star Hotel Kreuz and Post Grindelwald – Free entrance into the hotels ‘Wellness Roof Top Spa’ and free entrance into the indoor swimming pool of nearby sports centre

• 7 dinners

• First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back

• A standard class Regional Pass valid for days 2 to 7 for travel around the Bernese Oberland

• All rail, tram and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary

• All escorted visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals

as:

Autumn Steam in the Harz Mountains

Friday 18th October to Sunday 27th October 2024

Enjoy Autumn Steam at its best in the spectacular Harz Mountains in Germany, featuring iconic narrow-gauge charters across a stunning landscape draped in vibrant seasonal colours.

• Explore Germany’s largest narrow-gauge network while based for three days in the historic town of Wernigerode, using your complimentary HSB rover ticket.

• Enjoy scenic trips on the Bruchhausen-Vilsen and Feldbahn Fortuna heritage railways, with private steam charters hauled by historic locomotives.

• Discover the unique city of Wuppertal with its incredible suspension railway from 1900.

• Further highlights include visits to Hannover and Wuppertal tramway museums, with private charters at both, plus a ride on Bielefeld’s heritage tram with special dining car service.

Friday 18th October

London to Hannover

You travel from London St Pancras to Hannover in Northern Germany by Eurostar and German ICE. You’ll spend the next two nights in Hannover, at a centrally-located hotel near the station. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (D)

Saturday 19th October

Steam at the Bruchhausen-Vilsen heritage railway in Lower Saxony

You begin your tour with a steam highlight, visiting Germany’s first preserved steam railway, the delightful metre gauge line from Bruchhausen to Asendorf. Your private charter train will be hauled by one of the railway’s iconic steam locomotives from the early 20th century. You make a full return trip on the line with numerous run-pasts and photo stops and pause to enjoy a buffet lunch at a typical countryside inn near Asendorf. After your trip, a visit to

the large steam shed in Bruchhausen caps your exciting visit, before you return to Hannover in the late afternoon. (B L)

Sunday 20th October

Hannover Tramway Museum and arrival to Wernigerode

After a leisurely breakfast, today you visit the Hannover Museum in Sehnde, one of the largest and finest collections in Germany. It has a unique fleet of archaic streetcars and its own running track. You’ll enjoy a private charter on an early 20th-century tram, including photo stops, before a coach transfer to Wernigerode in the Harz Mountains. After checking into your centrallylocated hotel, there’s ample time to sightsee this lovely German town, famed for its colourful rows of timber-framed houses, Gothic city hall and hilltop castle. Your hotel is near the Wernigerode steam yard, and in the late afternoon you can photograph trains returning from Mount Brocken from the visitor observation tower at

Wernigerode station. Dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Monday 21st October to Wednesday 23rd October

Steam and scenery in the Harz Mountains

For the next three days, you are free to make the most of your complimentary HSB rover ticket, allowing you to explore Germany’s largest narrow-gauge railway network. Enjoy unlimited steam during the most colourful time of the year and storm up the spiralling line to the summit of Mount Brocken, Northern Germany’s highest point at 1,141 metre altitude (3,743 feet). Alternatively, you can ride the long trunk line to Eisfelder Talmühle or explore the Selke Valley railway from Quedlinburg to Alexisbad and Hasselfelde, the oldest narrow-gauge railway in the Harz Mountains. On a day of your choice, the short main-line railway return ticket from Wernigerode to Quedlinburg is included in your

tour package. Your tour manager will be on hand to advise you of all the available options and necessary timetable connections. Of course, you can also just relax in Wernigerode and spend time visiting the historic town centre or the hilltop castle. Whatever you choose, after each exciting day dinner will be served at your hotel. (B D)

Thursday 24th October

Wernigerode to Wuppertal by way of Bielefeld and its historic tramway

The time has come to leave the Harz Mountains and proceed to the lovely Rhineland. You leave after 9:45, so you can still watch the day’s first steam departure from Wernigerode.

A coach directly transports your luggage today, as you make your way to Wuppertal, but not before stopping for lunch in the historic city of Bielefeld, where you get to visit the tram depot and experience one of the city’s unique transport attractions, in the form of its special dining car tram. Enjoy a private charter ride with catering service and complimentary mid-day refreshments aboard as you see this lovely city ‘off the beaten path’. You arrive in Wuppertal in the late afternoon and after check-in have dinner at the hotel. (B L D)

Friday 25th October

Wuppertal monorail and private charter at the Wuppertal tramway museum

Today you visit one of the most unique transport systems and engineering marvels in the world, the unique ‘dingle dangle’ monorail in Wuppertal, an iconic landmark from 1900. Once thought to be the transport system of the future, it remains the only prototype ever built. You’ll travel the full length of the 13.2 km long ‘Schwebebahn’ along and above the River Wupper from Vohwinkel to Oberbarmen. Later you’ll have time to alight

and take pictures along the line or sightsee some of the city’s other landmarks. Afterwards you have a short transfer to Wuppertal’s tramway museum, the Bergische Museumsbahn. This 3 km long line is what is left of a once much larger urban and inter-urban light rail system.

Following a private charter with a vintage 1920s streetcar at Germany’s version of the Crich tramway of Derbyshire, you return to the city centre of Wuppertal for some time at leisure, before a dinner at the hotel. (B D)

Saturday 26th October

Steam at the Feldbahn Fortuna

heritage railway

To cap your German Autumn Steam holiday in spectacular fashion, today you visit a 600 mm narrow-gauge field railway in the rural countryside of Hessen. A wonderful museum with its industrial works railway has been preserved here, at the site of a former iron ore mine. It operates with a unique collection of different steam locomotives, including the famed ‘Brigadelok’ trench locomotives from the era of World War I. You visit both the local museum and travel the full length of the line on your private charter train, with the steam locomotive pausing for photos and run pasts. You make your return journey to and from the Feldbahn Fortuna using the Cologne-Frankfurt high-speed railway line to and from Limburg Süd, before changing onto a private coach for the short onward drive. A hearty lunch at the Fortuna museum restaurant is included. (B L)

Sunday 27th October

Return to London

The time has come to leave Germany, as you travel by high-speed train from Wuppertal via Cologne to Brussels Midi, before changing onto a Eurostar service for the last leg to London St. Pancras. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

£2195

Standard Premier travel on Eurostar services and First Class travel on ICE trains

Single supplement

Ground only

£345

£1925

(Hannover – Wuppertal)

Price includes:

• 9 nights accommodation with breakfast in fine hotels in Hannover, Wernigerode and Wuppertal

• 3 lunches and 7 dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All rail trips as detailed in the itinerary

• All museum visits and private tramway charters as detailed in the itinerary

• Rail travel from London to Hannover and Wuppertal to London by high speed travel services

• A 3-day HSB Rover Ticket to cover travel on the Harz steam trains

• All seat reservations and coach transfers detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

The French Riviera and Italian Ligurian Coast

Thursday 7th November to Sunday 17th November 2024

Enjoy a fabulous railway holiday along the French Cote d’Azur and the Ligurian Coast in Italy, including exploring the world-famous Cinque Terre.

• Journey by Eurostar from London to Paris and then on to elegant Nice for a day of sightseeing, before you continue along the Cote d’Azur to the historic port city of Genoa.

• Highlights in Genoa include a private charter train on the spectacular Genova-Cassella narrow gauge railway and sightseeing its rich maritime attractions.

• Experience one of the most spectacular seaside railway trips in the world along the Ligurian coast to Pisa, including a visit to the Leaning Tower, and explore the colourful fishing villages of Cinque Terre.

• Discover Milano’s historic tramways and elegant urban sites, as you stay for 2 nights in Italy’s classy metropolis.

Thursday 7th November

London to Nice by rail

You travel with Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Nord before a direct afternoon TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon to Nice Ville.

You arrive at Nice in the evening and check into your centrally located hotel, where dinner will be served. (B D)

Friday 8th November

Tramways and leisure in Nice

Nice is one of the most beautiful cities in France, full of elegant architecture, colourful historic buildings, and spacious esplanades.

You have a free day to enjoy the French Cote d’Azur, exploring at your own pace with your complimentary 1-day rover ticket for use on the well-connected local tramway system. In the evening dinner is served at your hotel. (B D)

Saturday 9th November

Seaside railway trip from Nice to Genoa

Today you bid ‘Adieu’ to France and say ‘Ciao’ to Italy as you enjoy a 4-hour scenic train trip from Nice to Genoa, changing at Ventimiglia. You travel past sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, Italianate churches, and lots of colourful buildings. On arrival at Genoa’s elegant Piazza Principe station, you check into your adjacent hotel, centrally located and within walking distance of the Old Town, the Ancient Port, and the hillside palaces. You’ll receive a public transport rover ticket, valid on the city’s Metro and central trolleybus routes, for the duration of your stay. Genoa also boasts a remarkable system of hillside rack railways, funiculars, and historic elevators, all free to use. Take the funiculars and hillside lifts to wonderful panoramic vantage points for gorgeous views of the city, its harbour replete with countless cruise ships and the deep blue Mediterranean Sea.

Dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Sunday 10th November

Historic charter train at the Ferrovia Genova – Casella

Above the hills of Genoa runs a remarkable metre gauge railway, 24 km in length from Genova Piazza Manin to the rural town of Casella. Opened in 1929 and fully electrified from the outset, this charming line remains much of its original appearance and also operates historic rolling stock. With numerous horseshoe curves and steep gradients of up to 4.5%, the line is as scenic as it is operationally fascinating. You have a private charter train using the railway’s original rolling stock and heritage locomotive Nr.29. After a typical Italian lunch in Casella, you return to Genova Piazza Manin. In the evening you are free to enjoy the city and find dinner at one of the many trattorias in the Old Town. (B L)

Monday 11th November

Train trip to Pisa, visit to the Leaning Tower

Experience one of the most spectacular seaside railway trips in the world today, as you enjoy the comfort of First Class on an FS Trenitalia InterCity service from Genova Piazza Principe via La Spezia to Pisa. You travel along the Ligurian coast past famous resorts like Sestri Levante and Levanto, as well as the five fishing villages of Cinque Terre. You arrive in Pisa at mid-day and have lunch in the Old Town before visiting the famed Leaning Tower and cathedral. You return to Genoa in the afternoon by InterCity Train along the same seaside route. (B L)

Tuesday 12th November

Genoa Navebus harbour cruise, aquarium visit and historic ships on the Old Port

Today we explore Genoa’s rich maritime attractions and heritage. First you take a return trip on the harbour ferry known as Navebus. Functioning as a public transport service line, it runs on the water from Porto Antico to Molo Archetti, taking you past huge oceanliners and the airport runway. After your Navebus round trip you visit Genoa’s world-famous aquarium in the Porto Antico, one of the premier such sites in Europe, with an impressive display of large sea life. Also included in your museum admission are the displays of the preserved Italian naval submarine ‘Nazario Sauro’ from 1976 and the authentic replica of a 17th century pirate galley. Dinner tonight is at your hotel. (B D)

Wednesday 13th and Thursday 14th November

Seaside railway and villages of Cinque Terre

The next two days are free for you to explore the iconic five villages of Cinque Terre at your leisure, using the direct railway line between Genua and La Spezia. You’ll be given a Cinque Terre rail rover, allowing use of all Trenitalia regional express trains, with fast and frequent services along the coast and stops at the five famed villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola und Riomaggiore. Additionally, you’ll find the large seaside resorts of Sestri Levante, Levanto, Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure worth a visit. You can also

use your Cinque Terre rail rover inside Genoa. A notable highlight is the amazing seaside walk along cliffs, palaces, and old forts right outside the Genova Nervi railway station, on a purposebuilt, flat pedestrian path. (B)

Friday 15th November

Genoa to Milano by rail

Today you take a Trenitalia service from Genoa via the hills of Alessandria to Milan. Arriving at the monumental Milano Centrale station, you get to experience one of the most grandiose railway terminals in the world. Your hotel is near the railway station. After checking in and a light lunch at the hotel, you are free to explore Milano and all that it has to offer at your own pace, using your complimentary public transport rover ticket, which is valid on the city’s trams, trolleybuses and underground Metro. Why not visit the famed Duomo (Cathedral), turreted Castello (Castle) and the glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II from 1867. (B L)

Saturday 16th November

Museum of Science and Technology and 1920s tramways in Milano

After breakfast you visit the palatial National Museum of Science and Technology, which has an outstanding collection of preserved steam locomotives, historic aircraft and even a fullscale Italian submarine. The museum is housed in an elegant Palazzo and conveniently located near the city centre Castello. After the museum visit you are free to enjoy more time at leisure in Milano, making the best of your public transport rover to ride the iconic ‘Ventotto’ trams from the 1920s, which operate on regular routes and are one of the city’s most popular visitor attractions. In the evening you reconvene with your fellow travelers at the hotel for a farewell dinner.

(B L D)

Sunday 17th November

Milano to London via the French Alps and Paris

Take a direct high-speed train from Milano to Paris Gare de Lyon, experiencing another scenic railway journey straight through the Alps, capping your holiday to southern Europe in style. In Paris you transfer to Gare de Nord, where you take your final journey by Eurostar back to London St. Pancras.

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£2395

£395

£2145 (Nice – Milano)

Price includes:

• 10 nights accommodation with breakfast at centrally located, quality hotels

• 4 Lunches and 5 Dinners

• First Class travel on FS Trenitalia InterCity service from Genova Piazza Principe to Pisa

• Standard Class travel on local trains, when First Class is not available

• All privately chartered trains and vintage tramway rides as detailed in the itinerary

• Complimentary public transport rover tickets

• Museum and site admissions to all the attractions as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

Please note that ground only does not include rail or flight services from the UK and return or any transfers to or from your hotel(s) on the first and last day of your holiday. You will be responsible for arranging these yourself.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Steam and Christmas Markets in Germany

Thursday 28th November to Friday 6th December 2024

Discover the festive splendour of Christmas Markets in Germany, including the romantic Rhineland and enchanting Harz Mountains. Enjoy a unique steam holiday exploring historic towns and cities in a Winter Wonderland landscape.

• This holiday is based in the vibrant city of Bonn and the picturesque town of Wernigerode. It offers travel refinement and a relaxed holiday experience for the seasoned traveller or Christmas Market newcomer alike.

• You’ll steam on different gauges, while sightseeing historic cathedral cities and rural landscapes.

• Enjoy a ride on the Drachenfels rack railway above the River Rhine and experience the large steam locomotive collection at the Frankfurter Feldbahnmuseum.

• A private charter on the metre gauge Brohltalbahn with its giant, green Mallet steam locomotive is a special railway highlight.

• In the Harz Mountains you can experience steam to the summit of Mount Brocken as often as you like, with a complimentary network rover ticket.

Thursday 28th November

London to Bonn by rail

Travel from London to Bonn by Eurostar and high speed rail. Arrive Bonn by late afternoon, in time to enjoy a mug of mulled wine and sample the culinary delights of the local Christmas Market, right next to the landmark cathedral. You are based here for the next 4 nights.

Friday 29th November

Steam in the Rhineland with giant Mallet at the Brohltalbahn and Bonn Christmas Market

Today you sample the famed ‘Vulcan Express’ on the Brohltbahn heritage railway, which runs for 18 km from Brohl to Engeln in the heart of the beautiful Rhineland.

The star attraction is the mighty 0-4-4-0 Mallet tank engine No. 11, which will haul your privately chartered steam train and along the way pause for run-pasts.

Coffee, cake and mulled wine will be served on the train. On the return to Bonn, the former capital of West Germany, you are free to enjoy the local Christmas Market, which is near the main station and attractively framed by the impressive cathedral. Here you may once again embark on a culinary journey of discovery and sample typical festive fare. (B)

Saturday 30th November

Rhine Gorge Railway and Steam in Frankfurt

After breakfast you take a DB Intercity service on the wold famous railway line through the River Rhine Gorge to Frankfurt am Main, passing beautiful rock formations like the Loreley, stunning hilltop castles and terraced vineyards. You arrive in Frankfurt by late morning and transfer by tramway to the local steam railway at the Frankfurter Feldbahnmuseum. This delightful narrow gauge railway has one of the largest

600 mm gauge (two foot) steam locomotive collections in Europe and also runs through a charming park. After visiting the collection of 20 steam locomotives in the well appointed museum shed, you will have a private steam charter, which will include numerous run-pasts and photo stops, skillfully organized by the volunteer crew. In the afternoon you venture to the Old Town of Frankfurt where you enjoy refreshments at the city’s famous Christmas Market and can take a stroll along the beautifully illuminated River Main. In the early evening you return to Bonn, this time taking an ICE on the direct high speed line by ICE. (B)

Sunday 1st December

At leisure in Bonn and Drachenfels scenic rack railway

You may use the tranquil hours of Sunday morning to sightsee in Bonn or use your complimentary public transport ticket to travel

Tony Streeter Ian Baker

on the city’s extensive tramway network. In the afternoon you take a service train to Königswinter to ride the famed Drachenfels (Dragon’s Rock) rack railway high above the River Rhine. This impressively engineered line is just one of four rack railways in Germany. Originally opened in 1883, the Drachenfelsbahn is only operated by vintage electric trains and from the top offers sweeping views of the Rhineland. You return to Bonn in the late afternoon with more time for leisure and discovery in the city. (B)

Monday 2nd December

Arrival in the Harz Mountains, Sightseeing in Halberstadt by vintage tramway

The time has come to leave the Rhineland and head east to the Harz Mountains in Central Germany. You take a DB ICE from Köln Hbf to Hannover, from where you have a direct private coach transfer to the Harz region, first stopping in the early afternoon in the historic medieval city of Halberstadt. Famed for its soaring spires and stunning churches, this city boats a compact tramway and you will discover its scenic delights on a private sightseeing tour with a vintage 1920s tram. Following a private tour of the heritage depot, you continue by coach the short distance to Wernigerode, where you will be based for the rest of the holiday. After a hearty

dinner at the hotel, you are free to wander to the formidable Wernigerode steam shed for night-time observation of the steam locomotives simmering outside, making great use of the attractive viewing tower. (B D)

Tuesday 3rd December to Thursday 5th December

Steam and leisure in the Harz Mountains

For the next three days you are free to make the most of your complimentary HSB rover ticket, which will allow you to travel the length of Germany’s largest narrow gauge railway network. Enjoy unlimited steam in the snow to the summit of Mount Brocken, an experience that never gets old, or ride on the long trunk line to Eisfelder Talmühle. The choice is yours and your Tour Manager will be happy to advise you of the connections. Each evening a hotel dinner is included. (B D)

Friday 6th December

Return to London

In the morning you have a comfortable and convenient coach transfer from Wernigerode to Hannover, where you board DB ICE to Cologne. From there you continue by high speed rail to Brussels, where you connect on to Eurostar back to London. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£1995

£295

£1750 (Bonn – Wernigerode)

Please note that ground only does not include rail or flight services from the UK and return or any transfers to or from your hotel(s) on the first and last day of your holiday. You will be responsible for arranging these yourself.

Price includes:

• 8 Nights accommodation, 4 nights in Bonn and 4 Nights in Wernigerode

• 8 Breakfasts and 4 Dinners

• Unlimited steam in the snow with your HSB 3-day network rover

• All train travel as detailed in the itinerary

• Private sightseeing vintage tram ride as per the program

• Private charter steam trains as per program

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Christmas and New Year in the Swiss and Italian Alps

Sunday 22nd December 2024 to Tuesday 2nd January 2025

Make it a Christmas and New Year to remember as you spend the holiday in a genuine Winter Wonderland, surrounded by the snow-capped Swiss Alps and enchanting Italian lakes.

• The tour includes a 15-Day Swiss Pass rail rover in First Class as well the extra journey on the world famous mountain railway to the Gornergrat, where you will see glaciers, the Matterhorn and unrivalled high altitude landscapes.

• Celebrate Christmas Day in style with a festive steamboat cruise with a refined 4-course dinner on Lake Lucerne. Additional paddle steamer cruises on Lake Thun and Lake Geneva are possible with the Swiss Pass.

• Make the most of your First Class Swiss Pass on 6 free days of the tour for individual discovery of the countless mountain railways, such as the Golden Pass, Glacier Express route and many more.

• Enjoy the best of Northern Italy during a trip on the iconic Centovalli narrow gauge railway through 100 valleys from Domodossola to Locarno, then relax in the Italianate towns of the Swiss Ticino.

• This tour is running on a half-board basis, with breakfast and dinner included every day at your centrally located, quality hotels in the mountainous towns of Brig and Lugano, thus providing excellent value and ideal comfort.

Sunday 22nd December

London to Brig by high speed rail

You travel from London to Brig via Paris on Eurostar and TGV services. On arrival you check in to the 3-star Hotel Victoria, located directly across the street from the railway station. A welcome dinner will be served at the hotel this evening. (D)

Monday 23rd December

Along the Glacier Express route to Zermatt, Gornergrat rack railway and Matterhorn

Your tour starts with a real highlight as you take the scenic narrow gauge railway to Zermatt, following along the route of the famed Glacier Express. Then you transfer to the Gornergrat

Railway, ascending to 3089 metres. It’s Europe’s second highest railway, eclipsed only by the Jungfrau. From this high Alpine summit, enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding glaciers and a front view of the Matterhorn. After refreshments at Gornergrat you can descend back down to Zermatt, with ample time to explore the car-free village centre that is lined by typical Swiss chalets. This initial group excursion will allow you to get familiar with the Swiss railway system, giving you useful insights on how to best use your Swiss Pass for individual trips on successive days. In the afternoon, there is still free time for individual discovery, before dinner back at the hotel in Brig. (B D)

Tuesday 24th December

Freedom of Switzerland with your First Class Swiss Travel Pass

Today is the third day of validity for your 15-Day First Class rail rover. This allows you to travel anywhere in Switzerland on the extensive network of standard gauge and narrow-gauge railways, and includes travel on buses, trams, ferries and some mountain railways. The choice of where to go is yours, with highlights ranging from world-famous panoramic railways to ‘best kept secrets’ in the hinterland.

Discover for yourself why Switzerland is so much fun to explore by public transport, with frequent, clockwork connections and easy, seamless interchange at all stations.

Your tour manager will be happy to advise you about attractive options and specific connections. (B D)

Wednesday 25th December

Festive Lake Lucerne steamboat cruise with Christmas lunch

For Christmas Day, the memorable highlight is a gala cruise on the vintage 1901 paddle steamer ‘Uri’. A festive 4-course Christmas meal will be served to you in the ornate Belle Epoque salon of the ship, as you cruise over stunning Lake Lucerne with Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi in full view. Watch the big steam engine push the bright red paddle wheels, as the steamer gently glides over the water. After the cruise, you’ll have free time in Lucerne to explore this elegant city. Then you could use your Swiss Pass to travel back to Bern and Brig on a different railway route than in the morning, either travelling through the Emmental or over the Brünig Pass. In the evening, a light dinner will be served at the hotel. (B L D)

Thursday 26th, Friday 27th December, Saturday 28th December

Freedom of Switzerland with First Class Swiss Travel Pass

For the next three days you have total freedom to discover all that Switzerland has to offer. Aside from attractions like the nearby Bernese Oberland or Lake Geneva, you can explore the less-famous railway lines in the serene Gruyere region or make a side-step to Chamonix, France on the Mont Blanc Express, all offering iconic ‘little trains’, towering viaducts and mountain views. Excursions over the Oberalp Pass to the Rhaetian Railway are also possible. Each night, dinner is served at the hotel in Brig. (B D)

Sunday 29th December

Mountain magnificence in the Bernese Oberland

Today you may join your Tour Manager for a guided excursion to the world famous Bernese Oberland. After arriving to Interlaken by SBB service, you can explore the countless ‘Little Trains’ of the region and travel by scenic train to such famed mountain villages as Grindelwald, Wengen, Lauterbrunnen and Mürren, where you will be rewarded with the most amazing views of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. In case you would like to follow in the footsteps of James Bond, you can make the optional excursion to the summit of Mount Schilthorn, the filming location of “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. (B D)

Monday 30th December

Journey on the Centovalli Railway in Northern Italy, Lake Maggiore in Locarno; Arrive in Lugano

The time has come to venture further south to Italy as well as Ticino, the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. While your luggage is directly forwarded by SBB’s excellent transfer service from hotel to hotel, you take a direct EuroCity train along the legendary Simplon Railway south to Italy. You change trains in Domodossola and then take the stunning Centovalli narrow gauge railway past 100 valleys and over numerous towering viaducts to Locarno. Once in Locarno you make a group visit to the Madonna Del Sasso Funicular, for spectacular views from this Italianate Basilica high above Locarno. You then take an SBB train to nearby Lugano, here you check-in to your centrally located hotel, where you will stay for the next three nights. On arrival, dinner is served in the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Tuesday 31st December and

Wednesday 1st January

Railways and Funiculars of Ticino; along the Gotthard Railway and Swiss Riviera in Locarno and Lugano

The mountain railways of Ticino are particularly exciting, as are the lakeside cities of Locarno and Lugano with their Mediterranean flair. For all railway enthusiasts, the busy border station of Chiasso is also a must. You are free to travel the length of breath of the Ticino railway network for the next two days, including the Gotthard summit route with its winding horseshoe curves, the Ponte Tresa narrow gauge railway or the main line along Lake Lugano towards Italy. You could even make good use of the 57 km long Gotthard base tunnel and make an easy day-trip to the Mount Rigi rack railway at Arth-Goldau. On both evenings you have dinner at the hotel in Lugano. On New Year’s, complimentary drinks are included with your dinner to celebrate the New Year. (B D)

Thursday 2nd January

Return to London

After your exhilarating Christmas holiday you return to London via Paris by TGV and Eurostar services. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£2795

£245

£2520 (Brig – Lugano)

Schilthorn excursion

£55

Price includes:

• 11 nights half board at centrally located quality hotels in Brig and Lugano

• First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back (Seats are reserved in standard premier carriages on Eurostar services)

• A 15-Day Swiss Travel Pass national rail rover in First Class

• Gornergrat mountain railway excursion

• Festive Lake Lucerne Christmas Day cruise with 4-course meal

• SBB luggage transfer from Brig to Lugano

• Train tickets in Italy for excursion on Centovalli Railway

• New Year’s Eve 3-course dinner with drinks included

• All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Steam into the New Year

Saturday 28th December 2024 to Tuesday 7th January 2025

Finish the old year in style and start off 2025 with a steam blast at some of the most attractive Continental main line and narrow gauge railways, including Mount Brocken, Prague, the Czech countryside, Nürnberg and the Free State of Bavaria.

• Steam in the Harz Mountains to the summit of Mount Brocken, taking the line from Nordhausen via Eisfelder Talmühle and Drei Annen Hohne to the highest point in Northern Germany.

• Visit the German railway museums in Leipzig and Nördlingen, with main line locomotives in steam at both sites, individual cab rides and attractive photography.

• Travel over ‘rare track’ in the Moravian countryside with the rugged 2-8-2 tank engine 423.041 from 1924.

• Visit the premier Czech narrow gauge steam railway museum at Zamberk, for a ride on the recently extended line.

• Explore the historic cities of Erfurt, Prague and Nürnberg, including New Year’s Eve festivities in the the Czech capital city of Prague.

Saturday 28th December

London to Erfurt

Travel by Eurostar, Thalys and ICE high speed services from London St Pancras via Brussels and Frankfurt to Erfurt. On arrival, check into your quality hotel in the heart of Erfurt’s Old Town, where a welcome dinner will be served. (D)

Sunday 29th December

Steam in the Harz Mountains from Nordhausen to Mount Brocken

This morning you take a DB service train from Erfurt to Nordhausen before departing Nordhausen, steam-hauled, to the junction station of Drei Annen Hohne. Travel over the long trunk line of the Harz narrow gauge network before a different steam locomotive takes over for the ascent up Mount Brocken. Following refreshments and photo opportunities

at the summit, descend back to Drei Annen Hohne and return to Nordhausen with the enormous 2-10-2 tank engine, completing over 130 km of steam travel. Once back in Erfurt, enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B D)

Monday 30th December

Main line steam in Leipzig and arrival to Prague

A morning to explore the Medieval sites of Erfurt, including its landmark cathedral and famed town bridge, Krämerbrücke. Your luggage will be transferred to your hotel in Prague. Late morning you take a high-speed ICE service to Leipzig, arriving at the largest terminus in Germany. You’ll then visit the railway museum at Bayerischer Bahnhof, where the 2-10-0 freight locomotive 52 8154 will be in steam. Individual cab rides can be enjoyed on the museum grounds, followed by a main line excursion

around Leipzig Plagwitz. View other locomotives in the museum’s static exhibit, before taking a train from Leipzig Hbf to Prague via Dresden. Once in Prague, you check into your hotel, where dinner will be served. (B D)

Tuesday 31st December

Scenic River Cruise in Prague and New Year’s Eve

Embark on a scenic cruise on the River Vltava from the Charles Bridge.Your stylish boat offers the best views of Prague Castle, the National Theatre, the expansive Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the city’s hundred soaring spires and towers. Following the cruise, there will be time to explore Prague’s tram system with your complimentary rover ticket. In the evening, rejoin your fellow travellers for a New Years Eve dinner, including a complimentary drink to bring in the New Year. (B D)

Wednesday 1st January

Private heritage tramway tour of Prague

Today you see more of Prague, including the city’s beautiful turn-of-the-century districts just beyond the Old Town. Late morning you board a historic tramway for a private sightseeing tour with complimentary drinks and nibbles. You’ll see the city’s landmarks while crisscrossing the River Vltava on its famous bridges. The evening is free for your to explore. (B L)

Thursday 2nd January

Steam at the Zamberk narrow gauge railway in North Bohemia

For your first steam outing in 2025, you visit Czech Republic’s finest narrow gauge railway museum and roundhouse, where the running circuit has just been recently extended. Based around a textile mill from 1834, travel back to the Industrial Revolution, taking an attractive Czech Railways service train from Prague’s 1909 Art Nouveau main station to Usti nad Orlici. There is a short transfer to Zamberk, located in the green hills of North Bohemia. The private steam train with an industrial tank engine will travel over the line’s recent extension. Run-pasts and turntable photography are also included at this photogenic narrow gauge railway. You‘ll visit the Vonwiller textile mill, which houses the 19th century textile machine, massive stationary steam engines, hydraulic water wheels and impressive collection of vintage cars. You will be able to see some of the machinery in operation. Lunch is provided in the museum cafe. In the afternoon, return to Prague by service train. (B L)

Friday 3rd January

Czech main line steam in Moravia with 423.041

The Czechoslovak Class 423 tank engines are particularly rugged 2-8-2 tank engines built during the 1920s. With their high boilers and massive steam domes, they have a distinct appearance. Enjoy the best of Czech main line steam in the scenic Moravian countryside on a private charter train operated by the national carrier Czech Railways (ČD). You will take a locomotive-hauled service train from Prague to Hranice na Morave, where 423.041 is based. Steam along the main line towards Ostrava, before branching off on the line to the historic town of Novy Jicin, doing some “rare track” on a branch line. Lunch is also included. Return to Prague by service train and enjoy dinner served at your hotel. (B L D)

Saturday 4th January

Main line steam in North Bohemia with 555.0153

Return to the Eagle Mountains of North Bohemia for another day of steam on the Czech main line, covering non-electrified secondary routes ‘off the beaten path’. After traveling by service train to Letohrad, you board a private steam charter train hauled by the 2-10-0 “Kriegslok” 555.0153. You‘ll travel in plush Swiss First Class coaches built in the 1930s. Recently restored and in mint condition, these coaches are a joy to travel on. Enjoy the refined comfort of the red upholstery, wooden decorations, and cushioned smart armchairs. Lunch will be served in a vintage 1906 teak-bodied Wagon-Lits dining car. On the route Letohrad – Doudleby, you will turn off onto the branch line via Vamberk to Rokytnice. In the early evening, return by service train to Prague for dinner at the hotel. (B L D)

Sunday 5th January

On to Nürnberg

Return to Germany and make your way to Bavaria, arriving in the historic city of Nürnberg. A light lunch will be served at your centrallylocated hotel. After lunch you’ll enjoy a private sightseeing tour of the city by historic tramway, an ideal way to get to know the Old Town, especially the “heritage only” tramway route along the ramparts of the city and past Nürnberg’s castle. This will provide the ideal introduction to this beautiful German city, famed for its impressive churches and stone towers, and colourful timber-framed houses. The evening can be spent at leisure in Nürnberg, visiting one of the famed Bavarian brew-houses or beer cellars in the Medieval centre. (B L)

Monday 6th January

Steam at the Bavarian Railway Museum in Nördlingen

Visit the symmetrical city of Nördlingen in western Bavaria! This is a picturesque town, home to the Bavarian Railway Museum, housing one of the largest steam locomotive collections in Germany. See the fine holdings and enjoy a steam train excursion on one of the museum’s archaic steam engines dating from the 1880s. There will be photo opportunities on the turntable and run-pasts. After lunch in Nördlingen, return to Nürnberg by train late afternoon. (B L)

Tuesday 7th January

Nürnberg to London by rail

The time has come to say “Auf Wiedersehen” as you travel by high ICE and Eurostar services from Nürnberg to London via Brussels. (B)

our Summary Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£2635

£495

£2395 (Erfurt – Nürnberg)

Price includes:

• 10 Nights accommodation with breakfast

• 6 dinners and 6 lunches plus complimentary sparkling wine for New Year’s Eve at the Prague Hotel

• Standard Premier travel on Eurostar services from London to Brussels and return

• First Class Travel on all rail services (where possible)

• Harz Railway steam-hauled day-trip from Nordhausen to Mount Brocken and return, including reserved coach

• Scenic river cruise and private vintage tramway charter in Prague

• Vintage tramway sightseeing tour of Nürnberg

• All private steam charter trains as detailed in the itinerary, including main line steam locomotives and scenic routes

• All transfers by private coach or on service trains

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Steam in Eastern Germany, Saxony and the Baltic Coast

Thursday 16th January to Monday 27th January 2025

Journey through a genuine Winter Wonderland on our ever-popular tour to Eastern Germany. Timber-framed houses, fairy-tale castles and romantic steam trains all add to the enchantment of this seasonal holiday.

• Discover first-hand the charm and culture of Eastern and Northern Germany, staying in such fine cities as Dresden, Görlitz, Stralsund and Schwerin.

• Ride on the famed ‘little trains’ that circulate on the renowned narrow-gauge networks of Saxony, the Zittau Mountains and along the Baltic Coast.

• Visit iconic locations such as the Island of Rügen and steam-hauled street-running at Bad Doberan, with excellent chances of steam in the snow in the Saxon Ore Mountains and at Zittau.

• Experience legendary German ‘Plandampf’ on seven different narrow-gauge steam railways, all with their own unique character.

• Enjoy private charters on wonderful heritage tramways in the historic cathedral cities of Dresden and Görlitz, and a trip on the 1901 ‘dingle-dangle’ mountain monorail in Dresden.

Thursday 16th January

London to Dresden

Travel by Eurostar, Thalys and ICE high speed services from London St Pancras via Brussels and Frankfurt to Dresden. On arrival check into your quality, centrally located hotel in the heart of Dresden’s Old Town, where a welcome dinner will be served. (D)

Friday 17th January

Sightseeing by vintage tram, historic funicular and mountain monorail

Today you embark on a sightseeing tour of the city by privately chartered vintage tram, concluding at the ‘Blue Wonder’ Loschwitz Bridge. You then ride the ‘dingle-dangle’ mountain monorail from 1901 before taking the

adjacent 1895 funicular to the Weisser Hirsch summit terminus. From there a direct tram line takes you back to the city centre, where you can enjoy time at leisure before rejoining the group for dinner at your hotel. (B D)

Saturday 18th January

Steam to Radeburg with a Saxon VII K locomotive and leisure in Dresden

After breakfast, you visit the local narrowgauge railway at Radebeul, where a 2-10-2 Saxon VII K tank locomotive takes you down the 16.5 km long line to Radeburg, pausing at Moritzburg Castle. The train returns to Radebeul by midday, where you’ll take a DB service train to Dresden Hbf . You have the rest of the day to explore Dresden, making good use of your

complimentary public transport rover ticket to ‘bash’ the extensive tram network. (B)

Sunday 19th January

Steam at the at the Weisseritz Valley Railway to Kurort Kipsdorf

Embrace on a morning excursion to the recently re-opened narrow-gauge Weisseritz Valley Railway. You’ll be steam-hauled through Saxony’s ‘canyon landscape’ from FreitalHainsberg via Dippoldiswalde to Kurort Kipsdorf, along the river Weisseritz. Enjoy the panoramic views from the open balconies of your vintage carriage. You return to Dresden in the early afternoon. (B)

Monday 20th January

Steam in the Ore Mountains from Cranzahl to Oberwiesenthal

You travel on DB service trains from Dresden to Cranzahl, here you board a steam train and travel over the iconic Fichtelbergbahn to Oberwiesenthal, the ‘St Moritz of Saxony’. After free time and photo opportunities with steam trains passing over the railway viaduct by the station, you return from Oberwiesenthal to Cranzahl by steam train in the afternoon and from there continue to Dresden on DB service trains. (B)

Tuesday 21st January

Vintage tramways in Görlitz

After a leisurely morning, you take a service train over the scenic line via Bautzen to Görlitz, Germany’s easternmost city, a popular location for major film productions. Görlitz also boasts a pocket-sized tram network and you’ll explore the city on a privately chartered 1920s heritage tram. In the evening, dinner will be served at your hotel near the station. (B D)

Wednesday 22nd January

Narrow gauge railway in Zittau

Today you travel from the German border city of Zittau on the 12.2 km narrow-gauge branch line to the mountainous resort town of Kurort Oybin, an attractive countryside location framed by cragged rocks and idyllic scenery. The train will either be hauled by a 2-10-2 tank engine or a heritage diesel train and include one of the famed East German Mitropa dining cars, where complimentary refreshments and reserved seats will be included. After also travelling on the branch line from the junction Bertsdorf to Johnsdorf, you return to Zittau in the late afternoon and then return by service train to Görlitz, using an interesting secondary railway line that twice crosses into Poland along the way. Dinner is again served at your hotel. (B L D)

Thursday 23rd January

Steam at the Muskau Forest Railway and Pückler Park visit

Today you have an exciting private steam charter on the 600mm gauge Muskau Forest Railway near the Polish frontier. You’ll cover the two different branch lines to Bad Muskau and Kromlau, with run-pasts along the way. At lunch time, there’s time for refreshments in the namesake town of Bad Muskau with its charming local chateau and the famous UNESCO World Heritage Pückler Park. In late afternoon you return from Weisswasser by train to Görlitz (B L D).

Friday 24th January

Via Berlin to Stralsund on the Baltic Coast

This morning you transfer cross-country to north-eastern Germany on secondary railway lines. From Görlitz you take a regional train to Cottbus, changing onto an electric double-decker for the fast run into Berlin. At Berlin’s main station you can use your validated Interrail ticket travel day on the city’s elevated Stadtbahn or Ring Railway on DB S-Bahn services. Alternately you can sightsee the nearby Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate.

In mid-afternoon you continue on a DB Regional Express service to Stralsund, arriving by late afternoon. On arrival at your centrally located hotel a buffet dinner will be served. (B D)

Saturday 25th January

Steam on the Island of Rügen and historic Stralsund

German Plandampf is centre stage today as you travel by service train to Putbus where you experience the island’s famous narrow-gauge ‘Racing Roland’ railway. The 24 km long line runs via Binz to the seaside terminus Göhren. After lunch you return to Putbus behind another steam locomotive before taking a service train back to Stralsund. You have the evening to discover the beautiful Hanseatic city with distinctive red-brick architecture and Baltic heritage. (B L D)

Sunday 26th January

Steam at the Molli Railway along the Baltic Coast

Today you visit the 15.4-kilometre-long resort railway ‘Molli’. Famous for its street running section in Bad Doberan, this 900 mm gauge railway boasts lots of rugged German tank engines. You’ll have reserved seats for the northbound journey to Kühlingsborn on the Baltic Coast, before returning to Bad Doberan to film the street running there. In the late afternoon you continue to nearby Schwerin for a final night at a centrally located hotel with dinner included. (B D)

Monday 27th January

Return to London

From the convenient, more westerly location of Schwerin, you travel with a DB Intercity train to Cologne. From there it’s high speed rail onward to London St Pancras via Brussels. (B)

our Summary Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£1995

£375

£1795 (Dresden – Schwerin)

Price includes:

• Standard Premier seating on Eurostar services from London – Brussels and return

• First Class travel on high speed trains from Brussels to Dresden and Schwerin to Brussels (where possible)

• 8 dinners and 3 lunches

• 11 nights accommodation with breakfast

• All seat reservations and transfers

• All steam train rides and charters as detailed in the itinerary

• Included local public transport and rail rover tickets

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Highlights of Switzerland in Winter

Thursday 23rd January to Thursday 30th January 2025

Experience the splendour of the snow topped Swiss Alps on this spectacular winter holiday. Trips on Switzerland’s most iconic mountain railways are conveniently included, giving you a chance to sample ‘the best of the best’.

• Initially based in the Swiss Riviera town of Vevey on Lake Geneva and the historic city of Brig and Chur, you’ll stay in topquality hotels featuring typical Swiss hospitality.

• Discover Switzerland’s spectacular mountain railways from west to east, including the Rochers-de-Naye, Golden Pass, Glacier Express, Gornergrat, Oberalp Pass, Rhaetian Railway, as well as the UNESCO designated Albula and Bernina lines.

• Travel aboard opulent ‘Belle Epoque’ Pullman Cars over the Golden Pass, plus enjoy private accommodation in the 1930s Art Deco Pullman coaches of the Rhaetian Railway for trips to Arosa and Tirano.

• Sample the amazing BLS ‘Blue Arrow’ on a private charter run in the Bernese Oberland. Journey back in time aboard this wonderfully dynamic streamliner dating from 1938, allowing you to sit next to the driver.

• See impressively engineered railways up close and get the best high-altitude views of the Matterhorn from the Gornergrat summit station.

• Go ’peak-hopping’ on rack railways, funiculars and aerial cableways, whilst exploring local towns and castles with complimentary public transport rover tickets.

Thursday 23rd January

London to Vevey

Travel on Eurostar and TGV via Paris to Geneva, then by SBB service train to Vevey, on the northern shore of Lake Geneva. Here you check in to the 4-star Hotel Astra, conveniently located opposite the station. A welcome dinner will be served at the hotel tonight. (D)

Friday 24th January

Golden Pass in Pullman coaches; Blue Arrow railcar in the Bernese Oberland

Today you travel in style from Montreux via Gstaad to Zweisimmen over the Golden Pass in elegant ‘Belle Epoque’ Pullman coaches on the Golden Pass Classic train. The line climbs to the highest point, near Saanenmöser, at 1279

metres. In Zweisimmen you board the vintage 1938 BLS ‘Blue Arrow’ with luxurious passenger accommodation and open cab vestibules, allowing you to sit or stand beside the driver. The route winds through the Simmental Valley to Spiez and along Lake Thun to Bern. You’ll have free time to visit the medieval city of Bern, before travelling back to Lake Geneva via the Gruyere foothills and Lausanne. Back in Vevey you’ll have a free evening to enjoy dinner at a lake-side venue of your choosing. (B)

Saturday 25th January

Swiss Riviera and Mont Pelerin

Funicular; Rochers de Naye Rack Railway

You start your day by exploring Vevey and Lake Geneva’s famed ‘Swiss Riviera’. You catch a funicular to the terraced vineyards high above the lake, reaching a formidable observation point at the summit of Mont Pelerin. Later on, you can use your complimentary, public transport rover ticket to take the trolleybus route to Montreux and see the medieval Chillon Castle. Early afternoon you board a rack railcar for the steep journey from Montreux to the summit of Rochers de Naye, 2042 metres above sea level. From the top there are panoramic views of the French and Swiss Alps. You return to

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

Montreux, for a further look around town or ride on another local funicular before returning back to Vevey. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Sunday 26th January

Glacier Express route to Zermatt; Gornergrat Railway; the Matterhorn

This morning you board an SBB service train from Vevey station to Visp, where you’ll travel on a panoramic narrow-gauge train for the final section of the Glacier Express route. This scenic railway line winds through rocky valleys and over steep inclines to reach Zermatt. Here you transfer to the Gornergrat rack railway, ascending to 3089 metres above sea level. It’s Europe’s second highest railway, eclipsed only by the Jungfrau. From this high Alpine plateau, enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding glaciers and a fabulous front perspective of the Matterhorn.

After refreshments at Gornergrat you can film the passing trains in their characteristic chocolate-brown livery, before riding back down to Zermatt. You’ll have some time to look around car-free Zermatt, with its rows of wooden chalets and stone churches. Then you board another panoramic narrow gauge train for the onward journey on the Glacier Express route to Brig. You’ll spend the night in Naters allocated within the district of Brig, an historic, elegant city, which has become famous as a major railway junction and gateway to nearby Italy. Dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Monday 27th January

On the Glacier Express and via the Oberalp Pass to Chur

A true highlight awaits, as you step aboard the legendary Glacier Express and travel in First Class accommodation on one of the world’s most famous trains! Enjoy the sleek dome cars with their grandiose windows as well as the refinement of on train catering, for the half-day journey from Brig to Chur. The Glacier Express initially traverses the narrow valleys of the Obergoms, before travelling through Andermatt and climbing up to the breath-taking Oberalp Pass. From there you descend through the Surselva region and along the Rhine Gorge, arriving in Chur, one of Switzerland’s oldest cities. You check into a centrally located hotel with free time to explore, before dinner is served. (B L D)

Tuesday 28th January

Rhaetian Railway from Chur to Arosa by private Pullman Coach; Ascent to the Weisshorn

Today you experience the famous Rhaetian Railway in a privately chartered, original 1930s Pullman car. Aside from the luxury of deep cushioned chairs, large panoramic windows give fine views of the mountainous landscape, as you traverse the impressively engineered 25 km branch line from Chur to Arosa. The route climbs 1155 metres via tunnels and bridges, including the 284-metre-long Langwieser Viaduct, first opened in December 1914. On arrival in Arosa you take the cableway to the summit of the 2653 metre Weisshorn, where majestic views await. You return to Arosa in the early afternoon, with ample time to explore the town and stroll along the picturesque lake. Later, you reboard the RhB train and private Pullman car for the return trip to Chur. You have the evening to explore the heart of the medieval old town. (B)

Wednesday 29th January

Albula Railway to Pontresina; Bernina Railway to Tirano by private Pullman coach

Another signature attraction awaits, as you journey over both the UNESCO-designated Albula and the Bernina railways. From Chur you take an express train over the beautiful Albula line to Samedan and Pontresina.

This allows you to ride over the iconic Landwasser Viaduct and experience the countless horseshoe curves that make the Albula line renowned around the world. In Pontresina you change onto the Bernina Railway and are once again accommodated in a private Pullman coach for the journey over the wonderful Bernina pass, the only Swiss trans-alpine railway that climbs over the ridges between north and south without using a tunnel. Enjoy the ascent to the summit at Alp Grüm and the spiralling descent to Poschiavo, before the famed circular viaduct is reached at Brusio and you finish your journey amidst palm trees in Italy. In Tirano, you stop for lunch (wine included) and have time for a stroll to the basilica, before continuing back north in your Pullman coach. On returning to Pontresina you travel back to Chur over the Albula line aboard another RhB express service. A farewell dinner is served at your hotel. (B L D)

Thursday 30th January

Return to London

Today you return to London from Switzerland, travelling via Chur, Basel and Paris on RhB, SBB, TGV and Eurostar trains. (B)

Tour Summary

First Class

£2759

First Class travel from London St. Pancras International to Vevey and return from Chur. First Class travel within Switzerland where possible. Please be advised that First Class travel will be allocated in Standard Premier carriages on Eurostar services.

Single supplement

£345

Ground only

£2499 (Vevey – Chur)

Joining the group at the Hotel. First Class travel throughout Switzerland, where possible.

Price includes:

• 3 Nights accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel Astra, Vevey

• 1 Night accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel Alex, Naters

• 3 Nights accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel Romantik Stern, Chur

• 2 lunches and 4 dinners

• All privately chartered vintage trains as detailed in the itinerary

• First Class travel on Golden pass panoramic train (Montreux to Zweisimmen)

• First Class travel on Glacier Express including lunch on-board (Brig – Chur)

• All train travel and transfers

• SBB luggage transfers from hotel to hotel

• Seat reservations (where possible)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Steam in Hungary

Wednesday 19th February to Monday 24th February 2025

Travel behind some of the most impressive main line steam locomotives in Central Europe against a backdrop of historic cities and inspiring landscapes on this exciting new tour.

• Enjoy the best of Hungarian main line steam, including the ancient 4-4-0 tender locomotive Nr.204 from 1900 as well as the impressive 4-8-0 424.009 built in 1924.

• Experience narrow-gauge steam with private charters at the steeply graded Buda and idyllic Balatonfenyves railways with powerful 0-8-0 tank engines from the early 20th century.

• Conveniently based in the beautiful capital city of Budapest throughout, with added attractions such as a sightseeing by vintage tram, rides on the historic rack railway and Buda Castle funicular.

• Enjoy ample free time in Budapest using your complimentary public transport rover ticket, plus a visit to the stunning New York Palace Grand Café with lunch and drinks included.

Wednesday 19th February

Arrive to Budapest

You have a morning flight from London to Budapest, the capital of Hungary, where you check into an elegant city centre hotel, your base for the duration of the tour. After a welcome lunch at the hotel, you’ll also receive a public transport rover ticket valid for the entire stay, to be used for leisure and exploration in the city. (L)

Thursday 20th February

Steam at the Buda Narrow Gauge Railway, Buda Rack Railway and Buda Castle funicular

A first day of steam awaits, as you enjoy a private charter at the 11.2 km long Buda narrow gauge railway, located in the hills high above the Danube. You reach the Hűvösvölgy depot of the railway on the scenic urban tram route travelling in a vintage vehicle, before experiencing an eastbound, uphill steam run to the western

terminus Széchenyi hegy, using the historic 0-80 tank engine 490.039 from 1942. Along the way there will be steep gradients to overcome and photo stops provided.

After arrival to Széchenyi hegy you journey downhill to Városmajor on the 3.7 km long Buda rack railway, the only such mountain-climbing railway in Hungary, first opened in 1874. Then you proceed by tramway to the famed New York Palace Grand Café for lunch, taking in this grandest of European grand cafes in its grade listed building from 1894. After refreshments you continue to the banks of the River Danube, where you round off the day with a trip on the teak-bodied historic Buda Castle funicular, an engineering landmark dating from 1870. Enjoy the stunning views as you ascend to the landmark palace high above the city, before you return to your hotel. (B L)

Friday 21st February

Steam with 424.009 in Budapest

After breakfast, you visit the famed Budapest railway heritage park with its iconic roundhouse. There, the powerful 4-8-0 tender locomotive built in 1924 will haul a private charter train on the mile long branch line, while also staging run-pasts, giving cab rides and movement on the turntable, allowing plenty of photo’s or videos to capture this. After a chance to see the largest collection of preserved steam locomotives in Hungary and lunch in a historic dining car, you continue by direct transfer to the Istvantelek steam workshop and then the Budapest Technical Museum, where more preserved steam locomotives can be seen. Alternatively, after lunch at the roundhouse, you may spend an afternoon at leisure and enjoying all the cultural attractions of Hungary’s vibrant capital city. (B L)

Saturday 22nd February

Main line steam with 204 to Gödöllő, Vácrátót and Vác

A real steam treat awaits today with the ancient 4-4-0 tender locomotive from 1900 in action on the Hungarian main line. With its large driving wheels, this express locomotive brings back ‘high speed’ rail travel from the early 20th century and will once again be put through its paces on the fast route east of Budapest.

After a regal reception at the Royal Waiting Room of the Gustave Eiffel-built Nyugati station, you then depart on the main line to Gödöllő, where you visit the famed summer palace of Empress Elizabeth. Later you continue via Aszód and the ‘freight-only’ secondary line to Vácrátót and Vác, with lunch being served on the train in the classic dining car. Photo stops are included along the way. In the late afternoon, you return to Budapest Nyugati, having completed a full circular journey. (B L)

Sunday 23rd February

Lake Balaton and Balatonfenyves narrow gauge railway

Today you see Hungary’s most famous lake, as you travel with a loco-hauled MAV express train from Budapest Deli station to Balaton. You will race along the scenic east bank of Lake Balaton, with fine views of the volcanic hillside landscapes

to the west. You arrive in Balatonfenyves by late morning and then have a private charter train on the delightful and idyllic Balatonfenyves narrow gauge railway. You will travel over both branches, with the train pausing for photos and run-pasts. Motive power for the day is provided by MAV’s 0-8-0 steam locomotive 490.053. After lunch and the round-trip on the narrow gauge railway, you return by express electric service from Balatonfenyves to Budapest Deli. (B L)

Monday 24th February

Budapest at leisure and return to London

For the morning and early afternoon there is time for you to see and experience more of Budapest at your own leisure. There is so much to do and something for every interest. In the middle of the afternoon you then have a direct coach transfer to the airport for the return flight to London. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£1745

£295

£1595 (Budapest – Budapest)

Price includes:

• Flights from London to Budapest and Budapest to London

• 5 nights hotel accommodation at a 4-star hotel with breakfasts

• 5 lunches

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• Complimentary public transport tickets in Budapest

• All train travel as detailed in the itinerary

• All transfers and visits as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Highlights of Austria in Winter

Monday 24th February to Monday 3rd March 2025

Enjoy the very best of the snow-capped Austrian Alps on a railway holiday to a genuine winter wonderland full of mountainous beauty and cultural refinement.

• Travel on Austria’s most scenic mountain railways and benefit from the luxury of private charter trains with historic locomotives plus private lake cruises on splendid vessels.

• Travel in the refinement of First Class and Panoramic Dome Cars on regular ÖBB service trains, while also having numerous unique highlights aboard elegant private charter trains with vintage vehicles dating from the early 20th century, including the iconic Austria ‘Crocodile’.

• Experience the natural serenity of Lake Attersee, one of Austria’s best kept secrets, aboard a private charter cruise on a superb ship with comfortable lounges and spacious viewing decks, while also travelling from the lake on the Attersee branch line aboard a privately chartered vintage tramway from 1913.

• Kitzbühel, Zell am See, Bischofshofen, Bad Ischl, Hallstatt, Schladming Selzthal, Admont are just some of the many famous towns you will pass through by train, all framed by ornate tall spired churches, wooden chalets and hilltop castles.

• See the highlights of Tyrol, with a vintage charter train on the Stubaitalbahn to Fulpmes and then ascend to a world of snow and ice on the Nordkettenbahn high above Innsbruck for a fitting finale of the tour.

Monday 24th February

Arrive in Salzburg; exploration with all-inclusive Salzburg Card

After a direct flight from London to Salzburg you arrive in the birth city of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart by mid-day. You transfer to your centrally located hotel where lunch will be served. You will be given a Salzburg Card on arrival giving you full access to the city’s trolleybus network, fortress funicular and vertical elevator to the top of the Mönchsberg.

The Salzburg Card also covers admission for all city museums, the Mozart sites and the historic Stiegl brewery. (L)

Tuesday 25th February

The palaces and mountain railways

of Salzburg

Salzburg has a unique variety of attractions that will appeal to all. This includes the ornate palace at Hellbrunn with its famous fountains and water displays. From Hellbrunn you continue to the nearby Untersbergbahn, a scenic aerial cableway in the south of Salzburg that takes you to the top of the cragged Untersberg summit at a height of 1972 m above sea level. From there you have stunning views of both the Austrian and Bavarian Alps. After the descent back down, you can return by trolleybus to the city centre, for a more individual discovery and cultural exploration of Salzburg. For all railway enthusiasts, there is also an inclusive ticket for the Salzburger Lokalbahn, the scenic local railway that serves two branches to the north

of the city using vintage stock and passing over several impressive viaducts. The evening you may spend at leisure in the city, perhaps exploring one of its many brew houses. (B)

Wednesday 26th February

By train through the Austrian Alps on Panoramic Dome Car

Today the main line exploration of Austria’s world famous railway network begins. You travel in First Class from Salzburg to the Tyrolean junction station Wörgl on one of the ÖBB RailJet express trains, passing through the tip of Bavaria and you pass the impressive Kufstein fortress along the way. At Wörgl you change onto the legendary EuroCity “Transalpin” and ride in its Swiss-built First Class Dome Car via the resort

towns of Kitzbühel, Zell am See and Schladming to the railway junction Selzthal. There you will see the impressive round-houses, as you wait for your connecting Intercity train onward to Linz, travelling on the equally scenic mountain route along the River Steyr. In Linz you change onto another RailJetExpress for the 1-hour return to Salzburg. For this day, you have the convenience of a packed lunch, while a full dinner is provided at your hotel in the evening. (B L D)

Thursday 27th February

With a vintage ‘Crocodile’ over the Tauernbahn and to the Dolomites

A truly special highlight awaits, as Austria’s most iconic electric locomotive, the distinct ‘Crocodile’ from the early 20th Century hauls your private train formed of classic First Class coaches over the spectacular north-south Tauern railway via Bischofshofen and Bad Gastein to Spittal am Millstättersee. This passes over some of the most famous railway viaducts in Central Europe. From Spittal you continue on the little known, yet breathtaking east-west route to Lienz and further to the Italian border at Silian. Your charter train consists of historic First Class coaches with plush upholstered seats and dropdown windows, allowing you to take advantage of popular features that are no longer available on most modern trains. Lunch will be served in the dining car of the train. The return will be over the same route, passing Hohenwerfen Castle, made famous by the blockbuster film “Where Eagles Dare”. In the evening there is a hotel dinner upon return to Salzburg. (B L D)

Friday 28th February

Scenic cruise on Lake Attersee, Atterseebahn heritage tramway

A relaxing cruise awaits today on Lake Attersee, one of Austria’s finest mountain lakes. Your cruise ship boasts an indoor saloon and wide observation decks, where you can admire the open views and take pictures of the enchanting landscape. Lake Attersee was a favourite country getaway for many Austrian painters and composers, including Gustav Klimt and Gustav Mahler. You take the fast train from Salzburg to Vöcklabruck, before changing onto the local service on the branch line to KammerSchörfling. From there you enjoy a cruise on the lake, with lunch aboard. After your cruise you’ll have time to look around the lakeside town of Attersee, before enjoying a private charter trip on the Attersee narrow gauge railway, one of the few electrified metre gauge railways in Austria, traveling on a vintage tram from 1913 to the junction station Vöcklmarkt. From there you return by fast service train directly to Salzburg,

where you may spend another evening at leisure. (B L)

Saturday 1st March

Vintage main line charter train along lakes and peaks

Today you join the fabulous main line charter train with First Class coaches and the attractive dining car. Today this exclusive rake will be hauled by the iconic locomotive 1670.09 from 1929. This is one of the most stylish and attractive ways to travel along Austria’s stunning main line railway network, once again traversing lines that don’t permit steam traction. You will travel from Attnang via Gmunden and Bad Ischl to the junction Stainach, passing the marvellous lakes Traunsee, Hallstättersee. From Stainach you continue via Liezen and then take the secondary line through Admont and Hieflau, before turning off to Steyr and then reaching St. Valentin. Lunch will once again be served in the dining car of the train. You complete the circular journey, by speeding from St. Valentin via Linz back to Attnang. From there you continue the short distance by regular OBB service to Salzburg and dinner at the hotel. (B L D)

Sunday 2nd March

Highlights of Tyrol with a vintage charter along the Stubaitalbahn and Nordkettenbahn in Innsbruck

Today you will make another First Class journey on a RailJetExpress from Salzburg to Innsbruck, where you first have a private charter train on the spectacular Stubaitalbahn on the Alpine tramway to the mountainous terminus at Fulpmes. Travelling in lovely teak carriages from the early 20th century you will pass steep cliffs and navigate steep gradients. Photo stops along the way will also be included. On the return to Innsbruck, you will pass the Old Town with domed churches and ornate palaces, before taking the panoramic Hungerburgbahn funicular to a observation platform high above the city. Looking down at the rooftops of Innsbruck, you then have the option to return to the Old Town for some cultural sightseeing or continue on the connecting aerial cableway Nordkettenbahn to the high summit at Hafelekar, where you will be immersed in a world of snow and ice. You then return down to the city by aerial cableway and funicular and then back to Salzburg, for a final dinner at the hotel. (B D)

Monday 3rd March

Return to London

After breakfast at the hotel you have a direct coach transfer to the airport and a mid-day return flight to London. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

£2195

£365

Ground only £2095 (Salzburg – Salzburg)

Price includes:

• Flights from London to Salzburg and return

• 7 nights accommodation at a 4-star hotel in Salzburg with breakfast included

• 5 lunches and 4 dinners

• All train travel as detailed in the itinerary

• All specially chartered trains as detailed in the itinerary

• Scenic cruise on Lake Attersee

• All transfers and visits as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Highlights of Switzerland in Winter

Thursday 27th February to Thursday 6th March 2025

Experience the splendour of the snow topped Swiss Alps on this spectacular winter holiday. Trips on Switzerland’s most iconic mountain railways are conveniently included, giving you a chance to sample ‘the best of the best’.

• Initially based in the Swiss Riviera town of Vevey on Lake Geneva and the historic city of Brig and Chur, you’ll stay in topquality hotels featuring typical Swiss hospitality.

• Discover Switzerland’s spectacular mountain railways from west to east, including the Rochers-de-Naye, Golden Pass, Glacier Express, Gornergrat, Oberalp Pass, Rhaetian Railway, as well as the UNESCO designated Albula and Bernina lines.

• Travel aboard opulent ‘Belle Epoque’ Pullman Cars over the Golden Pass, plus enjoy private accommodation in the 1930s Art Deco Pullman coaches of the Rhaetian Railway for trips to Arosa and Tirano.

• Sample the amazing BLS ‘Blue Arrow’ on a private charter run in the Bernese Oberland. Journey back in time aboard this wonderfully dynamic streamliner dating from 1938, allowing you to sit next to the driver.

• See impressively engineered railways up close and get the best high-altitude views of the Matterhorn from the Gornergrat summit station.

• Go ’peak-hopping’ on rack railways, funiculars and aerial cableways, whilst exploring local towns and castles with complimentary public transport rover tickets.

Thursday 27th February

London to Vevey

Travel on Eurostar and TGV via Paris to Geneva, then by SBB service train to Vevey, on the northern shore of Lake Geneva. Here you check in to the 4-star Hotel Astra, conveniently located opposite the station. A welcome dinner will be served at the hotel tonight. (D)

Friday 28th February

Golden Pass in Pullman coaches; Blue Arrow railcar in the Bernese Oberland

Today you travel in style from Montreux via Gstaad to Zweisimmen over the Golden Pass in elegant ‘Belle Epoque’ Pullman coaches on the Golden Pass Classic train. The line climbs to the highest point, near Saanenmöser, at 1279

metres. In Zweisimmen you board the vintage 1938 BLS ‘Blue Arrow’ with luxurious passenger accommodation and open cab vestibules, allowing you to sit or stand beside the driver. The route winds through the Simmental Valley to Spiez and along Lake Thun to Bern. You’ll have free time to visit the medieval city of Bern, before travelling back to Lake Geneva via the Gruyere foothills and Lausanne. Back in Vevey you’ll have a free evening to enjoy dinner at a lake-side venue of your choosing. (B)

Saturday 1st March

Swiss Riviera and Mont Pelerin

Funicular; Rochers de Naye Rack Railway

You start your day by exploring Vevey and Lake Geneva’s famed ‘Swiss Riviera’. You catch a funicular to the terraced vineyards high above the lake, reaching a formidable observation point at the summit of Mont Pelerin. Later on, you can use your complimentary, public transport rover ticket to take the trolleybus route to Montreux and see the medieval Chillon Castle. Early afternoon you board a rack railcar for the steep journey from Montreux to the summit of Rochers de Naye, 2042 metres above sea level. From the top there are panoramic views of the French and Swiss Alps. You return to

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

Montreux, for a further look around town or ride on another local funicular before returning back to Vevey. Dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Sunday 2nd March

Glacier Express route to Zermatt; Gornergrat Railway; the Matterhorn

This morning you board an SBB service train from Vevey station to Visp, where you’ll travel on a panoramic narrow-gauge train for the final section of the Glacier Express route.

This scenic railway line winds through rocky valleys and over steep inclines to reach Zermatt. Here you transfer to the Gornergrat rack railway, ascending to 3089 metres above sea level. It’s Europe’s second highest railway, eclipsed only by the Jungfrau. From this high Alpine plateau, enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding glaciers and a fabulous front perspective of the Matterhorn.

After refreshments at Gornergrat you can film the passing trains in their characteristic chocolate-brown livery, before riding back down to Zermatt. You’ll have some time to look around car-free Zermatt, with its rows of wooden chalets and stone churches. Then you board another panoramic narrow gauge train for the onward journey on the Glacier Express route to Brig. You’ll spend the night in Naters allocated within the district of Brig, an historic, elegant city, which has become famous as a major railway junction and gateway to nearby Italy. Dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Monday 3rd March

On the Glacier Express and via the Oberalp Pass to Chur

A true highlight awaits, as you step aboard the legendary Glacier Express and travel in First Class accommodation on one of the world’s most famous trains! Enjoy the sleek dome cars with their grandiose windows as well as the refinement of on train catering, for the half-day journey from Brig to Chur. The Glacier Express initially traverses the narrow valleys of the Obergoms, before travelling through Andermatt and climbing up to the breath-taking Oberalp Pass. From there you descend through the Surselva region and along the Rhine Gorge, arriving in Chur, one of Switzerland’s oldest cities. You check into a centrally located hotel with free time to explore, before dinner is served. (B L D)

Tuesday 4th March

Rhaetian Railway from Chur to Arosa by private Pullman Coach; Ascent to the Weisshorn

Today you experience the famous Rhaetian Railway in a privately chartered, original 1930s Pullman car. Aside from the luxury of deep cushioned chairs, large panoramic windows give fine views of the mountainous landscape, as you traverse the impressively engineered 25 km branch line from Chur to Arosa. The route climbs 1155 metres via tunnels and bridges, including the 284-metre-long Langwieser Viaduct, first opened in December 1914. On arrival in Arosa you take the cableway to the summit of the 2653 metre Weisshorn, where majestic views await. You return to Arosa in the early afternoon, with ample time to explore the town and stroll along the picturesque lake. Later, you reboard the RhB train and private Pullman car for the return trip to Chur. You have the evening to explore the heart of the medieval old town. (B)

Wednesday 5th March

Albula Railway to Pontresina; Bernina Railway to Tirano by private Pullman coach

Another signature attraction awaits, as you journey over both the UNESCO-designated Albula and the Bernina railways. From Chur you take an express train over the beautiful Albula line to Samedan and Pontresina. This allows you to ride over the iconic Landwasser Viaduct and experience the countless horseshoe curves that make the Albula line renowned around the world. In Pontresina you change onto the Bernina Railway and are once again accommodated in a private Pullman coach for the journey over the wonderful Bernina pass, the only Swiss trans-alpine railway that climbs over the ridges between north and south without using a tunnel. Enjoy the ascent to the summit at Alp Grüm and the spiralling descent to Poschiavo, before the famed circular viaduct is reached at Brusio and you finish your journey amidst palm trees in Italy. In Tirano, you stop for lunch (wine included) and have time for a stroll to the basilica, before continuing back north in your Pullman coach. On returning to Pontresina you travel back to Chur over the Albula line aboard another RhB express service. A farewell dinner is served at your hotel. (B L D)

Thursday 6th March

Return to London

Today you return to London from Switzerland, travelling via Chur, Basel and Paris on RhB, SBB, TGV and Eurostar trains. (B)

Tour Summary

First Class

£2759

First Class travel from London St. Pancras International to Vevey and return from Chur. First Class travel within Switzerland where possible. Please be advised that First Class travel will be allocated in Standard Premier carriages on Eurostar services.

Single supplement

£345

Ground only

£2499 (Vevey – Chur)

Joining the group at the Hotel. First Class travel throughout Switzerland, where possible.

Price includes:

• 3 Nights accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel Astra, Vevey

• 1 Night accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel Alex, Naters

• 3 Nights accommodation with breakfast at 4-star Hotel Romantik Stern, Chur

• 2 lunches and 4 dinners

• All privately chartered vintage trains as detailed in the itinerary

• First Class travel on Golden pass panoramic train (Montreux to Zweisimmen)

• First Class travel on Glacier Express including lunch on-board (Brig – Chur)

• All train travel and transfers

• SBB luggage transfers from hotel to hotel

• Seat reservations (where possible)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

each day are shown as:

The French Riviera and Italian Ligurian Coast

Friday 14th March to Monday 24th March 2025

Enjoy a fabulous railway holiday along the French Cote d’Azur and the Ligurian Coast in Italy, including exploring the world-famous Cinque Terre.

• Journey by Eurostar from London to Paris and then on to elegant Nice for a day of sightseeing, before you continue along the Cote d’Azur to the historic port city of Genoa.

• Highlights in Genoa include a private charter train on the spectacular Genova-Cassella narrow gauge railway and sightseeing its rich maritime attractions.

• Experience one of the most spectacular seaside railway trips in the world along the Ligurian coast to Pisa, including a visit to the Leaning Tower, and explore the colourful fishing villages of Cinque Terre.

• Discover Turin’s historic tramways as a stay in this fine Alpine city concludes your tour in style, highlighted with a trip on the historic Sassi-Superga electric rack railway.

Friday 14th March

London to Nice by rail

You travel with Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Nord before a direct afternoon TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon to Nice Ville. On arrival into Nice, you check into your centrally located hotel where a welcome dinner is served. (B D)

Saturday 15th March

Tramways and leisure in Nice

Nice is one of the most beautiful cities in France, full of elegant architecture, colourful historic buildings, and spacious esplanades. You have a free day to enjoy the French Cote d’Azur, exploring at your own pace with your complimentary 1-day rover ticket for use on the well-connected local tramway system. In the evening dinner is served at your hotel. (B D)

Sunday 16th March

Seaside railway trip from Nice to Genoa

Today you bid ‘Adieu’ to France and say ‘Ciao’ to Italy as you enjoy a 4-hour scenic train trip from Nice to Genoa, changing at Ventimiglia. You travel past sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, Italianate churches, and lots of colourful buildings. On arrival at Genoa’s elegant Piazza Principe station, you check into your adjacent hotel, centrally located and within walking distance of the Old Town, the Ancient Port, and the hillside palaces. You’ll receive a public transport rover ticket, valid on the city’s Metro and central trolleybus routes, for the duration of your stay. Genoa also boasts a remarkable system of hillside rack railways, funiculars, and historic elevators, all free to use. Take the funiculars and hillside lifts to wonderful panoramic vantage points for views of the city, its harbour replete with countless cruise ships

and the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. Dinner is served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Monday 17th March

Historic charter train at the Ferrovia Genova – Casella

Above the hills of Genoa runs a remarkable metre gauge railway, 24 km in length from Genova Piazza Manin to the rural town of Casella. Opened in 1929 and fully electrified from the outset, this charming line remains much of its original appearance and also operates historic rolling stock. With numerous horseshoe curves and steep gradients of up to 4.5%, the line is as scenic as it is operationally fascinating. You have a private charter train using the railway’s original rolling stock and heritage locomotive Nr. 29. After a typical Italian lunch in Casella, you return to Genova Piazza Manin. In the evening you are free to enjoy the city and

find dinner at one of the many trattorias in the Old Town. (B L)

Tuesday 18th March

Train trip to Pisa, visit to the Leaning Tower

Experience one of the most spectacular seaside railway trips in the world today, as you enjoy the comfort of First Class on an FS Trenitalia InterCity service from Genova Piazza Principe via La Spezia to Pisa. You travel along the Ligurian coast past famous resorts like Sestri Levante and Levanto, as well as the five fishing villages of Cinque Terre. You arrive in Pisa at mid-day and have lunch in the Old Town before visiting the famed Leaning Tower and cathedral. You return to Genoa in the afternoon by InterCity Train along the same seaside route. (B L)

Wednesday 19th March

Genoa Navebus harbour cruise, aquarium visit and historic ships on the Old Port

Today we explore Genoa’s rich maritime attractions and heritage. First you take a return trip on the harbour ferry known as Navebus. Functioning as a public transport service line, it runs on the water from Porto Antico to Molo Archetti, taking you past huge oceanliners and the airport runway. After your Navebus round trip you visit Genoa’s world-famous aquarium in the Porto Antico, one of the premier such sites in Europe, with an impressive display of large sea life. Also included in your museum admission are the displays of the preserved Italian naval submarine ‘Nazario Sauro’ from 1976 and the authentic replica of a 17th century pirate galley. Dinner tonight is at your hotel. (B D)

Thursday 20th and Friday 21st March

Seaside Railway and villages of Cinque Terre

The next two days are free for you to explore the iconic five villages of Cinque Terre at your leisure, using the direct railway line between Genua and La Spezia. You’ll be given a Cinque Terre rail rover, allowing use of all Trenitalia regional express trains, with fast and frequent services along the coast and stops at the five famed villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola und Riomaggiore. Additionally, you’ll find the large seaside resorts of Sestri Levante, Levanto, Rapallo and Santa Margherita Ligure worth a visit. You can also use your Cinque Terre rail rover inside Genoa. A notable highlight is the amazing seaside walk along cliffs, palaces, and old forts right outside the Genova Nervi railway station, on a purposebuilt, flat pedestrian path. (B)

Saturday 22nd March

Genoa to Turin by rail

Today you take a Trenitalia service from Genoa via the hills of Alessandria and the prosecco countryside of Asti, to the smart Alpine city of Turin. It’s famous for its long, arcaded walkways and as the film site of the legendary 1969 movie ‘The Italian Job’. You arrive late morning and have lunch at your city centre hotel, located near the historic Porta Nuova station. You then visit the city’s principal architectural monument, the Mole Antonelliana, a slender, domed tower dating from the late 19th century that overlooks the city rooftops and includes a museum. For the rest of the afternoon, you are free to enjoy Turin at leisure, exploring its smart streets, spacious squares, and numerous palaces, with everything that makes Italy so desirable. You’ll will be given a complimentary day ticket, should you wish to use the city’s tram and metro network. In the evening you are free to dine at the pizzeria or osteria of your choice. (B L)

Sunday 23rd March

Vintage tramways and Sassi-Superga rack railway in Turin

After Milan, Turin has the largest tram network in Italy and one of the largest fleets of preserved heritage vehicles in southern Europe. You’ll enjoy a private charter tramway tour on a stylish articulated vehicle dating from the 1930s, allowing you to sightsee the city in comfort and style. Covering the most attractive parts of the urban light rail network, you travel over some rare track, including a stop at the ‘Gran Madre’, a replica of the Roman Pantheon. The tramway tour ends at Sassi, where you have lunch at the rack railway terminus, before travelling on the historic electric rack railway to the Superga summit. Here you’ll find the namesake domed basilica and hilltop panoramic terrace overlooking the city. The rack railway maintains its original electric railcars from the 1930s and uses a third rail to draw power. You return to Sassi, taking a service tram to the city centre. Join your fellow travellers at your hotel for a farewell dinner. (B L D)

Monday 24th March

Turin to London via the French Alps and Paris

Take a direct high-speed train from Turin Porta Susa to Paris Gare de Lyon, experiencing another scenic railway journey, capping your holiday to southern Europe in style. In Paris you transfer to Gare de Nord, where you take your final journey by Eurostar back to London St. Pancras. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£2595

£395

£2345 (Nice – Turin)

Price includes:

• 10 nights accommodation with breakfast at centrally located, quality hotels

• 4 Lunches and 5 Dinners

• First Class travel on FS Trenitalia InterCity service from Genova Piazza Principe to Pisa

• Standard Class travel on local trains, when First Class is not available

• All privately chartered trains and vintage tramway rides as detailed in the itinerary

• Complimentary public transport rover tickets

• Museum and site admissions to all the attractions as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Railways and World War II History in Italy and Switzerland

Monday 28th March to Wednesday 9th April 2025

Embark on a Roman Holiday, stopping in Milano and the Swiss Alps before reaching the ‘Eternal City‘ by high-speed service. Visit fascinating WWII sites in Italy, including the Ghetto and Jewish Museum in Rome, and the beaches of Anzio and the hilltop monastery at Monte Cassino. The beaches of Salerno, the Ancient Greek temple city of Paestum and the world-famous Amalfi Coast are first time additions to the itinerary.

• Explore Rome, Milan and Salerno at your leisure.

• A wonderful visit to Lugano, Switzerland, including funicular rides and a cruise on a historic yacht.

• Stay at quality hotels with free time to see the historic and cultural attractions.

• First Class travel on Swiss EuroCity and Italian “Frecciarossa” high speed services. Plus public transport rover for flexible travel on local trams, metros and buses in Milan and Rome.

• Privately chartered scenic cruises on Lake Lugano and the River Tiber.

Friday 28th March

Arrive in Milano

Take a direct flight from London to Milano, Italy’s largest city. Transfer to your hotel for check in and a light lunch, before spending the rest of the day at leisure. You‘ll be given a complimentary public transport ticket, allowing you to explore the city aboard Ventotto heritage trams. You‘ll be able to see the Duomo (Cathedral), turreted Castello (Castle) and the glass-domed Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II from 1867. (L)

Saturday 29th March

Tramways, Museums and leisure in Milano

After breakfast, visit Italy’s National Museum of Science and Technology, an impressive collection

of locomotives, machines, submarines and more, housed in a stylish palazzo. After the visit, you have more free time in Milano, enjoying all this stylish city has to offer! (B)

Sunday 30th March

A visit to the Swiss Alps with a scenic cruise on Lake Lugano

You make an enchanting side-step to nearby Switzerland‘s Ticino region. Take a EuroCity train to Lugano, Switzerland, then travel on the scenic funicular railway from the station to the town centre to check-in to your hotel in the old town. You‘ll enjoy a lunch cruise on the beautiful Lake Lugano aboard the luxurious motor yacht “Milano”, including complimentary drinks and refreshments.

Afterwards, there is time for sightseeing in the beautiful city of Lugano, before returning to Milano Centrale. (B L)

Monday 31st March

A day in Venice

Today you make an exciting day-trip to Venice. Travelling first class aboard the sleek “Frecciarossa” (Red Arrow) train, you arrive at Venezia Santa Lucia station, where you‘ll be given a public transport ticket for use on all of the iconic ‘Vaporetto’ ferries, the tramway over the causeway to Venezia Mestre, or the peoplemover at the cruise terminal. You‘ll have plenty of time to visit famed places like the Rialto, Piazza San Marco, or the Lido. Early evening, travel back to Milano by high-speed train. (B)

Tuesday 1st April

Milano to Roma by high speed rail, Roma Ghetto visit and River Tiber cruise

This morning, take the ‘Frecciarossa’ high-speed service from Milano Centrale to Roma Termini and check into your hotel around midday. You‘ll be given a week-long public transport rover, providing access to Roma’s Metro and tramway. In the afternoon, visit Rome’s old Jewish Ghetto, including admission to the museum and Great Synagogue. You’ll learn more about the Ghetto and its history during World War II, and the liberation of Rome by the Allies in June 1944. Finally, you embark on a private sunset cruise on the River Tiber, including drinks and refreshments. (B L)

Wednesday 2nd April

WWII sites in and around Rome

After breakfast, you walk to the landmark Piazza Venezia, past the Roman Colosseum and Forum. Here you see the famed balcony on which the fascist dictator Benito Mussolini gave speeches. Then transfer to the Commonwealth War Cemetery, where Allied soldiers were buried following the liberation of Rome. Carry on to the Ardeatine Caves and EUR exhibition grounds, built for the planned 1942 Universal Exhibition, which never happened due to the war. At the EUR grounds, you‘ll see some of the most monumental architecture from Mussolini’s reign. End the day at the Museum of the Liberation of Rome, located in former Gestapo headquarters. (B)

Thursday 3rd April

Visit to the famed Monte Cassino monastery and battle site

Visit another iconic location from WWII history. A defensive strongpoint along the Axis´ Gustav Line, Monte Cassino was the site of a fierce battle of attrition from January to June 1944. The Allied forces overcame this barrier, clearing the way for the Liberation of Rome. Take an FS service train to Cassino before transferring by coach to the hilltop Benedictine Abbey, where you can visit the famous crypt, basilica and war memorial and museum. Take lunch in the main piazza before returning to Rome. (B L)

Friday 4th April

The beaches of Anzio

This morning you travel to the seaside port of Anzio, famous for the Allied landings that took place there in early 1944. Delight in this typically Italianate town, with its war monuments and the Anzio Beachhead Museum.

Following lunch at a typical trattoria, return to Rome by train from Nettuno. (B L)

Saturday 5th April

On to Salerno

Move further south on the Italian peninsula, transferring by high-speed train from Roma to the seaside city of Salerno, where you’ll spend the next three nights. Salerno was the site of ‘Operation Avalanche’, the September 1943 Allied landings. After checking into your hotel, you’ll visit some of the historic landing sites with your expert local guide. (B L)

Sunday 6th April

Italian National Railway Museum in Pietrarsa

Italian railway heritage takes centre stage today as you travel by train to Napoli Centrale, where there’s a convenient local service directly to the gates of The National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa, one of the most spectacular railway museums in the world. Visit the great engine pavilion and see the steam icons of Italian railway history. After an immersive experience and refreshments on-site, walk around the shoreline, with its stunning views of the Mediterranean and Mount Vesuvius. In the late afternoon, return by train via Napoli Centrale to Salerno (B L)

Monday 7th April

Paestum UNESCO World Heritage site

The Salerno region offers much more than just WWII history, it is also a hotspot for Ancient Greek culture, including the remains of the legendary city of Paestum, dating from around 600 BC. See the major sites first-hand and immerse yourself in the beautiful views. In the evening, dinner is served at the hotel. (B D)

Tuesday 8th April

History and natural beauty along the Amalfi Coast

Visit the world-famous Amalfi coast between Salerno and Naples, including Sorento. You‘ll see both the awe-inspiring coastal scenery and significant World War II sites, including the landing locations of the U.S. Rangers. In the evening you return to Salerno, where your farewell dinner is served in the hotel restuarant. (B D)

Wednesday 9th April

Return flight to London

Direct flight back to London from Naples (B)

our Summary Tour price

Single supplement

£2745

£495 Ground only

£2645 (Milan – Naples)

Price includes:

• Flights from London to Milan and Naples to London

• 12 nights accommodation with breakfast in 3 and 4-star hotels

• 6 lunches and 2 dinners

• Public transport rover tickets in Milan and Rome

• Private scenic cruises on Lake Lugano in Switzerland and on the River Tiber in Rome

• Admissions to all the museums, sights and monuments listed in the itinerary

• All rail travel on EuroCity and Frecciarossa high speed trains in Italy and Switzerland, including First Class accommodation and mandatory seat reservations

• An expert local history guide

• The services of a tour manager All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast

L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Steam in Saxony, Bohemia and Bavaria

Thursday 10th April to Monday 21st April 2025

Idyllic narrow-gauge railways, exhilarating main line steam locomotives, paddle steamers and the Dresden steam locomotive festival are the signature attractions of this delightful Spring holiday.

• Visit to Germany’s premier steam locomotive gathering and round-house festival, with the “Dampfloktreffen” in Dresden, including access to the festival grounds and rides on the different main line excursions.

• A beautiful paddle steamer cruise on the River Elbe from Dresden to Pillnitz Palace, as well as excursions on the city’s unique mountain monorail and funicular.

• Narrow gauge ‘Plandampf’ on the regional lines from Radebeul to Radeburg and Freital to Kurort Kipsdorf with the impressive 2-10-2 tank engines, as well as a visit to the 15-inch Dresden Park Railway for steam with one of their 4-6-2 ‘Pacifics’.

• Experience the best of Czech main line steam with a private charter hauled by the vintage 1928 tank engine 421.032 on ‘rare track’ in the North Bohemian mountains near the Polish border, including luxurious First Class coaches from the 1930s and on-train catering.

• Steam in Bavaria at the premier railway museum in Nördlingen, with a private charter on an archaic tank engine from the late 19th century.

Thursday 10th April

London to Dresden

You travel from London St Pancras via Brussels and Frankfurt to Dresden on Eurostar and ICE high speed services. This includes the new Erfurt to Leipzig high speed line. Upon arrival in Saxony’s capital city, you check into your 4-star city centre hotel. Dinner will be served at the hotel. (D)

Friday 11th April to Sunday 13th April

Dresden steam loco festival, main line steam excursions and the Dresden Park Railway

This long weekend is entirely dedicated to the sounds and sights of Germany’s premier annual

steam gala and locomotive gathering, which typically includes a variety of both express and freight type steam locomotives. During the festival weekend there are several main line steam excursions departing Dresden’s main station and featuring parallel running. You will have full access to the round-houses and ample time to observe and photograph. The exact programme will be announced by festival organizers a few weeks before the event. On Sunday, a visit to Germany’s largest 15 inch railway is also included, with a steam run behind a 4-6-2 ‘Pacific’ at the 6 km long Dresden Park Railway. (B)

Monday 14th April

Steam to Radeburg and a paddle steamer cruise in Dresden

After breakfast, you visit the local narrow-gauge railway at Radebeul, where a 2-10-2 Saxon VII K tank locomotive takes you down the 16.5 km long line to Radeburg, pausing at Moritzburg Castle. The train returns to Radebeul by midday, from where you return to Dresden Hbf on a DB service train. In the afternoon you enjoy a sightseeing cruise of Dresden by historic paddle steamer, including the sights of the beautiful riverside palaces and the famed ‘Blue Wonder’ bridge. Enjoy the best of steam by land and water. Dinner tonight is at the hotel (B D)

Niels Kunick

Niels Kunick

Tuesday 15th April

Travel to Prague

In the morning you travel in First Class by EuroCity train along the scenic Elbe Valley to Prague. You arrive in the Czech capital in time for lunch at your hotel and then may spend the afternoon at leisure getting to know this fabulous world city, steeped in history, culture and wonderful architecture. (B L)

Wednesday 16th April

Classic Prague by luxury tram, visit to the Technical Museum and free time

This morning you board a luxury tram for a sightseeing tour of Prague, with complimentary drinks served on board. See the city’s premier landmarks while criss-crossing the River Vltava on its famous bridges. Then you visit the Czech National Technical Museum to see its impressive collection of 19th century and early 20th century steam locomotives. The museum also has a Spitfire flown by Czech pilots during the Battle of Britain and other historic displays. After the museum visit there is more free time to explore Prague. (B)

Thursday 17th April

Czech main line steam to Hanusovice

After breakfast, you join a privately chartered main line steam train, as you journey on the vintage 1928 tank engine 431.032 on scenic tracks in North Bohemia from Dolni Lipka to Hanusovice and then the branch line to Stare Mesto pod Sneznikem. Your train will be formed of First-Class coaches dating from the 1930s, including a bar car and on train catering. Enjoy the very best of Continental main line steam on steeply graded and idyllically rural routes. In the evening you return to Prague by service train. (B L)

Friday 18th April

Prague to Nürnberg, DB Museum visit and sightseeing of Nürnberg by vintage tram

After breakfast, you travel by train from Prague to Nürnberg. After checking into your hotel and lunch, you visit the DB Museum, Germany's national railway museum, with a fine collection of steam locomotives from the 19th and early

20th century. In the late afternoon, you embark on a sightseeing tour of historic Nürnberg by vintage tramway, with complimentary alcoholic drinks included. You will get a firsthand glimpse of the famous hilltop castle and travel over some 'rare track' that cannot be done on local trams in normal passenger service. The rest of the evening you may then spend at leisure in the city, perhaps visiting one of its many Brauhauses or distinctive beer cellars. (B L)

Saturday 19th April

Steam at the Schiefe Ebene at Neuenmarkt-Wirsberg

Today you visit one of the most famous steam sites and museums in Germany as you take a service train from Nürnberg over the famed 'Schiefe Ebene' ramp to Neuenmarkt-Wirsberg, where the Deutsches Dampflok Museum has one of the best and largest collections of preserved steam locomotives in Germany, including the iconic Class 10. In addition to viewing the vast collection, you will also have a steam ride on the railway's own narrow-gauge railway. You return to Nürnberg in the early evening, in time for dinner at a nearby restaurant. (B D)

Sunday 20th April

Steam at the Bavarian Railway Museum in Nördlingen

Today you visit the walled city of Nördlingen in western Bavaria. This town is famed for its timber-framed buildings and home to the Bavarian Railway Museum, with one of the largest steam locomotive collections in Germany. You will see a number of exhibits and enjoy a steam train excursion, behind a museum’s steam engine. Photo opportunities, run-pasts and cab rides as well as refreshments in Nördlingen are included. You return to Nürnberg in the afternoon for another dinner at a nearby restaurant. (B L D)

Monday 21st April

Nürnberg to London by rail

Today you travel on high-speed services from Nürnberg via Frankfurt to Cologne and then continue to Brussels, where you board a Eurostar train back to London (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

£1795

£395

Ground only £1545 (Dresden – Nürnberg)

Price includes:

• Standard Premier seating on Eurostar service from London to Bruxelles and return

• First Class seating on all high speed trains (where possible)

• 11 nights accommodation with breakfast

• 4 Lunches and 4 Dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All transfers and visits as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing. Meals included each day are shown as:

Swiss Bernese Oberland

Wednesday 25th June to Wednesday 2nd July 2025

Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Switzerland on this tour to the Bernese Oberland, famed for its shimmering lakes and soaring Alpine peaks, including the towering Jungfrau and the magnificent Eiger.

• Based in Alpine holiday Region of Grindelwald, you’ll explore the Bernese Oberland on Switzerland´s outstanding railway system.

• Enjoy extensive scheduled travel on famous mountain rack railways, including the Brienz Rothorn Railway and Jungfrau Railway to the ‘Top of Europe’.

• Discover the Swiss capital Bern on a two-hour steam tram tour, and enjoy peaceful boat cruises on Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

• There’s also a thrilling excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area to enjoy, famous for its outstanding views and wildflower gardens.

• Experience unrestricted travel on Swiss trains, trams and buses in tour free time thanks to your complimentary Bernese Oberland Regional Pass.

Wednesday 25th June

London to Grindelwald via Basel

You travel First Class by Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord. You then journey from Paris to Basel in Switzerland via Strasbourg. You join a high-speed service at Basel to Interlaken Ost, before continuing by regional train direct to Grindelwald. Here you check into the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort 4-star Hotel, your base for the tour. A light dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. You’ll also receive your 6-day Bernese Oberland Regional Pass for easy exploration of the surrounding areas. (D)

Thursday 26th June

Free day in Grindelwald

Today is yours to relax and enjoy the facilities at the hotel or take a stroll through the famous

mountain village, embedded in a unique Alpine landscape at the foot of the Eiger north face. Making use of your Regional Pass you can visit the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten illuminated glacier-waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible only by a tunnel-lift. (B D)

Friday 27th June

Lake Brienz Cruise; Steam on the Brienz Rothorn Railway

This morning you travel by train to Interlaken to enjoy a leisurely steamship cruise on Lake Brienz to Brienz at its eastern end. You join a steam train on the 800mm gauge Brienz Rothorn Railway (BRB), Switzerland’s oldest rack railway and climb 1,678 metres (5,505 ft) from Brienz to Rothorn Kulm Station, just below the summit of Brienz Rothorn Mountain. After free time at the summit to enjoy lunch, you return to Brienz

for an exclusive visit to the BRB depot to view the locomotives and workshop facilities there. In the afternoon you return to Grindelwald by train where you can relax before dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D)

Saturday 28th June

Excursion to Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’

A real tour highlight awaits today on a trip to the famous Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’. You’ll travel by train to Kleine Scheidegg before joining a JB train en route to the highest railway station in Europe. The train stops twice at points where there are large windows in the rock face for passengers to admire the views.

The ‘Top of Europe’ itself is a high-altitude building connected to the underground Jungfraujoch Railway Station by a tunnel.

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

There’s a choice of restaurants in which to take lunch, and a permanent exhibition about the Jungfrau Railway and the Alps. For the return back to Grindelwald you can either travel the same route by train from Kleine Scheidegg to Grindlewald with the group or return at your own leisure. On your return dinner will be served at the hotel. (B D)

Sunday 29th June

Bern Steam Tram; Cruise on Lake Thun

Today you travel by train to the Swiss capital, Bern, for a two-hour tour of the city by legendary steam tram. The metre gauge 0-6-0 tramway locomotive pulls a classic wooden carriage with open-ended balconies. You’ll pass many of Bern’s historic landmarks, including the famous Zytglogge clock tower. In the afternoon there’s time to visit the shops along the arcaded walkways, or the famous Bear Park and nearby River Aare. Later, you’ll take a service train to Thun to board a boat for the onward journey. Cruising along Lake Thun you have uninterrupted views of famous mountain peaks like the Niederhorn, Niesen, and Jungfrau. You then disembark at Interlaken West Railway Station and return by train to Grindlewald. (B D)

Monday 30th June

Free day to use your Regional Pass; Optional visit to the Schilthorn Today is free to use your Regional Pass. Your first option is a trip to the summit of the Schilthorn, overlooking the valley of Lauterbrunnen and reached by a cable car from the village of Mürren. At the summit there’s a panoramic revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, once the location of a James Bond film, and free entrance to the Bond World interactive exhibition. A mountain excursion surcharge is payable for this trip but if booked in advance you can take advantage of our special discounted

price. The second option is a visit to Lucerne. The city is located on Lake Lucerne, in sight of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi in the Swiss Alps. You’ll get to Interlaken using WAB and BOB trains from where metre gauge Zentralbahn express trains go direct to Lucerne, a great experience in itself. The route follows the scenic Brünig Line beside Lake Brienz and the River Aare to Meiringen, where the train reverses and climbs over the Brunig Pass using a rack system. The terminus station at Lucerne is opposite the landing stage from which passenger boats, including paddle steamers, serve lakeside communities. The Chapel Bridge is a landmark of Lucerne and the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Other places of interest include the Old Town of Lucerne, the Lion Monument, and the Swiss Museum of Transport. (B D)

Tuesday 1st July

Excursion to Schynige Platte

Today you enjoy an excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area, famous for its wildflower gardens and views of the majestic mountain scenery. You travel by train to Wilderswil, the junction for the 800mm gauge Schynige Platte Railway from 1893, one of Switzerland’s pioneering lines. The cog train climbs at a sedate 12 kph up to Schynige Platte, passing many panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, eventually revealing the glistening giants of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains to the south. (B D)

Wednesday 2nd July

Return to UK

After breakfast it is time to say your farewells and travel by regional train to Interlaken. You then travel by express train from Interlaken to Basel before changing trains and continuing to Paris via Strasbourg. There you transfer to Paris Gare du Nord and take a Eurostar service back to London St. Pancras International. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Optional excursion

£2795

£195

£55

Day 6 – ‘The Schilthorn’ mountain visit

Price includes:

• 7 nights at the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort 4-star hotel in Grindelwald

• 7 dinners

• First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back

• A standard class Regional Pass valid for days 2 to 7 for travel around the Bernese Oberland

• All rail, tram and boat trips as detailed in the itinerary

• All escorted visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Rail and Fjords of Norway

Saturday 5th July to Wednesday 16th July 2025

Explore the magnificent Norwegian fjords on this outstanding holiday tour, travelling on one of the finest railway systems in Europe through some of its most stunning scenery.

• Your adventure begins in southern Norway in the grand capital Oslo, continuing with overnight stays in Bergen, Kristiansand, Hamar, and Ålesund.

• During your tour you’ll experience steam travel on four preserved railway lines: the Krøderbanen, Urskog-Hølandsbanen, Gamle Vossebanen and The Setesdalsbanen Narrow-Gauge Railway.

• Enjoy sightseeing in Bergen, a city surrounded by hills and fjords. Sights of note include the old city, the fish market, the busy quayside, and the home of composer Edvard Grieg.

• Experience the thrills of the electric Flåm Railway, one of the steepest railway lines in the world, and a full day’s cruise along the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Norway’s most spectacular fjords.

• Among many other highlights is a visit the National Railway Museum at Hamar to see the National Collection and a trip on the steam operated museum line there.

Saturday 5th July

Tour of Oslo

You take a morning flight from London Heathrow to Oslo and check in to your hotel for a 2-night stay. In the afternoon you have a sightseeing tour of this rapidly developing city. Norway has eighteen hours of daylight at this time of year and your tour takes full advantage. (D)

Sunday 6th July

Steam on the Krøderbanen and Urskog-Hølandsbanen Railways

Today you take a private road coach to Krøderen and join a steam-hauled train with teak carriages on the Krøderbanen, Norway’s longest preserved railway line. You’ll travel 26 km to Vikersund and back. In the afternoon your road coach takes you to Sørumsand for a chartered trip aboard a

steam-hauled train on the Urskog-Hølandsbanen line. There’ll be photographic run pasts staged on this 750mm gauge preserved railway, once part of the Oslo-Stockholm main line. You return to your hotel in Oslo in time for dinner. (B L D)

Monday 7th July

Free day to explore Oslo

Today you have a free day to explore all that Oslo has to offer, Oslo is the capital and most populous city of Norway. As well as the Bygdøy Royal Estate, the peninsula has five national museums: The Viking Ship Museum, the Fram Museum, the Norwegian Folk Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum and the Norwegian Maritime Museum. You also have the option to visit the Royal Opera House and the Royal Palace, plus many other places of interest.

Tuesday 8th July

Spectacular mountains and fjords en route to Bergen

Today you leave Oslo on the morning train to Bergen for one of the greatest railway journeys in the world. The route climbs to high altitude at 1,303 metres (4,267 feet), passing lush forests, snow-capped mountains, sparkling lakes, and thundering waterfalls. After Finse, the highest station on the line, your train continues across barren and windswept mountain plateaux with everlasting snow as a stunning backdrop. You pass through tunnels and beside deep fjords as you descend to Bergen to arrive midafternoon. The remainder of the day is free for sightseeing in Bergen, a city surrounded by hills and fjords. Sights of note include the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site the fish market, busy quayside, and the home of Edvard Grieg.

Tore Bjorback-Amblie

Alternatively, you can take the famous funicular railway to the top of Mount Fløien for panoramic views over the city and out to sea. Bergen will be your base for the next three nights. Dinner is not included this evening giving you the opportunity to try one of Bergen’s excellent restaurants. (B)

Wednesday 9th July

Cruise on Sognefjord and riding the Flåm Railway

Bergen is the gateway to the fjords and today you board a ship for a cruise along the Sognefjord to Balestrand and Flam. Sognefjord is Norway’s largest fjord and the second longest in the world at over 200 km (127 miles). Cliffs surrounding the fjord rise almost sheer from the water and pretty villages cling to the steep sides. You arrive at Flåm for lunch ashore, before an afternoon ride on the electric Flåm Railway, one of the steepest railway lines in the world. It climbs 865 metres in 20 kilometres through spectacular scenery to Myrdal Station. The train stops by the famous Kjosfossen waterfall for film and photo opportunities. You then change trains at Myrdal for the journey back to Bergen. Dinner is at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Thursday 10th July

Bergen and Garnes to Midttun

After a free morning to explore Bergen, you transfer mid-afternoon by road coach to the Gamle Vossebanen, a heritage railway near Garnes. Here you join a chartered train from Garnes to Midttun, and return hauled by an ex-main line steam locomotive. The line is 18 km long and photographic run pasts will be staged as you pass through the Arna Valley. Later you return to Bergen by road coach for dinner in the hotel restaurant. (B D)

Friday 11th July

Cruise to Stavanger

Today you have a free morning to explore Bergen, before travelling by road coach from your hotel to Bergen Harbour. Here you will join an early afternoon ferry for Stavanger, enjoying a relaxing cruise through the calm coastal waters of the south-western islands, with an inclusive light buffet dinner served on-board. Your luggage will travel separately by coach from hotel to hotel. On arrival into Stavanger Harbour, you transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay. (B D)

Saturday 12th July

Free morning in Stavanger: Train to Kristiansand

You can enjoy a free morning in Stavanger,

before re-grouping at the hotel where a group lunch will be served. Following lunch, you meet in the hotel reception with your luggage for a transfer by road coach to Stavanger railway station, where you board a train for Kristiansand. Your luggage remains on the coach and will meet you in Kristiansand for your overnight stay.

(B L D)

Sunday 13th July

The Setesdalsbanen Narrow Gauge Railway

This morning after breakfast you travel by road coach to Grovane to join a steam charter train on the Setesdalsbanen. This 1067mm narrow-gauge railway has some rare types of locomotives, including two delightful Dubbs tank locomotives, built in 1894. Later you join a regular train from Kristiansand to Hamar for an overnight stay.

(B D)

Monday 14th July

Hamar Railway Museum; Hamar to Åndalsnes via Dombas on the Rauma line

This morning you visit the National Railway Museum at Hamar to view the national collection and take a trip on their steam operated museum line. Early afternoon you travel by train to Andalsnes via Dombas, covering the Rauma line awarded the most beautiful railway line in Europe by lonely planet in 2022, also featured in the Mission:Impossible Dead Reckoning film. On arrival in Andalsnes you transfer by road coach to Ålesund, Norway’s fishing capital. You’ll spend the next two nights in Ålesund where dinner is served in the hotel. (B D)

Tuesday 15th July

Cruise the Geirangerfjord

Today, you experience a full day’s cruise along the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is one of Norway’s most spectacular fjords and is rightly famous for its spectacularly high scenic waterfalls. You should arrive back in Ålesund by the early evening, with plenty of time to explore this Art Nouveau seaside town. Dinner is again served in the hotel. (B D)

Wednesday 16th July

Return to London

You transfer by road coach from Ålesund to Andalsnes to join a service train to Oslo Airport for a late afternoon flight back to London. (B)

Ground only

£2795 (Oslo – Oslo)

Price includes:

• Return flights London to Oslo

• 11 nights hotel accommodation in 3 and 4-star hotels including breakfasts

• 2 lunch and 9 dinners

• Rail travel as detailed in the itinerary

• All transfers

• All travel advertised by ship and road coach

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Alpine Pullman Classic Express

Monday 7th July to Friday 11th July 2025

Enjoy a stunning five-day alpine tour, featuring insights into Switzerland’s rail history, views of its natural beauty, and a tour of one of its most beautiful and populous cities.

• Take in the beautiful Alpine landscapes of Switzerland.

• Visit the Landwasser Viaduct and Albula Railway Museum, and learn about the history of rail travel in the region.

• Ride the Alpine Pullman Classic Express and experience their luxurious carriages and amazing views.

• Enjoy a scenic cruise on the breathtaking Lake Lucerne.

• Get to know the city of Lucerne on a guided tour.

• Enjoy an authentic Swiss lunch at a luxurious restaurant at the peak of Mt Pilatus.

Monday 7th July

Arrive in Davos

Today you take a direct flight from London to Basel, Switzerland. From there, you travel by rail to Davos, a picturesque resort town in the Rhaetian Alps, where you will check into the Central Sporthotel. Davos is home to one of Switzerland’s largest ski resorts, and features stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as Lake Davos. After checking in you have the rest of the day to explore Davos at your leisure, before making your way back to the hotel for a welcome dinner.

Tuesday 8th July

Landwasser Viaduct and Albula Railway Museum

After breakfast at the hotel, you head to the Rhaetian Railway for a memorable day out. First you travel to Filisur on the Landwasser Express, where you will stop to view and enjoy a tour of the spectacular Landwasser Viaduct. Originally constructed in the early 1900s, this

impressive feat of architecture is a must for any railway enthusiast. Afterwards, you will visit the Albula Railway Museum in Bergün. The museum hosts 600 exhibits, guiding you through the history of rail travel in Graubünden. It features old railway equipment, historical documents and engineering plans, as well as a simulator that allows you to experience driving the legendary Crocodile locomotive yourself. Lunch will be served at Bergün or Filisur. After lunch, you’ll return to Davos and take the funicular up to Schatzalp for some impressive Alpine views, before returning to the hotel for dinner. (B L D)

Wednesday 9th July

Alpine Classic Pullman Express, cruise on Lake Lucerne

Today you meet in reception with your luggage, this will be transferred directly to your hotel in Sarnen. Following check out, you embark on the Alpine Classic Pullman Express to Andermatt. You will travel the famous UNESCO World Heritage route on the Albula line over

the Landwasser Viaduct, and experience the natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge, Switzerland’s Grand Canyon, as you follow the route over the Oberalp Pass. The nostalgic saloon carriages, with their comfortable armchairs, bay windows, and teak wood furnishings, all contribute to the unique charm of the Alpine Classic Pullman Express. Upon arrival in Andermatt, you continue by rail to Flüelen at the southern tip of Lake Lucerne, travelling through the wild Schöllenen Gorge and along the Reuss. From Flüelen you will board a boat for a scenic cruise to Lucerne. From there you take a short train journey to Sarnen, where you will check into the Hotel Krone for dinner. (B D)

Thursday 10th July

Lucerne tour, Cogwheel railway to Mt Pilatus and cruise

After breakfast at the hotel, you will get to know Lucerne through a guided tour of the city. You’ll be inspired by the numerous market squares, the colourfully painted houses, and

Georg Trueb Christian Ticar

the famous Chapel Bridge. Lucerne is also home to a number of beautiful, original shops which you will have the opportunity to browse. At lunchtime, you take the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up the local mountain, the 2173 metre high Mt Pilatus. Here you will enjoy lunch at the Pilatus-Kulm restaurant, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After lunch, you return back to Alpnachstad, where you take a lake cruise back

to Lucerne. On arrival back in lucerne you return by train back to your hotel in Sarnen, where your farewell dinner will be served. (B L D)

Friday 11th July

Return home

After breakfast, you check out of your hotel and return by rail to Basel Airport for a direct flight home. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

£1995

£175

Ground only £1895 (Basel – Basel)

Price includes:

• Flights from London to Basel

• 2 Nights Accommodation at 4-star hotel in Davos

• 2 Nights Accommodation at 4-star hotel in Sarnen

• 4 Breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners

• Travel on the Rhaetian Railway from Davos to Filisur

• Landwasser Viaduct tour on the Landwasser Express

• Albula Railway museum entrance and guided tour at Bahnmuseum Albula in Bergün

• Excursion to Schatzalp

• Alpine Pullman Express from Davos to Andermatt

• Cruises as detailed in the Itinerary

• Guided tour of Lucerne

• Cogwheel Railway to Mount Pilatus

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B

Christian Ticar

Swiss Bernese Oberland

Wednesday 9th July to Wednesday 16th July 2025

Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Switzerland on this tour to the Bernese Oberland, famed for its shimmering lakes and soaring Alpine peaks, including the towering Jungfrau and the magnificent Eiger.

• Based in Alpine holiday Region of Grindelwald, you’ll explore the Bernese Oberland on Switzerland´s outstanding railway system.

• Enjoy extensive scheduled travel on famous mountain rack railways, including the Brienz Rothorn Railway and Jungfrau Railway to the ‘Top of Europe’.

• Discover the Swiss capital Bern on a two-hour steam tram tour, and enjoy peaceful boat cruises on Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

• There’s also a thrilling excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area to enjoy, famous for its outstanding views and wildflower gardens.

• Experience unrestricted travel on Swiss trains, trams and buses in tour free time thanks to your complimentary Bernese Oberland Regional Pass.

Wednesday 9th July

London to Grindelwald via Basel

You travel First Class by Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord. You then journey from Paris to Basel in Switzerland via Strasbourg. You join a high-speed service at Basel to Interlaken Ost, before continuing by regional train direct to Grindelwald. Here you check into the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort 4-star Hotel, your base for the tour. A light dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. You’ll also receive your 6-day Bernese Oberland Regional Pass for easy exploration of the surrounding areas. (D)

Thursday 10th July

Free day in Grindelwald

Today is yours to relax and enjoy the facilities at the hotel or take a stroll through the famous

mountain village, embedded in a unique Alpine landscape at the foot of the Eiger north face. Making use of your Regional Pass you can visit the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten illuminated glacier-waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible only by a tunnel-lift. (B D)

Friday 11th July

Lake Brienz Cruise; Steam on the Brienz Rothorn Railway

This morning you travel by train to Interlaken to enjoy a leisurely steamship cruise on Lake Brienz to Brienz at its eastern end. You join a steam train on the 800mm gauge Brienz Rothorn Railway (BRB), Switzerland’s oldest rack railway and climb 1,678 metres (5,505 ft) from Brienz to Rothorn Kulm Station, just below the summit of Brienz Rothorn Mountain. After free time at the summit to enjoy lunch, you return to Brienz

for an exclusive visit to the BRB depot to view the locomotives and workshop facilities there. In the afternoon you return to Grindelwald by train where you can relax before dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D)

Saturday 12th July

Excursion to Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’

A real tour highlight awaits today on a trip to the famous Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’. You’ll travel by train to Kleine Scheidegg before joining a JB train en route to the highest railway station in Europe. The train stops twice at points where there are large windows in the rock face for passengers to admire the views.

The ‘Top of Europe’ itself is a high-altitude building connected to the underground Jungfraujoch Railway Station by a tunnel.

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

There’s a choice of restaurants in which to take lunch, and a permanent exhibition about the Jungfrau Railway and the Alps. For the return back to Grindelwald you can either travel the same route by train from Kleine Scheidegg to Grindlewald with the group or return at your own leisure. On your return dinner will be served at the hotel. (B D)

Sunday 13th July

Bern

Steam Tram;

Cruise on Lake Thun

Today you travel by train to the Swiss capital, Bern, for a two-hour tour of the city by legendary steam tram. The metre gauge 0-6-0 tramway locomotive pulls a classic wooden carriage with open-ended balconies. You’ll pass many of Bern’s historic landmarks, including the famous Zytglogge clock tower. In the afternoon there’s time to visit the shops along the arcaded walkways, or the famous Bear Park and nearby River Aare. Later, you’ll take a service train to Thun to board a boat for the onward journey. Cruising along Lake Thun you have uninterrupted views of famous mountain peaks like the Niederhorn, Niesen, and Jungfrau. You then disembark at Interlaken West Railway Station and return by train to Grindlewald. (B D)

Monday 14th July

Free day to use your Regional Pass; Optional visit to the Schilthorn Today is free to use your Regional Pass. Your first option is a trip to the summit of the Schilthorn, overlooking the valley of Lauterbrunnen and reached by a cable car from the village of Mürren. At the summit there’s a panoramic revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, once the location of a James Bond film, and free entrance to the Bond World interactive exhibition. A mountain excursion surcharge is payable for this trip but if booked in advance you can take advantage of our special discounted

price. The second option is a visit to Lucerne. The city is located on Lake Lucerne, in sight of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi in the Swiss Alps. You’ll get to Interlaken using WAB and BOB trains from where metre gauge Zentralbahn express trains go direct to Lucerne, a great experience in itself. The route follows the scenic Brünig Line beside Lake Brienz and the River Aare to Meiringen, where the train reverses and climbs over the Brunig Pass using a rack system. The terminus station at Lucerne is opposite the landing stage from which passenger boats, including paddle steamers, serve lakeside communities. The Chapel Bridge is a landmark of Lucerne and the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Other places of interest include the Old Town of Lucerne, the Lion Monument, and the Swiss Museum of Transport. (B D)

Tuesday 15th July

Excursion to Schynige Platte

Today you enjoy an excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area, famous for its wildflower gardens and views of the majestic mountain scenery. You travel by train to Wilderswil, the junction for the 800mm gauge Schynige Platte Railway from 1893, one of Switzerland’s pioneering lines. The cog train climbs at a sedate 12 kph up to Schynige Platte, passing many panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, eventually revealing the glistening giants of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains to the south. (B D)

Wednesday 16th July

Return to UK

After breakfast it is time to say your farewells and travel by regional train to Interlaken. You then travel by express train from Interlaken to Basel before changing trains and continuing to Paris via Strasbourg. There you transfer to Paris Gare du Nord and take a Eurostar service back to London St. Pancras International. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Optional excursion

£2795

£195

£55

Day 6 – ‘The Schilthorn’ mountain visit

Price includes:

• 7 nights at the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort 4-star hotel in Grindelwald

• 7 dinners

• First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back

• A standard class Regional Pass valid for days 2 to 7 for travel around the Bernese Oberland

• All rail, tram and boat trips as mentioned in the itinerary

• All escorted visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Steam around the Austrian Lakes

Wednesday 9th July to Wednesday 16th July 2025

Paddle steamers, steam trains, mountain railways and, best of all, fantastic Alpine landscapes all feature on this wonderful holiday tour of the Austrian Lake District.

• Conveniently based in Salzburg throughout, you’ll enjoy a truly relaxed and refined tour itinerary, with ample time for personal leisure and travel exploration of the city’s many attractions, including castles, funiculars, palaces and mountain railways.

• Experience Austria’s finest and most tranquil mountain lakes on private charter cruises featuring genuine paddle steamers, vintage motor vessels and elegant salon ships, including the iconic steamboat ‘Gisela’ from 1871.

• Combine scenic journeys by water with mountaineering excursions on steam-powered rack railways, steep funiculars and panoramic gondolas, taking you to some of Europe’s most spectacular peaks, all in comfort and style.

• The fabulous ‘little trains’ of Austria feature prominently on this holiday, and journeys on the idyllic Zillertalbahn, Pinzgauerbahn, Steyrtalbahn and Pöstlingbergbahn and Achenseebahn narrow-gauge railways let you sample both ‘Plandampf’ and private charter travel with plenty of run-pasts and photo stops.

Wednesday 9th July

Arrive in Salzburg; exploration with all-inclusive Salzburg Card

After a direct morning flight from London to Salzburg you arrive in the birth city of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart by mid-day. After transfer to your hotel, you enjoy a welcome lunch and receive a Salzburg Card all-inclusive access pass, allowing full access to the city’s local trolleybus network, the popular fortress funicular and vertical elevator to the top of the Mönchsberg, from where you can enjoy views of the spires and rooftops of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Salzburg card also covers admission for all city museums, the Mozart sites and the historic Stiegl brewery. Following your discovery of Salzburg, there’s an evening dinner back at the hotel. (L D)

Thursday 10th July

The palaces and mountain railways of Salzburg

Salzburg is packed and stacked with a unique variety of attractions that will appeal to both the common traveler as well as the railway enthusiast. This includes the ornate palace at Hellbrunn with its famous fountains and water displays. From Hellbrunn you continue to the nearby Untersbergbahn, a scenic aerial cableway in the south of Salzburg that takes you to the top of the cragged Untersberg summit at a height of 1972 m above sea level. From there you have stunning views of both the Austrian and Bavarian Alps. After the descent back down you can return by trolleybus to the city centre, for more individual discovery and cultural exploration of Salzburg. For all railway

enthusiasts there is also an inclusive ticket for the Salzburger Lokalbahn, the scenic local railway that serves two branches to the north of the city using vintage stock and passing over several impressive viaducts. In the evening there’s another dinner back at the hotel. (B D)

Friday 11th July

Paddle cruise on Wolfgangsee and steam charter at the spectacular Schafberg rack railway

In the morning there is still time to use your Salzburg Card for all the countless city attractions you might now have yet been able to see and do on the previous two days.

Then in the early afternoon you transfer to the nearby Alpine lake Wolfgangsee for a charter cruise on this serene mountain lake aboard the historic 1873 paddle-wheeler Kaiser Franz Josef. This white-funnelled ship will take you back in time to the glory days of the late 19th century. Afterwards you ascend to the summit of nearby Mount Schafberg by private steam train on its famed rack and pinion railway, the steepest steam-powered rack railway in Austria, dating from 1893. From the top you’ll have stunning evening views of lakes and distant glaciers. You have dinner at the summit restaurant before you descend back down the mountain by steam train just in time for sunset. Then you return by private coach to Salzburg. (B D)

Saturday 12th July

Alpine steam at Zell am See on the Pinzgauer Lokalbahn

After breakfast you travel by ÖBB train to the famed mountainous resort town of Zell am See, a chalet village framed by tall peaks and situated on the banks of a small lake. After a look around the village you have a private steam charter train from Zell am See to the railways’ current end-point at Mittersill with the unique ‘Express’ steam locomotive 73-019. This magnificent 2-6-2 tender locomotive is the fastest narrow gauge steam locomotive in Austria and was built in 1913 for use in Bosnia. Typical Austrian apple strudel and other light refreshments will be served in the bar car of the train at mid-day. In the late afternoon you return to Salzburg by ÖBB service train, which is likely to be hauled by a classic Class 1144 electric locomotive. Tonight you are free to dine at leisure at a local restaurant of your choice. (B L)

Sunday 13th July

Steam at the Steyrtalbahn and Pöstlingbergbahn mountain railway in Linz

Today you take a late morning ÖBB express train from Salzburg to Linz, before continuing by coach to Steyr. Here you experience one of the oldest preserved railways in Austria and one its most idyllic ‘little trains’. The line leads along roughly 16 km (10 miles) through a pretty valley to Grünburg. There will be ample opportunities to photograph the rustic tank engine dating from the early 20th century, before returning to Linz by private coach.

There you board a vintage electric tramway on the panoramic Pöstlingbergbahn mountain railway. This engineering marvel from 1898 is one of the steepest adhesion-only railways in the world with gradients up to 1 in 8.6 (11.6%). Your stylish train first crosses the River Danube,

offering a full view of the urban landscape, before making the climb to the mountain-top at 519 m above sea level. From the top you will have sweeping views of Linz, the Danube and the pretty hillside scenery of Upper Austria. Then you descend back down the Pöstlingbergbahn, with its total length of 4.1 km. At the main square in Linz you enjoy a traditional Austrian dinner at a local Brauhaus, with ornate wooden panelling and tall ceilings. You return by ÖBB Railjet to Salzburg. (B D)

Monday 14th July

Paddle steamer cruise on the Traunsee, Gmunden tramway

This morning you travel to the beautiful lakeside town of Gmunden in the heart of the Austrian Alps, to enjoy a private charter cruise on Lake Traunsee aboard the iconic paddle steamer Gisela of 1871, one of the oldest operational steamboats in the world. You’ll enjoy a buffet lunch aboard the ship surrounded by incredible scenery with amazing Alpine views. Gmunden is also famous for featuring one of the smallerst urban tramway’s in Austria and you take the scenic tram back to the main line railway station, before returning on ÖBB service trains to Salzburg. In the evening you may enjoy more time at leisure in the city. (B L)

Tuesday 15th July

Steam in Tyrol at the Zillertalbahn and steam at the Achenseebahn

Your tour concludes with double steam highlights as you travel in First Class on an OBB service train from Salzburg to Jenbach, where you first ride on the narrow-gauge Zillertalbahn to the mountain terminus of Mayrhofen.

The Zillertalbahn is renowned around Europe for its regular ‘Plandampf’ trains in summer and offers beautiful views of the typical Tyrolean landscape. Once back in Jenbach, you travel on the other local line, the antique rack railway, for the ascent up to the Achensee. At the Achensee, you board a vintage motor vessel dating from the early 20th century for a private charter cruise, capping your memorable holiday. You return from Achensee to Jenbach on the rack railway, and then travel back to Salzburg once again in First Class on an OBB service train. A farewell dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. (B D)

Wednesday 16th July 2025

Return to London

After breakfast, you have a direct transfer to Salzburg airport, for a morning flight back to London. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£2295

£345

£2095 (Salzburg – Salzburg)

Price includes:

• Flights from London to Salzburg and back to London

• 7 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast

• 3 lunches and 5 Dinners

• All specially chartered steam trains as detailed in the itinerary

• All specially chartered trips on heritage trams and vintage ships

• All train and road coach travel as detailed in the itinerary

• All transfers and visits as detailed in the itinerary

• A complimentary 48-hour Salzburg Card tourist pass

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Alpine Pullman Classic Express

Monday 4th August to Friday 8th August 2025

Enjoy a stunning five-day alpine tour, featuring insights into Switzerland’s rail history, views of its natural beauty, and a tour of one of its most beautiful and populous cities.

• Take in the beautiful Alpine landscapes of Switzerland.

• Visit the Landwasser Viaduct and Albula Railway Museum, and learn about the history of rail travel in the region.

• Ride the Alpine Pullman Classic Express and experience their luxurious carriages and amazing views.

• Enjoy a scenic cruise on the breathtaking Lake Lucerne.

• Get to know the city of Lucerne on a guided tour.

• Enjoy an authentic Swiss lunch at a luxurious restaurant at the peak of Mt Pilatus.

Monday 4th August

Arrive in Davos

Today you take a direct flight from London to Basel, Switzerland. From there, you travel by rail to Davos, a picturesque resort town in the Rhaetian Alps, where you will check into the Central Sporthotel. Davos is home to one of Switzerland’s largest ski resorts, and features stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as Lake Davos. After checking in you have the rest of the day to explore Davos at your leisure, before making your way back to the hotel for a welcome dinner.

Tuesday 5th August

Landwasser Viaduct and Albula Railway Museum

After breakfast at the hotel, you head to the Rhaetian Railway for a memorable day out. First you travel to Filisur on the Landwasser Express, where you will stop to view and enjoy a tour of the spectacular Landwasser Viaduct. Originally constructed in the early 1900s, this

impressive feat of architecture is a must for any railway enthusiast. Afterwards, you will visit the Albula Railway Museum in Bergün. The museum hosts 600 exhibits, guiding you through the history of rail travel in Graubünden. It features old railway equipment, historical documents and engineering plans, as well as a simulator that allows you to experience driving the legendary Crocodile locomotive yourself. Lunch will be served at Bergün or Filisur. After lunch, you’ll return to Davos and take the funicular up to Schatzalp for some impressive Alpine views, before returning to the hotel for dinner. (B L D)

Wednesday 6th August

Alpine Classic Pullman Express, cruise on Lake Lucerne

Today you meet in reception with your luggage, this will be transferred directly to your hotel in Sarnen. Following check out, you embark on the Alpine Classic Pullman Express to Andermatt. You will travel the famous UNESCO World Heritage route on the Albula line over

the Landwasser Viaduct, and experience the natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge, Switzerland’s Grand Canyon, as you follow the route over the Oberalp Pass. The nostalgic saloon carriages, with their comfortable armchairs, bay windows, and teak wood furnishings, all contribute to the unique charm of the Alpine Classic Pullman Express. Upon arrival in Andermatt, you continue by rail to Flüelen at the southern tip of Lake Lucerne, travelling through the wild Schöllenen Gorge and along the Reuss. From Flüelen you will board a boat for a scenic cruise to Lucerne. From there you take a short train journey to Sarnen, where you will check into the Hotel Krone for dinner. (B D)

Thursday 7th August

Lucerne tour, Cogwheel railway to Mt Pilatus and cruise

After breakfast at the hotel, you will get to know Lucerne through a guided tour of the city. You’ll be inspired by the numerous market squares, the colourfully painted houses, and

Georg Trueb Christian Ticar

the famous Chapel Bridge. Lucerne is also home to a number of beautiful, original shops which you will have the opportunity to browse. At lunchtime, you take the world’s steepest cogwheel railway up the local mountain, the 2173 metre high Mt Pilatus. Here you will enjoy lunch at the Pilatus-Kulm restaurant, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After lunch, you return back to Alpnachstad, where you take a lake cruise back

to Lucerne. On arrival back in lucerne you return by train back to your hotel in Sarnen, where your farewell dinner will be served. (B L D)

Friday 8th August

Return home

After breakfast, you check out of your hotel and return by rail to Basel Airport for a direct flight home. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

£1995

£175

Ground only £1895 (Basel – Basel)

Price includes:

• Flights from London to Basel

• 2 Nights Accommodation at 4-star hotel in Davos

• 2 Nights Accommodation at 4-star hotel in Sarnen

• 4 Breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners

• Travel on the Rhaetian Railway from Davos to Filisur

• Landwasser Viaduct tour on the Landwasser Express

• Albula Railway museum entrance and guided tour at Bahnmuseum Albula in Bergün

• Excursion to Schatzalp

• Alpine Pullman Express from Davos to Andermatt

• Cruises as detailed in the Itinerary

• Guided tour of Lucerne

• Cogwheel Railway to Mount Pilatus

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B

Christian Ticar

Swiss Bernese Oberland

Wednesday 6th August to Wednesday 13th August 2025

Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Switzerland on this tour to the Bernese Oberland, famed for its shimmering lakes and soaring Alpine peaks, including the towering Jungfrau and the magnificent Eiger.

• Based in Alpine holiday Region of Grindelwald, you’ll explore the Bernese Oberland on Switzerland´s outstanding railway system.

• Enjoy extensive scheduled travel on famous mountain rack railways, including the Brienz Rothorn Railway and Jungfrau Railway to the ‘Top of Europe’.

• Discover the Swiss capital Bern on a two-hour steam tram tour, and enjoy peaceful boat cruises on Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

• There’s also a thrilling excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area to enjoy, famous for its outstanding views and wildflower gardens.

• Experience unrestricted travel on Swiss trains, trams and buses in tour free time thanks to your complimentary Bernese Oberland Regional Pass.

Wednesday 6th August

London to Grindelwald via Basel

You travel First Class by Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord. You then journey from Paris to Basel in Switzerland via Strasbourg. You join a high-speed service at Basel to Interlaken Ost, before continuing by regional train direct to Grindelwald. Here you check into the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort 4-star Hotel, your base for the tour. A light dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. You’ll also receive your 6-day Bernese Oberland Regional Pass for easy exploration of the surrounding areas. (D)

Thursday 7th August

Free day in Grindelwald

Today is yours to relax and enjoy the facilities at the hotel or take a stroll through the famous

mountain village, embedded in a unique Alpine landscape at the foot of the Eiger north face. Making use of your Regional Pass you can visit the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten illuminated glacier-waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible only by a tunnel-lift. (B D)

Friday 8th August

Lake Brienz Cruise; Steam on the Brienz Rothorn Railway

This morning you travel by train to Interlaken to enjoy a leisurely steamship cruise on Lake Brienz to Brienz at its eastern end. You join a steam train on the 800mm gauge Brienz Rothorn Railway (BRB), Switzerland’s oldest rack railway and climb 1,678 metres (5,505 ft) from Brienz to Rothorn Kulm Station, just below the summit of Brienz Rothorn Mountain. After free time at the summit to enjoy lunch, you return to Brienz

for an exclusive visit to the BRB depot to view the locomotives and workshop facilities there. In the afternoon you return to Grindelwald by train where you can relax before dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D)

Saturday 9th August

Excursion to Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’

A real tour highlight awaits today on a trip to the famous Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’. You’ll travel by train to Kleine Scheidegg before joining a JB train en route to the highest railway station in Europe. The train stops twice at points where there are large windows in the rock face for passengers to admire the views.

The ‘Top of Europe’ itself is a high-altitude building connected to the underground Jungfraujoch Railway Station by a tunnel.

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

There’s a choice of restaurants in which to take lunch, and a permanent exhibition about the Jungfrau Railway and the Alps. For the return back to Grindelwald you can either travel the same route by train from Kleine Scheidegg to Grindlewald with the group or return at your own leisure. On your return dinner will be served at the hotel. (B D)

Sunday 10th August

Bern

Steam Tram;

Cruise on Lake Thun

Today you travel by train to the Swiss capital, Bern, for a two-hour tour of the city by legendary steam tram. The metre gauge 0-6-0 tramway locomotive pulls a classic wooden carriage with open-ended balconies. You’ll pass many of Bern’s historic landmarks, including the famous Zytglogge clock tower. In the afternoon there’s time to visit the shops along the arcaded walkways, or the famous Bear Park and nearby River Aare. Later, you’ll take a service train to Thun to board a boat for the onward journey. Cruising along Lake Thun you have uninterrupted views of famous mountain peaks like the Niederhorn, Niesen, and Jungfrau. You then disembark at Interlaken West Railway Station and return by train to Grindlewald. (B D)

Monday 11th August

Free day to use your Regional Pass; Optional visit to the Schilthorn

Today is free to use your Regional Pass. Your first option is a trip to the summit of the Schilthorn, overlooking the valley of Lauterbrunnen and reached by a cable car from the village of Mürren. At the summit there’s a panoramic revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, once the location of a James Bond film, and free entrance to the Bond World interactive exhibition. A mountain excursion surcharge is payable for this trip but if booked in advance you can take advantage of our special discounted

price. The second option is a visit to Lucerne. The city is located on Lake Lucerne, in sight of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi in the Swiss Alps. You’ll get to Interlaken using WAB and BOB trains from where metre gauge Zentralbahn express trains go direct to Lucerne, a great experience in itself. The route follows the scenic Brünig Line beside Lake Brienz and the River Aare to Meiringen, where the train reverses and climbs over the Brunig Pass using a rack system. The terminus station at Lucerne is opposite the landing stage from which passenger boats, including paddle steamers, serve lakeside communities. The Chapel Bridge is a landmark of Lucerne and the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Other places of interest include the Old Town of Lucerne, the Lion Monument, and the Swiss Museum of Transport. (B D)

Tuesday 12th August

Excursion to Schynige Platte

Today you enjoy an excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area, famous for its wildflower gardens and views of the majestic mountain scenery. You travel by train to Wilderswil, the junction for the 800mm gauge Schynige Platte Railway from 1893, one of Switzerland’s pioneering lines. The cog train climbs at a sedate 12 kph up to Schynige Platte, passing many panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, eventually revealing the glistening giants of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains to the south. (B D)

Wednesday 13th August

Return to UK

After breakfast it is time to say your farewells and travel by regional train to Interlaken. You then travel by express train from Interlaken to Basel before changing trains and continuing to Paris via Strasbourg. There you transfer to Paris Gare du Nord and take a Eurostar service back to London St. Pancras International. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Optional excursion

£2795

£195

£55

Day 6 – ‘The Schilthorn’ mountain visit

Price includes:

• 7 nights at the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort 4-star hotel in Grindelwald

• 7 dinners

• First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back

• A standard class Regional Pass valid for days 2 to 7 for travel around the Bernese Oberland

• All rail, tram and boat trips as mentioned in the itinerary

• All escorted visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Alpine Steam Express

Thursday 4th September to Wednesday 10th September 2025

Against the backdrop of the stunning Swiss Alps and wild Jura Mountains, enjoy glamorous steam locomotives on world famous lines, framed by towering peaks and beautiful glaciers.

• Based in the historic and conveniently located city of Olten, you’ll travel on privately chartered steam trains and public steamboats, while also having time to make good use of your First Class Swiss Travel Pass rover ticket to explore Switzerland’s amazing railway network.

• Steam over the majestic Furka Pass on one of the railway’s rarely deployed tank engines on the steeper west to east route from Oberwald to Realp, with breathtaking views and photo stops along the way.

• Experience Swiss steam at its best by land and water, including the hilly steam railway in the Zürich Oberland, the narrow gauge garden railway at Schinznach and the majestic paddle steamers on Lake Geneva.

• Enjoy the plush comfort of 1930s luxury coaches on a main line steam charter in the rugged Val de Travers in Western Switzerland along the old Ligne Franco-Suisse from the 1860s, hauled by an iconic former SBB ‘Tiger’ tank engine.

• Travel through the pastoral Emmental Valley on a private steam charter on the beautiful, freight-only line from Huttwil to Sumiswald.

Thursday 4th September

London to Olten by rail

You travel by Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord. Transferring to Paris Gare de l’Est you then journey to Basel in Switzerland via Strasbourg. A short transfer takes you to Olten, your base for the holiday. You check into your quality hotel near the station and the historic old town and have time to relax before a welcome dinner is provided. (D)

Friday 5th September

Main line steam in the Val de Travers in the Jura Mountains

Today you have a free morning to make the most of your Swiss Travel Pass, perhaps exploring new lines or narrow gauge routes in Central Switzerland near Olten. In the afternoon

you travel with the group by SBB train to Neuchatel. You then experience the best of main line steam, travelling in western Switzerland on the old ‘Ligne Franco-Suisse’ from 1860 and eventually branching off onto the spur to Fleurier and St.Sulpice. The last section of the route to St. Sulpice has been without a regular passenger service since 1973 and is only used by heritage steam trains of the association Vapeur Val-de-Travers. You travel aboard one of Switzerland’s best preserved and most elegant rakes of standard gauge coaches, including First Class carriages with plush amenities and atseat-catering. Your main line steam charter from Noiraigue to St. Sulpice is hauled by the famous SBB ‘Tigerli’ tank engine 8511 dating from 1911. In St. Sulpice, you visit the large steam locomotive collection of the VVT group, and a

false arrival of the ‘Tigerli’-hauled train will be staged for photo opportunities. You then have lunch on site, before the steam train takes you back to Fleurier. For the rest of the afternoon you are free to use your Swiss Travel Pass and explore other local railway lines of Canton Neuchatel. (B L)

Saturday 6th September

High altitude steam at the Furka Railway and paddle steamer cruise on Lake Geneva

This morning, after an exciting journey by standard and narrow-gauge service trains from Olten via the Bernese Oberland and Upper Valais to Oberwald, you board a steam train of the legendary Furka Railway and then travel steam-hauled over the original summit route of

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

the world famous Glacier Express, seeing the namesake Rhone Glacier up close during several photo stops along the way. Your train will be hauled by the newly overhauled 0-8-0 giant tank engine No. 708, which was brought back to Switzerland from Vietnam. You take the west to east route from Oberwald via Furka to Realp, which features significantly more uphill running than the reverse east to west direction. For the first time in 2024, the steam train now requires no additional banking for the passage through the short summit tunnel. Experience the very best of the Swiss Alps! After arrival to Realp you continue by Matterhorn-Gotthard-Bahn service train to Brig and then from there take an SBB service on the main line through the scenic Rhone Valley to Vevey. There you have time to take a stroll along the banks of Lake Geneva and see the famed statue of Charlie Chaplin, before capping the day in fine style with a dinner cruise on Lake Geneva aboard the historic paddle steamer “Montreux” from 1904. As the marine steam engine works hard, you will glide past Chillon Castle and the Lavaux terraced vineyards on your way to Lausanne. From Lausanne you return by SBB train to Olten. (B D)

Sunday 7th September

Steam in the Zürich Oberland with two tank engines and steam at the Schinznach Garden Railway for their annual gala

More archaic 19th century motive power awaits you today, as you venture deep into the green hills of Zürich Oberland and travel on Switzerland's premier standard gauge heritage railway from Hinwil to Bauma.

Just recently, the Bauma station complex has been comprehensively re-developed and now features an original, 4-bay station canopy dating from 1859, which was first built for Basel and then moved to Bauma. This amazing structure lends great atmosphere to your steam train departure aboard a green train of ancient four-wheeled coaches hauled by the railway’s immaculate former SBB tank engines dating from the late 19th and early 20th century. You will be hauled by one steam locomotive for the outward trip from Hinwil to Bauma and then a different steam loco for the return leg, with photo stops included. After this splendid steam experience, you transfer by train to Brugg and then take one of the iconic yellow “Postauto” postal coaches for the short connection to nearby Schinznach, where a wonderful 600 mm (two foot) gauge field railway is Switzerland’s premier park railway. Running through attractively landscaped fields full of blossoms and young trees, the railway also circles a large pond and traverses an

impressive viaduct. Simply said it is one of the most “fun” steam operations in Switzerland and this Sunday marks the railway’s annual gala with at least three different locomotives in steam. In the early evening you return to Olten for dinner at the hotel. (B D)

Monday 8th September

Steam in the Emmental with a unique “Boxcab” locomotive

After another free morning, with time to make good use of your Swiss Travel Pass and perhaps explore another rural branch line, you travel with the group in the afternoon to Huttwil, traditional site of a major steam depot and gateway to the famed Emmental region. This traditional Swiss heartland is known for its pastoral landscapes with green rolling hills, gentle fields and lots of grazing cows. The freight-only railway line from Huttwil to Sumiswald is particularly serene and ideal for photo stops with run-pasts. The unique attraction today is the Boxcab steam locomotive Nr. 5 from 1936, which was specifically built for use on the Emmental lines around Huttwil and has the advantage of being suitable for one-man operation. Today the locomotive is unique in Switzerland and has only just been overhauled after years out of service. Back in Huttwil there is still time for a shed visit, before dinner is served in a historic dining car at the railway station . (B D)

Tuesday 9th September

Freedom of Switzerland with your Swiss Travel Pass

Today, use get to make the most of your First Class Swiss Travel Pass to explore the country and its amazing public transport network to the fullest. You could venture on the Old Gotthard Route and Centovalli Railway to Ticino and even Domodossola in Northern Italy, head to Zermatt or enjoy different paddle steamers on Lake Lucerne, Lake Thun or Lake Brienz! Mountain railways off the beaten path or delightful narrow gauge trains also beckon! The Rigi rack railway is also included in the pass. The choice is yours and your tour manager will be happy to advise you! In the evening there is a farewell dinner at the hotel to end the tour. (B D)

Wednesday 10th September

Return to London

You return from Olten to London via Basel and Paris, using SBB, TGV and Eurostar high speed services (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£2695

£275

£2395

(Olten – Olten with First Class Swiss Pass)

Price includes:

• Standard Premier travel on Eurostar services from London – Paris and return

• First Class travel on all rail services throughout (where possible)

• 6 nights accommodation with breakfast at the 3-star Hotel Olten

• 1 lunch and 5 dinners

• First Class Swiss travel pass for travel within Switzerland

• All rail trips, steam trains, private charters and excursions as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

Please note that ground only does not include rail or flight services from the UK and Return or any transfers to or from your hotel(s) on the first and last day of your holiday. You will be responsible for arranging these yourself.

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Swiss Bernese Oberland

Wednesday 10th September to Wednesday 17th September 2025

Discover the outstanding natural beauty of Switzerland on this tour to the Bernese Oberland, famed for its shimmering lakes and soaring Alpine peaks, including the towering Jungfrau and the magnificent Eiger.

• Based in Alpine holiday Region of Grindelwald, you’ll explore the Bernese Oberland on Switzerland´s outstanding railway system.

• Enjoy extensive scheduled travel on famous mountain rack railways, including the Brienz Rothorn Railway and Jungfrau Railway to the ‘Top of Europe’.

• Discover the Swiss capital Bern on a two-hour steam tram tour, and enjoy peaceful boat cruises on Lake Brienz and Lake Thun.

• There’s also a thrilling excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area to enjoy, famous for its outstanding views and wildflower gardens.

• Experience unrestricted travel on Swiss trains, trams and buses in tour free time thanks to your complimentary Bernese Oberland Regional Pass.

Wednesday 10th September

London to Grindelwald via Basel

You travel First Class by Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord. You then journey from Paris to Basel in Switzerland via Strasbourg. You join a high-speed service at Basel to Interlaken Ost, before continuing by regional train direct to Grindelwald. Here you check into the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort 4-star Hotel, your base for the tour. A light dinner will be served at your hotel this evening. You’ll also receive your 6-day Bernese Oberland Regional Pass for easy exploration of the surrounding areas. (D)

Thursday 11th September

Free day in Grindelwald

Today is yours to relax and enjoy the facilities at the hotel or take a stroll through the famous

mountain village, embedded in a unique Alpine landscape at the foot of the Eiger north face. Making use of your Regional Pass you can visit the Trümmelbach Falls, a series of ten illuminated glacier-waterfalls inside a mountain, accessible only by a tunnel-lift. (B D)

Friday 12th September

Lake Brienz Cruise; Steam on the Brienz Rothorn Railway

This morning you travel by train to Interlaken to enjoy a leisurely steamship cruise on Lake Brienz to Brienz at its eastern end. You join a steam train on the 800mm gauge Brienz Rothorn Railway (BRB), Switzerland’s oldest rack railway and climb 1,678 metres (5,505 ft) from Brienz to Rothorn Kulm Station, just below the summit of Brienz Rothorn Mountain. After free time at the summit to enjoy lunch, you return to Brienz

for an exclusive visit to the BRB depot to view the locomotives and workshop facilities there. In the afternoon you return to Grindelwald by train where you can relax before dinner is again served in your hotel restaurant. (B D)

Saturday 13th September

Excursion to Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’

A real tour highlight awaits today on a trip to the famous Jungfraujoch and the ‘Top of Europe’. You’ll travel by train to Kleine Scheidegg before joining a JB train en route to the highest railway station in Europe. The train stops twice at points where there are large windows in the rock face for passengers to admire the views.

The ‘Top of Europe’ itself is a high-altitude building connected to the underground Jungfraujoch Railway Station by a tunnel.

Georg Trueb

Georg Trueb

There’s a choice of restaurants in which to take lunch, and a permanent exhibition about the Jungfrau Railway and the Alps. For the return back to Grindelwald you can either travel the same route by train from Kleine Scheidegg to Grindlewald with the group or return at your own leisure. On your return dinner will be served at the hotel. (B D)

Sunday 14th September

Bern Steam Tram; Cruise on Lake Thun

Today you travel by train to the Swiss capital, Bern, for a two-hour tour of the city by legendary steam tram. The metre gauge 0-6-0 tramway locomotive pulls a classic wooden carriage with open-ended balconies. You’ll pass many of Bern’s historic landmarks, including the famous Zytglogge clock tower. In the afternoon there’s time to visit the shops along the arcaded walkways, or the famous Bear Park and nearby River Aare. Later, you’ll take a service train to Thun to board a boat for the onward journey. Cruising along Lake Thun you have uninterrupted views of famous mountain peaks like the Niederhorn, Niesen, and Jungfrau. You then disembark at Interlaken West Railway Station and return by train to Grindlewald. (B D)

Monday 15th September

Free day to use your Regional Pass; Optional visit to the Schilthorn

Today is free to use your Regional Pass. Your first option is a trip to the summit of the Schilthorn, overlooking the valley of Lauterbrunnen and reached by a cable car from the village of Mürren. At the summit there’s a panoramic revolving restaurant, Piz Gloria, once the location of a James Bond film, and free entrance to the Bond World interactive exhibition. A mountain excursion surcharge is payable for this trip but if booked in advance you can take advantage of our special discounted

price. The second option is a visit to Lucerne. The city is located on Lake Lucerne, in sight of Mount Pilatus and Mount Rigi in the Swiss Alps. You’ll get to Interlaken using WAB and BOB trains from where metre gauge Zentralbahn express trains go direct to Lucerne, a great experience in itself. The route follows the scenic Brünig Line beside Lake Brienz and the River Aare to Meiringen, where the train reverses and climbs over the Brunig Pass using a rack system. The terminus station at Lucerne is opposite the landing stage from which passenger boats, including paddle steamers, serve lakeside communities. The Chapel Bridge is a landmark of Lucerne and the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Other places of interest include the Old Town of Lucerne, the Lion Monument, and the Swiss Museum of Transport. (B D)

Tuesday 16th September

Excursion to Schynige Platte

Today you enjoy an excursion to the Schynige Platte mountain area, famous for its wildflower gardens and views of the majestic mountain scenery. You travel by train to Wilderswil, the junction for the 800mm gauge Schynige Platte Railway from 1893, one of Switzerland’s pioneering lines. The cog train climbs at a sedate 12 kph up to Schynige Platte, passing many panoramic viewpoints overlooking Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, eventually revealing the glistening giants of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains to the south. (B D)

Wednesday 17th September

Return to UK

After breakfast it is time to say your farewells and travel by regional train to Interlaken. You then travel by express train from Interlaken to Basel before changing trains and continuing to Paris via Strasbourg. There you transfer to Paris Gare du Nord and take a Eurostar service back to London St. Pancras International. (B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Optional excursion

£2795

£195

£55

Day 6 – ‘The Schilthorn’ mountain visit

Price includes:

• 7 nights at the Eiger Mountain & Soul Resort 4-star hotel in Grindelwald

• 7 dinners

• First Class rail travel from London to Switzerland and back

• A standard class Regional Pass valid for days 2 to 7 for travel around the Bernese Oberland

• All rail, tram and boat trips as mentioned in the itinerary

• All escorted visits as detailed in the itinerary

• All seat reservations and transfers (except on free days)

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Railways of the Raj: India

Saturday 16th November to Saturday 30th November 2024

Revisit the Golden Days of the Raj * in India on this timeless railway tour of the old British colonial outposts in Northern & North-Bengal in East India staying in lovely & charming hotels.

You’ll start in north-Bengal in East India, a state bordered by Bhutan, Bangladesh and Nepal. Against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas you explore the region on the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), a UNESCO World Heritage Mountain Railway including the famous Batasia Loop. High altitude towns were established as hill stations by the British, where they sought refuge from the heat of the plains during the long Indian summers. Access was often made easier by the construction of narrow-gauge railways. You’ll experience exclusive steam charters from the foothills of the Himalayas all the way up to famous Darjeeling.

Your second week begins in Shimla, the summer capital of British India in the days of the Raj, sited in the state of Himachal Pradesh, nestled in the Himalayas and famous for its abundant natural beauty. More narrow-gauge thrills await on the UNESCO listed Kalka Shimla Railway in Shivalik mountain ranges in our exclusive vintage Railbus and then travel to off-the beaten Dhauladhar mountain ranges in north-west to stay in the Tea growing town of North India, Palampur. With rides on narrow gauge lines, visits to famous temple and shrine, tea estates, historic colonial centres and much more to savour throughout, you’ll quickly discover that these northern frontiers of India, defined by the snow-capped Himalayas, are as memorable to the modern visitor as they were to our colonial ancestors.

The final part of the holiday is based in the Ooty (extension to the main tour), including a trip on the Nilgiri Mountain Railway hauled by steam. Extension holidays are also available

* The British Raj (raj means reign in the Hindi language) refers to the British rule in India between 1858 and 1947.

Saturday 16th November

Flight to India

You have an overnight flight from London Heathrow to Delhi airport to connect with an onward flight on Sunday to Bagdogra in North-east India.

Sunday 17th November Delhi to Siliguri

You arrive at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi in the morning to be met in Arrivals by our local agent, after clearing immigrations & collecting your luggage. You then switch

between arrivals and departures within the same terminal to board an internal flight in the early afternoon to Bagdogra. You then transfer to Siliguri, in the foothills of the Himalayas, where you check into your hotel. The remainder of your day will be free time to relax. (D)

Monday 18th November

Steam charter on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to Kurseong

After an early breakfast, you transfer to the local depot of the famous narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) in time to

see a B Class steam locomotive being shunted to your specially chartered train. You depart to travel to the hill station of Kurseong.You pass Sukna Station where the landscape changes from flat plains to the wooded lower slopes of the mountains. You arrive at Kurseong by late afternoon. Kurseong is a quiet town and you’ll stay in a colonial bungalow, now converted into a hotel. The DHR track runs through the length of this former rest town from the days of the British Raj. The early evening is free for you to discover the local natural sights and surrounding tea estates. (B D)

Tuesday 19th November

Steam train to Darjeeling via the Batasia Loop

This morning you travel by jeep to Kurseong Station again to board your steam train on the DHR. You’ll pass through the famous Batasia Loop en route and weather permitting, will be able to take photos of the train against the background of Mt. Kanchenjunga and the rest of the Himalayan range. This renowned spiral railway was commissioned in 1919 to lower the gradient of ascent of the DHR.

You arrive in Darjeeling by lunchtime and transfer to the most iconic colonial hotel for overnight accommodation. (B D)

Wednesday 20th November

Sightseeing visits to local landmarks

After a relaxed start and a leisurely breakfast, this morning you’ll visit You’ll also visit the famous Tibetan Refugee Centre in Darjeeling, where traditional handmade textiles and handicrafts can be seen, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) there. This museum houses the collectibles of the legendary Sir Edmund Hillary and the local Sherpa of Darjeeling, Tenzing Norgay, who were of course the first conquerors of Mt. Everest. Also, you’ll visit the adjoining Zoo that houses the Bengal Tiger, exotic birds and the famous Red Panda. (B D)

Thursday 21st November

Excursion Ghum Monastery and optional Joy Train to Ghum

A short walk behind your hotel will lead you to a viewing point where you can have exceptional and uninterrupted view the spectacular sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain. There are also views of Mount Everest in the distance, if the weather is clear. After breakfast, you visit the Yiga Choeling Monastery in Ghum, one of the oldest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the Darjeeling area and built in 1850. It boasts a 15-foot-high statue of Buddha known as the Buddha of the Future or the Coming Buddha. We will have opportunity to photograph the steam or diesel service up from Darjeeling to Ghum. Remainder of the day free to explore the exotic Darjeeling malls and bazaars. An optional excursion is a ride on the ‘Joy Train’ to Ghum, with another opportunity to photograph the spectacular Himalayan Mountains when the train pauses at Batasia Loop. You stop at Ghum and visit the museum above the station before returning to Darjeeling. (B D)

Friday 22nd November

Darjeeling to Bagdogra airport; Flight to Delhi

You leave Darjeeling after breakfast travelling by road to Bagdogra airport. You stop at a hotel near the airport where you can purchase a quick lunch before boarding an internal flight to Delhi. Your overnight accommodation will be in a hotel. (B D)

Saturday 23rd November

Steam train to Rewari Steam Centre; return by regular express train

After breakfast, you’ll have a short transfer to Delhi Cantonment Railway Station for the regular steam train to visit the Rewari Steam Centre. Your train will be hauled by one of India’s iconic steam locomotives, a WP class Pacific built post World War II for use on prestigious express trains. The once famous Rewari locomotive depot fell into ruin following the decline of steam traction but was restored and reopened in 2010. It now houses preserved broad and metre gauge steam locomotives. The site also includes a small exhibits museum, a steam crane and restored saloon carriage. The latter will be your venue for a specially arranged lunch. You return to Delhi Cantonment Railway Station by express service train Express. (B L D)

Sunday 24th November

Delhi city tour

After breakfast, we enjoy a guided city tour of Old and New Delhi to include a visit to the Chandni Chowk in old part of the city on a cycle rickshaw. Visit to Raj Ghat gardens, Mahatama Gandhi’s resting place, Humayun’s Tomb of Mughal era, drive past President’s House, Indian Gate memorial, walk through Connaught Place. You may also like to enjoy a short ride on the Delhi Metro train for an experience (optional). (B D)

Monday 25th November

Delhi to Chandigarh by train

After an early cold breakfast in your hotel you transfer to New Delhi Railway Station to board the 12011 Kalka Shatabadi Express to Kalka. Tea, coffee, cereals with hot milk, omelette with bread, and jam/butter are available on board. Chandigarh, is a beautiful and well-planned city designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier. We will visit the popular Rock Garden and Sukna lake before checking in out hotel. (B D)

Continues over page.

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£4579

£985

£3999 (Delhi – Delhi)

Ooty Extension

Single Supplement

£1275

£375

Price includes:

• 13 nights hotel accommodation and breakfast

• 2 lunches

• 13 dinners

• Train travel Delhi – Kalka (Executive Class)

• Transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• Local guide services in Darjeeling, Shimla and Amritsar

• Charter and special trains as per itinerary

• Regular service WP or Fairy Queen steam hauled loco ride from Delhi – Rewari Optional excursion ‘Joy train’ to Gum is an additional charge.

Ooty Extension Tour Summary

• 3 nights hotel accommodation and breakfast

• 3 dinners

• Transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• Steam charter ride from Mettupalayam to Coonoor

• Train travel Coonoor – Ooty (First class)

• Local guide services in Ooty

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Tuesday 26th November

Kalka to Shimla by vintage railbus

An hour’s road transfer in the morning from hotel to Kalka railway station narrow-gauge platform to board the exclusive Vintage Rail Car/ Bus at noon. You’ll then travel the full length of the KSR from Kalka to arrive in Shimla, the summer capital of British India in the days of the Raj. This historic vehicle was originally used to transport notable travellers on the railway and so only has first class accommodation. Its glass roof and forward views let you fully enjoy the fantastic scenery as it passes by. You are now travelling through the state of Himachal Pradesh, in the lap of the Himalayas and famous for its abundant natural beauty. You ascend the foothills of the picturesque Shivalik Mountains to Shimla Railway Station. Lunch boxes will be served in the railcar today. On arrival in Shimla late afternoon, you transfer to a colonial hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Wednesday 27th November

Viceregal Lodge, The Mall Road, Ridge, Christ Church

After a leisurely breakfast, discover the most iconic residence of the former Viceroy of India during the Raj. Conducted tour of the building will provide a nostalgic touch to the existence of Shimla! Further, visit The Mall, Ridge, the Christ Church, Scandal Point, and the local arts and crafts. (B D)

Thursday 28th November

Shimla to Amritsar

An early transfer from the hotel to Shimla airport to board a short flight to Amritsar at 08:45/09:45 hrs.

We will have a city tour of Amritsar; a guided visit to the holy Sikh shrine of Harmandir Saheb, the famous Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, a garden which was the scene of a cruel massacre of innocent civilians in 1919 and a decisive event in the British rule of India. You’ll visit the site of the atrocity and see the memorial built to honour the hundreds who died. (B D)

Friday, 29th November

Full day tour of Amritsar

After breakfast, a leisurely guided visit to Partition Museum, consisting of stories, materials, and documents related to the postpartition riots that followed the division of British India into two independent dominions: India and Pakistan.

Afternoon excursion to the Wagah border for the India-Pakistan gate closing ceremony. (B D)

Saturday 30th November

Flight to Delhi for onward connection

After breakfast, transferred to Amritsar airport to board flight for Delhi for further connection for London Heathrow. (B)

Extension to Ooty

Saturday 30th November

Amritsar to Coimbatore

We transfer to the domestic airport terminal for a via Mumbai flight to Coimbatore arriving there mid-afternoon. On arrival we transfer to our hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. (B D)

Sunday 1st December

Coimbatore to Mettupalayam and Ooty by steam

Following breakfast we depart by road to Mettupalayam station (38 kms/2 hrs) and then on board in our steam hauled special charter on the metre gauge rack and pinion Nilgiri Mountain Railway to Coonoor, where we visit the steam shed and is the end of the rack and pinion mechanism. We then, board the regular diesel service to arrive in Ooty by afternoon and transfer to our hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation at a luxury colonial hotel. (B D)

Monday 2nd December

Ooty

This morning you have the option of riding on the diesel service from Ooty to Coonoor and return or spending a free morning in Ooty. In the afternoon we have a visit to the Botanical Garden and Ooty Lake, with the option of a ride on the toy train/Garden Railway along the lake. We return to our hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B D)

Tuesday 3rd December

Return to UK

After breakfast in Ooty before we transfer to Coimbatore airport for the domestic flight to Mumbai before connecting with our return flight to the UK. (B)

Wednesday 4th December

Arrive UK

We arrive at London Heathrow in the mid to late afternoon.

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

(Delhi – Delhi)

Ooty Extension

Single Supplement

Price includes:

£4579

£985

£3999

£1275

£375

• 13 nights hotel accommodation and breakfast

• 2 lunches

• 13 dinners

• Train travel Delhi – Kalka (Executive Class)

• Transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• Local guide services in Darjeeling, Shimla and Amritsar

• Charter and special trains as per itinerary

• Regular service WP or Fairy Queen steam hauled loco ride from Delhi – Rewari

Optional excursion ‘Joy train’ to Gum is an additional charge.

Ooty Extension Tour Summary

• 3 nights hotel accommodation and breakfast

• 3 dinners

• Transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• Steam charter ride from Mettupalayam to Coonoor

• Train travel Coonoor – Ooty (First class)

• Local guide services in Ooty

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Sri Lanka – The Viceroy Special

Thursday 20th February to Saturday 8th March 2025

Explore ‘the finest island in the whole world’ (Marco Polo) on the impressive Viceroy Special Train as you discover the exotic wildlife, holy Buddhist sites, verdant landscapes, unspoilt beaches and rich colonial heritage of this beautiful island in the Indian Ocean.

• Your ‘Viceroy Special’ train comprises two air-conditioned lounge cars and a restaurant and bar car, hauled by British-built Edwardian steam locomotives of the classic 4-6-0 type or diesel locomotive.

• Staying at the best hotels you journey on the Viceroy Special past tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and lush forests as you visit the outstanding historical sites of an island whose recorded history stretches back 2,500 years.

• Countless tour highlights include visits to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a trip to the sacred Buddhist ‘Tree of Enlightenment’ and a jeep safari to Minneriya National Park, heavily populated by wild elephants.

• Discover Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural centre and the sacred city of Buddhism, now a UNESCO World Heritage site and visit the Temple of the Tooth, housing one of Sri Lanka’s most important relics – a tooth of the Buddha.

• With fine cuisine, luxury accommodation and travel and an abundance of photo opportunities, this exotic holiday is a must for even the most seasoned traveller and offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those new to steam travel tours.

Thursday 20th February

Fly to Colombo

You leave London on a mid-morning in-direct flight to Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo.

Friday 21st February

Free day to relax

You arrive at Colombo Airport early morning and transfer to the Galle Face Hotel in Colombo, where you will spend the day relaxing. (B L D)

Saturday 22nd February

Steam train from the Airport to Kandy via Elephant Orphanage

This morning you transfer to the Colombo Fort Railway station. Here you join the Viceroy Special, a chartered train hauled by B1 class 4-6-0 steam

locomotive No. 340 ‘Sir Thomas Maitland’.

Breakfast and lunch will be served on the train as you travel to Kandy. En-route you stop to visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, one of Sri Lanka’s most popular animal attractions.

Later you continue along the spectacular route into the hills, there will be a stop in Kadugannawa to visit the Railway Museum. On arrival at Kandy you transfer to the luxury 5-star Mahaweli Reach Hotel, where you can relax for the rest of the afternoon before dinner. (B L D)

Sunday 23rd February

Kandy to Nuwara-Eliya, the highest town on Sri Lanka

Today your special train will be hauled by a diesel locomotive as you travel from Kandy into the

sublime green heights of Sri Lanka’s hill country, passing tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and verdant forests. You stop at Nanu Oya village, from where you transfer by road coach to Nuwara Eliya, the highest town on the island. It boasts many colonial style homes with English-type lawns and gardens looking out across a placid lake. You enjoy a visit to the Hakgala Botanical Gardens following which the rest of the day is free to relax. You’ll stay at the impressive Grand Hotel tonight, where dinner will be served. (B L D)

Monday 24th February

Nuwara-Eliya to Badulla and back

After an early breakfast you transfer by coach to the Nanu-Oya Railway Station for a one-

day excursion on the Viceroy Special along the highlands railway to the mountain terminus station of Badulla. This rail journey is rated one of the world’s best. The rolling hills are strewn with tea plantations, gushing streams and cascading waterfalls. En-route, photo stops at Pattipola Summit Level (15 minutes), Idalgashinna View Point (5 Minutes), a run Past at Demodera Nine Arch Bridge (30 minutes) and a photo stop at Demodera Loop (15 minutes) will be staged. Lunch, tea and coffee will be served on the train. On this scenic journey you descend from the heights of Nuwara Eliya at nearly 2,000 metres down to Badulla at 680 metres on the banks of the Badulu Oya (river). The railway features numerous spirals, loops, spectacular viaducts and quaint colonial stations. You then enjoy a sightseeing tour of Badulla by tuk tuks, before returning to Nuwara Eliya by either coach or on board the train. You stay overnight again at The Grand Hotel. (B L D)

Tuesday 25th February

Nuwara-Eliya

This morning, you have a guided tour of NuwaraEliya scheduled, which includes a visit to the Pedro Estate Tea Plantation & Factory. The rest of the day has been kept free for you to explore Nuwara-Eliya, the self-styled ‘Little England’ set in a scenic valley at the base of the island’s tallest mountain, Piduruthalagala. Colonial-era bungalows, Tudor-style hotels, well-tended hedgerows and pretty gardens abound here, and the parks, Lake Gregory, the post office and the market place offer excellent reasons to stroll around. You stay overnight again at The Grand Hotel. (B L D)

Wednesday 26th February

Viceroy Special to Kandy

This morning you re-join the diesel hauled Viceroy Special at Nanu Oya. The train descends between mountain ranges through thickly wooded areas to the interior of the island at Kandy for a tour of this sacred city of Buddhism. Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhala Kings, is Sri Lanka’s cultural centre, and has now become a UNESCO World Heritage site. A tour highlight is the famous Temple of the Tooth, housing one of Sri Lanka’s most important relics – a tooth of the Buddha. In the evening you visit the Kandy Lake Club for a memorable cultural pageant and to watch a firewalking show. Overnight accommodation is at the Mahaweli Reach Hotel this evening. (B L D)

Thursday 27th February

Kandy to Habarana – Visit Golden Temple; Lion’s Rock

You travel by road coach this morning to Habarana, en route you stop off at Dambulla to visit the impressive Golden Temple, a multicave complex containing statues and paintings. Following lunch at your hotel Habarana you visit the 600-foot-high ‘Lion’s Rock’. This massive ancient fortress and palace ruins is surrounded by one of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. Your accommodation tonight is at the luxury Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Habarana. (B L D)

Friday 28th February

Minneriya National Park; Steam Train to Trincomalee

This morning after breakfast, you have a Jeep safari to Minneriya National Park, which is heavily populated by wild elephants, after which you join a special train, hauled by steam locomotive No.251, at Gal-Oya Junction Station and travel north-eastwards via to Trincomalee, sited on one the world’s finest natural harbours. Lunch is served on the train. On arrival at Trincomalee you visit the Fort Fredrick and the famous Hindu Temple built on Swami Rock within the fort area. In the evening you transfer to the 4-star Chaaya Blu Hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Saturday 1st March

By steam from Trincomalee to Passekudah (Batticaloa)

After breakfast you re-join the Viceroy Special at Trincomalee Station. Your train will be hauled by steam locomotive No.251 as you return first to Galoya Junction. Here you change direction and head south-eastwards along the Batticaloa branch line. Lunch is served on the train.

On arrival at Valachchenai you transfer to an idyllic beach resort at Passikudah. Batticaloa enjoys a spectacular coastal position surrounded by idyllic lagoons with palm-filtered sunlight glancing off the water. Batticaloa District is also home to the pristine beaches of Kalkudah and Passikudah Bay, and you are free to explore the area at leisure. You stay overnight at the Uga Beach Resort. (B L D)

Sunday 2nd March

Batticaloa beach resort leisure

After breakfast, you have a free day at your beach resort with options to join a boat trip and do some sightseeing, or simply relax and enjoy the unspoilt natural beaches. In the afternoon you can enjoy a sightseeing tour of Batticaloa. Batticaloa, situated on the flat Indian Ocean eastern coastal plain where three lagoons and several islands link to the mainland by bridges. Your sightseeing tour includes a walk around

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

£7195

£965

Ground only £6495 (Colombo – Colombo)

Price includes:

• 15 Nights hotel accommodation (with breakfast, lunch and dinner)

• “Viceroy Special” luxury train travel as detailed in the itinerary with unlimited tea and coffee service

• All visits and coach journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• Site visits including entrance fees

• Unlimited bottled drinking water

• Services of a National Tour Guide

Beach Extension

Price per person £595

Single supplement £325

Price includes:

• 3 nights all Inclusive accommodation

• Ground transfers

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

the parapet of the small fort, and visits to the Catholic Church and Mahatma Ghandi Park. You spend the night at Uga Bay Beach Resort once more. (B L D)

Monday 3rd March

Steam Train to Maho

This morning you travel by road coach to Habarana. Your train will have left Batticaloa the day before and will be waiting for you. Steaming south-westwards, you pass through areas where elephants roam wild in the jungle. Lunch is served on the train before arriving at Maho Junction, here the locomotive changes from steam to diesel and travels northwards to Kankesanthurai and back to Jaffna. This journey has only been possible since peace was restored in Northern Sri Lanka and the Northern Line reconstructed. The route mainly runs through open country, across the North Central plains. At Elephant Pass, it crosses the lagoons to enter the Jaffna Peninsula. On arrival at Jaffna itself, you transfer to the Jetwing Jaffna Hotel for overnight accommodation and dinner. (B L D)

Tuesday 4th March

City tour of Jaffna

Jaffna Peninsula is a region characterised by fields of Palmyra palms, technicolor temples, holy springs and miles of coastline. After breakfast, you have a city tour scheduled to see its notable buildings, such as the Public Library, Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, and Jaffna Fort.

The afternoon is free for further sightseeing and leisure. Overnight accommodation is again at the Jetwing Jaffna Hotel. (B L D)

Wednesday 5th March

Anuradhapura, the ancient capital

Following breakfast this morning you travel diesel hauled to Anuradhapura, arriving around lunch for an afternoon tour of one of the historic capitals of Sri Lanka, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred city features many ancient ruins, including huge bell-shaped stupas built of small sun-dried bricks, temples, sculptures, palaces, and ancient drinking-water reservoirs. You’ll visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhiya ‘Tree of Enlightenment’, alleged to be the oldest living tree in the world. Tonight, you are accommodated in a tranquil setting at the Palm Garden Hotel. (B L D)

Thursday 6th March

Steam to Mount Lavinia

Today you travel on the Viceroy Special diesel hauled to Maho Junction. Here you change locomotives and travel southwards under steam through Polgahawela Junction, where you join the main line to Colombo Fort and Mount Lavinia Station. On arrival, you check in to the adjacent Mount Lavinia Hotel, an impressive colonial building at this beach resort. In the afternoon there’s an optional visit by road coach to the Dematogoda locomotive depot to view an interesting collection of both broad and narrow-

gauge steam locomotives. A drive around the city of Colombo is also scheduled. In the evening, you return to the Mount Lavinia Hotel for overnight accommodation. (B L D)

Friday 7th March

Mount Lavinia to Galle by “Viceroy Special” Steam Train

Today you set off on the last leg of your journey aboard the Viceroy Special. Departing Mount Lavinia you steam south through outer suburbs and along the coast. The line frequently runs parallel to the beach allowing great sea views. Lunch is served on board before you arrive in Galle for a tour, finishing at the World Heritagelisted old fort complex known as the ‘Ramparts of Galle’. Annexed by the Portuguese in the 16th century and extensively fortified by subsequent Dutch and British custodians, the fort has a remarkable old-world atmosphere after 500 years of occupation. The minimalistic, stately and elegant Lighthouse Hotel is another Sri Lankan gem designed by the famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Your farewell dinner and accommodation tonight is at the Jetwing Lighthouse Hotel Galle overlooking the Indian Ocean. (B L D)

Saturday 8th March

Return to UK

After breakfast in the hotel, if you have not opted for the beach extension you transfer to the airport for your direct flight back home. (B)

BEACH EXTENSION

Saturday 8th to Tuesday 11th February

(Both days Inclusive)

3 Day Beach Extension

If you have opted for the Beach Extension you transfer by road coach from Lighthouse Hotel Galle to the RIU Ahungalla Hotel for three nights all inclusive accommodation (B L D)

Tuesday 11th February

Return to UK

You have a morning departure from the hotel for your afternoon flight direct to London Heathrow.

(B)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

£7195

£965

Ground only £6495 (Colombo – Colombo)

Price includes:

• 15 Nights hotel accommodation (with breakfast, lunch and dinner)

• “Viceroy Special” luxury train travel as detailed in the itinerary with unlimited tea and coffee service

• All visits and coach journeys as detailed in the itinerary

• Site visits including entrance fees

• Unlimited bottled drinking water

• Services of a National Tour Guide

Beach Extension

Price per person

£595

Single supplement £325

Price includes:

• 3 nights all Inclusive accommodation

• Ground transfers All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Canada by Rail and Alaskan Inside Passage Cruise

Monday 5th May to Monday 26th May 2025

Travelling by train is one of the finest ways to see Canada. We travel on the famous “Ocean” and “Canadian” trains and watch as this vast and beautiful country unfolds before our eyes. Can there be a better way to see the wide open spaces of the Prairies or cross the world famous Rocky Mountains, where the railway routes are amongst the most beautiful in the world? Our tour includes time spent in the cities of Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. We cruise the Inside Passage between Vancouver in British Columbia and Juneau in Alaska. This is a coastal route for ocean going vessels along a network of passages which weave through the islands on the Pacific Coast of North America. Cruise ships using this world famous waterway provide unrivalled views of the rocky coastline; allow glimpses of the world’s most undisturbed landscapes; take you wonderfully close to glaciers; and offer opportunities to see rare wildlife such as whales, eagles, porpoises and bears. This is a trip of a lifetime!

Monday 5th May

Flight to Halifax, Nova Scotia

We take a flight from London Heathrow to Halifax, Nova Scotia, and arrive in the mid afternoon. We transfer to the city and check in to our hotel for the next two nights. Halifax has one of the world’s great natural harbours which has given it a rich maritime history. (D)

Tuesday 6th May

Free day in Halifax

Spend the day enjoying all that Halifax has to offer. (B D)

Wednesday 7th May

“The Ocean” to Montreal

This morning we board a luxury train at Halifax Station for the journey to Montreal. “The Ocean” has operated for more than a century along a

very scenic route in eastern Canada. We can relax and enjoy the superb scenery as we travel through Nova Scotia, the forests of eastern New Brunswick, and the lower St. Lawrence River valley. Our accommodation will be in sleeper cabins. (B L D)

Thursday 8th May

We arrive in Montreal in the morning

Today you will have a free day to enjoy Montreal and explore the many attractions and sights of this vibrant city. Check-in to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (D)

Friday 9th May

Montreal to Toronto

Today, you will board a high speed connection to Toronto. We travel in comfort with spacious seating and along a route following the

St. Lawrence River valley and to the west of Lake Ontario. Refreshments are available to purchase during the journey. On arrival in Toronto we transfer to a hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (D)

Saturday 10th May

Niagara Falls

Today you board a morning train and depart to Niagara Falls. Travelling through the Canadian countryside to one of the most famous destinations in the world. Niagara Falls is made up of three waterfalls and spans between the Province of Ontario and the State of New York in the United States. Spend the day immersed in the wonder and beauty of this iconic location. Afterwards, you board a service train and travel back to Toronto. Where you will enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B D)

Via Rail

Via Rail

Sunday 11th May

The Canadian

After breakfast, you will board Canada’s premier train “The Canadian”, travelling Sleeper train. We sleep on the train for four nights in cabins which feature a large window with blind, two chairs, and a private washroom with small WC and sink. (B L D)

Monday 12th May

Crossing Canada

“The Canadian” is a transcontinental passenger train operated by Via Rail Canada which crosses four time zones on it’s 4,466 km (2,775 miles) journey. After breakfast, we spend the day relaxing on the train as it travels through spectacular scenery where the sheer size and drama of the landscape makes it much more than ‘countryside’. This is big country, empty but for scattered small communities like Gogama which is typical of the settlements along this section that were created in order to service locomotives. We stop at Hornepayne, which began as a railway town but where today the major industry is wood. We eat on-board “The Canadian” and spend another night in our cosy on-board bedrooms. (B L D)

Tuesday 13th May

Winnipeg

We are now in the Central Time zone and cross the border from Ontario into Manitoba before reaching its capital Winnipeg. The city was originally the hub of the Canadian fur trade due to its strategic location at the junction of three rivers. Today the “Peg” is a city as diverse as the whole of Canada and a destination for architecture, rivers, history, arts, and museums. Leaving Winnipeg we travel westwards crossing the Prairies, the huge undulating plains that span the three provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. (B L D)

Wednesday 14th May

The Rocky Mountains

During the night we pass into the Mountain Time zone and early in the morning our train arrives at Edmonton. Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is located in the beautiful North Saskatchewan River valley. We continue our journey passing through rolling countryside before climbing into the Rockies and arriving in Jasper. Here we have a short break to stretch our legs before we continue our journey to Vancouver. (B L D)

Thursday 15th May

Vancouver

Our train arrives at Vancouver Station today. Situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is surrounded by mountains. You will check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay for the next two nights. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city. (B D)

Friday 16th May

Free Day in Vancouver

Today you have a free day in Vancouver. Spend the day exploring the attractions that Vancouver has to offer. Returning again to your hotel in Vancouver. (B D)

Saturday 17th May

Cruise – The Inside Passage Alaska

In the afternoon we board the Holland America Line cruise ship MS “Koningsdam” for the voyage to Alaska. We navigate the Inside Passage, a world famous waterway which is sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by islands and only accessible by sea and air. (B D)

Sunday 18th May

The Inside Passage

The fabled Inside Passage is one of the most scenic sea-lanes in the world, and one of the few where deep-draft vessels can sail close to steep mountain walls. We spend a relaxing day cruising the Inside Passage viewing rugged capes, cliffs, glaciers, fjords, forests and neverending dramatic scenery along the channels, passes, straits and islands. Late in the evening we navigate the tight passage of the Seymour Narrows and the Grenville Channel between Pitt Island and the mainland. (B L D)

Monday 19th May

Juneau, capital of Alaska

This morning we cruise into Tracy Arm Fjord where seals and whales make their home and the shoreline sees waterfalls created by melting snow-caps. The dramatic Sawyer Glaciers at the end of the fjord are framed by mountains and are habitat for bears, wolves, deer and moose. After lunch we arrive in Juneau, the capital of Alaska. The city is unusual in that there are no roads connecting it to the rest of Alaska, it can only be accessed by air or water. It is known for the surrounding glaciers and rain forest that make up the Tongass National Forest, the largest in the USA. Our ship departs after dinner. (B L D)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single occupancy

Ground only

£10695

£2600

£9995 (Halifax – Vancouver)

Price includes:

• Scheduled flights from London to Halifax and from Vancouver to London

• 8 nights bed and breakfast accommodation in quality hotels

• A days rail travel with overnight accommodation on “The Ocean”

• A visit to Niagara Falls

• 4 days on “The Canadian” with overnight accommodation on the train

• Other meals as shown

• 8 days Inside Passage cruise (see breakdown)

• All transfers

• The services of a tour manager throughout

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Tuesday 20th May

Skagway; White Pass and Yukon Railway

We arrive at Skagway and spend the day in the historic Gold Rush town that was the gateway to the Klondike. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park tells the story and preserves some of the original structures. Today there is an option to ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railway to White Pass summit (at extra cost). Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow gauge railway is one of the most scenic in the world, offering a breathtaking panorama of mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels and historic sites. Our ship leaves Skagway late in the evening. (B L D)

Wednesday 21st May

Cruise Glacier Bay

Today we cruise in Glacier Bay where the spectacular scenery and wildlife make it a highlight of the cruise. The marine wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes tidewater glaciers, snowcapped rugged mountains, wild coastlines, and deep sheltered fjords. We shall see a temperate rainforest of spruce trees growing to 120 feet high and our ship will spend time in front of a glacier. Glacier Bay has more actively calving tidewater glaciers than anywhere else in the world. It is an incredible experience to watch a colossal chunk of ice split off from a glacier and thunder into the sea, the impact shooting water hundreds of feet into the air. (B L D)

Thursday 22nd May

Visit to Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a major port located on Revillagigedo Island and surrounded by the Tongass National Forest. The area contains deep water fjords which were created by retreating glaciers, leaving granite cliffs towering thousands of feet above the sea and countless waterfalls plunging into placid waters. Ketchikan clings to the shores of the Tongass Narrows, with many shops and houses built right out over the water. The town calls itself the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’ and a salmon stream flows past the town’s historic Creek Street. The town is home to many museums, galleries and shops and its main attractions are the Tongass Historical Museum, Totem Bight State Park with its display of native Indian totems, and Saxman Village. Our ship sails in the early evening. (B L D)

Friday 23rd May

Cruise the Inside Passage

Today we continue to cruise the Inside Passage on our journey south. (B L D)

Saturday 24th May

Return to Vancouver

We arrive back at Vancouver in the morning after your unforgettable Alaskan cruise. This evening we stay in a centrally located hotel for your final night in Canada where you will enjoy dinner with your fellow passengers. (B D)

Sunday 25th May

Free time in Vancouver

There will be free time to explore Vancouver this morning, a city of rich cultural diversity where North America and Asia meet. An integrated transport system of buses, rapid transit (SkyTrain) and passenger ferry (SeaBus) serve the three parts of the city: the Westside, the Eastside and city centre. Gastown (Chinatown), the market area of Granville Island, the beaches of Stanley Park, and the Strait of Georgia are all of note. In the afternoon we transfer to Vancouver airport for the flight back to London Heathrow. (B)

Monday 26th May

Arrival in the UK

We arrive at London Heathrow in the afternoon.

The Cruise Ship MS Koningsdam features:

• The elegant Dining Room

• Pinnacle Grill

• Lido Market

• Swimming pool, ocean spa and fitness centre

• Casino and movie theatre

• Accommodation is in VA or VC Verandah Staterooms (Upgrades available)

• Meals are included and are available on board (drinks are not included outside of meal times and will need to be purchased separately).

Normally only water is provided during mealtimes in the restaurant)

• All shore excursions are not included

The Ocean – Luxury Train:

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included whilst on board (alcoholic drinks are not included)

• All cabins are equipped with a toilet & washbasin some with showers. For those cabins without a shower, there are separate showers in the carriage

The Canadian – Luxury Train:

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included whilst on board (alcoholic drinks are not included)

• All cabins are equipped with a toilet & washbasin. There are no ensuite shower facilities in the cabins, these are outside in the carriage

All of the cabins on The Ocean and The Canadian for double occupancy are twin cabins with stacked single beds.

Please note.

There is no observation car on The Ocean.

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single occupancy

Ground only

£10695

£2600

£9995 (Halifax – Vancouver)

Price includes:

• Scheduled flights from London to Halifax and from Vancouver to London

• 8 nights bed and breakfast accommodation in quality hotels

• A days rail travel with overnight accommodation on “The Ocean”

• A visit to Niagara Falls

• 4 days on “The Canadian” with overnight accommodation on the train

• Other meals as shown

• 8 days Inside Passage cruise (see breakdown)

• All transfers

• The services of a tour manager throughout

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Colorado and the Rocky Mountains Steam Tour

Friday 8th August to Sunday 24th August 2025

The swingin’ saloons, ornery gunslingers, and Gold Rush all come to life as you visit the heart of the Old West and on stunningly scenic railways.

You’ll start in Denver, with a visit to the Colorado Railroad Museum, as well as a tour of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Then there’s travel on the Georgetown Loop and Leadville Railways to enjoy. From Denver it’s on to Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak Cog Railway – the highest cog railway in the world. Whilst there you visit the ‘Garden of the Gods’ National Natural Monument. More highlights wait then in Canon City, with a trip following the winding Arkansas River on the Royal Gorge Scenic Railroad. Then it’s on to Alamosa and a journey with the narrow gauge Cumbres and Toltec Railroad. The holiday continues with a visit to the Sand Dunes National Monument. You continue your adventure in true Wild West style as you’ll explore historic Durango and travel on the Durango and Silverton Railroad. You then follow the ‘Million Dollar Highway’ to Grand Junction and return to Denver via one of America’s greatest train trips with the Amtrak ‘Californian Zephyr’. This extraordinary and breath-taking tour is the only way to see all these vintage Wild West highlights together, in one holiday of a lifetime. Book early to be sure not to miss it!

Friday 8th August

Fly to Denver

You take an afternoon flight from London Heathrow to Denver, the capital of Colorado. You’ll be based in Denver for the next five nights at you centrally located hotel. The rest of the day you can relax at your leisure.

Saturday 9th August

At leisure in Denver and a visit to Colorado Railroad Museum

This morning you enjoy a relaxing breakfast and can recover from any jet lag by enjoying the historic sights of this fine city. In the afternoon we travel by coach to the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden, with time to explore the exhibits before enjoying a ride on a Galloping

Goose No. 7 railcar. You return to your hotel in Denver where the evening is free for you to explore and sample one of the many restaurants for dinner. (B)

Sunday 10th August

Sightseeing at Rocky Mountain

National Park

Today you’ll travel up to almost 12,000 feet above sea level whilst enjoying a guided sightseeing tour to the Rocky Mountains National Park, which features the highest paved road in the US and over 350 miles of trails. A buffet lunch will be included today. (B L)

Monday 11th August

Steam at the Georgetown Loop Railroad

Following breakfast at the hotel you transfer by coach to the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Completed in 1884, this spectacular stretch of three-foot narrow-gauge railroad was considered an engineering marvel of its time. A giant Shay locomotive will haul you, departing late morning from Silver Plume. This journey will be in standard class with open carriages/coaches for better views of the Clear Creek Valley. Afterwards you’ll visit a mine and have free time to visit the gambling saloons in Georgetown. Late afternoon you return by coach to the hotel in Denver. (B)

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson

Tuesday 12th August

Leadville Railroad

After breakfast today you travel by coach 75 miles west of Denver to the legendary former frontier mining town of Leadville, situated in the mountains at a lofty perch of 10,430 feet! On arrival you’ll have time to explore and find some lunch before enjoying a trip on the scenic Leadville Railroad. You return to Denver in late afternoon. (B)

Wednesday 13th August

Visit to Garden of the Gods; Steam and Saloons in Cripple Creek

This morning you say goodbye to Denver as you travel south by coach to Colorado Springs. En route you will visit the 1,367-acre ‘Garden of the Gods’. It’s one of the most famous and popular parks in the US, a unique biological melting pot where the grasslands of the Great Plains meet the woodlands of the American Southwest and merge with the mountain forest of Pikes Peak. After your visit you continue by coach to Cripple Creek, a gambling town located at the end of a narrow valley. There you experience your next authentic steam journey, as you board the Cripple Creek and Victor Railroad for a journey out into the rugged mountain wilderness. Back in town, you might want to visit one of the many local saloons and go at it with a ‘One Armed Bandit’ or simply relax with afternoon refreshments. From Cripple Creek you carry on to Colorado Springs, where you check into your hotel for the next two nights. The evening is yours to explore and find dinner. (B)

Thursday 14th August

Pikes Peak Cog Railway and charming Manitou Springs

After breakfast, you transfer by coach to Manitou Springs to travel up Pikes Peak Cog Railway, at 14,115 feet the highest cog railway in the world. The train winds past waterfalls and through aspen and pine forest on a special track, sometimes hitting a grade of 24%! There will be some free time to enjoy later in the attractive centre of Manitou Springs, a town noted for its 11 natural mineral springs. In the late afternoon you then return your hotel in Colorado Springs. (B)

Friday 15th August

Royal Gorge Scenic Railroad; on to Alamosa

After breakfast you transfer by coach to Canon City, for a trip on the Royal Gorge Scenic Railroad, there’ll be a midday departure from

Canon City with lunch included on board, hauled by a streamlined, world-famous ‘F-Unit’ diesel loco following the winding, tumbling Arkansas River deep within the soaring, 1,000-foot granite cliffs of Colorado's Royal Gorge. You’ll travel in Vista Dome class, seated in enclosed, glassdomed iconic carriages with full access to the open-air gondola car, which is ideal for superb sight lines and unrestricted photography. After your trip you continue by coach to Alamosa and check-in to your hotel for the next three nights. (B L)

Saturday 16th August

Cumbres & Toltec Railroad and San Luis Valley Brewery Visit

After breakfast you have a morning departure from Alamosa on board the Rio Grande train to Osier, there’s a chance to take photos here as run pasts will be staged. You’ll enjoy lunch on board. Returning to Alamosa you’ll then visit San Luis Valley Brewery and Restaurant for dinner. (B L D)

Sunday 17th August

Steam at the world famous Cumbres and Toltec Railroad

This morning you experience the Antonito Excursion at the Cumbres and Toltec Railroad. First you transfer by specially arranged motorcoach from Antonito to Chama stopping at Osier for lunch. Afterwards, you board the train from Chama and travel back to Antonito. You travel to Antonito by steam train with allocated seating, enjoying the panoramic views of the authentic Western scenery. Overnight accommodation is again in Alamosa. (B L)

Monday 18th August

Sand Dunes National Monument; on to Durango and relaxation/ photography there

You make an early morning visit to the amazing Sand Dunes National Monument, just north of Alamosa. You will have time to gaze at the stunning mountain vistas of the San Luis Valley, before you’ll continue by coach via some of the most scenic roads in the Rocky Mountains, with plenty of opportunity for nature viewing and photography. You arrive in the afternoon in time to film steam trains arriving on the narrow-gauge railroad and at the roundhouse in Durango, the largest town in southwest Colorado. Afterwards, you will check-in to your hotel for the next two nights. Dinner tonight is at your own leisure. (B)

(Denver – Denver)

Price includes:

• Scheduled flights from London Heathrow to Denver and return

• 15-nights accommodation in quality hotels

• 15 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 1 dinner

• All train travel, transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Tuesday 19th August

Steam at the Durango and Silverton Railroad

After breakfast you have a morning departure from Durango to Silverton, for a round trip adventure on a line originally constructed to haul silver and gold ore from Southwest Colorado's San Juan Mountain. Relive the sights and sounds of yesteryear on this spectacular Narrow-Gauge Railroad, travelling in 1st Class which provides complimentary morning pastries, non-alcoholic beverages and custom first-class amenities. You’ll arrive back in Durango late afternoon. (B)

Wednesday 20th August

Durango Yard Tour,

then ‘Million Dollar Highway’

Today you have a relaxing breakfast and morning in Durango, allowing time for a guided tour of the roundhouse, with full behind-thescenes access and time for some steam train photography as the morning trains leave for Silverton. You’ll then travel by coach over the breath-taking ‘Million Dollar Highway’ north via Silverton where you will have a break for lunch.

After lunch you continue along the San Juan Skyway to Ouray. Overnight accommodation is in Ouray tonight. (B)

Thursday 21st August

Grand Junction

You rejoin your coach this morning and continue northwards to Grand Junction, with time en route for plenty of photography and nature watching. Officially U.S. Route 550, this is one of the roads on the Trails of the Ancients Byway. There will be a short stop at Ridgway to see the Galloping Goose No. 1 in the Railroad Museum there. Afterwards you check into your centrally located hotel in Grand Junction for your overnight accommodation. (B)

Friday 22nd August

Amtrak ‘California Zephyr’ to Denver

This morning after breakfast you’ll travel on the Amtrak ‘California Zephyr’, departing Grand Junction at mid morning, reckoned one of the greatest train trips in all of North America. You’ll climb through the heart of the Rockies, and then further west through the snow-capped

Sierra Nevadas. Other route highlights include the Moffat Tunnel and Colorado's Gore, Byers and Glenwood Canyons. This is one of the top Amtrak Routes in America, and your seating is in coach class on the upper deck. You arrive at Denver Union Station in the early evening for accommodation reserved at the same hotel as at the start of the tour. (B)

Saturday 23rd August

Fly back to UK

After breakfast, you have some free time to relax in Denver before you transfer to the airport for your evening flight back to the UK. (B)

Sunday 24th August

Arrival in London

You arrive back in London at midday.

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single supplement

Ground only

£5795

£695

£5395 (Denver – Denver)

Price includes:

• Scheduled flights from London Heathrow to Denver and return

• 15-nights accommodation in quality hotels

• 15 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 1 dinner

• All train travel, transfers, visits and tours as detailed in the itinerary

• The services of a tour manager

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

Andrew Jackson

Andrew Jackson

Canada by Rail and Alaskan Inside Passage Cruise

Monday 8th September to Monday 29th September 2025

Travelling by train is one of the finest ways to see Canada. We travel on the famous “Ocean” and “Canadian” trains and watch as this vast and beautiful country unfolds before our eyes. Can there be a better way to see the wide open spaces of the Prairies or cross the world famous Rocky Mountains, where the railway routes are amongst the most beautiful in the world? Our tour includes time spent in the cities of Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. We cruise the Inside Passage between Vancouver in British Columbia and Juneau in Alaska. This is a coastal route for ocean going vessels along a network of passages which weave through the islands on the Pacific Coast of North America. Cruise ships using this world famous waterway provide unrivalled views of the rocky coastline; allow glimpses of the world’s most undisturbed landscapes; take you wonderfully close to glaciers; and offer opportunities to see rare wildlife such as whales, eagles, porpoises and bears. This is a trip of a lifetime!

Monday 8th September

Flight to Halifax, Nova Scotia

We take a flight from London Heathrow to Halifax, Nova Scotia, and arrive in the mid afternoon. We transfer to the city and check in to our hotel for the next two nights. Halifax has one of the world’s great natural harbours which has given it a rich maritime history. (D)

Tuesday 9th September

Free day in Halifax

Spend the day enjoying all that Halifax has to offer. (B D)

Wednesday 10th September

“The Ocean” to Montreal

This morning we board a luxury train at Halifax Station for the journey to Montreal. “The Ocean” has operated for more than a century along a

very scenic route in eastern Canada. We can relax and enjoy the superb scenery as we travel through Nova Scotia, the forests of eastern New Brunswick, and the lower St. Lawrence River valley. Our accommodation will be in sleeper cabins. (B L D)

Thursday 11th September

We arrive in Montreal in the morning

Today you will have a free day to enjoy Montreal and explore the many attractions and sights of this vibrant city. Check-in to your hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (D)

Friday 12th September

Montreal to Toronto

Today, you will board a high speed connection to Toronto. We travel in comfort with spacious seating and along a route following the

St. Lawrence River valley and to the west of Lake Ontario. Refreshments are available to purchase during the journey. On arrival in Toronto we transfer to a hotel for dinner and overnight accommodation. (D)

Saturday 13th September

Niagara Falls

Today you board a morning train and depart to Niagara Falls. Travelling through the Canadian countryside to one of the most famous destinations in the world. Niagara Falls is made up of three waterfalls and spans between the Province of Ontario and the State of New York in the United States. Spend the day immersed in the wonder and beauty of this iconic location. Afterwards, you board a service train and travel back to Toronto. Where you will enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B D)

Via Rail

Via Rail

Sunday 14th September

The Canadian

After breakfast, you will board Canada’s premier train “The Canadian”, travelling Sleeper train. We sleep on the train for four nights in cabins which feature a large window with blind, two chairs, and a private washroom with small WC and sink. (B L D)

Monday 15th September

Crossing Canada

“The Canadian” is a transcontinental passenger train operated by Via Rail Canada which crosses four time zones on it’s 4,466 km (2,775 miles) journey. After breakfast, we spend the day relaxing on the train as it travels through spectacular scenery where the sheer size and drama of the landscape makes it much more than ‘countryside’. This is big country, empty but for scattered small communities like Gogama which is typical of the settlements along this section that were created in order to service locomotives. We stop at Hornepayne, which began as a railway town but where today the major industry is wood. We eat on-board “The Canadian” and spend another night in our cosy on-board bedrooms. (B L D)

Tuesday 16th September

Winnipeg

We are now in the Central Time zone and cross the border from Ontario into Manitoba before reaching its capital Winnipeg. The city was originally the hub of the Canadian fur trade due to its strategic location at the junction of three rivers. Today the “Peg” is a city as diverse as the whole of Canada and a destination for architecture, rivers, history, arts, and museums. Leaving Winnipeg we travel westwards crossing the Prairies, the huge undulating plains that span the three provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. (B L D)

Wednesday 17th September

The Rocky Mountains

During the night we pass into the Mountain Time zone and early in the morning our train arrives at Edmonton. Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is located in the beautiful North Saskatchewan River valley. We continue our journey passing through rolling countryside before climbing into the Rockies and arriving in Jasper. Here we have a short break to stretch our legs before we continue our journey to Vancouver. (B L D)

Thursday 18th September

Vancouver

Our train arrives at Vancouver Station today. Situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is surrounded by mountains. You will check in to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay for the next two nights. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city. (B D)

Friday 19th September

Free Day in Vancouver

Today you have a free day in Vancouver. Spend the day exploring the attractions that Vancouver has to offer. Returning again to your hotel in Vancouver. (B D)

Saturday 20th September

Cruise – The Inside Passage Alaska

In the afternoon we board the Holland America Line cruise ship MS “Koningsdam” for the voyage to Alaska. We navigate the Inside Passage, a world famous waterway which is sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by islands and only accessible by sea and air. (B D)

Sunday 21st September

The Inside Passage

The fabled Inside Passage is one of the most scenic sea-lanes in the world, and one of the few where deep-draft vessels can sail close to steep mountain walls. We spend a relaxing day cruising the Inside Passage viewing rugged capes, cliffs, glaciers, fjords, forests and neverending dramatic scenery along the channels, passes, straits and islands. Late in the evening we navigate the tight passage of the Seymour Narrows and the Grenville Channel between Pitt Island and the mainland. (B L D)

Monday 22nd September

Juneau, capital of Alaska

This morning we cruise into Tracy Arm Fjord where seals and whales make their home and the shoreline sees waterfalls created by melting snow-caps. The dramatic Sawyer Glaciers at the end of the fjord are framed by mountains and are habitat for bears, wolves, deer and moose. After lunch we arrive in Juneau, the capital of Alaska. The city is unusual in that there are no roads connecting it to the rest of Alaska, it can only be accessed by air or water. It is known for the surrounding glaciers and rain forest that make up the Tongass National Forest, the largest in the USA. Our ship departs after dinner. (B L D)

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single occupancy

Ground only

£10695

£2600

£9995 (Halifax – Vancouver)

Price includes:

• Scheduled flights from London to Halifax and from Vancouver to London

• 8 nights bed and breakfast accommodation in quality hotels

• A days rail travel with overnight accommodation on “The Ocean”

• A visit to Niagara Falls

• 4 days on “The Canadian” with overnight accommodation on the train

• Other meals as shown

• 8 days Inside Passage cruise (see breakdown)

• All transfers

• The services of a tour manager throughout

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as: B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Tuesday 23rd September

Skagway; White Pass and Yukon Railway

We arrive at Skagway and spend the day in the historic Gold Rush town that was the gateway to the Klondike. The Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park tells the story and preserves some of the original structures. Today there is an option to ride on the White Pass and Yukon Railway to White Pass summit (at extra cost). Built in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow gauge railway is one of the most scenic in the world, offering a breathtaking panorama of mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls, tunnels and historic sites. Our ship leaves Skagway late in the evening. (B L D)

Wednesday 24th September

Cruise Glacier Bay

Today we cruise in Glacier Bay where the spectacular scenery and wildlife make it a highlight of the cruise. The marine wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes tidewater glaciers, snowcapped rugged mountains, wild coastlines, and deep sheltered fjords. We shall see a temperate rainforest of spruce trees growing to 120 feet high and our ship will spend time in front of a glacier. Glacier Bay has more actively calving tidewater glaciers than anywhere else in the world. It is an incredible experience to watch a colossal chunk of ice split off from a glacier and thunder into the sea, the impact shooting water hundreds of feet into the air. (B L D)

Thursday 25th September

Visit to Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a major port located on Revillagigedo Island and surrounded by the Tongass National Forest. The area contains deep water fjords which were created by retreating glaciers, leaving granite cliffs towering thousands of feet above the sea and countless waterfalls plunging into placid waters. Ketchikan clings to the shores of the Tongass Narrows, with many shops and houses built right out over the water. The town calls itself the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’ and a salmon stream flows past the town’s historic Creek Street. The town is home to many museums, galleries and shops and its main attractions are the Tongass Historical Museum, Totem Bight State Park with its display of native Indian totems, and Saxman Village. Our ship sails in the early evening. (B L D)

Friday 26th September

Cruise the Inside Passage

Today we continue to cruise the Inside Passage on our journey south. (B L D)

Saturday 27th September

Return to Vancouver

We arrive back at Vancouver in the morning after your unforgettable Alaskan cruise. This evening we stay in a centrally located hotel for your final night in Canada where you will enjoy dinner with your fellow passengers. (B D)

Sunday 28th September

Free time in Vancouver

There will be free time to explore Vancouver this morning, a city of rich cultural diversity where North America and Asia meet. An integrated transport system of buses, rapid transit (SkyTrain) and passenger ferry (SeaBus) serve the three parts of the city: the Westside, the Eastside and city centre. Gastown (Chinatown), the market area of Granville Island, the beaches of Stanley Park, and the Strait of Georgia are all of note. In the afternoon we transfer to Vancouver airport for the flight back to London Heathrow. (B)

Monday 29th September

Arrival in the UK

We arrive at London Heathrow in the afternoon.

The Cruise Ship MS Koningsdam features:

• The elegant Dining Room

• Pinnacle Grill

• Lido Market

• Swimming pool, ocean spa and fitness centre

• Casino and movie theatre

• Accommodation is in VA or VC Verandah Staterooms (Upgrades available)

• Meals are included and are available on board (drinks are not included outside of meal times and will need to be purchased separately).

Normally only water is provided during mealtimes in the restaurant)

• All shore excursions are not included

The Ocean – Luxury Train:

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included whilst on board (alcoholic drinks are not included)

• All cabins are equipped with a toilet & washbasin some with showers. For those cabins without a shower, there are separate showers in the carriage

The Canadian – Luxury Train:

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included whilst on board (alcoholic drinks are not included)

• All cabins are equipped with a toilet & washbasin. There are no ensuite shower facilities in the cabins, these are outside in the carriage

All of the cabins on The Ocean and The Canadian for double occupancy are twin cabins with stacked single beds.

Please note.

There is no observation car on The Ocean.

Tour Summary

Tour price

Single occupancy

Ground only

£10695

£2600

£9995 (Halifax – Vancouver)

Price includes:

• Scheduled flights from London to Halifax and from Vancouver to London

• 8 nights bed and breakfast accommodation in quality hotels

• A days rail travel with overnight accommodation on “The Ocean”

• A visit to Niagara Falls

• 4 days on “The Canadian” with overnight accommodation on the train

• Other meals as shown

• 8 days Inside Passage cruise (see breakdown)

• All transfers

• The services of a tour manager throughout

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meals included each day are shown as:

B = Breakfast - L = Lunch - D = Dinner

Wild, Wild West Rail Adventure

Sunday 14th September to Monday 29th September 2025

Embark on an Adventure of a Lifetime with the Wild, Wild West Rail Adventure! This 16-day journey takes in the wild west of California, Nevada, and Utah. Visit and ride on many of the historic and famous railroads of the Western United States.

• Visit Alcatraz, board the Napa Valley Wine Train, spend a day at the California State Railroad Museum, and have dinner in Old Sacramento.

• Visit the heart of the Mother Lode Gold Country, home of the Sierra Railroad, ride the California Zephyr, and try your luck at the Reno Casino Hotel and Spa.

• Ride on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad to the heart of the Comstock Lode, experience a real Western BBQ at the Alpine & Western Pacific Railroad, and visit Nevada State Railroad Museum and ride their historic trains.

• Enjoy a dinner cruise on Lake Tahoe, journey across the loneliest highway in America, visit ancient Native American carvings and an operating gold mine.

• Ride the Nevada Northern Railway and visit Wendover Airfield.

• Visit Promontory Point, where the Golden Spike was driven to complete the Transcontinental Railroad, and enjoy a wonderful farewell dinner.

Sunday 14th September

Welcome to the City by the Bay!

After your flight, you will arrive at San Francisco International Airport.

Welcome to California and the USA! Your local hosts will greet you at the airport; look for the MacLean Adventures flag. You transfer to your hotel for check in, the rest of the day and evening are yours to settle in and relax.

Monday 15th September

Free day

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you have a full day and night to explore the city at your leisure. (B)

Tuesday 16th September

Lunch in Chinatown; Alcatraz; North Beach dinner

San Francisco is home to one of the largest Chinatowns in the world. The Chinese immigrants who settled here played a crucial role in building the Transcontinental Railroad through the Sierra Nevada mountains. Enjoy an authentic Chinese lunch. After lunch, explore the infamous Alcatraz Island, once home to some of America’s most notorious criminals. On this tour, you’ll learn about the island’s fascinating history, discovering stories of daring escapes, infamous inmates, and the daily life of those who lived and worked on The Rock. The tour also offers stunning views of San Francisco Bay. After returning from Alcatraz Island, you will take a short walk to North Beach,

San Francisco’s Italian district, and enjoy dinner at Fior D’Italia, America’s oldest Italian restaurant. This iconic restaurant offers a rich culinary tradition and a warm, inviting atmosphere, providing the perfect end to an exciting day of exploration. (B L D)

Wednesday 17th September

Peju Winery; Napa Valley Wine Train

After breakfast, you transfer by coach to Napa Valley, travelling north to the picturesque Peju Winery. Established in 1983, Peju Winery is at the heart of this renowned wine region. Here, you’ll experience a family-style lunch paired with a selection of their award-winning wines. Peju Winery offers a perfect blend of exquisite wine, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery.

Afterwards, you take the coach to your hotel in Napa Valley. After checking in, you have time to relax and unwind. You’ll regroup for a short walk to the Napa Valley Wine Train, where you will embark on a unique dining experience.

As you travel through the heart of Napa Valley’s vineyards, you’ll enjoy a gourmet dinner, providing a perfect blend of fine dining and stunning views.(B L D)

Thursday 18th September

Old Sacramento; California State Railroad Museum

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Sacramento, the capital of California. Established in 1850, Sacramento is best known for its role during the California Gold Rush.

Your visit includes exploring historic Old Sacramento, a district filled with preserved 19thcentury buildings, museums, and shops. You will check in at Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade, where you will find several shops and other amenities. In Old Sacramento, there are a variety of restaurants to choose from for lunch. The beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings will give you a taste of California’s rich heritage. After lunch, you will visit the California State Railroad Museum, where you will receive a guided tour that highlights the pivotal role railroads played in California’s history. You will get to see one of the original Golden Spikes! After the tour, you’ll ride on the California Southern Railroad in one of their historic cars, offering a nostalgic journey along the Sacramento River, and providing a glimpse into the golden era of rail travel. To finish the day, you will enjoy dinner at the elegant Firehouse Restaurant, located just a short stroll from the hotel. Savour the charming ambiance and expertlycrafted cocktails while soaking in the rich history and sophisticated atmosphere of this iconic establishment. (B D)

Friday 19th September

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

This morning you depart for Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, in the Mother Lode region of the California Gold Rush, home to the Sierra Railroad. This historic lumber railroad features several vintage trains, a fully operational roundhouse, and well-maintained shops. You’ll spend the day exploring the rich history of the region, learning about the pivotal role railroads played during the Gold Rush. After a day of discovery, you’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to Old Sacramento. (B L D)

Saturday 20th September

California Zephyr; Reno Casino and Spa

Today, you’ll embark on an epic rail journey along the historic Transcontinental Railroad over Donner Pass, riding on Amtrak’s California Zephyr, one of the most scenic train routes in the United States. Enjoy lunch in the dining car as your train ascends the mighty Sierra Nevada mountains. This route, completed in 1869, was a monumental feat that connected the East and West Coasts, transforming the nation. This rail adventure, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history, will be an unforgettable experience. Later, check into your hotel in the heart of Reno, Nevada. Enjoy slots, table games and poker, as well as swimming pools, a full-service salon, and designer boutique shopping. Enjoy dinner on your own in one of many award-winning restaurants the resort has to offer. (B)

Sunday 21st September

Virginia & Truckee Railroad

Today you travel to the Eastgate Depot of the Virginia & Truckee Railroad, a historic line established in 1869 to transport silver and gold from the Comstock Lode. Your journey will take you by train to the historic Virginia City, a well-preserved relic of the Wild West. Visit Boot Hill Cemetery, the final resting place of many pioneers and miners, and stroll along the wooden boardwalks that line the streets, where you can find numerous shops, saloons, and eateries. In the afternoon, you will board the train to Carson City, Nevada’s capital. After arriving in Carson City, you will be the guests of your tour hosts, Hawley and Jill, for an authentic Western home-cooked BBQ. Their home is also the site of the Alpine & Western Pacific Railroad, one of Nevada’s largest garden railroads, featuring meticulously crafted miniature trains and landscapes. As you enjoy the delicious BBQ, you’ll be treated to music and entertainment, capturing the spirit of the Wild West. To top off this memorable day, you’ll have the chance to watch a breathtaking Nevada sunset, creating a picture-perfect end to your day of exploration and adventure. (D)

Monday 22nd September

Franktown Meadows; Nevada State Railroad Museum; Lake Tahoe dinner cruise

Depart for Franktown Meadows, sitting on the historic right-of-way of the Virginia & Truckee Railroad. Although there are no remaining traces of the old railroad today, Franktown Meadows has been transformed into a world-class equestrian centre.

Ground only

£10295 (San Francisco – Salt Lake City)

Price includes:

• Flights from London to San Francisco and return from Salt Lake City to London

• 14 nights accommodation

• 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners

• All transfers and excursions as detailed in the itinerary

• 10 railroads

• 3 tour hosts

• Services of a UK tour manager throughout

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing. Meals included each day are shown as:

You will be treated to a short equestrian demonstration, highlighting the excellence for which the centre is known. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by serene pastures and the peaceful ambiance of the countryside.

Your next destination is the Nevada State Railroad Museum, a short drive away. You will have the opportunity to explore a fascinating collection of historic trains. You will not only be able to view these magnificent machines up close, but also experience the thrill of riding on some of them. The museum showcases a rich history of Nevada’s railroads, offering a glimpse into the past with meticulously preserved locomotives and carriages. Your journey continues with a scenic drive over Spooner Summit, leading you to the breathtaking Lake Tahoe, home of the Ponderosa Ranch of TV’s Bonanza! At Lake Tahoe, you’ll board the M.S. Dixie II, an iconic paddle-wheeler renowned for its charm and elegance, for an unforgettable sunset dinner cruise. The cruise will take you to Emerald Bay, one of the most photographed spots in the United States. Emerald Bay is famous for its emerald-green waters and the historic Vikingsholm Castle. While on the M.S. Dixie II, you’ll enjoy a gourmet dinner. This part of your trip promises to be both visually stunning and deeply memorable. (L D)

Tuesday 23rd September

The Loneliest Highway in America

Today’s journey will be an epic adventure like no other. You will be traversing the entire state of Nevada on the legendary Highway 50, famously dubbed “The Loneliest Highway in America.” Highway 50 earned its nickname due to its remote and sparsely populated stretches. The isolation offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast, unspoiled landscapes of Nevada, with its rolling deserts, mountain ranges, and expansive skies. Your first stop will be at Hickison Petroglyph Recreation Area. Here, you explore ancient petroglyphs, which are carvings etched into rock surfaces by indigenous peoples thousands of years ago.

As you continue your journey, you’ll pass through small, historic towns that echo the days of the Old West. Along the way, you’ll see remnants of Nevada’s rich mining history, with abandoned mines and ghost towns dotting the landscape. Highway 50 also offers unparalleled natural beauty. The stark, stunning desert scenery creates a sense of endless adventure. By the end of the day, you will have experienced the heart and soul of Nevada in a way few others ever do. Nevada hosts the largest gold and silver deposits in the world, and your journey will include an extraordinary visit to an operational open-pit gold mine at Ruby Hill. The site provides a real insight into the modern mining process, from ore extraction to processing. During your visit, it’s possible you might witness a blast, which is sure

to be a dramatic and educational experience, showcasing the sheer scale and power involved in modern mining operations.

After your long journey across the Silver State, you will check into the local Prospector Hotel and Casino in Ely, Nevada, a beloved establishment that blends the charm of the Old West with modern comforts. As you explore the hotel, you might notice historical photographs and artifacts that tell the story of Ely’s past. The hotel’s small casino offers a range of gaming options and, for those interested in a bit of relaxation, the hotel also features an indoor pool and hot tub. In the evening, you will have dinner at the hotel’s Margareta’s restaurant, known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. (L D)

Wednesday 24th

September

Nevada Northern Railway

Today promises to be one of the most memorable days and nights of your adventure! You will step back in time over a hundred years as you explore a historic railroad and its shops, preserved exactly as they were a century ago. This visit will transport you to an era when railroads were the lifeblood of America’s westward expansion. Your day will be filled with a variety of activities designed to immerse you in the rich history and operations of the railroad. You’ll explore the meticulously preserved shops where skilled craftsmen still work. These shops are a treasure trove of historical artifacts. Next, you will ride on historic trains. The restored locomotives and

carriages offer a tangible connection to the past, allowing us to imagine what it was like to journey across the rugged landscapes of Nevada over a century ago. There will also be opportunities to operate handcars, giving you a taste of the physical effort required to maintain and use these early transportation methods. The day will be filled with interactive experiences that bring the history of the railroad to life. Guides and historians will be on hand to share fascinating stories and insights about this pivotal period in American history. You will dine aboard one of the historic trains as it takes you on a journey into the high desert. After dinner, you will venture further into the desert to view the night skies. This part of Nevada is known for its clear, dark skies, free from the light pollution that obscures the stars in many other places. Local astronomers will join you, bringing their telescopes and expertise, and guide you through the celestial wonders above. This stargazing session will be a magical end to your day. (B L D)

Thursday 25th September

Wendover Airfield; Great Salt Flats

Travel to the historically significant and ultra top-secret Wendover Airfield. This airfield played a pivotal role as the training grounds for the crews who brought an end to World War II in the Pacific by dropping the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As you leave the Silver State, you will stop for lunch at one of the local casinos. Following lunch, you will drive across the vast expanse of the Great Salt Flats, a unique and otherworldly landscape that has been the site of numerous land speed records. This scenic leg of your journey will bring you to Salt Lake City. Known for its beautiful architecture, historic Temple Square, and stunning mountain backdrop, Salt Lake City offers a variety of attractions and activities. You will check in at the Grand America Hotel, which features handcrafted Richelieu furniture, original works of art, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. You will enjoy dinner at Tuscany, a beautiful restaurant offering a fine Italian dining experience. (B L D)

Friday 26th September

The Heber Valley Railroad

You will ride on the historic Heber Valley Railroad. Established in 1899, this railroad once served as a vital transportation route for goods and passengers in the region. Today, it offers a relaxing and nostalgic journey through some of Utah’s most stunning landscapes, providing spectacular views of the surrounding mountains

and beautiful natural scenery. As the train winds through the Valley, you might spot a variety of native wildlife such as mule deer, bald eagles, elk and coyotes. Enjoy the leisurely pace and take in the natural beauty that defines this remarkable area. Enjoy dinner at one of the many great places within walking distance of your hotel. (B L)

Saturday 27th September

Golden Spike National Park; Farewell dinner

Continuing your historical exploration, you travel northwest to Promontory Point, home to the Golden Spike National Historical Park. This site marks the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad on May 10, 1869, with the ceremonial driving of the Golden Spike. This monumental event linked the Central Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads, transforming transportation and commerce across the United States.

At Golden Spike National Historical Park, you’ll have the opportunity to see the two replica steam engines, the Jupiter and No.119, positioned as they were on that historic day for perfect photo opportunities. These locomotives are faithful reproductions of the originals that met nose-tonose to mark the joining of the rails. Our Wild, Wild West Rail Adventure comes to an end, but before we say goodbye, we will all enjoy a farewell dinner together. Nestled at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, La Caille offers an unparalleled dining experience and atmosphere. As we dine in the beautifully appointed Grand Pavilion, you’ll be surrounded by the charm and elegance that La Caille is renowned for. Before dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the three-acre vineyard, where you can savour the sights and scents of the flourishing grapevines. Enjoy the refreshing canyon breeze on the patio, offering a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for reflection on our journey. This evening is a perfect opportunity to share memories and stories from our adventure and celebrate the friendships we’ve made. La Caille promises to provide an unforgettable conclusion to our remarkable journey together. (B L D)

Sunday 28th September

Depart From Salt Lake City Airport

Transfer to Salt Lake City Airport for an overnight flight back to London Heathrow. (B)

Monday 29th September

Arrive London Heathrow

You arrive back in the UK at London Heathrow.

Ground only £10295 (San Francisco – Salt Lake City)

Price includes:

• Flights from London to San Francisco and return from Salt Lake City to London

• 14 nights accommodation

• 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners

• All transfers and excursions as detailed in the itinerary

• 10 railroads

• 3 tour hosts

• Services of a UK tour manager throughout

All prices shown are per person based on two persons sharing.

Meet the Team

David Zemaiciunas Operations Assistant

Our friendly team are available to answer any questions and to help you make a booking –please feel free to contact us on 01553 661 500 Monday to Friday 9am–5pm or by email to enquiries@railwaytouring.co.uk

Online Shopping

Visit our online shop to purchase themed Railway Touring Company merchandise. Currently Bookmarks, Greeting Cards and Postcards. We will be adding to our range as new products become available.

www.railwaytouring.net/shop/

Kelly Osborne Managing Director

Julia Barrett Office Assistant

Hollie Kimber Senior Assistant Manager

Jade Mott Operations Assistant

Ellie Copping Office Assistant

Rachel Jackson Operations Manager

Annabelle Benjamin Operations Assistant

Jack Amos Office Assistant

Please visit our website www.railwaytouring.co.uk to view and download our latest UK Day Trips, UK and Worldwide Holiday Brochures for 2024/2025.

Booking Information – UK, Europe and Worldwide Holidays

The attraction of trains.

By their very nature, trains, especially steam hauled trains, attract enthusiasts. Our tours will always include a number of photographic opportunities, where this is practical and possible. Many of our customers do not have the same exclusive interest in trains shown by some enthusiasts; therefore, we keep in mind the need to diversify our tour programmes. We do this by including visits to castles and historic houses, and to wildlife parks, using accommodation in resort style hotels, and providing free time for shopping and exploring. Nevertheless the main attraction and therefore the emphasis of our tours is travel by train, which includes the nostalgia, the companionship on board, and the passing scenery. We consider that those travelling on our tours will see more scenery and in greater comfort than by road coach or cruise liner.

Schedules and services.

We arrange and advertise tours in good faith. Many scheduled railway organisations – train operators and track operators – only work two months ahead and therefore cannot confirm final schedules to us until that ‘window’ and confirmation is received. Likewise we cannot confirm and advise final numbers for a tour until full balances have been received from tour customers. Tours may be subject to occasional rescheduling or re-routing. The nature of steam trains is that breakdowns, delays and substitutions have to be accepted. Every genuine effort will be made to ensure that each of our tours runs as planned and advertised, or as close to it as possible. Fire risk.

At times of exceptionally dry weather, coal fired steam locomotives may be banned from operating and diesel or electric traction may have to be substituted. Oil fired steam locomotives however are normally still allowed to operate. The Railway Touring Company cannot accept any responsibility for steam bans during times of high fire risk.

Seat reservations and overnight travel arrangements.

On some trains seat reservations are by individual seats, on others by block booking or complete carriage. Since the railways concerned make the allocations, we have to accept and be flexible about the seating arrangements. Where overnight travel is necessary we will arrange either to stay in a convenient hotel en-route, to use one of the newer ‘hotel trains’, or to book Standard Class twin berth sleeper car trains (First Class is often single berth). These decisions are made on the basis of the length of the journey, the range of scenery likely to be missed by overnight travel, and the accommodation options available.

Porterage.

Some tours include porterage between stations and hotels; some include full luggage transfers between hotels, using either a supplementary road coach or scheduled ‘luggage in advance’ facilities. Porterage, where advertised, is included in the cost. However, there will be occasions when porters are not available or included and it will be each customer’s responsibility to handle their own luggage.

Luggage and passenger assistance.

Whilst most major stations are equipped with lifts, escalators or walking ramps, not all smaller stations feature these facilities. We therefore recommend that you use a lightweight case with wheels, to allow you to best handle it. Please also ensure that your packed case is still light enough for you to successfully lift it in and out of trains and to enable you to walk comfortably with it. You will be responsible for your own luggage whilst on holiday. Passenger Assistance can be booked upon request, if required and necessary. Please let us know prior to the start of the holiday, should you require assistance.

Accommodation.

We aim to use 3 or 4-star designated hotels throughout our tours as this offers us the standards of hospitality, catering and service that we would wish for our customers. We also seek out establishments which are either conveniently located for the railways in order to minimize transfers, or which afford some unique character. Where we cannot meet either of these criteria we ensure the best and most comfortable accommodation is available.

Single supplements.

We are pleased to advise that we do not financially benefit from single supplement charges. Supplement charges only apply due to hoteliers charging higher rates for rooms that are solely occupied. All of our prices listed are per person based on two persons sharing. Therefore, any room that is solely occupied does incur a charge, whether it be a single or double room. If a double room is preferred please state your preference at the time of booking in order for us to obtain a quote, double rooms for single use may be slightly more expensive than the single supplement stated. All other elements of our tours are priced on a per person rate, so no extra fees are applied for solo customers.

Ground only.

Please be advised that ground only travel is where you the customer, makes their own way to a designated tour joining point, normally the first hotel or overnight stay on the holiday. Ground only does not include rail or flight services from the UK or return. It also does not include any transfers to or from your hotel(s) on the first and last day of your holiday. You will be responsible for arranging these yourself.

Food and drink.

Meals will be taken on trains, boats, planes, in hotels and restaurants and even al-fresco, picnic or packed! Mindful of the diversity of our customer’s tastes we try to adopt a ‘middle of the road’ approach when choosing menus. We must also accept the limitations of on-board catering and marvel at the success that chefs regularly achieve in the confines of train kitchens. Hotel and restaurant meals are usually a set menu, with options for special dietary needs. If customers have any special dietary requirements they must please ensure we know them at the time of booking. In this way we can make the necessary arrangements for customers with special requirements. Some of our tours include

Booking Information – UK, Europe and Worldwide Holidays

alcoholic and soft drinks and coffee, in which case this is clearly stated in tour information. Otherwise customers are responsible for paying for their own refreshments.

Passports, visas and health issues.

Customers are responsible for holding the necessary and appropriate travel documentation for their journey. For tours outside the UK, customers must ensure that there is at least six months validity remaining on their passports after returning back to the UK. We assume our customers are British Citizens whose passport shows they have a right to reside in the UK. If a customer has a passport of another country or state, or one that indicates restrictions on return to their country of origin, then they must please contact us prior to booking and well in advance of intended use. We will advise customers of the requirements and processing arrangements for visas where they are required. We will offer any help we can in arranging customers’ visas. Health advice is dependent upon the destination, medical history and current health of each customer participating in a tour and we cannot assume any responsibility. Customers MUST seek advice from their GP or a travel medical centre.

Pre-tour and travel documents.

We will send out information to tour customers for visa and general planning purposes when appropriate, usually at the ‘balance due’ time. If there is nothing significant to communicate then we will simply acknowledge that the customer’s balance of payment has been received. We prepare and send a booklet of information to tour customers for all tours. This includes a passenger list with first or ‘known as’ names, where advised, (to check on an old acquaintance, aide-memoir for names during the tour); the latest known itinerary with as much detail as necessary (including meal times/locations); emergency and general contact details; and usually some general and specific information about features of the tour programme. This is intentionally a small part of the information available and tour customers are advised to research and obtain detailed reference material, maps, schedules etc. appropriate to their particular interests. Air travel tickets are usually sent to us for onward dispatch less than two weeks before travel – please don’t panic! Rail tickets are often group travel documents held by the Tour Manager. In this case tour customers will be provided with joining instructions, which must please be observed since the party cannot progress until all members are present. Tickets, vouchers and coupons for onward travel during a tour, are usually held and distributed by the Tour Manager.

Travel insurance.

Many customers arrange their own travel insurance. The Railway Touring Company cannot assume any responsibility relating to travel insurance issues and customers should ensure that they are familiar with procedures should an incident occur. This is especially important with medical cover since we do not undertake to obtain medical attention, but to hand over the customer to an appropriate and suitable authority. You will need to double check with your insurance providers that your terms cover you for such things like a pandemic i.e Covid-19 or if you fall ill whilst away and need emergency medical treatment, if you are unsure we highly advise you to contact your provider to see if you are covered, not all policies cover for this.

• If you have not purchased your holiday insurance you will be looking for the following standard of cover, Medical and repatriation costs if you become unwell with any coronavirus (including Covid-19) or contagious disease.

• If your trip or holiday has to be cancelled because you or a travelling companion are diagnosed with any coronavirus (including Covid-19) or contagious disease and are unable to travel.

• Emergency repatriation costs to bring you home if the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) impose travel restrictions (while you’re at your destination), either in the UK or at your destination, and has requested you to return to the UK.

Infirmity and disability.

Tour managers are responsible for the general care and well-being of the whole group and are neither available, nor trained or insured for individual ‘personal’ care. Each tour, by way of the trains and terrain being visited, presents its own opportunities and restrictions. Customers should ascertain the suitability of the itinerary and facilities available relevant to their own needs. We are happy to discuss customers’ concerns with them before they commit to a booking. We will attempt to accommodate and resolve any needs or problems caused by undisclosed mobility/dietary/general health issues but cannot accept responsibilities beyond those stated above. It is your responsibility to disclose an accurate description of your mobility and any other relevant information relating to your health and fitness at the time of booking. We would especially draw the attention of customers to the tours that visit high-altitude locations and the resulting possibility of cardiovascular and respiratory problems. You must contact and advise us of any changes to your level of mobility or health and fitness between booking your holiday and departing on your tour.

Behaviour and damage

Railway Touring Company reserves the right in our absolute discretion to terminate without any form of prior notice, the holiday arrangements of any customer whose behaviour is such that it causes or is likely to cause, in our reasonable opinion, or in the opinion of any Railway Touring Company Tour Manager (if on an escorted holiday) or any other person in authority, any distress, damage, danger or significant annoyance to a third party, or damage to property. In these circumstances all our obligations to you under our contract or otherwise will cease to be applicable, full cancellation charges will apply and we will not be liable for any refund, compensation or costs incurred by you whatsoever. You may also be required to pay for loss and/or damage caused by your actions and we will hold you individually liable for any damage or losses caused by you. Full payment for any such damage or losses must be paid directly to the hotel or other supplier prior to departure. If you fail to make payment, you will be responsible for meeting any claims (including legal costs) subsequently made against us as a result of your actions together with all costs we may incur in pursuing any claim against you.

Booking Information – UK, Europe and Worldwide Holidays

Confidentiality, privacy and mailing lists.

Customers’ names and addresses have been obtained as a result of their response to advertisements, having been a previous customer or enquirer, or a referral from some other party. We do not share these details with anyone outside Warren Travel Ltd. trading as The Railway Touring Company or The Railway Touring Company Ltd. Customer’s personal details such as credit card numbers, travel arrangements, companions etc. will only be kept to be used within the requirements of tour operating. We are registered under the Data Protection Act. If one customer wishes to communicate with another customer, then please forward the stamped envelope/package to us. We will add the address and post on the mail. We will not divulge any addresses or telephone numbers. Please refer to our website for information regarding our Privacy Policy ensuring you fully understand it. Your acceptance of our Privacy Policy is deemed to occur upon your first use of Our Site. Financial protection.

We are licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and hold Air Travel Organizers’ Licensing Scheme (ATOL) Number T7149. This ensures that in the event of the failure of our Company, customers’ money will be protected. If customers are on holiday at the time of Company failure, arrangements will be made for them to complete their holiday and return home. The flights we provide are supplied by other ATOL holders and are protected by their bonds. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.

Payments for flights.

The payments that customers make for their flights are held by us in our trust account, on behalf of the ATOL holder who is supplying the flight, until the date that we pass the money to that ATOL holder. The ATOL holder supplying the flight will issue an ATOL confirmation invoice to confirm their contract with the customer. We will forward this to the customer no later than the day after we have received it.

The Travel Trust Association (TTA).

The TTA is a trade association of travel agents and travel organisers, established to provide financial protection for the customer. The TTA lays down strict guidelines on how the customer’s funds should be handled, and each member must adhere to those guidelines. Every TTA member pays the customer’s funds into a designated trust account which is supervised by an independent trustee; a Banker, Chartered or certified Accountant or Solicitor.

Why your travel arrangements are totally safe with the Travel Trust Association.

The Travel Trust Association (TTA) recognises that for many people a holiday is the one chance to really relax – so it is important that customers are able to feel completely confident about their travel arrangements from the moment they make their booking. By choosing an approved TTA Member, customers can be sure that their travel plans are totally secure. These arrangements exceed the statutory levels of consumer protection. Customer’s funds are secured in Trust by the Travel Trust Association Trustees.

Travel Trust Association

2 Crown Square Woking GU21 6HR 01483 545 780

www.traveltrust.co.uk

The holidays in this brochure that include air travel are ATOL Protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CCA). Our ATOL number is T7149. ATOL protects customers from losing their money or being stranded abroad. It does this by carrying out financial checks on the firms it licenses and requiring a guarantee, called a bond, to be lodged with them. If a firm goes out of business, the CAA will make a refund to the customer, or if already abroad on holiday, arrange for the customer to complete their holiday and fly home. Status.

The Railway Touring Company is a direct sell tour operator and retail travel agent. All parts of a customer’s holiday are covered by our TTA membership (number T726X), and the air travel for all of our customers’ holidays is covered by our ATOL membership (number T7149).

Warren Travel Ltd, trading as The Railway Touring Company, acts as a booking agent for the service providers whose terms and conditions of booking and carriage apply to our tours. Copies of these terms and conditions will be obtained from the relevant service providers and forwarded to customers on request. Tours will be confirmed and take place subject to minimum and maximum numbers booking. Railway components of a tour are provided subject to the serviceability of motive power and stock, and the operating conditions prevailing at the time of the tour. In the event of a failure to operate services as advertised then ‘best’ alternatives will be provided.

Programme and prices.

Details of each tour programme and its cost are published in our tour brochure, in leaflets, by correspondence, or by amendments notified to customers. Customers are required to acknowledge their acceptance of this information. Payments.

All tour bookings should be accompanied by payment of a deposit per person as follows:

£200 for travel in the UK

£250 for travel within Europe

£350 for travel beyond Europe

Booking Information – UK, Europe and Worldwide Holidays

A confirmation of booking will be sent to customers which includes a statement of their account and a balance due date. The balance of payment is required in time for us to pay our suppliers, usually twelve weeks before travel. There are occasions when we are required to pay for group tickets earlier than this and the balance due date will reflect this. Due to the high costs involved with debit and credit card transactions our preferred methods of payments for balance payments are cheque or bank transfer.

Fidelity insurance.

It is a requirement that all tour bookings be covered by Fidelity Insurance. This is a financial protection insurance that protects the customer’s money until the tour takes place. The cost of this insurance is included in the tour price.

Customer cancellation by you, before tour departure.

The cancellation charges below have been calculated as a pre-estimate of the losses we would incur in the event you cancelled your holiday within the stipulated time period. The scale of cancellation charges is as follows:

– Cancellation prior to 12 weeks before tour departure – loss of deposit *

– Cancellation between 8-12 weeks prior to tour departure – 25% refund of tour cost

– Cancellation less than 8 weeks prior to tour departure – no refund

* Loss of deposit means the loss of the full brochure deposit amount. Depending on the reason for your cancellation, you may be able to reclaim these cancellation charges (less any applicable excess) under the terms of your insurance policy. Claims must be made directly to the insurance company concerned.

Cancellation by you due to extraordinary and unavoidable circumstances.

You have the right to cancel your confirmed arrangements before the departure date without paying the above cancellation charges in the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occurring at your holiday destination or its immediate vicinity and significantly affecting the performance of the arrangements or significantly affecting transport arrangements to the destination. In these circumstances, we shall provide you with a full refund of the monies you have paid but we will not be liable to pay you any compensation. Please note that your right to cancel in these circumstances will only apply where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against travel to your destination or its immediate vicinity. For the purposes of this clause, "extraordinary and unavoidable circumstances" means warfare, acts of terrorism, significant risks to human health such as the outbreak of serious disease at the travel destination or natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes or weather conditions which make it impossible to travel safely to the travel destination or its immediate vicinity.

Alterations and cancellations by us.

Railway Touring Company start planning the holidays we offer many months in advance and occasionally, we have to correct errors and/ or make changes to the information contained in our brochures, our website and other details, both before and after bookings have been confirmed, and also cancel confirmed bookings. Whilst we always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, we must reserve the right to do so. Please note that occasionally due to events outside our control, including but not limited to adverse weather conditions, or unexpected or unforeseen circumstances, we may have to make changes to your itinerary with little or no notice.

Cancellations by us: All our escorted holidays are organised on the basis of a minimum number of clients. In the unlikely event the holiday (which would include any individually purchased variations or extensions), has to be cancelled because of insufficient numbers, you will be informed at least 6 weeks prior to departure. We will not cancel your arrangements less than 6 weeks before departure except for reasons of events beyond our control or failure by you to pay the final balance. We will not be liable for any consequential loss you may suffer or pay any compensation to you.

Passports, visas and health.

Customers are responsible for ensuring that they have the correct travel documentation for tours, and this includes passports, visas and health certificates. We are willing to give advice on passport and visa requirements but customers should seek professional guidance on medical related matters. We shall obtain guidance from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and tourist board where a security risk exists or arises in respect of a tour destination. This information will then be passed on to tour customers.

Prices.

Prices are determined against known exchange rates, fuel costs and tax regimes prevailing at 18th July 2024. The exchange rates used for prices quoted in this brochure are as follows:

£1 = 1.15 Euros

£1 = 1.21 US Dollars

£1 = 1.1 Swiss Francs

£1 = 105.13 Indian Rupees

£1 = 12.58 Norwegian Krones

In the event of significant changes we must reserve the right to amend prices.

A NO SMOKING policy will be pursued where we have the control or influence over the service that we are providing on our tour.

Booking Information – UK, Europe and Worldwide Holidays

Our chartered steam trains.

Whenever possible we hire steam trains for our exclusive use. This allows us the flexibility, within operational parameters, to run to our requirements. It also enables us to stop the train for photographs of the scenery; the train itself; and sometimes staged train movements, known as run-pasts. We can often arrange for tour customers to ride on the footplate of the locomotive, should they wish, but at their own risk. Since our tours often number around 40 customers there are occasions when we have access to older trains with limited capacity, and sometimes to facilities not normally available to large groups or individuals. However, on occasions due to popularity and where space permits this number can be exceeded.

Scheduled trains.

Where we travel by scheduled train, with few exceptions, we travel First Class in reserved seats or reserved carriages. This has proven to be much better value for money since the additional space, comfort and lack of crowding are obtained at a worthwhile supplement compared with Standard Class travel.

Alternative airports, independent travel and extensions.

Our customers come from throughout the UK and overseas. Wherever possible we choose flights which allow connections from local airports, and prices for these connecting flights start at around £149 return. Most overseas tours allow for independent travel arrangements whereby customers may extend their stay, stop en-route, or make their own travel arrangements. We can provide a ‘ground only’ quotation for all of our tours so that overseas customers and independent customers can make their own way to and from the tour joining point.

Extra tours and tour updates.

Throughout the year we keep pace with an ever-changing world. It is often possible to initiate new tours after our brochure has gone to press, and to make alterations to published information, so please check our website for the most up-to-date information.

Website – www.railwaytouring.net

Our web site provides details of all our tours plus information about additional tours and amendments to our tour programme. Don’t forget to bookmark our web site amongst your favourites. We welcome contributions of photographs that customers have taken on our tours and that they are willing for us to use in publicity materials.

Booking information.

Customers should ensure that they read all our ‘Booking Information’ before booking a holiday with us.

Pre-tour and post-tour UK hotels and holiday parking.

We are able to arrange customers’ pre-tour and post-tour hotel accommodation, car parking, coach and train travel, and connecting flights. Customers may wish to consider staying overnight before and/or after travel on one of our tours. A night in a conveniently located hotel before departure or after return can mean that the customer begins or ends the tour more rested and relaxed. It may also avoid the frustrations and anxieties of early morning and late evening travel. Pre-booked car parking can also be arranged for customers.

Examples:

Airport hotels with holiday parking

• Gatwick from £120 per room

• Heathrow from £150 per room

• Stansted from £125 per room

Secured airport parking

• Gatwick from £9.00 per day

• Heathrow from £18.00 per day

• Stansted from £9.00 per day

Travel by road coach from and to the customer’s local town together with overnight hotel accommodation can be arranged. Prices are available on request. Rail tickets from and to the customer’s home railway station to the tour departure point can only be booked where two or more passengers are travelling together. Prices are available on request. The prices quoted above are correct at the time of print and may be subject to change and can vary depending on your preferences.

UK connecting flights.

We are willing to make enquiries and, where possible, arrange connecting flights from the customer’s local airport to the main tour departure point. Prices are available on request.

Travel insurance.

Due to changes in the travel insurance regulations we are no longer able to sell travel insurance direct to our customers. We can however recommend and send to customers details of travel insurance through Holiday Extras, in conjunction with the Travel Trust Association. Please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to receive details of this insurance.

Reservation Form

T itle .................... Forename .................................................................. Surname ................................................................

Title Forename Surname

*DOB = Date of Birth

Please ensure your names are as they appear in your passport.

*

Address of first named .................................................................................................................................................................................

Please reserve the (tour title)

Indicate your requirements/preferences: Twin bedded room ■ Double bedded room ■ Single room(s) ■ (Please tick)

Where options are available for the tour (i.e. Ground only) please clearly state your choice(s).

Please also specify any dietary requirements, health or mobility related requirements. ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................

The deposit is £350 per person outside Europe, £250 per person within Europe and £200 per person for UK tours. The balance/full fare is due 12 weeks before travel; dates will be advised on your confirmation. As stated in our booking information a Fidelity Policy will be added at the time of booking.

I enclose a cheque (payable to The Railway Touring Company).

Please charge my credit or debit card for:

£ deposit ■ full fare ■ (Please tick)

Card Number

Expires

Start Date

Please accept my booking on the terms and conditions as stated in this brochures booking information pages and on our website, railwaytouring.net

Please sign and date

Please send this form to: The Railway Touring Company, The Old Stables, Estuary Road, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2HL.