Railtrail Main Brochure 2024

®

QUALITY ESCORTED HOLIDAYS BY TRAIN

Touring the UK & Overseas by Rail

BIG ON QUALITY, SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE.

Step into 2024

with Railtrail Tours

Welcome... To the world of Railtrail Tours, an award-winning, independent, family run, rail holiday specialist now heading into our 44th year of operating our popular escorted rail holidays. I am delighted to write this introduction to our most comprehensive tours programme to date with over 150 departures to a plethora of wonderful destinations in Britain and Europe, along with our specialist worldwide ‘tours with a difference’ to Australia and America. I feel sure that somewhere within our collection there are tours that will attract, fascinate, and excite your imagination. Our tours are unique to us, created by our team of rail travel experts each with a lifetime of knowledge and experience in the rail holiday industry. Please take a little time to relax and enjoy some armchair travel in the pages of this brochure travelling to wonderful destinations and fantastic attractions, in the company of new friends, expertly guided by our experienced Tour Managers each of whom fully understand our ethos to be the antithesis of the large corporate travel company. Rest assured that your enjoyment and travel experience with us will be our number one priority starting from the moment you first reach out to our Customer Care team. Please enjoy delving through the pages of this brochure and we look forward to having the pleasure of your company to a tour destination of your choice. Kind Regards,

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Dave Felstead Owner & Managing Director, Railtrail Tours Ltd

Why travel with Railtrail Tours …

Railtrail Tours – Big on Quality, Small enough to Care! Book now to avoid disappointment www.railtrail.co.uk 01538 382323 BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE, BOOK RAILTRAIL TOURS ★ Quality tours organised by rail experts with a lifetime of rail travel knowledge and experience ★ Our tour itineraries are full of vibrancy and imagination reflecting our unrivalled knowledge ★ FeeFo Platinum Trusted Service Award for excellence in customer service – the highest classification achievable ★ We guarantee that the fares shown are the fares you pay ★ 100% Financial Security – We operate a Trust Account for your payments providing essential customer re-assurance ★ Secure and easy to use 24/7 online booking facility or call our friendly Customer Care team on 01538 382323 ★ The only escorted rail holiday company with a Loyalty Rewards Scheme ★ An award-winning, independent, family run, rail holiday specialist that cares about you, our team, and our environment ★ A superb team of friendly and experienced Tour Managers

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DEPARTURES 2024 England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales

DEPARTURES 2024 Worldwide and Europe

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6 & 7 Page

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Harrogate New Year Celebration

Lapland Winter Wonderland by Rail White Pass – Swiss Winter Snow Train Adventure Saxony & Harz Winter Steam Extravaganza Harz Mountains Winter Wonderland

NEW TOUR

13 14 15

Exclusive Inverness & Treasures of the Highlands

9

NEW TOUR

Springtime Highlander

10 & 11

NEW TOUR

Scottish Trilogy – Tayside & Stirling Explorer Grand Tour by Rail – Coastal Nostalgia in the Sunny South Grand Tour by Rail – Six Wonders of the Waterways Grand Tour by Rail – Land’s End to John O’Groats

12

NEW TOUR

16 & 17 18 & 19 20 & 21 22 & 23 24 & 25 26 & 27

76 & 77 78 & 79

The Australian

Eastern USA Fall Colours Steam The Great German Rail Ale Trail

NEW TOUR

80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 90 91

Grand Tour by Rail – Derry to Kerry Grand Tour by Rail – Wales Coast to Coast

Harz Mountains Steam – The Jewel of Germany Amsterdam,Tulips, Cheese & Steam Swiss Glacier Express & The Bernina The Big Five versus The Stoosbahn

Jersey, Guernsey, Herm & Sark Glorious Isles of Scilly Springtime Gardens of Cornwall

28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61

NEW TOUR

Swiss Mountain Steam Swiss Rail Rider Bavarian Rail Rider

The Cream of Cornish Coasts & Country Steam & Sail in the Elegant English Riviera Dorset Coast & Isle of Wight Steam Heritage Bath & Ancient Wiltshire Forest of Dean Steam & The Wye Valley North Norfolk Coast,The Broads & Steam Roses Battle by Steam Plus Settle & Carlisle Line Floral Cheshire & Beyond Canals, Steam & Historic Chester Yorkshire Gold – Steam, Coast & Country Timeless Isle of Man Adventurer Lake District & Cumbrian Mountains Explorer Nostalgic Lakeland Railways & Cumbria Step Back in Tyne – Discover the North East Shipshape & Bristol Fashion Treasures of the Peak District Rail & Ramble in Historic Derbyshire Isle of Man Explorer

NEW TOUR

NEW TOUR

88 & 89

Lake Geneva Spring Steam Switzerland Steam-Powered Six Majorca’s Hidden Trails & Treasures

NEW TOUR

NEW TOUR

NEW TOUR

Railtrail Rewards Loyalty Once you have travelled with Railtrail, we reward your loyalty via our ‘Railtrail Rewards Loyalty’ points scheme. For every pound spent you will receive Loyalty Rewards Points on return from your holiday, which can then be used as a discount on future bookings. Loyalty Points remain valid for 3 years after your return from your holiday. The more loyalty points you earn, the greater the discount you will receive on your next tour. No other escorted rail holiday company offers such a scheme. Extra Benefits Rewarding Your Loyalty The vast majority of our customers are either repeat bookings or recommendations and, should you recommend Railtrail to someone not already on our system,YOUR Railtrail Rewards Loyalty account will be credited with points when they travel on their first tour. Points will be credited to the value of £25 per person booked if it was a UK tour, £50 per person booked if it was a European / Grand Tour, or £100 per person booked if they travelled on a Worldwide Tour. Railtrail Frequent Traveller Club The Railtrail Frequent Traveller Club rewards loyalty of our most frequent travellers. Once you have travelled with us a minimum of 5 times, you automatically become a member of a select club that receive special fare offers, free tour upgrades, and gifts including a quality pin badge to wear with pride.The more you travel, the higher the reward for bronze, silver, and gold members. Focus On Steam For details of all our steam tours please visit www.railtrail.co.uk and click on “Steam Tour Calendar” where all our current steam tours are listed. New Tours To receive details of all new tours as soon as they are organised please visit www.railtrail.co.uk wait for the brochure pop-up to appear, fill in your details, if you already have your brochure, tick the email promotions only check box and you will receive all Railtrail emails and up-to-date promotions.

NEW TOUR

42 & 43 44 & 45

NEW TOUR

North East Steam

NEW TOUR

Welsh Whisky, Mines, Mint & Steam

Wonderful Wales

Heart of Wales Steam & The Brecon Beacons Stirling Cities of Scotland by Rail

Scottish Steam, Malt & Ale Trail

Romantic Highlander Highland Adventure Summer Highlander Golden Highlander Highland Rail Voyager

West Coast Arran & Skye Discovery

NEW TOUR

62 & 63 64 & 65 66 & 67 68 & 69 70 & 71

Queen of Scots

Queen of Scots & Edinburgh Royal Deeside Explorer The Hebrides & The Kyle Line

NEW TOUR

Hebridean Odyssey

72 73 74 75

Picturesque Pitlochry & The Enchanted Forest Harris & Lewis Island Discovery Orkney & Shetland Explorer Scotland’s Far North, Shetland & Orkney

NEW TOUR

Introducing Bethany Lea ... Our most recent addition to ‘Team Railtrail’, Beth, is tasked with compiling, collating, and transferring into print the quality, imagination, excitement, and ethos of Railtrail Tours whilst, hopefully, captivating your imagination and loyalty as we have with so many of our travellers.

Member 2023

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The History of Railtrail Tours

by Owner & Managing Director, Dave Felstead. As an enthusiastic supporter of travelling by train I launched Railtrail Tours almost 45 years ago for like-minded people who appreciated the joy of travelling by train to wonderful destinations throughout Britain, and subsequently Europe, at a time when the media was only too keen to portray the opposite view. The ‘Tours & Travel’ world was a different place at that time with package tours flying to exotic destinations appearing to be so much more attractive than the nationalised British Railways, the butt of comedian’s jokes. The channel tunnel was just a dream so if you wanted to avoid flying or driving to Europe you would take a train to a port, a ship across the channel, followed by onward train travel often travelling through the night in a couchette or upright seating. As a teenager previously working for British Railways, I was entitled to complimentary rail travel for both Britain and Europe which enabled me to discover a love of train travel that has subsequently lasted my lifetime. Oh, how the railway world has changed during that time … Here, in Great Britain, there is now a real public desire to experience the relaxation of travelling by train, whilst protecting our environment. It is simply the most environmentally friendly and personally relaxing mode of transport. Thanks to the Channel Tunnel the continent of Europe is now reachable by train in a few hours and is a wonderful alternative to the stresses and strain of air or road travel. Journeys aboard European trains travelling at speeds up to 320kph sees road traffic left far, far, behind! These superb new high speed train services are a delight to behold and experience. Bringing countries and famous cities ever closer together. For instance, our numerous tours to Switzerland see us leaving the UK in the morning and enjoying an evening meal in beautiful Basel, or on the shores of Lake Lucerne. For our UK tours we are, to the best of my knowledge, the only rail holiday specialist that includes the rail travel from your home station to the tour base as part of the published tour package fare.This leaves you free to enjoy your tour from the moment you depart from your home station safe in

the knowledge that, should a hic-cup occur en-route, your tickets are fully flexible and a simple phone call to our office, or word to your Tour Manager, will see you back on track in a relaxed and stress-free manner. For those wishing to organise their own travel to the tour hotel we offer a reduced fare under the title Tour Base. I am proud that my hobby has resulted in the creation of a truly independent rail holiday company with a family ambience. I also know that the travel arrangements we make on your behalf are completed by some of the most talented people in the rail travel industry. New tours are being designed and launched on our website throughout the year. They are often booked up purely from website and other online publicity, so may I suggest that you view our website at www.railtrail.co.uk and register your interest in receiving new and current tours information electronically. Thank you for taking the time to read our story to date. It is an ongoing story that will see Railtrail Tours travel from strength to strength now driven by my son Paul, daughter Julie, and granddaughter Megan alongside our fantastic office team assisted by a wonderful and much treasured group of Tour Managers.

Back (Left to Right) Megan, Summer, Ellie, Julie, Paul, Gail, Ulrich, Mark, Dave Front (Left to Right) Esther, Phil, Marie, Carla, Rachel, Bethany

Les Tindall

Henry Allum

Rosie Sharp

Jim Ayres

Ken Larkins

John Barnett

Your Railtrail Tour Managers Every Railtrail tour is escorted by one of our team of caring and experienced Tour Managers.We are a family business and so we have hand-picked people to look after our customers who share our values.They are a very well-travelled bunch of people, with the most experienced having over 100 tours under their belt! Your Railtrail Tour Manager is there to make sure things run like clockwork.They have the experience and knowledge to make your travel arrangements straightforward and your holiday as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. Plus, they are great company too!

Shawn Buck

Michelle Blackwell

Graham Croucher

Les Snaith

Chris Lewis

Yvonne Cox

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What can you expect from your Railtrail holiday?

Beautiful Britain by Train Explore superb scenery, experience excellent food, stay in quality hotels, and visit stunning destinations. A great way to holiday and marvellous value for money.Your Railtrail Tour Fare is inclusive of: ★ Your choice of Standard or First Class rail travel to and from the Tour Base with meals as indicated ★ Accommodation with private facilities at quality hotels ★ All the excursions and attractions featured in your tour ★ Services of an experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Treat yourself to a little extra luxury and relaxation – choose our First Class rail option. Explore Europe by Train Extraordinary short breaks and tours featuring amazing railway journeys to wonderful destinations to suit all tastes. Our Classic European Tours depart from London St Pancras International where you will be met by your Tour Manager with a welcome complimentary drink and snack before boarding your high-speed Eurostar train to the continent. Each tour describes all the included rail travel and excursions, plus your quality hotel accommodation and meals as stated. You may choose to include the extra comfort of the exclusive carriages and refreshments of Eurostar Standard Premier train travel, plus First Class travel for the onward great continental railway journey to the country of your holiday destination. Worldwide Tours After meeting your Tour Manager at our chosen flight Check-in desk and passing through customs control, we have quality relaxation time with a complimentary snack and drink before boarding. Tour Base Fares Option For clients wishing to travel independently to join the tour of their choice we offer flexible joining point fares for all tours including the option to join and leave at the tour hotel(s). Included Meals Some light refreshments and evening meals are included in many of the tours in this brochure however, on a few tours based in popular destinations we leave the occasional evening free to give you an opportunity to experience the ambience and dine at leisure in a restaurant of your choice.To avoid any confusion every tour in this brochure summarises the included meals in the fares table and we also include a simple code at the end of each day description that states what meals are included on that particular day. The meals included are: B=Breakfast, L=Light Lunch, LR=Light Refreshments, D=Dinner. Your Mobility All our holidays by train require a reasonable level of physical fitness and unaided mobility. Our only wish is for you to enjoy your holiday and it is for this reason that we must be sure that the tour you have selected is suitable for you.To help you identify the suitability of a tour, our tours are thoughtfully classified based on activity level to help you find the perfect fit. Please visit the ‘Booking Information’ page on our website for further details (www.railtrail.co.uk/Booking-Information). Additionally, as part of the booking process, you are required to declare that you (and all your party travelling) are capable of: ★ Carrying and lifting your own luggage on and off a train ★ Walking at a reasonable pace as part of a group ★ Climbing steps and stairs comfortably A Note About Luggage We do include hotel porterage whenever we can, however carrying luggage is the customer’s responsibility, including onto or off a train.We

would recommend a modest sized suitcase with wheels and a retractable handle, and a small piece of hand baggage per person. Inclusive Rail Fares Railtrail’s British tours are unique in that, as described opposite, we offer tour fares inclusive of rail travel from any station in the UK, along with seat reservations (where applicable) as part of the tour package. Should you miss your specified train, or a connecting train, your ticket is still valid on the next service. All we ask is that you telephone either the office during office hours, or your Tour Manager outside of office hours, to let us know of your hiccup in your journey and we will then take control leaving you free to relax and enjoy the remainder of your journey. Please ensure when booking your tour that you give us the mobile phone number that you will be carrying with you on the day so that we can help you and maintain contact with you until you meet up with your Tour Manager. Please ensure that your mobile phone remains switched on so that you are contactable during your journey. For each UK tour we publish a Fares Table showing not only the fare for those wishing to join at the tour base but also fares offering your choice of First Class (where available) or Standard Class rail travel from every UK mainland rail station. Departure stations are grouped into regions, as shown in the example below:

Look down the table for the region from which you wish to travel ,The amounts shown alongside are the per person (sharing a twin/ double room). Look down the table for the region from which you wish to travel.The amounts shown alongside are the tour fare per person (sharing a twin/ double room) including rail travel from and to your home station.

Tour fare travelling First Class* rail from Home station to Tour Base & return

Tour fare travelling Standard Class* rail from Home station to Tour Base & return

* Please note: Some local and regional train services are Standard Class only, so First Class ticket holders will travel in standard class accommodation for these sections of journeys. On certain high-season departures we apply a Departure Supplement to the fare due to higher hotel or travel costs.

FARE REGION

FIRST* £755 £759 £785 £799 £635 £765 £819 £885 £949 £859 £935 £869 £1009

STANDARD

London: Paddington Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

£685 £689 £705 £715 £609 £695 £679 £735 £759 £715 £705 £709

Scotland £805 £10 tour discount for holders of National Railcards Join & Leave at Hotel £565

If you have a National Railcard the fares table also shows a nominal amount that you can deduct from the tour fare shown.

Alternatively, you may select the Tour Base fare as shown to “Join and Leave” at the tour hotel(s).

Our Concierge Luggage Service Did you know that it is possible to arrange to have your luggage collected in advance from your home and delivered to your UK or European tour hotel, leaving you free to enjoy your holiday by train even more? Using Railtrail’s luggage service allows you to travel light on the first and last days of your holiday, and this special concierge service may not cost as much as you would imagine. Contact us for further details.

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L apland W inter W onderland by R ail

Join our exciting new and exclusive winter tour by rail to Scandinavia and Swedish Lapland and explore all that Sweden’s capital has to offer. Experience the cities of Hamburg and Copenhagen en route. Embark on a thrilling overnight train journey into Lapland where we will explore local traditions, marvel at the stunning landscapes, relax

DAY 1 This morning we will meet at London St Pancras International for a welcome drink with pastries where we have chance to meet our fellow travellers and tour manager before embarking on our winter adventure. Settle back and enjoy the start to our thrilling journey, travelling by Eurostar from London, we change trains in Brussels, continuing our journey to Hamburg . We check into our hotel for the evening located next to the train station and enjoy our first evening at leisure. ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ All rail travel as described from/to London ★ Hire of winter suits/extra clothing where required TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Stay just a short stroll from Hamburg rail station with a Free City transport ticket included ★ Take a guided city tour of Stockholm including the Vasa Museum ★ Experience the romance of overnight rail travel taking you into stunning Swedish Lapland ★ Discover Kiruna with a guided city tour ★ Explore one of the largest iron ore mines in the world ★ Relax in the Aurora Spa, winner of the “best unique experience spa” in Europe ★ Immerse yourself in the wintry nights on a traditional dogsled hunt for the Northern Lights ★ Admire the scenery stretching out before you while enjoying traditional Sami apple cake ★ Learn about the traditional Sami way of life at the open-air museum before a delicious lunch ★ Meet the reindeers and hear local stories that will stay with you forever ★ Visit the world-famous ICEHOTEL and marvel at this landmark made entirely of ice from the local river ★ Stay in Demark’s beautiful capital, wonderful Copenhagen ★ Smaller Exclusive Group Tour Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ 4-star quality accommodation throughout the tour ★ Private cabins on the Arctic Circle Train to Kiruna (shared facilities) ★ 10 nights’ accommodation including 8 breakfasts plus 4 evening meals and 2 lunches ★ Local transport pass in Hamburg

in an award-winning spa, and hunt for the magical Northern Lights on a Husky dog sled! Join us for a once in a lifetime, memorable journey.

Fares From £3529

Dog Sledding

©Shutterstock

DAY 2 This morning we begin our journey north, leaving Germany behind and travelling through charming scenery into Denmark and finally into Sweden where we arrive in the capital city in the early evening. We walk the short distance from the main station and check into our base for this evening, The Clarion Amaranten Hotel. On arrival we will enjoy a 3-course meal together at the hotel. (B,D) DAY 3 Following a hearty breakfast, we check-out from the hotel and leave our luggage securely stored. Making our way to the city centre we join our guided walking tour of Stockholm, exploring all the cities major attractions, learning the history, and visiting exciting exhibitions including the Vasa-museum which houses an impressive fully preserved warship from the 17th century. We have time at leisure in the afternoon to shop for any essentials and to enjoy an early dinner before returning to the hotel to collect our luggage in time for the departure of the Arctic Circle night train to Kiruna. Enjoy this exciting and traditional way of travelling north into Swedish Lapland , waking to a truly magical landscape. (B)

DAY 4 Arriving at Kiruna this morning we transfer to our base for the next 4 nights, Camp Ripan. This family-owned business offers the best in Swedish hospitality, excellent comfort, cuisine, and magical activities and experiences. Our rooms will be in the cottage style chalets, which are private and cosy, and offer all the amenities needed. After settling in we reconvene at the Camp Ripan kitchen to enjoy lunch together, all produce is locally sourced and each dish has its own history, you will learn where the reindeer roamed and where the fish was caught. Once we are replete, we embark on a guided Kiruna city tour which will ensure we get our bearings quickly and learn about this fascinating community where Swedish, Sami & Finnish cultures meet. On return to the Camp we enjoy a 3-course meal together. (L,D) DAY 5 This morning we enjoy breakfast together before making an exciting visit to the Kiruna Mine , an iron ore mine which is the largest and most modern in Europe. Once we have finished exploring, we return to the Camp and have the rest of the day at leisure. You have the option to book another local activity or relax in the Aurora Spa which is the winner of the “best unique experience spa” in Europe and gives the ability to marvel at the stars from an outdoor hot pool. Will you catch a glimpse of the Aurora? This is a truly memorable experience. (B) DAY 6 Today we have breakfast included before a day at leisure to explore further or take the chance to enjoy the surroundings of Camp Ripan. In the early evening we will reconvene to share a once in a lifetime experience, a Northern Lights dog sled hunt . As we journey into the dark wintry night, we escape the lights of the city, sitting aboard a large sled pulled by a pack of excited, friendly Alaskan Huskies.The trail winds its way through a pine and birch forest down to the famous

Arctic Circle Train

IceHotel

© Shutterstock

© iStock

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

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NEW TOUR

The Northern Lights

©iStock

HOTELS Intercity Hotel, Hamburg This 4-star hotel is located directly at the main train station making it an ideal base. It is also a short distance to the city centre with all its myriad of shops, bars, and restaurants. All 155 rooms are comfortably furnished and offer an excellent range of amenities including bathroom with shower/WC, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, soundproof windows, air conditioning, and a safe. The hotel also has an excellent restaurant serving a quality breakfast and a range of seasonal dishes in the evening and there is also a cozy bar to enjoy drinks whilst reminiscing on your adventures. Clarion Hotel Amaranten, Stockholm The 4-star Clarion Hotel Amaranten is situated in central Stockholm, just an 8-minute walk from the central station and Stockholm city. A perfect location for those who want to put on their explorer shoes and experience all of Stockholm’s attractions. The hotel is surrounded by water and beautiful walking paths, and you are close to both sights, shopping, and Following our final breakfast at the Camp, we check out and transfer to the amazing ICEHOTEL .The Torne River supplies the ICEHOTEL every year with enough ice to build an entire hotel. It is located in the village of Jukkasjärvi which derives from a Sami word meaning ‘meeting place’ and the village is a historical trading site where people from far and wide have met since ancient times. Continuing we bid farewell to Kiruna and transfer to the station in time for our early evening night train departure to Stockholm. (B) Torne River where the night sky stretches out far in front of us. If the sky is clear and the Aurora forecast is on our side, it may be possible to see the lights dancing in the sky! At the halfway point we stop at a traditional Sami-style tipi for a warming drink and apple cake. Here you can take a chance to warm up by the open fire or stay outside to marvel at the night sky before we retrace our steps home. (B) DAY 7 This morning, after breakfast, we transfer to the traditional open-air museum which tells the story of the local Sami people and their traditional way of life, meeting the reindeers and hearing traditional stories. We enjoy a hearty lunch in a heated tent, seated at long communal tables around the crackling fireplace while Sami music is played to create the atmospheric experience.The remainder of the day and evening is at leisure to relax at the Camp and spa. (B,L) DAY 8

Copenhagen

©iStock

11 DAYS

DAY 9 Arriving in Stockholm this morning we have time to stretch our legs before connecting to our onward train departing for Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen . Arriving in the afternoon we check into our convenient city base, the Mayfair Hotel, which is a short walk from the central station and is close to all the major attractions. This evening we will have a meal together in a local city restaurant. (D) DAY 10 This morning we enjoy a leisurely breakfast before we make our way to the station and board the train for Hamburg. Retracing our steps, we arrive in the city in the afternoon with some time to explore before enjoying our final evening meal together at the hotel. (B,D) DAY 11 After breakfast today we bid farewell, departing Hamburg for the final legs of our journey. Travelling from Hamburg via Brussels and connecting onto the Eurostar returning to London St Pancras. (B) * Recommend overnight stay in London prior to trip departure * Please note sightings of the Northern Lights are not guaranteed, sightings depend on a number of environmental factors. the underground stop which is just 4-minutes to the main sights. All rooms have large windows and a desk, minibar, TV, hair dryer, iron, and the bathrooms have a shower. The hotel boasts a restaurant offering a wide selection of delicacies along with one of the nicest hotel bars in Stockholm to enjoy a relaxing drink. You can also make use of the hotels sauna to relax after a long day of exploring. Camp Ripan, Kiruna Camp Ripan is a one-of-a-kind property which is a family business built in total harmony with the local environment. The main building boasts huge panoramic windows allowing uninterrupted views of the stunning landscape surrounding the hotel and central to the main area is the fireplace providing a welcome warmth on wintry evenings. All the hotel rooms are built in a cottage style with their own entrance and are comfortably furnished with a shower and toilet, hairdryer, cable TV, telephone, and internet connection. After the day’s adventures, pay a visit to the hotels “Aurora Spa” to enjoy relaxing sauna

DEPARTS

Monday 8 January 2024

FARES From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to/from Sweden, including Standard Eurostar Supplement for Standard Premier Eurostar upgrade return First Class rail travel to/from Sweden, including Standard Premier Eurostar *First class upgrade not available on night trains (Stockholm-Kiruna-Stockholm)

£3529 £200

£3879

Join & Leave at Hamburg Single Traveller Supplement

£3349 £500 £150

First class upgrade Brussels-Hamburg- Stockholm & Stockholm-Copenhagen- Hamburg-Brussels 10 nights’ accommodation including 8 breakfasts plus 4 evening meals and 2 lunches Eurostar and rail travel to and from Sweden in the class of your choice All transfers & excursions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager GUARANTEED FARE baths, foot baths, and refreshing pool baths. This is a unique experience not to be missed, moving between inside and outside, between heat and cold, and keep your eyes peeled for those famous dancing lights. The hotel’s restaurant “Ripan Kitchen” offers a fusion of local Swedish, Sami, and Tornedal Finnish cuisines and with each dish being locally produced and cooked in traditional ways, there is something to suit all tastes. Hotel Mayfair, Copenhagen The 4-star Mayfair is centrally located just one block from the main central rail station. The area is home to many local independent shops, cafés, and restaurants and is just a few minutes’ walk to the main attractions of the city making it an ideal base. All rooms are stylish with warm colours and contemporary furniture and include free Wi-Fi, cable TV, iron/steamer, complimentary toiletries, and hairdryer. The hotel offers a hearty, homemade breakfast with locally sourced produce.The cozy, friendly bar serves a wealth of drinks and snacks after a busy city adventure.

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

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H arrogate N ew Y ear C elebration

Welcome in 2024

A relaxing New Year short break in the beautiful Victorian spa town of Harrogate. Our tour includes an afternoon tea, New Year’s Eve gala dinner with entertainment and a steam journey on the Embsay and Bolton Railway as well as a trip to the historic city of York.

DAY 1 Arriving in Harrogate , we make our way to the Crown Hotel, located in the heart of the delightful spa town. After check-in we have free time to explore prior to dinner. (D) DAY 2 – New Year’s Eve Today we travel to the medieval walled city of York where we enjoy the day at leisure to explore the city’s hidden gems and iconic historic buildings, including the impressive York Minster. We can take a stroll around preserved medieval streets of The Shambles and visit the many unique shops. In the afternoon we journey back to Harrogate and return to our hotel for an afternoon tea before a special gala dinner* with drinks Happy New Year! A day of relaxation awaits us today. After a leisurely breakfast, the morning is free to relax in the comfort of our hotel or we can get out in the fresh air and explore the magical atmosphere of Harrogate with its magnificent architecture. In the afternoon, a fabulous trip to the Dales awaits as we transfer to nearby Bolton Abbey for a ride on the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway along the former reception and entertainment. (B,LR,D) DAY 3 – New Year’s Day TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Stay in the heart of the Yorkshire Spa town of Harrogate ★ Explore the history and drama of York ★ Steam through the stunning winter scenery of Yorkshire Dales ★ Indulge in a warming lunch on the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway ★ Celebrate New Year in style with a luxurious gala dinner Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening plus 1 afternoon tea and 1 light lunch ★ Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

Fares From £599

Harrogate

4 DAYS

© MikeUK

Skipton-Ilkley Line, which was built in 1888. During our one hour round trip we enjoy a warming one course lunch with tea and coffee as we sit back and admire the stunning Yorkshire winter scenery. Following our delightful steam railway journey, we return to Harrogate by coach. (B,L,D) DAY 4 We bid farewell to wonderful Harrogate and Yorkshire as we make our way homeward. (B) * Please note the NewYear’s Eve gala dinner has a formal dress code.

DEPARTS

Saturday 30 December 2023

FARES

FARE REGION

FIRST* £865 £885 £935 £935 £1049 £925 £815 £685 £815 N/A £969 £819 £929

STANDARD

London: Kings Cross Greater London South of England East Anglia South West Midlands Yorkshire North East North West South Wales North Wales Heart of England

£745 £755 £779 £779 £849 £779 £699 £645 £719 £655 £799 £719 £779 £599

Scotland

Join & Leave at Hotel

HOTEL Crown Hotel, Harrogate This historic 4-star hotel sits proudly in the centre of Harrogate, ideally located close to many of the town’s most popular sites including the Crescent Gardens, Betty’s Tearooms, and the Turkish Baths. All bedrooms are individually styled with tea/coffee making facilities and free Wi-Fi. Meals are served in the elegant Churchill room with oak panelled walls, stained glass windows, and ornate ceilings. The genteel surroundings of Henry’s Bar make it the perfect place for a relaxing night-cap. £100 *Please Note: Some local and regional train services are Standard Class seating only and First Class ticket holders will travel in standard class accommodation for these sections of their journey. 3 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal plus 1 afternoon tea and 1 light lunch Rail travel & seat reservations from your Home Station to Tour Base (Standard or First Class) Rail & coach travel, with transfers as described All excursions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Single Room Supplement

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

© EBASR

York Minster

The Shambles

© iStock

© Shutterstock

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

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W hite P ass – S wiss W inter S now T rain A dventure

Our White Pass Winter Snow Train Adventure is a Swiss lakes and mountains tour with a difference. Featuring a great selection of excursions not found anywhere else, you can marvel at the wintry scenery on the Goldenpass Line, the route of the Glacier Express and the Rigi Mountain Railway, travel up Mount Titlis, and relax on the shore of the beautiful Lake Lucerne.

DAY 1 Relax as we let the European train system transport us from the bustle of early morning London to Lucerne , then by local train to lakeside Hergiswil by Lake Lucerne and the Seehotel Pilatus, where a welcome evening meal awaits at our hotel. (D) DAY 2 The first of our spectacular excursions features one of Switzerland’s most scenic railways, the Golden Pass Line from Lucerne through classic alpine scenery high over the Brünig Pass to Interlaken . Here we climb up to the pretty Swiss mountain village of Grindelwald , nestled at the foot of the Eiger’s north face. Enjoy some free time here before we retrace our tracks to Hergiswil. (B,D) DAY 3 The Snow Express train leaves the shores of Lake Lucerne, heading into the Engelberg Valley through delightful villages nestling at the foot of increasingly steep and lofty mountains. From Engelberg we ascend Mount Titlis on the world’s first revolving gondola – the ‘Titlis Rotair’ . The gondola rotates a full 360 degrees during its ascent, providing breathtakingly beautiful panoramas as you soar to the mountain station at an altitude of over 3,000 metres above sea level. (B,D) Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ 7 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal ★ Local Transport Pass ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager ★ Hotel Porterage TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Your choice of First or Standard Class rail travel to Switzerland and return ★ 4-star hotel beside Lake Lucerne with leisure facilities and fabulous views ★ Experience the Rigi Railway, Europe’s first mountain railway ★ Enjoy a breathtaking ride on the Titlis Rotair Cable Car, the world’s first revolving gondola ★ Take the Voralpen Express to the pilgrimage site of Einsiedeln ★ Discover the wonderfully scenic Goldenpass Line rail journey to Interlaken and Grindelwald ★ Spend a day on the route of the Glacier Express ★ Relax on Lake Lucerne’s steamers ★ Make the most of your Local Transport Pass to help you explore Lucerne on your free day

Fares From £1799

Glacier Express

8 DAYS

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DAY 4 After breakfast we head out on the Schölenen Railway line south towards the Gotthard and onwards to Oberalppass . We then experience a taste of the Glacier Express route from Oberalppass, the highest point on the line , through to Andermatt. After free time in this beautiful Swiss mountain village, we return to Hergiswil in time for dinner. (B,D) DAY 5 Blow those cobwebs away on Europe’s first mountain railway! The Rigi Railway has been transporting visitors from all over the world to the top of the ‘Queen of the Mountains’ since 1871.The Rigi was the preferred destination of writers and heads of state during the ‘Belle Epoque’ era between 1884 and 1914. Mark Twain,Tolstoy and Goethe all enthused about the beautiful views and even Queen Victoria wrote that, “We are amused!” Enjoy the ‘Queen of the Mountains’ for yourself on a mountain adventure. (B,D) DAY 6 Our excursion today on the Voralpen Express departs Lake Lucerne, passing Lake Zug , before beginning its ascent through snowbound Rothenthurm High Moor en route to Einsiedeln, whose monastery is Switzerland’s most significant baroque building and most visited pilgrimage site. (B,D) DAY 7 A day at leisure in Hergiswil allows you the opportunity to relax and unwind by lovely Lake Lucerne and maybe take full advantage of the hotel’s leisure facilities . Alternatively, you can use your local transport pass to visit Lucerne itself by steamer, with its famous Chapel Bridge and Transport Museum. (B,D) DAY 8 We return by train across Switzerland to Paris, changing stations for our Eurostar journey to London. (B)

DEPARTS

Saturday 3 February 2024 Saturday 2 March 2024

FARES From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to/from Switzerland, including Standard Eurostar Supplement for Standard Premier Eurostar upgrade return First Class rail travel to/from Switzerland, including Standard Premier Eurostar

£1799 £200 £2129 £1399 £185

Join & Leave at Hergiswil Single Traveller Supplement 7 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal Eurostar and rail travel to and from Switzerland in the class of your choice Local Transport Ticket All excursions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Hotel Porterage GUARANTEED FARE

HOTEL

Seehotel Pilatus, Hergiswil This 4-star hotel stands directly at the lakeshore on lovely Lake Lucerne in the village of Hergiswil, just a short train journey from Lucerne itself, surrounded by majestic mountain views.The hotel was bought as a humble guest house in 1911 by ancestors of the Fuchs family, who still own and run the Seehotel.There have been many changes since 1911 and, whilst providing a relaxing base in a great location for all our excursions, the hotel also features a host of leisure facilities, including a large indoor pool, jacuzzi, saunas, sun deck, and lakeside terrace.

Lake Lucerne

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Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

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S axony & H arz W inter S team E xtravaganza

DAY 1 Morning departure by Eurostar to Brussels , continuing by fast train to Frankfurt and onwards to Gotha . Overnight stay with evening meal at the Am Tierpark Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ 10 nights’ bed & breakfast plus dinner on 6 evenings ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Direct ICE train to Dresden arriving late morning. After dropping off our luggage at the hotel we spend the afternoon with steam on the Radebeul Ost to Radeburg line in the suburbs of Dresden. The line is operated by 2-10-2T locomotives and the steam trains run every day on the 16.6 km track. We then spend six nights at the InterCity Hotel, Dresden, situated right by the station.Tonight, we enjoy a three course evening meal. (B,D) DAY 3 After breakfast we travel by private coach from the hotel to the village of Johstadt for the winter steam trains on the 7 km long Pressnitztalbahn .This is a lovely line that follows a stream to Steinbach which was opened in 1892 and dismantled but revived in 1992 by the Museumsbahn members. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Ride the Saxon Radebeul-Radeburg steam railway line through the suburbs of Dresden ★ Experience the superb Pressnitztalbahn narrow gauge steam railway ★ Travel onboard the Saxon Meyer steam locomotives on the Oschatz line ★ Scenic steam journey in the snow on the line to the ski resort at Oberwiesenthal ★ Ride the route to Kurort Kipsdorf ★ Discover the country tramway at Bad Schandau ★ Special visit to Altstadt roundhouse and museum Dresden ★ Steam up the Brocken Mountain with stunning views ★ Enjoy the Harz narrow-gauge steam experience on the Selketal line to Alexisbad ★ Steam the 40km from Eisfelder to Wernigerode Hotel. (D) DAY 2

Get ready to experience the ultimate steam tour adventure! Discover the stunning landscapes of Saxony and the Harz region in all its glory on this unforgettable journey. With no less than EIGHT steam lines to explore, you’ll be sure to have an action packed itinerary.

Fares From £2199

Selketalbahn

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DAY 4 We take a main line train to Oschatz , crossing over to the little bay platform there for Winter Steam with Saxon Meyers on the Döllnitzbahn . The Döllnitzbahn narrow-gauge railway in Saxony, Germany has been operating for more than 130 years. The train travels through the town then open fields to their depot at Mugeln continuing onwards to Glossen. We then return later in the day to Oschatz and main line train to Dresden. (B) DAY 5 Travel by regular railcar from Dresden via Floha to Cranzahl for steam on the Fichtelbergbahn , a steeply graded line that climbs for 11 miles into the mountains and over a high viaduct to the ski resort of Oberwiesental situated at 3,000ft altitude.The railway is a narrow-gauge railway that leads from the standard gauge line at Cranzahl. (B)

DAY 6 A short local train ride takes us to Freital Hainsberg. Here we board our steam train for a ride over the 16 mile long Weisseritztalbahn through woodland, past a lake and small villages to Kurort Kipsdorf and return. A wonderful narrow-gauge railway in Saxony which runs for nearly 14 km. (B) DAY 7 We travel by train along the banks of the River Elbe to Bad Schandau , then a ferry across the Elbe to ride the bucolic tramway through country lanes to Lichtenhain and return. On return to Dresden, we have an exclusive visit to the railway museum at Altstadt roundhouse housing main line steam locomotives.This is one of the oldest railway roundhouses in Germany, dating 1847. Our evening meal is at the hotel. (B, D)

Lichtenhain

Dresden

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© iStock

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

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NEW TOUR

Pressnitztalbahn

© iStock © Shutterstock

DAY 8 Depart on the morning train via Halle to Wernigerode arriving early afternoon, followed by a guided visit to the Wernigerode Steam Loco works where the locomotives are overhauled. It was founded in 1993 and is located at the former Harz Narrow Gauge Railways depot.We have three nights at the Hotel HKK with buffet evening meal. (B, D) DAY 9 Experience the thrilling climb behind steam from Wernigerode through the snow to the summit of the Brocken Mountain. Afterwards spend time at the junction of Drei Annen Hohne , perhaps enjoying a warming soup in the little café on the platform while watching the steam activity, before returning to Wernigerode for our buffet evening meal at the Hotel HKK. (B, D) DAY 10 Travelling by local train to Quedlingburg for the morning steam working over the rural Selketalbahn line to Alexisbad. The Selke Valley Railway is a narrow gauge railway owned by the HSB and runs for 43.3 km, changing there for the railcar onwards to Eisfelder Talmulhe. Here we connect with the afternoon steam working from Nordhausen to Wernigerode. We then have our final buffet evening meal at our hotel. (B, D) DAY 11 Departing Wernigerode after breakfast travelling via Goslar, Hannover, Koln, and Brussels to London arriving late afternoon. (B)

Fichtelbergbahn

11 DAYS

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DEPARTS Thursday 8 February 2024

FARES From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to/from Germany, including Standard Eurostar Supplement for Standard Premier Eurostar upgrade return

River Elbe, Dresden

© AdobeStock © Shutterstock

£2199 £200

First Class rail travel to/from Germany, including Standard Premier Eurostar Join at Dresden & Leave at Wernigerode Single Traveller Supplement 10 nights’ bed & breakfast plus 6 evening meals Eurostar and rail travel to and from Germany in the class of your choice All transfers, steam rides, excursions & admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager GUARANTEED FARE £2499 £1999 £280

Steaming up Brocken Mountain

HOTELS Hotel Am Tierpark, Gotha

This 3-star superior hotel in Gotha is located on the southern outskirts of the city opposite the zoo.The hotel has a restaurant with bar, winter garden and terrace, conference and banquet rooms, sauna, and a small fitness area. All 45 single rooms and 73 double rooms are air-conditioned, soundproofed, equipped with shower/toilet, hairdryer, satellite TV, high-speed internet, radio, telephone, and desk.The property is a 10-minute walk from the main railway station. InterCity Hotel, Dresden Situated right by Dresden Main railway station this 162-room hotel has a bar, restaurant, and buffet breakfast. All rooms feature shower/toilet,Wi-Fi,TV, soundproof windows, hair dryer, and a bottle of water. Hotel HKK,Wernigerode This stylish 4-star hotel is ideally positioned close to the historic old town centre and the Wernigerode railway stations. The hotel offers well-equipped, comfortable bedrooms with TV and hairdryer. Enjoy local culinary delights in the buffet restaurant and relax in the Berliner Ziller bar. Leisure facilities at the hotel include a sauna, gym, and jacuzzi.

Brocken Steam

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

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H arz M ountains W inter W onderland

Germany’s timeless Harz Mountains are arguably even more spectacular in winter with the towns half-timbered houses and snow dusted forests resembling a picturesque Christmas card scene. Our popular Winter Wonderland tour now includes a day to relax and explore beautiful Wernigerode.

DAY 1 We depart London St Pancras by Eurostar, speeding across Kent and towards France. Our Eurostar terminates at Brussels, where we change onto the German rail system, reaching our hotel in Wuppertal, the Fleming’s Express Hotel, for one night. (D) DAY 2 Wuppertal is well-known throughout Germany for its unique ‘Schwebebahn’ suspended railway, which floats high above the river Wupper. The railway dates from the early 1900s and we enjoy a journey on this ‘dingle dangle railway’ as it is affectionately known at Railtrail, before re-joining the German rail network, continuing to Hannover and onwards to Wernigerode , where our hotel for five nights is the HKK Hotel. (B,D) DAY 3 Our excursion by regional railway takes us to the historic and charming town of Goslar. At any time of year Goslar, with its imperial heritage and gorgeous Old Town, is worth a visit. Boasting more than 1,500 half-timbered buildings, Goslar has UNESCO World Heritage status. We learn about the proud history of this thriving town on a guided walking tour. (B,D) DAY 4 The regional rail network takes us to a UNESCO World Heritage site today, Quedlinburg . Quedlinburg’s patchwork of half-timbered houses has led UNESCO to consider it one of the best examples of a medieval town and the Collegiate Church overlooking the town from its hill a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. From Quedlinburg we take the narrow-gauge Selketalbahn through the wintry forests to Alexisbad. Here we settle into the cosy atmosphere of a local TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ★ Your choice of First or Standard Class rail travel from London to Germany and return ★ Enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage half-timbered Goslar ★ Experience an action-packed steam-hauled journey up the Brocken Mountain ★ Indulge in ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’ at the restaurant at the summit of the Brocken ★ Travel to the beautiful half-timbered town of Quedlinburg, a former imperial capital ★ Steam on the narrow-gauge Selketalbahn Railway Also included in your Tour Fare: ★ Dinner every evening ★ Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager

Fares From £1189

7 DAYS

Brocken Mountain Steam

© Dirk Bahnsen

gasthaus to enjoy light lunch before making the return journey. (B,L,D) DAY 5 This morning we enjoy an exhilarating ride aboard the Brockenbahn , a steam-hauled journey from Wernigerode through wintry landscapes up to the summit of the Brocken mountain to Germany’s highest narrow-gauge station and the Harz region’s highest peak. At the summit we take in the views from the warmth of the restaurant, enjoying ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’. (B,LR,D) DAY 6 Today we enjoy a day relaxing in Wernigerode and have the chance to explore this pleasant Harz town, with its attractive market square and picturesque town hall. We can take a stroll around this pretty town with its half-timbered houses or take a trip up the hill to Wernigerode’s stunning castle. A fond favourite of the Railtrail Tour Managers is Bar Altora located near to the railway station which has a miniature railway that delivers your drink to your table … a perfect way to spend a relaxing afternoon! (B,D) DAY 7 Leaving Wernigerode, we change trains in Hannover HOTELS Fleming’s Express Hotel,Wuppertal

DEPARTS Monday 12 February 2024 Sunday 10 March 2024 FARES From London St Pancras International: Standard Class rail travel to/from Germany, including Standard Eurostar Supplement for Standard Premier Eurostar upgrade return First Class rail travel to/from Germany, including Standard Premier Eurostar Join at Wuppertal & Leave at Wernigerode

£1189

£200

£1569

£965

Single Traveller Supplement £125 6 nights’ bed, breakfast & evening meal plus 1 light lunch and ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’ Eurostar and rail travel to and from Germany in the class of your choice All transfers, excursions & admissions as detailed Services of experienced Railtrail Tour Manager Fares based upon sharing a twin-bedded en-suite room; single rooms available for a supplement. GUARANTEED FARE

and Cologne. In Brussels we join the Eurostar service to London St Pancras. (B)

This modern 4-star hotel puts you right in the centre of Wuppertal, close to the main station and just a short walk from the Schwebebahn ‘dingle-dangle railway’.The bedrooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel has a bar, restaurant, and fitness centre. HKK Hotel,Wernigerode This stylish 4-star hotel is ideally positioned close to the historic old town centre and the Wernigerode narrow-gauge railway station. The hotel offers well-equipped, comfortable bedrooms with TV and hairdryer. Enjoy local culinary delights in the buffet restaurant and relax in the Berliner Ziller bar. Leisure facilities at the hotel include a sauna, gym, and jacuzzi.

Goslar

© Sina Ettmer - Shutterstock

Book now – online at www.railtrail.co.uk or telephone: 01538 382323

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