Day 1: Depart North Wales and travel to Dover for the channel crossing to Calais. We continue to the city of Reims, the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing region. From the 11th century French kings were crowned at its Cathedral Notre-Dame de Reims, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After some time at leisure we complete the journey to our overnight stop in Forbach at the Mercure Hotel.
Day 2: After breakfast board the coach and journey through the Alsace to Strasbourg. Dominated by its towering Gothic cathedral, the pretty canals and medieval half-timbered houses contrast with the ultra modern buildings of the European Parliament. We depart mid afternoon and cross into Germany to arrive at Gengenbach for a 4-night stay.
Day 3: A day to relax and explore Gengenbach. Perhaps go hiking or cycling. See the River Kinzig and the old town with its half-timbered houses and romantic narrow streets and alleyways.
If you were in the area with Dyffryn Nantlle School, why not take the excursion to Triberg and then Villingen-Schwenningen and hopefully a visit the school that exchange trips were made in the 1970’s and 80’s.
Before dinner we include a tasting at Gengenbach Winery, approximately 5 minutes walk from the hotel.
Day 4: Travel to the old walled town of Villingen and join the Black Forest Railway for a journey including loops, tunnels and a high viaduct. On then for a guided visit to the Black Forest Open Air Museum to find out more about the history and culture of the region.
Day 5: To beautiful Titisee for an included sightseeing cruise on the lake. We then include a trip on the Pig Tail Steam Railway between Blumberg and Weizen. It features many twists and turns and great photo opportunities.
Day 6: After a leisurely breakfast we depart Germany and travel to Laon for our overnight stay at the Ibis Laon Hotel.
Day 7: Travel to Calais for the short Channel crossing to Dover and home to north Wales.