WEST END- Soho, Leicester Square + Covent Garden, Mayfair + Piccadilly, Oxford St + Marble Arch. Wide area + ... Tussaud
UK + EUROPE
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PROVENCE + THE FRENCH RIVIERA t: 1300 303 343
CONTENTS
CONTENTS UNITED KINGDOM 6-33 ENGLAND 6-19 Escorted Coach Touring Small Group Touring Walking + Cycling Day Tours from London London tours + accommodation
7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-19
SCOTLAND
20-25
WALES
26-27
IRELAND
28-33
Escorted Coach Touring 21 Small Group Touring 22 Walking 23 Tours ex Edinburgh (day + extended) 24-25 Small Group Touring Walking Escorted Coach Touring Walking Small Group Touring Dublin tours + accommodation
27 27
29-30 31 32 33
FRANCE
34-41
ITALY
42-51
SPAIN
52-57
EUROPEAN CITIES
58-62
Small Group Touring 35 Barge Touring 36 Walking 37 Paris tours + accommodation 38-41 Walking 43 Small Group Touring 44 Cycling 45 Rome tours + accommodation 46-47 Venice tours + accommodation 48-49 Sardinia 50-51
© Brian Jannsen | Alamy Photo Stock
Small Group Touring Walking the Camino Barcelona tours + accommodation
53 54-55 56-57
AMSTERDAM + BRUGES Cycling + Barge Tour ex Amsterdam/Bruges BERLIN ATHENS BUDAPEST PRAGUE STOCKHOLM COPENHAGEN
BOOKING CONDITIONS
58 59 60 60 61 61 62 62 63
IMPORTANT INFORMATION YOU MUST READ Please read the Booking Conditions on page 63 of this brochure.
VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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4 MAP FINLAND
OSLO
NORWAY
Aberdeen
SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND
EDINBURGH
DUBLIN
IRELAND
WALES
THE NETHERLANDS
ENGLAND
Manchester
Birmingham
Dusseldorf
BRUSSELS
PARIS Nantes
BERLIN
AMSTERDAM
Rotterdam
LONDON
Bristol
FRANCE
Strasbourg
BERN Geneva
San Sebastian Bilbao Pamplona
Avignon
GERMANY
Frankfurt
SLOVENIA Venice
Genoa
Marseille Nice
Florence
ITALY CORSICA
UKRAINE
SLOVAKIA
VIENNA
BUDAPEST
AUSTRIA
Turin
MONACO
Krakow
PRAGUE
CZECH REPUBLIC
Stuttgart Munich Zurich
Milan
Lyon
WARSAW
POLAND
SWITZERLAND
Bordeaux Toulouse
BELARUS
Hamburg
BELGIUM
HUNGARY
ROMANIA
ZAGREB
CROATIA BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA SERBIA
DUBROVNIK
BULGARIA
ROME
Barcelona
Porto
Seville
SARDINIA
Valencia
SPAIN
Istanbul
Naples
MADRID
PORTUGAL LISBON
LITHUANIA
DENMARK
CARDIFF
Santiago
LATVIA
COPENHAGEN
Belfast
HELSINKI
ESTONIA
SWEDEN
Glasgow
Liverpool
STOCKHOLM
GREECE TURKEY
ATHENS Palermo SICILY
Granada
Antalya
Gibralter
MALTA
MOROCCO
CRETE
WHEN TO GO WHERE
UK/Europe encompasses a large area spanning many latitudes + weather zones. Anytime is the best time - it just depends on when you’re going!
WESTERN EUROPE
Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands + Switzerland.
EASTERN EUROPE
Even though you’ll experience mostly sunny days, July for instance is Paris’ rainiest month! Remember to pack a poncho or umbrella. Off season is much quieter + less expensive. Some cities, like Berlin, show their best when the temperatures drop. This is a great time to see opera, listen to choirs + attend Christmas Markets.
Summers are warm but still best to carry a small travel umbrella for those unexpected showers. Keep in mind that wearing shorts can limit your access to certain cathedrals + religious attractions. In wintertime make the most of the limited daylight hours. Certain sites remain open but tend to close earlier than you think!
SOUTHERN EUROPE
NORTHERN EUROPE Denmark, Estonia, Finland,
Summer means lots of locals + tourists all enjoying the incredible climate! If you don’t enjoy big crowds or long queues, + rather take the road less travelled, look for hidden spots like Sardinia + Puglia. Some cities can be unbearably hot + best enjoyed when the sun goes down - rootop bars in Barcelona! Winter can be the best time when you can immerse yourself in urban culture + have your pick of restaurants + attractions with no queues!
Weather can still be unpredictable so best have layers - but Summer is the best time for walking + cycling in UK + Ireland. If you don’t like the cold, best to visit Scandinavia between mid-June to late August when the days are long. Winter is very cold however so pack plenty of layers + waterproof boots! Plan your day with visits to museums, theatres + wintertime charm to make for a cultural experience. Europe at its most European!
Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Macedonia, Montenegro, Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia + Spain.
Poland, Russia + Slovakia
Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary,
Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden + the United Kingdom.
OTHER HOTELS, RESORTS, VILLAS + SIGHTSEEING
UK + EUROPE
Via our partners, we have access to a vast range of hotels, resorts + villas as well as extensive sightseeing + touring throughout Europe. If what you are looking for is not featured in this brochure, please ask your Travel Agent, as in most cases we will be able to assist.
WHERE IN THE WORLD Pristine Sardinia (page 50) t: 1300 303 343
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EXPERIENCES
|22 NO JOURNEY IS LIKE ANOTHER BE CURIOUS + FIND YOUR OWN VENTURE.
ORKNEY + THE HIGHLANDS, SCOTLAND
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We believe in inspiring + sharing our first-hand experiences + knowledge by working closely with our network of travel collaborators to create memorable experiences that fulfil the expectations of the traveller’s dreams. We don’t provide an off-the-shelf package service, but rather narrow down the endless options to design immersive itineraries that are unique to the individual - whether it is a food + wine experience in Sardinia, walking through the Scottish Highlands, or taking a barge cruise through the Loire Valley of France. With a wide variety of unique + inspirational experiences we have created icons to help you identify the one that best suits you!
ICON-IC STYLES
IRISH ODYSSEY
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BE BE ACTIVE ADVENTUROUS Walk or cycle It’s not always through about visiting countryside or an exotic cities with creative destination - it’s itineraries finding seeing the world hidden gems while from a different absorbing the local perspective + landscape, culture, stepping out of history + cuisine. your comfort zone.
BE CURIOUS Raise your energy levels by absorbing an eclectic mix of activities + sights while weaving your own narrative into the stories of those who have lived before.
BE BE INDULGENT CHILLED Spoil yourself When everyday life with whatever becomes too much, takes your fancy it’s time to take a – whether it is break + breathe – a gourmet food reward yourself + + wine tour in swap your skyline + Italy or a luxury venture to distant walking holiday in horizons. Provence.
HOTEL FEATURED IN POTTER IN PROVENCE
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ACCOMMODATION RATING
Our own grading system helps you find the accommodation or tour that best suits your needs + budget.
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4444
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STANDARD - Pleasant accommodation with limited facilities. Many feature cafes, restaurants + bars. SUPERIOR - Quality accommodation, a wide range of facilities + a high standard of service. DELUXE - Luxury accommodation with the highest standards of service + facilities.
ACTIVITY GRADE
Our walking + cycling tours have been graded to help you judge the level of activity. GOURMET SARDINIA TOUR,
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GENTLE - Walking trips have only optional walks. Cycling trips are based on 32km per day. They are graded within the context of gentle cycling. You do not need to be a dedicated rider with major fitness. NOT SO GENTLE - Walking trips have walking days of up to 24km per day. Not difficult. Cycling trips are based on 48 km per day or more. No days are extreme. DIFFICULTY Level 1: Flat. Level 3: A slope most days +/or 1 or more days. Moderate level of fitness. Level 2: Occasional slopes. Level 4: A slope most days. Fairly fit. Level 5: A few slopes most days. Fairly fit.
CURATED EXPERIENCES
Talk to your Travel Agent or call if you want help in creating your own venture.
THE FRENCH WAY - THE LAST 100KMS
Want to extend a tour, upgrade accommodation or tweak an itinerary to make it your own? Our Travel Specialists can work within your budget + dates to help create your perfect trip.
VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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ENGLAND
U N I T E D
K I N G D O M
ENGLAND
WHITE CLIFFS OF DOVER
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Newcastle on Tyne
LAKES DISTRICT
ISLE OF MAN
Windermere York Leeds Manchester Liverpool
ENGLAND Stratford-upon-Avon Cambridge COTSWOLDS
Oxford Bath
Windsor Stonehenge
LONDON Canterbury
Brighton Plymouth
t: 1300 303 343
ISLE OF WIGHT
ondon, of course, is the first city that comes to mind when planning a visit to England. Alive with a mix of architectural grandeur, history, pop culture + culinary inspiration - whether you want to cross Abbey Road, see the Royals, go on the film set of Harry Potter, or see the latest modern art exhibition - the city has so many attractions. Venture outside this bustling metropolis - either guided, self-drive, walking or cycling - and you will be rewarded with glorious sights from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, the patchwork in green of the Lakes District, to the stunning chalk white cliffs of Dover England will bring out the adventurer in you.
ENGLAND
EXPERIENCE The Grand Tour
ST IVES
Grand Tour of Britain + Ireland from $8,170 ^
4 4 4 4
24 DAYS | 23 NIGHTS LONDON-WINDSOR MODE FULLY ESCORTED GROUP /SMALL GROUP**
^ All prices based on per adult/low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply. (please refer to p. 63)
A great way to explore every corner of Britain + Ireland whilst staying in wonderful hotels. DAY 1: LONDON Arrival. Set out at 2:00pm on a panoramic tour of central London with visit to St Paul’s Cathedral. (D) DAY 2: LONDON Enjoy an open-top bus tour of London. There are different bus routes as well as a walking tour + River Thames cruise. Visit the Tower of London or Kensington Palace. (B) DAY 3: LONDON-YORK Head to Stradfordupon-Avon + visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace. See an exhibition about his life + walk through the house with period furnishings. Continue to the medieval city of York. (B D) DAY 4: YORK-EDINBURGH Take a walking tour of central York + visit York Minster. In Scotland explore Melrose. Enjoy a traditional Scottish evening with lively show. (B D) DAY 5: EDINBURGH Discover Edinburgh’s highlights on a city tour. On August 3-17^ departures, experience the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (B) DAY 6: EDINBURGH-INVERNESS Travel to St Andrews + enjoy free time to explore independently. Stop in the town of Pitlochry on the way to Inverness. (B D) DAY 7: INVERNESS-OBAN Enjoy wonderful Highland views on a scenic cruise of Loch Ness. Visit Oban Distillery to see how whisky is distilled + enjoy a sample. (B D) DAY 8: OBAN Take a ferry to the Isle of Mull + the peaceful Isle of Iona. Visit Iona Abbey, Scotland’s first Christian settlement. Return to Oban for dinner. (B D) DAY 9: OBAN-BELFAST Drive along the scenic Loch Lomond. Visit Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. Take a ferry to Belfast for dinner. (B D) DAY 10: BELFAST-DERRY Tour the highlights of Belfast + travel the Nine Glens of Antrim. Visit Giant’s Causeway, formed over 60 million years ago. Continue to Derry for a
guided walk. (B D) DAY 11: DERRY Enjoy a drive around the Inishowen Peninsula. Take in the scenic views as you sip an Irish coffee at the Seaview Tavern. Join a local guide for a walk around Derry’s medieval city walls. (B D) DAY 12: DERRY-GALWAY Travel to Donegal + explore independently. Visit Knock Shrine in County Mayo. In Galway, join a local guide for a walking tour before dinner. (B D) DAY 13: GALWAY In Cong, take a walking tour to see movie locations from “The Quiet Man”. Enjoy lunch at Eddies of Clonbur before free afternoon + evening in Galway. (B) DAY 14: GALWAY-KILLARNEY Drive through the Burren to view the majestic Cliffs of Moher + cross the River Shannon Estuary by ferry. Stop at J B Keane’s Pub in Listowel before heading to Killarney. (B D) DAY 15: KILLARNEY Journey along part of the scenic Ring of Kerry route, stopping at a local farm to watch trained dogs herding sheep. Head to Kenmare for lunch before a free evening in Killarney. (B L) DAY 16: KILLARNEY-WATERFORD Kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence” at Blarney Castle. Visit the Titanic Experience in Cobh. Continue to Waterford + after dinner take a walking tour. (B D) DAY 17: WATERFORD-DUBLIN Watch molten glass being transformed at the House of Waterford Crystal. Tour the Dunbrody Famine Ship, a replica of one used during the 1840s famine. Dine at popular Taylors Three Rock Pub. (B D) DAY 18: DUBLIN Tour central Dublin to see the main sights. Take a guided walking tour through the campus of Trinity College to view the illuminated manuscript of the Book of Kells. Afternoon + evening free. (B)
DAY 19: DUBLIN-CONWY Take a ferry to Holyead, Wales. In Conwy enjoy a guided walk + tour of Conwy Castle, a 13th century fortification built by King Edward 1. (B D) DAY 20: CONWY-CARDIFF Travel through Snowdonia National Park. Tour Cardiff, visit Cardiff Castle + dine at a festive Welsh banquet. (B D) DAY 21: CARDIFF-ST AUSTELL Tour the Roman Baths + Pump Room in Bath built by the Romans 2000 years ago. Stop in Glastonbury + head to Cornwall. (B D) DAY 22: ST AUSTELL View majestic St Michael’s Mount. Continue to St Ives for a brief walking tour. Browse the charming village of Mevagissey. (B D) DAY 23: ST AUSTELL-WINDSOR Marvel at the vast monoliths of Stonehenge. Visit Windsor Castle, residence of The Queen. After dinner take a brief walking tour around the historic town. (B D) DAY 24: WINDSOR Tour end. (B)
DEPARTS 13 Apr; 11 May; 08 Jun; 20 Jul ; 07 Sep; 12 Oct 18. ** Small Group Departures (max. 26) 27 Apr; 25 May; 22 Jun; 06 Jul; 03^10^,17^ Aug; 14,21 Sep; 05 Oct 18.
FULLY INCLUSIVE TOUR with no hidden extras. Expert local tour directors are well versed in the background of the sites, making history + culture come alive with daily doses of humour, information + assistance. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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EXPERIENCE
Small Group Touring
The Garden of England from $2,249 ^
Cornwall Food Tour 4444
5 DAYS | 4 NIGHTS LONDON-LONDON
from $2,249 ^
4444
5 DAYS | 4 NIGHTS LONDON-LONDON
MODE SMALL GROUP
MODE SMALL GROUP
Open a treasure box of storybook castles + enchanting gardens as 5 days are dedicated to England’s exquisite South East.
Journey through the stunning countryside of Cornwall + Hampshire to indulge in the local delicacies of the region.
Stroll through iconic castles - Hever, the fairytale childhood home of Anne Boleyn; trace the shoreline to Dover Castle boasting evocative interiors + Bodiam Castle with soaring towers, iron-studded wooden portcullis + a surrounding moat. Wind through beautiful countryside aboard a traditional steam train + sample celebrated beers at Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewery. Finish with a visit to Sissinghurst, where poet + writer Vita Sackville-West’s famous gardens are a picture of beauty.
Prepare your tastebuds for a culinary adventure – with a Cornwall twist. Visit a traditional + authentic Cider Farm; meet with a local bakery + watch a Cornish pasty making demonstration. Flex your culinary skills with a cooking demonstration + class in Penzance + end the trip on a high with a memorable lunch at Rick Stein’s restaurant in Winchester.
INCLUDES 4 nights’ in boutique
accommodation; experienced driver + tour leader; premium mini-coach transportation; English breakfasts daily, 2 evening meals; beer tasting in Faversham; Kent + East Sussex Railway ticket; entrance to Chartwell, Hever Castle + Gardens, Canterbury Cathedral, Bodiam Castle, Dover Castle, Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Rye Heritage Centre + the Monastery in Battle.
DEPARTS 09 Apr; 07,14,21,28 May; 04,11,18,25
Jun; 02,16,23,30 Jul; 20,27 Aug; 03,10,17 Sep 18.
t: 1300 303 343
INCLUDES 4 nights’ in boutique accommodation; experienced driver +tour leader; premium mini-coach transportation; English breakfasts daily, 4 evening meals, 1 lunch at Rick Stein’s restaurant; visit to a Cornish cider farm, Cornish pasty demonstration; cooking demonstration + lunch in Penzanze; local wine + cheese tasting; entrance to Trebah Gardens, Winchester Cathedral, Glastonbury Abbey. DEPARTS 14,21 May; 04,18, 25 Jun; 16 Jul; 03
Sep 18.
Corners of Cornwall from $2,969 ^
4444
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS LONDON-LONDON MODE SMALL GROUP From windswept moors + wild coastlines to historic cities + picture-perfect fishing villages, the county of Cornwall is sure to impress. Stroll around Port Isaac, made famous by TV series, Doc Martin; lunch at Rick Stein’s restaurant in Padstow; visit the tidal island of St Michael’s Mount; the pretty town of St Ives; Falmouth to explore Tregothnan; magnificent Buckfast Abbey in south Devon; the green hills + golden sandstone cliffs of Dorset; walk in the footsteps of Jane Austen’s heroines at Lyme Regis + lastly the Old Roman Road to Salisbury. INCLUDES 6 nights’ in boutique accommodation; experienced driver + tour leader; premium mini-coach transportation; English breakfasts daily, 4 evening meals; 1 lunch at Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant; entrance to St Michael’s Mount, Salisbury Cathedral, entrance donation, private guided tour of Tregothnan Estate, Harbour Heritage Museum, Wells Cathedral + Polperro Heritage Centre. DEPARTS 18 Mar; 15,22,25,29 Apr; 02,06,09,
10,13,16,17,20,23,24,27,30,31 May; 03,06,07,10,13, 14,17,20,21,24,27,28 Jun; 04,08,11,15,18,22,25,29 Jul; 01,05,08,10, 12,15,19,22,24,26,29,30 Aug; 02,05,06, 09,12,13,16,19,20,23,26,27,30 Sep; 03,07,10,14,17 Oct 18.
ENGLAND
Leeds Castle, White Cliffs + Flavours of Kent from $471 ^
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3 DAYS | 2 NIGHTS LONDON-LONDON MODE SMALL GROUP Discover the luxurious + beautiful attractions of South East England. Survey the gorgeous grounds surrounding ancient castles, climb the internal heights of a spectacular cathedral, + look across to France from the White Cliffs of Dover. What’s more, ‘foodies’ can sample local English wines + fresh oysters, whilst history lovers can learn tales of treacherous kings + queens.
TRAVEL THROUGH ENGLAND + DISCOVER THE HISTORY OF GRAND EMPIRES, GORGEOUS VILLAGES + ROLLING GREEN HILLS.
INCLUDES 2 nights’ accommodation in B+B|guest house or 3* hotels with private facilities + breakfast; transportation by Mercedes 16 seat mini-coaches; services of professional driver|guide. EXCLUDES lunch, dinner, entrance fees. DEPARTS every Friday, 06 Apr-29 Mar 19 except 20 Jul 18.
OXFORD
SHAKESPEARE COUNTRY
The Cotswolds, Bath + Oxford ^ All prices based on per adult/low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply. (please refer to p. 63)
from $283 ^
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2 DAYS | 1 NIGHT LONDON-LONDON MODE SMALL GROUP Roam the picturesque Cotswolds on this tour of beautiful villages, ancient stone circles + stunning cathedrals. This tour is the perfect lesson in the best of England. Examine the standing stones of Avebury, where you unearth the mysteries of Neolithic civilisation. Study the rural villages of the Cotswolds, discovering a more relaxing pace of life. And learn about Bath + Oxford, two places that boast England’s rich + extravagant heritage. INCLUDES 1 nights’ accommodation in B+B/ guest house or 3* hotels with private facilities + breakfast; transportation by Mercedes 16 seat mini-coaches; services of professional driver/ guide. EXCLUDES lunch, dinner, entrance fees. DEPARTS Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu + Sun, 01 Apr 18-31 Oct 18; Tue, Thu + Sun, 01 Nov 18-31 Mar 19 - except 15 Jul; 24,25,26,31 Dec 18; 01 Jan 19.
CHATSWORTH HOUSE
Heart of England, Wales + Yorkshire from $958 ^
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5 DAYS | 4 NIGHTS LONDON-LONDON MODE SMALL GROUP A combination of historic highlights + wonderful scenery, travel through the best of England + Wales. Roam the lively, Roman-walled city of York; the magnificent medieval military architecture at Conwy; the surroundings of Shakespeare’s Tudor England. Wander amongst ancient college buildings in the beautiful university city of Cambridge. Also explore the rugged mountainous area around Wales’ highest peak + the verdant rolling landscapes of the Peak District National Park. INCLUDES 4 nights’ accommodation in B+B|guest house or 3* hotels with private facilities + breakfast; transportation by Mercedes 16 seat mini-coaches; services of professional driver|guide. EXCLUDES lunch, dinner, entrance fees. DEPARTS every Friday, 06 Apr-26 Oct 18.
London to Edinburgh from $1,745 ^
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8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS LONDON-LONDON MODE SMALL GROUP Enjoy 8 days of exploration + discovery from London to Edinburgh, revelling in the greatest sights + experiences that England, Scotland + Wales offer. Visit Shakespeare’s birthplace – Stratfordupon-Avon + the many half-timbered houses, arched bridges + lovely gardens of the area. Discover the scenic beauty of the Peak District National Park + visit the impressive Conwy Castle in North Wales + elegant Chatsworth House, York + fiercely rugged Yorkshire Dales. Spend time explore the Lakes District - Wordsworth’s Cottage, Lake Windermere + then Hadrian’s Wall on the Scottish Border finishing in the great city of Edinburgh. INCLUDES 7 nights’ accommodation in B+B|guest house or 3* hotels with private facilities + breakfast; transportation by Mercedes 16 seat mini-coaches; services of professional driver|guide. EXCLUDES lunch, dinner, entrance fees. DEPARTS every Friday, 16 Apr-26 Oct 18. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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ENGLAND
EXPERIENCE Walking + Cycling
HADRIAN’S WALL
Hadrian’s Wall Walk from $3,845*
44444
9 DAYS | 8 NIGHTS CARLISLE-NEWCASTLE MODE SELF-GUIDED WALKING
DISTANCE: 121kms DIFFICULTY: NOT SO GENTLE
This is a remarkable + dramatic walk through history. Hadrian’s Wall - Europe’s largest surviving Roman monument + the brainchild of Emperor Hadrian, who ordered its construction in AD122 to hold back the advancing Barbarians in northern England - much of which still exists. Traverses some of Britain’s most ruggedly beautiful landscape as you wind your way from coast to coast encountering a string of milecastles + forts, jaw-dropping vistas + details of life from 2,000 years ago. DAY 1: CARLISLE Arrive at your hotel, on the outskirts of Carlisle at your leisure.
rugged countryside + a host of roman ruins + forts.
DAY 2: BOWNESS ON SOLWAY-CARLISLE
DAY 7: CHOLLERFORD-HEDDON ON THE WALL (15mi/24km) Follow the old military
A Jaunt around Oxford
DAY 8: HEDDON ON THE WALLWALLSEND-NEWCASTLE (15mi/24km)
3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS OXFORD-OXFORD MODE SELF-GUIDED CYCLE
(14mi/22km) Transfer to Bowness on Solway where Hadrians Wall rises from the sea as the most northerly frontier of the Roman Empire. Follow quiet tracks with salt marshes + distant Scottish hills + enter the heart of Carlisle with its imposing castle to be met + transferred to your hotel. DAY 3: CARLISLE-WALTON (11mi/18km) Enjoy a relaxed section of the walk today through lovely rural countryside + hamlets with a fine inn for a hearty lunch. Transfer to hotel. DAY 4: WALTON-GILSLAND (8mi/13km) Begin your walk from Walton travelling through farmland to Haytongate, where there is an option to take a detour to visit the romantic Lanercost Priory ruin + the adjacent vicarage’s Edward Tower. At the end of the walk in Gilsland met by driver + transferred back to hotel. DAY 5: GILSLAND-ONCE BREWED
(8mi/13km) One of the most demanding sections today, but when you reach the highest point of the trail at Winshields Crags, be rewarded by stunning views in every direction. DAY 6: ONCE BREWED-CHOLLERFORD
(12mi/19km) Pick up your packed lunch as today experience some of the most spectacular sections of the wall, through t: 1300 303 343
road passing through the beautiful rolling countryside of Northumberland. Transferred to hotel for the evening.
Signs of the wall become less frequent as you leave the countryside behind + head towards Newcastle, which you approach by the River Tyne. The official end of the walk is the Segendunum Roman Fort + museum. Transfer to Michelin starred Jesmond Dene House for final evening of the tour. DAY 9: NEWCASTLE Depart at leisure today from Newcastle which has a mainline railway station + airport. INCLUDES 8 nights’ accommodation in 3* + 4* charming country house hotels + 1 night in restored castle; cooked breakfast; luggage transfers between hotels; emergency call-out service; route directions + maps of the area; transfers where specified in itinerary. EXCLUDES airfares; entrances to attractions unless specified; lunches + dinners unless specified; alcoholic beverages, mini-bars + meals pre + post the trip.
DEPARTS daily from Carlisle + finishes Newcastle.
from $695 ^ (Classic) 4 4 4 from $1,160 ^(Luxury) 4 4 4 4 4
DISTANCE: 130kms DIFFICULTY: GENTLE (ELECTRIC BIKES AVAILABLE)
Discover the different landscapes surrounding Oxford - follow the river on the first day exploring riverside villages + the elegant town of Abingdon before returning leisurely to Oxford by boat. The second day embrace a peaceful ride along the canal to Blenheim Palace + a charming foray into the Cotswolds. On the final day pedal along the Thames with meadows + its rural villages to the north of Oxford + return along the canal. INCLUDES 2 nights’ accommodation in centrally located hand picked hotels (classic) | historic 5 * hotel (luxury); cooked breakfast; luggage transfers between hotels; emergency call-out service; route directions + maps of the area; transfers where specified in itinerary.
EXCLUDES airfares; entrances to attractions unless specified; lunches + dinners unless specified; alcoholic beverages, mini-bars + meals pre + post the trip.
DEPARTS daily.
ENGLAND
EXPERIENCE
Self-Drive + Self-Guided Walk
In the Footsteps of Famous Writers from $2,160 ^ * (Classic) 4 4 4 from $4,825 ^* (Luxury) 4 4 4 4 4 13 DAYS | 12 NIGHTS LONDON-EDINBURGH MODE SELF-DRIVE + WALK DISTANCE: 130kms DIFFICULTY: GENTLE
^ All prices based on per adult/low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply. (please refer to p. 63)
On this drive + walk trip discover the country that inspired so many well-known British writers + Britain’s most stunning landscapes described so eloquently by the authors Jane Austen, Thomas Hardy, Dylan Thomas, William Shakespeare, the Bronte sisters, James Herriot, William Wordsworth + Beatrix Potter. Explore the lakes, hills + coastline which inspired them, stay in the villages where they lived + walk in their footsteps enjoying the atmosphere + detail that is recorded in their books. DAY 1: LONDON Arrive in London. The day is yours to explore in the way you choose. DAY 2: LONDON-ALTON (1hr drive) Head to Alton in Hampshire + to the nearby village of Chawton, home to Jane Austen. DAY 3: ALTON-DORCHESTER (6 or 11km + 1.5 hr drive) Visit Jane Austen’s own house, now a museum. At your leisure, drive south to Dorchester where Thomas Hardy live. DAY 4: DORCHESTER-LAUGHARNE
(Optional 11km+ 3.5hr drive) Today’s charming circular walk leads along water meadows into the woods + to the cottage where Hardy was born + lived until he was 34. Drive to the small village of Laugharne on the south Wales coast. DAY 5: LAUGHARNE (23km or 17km) One of Wales’s greatest writers Dylan Thomas lived in Laugharne, ‘there is nowhere like it anywhere at all...’ he wrote. DAY 6: LAUGHARNE-STRATFORD ON AVON (5km + 3.5 hr drive) Head back into the
heart of England through the Cotswolds to spend the night in Stratford on Avon where Shakespeare was born, lived + died. Top the day off with a live performance by The Royal Shakespeare Company.
DAY 7: STRATFORD ON AVON-HAWORTH
(10km + 3 hr drive) Stroll along the charming Stratford Canal that leads from the heart of the town into the countryside at Wilmcote. Returning to Stratford drive to the north of
England to the Yorkshire moors village of Haworth where the Bronte sisters, Emily, Charlotte +Anne lived in the parsonage. DAY8: HAWORTH-HAWES (13km + 1.5hr drive) Walk in the footsteps of the Brontes, beginning near the church + ending at the museum in the Rectory that was their home. Drive further north to Hawes at the head of Wensleydale. This dale was one of James Herriot’s favourites as he travelled around the area as a country vet. DAY 9: HAWES-BOWNESS ON WINDERMERE (14km + 1.2hr drive) Step out
today from Hawes onto the Herriot Way + along Wensleydale to your destination at Askrigg. A short drive west will take you into the glorious scenery of the Lake District + to Lake Windermere which provided inspiration for both William Wordsworth + Beatrix Potter. DAY 10: BOWNESS ON WINDERMERE
(10km) Wordsworth thought the Vale of Grasmere ‘the loveliest spot that man hath ever found’. Take in the shores of the mile long Rydal Water where Wordsworth often sat, his early home at Dove Cottage + Rydal Mount where he spent the last 30 years of his life. DAY 11: BOWNESS ON WINDERMERE (621km) Your final magnificent day of walking follows in the footsteps of Beatrix Potter. The walk is very flexible with a choice of routes + lake ferries to suit everyone. Return to your
GILPIN COTTAGES
hotel for your third night in the Lake District. DAY 12: BOWNESS ON WINDERMEREEDINBURGH (3hr drive) Your final drive sees
you heading north once more to Edinburgh. The day is yours to explore in the way you choose. DAY 13: EDINBURGH Depart at leisure.
INCLUDES 12 nights’ accommodation in centrally located small hotels (classic) or 4* + 5* boutique hotels (luxury); cooked breakfast; luggage transfers between hotels; emergency call-out service; route directions + maps of the area; transfers where specified in itinerary. EXCLUDES airfares; entrances to attractions unless specified; lunches + dinners unless specified; alcoholic beverages, mini-bars + meals pre + post the trip.
DEPARTS Wednesdays from London. * NOTE: Car rental cost not included. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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EXPERIENCE Day Tripping
STONEHENGE
Stonehenge Inner Circle Access, Oxford + Windsor from $194
C
Afternoon Tea in Salisbury Cathedral with Stonehenge + Bath from $159 C
Windsor Castle, Stonehenge + Oxford from $159 C
Exciting morning + afternoon tours provide a unique opportunity to enter the ancient Stone Circle. Visiting outside of normal general admission hours, enjoy the peace away from the crowds as your guide brings to life the myths, legends + fascinating history of these magnificent monoliths. Also visit the famous University City of Oxford, steeped in history + medieval charm, then entrance to Windsor Castle (until 31 Mar 18); walking tour of the historic town of Windsor (from April 18). DURATION full day, 9½ hrs. DEPARTS every Sat (07 Apr-15 Sep 18; 02-30
Explore the incredible 13th Century Gothic style Cathedral topped with Britain’s tallest spire + see the best preserved original Magna Carta dating back to 1215 + the world’s oldest clock. Afternoon tea at Salisbury Cathedral. Step back in time 4,500 years visiting the world famous Stonehenge monuments + exhibition. We drive to the beautiful Georgian city of Bath + introduce you to the famous sites including Bath Abbey, Assembly Room + Pulteney Bridge. Free time to explore Bath.
Perched high above the River Thames, Windsor Castle has been home to 39 monarchs + is the oldest + largest occupied castle in the world. Experience the incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stonehenge including the Visitor’s Centre + then enjoy a guided walk of one of the most famous university cities - Oxford. Steeped in history, stunning architecture + medieval charm, wander the cobbled alleyways + experience the famous Bridge of Sighs, Trinity College + more!
Mar 19 excl. 23 Mar); every Mon (03 Dec 18-25 Feb 19, excl. 24 Dec 18).
DURATION full day, 11 hrs. DEPARTS Mon, Thu + Sat (May-Sep 18) at
8:30am.
DURATION full day, 11 hrs. DEPARTS daily, all year at 8am.
Oxford + Cambridge Universities Tour
Buckingham Palace + Windsor Castle with
from $153 C
lunch
Wander through the winding streets + explore quaint passages set around the historic collection of colleges at Cambridge. Visit the magnificent gothic-style chapel of Kings College, + admire the picturesque river banks living the River Cam as it meanders through the heart of the city. On to Oxford, steeped in history + studded with spectacular buildings - it is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Stroll along narrow cobbled lanes to visit Christ Church, where scenes from Harry Potter movie were filmed, the Bodleian Library + the picture perfect college courtyards for which Oxford is famous.
from $185 C Entry + 2½ visit of The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace with multi-media guide - see the Queen’s stunning collection of artwork, vari0us iconic sections of the Palace, the special exhibition + the spacious tranquil gardens. Then travel to Windsor by luxury coach with complimentary Wifi for a delicious two-course lunch at a beautiful hotel opposite Windsor Castle. Walk to Windsor Castle for entry + guided tour including the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel + The Long Mile.
DURATION full day, 10 hrs. DEPARTS Tue + Sat (May-Sep 18) at
DURATION full day, 10 hrs. DEPARTS Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu + Fri (04
8:45am.
t: 1300 303 343
Aug-30 Sep 18) at 8:45am.
WINDSOR CASTLE
ENGLAND
Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village + the Cotswolds from $132 C Discover a region of outstanding natural beauty, rolling hills, + spectacular stately homes, including a visit to the stately home of Blenheim Palace + birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Take a stroll through the gardens admiring the wonderful Rose Garden + The Water Terraces. Visit quaint villages of the Cotswolds + see many well-known landmarks from the TV series “Downton Abbey” when visiting the village of Bampton. Includes entrance fees. DURATION full day, 10 hrs. DEPARTS Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat + Sun (Apr-
Oct 18) at 8:45am.
BLENHEIM PALACE
LEEDS CASTLE
Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral Dover + Greenwich
THE LAKES DISTRICT
Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s England, Oxford + the Cotswolds
Lakes District Tour with Afternoon Tea + Cruise
Explore historic Greenwich by coach. We then travel to Leeds Castle, surrounded by incredible parkland + gardens, the “loveliest castle in the world’ boasts a fascinating history spanning back almost 900 years. Once a private property of 6 of England’s medieval queens, a palace used by Henry VIII + Catherine of Aragon, Leeds Castle is now one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain. Immerse yourself in the history of Canterbury Cathedral + see the site of the murder of Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury in 1170. And standing guard at the gateway of England - the impressive White Cliffs of Dover. Take a stroll along the magnificent beach, where on a clear day you can see France.
from $153 C
Home of Beatrix Potter, soaring mountains, breathtaking lakes + picturesque valleys, the Lake District tour visits many of the spectacular sights within England’s largest National Park. Travel by rail leaving London Euston Station + on arrival be met by a local guide. Sit back + relax as you cruise on Lake Windermere, boasting unrivalled views of the fell ranges; visit Beatrix Potter’s 17th century Hill Top Farmhouse; the picturesque village of Hawkshead with its cobbled streets + historical connection to William Wordsworth + Tarn Hows, one of the area’s most photographed beauty spots. Then indulge in a delicious afternoon tea before departing back to London.
DURATION full day, 10½ hrs. DEPARTS Mon-Sat (Apr-Oct 18) | Wed, Fri +
DURATION full day, 10½ hrs. DEPARTS daily (Apr-Oct 18) | Mon, Wed +
from $153 C
C All prices based on per adult | low season rate. Child price on request.
THE COTSWOLDS
Sat (Nov 18-Mar 19) at 8:45am.
Journey back 1,000 years to a time of battles, extravagant banquets + royal ceremonies with a visit to the magnificent Warwick Castle, rising high above the River Avon + set within acres of rolling landscaped gardens. Walk in the footsteps of William Shakespeare as you enjoy visiting his birthplace, hearing tales of his family life from the costumed guides + admire rare artefacts from the Trust’s world class collection. We then enjoy a guided walk of the University Colleges in Oxford + finally drive through the thatched medieval villages, churches + tea shops of the Cotswolds.
Sat (Nov 18-Mar 19) at 8:30am.
from $363 C
DURATION full day, 13 ½ hrs. DEPARTS Mon-Sat (Apr-Oct 18) | Wed-Sat
(Nov 18-Mar 19 excl. 16 Dec 18-31 Jan 19) at 8:00am from Euston Station.
VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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ENGLAND
LONDON
Not only is it one of the hippest cities in the world, it is also where history + tradition greet you around every corner It appeals to museum lovers + theatre goers, lovers of fine food + discoverers of eclectic markets. Pop into a pub for a pint, sit on a parkbench + people watch, walk along the River Thames – there will always be something new to explore.
LOVES SOUTH BANK A BEAUTIFUL WALKING TRAIL WHERE YOU PASS LONDON EYE, WATERLOO BRIDGE + TATE MODERN.
There is no one “best” area to stay in London so it comes down to individual preference, where you are heading pre/post London + budget. As the sights are spread out, so too are the hotels, even the theatres + shops - which means wherever you are staying you will be using public transport. The Oyster Card is valid on all London transport services + can be ‘topped up’ when required.
NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY BOOK A TABLE AT THE CAFE FOR LUNCH + ENJOY ONE OF THE BEST VIEWS OF LONDON. COLUMBIA ST MARKET WORTH MAKING THE
WEST END - Soho, Leicester Square + Covent Garden, Mayfair + Piccadilly, Oxford St + Marble Arch. Wide area +
TRIP TO THE EAST END ON A SUNDAY - THE
very central, close to theatre + nightlife so this is where it is all happening! KINGS CROSS, ST PANCRAS + EUSTON - 3 main railway stations all within about a kilometre of each other. St Pancras is the terminus for the Eurostar trains to Europe + all 3 have services that cover most of Northern England, North Wales + Scotland. Close to British Museum. BLOOMSBURY - The area between Covent Garden & St Pancras - it is great to wander the streets + make your own discoveries with a wide range of all types of accommodation. VICTORIA - Major transport hub + a great base for sightseeing. If you are flying in or out of Gatwick, then this is one area you should check out. Close to Buckingham Palace & Westminster Abbey. KENSINGTON - Large area from Knightsbridge to Earls Court. A great selection of hotels, shops, restaurants + attractions - V+A Museum, Royal Albert Hall, National Museum. Easy to transfer to Heathrow. PADDINGTON - Good value area + convenient as the Heathrow Express leaves from Paddington Station. Just note that this means it can be very busy with thousands travelling through the area. BAYSWATER - Close to Paddington + Kensington Palace, Hyde Park + Portobello Market are in the area. Most sights are linked by Underground within 20 minutes. CITY OF LONDON, TOWER BRIDGE, LONDON BRIDGE - Due to the history of the area, some of the most popular sights are here - Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral. Leave plenty of time for transfer to Heathrow. EAST END - Covers the borough of Tower Hamlet. Shoreditch, Bethnal Green, Whitechapel + Hackney are all on trend with edgy restaurants + hotels. Again, not the best for transfers to Heathrow but the area more than makes up for it - Redchurch Street, Columbia Flower Market, Brick Lane, Spitalfields + Broadway Market. A BB A
RESTAURANT + THE COURTAULD GALLERY. THE MONUMENT DESIGNED BY CHRISTOPHER WREN TO MARK THE START OF THE GREAT FIRE OF LONDON IN 1666 - GREAT VIEWS IF YOU WANT TO CLIMB THE 311 STEPS.
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MARYLEBONE
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GALLERY IN EUROPE.
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DESCRIBED AS THE GREATEST PICTURE
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London Zoo Lord’s Cricket Ground
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MAP REFERENCE Apartments No 1 The Mansions by Mansley The Collingham Suites + Apartments Presidential Apts Marylebone 44 Curzon St Apartments Citadines Trafalgar Square Citadines Holborn-Covent Garden Hotels Mercure London Kensington Hotel Indigo The Park International Hotel Royal Garden Hotel The Kensington Hotel The Ampersand Hotel Arbor Hyde Park Hotel Royal Lancaster London The Arch London COMO Metropolitan Hotel Dukes Hotel Taj 51 Buckingham Gate St Giles London Hotel The Strand Palace Hotel Grange Portland Hotel citizenM Bankside London Doubletree by Hilton - Tower Bridge Courthouse Hotel-Shoreditch
ENGLAND
EXPERIENCE London Sightseeing
London in One Day
with Changing of the Guard + River Cruise from $161 C
St Paul’s Cathedral + Tower of London with
Changing of the Guard from $63 C
Cruise from $121 C
This half day morning tour transports you on a panoramic drive to see Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Downing Street - the Prime Minister’s residence, Trafalgar Square + the spectacular Royal Albert Hall + Albert Memorial. Witness the Changing of the Guard at either Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade, where the New Guard exchanges duties with the Old Guard.
Takes you on a journey to two of London’s most iconic sights followed by a relaxing River Thames Cruise. On a guided tour of St Paul’s, discover the fascinating history of this magnificent masterpiece, dating back to 1675. Then it is on to the Tower of London for a guided tour including the famous Crown Jewels. From here we hop aboard a Thames River Cruise to Westminster Pier.
DURATION full day, 9 hrs. DEPARTS daily, at 8:45am.
DURATION morning, 3½ hrs. DEPARTS daily, at 8:45am.
DURATION afternoon, 4½ hrs. DEPARTS daily, at 1:00pm.
London in Style
Warner Bros. Studio Tour London -
Historic London Pubs Walking Tour -
Take in some of London’s most iconic sights including Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, the Royal Albert Hall + the Albert Memorial. Witness the Changing of the Guard either at Buckingham Palace or Horse Guards Parade. Discover the history of St Paul’s Cathedral + the Tower of London, + end the day from The Tower of London, hopping aboard a Thames River Cruise to Westminster Pier.
C All prices based on per adult | low season rate. Child price on request.
Royal London Sightseeing Tour with
with Afternoon Tea in Westminster Abbey from $187 C
Travel by restored vintage 1950s London Bus as you pass such London landmarks including The London Eye, Tower Bridge, The Shard + St Paul’s Cathedral, before arriving at the Tower of London for a private tour with a White Tower warden. Explore the many food stalls of Borough Market; take a walk through the incredible Westminster Abbey then it is time to indulge in a delicious afternoon tea served with a pot of English tea! DURATION full day, 8 hrs. DEPARTS Tue, Wed, Thu + Fri, (Apr-Oct 18)
at 8:15am.
The Making of Harry Potter from $138 C Experience the magical behind the scenes in the world of the hugely successful film series which is a must for fans of Harry Potter of all ages. Step through the doors of the Wizarding School into the Great Hall, furnished with original props + explore the treasure trove of thousands of intricate + beautifully made artefacts, props + costumes; the studio sets + the Forbidden Forest. DURATION 7 hrs (4 hrs at Warner Bros.) DEPARTS daily, all year departing at 8:45am; 10:30am; 1pm + 12:30pm Mon-Fri.
with beer tasting from $40 C
Explore 3 of London’s oldest pubs on this fascinating walking tour with professional guide throughout the historic area of London’s Bankside + affording beautiful views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, the River Thames, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, The Clink Prison, Winchester Palace + the Golden Hind. Beer tasting at The Old Thameside Inn is included. NOTE: not suitable for children U/18yrs. DURATION 3 hrs DEPARTS Tues, Thu + Sat, all year at
3:00pm.
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WHERE TO STAY
APARTMENTS 1
No. 1 The Mansions by Mansley
219 Earl’s Court Road, London SW5 Earl’s Court
4 4 4 4
from $128a
2
The Collingham Suites + Apartments
26-27 Collingham Gardens, London SW5 Earl’s Court
4 4 4 4
from $189a
An elegant London mansion style property built at the end of the 19th Century offering a superb selection of extremely comfortable serviced apartments. In the surrounding Kensington area there are numerous cafes + restaurants in this lively + cosmopolitan part of London, suiting all budgets. Or if you prefer to stay in, the fully equipped kitchens will meet all your self-catering needs.
Formed from 2 adjoining Victorian townhouses dating to 1830 + situated in a relatively quiet side street but a short stroll from Earls Court complex + also the bustling + fashionable South Kensington shopping area with a selection of restaurants, supermarkets + mini-markets. Some apartments have a balcony or roof terrace. Configurations consist of 1/ 2/ 3 BDR apartments.
VFAR insight - Great location for families - very popular, so be quick!
VFAR insight - Gorgeous apartments + close to public transport.
4
44 Curzon St Apartments
Curzon St + Charles St, London W1 Green Park
4444½
from $201a
5
Citadines Trafalgar Square
18-21 Northumberland Ave, London WC2 Charing Cross | Embankment
4444
from $214a
3
Presidential Apts Marylebone
102 George St, London @1 Baker St | Marble Arch
4444½
from $195a
The location is very impressive for sightseeing in London. Set in a modern building, these relaxed, serviced apartments are less than half a mile from bustling Oxford Street + a short walk from both Marble Arch + Bond Street tube stations. Luxury, light + airy studio + 1 BDR apartments come with fully equipped kitchens, washer/dryers.
VFAR insight - Perfect location for
shopping.
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Citadines Holborn - Covent Garden
94-99 High Holborn, London WC1 Holborn
4 4 4 4
from $159a
Dating back to 1908, situated in the heart of Mayfair just a short stroll from the luxury brand shopping streets + many of London’s famous landmarks + attractions. A range of Studio, 1/ 2/ 3 BDR apartments with exceptional comfort, range of layouts with the convenience + flexibility of self-catering facilities.
Housed in a historical building, with a selection of Studio, 1 + 2 BDR sleek + modern apartments, each fitted with a fully equipped kitchenette. Within a 5-minute walking distance is the Charing Cross Underground Tube Station, Trafalgar Square + National Gallery. Walk 10 minutes to Covent Garden or ultra-hip Soho known for its entertainment venues + bustling nightlife.
Walk 10 minutes to where upscale fashion boutiques meet vintage shops + Michelinstarred restaurants rub shoulders with cheap take-out stalls. Plus the vibrant London West End theatre scene! Studio, Studio Deluxe + 1 BDR apartment choices that are stylish, modern + aptly furnished with the amenities + services required to aid any business or leisure stay.
VFAR insight - The location is great for walking to Buckingham Palace + Hyde Park.
VFAR insight - Can’t beat the location for entertainment + restaurants!
VFAR insight - Prime location to catch
t: 1300 303 343
the latest West End show!
ENGLAND
HOTELS
a All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
1
Mercure London Kensington
2
Hotel Indigo
3
The Park International Hotel
1A Lexham Gardens, London,W8 Earl’s Court | Gloucester Road
34-44 Barkston Gardens, London SW5 Earls Court
117-129 Cromwell Road, London SW7 Gloucester Road
4 4 4 4
4444
4444
from $152a
from $156a
from $140a
A 10-minute walk from Gloucester Road tube station + slightly nearer to Earl’s Court. All 82 rooms are small but simply designed. The Lounge Bar with its outside terrace, serves snacks + alcohol till late. There are 2 Family Suites which are quite spacious.
Situated within a 2-minute walk of Earl’s Court Underground on a quiet street, lined with picturesque, red-bricked, Victorian buildings + overlooking a small square gardens. There are 100 rooms split over six floors each decorated with different bright colours. On site is Theo’s Simple Italian - an all-day restaurant + deli, run with an adjoining bar.
Set in a prime location in a row of Victorian-era townhouses it is only a 3-minute walk from Gloucester Road Underground + 30 minutes by taxi from Heathrow Airport. Modern rooms, the suites have a separate sitting area. There is a piano bar/restaurant serving all-day Asian/ British pub fare + afternoon teas.
VFAR insight - Tourist friendly location + great value for London.
VFAR insight - A great base for exploring some of London’s most popular attractions in the area.
VFAR insight - Excellent buffet breakfast + in a great location for easy access to Heathrow Airport.
4
Royal Garden Hotel
2-24 Kensington High Street, London W8 South Kensington
44444
from $195a
5
The Kensington Hotel
109 - 113 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 South Kensington
44444
from $236a
6
The Ampersand Hotel
10 Harrington Rd, London SW7 South Kensington
44444
from $330a
Central yet quiet, it is a few minutes’ walk from Kensington Palace + Hyde Park. High Street Kensington London Underground Station can be reached in 10 minutes’ walk. Occupying a 1960s glass + stone building, the chic rooms offer park or city view. Restaurant, lounge offering afternoon tea + bar. on 10th flr. Other facilities include a health club + spa + on-site parking (fee).
In a historic Victorian townhouse with 126 guest rooms + 24 suites all individually decorated + combining sumptuous fabrics, deep upholstery + an eclectic mix of contemporary art + sleek furnishings. Drink, dine or enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea in the hotel’s ground floor drawing rooms or in the stylish Town House restaurant.
In an enviable location, with the V+A just around the corner + Royal Albert Hall close by. The original building dates back to 1888. It’s smart with a modern twist with 111 rooms across 5 categories, including 5 suites (which have small balconies). All rooms are inspired by the hotel’s location – botany, music, geometry, ornithology + astronomy reflected in the décor.
VFAR insight - Beautifully presented & superbly located next to Kensington Gardens.
VFAR insight - Newly renovated, one of the finest hotels in the area - stylish + relaxing.
VFAR insight - Fabulous location + the afternoon tea is delicious! Personal favourite. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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Arbor Hyde Park Hotel
36-37 Lancaster Gate, London W2 Lancaster Gate
4 4 4
from $206a
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Royal Lancaster London
Lancaster Terrace, London W2 Lancaster Gate
4 4 4 4
from $208a
9
The Arch
50 Great Cumberland Pl, London W1 Marble Arch
4 4 4 4 4
from $254a
A beautifully restored 19th-century townhouse overlooking Hyde Park + only 5-minute walk + just 2 Tube stops to Oxford Circus’ shops. Elegant period features, including high ceilings looking onto the park. The Heathrow Express train runs from Paddington Station, which is about 10 minutes’ walk away. On site restaurant + bar.
Quietly located next to Hyde Park, this modern hotel sits above Lancaster Gate Station + a short distance from Paddington tube and train station with direct links to Heathrow airport. Amenities include an all-day restaurant with panoramic views of Hyde Park serving European dishes, a Thai-themed restaurant offering a Thai afternoon tea, + a lounge-bar. There’s also a 24hour exercise room.
In seven Georgian townhouses + two mews houses retaining many original features + filled with artwork by emerging British artists, it is a 5-minute walk from Marble Arch Station. There are 82 rooms, including 11 suites set over four floors; thoughtfully designed + spacious with bespoke hand-painted wallpaper. The restaurant, Hunter 486, takes its name from the original dialling code for the area.
VFAR insight - Great value, location + comfortable rooms.
VFAR insight - Modern, stylish + just across from Hyde Park in a great location.
VFAR insight - Love the signature cocktail at Le Salon de Champagne with Tom Dixon designed chairs.
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COMO Metropolitan Hotel
Old Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1 Hyde Park
4 4 4 4 4
from $391a
Surrounded by chic bars + restaurants, this posh hotel with its sleek marble facade is also a 10-minute walk from Buckingham Palace. Paredback rooms feature Asian-inspired minimalism decoration. With scenic Park Lane views, Nobu restaurant offers modern Japanese-Peruvian dining and children under the age of 12 eat free. Breakfast includes homemade pastries and fresh Italian coffees and is served in the White Room, which features a glass pyramid ceiling.
VFAR insight - One of the top luxury hotels in Mayfair in a quiet street that is close for shopping + dining! t: 1300 303 343
11
Dukes Hotel
12
35 St Jame’s Place, London SW1 Green Park
4 4 4 4 4
from $330a
Taj 51 Buckingham Gate
51 Buckingham Gate, London SW1 Victoria
4 4 4 4 4
from $486a
Tucked away down a tiny alleyway off St James, + convenient for Piccadilly + the West End, the hotel dates from 1908. Tradition with modern touches, 90 rooms, many recently refurbished, including 5 suites, some with views of Green Park + some with small balcony. Eating + drinking options include an upscale restaurant, a champagne bar + an evening outdoor courtyard. Health club has a gym, a marble steam room + treatment room.
In an elegant street surrounding St. James Court’s fountain is close to Green Park + St James’s Park Westminster Abbey + Buckingham Palace. An all-suite luxury hotel with kitchen is in a Victorian-Edwardian building with dazzling interiors. Facilities include 3 restaurants, a spa with steam room/sauna + gym. The library, has a collection of antique compasses + globes, is a wonderful place to sit + absorb the ambience + history.
VFAR insight - Bikes are available to hire+ they will also prepare picnics to take to one of the London parks.
VFAR insight - One of the finest in London - you have to try the 24 Karat Afternoon Tea!
ENGLAND
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St Giles London Hotel
Bedford Ave, Bloomsbury, London WC1 Tottenham Court Road
a All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
444
from $115a
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The Strand Palace Hotel
372 The Strand, London WC2 Covent Garden
4 4 4 4
from $142a
15
Grange Portland Hotel
31-32 Bedford Place, London WC1 Russell Square
from $148a
4 4 4 4
Located in London’s West End, the hotel’s 675 guest rooms have been thoughtfully designed, some featuring large windows with views of the London skyline. Dining options feature 4 different restaurants + cuisines. Guests can enjoy discounted entry to the independently managed Central YMCA Club, located on the ground floor.
Dating from 1909 with original art deco features from the ’20s, + a 3-minute walk from Covent Garden shopping area + a 5-minute walk from Covent Garden Station, with direct links to Heathrow Airport. There are 785 simply designed rooms. Dining options include an Indian restaurant, as well as a carvery. Afternoon tea is served in either of 2 bars. Access to fitness room.
In the centre of Bloomsbury + close to the British Museum + Russell Square Station (providing direct links to Heathrow Airport), in a 19th-century townhouse features 18 selfcontained studios that are fitted with modern kitchenettes for complete independence. Breakfast is served daily in the Grange Clarendon Hotel breakfast room on the Ground floor.
VFAR insight - Great location just steps away from top attractions, theatres, restaurants + shopping.
VFAR insight - Fantastic location in the very heart of the West End.
VFAR insight - Lovely large rooms in a great location, surprisingly quiet & peaceful in the heart of London.
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citizenM London Bankside
20 Lavington St, London SE1 Jubilee
4 4 4 4
17
Doubletree by Hilton London - Tower Bridge
7 Pepys St, London EC3 Tower Hill
from $155a
4 4 4 4
from $230a
In a newly developed area on a busy street in south of Tate Modern. Within walking distance of the South Bank and the City. Each room is the same size + layout: white + wooden-floored, with a king-sized bed beneath a floor-to-ceiling window. It’s a help-yourself place with no reception + check-in is done on screens by the entrance; the restaurant also is self-service canteen.
The Tower of London + Tower Bridge are just a 7-minute walk. Featuring 583 bright + spacious rooms with large floor-to-ceiling windows. Suites have kitchens. The Skylounge rooftop bar features a glass-roofed balcony + panoramic views of the River Thames of London’s skyline. Other amenities include a restaurant, cafe + fitness centre.
VFAR insight - Value for money- hip +
VFAR insight - Great place to stay
stylish hotel.
particularly if historical sightseeing is on the ‘to do’ list.
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Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch
335-337 Old St, London EC1 Old Street
4 4 4 4 4
from $265a
Housed in the former Old Street Magistrates Court + police station, mixing modern luxury with a historic twist, blending original features with contemporary style. A short stroll from trendy restaurants, bars + shops. A restaurant is set in the former main courtroom, while prison cells have become quirky VIP booths in the refined bar. Basement spa with a pool, sauna + gym. Recreational facilities include a 2-lane bowling alley, a 200-seat cinema + a rooftop bar.
VFAR insight - Buzzy place to stay whilst you explore the vibrant East End. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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SCOTLAND
U N I T E D
K I N G D O M
SCOTLAND
SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
ORKNEY ISLANDS Kirkwall John O’Groats OUTER HEBRIDES
Inverness Culloden
SKYE
LOCH NESS
Aberdeen
Fort William Pitlochry MULL IONA
Oban St Andrews Glasgow Stirling EDINBURGH
LOCH LOMOND
ARRAN
SCOTLAND
Cairnryan
t: 1300 303 343
Gretna Green
W
ith its vibrant cities + breathtaking landscapes, Scotland has captivated visitors for centuries. It is now your turn to discover the unique treasures of Scotland - whether it is a fine sunny day or when mountains are wreathed in mist + rain, the dramatic scenescapes will project images that will make the fairy tale places of your imagination come to life. Reflective lakes, moors covered in heather, sea lochs are all part of the narrative. Do you know it is thought that there are over 3,000 Scottish castles? Of course it is impossible to see it all, but we have handpicked a selection of the best to inspire you to tour the dazzling beauty that is Scotland.
SCOTLAND
EXPERIENCE The Highlights
Scottish Dream from $2,225 ^
4444
8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS GLASGOWEDINBURGH
MODE
^ All prices based on per adult/low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply. (please refer to p. 63)
Open the door to the desolate beauty of Scotland whilst your local guide will introduce you to the warmest of Scottish hospitality. ESCORTED COACH
DAY 1: GLASGOW Tour central Glasgow - a city that flourished in Victorian times. (D) DAY 2: GLASGOW-BALLACHULISH Cruise Loch Lomond to admire the views of the Highlands. Take a guided tour of Inveraray Castle which you may recognise from the Downton Abbey series. Journey across Rannoch Moor + through Glen Coe. (B D) DAY 3: BALLACHULISH-NAIRN Take the “Road to the Isles” + ferry to the Isle of Skye to visit the Clan Donald Centre at Armadale Castle. Travel the shores of Loch Ness on way to Nairn. (B D) DAY 4: NAIRN-PITLOCHRY Explore events of Battle of Culloden. Watch a sheep herding demonstration at a local farm. Head to manor style hotel near Pitlochry. (B D) DAY 5: PITLOCHRY Visit Blair Castle + go behind the scenes at Blair Atholl Distillery for a whisky making tour + sample. Afternoon at leisure exploring Pitlochry. (B D) DAY 6: PITLOCHRY-EDINBURGH Head to Glamis Castle, childhood home of the late Queen Mother. Visit St Andrews + see famous Royal + Ancient Clubhouse + the Old Course. Traditional Scottish evening with dinner + entertainment. (B D) DAY 7: EDINBURGH Explore sights of Edinburgh. Rest of day free. On July 29 to August 19 departures enjoy the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (B) DAY 8: EDINBURGH Tour ends. (B)
DEPARTS Glasgow every Sun, Wed + Fri from 18 Mar-21 Oct 2018. Small Group departures throughout year (max. 26)
A Taste of Scotland + Ireland from $3,035 ^
4444
11 DAYS | 10 NIGHTS GLASGOW-DUBLIN MODE ESCORTED COACH A great way to see the best of Scotland + Ireland with highlights including the Loch Ness cruise, Cliffs of Moher + Titanic Belfast. DAY 1: GLASGOW Tour central Glasgow - a city that flourished in Victorian times. (D) DAY 2: GLASGOW-NAIRN Travel alongside Loch Lomond, renowned for its beauty, Embark on a Loch Ness cruise before heading to Nairn.(B D) DAY 3: NAIRN-EDINBURGH Visit Blair Athol Distillery for tour + tasting. Explore St Andrews. In Edinburgh, enjoy traditional Scottish evening. (B D) DAY 4: EDINBURGH Explore the main sights of central Edinburgh. Rest of day is free. On July 31-August 21 departures, attend the Royal Edinburgh Military Tatoo. (B) DAY 5: EDINBURGH-DUBLIN Ferry to Belfast. Immerse yourself in history at Titanic Belfast. Spend evening free in Dublin. (B L) DAY 6: DUBLIN Discover central Dublin with local guide. Evening canal cruise. (B D) DAY 7: DUBLIN-KILLARNEY Immerse yourself in farm life + watch a sheep herding demonstration. Visit Blarney Castle. Enjoy picturesque Killarney. (B D) DAY 8: RING OF KERRY + SKELLIG EXPERIENCE Take a jaunting car ride.
Embark on a tour of scenic Ring of Kerry. Cross to Valentia Island to visit the Skellig Experience. (B L) DAY 9: KILLARNEY-BUNRATTY CASTLE
Ferry across the River Shannon Estuary to take in the Cliffs of Moher. Head to an authentic castle for a medieval-style banquet. (B D) DAY 10: BUNRATTY CASTLE-GALWAYCONNEMARA-DUBLIN Explore Galway on
EDINBURGH
a walking tour + visit Clonmacnoise Monastic Site. (B) DAY 11: DUBLIN Tour ends after breakfast. (B) DEPARTS Glasgow every Sun, Fri + Tue from 04 Mar-18 Nov 2018. Small Group departures throughout year (max. 26)
FULLY INCLUSIVE TOURS with no hidden extras. Expert local tour directors are well versed in the background of the sites, making history + culture come alive with daily doses of humour, information + assistance. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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SCOTLAND
EXPERIENCE
Unforgettable Scenery
THE NORSE CALLED THE ISLE OF SKYE “CLOUD ISLAND” A 50 MILE LONG BANQUET OF VELVET MOORS, JAGGED MOUNTAINS, SHIMMERING LOCHS + TOWERING CLIFFS PRODUCE STUNNING SCENERY. ISLE OF SKYE
ISLE OF SKYE
ORKNEY ISLAND
A Scottish Journey
Orkney + The Highlands
8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS EDINBURGH-EDINBURGH MODE SMALL GROUP
4 DAYS | 3 NIGHTS INVERNESS-INVERNESS MODE SMALL GROUP
Towering mountains + enchanting lochs. Dramatic cliff-top castles + hideaway villages. Infamous battles + inexplicable legends. We journey up + down Scotland, from coastal cities to Hebridean Islands, seeking out one-of-a-kind landscapes, mesmerising history + undeniable charm.
Explore dramatic landscapes + towns steeped in Viking history + discover ancient sites whose roots stretch back over 5,000 years.
from $4,199 ^
Begin by travelling through East Neuk fishing villages before arriving in St Andrews, a tiny town with a big reputation for world-class golf + Scotland’s oldest university. Travel to Inverness through aweinspiring scenery with time to explore before driving to the Isle of Skye. Sensational landscapes, rare wildlife + imagination-firing history – Skye delivers on every level. This is North Highland scenery on a grand scale + be immersed in its unique geology, including the extraordinary Quiraing, Kilt Rock + Old Man of Storr. Of course, no visit would be complete without a dram of island-made whisky, which we sip during a whisky talk. The best way to see the Hebrides is by island hopping + from Mull’s little village of Fionnphort we sail to Iona, a gem of an island with exquisite natural beauty. INCLUDES 7 nights in boutique accommodation; experienced driver + tour leader; premium mini-coach transportation; ferry crossings; full Scottish breakfast daily, 1 seafood lunch, 4 evening meals; entrance to St Andrews University, Cawdor Castle, Clava Cairns, Culloden, Iona Abbey + Nunnery, Macquarie’s Mausoleum, Duart Castle + Stirling Castle.
DEPARTS every Sunday + Thursday, 18 Mar-07 Oct 18. t: 1300 303 343
from $2,499 ^
Journey through the misty crags + heather clad moors for an unforgettable journey as our road heads north, between soaring peaks, staggering vistas + wide valleys to Strathpeffer – a stylish Victorian spa town. Sail to Orkney on a short ferry journey – complete with scenic views - to Kirkwall, first settled by the Vikings. Walk in the footsteps of ancient islanders at the mysterious Maes Howe tomb, Skara Brae Neolithic village + the mystical Ring of Brodgar. Next comes Iron Age Broch of Gurness + if the tides are right, an atmospheric walk to Brough of Birsay Island. Enjoy a sample of Scotland’s finest whiskys at the Highland Park Distillery + then visit Scapa Flow with its famous Italian chapel. Back to the mainland, visit Dunrobin Castle + formal gardens then back to Inverness along the meandering coastal road over the Dornoch + Cromarty Firths with unforgettable views at every turn. INCLUDES 3 nights in boutique accommodation; experienced driver + tour leader; premium mini-coach transportation; full Scottish breakfast daily, 2 evening meals; ferry crossings; whisky tasting; entrance to Maeshowe Tomb, Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae, Brough of Birsay, Earl’s Palace Kirkwall, Bishop’s Palace Kirkwall, HighlandPark Distillery + Dunrobin Castle.
DEPARTS 10 Apr; 01,08,22 May; 12,19 Jun; 24 Jul; 14 Aug; 04,18 Sep 18.
SCOTLAND
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EXPERIENCE Highland Walking
WALK THROUGH FORESTS OF WILLOW + BIRCH, LARCH + PINE BEFORE DESCENDING INTO THE GLEN ...
West Highland Way from $7,020 ^
44444
10 DAYS/9 NIGHTS LOCH LOMOND-FORT WILLIAM MODE SELF-GUIDED WALKING DISTANCE: 130kms DIFFICULTY: NOT SO GENTLE
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
One of the most beautiful walks in the world through lochs, glens, moors + mountains following the old drove + military roads. DAY 1: LOCH LOMOND Arrive at your accommodation on the shores of Loch Lomond where you will be met by your host + run through your itinerary. Enjoy this magical setting + stroll along the water’s edge of Scotland’s largest loch. Evening as you wish this is home for the next three nights. DAY 2: DRYMEN-BALMAHA (11km) Begin at Drymen, 18 miles to the north-west of Glasgow + not far from Loch Lomond. After breakfast transfer for a day of uphill + down dale on a trail through the Garadhban Forest, walking your first military road before the first of many stunning views across Loch Lomond. From the Lowlands, rise through the bracken up Conic Hill + into the Highlands to throw open the magnificence of Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond + the Luss Hills. Meeting you at Balmaha, ‘the village by the water’, transfer you back hotel . DAY 3: BALMAHA-ROWARDENNAN (11km) Today climb up to Craigie Fort, admire Loch Lomond, Conic Hill + the Highland Boundary Fault that marks the shift from Lowland to Highland. If the water level is low on Loch Lomond, you will see a crannog, a ‘stone age’ platform. DAY 4: ROWARDENNAN-INVERARNAN
(22km) Along the next two stretches of The Way the path is dem+ing but rewarding as you walk to the sound of cascading water. Entering the lands of the Clan MacGregor walk through woodlands of oak, birch + pine, a home to redstarts + wood warblers. At the end of the day, transfer for the first of two nights on the shores of Loch Voil.
DAY 5: INVERARNAN-CRIANLARICH
(/11km) Take one of the the old military roads built in the 18th Century by General Wade + Major Caulfield after the Jacobite Rising of 1715, the revolt against the English monarchy, over 1,000 miles were built to provide the English army access to remote parts of Scotland. At times you will cross the imaginary British Watershed where waters falling on the west side drain into the Irish Sea + those on the east side flow into the North Sea. At Crianlarich, transfer back to your accommodation. DAY 6: CRIANLARICH-BRIDGE OF ORCHY (20km) Today is a beautiful balcony
walk high above the sweeping glens along old military roads, undulating paths + the River Fillan to the Priory + Holy Pool dedicated to St. Fillan, an Irish monk. Stay the first of three nights at a beautiful mansion house set in private 10 acre gardens. DAY 7: BRIDGE OF ORCHY-KINGSHOUSE
(19km) Today stride out on one of the most beautiful stretches of the West Highland Way on the Old Glen Coe Road across Rannoch Moor, Britain’s highest, with its sparkling black to blue lochs + lochans, a magnificent cloister of mountains in the distance. DAY 8: KINGSHOUSE-KINLOCHLEVEN
(14km) Rise up the Devil’s Staircase to the highest point on the West Highland Way (1,850 feet or 548m) to admire the ‘glen of weeping’, the land that witnessed the Massacre of Glencoe, the slaughter of the MacDonalds by Captain Campbell. Transfer at the end of the day.
GLEN COE
DAY 9: KINLOCHLEVEN-FORT WILLIAM
(22km) Walk Lairig Mor - a glen with views to the summits of Mam na Gualainn +Beinn na Caillich, on what is one of the longer stages. Walk through forests of willow + birch, larch + pine before descending into the glen + Fort Willliam. Transfer to the elegance of castle accommodation to celebrate your walk through the drama of Scotland’s west highlands. DAY 10: FORT WILLIAM Depart at your leisure. INCLUDES 9 nights’ accommodation in boutique/luxury hotels; cooked breakfast; luggage transfers between hotels; emergency call-out service; route directions + maps of the area; transfers where specified in itinerary. EXCLUDES airfares; travel to + from the trip start + finish points unless specified; entrances to attractions unless specified; lunches + dinners unless specified; alcoholic beverages, mini-bars + meals pre + post the trip.
DEPARTS daily from Loch Lomond. Balloch Station is adjacent to Loch Lomond + is 2hrs from Edinburgh + 50 mins. from Glasgow. Finishes at Fort William, which is a 1.5hr transfer to Inverness, or 2.5 hrs to Glasgow.
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SCOTLAND
Outlander Trail
EXPERIENCE History
from $674 ^
4 DAYS | 3 NIGHTS EDINBURGH- EDINBURGH
MODE SMALL GROUP
Go time travelling + follow in the footsteps of Jamie + Claire on our Outlander tour from Edinburgh. Relive the tragic battles, death-defying escapes, + sentimental moments of Outlander. You’ll visit towns that are virtually unchanged since the 16th century. Wander through ancient battlefields. And visit some of Scotland’s most hidden-away castles. What’s more is that you share this unique experience with Outlander fans from around the world.
INCLUDES 3 nights’ accommodation in B+B/ guest house or 3* hotels with private facilities + breakfast; transportation by Mercedes 16 seat mini-coach; professional Scottish driver/guide. DEPARTS every Friday, 27 Apr-28 Sep 18.
Scottish Castle Experience from $798 ^
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Iona, Mull + the Isle of Skye - 4 Island Magic
4 DAYS | 3 NIGHTS EDINBURGH-
from $958 ^
MODE SMALL GROUP
5 DAYS | 4 NIGHTS
Visit Scotland’s most impressive castles, tower forts + palaces - even a chance to take a boat trip + visit Scotland’s highest whisky distillery.
MODE SMALL GROUP
EDINBURGH
The tour includes a visit to Falkland Palace, countryside home for many of the Stuart royalty; Royal Deeside beloved stunning hill land area of the north east; the 16th Century Brodie Castle + Culloden moor, resting place of those lost in the final land battle to have taken place in Great Britain; Dalwhinnie Distillery pairing delicious whisky with chocolate + Loch Leven + Castle, the famous prison fort to Mary Queen of Scots. INCLUDES 3 nights’ accommodation in B+Bs
& hotel; breakfast daily; driver/tour leader; minicoach transportation.
DEPARTS 27 Apr; 11,25 May; 08,22 Jun; 06,20 Jul; 03,17,31 Aug 18.
t: 1300 303 343
EDINBURGH
444 EDINBURGH-
Rugged mountains, pristine lochs + mythical moments abound on this tour of Scotland’s beautiful islands. Venture through the impressive mountains of the West Highlands to Oban for 2 nights. The Isle of Skye has gorgeous winged cliffs carved by the winds of the east Atlantic. The sea + sky enveloping Mull are stocked with herds of whales + soaring eagles. And the people of Iona have a remarkable culture that has been influenced by the invading Celts, Vikings + Christians. INCLUDES 4 nights’ accommodation in B+B/ guest house or 3* hotels with private facilities + breakfast; transportation by Mercedes 16 seat mini-coach; professional Scottish driver/guide. DEPARTS Mon + Wed, 02 Apr-30 Apr 18; Mon, Wed + Sat, 02 May-29 Sep 18; Mon + Wed, 01-10 Oct 18; Mon 15,22,29 Oct 18.
Orkney + Scotland’s Northern Coast from $1,047 ^
444
5 DAYS | 4 NIGHTS EDINBURGHEDINBURGH
MODE SMALL GROUP
Escape to Scotland’s extreme Northern Coast + Orkney on this magical tour. The archipelago of Orkney hides many treasures - on our five day tour your experienced guide will ensure you find the best of them. You will unearth some of the most well-preserved prehistoric sites in Europe, examine a beautiful red sandstone coast + discover the vibrant culture of remote island communities. You will also have a chance to find the Loch Ness Monster, see Scotland’s beautiful north + learn about the tragedy of Glen Coe. INCLUDES 4 nights’ accommodation in castle + country style hotels; breakfast daily; driver/tour leader; mini-coach transportation, 1 x evening meal. DEPARTS Fri + Sun, 06 Apr-29 Apr 18; Wed, Fri + Sun, 02 May-30 Sep 18; Mon 05,12,19,26 Oct 18.
SCOTLAND
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EDINBURGH A cosmopolitan city at the southeastern end of Scotland. Every corner is filled with history - the winding cobblestoned streets of the Old Town evoke a bygone period. Take time + explore the ‘closes’ (Scottish for alleyways) running off the Royal Mile, the road that leads to the Castle. + Edinburgh Castle is the omnipresent, all-seeing fortress that sits atop Castle Rock + overlooks the city. EDINBURGH CASTLE
Edinburgh City Tour
All prices based on per adult | low season rate. Child price on request. C
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
from $28 C
Hadrian’s Wall, Roman Britain + the Scottish Borders from $75 C
Discover the stories, secrets + sights of the city as you are taken sightseeing around favourite attractions. Learn about the mighty castle + cobbled backstreets, hear the tragic tales + local traditions + along the way be introduced to a few of the famous locals!
This tour is perfect for anyone fascinated by the collision of cultures + quintessential British landscapes. The tour takes you to the most interesting parts + lets you learn about Rome’s influence on Britain, while giving you a chance to explore the gently rolling hills of the borders + visit an ancient abbey.
DURATION 2 hrs. DEPARTS daily, (excl. 25,26 Dec 18 + 01,02
DURATION full day (approx. 11 hrs). DEPARTS daily, from Edinburgh: 01 Apr 18-30
Jan 19) at 9:45am; 12:15pm + 3:15pm.
Mar 19 (excl. 25,26 Dec 18 + 01 Jan 19) at 8:15am.
Rosslyn Chapel + the Scottish Borders from $57 C
Uncover the myths + legends of the Da Vinci Code on this Rosslyn Chapel tour from Edinburgh. Explore the enigmatic Rosslyn Chapel, admire the gorgeous Tweed Valley + visit Melrose Abbey, the alleged burial site of Robert the Bruce’s heart. Excludes entrance fees to Rosslyn Chapel, Melrose Abbey + entry fees to visitor attractions. DURATION approx. 7 hrs. DEPARTS daily, from Edinburgh: 01 Apr 18-30
Mar 19 (excl. 25,26 Dec 18 + 01 Jan 19) at 9:45am.
The Edinburgh Military Tattoo 3 - 25 AUGUST 2018
from $861^ (4 4 4 Central) from $1,027^(4 4 4 4 Central) from $1,148^(4 4 4 4 4 Central)
from $776^(4 4 4 De-Central) from $822^(4 4 4 4 De-Central)
3 DAYS | 2 NIGHTS EDINBURGH In the dusk of a late summer evening, footlights will transform Edinburgh Castle into a dazzling stage for one of the most spectacular shows in the world. The production features a range of superb international performers with the centrepiece of the evening the spine-tingling sights + sounds of the world famous Massed Pipes + Drums - the finest display anyone can witness. INCLUDES 2 nights’ accommodation; full Scottish breakfast daily; entry to Edinburgh Castle;
afternoon tea at Edinburgh Castle (except for Economy package); ticket to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo; 24 hr ticket for Edinburgh City Tour (Hop-on|Hop-off); service charge + VAT at 20%. NOTE: All packages available on request of submission. All packages are non-refundable after 31 May 18. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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WAL E S
U N I T E D
K I N G D O M
WALES
COASTAL VIEW
Liverpool
Holyhead
Conwy Chester Caernarfon
SNOWDONIA
ENGLAND
Cardigan
WALES Pembroke
Tenby Swansea
CARDIFF
t: 1300 303 343
O
ne of Britain’s most pristine places with a wealth of national parks, natural beauty + heritage coastline. You won’t want to miss the high + mighty Snowdonia, the grassy mountains that roll across the landscape like giant green waves of the Brecon Beacons and at night go stargazing in the inky infinity of Wales’ first Dark Skies Reserve taking a journey into deep space. Go island hopping in Pembrokeshire, collect shells at Shell Island, walk part of the Wales Coastal Walk, or stroll through the intimate garden + spectacular tunnel of yews at Aberglysney that has inspired poets since 1477. Then there are the castles - Wales has more per square mile than any other country in the world - and all this with the hospitality of the Welsh. Croeso! Welcome to Wales!
WAL E S
EXPERIENCE
Stunning Landscapes
SNOWDONIA
Discover Wales from $869 ^ 4 4 4 4
5 DAYS | 4 NIGHTS LONDON-LONDON
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
MODE SMALL GROUP The ultimate tour of Wales, exploring three national parks, visits to an incredible array of castles + learn about ancient Celtic culture. This small country has more castles per square mile than anywhere else in Europe. With delightful coastal villages, incredible Roman ruins + stunningly white beaches plus the warm welcome form the locals - these are some of the highlights of the tour. Cotswolds - spend the morning discovering the beauty of this area. Welsh Borderlands + the Cambrian Mountains - Cross the gentle rolling hills that have divided kingdoms for hundreds of years. Snowdonia National Park - Discover the jagged peaks of Wales’ first national park. Harlech Castle - one of the finest examples of late 13th century military architecture in Europe. New Quay + Cardigan Bay - White houses speckled on a hill overlooking a gorgeous beach. Laugharne + its Dylan Thomas connections - Explore the town that inspired one of the world’s greatest poets. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park + the Preseli Mountains - A spectacular coastline packed with untouched beaches + crumbly cliffs. St Davids - Britain’s smallest city with a tiny population of 1,841 people with a remarkable cathedral. Castle Combe - This village is full of gentle cottages + trickling waterways. St Fagans - the open-air museum in Cardiff chronicling the historical lifestyle, culture, + architecture of the Welsh people. INCLUDES your choice of accommodation -B+B|guest house or 3* hotels with private facilities + breakfast; transportation by Mercedes 16 seat minicoaches; services of professional driver|guide. EXCLUDES lunch, dinner, entrance fees.
DEPARTS every Monday, 02 Apr-22 Oct 18.
Ceridigion Coastal Walk from $1,540 ^
4444
6 DAYS | 5 NIGHTS CARDIGAN-ABERAERON MODE SELF-GUIDED WALKING
DISTANCE: 52kms DIFFICULTY: NOT SO GENTLE
Follow the spectacular + varied coastline of Cardigan Bay on the west coast with stunning scenery, picturesque villages + a wealth of wildlife. DAY 1: CARDIGAN Transfer from Carmarthen station to hotel. Optional circular walk through rich agricultural land + pretty wood offering a variety of views. (7-8km) DAY 2: CARDIGAN-ABERPORTH (18km) An easy walk to Aberporth taking in the Teifi estuary from the east + some very remote but idyllic sections of the coast. (B) DAY 3: ABERPORTH-LLANGRANNOG (7km) Today the path leads to Llangrannog, characterised by high cliffs + secluded beaches. The small village of Llangrannog is located at the end of a narrow winding road + is much loved for its wonderful sandy beach. (B) DAY 4: LLANGRANNOG-NEW QUAY (15km) Walk along what is arguably the most spectacular part of the Ceredigion Coast Path. The day ends in New Quay, a pretty seaside resort with three beautiful beaches + two harbours. Tonight you stay in an excellent coaching inn, well known as the location where Dylan Thomas wrote ‘Under Milk Wood’. With views of the sea + a garden that drops down to the coast, you can also enjoy the restaurant here. (B) DAY 5: NEW QUAY-ABERAERON (10.5km) Start with a walk along the beach around New Quay Bay. One of the highlights of this section is Cwm Buwch, where the meandering Afon Drywi carves some interesting topography before becoming a waterfall that plunges onto an inaccessible beach. Aberaeron boasts a picturesque harbour + wonderful Georgian terrace houses. (B) DAY 6: ABERAERON Transfer back to Carmarthen train station. INCLUDES 5 nights’ accommodation in 4* hotels|B+Bs; breakfast; luggage transfers between hotels; emergency call-out service; route directions + maps; transfers where specified in itinerary. EXCLUDES airfares; travel to + from the trip start + finish points; entrances to attractions unless specified; lunches + dinners unless specified; alcoholic beverages, mini-bar + meals pre + post the trip.
DEPARTS daily from Cardigan. Carmarthen Station is the nearest station to the start + is 4.5 hrs from Paddington Station, London.
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IRELAND
U N I T E D
K I N G D O M
IRELAND
Giant’s Causeway Derry
Donegal
NORTHERN IRELAND
Belfast
Sligo
Westport
IRELAND DUBLIN Galway Wicklow
Cliffs of Moher Kilkenny
Waterford
Tralee Killarney Cobh Ring of Kerry
T: 1300 303 343
Cork
T
ravel to Ireland + discover its stunning natural beauty from lush rolling hills in every shade of green, rugged coastlines, the heritage + remnants of an ancient culture to the charming villages + vibrant cities of Dublin + Belfast. Choose to stay in Georgian mansion hotels, cosy B+Bs, farmhouses or fulfill a romantic dream of staying in a castle! There are so many ways to take in the endless beauty of the countryside, from being relaxed on an escorted tour or for the more energetic - perhaps walking the pilgrim route along the Cliffs of Moher! And be sure to take the opportunity to enjoy the warmth of the locals by heading to a traditional Irish pub + sampling some Guinness along the way.
IRELAND
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EXPERIENCE Natural Beauty
A Taste of Ireland
Irish Adventure
5|4, 6|5 OR 7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS DUBLIN-DUBLIN
9 DAYS | 8 NIGHTS DUBLIN-DUBLIN
from $1,495 ^ (7 days) 4 4 4 4
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
MODE ESCORTED COACH
from $2,170 ^ (9 days) 4 4 4 + 4 4 4 4 MODE ESCORTED COACH
A great introductory tour of Ireland - experience the best with a choice of 5, 6 or 7 day tours - with all activities included + no hidden costs, it’s great value!
Immerse yourself in country life + the natural beauty of the Emerald Isle on this 8 days/7 night or 9 days/8 nights tour around Ireland which includes all the highlights.
DAYS 1-2: DUBLIN Time to explore this vibrant city. DAY 3: DUBLIN-KILLARNEY Travel through the midlands to visit
of Dublin.
Blarney Castle + kiss the “Stone of Eloquence”. Treat yourself to quality Irish goods at Blarney Woollen Mills. Arrive in the picturesque town of Killarney. (B D) DAY 4: RING OF KERRY + SKELLIG EXPERIENCE Embark on Ireland’s most popular scenic drive. Visit the Skellig Experience. Get a taste of farm life with a sheep herding demonstration. Free evening in Killarney. (B L) DAY 5: KILLARNEY-BUNRATTY CASTLE Ferry across the River Shannon Estuary to take in the Cliffs of Moher. Head to an authentic castle for a medieval-style banquet. (B D) DAY 6: BUNRATTY CASTLE-GALWAY-CONNEMARA-DUBLIN
Explore Galway before heading to Spiddal where the locals still speak the Irish language. Travel across the boglands of Connemara to the Marble Factory before returning to Dublin. (B) DAY 7: DUBLIN Tour ends after breakfast. (B) FULLY INCLUSIVE with no hidden extras. Expert local tour directors are well versed in the background of the sites, making history + culture come alive with daily doses of humour, information + assistance.)
DEPARTS every Sun, Fri + Wed from 01 Apr-18 Nov; 02,09 Dec 18.
Ask about Special Small Group departures throughout year (max. 26) Guaranteed Small Group Departure: 25 Nov 18.
DAY 1: DUBLIN Tour begins at 2pm. Set out on an introductory tour
DAY 2: DUBLIN-WATERFORD Explore the remains of 6th Century Glendalough founded by St Kevin. Continue to the Dunbrody Famine Ship, a reconstructed 19th century vessel. After dinner stroll around the narrow streets of Waterford with a local guide. (B D) DAY 3: WATERFORD-KILLARNEY Witness the creation of crystal masterpieces during visit to the House of Waterford Crystal. Travel to Cobh, last port or call of the Titanic. Visit Blarney Castle to kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence”, or explore the tranquil gardens. (B D) DAY 4: RING OF KERRY + SKELLIG EXPERIENCE Discover the glorious Ring of Kerry then cross to Valentia Island to visit the Skellig Experience. Stroll around Sneem after lunch then return to Killarney. Evening free. (B L) DAY 5: KILLARNEY-GALWAY Take a ferry ride across the River Shannon to view the Cliffs of Moher, then head to Galway to join a local guide for a stroll through the old city. (B D) DAY 6: GALWAY-DERRY Immerse yourself in Irish farm life watching trained sheep dogs round up mountain sheep. Explore pilgrim town of Knock, then enjoy free time in Donegal before heading to Derry for a guided walking tour of this medieval city. (B D) DAY 7: DERRY-DUBLIN Visit the Giant’s Causeway, then head to Belfast to explore Titanic Belfast’s state of the art displays. Stop at the Glyde Hotel for farewell dinner. (B D) DAY 8: DUBLIN 8 Day tour ends after breakfast. Guests on 9 day tour spend a day in Dublin with an open top bus tour + visit to one featured attraction. (B) DAY 9: DUBLIN Tour ends after breakfast. (B) FULLY INCLUSIVE with no hidden extras. Expert local tour directors are well versed in the background of the sites, making history + culture come alive with daily doses of humour, information + assistance.)
DEPARTS from Dublin on Mon + Wed from 02 Apr-03 Dec 18. Ask about Special Small Group departures throughout year (max. 26) + Winter departure dates.
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IRELAND
KYLEMORE ABBEY
Irish Classic from $3,145 ^
Irish Odyssey 4444
from $2,660 ^
4444
13 DAYS | 12 NIGHTS DUBLIN-DUBLIN
12 DAYS | 11 NIGHTS DUBLIN-DUBLIN
MODE
MODE ESCORTED COACH
ESCORTED COACH
Discover the colourful histories of Belfast, Derry, Wesport + Waterford + local experiences such as sipping a creamy Irish coffee as you enjoy a music session at the Marine Bar in Dungarvan! DAY 1 : DUBLIN Tour begins at 2pm with tour of Dublin Castle. (D) DAY 2: DUBLIN-BELFAST Visit Down Cathedral to St Patrick’s
historical burial site. Explore the Crumlin Road Gaol to see what prison life was like. Head to Belfast for dinner. (B D) DAY 3: BELFAST Visit Titanic Belfast to learn about the ill-fated famous liner through state-of-the-art displays. Join a local guide for a walking tour of Belfast. (B) DAY 4: BELFAST-DERRY Explore the Giant’s Causeway, enormous columns formed by volcanic activity. Walking tour of Derry. (B D) DAY 5: DERRY-WESTPORT Travel through the countryside of Donegal + tour Donegal Castle. Head to Westport for a walking tour of this historical town. (B D) DAY 6: WESTPORT Watch a sheep herding demonstration. View Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord. Enjoy lunch + guided tour of Westport House. (B L) DAY 7: WESTPORT-BUNRATTY Visit Ballintuber Abbey, Ireland’s only royal abbey. View the majestic Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy a medievalstyle banquet. (B D) DAY 8: BUNRATTY-KILLARNEY Journey to Slea Head for scenic views of hills + coastline. Enjoy free time in Dingle. (B D) DAY 9: KILLARNEY Take a horse-drawn jaunting car ride. Travel along part of the scenic Ring of Kerry. Free evening in Killarney. (B L) DAY 10: KILLARNEY-WATERFORD Visit Blarney Castle to kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence.” In Dungarvan enjoy an Irish coffee + informal music session. Join a local guide for a walking tour of Waterford. (B D) DAY 11: WATERFORD-DUBLIN Witness the creation of crystal masterpieces at the House of Waterford Crystal. Explore the Dunbrody Famine Ship. Dine at Taylors Three Rock Pub. (B D) DAY 12: DUBLIN Spend a free day in Dublin with an open-top bus tour + visit to a featured attraction. (B) DAY 13: DUBLIN Tour ends. (B) FULLY INCLUSIVE with no hidden extras. Expert local tour directors are well versed in the background of the sites, making history + culture come alive with daily doses of humour, information + assistance.)
DEPARTS from Dublin on Sat + Thu from 10 Mar-20 Oct 18. t: 1300 303 343
Authentic local experiences during this 12 day tour around Ireland with highlights including sampling local craft beer in Drogheda + staying one night in a castle! DAYS 1-2: DUBLIN Tour begins at 2pm with visit to Kilmainham Gaol. The next day tour stately Russborough House to view priceless treasures. Afternoon free to use vouchers to visit a featured attraction. (B D) DAY 3: DUBLIN-CORK Experience country living at a traditional farmhouse. At the House of Waterford watch experienced craftspeople create crystal masterpieces. (B D) DAY 4: CORK-KILLARNEY Visit Blarney Castle to kiss the famous “Stone of Eloquence”. Stop at Moll’s Gap for great views of the Ring of Kerry + enjoy a sheep herding demonstration. (B D) DAY 5: KILLARNEY Enjoy a horse-drawn jaunting car ride. Discover the scenic Dingle Peninsula + enjoy dinner in the charming town of Dingle. (B D) DAY 6: KILLARNEY-GALWAY Sample tea + scones in Listowel before a ferry ride across River Shannon Estuary. Visit the famous Cliffs of Moher. In Galway, join a local guide for a walking tour. (B D) DAY 7: GALWAY Enjoy a guided tour of Cong where “The Quiet Man” movie was made. Tour the elegant Kylemore Abbey. Enjoy lunch before returning to Galway. (B L) DAY 8: GALWAY-DERRY Visit Ballintubber Abbey, Ireland’s only royal abbey. At Belleek Pottery see craftspeople create delicate pieces. Spend time in Donegal before continuing to Derry. (B D) DAY 9: DERRY Explore the Giant’s Causeway + a guided walk of Derry. Dine at the Walled City Brewery Restaurant. (B D) DAY 10: DERRY-KINGSCOURT Immerse yourself in history at Titanic Belfast. Travel to your castle hotel. (B D) DAY 11: KINGSCOURT-DUBLIN Visit the Boyne Valley Visitor Centre to learn about the 5,000 year old burial tombs of Newgrange + Knowth. Sample local craft beer at Clarke’s Bar in Drogheda. Farewell dinner at a gastropub. (B D) DAY 12: DUBLIN Tour ends. (B)
FULLY INCLUSIVE with no hidden extras. Expert local tour directors are well versed in the background of the sites, making history + culture come alive with daily doses of humour, information + assistance.
DEPARTS from Dublin on Fridays from 09 Mar-09 Nov 18. Ask about Special Small Group departures throughout year (max. 26) + Winter departure dates.
IRELAND
EXPERIENCE
WHERE LAND + SEA COLLIDE, WHERE UNTAMED BEAUTY ABOUNDS, WELCOME TO THE UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE OF THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY.
Exhilarating Walks
NEED TO KNOW ACCOMMODATION
All properties along the hiking route are conveniently located in the centre of villages or towns, (subject to availability). Upgrade options are also available in larger towns + cities. Breakfast is included.
ITINERARIES
Itineraries can be custom made to suit your fitness, time available + budget.
HOLIDAY PACK
Practical + useful holiday packs are provided: for hiking there is a walking guide +/or notes + maps. A 24/7 support number is given in case of emergency.
LUGGAGE TRANSFERS
Transfers are included as standard as part of the hiking package which means your luggage will be moved each day to the next hotel on your itinerary.
EXCLUDES
Meals other than breakfast, airport transfers, drinks, insurance (recommended) + flights.
Hiking the Burren Way
444
from $580 ^(5 days) from $883 ^(7 days)
5 OR 7 DAYS | 4 OR 6 NIGHTS ^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
LAHINCH-COROFIN
MODE SELF-GUIDED WALK DISTANCE: 102kms DIFFICULTY: NOT SO GENTLE Be rewarded with panoramic coastal vistas along the iconic Cliffs of Moher - the Burren will open up on your way with its unique landscape, hundreds of acres of exposed limestone bedrock, interlaced with pockets of eco-systems supporting a diverse range of plant life. This popular walking route follows the impressive Cliffs of Moher from Hags Head along the coast to Doolin + Fanore, continuing to the most northerly point of Black Head, before turning inland on a mountain pass. Be immersed in the eerie barrenness that is the Burren. Descending from Carnsefin 300m along a quiet rural road to Ballyvaughan, Carran + an abundance of ancient wedge tombs, dolmens, ring forts + castles on your route to Corofin.
DEPARTS all year, weather permitting. NOTE: Transfers + extra nights’ accommodation can be organised in the historic city of Galway.
Hiking the Wicklow Way
444
from $474 ^ (4 days) from $628 ^ (5 days) from $1,251 ^(9 days)
4, 5 OR 9 DAYS | 3, 4 OR 8 NIGHTS CONEGAL-DUBLIN
MODE SELF-GUIDED WALK DISTANCE: 135kms DIFFICULTY: NOT SO GENTLE Starting in picturesque Conegal, this is one of the great trails taking you through the heart of the “Garden of Ireland”. Along the way you will pass lakes, rivers, streams of evergreens, ancient hardwoods, cross blanket bogs + stop in quaint towns + villages. The relics of thousands of years of human habitation can be seen along the way – some of the most significant historical sites in Ireland. Follow peaceful paths through ancient forests + open mountain trails to Glenmalure, Ireland’s longest glacial valley. Glendalough Valley, in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park, is one of the highlights of this walking tour both for its cultural important + natural beauty. As the trail ascends you will be able to spot Lough Dan + Lough Tav, the lakes where the TV series “Vikings” is filmed. The walk finished in the Victorian gardens of Marlay Park, 5km from Dublin’s city centre.
Hiking the Dingle Way from $1,369 ^
444
10 DAYS | 9 NIGHTS TRALEE-TRALEE MODE SELF-GUIDED WALK DISTANCE: 179kms DIFFICULTY: NOT SO GENTLE
Prepare to fall in love with the Wild Atlantic Way in the west where the town of Dingle was once named as ‘the most beautiful place on earth’ by National Geographic. The terrain is greatly varied from rural roads to coastal paths + low level mountain trails, accessible to all levels of fitness but, with a little tweaking (shortening the walking distance some days) it could be also perfect for families. From Tralee to Dingle, follow the trail known as the Kerry Camino, enjoying fantastic views of the ocean + Inch Strand. The route passes through Gaeltacht areas (Irish-speaking region), making it a wonderful place to discover authentic Irish culture. Continue along The Dingle Way, hiking one of Ireland’s most scenic regions, the Dingle Peninsula, full of important cultural + historic sites from Celtic Ogham stones to Fahan Beehive huts, ring forts + dolmens, standing stones + holy wells.
DEPARTS all year, weather permitting.
DEPARTS all year, weather permitting. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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IRELAND
EXPERIENCE Guided Adventures
These itineraries are made up of individual tours which link up en route. Enjoy the individual styles + stories of the driver/guides as well as a different group of travelling companions on each part of the trip.
Southern Ireland Discovery from $1,746 ^
All Ireland Experience
9 DAYS | 8 NIGHTS DUBLIN-DUBLIN MODE SMALL GROUP
11 DAYS | 10 NIGHTS DUBLIN-DUBLIN MODE SMALL GROUP
Northern Ireland, the Atlantic Coast + an Escape to the West. Cross between borders + myths as you weave through the Emerald Isle’s stunning sights.
This comprehensive tour explores all the sights plus more outlined in the previous tours on this page.
from $2,203 ^ 4 4 4 444
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS DUBLIN-DUBLIN MODE SMALL GROUP Escape to the West, Kilkenny, West Cork + Kinsale. Discover the Ireland that inspired the music, immerse yourself in the tales of Blarney Castle + the flavours of Locke’s Distillery.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
Clonmacnoise - a 1500 year old abbey. Locke’s Distillery - the oldest licensed distillery on Earth has something for history buffs, whisky connoisseurs + thirsty amateurs! Blarney Castle - kiss the famed Blarney Stone amidst the walls of this impressive medieval stronghold. Kinsale - dive into the vibrant colours of this historic port town. Cobh + the Titanic - delve into the mystery + history of this coastal town. Waterford - set forth for tales of conquest + pillage in Ireland’s oldest city, founded by 9th century Vikings! Kilkenny Castle - survey the dominant + unmistakeable three walled castle. Wicklow Mountains - soar to Ireland’s most impressive peaks then dive into its profound valleys, all carved by ancient glaciers. Glendalough - be awed by the “Valley of the Lakes”.
DEPARTS Sun + Thu, 01 Apr-25 Oct 18. t: 1300 303 343
All Ireland Explorer
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
The Giant’s Causeway - breathtaking coastal formations of the Causeway. Portrush - charming coastal town. Derry -only completely walled city in Ireland. Donegal - venture into this land of castles, rugged coasts + thick forest. Connemara National Park The Sky Road - discover the gorgeous Ireland you’ve seen on postcards. The Twelve Bens - 12 mountains above a rare bog habitat + pristine lakes. Galway Town - an ancient harbour city. Cliffs of Moher - awe-inspiring 700ft drop to the Atlantic Ocean. The Burren - home to the nation’s most profound spiritual + natural culture. Dingle Peninsula - glorious beaches merge with traditional Irish scenery. Ring of Kerry - Ireland’s famous coastal route with some of the wildest views. Torc Waterfall - Learn about the ancient curse that formed this waterfall.
DEPARTS Sun + Wed, 01 Apr-24 Oct 18.
from $2,805 ^ 4 4 4
Experience the richness of Ireland’s culture from North to South with this complete journey around the Emerald Isle with more gorgeous coastlines + majestic mountains than can be captured by camera.
DEPARTS Sun + Wed, 01 Apr-21 Oct 18.
THESE TOURS INCLUDE
accommodation in B+B/guest house or 3* hotels with private facilities + breakfast; transportation by Mercedes 16 seat minicoaches; services of professional Irish driver/guide.
EXCLUDES lunch, dinner, entrance
fees.
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
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DUBLIN Dublin is a vibrant city with wide streets, gracious squares + elegant Georgian mansions. The River Liffey flows through the centre heading to the sea, separating Dublin into North + South sides. Many tourist attractions are on either side - so take a walk alongside + soak in the atmosphere of this great city! THE TEMPLE BAR, DUBLIN
Jury’s Inn Parnell Street Dublin
Moore Street Plaza, Parnell Street, Dublin
444
from $126a
Stephens Green, Dublin
4444
from $213a
The Westbury Hotel 2 Grafton Street, Dublin
44444
from $345a
Combining Georgian architecture + contemporary design next to the Iveagh Gardens + within walking distance to Grafton Street. For convenience there is a bistro, restaurant + bar. Rooms are spacious with splashes of colour + good sized bathrooms.
Located in a very central position close to Grafton Street + a short walk from Trinity College + St Stephen’s Green. The rooms are comfortable + beds made in crisp Irish linens. Don’t miss the generous full Irish breakfasts or the lavish afternoon teas - an Irish institution.
VFAR Insight - Good middle-of-the-
VFAR Insight - Don’t miss the
road accommodation in a great location.
VFAR Insight - Find a quiet spot in the guests-only Georgian Library with its stucco ceilings.
Game of Thrones Tour
Guinness Storehouse Tour
Belfast + Giant’s Causeway Day Tour
Specifically designed to indulge your GOT obsession as well as visiting the Giant’s Causeway. Highlights include Belfast City, The Dark Hedges (or the King’s Road), Duluce Castle (or Harrenhal), Larrybane, (or Renly Baratheon’s Camp), Ballintoy Harbour + Cushendun Caves.
Dublin’s most popular attraction + an absolute must on your visit to Ireland. A visit to the Home of Guinness is a dramatic story that begins over 250 years ago + ends in Gravity, the sky bar, with a complimentary pint of Guinness (adults only) + an astonishing view of Dublin City. Ask us about upgrading your visit with the exclusively luxurious Connoisseur Experience!
DURATION approx. 10 hrs. DEPARTS daily, all year (except 23-27 + 31
DURATION approx. 1 hr. DEPARTS daily, all year (except 24-26 Dec +
On your Belfast part of the tour, the guide will explain the different options included in the tour eg., enjoy the world famous black taxi tour, or alternatively the Belfast Titanic quarter + the Titanic Visitor’s Experience. It is then onto Dunluce Castle, where during your 2hr stay enjoy lunch with a choice of providers on site (own account) then continue to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge close to Ballintoy + a must-see when visiting the North Coast. DURATION approx. 13 hrs. DEPARTS daily, all year (except 24-26 Dec).
Close to historic O’Connell Street, this smart hotel among shops + eateries is also a 17-minute walk from Dublin Castle + 3 km from the Guinness Storehouse. Modern rooms offer free Wi-Fi + some add sofabeds. Room service is available. Other features include a restaurant/bar, cafe + a 24-hour fitness room.
C All prices based on per adult | low season rate. Child price on request. a All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
O’Callaghan Stephens Green Hotel
from $116 C
Dec, 01 Jan, 17 Mar, 11-12 Jul + 30 Mar.)
from $40 C
30 Mar.)
generous full Irish breakfasts or the Irish institution - generous afternoon teas.
from $140 C
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FRANCE
E U R O P E
FRANCE
SAINT EMILION
T
Calais ENGLISH CHANNEL
Reims
NORMANDY
PARIS Chartre
BRITTANY
CHAMPAGNE
LOIRE VALLEY
Orleans
Nantes
Dijon
FRANCE
BAY OF BISCAY
Lyon
Bordeaux PROVENCE
Biarritz
Avignon LANGUEDOC
Carcassonne
Nice
Marseille MEDITERRANEAN
t: 1300 303 343
he world’s most visited country! France offers a diverse range of experiences that are guaranteed to enchant! With an array of artistic + architectural wonders, it is home to some of the most famous museums, iconic monuments + historical sites - soaring cathedrals, chandeliered chateaux + beautiful villages. It is where the play of light transforms the natural beauty of the landscape into something beyond, whether it is fields of lavender, sunflower or poppy; driving through an avenue of plane trees; the buttery taste of a fresh croissant in the morning, or having a glass of apricot-hued rosé – you will be planning your next visit before you arrive home.
FRANCE
EXPERIENCE
Scents of Culture + History
PONT DU GARD
SUNFLOWERS + LAVENDER
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
NORMANDY COAST
La Belle France
Provence + the French Riviera
from $3,999 ^
from $4,639 ^
4444
CHAMPAGNE
Paris to Nice
through Vineyards + Mountains 4444
from $3,999 ^
4444
9 DAYS | 8 NIGHTS PARIS-PARIS MODE SMALL GROUP
9 DAYS | 8 NIGHTS NICE-NICE MODE SMALL GROUP
9 DAYS | 8 NIGHTS PARIS-NICE MODE SMALL GROUP
Sleep in the storybook surrounds of a grand French chateau, taste local artisan produce + immerse yourself in Normandy history - from the Bayeux Tapestry to the D-D beaches. Step into a land of renowned artists + royal crusaders, hilltop monasteries + valley castles.
Soak up the history, glamour + natural beauty of The French Riviera. From the lavender-carpet fields of Provence; the staggering sight of Gorges du Verdon + the elegant resort of Cannes. Enjoy a Provencal lunch + accompanying wines in a private vineyard, explore Arles with a day to yourself - perhaps tracing the steps of Vincent Van Gogh + Pablo Picasso, treat your senses of scent at the Fragonard Museum + be awed by the iconic Pont du Gard.
Glasses glinting with bubbles + rich red wines. Windows that open out on soaring mountains, charming villages + fragrant fields of flowers. Taste your way through famed wine-growing regions such as Champagne, Chablis + Burgundy; soak up the peace of Grande Chartreuse Monastery set in a remote valley of the French Alps + sip the monks’ famous green liquor, + explore grand Château de Vauxle-Vicomte, the inspiration for the Palace of Versailles. INCLUDES 8 nights in boutique
This tour takes you from France’s dramatic northern shores to chateaux-sprinkled countryside, breaking off to see WW11 sites, exploring centuries-old villages + sampling home grown delicacies. INCLUDES 8 nights’ accommodation; driver/
tour leader; mini-coach transportation, European breakfast daily; 3 x evening meals; cider + calvados tasting; a garden tour of Château de la Bourdaisière; entrance to Monet’s House + Garden at Giverny, Château d’Angers, Bayeux Tapestry, Mont St Michel, Château de Villandry, Château de Chartres + Château de Chenonceau.
DEPARTS 10,17 Apr; 08,15,22 May; 05,12,19,26 Jun; 03,10,17,24,31 Jul; 07,14,21,28 Aug; 04,11,18,25,28 Sep; 02,09,16 Oct 18.
INCLUDES 8 nights in boutique accommodation; experienced tour leader/driver; premium mini-coach transportation; daily European breakfast, 1 provencal lunch with wine tasting, 4 evening meals; visit to a local pottery manufacturer; entrance to Fragonard Museum, The Chapelle du Rosaire de Vence, Hôtel de Caumont, Sénanque Abbey, lavender museum, Roman Theatre of Orange, Pont du Gard, Palace of Popes + Pont Bénezet, Carrières des Lumières.
DEPARTS 11,25 May; 08,15 Jun; 13 Jul; 17 Aug; 07,14,21 Sep; 12 Oct 18.
accommodation; experienced tour leader/ driver; premium mini-coach transportation; European breakfast daily, 1 picnic lunch, 4 evening meals; 3 wine tastings; entrance to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, Reims Cathedral, Hospices of Beaune, Musée de la Grande Chartreuse + Citadel of Sisteron, tomb of Dom Perignon, visit to Resistance Museum + Château de Julienas.
DEPARTS 17,31 May; 14, 21 Jun; 05,12 Jul; 23,30 Aug; 06,20 Sep; 04 Oct 18.
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EXPERIENCE Barge Cruising
APREMONT-SUR-ALLIER
PALACE OF FONTAINEBLEAU
BURGUNDY
Loire Valley Cruise from $3,999 ^
44444
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS PARIS-PARIS MODE BARGE CRUISING
Imagine relaxing on a cruise through this exceptional traditional region of France taking in the memorable sites, historic cities + prestigious vineyards of the area on the MS Deborah, one the most modern barges in France with just 12 cabins.
Burgundy: a Cruise along Le Canal de Bourgogne from $4,349 ^
44444
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS PARIS-PARIS MODE BARGE CRUISING Drift past vineyards, stop at picture-book towns + stroll grand palaces all from on board a luxury barge MS Jeanine. Rich + refined, Burgundy is as elegant + enticing as the world-famous wines.
With an abundance of nature, culture + heritage, highlights include visiting Apremont-sur-Allier + its floral garden, known to be one of the most awe-inspiring villages in France, tour of Nevers, Fontmorigny Abbey + La Charite-sur-Loire, the outstanding view of the Val de Loire Natural Reserve, the wine regions of Sancerre + Pouilly-surLoire + marvel at the Briare Aqueduct, one of the most prestigious waterways in France.
From Paris, you are transferred to Dijon to board your private barge. Then simply sit back + take in some of France’s most sublime wine country, discovering beautiful villages that line the canal. Get a taste of Burgundy’s wine-making heritage at Château du Clos de Vougeot + discover the citadel of Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t feel you have to cruise all the way - with bicycles on board for your exclusive use, swap the deck for dry land + ride alongside the canal on the bike path.
INCLUDES 6 nights on board a boutique hotel barge; experienced driver + Tour Leader; premium mini-coach transportation; European breakfast daily, daily lunch + evening meals including farewell gala dinner; selected drinks during the cruise including wine, beer, fruit juice + coffee; bicycles available on board; transfer from Paris to Nevers + Briare to Paris; tour of Nevers, Fontmorigny Abbey, Apremont-sur-Allier, La Charite-sur-Loire; visit Wine Tourism Centre at Tour de Pouilly-Fume + goat farm at Sancerre.
INCLUDES 6 nights on board MS Jeanine, a boutique hotel barge; experienced driver + Tour Leader; premium mini-coach transportation; local guide in Dijon; daily European-style breakfast, 5 lunches, 6 evening meals including farewell gala dinner, selected drinks during the cruise (water, wine, beer, coffee); selected local taxes; bicycles available to hire; return transfer from Paris | Dijon; tour of Royal Saltworks; trail of the Chat Perché tour; entrance to Citadel of Besançon + Palace of Fontainebleau.
DEPARTS 17 May; 12 Jul 18.
DEPARTS 23 Aug; 18 Oct 18.
t: 1300 303 343
FRANCE
EXPERIENCE Walking the Dream
SÉNANQUE ABBEY
Potter through Provence from $3,910 ^
44444
8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS AVIGNON-AVIGNON OR AIX-EN-PROVENCE MODE SELF-GUIDED WALKING DISTANCE: 54kms DIFFICULTY: GENTLE
MAJESTIC CEDAR FORESTS, SUMPTUOUS CHÂTEAUX + SWEEPING VALLEY VIEWS.
Discover Provence in comfort + style on this wonderful walking tour with handpicked boutique hotels + guest houses in the area, linked with some unique, breathtaking walking routes. DAY 1: AVIGNON-L’ISLE-SUR-LA SORGUE
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
Transfer from Avignon or Marseille to Islesur- la-Sorgue, one of the prettiest towns in Provence. Stroll along the quayside with lots of antique shops + cafes. Dinner at an acclaimed restaurant. (D) DAY 2: FONTAINE DE VAUCLUSEGORDES (13km) After breakfast, transfer to
the fabled spring of Fontaine de Vaucluse. From here walk through brush + cedar forests for panoramic views of the Luberon Valley. Continue to Gordes - ‘one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France’ which is your base for the next 2 nights. (B D) DAY 3: CIRCULAR WALK FROM GORDES
(10km) Walk through fields of lavender + thyme to the Romanesque Sénanque Abbey. After climbing out of the Sénanque Valley for breathtaking views, descend back to Gordes that weaves between ancient stone walls + old dry stone dwellings. Evening at leisure. (B) DAY 4: GORDES-BONNIEUX (11km) Short taxi transfer to the stone village of Goult where you follow a path which rises above the Calavon River offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. After reaching the picturesque mountain village of Lacost, head back down the valley to Bonnieux. Dinner tonight is authentic Provencal cuisine. (B D) DAY 5: CIRCULAR WALK FROM BONNIEUX (Optional 12km) A gradual climb
through the forest leads to the ridge of the Petit Luberon mountain with stunning views of the snow-capped Alps + Mediterranean
Sea. Continue along a deserted path gently descending down to the plains for a leisurely return to Bonnieux. Evening at leisure. (B) DAY 6: BONNIEUX-LOURMARIN (10km) Climb to the crest of the Luberon mountain where the view extends tiny villages that dot the foot of the slopes. Then make your way down to the village of Lourmarin which boasts a handful of narrow streets lined with elegant houses, old fountains + cafes. (B D) DAY 7: CIRCULAR WALK FROM LOURMARIN (Optional 10km) The southern
Luberon is known for its châteaux + vineyards which set the scene for today’s walk. Enjoy a gentle walk to the village of Cadenet, the perfect setting for your last Provencal lunch. Evening at leisure. (B)
DAY 8: LOURMARIN-AVIGNON OR AIX-EN -PROVENCE Transfer to either Avignon or
Aix-en-Provence by taxi at a time that suits.
INCLUDES 7 nights’ accommodation in boutique/luxury hotels; meals where indicated; luggage transfers between hotels; emergency call-out service; route directions + maps of the area; transfers where specified in itinerary. EXCLUDES airfares; travel to + from the trip start + finish points unless specified; entrances to attractions unless specified; lunches + dinners unless specified; alcoholic beverages, mini-bars + meals pre + post the trip.
DEPARTS Mar-Oct 18, from Avignon,
finishing with transfer from Lourmarin to either Avignon or Aix-en-Provence. Transfers to/from Marseilles Airport can be arranged. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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FRANCE
PARIS There is the Paris of grand monuments the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame + the Louvre + all worth fitting into your itinerary - but there is also a Paris of small but precious experiences + best done on foot - so take your walking shoes! It is easiest to concentrate on one or two arrondissements at a time, particularly if your stay is short! When you need a break, there is always a cafe on a corner to sit + people watch! Tea + macarons at Ladurée - café au lait at Les Deux Magots - pastries at Dallayau with views of the Luxembourg Gardens which date back to the 17th Century - to name but a few!
LOVES SAINTE-CHAPELLE THIS 13TH CENTURY CHAPEL BUILT BY LOUIS XIV IS WORTH WAITING IN THE QUEUE. MAKE SURE YOU HEAD UPSTAIRS TO FEEL YOUR HEART STOP AS THE LIGHT POURS THROUGH 15 SOARING STAINED GLASS WINDOWS.
Paris Discovery from $112 C
Discover the major sites of Paris during a guided visit of the main monuments of Paris, then free time to visit Notre Dame Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece + to the Eiffel Tower to make your best photos! Your experienced driver/guide will then take you on a walking guided visit of Montmartre: the Sacré Coeur Basilica + the Place du Tertre. DURATION 3½ hrs. DEPARTS daily, all year at 8:15am; Mon,
Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat + Sun all year at 1:15pm.
Eiffel Tower Dinner, Cruise + Moulin Rouge (2nd show) from $525 C
Enjoy dinner (set menu + drinks) at the “58 Tour Eiffel” restaurant on the 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower, 1hr cruise along the Seine to see the main Parisian monuments illuminated, followed by the “Féerie” Show at the Moulin Rouge (1/2 bottle of champagne included). Return to vicinity of hotels in central Paris. DURATION 6 hrs. DEPARTS daily, all year at 6:15pm from 2,
rue des Pyramides, Paris (excl. 14, 29 Jul 18).
Hidden Treasures of Paris - Walking Tour from $57 C
Discover the Parisian secret passages during a walking visit as you find unusual things like the Buren Columns, the Vivienne shopping arcade, the Choiseul cover passage. Admire the magnificence + beauty inside Garnier Opera with a guided tour by licensed guide + end with an unforgettable panoramic view of Paris from the roofs of the Galeries Lafayette. DURATION 3 hrs (2hrs walking). DEPARTS at 2pm, Wed + Sat: 01 Nov 17-30 Mar 18; Mon, Wed + Sat: 01 Apr-31 Oct 18. t: 1300 303 343
MALMAISON JOSEPHINE’S HOUSE - A DELIGHTFUL ALTERNATIVE TO VERSAILLES WITH MUCH LESS CROWDS. MUSEE JACQUEMART-ANDRE ONE OF THE CITY’S BEAUTIFUL SMALL MUSEUMS WITH ONE OF THE MOST STUNNING PRIVATE COLLECTIONS IN FRANCE. THE CAFE HAS A TIEPOLO CEILING + IS A GREAT PLACE FOR AFTERNOON TEA. MUSEE DE L’ORANGERIE HOUSES MONET’S VAST PANELS OF WATER LILIES. IT IS SITUATED ON THE BANKS OF THE SEINE IN THE OLD ORANGERIE OF THE TUILERIES PALACE. BREATHTAKING! PALAIS ROYAL STROLL THE LENGTH OF THE ARCADES, BUY A BAGUETTE + SIT IN THE CENTRAL GARDEN + WATCH LOCALS PLAY PETANQUE. AT THE FAR END IS LE GRAND VEFOUR - ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL RESTAURANTS IN PARIS. IF YOU EXIT TO THE NORTH ON TO RUE VIVIENNE, ABOUT HALFWAY IS GALLERIE VIVIENNE, THE MOST ELEGANT OF PARIS’ FEW REMAINING COVERED PASSAGES. .... + SO MUCH MORE!
FRANCE
EXPERIENCE Day Tripping
Visit Giverny + Versailles from $387 C MODE SMALL GROUP Travel to Giverny for a guided visit of a part of the gardens with free time to visit Claude Monet’s house plus entrance to the “Musée des Impressionisme Giverny”. After lunch (included), onto Palace of Versailles for a guided visit of the gardens + to the Royal Apartments + Hall of Mirrors (entrance tickets included). NOTE: Pick up + drop off at your hotel in central Paris.
DURATION approx. 9½ hrs (incl. lunch). DEPARTS daily, except Mondays (Apr-Oct)
GIVERNY
at 8:15am.
LOVES
Full Day at Versailles from $343
C
MODE SMALL GROUP (Max. 8 persons) Combining classic + baroque architectural styles, guided visit of the State Apartments (Hall of Mirrors, King’s + Queen’s Bedroom) + the park of Versailles. After lunch, visit the Petit Trianon + the Grand Trianon, followed by Queen Marie- Antoinette’s hamlet. Free time to explore the gardens. NOTE: Pick up + drop off at your hotel in central Paris.
DURATION 8 hrs (incl. lunch). DEPARTS Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat + Sun
C All prices based on per adult | low season rate. Child price on request.
(Apr-Oct) | Wed + Fri (Nov-Mar). Some blackout dates apply.
Discovery of Champagne
Mont Saint Michel Tour
MODE SMALL GROUP (Max. 8 persons)
MODE COACH Discover the history of Mont Saint Michel + its Benedictine abbey. Enjoy lunch with magnificent views of Mont Saint Michel. Free time to explore the rock island of Mont Saint Michel at your own pace + take in the extraordinary 360° views of the surrounding bay. NOTE: Pick up + drop off at your hotel in central Paris. DURATION 14 hrs (incl. lunch). DEPARTS Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat + Sun (Apr-
from $418 C
To Reims for a short visit of the Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece. Then head to Epernay to enjoy a guided visit of the Moet et Chandon house founded in 1743 followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant. Visit a small wine-grower. before returning Paris. NOTE: Pick up + drop off at your hotel in central Paris.
DURATION 11 hrs (incl. lunch). DEPARTS Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri + Sun: (Apr-
Oct) | Wed + Fri (Nov-Mar). Some blackout dates apply.
from $327 C
Oct) | Mon, Wed + Fri (Nov-Mar).
Loire Valley by Minibus from $418 C
MODE SMALL GROUP (Max. 8 persons) Discover 3 of the Loire Valley’s most famous chateaux: the majestic Chateau de Chambord, built for King Francis 1 of France in the 16th Century; Chateau de Chenonceau, home to many well-known aristocratic ladies such as Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici + the White Queen; + Amboise Castle, constructed in the 11th century by the Count of Anjou. DURATION 12½ hrs, (excl. lunch). DEPARTS Mon, Wed, Fri + Sun (Apr-Oct).
CHATEAU DE CHENONCEAU
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FRANCE
WHERE TO STAY There are 20 arrondissements in Paris: the 1st includes part of the original settlement of Paris on Ile de la Cité + is considered the city’s centre. From here they spiral clockwise in a numerical order. When looking at addresses in Paris - all you need is the post code which begins with 750 - the last two numbers are the arrondissement -ie 75018 is the 18th arrondissement. Through our partners we have a wide selection of apartments + hotels - as well as suggestions to stay just outside of Paris.
The Left Bank
Arr: 5th, 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 15th
Called La Rive Gauche on the southern side of the Seine, it encompasses six arrondissements + historically is known as the artistic part of the city. Walk through the Latin Quarter’s cobblestone maze of streets or along wide boulevards in the St. Germain-des-Prés area.
APARTMENTS Adagio Paris Tour Eiffel
14 rue du Theatre, 7501 metro: Charles Michels | Bir-Hakeim
4444
from $107a
Citadines St Germain -des-Pres Paris 53 ter, quai des Grands Augustins, 75006 metro: St. Michel
4444
from $192a
Just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. 375 Studio + 1 BDR apartments with fully equipped kitchen. Other features include fitness centre + swimming pool.
Close to Notre Dame Cathedral. 204 Studio + 1 BDR apartments with fully equipped kitchen. Other features include laundry room (fee) + 1 day per week maid service.
VFAR insight - Feel like a local staying in a quiet residential area of Paris.
fantastique!
VFAR insight -The location is
HOTELS
444
from $180a
4444
444½
from $180a
Opposite the metro station, this contemporary apartment hotel has colourful, stylish studios + apartments with kitchens. A breakfast buffet, laundry service + on-site parking are available for a surcharge. VFAR insight - Some rooms offer private balcony and/or view of the Eiffel Tower.
7-11, rue Saint Benoit, 75006 metro: Saint-Germain-des-Prés
9, rue Littré, 75006 metro: Montparnasse
9, rue Gobelins, 75013 metro: Les Gobelins
132 Boulevard de Grenelle, 75015 metro: La Motte-Piquet-Grenelle
Hôtel Bel Ami
Hôtel Le Littré
Hôtel Henriette
Citadines Tour Eiffel Paris
from $228a
44444
from $364a
On a brick-paved side street close to the Latin Quarter with the lively bars + restaurants on Rue Mouffetard just 10 minutes walk. With 32 rooms individually designed, some with exposed beams - the suites have a sitting area. There is a guest lounge + garden.
This family run hotel in a 1920s building is not far from Jardin du Luxembourg + close to rue de Rennes shopping district. It offers 90 modern + soundproof rooms, some with separate living + balcony or terrace + panoramic views. There is a daily buffet breakfast served in the chic dining area, as well as a bar to have a drink in the evening.
Housed in a late 19th century building that used to be a printing factory, this chic boutique hotel is just 10 minutes walk to the Louvre. The rooms are bright + contemporarary with some offering a view of Saint-Germain-des Prés. Guests have free access to the fitness centre + sauna. A buffet breakfast is served at the hotel’s café, + in the evening guests can relax with a cocktail at the Piano Bar.
VFAR insight - Excellent value - love the interior courtyard lined with trees.
VFAR insight - Great location close to shops, restaurants, cafés + galleries.
VFAR insight - Beautiful boutique hotel with stunning terrace for breakfast.
t: 1300 303 343
FRANCE
HOTEL MAYFAIR
The Right Bank
Arr: 1st, 2nd, 3rd 4th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th
To the north, La Rive Droite is more condensed in terms of both buildings + people + has 14 arrondissements. Popular neighbourhoods are the historic Marais with its boutiques, bistros + bars + the bohemian Montmartre overlooked by the hilltop church Sacre-Coeur.
APARTMENTS Citadine Opera-Grands Boulevards Paris 18, rue Favart, 75002 metro: Richeleu-Drouot
from $189a
a All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
4444
Adagio Paris Haussmann
129-131 Boulevard Haussmann, 75008 metro: Miromesnil
4444
from $126a
Citadines Montmartre 16, avenue Rachel, 75018 metro: Blanche
from $109a
444½
Near the Opera-Comique. 73 Studio + 1 BDR apartments with fully equipped kitchen. Other features include on-site laundry (fee), weekly cleaning + 24hr reception.
Close to Champs Elysées + the Opera Quarter. 53 Studio + 1 BDR apartments with fully equipped kitchen.
Steps away from the typical Parisian district Les Abbesses. 113 Studio + 1 BDR apartments with fully equipped kitchen. Other features include private car park (fee), on-site laundry (fee) + 24hr reception
VFAR insight - This is an area alive
VFAR insight - In an amazing location
VFAR insight - Great views of Sacré-
Hotel Fabric
Hôtel du Louvre Unbound Collection by Hyatt
with stylish shops cafés + restaurants.
with so much of Paris on the doorstep.
HOTELS L’Hôtel Mayfair Paris 3 rue Rouget de L’Isle, 75001 metro: Concorde
4444
from $175a
31 Rue de la Folie Méricourt, 75011 Pari metro: Oberkampf
4444
from $120a
Coeur from the rooftop garden!
Place Andre Malraux, 75001 metro: Palais Royal
44444
from $465a
Centrally located, this boutique hotel has a 19th century Haussman style exterior + is in the business, luxury + fashion area of Paris, nestled between 2 royal places: Place de La Concorde + Place Vendôme. Each of the 40 rooms + 7 junior suites have their own personalised decoration. 2 disability rooms + connecting rooms available on request. There is a bar/lounge, reception, private parking on request.
Conveniently located between Republique + Bastille, + formerly a textile factory, the hotel has preserved the industrial metal windows + the 33 rooms make use of lots of different fabrics +patterns. Great places to eat nearby + the Oberkampf bar scene is around the corner. Various monuments + museums are all within walking distance.
In the heart of Paris in a Hausmannian-style building, with the 4 facades + terrace overlooking the famous Louvre Museum, Opéra Garnier + the Comédie Francaise theatre. The rooms are elegantly decorated rooms, some with sitting area. A buffet breakfast is served each morning + guests can enjoy a cocktail in the bar, with jazz evenings twice a week.
VFAR insight - Love that the Tuileries
VFAR insight - An easy walk to both
VFAR insight - Location is superb for
Gardens is just across the road. Great value in a prime area of Paris.
the Marais + the Canal St-Martin - love the eclectic decor with flea market finds.
sightseeing, + love the view from the balcony.
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E U R O P E
ITALY ROWS OF DARK CYPRESS TREES EDGE THE HORIZON OF THE HILLS OF TUSCANY.
TUSCANY
LAKE COMO
Milan
Turin
Genoa CINQUE TERRE
Venice
I
Trieste
Siena
Bologne Modena Ravenna Lucca Pisa Florence Ancona Siena Perugia
ADRIATIC SEA
ELBA
ITALY ROME Bari
Naples SARDINIA
TYRRHENIAN SEA
Amalfi
AMALFI COAST
Cagliari AEOLIAN ISLANDS
Palermo MEDITERRANEAN SEA
t: 1300 303 343
SICILY
Catania
Brindisi
t is the destination you always dream about - whether it is walking or cycling in Tuscany, learning to cook like an Italian, or exploring historical sites + art museums. We have selected some of our favourite tours to get you started. From walking part of the pilgrim way across the heart of Tuscany, cycling in Emilia Romagna staying in boutique accommodation away from the tourist trail, discovering the wild landscape, food + wine of Sardinia on a gourmet tour, admiring the Renaissance paintings + marble sculptures in Florence, or just getting lost in the labyrinth of alleyways + canals in Venice. The possibilities are endless.
ITALY
EXPERIENCE Pilgrim Walk
Via Francigena in Tuscany from $1,291 ^
444
8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS LUCCA-SIENA MODE SELF-GUIDED WALKING DISTANCE: 133kms DIFFICULTY: 3 | NOT SO GENTLE
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
The section from Lucca to Siena, is one of the most popular + spectacular stretches of the Via Francigena. The trail starts in the walled city of Lucca with its amazing Renaissance wall + citadel, the tiny walled hilltop town of Monteriggioni, the breathtaking town of San Gimignano with its medieval towers + finishes in the UNESCO World Heritage historic centre of Siena - an historical, artistic, cultural + gastronomic gem. DAY 1: LUCCA Ensure you arrive in plenty of time to explore this beautiful city. (D) DAY 2: LUCCA-ALTOPASCIO (18 km) The first part of the trail is flat all the way. Altopascio is known as the ‘town of bread’ for its tradition of bread making. (B D) DAY 3: ALTOPASCIO-MINIATO (29km) Through woodland + farmlands pass the lovely town of Fucecchio + over the Arno river, then final climb up to the breathtaking town of San Miniato (Alto). (B D) DAY 4: MINIATO-GAMBASSI TERME
(24km) Walk off-roads over small rolling hills through oak woods, chestnut woods, olive groves + vineyards to Gambassi Terme, a hilltop town best known for its spa + hot springs+ glass manufacturing. (B D) DAY 5: GAMBASSI TERME-COLLE DI VAL D’ELSA ** (27km) Quite up + down but the
scenery as you walk by the world-famous Chianti vineyards will make the effort worthwhile. Midway reach San Gimignano where you can stop for the night if you decide to split this day**. Leave San Gimignano walking through olive groves + cypress avenues up to the village of Montecchio. (B D) DAY 6: COLLE DI VAL D’ELSAMONTERIGGIONI (14km) Continue your walk
along tree-lined roads to the unique hilltop village of Monteriggioni with its circular wall. (B D)
DAY 7: MONTERIGGIONI-SIENA (21 km) After Monteriggioni, the Via Francigena takes pilgrims towards the village of Funghaia + its church with frescoed interior. Make sure you experience real Tuscan food in one of the region’s best osterias, as you reach stunning Siena. (B D) DAY 8: SIENA Walking tour ends after breakfast in beautiful Siena.
VIA FRANCIGENA - THE CAMINO TO ROME The history of the Via-Francigena pilgrim route dates back to the Middle Ages. The full Via Francigena pilgrimage is from Canterbury to Rome, covering 1,700 km, passing through France + Switzerland along the way. Like the Camino de Santiago, the Via Francigena is today more than just a pilgrimage: it is an adventure that gives walkers a precious opportunity to discover Europe + the cultures along the route at a different pace.
**DAY 5: Split your day by adding an extra night in San Gimignano - making 2 walking days of 13km + 14km.
DEPARTS daily, April to October 18.
NEED TO KNOW ACCOMMODATION All properties along the hiking route are conveniently located in the centre of villages or towns, (subject to availability). Upgrade options are also available in larger towns + cities. Breakfast + Dinner are included. ITINERARIES
can be custom made to suit you, your fitness, time available + budget.
HOLIDAY PACK Walking guide +/or notes + maps. A 24/7 support number is given in case of emergency. LUGGAGE TRANSFERS are included
as Standard as part of the hiking package which means your luggage will be moved each day to the next hotel on your itinerary.
SAN GIMIGNANO
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EXPERIENCE Food + Wine
WHETHER IT IS ENJOYING A MEAL AROUND A FARMHOUSE TABLE IN TUSCANY, OR LEARNING TO MAKE GOLDEN PASTA WITH EGG - FOOD WILL ALWAYS BE PART OF THE ITALIAN WAY OF LIFE.
PASTA MAKING
CINQUE TERRE
THE FOOD OF ITALY
PUGLIA
Italian Indulgence
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS FLORENCE-
from $5,699 ^
Slow Food Tour of Puglia
MODE SMALL GROUP
12 DAYS | 11 NIGHTS ROME-VENICE MODE SMALL GROUP
6 DAYS | 5 NIGHTS BARI–BARI MODE SMALL GROUP
Move beyond Italy’s signature cities + stay in idyllic countryside regions that will capture your imagination + discover regional flavours + renowned wines.
Savour creamy farm-produced burrata, sip wine beneath grape heavy vines, sample fresh seafood. Inspired by the Slow Food Movement, this tour introduces the culinary traditions, tucked away villages + breathtaking architecture in this stunning corner of Italy.
Tuscan Treats from $2,899 ^ FLORENCE
Take in all the famous highlights of Tuscany making local discoveries of this unique region culminating in a Tuscan cooking class. Your introduction to Italy starts in Florence before heading to beautiful Lucca + the Cinque Terre with its rocky coastline + sugar-almond coloured villages. Visit the medieval walled town of Volterra + the meandering stepped streets of San Gimignano. Drive through Chianti countryside to a Tuscan country house that is home for two nights for an exclusive lesson in making Tuscan deliciacies. INCLUDES 6 nights in boutique accommodation; experienced driver/tour leader; local guide in Florence; premium mini-coach transportation; European breakfast daily, 2 x lunches, 3 x evening meals; wine tastings; Tuscan cooking class; olive oil tasting; Pecorino cheese + wine tasting. Includes Cinque Terre Card + entrance to Baptistery of St. John in Pisa, Cathedral of Siena.
DEPARTS 23 Feb; 16 Mar; 13,20,27 Apr;
09,16,23,25,30 May; 01,08,15,22 Jun; 06,13,20 Jul; 03,10,17,24,31 Aug; 05,07,10,12,14,19,28 Sep; 05,10 Oct 18.
t: 1300 303 343
This tour is designed to include all the major must-see attractions, while taking you to some of the lesser-known hidden gems, including cooking up an Italian feast in a Tuscan villa, hunting for truffles in Piedmont + enjoying an afternoon of wine-tasting in Tirano. INCLUDES 11 nights in boutique accommodation; experienced driver/tour leader; local guide in Florence; premium mini-coach transportation; European breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 6 evening meals; Tuscan cooking class + lunch; truffle hunt in Piedmont; 2 wine tastings; 1 liquor tasting. Entrance to San Fruttuoso Abbey, Isola Madre + Isola Bella, Baptistery of St. John in Pisa, Grinzane Cavour Castle.
DEPARTS 27 Feb; 20 Mar; 05,12,19,23, 24,26 Apr; 01,03,06,08,10,13,15,17,20,22,24, 27,29 May; 01,06,10,14,17,24,28 Jun; 01,05,08,15,19,22,26 Jul; 02,09,12,23,30 Aug; 02,04,06,09,11,13,16,18,20,23, 25,27 Sep; 01,07,11,18 Oct 18.
from $3,395 ^
Highlights include tasting artisan cheeses at Caseificio Famiglia Olanda, stopping for lunch amid 18th century estate in a hilltop farm, + stepping inside the cellar of Castel di Salve to discover wines crafted from Puglia’s indigenous grapes. INCLUDES 5 nights accommodation; tour leader; luxury mini-coach transportation; European breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 2 evening meals; 3 food +/or wine tastings; local guides in Matera + Lecce. Entrance to Castel del Monte, Sassi di Matera, Castellana Caves, Museo della Civilta del Vino Primitivo + L’Abbazia di Santa Maria di Cerrate.
DEPARTS 08 May; 05, 12, 19 Jun; 04, 11 Sep 18.
ITALY
EXPERIENCE Cycling
RIDE THROUGH PINE FORESTS, BULRUSHES + A WETLAND RESERVE. PASS FISHING HUTS ON THE RIVER + A SMALL VINEYARD .
A Special Cycling Tour of Italy from $2,660^
9 DAYS | 8 NIGHTS BOLOGNA-BOLOGNA MODE SELF-GUIDED CYCLING
DISTANCE: 133kms DIFFICULTY: 2 |GENTLE
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
With stays in the finest luxury hotels, traffic free gentle cycle rides to historic villages + towns + long days of relaxation by the pool + at the beach, this is for us a really rather special tour. To this, add wonderful local culinary delights, genteel flat pedalling, + a wealth of history, architecture + wildlife to explore + you have Italy at its very best. DAY 1: BOLOGNA Transfer to hotel in Milano Marittima, home for the next 3 nights. Soak up the sun + relax by the pool + on the private beach of your hotel. DAY 2: MILANO MARITTIMA A day of leisure. Designed in the early 1900s as a garden retreat at the seaside by the bourgeoisie of Milan. Enjoy the hotel where a spa treatment is included or sit by the pool + private beach. Your host will meet you with your bikes + run through the itinerary. (B) DAY 3: MILANO MARITTIMA-RAVENNA + BACK (25 or 50km) Optional ride to the
Byzantine capital of Ravenna, with its 6 UNESCO World Heritage sites. This delightful ride is traffic free + flat as it leads through pine forests, bulrushes + a Wetland reserve. Return to your hotel either by riding back or hopping on the train.(B) DAY 4: MILANO MARITTIMA-CESENATICO
(35km) The ride to Cesenatico is flat + largely offroad beginning with a loop into the surrounding countryside on river embankments, through forests + across farm tracks. Pedal on through the famous salt pans of Cervia taking in the old salt warehouses lined up along the canal. Ride along the coast under the shade of the pine forests, past dunes + sandy beaches to your next overnight stay. Located in the colourful + stylish small town of Cesenatico, this active fishing port is based around a canal designed by Da Vinci. (B) DAY 5: CESENATICO Day to relax + perhaps treat yourself to dinner at one of the two
Michelin starred restaurants in Cesenatico. (B) DAY 6: CESENATICO-LONGIANOCESENATICO (45km) An optional circular
ride to Longiano on back roads that are flat for a while before a 200m climb (or walk) to reach the medieval village. Pedal through orchards of peaches + cherries fruiting in June/July + May respectively. Return to Cesenatico for your final night. (B) DAY 7: CESENATICO-RIMINI -SANTARCANGELO (40km) Transfer to
your grand hotel in Rimini, scene of many a film set chosen because of its architecture + furnishings. An optional ride to the medieval village of Santarcangelo + back. This ride is flat + leads you through the busy heart of ancient Rimini with its 5 UNESCO sites. Ride along a peaceful riverbank on a traffic free track that takes you to Santarcangelo, a gem of a village. Return to your hotel by pedalling back along the riverside. (B) DAY 8: RIMINI Final day relaxing or exploring more of the history of Rimini. (B) DAY 9: RIMINI-BOLOGNA Depart for Bologna - you may choose to spend an extra day or two - well known for its food scene - home of ragu or bolognese sauce, the medieval city houses miles of porticos + the oldest university in the world. (B) INCLUDES 8 nights’ accommodation in 3 x 5* luxury hotels; continental breakfast; luggage transfers between hotels; emergency call-out service; route directions + maps of the area; transfers where specified in itinerary.
BIKES IN RIMINI
RAVENNA
EXCLUDES airfares; travel to + from the trip start + finish points unless specified; entrances to attractions unless specified; lunches + dinners unless specified; alcoholic beverages, mini-bars + meals pre + post the trip.
DEPARTS daily, Apr-Oct 18. Nearest airport is Bologna, 1hr from start + end of tour.
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ROME The “Eternal City” + an important centre of civilisation for more than 2,500 years. Take time to explore the historic ruins, ancient monuments, beautiful churches + gardens.
LOVES THE PANTHEON MEDITATIVE SURROUNDINGS + PERFECT COOL ESCAPE ON A HOT SUMMER DAY. GALLERIA BORGHESE DON’T MISS THIS BEAUTIFUL PRIVATE ART COLLECTION - YOU NEED TO PREBOOK TO GET AN ENTRY TIME! FAMILY FUN RENT BIKES + EXPLORE THE LUSH GREEN BORGHESE GARDENS - PERHAPS TAKE A PICNIC OF SOME FRESH DELI PRODUCE?
THE ROOFTOPS OF ROME
WHERE TO STAY
Through our partners we have a wide selection of apartments + hotels in Italy.
APARTMENTS Aurelia Residence Via Aurellia 145, Rome
444½
from $99a
Mood Suites Tritone Nr. Spanish Steps, Rome
4444
from $194a
Located on one of the oldest Roman Roads + close to the Vatican, the property consists of 2 buildings with 25 apartments in different sizes, elegantly furnished + equipped with every comfort. Light clean every day. Breakfast is included. Min. 3 night stay.
In a prestigious building, the suites are ideal for those seeking the perfect combination between comfort + space. The rooms have a hallway between bedroom + spacious bathroom area. Daily cleaning + luggage storage available.
VFAR insight - Good sized
VFAR insight - In an exclusive
apartments, great value + close to Vatican.
TRASTEVERE THE OLD CITY CENTRE - GREAT PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES EXPLORING NARROW COBBLED STREETS + SOME DELICIOUS PLACES TO EAT.
The Telegraph Suites Piazza Venezia, Rome
4444
from $216a
With contemporary design + set in a great location within walking distance from Via del Corso. The suites feature an elegant bedroom area, a cosy living room with fitted kitchen + ensuite bathroom.
location, ideal for privacy, rest + relaxation.
VFAR insight - Close to the Trevi Fountain + Via del Corso, the attention to detail ensures guests have a memorable stay.
Hotel Mascagni
MOOD44 Hotel
HOTELS Hotel Regno
Via del Corso, 330, Rome
444½
Via Vittorio Emanuele Orlando 90, Rome
from $158a
4444
from $170a
Vicolo della Torretta, 44, Rome
4444½
from $230a
Centrally located, set on Rome’s most popular shopping street, the hotel is halfway between the Trevi Fountain + the Pantheon; both a 5-minute walk away. Housed in a 16th century building, there are 70 aircon. rooms simply decorated + the windows are completely soundproofed. Some rooms have a private terrace. A breakfast buffet is complimentary + served in a simple dining room.
Within walking distance of Via Nazionale + a 10-minute walk from Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Barberini + the Trevi Fountain, this boutique hotel is in a fabulous location to explore. Classic rooms in timeless style, great for families with triple + quadruple rooms. The Repubblica underground station of the Metro A line allows for easy + quick connection to any point in the city.
Occupying an 18th century building in downtown Rome, + only a short stroll to both the Trevi Fountain + Piazza Navona. Luxurious, spacious rooms feature polished floor boards. There is also an apartment with its own entrance + kitchenette, whereas the suites each have a small lounge + separate bedroom. Relax after a day of touring on the rooftop with an honesty bar.
VFAR insight - Ideal location for those wishing to explore the secrets of the heart of Rome.
VFAR insight - Stylish hotel in a great location + well suited for families.
VFAR insight - Excellent location to all the key attractions with spacious + luxurious rooms.
t: 1300 303 343
a All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
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EXPERIENCE
Sightseeing from Rome
ROMAN FORUM
MONTEPULCIANO
Tuscany Day Tour Embark on a tantalising journey around Tuscany’s wine country on this day trip from Rome. Traveling in a luxury minivan with an expert driver-guide, visit the postcard-perfect towns of Montepulciano + the beautiful ancient village Bagno Vignoni. After a light lunch visit the enchanting hilltown of Pienza. Numbers limited to 8 people per minivan, ensuring a small-group experience. Min. 4 persons. DURATION approx 12 hrs. DEPARTS Fri + Sat (Nov-Mar) | Mon, Wed+
C All prices based on per adult | low season rate. Child price on request.
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
from $354 C
POSITANO
Rome to Pompeii + Amalfi Coast from $403 C
Experience the enchanting Amalfi Coast + the extraordinary archaeological site of Pompeii. Free time to explore the towns of Amalfi + Positano travelling via the famous Amalfi coast road. Enjoy a 2hr tour of the famous archaeological site of Pompeii conducted by our local English speaking expert guide. Semiprivate tour limited to 7/8 people per vehicle. Min. 4 persons. DURATION 13-14hrs. DEPARTS Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (01 Nov-05
Sat (01 Apr-06 May; 16 Jul-17 Sep; 15-31 Oct) | Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (07 May-15 Jul; 03 Sep-14 Oct). Blackout dates apply.
Jan; 01 Feb-31 Mar) | Fri + Sat (06-31 Jan) | Mon-Sat (Apr-Oct 18). Blackout dates apply.
Ancient Rome + Colosseum Tour
Vatican + Ancient Rome Tour
In this intimate + informative walking tour, be taken back in time when Rome ruled the world! Visit the Colosseum (skip-the-line tickets), Constantine’s Arch, the Ancient Forum + Palatine Hill. Complimentary headphones. Small group, max. 8 people per guide). Min. 4 people.
Skip the queues + tour the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Constantine’s Arch + the Ancient Roman Forum. Then go inside the Vatican, the Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basillica + the rooms by Raphael – not available to larger tour groups, with experienced tour guides. Small groups of 8 people per guide.
DURATION 3 hrs. DEPARTS Mon + Sat (01-31 Dec; 01-28 Feb) |
DURATION 7 hrs. DEPARTS Mon + Sat (01-31 Dec; 01-28 Feb) |
from $111 C
Mon, Wed + Sat (01-31 Mar) | Mon-Sat (01 Apr-15 Jul; 02 Sep-14 Oct) | Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (16 Jul02 Sep; 15-31 Oct). Blackout dates apply.
from $223 C
Mon, Wed + Sat (01-31 Mar) | Mon-Sat (01 Apr-15 Jul; 02 Sep-14 Oct) | Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (16 Jul02 Sep; 15-31 Oct). Blackout dates apply.
TRASTEVERE
Best of Rome
featuring Trastevere from $160 C Enjoy a tour of Rome featuring the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Navona Square, Spanish Steps + the picturesque Trastevere area. Explore the ancient Trastevere quarter on foot + with a coffee/cappuccino break + visit to the outstanding church of Santa Maria in Trastevere. Min. 4 persons|max.7 in mini-van.
DURATION 3 hrs. DEPARTS Mon, Wed + Sat (Nov-Mar) | Mon-
Sat (Apr-Oct 18). Blackout dates apply.
Classic Ancient Rome from $291 C
Small group tour of the ruins of the Roman Forum + Colosseum with skip-the-line tickets (following the itinerary of the Ancient Rome Walking Tour). Then after a break for lunch, travel in an air-conditioned mini-van + visit the famous Roman Catacombs, the evocative Appian Way + discover the treasures beneath the San Clemente Church. DURATION 6 hrs. DEPARTS Mon-Sat (01 Apr-15 Jul; 02 Sep-14
Oct) | Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (16 Jul-02 Sep; 15-31 Oct). Blackout dates apply.
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VENICE Get lost in the labyrinth network of alley ways, bridges, canals + islands in this fascinating city which has little changed over the centuries. Around every corner discover palazzos, churches + museums alongside lively neighbourhood bars + restaurants.
LOVES ST MARK’S SQUARE EARLY MORNINGS ARE MAGICAL WATCHING A VENETIAN SUNRISE.
WHERE TO STAY
An overview of Venice’s best districts – known as sestiere: SAN MARCO – the most central, from St Mark’s Square to the Accademia Bridge. CANNAREGGIO – Quiet by day – by night this is a nightlife hub with hip bars + cosy restaurants. DORSODURO – Cool bars, great restaurants + a choice of night life. CASTELLO – more residential + has just about everything - from galleries to bars! SANTA CROCE + SAN POLO – near the Rialto bridge + easy to live like a local. GIUDECCA + LAGOON ISLAND– a more peaceful location, hip + trendy – a great location for those who don’t mind popping across the water to the hustle of Venice.
Ca’Pisani
Dorsoduro 979/A, Dorsoduro, 30123
4444
from $203a
Set in a 14th Century revived merchant’s townhouse, this art-deco style hotel has been modernised with a designer’s touch. A 15-minute walk from Piazzo San Marco. The rooms are individually styled + some have living area with sofa. Restaurant + wine bar with outdoor dining + a fitness room. Breakfast included.
VFAR insight - Love the cute outdoor terrace overlooking the rooftops of Venice. t: 1300 303 343
Una Hotel Venezia
Ruga Do Pozzi, 4173, Cannareggio
4444
from $210a
BURANO A SHORT VAPORETTO RIDE + YOU WILL FIND THE BRIGHT COLOURFUL HOUSES + GREAT SEAFOOD RISTORANTES. PONTE DELL’ACCADEMIA ANOTHER SUNRISE OR SUNSET MOMENT TO CAPTURE THIS BREATHTAKING VIEW. AMAN RESORT HOUSED IN A MAGNIFICENT 16TH CENTURY PALAZZO - THE BAR IS OPEN TO NON GUESTS.
Belmond Cipriani Giudecca, 10, 30133, Venice
44444
from $940a
Located near the Grand Canal in the historical + lively Cannaregio district of Venice close to the most important tourist sites. The building has been restored in the classic Venetian style + features 36 spacious rooms + a café. Hot + cold buffet breakfast included.
An oasis of elegance with huge pool, manicured gardens, luxury spa, tennis court + fine dining restaurant. The 95 room hotel is a Venetian classic + is only a 5-minute hop to the hub of Venice. The rooms have recently been renovated, all have private balconies. A full American buffet breakfast is available each morning + the à la carte restaurant serves delicious Italian cuisine.
VFAR insight - Great location as well
VFAR insight - For that luxury experience - the view over the water is special!
as value!
a All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
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EXPERIENCE
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Sightseeing from Venice
PANORAMA OF THE GRAND CANAL, VENICE
Murano + Burano Boat Tour
Essence of Venice Walk
Rialto Market + Secret Venice Guided Tour
Travel by a luxury motorlaunch to Burano a fishermen’s island famous for its lacemaking industry (merletti), as well as its blue, red, pink, yellow + green houses. After a pleasant stroll around the island, we’ll make our way to Murano - renowned for its glass-producing history dating back to 1291. Min. 4 | Max. 8 people per tour. DURATION 4 hrs. DEPARTS Tue, Thu + Sat (01 Nov-20 Dec; 01-31
Equipped with complimentary head-phones, an in-depth tour to St Mark’s Square + St Mark’s Basilica with skip-the -line tickets(included), the Pala D’Oro, Bridge of Sighs, Doge’s Palace (exterior), Bell + Clock Towers. Second part of tour continues the narrative of Venice whilst exploring narrow alleyways + meandering canals. Min. 4 | Max. 15 participants per guide. DURATION 2 hrs. DEPARTS Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (01 Apr-05 May;
Enjoy a fascinating tour featuring Rialto bridge, Rialto market, then stroll through secret Venice + San Polo district + cross over the Grand Canal in style by gondola. Get a true taste of Italy by sampling a few Cicchetti (Venetian tapas) with a glass of wine while seated in a traditional osteria by the Rialto market. Max. 10 people.
from $225 C
C All prices based on per adult | low season rate. Child price on request.
Mar) | Mon-Sat (21 Dec-05 Jan; 08-13 Feb) | Mon, Wed + Sat (Apr-Oct 18). Blackout dates apply.
from $63C
16 Jul-02 Sep) | Mon-Sat (07 May-14 Jun; 03 Sep14 Oct). Blackout dates apply.
Original Venice Ghost + Veneto: Medieval Hill Legends Walking Tour Towns, Wine + from $40 C Palladian Villas A delightful sightseeing route through hidden Venice - the perfect stage upon which your guide will introduce you to Ghost Stories + Legends from Venice’s past + present. Stroll through narrow passageways, cross sleeping canals + abandoned piazza’s (campi) to discover that Venice by night is a city of romance + mystery. DURATION 1½ hrs. DEPARTS Sat (01 Nov-05 Jan; 01 Feb-11 Mar)
|Wed + Sat (13 Mar-30 Apr; 16 Jul-02 Sep; 15-31 Oct) | Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (01 May-15 Jul; 03 Sep14 Oct)-. Blackout dates apply.
from $251 C
Explore the captivating region that has inspired poets + writers. Sample some of the local firewater - “Grappa”, drive along the prosecco wine route, explore the elegant gardens at Asola + after lunch continue the tour visiting a Palladian Villa designed by Andrea Palladio. Min. 4 | Max. 8 participants per min-van. DURATION 9 hrs. DEPARTS Fri + Sat (01 Nov-05 Jan; 01 Feb-31 Mar) | Tue, Thu, Fri + Sat (Apr-Oct). Blackout dates apply.
from $111 C
DURATION 2½ hrs. DEPARTS Sat (21 Dec-05 Jan; 06 Feb-31 Mar)
| Tue, Thu, + Sat 01 Apr-31 Oct). Blackout dates apply.
Dolomites + Cortina Day Tour from $251 C
Explore what many people believe to be Europe’s most beautiful range of mountains. Numerous stops at scenic viewpoints, walk around lakes, visit the home town of the famous Renaissance painter Titian, time in Cortina + enjoy a walk on a level terrain up in the Tre Cime di Lavaredo for splendid views. Min. 4 | Max. 8 participants per mini-van. DURATION 9 hrs. DEPARTS Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (01 Nov-05 Jan; 01 Feb-31 Mar) | Sat (06-31 Jan) | daily (Apr-Oct). Blackout dates apply.
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EXPERIENCE The Unforgettable
SARDINIA A wild island of silent beauty, with landscapes enriched by legends + traditions.
LOVES PAN DI ZUCCHERO ONE OF THE ISLAND’S MOST IMPRESSIVE NATURAL MONUMENTS IN THE SOUTH-WEST ALONG THE COAST APPEARS WHAT LOOKS LIKE A HUGE SUGAR CUBE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SEA. THARROS REVIVE THE THE PHOENICIAN ERA
Pan di Zucchero
THE FOOD ARTICHOKES WITH BOTTARGA + RAVIOLI FILLED WITH CHARD ARE TYPICAL DISHES - AND TO END A MEAL TRY SEADAS, A CRISPY FRIED FILO PASTRY FILLED WITH CHEESE + SPRINKLED WITH HONEY. THE VILLAGES TRADITIONAL CUSTOMS SUCH AS THE SARDINIAN DANCE TO THE RHYTHM OF LAUNEDDAS. THE SEA THE PROFILE OF BREATHTAKING SCENERY ALONG THE RURAL COASTLINE WITH TINTS OF BLUE IN EVERY SHADE.
Pristine Sardinia
CAGLIARI
from $2,591 ^
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS CAGLIARI-CAGLIARI MODE ESCORTED TOUR (Minimum 4) A personal tour designed around unique accommodation + the perfect balance of ancient traditions, food culture, hospitality + landscape. SOME OF THE PLACES WE WILL EXPLORE Strolling the tree-fringed boulevards of Cagliari + admire its architecture + fortification. San Benedetto, one of the most fascinating + colourful markets in Europe. A hands-on home-made pasta cooking lesson at a mud-bricks traditional house. The dreamlike coastline with breathtaking views of Pan di Zucchero islet followed by a swim + lunch. Tharros, the ancient Phoenician city set on an enchanting bay. Mont’e Prama Stone Giants exhibition at Cabras museum. Tour of a Vernaccia unfired mud brick cellar, wine tasting + rustic dinner. The Giara di Gesturi, a high + steep-sided basaltic plateau + home to over 350 plant species, notably the cork oak, + to the majority of the surviving population of the t: 1300 303 343
giara horses: the last natural wild horses living in Europe. A flour grinding mill to learn how to make bread with authentic + raw products, followed by an informal lunch + a launeddas private concert. INCLUDES 6 night’s accommodation in
3*, 4* hotels/boutique hotels bed + breakfast basis; escort by local English speaking guide; 6 x lunch; 4 x dinner; 2 aperitifs, local produce tasting at San Benedetto Markets; hands-on fresh pasta making class; breadmaking + baking class; 2 x wine cellar tours + tastings; olive oil + flour grinding mill tours; entrances to an historic mine, Tharros ruins, Giants of Mont’e Prama exhibition, Su Nuraxi Nuraghe, private Launeddas concert.
DEPARTS daily, Jun-Sep 18.
ITALY
TASTE SENSATIONS!
Sardinia Gourmet Tour from $4,929 ^
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS CAGLIARI-CAGLIARI MODE ESCORTED TOUR (Minimum 4) Travel with a small group led by a local food expert + nutritionist who will guide you through the best + most authentic Sardinian culinary traditions. Stay at charming hotels, visit colourful markets + small producers, discover secret wine cellars, meet the locals + dine at amazing restaurants + unusual venues. This is Sardinia as you have never seen before.
Culurgiones is a traditional dish in Sardinia. These are pasta stuffed pockets + the dough is made from semolina flour, white flour, eggs, water + salt. The filling is commonly made with boiled potatoes, olive oil, pecorino cheese, garlic, mint + nutmeg. The fillings vary from region to region depending on the person baking. One of the most fascinating things to do in Cagliari is to appreciate what the Mediterranean Sea has to offer. If you happen to love simple + original fish dishes with a strong + unique flavor, sea urchins are the perfect treat. The fresh pulp of their eggs is an incredible combination between sweet + salty, a real delicacy, considerably sought-after by the locals. Enjoy them raw, close to the seaside at the fishmonger stalls.
SOME OF THE PLACES WE WILL EXPLORE The lively San Benedetto Market, one of the biggest fish covered markets in Europe + enjoy a tasting of local produce. An olive oil grinding mill where you will meet the owners + enjoy a delicious tasting of extra virgin + aromatic olive oils on mother yeast bread. An award-winning wine cellar which specialises in full-bio-organic wines. Lunch at S’Apposentu in Siddi, considered one of the best restaurants in Sardinia. Su Nuraxi, an unparalleled fortress dating back to the bronze age. The striking ruins of Tharros town, a Phoenician city set by the sea from VIII BC. A demonstration on Bottarga making + enjoying a Vernaccia tasting + rustic dinner accompanied by a Launeddas concert. Wandering the picturesque Santu Lussurgiu, a beautiful town famous for its
many slow food labelled delicacies such as “Bue Rosso meat” + “Casizolu cheese”. A day with the fishermen on a motor boat along the beautiful Gulf of Orosei + lunch cooked with the catch of the day.
INCLUDES 6 nights’ accommodation at 4* hotels/boutique hotels; English speaking tour escort/food + wine escort (Days 2-7); private transfer from airport to hotel in Cagliari; transfer with private mini bus from Day 2-7; 6 x breakfast; 5 x lunch; 4 x dinners; entrance to Su Nuraxi Nuraghe, Tharros ruins, Giants of Mont’e Prama exhibition in Cabras; market tour, organic garden visit + cooking lesson with dinner; tour + tasting at olive oil grinding mill; Vernaccia wine cellar tour + tasting; Launeddas concert; bottarga making demonstration; visit to the Casizolu “grotto”, tour of Orgosolo murals; boat tour with the fishermen or jeep tour + shepherd experience.
DEPARTS daily, Jun-Sep 18.
CURLURGIONES
SEA URCHINS
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E U R O P E
SPAIN
WAY OF ST JAMES, SPAIN
T
BAY OF BISCAY
Bilbao
Santiago de Compostelo
San Sebastian Pamplona Girona
Zaragoza Porto
SPAIN
MADRID PORTUGAL
Barcelona
MENORCA
Toledo
MALLORCA
Valencia IBIZA
LISBON
Alicante Cordoba Seville Cadiz
t: 1300 303 343
Granada Malaga
MEDITERRANEAN SEA
he country has been the inspiration of many of the world’s most creative artists from Dali, Picasso, Gaudi to the fashion designer Balenciaga. You too will find inspiration with ancient Roman ruins, towering Gothic cathedrals, Islamic architecture, flamenco dancers + matadors. A fast rail network links the cities & regions from the high mountain peaks in the North to the Mediterranean coastline in the south, the white villages of Andalucia to the stunning Gehrydesigned Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao. Be captivated + inspired to venture further - whether it is walking part (or all) of the Camino de Santiago, pintxos bar hopping in San Sebastian or checking out the latest rooftop bars in Barcelona.
SPAIN
EXPERIENCE Northern Spain
Highlights of Northern Spain from $4,295 ^
444
8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS BARCELONA-BILBAO MODE SMALL GROUP
With cosmopolitan cities + ancient villages, rolling vineyards + rugged mountains, Northern Spain is as unforgettable as it is eclectic. Experience the finest sights + tastes often missed by other travellers on a journey to the heart of this diverse region. DAY 1: BARCELONA–GIRONA–EL PUERTO DE LA SELVA Begin with a tour of Barcelona’s
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
highlights then head El Puerto de la Selva making a stop via Girona. A welcome dinner is the perfect way to make ourselves at home for our two-night stay. (D)
DAY 2: EL PORT DE LA SELVA–CADAQUÉS– EL PORT DE LA SELVA Take a turn for the
surreal visiting the Salvador Dalí housemuseum in Port Lligat. A labyrinthine home built using fishermen’s cabins, it’s fascinating to peer into the artist’s workshop, library + wander through the gardens. Next up is free time in Cadaques. This elegant, arty town is ideal for a leisurely stroll before we return to El Port de la Selva. (B)
DAY 3: EL PORT DE LA SELVA–BESALU– RIPOLL–CARDONA Climb from the shores of
the Costa Brava to the northern mountains. Besalu, a medieval village with Romanesque architecture. We continue upwards, stopping at Ripoll before arriving in Cardona. (B) DAY 4: CARDONA Spend the day exploring Cardona. First up is the remarkable Salt Mountain for an underground tour of one of the world’s most important salt mines. Free time in the town centre, whose origins trace back to the 11th century wandering the ramparts + climb towers. (B) DAY 5: CARDONA–JACA It’s back on the road through the mountain passes of the Spanish Pyrenees. Soul-stirring views wait around every turn. Next, we reach Jaca, known as
the ‘Pearl of the Pyrenees’ + spend the night here. (B D) DAY 6: JACA–OLITE–PAMPLONA– LAGUARDIA Explore the historic region of
Olite, the medieval town that was once the seat of the Navarre court. Seek out hidden walkways + courtyards before we drive to Pamplona. Then, we follow the road to Laguardia. (B) DAY 7: LAGUARDIA–LA RIOJA– LAGUARDIA While in La Rioja, we pay
homage to the region’s winemaking heritage in the best way possible: sampling local wines. Visit a distinguished winery, accompanied by authentic pintxo snacks. Then it’s back to Laguardia where we dine at a Michelinstarred restaurant, renowned for its creative recipes. (B D) DAY 8: LAGUARDIA–GETARIA–BILBAO Our first stop is the village of Getaria where we learn more about a favourite fixture of tapas menus at an artisan producer. We continue our drive until we reach Bilbao where our tour comes to an end. (B)
THE GUGGENHEIM, BILBAO
INCLUDES 7 nights in boutique accommodation; experienced driver/tour leader; local guide in Florence; premium mini-coach transportation; European breakfast daily, 3 evening meals; entrance to: Salvador Dali House, Salt Mountain Cultural Park, Parador de Cardona, Olite Castle.
DEPARTS 21 Mar; 18 Apr; 02,09,16,23,26,30 May; 06,13,20,27 Jun; 25 Jul; 29 Aug; 05,12,14,19,26 Sep; 03 Oct 18.
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EXPERIENCE The Camino
The French Way - The Last 100kms! from $1,088 ^
444
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS SARRIA-SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA MODE SELF-GUIDED WALKING DISTANCE: 112kms DIFFICULTY: 3 | NOT SO GENTLE
If you are looking for the classic Camino experience, this is the tour for you! The section covers the last 100km of the French Way, the famous Camino Francés, from Sarria to Santiago which means you can receive your pilgrim certificate when you arrive in Santiago. The green rolling landscape of Galicia is part of each day’s walk, until you approach your final destination: the magnificent city of Santiago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. DAY 1: SARRIA Explore the town centre where you will find churches, chapels, monasteries + seven pilgrim hospitals. The main street, Rúa Maior, has a nice atmosphere, to enjoy a drink or bite in one of the nice cafes around. DAY 2: SARRIA-PORTOMARIN (22 km) Today, expect a calm walk through pretty villages + peaceful hamlets under the shade of oak trees + along quiet country roads. (B) Easy Walking Option: You can choose to split this walking day in two + stay in the hamlet of Morgade. DAY 3: PORTOMARIN-PALAS DE REI (25km) Cross the river Miño (Galicia’s longest river) + rise uphill steadily towards the Serra de Ligonde. You will pass nice hamlets such as Gonzar + Ventas de Narón. (B) Easy Walking Option: You can choose to split this walking day in two + stay in the hamlet of Ventas de Narón. (B) DAY 4: PALAS DE REI-ARZUA (29km) The Camino trail continues downhill, passing the village of Casanova + the delightful village of Leboreiro. Take a break in the lively market town of Melide (454m), where you should try octopus, Galicia’s most classic dish, in one of the many ‘pulperías’. Walk to the medieval hamlet of Ribadiso + finally the town of Arzúa (389m), famous for its cheese. (B) Easy Walking Option: The long walking day above can be split into 2 stages of 15km + 13km. t: 1300 303 343
You would stay overnight in a charming 2* hotel in the town of Melide. DAY 5: ARZUA-AMENAL (23km) Today’s Camino will take you through pretty woods, sleepy villages + across streams for most of the day. The rest of the route to Amenal is along a mix of good + calm country roads + forest tracks. (B) Easy Walking Option: You can choose to stay in Rúa (18km) + walk to Lavacolla the next day (10km). Short Break Last 35km: Starts in Arzúa. DAY 6: AMENAL-SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA (16kms) Walk to Lavacolla
where pilgrims used to wash themselves in the river in preparation for their arrival in Santiago de Compostela. Rows of tall eucalyptus trees line your journey to Monte do Gozo (‘Mount of Joy’ 368m) + it is from here you catch your first glimpse of the spires of the cathedral in Santiago. With only 16km to walk today, you should be in Santiago in time for the pilgrim mass (12pm). (B) Easy Walking Option: Choose to stay Lavacolla + walk to Santiago (10km). DAY 7: SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA Take time to explore this beautiful old town. Additional nights/day tours of the city centre or day trips to Finisterre or the Cíes Islands can be arranged. (B)
DEPARTS daily, all year.
THE FRENCH WAY Is the most famous of all the Camino de Santiago routes, featuring in many documentaries, books + movies such as ‘The Way’. While St Jean Pied de Port is the official starting point of the French Way, the most popular is the town of Sarria, in Galicia, 111km away from Santiago. It is also the most social part of the route, where you will meet many fellow pilgrims + find the real spirit + camaraderie of the Camino!
NEED TO KNOW ACCOMMODATION All properties along the hiking route are conveniently located in the centre of villages or towns, (subject to availability). Upgrade options are also available in larger towns + cities. Breakfast is included. ITINERARIES
Can be custom made to suit you, your fitness, time available + budget.
HOLIDAY PACK Walking guide +/or notes + maps. A 24/7 support number is given in case of emergency. LUGGAGE TRANSFERS Transfers are
included as Standard as part of the hiking package which means your luggage will be moved each day to the next hotel on your itinerary.
SPAIN
LOVES THINGS TO DO IN SANTIAGO CATHEDRAL THE PRAZA DO OBRADOIRO WITH ITS IMPOSING CATHEDRAL IS WHERE THE REMAINS OF SAINT JAMES ARE (ALLEGEDLY) BURIED. THE OLD TOWN (ZONA VELLA) WITH IS WINDING GRANITE STREETS, ARCHES, SQUARES + MONUMENTS - ALSO MANY CAFES, RESTAURANTS, + SOME OF THE BEST NIGHTLIFE! TRY OCTOPUS GALICIA’S MOST ICONIC DISH: OCTOPUS. THE GALICIANS CALL IT OCTOPUS FAIR STYLE (‘PULPO Á FEIRA’). MUSEO DAS PEREGRINACIÓNS AS A PILGRIM, YOU SHOULD PROBABLY VISIT THIS MUSEUM, DEDICATED TO THE PILGRIMAGE.
The Portuguese Coastal Way from $1,175 ^
444
7 DAYS | 6 NIGHTS BAIONA-SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA MODE SELF-GUIDED WALKING
^ All prices based on per adult twin share | low season rate. Child price on request. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
DISTANCE: 112kms DIFFICULTY: 3 | NOT SO GENTLE
This section of the Portuguese Coastal Way or Caminho da Costa starts in the elegant seaside town of Baiona in Portugal, in the heart of the Rías Baixas, famous for its Albariño white wine + delicious shellfish. This is a superb coastal Camino route, ideal for the Summer months. Cabras you will see the rectory of Santa DAY 1: BAIONA Start in the elegant seaside María de Alba. At Lombo da Maceira, a statue town of Baiona: stroll along the port, visit of Saint James with his walking stick will show the impressive Monte Real fortress + taste the you the way. On your way to Caldas de Reis best of the Rías Baixas seafood + white wine you will pass the hamlet of Tivo with its lovely before you start your journey to Santiago de fountain + public washing bath. (B) Compostela. DAY 2: BAIONA-VIGO (28 km) Today you will DAY 6: CALDAS DE REIS-PADRON (19km) follow the coast from Baiona to Nigrán + finally Cross the river Umia + find the hot springs to the city of Vigo. You will enjoy fantastic that have given the town its name since views of the Bay of Vigo, with the magnificent Roman times. The trail once again takes you Illas Cíes + its Natural Park on the horizon. to forests + gradually climbs to the village of On a hot day, stop at the blue flag beach Praia Santa Mariña. Continue through pine forests América in Nigrán for a quick swim. (B) to the town of Padrón. When the body of Saint James was being brought to Compostela DAY 3: VIGO-REDONDELA (15kms) From the by boat, Padrón was said to be the first land it city of Vigo, you will continue on your coastal Camino with the Bay of Vigo to your left. Today reached. (B) is quite a short day so you can enjoy a more DAY 7: PADRON-SANTIAGO DE relaxed pace. Your stop for the night is the COMPESTELA (25km) Your final day of town of Redondela where you will join the walking will take you through a number of original Portuguese Camino. (B) small villages on your way to the historical sanctuary of A Esclavitude. As you make DAY 4: REDONDELA-PONTEVEDRA (20km) your way towards Agro dos Monteiros you Today is your last day along the coast + quite a will be able to see the spires of the cathedral in short walking day so you can make the most of Compostela. (B) the seaside. Stop to try the famous oysters in Easy Walking Option: Take your time on this the fishing village of Arcade. Your final point is the city of Pontevedra, with its pretty historic section above Padron to Santiago, by splitting this walking day into 2 days of 12km each, centre. At today is quite a short day so you will staying in the village of Teo for a night. have time to explore the old town, with its many Romanesque churches + quaint granite DAY 8: SANTIAGO DE COMPESTELA Take time to explore this small + vibrant UNESCO squares. (B) city. (B) DAY 5: PONTEVEDRA-CALDAS DE REIS (21km) Leaving Pontevedra, today, the Camino will take you through chestnut groves + pine + eucalyptus woods. In the village of Ponte
THE PORTUGUESE COASTAL WAY This stunning alternative route follows the Atlantic Coast towards Santiago de Compostela, taking you to charming seaside towns + villages before crossing by ferry to A Guarda in Galicia + the heart of the Rias Baixas. Discover the wild Atlantic beauty + sandy beaches of Northern Portugal + Galicia.
INCLUSIONS (see previous page).
DEPARTS daily, Mar-Oct 18.
NIGRAN
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BARCELONA Cosmopolitan with a relaxed pace of life, breathtaking architecture, fantastic gastronomy, + unbeatable climate, it really does have it all! The beachside city’s bustling art scene, streets lined with fabulous works of architecture, from Gothic churches to Antoni Gaudí’s surreal buildings, the eclectic nightlife, those rooftop bars on a hot summer evening plus some of the best seafood in all of Europe.
LOVES
WHERE TO STAY
LA BOQUERIA THE MOST VIBRANT PLACE IN THE CITY - BE AMAZED AT THE SELECTION OF SEAFOOD + FRESH FRUIT + VEGETABLES - A MUST!
An overview of Barcelona’s neighbourhoods - known as barrios. GRÀCIA - narrow pedestrian walkways + rustic storefronts + the most famous attraction is Gaudi’s Park Güell. EIXAMPLE - (pronounced aye-sham-pla) is where you will find some of the best bars, restaurants + modernist architecture on this vast 19th century street grid. EL BORN - only 10 minutes from the beach + lots of culture + traditional buildlings. BARRI GÒTIC – THE GOTHIC QUARTER – characterised by winding cobbled ancient streets, fabulous architecture + top quality restaurants + cafes. EL RAVAL – although a fantastic area to explore, need to be aware it is dangerous at night. BARCELONETA BARRIO – home to Barcelona’s closest beach + popular as has great access to the centre of the city but away for the hustle + bustle. MONTJUÏC - characterised by the fabulous views of the city when you get to the top of the mountain (more a steep hill really). LA RAMBLA - is Barcelona’s most famous street. It runs along the Barrios of the Barri Gòtic Barrio on one side + El Raval on the other.
SAGRADA FAMILIA EVERYONE HAS TO SEE THIS MIRACLE OF GAUDI RECOMMEND BUYING TICKETS PRIOR TO ARRIVAL. CHURROS BEST SWEETS ON THE
STREETS!
ROOFTOP BARS THE PERFECT PLACE TO BE ON A WARM, BALMY EVENING WITH COCKTAIL ON HAND! LA BARCELONETA WALK ALONG THE SEASIDE PROMENADE IN THE COOL OF THE EVENING BEFORE DINING AT ONE OF THE MANY FABULOUS RESTAURANTS.
Hotel Jazz
Carrer de Pelai, 3, 08001 Barcelona
444
from $144
Just a 2-minute walk from Universitat subway station, + in walking distance to Las Ramblas + Picasso Museum. The contemporary rooms come with street or garden views. A fabulous hotel pool is located on the 8th floor, amidst a spacious terrace with magnificent panoramic views plus a trendy bar/lounge.
VFAR insight - Wonderful to return for
a swim after a day of sightseeing. t: 1300 303 343
Hotel Avenida Palace
Gran Via, 605, Eixample, 08007 Barcelona
4444
from $132a
Within a 6-minute walk of Plaça de Catalunya + Gaudi’s Casa Batlló, this refined hotel is also 2.2 km from Sagrada Família temple. Amenities include a sophisticated fine-dining restaurant + cafe, as well as a rooftop terrace + panoramic views with pool + bar. There’s also an exercise room + spa.
VFAR insight - Great location with large rooms + the rooftop is the place to be!
Hotel Bagués
La Rambla, 105, 08002 Barcelona
44444
from $217a
Luxury boutique hotel in the Gothic Quarter is set in a former palace + 1850s Masriera jewellery workshop with original Art Nouveau + Modernist features. There’s a French bistro/cocktail bar, plus a rooftop tapas bar. Other amenities include an outdoor pool, an exercise room + a sauna, as well as an on-site jewellery museum.
VFAR insight - Close to La Boqueria -
fabulous hotel.
a All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
SPAIN
57
EXPERIENCE
Daytripping in Barcelona
Artistic Barcelona: the Highlights of Best of Gaudi Barcelona from $118 C
Guided walking tour of the outside of Sagrada Familia - a unique work for its heights, decorated towers + its geometrical shape. Then to Park Güell, a special place to walk + look at the creative essence of Gaudi’s genius. Finish with a walking tour of Passeig de Gràcia’s + La Pedrera + Casa Batlló where tour ends. Tour in English + Spanish.
from $77 C
except Wed + Sun, (01 Nov-31 Mar 19).
Drive along Passeig de Gràcia, to see famous Gaudi houses, Casa Batlló + La Casa Mila (La Pedrera) + other buildings of the Modernism era. Head to Barceloneta, the Port Vell, Plaza de Colon with its famous Columbus monument; enjoy a cable car ride with views of the city; 1992 Olympic Games facilities + Spanish Village. Guided tour of the Gothic quarter. Tour finishes at the Plaza de Catalunya. DURATION 4½ hrs. DEPARTS daily, all year at 8:45am.
Girona - Game of Thrones City
Tapas Evening Walking Tour
Costa Brava Tour
DURATION 4 hrs. DEPARTS daily, (23 Mar-31 Oct 18) | daily,
C All prices based on per adult | low season rate. Child price on request.
from $140 C
Fast Track Guided Tour of Sagrada Familia + Tower
from $83
C
Girona, medieval city with one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in Europe + where some chapters of the one of the seasons of the hit series Game of Thrones were shot. Enjoy a guided walking tour visiting the Cathedral in the old city centre, with its well-preserved medieval streets that lead you towards the famous pastel coloured houses at the edge of the river bank plus free time. DURATION 6¼ hrs. DEPARTS Mon, Wed, Fri + Sat (23 Mar-31 Oct 18) | Mon + Fri (01 Nov- 31 Mar 19) at 8:00am.
Blackout dates apply.
from $113
C
Combine gourmet food + Catalan culture on a pre-dinner walking tour of Barcelona’s famous tapas bars. Your food specialist guide will take you to La Boqueria, the city’s famous food market to taste some of the traditional products at the market. Continue through the Gothic Quarter, stop at a store specialising in Iberian Ham, then at two restaurants offering a wide selection of local, delicious tapas. DURATION approx. 3 hrs DEPARTS Mon-Sat (01 Jan 18-31 Mar 19) at 8:00am.
Visit the astonishing interior where vaults reach 70m. Antoni Gaudí designed a Latin cross plan with 5 aisles, extremely rich in ornamentation + symbolism. Later on, we will stop by the Sagrada Família museum, + at the end the guide will take you to the entrance of the lift to the tower to admire the astonishing views of the city. DURATION 1½ hrs. DEPARTS daily, all year. (23 Mar 18-31 Mar
19). Blackout dates apply.
from $83 C
Walk through the narrow streets of colourful Lloret de Mar + admire Saint Roma church, with a 16th century altarpiece. Board DOFIJETS to enjoy the unique landscape of Costa Brava: a procession of different huge cliffs. Arrive at Tossa de Mar, considered “the pearl of Costa Brava” for its spectacular scenery. Take a walking tour before descending to the fishing village of Vila Vella. Free time to have lunch. Return to Barcelona. DURATION 8 hrs DEPARTS Mon, Wed + Sat (01 May-13 Oct 18.) VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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AMSTERDAM + BRUGES
E U R O P E
CITIES
AMSTERDAM
Avenue Hotel
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 33, Amsterdam
444½
from $170a
BRUGES
Bruges Hotel Navarra Sint-Jakobsstraat 41, 8000 Bruges
4444
from $150a
Located in walking distance from Amsterdam Central Station, it is the perfect base for exploring the best of Amsterdam’s unique attractions, including the Royal Palace, the canals, the Anne Frank House + the Jordaan district. Simply styled rooms, some feature sleeping lofts. A free continental breakfast buffet is served in a bright + spacious dining room with casual seating. There’s also a relaxed lobby lounge area.
A 2-minute walk leads straight into the ‘Markt’, the main historic square of Bruges, with all the other sights + best shopping streets in easy walking distance. The history of this 1720 neo-classical building is very much in evidenct in the ground-floor reception rooms, while the style of the bedrooms is sleekly modern. The “Wellness Centre”, in the old wine cellars, includes a gym, sauna + 10m swimming pool. There is also a small, lawn garden, with seating.
VFAR insight - A popular hotel in a great location with friendly + helpful staff.
VFAR insight - Close to the city centre, this grand, familyowned + modern hotel represents great value.
Radisson Blu Amsterdam
Hotel Dukes’ Palace Bruges
Rusland 17, Amsterdam
4444
Prinsenhof 8, 8000 Bruges
from $250a
Located centrally in the canal city’s Binnenstad district + next to popular attractions like Rembrandt House Museum, comprising of a 19th-century vicarage, 18th-century merchant houses + a former factory. Airy, modern rooms + suites (some suites offer living areas, kitchenettes, canal views, +/ or whirlpool tubs). Other features include an elegant brasserie, old-world bar + a gym with a sauna.
VFAR insight - Surrounded by 2 canals the location provides access to the scenic waterways provides + a great starting point to explore the city sights. t: 1300 303 343
44444
from $155a
This unique 15th-century former ducal residence is set in its own quiet enclave + all the main sights are within easy walking distance. There are 110 rooms, including 5 family rooms + 17 suites. Every room is unique, but all are decorated in a comfortable, broadly historicmodern style. The spa features a steam bath, sauna + a gym.
VFAR insight - A special place to stay surprisingly affordable. for the high Standard of accommodation + service.
AMSTERDAM + BRUGES
59
EXPERIENCE
Barge Cruising + Cycling
Dutch Art Flemish Craft from $2,260 ^
8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS AMSTERDAM-BRUGES (OR REVERSE) MODE BARGE + CYCLING DISTANCE: 249 or 275kms DIFFICULTY: 2 | GENTLE
* All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
What could be more Dutch than to live aboard a traditional barge + pedal about on a bike through the lowlands where everything’s an art form? Freewheel through the fields + polders immortalised in the works of the Dutch masters en route to Antwerp, the city of Rubens. Windmills appear as sculptures. Medieval art inspires in Ghent. Flemish waterways charm with their beauty. Ancient buildings beg to be explored. Canals hum with cafe life. Added to this, choose to cycle self-guided on your own with route directions or be led by the guide with your fellow guests. From Amsterdam to Bruges, it’s a work of art. DAY 1: AMSTERDAM-VIANEN (15km) Board your barge, moored in the heart of the city + around 2pm sail to Nigtevecht. From here there is a short bike ride to Breukelen along the winding + beautiful river Vecht. Arrive in Vianen on the river Lek. (D) DAY 2: VIANEN-DORDRECHT (25 or 50km) Optional pedal along Schoonhoven, known as the silver city. Those wanting the shorter ride disembark here to join the route through the Alblasserwaard to Kinderdijk. Here there is an impressive row of 19 large windmills listed by UNESCO, one of which you can tour inside. The barge takes you on to Dordrecht, one of the oldest towns in Holland. Spend the night in the historic port of Wolwevershaven. (B D) DAY 3: DORDRECHT-ANTWERP (34km) Sail to Tholen + from here ride the Wouwse Plantage to Bergen op Zoom + on southwards to imposing Kreekrak Lock. The boat sails into Flanders through the impressive port of Antwerp. Explore this beautiful old Flemish city centre after dinner, on board. (B D) DAY 4: ANTWERP-ST AMANDS/ DENDERMONDE (42 or 56km) Ride out of the
port to the Zeeschelde + follow the beautiful but capricious tidal river Schelde upstream through Flanders. The bike path follows the dreamy banks of the river + leads through a magnificent landscape calling at Temse en route. There is a choice of distances today + depending on the tide, the boat ties up at either St Amands or Dendermonde, a friendly little
riverside town. (B D) DAY 5: ST AMANDS/DENDERMONDE -GHENT (38 or 52km) Pedal along the
banks of the River Schelde to reach Ghent spending the afternoon exploring this lively university city. The ship is docked at the lock in Merelbeke, a suburb of Ghent. (B D) DAY 6: GHENT-BRUGES (22 or 45km) Today’s route ambles through the pretty Western Flanders countryside to Bruges + those wanting the shorter route stay on board a little longer this morning. Bruges, also called the Venice of the North, is probably the most beautiful of all Flemish cities. (B D) DAY 7: BRUGES-THE NORTH SEA-BRUGES
(48km) Choose to explorel Bruges in a little more detail or pedal north to the coast + enjoy cafe or three, a long sandy beach + the attractive dune landscape of Het Zwin. Return to Bruges for dinner on board. (B D) DAY 8: DEPART BRUGES Final breakfast + disembark by 10am. (B)
INCLUDES 7 nights on board a barge; breakfast each day, 6 x picnic lunch + a 3 course dinner on 6 days. Tea + coffee available until 4pm daily; bike hire (electric bikes available as optional extra); helmets. EXCLUDES airfares; travel to + from the trip start + finish points unless specified; entrances to attractions unless specified; lunches + dinners unless specified; alcoholic beverages, mini-bars + meals pre + post the trip.
ACCOMMODATION
Boat I renovated in 2010 has 16 ensuite cabins with a porthole + aircon. Upper deck, there is a tastefully furnished salon with a restaurant, bar, a jacuzzi. Boat II is the same size but is brand new. 14 ensuite cabins each with a porthole + aircon. On the upper deck there is also a tastefully furnished salon with restaurant, bar + lounge. Boat III has 21 cabins, 16 on the Lower Deck (14 regular twin cabins plus 2 single cabins) + 5 on the Upper Deck. Upper Deck has spacious salon, two screens + large doors open to the partially roofed sundeck. On the Top Deck are the whirlpool/jacuzzi + deckchairs to relax.
DEPARTS Boat I + III, sailings start Saturdays
from Amsterdam + finish in Bruges or start Saturdays from Bruges + finish in Amsterdam. For Boat II, sailings start Wednesdays from Amsterdam + finish in Bruges or start Wednesdays from Bruges + finish in Amsterdam. Boat I: Amsterdam-Bruges: 05,19 May; 02,16,30 Jun; 14 Jul; 11,25 Aug; 08,22 Sep; 06 Oct 18. Bruges to Amsterdam: 12,26 May; 09,23 Jun; 07,21 Jul; 18 Aug; 01,15,29 Sep; 13 Oct 18. Boat II: Amsterdam-Bruges: 09,23 May; 06,20 Jun; 04,18 Jul; 15,29 Aug; 12,26 Sep; 10 Oct 18. BrugesAmsterdam: 30 May; 13,27 Jun; 11 Jul; 08,22 Aug; 05,12 Sep, 03 Oct 18. Boat III: Amsterdam-Bruges: 28 Apr; 26 May; 09,23 Jun; 21 Jul; 04 Aug; 01 Sept 18. Bruges-Amsterdam: 05 May; 02,16,30 Jun; 28 Jul; 11 Aug; 06 Oct 18.
ALTERNATE START POINT DAY 1: ARRIVE BRUGES; DAY 2: BRUGES TO GHENT (22 or 45km); DAY 3: GHENT-ST AMANDS (38 or 52km); DAY 4: ST AMANDS-ANTWERP (42 or 56km); DAY 5: ANTWERP-DORDRECHT (34km); DAY 6: DORDRECHT-VIANEN (25 or 50km); DAY 7: VIANEN-AMSTERDAM (25 or 50km) DAY 8: AMSTERDAM
VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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BERLIN + ATHENS
BERLIN
A surprise around every corner cutting edge design, cafes + galleries, coffee culture, street art - history with unforgettable monuments - dynamic + cultural - a truly awesome city!
LOVES EAST SIDE GALLERY
art’otel berlin mitte Wallstraße 70-73, 10179 Berlin
Adina Berlin Hackescher Markt A der Spandauer Buecke 11, Berlin
4444
from $105a
Centrally located, the adjacent U-Bahn station can take you to most main sights within 20-30 mins. All 109 rooms + suites were renovated in 2016 with crisp white walls adorned with Baselitz artworks, orange carpets matched to slick white designer furnishings.
VFAR insight - Fabulous George Baselitz artwork collection with over 300 works of art.
4444
from $117a
Situated in the historic + cultural Mitte district + is close to Berlin’s famous Hackesche Höfe that boasts ancient courtyards with an exquisite selection of shops, restaurants + theatres. Apartments are brightly furnished with fully equipped kitchens, 1 + 2BR apartments have separate bedrooms, some have washer/dryer.
VICTORY COLUMN CONSTRUCTED IN 1872 TO COMMEMORATE PRUSSIAN MILITARY VICTORIES. CLIMB TO THE TOP FOR GREAT CITY VIEWS. NEUS MUSEUM BADLY DAMAGED IN WW2, REDESIGNED + REOPENED IN 2009 BLENDING THE OLD + THE NEW - HOUSES THE ANCIENT BUST OF QUEEN NEFERTITI. EAST SIDE GALLERY THE BERLIN WALL WITH A LOT OF GRAFFITI. BERLIN DOM THE SPECTACULARLY BEAUTIFUL PROTESTANT CHURCH LOCATED RIGHT NEXT TO MUSEUM ISLAND. FLOHMARKT IM MAUERPARK THIS HUGELY POPULAR FLEA MARKET IS HELD EVERY SUNDAY.
VFAR insight - Love the location of these apartments - great stay.
ATHENS A must-do for culture buffs - the Archaeological Promenade is a 4km long, pedestrian-only, tree-lined walkway skirting the foot of the Acropolis + links all the major archaeological sites. Plan to spend a few days before heading to the islands.
LOVES
VIEW FROM HOTEL ‘ATHENSWAS’ TO THE ACROPOLIS
Hotel Plaka
7 Kapnikareas + Mitropoleos, Athens
444
from $99a
Very convenient, close to Monastiraki metro station + a lovely 10-minute walk through Plaka to the Acropolis. The 67 modern rooms have wooden floors + most have small balconies. On summer evenings, the roof garden bar is the place to be with amazing Acropolis views, serving drinks + light snacks.
VFAR insight - The connecting rooms make it a good choice for families. t: 1300 303 343
AthensWas
Dionysiou Areopagitou 5, Athens
4444
from $193a
Located on the pedestrian-only avenue of Dionysiou Areopagitou, lined by plane trees, leading from the Temple of Olympian Zeus to the Acropolis on the edge of the Plaka. There are 21 rooms + suites all with balconies - classic rooms look onto the courtyard, deluxe rooms onto the pedestrian walkway - Super Deluxe have views of the Acropolis.
VFAR insight - an ideal base for visiting the city’s top cultural attractions + enjoying its vibrant restaurants.
ACROPOLIS MUSEUM LEARN ABOUT THE HISTORY BEFORE VISITING THE ACTUAL SITE + DONT MISS THE OPEN AIR CAFE ON 2ND FLOOR WITH SPECTACULAR VIEWS OF THE PARTHENON. TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN SOLDIER
THE CHANGING OF THE GUARDS TAKES PLACE EVERY HOUR.
PITTAKI STREET REVAMPED FROM A DARK ALLEY TO A PROMENADE WITH DONATED LIGHT INSTALLATIONS! MONTASTIRAKI AN EARLY EVENING WITH ITS VIBRANT CAFES, BARS + SMALL SHOPS - BEST PLACE TO FIND SOUVLAKI WRAPS.
BUDAPEST + PRAGUE
BUDAPEST
Buda + Pest is divided by the majestic River Danube + although both sides are now joined by a number of spectacular bridges, they each have a unique character, + each offers plenty to keep you busy exploring.
LOVES
GELLERT THERMAL SPA
Carlton Hotel
1Apor Peter UTCA 3, Budapest
4444
from $99a
Corinthia Hotel
1073 Budapest, Erzsébet körút 43-49.
44444
from $240a
Situated in the heart of Budapest, just in the city, near to the 150 years old Chain Bridge, on the green Buda side, this elegant hotel is a 9-minute walk from Buda Castle, 1.2 km from Vörösmarty tér metro station + 4.5 km from Széchenyi Thermal Bath. Some rooms provide balconies. Free continental breakfast + casual lobby bar.
This palatial, landmark hotel is a 5 minute walk from a metro station, an 8-minute walk from Andrássy Avenue + 2.1 km from the Chain Bridge. Enjoy the Royal Spa you with several relaxation areas, saunas, steam baths, hot tubs, a fitness room, mud baths + seaweed baths. Rooms are spacious + elegant. There are 3 restaurants + a café.
VFAR insight - Excellent location near the city centre, close to transport + sightseeing.
VFAR insight - One of the best value 5 star hotels in Europe + the swimming pool + spa are highlights.
THE THERMAL BATHS MOST FAMOUS IS SZÉCHENYI IN A SPRAWLING NEO-BAROQUE BUILDING. ANOTHER IS GELLERT, A SMALLER BUT EQUALLY BEAUTIFUL BUILDING THAT MAKES YOU FEEL A LITTLE BIT LIKE YOU’RE SWIMMING INSIDE A CATHEDRAL. RUSZWURM OLDEST OF THE BUDAPEST CAFES - IN THE EARLY 1900S, CAFE CULTURE WAS A HUGE PART OF LIFE IN THE CITY, ESPECIALLY FOR WRITERS + ARTISTS. INCREDIBLE VIEWS OF PEST HEAD UP TO FISHERMAN’S BASTION ON THE BUDA SIDE OF THE RIVER. IF YOU’RE FEELING FIT YOU CAN CLIMB THE STAIRS THAT WIND THEIR WAY UP THE STEEP HILL.
PRAGUE
* All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
Cobblestone streets, quaint medieval houses coupled with a rich history + a dash of romance makes it a city you want to return to time + again.
LOVES VIEW OF DANCING HOUSE HOTEL DESIGNED BY FRANK GEHRY + VLADO MILUNIC
Dancing House Hotel
Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, Prague, 12000
4444
from $149a
The Augustine
Letenska 12/33, Prague, 11800
44444
from $323a
The building was designed by world famous architects Frank Gehry + Vlado Milunić + is one of the city’s most visited buildings. The hotel’s 21 spacious rooms fit nicely in the rotund architecture of the building, which also gives amazing views of the city. Though not a part of the hotel, the building has a summer terrace with 360-degree view of the city.
In the heart of the city next to the Wallenstein Gardens. All spacious rooms + suites are individually furnished + inspired by early 20th century Czech cubism with stunning views of Prague, the adjacent monastery church + the Prague Castle. The spa features a hammam, sauna, steam room, relaxation area + fully-equipped gym.
VFAR insight - Rooms have the most beautiful views of Prague.
VFAR insight - Everything you would expect from a luxury hotel - very romantic!
PRAGUE CASTLE OVERLOOKS THE CITY + HAS MULTIPLE SECTIONS YOU CAN BUY A TICKET TO ANY OR ALL OF THESE SIGHTS JOHN LENNON WALL IN THE 1980S, STUDENTS STARTED WRITING JOHN LENNON LYRICS ON THIS WALL. TODAY IT REPRESENTS LOVE + PEACE. TOURISTS ARE ALLOWED TO WRITE OR PAINT ON IT TOO. KUTNÁ HORA TAKE A DAY TRIP - FAMOUS FOR ITS CREEPY BONE CHURCH, SEDLEC OSSUARY, WITH 40,000-70,000 BONES. THEN EXPLORE THE CITY CENTRE + ITS BEAUTIFUL MEDIEVAL CHURCHES+ WELL-PRESERVED STREETS. VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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62
STOCKHOLM + COPENHAGEN
STOCKHOLM One of the most exciting + cosmopolitan European capitals, the city offers an incredible selection of experiences. + in Summer, the sun never seems to set.
LOVES VIEW FROM BERNS HOTEL - TIME FOR FIKA!
Hotel Skeppsholmen Gröna Gången 1, 111 86 Stockholm
4444
from $314a
Berns Hotel
Näckströmsgatan 8, 111 47 Stockholm,
4444
from $123a
Set in a charming 1690s building on a peaceful city island with its leading-edge contemporary design, this Stockholm island hotel reinterprets modern luxury. Rooms feature windows with traditional wooden shutters. Ferries regularly cross the water to Stockholm’s Old Town, Gamla Stan. Kastellholmsbron bus stop is only 70 m from Hotel Skeppsholmen.
This stylish boutique hotel is situated next to Nybrokajen Harbour in central Stockholm + offers a historic dining hall + lobby art exhibitions. Stureplan Square is a 3-minute walk away. Set in an impressive 1863 building, the elegant rooms’ are modern in décor, with luxury beds + designer linen.
VFAR insight - Feels like a Swedish
VFAR insight - Location is ideal to
island retreat in the middle of the city.
wander Gamla Stan (old city) + get lost in the maze of streets.
ART ON THE GO LONGEST ART EXHIBIT IN THE WORLD (110KMS), THE STOCKHOLM SUBWAY SYSTEM IS A LABYRINTH OF COLOURFULLY THEMED STATIONS WITH AN ASSORTMENT OF MURALS + SCULPTURES. FIKA IS THE SWEDISH TERM FOR TAKING A BREAK WITH A COFFEE + PASTRY, SLOW DOWN + ENJOY THE MOMENT! FOTOGRAFISKA CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION SPACE WITH GREAT BOOK/SOUVENIR SHOP. THE TOP FLOOR CAFÉ HAS ONE OF STOCKHOLM’S VERY BEST VIEW POINTS. IT STAYS OPEN UNTIL 01:00 IN SUMMER LIGHT TIME. SVENSKT TENN DESIGNER SHOP FOR SWEDISH ARCHITECT + INTERIOR DESIGNER JOSEF FRANK FABRIC.
COPENHAGEN
LOVES MODERN DANISH DESIGNED BEDROOM AT HOTEL SP34
Hotel SP34 Sankt Peders Stræde 34, 1453 Copenhagen
4444
from $258a
Set in the trendy Latin Quarter - there are vintage shops, coffee shops + cosy bars right on the doorstep. Made up of three townhouses, SP34 has a relaxed but lively atmosphere. The 118 rooms are spread over 5 floors + are very Scandinavian in design with neutral coloured walls, stripped floorboards + snow-white sheets. There is a rooftop terrace + 2 restaurants.
VFAR insight - The trifecta - fabulous hotel, location + design! t: 1300 303 343
Radisson Blu Royal Copenhagen
Hammerichsgade 1, 1611 Copenhagen
4444
from $286a
Opposite the railway station, a short hop from the Tivoli, close to shops + restaurants. Designed by celebrated Danish architect Arne Jacobsen + built in the late ’50s, it was Copenhagen’s first skyscraper. There are 260 rooms + suites, with pale wood + plain hues throughout. New Nordic cuisine is available at Alberto K on the 20th floor.
VFAR insight - An architectural landmark- don’t miss the panoramic views from the 20th fl. restaurant.
NEW NORDIC CUISINE AT THE LAST COUNT THERE WERE 18 MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANTS. PLAN EARLY + BOOK ONLINE. TOO PRICEY FOR DINNER? CHECK OUT ATELIER SEPTEMBER - SERVES BREAKFAST+ LUNCH EVERY DAY. TASTE TRIED. DESIGNER HEAVEN FROM SMALL SHOPS TO LARGE DEPARTMENT STORES - BETTER THAN ANY MUSEUM! TORVEHALLERNE A COVERED FOOD MARKET, MORE ORGANISED + WELL DESIGNED - WITH MORE THAN 80 VENDORS SELLING THEIR GOODS THE SELECTION IS BREATHTAKING! A LOT OF THE BOOTHS SELL SNACKS + WARM MEALS.
* All prices based on per person, per night twin share rates. Terms + conditions apply (please refer to p. 63)
Wonderful, wonderful .. first there is the design which seems to penetrate every corner of the city + then there is the food! New Nordic cuisine is where it is all happening!
BOOKING CONDITIONS
BOOKING CONDITIONS
63
Please read these Booking Conditions carefully as they form the basis upon which bookings are accepted by Venture Far.
THE BROCHURE This brochure is valid to 31 March 2019. This brochure should be used as a guide only. • Prices are based on currency exchange rates effective October 2017 + are subject to change without notice. All products in this brochure are presented in Australian Dollars + are GST free unless otherwise indicated. • “From” Prices: the expression “from” with respect to a price means the lowest per adult price for the Travel Product we believe is available at the time of publication, based on information we have received from suppliers. • Please refer to your travel consultant at the time of booking + at the time of final payment for full details of any updated pricing or changed transfer, tour or accommodation details. • Please read your travel documents when you receive them to ensure that you are getting what you asked + paid for. It is important that you discuss any queries you have with your travel consultant immediately, or at least before you travel. • We know how important it is to have a good night’s sleep when travelling, so we ask that you understand that the ‘Bedding Information’ is provided as a guide only, which may change, subject to room availability, renovations or other circumstances. Prices in this brochure are based on existing bedding. Additional bedding may be either a bed or a fold up ‘rollaway’ or a convertible settee. Room requests (eg., interconnecting, twin versus double bedding, non-smoking rooms etc.) can be requested, but Not Guaranteed. • Maps are sometimes included to assist you in setting your tour itinerary + may be representative only. Photographs of hotel rooms + vistas etc. are included to assist you in selecting your hotel + tours + may be representative only. • We make every effort to keep the hotel descriptions + touring information up to date. Please be aware that a hotel may not have kept us up to date with their renovation plans. This is unlikely, but where it does occur from time to time we will make every endeavour to ensure that you receive the equivalent of what you requested. Please note that if you have a problem with your hotel, transfer or tour, in the first instance you should contact the hotel front office manager or local tour operator. If you are still not satisfied, please contact your travel consultant for further advice.
BOOKING + PAYING
Your travel consultant is your main point of contact + is the person responsible for correctly interpreting your travel requirements, providing travel advice, collecting your money for your booked travel, + providing you with your travel documents. Please make sure that you are fully aware of what you are paying for before you pay your deposit +/or final payment. • A deposit of $165 per adult ($55 per child) is payable to your travel consultant within 7 days of confirmation, to secure a booking. A further deposit may be required by the hotel, tour operator, cruise line or other principal. Please note that a deposited booking holds services but does not guarantee prices. • The balance is payable 45 days before your departure from Australia immediately on
confirmation if booked within this period. If you pay late the booking may be cancelled + your deposit forfeited if deadlines are missed. Please consult your travel consultant for any special airfare conditions. • If you request a change of name, tour, hotel or travel date an amendment fee of $55 per booking will apply. If travel documents have been issued, the fee will be $75 per file, plus any applicable airline ticket reissue fees. • Amendments within 45 days of departure may result in operator cancellation fees, inability to confirm +/ or delays in receipt of travel documentation. • Where possible, we will accept late bookings within 7 days of departure, but please understand that this will be subject to the availability of accommodation, tours + flights. Full payment is required at time of booking if you book within 7 days of departure. • Credit + Debit Card Surcharges: a fee will apply for payments made by debit + credit cards. Please check this fee with us or your travel agent when booking. ALL PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE PRIOR TO FINAL PAYMENT.
NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
Generally speaking, you are responsible for anything not specifically included in your holiday package, which would mean things like: • Airfares + associated taxes + fuel surcharges (unless otherwise stated). • Costs of passports or visas. • Meals other than those specified in the itinerary. • Excess baggage charges. • Personal items such as phone calls, laundry, drinks, room service etc.. • Sightseeing other than specified in the itinerary, airport taxes (paid locally) + Government taxes other than on accommodation. • Any costs in Australia. • Travel Insurance.
LIMIT OF LIABILITY
You are responsible for all visa, passport, immigration, quarantine, customs, health + other requirements of the countries visited or transited. Passports must have at least 6 months’ validity from the date of your return to Australia. The Australian Government has many travel advisories in place, for the latest details refer to www.smartraveller.gov.au. • If you are not sure of your responsibilities, ask your travel consultant.
We, Clenton Pty Ltd t/as Venture Far (ABN 40 101 240 036), have packaged + presented tours, transfers + accommodation in this brochure for sale in Australia. In our opinion, we have provided information + pricing in this brochure which is correct at the time of printing, + also goods + services of merchantable quality. We do not own or operate services in our own right, acting only as booking agent for our service providers, + thus we are not responsible for these services. Bookings are subject to the terms, conditions + limitation of liabilities imposed by these service providers. We do not accept liability whatsoever for injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expenses caused directly or indirectly by events which are beyond our control + jurisdiction, including but not limited to war, civil disturbance, fire, floods, acts of God, acts of government or of any other authorities, accident to or failure of machinery or equipment or industrial action. It is important that you are satisfied that your travel consultant has fully + clearly explained to you what goods or services you are receiving. To the extent permitted by law, we exclude all liability for any loss or damage whatsoever (including but not limited to physical + psychological injury, + loss or damage to property of whatever nature) arising out of or in any way connected with the offer or supply of goods or services by us or any third parties. If you believe that you did not receive what you requested + paid for, + you are requesting a refund, you must inform your travel consultant about the problem in writing as soon as possible after the problem has occurred. If the law implies a condition or warranty that cannot be excluded, our liability will be limited to the re-supply or the payment of the cost of re-supplying the relevant goods or services.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
CONSUMER PROTECTION
CANCELLATIONS
If you cancel or terminate your travel booking with us at any time after confirmation, it will attract a $165 per adult ($55 per child) cancellation fee. In addition to this fee, there may be additional cancellation fees charged by the hotel, tour operator, cruise line, airline or other principal. This can amount to up to 100% of your total booking, particularly when cancelling tours + other arrangements within 45 days of departure. No refund can be guaranteed for cancellations after the tour has commenced or in respect of any tours, accommodation, meals or any other services not utilised. Credit Offers cannot be refunded or taken as cash. If we have to cancel or substantially change your travel booking because of events outside of our control (this is very rare), we will, where possible, offer you an alternative of a similar Standard. If you do not accept the alternative, we will refund in full any monies already paid for those arrangements.
HEALTH + IMMIGRATION
It is recommended that you consider purchasing a travel insurance policy before you travel. Travel insurance should cover hospital treatment, medical evacuation, loss of property, cancellation fees etc. + is essential for anyone travelling outside of Australia. Overseas medical costs are expensive + not covered by Australian medical insurance. Your travel consultant can assist in purchasing appropriate travel insurance for your destination. The Australian Government has provided information regarding the need for adequate insurance including some case studies, refer to http://www.smartraveller. gov.au/insurance/
Venture Far is ATAS accredited, a member of the International Air Transport Association (“IATA”) + the Australian Federation of Travel Agents (“AFTA”).
LAW + JURISDICTION
These Booking Conditions are governed by the laws of South Australia + any action arising under them, or in any way connected with the holiday, may be brought only in a court in South Australia, subject to any law which is expressly inconsistent with this.
VENTUREFAR.COM.AU
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Venture Far The Darling Building Ground Floor, 28 Franklin Street Adelaide SA 5000 Australia T | 61 8 8238 4511
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