Floriade 2012 & Hidden Holland

28th June - 2nd July 2012

Credit Netherlands Tourism Board

Thursday –  An early start as we head to the Port of Dover to sail away on the short channel ferry crossing to Calais. Onward then to our base at Venlo in time for evening dinner.

Friday - Departing the hotel after breakfast we travel to nearby Arcen for a visit to Castle Tuinen.  This impressive Baroque style castle is worth some exploration but it’s crowning glory is the stunning and extensive landscape gardens that stretch to over 32 hectares. The castle, which dates back to the 17th century, is now used as an exhibition centre and it is possible to look around and learn about its history. The Gardens will take some hours to explore (you will be stunned!) in a host of formal and informal areas, lakes, fountains, a waterfall, paths, boardwalks, tropical birds and a large glass house. At the castle there is a shop and a restaurant/cafe.  In the nearby village of Arcen (only a short walk from the castle) there is further interest plus shops and restaurants. We shall leave Arcen after lunch and return to Venlo enjoying some time at leisure here before boarding the coach and returning to the hotel in good time for dinner.

Saturday - Enjoy breakfast then a full day excursion through the Dutch countryside to Arnhem, a town forever associated with World War II and Operation Market Garden. We travel to the Airborne Museum in Oosterbeek.  The Airborne Museum is housed in what was the headquarters of the allied forces during the Battle of Arnhem. The Museum vividly illustrates the events of one of the fiercest battles of World War II between British paratroopers and German forces during the liberation of Western Europe. Learn about Field Marshall Montgomery and Operation Market Garden, which began in September 1944 when the famous John Frost Bridge unfortunately proved to be ‘A Bridge Too Far’. After, we journey to the nearby Airborne Cemetery. Following a short stop here, we proceed to Arnhem with time at leisure for some refreshments, shopping and to explore the city. Leaving Arnhem we return to Venlo, travelling via John Frost Bridge, with time to relax before dinner.

Sunday - After breakfast we depart for a full day visit to the 2012 Floriade, the international horticultural exhibition where you will experience a feast for the senses. There are cafés and restaurants to be found throughout Floriade. We will return to our hotel to relax over evening dinner.

Monday - An early start as we bid farewell to our hosts and head to the Port of Calais. Its a mid afternoon ferry crossing to the UK to continue the homeward journey with very special memories.

 • The Hotel:

The Van Der Valk Hotel Venlo is a 4 star hotel located only a few miles outside the centre of Venlo. All bedrooms have private facilities, air conditioning, mini bar and television. The hotel has a bright modern reception area, lift, a pleasent bar and a large and spacious restaurant. The restaurant offers a hot & cold buffet breakfast and a 3 course dinner with menu choice.

 • What’s Included:

All coach travel, short channel ferry crossings, 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast, hotel portaridge, welcome drink at hotel, entry to Arcen Castle & Gardens, entry to Airborne Museum, entry to Floriade 2012 with welcome gift & drink voucher, complimentary on board coach drinks, a Travel & Information pack and the services of a Tour Director throughout.

• £499.00 Single Supplement £99.00

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