TOURING THE WORLD - AN EXCEPTIONAL COLLECTION OF SMALL GROUP TOURS AND CRUISES AROUND THE WORLD
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JULES VERNE FLEXIBILITY FLEXIBLE BOOKING POLICY Our flexible booking policy applies to all reservations for tours departing more than two months ahead. Whether you are making a new booking or re-booking a tour, you may alter to a new date and/or destination, free of charge, as long as the original tour departure date is outside the 61-day ‘balance due’ period. For full details, please see vjv.com. WE ARE RECOGNISED We are delighted to have been awarded ‘Best Specialist Tour Operator’ for the fifth consecutive year at The Times/Sunday Times Travel Awards 2020 and recognised by Which? as one of the specialist and smaller holiday firms leading the way during Covid-19; abiding by the law and looking after our customers’ interests. 2 vjv.com 020 3811 7352 Intro 002_003_v2.indd 2 19/02/2021 09:44:01
CONTENTS JULES VERNE FLEXIBILITY 2 RUSSIAN CAPITALS 19 PEAKS AND PETROGLYPHS 34 JULES VERNE KEY FEATURES 3 THE CROSSROADS OF EUROPE & ASIA 20 GRAND TOUR OF SRI LANKA 35 JULES VERNE EXLUSIVES 4 GRAND TOUR OF MOROCCO 21 THE TALE OF THE TIGER 36 JULES VERNE CRUISES 6 CARTHAGE TO KAIROUAN 22 SECRET HIMALAYAN INDIA 37 EUROPEAN TOURS 8 PYRAMIDS & THE NILE 23 SPLENDOURS OF SOUTHERN INDIA 38 ASPECTS OF THE AZORES 9 THE 600-MILE NILE 24 DISCOVER CHINA 39 MOUNTAIN ISLAND LAKE 10 A KENYAN SAFARI 25 JAPAN’S EARTHLY TREASURES 40 SECRET SICILY 11 BOTSWANA EXPLORER 26 WILD BORNEO 41 PEAKS, PORTS & PALAZZI 12 ROBIN POPE SAFARIS 27 TREASURES OF INDOCHINA 42 CLASSICAL TOUR OF GREECE 13 VICTORIA FALLS TO THE OKAVANGO 28 LOST WORLD OF THE INCAS 43 TURKISH MEANDER 14 GENTLE GIANTS 29 HEMINGWAY’S CUBA 44 JOURNEY TO THE CENTRE OF THE EARTH 15 GRAND TOUR OF SOUTH AFRICA 30 CENTRAL AMERICA’S GARDEN OF EDEN 45 LAND OF THE POLAR BEARS 16 GRAND TOUR OF NAMIBIA 31 TERMS & CONDITIONS 46 KRAKOW PRESERVED 17 DISCOVER JORDAN 32 CLASSICAL TOUR OF ALBANIA 18 TREASURES OF THE HOLY LAND 33 JULES VERNE KEY FEATURES SMALL GROUPS with benefits such as more leg room, INDEPENDENT ARRIVAL Travelling as part of a small group a wider seat, separate check-in, ‘fast Most tours show price reductions if you will enjoy a more intimate and track’ route and airport lounges. Some you prefer to make your own travel sociable atmosphere, benefit from more airlines offer a ‘Premium Economy’ (e.g. arrangements, arriving and departing personal attention from our guides and British Airways World Traveller Plus) independently. Join the group at the delve into your destination in more offering more space and comfort. first hotel and leave at the last (arrival detail, experiencing local life in a more and departure transfers not included personal and informal setting. SPECIAL EVENTS but may be booked as indicated). Our small group sizes avoid congestion To enhance the experience of caused by travelling in a large group. Jules Verne travellers, we arrange HOTELS Most programmes have a maximum exclusive and memorable special We offer hotels which enhance the of 25 guests and many are limited to events, illuminating the country and experience of the destination: Historic 18 guests or fewer. We normally operate peoples you visit. Attend a special Hotels are former noble residences or programmes even for very small groups ceremony, performance, meal or drinks classic hotels; Central Hotels make the and our average group size is under party at characteristic and spectacular evening an experience for a stroll or to 10 people. For 2021 we have reduced locations; learn about cooking and the visit a local restaurant or bar. our average minimum group size to local way of life; discover less-visited corners or special locations not normally We indicate local hotel ratings and under 5 and maximum to under 20. check hotels for health & safety, taking open to the public. into account Covid requirements. Hotel NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT ratings vary and some standards may JULES VERNE SIGHTSEEING We offer a range of destinations not reflect those in the UK. and dates where there is genuinely This most important of Key Features No Single Supplement (limited indicates that sightseeing is tailored just SOLO GROUPS availability, so early booking is for our group, taking into account your preferences and our experience over We offer on selected tours, departures recommended – check vjv.com for with No Single Supplement where available departure dates). Additionally, many years and not combining with other visitors. Sightseeing is undertaken the group is comprised only of single we try to minimise the single travellers, following the same itinerary supplement charged by hotels, cruise by expert local guides who we consider to be the best source of information. and accompanied by a UK or local and rail companies. tour manager. On a few programmes such as cruise CHOICE OF FLIGHTS or rail programmes sightseeing may be shared with non-Jules Verne guests. EXTRA NIGHTS Where practical, we offer scheduled Extra nights at the first and last hotels flights from multiple airports or with UNESCO HERITAGE SITES (or on extensions or stopovers) are ‘low cost’ airlines. Brochure prices are normally available to allow you extra based on specific routes but other flight We mention the number of sites on The United Nations Educational, time to relax or explore independently. options may be available – let us know if you prefer an alternative routing or Scientific and Cultural Organization lists which endeavours to identify and help EXTENSION OPTIONS timing and we will endeavour to match your request. Connecting flights via protect the world’s most important Whilst our tours follow a fixed itinerary, London or other cities are available on cultural and natural heritage. For details you can personalise your visit by adding many long haul tours. please refer to whc.unesco.org. pre- or post-tour extensions. We also offer ‘Business Class’ upgrades 020 3811 7352 vjv.com 3 Intro 002_003_v2.indd 3 17/02/2021 09:07:12
JULES VERNE EXCLUSIVES 7 nights from We are delighted to present our collection of unique exclusive £1995 charters. Cruise on smaller vessels in India, on the Douro, Mekong, Nile and Irrawaddy, as well as in Croatia. Or perhaps if you like the idea of slow, immersive travel, a trip on one of our canal barge cruises in France could be a great alternative to coastal or river cruising. Our exclusive cruises allow for an enhanced excursion programme and on board experience, specially tailored for our guests in the company of like-minded travellers. Free cabin selection is an ROYAL BARGE ON THE DOURO additional benefit with our exclusive arrangements. Availability: Jun 2021 – Oct 2022 River and coastal cruises are a wonderful way to travel, allowing you Embark on the former Royal Barge, Spirit of Chartwell. This luxury barge sets the to relax and cruise through some of the most spectacular scenery in standard for the highest quality, intimate the world. With included excursions there is no better way to discover cruising in the stunning Douro Valley region. the treasures of each country, travelling in style from the comfort of Special Events: Quinta dinner & port tastings. your small ship. The need to only unpack once is a welcome benefit. Historical Vessel • Meals Incl. • UK Tour Manager • 2 UNESCO Sites • Group Size: 2 – 28 6 nights 6 nights 6 nights 00 nights from from from £2145 £2045 £2195 £0000 PÉNICHE HAUTE SEINE PÉNICHE CHAMPAGNE PÉNICHE ALSACIEN Availability: 11 Jun & 6 Aug 2021 Availability: Aug 2021 – Sep 2022 Availability: Sep 2021 – Sep 2022 Travel by Eurostar to Paris for a barge cruise Travel by Eurostar to Paris for this exclusive A ‘Great Canal Cruise’ from Strasbourg to via the Châteaux of royal Fontainebleau and barge cruise to Epernay and Reims on the Lagarde travelling past small villages, fairy- Vaux-le-Vicomte, artistic Barbizon and sacred majestic Marne canal through charming tale castles and wonderful forests, hills and Sens, an insight into France’s cultural, royal, towns, the Champagne region and historic valleys. Traverse 40 locks and the Arzviller religious and artistic heritage. cities, tasting Champagne every day! inclined plane. Walk or cycle between some. Meals & Drinks Incl. • No Single Supp. • UK Tour New Cruise • Meals & Drinks Incl. • UK Tour Meals & Drinks Incl. • No Single Supp. • UK Tour Manager • 2 UNESCO Sites • Group Size: 2 – 20 Manager • UNESCO Site • Group Size: 2 – 20 Manager • UNESCO Site • Group Size: 2 – 20 6 nights 6 nights 6 nights from from from £2295 £2195 £2195 PÉNICHE BOURGOGNE PÉNICHE SUR LOIRE PÉNICHE PROVENÇALE Availability: 15 Jul & 12 Aug 2021 Availability: Jun 2021 – Sep 2022 Availability: Jun 2021 – Sep 2022 By Eurostar to Paris for a cruise on the Petite By Eurostar to Paris for a cruise along A unique cruise along the Canal du Rhône Saône river & Burgundy Canal, from Port-sur- the Loire Canal from Nevers to Briare. from Arles to Sète visiting Avignon, Pont du Saône to the medieval Burgundian capital of Pass French countryside, small villages & Gard, Nîmes, Aigues-Mortes, Montpellier & Dijon. Pass charming villages, historic towns, abundant vineyards, tasting local specialities Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. Enjoy fine food & taste local products & Vins de Bourgogne. & wines including Sancerre & Pouilly-Fumé. wine with afternoons of gentle cruising. New Cruise • Meals & Drinks Incl. • No Single New Cruise • Meals & Drinks Incl. • No Single Meals & Drinks Incl. • No Single Supp. • UK Tour Supp. • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 2 – 20 Supp. • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 2 – 20 Manager • 3 UNESCO Sites • Group Size: 2 – 20 4 vjv.com 020 3811 7352 JV Exclusives Capsules.indd 4 19/02/2021 09:53:37
7 nights 7 nights from from £1645 £1745 EXPLORERS & EMPERORS SECRET WONDERS OF CROATIA Availability: Jun 2021 – Oct 2022 Availability: Sep 2021 – Sep 2022 A delightful sailing on the elegant small MV Explore the cultural heritage and natural Admiral, exploring the wonderful Dalmatian beauty of the islands and coast of less- Islands and the historic Greco-Roman, visited central Croatia from Split to Šibenik & Byzantine and Renaissance worlds. Wine Zadar on the small MV Admiral. Visits to Krka, tasting at Grgic and Heritage Evening. Kornati & Plitvice Lakes National Parks. 3 UNESCO Sites • Most Meals Included 4 UNESCO Sites • Most Meals Included • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 2 – 20 • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 2 – 20 13 nights 11 nights 10/11 nights from from from £5495 £2495 £2395/ £2595 THE NILE BY ROYAL STEAMER ASSAM & THE BRAHMAPUTRA THE BANKS OF THE HOOGLY Availability: 13 Sep 2021 & 13 Sep 2022 Availability: 3 Nov ‘21, 23 Mar, 16 Apr ‘22 Availability: 12 Oct ‘21, 2 Feb, 12 Apr ‘22 A ‘Royal Invitation’ to join this most Cruise along India’s iconic Brahmaputra A unique cruise through rural countryside atmospheric and luxurious cruise on the river including visits to Kaziranga National along the River Hoogly between Calcutta classic Nile from Cairo and the Pyramids to Park, home of the one-horned Rhino, Majuli and English Bazaar away from the tourist ancient Thebes and Aswan on board the island of monasteries and the vibrant former trail, with the opportunity to observe Indian 5-star restored deluxe paddle steamer. colonial capital of Calcutta. life from the comfort of a charming vessel. 4 UNESCO Sites • Full board on Cruise UNESCO Site • Jeep Safaris • Full Board on No Single Supplement • Full Board on Cruise • Egyptologist Included • Group Size : 6 – 24 Cruise • Group Size: 2 – 19 • Group Size: 2 – 22 13 nights 10 nights 17 nights from from from £3945 £2495 £3395 MEKONG EXPLORER FROM MANDALAY TO BAGAN BURMESE DAYS Availability: 7 Nov 2021 & 12 Jan 2022 Availability: 29 Nov 2021 & 4 Feb 2022 Availability: 29 Jan & 18 Feb 2022 An exclusive luxury Pandaw cruise from An unbeatable offer for our exclusive An exclusive Irrawaddy cruise on our Thailand’s Golden Triangle along the Pandaw top-rated cruise along the top-rated Pandaw ‘colonial steamers’ to ‘Mother of all Waters’ and through Laos, the Irrawaddy in the favoured season linking Mandalay, Bagan, the Irrawaddy Defiles and ‘earthly paradise of South East Asia’ with the city of pagodas with the colonial capital, Katha, setting of Orwell’s ‘Burmese Days’, timeless landscapes and traditional lifestyles. with a visit to Yangon. Excursions included. also visiting Yangon and Inle Lake. UNESCO Site • Full Board & Most Drinks UNESCO Site • Full Board & Most Drinks Incl. UNESCO Site • Full Board & Most Drinks Included on Cruise • Group Size: 2 – 18 on Board • No Single Supp. • Group Size: 2 –18 Included on Cruise • Group Size: 2 –18 020 3811 7352 vjv.com 5 JV Exclusives Capsules.indd 5 23/02/2021 10:05:12
EUROPEAN CRUISES 7 nights from Discover a wide variety of European escorted river and ocean cruises £1555 with Jules Verne, which uncover an array of breathtaking scenery, historic cities, UNESCO sites and culinary delights. Every cruise unfolds at a leisurely pace allowing you to sit back and watch as you glide through the ever-changing scenery. Our choice of vessel is deliberate to reflect the flavour and ambience of the routing and our carefully selected partners share our ethos for a boutique style cruising experience, ideal for the discerning traveller ANDALUCÍA FROM THE WATER with an interest in culture, history and nature. Availability: July 2021 – October 2022 Your comfort and enjoyment is enhanced on most of our European Discover Seville and Moorish Spain including Córdoba and the Alhambra, staying mostly cruises as they are hosted by our own Tour Manager. Each vessel has in Seville with leisurely cruising to coastal an experienced captain, a professional and knowledgeable cruise Cádiz on the Guadalquivir River. 3 UNESCO director and an attentive crew to look after your needs and ensure the sites, excursions and drinks included. smooth running of the cruise. Early Booking Offer • No Single Supplement • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 6 – 28 6/7 nights 4 nights 6 nights from from from £1695/ £860 £1645 £1995 VENICE FROM THE WATER VENICE & THE DUCAL CITIES BORDEAUX & RIVERS OF WINE Availability: June 2021 – November 2022 Availability: June 2021 – September 2022 Availability: June 2021 – September 2022 Visit the charming UNESCO city of Venice Cruise from Venice on the Venetian lagoon Visit rival ports of La Rochelle and Rochefort, and cruise the lagoon leisurely on board the to Mantua along the Canal Bianco including cruise the Garonne, Dordogne & Gironde to CroisiEurope MS Michelangelo, with time 4 UNESCO sites with excursions to Vicenza, famous vineyards, châteaux & bastide towns. to explore independently or enjoy optional Verona, Mantua, Cremona and Parma. 2 UNESCO sites, excursions and drinks excursions. Drinks included on board. Excursions and drinks included. included. Bordeaux extension available. Early Booking Offer • No Single Supplement Early Booking Offer • No Single Supplement Early Booking Offer • No Single Supplement • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 6 – 28 • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 6 –28 • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 6 – 28 6/7 nights 6/7 nights from from 7 nights from £1495/ £1645/ £1745 £1995 £1935 IMPRESSIONS OF THE SEINE PROVENCE & BEAUJOLAIS DANUBE WALTZ Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Availability: June 2021 – September 2022 A river journey from Paris to the coast of By plane or train to Lyon, visit the Cruise on the ‘Blue Danube’ in Austria, Normandy through the magnificent scenery landscapes, heritage and tastes of the Slovakia & Hungary includes Imperial Vienna, that inspired the Impressionist painters, Rhône, Saône, Avignon, Arles & the medieval Dürnstein, Baroque Melk Abbey, visiting Monet’s house at Giverny, Honfleur & Camargue. 3 UNESCO sites, excursions and quaint Bratislava, the Puszta and magnificent Rouen. Excursions and drinks included. drinks included & option to extend in Lyon. Budapest. Excursions and drinks included. No Single Supplement • UK Tour Manager Early Booking Offer • Solo Group Departure Early Booking Offer • No Single Supplement • Group Size: 6 – 28 • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 6 – 28 • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 6 – 28 6 vjv.com 020 3811 7352 European Cruises capsules.indd 6 17/02/2021 10:38:27
9 nights 8 nights 8 nights from from from £2380 £1995 £1975 SECRET DANUBE TRIBUTARIES OF THE RHINE THE SOUTHERN RHINE Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Availability: June 2021 – September 2022 Availability: June 2021 – September 2022 Discover the lesser-known Danube, sailing Cruise five contrasting rivers linking France A new cruise from Cologne to Switzerland from the Black Sea, revealing dramatic and Germany; the Romantic Rhine, the aboard A-ROSA AQUA, cruising through the riverscapes that connect countries & Neckar to Heidelberg, the Main, the Saar and Rhine Gorge with visits to Mainz, Strasbourg, capitals once behind the ‘iron curtain’ from the Moselle to Roman Trier. 2 UNESCO sites, Colmar, Breisach, Koblenz and option to Bucharest to Budapest. excursions and drinks included. ascend Mount Rigi. Drinks & excursions incl. Early Booking Offer • UK Tour Manager Early Booking Offer • No Single Supplement Early Booking Offer • 3 UNESCO Sites • UK Tour • Excursions & Drinks Incl. • Group Size: 6 – 28 • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 6 – 28 Manager • No Fly Option • Group Size: 6 – 28 7 nights 8 nights 9 nights from from from £1975 £1285 £2595 SECRET GERMANY COSSACK REVIVAL ANCIENT GREECE OF OLYMPICS Availability: July 2021 – August 2022 Availability: June 2021 – September 2022 Availability: Oct 2021 – November 2022 By train to Nuremberg for an unusual cruise Cruise on the mighty Dnieper River from A small ship sailing around the Peloponnese on board an A-ROSA vessel on the lesser impressive Kiev full of golden-domed and through the Corinth Canal with a guest known Pegnitz & Main rivers away from cathedrals to the lands of the Cossacks and lecturer on board, exploring Greece’s iconic usual cruise waterways, then join the Rhine the Black Sea to vibrant Odessa. Delve into ancient sites at Athens, Olympia, Delphi, to Cologne. Excursions and drinks included. the Danube wetlands by boat from Vilkovo. Epidaurus and Mycenae. New Cruise • Early Booking Offer • 3 UNESCO 2 UNESCO Sites • Excursions Included • Local Small Ship • Historic Vessel • 5 UNESCO Sites Sites • UK Tour Manager • Group Size: 6 – 28 Expert Guides • Group Size: 6 – 25 • Excursions Incl. • Group Size: 4 – 28 8 nights 7 nights 7 nights from from from £2795 £2895 £2935 ENCIRCLING THE CYCLADES DISTINCTIVE CORSICA CRUISING THE CANARIES Availability: June – October 2021 Availability: May 2022 – September 2022 Availability: November 2021 – April 2022 A classic Greek island voyage, exploring the A wonderful cruise on a luxury maritime Cruise six varied volcanic islands off the stylish and cosmopolitan archipelago of the vessel, starting from Nice and cruising northwestern coast of Africa from Lanzarote Cyclades, including visits Santorini, Mykonos around the island of beauty. Visit Ajaccio, les to Tenerife. Including the islands of Gran and lesser-known islands. Option to extend Calanques de Piana, Bonifacio, le Cap Corse, Canaria, El Hierro, La Palma and La Gomera in Athens for two nights with sightseeing. les Villages de Balagne and Porto Vecchio. with all excursions and drinks included. Small Ship Sailing • Historic Vessel • Cultural New Cruise • Excursions, Meals & Drinks New Cruise • Early Booking Offer • UK Tour & Natural Wonders • Group Size: 2 – 28 Incl. • Early Booking Offer • Group : 6 – 28 Manager • Group Size: 6 – 28 020 3811 7352 vjv.com 7 European Cruises capsules.indd 7 19/02/2021 10:02:21
EUROPEAN TOURS 7 nights from Whether you are searching for a short break or an escorted tour we £1195 have a fantastic selection of European tours on offer, just a short flight away. Europe is just one continent but reveals the ‘history of the world’. Experience an abundance of history, culture and beauty in some of Europe’s most incredible destinations. From the magnificent palaces of Spain and Portugal, to exploring the south east or ‘heel’ of Italy and the fascinating history on the Island of Malta. Or perhaps venture to SPAIN’S GOLDEN AGE some of Europe’s less discovered countries such as Slovakia, Ukraine Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 and Georgia. Each of which will offer a truly unique experience. Re-live the splendour of the ‘Golden Age’. Discovering palaces, magnificent Madrid, Europe is indeed vast with great contrasts of landscape, heritage and Segovia, Toledo, Ávila & Aranjuez. Stay in national character. Our tours have been carefully planned to ensure the UNESCO towns of Alcalá de Henares & an unforgettable trip. Toledo. Includes a tapas trail special event. 6 UNESCO Sites • Cultural Tour • Local Expert Guide • Group Size: 8 – 22 7 nights 7 nights 00 nights 00 4 nights nights from from from £1245 £1495 £0000 £0000 £675 POUSADAS OF PORTUGAL TRULLI & SASSI HERITAGE OF MALTA Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Stay in Pousadas, a former monastery, manor Explore Italy’s fascinating Puglia & Basilicata Discover the Island of the Grand Masters and house and convent, located in magnificent regions from historic ports to Norman castles George Cross, from the historic capital to the countryside settings. Discover monasteries & & the Baroque splendour of Lecce. Discover coast and the countryside. Includes a visit palaces, visiting Guimarães Porto, Coimbra, the mysterious Trulli dwellings and Matera’s of the opulent Palazzo Parisio, gardens and Lisbon, Sintra, Braga, Setúbal & Sesimbra. Sassi caves, a most unique landscape. afternoon tea. Gozo extension available. No Single Supplement • 7 UNESCO Sites Private Palazzo Visit • Historic & Central Historic/Central Hotels • UNESCO Site • Historic Hotels • Group Size: 6 – 18 Hotels • 3 UNESCO Sites • Group Size: 8 – 22 • Local Expert Guide • Group Size: 4 – 18 6 nights 5 nights 10 nights from from from £995 £845 £1845 THE TATRAS AND BEYOND DISCOVER UKRAINE SECRET GEORGIA Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Availability: June 2021 – October 2022 Discover magnificent Bratislava, Slovakia’s Delve into one of Europe’s least discovered Revealing Georgia from the capital Tbilisi to Baroque capital on the Danube with its countries full of traditions & a long history. the coastal town Batumi; remote settlements authentic old town. Enjoy a stay at the foot Explore strikingly pretty & quaint Lviv in with flower-strewn meadows high up in the of the majestic Tatra Mountains, a walk at Western Ukraine and, linked by express train Caucasus mountains, unknown Black Sea Hrebienok and restored Krakow. the fast-evolving, green capital Kiev. coast and superb wines. Historic Hotels • 2 UNESCO Sites • Local New Tour • Central Hotels • 2 UNESCO Sites Prices Reduced • No Single Supp. • 3 UNESCO Expert Guides • Group Size: 6 – 18 • Local Expert Guides • Group Size: 6 – 25 Sites • Expert Guide • Group Size: 6 – 25 8 vjv.com 020 3811 7352 European Tours Capsules.indd 8 19/02/2021 10:06:09
7 nights from £1495 Sete Cidades Lake Terra Nostra, São Miguel OVERVIEW KEY FEATURES São Miguel (1 night) Natural Wonders Terceira (2 nights) Jules Verne Sightseeing Faial (2 nights) 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites São Miguel (2 nights) Local Expert Guides Group Size: 6 – 22 Angra do Heroísmo ASPECTS OF DEPARTURES & PRICES per person in a twin/double room TAP Portugal from Gatwick (2021)/SATA from Stansted (2022) THE AZORES 2021 – Mondays Jun 14 £1695 Sep 6 £1695 INTRODUCTION Heroísmo, the archipelago’s oldest city. Jun 28 £1695 Sep 20 £1645 Travel through small, quaint villages to Nine striking volcanic islands scattered Jul 12 £1745 Oct 4 £1495 Praia. Tour Biscoitos and its natural pools in the North Atlantic Ocean, which Aug 16 £1745 with volcanic origins. (B, L) combine wild landscapes with variations in language, cuisine and traditions. DAY 4 Fly to Faial. At leisure or enjoy an 2022 – Fridays optional dolphin and whale watching Each island has its own natural landscape May 13 £1595 Jul 15 £1745 excursion (£55). Two nights at the 4-star with one aspect in common, luxuriant and Hotel do Canal. (B, D) May 27 £1645 Aug 19 £1845 exuberant vegetation that radiates all the colours of the spectrum, speckled here and DAY 5 Boat trip to Pico Island from Horta Jun 17 £1695 Sep 9 £1745 there by bright wild flowers. Wonderful Harbour. Drive through UNESCO vineyards Jul 1 £1695 Sep 23 £1695 placid lakes that were once volcanic craters, and visit the Whalers’ Museum with free soaring cliffs, undulating countryside, a time in Lajes. Visit the rock formation Supplements per person confection of flora and fauna, geysers, of ‘Arcos do Cachorro’ with a tasting in Single Supplement – £425 (Oct £280) spouting mineral springs, and secluded Madalena. (B) coves are in abundance. Price Includes DAY 6 Full-day tour of Faial Island including the harbour, windmill areas, caldeira, Air travel and taxes, transfers, 7 nights’ São Miguel offers bubbling ground ‘ovens’ accommodation, breakfast daily, 3 lunches and thermal waters, including hot springs Capelinhos volcano and Ponta Furada. Fly and 1 dinner, itinerary as described, services of in Furnas, whilst Faial boasts the impressive to São Miguel for two nights at the 4-star local guides and representatives. If our specially and grand ‘Caldeira’ a protected nature Hotel Marina Atlantico. (B, L) negotiated airfares are unavailable at the time of reserve made from a volcanic crater. DAY 7 Visit a tea plantation and the Furnas booking, a supplement may apply. Known for its whaling industry until 1984, Valley. Opportunity to swim at the thermal Note the main focus now is on watching rather water pool of the Terra Nostra Park hot Jun 14 – Part of the sightseeing on Day 6 will be on than hunting these species, which in springs. Lunch at the Terra Nostra Garden Day 4. season (Apr-Oct) range from sperm whales Hotel. Continue to Povoação, Ponta de and mighty blues, to bottlenose dolphins. Madrugada, Ponta do Sossego, Nordeste and Ribeira dos Caldeirões. (B, L) ITINERARY DAY 8 Return flight via Lisbon to London DAY 1 Fly from London Gatwick via Lisbon Gatwick (fly to Stansted direct in 2022). (B) (fly from Stansted direct in 2022) to São Miguel. Overnight at the 4-star Hotel Marina Atlantico. THE GARDEN ISLE OF MADEIRA DAY 2 Visit a pineapple plantation and Vista 4 nights from £695 do Rei, the Sete Cidades and Lagoa de Fogo Alternatively, enjoy a sojourn on this lakes. Continue to Ribeira Grande. Fly to sub-tropical paradise and haven of natural Terceira Island for two nights at the 4-star beauty, the perfect island for a relaxing Terceira Mar Hotel. (B) break with mild year round temperatures. Stay at a 4 or 5-star hotel, with an included DAY 3 Walking tour of UNESCO Angra do island tour and Special Event. Pico Mountain PORTUGAL 020 3811 7352 vjv.com 9 Aspects of the Azures_right.indd 9 17/02/2021 12:12:41
7 nights from £1195 Piazza della Loggia (Brescia) Lake Iseo SPECIAL EVENTS OVERVIEW KEY FEATURES Wine & Cruise Lake Iseo (7 nights) Classic Resort Jules Verne Sightseeing A guided private cruise to the villages and islands Local Expert Guides of the ‘Mountain Island’ on Lake Iseo and a Franciacorta wine tasting. Group Size: 6 – 16 DEPARTURES & PRICES per person in a twin/double room Alitalia from Heathrow MOUNTAIN 2021 – Saturdays Jun 5 £1295 Oct 16 £1195 ISLAND LAKE Sep 25 £1295 INTRODUCTION Franciacorta followed by a visit to a typical cellar for wine tasting. (B) A stay near the ‘secret’ Italian Lake Iseo Supplements per person exploring Monte Isola in the lake including DAY 4 Walk to the station for a scenic train Single supplement – £195 (Jun £225) visits to Edolo, Brescia and Franciacorta ride into the mountains to quaint Edolo. Half board (6 nights) – £225 wine region. Guided visit of the historic centre with its British Airways from Heathrow – £195 churches and fountains and free time to easyJet Gatwick, Manchester or Edinburgh – nil The famed Italian lakes of Como, Maggiore explore. (B) and Garda helped to coin the term ‘Lakes Price Includes & Mountains’ holidays, yet the one lake DAY 5 Relax or explore independently. (B) Air travel and taxes, transfers, 7 nights’ with a mountain in it (!) has been largely DAY 6 Walk to the station for a short train accommodation, breakfast daily, 1 dinner, forgotten: the smaller Lake Iseo containing ride to the hidden gem of Brescia, for a itinerary as described, services of local guides and representatives. If our specially negotiated Monte Isola, where you step back in time guided tour. Free time and return by train airfares are unavailable at the time of on an island of just 2,000 inhabitants, late afternoon. (B) booking, a supplement may apply. 11 villages, 6 miles around but rising to DAY 7 Relax or explore independently. (B) 2,000 feet – private cars are forbidden Independent Arrival and exploration is by boat, public bus or DAY 8 Return flight. (B) Save £200 on foot. This glorious mountain setting Note: Visits include some walking and rail and Arrival or departure transfer £95 boat travel. near the Franciacorta wine region also Note reveals “Torbiere del Sebino” wetland HOTEL ISEOLAGO – LAKE ISEO An accommodation tax, payable locally is currently nature reserve. Historic Brescia boasts a A 4-star hotel in the tranquillity of northern €1.50 per person per night. heritage from Roman temples to Baroque Italy’s stunning countryside. 5 minutes’ churches and Renaissance loggias, whilst walk from the lake and 15 minutes the Pinacotheca reveals works by Canaletto, from Iseo centre and port. Restaurant, Titian and Raphael. Enjoy a picturesque pools (Jun-Sep), spa, bar and WiFi (free). route by train from Iseo to elegant Edolo. 66 air-conditioned rooms with private ITINERARY balcony, hairdryer, safe, mini-bar and DAY 1 Fly from your chosen airport to satellite TV. Milan. Transfer to the 4-star Hotel Iseolago, close to the lake and medieval Iseo town for seven nights. DAY 2 Day cruise by private boat to Carzano on Monte Isola for a guided visit SECRET LAKE COMO followed by a ‘3-island’ cruise ending at 7 nights from £1195 Peschiera on Monte Isola for a guided visit Alternatively, discover the three corners and some free time. (B, D) of Lake Como from the alpine north to DAY 3 Morning walking tour of Iseo. In sophisticated Como town and the lesser- the afternoon, panoramic tour through known Lecco arm, staying at a Jules Verne favourite hotel. Franciacorta the vineyards and medieval villages of 10 vjv.com 020 3811 7352 ITALY Mountain Island Lake.indd 10 19/02/2021 10:08:53
7 nights from £1495 Noto Savoca OVERVIEW KEY FEATURES SPECIAL EVENTS Catania (1 night) Cultural Tour & Natural Wonders Sicily from the Inside Vulcano Island (2 nights) Jules Verne Sightseeing A private visit to Palazzo Fiorini in Acireale; a tour Noto (2 nights) Improved Itinerary by private appointment with specialist guide in Ragusa (2 nights) Historic / 5-Star Hotels Ragusa Ibla of the ‘Circolo di Conversazione’ club, 2 UNESCO Heritage Sites the Donnafugata theatre and the private garden of Local Expert Guide Palazzo Arezzo-Bertini. Group Size: 8 – 22 SECRET DEPARTURES & PRICES per person in a twin/double room British Airways from Gatwick (easyJet from Gatwick-Apr) SICILY 2021 – Tuesdays Jun 1 £1595 Sep 21 £1595 INTRODUCTION DAY 4 Sail to the mainland. Visit Savoca Sep 14 £1595 Oct 5 £1495 village, a hillside setting for ‘The Godfather’ Recently, Jules Verne’s head of product had film. Private visit to a palazzo in Acireale. 2022 – Tuesdays the opportunity to explore this wonderful Two nights at Villa Favorita, near Noto. (B, D) island, staying in contrasting and charming Apr 19 £1495 Sep 13 £1695 hotels featured on our Sicily tours which all DAY 5 Visit the Roman villa of Tellaro and May 3 £1545 Sep 27 £1645 coped admirably with ‘Covid’ restrictions to its mosaics. Light lunch with wine tasting at Villa Giulia, a country manor. Travel to May 24 £1595 Oct 11 £1495 create a safe and rewarding experience. The successful TV programme ‘Inspector Sicily’s southern-most point and the fishing Jun 14 £1645 Montalbano’ reveals delightful settings village of Marzameni. Walking tour of Noto in south-east Sicily and inspired us to including the cathedral and exuberant Supplements per person create this unique and wonderful itinerary Baroque Palazzo Nicolaci. Free time for Single supplement – £295 including a rewarding group of UNESCO dinner in Noto. (B, L) Sea view upgrade (Hotel Therasia) – £75 World Heritage Baroque towns. DAY 6 Visit the caves of Ispica, an ancient Single Supplement – £65 British Airways Club Europe – from £125 The Aeolians, Sicily ‘secret’ islands are now a necropolis. Continue to Scicli with the UNESCO World heritage Site with still active mayor’s office and the ‘home of Inspector Extra Nights – Catania volcanoes. Stay at a fine hotel with views of Montalbano’ at Punta Secca. Two nights at Explore independently the Baroque regional all the islands (option of a cruise to view the the 4-star Hotel Villa Carlotta. (B, D) capital and enjoy its cuisine. lava of Stromboli island, which is of course DAY 7 Private tour of Ragusa Ibla including Hotel Principe (per night) – £65 where Jules Verne’s adventurers emerged the Gardens of Palazzo Arezzo Bertini, the Single supplement – £42 Arrival or departure transfer – £32 from their ‘Journey to the Centre of the Theatre of Donnafugata and the “Circolo di Earth’ in his classic novel!). Film aficionados conversazione”. Explore the city centre and Price Includes will also enjoy a visit to the Sicilian village of the cathedral. Free time for lunch in the Air travel and taxes, transfers, 7 nights’ Savoca used in filming ‘The Godfather’. old town. Visit Donnafugata Castle in the accommodation, breakfast daily, 1 lunch and Province of Ragusa. Free time for dinner in 3 dinners, entrance fees, itinerary as described, ITINERARY Ragusa. (B) services of a guide and local representatives. If our DAY 1 Fly from Gatwick to Catania. Overnight specially negotiated airfares are unavailable at the DAY 8 Travel to Catania for a walking tour time of booking, a supplement may apply. at the central 4-star Hotel Principe. including the Amphitheatre and cathedral. DAY 2 Travel north to Milazzo and sail Independent Arrival Return flight to London. (B) to the Aeolian Islands. Two nights at the Save £220 5-star Hotel Therasia on Vulcano island with Arrival transfer £32 Departure transfer included with group fine views. Sail to Lipari island to visit the SEA & SARDINIA citadel. Free time on the island. (B, D) Notes 7 nights from £1595 An accommodation tax is payable locally by all DAY 3 Free day or optional cruise (weather permitting) departing late morning to Alternatively, visit Sardinia and discover guests currently between €1.50 and €3.50 per person wild mountains, dramatic coast and per night. visit the islands of Panarea and Stromboli, with free time and then cruising back past fascinating heritage, staying in Cagliari, This is a full itinerary with some visits on foot and Oliena area and Alghero with tasting of some uneven surfaces/inclines. Stromboli at sunset to see the lava flow (£55, pre-bookable). (B) local specialities. 2022 dates available! ITALY 020 3811 7352 vjv.com 11 Secret Sicily.indd 11 19/02/2021 11:31:32
8 nights from £1495 Portofino Courmayeur SPECIAL EVENTS OVERVIEW KEY FEATURES Drinks, Boats & Palaces Turin (3 nights) Cultural Tour Romano Canavese (2 nights) Jules Verne Sightseeing Prosecco and appetisers at Villa Matilde. Boat Genoa (3 nights) 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Portofino and along the Cinque Terre. The spectacular interiors and gardens of Palazzo Reale Local Expert Guides (Turin), Venaria Reale, Villa Principe & Palazzo Group Size: 8 – 18 Rosso. DEPARTURES & PRICES per person in a twin/double room British Airways from Gatwick PEAKS, PORTS 2021 – Thursdays Sep 9 £1595 Oct 7 £1495 & PALAZZI INTRODUCTION DAY 5 Travel past medieval castles and 2022 – Thursdays through magnificent mountain scenery to In relatively recent times Piedmont was May 12 £1695 Sep 8 £1695 Courmayeur at the foot of Mont Blanc with instrumental in Italy‘s unification, having fine views of the Alps. Enjoy the wonderful Jun 9 £1695 Oct 6 £1595 been part of French-speaking Savoy with alpine setting and walk around the town. influence on both sides of the great Alpine Continue to Roman and medieval Aosta Supplements per person peaks. Under Duke Emanuele Filiberto in which is surrounded by mountains and has Single supplement – £475 (2022 £495) the 16th-century Piedmont became ‘Italian’. a Roman amphitheatre and forum. (B) British Airways Club Europe – from £195 As befits a former Royal capital, Piedmont is rich in culture with opulent palaces, DAY 6 Depart for Monferrato, one of Extra Nights – Genoa Piedmont’s famous wine regions for a wine medieval castles and magnificent churches. Grand Hotel Savoia (per night) – £95 (Sep £120) Liguria is a coastal strip nestling at the tasting. Continue to Genoa for a walking Single supplement – £70 (Sep £90) tour of the Palazzi dei Rolli area, then visit foot of vine covered mountains. Its capital, Price Includes the seafaring city of Genoa was once Palazzo Rosso. Three nights at the central Air travel and taxes, entrance fees, transfers, Venice’s great rival on the west coast 5-star Grand Hotel Savoia. Welcome drink at 8 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, and home to Christopher Columbus. It the hotel bar. (B) itinerary as described, services of local guides reveals a fascinating medieval core and DAY 7 A short drive to nearby Rapallo and representatives. If our specially negotiated many Palazzi. The Riviera Levante reveals and Santa Margherita Ligure, pearl of the airfares are unavailable at the time of booking, a supplement may apply. elegant Portofino and the ‘Cinque Terre’, a Ligurian coast. By boat to the famous quintet of villages clinging to the edge of village of Portofino for a walking tour. Independent Arrival vertiginous cliffs. Return to Genoa for a short walking tour Save £200 through Via Garibaldi and to visit Villa del Arrival transfer £45 ITINERARY Principe. (B) Departure transfer £35 DAY 1 Fly to Turin. Transfer to the central DAY 8 Morning train to Cinque Terre. A 4-star Grand Hotel Sitea for three nights. short walking tour around Monterosso. DAY 2 A walking tour of Turin including the Continue by boat along the coast to Palazzo Reale. Afternoon free to explore. (B) Vernazza and Riomaggiore. Return train to DAY 3 Visit the Egyptian Museum and the Genoa. (B) Palazzo Carignano. Enjoy a Bicerin tasting, DAY 9 Return flight to London Gatwick. (B) Turin’s traditional hot drink. Afternoon at leisure. (B) DAY 4 Travel to Mount Superga, SECRET ITALY overlooking Turin to visit its impressive 7 nights from £1445 baroque Basilica and royal tombs. At Alternatively, stay a week in Assisi, an Venaria Reale visit the Reggia royal palace, unspoilt medieval gem retaining the gardens and stables. Continue to Romano spiritual tranquility of St. Francis. Explore Canavase for two nights at the 4-star Orvieto, Urbino & Ravenna. Enjoy an aperitif historic Villa Matilde. Welcome drink and and Umbrian wine tasting at the home of your tour host, an art collector. appetisers. (B) 12 vjv.com 020 3811 7352 ITALY Peaks, Ports & Palazzi.indd 12 19/02/2021 12:14:35
8 nights from £1795 Acropolis, Athens Meteora OVERVIEW KEY FEATURES Athens (3 nights) Cultural Tour Kalambaka (1 night) Jules Verne Sightseeing Delphi (1 night) 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites Olympia (1 night) Local Expert Guides Nafplion (2 nights) Group Size: 8 – 25 Delphi CLASSICAL TOUR DEPARTURES & PRICES per person in a twin/double room British Airways from Heathrow OF GREECE 2021 – Tuesdays Jun 1 £1845 Sep 7 £1895 INTRODUCTION DAY 5 Travel to Delphi (3 hrs) to visit Jul 6 £1995 Sep 21 £1845 the UNESCO site on the slopes of Mount From ancient architecture to sun-drenched Aug 3 £1995 Oct 5 £1795 Parnassus. Ascend the Sacred Way to the beaches, traditional tavernas to modern temple of Apollo, site of the Delphic Oracle. rooftop bars, Greece is truly packed full of 2022 – Tuesdays Overnight at the 4-star Hotel Amalia. (B) culture, history and charm. Take a step back May 10 £1845 Sep 6 £1945 in time and immerse yourself in the special DAY 6 Visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi. Continue to Olympia (3 hrs) to visit May 31 £1995 Oct 4 £1825 history of this ancient land, look no further than our classical Greece tour. the Archaeological and Olympic Games museums. Overnight at the 4-star Hotel Supplements per person Set your sights on the famous Acropolis, Olympion Asty or Hotel Europa. Dinner at Single supplement – £545 (2022 £595) created in the 5th century BC and symbolic British Airways Club Europe – from £255 the hotel. (B, D) of the glory of Ancient Athens. Explore the monasteries of Meteora, travel to Delphi to DAY 7 Visit ancient Olympia including the Price Includes visit the UNESCO site on Mount Parnassus, temples of Zeus and Hera and the first Air travel and taxes, transfers, 8 nights’ discover historic Olympia – where the Olympic stadium. Travel to Nafplion for two accommodation, breakfast daily, 1 dinner, temples of Zeus and Hera await and explore nights at the 4-star Hotel Grande Bretagne itinerary as described, services of guides or Hotel Ippoliti. (B) and local representatives (entrance fees and the charming town of Nafplion, where accommodation tax not included). If our specially the 18th-century Fortress of Palamidi and DAY 8 Enter the citadel of Agamemnon’s negotiated airfares are unavailable at the time of Bourtzi water castle line the landscape with ancient capital, Mycenae, through the Lion booking, a supplement may apply. architectural beauty. Gate to the royal tomb shafts and beehive Independent Arrival Planning a summer getaway? Why not tombs. Visit Epidaurus with its magnificent Save £250 join our new departures in July and theatre. Explore the picturesque town of Arrival transfer £45 August 2021. Nafplion at the foot of a cliff crowned by Departure transfer with group included Palamidi Fortress. (B) ITINERARY DAY 9 Pass the Corinth Canal en route Notes DAY 1 Fly from London Heathrow to An accommodation tax is payable locally, currently to Athens for return flight to London per room per day €3 (Athens €4). Athens. Three nights at the central 5-star Heathrow. (B) Hotel Divani Acropolis. Entrance fees are not included and are approximately €90 (€50 for visitors over 65). DAY 2 View the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, National Library, Presidential guards at Syntagma Square and the Panathenaic stadium. Visit the Acropolis and museum. SECRET GREECE – Welcome drinks party. (B) ALEXANDER & OLYMPUS DAY 3 Free day to explore the nearby Plaka 7 nights from £1395 and other sites. (B) Alternatively, follow in the footsteps of Alexander the Great and the Gods DAY 4 Travel to Kalambaka (4 hrs) to of Olympus, explore the Macedonian, explore the monasteries of Meteora. Greek, Christian and Byzantine heritage of Overnight at the 4-star Divani Meteora. (B) Northern Greece. GREECE 020 3811 7352 vjv.com 13 Classical Tour of Greece.indd 13 16/02/2021 16:25:01
7 nights from £945 Hierapolis Ephesus SPECIAL EVENT OVERVIEW KEY FEATURES Organic Farm Izmir (2 nights) Culture & Natural Wonders Pamukkale (1 night) 4 UNESCO Heritage Sites Visit one of the first organic farms to open in Kusadasi (4 nights) No Single Supplement Turkey where organic fruit and vegetables, including grapes and olives are organically grown Local Expert Guide Throughout for international export and wine and olive oil Group Size: 6 – 22 production with an included tasting. Early Booking Offer: For all 2022 bookings made by 31st August 2021, deduct £50 per person DEPARTURES & PRICES per person in a twin/double room easyJet from Gatwick TURKISH 2021 – Tuesdays Sep 14 £1195 Oct 12* £1095 MEANDER Sep 28 £1195 INTRODUCTION DAY 4 Enjoy a visit to Roman Hierapolis and the calcified Pamukkale waterfalls. Travel Our word ‘meander’ derives from the 2022 – Tuesdays to the ancient site of Aphrodisias. Continue S-shaped bends of the River Menderes to Kusadasi for four nights at the 4-star Apr 26 £995 Sep 27 £1195 (translated as Meander), which leads inland Paloma Marina Suites Hotel. (B, D) May 10 £1095 Oct 11* £1095 from the west coast of Asia Minor towards ancient Hierapolis and Pamukkale, the DAY 5 At leisure or perhaps take a boat Sep 13 £1195 across to the Greek town of Samos. (B, D) latter a unique natural phenomenon of hot springs, pools and calcified waterfalls. DAY 6 Visit the Temple of Apollo in Didyma Supplements per person This coast was a major centre of classical and ancient site of Miletus renowned for its *NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT (limited availability) art, politics and trade. Later, continue to the Single supplement – £175 civilisations, home to two of the original Privately Guided – £895 ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World’, ancient city of Priene which includes the including the Temple of Artemis near Temple of Athena. (B, D) Extra Nights – Kusadasi Ephesus. The Greek Ionian League of DAY 7 Visit Ephesus, its ‘Terrace Houses’ Paloma Marina Suites Hotel (per night) – £40 12 cities founded about 1000 BC included museum and Basilica of St. John. Afternoon (Sep £55) Priene, Samos and Ephesus, the latter special event visit to Degirmen organic Single supplement – £30 (Sep £40) becoming Rome’s chief Aegean port. farm. (B, D) Price Includes The sanctuary of Aphrodite at Aphrodisias DAY 8 Return flight or extend your stay. (B) Air travel and taxes, transfers, 7 nights’ is renowned for its sculpture, the friezes in accommodation, breakfast daily, 7 dinners, its museum a surprise that could be said ACCOMMODATION itinerary as described, services of guides and local representatives. If our specially to rival the ‘Elgin Marbles’. Didyma, Miletus Mövenpick Hotel: A 5-star hotel in Izmir negotiated airfares are unavailable at the time of and Priene are less-visited but rewarding with 185 rooms and WiFi (free). booking, a supplement may apply. ancient sites. Colossae Thermal: A 4-star hotel near Independent Arrival ITINERARY Pamukkale with 327 rooms and WiFi Save £250 (chargeable). DAY 1 Fly from Gatwick to Izmir and Arrival transfer £40 transfer to the 5-star Mövenpick Hotel in Paloma Marina Suites Hotel: A 4-star Departure transfer £60 hotel in Kusadasi with 72 rooms and Izmir for two nights. (D) WiFi (free). DAY 2 At Bergama (Pergamon) visit the Hellenic Acropolis and the Asklepion. Visit Kadifekale Castle, also known as Mount TURKISH DELIGHTS Pagos – The Velvet Castle with wonderful 7 nights from £795 views over Izmir Bay. (B, D) Alternatively, explore the Christian DAY 3 Visit the ancient site of Sardes, and Ottoman heritage of Istanbul with previously the capital of the Lydian visits to magnificent palaces, mosques Kingdom and where King Midas reigned. and churches. Enjoy a cruise along the Continue to Pamukkale for overnight at the Bosphorus, a rooftop dinner and a drink at the Pera Palace Hotel. 4-star Colossae Thermal Hotel. (B, D) 14 vjv.com 020 3811 7352 TURKEY Turkish Meander.indd 14 19/02/2021 12:17:31
7 nights from £1645 Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall Ethnographic Museum, Glaumbær OVERVIEW KEY FEATURES SPECIAL EVENT Reykjavik (1 night) Cultural & Natural Wonders Tour Herring Museum Hellnar (1 night) New Tour Enjoy a tasting of herrings and a glass of schnapps Akureyri (3 nights) Jules Verne Sightseeing at the Siglufjörður Herring Museum. Reykjavik (2 nights) Local Expert Guide Group Size: 8 – 22 JOURNEY TO THE DEPARTURES & PRICES per person in a twin/double room Icelandair from Heathrow CENTRE OF THE EARTH 2021 – Tuesdays Jun 8 £1995 Oct 5 £1695 INTRODUCTION Skútustaðargigjar and walk in the lava fields Sep 7 £1875 Dimmuborgir. View the Námaskarð hot Introducing new 2022 departures. In our springs and bubbling mud pool area. (B) 2022 – Tuesdays civilised society we rarely give thought to the mysteries of the forces within our DAY 5 Whale watching cruise from the May 17 £1645 Sep 13 £1895 planet but in Iceland these forces invade small town of Hauganes. Visit to Kaldi Jun 7 £1925 Oct 4 £1645 the imagination as they struggle to break micro-brewery, includes a tasting. Visit through to the surface by means of the small, colourful fishing village of Siglufjörður and its Herring museum. (B) Supplements per person volcanoes and geysers. Nature’s exertions Single supplement – £625 (May/Oct 5 £425; Jun 7/ have not ceased since the time land was DAY 6 Travel to Víðimýri to visit the Sep 13 £595; Oct 4 £375) pushed up from the North Atlantic seabed turf church. Continue to Reykjavik via Icelandair from Glasgow – nil by volcanic forces. Gauksmýri to get to know the famous Icelandair Saga Class – from £695 Icelandic horse. Tour of the capital to ITINERARY view the main landmarks: The Pearl, Extra Nights – Reykjavik DAY 1 Fly from your chosen airport to Hallgrímskirkja church, the National Hotel Klettur (per night) – £105 (Oct £75) Reykjavik and transfer to the 3-star Hotel Single supplement – £85 (Oct £50) Museum of Iceland, the harbour and the Klettur for overnight. famous 101 Reykjavik neighbourhood. Price Includes DAY 2 Journey to Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Optional visit to the Blue Lagoon (£125). Air travel and taxes, Fly Bus transfers, 7 nights’ where according to Jules Verne in his classic Spend two nights at the 3-star Hotel accommodation, breakfast daily, 1 dinner, novel, the centre of the Earth can be found. Klettur. (B) itinerary as described, services of guides and local representatives. If our specially Visit the small town of Grundarfjörður to DAY 7 Day at leisure or optional Golden negotiated airfares are unavailable at the time of admire the Kirkjufell mountain and falls. Circle tour to Gullfoss, Iceland’s mightiest booking, a supplement may apply. Continue to the fishing village of Arnarstapi waterfall, the hot spring area dominated at the foot of Mt. Stapafell. Overnight Independent Arrival by Geysir and Thingvellir National Park at the 3-star Fosshotel Hellnar on the Save £200 (£60). (B) westernmost part of the peninsula. (B, D) Arrival or departure transfer by Fly Bus £30 DAY 8 Return flight. (B) DAY 3 Drive over a mountain pass and fjord Note: This is a full itinerary with most visits on foot to the Vatnsnes area and to the northern and sites with steps/inclines and uneven surfaces. part of Iceland. Visit a turf farm and folk museum at Glaumbær. It gives detailed insight into farm life in Iceland’s not so ICE & LIGHTS distant past. Stay three nights at Icelandair Hotel Akureyri. (B) 6 nights from £1495 Alternatively, travel from Reykjavik DAY 4 Tour of Akureyri, the capital of the to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon and the north, situated by Eyjafjörður. Travel to incredible ‘iceberg beach’, UNESCO site Goðafoss waterfall, the waterfall of the Thingvellir National Park and frozen Gods and Lake Mývatn, which is known waterfalls, staying in remote locations for for its geological wonders and active bird the best chance to view the Northern Lights. life during summer. Visit the craters of Taste geothermal cooked food. ICELAND 020 3811 7352 vjv.com 15 Journey to the Centre of the Earth.indd 15 17/02/2021 11:15:11
9 nights from £3645 MV Ocean Atlantic OVERVIEW KEY FEATURES Oslo (Day 1), Longyearbyen (2) Wildlife Watching & Natural Wonders Kongsfjorden (3) On Board Lectures Smeerenburg (4) Access to Remote Bays Cruising Pack Ice at 80° (5) Excursions by Zodiac Monacobreen Glacier (6) Group Size: 8 – 28# Ny Ålesund (7), Vårsolbukta (8) Gardermoen (9), Return Flight (10) Svalbard DEPARTURES & PRICES per person in a twin/double room – Cat. D cabin SAS from Heathrow LAND OF THE 2021 – Mondays Jun 21 £3645 Jun 28 £3695 POLAR BEARS INTRODUCTION DAY 8 At Vårsolbukta see the auk cliff and 2022 – Tuesdays the lush moss tundra on which the Svalbard Introducing new 2022 departures. Jun 14 £4295 Jun 21 £4495 reindeer love to graze. On the southern Experience high summer in the Arctic on shore of Bellsund, explore Calypsobyen in a cruise around the Svalbard Archipelago, Recherche Fjord, a heritage site from the Supplements per person one of the world’s last untouched Northern Exploration Company. Cruise back Single supplement – £2295 (2022 £2845) wildernesses with epic landscapes. Sail to Longyearbyen. (B, L, D) Cat. C cabin – £155 (2022 £445) along imposing glaciers, through drift ice Single supplement – £2545 (2022 £3695) and encounter walruses, Arctic foxes and DAY 9 Fly to Oslo and overnight at 4-star SAS Plus – from £515 reindeer – and of course polar bears. Quality Airport Hotel Gardermoen. (B) Price Includes DAY 10 Return flight to Heathrow. (B) ITINERARY Air travel and taxes, all port charges, AECO fees, transfers, 2 night’s hotel, 7-night cruise, DAY 1 Fly to Oslo. Transfer to the 4-star MV OCEAN ATLANTIC breakfast daily, full board on cruise including Thon Hotel Europa for overnight. Operated by Albatros Expeditions, the complimentary tea and coffee, on board lectures, DAY 2 Fly to Longyearbyen and transfer to 459 ft. Vessel is perfect for expedition excursions, services of expedition leaders, local cruising, with an international Ice Class expert guides and representatives. If our specially MV Ocean Atlantic to embark. (B, D) Rating of 1B. The strength and shallow negotiated airfares are unavailable at the time of DAY 3 Cruise out through Isfjorden and booking, a supplement may apply. draft allows extended voyages into isolated north to Fuglehuken, and Lilienhook fjords, creating exciting adventures for any Independent Arrival Glacier. Travel to the south side of Arctic traveller. Renovated in 2016 with a Save £150 Kongsfjorden and experience the unique crew of 140 and accommodation for just Arrival transfer by Fly Bus £25 cultural heritage of Ny-London. (B, L, D) 214 passengers over five decks. Facilities Departure transfer included with group DAY 4 Continue to the former whaling include a restaurant, panoramic lounge, Notes stations at Fuglesongen Island and library, observation deck, lecture theatre, # Whilst the vessel carries more, the group size Smeerenburg. (B, L, D) lifts, sauna, pool and gym. Cabins have specified refers to transfers and excursions. DAY 5 Cruise through the pack ice – polar twin/double beds, hairdryer, safe and TV. Excursions are by Zodiac or on foot, sometimes bear country at 80°where spectacular See vjv.com for full vessel description and over uneven ground and with some incline, so a glaciers dominate the scenery. (B, L, D) deck plan. reasonable level of mobility is required. There will be a combination of wet and dry landings. DAY 6 Cruise to Andøyan at 79° on Liefdefjord to a small group of islands also known as Duck Islands and cruise close to ARCTIC NORTHERN LIGHTS the impressive Monacobreen glacier. Go 4 nights from £1245 ashore in the Liefdefjord and enjoy a walk Alternatively, enjoy a spectacular short through the tundra of Reindyrsflya. (B, L, D) stay in the Arctic capital of Tromsø and in a cottage at a remote location on DAY 7 Sail in to Ny-Ålesund past Stuphallet Malangen Peninsula with fabulous views of cliff. At the Ossian Sars bird cliff, black and mountains and fjords and well away from Brünnich’s guillemots nest. Enjoy a walking light pollution for the best chance to view tour. Continue to Blomstrandhalvøya near the Northern Lights. Dog sledding, evening the northern side of Kongsfjorden. (B, L, D) walk and visit to Polar Museum included. 16 vjv.com 020 3811 7352 NORWAY Land of the Polar Bears.indd 16 17/02/2021 11:25:01
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