Day 1 - London to Cochem
We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar to Brussels. We then continue to Luxembourg by high-speed train through the beautiful Ardennes area of southern Belgium. Here we change to a local train to Cochem and check into either the 4* Hotel Brixiade or 4* Hotel Triton for a three night stay. (D)
Day 2 - Trier
After a leisurely morning we travel by train to another beautiful and historic destination on the banks of the Moselle. Trier claims to be Germany's oldest city, and was founded over 2,000 years ago. There is a wealth of impressive Roman and medieval buildings including the Porta Nigra, which is one of the best preserved Roman gates in Europe and has UNESCO World Heritage status.
The enchanting Trier Christmas Market, which is one of the best in Germany, can be found in the delightful market square, set against the backdrop of the magnificent Cathedral. The stalls offer an extensive range of hand-made goods and crafts, including Christmas gifts, decorations and much more. Sample the wonderful local produce on offer, such as bratwurst sausages, potato pancakes and wines from the renowned Moselle region, as you wander through the streets and squares of this charming city and soak up the festive atmosphere. We stay in Trier until the evening so you will be able to experience the market as darkness falls and the city is illuminated by the Christmas lights. (B)
Day 3 - Free day in Cochem
Cochem is located in the most romantic part of the Moselle Valley, where the river curves between the towering Eifel and Hunsrück mountain ranges. This pretty little town is dominated by is most famous landmark, the magnificent 11th century Reichsburg Castle, which is situated on a precipitous rock high above the vine clad slopes.
Cochem's Old Town is simply a joy to behold, with its narrow streets, winding alleyways, lovingly restored half-timbered houses and medieval town gates. The Christmas Market is just as beautiful as the town itself. During this time of year, the Market Square is alive with shopkeepers selling seasonal gifts and crafts from festively decorated wooden chalets. This evening, we enjoy a final dinner together in the hotel. (B,D)
Day 4 - Cochem to London
Today we leave Cochem by local train, and make our way to Cologne, travelling up through the magnificent Rhine Valley and along the banks of the mighty river. At Cologne we join the high-speed service through to Brussels, where we change trains and continue on the Eurostar service to St Pancras International in London, arriving in the late afternoon. (B)
