Christmas Markets

Looking for a traditional Christmas with all of the atmosphere? Then why not hire one of our campervans and visit Europe’s best Christmas markets?

With many of the big Christmas markets open from November around the country and in Europe there’s no better way to sample the festive season in so many different cultures than to travel through them all in an Easicampers campervan.

With the opportunity to taste the local food and pick up unique gifts from the local craftsman, this would be a trip memories are made of so let the smells of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and gingerbread get you into the Christmas spirit whilst we take care of your accommodation.

Hire starts from only £495.00 for a week from November through to December.

Manchester Market

Friday 14 November – Sunday 21 December 2014

Don your Santa hat, dust off the mulled wine glass, and get into the festive spirit – it’s time to head down to Manchester’s world famous Christmas Market.

Attracting shoppers from all over the UK and beyond, the market has put Manchester city centre firmly on the Christmas map – the Christmas Market has become not just a fabulous place to shop but also a hugely popular leisure destination in its own right. No Manchester winter is complete without a wander through the chalet-lined streets of the markets.

The Prague Christmas markets are open daily, including Christmas Eve Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

The markets consist of brightly decorated wooden huts selling traditional handicrafts: glassware, jewellery, embroidered lace, wooden toys, metal ware, ceramics, scented candles, Christmas tree ornaments, hats, gloves and scarves, and puppets and dolls beautifully dressed in traditional costumes.

VIENNA: TRAVELLING THROUGH BELGIUM, GERMANY, AND AUSTRIA, INCLUDING THE DANUBE

Dover-Calais

Calais-St. Omer
From Calais we drive to our first campsite at St. Omer in France

St. Omer-Dusseldorf
The drive is approximately 250 miles to Dusseldorf, travelling through Belgium. If your trip includes the first week in September you could see one of the biggest motorhome shows in the world which is held every year in Dusseldorf.

Dusseldorf-Cologne
Cologne is one of Germany’s finest metropolitan cities and one of the main attractions is the magnificent cathedral.

Cologne-Koblenz
Try a day cruise

Koblenz-Rudesheim
Rudesheim is one of the most attractive towns along the river and home of the world famous Asbach-Uralt brandy. Visit the lively taverns and wine bars that line the famous Drosselgasse. Also in Rudesheim is Siefried’s Music Museum or travel to the Spas of Bad Kreuznach.

Take a 6 hour evening cruise with evening meal to see the firework display and other boats, all illuminated. The boat visits various towns, all illuminated. Please check dates as this festival is normally July-September.

• Rudesheim-Aschaffenburg
• Aschaffenburg-Miltenberg
• Miltenberg-Wertheim
• Wertheim-Karlstadt
• Karlstadt-Wurzburg
• Wurzburk-Bamberg
• Bamberg-Nuremberg
• Nuremberg-Dietfurt
• Dietfurt-Regensburg
• Regensburg-Passau
• Passau-Melik
• Melik-Vienna

Meandering slowly and serpentine-like through the uplands of the Rhenish Plateau, the
glittering River Mosel flows through one of Europe’s finest natural landscapes before
eventually joining the mighty River Rhine at Koblenz. Huddled along its banks are
ornately decorated, half-timbered, buildings whose slate roofs glisten silver in
the sunshine.

At its most picturesque between Trier and Cochem, the steep sides of the Middle Mosel
valley are adorned by a vivid patchwork pattern of vineyards. Cultivation of the small,
sweet Riesling grape is a passion here and the region’s wines are justly famous.

Trier is Germany’s oldest city. Past glory is evident in substantial Roman ruins and
an impressive old city centre. Its old world charms have been largely preserved by the
fact that in later years the city was rather by-passed, as the Rhine valley became
the main trading route.

Cochem is an attractive market town in the shadow of a towering medieval castle.
It is a well-known stopping point for Moselle valley cruises and a convenient base
for exploring the unusual volcanic landscape of the Eifel Plateau. Here verdant grassy
conical hills and deep blue crater lakes provide innumerable sports and outdoor pursuits
opportunities.

Standing at the head of the largest loop in the River Rhine, Boppard also has a Roman
and Celtic past. Stroll through colourful gardens along the waterfront promenade,
visit the impressive church of St Severus or look out across the valley from the
chairlift leading to the ‘Vierseenblick’ viewpoint.

Befitting its status as one of Germany’s leading cities, busy cosmopolitan Cologne has
immensely varied attractions from its awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral and medieval
cobbled streets, to ultra-modern shopping malls and a lively nightlife.

Please note that this is a fully supported and guided tour, with a support vehicle and crew in full 24/7 attendance. Duration of the tour (Cueta – Agadir) is 17 days, or 19 days if you are returning to Spain with the support vehicle/crew after Agadir. From Agadir the support vehicle and crew will return on a two-day journey to Cueta/Spain, taking the Atlantic Coastal route via Safi, Casa and Rabat. The one overnight stay will be at the small fishing village of Moulay Bousselham. Those not staying-on at Agadir can of course travel with the support vehicle and crew.

Your tour guide/leader (UK) and the support crew (Moroccan) have over 20
years experience in leading expeditions/safaris/tours throughout North Africa. The support vehicle is a fully equipped 4×4 expedition 12-ton truck. All support equip is carried.

French/German/Spanish/Italian/English as well as Arabic (Ancient and Modern) and Berber (plus some local dialects) are spoken.

Unlimited information is available throughout the tour as are demonstrations on adverse driving conditions (sand, track), vehicle recovery, “bush” repairs, traditional cooking demo’s, introduction to “non-tourist” culture, desert survival techniques etc.

Please note that this is very much a “Non Tourist” tour. Rather, this tour has been designed as an introduction to a rapidly disappearing way of life/ cultures whilst offering the opportunity to visit locations little visited and known mostly to our-selves.

Please note that the following itinerary is issued as a guide only and could be subject to alteration should local weather, in-situ, or other, conditions dictate.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!

PROPOSED ITINERARY

Group meeting at Venta Casa Bernardo’s, just east of Algicaris, on the A340.
Tour leader will arrange vehicle inspection, documentation check/issue, ferry tickets issue, pre-tour info/report, latest weather and news reports. Earlier arrivals can be contacted and arrangements made (we are based near Malaga).

Early departure for first available/suitable ferry to Cueta (high speed crossing). There will be ample time in Cueta to re-fuel, shopping etc. before proceeding to Spain/Morocco Border proper. Tour leader/guide will clear all vehicle importation, immigration and customs formalities; arrange money exchange and insurance if required. You will be advised in good time on documentation required.

Continue to overnight campsite/location south of Tetouan.

Site is to rear of modern Moroccan restaurant so opportunity to sample local food. There should be time for an evening tour of Tetouane.

Overnight site south of Fez/Mecknes at Volubillis (Roman Ruins).

Route would have travelled over spectacular Riff Mountains.

Overnight camp at either Fez or Mecknes (Formal Campsite)

We will remain at this location for two nights allowing time to arrange tour of Imperial City with traditional evening meal in souk restaurant.

Overnight “Wilderness Camp” in Cedar Forest location (subject to weather)

It is proposed that we wilderness camp in a forest location … Barbary Apes, campfire etc. This is of course subject to present and projected weather conditions, as we don’t want to get bogged or snowed in.

Overnight camp at Source Blue de Meski.

This can either be by choice a formal campsite or open wilderness location. Meski is an Oasis location on the very edge of the Sahara. We will stay here for two nights allowing time for: Guided tour of ruined Kasbah and village, visit to the bustling market town of Er Rachidia and to arrange a couple of local/trad meals.

Overnight at Erg Chebbie Sand Dunes

This is a Sahara desert location and will be reached via made-up roads,
track and off road piste (non-damaging). We will spend two nights at this
location camping in the folds of the Great Erg Chebbie Dunes. Meals and
entertainment (African/Desert Drums) will be at a nearby Ex Legion fort.
Camel transport can be arranged for assisted climb to top of 500ft+ dunes for spectacular sunrise.

Overnight at Todra Gorge

Location will be subject to weather and on-site inspection (Snow, rain, flood, road/track conditions/ projection). If weather and projection permits we will proceed up the gorge to an Auberg for an overnight camp with entertainment.

Overnight at Ouarzazate

This is an interesting town known for the nearby film locations. Overnight in formal campsite or hotel car park. Ready for early start.

Marrakech

Today would have been as early start as possible as we would have had to
trans the High Atlas via the infamous “Tizzi n Tichka” pass. Very, very
spectacular and will be a slow crossing. Overnight will be at a suitable
location (there are no campsites in or close to Marrakech). We will spend
two nights here for visits to this wonderful city.

Essaoira

Two nights will be spent at the magical Atlantic village/town. Visit the many craft shops, restaurants or just wander around the narrow streets and harbour.

Agadir

Drive down the Atlantic Coast to suitable campsite/wild location.

Agadir – Cueta

Two day drive along Atlantic Coast. Please see and understand re-notes:

Pre-Trip Information

Please feel free to forward any questions you may have. Pre-Booking information is limited to general information or information that will assist with your booking onto this trip. Thereafter information is unlimited on request.

THE GREAT SHRINES OF FRANCE BY MOTORHOME (2 WEEKS)

You may need to download PDF Reader to view the above.

NEVERS – PARAY LE MONIAL – ARS LA SALETTE – LOURDES AND LISIEUX

This tour is a two week trip taking us to Lourdes, one of the world’s
greatest pilgrimage sites and the shrine dedicated to the Immaculate
Conception. Our journey takes us initially to Calais where we can
stock up on goodies and fuel and we spend the night near Paris,
170 miles south west of Calais.

From our site we motor down to Nevers, and meet on site in the evening.
On route to Nevers why not stop at Chatres or Orleans to see the splendid
Cathedrals there. Nevers is where St.Bernadette died in 1879 and her
perfectly preserved remains can be seen at her convent in the chapel
of St. Gildard. Night on site Nevers.

From Nevers we travel south to Paray-le-Monial where we visit the birthplace
of the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Between 1673 and 1675 Our
Blessed Lord appeared many times to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque at the
Visitation Convent. We then carry on to Ars and spend the night there.
St. John Mary Vianney was ordained a priest in 1815. Three years later
he was made parish priest of Ars, a remote French hamlet, where his
reputation as a confessor and director of souls made him known throughout
the Christian world. His life was one of extreme mortification.
St. John Vianney, Priest (Patron of priests) Feast day – August 4 Universally
known as the “Cure of Ars),”

From Ars we move to our next night stop at La Salette. Located in a high
alpine pasture in the French Alps, La Salette is the site where the Virgin
Mary appeared in 1846 to two shepherds, Melanie Mathew and Maximin Gird.
Our Lady appeared to these shepherds crying, lamenting over the lack of
observance of Sundays and the profaning of her Son’s holy name.

A spring forever marks the spot where the Virgin appeared and where millions
of pilgrims come in order to drink the fresh spring water and to pray. The stunning
mountain scenery and lush mountain trails make La Salette one of the most spectacular
pilgrimage sites in France, with a beautiful Basilica built to honour the Virgin Mary.
In 1996 La Salette celebrated the 150th anniversary of Our Lady’s first appearance.

Night in La Salette

Our next stop after a days break in La Salette is the coastal town of Sete where
we will spend the night. Finally we arrive at our main destination-Lourdes
for a two night stop.

From Lourdes we go to the ancient city of Poitiers which is steeped in early
Christianity, largely because of its first bishop, the scholarly St. Hilary.
Night stop in Poitiers.

From Poitiers we drive to our final pilgrimage stop-the famous town of Lisieux,
the home of St. Therese, or the “little flower” as she has become known. Pope
Pius X called St. Therese “the greatest saint of modern times.”

From Lisieux we make the final 202 mile run up to Calais to board our ship home.
Don’t forget to call at the large hypermarkets at Calais to stock up on goodies.
You could pay for your whole trip here!

NOTES

This tour is over 2,500 miles total and can be quite exhausting so please bear
this in mind. You do not, however, need to follow this itinery. You can of course
do your own thing and stay longer on sites if they have vacancies, and miss out
the towns, sites, or overnight stops as you wish.

A very extensive itinery has been prepared with a daily route plan complete with
places of interest. All ferry journeys and top class sites will be pre-booked for
your convenience. Please note campsites are not in the town centres where we are
visiting but often a half hours drive away. Local buses may be available to take us
into the town centres and places of pilgrimage.

Le Mans 24 Hour Race (1 week motorhome tour)

The exciting Le Mans 24 hr race is held every year in Le Mans, France, in June. It is an extremely popular race, particularly with the British and the average attendance is 200,000+. The race starts at 16.00 on the Saturday and ends 16.00 on the Sunday. 3,000 miles in all condition, day and night, at speeds of 240+ along the Mulsanne straight. Some watch the race for the full 24 hours. It is important to get on the campsite which is in the middle of the track on the Wednesday otherwise you will not get on! We will provide free route maps and the contacts to buy your Le Mans at the best possible prices. We feel that it is better if you organise your own camp site at Le Houx Annexe and your own general or grandstand tickets as we do not want to be responsible if the ticket agent has a problem. The best thing is to book early to ensure the campsite and grandstand you prefer.

Tuesday
Collect Motorhome 16.00 hrs.

Wednesday
Board Dover-Calais ferry 10.30 a.m.
Arrive Calais
Stock up with duty free goodies and beer at French hypermarket.
Leisurely drive down to Le Mans.
Arrive on site in the Le Mans.
Accommodation is reserved for 5 nights at the Houx Annexe which is within the racing circuit.

Thursday
Leisure day in Le Mans

Friday
Your chance to walk around the paddock and inspect the cars close up. You’ll have all day to explore the town and relax before the big day. Sports Night Party Friday night. Optional extra at £49.00

Saturday
Racing starts at 16.00

Sunday
Race finishes at 16.00

Monday
Liesurly drive back to Calais
Time to visit other towns and explore French countryside.
Stock up with enough duty paid goodies to pay for holiday.
16.30 ferry back to Dover

Tuesday
Return Motorhome at 10.00hrs to Wigan

PRICES (subject to change)

TRANSPORTATION

Choice of the following vehicles

Hymerswing one week – £625.00
Hobby 750 one week – £870.00
Hymer B Classic one week – £870.00
People carrier – £395.00
15 Seater Mini-bus (own insurance only on this vehicle) – £450.00

CAMP SITE

Le Houx Annexe for five nights. Price includes channel crossing for
Motorhome up to 6 metres and prices decrease depending on the number
of persons in the motorhome:-

Camping Le Houx Annexe

2 persons – £159.00
3 persons – £129.00
4 persons – £119.00

RACE TICKET PRICES

General enclosure – £35.00
Grandstand – £90.00

(Grandstand tickets are reserved and under cover and include admission to general enclosure).

EXAMPLE:-

6 persons in HymerSwing Motorhome £104.00 pp
Ferry tickets and Camping Houx Annexe £119.00 (5 nights) pp
General enclosure tickets £35.00

Total £258.00 pp

EXTRA HOSPITALITY IF REQUIRED

Hospitality £199.00 pp

Includes:-

Use of the marquee for the weekend
Free Beer, wine, and soft drinks all weekend
Free tea, coffee, and chilled water
Cash bar for Champagne, dinner wines, cocktails
Lounge area
Garden area next to track
Storage space for hand baggage
TV coverage
Private English toilets

RESTAURANT:-

There is a quality restaurant at the Hospitality facility and is
highly recommended but you must book beforehand.

Saturday Lunch – £29.00
Saturday Dinner – £39.00
Sunday Breakfast – £15.00
Sunday Lunch – £29.00

Excursion to Mulsanne, Arnage and Indianapolis corner – £20.00 pp

Party Friday night at the Sports Bar – £49.00 pp

Includes:-

Access to Le Club at Maison Blanche 20.00-00.00
Barbeque with salads and desserts
Free drink on arrival
Happy Hour from 20.00-21.00. Pay bar.
Can-can dancers
TV’s showing football, motor racing and other sports.
Horse racing for prizes.
Half price entrance to ladies.

* All the above prices are subject to change

This 4 week trip is ideal for incoming tourists and British tourists alike.
It covers many of the most desirable areas of England and Scotland. Route
maps will be provided and all sites can be booked in advance with the
Caravan Club or the Camping and Caravan Club. This itinery is infinitely
variable and is merely a suggested route which we think you may consider.
If you prefer less time in the Scottish western isles and more time golfing at
Gleneagles or Turnberry or any of the many Scottish golf courses or perhaps
more time in the south of England please let us know and we will add or subtract
the places you wish to amend. Some tourists will want to visit friends or WW2
airfields in East Anglia, or visit Cornwall and Devon which is not on this route.
Wales has also many interesting places which can be added. Please ask and we
will change the route for you.

It is always advisable to join the caravan club (£30) and pre book your sites
through the caravan club whose web site is shown below:

www.caravanclub.co.uk (or e-mail: enquiries@caravan-club.co.uk)

Other benefits from the caravan club are discounted ferry fares, all arranged by the
Caravan Club travel service (Telephone 01342 316101).

Alternatively join the Caravan and Camping Club:

www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk

Please ask for our computerised route map which we can generate for this tour or
any other that you require.

We can be e-mailed on: – headoffice@easirent.com

Web guide(s):-

www.theheritagetrail.co.uk
www.ukfavourites.com
www.travelbritain.org
www.visitbritain.com
www.english-heritage.org.uk
www.heritagecities.co.uk
www.travelengland.org.uk
www.tourismtrade.org

Our tour starts in North West England where you collect your motor home. We will
collect you from Manchester or Liverpool airport in our stretched limousine. Once at
our depot in Wigan we will need approx. one hour to show you around your motor home and to
make sure you understand how everything operates. At all times during your tour we will be
on call by phone if you wish to ask any questions. All our Motorhomes are less than 12 months
old and we have full assistance and breakdown cover. Unlike the U.S.A. our country is very
small and few places are more than 3 hours away from our central location.

Friday Day 1

Wigan-Blackpool (1 night)

Blackpool is famous for its illuminations which commence on the first week in September for one
month. Blackpool is England’s premier and most famous resort. Blackpool Pleasure Beach has one of
the largest roller coasters in the world and evening brings glittering cabaret shows for all the
family. Your site is “Blackpool South”, which is number 128 in the site guide.

This stop is optional as Blackpool is a little “tacky” and will not suit some tourists. If you
have children, however, you may consider this town.

Tourist information: – www.visitnorthwest.com

Saturday and Sunday Days 2 & 3

Blackpool-Bowness (Lake District) (2 nights)

Next stop is Bowness, set in the heart of the Lake District and our site is “Braithwaite Fold”
which is within walking distance of the town centre and close to the lakeside.

Take one of the many cruises on Lake Windermere and hop off at different villages around
the lake. Lovely walking country.

Visit Hill Top, the tiny 17th century cottage of Beatrix Potter, creator of Peter Rabbit.

The site is number 155 of the site guide.

Web guide:- www.golakes.co.uk

Monday Day 4

Bowness-Ullswater (1 night)

Your site this evening is Troutbeck Head which nestles in a valley alongside a babbling brook,
below Great Mell Fell with spectacular views of Blencathra. Site number 152 of our site guide.

Cruise on Lake Ullswater and the market town of Keswick is within easy reach. An alternate to
this site is the Camping and Caravanning Club site at Crow Park Rd, Keswick. This site is on the
lake shore of Derwentwater with the town just a short stroll away.

Web guide:- www.ullswater.co.uk

Tuesday and Wednesday Days 5 & 6

Ullswater-Edinburgh (2 nights)

Why not visit Hadrian’s Wall on the way to Edinburgh. This was built to defend the northern
frontier of the ancient Roman Empire.

Our site is just 6 miles from Edinburgh at Slatebarns, site 181 in the site guide. Access
to Edinburgh is by bus which cuts out the hassle of parking in this vibrant and busy capital
city of Scotland.

Web guide(s):-
www.visitscotland.com
www.edinburgh.org
www.host.co.uk
www.edinburghshogmanay.org
www.stirling.gov.uk

Thursday and Friday Days 7 & 8

Edinburgh-Braemar (2 nights)

Our site, The Invercauld”, is number 172 of the site guide and is the
gateway to the Cairngorms.

If your trip includes September you can see the Highland Gathering, a famous sporting event.
Beautiful landscapes and scenery surround this site and it is ideal walking country. Visit
Balmoral, one of the Queen’s homes.

Web guide(s):-
www.scottish.heartlands.org
www.scot-borders.co.uk

Saturday and Sunday Days 8 & 9

Braemar-Culloden Moor (2 nights)

This is where the famous battle took place between Bonnie Prince Charlie and Scottish history was
rewritten. Visit Loch Ness and see the monster. Inverness is just 6 miles away with its impressive
castle and lively atmosphere.

Your site is “Culloden Moor” number 163 of the site guide.

Monday and Tuesday Day 10 & 11

Culloden Moor-Bunree (2 nights)

Your site this evening is Bunree which has been voted the Top Site in Britain by readers of
Caravan Magazine. Fabulous lochside location and must be lovliest in scenic terms. Number 166.

Web guide(s):-
www.witb.co.uk
www.visitorkney.com
www.visitshetland.com

Wednesday – Friday Day 12, 13, 14

Oban-Isle of Mull and other islands (4 nights)

Oban is the main ferry terminal to the Hebrides and Western Isles

A leisurely 4 nights can be enjoyed visiting the numerous islands off this beautiful
coastline. Visit Mull, Iona, Glencoe, St. Columba, Staffa, Tiree, Coll, Barra, South Uist,
North Uist, Harris, and Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. Due to the lack of campsites on the
islands this is your chance to “wild camp” i.e. stop where you wish whether it be a sandy
cove or mountain glen. Site number 169, North Ledaig, is a good site just north of Oban.

Saturday Day 15

Oban-Durham (1 night)

Once back on the mainland next stop is quite a long drive down to Durham.

Your site for the night is “Grange” which is number 144 of your site guide. You may take a
guided tour of the town but do not miss the magnificent cathedral and castle. Beamish Open
Air Museum is a popular attraction.

Sunday and Monday Days 16 & 17

Durham-York (2 nights)

York is an incredible medieval city, most famous for York Minster, England’s largest Gothic
church. Take a trip back in time at the Viking Centre where time reverts to 948 AD. Visit the
large National Railway Museum or take a cruise along the Ouse.

Your site for two nights is “Beachwood Grange”, number 138 in the site guide.

Web guide :- www.ytb.org.uk

Tuesday Day 18

York-Buxton (1 night)

A two night stopover at “Grin Low” allows you to unwind a little and relax in this
unusual site. Buxton lies at the heart of the Peak District which is one of the most
beautiful areas of Britain and is as equally attractive as the Lake District. Grin
Low is number 101 of the site guide.

Web guide:- www.visitheartofengland.com

Wednesday and Thursday Days 20 & 21

Buxton-Broadway (2 nights)

Our site here is “Broadway”, number 84 of our site guide and just on the edge of one of
the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds. This is a picture postcard of olde worlde England
at its best.

Friday, Saturday, Sunday Days 22, 23 & 24

Broadway-London (3 nights)

Our site in London is “Crystal Palace” where a bus takes you directly to Oxford Circus
in the heart of town. Number 40 in the site guide.

Web guide:- www.londontown.com

Monday and Tuesday Days 25 & 26

London-Moreton-in-Marsh (2 nights)

This is an ideal stopover to visit Stratford-Upon- Avon, Warwick, and Oxford. Our site is
number 90 of the site guide and only 400 yards from the town centre where there are numerous
pubs and restaurants within walking distance.

Wednesday and Thursday Days 27 & 28

Moreton-in-March -Chester (2 nights)

Chester is steeped in history and is best known for its Roman connection. Chester was a major
garrison in Roman times, probably due to its position on the river Dee and its midpoint position
between London and Hadrian’s Wall on the Scottish border.Visit the 900 year old Cathedral and the
unique “Rows” shopping galleries. Our site is “Chester Fairoaks”, site number 125 and access to
the city is by bus.

Web guide(s):-
www.chestercc.gov.uk
www.chester-races.co.uk
www.liverpool.gov.uk
www.destinationmanchester.com

Friday Day 29

Chester-Wigan

Wigan, like Chester was a Roman town (Coccium) and areas such as Millgate, Wallgate, Hallgate,
and Standishgate were parts in the wall of this garrison town.

Return Motor home at 10.00 a.m.

Driving through The Netherlands is a pleasure with a kaleidoscope of sleepy villages, dramatic forests, sandy beaches and historic towns to see along the way, all within easy journey time of the ferry ports.

Amsterdam

Lives its life on the street. The Amsterdammers seem to have a matchless zest for life. On bicycles or trams, in ‘brown’ cafes sipping pea soup or thronging Dam Square, you will soon catch the cheerful spirit of these warm hosts. Yet Amsterdam has its reflective side. Diamond capital of the world, this city – home to the famous Rijksmuseum and infamous red light district – has charms best viewed by canal. These thread like a spider’s web along tree-lined streets and under scores of bridges. Here elaborately gabled houses transport you back to another time. Then Amsterdam’s pulsating night life will bring you smack bang into the twenty-first century.

Apeldoorn

To the east of Amsterdam is the provincial town of Apeldoorn, an ideal base from where you can explore Holland’s largest nature reserve, The Hoge Veluwe National Park. Enjoy the peace and quiet of the forest or visit the Kroller Muller Museum with its collection of Van Gogh paintings as well as Europe’s largest sculpture garden.

Delft

With its canal-side cafes, gothic architecture, Renaissance art and impressive market, Delft offers far more than the exquisite ceramics for which it is famed.

Haarlem

Known as the Flower City, due to the abundance of public gardens and flower beds, Haarlem is a bustling city noted for its culture, shopping and nightlife.

Leiden

Leiden is an old University town with picturesque canals, draw bridges and gabled houses. The cobbled streets are full of interesting shops and a variety of restaurants from student cafes to gourmet cuisine.

Maastricht

The lively city of Maastricht with its medieval centre, houses ancient fortifications, imposing basilicas and interesting museums. The cobbled streets are full of boutiques, galleries and markets.

The Hague

As befits a royal city, The Hague sparkles with history and culture. And after the pomp and splendour of its architecture there are a wealth of shops and restaurants to enjoy, as well as museums, art galleries and the golden beaches of Scheveningen.

Utrecht

In the heart of Holland, the centre of Utrecht is dominated by the 14th century, 112 metre high Dom church tower. With its medieval canals, abundant fashionable shops and entertainment areas, this city is a marvellous blend of old and new.

Putten

The amazing Six Flags Holland, just 4 kilometres from the centre of Putten, is Europe’s newest and most thrilling theme park. An exciting world of fun and exhilaration with a Looney Tune theme throughout, there are more than 30 new shows and attractions from white knuckle rides to spectacular shows.

Belgium – Only a short drive from the major ports, Belgium makes an especially convenient place for a self-drive break. Famous for lace-making and the highly palatable beer and chocolate, Belgium promises a holiday full of culture and variety.

Antwerp

Busy and cosmopolitan Antwerp offers a marvellous blend of the old and the new. The streets and market places abound with medieval churches and handsome guild houses lead onto a shoppers paradise known as The Golden Mile.

Bouillon

Tucked away in the green forest of the Ardennes is the charming town of Bouillon, with its imposing castle. Visit the Ardennes and discover fortified towns perched on rocky cliff-tops and the most striking scenery.

Brussels

Brussels has one foot planted in its past. The Grand Place, combining Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque in one splendid square, is a permanent reminder in a bustling city housing the European Community.

Dinant

On the banks of the River Meuse is the enchanting town of Dinant, ride the cable car up to the Citadel where you can admire superb views of this spectacular region.

Genval

A quiet picturesque area, Genval also benefits from its close proximity to Brussels, just a 20 minute drive away. The Province of Namur has an exceptional heritage with castles, citadels and abbeys at every turn.

Ghent

Larger than Bruges, smaller than Brussels and close to both, Ghent is a unique combination of the two. Wander along the narrow cobbled streets, take a cruise by canal boat or relax in the many cafes which surround the Market Squares.

Namur

Namur is a delightful, ancient town of fortifications with a dramatic cliff top Citadel.

Ostend

Ostend offers all the attractions you would associate with a seaside resort. Promenade restaurants, the Kursaal Casino and the local colour of the Fisherman’s Market mean Ostend is appealing all year round.

Spa

One of the most beautiful regions of the Ardennes is sea. Walk through the woodlands, try your luck at the Casino, or pamper yourself at the famous Les Thermes De Spa Health Resort, (advance booking is advisable).

Stavelot

Within a few minutes drive of Spa is the small, yet charming town of Stavelot, one of the oldest in Belgium, founded in 648. Visit the ancient abbey of Stavelot, the world circuit racing museum or simply enjoy the enchanting atmosphere and wonderful food, which this area is famous for.

Torhout

Situated just 20 minutes away from Bruges, pretty Torhout is well worth a visit.

Ypres

The medieval cloth town of Ypres has been painstakingly reconstructed after being almost destroyed during World War I. It is an ideal base for visiting the surrounding battlefields.