Friday 18 May 2012

Special Offers on Greece Sailing Holidays


The following offers are currently available on Sailing holidays in Greece in the North Ionian with Neilson

Book online - save up to 5%

North Ionian Flotilla
From £1,165 per person (2 Sharing)
7 Nights from Sunday 3rd June 2012
Self Catering

Yacht Type - Dufour 325 (2007-09)
Flying from Manchester
Book online - save up to 5%


North Ionian Flotilla
From £1,089 per person (2 Sharing)
7 Nights from Sunday 8th July 2012
Self Catering

Yacht Type - Dufour 325 (2007-09)
Flying from London Gatwick
Book online - save up to 5%


North Ionian Flotilla
From £864 per person (2 Sharing)
7 Nights from Sunday 15th July 2012
Self Catering

Yacht Type - Dufour 325 (2007-09)
Flying from London Gatwick
Book online - save up to 5%

North Ionian Flotilla
From £1,100 per person (2 Sharing)
7 Nights from Sunday 29th July 2012
Self Catering

Yacht Type - Dufour 325 (2007-09)
Flying from London Gatwick
Book online - save up to 5%


Visit the Neilson Website for more information

Introduction to Rock Climbing Course


Introduction to Rock Climbing from Spirit of Adventure
Powdermills, Dartmoor, Devon

These excellent Introduction to Rock Climbing courses are run over 2 days with an optional 3rd day.

Our location in the middle of Dartmoor National Park gives us excellent access to a wide variety of climbing locations on Dartmoor and further afield.  The rock climbing in Devon and Cornwall is some of the best in the country thanks to the great quality rock and beautiful locations.

A fun and safe introduction to rock climbing!
Participants will have the opportunity to learn the basic skills that are needed to get started in climbing including, rope management, belaying and advice with equipment selection.
This is a very practical course with plenty of time spent actually climbing, which is where you will explore your natural skills, giving ample opportunity to build on the basics learnt. A fantastic feeling as you 'top out' on your first route.

No previous experience is required and all equipment, including rock climbing boots are provided. Qualified and enthusiastic instructors will ensure that you have a fantastic experience.

Qualified and Experienced Staff
Spirit of Adventure's director of climbing, John Diplock MIA, is a member of the Association of Mountain Instructors and has many years experience. He has climbed extensively throughout the UK as well as Spain, Italy, Nepal, and Sardinia.

The instructor to climber ratio is 1:4

Accommodation
We normally base ourselves at a camp sites near the location of the crags. We will arrange your accommodation for you, there are hotels guesthouses, hostels and bunkhouse if you prefer not to camp. Exploring the pub and food of the 'local' on the Saturday evening gives chance to relive the magic moments of the days climbing!!!

On Dartmoor many people choose to stay in our Bunkhouse at Powder Mills. If you live locally to you are very welcome to travel up and join us each day.

Introduction to Rock Climbing
2 days rock climbing covering all the basics. Very practical with plenty of time spent on the crag on the granite tors of Dartmoor. Includes a chance to abseil.

Experience Required
None

Cost Per Person
2012
Adult: £99.00


Availability 2012
DRC124 June 09–10 2012
DRC125 July 07–08 2012
DRC126 August 11–12 2012

DRC127 September 08–09 2012




Visit the Spirit of Adventure Website for more information

Thursday 1 September 2011

The Black Forest Rail Adventure - Save up to £50


The Black Forest Rail Adventure - Save up to £50

Experience tumbling waterfalls, idyllic lakes, lush forests, wide meadows and dramatic mountains all hallmarks of the Black Forest on this classic adventure by rail and coach.

Highlights
- See the stunning Triberg Waterfalls – one of natures greatest spectacles
- Experience a dramatic rail journey through “Hell Valley”
- Take the thrilling Schauinsland cable car ride

Included excursions
- Boat cruise on Lake Titisee
- Schauinsland cable car ride
- Triberg Waterfalls
  Clock Museum
- Hell Valley train journey to Freibury


Also included
- The services of an experienced Page and Moy Tour Manager
- Standard class return rail travel by Eurostar/European train provider
- Station transfers (if applicable) and transfers between stations and hotels

Accommodation - Hotel Hofgut Sternen (3-star) 4 nights.
This comfortable hotel, built in the traditional Black Forest style, offers a bar and restaurant. Guest rooms are comfortably furnished and all have private facilities, TV, telephone, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities. There is a lift in the hotel.

Itinerary

Day 1 : UK/Breitnau
Your holiday begins in style aboard the Eurostar service from St. Pancras to Brussels. Your onward journey will continue through Belgium to beautiful Freiburg in the heart of Germany’s Black Forest. Transfer by coach to your hotel in Breitnau, where you will stay for the next four nights, about fifteen minutes drive from Lake Titisee.

Day 2 : Titisee
Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the outstanding beauty of the area, beginning with a cruise on Lake Titisee. During one of the stops you will sample one of the specialities of the region, Kaffee und Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte, coffee and black forest gateau. The clear glacial lake is the largest in the Black Forest and is surrounded by the broad valleys and lush forests that characterise the area. Later you’ll enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride in the local area, before catching the boat back to Titisee and taking the Schauinsland cable car to admire the stunning views over Freiburg and the Rhine Valley - on a clear day you may even see the distant Alps. Explore Titisee in the afternoon, take a stroll along the delightful waterfront promenade or browse amongst the tempting shops in the town’s pretty centre.

Day 3 : Triberg im Schwarzwald & Furtwangen
Today you will visit Triberg in Schwarzwald which plays host to one of nature’s great spectacles, the Triberg Waterfalls, amongst the highest in Germany. Thundering water drops 163 metres in seven falls, cascading into foaming bubbles on the rocks below. You’ll also visit the town of Triberg, famed for its cuckoo clocks. Later you’ll visit the German Clock Museum in Furtwangen, where the history, traditions and culture of the Black Forest are explored in its extensive collections.

Day 4 : Hoellentalbahn & Freiburg
Today is the highlight of your holiday Рa memorable train journey from Titisee through the ruggedly romantic H̦llental, or Hell Valley. The track passes through craggy, wild landscapes, through nine tunnels and along the soaring, 222 metre long viaduct over the Ravenna Gorge to Freiburg, capital of the Black Forest. Enjoy free time to explore, wander through the streets of the Old Town, watch out for the Bachle, the open streams that wend their way through the town or visit the impressive cathedral, known for its medieval art, pretty courtyards, twisting lanes and traditional markets.

Your return journey to Breitnau by coach provides yet another perspective on the region’s natural charm.

Day 5 : Breitnau/UK
Today your holiday ends giving you the perfect opportunity to wind down and relax as you return by train to Brussels and then onward by Eurostar to St. Pancras.

Find Out More
- Telephone Page and Moy on 0845 358 2639
- Visit the Page and Moy Website

Ski Holiday Special Offers - Christmas & New Year


Neilson have an outstanding range of worldwide ski holiday destinations.  And having spent 37 years fine-tuning every element of their ski holidays - they truly believe they can offer you complete confidence that you’ll be heading to the slopes for your best holiday yet – whether you’re a complete beginner or seasoned snow worshipper.

Neilson Active Holidays are currently offering a guaranteed £75 off per person on all December and January departures (including Christmas and New Year) when you book before 1st October. Take a look at some of their Christmas and New Year offers below.

France Ski Holiday - Les Deux Alpes
Neilson Chalet Glacier
7 nights: Sat, 31st december 2011
Catered Chalet
From London Gatwick
£751 per person (2 sharing)


Austria Ski Holiday - Saalbach and Hinterglemm
Hotel Central (Saalbach)
7 nights: Sat 24th December 2011
Bed & Breakfast
From London Gatwick

£470 per person (2 sharing)

Andorra Ski Holiday - Pas de la Casa
Aparhotel Olimpiades
7 nights: Monday 26th December 2011
Self Catering
From London Gatwick

£498 per person (2 sharing)

Friday 15 April 2011

Artisan School of Food Break


Thoresby Hall Hotel and The Artisan Food School have come together to offer this unique opportunity to inspire the baker in you. Following exposure on BBC Radio 4, The Food Programme and in the National Press, The Artisan Food School is rapidly establishing a high profile reputation for reviving craft skills such as bread and cheese making.

Set in the heart of the magnificent Welbeck Estate, this state of the art food school will welcome you each day and teach you to make a variety of authentic Artisan breads, learn about cheese making and sample some of the Great Cheeses of the World, and finally, taste and learn about different types of Artisan chocolate. Delicious!

The Welbeck Estate itself is wonderful, beautifully kept grounds, passionate team and an impressive Farm Shop and Garden Nursery. A very special opportunity.

Thoresby Hall Hotel, Nottinghamshire
A Grade I-listed mansion on the edge of Sherwood Forest.

Perched on the edge of Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire, the house, gardens and parklands of Thoresby Hall are as grand an invocation of the 18th and 19th-Centuries as you’ll find. Balconies and cupolas on the outside, galleries and tapestries within and all bound in unforgettable period elegance; Thoresby Hall has it all.

Experience Dates
26 August 2011
29 August 2011

Find out More - Visit The Warner Leisure Hotels Website

Tuscany Walking Holiday



Walking Holiday in Tuscany.  Wine tasting in the beautiful Banfi Vineyard.  The beautiful landscape of Tuscany is the perfect backdrop for this wonderful holiday. Explore glorious countryside and enchanting towns as you walk through this stunning region, enjoying delicious local wines in the evening.

Included excursions
Monte Amiata - We start our walk on the eastern slopes of Mount Amiata, a dormant volcano and Tuscany’s only true mountain. We take a tour of the Abbadia San Salvatore, one of the oldest monasteries in the region, and the town of the same name that has sprung up around it. From here we walk to the historic small town of Pian del Castagnaio (approx. 2½ hours’ walk), where we break for lunch (not included). We then take the coach to the top of the mountain, taking the short walk to the summit.

Montalcino to Sant’ Antimo Abbey - Drive to the beautiful hilltop town of Montalcino and take a pleasant walk through the farmland of Brunello country – home to the region’s most famous wine. We pass by typical Tuscan villas and farmhouses with panoramic views of the historic countryside and Monte Amiata. We end at the stunning Romanesque Abbey of Sant’ Antimo (approx. 2½ hours’ walk).

Wines of Castello Banfi - Transfer by coach to this lovely castle, from where we walk to the cantina (approx. 1 hour walk). This family-owned vineyard has been voted ‘International Winery of the Year’ in its category many times and also produces wonderful balsamic vinegar. Enjoy a tour of the cellars, plus a tasting.

Bagno Vignoni to Pienza - Departing from the picturesque spa resort of Bagno Vignoni we enjoy a leisurely walk through rolling fields and along a trail to the renaissance town of Pienza (approx. 2½ hours’ walk), where we have free time to sample some of the local specialities, such as Pecorino cheese.

Optional excursions
Siena & San Gimignano - Siena is an enchanting medieval town, while fascinating San Gimignano is known for its beautiful towers.

Accommodation
You will stay in the delightful Hotel Mizar in Chianciano Terme. The hotel has a bar, dining room and garden. All bedrooms have private facilities, TV, hairdryer, safe and telephone.

Itinerary
Day 1: UK/Italy
Depart on your flight to Rome. On arrival transfer to your hotel in the attractive town of Chianciano Terme for a six night stay.

Day 2 - 6: Chianciano Terme
Located close to the border between Tuscany and Umbria, the town of Chianciano has a historic centre with narrow streets and picturesque piazzas waiting to be explored. The town also has a selection of bars, cafés and shops. You are free to relax and join our great range of included walks and excursions.

Day 7: Italy/UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

Dates & Prices - 7 days
Wed 27 Apr 2011 - £625
Wed 08 Jun 2011 - £705
Wed 21 Sep 2011 - £675
Wed 05 Oct 2011 - £599

Call Travelsphere Holidays on 0845 358 2368

Thursday 13 January 2011

Great Railways of the Scottish Highlands Holiday



Experience the classic rail journeys of scenic Scotland.

Join us on an exploration of the most stunning scenery in Scotland.  Journey along the West Highland Line to Mallaig, take the nostalgic ride aboard the Strathspey Steam Railway and then experience the Kyle Line as you travel between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh.  At every turn you will be met by pretty valleys, quaint towns, sparkling lochs and old architecture - this really will be an unforgettable journey.

Included excursions
- Strathspey Steam Railway
- Cairngorm Funicular Railway
- Journey on the West Highland Line on board the Jacobite steam train
- A journey on the Kyle Line
- Culloden Battlefield
- Eilean Donan Castle

Also included
- The services of an experienced Tour Guide
- Four nights’ half board

Itinerary

Day 1 : Inverness
Make your own way to the lovely city of Inverness for the start of your four-night Scottish break.

Day 2 : Mallaig & Glenfinnan
Today we board the famous Jacobite Steam Train for a stunning two-hour journey through some of Scotland’s most wild and spectacular scenery. The train takes us to the fishing port of Mallaig, where there will be time for lunch before continuing our journey by coach to Glenfinnan. We see the monumental tower that was built to commemorate Bonnie Prince Charlie. The tower is not the only famous sight at Glenfinnan; the picturesque viaduct will be instantly recognisable to fans of the Harry Potter films as part of the route that the Hogwarts Express takes to the school.

Day 3 : Kyle of Lochalsh
This morning enjoy a real highlight of your holiday, as we take one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh on the west coast. Once in Kyle of Lochalsh you will board your coach for the journey to Scotland’s most romantic castle, Eilean Donan, situated at the mouth of Loch Long with views across to the Isle of Skye and the dramatic Five Sisters of Kintail. Here you can enjoy lunch and take a tour of the castle (not included) before heading back to Inverness via Loch Ness.

Day 4 : Strathspey Steam Railway & Cairngorm Funicular Railway
After a scenic drive this morning we reach the famous Cairngorm Funicular Railway, which became the UK’s highest mountain railway on its opening in 2001. It winds its way to the top of the Cairngorm Mountain, a journey of just eight minutes. We continue on to Aviemore for a nostalgic trip on the Strathspey Steam Railway through the striking Boat of Garten to Broomhill, the village that was used as Glenbogle in the popular BBC drama Monarch of the Glen. This 1½-hour journey takes you back in time to the golden age of steam, so why not relax with a drink as you admire the views from your window. In the afternoon we pay a visit to the Culloden Battlefield where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite rising was crushed by the Duke of Cumberland’s government army in April 1746.

Day 5 : Inverness
After breakfast, make your own way home.

Departures - May to October

Price - From £489

Find out More: Telephone Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639

British Grand Prix Short Break


The most highly anticipated event of the British racing calendar. What better way to spend a summer weekend than in the heart of the English countryside with 120,000 Formula 1 fans for company.

Also included
- Bed and breakfast

Accommodation
Express by Holiday Inn Warwick (2-star) - Situated in the heart of Shakespeare country the hotel features air conditioning, bar and coffee lounge, and is 45 minutes from Silverstone circuit. (Board: bed & breakfast)

Novotel Milton Keynes (3-star) - Just 5 minutes from the town centre and 25 minutes from Silverstone this hotel is perfectly placed for the race weekend. The rooms come complete with wireless internet and satellite TV and the hotel features a restaurant, bar, indoor heated pool and fitness centre. (Board: bed & breakfast)

Itinerary

Day 1 : Thursday 7th July
Make your own way to your chosen hotel in Warwick or Milton Keynes, where you can take our included return circuit transfers available from the day after you arrive.

Day 2 : Friday 8th July
The weekend’s racing begins today with a morning circuit departure to see (and hear) the F1 practice and supporting events. Discuss the day’s events en route back to your hotel. Your experienced Tour Guide can give advice on where to eat this evening.

Day 3 : Saturday 9th July
The pressure builds as the drivers compete to secure their fastest lap and pole position. Choose to take a morning circuit transfer with early evening return or alternatively take an optional sightseeing trip to Shakespeare’s hometown – Stratford-upon-Avon, or perhaps try the excellent shopping in Milton Keynes.

Day 4 : Sunday 10th July
It’s time to experience the atmosphere of race day at the British Grand Prix. En route, your Tour Guide will update you on the highlights of the weekend’s events so far before the engines scream and the chequered flag falls. After the climax of the race weekend it’s back to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Those on our 2-night break leave for home this evening.

Day 5 : Monday 11th July
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.

Departures
British Grand Prix: 4 nights - 5 days from £329
7th July 2011 - £329

Supplements
- Holiday Insurance
- Single room supplement £240

Find out More: Telephone Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639

Le Mans 24 hrs Race Holiday


This legendary race tests the endurance of both the drivers and their cars. There are excellent viewing opportunities ensuring that you do not miss any of the action during your Le Mans experience.

All grandstand tickets give you full access to the extensive General Admission area, while the Circuit Village has a wide choice of exhibitions, shops and merchandise stands if you can bear to tear yourself away from the action on the track. With the thriving town of Le Mans just a short shuttle bus ride away, you can be sure of a trip to remember.

Also included
- For those staying in hotels, we include transfers on Saturday and Sunday by coach. Alternatively, make your own way by car for complete flexibility.
- Circuit Transfers (excluding camping)
- Ferry crossings

Accommodation

Beausejour campsite - Stay in the heart of the racing action and enjoy the flexibility of self-catering at the Le Mans campsite, which is within walking distance of the circuit.

Hotel Marmottes, Alencon (1-star) - Alencon is about 30 miles north of Le Mans, towards Rouen. The hotel is small and modern and is located on the outskirts of the town centre. There is ample free parking, a restaurant and a lounge area where you can enjoy a drink. All bedrooms have direct-dial telephone, TV and a private bathroom with shower. Accommodation is offered on a bed and continental breakfast basis.

Inter Hotel Sully, Nogent-le-Retrou (3-star) - Set in a picturesque town 40 miles north east of Le Mans, this hotel has a sun terrace, bar and private parking. All guest rooms have a private bathroom, TV and telephone, and accommodation is on a bed and continental breakfast basis.

Itinerary

Day 1 - 3 : UK/Le Mans
Leave the UK on your chosen date of departure and take your ferry or tunnel crossing to Calais, then drive to Le Mans and your hotel or campsite.

Le Mans stands at the confluence of the rivers Huisne and Sarthe, and is dominated by its majestic cathedral. Admire the historic architecture of the mediaeval old town as you stroll along narrow alleyways and soak up the atmosphere in the bars, restaurants and shops, which open from early morning until late at night during the weekend of this gruelling race. Those arriving on Friday may wish to watch the drivers’ parade in Le Mans during the afternoon.

Day 4 - 5 : Race Days
These are the race days where you can immerse yourself in a whole 24 hours of challenging racing in this, one of the world’s most legendary motor racing events. Le Mans is the world’s oldest sports car race, first held in 1923. The race is held on the Circuit de la Sarthe, which consists of both permanent track and public roads that are temporarily closed for the event. So, as the excitement builds, take your place to watch the drivers battle it out in front of your eyes.

Day 6 : Le Mans/UK
Leave Le Mans at your leisure and drive back to Calais for your return ferry/tunnel crossing back to the UK.

Departures
8th June 2011 - £114

Find out More: Telephone Page & Moy on 0845 358 2639

Friday 7 January 2011

Ski around the world with Neilson


Ski around the world with Neilson.  Neilson offer an amazing range of ski holidays in the Alps, Scandanavia and the Americas. Whether you're a complete beginner or an expert they can get you to the very best ski slopes at extremely competitive prices.

With flights from all the main UK airports and a choice of catering or self-catering packages you're sure to find a great deal.

Take a look at some of the countries Neilson can take you to for your wintersports holiday:

Andorra - Andorra has a reputation for outstanding ski schools, the latest lift systems and varied ski areas at a reasonable price, a recipe for great skiing holidays - partucularly for beginners.

Austria - Austria is home to picturesque villages, traditional family-run hotels and welcoming hospitality making it a great destination for package skiing holidays.

Bulgaria - Skiing and snowboarding holidays in Bulgaria are ideal for beginners and families thanks to it’s award winning ski schools, excellent service and great value skiing.

Canada - Canada undoubtedly offers some of the best snowboarding and skiing holidays in the world, with its fantastic snow record and impressive mountain ranges.

France - France has ski holidays to suit everyone, from beginners and families to the seasoned pro, massive ski areas to small traditional villages, France has it all!

Italy - The Winter Olympics boosted Italy’s popularity for skiing holidays thanks to huge investment in the host resorts, making them more attractive than ever.

Norway - Skiing holidays in Norway offer traditional, snow sure, family-friendly resorts for a completely unique winter experience.

Sweden - Apart from fantastic ski package holidays, Sweden offers an all-round winter experience with a huge array of non-ski activities.

Switzerland - Swiss Travel Service offer a full range of travel options for your ski holiday to Switzerland and the flexibility to tailor your holiday to meet your needs.

USA - A skiing or snowboarding holiday in America has all the ingredients for a great stay.