On this tour delving into the heart of Saxon Germany we stay in the historic city of Dresden on the banks of the River Elbe. From here we explore the beauty of ‘Saxon Switzerland’ by coach and paddle steamer, and visit Prague, the vibrant capital of the Czech Republic. We also enjoy a drive through the rolling beauty of the Harz Mountains.

ITINERARY

Day 1 This morning we travel to Dover for the morning short sea crossing to Calais. We then travel through the French countryside and into Belgium to our overnight hotel in Liege. We have dinner tonight in a nearby restaurant.

Day 2 Leaving our hotel, we soon cross the border into Germany and continue to drive east with comfort stops along the way to our overnight hotel in Gotha, the cultural and historical centre of Thüringia.

Day 3 We depart after breakfast and continue eastwards and make our way to Dresden where we arrive early afternoon. We have a guided walking tour of this amazing capital of Saxony before checking into our hotel on the banks of the river for a four-night stay. We have a welcome drink before dinner.

Day 4 Today is at leisure for your own exploration. Dresden is known for its world class museums, extravagant palaces and of course its stunning setting on the River Elbe. See the recently restored Frauenkirche, the Cathedral, the Zwinger Palace, The Semper Opera House, Dresden Royal Palace or just take in the view from the Brühlsche Terasse, a rampart on the south bank of the river.

Day 5 Today we have a long but very worthwhile day to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. The historical core of the city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and although European, it has its own distinctly Czech atmosphere. We have a guided tour of the city and free time for your own exploration. See all the famous sites - Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Jewish Quarter, Our Lady of Loreto, Prague Castle and Wenceslas Square. A city of treasures not to be missed.

Day 6 We explore the beautiful Saxon landscape found along the banks of the River Elbe – the valley having been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Along this valley nature has chiselled the porous rock into columns, cliffs, deep valleys and gorges. The river flows through thick forest, sandstone cliffs, traditional German villages and many picturesque hilltop castles that dot the landscape. We have included a river cruise by paddle steamer between Pirna – the ‘Gateway to Saxon Switzerland’ - and Bad Schandau.

Day 7 Leaving Dresden after breakfast, we make our way west skirting Leipzig and entering the beautiful rolling scenery of the Harz Mountains. This region of thickly forested mountains, pristine lakes and rivers and unspoiled villages are rich in folklore and tradition. Our overnight stay is in the resort village of Braunlage close to the National Park.

Day 8 After an early departure from Braunlage, we travel east into Holland and then Belgium to Mechelen and our overnight hotel.

Day 9 Making our way today through Belgium and to the pretty town of Ghent where we have some free time to explore. We then continue into France, arriving in Calais for the afternoon ferry to Dover and our return to the local area.