JULIAN ALPS’ FLY-DRIVE
LAKE BOHINJ, SLOVENIA

Lakes & Mountains Holidays has a selection of tranquil, post-school holiday, 7-night fly-drive breaks based in 4-star accommodation around the shores of Lake Bohinj, the largest lake in Slovenia, departing London 14th September to 18th October 2006.

Lake Bohinj is surrounded by the mountains of the Julian Alps in a location that forms part of Slovenia’s vast Triglav National Park. An all-round perspective of the area is easily achieved through a gentle lake steamer trip combined with a cable car ascent of nearby Mount Vogel (1,535m). The whole encompassing ambience is one of unspoilt nature, peace and relaxation. Lakes & Mountains Holidays offer a number of properties in the area including the 4-star Hotel Bohijn located just 200 metres from the lake itself, offering stunning views across the water to the mountains beyond. Close to the centre of town, yet in tranquil surroundings, the Bohinj provides a warm and hospitable atmosphere with all facilities readily to hand. Beyond the lake, well-marked walking trails allow easy independent exploration on foot whilst kayaking, rafting, mountain-biking, fishing, paragliding and canyoning are also available. The flexibility of car rental brings excursions to Ljubljana; Postojna caves and Lipica, home of the famous ‘Lippizaner’ horses, even across the Italian border to Venice, within easy reach of visitors.

The holiday costs £498 p/p (based on twin share) including scheduled flights to Ljubljana, 7-nights 4-star accommodation with breakfast, rental of a Group 1 car.
Two centre holidays, split between Ljubljana and Lake Bohinj, and/or extra nights are also available through Lake & Mountains Holidays on request.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 25/08/06

GOING OVERBOARD ON FERRIES...
SELF-DRIVE HOLIDAYS IN CHAMONIX
FRENCH ALPS

Savvy travellers are bypassing the airports and heading for the ferry ports, in anticipation of a relaxed hassle-free journey across the English Channel. For a good old, traditional self-drive family holiday, Lakes & Mountains Holidays offer 7-night stays at the 4* Grand Hotel des Alpes, one of the first and finest hotels in Chamonix, with Dover/Calais ferry crossings included. Available from now until September 20th 2006.

Set at the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest mountain at 16,000 ft, Chamonix has everything to offer those who enjoy clean mountain air, spectacular views, outdoor activities and relaxation. The walking opportunities are endless, with plentiful paths accessed by several mountain lifts. In addition, the Aiguille du Midi cable car takes passengers higher than any other lift in Europe (12,000ft), and the Montenvers Train, an old funicular dating back to 1908, climbs a precipitous track from Chamonix to a stunning vantage point above the Mer de Glace, one of the Alps’ most accessible glaciers. Guests are accommodated at the Grand Hotel des Alpes, a beautiful conversion of a building dating back to 1840, packed full of original features. The hotel was completely renovated in 2004 and facilities now include an indoor pool with wave machine (think slight swell in the English Channel), a wellness centre offering Ayurvedic and Korean massages, comfortable lounge and a la carte restaurant.

The holiday costs from £452 p/p (Aug 31st-Sep 20th) including 7-nights bed and breakfast accommodation at the 4* Grand Hotel des Alpes and return midweek Dover/Calais ferry crossing. A child discount of £175 p/p is available if sharing parents’ room.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 21/08/06

STILL ROOM IN THE ALPS
SELF-DRIVE HOLIDAYS - BERNESE OBERLAND
AUGUST AVAILABILITY

As popular summer family holiday destinations burst at the seams, Lakes & Mountains Holidays’ late availability on 7-night August self-drive holidays to Grindelwald in Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, offer a chance to escape the huge crowds and enjoy an Alpine break amongst some of Europe’s finest scenery. Departures available throughout August.

For a mountain resort there can be few finer settings than Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland, nestling in green pastures amongst the snow-capped peaks of the Eiger and Jungfrau mountains. The village has a lively main street lined with old wooden chalets, attractive shops, restaurants and bars, a superb sports centre, endless walking trails and a number of excursions by train, cable car or chair lift into the surrounding valleys and hills. There is a children’s programme for those aged 7-16, throughout August, offering adventure days, photography and easy climbing courses. Guests are based at the centrally located 4* Hotel Sunstar, a modern luxury hotel built in a typical Alpine style, with stunning views over the Eiger range. The hotel has a fine gourmet restaurant plus a great family restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine like fondue and rösti. Other facilities include a superb swimming pool and extensive Wellness Centre.

The holiday costs £747 p/p including return midweek Dover/Calais ferry crossing, 7-nights half board accommodation at the 4* Hotel Sunstar and a complimentary ‘Visitors Card’ offering discounts on a range of goods and services.
Deduct £175 p/p for children aged up to 16 years sharing parents’ room. Lakes & Mountains Holidays can arrange longer or shorter stays plus fly-drive options.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 29/07/06

LEARN NORDIC WALKING
CALORIE BURNING SWISS BREAK

Get the low down on the latest sporting craze to sweep Europe, Nordic Walking. Alpine specialists Lakes & Mountains Holidays are including daily Nordic Walking lessons in a 5-night short break based in the pretty Swiss resort of Crans-Montana, departing Heathrow 25th September 2006.

Nordic Walking is basically cross-country skiing without the skis, and whilst it may raise a few laughs, the average Nordic Walker burns off over 40% more calories than a normal walker and exercises the whole of the body, rather than just the legs. Walkers use their arms to push off from flexible poles that resemble ski poles, using all their upper body muscles in the process. It’s a great way of exercising in the fresh air, amidst stunning views, plus it’s good fun too. The holiday is based at the 4* Helvetia Intergolf Aparthotel quietly situated close to the centre of Crans-Montana. Guests receive a two-hour guided Nordic Walking session each morning, with afternoons at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s small wellness centre or further explore the resort. Facilities in the wellness centre include an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam bath and solarium, perfect for soothing away any initial aches and pains! Crans-Montana is one of the sunniest resorts in the Alps, facing south over the Rhone Valley, and one of the glitziest with fabulous shopping – plenty of designer gear on offer! Other activities available include golf, hiking, mountain biking, mountain climbing and tennis.

The holiday costs £837 p/p and includes scheduled flights (BA), rail transfers, 5-nights hotel accommodation on a half board basis and five Nordic Walking sessions.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 24/07/06

ROAD TRIP
CANADIAN MOTORHOME HOLIDAYS
NO ONE-WAY DROP OFF FEE
SAVE £300!

Lakes & Mountains Holidays have waived the standard one-way drop off fee on motorhome rental for selected pick-up dates from Vancouver bound for Calgary, saving independently-minded holidaymakers a massive £300! Departures available from Gatwick throughout September and October 2006.

Explore the most scenic parts of Canada either making use of the many ‘all-amenities sites’ or just parking by the open road. Taking advantage of the camper’s versatility, guests have the freedom to get up and go, where they choose, when they choose. All motorhomes are well equipped and feature shower, flush w.c. stereo radio/CD, automatic gearbox, power steering, cruise control, fresh water tank, sink, cooker, fridge and freezer.

For example: A 14-day motorhome holiday departing Gatwick 24th September 2006 now costs £937 p/p (normally £1,237 - based on two sharing) including charter flights, motorhome rental (C25 vehicle) and 1-nights hotel accommodation in Vancouver. Other departure dates in September and October also available.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 10/07/06

SUMMERTIME DAVOS
CHILDREN STAY FREE
SWITZERLAND

Made to Measure Holidays’ Lakes & Mountains programme offers an attractive 4-night family break in the Swiss resort of Davos, where at selected properties up to two children may stay free in their own separate room if accompanied by two adults, valid for departures from London now till 21st October 2006. Longer stays and alternate accommodation options may all be arranged.

Davos is Europe's largest mountain resort offers a beautiful natural landscape combined with a vast array of leisure activities. Beautiful meadows, woods, pastures and above all mountains are accessible by 450 km of signed and maintained hiking trails great for all levels from gentle strolls to narrow mountain tracks through steep terrain above the tree line. Mountain biking is another option with over 600 km of trails available. Facilitating easy exploration four mountain lifts operate during the summer months. Other activities on offer include windsurfing, sailing, fishing, hand gliding, paragliding, hot air balloon flights. Horse riding, golf and ice skating together with indoor and outdoor swimming (free tickets for children to the Pleasure Pool Centre in the package).
Elsewhere, Davos has many museums, galleries including the world's largest collection of works by expressionist artist Ernst Ludwig Kirchner. Festivals, including the Davos Festival (30th July – 13th August) showcase the world's top up-and-coming musicians at various venues around the town, making the resort a good choice if you’d like to incorporate a little art and culture into a summer holiday.

A 4-night break at the centrally located 3-star Sunstar Hotel including scheduled flights, rail transfers and breakfast costs £575 p/p adults and £198 p/p children aged up to 16 years (cost of travel only).

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 03/07/06

HAUTE-SAVOIE SUMMER
CHAMONIX AND LAKE ANNECY

Lakes & Mountains Holidays combine two of France’s Haute-Savoie highlights in a 9-night two-centre family fly-drive holiday featuring Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Annecy on the shore’s Lake Annecy, departing Heathrow July and August 2006 (other dates and durations available).

Chamonix lies in the shadow of Europe’s highest mountain, Mont-Blanc (4,807m) and has everything to offer those who enjoy clean mountain air, spectacular views, outdoor activities and relaxation. Walking opportunities are enormous, with plentiful paths accessed by several mountain lifts in the area. The town’s spectacular Aiguille du Midi cable car was built in 1955 and rides higher than any other lift in Europe (3,842m) offering a heady view of many other Alpine peaks. Combined with the system serving Point Helbronner from Entréves in Val D’Aosta (Italy) it is possible to cross the entire Mont-Blanc Massif by cable car. Elsewhere, the Montenvers Railway, a mountain train from another part of the village, ascends to 1931m where its precipitous railhead overlooks the 7km long Mer de Glace, one of the Alps' most accessible glaciers. The town itself has a sports centre with swimming pools and water slides, a climbing wall, tennis and squash courts and a skating rink. For children and teenagers there is also a Leisure Park featuring two summer toboggan runs, tree-top rope courses and large trampolines etc... Accommodation for 5-nights is provided at 3-star Hotel Les Aiglons, situated in a quiet location less than ten minutes' walk from the centre of town, only a short walk from the Aiguille du Midi cable car.

Lake Annency is France’s second largest lake at 14.6kms and often claimed as the cleanest lake in Europe due to strict environmental controls introduced in the 1960s. Annecy town is the main centre on the lake and occupies historically strategic position on routes between Italy, Switzerland and France. The town was once created regional capital by the Princes of Savoie in 1444, and has absorbed strong cultural and architectural influences over the years as a result of it political and geographic position. Accommodation for 4-nights is provided at the 3-star Hotel Allobroges, a charming hotel with a lovely outdoor drinks terrace located in a central but quiet part of Annecy town, only a few minutes walk from the lake shore.

The holiday costs £775 p/p adult, £550 p/p child (up to 12 years sharing parents’ room) including scheduled flights from Heathrow to Geneva, car rental, 9- nights 3-star hotel accommodation with breakfast. Options including self-drive from UK, variations on length of stay and departure date may all be discussed with Lakes & Mountains Holidays sales consultants.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 26/06/06

SWISS POSTBUS 100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
SAAS FEE 125 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
CELEBRATE WITH FREE RAIL & POSTBUS TRAVEL

In September, the pretty Swiss resort of Saas Fee is celebrating its transition from tiny farming village 125 years ago, to world-renowned holiday resort, with the launch of a Saas Valley Card offering free travel throughout the valley, by mountain railway and famous yellow Postbus, itself celebrating 100 years of service. Lakes & Mountains Holidays invite guests to explore the beautiful Saas Valley for free, during a 7-night holiday based at the Hotel Artemis in Saas Fee village, departing Heathrow throughout September 06.

At an altitude of 6000ft, Saas Fee offers a compelling combination of spectacular scenery, calm surroundings, dry and sunny climate and the amenities of a major resort. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Alps’, Saas Fee lies at the base of a massive mountain bowl, and has the tranquillity of a car-free village in one of the most majestic glacier-topped mountain settings in Switzerland. During September guests can take advantage of free unlimited use of the mountain railways (except Metro Alpin) as well as all Postbus connections in the Saas Valley, plus enjoy a host of nostalgic anniversary celebrations, as Saas Fee recreates the ‘good old days’. Guests are accommodated at the 3* Hotel Artemis, located just minutes from the heart of the village.

The holiday costs £562 p/p (September 06) including scheduled flights, rail transfers, 7-nights B&B at the Hotel Artemis and complimentary Saas Valley Card. Shorter stays are also available with Lakes & Mountains Holidays. Why not combine with other resorts or a rail tour?

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 12/06/06

SPA-ING PARTNERS
ST. MORITZ SPA
KEMPINSKI GRAND HOTEL DES BAINS
VOTED ‘BEST ALPINE SPA’

A breath of pure Swiss Mountain air and a relaxing sojourn in a luxury award-winning hotel in St. Moritz could be just the ticket! The Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains, St. Moritz’s latest 5* hotel has been awarded two accolades this year, including a ‘Senses Wellness Award 2006’ for ‘Best Alpine Spa’. Spoil yourself and your partner and book a 4-night break with Alpine specialists Lakes & Mountains Holidays, departing Heathrow in June.

The Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains appears like a fairytale castle in St. Moritz, one of the world’s most glamorous resorts, with sweeping views of the surrounding Alps. The hotel was originally built in 1864, right at the source of the Mauritius Spring, once described as one of the most healing natural springs in all of Europe, and following a lengthy closure of almost ninety years, re-opened in 2002. The hotel’s award-winning St. Moritz Spa offers a welcome break from the stress of everyday life with a range of pampering treats to relax and invigorate, plus guests can experience the restorative power of the Mauritius Springs, around the clock. The hotel’s fitness area features state-of-the-art cardiovascular apparatus with trained staff on hand to develop personal fitness programmes.

The holiday costs from £550 p/p (twin share) for 4 nights including scheduled flights, 1st class rail transfers, accommodation including breakfast at the 5* Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains and complimentary use of all spa and gym facilities.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 05/06/06

***LAST MINUTE***
SPRING BREAKS FIXED
IN THE TYROL

Lakes & Mountains Holidays still have the flight availability during the Half Term week to offer a 7-night fly-drive holiday based at 3* Hotel Charlotte in Seefeld, departing Gatwick 31st May 2006.

Seefeld has become one of the best known of Austria’s Tyrolean mountain villages, and with good reason. Set on a plateau a few miles from Innsbruck, this attractive resort has an unmatched combination of fine scenery, accommodation and amenities.
For those who enjoy peace and walking opportunities on alpine trails, Seefeld has no less than five mountain lifts (chair-lifts, gondolas and one railway) to take you up there. For the active visitor there are many other sports to enjoy. Swim at the Olympia Sports Centre, or in the Wildsee, the small lake on the entrance to the village. One of Austria's best 18-hole golf courses is nearby and also a separate 'Golf Academy' with tuition and driving range. Other activities available include cycling, tennis, riding, badminton, squash, bowling, summer toboggan, boating, paragliding, and rafting.
In the village itself, the traffic free centre is a relaxing place to amble around discovering numerous shops and restaurants. Widen explorations with a day trip to Lake Achensee, with ride on a steam train to see the medieval town and crystal shops of Rattenberg. Visit Innsbruck by train, a most spectacular journey, and the Bavarian castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof. 3* Hotel Charlotte is in a central but quite location, and offers friendly family-run accommodation with the bonus of an indoor swimming pool. Other features include sauna, solarium, fitness room, table tennis, garden with barbecue area, bar and two restaurants. The spacious bedrooms all have balconies too, just the place for serious relaxation at the end of the day.

The holiday costs £541 p/p (twin share) including direct flights from Gatwick to Innsbruck, 7-nights half-board accommodation at 3* Hotel Charlotte and car hire.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 23/05/06

DON’T MENTION ZE WORLD CUP
FOOTBALL-FREE HOLIDAYS

Here are a few ‘soccer’ tips from specialist Lakes & Mountains Holidays on how best to avoid the inevitable encroachment of the ‘beautiful game’. Here we go, here we go, here we go…etc…etc…

Austria:
Firstly, the good news is – they’re not in it! The bad news – they’re neighbours with the host country Germany! But on top of 6000 ft. Schaffberg Mountain amidst stunning views of the pretty resort of St. Wolfgang set on the shores of Wolfgangsee, and not a red and white flag in sight, you’ll be slapping your lederhosen-clad thighs in delight! Departing Stansted for Salzburg (avoiding Munich Airport and large gatherings of fans) daily.
A 1-week fly-drive holidays based in St. Wolfgang costs from £508 p/p (based on twin share) including scheduled flights, 7-nights half board accommodation at the pretty 3* Hotel Hubertushof and car hire.

Slovenia:
Plenty of opportunity to escape the pre-match ‘build-ups’, the post-match analysis and any errant fans on this trip. Head for Lake Bohinj, the largest lake in Slovenia, jump in (only joking), take a panoramic boat trip and top it off with a spectacular cable car ride up Mount Vogel, part of the surrounding Julian Alps, departing Gatwick or Stansted daily.
A 1-week fly-drive to Lake Bohinj costs from £512 p/p (based on twin share) including scheduled flights, 7-nights half board accommodation at the 3*Hotel Bohinj, just a few steps from the lake, and car hire.

Canada:
Pick a luxury wilderness retreat – Sonora Lodge, set between the dense West Coast forest and the waters of British Columbia’s famed Inside Passage, offers luxurious accommodation, fine cuisine and unsurpassed recreational activities including bearwatching, whalewatching, heli-tours and fishing. The only scores of interest on this trip are the number of bears spotted and the number of fish caught! When it’s kick-off time in Deutschland it’s 8 hours earlier on Canada’s West Coast and you’ll be out counting bears! Departing Campbell River from June 1st until October 13th 2006.
A 3-night stay at Sonora Lodge costs £799 p/p (based on twin share - Jun 14th-Sep 15th) including transfers from Campbell River, full board accommodation, wine with dinner and use of all resort facilities.
Flights are not included but are available through Lakes & Mountains Holidays

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 15/05/06

HALF-TERM IN THE JULIAN ALPS
VITRANC APARTMENT, KRANJSKA GORA. SLOVENIA

Hiking, rafting, horse-riding, cycling, golf or a day trip to Venice – during the summer months there’s more than enough to keep the whole family entertained in the Slovenian alpine village of Kranjska Gora. Lakes & Mountains Holidays is offering a 7-night fly-drive holiday in the shadows of the Julian Alps, departing London 27th May 2006. (Other dates available too)

Kranjska Gora lies in the heart of the upper Sava Dolinka valley, close to the borders of Austria and Italy. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Julian Alps and with Lake Jasna and the Triglav National Park on the doorstep, the village is perfectly situated for relaxing and soaking up the scenery but it also has an array of outdoor activities to enjoy. There are abundant walking trails to suit all levels, from gentle family walks to strenuous hikes and mountain climbing and the village chairlift is open three days per week in summer to make the wonderful views more accessible. The Soca river is an excellent spot for river rafting and fishing, there are 150km of marked cycling trails, a nearby golf course, horse riding, and canyoning for adventurous family members. The comfortable Vitranc apartments are centrally located in the village, close to the supermarket, shops and amenities. They feature a double bedroom, living room with sofa bed and a balcony and some apartments have an additional bed in the bedroom. Guests at the Vitranc have use of leisure facilities and the Aqua Centre, complete with sauna, jacuzzi, solarium and a childrens pool, at the neighbouring Hotel Larix. With a hire car included in the package, excursions to Bohinj & Lake Bled, Ljubljana, Postojna caves and Lipica stud farm are all within easy reach, indeed Venice is a possible full-day excursion.

The holiday costs £330 p/p (based on 4 sharing), including scheduled flights from Gatwick or Stansted with Adria Airways, 7-nights self-catering accommodation and car rental.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 08/05/06

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS
SPRING LAKE BREAKS
ITALIAN LAKES

Let tailor-made specialist Lakes & Mountains Holidays whisk you away to the beautiful shores of Italy’s Lake Orta for a four-night spring break, departing Heathrow daily.

Lake Orta is less well known than other Italian lakes but is no less beautiful, especially in the springtime. The 3* Hotel Giardinetto, run by the cheerful Signora Primatesta, lies directly on the edge of Lake Orta at Pettenasco, about 2km from Orta San Giulio. There are magnificent lake views from the main dining room, adjacent sun terrace, poolside and from most of the bedrooms. The lovely medieval town of Orta San Giulio lies on the lake’s eastern shore facing the small island of San Guilio. A network of narrow streets, old houses and a wealth of history centres on a marvellous open square with restaurants and cafés on one side and quayside on the other. Slightly further afield, the exquisite palaces and gardens of the beautiful Borromeo Islands of Lake Maggiore, are a delight. At this time of year the gardens are ripe with pomegranates, camellias, wisteria, rhododendrons, bougainvillea, hibiscus, hydrangea and magnolias.

A four-night break at the Hotel Giardinetto in Lake Orta costs from £452 p/p based on twin share, including scheduled flights from London, private transfers and half board accommodation.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 02/05/06

***SHORT BREAK***
TORONTO FROM ONLY £499

Excellent restaurants, bars, shopping malls, markets, outstanding museums plus a theatre district to rival London’s West End - take a 4-night city break in Canada’s most dynamic city staying at the 3* Days Hotel, downtown Toronto, depart Gatwick from mid-May.

Toronto, set on the shores of Lake Ontario, is just waiting to be explored. It is Canada’s largest city with a skyline dominated by the CN Tower, recently nominated one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and the world’s tallest free-standing structure (1815 ft.). Take one of the glass-fronted elevators up to the observation decks, where on a clear day a 120-km panoramic view can be enjoyed. With so many attractions on offer it is difficult to know where to start exploring…
Visit the St. Lawrence Market with more than 50 gourmet food vendors, located in the heart of the historic Old Town and considered by Food and Wine magazine to be one of the world's 25 best food markets. The North Market is home to the 200 year old Saturday Farmers' Market and Sunday Antique Market. Downtown Toronto offers museums and art galleries galore including The Royal Ontario Museum, Canada's largest museum and one of the world’s top 10, the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Ontario Science Centre, which entertains and educates 800,000 visitors a year. For kids, the Toronto Zoo features more than 5,000 animals in their natural environment and just north of the City, Canada's largest theme park, Paramount Canada’s Wonderland, features more than 180 attractions and 50 thrilling rides, including Canada's only suspended roller coaster and the country’s largest outdoor wave pool. Toronto's downtown waterfront has over time been gradually transformed. The centre-piece being the award-winning Harbourfront Centre - the site of art galleries, theatres, craft boutiques restaurants, offices, hotels and marinas fronted by a waterside promenade. Take a 10-minute ferry ride to the Toronto islands for a great view of the city skyline. Centre Island offers miles of parkland with beaches, barbecues and picnic tables. And of course, a trip to Toronto is incomplete without a visit to nearby Niagara Falls.

The city-breaks cost from £499 p/p (based on twin share) including flights, room only in 3* hotel accommodation and transfers.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 24/04/06

7-NIGHTS FOR THE PRICE OF 6
SAVE £102 p/p!
LAKE ANNECY
LUXURY SPRING BREAK

Lake Annecy is one of France’s largest lakes and reputedly the most attractive, set within stunning mountain scenery and dotted with pretty towns and villages. Alpine specialists, Lakes & Mountains Holidays are offering 7-night holidays for the price of 6, staying at the superb 4* Hotel L’Imperial Palace, just outside the beautiful old town of Annecy, a perfect location for a luxurious spring break. Heathrow, Gatwick and Luton departures are available daily from April 22nd 2006.

The town of Annecy is one of the most charming in the Alps, situated at the northern tip of the lake, its small, medieval quarter is a delight with canals, flower-covered bridges and arcaded streets. Just outside of the town the Hotel L’Imperial Palace has an exceptional lakeside setting on its own peninsular with outstanding views of the mountains across the lake. Four restaurants offer an excellent variety of food from snacks and salads to traditional French cuisine. The ‘Guingette du Pecheur’ or Fisherman’s Shack, which is located on the waterfront, is accessed by boat from the hotel’s private jetty and offers a range of specialities including snail casserole and butter-fried frogs legs (for the more adventurous!). There are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Annecy including an excellent network of walks, cycle paths and watersports. Other places of interest include Geneva, ideal for a day trip, and Chamonix, set at the foot of Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc – take the near-vertical Aiguille du Midi cable car ride up towards the peak for wonderful Alpine views.

A 7-night holiday staying at the 4* Hotel L’Imperial Palace on Lake Annecy now costs £1,068 p/p (April 22nd-June 21st - includes 1 free night) including scheduled flights, accommodation with breakfast daily and car hire.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 10/04/06

WALTZING DOWN THE DANUBE
VIA VIENNA, BRATISLAVA & BUDAPEST

Lakes & Mountains Holidays 8-day/7-night spring cruise along the Danube, features many ports of call along it’s scenic route between Passau in Eastern Bavaria and historic Budapest, including Slovakia’s capital Bratislava and the Imperial city of Vienna. Heathrow and Stansted departures are available each Sunday between April and October 2006.

On arrival guests are transferred from Munich to Passau by road and board the MS Danube at around 4pm for a 6pm departure. Journeying gently through the night the first stop on the outbound leg of the cruise is the baroque Benedictine monastery of Melk. A tour round the monastery concludes in a very satisfactory manner with wine tasting in the vaults! Cruising through the country side of Austria and Slovakia the next brief stop is Esztergom in Hungary, famous for its cathedral, before arriving in Budapest for an evening of shipboard Hungarian entertainment. A morning is free to discover the city and there is an optional excursion to take in a Hungarian equestrian show before an evening sailing for Bratislava. Highlights of the Slovakian capital include Bratislava Castle whose lofty bastions offer breathtaking views of Slovakia, Austria and Hungary. An optional evening concert concludes the visit before a late evening departure for Vienna. Guests may visit the Hofburg Castle and the Emperor’s apartments, ride the Ferris wheel or indeed take in St Stephen’s Cathedral in this compact and dynamic city. The penultimate stop is Dürnstein where a guided tour explores the surrounding area – the heart of Austria’s wine region and visits Kunringer Castle where Richard the Lionheart was reputedly incarcerated. A final night back in Passau precedes a morning transfer to Munich and homeward flights.

The cruises cost from £1,262 p/p (up to 15th May & from 16th-30th Oct) including scheduled flights from London, coach transfers, accommodation in a main deck cabin with private facilities and all meals on board ship.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 03/04/06

MAY HALF TERM
DIP A TOE IN LAKE BLED

Planning an active family holiday this May Half Term? Lakes & Mountains Holidays have introduced the beautiful alpine resort of Bled into a brand new programme of tours in Slovenia. Take a horse-drawn carriage around stunning Lake Bled, enjoy a range of watery activities, explore the medieval castle or take an excursion to Lipica to witness the famous Lipizzaner horses in action, the possibilities are endless! 1-week holidays depart Gatwick or Stansted daily.

Bled is a small but charming city in Slovenia with a stunning mountain backdrop, and is best known for its beautiful castle, lake, and enchanting island in the middle of the lake. Fairytale Bled Castle, perched high on a rock overlooking the lake, towers over the city. Coachmen known as ‘fijaker’ take visitors on horse-drawn carriage rides around the lake and to the castle, which is open daily. From the castle, enjoy the spectacular lakeside views and take in its fine collection of tapestries, furniture and paintings. The tiny wooded island in the centre of Lake Bled is home to the 9th century Church of the Assumption with its unique wishing bell. The best way to see the island is by taking a unique ‘pletna’ (flat-bottomed gondola) boat ride, then climbing the 99 steps to the medieval chapel to ring the bell and make a wish. A range of watersports including rafting, fishing, surfing, kayaking and rowing are all available, plus Bled is an ideal starting point for exploring the unique Slovenian Alps. Take an excursion to the Lipica Stud Farm to see the world-famous, white Lipizzaner horses strut their stuff, or go underground and explore by miniature train, the mysterious Postojna Caves, a 20 km labyrinth of subterranean passages filled with stalagmites, stalactites and other rock formations. Families are accommodated in the Golf Apartments, close to the centre of Bled, opposite the Hotel Golf. It’s ideal for those looking for self-catering accommodation with the added bonus of all of the facilities of the neighbouring hotel (pools, saunas, spa, restaurant, bistro and piano bar) at their disposal.

A 1-week holiday (based on a family of 4) costs £394 p/p (May 11-June 14) including scheduled flights, transfers, accommodation in a 1-bedroom apartment and car hire.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 27/03/06

LAKESIDE LIVING
LAKE COMO
ITALY SELF-DRIVE

Enjoy a romantic spring break on the picturesque shore of Italy’s beautiful Lake Como, staying at the lakeside Hotel Bellevue, adjacent to the celebrated Villa Carlotta. Lakes & Mountains Holidays offer one-week, self-drive holidays with UK departures available from 8th April 2006.

Lake Como is blessed with its own distinctive scenery and striking views of snow-capped Alps to the north, and renowned for its exquisite villas, the most famous of which is Villa Carlotta. The villa was built in the late 17th century for the luxury-loving marquis Giorgio Clerici. In late spring, the villa’s gardens are a riot of colour with more than 14 acres of azaleas and dozens of varieties of rhododendrons in full bloom. Palms, banana trees, cacti, eucalyptus, a sequoia, orchids, and camellias are also counted amongst over 500 plant species. Guests are based at the Hotel Bellevue, whose own garden neighbours Villa Carlotta. Dating back to the early 19th century, the hotel was beautifully renovated in 2005, retaining many original character features, plus a swimming pool was added. Just across the lake from the hotel is the enchanting town of Bellagio, la perla del lago (the pearl of the lake), considered by many to be the loveliest town in Europe. Stroll along the flower-lined promenade, stopping at quaint outdoor cafés serving cappuccino and gelato, or enjoy lunch at one of the elegant restaurants that hug the shoreline.

The holiday costs from £354 p/p (April 8th-May 13th - based on a party of four) including accommodation at the 3* Hotel Bellevue and return mid-week Dover-Calais crossing for car and passengers.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 20/03/06

A REALLY WILD DRIVE
CANADA SELF DRIVE
WHALE-WATCHING & BEAR-VIEWING INCLUDED!

Lakes & Mountains Holidays 9-day self-drive tour in British Columbia offers all the ingredients of a ‘once in a lifetime’ holiday. Enjoy the flexibility of the open road, amidst spectacular scenery, within a planned itinerary, which includes two thrilling whale-watching excursions on Vancouver Island and spectacular Grizzly Bear viewing at Knight Inlet Lodge. Daily departures from Vancouver are available from May 6th to October 11th 2006.

The best way to see Canada is by car, going at your own speed, stopping when you want and taking that intriguing little diversion to see just that little bit more. This tour allows all of this whilst at the same time guiding guests to all the ‘must see’ sites en-route, including some superb wildlife experiences. On Vancouver Island, visit Victoria, the state capital, explore the miles of sandy beaches and ancient rainforests of Pacific Rim National Park, the Horne Lake Caves and the giant cedars of Cathedral Grove. Take part in two whale-watching expeditions, firstly searching for Pacific Grey Whales, sea lions and puffins in Clayoquot Sound, off the coast of Tofino, and later for Orca Whales in the unspoilt wilderness of Johnstone Strait. And finally, the ultimate in wildlife viewing, the incomparable thrill of close encounters with some of North America’s most impressive creatures, massive Brown (Grizzly) Bears. Spend a memorable day bear-watching from Knight Inlet Lodge, a remote floating lodge moored in a fjord 150km north of Vancouver, on Canada’s Pacific coast, only accessible by floatplane. Enjoy Canadian hospitality in the lodge during an overnight stay – lunch, dinner and a soak in the hot tub are all included!

The holiday costs from £1,156 p/p (May 1st-24th - based on twin share) including car hire, 8-nights accommodation, admission to Lookout Tower in Vancouver and Victoria city tour, 2 whale-watching tours (Orca Whales tour June-September only), full board accommodation at Knight Inlet Lodge with floatplane transfers, scenic boat ride and expertly guided wildlife viewing. Children 8-12 from £397 p/p (May 1st- 24th).
Flights are not included but are available through Lakes & Mountains Holidays from ~£385 p/p.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 13/03/06

FROM MOZART TO MOTHER SUPERIOR
MOTHER’S DAY IN SALZBURG
SOUND OF MUSIC TOUR & MOZART DINNER – INCLUDED!
PLUS - STAY 4-NIGHTS, PAY FOR 3!

Small but beautifully formed – that’s Salzburg! Enjoy the visual pleasures of this delightful Alpine city, especially noted as the birthplace of Mozart (2006 celebrates the 250th anniversary of Mozart’s birth) and film location for ‘The Sound of Music’, during a short 4-night break with Lakes & Mountains Holidays – a perfect venue for a ‘Mother’s Day celebration! London departures available daily.

Surrounded by scenic views and the natural beauty of Austria’s lake district, Salzburg enjoys a picturesque setting. Enjoy horse drawn sleigh rides, an excursion to the Alps and coffee and cake in one of Salzburg’s traditional coffee houses. The break includes a ‘Sound of Music’ tour and a special candle-lit Mozart Dinner in St. Peter’s Baroque Hall, with musical accompaniment courtesy of the Amadeus Consort Group. Stay at the delightful Hotel Wolf Dietrich, a classically beautiful hotel, just 10 minutes walk from the old city centre, and receive an extra night absolutely free!

The 4-night city-break now costs £453 p/p (normally £490) including return scheduled flights, transfers, 4*hotel accommodation with breakfast, ‘’Sound of Music Tour’ and a Mozart dinner evening.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 07/03/06

COOL TRAIN RUNNING…
GLACIER EXPRESS
COMPLIMENTARY FIRST CLASS UPGRADE

Alpine specialist Lakes & Mountains Holidays has made their 4-day ‘Glacier Express’ rail tour, through the magnificent scenery of the Swiss Alps, even more relaxing by offering a complimentary First Class rail upgrade on all holidays departing London before 31st May 2006.

The Glacier Express is Switzerland’s most famous train journey, encompassing dramatic constantly changing landscapes whilst traversing 291 bridges, 91 tunnels and surmounting the 2,033 metre Oberalp Pass, between the resorts of St. Moritz and Zermatt. Trains are a curious mix of old and new, combining modern passenger cars with panoramic windows with antique dining cars featuring wood panelling, brass fixtures and special, tilted wineglasses thoughtfully designed to prevent spillage during the steeper portions of the journey.
On day one, transfer by rail from Zurich airport to St Moritz for an overnight stay. Spend the next day leisurely exploring the city, or take an optional trip on the famous Bernina Express to Poschiavao. On day three, board the world-famous Glacier Express to Zermatt, for a 7½-hour journey experiencing the Swiss Alps in all their breath-taking glory, from the comfort of a First Class seat. Stay overnight in Zermatt before transferring to Zurich for the flight home.

The tour costs £510 p/p (from April 17th) or £550 p/p (until April 16th) based on twin share including scheduled flights, Swiss rail transfers (includes complimentary upgrade to First Class) and 3-nights 3* bed and breakfast hotel accommodation.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 27/02/06

WESTERN CANADA
TAILOR-MADE DISCOUNTS IN JUNE
SAVE £70 p/p

Lakes & Mountains Holidays has utilised special airfares with Air Canada to offer discounts on a range of tailor-made holidays in Western Canada, throughout June. Why not opt for a self-drive tour enjoying the flexibility of the open road amidst spectacular scenery, within a planned itinerary?

Mountain Express: An 8-day self-drive tour - Calgary to Vancouver (or v/v) – departing Heathrow throughout June 2006.
An ideal itinerary for travellers who have limited vacation time, but want to pack in as many of Western Canada’s highlights as possible. In just a week explore Calgary, Banff National Park, the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park, follow in the footsteps of trappers and traders along the famous Yellowhead Highway by Mount Robson National Park and cross the imposing Fraser Canyon en route to the beautiful coastal city of Vancouver. Activities not to be missed along the way include gondola rides to the top of both Sulphur Mountain in Banff NP and over Hell’s Gate gorge in Fraser Canyon, plus ride a specially designed vehicle, the ‘Ice Explorer’, across one of Columbia Icefield’s major glaciers.

The tour now costs £1,210 p/p (normally £1,280 – saving £70 p/p - June departures only) including scheduled flights, transfers, car hire, 7-nights hotel accommodation, 2 deluxe continental breakfasts and a personalised documentation package containing essential travel information.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 20/02/06

EARLY SEASON RATES
THE LUCERNE EXPERIENCE

Unquestionably one of Europe's most charming cities, Lucerne also has the added virtue of stunning lakeside and mountain scenery on its doorstep. Enjoy off-season rates and the hospitality of a small but enchanting city during a 3-night break with alpine specialists, Lakes & Mountains Holidays, departing London now till 8th April 2006.

An excellent way to get one’s bearings on the first morning is during an included two-hour guided walk round the main sights of the city including Lucerne’s trademark Charles Bridge. Explore the ‘old quarter’, a maze of cobbled streets bordered by historical townhouses, shops and hotels adorned with frescoes. After breakfast the following morning, after stroll by the shores of Lake Lucerne, take a short bus ride to the suburb of Krienz for a leisurely ascent of Mount Pilatus (2,130m or 6,995ft) to view the most spectacular landscapes by panoramic gondola and from the summit. Views are generally best early morning or evening and with a couple of hotels located at this heady height, this is a fine spot to linger before descending to the valley floor.

The base for the break is Hotel Drei Könige, a bright modern hotel, well located less than ten minutes walks from Lucerne’s railway station and closer still to the ‘old town’. The 3-night break costs from £404 p/p (now till 8th April 2006) including scheduled flights, rail transfers from Zurich, B&B accommodation at the 3* Hotel Drei Könige, guided city tour and Mt Pilatus gondola tickets. Extra nights cost £33 p/p.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 13/02/06

CIAO VENICE
EASTER CITY-BREAK

14th-17th APRIL

For a more reflective Easter why not immerse yourself in Venice? Lakes & Mountains Holidays offer 3-night Venetian City-Breaks departing Gatwick or Stansted 14th April 06.

Built on a collection of islands, Venice is both a living city and an extensive work of art. Lose yourself in the narrow alleyways of the city, stopping for gelato or espresso. Indulge in a classic gondola tour, complete with onboard operatics, of the city’s main waterway, the Grand Canal, or hop on and off the many water taxis that ply the labyrinth of canals. Guests can make use of an included ‘City Card’ offering free boat transport on the water buses, plus an invaluable ‘Audio Guide’ for points of interest along the way. ‘Must Sees’ include the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs, whilst the place to both see and be seen is Piazza San Marco, one of Europe’s most famous and photographed squares. Those in a more reflective mood can gain an insight into Italian Catholicism as the 10th-14th Century, Byzantine inspired, Basilica di San Marco will be holding traditional masses over the Easter weekend.

The 3-night city break costs £499 p/p including scheduled flights, transfers, B&B accommodation at the 3* Hotel Olimpia - a typical waterside hotel, ‘Audio Guide’ and 3-day ‘City Card’. Extra nights cost £71 p/p.

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 06/02/06

Romeo, wherefore art thou?
Valentine’s weekend in Verona

Look no further than Juliet’s famous balcony in Verona for a romantic Valentine’s weekend. A 3-night break encompassing all the highlights in this artistic city is still available with specialist operator Lakes and Mountains Holidays, departing Heathrow, London 13th February 2006.

Courting (or courted!) couples have a chance to explore one of Italy’s most charming cities at their leisure. Blessed with cultural attractions and immortalised by Shakespeare - discover Juliet’s famous balcony. The city centre Piazza Bra is a place to relax and a base from which to stroll through the streets, explore colourful shops and restaurants, or to just watch the gentlemen and ladies of Verona pass by. Guests are accommodated in the central 3-star Hotel Mastino only 200m from the city's famous Roman amphitheatre.

The 3-night break costs £376 p/p (based on two sharing) including scheduled flights, transfers and 3-nights B+B at 3*Hotel Mastino. An upgraded break, based at the 4*plus Grand Hotel is available at £462 p/p (based on two sharing).

For more details contact Malcolm Bentley at Lakes & Mountains Holidays

tel 01243 792 442
fax 01243 778 431

email info@lakes-mountains.co.uk
web www.lakes-mountains.co.uk

Posted 31/01/06

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