Springtime In The Inn Valley – A Grand Austrian Adventure

Early morning departure for the journey to Folkestone for the Eurotunnel crossing to Calais and continue to your overnight stop in the Metz region.

Continue your journey into Austria via the impressive Fern Pass and join the Inn Valley before climbing up to Igls for a 5-night stay at the wonderful Hotel Bon Alpina***

A day at leisure in Igls. Explore the village, take the cable car into the mountains or travel on the local bus to nearby Innsbruck and for those of you wanting a quiet day you can enjoy the swimming pool and courtyard garden. We also include a pass that allows you to travel free on local transport in the area.

This morning we head to Mayrhofen. Nestled among the majestic mountains of the Zillertal Alps. Mayrhofen is the third largest holiday village in Tyrol. Mayrhofen is located near the Hintertux Glacier, sits between the Penken and Ahorn mountains, and embraces the villages of Finkenberg, Lanersbach, and Hippach. It belongs to the Zillertal valley and has been a popular destination spot for decades. Here we join the Zillertal Railway to Jenbach. A narrow-gauge railway, about 32km long, the trains are typically painted red. The carriages have large windows built for sightseeing as the route is very scenic. A slow relaxed journey of about 50 minutes end to end, with a tram-like feel. The railway runs along the Ziller Valley passing Alpine villages, farms and meadows and mountain backdrops almost the entire way. Railway enthusiasts from all over the world are attracted to this railway because of its unique gauge and beautiful setting. On arrival at Jenbach we rejoin our coach and drive to Pertisau, a charming lakeside village in Austria’s Tyrol region offering crystal-clear lakes, stunning walks, cozy mountain huts, and year-round adventures. Perfect for travellers seeking an authentic alpine experience without the crowds of the more touristy destinations. After some free time to purchase lunch and explore we join a relaxing cruise on Lake Achensee, taking in the pretty villages dotted along the shoreline and beautiful alpine scenery. Afterwards we meet the coach for the return journey to Igls.

Today we travel to nearby Innsbruck, 'Capital of the Tyrol', located on the River Inn and at the foot of the Karwendel Alps. This beautiful city is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and steeped in history. An included guided walking tour will showcase the city highlights including the Golden Roof, Imperial Palace and Hofkirche. Afterwards enjoy some free time to explore the city at leisure, discover the old quarter with its charming, arcaded streets, stroll along the Maria Theresien Strasse with its bustling shops or climb the Tower of the City for magnificent views of the city.

Today we offer an Optional Excursion through the impressive Inn Valley to the vibrant town of Kitzbuhel, one of the most popular and prestigious natural areas in Austria, especially during this time of year. The town is considered a world-class ski center. There is plenty to do in this charming alpine town. Later we visit Rattenburg, Medieval charm and modern architecture, glass art at its finest, fantastic views and delicious cakes are the proof: Austria's smallest town is actually really big. Here we also include a visit to a Strudel maker to learn all about how to make the best Apple Strudel. We end the day with a visit to Hall In Tyrol. Already in 1232 AD, Hall was mentioned as saline - the salt mine in the Halltal was one of the most flourishing branches up to 1967. Salt was transported via the Salt Road to Matrei am Brenner, and was exported even to Switzerland, to the Black Forest and the area round the Rhine river. In 1303, Hall in Tirol was raised to the status of town. OPTIONAL EXCURSION £25

This morning we say goodbye to Igls as we head back through Germany and onto our overnight hotel in Metz.

After breakfast we depart our hotel and head back to Calais for the late afternoon return Eurotunnel crossing to Folkestone. Upon arrival we complete our journey to Dorset arriving late evening.

The 3-star Hotel Bon Alpina is In the centre of the Tyrolean village of Igls, which sits on a plateau above Innsbruck surrounded by meadows and forests. The hotel is found beside the village church and a short walk from the shops. Igls retains a distinct village identity, yet Innsbruck can be reached by inexpensive local bus or tram in around 15 minutes - the bus stop is beside the hotel. From the village there are great views out onto the surrounding alps. The Bon Alpina has a total of 93 guest bedrooms, all with private facilities, television and hairdryer. Most are with bath, and many have a small balcony or terrace. A lift serves all floors. Most rooms are "Austrian twins" with 1 bed frame and 2 separate mattresses and 2 separate sets of bedding. Off the contemporary reception area are the stylish bar and restaurant. As well as a sauna, steam room and small gym the hotel has a heated indoor/outdoor pool that opens onto a tranquil courtyard garden and terrace area - A perfect and relaxing corner to enjoy during your day at leisure in Igls