Stunning view over Hermanus, South Africa
Experience something out of this world on our long-haul tours
If you’re going to travel, why not go the distance? We are delighted to share our range of exciting long-haul tours for 2019 with you all. From the wild landscapes of the little visited Falkland Islands and Australia’s magnificent coasts, to the flora & fauna of Madagascar, we have something to enchant every Brightwater Holidays guest. So, why not go the extra mile and join one of our unforgettable long-haul adventures?
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Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
What’s new for 2019? • We’ve gone back to our roots - taking your feedback on board and offering more free time, fewer meals and better on-tour flexibility • Thrilling new destinations and exciting new tours, that will take you to places such as the Falkland Islands and even Tibet • Reworked itineraries that allow you to get the most out of your experience with us
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
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NEW ZEALAND GARDEN FESTIVALS 2018
Two breathtaking islands that boast innumerable highlights. Visit both the Taranaki and Marlborough festivals as part of this extended voyage to the ends of the earth. There simply aren’t superlatives enough and, what’s more, with wonderful weather waiting for you, there isn’t a better time of year to explore the many wonders and delights of New Zealand... This 19-day horticultural odyssey to the other side of the globe will bring you to botanical gardens, private outdoor spaces and wild reserves, but the once-in-a-lifetime experiences don’t stop there... Join us on excursions to award-winning wineries, steaming geysers, vibrant hot springs, wildlife sanctuaries and thunderous waterfalls. You can also encounter the warmth of the Maori people during an evening of ceremonial rituals, performances and traditional storytelling - experiences that will stay with you for years. Timed to coincide with the colourful Taranaki and Marlborough Garden Festivals, this tour offers truly amazing experiences in inimitable surroundings.
Departure 29th Oct, 2018 (by plane and coach)
19 days from
£6,995
per person
Single room supplement £895
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
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Lupins on the shore of Lake Tekapo
What’s Included
• 15 nights’ accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis: 1 in Auckland, 1 in Rotorua, 3 in New Plymouth, 2 in Wellington, 3 in Blenheim, 2 in Christchurch and 3 in Queenstown • 11 dinners and 14 lunches, with house wine or beer • City tours of New Plymouth and Wellington • All flights, a ferry crossing to Picton across Cook Strait, a steamer cruise across Lake Wakatipu and Milford Sound cruise • All visits to regional wineries, wonderful gardens and festivals • Bottled water and porterage throughout
Tour Manager - Trevor Edwards Award Winning Garden Designer, Writer & Broadcaster Trevor Edwards is one of our busiest and most popular garden Tour Managers, and has led many garden tours around the world. His deep knowledge and love of horticulture along with the planning he does before any new tour speaks volumes for the positive feedback we get from satisfied guests.
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
Itinerary Days 1 & 2 We fly to Auckland, arriving on the third day of this unforgettable adventure, ready to begin the tour. Inc. Meals: In-flight only Day 3 Upon arrival, we pay a visit to the country garden of Beverley McConnell, Ayrlies. A welcome dinner at our hotel awaits us later tonight. Inc. Meals: Dinner only Day 4 After breakfast, we dive headfirst into our day. We visit the Auckland Regional Botanic Gardens and then it’s on to the impressive Hamilton Gardens. Later, we explore the thermal wonderland of Rotorua and then spend our evening at Tamaki Maori Village, where we observe ceremonial rituals and enjoy storytelling. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 5 Heading south, we stop at Huka Falls and continue via scenic Lake Taupo, arriving at Tikorangi to tour Jury Garden. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 6 A city tour of New Plymouth kick-starts our day and we visit Pukeiti Garden, set in lush rainforest. Hollard Garden, Tupare Grounds and Pukekura Park are also on our list. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 7 Having looked at the Taranaki Garden Festival booklet, we travel to gardens that have piqued our interest. There will be free time this evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 8 En route to Wellington, we enjoy a photo stop at the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge and then continue on to the outstanding Paloma Gardens. Later, there is a sightseeing tour of Wellington and we also pay a visit to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 9 Our day begins at the Otari Native Botanic Garden and Wilton’s Bush Reserve, the country’s only native botanic garden. Next, we tour the Zealandia Ecosanctuary and the rest of our day will be spent at leisure in Wellington. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 10 The Interislander Ferry takes us over the Cook Strait to Picton, a journey that is especially scenic. Later, we indulge with a tasting at the award-winning Wither Hills Vineyard. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 11 A full day on the Nelmac Marlborough Garden Festival trail awaits, where garden owners will share their beautiful outdoor spaces with us. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 12 Another special festival garden tour is on the itinerary today, but we turn our focus to three gardens of contrasting designs. After, we sample local wines at a fantastic winery. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 13 Travel down the picturesque coast to Christchurch, arriving at our hotel for dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
fruit shop in Cromwell. Next, we follow the Kaweray Gorge Road into Queenstown. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 16 This morning we visit Arrowtown and explore the Stoneridge Chapel and Water Garden. After, we travel to Gibbston Valley Winery for a wine tasting and cave tour. We have the afternoon at leisure before enjoying a cruise across Lake Wakapitu. Tonight we dine at the Colonel’s Homestead. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 17 Departing for Milford Sound, we admire alpine scenery and then join a boat for a cruise from the head of the fjord to the open sea and back. This journey is one of the absolute highlights of this already magnificent tour. Later, we make our return to Queenstown. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Days 18 & 19 Sadly, our tour of New Zealand must come to an end. We transfer to the airport and begin our journey home, arriving into London the following day. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & In-flight
New Zealand
Day 14 Enjoy the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens this morning before we move onto Akaunui Historic House and Gardens. Later, we pause to take in the woodland area that is Trott’s Gardens and enjoy time in the city. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 15 A day of spectacular sights lies ahead and we begin with a journey into the Mackenzie Basin to the magnificent blue waters of Lake Tekapo. We visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and statue of the collie dog before visiting Mrs. Jones’
Auckland
Hamilton New Plymouth Rotorua Picton Whanganui Blenheim Wellington Christchurch
Milford Sound
Arrowtown Queenstown
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AUSTRALIA - GARDENS & FLORA OF NEW SOUTH WALES, VICTORIA AND TASMANIA
Summer is a magical season in which to visit Australia and with the gardens at their peak, filled to bursting with vibrant displays of plants both familiar and exotic, we make time to take it all in. In Tasmania, the rugged and mysterious island state, it’s lavender season and we can enjoy the spectacle of endless fragrant, purple fields. Our visit here is complemented with tours of glorious parks and gardens in both Victoria and New South Wales. From notable gardens and areas of outstanding natural beauty, to the endemic flora we stop to observe en route to special visits, it’s easy to see why this is such a unique and captivating country. To break up our outward journey, we included a stopover in Singapore, offering us the chance to visit its new horticultural attraction, Gardens by the Bay. Spanning a total of 101 hectares, this award-winning venue houses over 250,000 rare plants in imaginative ways. Our tour is led by the ever-popular Mike Nelhams, curator of Tresco’s famed Abbey Gardens.
Departure 6th – 23rd Jan, 2019 (by plane and coach)
18 days from
£5,995
per person
Single room supplement £1,400
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
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The impressive Twelve Apostles
What’s Included
• 14 nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation in 3* and 4* hotels: 2 nights in Singapore, 3 in Melbourne, 3 in Launceston, 2 in Hobart and 4 nights in Sydney • 4 dinners with drinks • All flights and air conditioned coaching throughout • Entry to Cranbourne, Wychwood, Melbourne Royal Botanical gardens, a Sydney Harbour Cruise and other visits as listed • Bottled water and porterage throughout • Services of Mike Nelhams as tour manager and local guide
Tour Guide - Mike Nelhams Curator of Tresco’s Abbey Garden and a long-standing associate of Brightwater Holidays, with a loyal ‘fan club’ who have followed him around the world. Once memorably described as ‘The James Bond of the garden world’, Mike’s good humour and easy manner, coupled with a deep knowledge of plants, has been a winning combination for many years.
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
Itinerary Days 1 & 2 Depart from Heathrow in the evening and arrive into Singapore on the second day, where we will transfer to our hotel before visiting the Singapore Botanic Garden and the Orchid Garden. The evening will be at leisure. Inc. Meals: In-flight only Day 3 We visit Singapore’s new horticultural attraction, Gardens by the Bay this morning. Later, we make our way to the Marina Bay Sands complex and take a ride on the Tower 3 elevator to the Skypark Observation Deck. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 4 Our Singapore experience concludes at the fantastic Singapore Chinese and Japanese Gardens, and then we fly overnight to Melbourne. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight Day 5 Upon arrival into Melbourne, we go to our central hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to relax. A welcome dinner and drinks follow later. Inc. Meals: Dinner only Day 6 After breakfast, we explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, famous for their spectacular vistas across sweeping lawns and lakes. In the afternoon, we drive out to the main gardens at Cranbourne. There will be free time this evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 7 A circular tour on the Great Ocean Road awaits this morning and we stop at points of interest en route, viewing native wildlife as we go. The highlight is undoubtedly the remarkable Twelve Apostles, amazing natural sculptures formed from limestone rocks that rise dramatically from the sea. Free time in Melbourne is ours this evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only
Day 8 Following breakfast, we transfer to Melbourne Airport and fly to Launceston in Tasmania. When we arrive, we meet our driver and visit the Cataract Gorge Park, arriving just in time for lunch. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 9 Enjoy the spectacle of endless purple fields as we drive to the Bridestowe Lavender Estate, where we learn about distillation. Later, we sample local produce and a glass of wine as we gaze out over the fertile Tamar Valley. In the evening, we return to Launceston for free time. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 10 Our day begins at the private garden of Wychwood, where we have a special guided tour. Later, we explore colourful Sheffield with its murals and our final visit is to the Henry Somerset Orchid Reserve, the only one of its kind in Australia. Our evening is spent at leisure. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 11 Starting at Brickendon Farm we tour the convict buildings and heritage gardens, we then move on to the National Rose Garden at Woolmers Estate. Next, at Ross, we visit the convict-built bridge of 1863 and then continue on to Hobart, Tasmania’s state capital. This evening we dine at a local seafood restaurant. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 12 We admire the symmetrical parterres at Corinda garden this morning and then we visit the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens in the afternoon. There is free time in the evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 13 After breakfast, we go to Hobart Airport and fly to Sydney. The afternoon is free to unwind or for further exploration. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only
Day 14 Following breakfast we transfer to Circular Quay and enjoy a two-hour premium harbour cruise. After, we visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to a wide variety of native fauna and flora. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 15 Explore the majestic Blue Mountains this morning, enjoy the beauty of the Australian bush, admire the Three Sisters and stroll through Nooroo’s private garden. Later, a guided tour through the 28-hectare Mt. Tomah Botanic Gardens awaits and our evening is at leisure. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 16 A free day is ours to enjoy the many delights of Sydney. There will be an optional excursion to the wine-growing area of Hunter Valley, which includes a trip to Australia Reptile Park. Later, we have a fantastic farewell dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Days 17 & 18 After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our return flights and we arrive back into London on Day 18. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
Australia Mount Tomah Sydney Melbourne
Cranbourne
Twelve Apostles Sheffield Hobart
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Bridestowe Lavender Estate Launceston
Tasmania
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SOUTHERN COSTA RICA
This exciting new tour perfectly complements our highly popular ‘Gardens of Costa Rica’ experience, which takes in the northern part of the country. Set among the southern regions, this trip will take you to places that include Golfito, which is often fondly referred to as Costa Rica’s ‘last frontier’. Here, we find an unexplored rugged wilderness, where the amenities are more basic, but where you can experience an alternative to the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist destinations. Admire the world class collection of orchids at Lankester Gardens, discover remote corners of the rainforest and even glide through the treetops on an aerial tramway. There will also be a visit to the impressive Wilson Botanical Garden, which was established back in 1963 by Robert and Catherine Wilson, and designed by the famous Brazilian architect, Roberto Burle Max. A surprising and inspiring array of experiences await us in southern Costa Rica.
26th Jan - 4th Feb, 2019 (by plane and coach)
10 days from
£3,195
• 8 nights’ accommodation on a dinner, bed & breakfast basis: 2 nights in Heredia, 2 at Rio Perlas, 2 at the Wilson Botanical Garden, and 2 at the Esquinas Rainforest Lodge • 7 lunches • Return flights from LDN and comfortable coaching throughout • Visits to Lankester Gardens, Wilson Botanical Garden, Casa Orquiedas, walking tour of the Cloud Forest & aerial tram tour • Bottled water and porterage throughout • Services of a Brightwater tour manager as well as local guide
per person
Single room supplement £400 Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
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Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
Tucan
Departure
What’s Included
Foothills of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
Itinerary Day 1 Depart from London and travel to San José, Costa Rica’s capital. Upon arrival, we board our coach and transfer to our hotel for dinner. The hotel itself is set within 10 acres of lush tropical garden and features a secluded outdoor swimming pool and sauna - perfect for relaxing after long days of exciting discoveries. Inc. Meals: In-flight & dinner Day 2 After breakfast, we visit Lankester Garden, which boasts a world renowned variety of orchids. Orchids can be tricky to spot in the wild and the majority are epiphytic, growing high in the canopy on trunks and branches, and flowering only for a day or two. With this in mind, we are lucky to see so many displayed at eye-level in this garden. We stop for lunch and then journey south into the mountains, an area of National Parks and Reserves, until we reach our next base, the Rio Perlas Hotel, Spa and Resort. This luxurious hotel sits beside the Perlas river in the heart of the rainforest. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 3 An unusual and fascinating day lies ahead of us, beginning with a walking tour of the surrounding tropical cloud forest. We might see some Resplendent Quetzals, the magnificent Phoenix-like bird that was so revered by the indigenous people of Central America. Look out for hummingbirds, fly-catchers and finches that dart about the mighty oaks. Here, we can also see bromeliads, lichens, ferns and even orchids. After lunch, we enjoy a visit to the stunning surrounding area of San Gerardo de Dota. Dinner follows later. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 4 Today we continue our journey south, stopping en route for lunch. Our destination is San Vito and the fabulous
Wilson Botanical Garden. Covering a total of 12 hectares and surrounded by 254 hectares of natural forest, this worldclass garden was established by Robert and Catherine Wilson back in 1963, and thereafter became known for its vast collection. Accommodation is provided here in self-contained cabins, with views over the gardens themselves. We have dinner here later this evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 5 The 25-acre Wilson Botanical Garden is ours to explore today. The plants here include palms, marantas, bananas, heliconias, dracaenas, gingers and bromeliads. A signature design method of architect Roberto Burle Marx can also be found here. Look for the ruffled fan palm planted beside an imperial bromeliad. A new director was appointed recently, who has been initiating changes to make the gardens more appealing to everyday visitors. In the evening, we will sit down to a group dinner together. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 6 Following breakfast, we check out and head towards Golfito. A remote and secluded region, this is an unexplored wilderness and one that offers an authentic experience. Our base here is a lodge hidden in the jungle of Piedras Blancas National Park, which attracts over 300 species of birds and 100 species of mammals. We discover the flora and fauna here and there will also be time to explore the surrounding area upon our arrival. Dinner will follow later today. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 7 We pay a visit to Casa Orquideas this morning, one of the oldest and most interesting botanical gardens in the southern Costa Rica region. This garden is home to some 100 species of orchids along
with heliconas, bromeliads and a whole host of other edible plants. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 8 The time has come to head back to San José. Our journey is broken up by a lunch stop and a ride aboard the Aerial Tram near to Jaco. This tour allows us to explore every level of the tropical transitional forest from the ground to the treetops as we glide silently through the trees in open gondolas, suspended by cables. In addition to this hour-long gondola ride, we visit the beautiful Butterfly Garden and Medicinal Plants Garden, taking a walk through the Terrariums, where many interesting amphibian and reptile species can be observed. Later, we continue to San José and then return to our hotel where dinner is served in the evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Days 9 & 10 This morning, we enjoy breakfast at our hotel and then we travel to San José’s airport for our return flight back to London, arriving the following day. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
Costa Rica San José Province Rio Perlas Rainforest Adventures Jaco
Esquinas Rainforest Lodge
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Las Cruces Biological Station
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THE GARDENS OF COSTA RICA
Costa Rica, Spanish for “rich coast”, is especially well-named if you consider the extraordinary wealth of plant, bird and animal life to be found within this small Central American country. The term ‘biodiversity’ might have been coined with Costa Rica in mind because the vast range of species that flourish within its pristine, tropical forests is simply incredible. Add to the mix some spectacular scenery and laid-back, happy people, and you have the makings of a life-affirming holiday experience. Visit a broad range of gardens both public and private, such as the Else Kientzler Botanical Gardens with its world class collection of plants, and take exciting excursions that put you face-to-face with spectacular natural features such as the Arenal Lake and the breathtaking Poás volcano. In addition to this, we spend time at the world’s largest butterfly garden at the glorious La Paz Waterfall Gardens, we seek out subtropical wildlife in the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge and, of course, we make time to marvel at the views...
Departure 3rd – 15th Feb, 2019 (by plane and coach)
13 days from
£3,895
per person
Single room supplement £960
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
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Suspended bridge over the canopy of the trees in Monteverde
What’s Included
• 11 nights’ accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis: 3 nights in Heredia, 2 in Sarapiqui, 2 in Arenal, 2 in Monteverde, and 2 nights in Manuel Antonia • 8 dinners and 10 lunches • Return flights from LDN and comfortable coaching throughout • Visits to Poás Volcano National Park, Else Kientzler Botanical Garden, Arenal Lake, private gardens and more • Bottled water and porterage throughout • Services of Julia Corden as tour manager and a local guide
Tour Guide - Julia Corden Julia Corden is the Garden Manager at the Explorer’s Garden in Pitlochry and has led numerous Brightwater tours to every corner of the globe. With a loyal following of her own, Julia is known for her energy and enthusiasm and for her broad plant knowledge, with Alpines being her particular speciality.
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
Itinerary Day 1 Depart from London and fly to San José. Upon arrival, we meet our coach and local guide, and transfer to our hotel where we dine. Inc. Meals: In-flight & dinner Day 2 After breakfast, we visit Else Kientzler Botanical Garden in Sarchi Norte at the foot of the Poás Volcano. This private garden houses over 2,000 plants from around the globe. It is also home to examples of woody trees in danger of extinction, such as Cocobolo, Cristóbal and Guayacán real. We stop for lunch and then tour the private garden of Mrs. Esther Rodriquez. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 3 We make our way to the Poás Volcano today, one of the most spectacular in the country. With a 1km crater and a depth of 3114m, it has an astonishing steaming lake at the bottom and our visit will be subject to safe conditions at the time. Later, we visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where we spend time at the world’s largest butterfly garden. After, we walk to the magical waterfalls, where a refreshing spray of water from the streaming cascade might cool us. From here, we travel north to Sarapiqui and check in to our hotel. Dinner is served in the evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 4 The day begins with a journey to the reserve at La Tirimbina, where we visit an organic cacao plantation with the chance to make and enjoy our very own chocolate! Next, we learn about pineapple farming and sample the delicious fruit at the Organic Paradise Tour. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 5 This morning we depart for Arenal to see the majestic volcano that
has not erupted since 2010, but still rumbles and smokes from time to time. We visit a medicinal garden and discover how endemic plants were used to produce effective medicines. Later, we travel to our hotel, which boasts marvellous views over the volcano and we enjoy dinner in the evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
in 1972 to preserve this important area, gets our day off to a scenic start and it is known for being one of the most beautiful and biodiverse areas in the world. In the afternoon, we take the Rainforest Spices Plantation tour where we smell, touch and taste a variety of spices such as vanilla, cocoa, black pepper and cinnamon. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Day 6 An entire day at the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, near to the Nicaraguan border, awaits. Take a two-and-a-half-hour boat trip to see an astonishing variety of birds, monkeys, alligators, sloths, turtles, and a diverse range of flora. Later, we tour some of the local hot springs, where we will also enjoy dinner tonight. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 11 After breakfast, we leave our hotel and return to San José, with a visit to the Orchid Garden in La Garita included en route. Costa Rica has the richest orchid flora in Central America, with over 1,400 identified species. Once we arrive at our hotel, there will be some time to relax before our evening meal. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 7 After breakfast, we take a boat trip on Lake Arenal, Costa Rica’s largest body of fresh water. Once we’ve explored here, we head south to Monteverde and we eat dinner at the hotel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Days 12 & 13 It is time to make our way back home. We catch our return flight from San José’s Juan Santamaria Airport and land tomorrow morning, where the group will disperse or make onward connections. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
Day 8 We start our day at a nearby orchid garden, and after lunch, we visit a butterfly garden, where myriad species can be seen. This evening there will be an opportunity to dine in the unique Tree House restaurant, built into the upper branches of a huge tree. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 9 Enjoy breakfast and then take a tour of the Monteverde Cloud Reserve, where the varied climate and large altitudinal gradient supports a complex ecosystem. Animal species here include the jaguar, ocelot and Baird’s tapir. Following lunch, we drive down to the west coast to our accommodation for the next two nights. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Costa Rica Arenal Springs Resort
Sarapiqui
Monteverde Volcán Poás National Park San José Province Quepos
Day 10 A tour of the Manuel Antonio National Park, which was established
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SEASONAL GARDENS OF JAPAN
The origin of the Japanese garden lies in simple, gravel-covered forest clearings where the gods could manifest themselves. Over the centuries, the gardens have evolved into an idealised reflection of the natural landscape through the delicate use of stone and water features, as well as trees, plants and moss. Experience the otherworldliness of this mystical country on a garden tour unlike any other. Travel aboard the iconic bullet train, visit the historic town of Omi Hachiman, take a cruise beneath Mount Fuji’s snow-capped peaks on Lake Ashi, and embark upon an optional excursion to Hiroshima and its Peace Memorial Park.
What’s Included
Sensoji Temple
• 6 nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation in Kyoto and then 5 in Tokyo • Dinner and welcome drink on the first night, a dinner with a maiko, 3 lunches and a farewell dinner • Return flights, bullet train transfers and comfortable coaching • Visits to numerous gardens and a cruise on Lake Ashi • Services of a horticulturist plus local guides • Bottle of mineral water each day and hotel porterage
Departure 27th Mar – 8th Apr & 13th – 25th Nov, 2019 (by plane and coach)
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13 days from
£4,995
per person
Single room supplement £1,500 Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
Views over Tokyo
Many of the country’s notable gardens are situated in and around Kyoto, Japan’s former capital, and we enjoy three full days exploring both public and private gardens here in this area. We have included a variety of different natural styles in order to bring this tour to life, from landscape gardens and stroll gardens, to pond-and-island spaces. Traditions, stories and natural beauty await.
Itinerary Day 1 Depart from London Heathrow on an overnight flight that will take us to Kansai International Airport. Inc. Meals: In-flight only Day 2 Upon arrival in Osaka in the morning, we transfer by coach to Kyoto for a visit to the gardens of the Imperial Palace, which feature broad gravel paths, lawns and attractive weeping cherry trees. This was the residence of Japan’s Imperial Family until 1868, when the capital moved to Tokyo. From here, we head to our hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Inc. Meals: Dinner only Day 3 After breakfast, we discover the dry landscape garden at Ginkaku-ji, which is UNESCO listed. Next, we visit the private garden of Hakusasonsou in the site of an old paddy field and then we continue on to Kyoto Botanical Garden. The day’s final stop is at the atmospheric Bamboo Forest Path in Sagano. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 4 A full day excursion to the Prefecture of Shiga, to the east of Kyoto, awaits. We begin in Otsu, on the southwest edge of Lake Biwa-ko. Here, we visit the ancient temple of Ishiyamadera, before moving on to the historic town of Omi Hachiman and the Hachimanbori Canal. In the old merchants’ area, we explore the Nishikawake House, a former residence of a wealthy merchant family. We return to Kyoto. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 5 Today we are free to explore Kyoto at leisure. There is also the chance to join an optional excursion to Hiroshima by train. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 6 Another full day in Kyoto is ours today and we visit some outstanding
gardens. Starting at the Daisen-in Temple, we also discover two more dry landscape gardens, including Zuiho-in and Ryogenin. Next, we tour the stunning Kinkakuji Temple and end at Ryoan-ji Temple. In the evening, we have a special treat in store as we transfer to the Geisha district of Gion for a special dinner with a maiko, which is an apprentice geiko, and we will learn all about the history of this practice as well as its customs. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 7 After breakfast, we head to Nara and one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines - Kasuga Grand Shrine - is first up on our list of visits. Afterwards, we tour the Todai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha at 53m, and then we enjoy Nara Park where thousands of tame deer roam free. After some time at our hotel to freshen up, we go to the Kodai-ji Temple for an evening visit. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 8 This morning, we visit the Heian Shrine, a rare example of an extensive pond garden in the grounds of a Shinto shrine. From here, we move onto the Nanzen-ji Temple complex. Later, we leave Kyoto on the bullet train and travel to Tokyo, where we will be met by a coach that will take us to our central hotel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 9 We take a coach to the seaside town of Kamakura, the capital of Japan from 1185 until 1333. Here, we visit the Great Buddha and after lunch in Kamakura, we continue to the Hase Kannon Temple. There’s time for one final visit, so we make our way to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, dedicated to the God of War. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch
Day 10 Hakone and Mount Fuji are our tour stops for today. We begin with a visit to Onshi Hakone Park and after lunch, we take a cruise on Lake Ashi. Views from here are amazing and on the way back, we can take photos at Mt. Fuji. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 11 In vibrant Tokyo, we see the garden of Kyu Furukawa, tour Mukojima Hyakkaen Garden and visit Shunkanen’s Bonsai Museum before enjoying free time to explore the area. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 12 Our second full day in Tokyo starts with a trip to the Hamarikyu Garden. Then, we take a cruise on the Sumida River, visit Senso-ji Temple, browse the stalls at Nakamise-dori and continue on to Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens. We see the Imperial Palace East Gardens before sitting down to a fantastic farewell dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 13 We travel to the airport for our return flight to London. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
Japan
Omihachiman Tokyo Kyoto Osaka International Airport Mount Kamakura Nara Fuji
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
13
FLORIDA & THE EPCOT FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL
Of all the places you’d think you could go behind the scenes (or behind the seeds!), you probably wouldn’t put Walt Disney World in Florida high up on the list. However, previous Brightwater guests will know that we love to surprise you! Our extra-special day at the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival begins with a fragrant tour led by an on-site gardener and after that, it’s over to you to explore this site at leisure. Join us on visits to the singing tower, whose music fills the lush Pinewood Estate twice per day, the tropical grounds of Harry P. Leu Gardens, and other private gardens. In addition to our floral adventures, there are other things you simply can’t leave Florida without doing: tasting a glass of fresh orange juice or gliding beneath the oaks of the Everglades by airboat, for example...
Departure 9th – 16th Apr, 2019 (by plane and coach)
8 days from
£2,995
What’s Included • • • • •
6 nights’ bed & breakfast at a 4* hotel in Orlando Return flights from London to Orlando Welcome dinner with wine, 4 other dinners & 3 lunches Comfortable coaching throughout Visits to Epcot Flower & Garden Festival, Leu Gardens and Bok Tower Gardens • Bottle of mineral water each day and hotel porterage • Services of a Brightwater Holidays Tour Manager
per person
Single room supplement £480 Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
14
Epcot Flower Festival
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Bok Tower Gardens
“The most magical place on Earth” is made all the more special by the addition of an annual garden and flower festival at Epcot, Walt Disney World’s forward-thinking, future-focused park.
Itinerary Day 1 We take a scheduled flight from London to Orlando, and have some time to freshen up and just relax before sitting down to our welcome dinner as a group later tonight. Inc. Meals: In-flight & Dinner Day 2 Our first full day is spent getting better acquainted with Florida, beginning with a gentle introduction at Bok Tower Gardens. With enchanting music filling the gardens from its singing tower, wander the pathways to find a host of architectural and colourful delights. We continue the morning with a tour of the Pinewood Estate, an enchanting 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion nestled in the heart of the gardens. Originally named “El Retiro”, meaning “retreat” in Spanish, this Estate was built in the early 1930s for Charles Austin Buck, a Bethlehem Steel Vice President. After lunch, we take a tour of the local orange groves and can sample the delicious produce as well as learn more about the bottling plant itself. Dinner will follow later this evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 3 Today, we set off for a full day at the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival. Once we arrive, we are treated to an exclusive ‘Behind the Seeds’ tour with one of the featured gardeners. We can also enjoy a tour of the Twining’s English Tea Gardens as well as a sensory visit to the Guerlain Fragrance Garden. There are many other hands-on demonstrations to keep those green fingers busy during this visit, and there’s something to satisfy every interest! Epcot itself was opened to the public as part of the Walt Disney World site back in 1982 and, interestingly, its name stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. We arrive back at our hotel
in the evening, where we can sit down to a group dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 4 After breakfast, we spend the day visiting a selection of local, privatelyowned gardens. With a vast array of species, colours and themes, they offer us a comprehensive insight into the many delights and surprises of this tropical climate. Florida isn’t all palms... Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Universal Studios and the second is a visit to the iconic Cape Canaveral Space Centre. We reconvene as a group later on before making our way back to the airport, where we catch our return flight home. We arrive back into London tomorrow morning and the group will disperse. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
Day 5 A free day to spend as you wish awaits. Alternatively, there will also be an optional excursion to Epcot for the second time if you would like to return. You may want to shop for souvenirs, revisit gardens that inspired you or just wander around and explore independently. On Saturday mornings, there are workshops that you can participate in and outdoor food markets. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 6 The morning will be spent visiting Leu Gardens, an amazing 50-acre botanical oasis located just minutes from downtown Orlando. Each garden boasts its own inspirational design and we can lose ourselves in a maze of colours, scents and textures as we wander through vines, under branches and discover the most beautiful roses. After a break for lunch, we venture into the wild of Florida’s renowned Everglades for an exhilarating airboat tour. On the Kissimmee River, keep an eye out for wildlife such as alligators and regional birds. For our last evening in the hotel, we sit down to a delicious farewell dinner in true Floridian style - with a barbecue. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando
Harry P Leu Gardens Orlando Epcot Bok Tower Gardens
Days 7 & 8 We have a free day today to spend at leisure, or alternatively you could choose between two optional excursions. The first is a day-long trip to the beloved
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Florida
15
CANADA’S MAPLE LEAF TRAIL
Wander around one of the most beautiful gardens in North America, visit Canada’s largest botanical garden in Burlington, and tour private gardens situated alongside the Rideau Canal. We then cross into Québec to pick up the trail of French explorer Samuel de Champlain...
What’s Included
The Chinese Garden of the Montreal Botanical Gardens
• 11 nights’ accommodation on bed & breakfast basis: 4 nights in Toronto, 2 in Ottowa, 3 in Québec & 2 in Montreal • 5 dinners and 1 lunch • Flights from London to Toronto, and Montreal to London • Visits to Toronto Sculpture Garden, Toronto Botanic Garden, Allan Gardens Conservatory, Jardin des Quatre Vents, Royal Botanic Garden Burlington, and many more. • Bottle of mineral water each day and hotel porterage • Services of a tour manager as well as local guides throughout
This picturesque Maple Leaf Trail presents lucky travellers with a heady fusion of both public and private gardens, where well-worn tourist trail experiences - such as a river cruise beneath the mighty Niagara Falls contrast with quiet strolls around little-visited outdoor spaces. Prepare yourself for a horticultural experience with a difference that is simply not to be missed.
Departure 14th –26th Jun, 2019 (by plane and coach)
13 days from
£4,495
per person
Single room supplement £1,320
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
16
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
Cactus in a greenhouse, Allan Gardens
A breathtaking Canadian adventure awaits as we journey around this diverse country in search of its most glorious gardens, large and small. This tour is timed not only so that we can indulge in midsummer sunshine, but also to coincide with one of the rare openings of Canada’s best-kept secret gardens, the late Francis Cabot’s Les Quatre Vents, sure to be a highlight of this trip.
Itinerary Day 1 We fly from London to Toronto and upon arrival, we meet our coach and transfer to our hotel where dinner and drinks await us. Inc. Meals: In-flight & dinner
Day 2 After breakfast, we enjoy a panoramic city tour of Toronto and will have the chance to visit its Sculpture Garden, a hidden outdoor showcase of fascinating work. Afterwards, we make our way to Allan Gardens Conservatory to see its collection of beautiful plants housed in six greenhouses that cover 16,000 square feet and boast beautiful plants from around the globe. We also make time to visit the Toronto Botanic Garden, which is home to 17 award-winning themed gardens, before returning to our hotel later on for dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 3 Niagara is our destination today and we visit the three waterfalls that straddle the border between Canada and the USA: Bridal Veil Falls, Horseshoe Falls and American Falls. This location is on every tourist’s itinerary, but is nevertheless an unforgettable experience and one that we can’t miss while we’re in the area! There will be a cruise beneath the falls to really get a sense of their true scale and fury, and then we travel to the nearby Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, which boasts displays of rhododendrons, azaleas and a worldrenowned rose garden that features over 2,400 roses. Our evening will be spent at leisure and we have time to relax. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 4 The Royal Botanical Garden awaits us in Burlington this morning, known for being Canada’s largest. Approximately 40,000 plants are housed here on 2,700 acres of natural land. We have lunch at the on-site tea house and then, in the afternoon, we visit a selection of private
gardens that take part in the Mississauga Garden Festival. The evening will be free for us to simply relax and unwind. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 5 Departing from our hotel, we head for Ottowa and break up our journey with a stop at the Thousand Islands Rideau Canal to see both public and private gardens. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 6 Following breakfast, we make our way to downtown Ottowa to visit Parliament Hill, the Centennial Flame and the Rideau Canal. We also visit Rideau Hall, the official residence and workplace of every governor general since 1867. In the afternoon, we visit the 19th century walled Maplelawn Historic Garden. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 7 Today, we make our way to Québec, the independently-minded and French-speaking part of Canada, stopping en route at Domaine Joly-De Lotbinière. Later, we go to Québec City and sit down to dinner at our hotel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 8 We take a tour of Québec City this morning, the crown jewel of French Canada. See the sights, including the massive Château Frontenac Hotel, the Terrasse Dufferin and the UNESCO-listed Vieux Québec, with its ancient walls and cobbled streets. Leisure time follows. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 9 Canada’s best-kept secret garden - the late Francis Cabot’s Les Jardins des Quatre Vents, is ours to explore today. Opening to the public for only four days every year, this is a real highlight and privilege. We have free time later. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only
travel to Montreal, stopping at the Métis Gardens en route. Here, we see over 3,000 species of plants, both native and exotic. We also visit the Daniel A Sequin Garden, displaying 50,000 plants in a vast range of thematic gardens. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 11 This morning, we are treated to a tour of Old Montreal with a local guide. This city owes its existence to Samuel de Champlain, who established a fur trading post here in 1611. Afterwards, we visit the iconic landmark of the Notre Dame Basilica as well as Montreal’s Botanic Gardens. A farewell dinner is served to us this evening and we can raise a glass to the experiences we have enjoyed on this tour. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Days 12 & 13 After checking out of our hotel, we can enjoy a little free time to explore independently or to shop for souvenirs. We will then regroup and transfer to Montreal Airport for our return flight back to London. Arrival in London will be on the morning of Day 12. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
Canada
Québec City Montreal Ottawa / Rideau Canal Toronto Royal Botanical Niagara Falls Gardens
Day 10 We have breakfast and then
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17
YUNNAN & TIBET - IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE PLANT HUNTERS
Back in 1904, a 31-year-old herbarium assistant named George Forrest set off from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for a journey to the other side of the world: the remote, mountainous region of Yunnan in southwest China. We’re delighted to offer you the chance to experience it in the company of expert botanist and horticulturist, Duncan Coombs. In 2019, for the first time ever, we have added Tibet to the itinerary, offering you a unique and rare opportunity to explore this mysterious, mountainous region, known to many as the ‘Roof of the World’. Travel through deep gorges and towering mountains, marvel at spectacular landscapes and unrivalled natural beauty, and lose yourself in the wonderful plants and gardens here. Many of the plants we enjoy today in our gardens originate in this region, so to see them growing out in the wild is a true privilege. We can also expect to observe new and unfamiliar species, sharing the thrill of discovery with one another as we go.
Departure 24th Jun – 16th Jul, 2019 (by plane and coach)
23 days from
£6,595
per person
Single room supplement £900
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
18
Black Dragon Pool Park, Lijang
What’s Included • • • • •
20 nights’ accommodation on a bed & breakfast basis 18 lunches (including picnics on botanising days) & 19 dinners Return flights, internal flights and air-conditioned coaching Chinese Tourist Visa (UK guests only) Full programme of botanising tours and visits, including Joseph Rock House, Black Dragon Pool, Jokhang Monastery, Camellia Temple, Shika Snow Mountain, Potala Palace and more • Bottle of mineral water each day and hotel porterage • Services of botanist and horticulturist Duncan Coombs, as well as a local guide
Tour Guide - Duncan Coombs A lecturer in Horticulture at Pershore College, Duncan Coombs is also a passionate plantsman and a plant hunter in the grand tradition, having explored remote parts of the world in search of that elusive prize - a plant species new to science!
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Itinerary Days 1 & 2 An overnight flight takes us to Kunming and we arrive on Day 2. We take an internal flight to Lijiang and transfer to our hotel, where free time awaits. Inc. Meals: In-flight & dinner Day 3 Visit Yufeng Temple, where the Camellia tree in the courtyard is said to be over 500-years-old. Later, tour the village of Yuhu, where Joseph Rock lived for around 25 years back in 1922. Then, we visit Black Dragon Pool Park, which boasts stunning views of the high, surrounding mountains. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 4 After breakfast, we experience a day of botanising in the mysterious Ganghoba Valley, where rhododendrons, cypripediums and arisaemas can be seen. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 5 We travel to Zhongdian, known as Shangri-La, pausing en route to visit Tiger Leaping Gorge - one of the world’s deepest. Upon our arrival, we tour Songzam Monastery (or ‘little Potala Palace’). Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 6 Today we botanise on Shika Snow Mountain, which we ascend via cable car. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 7 Following breakfast, we go to our hotel in Deqen, taking a photo stop at the Bend of Yangtze and pausing to botanise. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 8 Another full day of botanising awaits and we take to the slopes of Baima Shan mountain to discover its plant life. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 9 The time has come to enter Tibet and we do so as we drive from Deqen to Markam, where we stay overnight. On the way, we botanise on Hung La mountain. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 10 Travel from Markam to Zuogong, enjoying jaw-dropping views on the way over the Mekong River - the 12th longest in the world - in a deep gorge. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 11 After breakfast we return to the slopes of Dungda La for a day of gentle botanising. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 12 Today, we drive to Baxoi, taking a break to botanise at Gama La pass. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 13 Our road trip continues after breakfast as we drive on to Ranwuzhen, with some botanising at the mountain pass along the way. We will stay overnight here. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 14 A little altitude is lost today and we drive to Bome, stopping to botanise on the slopes of the Galung La mountain. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 15 In the morning, we return to Galung La mountain to botanise on the higher part, which peaks at 4,400m. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 16 Travelling from Bome to Bayi today, we admire views of the Parlung Tsangbo and Rong Chu rivers, as well as the highest mountain in the area, Namcha Barwa. Later, we cross the pass at Serkhyem La en route to our hotel in Bayi. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 17 We head for the hills and spend the day botanising on Serkhyem La, where we can see numbers of Rheum nobile, a species of rhubarb that grows up to 2m tall. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
reach Lhasa. En route, we visit Basum-tso lake, noted for the tiny island at its centre. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 19 Head towards Lhasa, pausing to enjoy plants and flowers on the Mi La mountain pass. We stay here for the next three nights. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 20 We start our day at the Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet. The chapels here are alive with the hum of prayers, wreathed in clouds of fragrant incense and adorned with Buddhist paintings. Next, we see Potala Palace, the winter home of all of the Dalai Lamas until the current one fled Tibet in 1959. In the afternoon, we visit the Shera Temple. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 21 Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Lhasa at your own pace or just relax. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 22 & 23 This morning we transfer to Lhasa Gonggar airport for our flight to Kunming, and onwards to London. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
China Gongbo'gyamda Bome Baxoi Lhasa Markam Ranwuzhen Zogang Deqen Shangri-La Lijiang
Day 18 Today we depart for our final overnight stop, Gongbo’gyamda, before we
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19
GARDENS & WILDFLOWERS OF SOUTH AFRICA’S WESTERN CAPE
As soon as you touch down in this country, your senses are captivated by intoxicating sights. Travel by cable car to Table Mountain’s peak and let your eyes fall upon an immense range of flora, encompassing over 1,470 species. Further delights await at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens - one of the world’s best.
What’s Included
Protea flower, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden
• 13 nights in comfortable 3* hotels around the country on a dinner, bed & breakfast basis • 14 lunches • Visits to Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, Fernkloof Nature Reserve and Karoo Botanic Gardens • Wine-tastings, wildflower botanising and a whale-watching trip • The services of a professional tour manager throughout • Comfortable coaching
Journey to the small town of Clanwilliam for its profusion of wildflowers, continue on to the lesser known West Coast National Park to see wild birds, and take in the beauty of the Stellenbosch area. Our adventure finishes on a high, with a string of wonderful regional gardens.
Departure 23rd Aug- 7th Sep, 2019 (by plane and coach)
16 days from
£4,295
per person
Single room supplement £650
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
20
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
Butterfly at Kirstenbosch
Renowned for its stunning scenery, cultural diversity, rich variety of wildlife and - in particular - its indigenous flora, South Africa is a spectacular destination to visit. Our tour comes at a time when wildflowers will put on a dazzling spring display and we will get to enjoy a mixture of both famous and private gardens, as well as estates and fantastic vineyards.
Itinerary Days 1 & 2 We fly overnight from London to Cape Town, arriving the next day. From here, we take an orientation tour of the city and enjoy a visit to the Old Company Garden. Highlights here include the oldest cultivated pear tree in South Africa, estimated to have been planted in 1652, historic statues and a sundial dated 1781, a rose garden that was designed and built in 1929, and finally a Japanesethemed garden with a stone lantern that was donated by the Japanese Ambassador in 1932. Later, we transfer to the 4* Cape Town Hollow Hotel, where we can relax before a drink and dinner welcome us. Inc. Meals: In-flight, lunch & dinner Day 3 After breakfast, explore the many trails on top of Table Mountain, which we ascend by cable car! The indigenous flora of the mountain encompasses some 1,470 species, including many different species of Erica and Iris. South Africa’s national flower, the Protea, is also abundant on the slopes. Then, we visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, where 6,000 species including ancient cycads and varieties of pelargoniums - can be found. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 4 A full day exploring the Cape Peninsula is ours today and we can see the penguins of Boulders Beach. We then travel via the fishing village of Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak Drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where we spend the remainder of our day admiring the carpet of wildflowers and landscape. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 5 Today, we travel up to Clanwilliam, about 200km north of Cape Town. Upon arrival, we enjoy an afternoon at leisure and stay at the Piekenierskloof Resort. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 6 Following breakfast, we drive into Clanwilliam for a presentation on Rooibos, South Africa’s indigenous tea. After, we walk around the Ramskop Nature Reserve to see the wildflowers. Certain species here can’t be found elsewhere in the world. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 7 Following breakfast, we depart for the West Coast National Park, where the azure waters of Langebaan Lagoon form the focal point. Flowers we see here include iridaceae and hyacinthaceae bulbous plants. Thousands of seabirds roost on sheltered islands and brooding salt marshes are home to concentrations of migrant waders from the northern hemisphere. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 8 We sit down to an early breakfast and then check out of our hotel, driving to the nearby nature reserve to see its many flowers and free-roaming antelope. Then, we head to Vondleling for a nature walk in the fynbos, followed by a sumptuous winetasting and lunch. From here, we continue to our base for the next two nights, the Cumberland Hotel in Worcester. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
see dolphins, seals and a variety of other marine life. In the afternoon, we visit the fantastic Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 12 The Harold Porter Botanic Garden is ours to explore today, a lovely space renowned for waterfalls and amber pools. From here, we visit a private garden in Elgin and can enjoy some refreshments. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 13 We tour the Helderberg Nature Reserve this morning, to see diverse flora in the mountain fynbos. Later, we visit the Vergelegen Wine Estate and its gardens. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 14 Our day starts at the Old Nectar Gardens in Jonkershoek. Next, we move on to Babylonstoren, one of the best preserved farm yards in the Cape Dutch tradition. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 15 & 16 Enjoy a final visit at the Stellenbosch Botanical Garden, before taking an overnight flight back to London. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & in-flight
Day 9 A leisurely breakfast awaits and then we visit the Karoo National Botanical Gardens in Worcester. The evening is free. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 10 We drive to Hermanus this morning, where we spend time with the charitable flower project Flower Valley. Leisure time is ours for the rest of the day - keep an ear out for the local Whale Crier, who alerts tourists to local whale sightings. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 11 Set off aboard a boat in search of cetaceans today. Spot Southern Right whales and, if we’re lucky, we might even
South Africa Clanwilliam Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve Darling Worcester Cape Stellenbosch Town Hermanus Cape of Good Hope
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21
FLORA & FAUNA OF MADAGASCAR
It took with it a vast number of animals and plants, which over countless millennia have evolved in almost complete isolation, so much so that today over 80% of all life forms here are found nowhere else on the planet. This is a truly special tour experience. See a huge range of fascinating plants and trees, marvel at phenomenal orchids, and observe wildlife in beautiful, wild locations around the country.
What’s Included
Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar
• • • •
12 nights’ full board accommodation in hotels around the island Return flights from London to Antananarivo 4 internal flights and land transfers in appropriate vehicles Guided excursions to the Three Bays, Montagne d’Ambre National Park, Montagne des Français, Berenty private reserve, National Botanic Garden, Madagascar Exotic Park and more • Bottle of mineral water each day and local gratuities • Services of a tour manager and a local, English-speaking guide
Highlights on this exciting adventure will include a nocturnal visit to discover the smallest frog and chameleon species of the rainforest, the chance to observe lemurs up close, and the opportunity to spot incredible wild plants.
Departure 5th – 19th Nov, 2019 (by plane and coach)
15 days from
£4,995
per person
Single room supplement £720
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
22
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
Wild Ringtail Lemur in Madagascar
Madagascar, the world’s fourth largest island, is like a gigantic ark sailing across the Indian Ocean, having broken free from the African continent some 160 million years ago. The national parks and private reserves that feature on this tour are among the finest in the world, and they are home to a bewildering array of endemic flora and fauna.
Itinerary Days 1 & 2 We take an overnight flight to Antananarivo and arrive the following morning. Our local guide will meet us and we’ll transfer to our hotel, where dinner is served later. Inc. Meals: In-flight & dinner Day 3 After breakfast, we check out and head to the airport for a domestic flight north to Diego Suarez/Antsiranana. We freshen up at our next hotel before driving towards Sakalava Bay, where we take a walk along the Three Bays, bordered by turquoise seas and brilliant white sands. Here, we also visit the lighthouse and the old French military installations. There will be a visit to the fishing village of Ramena after lunch. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 4 An excursion to Montagne d’Ambre National Park is on the cards for today. Protecting an isolated section of rainforest, this site is a green oasis in the centre of the desert as well as a paradise for botanists. This is also known as the wettest part of Madagascar. Later, we return to our hotel in Diego Suarez for dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 5 Driving northwest, we visit Montagne des Français to see endemic dry-country flora. Near the top, on Pic des Orchidées, the Comet Orchid should be in flower. Flight schedule permitting, we take an afternoon plane back to Tana to stay overnight again at the Hotel Du Louvre, where dinner will be served. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 6 Today we fly to Fort Dauphin on the far southeast coast. Upon arrival, we travel on fairly poor roads to Berenty Private Reserve, a small, private gallery forest that protects parcels of bizarre ‘spiny desert’ habitat. We will also see the
marvellous and strange triangulated palm here before sitting down to dinner. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 7 A full day at the vast Berenty Reserve awaits. Home to six species of lemur, the south’s largest colony of Madagascan fruit bats and 103 bird species, there is so much to discover here. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 8 After lunch at the Reserve’s on-site restaurant, we travel back to Fort Dauphin, stopping en route to see localised and rare flora, including didieraceae, baobabs and the triangulated palm. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 9 This morning, we fly to Tana. We will visit the National Botanical Garden in the Parc of Tsimbazaza this afternoon or early tomorrow morning, depending on the flight schedules. This area is also home to Madagascar’s largest herbarium. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 10 We depart for Andasibe this morning on road No.2, connecting Antananarivo to Tamatave, travelling through luxuriant forests of Angavo, with a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way. Later, we arrive at the Vakona Forest Lodge hotel and sit down to dinner here in the evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 11 An early breakfast gets our day off to a great start and then we explore the rainforest of ‘Périnet’ - the AndasibeMantadia National Park. Chameleons and frogs are abundant, and lakes are covered in water lilies. After lunch, we can choose to visit the Vakona reserve by canoe, which allows us to reach forests where different species of lemur live - be warned, they’re tame! Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 12 Another early morning awaits as we trek through the forest reserve of Analamazaotra and discover all it has to offer. Lunch will be back at our hotel and then there is leisure time available. Once night falls, we have a one-hour nocturnal visit to discover the smallest chameleon and frog species of the rainforest, and we also see mouse-maki, the smallest lemur species. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 13 We journey back to Antananarivo and stop en route at Madagascar Exotic Park. This farm allows us to observe a large number of chameleons and also shelters both butterflies and insects. The remainder of our day is free. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Days 14 & 15 In the morning, we visit the nursery of the late Alfred Razafindratsira, a major supplier of seeds for palms. After lunch, shop for souvenirs at a crafts market. A farewell supper precedes our overnight flight to London and we arrive the following morning. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & in-flight
Antisiranana Ambohitra
Antananarivo
Tendrombohitr' Antsingy
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park Vakona Forest Lodge
Madagascar Taolagnaro
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23
CHILE AND THE FALKLAND ISLANDS
Perhaps one of the most exciting packages that Brightwater has ever offered, we combine Chile - the ‘land of contrasts’, with its snow-capped volcanoes, towering glaciers and spectacular nature - with the unique thrill of the remote Falkland Islands. Beginning in the Chilean capital of Santiago, we tour the National Park of La Campana and follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, before flying south to Punta Arenas and the Torres del Paine National Park. We spend time exploring the extraordinary plants, animals and birds in Patagonia, taking a boat trip to the Grey Glacier. From here, we make our way out to the dramatic Falkland Islands, which are located around 400 miles off the coast of South America in the South Atlantic Ocean, where unforgettable and wild experiences are ours for the taking. Offering boundless skies, the freshest air and an abundance of amazing wildlife, there are endless photo opportunities open to us here. Gain a very special insight into these unspoilt British islands on this exhilarating adventure.
Departure 23rd Nov – 9th Dec, 2019 (by plane and coach)
17 days from
£8,995
Torres del Paine National Park
What’s Included
• 7 nights’ accommodation in Chile: 3 nights’ B&B in Santiago, 3 night’s dinner, B&B in Torres del Paine, and 1 B&B in Punta Arenas. 7 nights’ accommodation on a full-board basis in locations around the Falkland Islands. 3 lunches in Chile • All flights and comfortable coaching throughout • City tour of Santiago, tour of La Campana National Park, boat trip on Lake Grey to the Grey Glacier and more • Bottle of mineral water each day and local gratuities • Services of a Brightwater tour manager and local guides
Tour Guide - Colin Crosbie Former Curator of RHS Garden Wisley and one of our most popular tour guides, Colin has led tours to a wide variety of destinations. He is particularly looking forward to identifying the vast range of plants to be found on this tour!
per person
Single room supplement £1,400
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
24
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Itinerary Days 1 & 2 We take an overnight flight to Santiago, Chile from London. After we arrive on Day 2, we spend the afternoon taking a half-day tour of this vibrant capital. We’ll see the neoclassical La Moneda Palace, the Plaza de Armas, the Parque Forestal, and the bohemian area of Bellevista. We then climb San Cristobal Hill, which offers amazing views over both the city itself as well as the Andes. Later, welcome drinks and dinner await. Inc. Meals: In-flight & dinner Day 3 After breakfast, we have an excursion to La Campana National Park at Ocoa. Charles Darwin visited this site on several occasions and adored the views from the summit. On clear days, it’s possible to see the entire width of Chile, from the coast to the high Andes around Aconcagua. Our evening will be spent at leisure. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Day 4 In the morning, we fly from Santiago to Punta Arenas. When we arrive, we head to the Torres del Paine National Park, travelling through vast Patagonian steppes where an array of endemic plants can be observed. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 5 Our entire day is spent at the glorious Torres del Paine National Park. We can visit low-growing patches of Antarctic beech, observe herds of Guanaco, Andean Deer and Culpeo Foxes, and - if we’re lucky - we might just spot a puma as they are abundant here. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 6 Our day begins with a boat trip across Lake Grey, which is fed by the Grey Glacier. Smaller inflatable boats will take us up to the glacier itself and later, we continue our tour of the Torres del Paine
National Park. We’ll try to find Oxalis and tiny Patagonian Alstroemeria, and we will look for the most beautiful orchids of this magnificent Biosphere Reserve. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 7 We check out of our hotel this morning and transfer to Punta Arenas. The remainder of our day will be spent at leisure. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & lunch Day 8 After breakfast, we fly to the Falkland Islands’ Mount Pleasant International Airport. Upon arrival, we head to the island’s capital of Stanley and check in to our next hotel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 9 An internal flight takes us to Sea Lion Island and an introductory tour of this area will familiarise us with the wildlife locations, all within walking distance of our lodge. Expect to see Falkland Steamer ducks, Ruddy-headed geese, Gentoo and Magellanic penguins. As the name suggests, Southern Sea Lions also breed here, as do Southern Elephant Seals. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 10 Our exploration of Sea Lion Island continues today, with lunch and dinner included. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 11 Today, we fly to the mountainous Saunders Island, home to albatross and penguin colonies. An introductory tour welcomes us here. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 12 A full day excursion to discover this destination is ours and we visit both The Neck and The Rookery to see endemic wildlife. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 13 Another internal flight takes us to Stanley and we will enjoy some free time here. This little town is home to around 2,000 inhabitants, which replaced Port Louis as the islands’ capital in 1845. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 14 Following breakfast, we travel to Volunteer Point in 4x4s. This stunning beach is three miles long and is home to the Falklands’ largest colony of breeding King penguins. The birds are very tame and will probably say hello! Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 15 Today, we transfer from Stanley to Mount Pleasant Airport for our flight back to Santiago in Chile. From here, we go to our hotel and unwind in the evening with some free time. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only Days 16 & 17 We sit down to breakfast at our hotel this morning and then we return to Santiago Airport for our overnight flight back to London, arriving the next day. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
Argentina La Campana National Park Santiago
Chile Torres del Paine National Park Punta Arenas
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Falkland Islands Sea Lion Island
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WAFA 2020 AND PALACES & GARDENS OF INDIA’S GOLDEN TRIANGLE
Held just once every three years, the World Association of Flower Arrangers’ (WAFA) showpiece event has established itself as the premier happening for anyone interested in floral art. Previous shows have been based in Dublin and Barbados, but in 2020 it moves to the vibrant city of Jaipur in India, giving us the opportunity to combine our day at the show with visits to some of India’s most iconic locations and sumptuous gardens. We begin in Delhi, where a rare chance to visit the Mughal Gardens at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, which is only ever open to the public in February, presents itself to us. Wander around the bustling bazaar and explore Lodi Gardens, before visiting the Agra Fort as well as Mehtab Bagh. We will, of course, also take in a visit to the legendary Taj Mahal.
What’s Included
Mughal Garden, Rashtrapati Bhaven
• 7 nights’ accommodation on a dinner, bed & breakfast basis: 2 in Delhi, 1 in Agra, 3 in Jaipur and 1 final night in Delhi • 5 lunches • Scheduled return flights from London Heathrow to Delhi • Entrance to WAFA 2020 for 1 day and all visits as per itinerary • All travel within India, including air-conditioned coach and the chair class express train between Delhi and Agra • Bottled water and porterage throughout • Services of a Brightwater tour manager as well as local guides
Departure 21st – 29th Feb, 2020 (by plane and coach)
9 days from
£1,995
per person
Single room supplement £525 Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
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Taj Mahal in Agra
Take time to explore the magnificent Amber Fort, the fascinating step well at Abhaneri, the elegantly manicured gardens of Rambagh Palace and the many delights of Jaipur. This tour is a true feast for the senses.
Itinerary Days 1 & 2 An overnight flight takes us from London’s Heathrow airport to Delhi and, upon arrival, we transfer to our central hotel. In the afternoon, there is a visit to Lodi Gardens, an oasis of shaded calm. Here, we can enjoy its fine collection of tropical shrubs and trees, as well as a number of monuments of the Lodhi Sultanate. The area was used as a burial for Delhi’s Sayyid and Lodi rulers. Mohammad Shar’s tomb can be seen as a precursor for the architecture of Humayun’s tomb, while Sikander Lodhi’s tomb is set within a walled enclosure and clearly related to Humayun’s tomb garden. The domed mausoleums appear to have been sited in an open landscape, much in the same way that the ancient Greeks positioned their temples. Today, the gardens feature around 200 species of trees and 40 of flowers. Later, we return to our hotel for an evening meal. Inc. Meals: In-flight & dinner Day 3 A morning tour of Old Delhi begins with a visit to the 400-year-old Jama Mosque, the largest in India, and this is followed by a cycle rickshaw ride (for those who wish to take part, of course!) that will take us through the vibrant bazaar in Chandni Chowk. Our final stop in Old Delhi is Raj Ghat, the cremation ground of Mahatma Gandhi, who led India to independence back in 1947. Onto New Delhi, we pay a visit to Humayun’s Tomb, which was built in 1560. It was commissioned by Humayun’s senior widow, thus inaugurating a series of grand Mughal Tombs, introducing the concept of the char bagh (four garden) system, with the main mausoleum in the centre while paved walkways divide the outdoor space into four parts. It symbolises the emperor’s place in paradise. This tour concludes at Mughal Gardens at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official
residence of India’s President and formerly known as Viceroy House. A great variety of flowers can be admired here, including rose, petrea, grape vines, jasmine, parana paniculata and bougainvillea. There is also an impressive collection of bonsais, one of the best in the country. Dinner this evening is served back at our hotel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 4 After breakfast, we transfer to the railway station and take the Gatiman Express train to Agra. Upon our arrival, we visit the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort. Built in the 11th century, this era was marked by invasions and battles, and the red stonefortified castle was also the site of India’s Rebellion of 1857 and is set among ancient gardens. Later, we see Mehtab Bagh (or ‘Moonlit Garden’), which offers glorious views of the legendary Taj Mahal. Set up by Emperor Babur, the park has been restored to its original grandeur with the replanting of trees, plants and herbage to match the original Mughal Gardens, replicating the riverside gardens brought to India from Central Asia. Guava, hibiscus, jamun and citrus fruits are among the plants here. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 5 One of the highlights of this trip comes this morning as we visit the enchanting Taj Mahal. Afterwards, we transfer to Jaipur, stopping en route to visit the Chand Baori at Abhaneri, a step well built over a thousand years ago. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
attracts equally exotic birds. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 7 Today is devoted to WAFA 2020 and we transfer to the exhibition hall that hosts this spectacular event. Flower arranging demonstrations and lectures meet amazing displays of floral art from around the world, which makes this a wonderful experience and we have all day to enjoy it. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 8 This morning, after breakfast, you have the option of returning to WAFA 2020 (admission is not included for a second visit) or you could instead choose to enjoy time shopping and sightseeing in Jaipur at your leisure. At a previously agreed upon time, we will reassemble and depart by coach for Delhi, spending the night at an airport hotel where dinner will be served in the evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 9 After breakfast, we transfer to the international airport in time to check in for our return flight back to London Heathrow. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & in-flight
New Delhi Jaipur
Day 6 An excursion to the Amber Fort begins our day and we enjoy a photo stop at Hawa Mahal (the ‘Palace of Winds’) on the way. Next, we visit the Maharajah’s City Palace, a royal residence that was partly converted into a museum. Our day concludes at the gardens of Rambagh Palace, which boasts exotic foliage that
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Abhaneri Agra
India
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OBERAMMERGAU & THE AUSTRIAN TYROL
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a transcendent evening watching the Oberammergau Passion Play, whose performances take place only once every ten years. The focus of this particular tour might be on the legendary event itself, but there is much more to Bavaria and the Austrian Tyrol, we are offering you the chance to discover it all on this 6-day holiday. This is the land of storybook castles and dramatic landscapes, which seem to have come straight from a Grimm Brothers fairytale. With just a short hop over the border to Austria, even more beauty awaits...
What’s Included
©Passion Play Oberammergau 2020
• 5 nights’ accommodation on a dinner, bed & breakfast basis: 4 at a 4* hotel in the Tyrol & 1 at a hotel in the Oberammergau area • A Zillertal Steam Railway ride, a cable car trip with lunch, visits to Tratzberg Castle and Oberammergau Museum, full day tours of both Salzburg and Innsbruck, and the Passion Play performance • Services of a professional tour manager • Comfortable coaching, porterage at hotels and all gratuities
Join us as we climb aboard the Zillertal Steam Railway, say ‘cheers’ with a complimentary glass of schnapps and sit back as you admire the scenery in style. Even Austria’s urban spaces are devastatingly beautiful and day-long excursions to two of its finest cities allows you to take in castles, cathedrals, old-town streets and even romantic, gilded architecture. Choose between a Mozart or ‘The Sound of Music’ themed experience on your Salzburg sojourn and then prepare yourself for the main event...
Departure 12th May & 8th Sep, 2020 (by plane and coach)
6 days from
£1,995
per person
Single room supplement £280
Regional flight connections, flight upgrades and overnight accommodation before or after the tour available on request
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Grotto of Venus in Linderhof Castle
SPECIAL 2020 DEPARTURE
Itinerary Day 1 After a morning flight to Munich, we sit down to our first meal as a group at a local restaurant. From here, we then continue on to our hotel in Zillertal, where dinner is included this evening. Inc. Meals: Dinner Day 2 Our first morning on tour sees us embark upon an excursion aboard the historic, narrow-gauge Zillertal Steam Railway. As we travel through stunning Tyrolean scenery, from Jenbach to the chic ski resort of Mayrhofen, in the shadow of the great Hintertux Glacier, we are served a chilled glass of traditional schnapps for an added touch of luxury. For lunch, we’re treated to another jaw-droppingly scenic journey - only this time it’s by cable car. We ascend to our mountainside restaurant to dine and then return by coach to our hotel, where we regroup for dinner in the evening. Inc. Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner Day 3 We’re spoilt for choice today as we travel to Salzburg, where the opportunity
to pick between two themed excursions presents itself. Classical music aficionados are sure to be tempted by the Mozart option, while lovers of ‘The Sound of Music’ can follow in the film’s footsteps. Both tours include lunch as well as a visit to the cathedral and castle, and then we return to our hotel by coach. Tonight, dinner is enjoyed in a local restaurant and we can indulge in some Tyrolean specialties. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 4 Our morning kicks off with a visit to the Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck, which includes a guided tour of the beautiful old town as well as a stroll down to the famous Maria-Theresien-Strasse. We also stop at Emperor Maximillian I’s ‘Golden Roof ’ before sitting down to lunch. Afterwards, we make our way to Tratzberg Castle, located 632m above sea level. Considered to be one of the best preserved castles in Austria, we explore it and then return to our hotel for an evening meal. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner
Day 5 Today is the day we’ve all been waiting for. We bid farewell to Austria and say “guten tag” to Germany as we transfer to Oberammergau, via the ski town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. There will be some free time at lunch to explore independently and choose your own cuisine, but we reconvene to lose ourselves in the drama of the immersive Passion Play, which is due to begin promptly at 2.30pm. Later, we will take a three-hour break for dinner at our hotel. Inc. Meals: Breakfast & dinner Day 6 Sadly, today is our final day. After a breakfast abuzz with the chatter of yesterday’s elusive experience, we check out of our hotel and make our way back to Munich. We catch a flight home and the group will disperse upon arrival. Inc. Meals: Breakfast only
Germany Munich Oberammergau Garmisch-Partenkirchen Innsbruck
Salzburg Zillerta Mayrhofen
Austria
Neuschwanstein Castle
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Still looking for a 2018 holiday? If you can’t wait until the new year to get away, why not treat yourself to one of our 2018 departures? With a varied range of tours scheduled for the remainder of this year, you can take your pick of destinations and experiences. From a taste of the royal life at Highgrove in England and Copenhagen’s striking palace gardens, to the architecture in Andalucia - the world awaits.
August Copenhagen and Zealand Last few spaces Highgrove and the Cotswolds Gardens of North of Ireland Mull, Staffa and Iona Highlights of Orkney and Shetland Last few spaces Gardens of Dumfries and Galloway Last few spaces Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides Gardens of Waterford & Cork A Classic Scottish Steam Break Gardens and Wildflowers of South Africa’s Western Cape Last few spaces Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides
No. of Days
Departure Date
Price (£)
5
07-Aug-18
1,475
5
13-Aug-18
995
4 4 6 4 6 7 4
16 6
10-Aug-18 17-Aug-18
750
18-Aug-18
1,395
19-Aug-18
1,495
23-Aug-18
595
19-Aug-18 19-Aug-18 23-Aug-18 26-Aug-18
“I’ve had three holidays with Brightwater so far and have booked for another in 2018. All have been excellent, but my archaeology trip to Albania was probably one of the best and most memorable holidays I’ve ever had. The sites chosen were fascinating and I cannot recommend everyone concerned highly enough.” - RECENT GUEST
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595
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
695
1,595 3,995 1,195
September An Archaeologist’s View of Orkney and Shetland Rome, Ninfa and Castel Gandolfo Highgrove and the Cotswolds Gardens of Devon and Cornwall Charles Rennie Mackintosh and gardens of the Firth of Clyde Gardens of Norfolk and Suffolk Last few spaces The Faroes Last few spaces Islay and Jura Last few spaces Palladian Villas of Veneto Last few spaces Private Gardens of Guernsey and Sark Mull, Staffa and Iona Highlights of Orkney and Shetland Last few spaces Grand Tour of the Inner Hebrides Last few spaces Tresco’s Abbey Gardens Gardens and Architecture of Andalucia Day Trip - Chatsworth House and Gardens Arran - Scotland in Miniature Shetland - Knitting Villas and Gardens of the Italian Lakes Corfu with Lee Durrell
No. of Days
Departure Date
Price (£)
6
01-Sep-18
1,495
4
07-Sep-18
595
4 6 4 7 5 5 5 5 4 6 6 4 8 1 5 6 8 5
04-Sep-18 07-Sep-18 09-Sep-18
1,395 995 650
09-Sep-18
1,095
10-Sep-18
995
10-Sep-18
1,975
11-Sep-18
1,495
14-Sep-18
750
13-Sep-18
1,395
15-Sep-18
1,395
17-Sep-18
1,035
16-Sep-18 18-Sep-18 20-Sep-18 20-Sep-18
1,495 1,550 399 595
23-Sep-18
1,395
27-Sep-18
1,595
26-Sep-18
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1,895
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October Tresco’s Abbey Gardens Lord of the Glens (6 days) Historic West Sussex Tresco’s Abbey Gardens The V&A Museum, Dundee A Classic Scottish Steam Break Grand Tour of the Outer Hebrides Lord of the Glens (6 days) Albania Archaeology Autumn Tints of Arran Madeira with Frances Tophill Whisky - Highlands & Islands Seasonal Gardens of Japan In the Footsteps of Sir Winston Churchill Gardens of New Zealand
Last few spaces
Christmas in the Scottish Borders Christmas in Perthshire
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Price (£)
4
01-Oct-18
975
4
04-Oct-18
4 4 4 5 6 8 4 6 6
13 4
22
Last few spaces Last few spaces
December
Departure Date
6
November Malta Iceland
No. of Days
01-Oct-18
1,025
05-Oct-18
975
07-Oct-18 11-Oct-18 14-Oct-18
695 499 595 675
16-Oct-18
1,025
18-Oct-18
435
16-Oct-18
1,250
18-Oct-18
1,495
23-Oct-18
4,995
21-Oct-18 26-Oct-18
1,395 750
29-Oct-18
6,995
No. of Days
Departure Date
Price (£)
7
06-Nov-18
1,345
No. of Days
Departure Date
Price (£)
4
24-Dec-18
495
5
4
18-Nov-18
24-Dec-18
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
1,995
695
“A well-planned tour, full of sites of great interested and led by a knowledgeable, competent and likable tour manager. The hotels and local transport were all very good.” - RECENT GUEST
“My second trip with Brightwater and another booked in August - this speaks for itself. An excellent programme with a most knowledgeable guide, and the coach driver was also excellent.”
- RECENT GUEST
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
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Booking Conditions Please note that bookings with Brightwater Holidays are accepted only in accordance with the terms and conditions set out in our full booking conditions, which can be found on our website or are available on request.
How to book
If you change your holiday
Your completed booking must be made with the appropriate deposit and the premiums for any insurance if required. If you choose to take our insurance we would ask that you read all sections of the policy document fully. There is a 14 day cooling off period in which you can return the policy for a full refund if it does not meet with your requirements. The person making the booking warrants that he/she has the authority of all other persons included in the holiday to make the booking on their behalf and confirms that everyone is fit enough to participate in the tour. Upon receipt of your booking we will reserve your holiday, if available, and send a confirmation/invoice which will advise you of the balance due. You must pay the balance in full ten weeks prior to departure unless otherwise stipulated. Visa/Mastercard/Barclaycard/Switch/Delta/ Maestro/Visa Debit are accepted for deposits & balance payments with no surcharge. For overseas payments, where the card is registered outside the EU, there is a charge of 2.5% of the transaction amount. Joining instructions and a list of the guests who will be travelling with you will be sent out 2 weeks before departure.
If, after we have accepted your booking, you wish to change details of that booking, we will make every effort to satisfy your requirements, although this cannot be guaranteed. When a request has been met, an amendment fee of £50 per person will be charged and a revised invoice will then be issued.
If we change your holiday For the vast majority of our tours, the programme will be exactly as described in the brochure. Occasionally we do make changes to the order or number of visits. This is usually due to opening hours, or in order to include a reopened garden, house or museum. We always try to tell guests in advance of any change. Please note pick-up points are subject to minimum numbers and will be confirmed when we send out joining instructions.
Insurance
We strongly recommend that travellers are covered by comprehensive travel insurance and do not travel against medical advice. You should organise your insurance when you book, to ensure you have cover against possible cancellation charges, medical treatment and repatriation. We will need to know the details of your policy 4 weeks before departure at the latest. Brightwater Holidays are authorised to provide travel insurance and we are happy to discuss this when you book.
Deposits For coach and rail tours in the UK, £100 per person For tours with flights in UK/Europe, £200 per person For long-haul tours 10% of basic tour cost is required.
Cancellation by you Cancellation charges payable to Brightwater Holidays are calculated on time prior to departure as follows: Up to 70 days: Deposit* 69 - 41 days: 35% of tour cost 40 - 29 days: 55% of tour cost
28 - 8 days: 75% of tour cost 7 days to date of departure: 100% of tour cost. If you are on a cruise, cancellation terms are: Up to 85 days: Deposit* 83 - 56 days: 75% of tour cost 55 - 41 days: 90% of tour cost 40 days or less to date of departure: 100% of tour cost. *plus any invoiced flight costs.
Cancellation by us If we have to cancel your holiday before the date of departure, you will have the choice of taking an alternative holiday (and paying or receiving a refund/credit in respect of any price difference) or accepting a full refund of all monies paid. A minimum of 20 passengers is required to operate a tour with a Brightwater Holidays representative.
Financial protection
Flight inclusive tours: we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the CAA (ATOL No. 4498) which the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. This charge is included in our advertised prices. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us will be protected by the ATOL scheme as explained below. The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992
A full set of Brightwater Holidays booking conditions is available on request or on our website.
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for Brightwater Holidays and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK and Republic of Ireland, which are sold to customers outside of the UK and Republic of Ireland. 1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK and Republic of Ireland are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Brightwater Holidays. In the unlikely event that you require assistance while abroad due to our financial failure, please call our 24/7 helpline on 02920 468 505 and advise you are a customer of an ABTOT protected travel company.
AITO quality charter Brightwater Holidays is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents Britain’s leading independent tour operators and encourages high standards of quality and service. Brightwater Holidays abides by the Association’s Code of Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which can be viewed on www.aito.com. Visit the website to find out more about the Association or call 020 8744 9280.
What’s included •
Tour guide/horticultural expert/and or a tour manager
• • •
Accommodation
(subject to minimum numbers) Dinners where stated Entrances to all sites in the programme
Passports A full passport is essential for travel to all destinations outside of the UK. All passports should have at least three months left to run from the date of return to the UK, although some countries require you to have up to eight months validity on your passport. It is the responsibility of travellers with nonEU passports to obtain the necessary visas, documentation etc. for all overseas holidays.
Complaints In the unlikely event that you have a complaint please inform your tour guide immediately so that action can be taken on the spot. If the matter cannot be resolved complaints should be submitted in writing to us within 20 days of your return from holiday. We cannot accept liability for claims reaching our office more than 20 days after the conclusion of the holiday concerned. The prices in this brochure are valid for all bookings taken from 1st June 2018. We are Brightwater Holidays Ltd, registered limited company no. SC137295. Registered offices: Eden Park House, Cupar, Fife KY15 4HS.
Data Protection Brightwater Holidays will only share your data with companies within our group, or with our travel partners if you are booked on one of their holidays. If you do not wish to be contacted or to share our details please let us know at the time of booking.
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If undelivered or unwanted please return (free of charge) to: Blackmore, Longmead, Shaftesbury, Dorset, SP7 8PX
THE GLORY OF A GARDEN Woods and forests have, of course, played their parts, But it’s in gardens that our love of nature first starts. They say that gardens are God’s gift to man, That they strengthen and lengthen our lives’ total span. And I’m sure the Almighty, right up in the sky, Knew that they’d succour our souls till we die. The gardens we’ve seen filled our hearts with great joy And I could still remember such gardens when I was a boy. I can see you merry voyagers are enjoying the pleasures Of the skilled hard-working gardeners’ treasures. The sparkling colours, the variety of green Make our spirits soar upwards from what we have seen.
But let’s not forget that our current enjoyment Has meant Ann’s dedicated and continued employment. It was Brightwater’s planning that her success underpinned Creating for all a favourable wind. Their experience and know-how were just what was needed And that’s why their advice Ann so clearly heeded. And the guide they provided, David, the wise, With his vast knowledge reaching up to the skies. Then there’s Dunston Hall’s excellent service and food. Our tummies delighted, it was always so good And, lastly, our very dependable driver. He is the very essence of what I’d call a survivor. So, will you all join me on this very last day And rouse up your voices in a loud “Hip,hip, hooray!” Len Goldman, 101 - Last travelled with us to Norfolk and Suffolk
www.brightwaterholidays.com | Brightwater Holidays Ltd, Eden Park House, Cupar, Fife KY15 4HS
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5020
Call today on 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com
June 2018
Tel: 01334 897 956 | Email: info@brightwaterholidays.com