Floriade 2012

Uniquely situated on the borders of three countries – Holland, Germany and Belgium. Valkenburg is not only the perfect destination for a fabulous festive break, but it is also the most popular holiday resort in Holland. Dispelling the myth that everything in Holland is flat and below sea level, Valkenburg sits up amongst the South Limburg Hills, surrounded by rolling countryside and meadows. It’s a bustling place with parks and gardens, lively bars, excellent restaurants and Roman Grottoes. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Valkenburg’s spectacular limestone caves are transformed into glittering festive grottoes. Add to this a myriad of shops festooned with sparkling fairy lights and you have the perfect destination for a seasonal shopping spree.

If you want to enjoy real Limburg hospitality, we can guarantee an unforgettable stay. This l, which was founded in 1885, is surrounded by a picturesque garden in the centre of the historic town of Valkenburg. Hotel Schaepkens van St Fijt is a 5-minute walk from the city centre. It also features bicycle rental and packed lunch services. Guests can make use of the indoor and outdoor swimming pools only 800 metres away from the hotel. The hotel restaurant serves a buffet dinner in the evening. All rooms have amenities such as a bath/shower, WC, TV and a free safe.

After boarding your luxury coach, we head straight down to Dover for our morning ferry/shuttle to Calais. We drive through France, Belgium, with comfort stops, then crossing the border into the Netherlands, known as the Limburg region. Arriving in Valkenburg early evening, where we will spend the next 4 nights with dinner, bed and breakfast at the Hotel Schaepkens van St Fijt.

After a hearty breakfast we travel north to the area of Venlo for a world of adventure. There are five different themed zones, Relax & Heal, Green Engine, Education & Innovation, Environment, and World Show Stage. Floriade 2012 lets you experience nature. Using the senses of sight, hearing, taste, touch and smell you can experience at first hand the influence horticulture has on the quality of our daily lives.

Today we travel into the hearts of the Eiffel region to the tiny German town of Monschau. The historic town center was not destroyed during World War 2, thus the many half-timbered houses and narrow streets have remained nearly unchanged for 300 years and make the town a popular tourist attraction. Explore the many narrow streets with their quaint shops cafes and restaurants.

Time to explore this beautiful town of Valkenburg. Visit the many fabulous shops, bars and restaurants. Visit the castle with superb views over the town or visit the underground caves (Fluweelengrot & Gemeentegrot,) Fluweelengrot or Velvet Cave are at the base of the castle ruins. The Gemeentegrot, or Municipality Cave which is just a short walk away.

After breakfast and the cases have been loaded on the coach, we say farewell to our hosts at the Schaepkens van St Fijt Hotel and depart for Calais. We will make stops along the way for coffee and lunch. Arriving at Calais for our late afternoon ferry crossing to Dover. Arriving home mid to late evening.

The Driver and Tour Manager will do their professional best to ensure that you enjoy this tour.
It will be at their discretion to rearrange the itinerary to better the tour for your comfort.