13 Day No Single Supplement Cruising the Rhine River

13 Day No Single Supplement Cruising the Rhine River

13 Day Cruising Rhine RiverThis unique cruise onboard the River Cloud II combines two of the most beautiful rivers in Europe, the majestic Rhine and the Moselle. The cities along the Rhine River are steeped in 2,000 years of history. Since ancient Roman times the gorgeous Rhine valleys have been an inspiration to all who journey here. Explore this fabled valley and cruise past some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery, where fairytale castles and historic sites greet you at every turn. We will also sail down the Moselle River with its medley of vineyards, sylvan woods and medieval villages

Highlights

  • Travel on the cogwheel railway, the highest altitude railway in Europe to Jungfraujoch in the heart of the Swiss Alps
  • View the Altesch Glacier which is the longest icestream in the Alps
  • Cruise along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers onboard the River Cloud II , exploring beautiful towns and villages along the way
  • Spend time in romantic Swiss cities - Lucerne & Zurich
  • Visit Strasbourg and spend a day exploring the Alsace Region
  • Spend a day visiting the beautiful city of Heidelberg, a city much loved by famous poets and thinkers over the centuries
  • Explore Cochem , one of the most picturesque wine-growing towns along the Moselle River
  • Single Travellers pay no more, single supplement free on limited places on the journey
Day
1

ARRIVE ZURICH

After arriving in Zurich, a private transfer awaits to transport you through to your luxurious hotel, The Park Hyatt Zurich. The hotel is located on Beethoven-Strasse, in the financial district of Zurich and just steps away from Bahnhofstrasse – the city’s main shopping street. The Old Town, Altstadt, is also just a short walk away. Tonight there will be a welcome dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Overnight: The Park Hyatt Zurich or similar
Day
2

ZURICH - LUCERNE

This morning explore this beautifully historic city. Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland by land area and population and is also a major commercial and cultural centre. Zurich is situated northeast of Bern, the Swiss capital. It’s sometimes referred to as the cultural capital of Switzerland. The city has a population of 360,000 and is known as the city with the best quality of life in the world. Zurich is located at the northern end of the Lake of Zurich. The city boasts magnificent views of the snow clad Alps in the distance The history of Zurich goes way back to 15 BC, where the Romans called it Turicum.

During the Middle Ages, Zurich gained the independent and privileged status of imperial immediacy and in 1519, was the place of origin and centre of the Protestant Reformation in German speaking Switzerland. After lunch drive to Lucerne. Lucerne which is located right in the central part of Switzerland, straddles the Reuss River and is home to a number of famous and beautiful bridges. The largest and oldest bridge is the 200m long wooden Chapel Bridge, with its famous tower and art gallery depicting the history of the city. The town is situated on the Bödeli, a small alluvial neck of land between the twin lakes of the Thunersee and Brienzersee. It’s one of the oldest resorts in the country, famed for its superb views towards the Jungfrau massif, which lies perfectly framed between two hills to the south of town.

Overnight: Hotel Schweizerhof or similar
Day
3

INTERLAKEN - JUNGFRAU

This morning travel to Interlaken. Until 1891 Interlaken was known as Aarmühle. and is located between Lake Brienz to the east and Lake Thun to the west in the area called Bödeli. The town takes its name from its geographical position between the lakes The Aare River flows through the town connecting the lakes. Interlaken is one of the oldest tourist resorts in Switzerland and it remains one of the most popular. Travel on the cogwheel railway to the Jungfraujoch – Europe’s highest altitude railway station. At the peak of the railway view the Altesch Glacier, at 22 kilometres it is the longest ice stream in the Alps. The landmark of the Jungfraujoch is the Sphinx and observatory. Its glazed dome also houses Europe’s highest altitude weather station.

Overnight: Hotel Schweizerhof or similar
Day
4

LUCERNE - BASEL - RIVER CLOUD II

This morning is at leisure to further explore this beautiful historic city. Continue onto Basel for lunch, Switzerland’s second largest city. Basel lies close to the French and German frontiers and has been an independent half-canton since 1833, the other half being Basel-Land. The city is built on both sides of the Rhine, which here takes a sharp turn northward between the Swiss Jura and the Black Forest to enter the Upper Rhine plain; upstream from Basel the river is known as the High Rhine . Late this afternoon board the majestic River Cloud II for an unforgettable journey along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. The cruise begins this evening with an overnight dock at Breisach.

Overnight: River Cloud II
Day
5

BREISHAC - STRASBOURG

This morning disembark the River Cloud II and drive through idyllic scenery to Colmar, the jewel amongst Alsatian towns. The quaint city with its centuries-old timbered houses, stork´s nests on the roofs and snug wine taverns seem almost clichéd. The first stop of the city walk through the Old Town will be the Musée d’Unterlinden, which is one of the richest and most famous museums of France and houses the world-famous “Isenheimer Altar” from Matthias Grünewald. There is the option to visit the museum at your own pace or to continue the city walk through the Tanner’s Quarter to “Petite Venise” (Little Venice), arguably the most picturesque part of the city. Afterwards enjoy some leisure time before reboarding the River Cloud II for the evening cruise to Strasbourg.

Overnight: River Cloud II
Day
6

ALSACE REGION

Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region and has a complex character. The city was influenced both by the Germans and the French, who alternately ruled the city. Medieval timbered houses in small labyrinthine lanes, elegant French palaces that face onto geometrically constructed squares and magnificent buildings of the Wilhelmian era are side by side as close neighbours. A short bus ride leads through the European quarter, where amongst other things the seat of the European Parliament is located. Afterwards, in the Old Town, visit the famous Gothic cathedral, which is the town’s landmark and the heart of Strasbourg as well as one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Well worth seeing inside: the glass painting (12th - 14th centuries), the stone pulpit (late Gothic), the famous angel’s pylon (1220-1230) and most of all the astronomical clock. After a short walk reach the landing stage. An approximate one hour boat excursion leads along the charming “Petit France” with its timbered houses, bridges, old mills and small lanes, before returning to the ship.

Overnight: River Cloud II
Day
7

STRASBOURG

Today is at leisure to further explore Strasbourg. Our location is the perfect place to come and go as you please throughout the day. We depart Strasbourg this evening for the port of Mannheim.

Overnight: River Cloud II
Day
8

MANNHEIM - HEIDELBERG - RUEDESHEIM

This morning explore the enchanting Heidelberg, a city much loved by famous poets and thinkers over the centuries. With the panorama of the mountains, the idyllic location where the river Neckar flows forth from the Odenwald and the picturesque houses and lanes, Heidelberg wins favour with the visitors. On the city tour through the Old Town you pass the most important sights the churches, the ancient houses, the oldest university of Germany and the old bridge. Afterwards you reach the Heidelberg Palace. Since its destruction by the French, the stately remains of the palace are considered the most noble example of renaissance architecture and the most gorgeous palace ruin of Germany. The former residence of the electors of the palatinate is located high above the city, where numerous writers of the Romantic Period sought their inspiration. There you gain a wonderful view of the roofs of the Old Town, the river Neckar and the famous Philosopher Lane. Rejoin the River Cloud II this afternoon.

Tonight visit Vollrads Castle which represents viticulture par excellence. It is one of the oldest vineyards of the world - and one of the best. Many top restaurants serve wines from Vollrads Castle. In the Middle Ages the wines were already growing in exactly the same location as they do today, subsequently concentrating on Riesling. Not only the wine, but also the Castle itself is very well worth seeing! The majestic tower in the heart of the castle complex is surrounded by a rectangular moat that is only accessible by bridge. It was built in the first third of the 14th century and inhabited by a family who shaped the destiny of the castle and viticulture at Vollrads up to the present day: the dynasty of the Barons of Greiffenclau. Enjoy the fantastic atmosphere with some delicious wines and an exclusive concert in the castle hall.

Overnight: River Cloud II
Day
9

KOBLENZ

Today visit Eltz Castle, one of the most beautiful and best preserved castles in Germany. Lying in a romantic setting surrounded by an unspoilt landscape, inviting and majestic at the same time - like a fairytale castle come to life. Uncover history cast in stone and immerse yourself in the spirit of a past which is revived during this visit.

Overnight: River Cloud II
Day
10

COCHEM - TRABEN -TRARBACH

With its attractive location and numerous monuments, Cochem is one of the most picturesque wine-growing towns along the river Moselle. Today we visit the medieval Reichsburg which was built in 1000 AD by Palsegrave Ezzo. After its destruction in 1689 it spent a long time in ruins before a Berlin tradesman reconstructed the castle in the neo-Gothic style in 1868. You can gain insights into the life of the former inhabitants on the tour through the castle and enjoy a gorgeous view over the town. After a short bus ride to Cochem, a city walk leads through labyrinthine lanes and old city gates, typical timbered houses and old stairways. Enjoy some leisure time and take a stroll past the little shops and wine cellars before you return to the pier.

Overnight: River Cloud II
Day
11

TRABEN - TRARBACH -BERNKASTEL

Today drive along the picturesque vineyards of the Moselle valley to visit what is most probably the oldest town in Germany, Trier. With every step one can feel the 2000 years of history. Our private local guide will uncover the impressive history and sights of this historic village. The St. Paulinus Church, the Roman Bridge, the ruins of the Imperial Baths, the Roman Amphitheatre and the ‘Petrusberg’, providing breathtaking views of this charming town and the surrounding vineyards. Afterwards, a walk through the Old Town leads to the most impressive memorial from Roman times, the city gate “Porta Nigra”. After a typical lunch there will be some leisure time before returning to Bernkastel- Kues and a special dinner for the final night onboard the River Cloud II .

Overnight: River Cloud II
Day
12

BERNKASTEL - FRANKFURT

Disembark the River Cloud II after breakfast then enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city of Frankfurt. Frankfurt has been Germany’s largest financial centre for centuries. Situated on the ancient ford on the river Main, its corporate skyline reflects its prominence in the world financial sector. Like Nuremberg much of Frankfurt was destroyed during World War II , however instead of reconstructing its old world feel Frankfurt opted for modernisation. Mid afternoon transfer to a boutique hotel for the evening.

Overnight: Rocco Fort Villa Kennedy, Leading Hotel of the World or similar
Day
13

FRANKFURT - HOME

After a leisurely breakfast this morning,private transfers have been arranged to the Frankfurt airport for connecting International flights.

Dates & Prices

Tour Code Days Departs Returns Price $AUD  
RC200(S) 13 21st May 2012 2nd June 2012 $12,495
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(S) Single Travellers are not required to pay a single supplement on these journeys.  Limited single supplement free seats are available.  The single supplement offer cannot be taken in conjunction with any other offer.

JOURNEY PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
International air-fare, visa fees, airport tax or travel insurance. Items of a personal nature like drinks (except at meal services onboard the River Cloud II ), laundry, telephone calls, tips, camera fees etc.

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Please note international flights are not included in the journey price, however, the programme has been designed to coincide with Singapore Airlines. Please contact your travel agent or Bill Peach Journeys. 

INCLUSIONS

  • 4 nights accommodation including the luxurious Park Hyatt Zurich
  • 8 nights on board the River Cloud II , in category C cabin
  • Single supplement free journey, limited availability
  • Superb cuisine throughout, within each of the luxury hotels there are a selection of restaurants and cuisines to choose from and all included in the price. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in your journey price. Alcohol is included for lunch and dinner onboard the River Cloud II
  • Escorted throughout by an experienced Journey Director and local hosts who will uncover parts of Switzerland, France and Germany that are out of bounds to the average traveller
  • Luxury air conditioned coaches used throughout to explore each of the towns
  • All porterage, entrance fees, tips and transfers are included
  • All touring throughout including the rail journey to Swtizerland’s highest railway to the Jungfraujoch
  • Private airport transfers on arrival in Zurich to the hotel and at the conclusion to Frankfurt airport

TRAVELLING THROUGHOUT EUROPE
Even with a well-planned itinerary, travelling in Europe can require patience, flexibility and a good sense of humour. We believe the best way to travel is with an intimate group and to be looked after every step of the way. On this 13 day journey Bill Peach Journeys has taken care of every detail, careful planning and research has gone into every aspect to ensure you can simply relax and immerse yourself in the experience. From interesting shore excursions to travelling onboard the River Cloud II , all has been organised to ensure a seamless journey

LUXURY ACCOMMODATION
A majority of this exclusive journey will be onboard the luxuriously appointed River Cloud II , carrying a maximum of 88 guests this is one of the most intimate river cruise vessels on the Rhine. On board, each cabin has been appointed with your total comfort in mind, decorated with a stylish European flare and each with marble ensuite. On the promenade deck enjoy superb Italian influenced cuisine. During the day and evening you can relax in the superbly appointed lounge or sundeck. At the beginning and end of the cruise, the hotels have been chosen for a combination of their elegance, service, charm and location..

PRIVATE TRANSPORTATION
The mode of transportation has been selected to ensure the ultimate viewing of each destination  isited. Whilst cruising the Rhine and Moselle rivers enjoy the luxurious comforts of the River Cloud II . Shore excursions at each port will be undertaken by air conditioned mini coach. There will be an English speaking guide at each port to showcase the unique highlights of the area.

LOCAL GUIDES
As with all Bill Peach Journeys you will be hosted by one of our experienced Journey Directors, who will be on hand for the duration of the journey to ensure that every detail is taken care of. To complement our Journey Director, at each destination we will of course have local guides with an intimate knowledge of the special attributes of the area, the history, hidden treasures and local knowledge that will take us from the well worn paths to places that would be out of bounds to the average traveller.

LEVEL OF FITNESS & HEALTH
Even with a well-planned itinerary, travelling in general can require patience, flexibility and a good sense of humour. This journey will require good health, mobility and stamina. Some sightseeing excursions will be on foot with a reasonable amount of walking over cobbled stoned streets and uneven pathways. There are many fascinating
things to see and do during the tour. Our sightseeing program is active with some early morning departures. You can stay on board the River Cloud II if you prefer not to participate in the arranged tours.

JOURNEY PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
International air-fare, visa fees, airport tax or travel insurance. Items of a personal nature like drinks (except at meal services onboard the River Cloud II ), laundry, telephone calls, tips, camera fees etc.

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Please note international flights are not included in the journey price, however, the programme has been designed to coincide with Singapore Airlines. Please contact your travel agent or Bill Peach Journeys.  

Price $12,495 per person.
Single supplement: $FREE
Days: 13
Max Group Size: 20
Activity Level: Easy Going
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