| Departing | xxxx 2011 |
|---|---|
| From | £379.00* |
* Price shown: 25 May 2011 - London Luton
Further Pricing & Departure date information
Unparalleled mountain majesty
Discover the captivating scenery of the French Alps, breathtaking Mont Blanc, and the sun-blessed sophistication of lakeside Annecy. Visit famous Chamonix to ride the Aiguille du Midi cable-car to the summit of Mont Blanc, and perhaps explore Geneva and Menthon-St-Bernard on one of our great-value optional excursions.
Single rooms are available for a supplement
Annecy is a delightful town, its lakeside setting enhanced by the majestic Alpine peaks towering on its horizon. The River Thiou winds through its heart, and flowers cascade down from the terraces of quayside restaurants. Browse the elegant shops, visit the museums, explore the lake by steamer or just relax at the water's edge.
Fly to Geneva, where you'll be met by our Tour Manager, and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is free for you to unpack and explore.
Today's optional excursion takes us to Lake Geneva. We'll stop in lovely Yvoire to visit the marvellous Jardin des Cinq Sens (Garden for the Five Senses - entry payable locally), before heading to Geneva. See the famous 'jet d'eau', the much photographed fountain that gushes 140 metres above the lake, and the famous flower clock located at the edge of the Jardin Anglais.
This morning's included walking tour will reveal the history and landmarks of Annecy. Flourishing as a refuge for the Catholic Bishop of Geneva during the 16th century Reformation, Annecy retains a prosperous air, with grand houses and several fascinating museums. Don't miss the wonderful open-air market or the chance to enjoy coffee in one of the many canal- or lake-side cafes.
This evening, round off a wonderful day by joining our optional dinner cruise on board a lake steamer to enjoy a three-course dinner and the stunning backdrop of the surrounding lake and peaks.
The highlight of our holiday for many, today's excursion is to Chamonix where we'll board the historic Montenvers rack railway, which makes its way through the pine forests to the edge of the vast Mer de Glace (Sea of Ice) that sweeps down the valley above the town.
Returning to Chamonix you'll be free to wander and have lunch (payable locally), or perhaps board the Aiguille du Midi cable-car (payable locally), which rises to a jaw-dropping altitude of 3,842 metres at the top station on Mont Blanc, before we return to our hotel.
Our final half-day optional excursion takes you to the imposing chateau of Menthon-St-Bernard on the Lake's eastern shore. The turreted fortress was the birthplace of the Patron Saint of Mountaineers (and very large dogs), and after a guided tour you'll be able to take in the wonderful view of Annecy back across the lake.
Transfer back to the airport for check-in and your flight home.
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