We are pleased to return to the wonderful Bellevue Hotel for this festive stay on the banks of the Rhine. We have plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere in Boppard, explore the Christmas Market in Rüdesheim, visit Koblenz and the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress by cable car, and enjoy a boat trip on the Rhine!
Day 1 We travel to Dover for the sea crossing to Dunkirk. Making comfort stops en route, we travel directly to our hotel to arrive in time for a welcome drink and dinner.
Day 2 After breakfast we join the coach for a drive to Rüdesheim where we have time to explore the Christmas Market*. Set in the town’s picturesque old quarter, the market boasts around 120 stalls, representing 12 countries. Here you’ll find local specialities, including wines and crafts; there is also time to sample the local eateries.
Day 3 CHRISTMAS EVE This morning use your Boppard Guest Card to take a free return journey on the ‘Rhein HunsrückBahn’ to Emmelshausen. The 15km route climbs an impressive 336 metres, through five tunnels and across two viaducts, taking in the beautiful landscape of the Hunsrück and the Middle Rhine Valley. Return to the hotel for hot soup, before having a free afternoon to stroll through Boppard, along the Rhine promenade and explore the historic streets. This evening is the most important in a German Christmas and we enjoy the 5-course Holy Night Dinner.
Day 4 CHRISTMAS DAY Happy Christmas! A free morning to relax and enjoy the atmosphere before a one-plate served lunch at the hotel. In the afternoon tea and cake will be served during a visit from Father Christmas, and this evening we enjoy a turkey dinner.
Day 5 BOXING DAY Today we have a leisurely 2½-hour boat trip from just outside our hotel along the beautiful Rhine. The remainder of the day is free in Boppard, or you can join a guided stroll through the streets of Boppard with mulled wine on the way.
Day 6 This morning we travel by coach to Koblenz. We have an included cable car ride and entrance to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress on a rocky promontory high above the Rhine. Alternatively, we can explore this historic town and get lunch before returning to the hotel midafternoon. Tonight there is our Farewell Dinner at the hotel, during which we enjoy a live musical concert.
Day 7 Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we travel north and board the ferry for our crossing from Dunkirk to Dover. Once in the UK we make our way back to the local area.
This elegant and historic four-star hotel is ideally located on the main riverside promenade, very close to the town centre. The hotel is beautifully decorated in a 'Belle Epoque' style with gilded mirrors and artwork on the walls. Facilities include the Papillon Bar, the wood-panelled restaurant, an atmospheric wine cellar, a garden terrace as well as a swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Classic and elegant guestrooms feature Wi-Fi, TV, hairdryer, soundproof windows and safe. Lift access available.
