Floriade 2012 & Valkenburg

You will stay at the comfortable 3-star Hulsman or Eurotel Atlas in the centre of the attractive town of Valkenburg. The hotel has a restaurant and bar. Bedrooms have private facilities, TV, telephone and hairdryer. Limited number of single rooms available. Hotels will be confirmed in your final documents.

Day 1: UK/Valkenburg

Join the coach at your chosen departure point. The coach will join the ferry at Calais for an afternoon crossing and we will then continue to Valkenburg, in southern Holland, where you will stay for four nights.

Day 2: Valkenburg/Floriade 2012

Today we will take you to Venlo for the Floriade 2012 exhibition. Blooms from all over the world create a dazzling display at this event which arrives in the Netherlands in 2012 for the first time in 10 years.

There are hundreds of exhibitors and five themed zones, spread over 66 hectares, showcasing some of the world’s most spectacular flowers, plants and trees as well as a huge variety of fruit and vegetables.

Floriade 2012 also offers a varied cultural programme of music, dance, theatre, literature and visual art from all over the globe.

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 3: Monschau

Today you may wish to join an optional excursion to the medieval town of Monschau, nestled in the hilly forests in the beautiful Eifel Hills region of Germany. The pretty town is made up of quaint half timbered buildings, winding streets lined with colourful houses, and a small river. There are also plenty of shops, cafés and taverns. You will have time to explore at leisure. Why not visit the castle, Monschauer Brewery Museum, the Glass works, the Red House Museum or the Mustard Mill?

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 4: Cologne

You may wish to join the optional excursion to Cologne today. Cologne is a wonderful city on the banks of the Rhine. It boasts a long history that’s evident in its architecture and vibrant atmosphere. The city tour will take you to the city’s highlights and you will also enjoy time to explore at your own pace. You may wish to visit the main square, where you will see the magnificent cathedral, with soaring spires that were once the tallest structures in the world.

Meals: Breakfast / dinner

Day 5: Valkenburg/UK

We depart this morning for a late afternoon crossing back to the UK. Continue to your original departure point this evening.

Meals: Breakfast