TUESDAY A very early morning departure as we travel to Dover and board a lunchtime ferry to Calais. We continue into France for bed and breakfast accommodation in the Metz area.
WEDNESDAY We continue onwards and into Igls for our five night stay. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival.
THURSDAY Today we make the short transfer to Innsbruck, capital of the Tyrol, for time at leisure. Even at first sight, this city and its setting amidst the majestic peaks of the Nordkette mountain range is breathtaking. Explore the streets full of imperial elegance and beautiful Baroque and Gothic architecture in the Old Town; the Golden Roof, Imperial Palace and Hofkirche can all be found near the city centre (admission fees may apply).
FRIDAY A day at leisure in Igls. Perhaps embark on a scenic cable car ride up the mountain, or take the bus back to Innsbruck to further explore the Tyrolean capital (costs apply for both), or simply enjoy the hotel’s leisure facilities.
SATURDAY This morning we board the ‘Achenseebahn’, Europe’s oldest cog railway, which is still steam operated. Puffing through the steeper sections, it rises to a 16% gradient from Jenbach to Seespitz. From here we rejoin our coach for the short journey to the resort town of Pertisau. We enjoy time at leisure here before relaxing on a one-way cruise from Pertisau to the northern shores of lovely Lake Achen.
SUNDAY Today we embark on an incredible journey to the top of Germany’s highest mountain, the majestic Zugspitze, which sits 2962 metres above sea level with the Austrian-German border running through its western summit. We start our ascent from the Austrian side via a stunning cable car journey from nearby Ehrwald, taking in some of the most magnificent views along the way. We spend some time at the summit, crossing into Germany with time to admire the views of the 400 mountain peaks spanning four countries, visible on a clear day from the café and terrace. We then descend the German side of the mountain by cable car, rejoining the coach at Eibsee and making the short transfer to the Bavarian town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, to enjoy time at leisure.
MONDAY We depart Austria and make our way to the Metz area for dinner, and overnight accommodation.
TUESDAY After breakfast, we continue to Calais where we board the ferry to Dover, and continue homeward.
Please note passport details will be required and there may be an early start due to the ferry crossing