with Morocco & Turkey - FlipHTML5

EUROPE with Morocco & Turkey

2016-17

Albania, Arctic, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Morocco, Portugal, Russia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey

Contents & prices Contents 2 4 6

Why choose Peregrine? Where you’ll stay How you’ll travel

PAGE

TRIP NAME

11

INDEPENDENT JOURNEYS

11 11

Morocco Explorer Treasures of Turkey

12

INDEPENDENT EXPERIENCES

14 14 14 15 15 15

Istanbul & Gallipoli Experience Goreme Experience Ephesus Experience Casablanca & Fes Experience Marrakech Experience Istanbul Experience

18

ITALY & FRANCE

20 21 22 23 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

Secrets of Italy Italian Lakes Discovery Magical Tuscany & the Portofino Peninsula The Cinque Terre Explored Spirit of Amalfi Spirit of Sicily Walking in the Dolomites Splendours of Italy & Southern France Highlights of Northern France NEW Images of Provence & the Cote d'Azur Gourmet Explorer Provence NEW

30

SPAIN, PORTUGAL & MOROCCO

32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 39

Walk the Camino de Santiago NEW Essence of Spain Trails of Andalucia Images of Portugal Highlights of Southern Spain & Morocco Morocco Explorer Highlights of Morocco Classic Morocco Moroccan Serenade

40

CENTRAL & EASTERN EUROPE

42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49

Heartland of Central Europe Alpine Rail Journey NEW Jewels of the Adriatic Highlights of Croatia & the Balkans Slovenia & Croatia Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast Western Balkans Unveiled Essential Russia

50

GREECE & TURKEY

52 53 54 56 57 58 60 61 62 63

Highlights of Greece Greek Island Odyssey Classical Turkey & the Greek Islands Treasures of Turkey Turkey Revealed The Best of Turkey Glimpse of Turkey Central Turkey & the Black Sea Gourmet Explorer Turkey NEW Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia

8 9 10

Inclusions Solo travellers Private groups

TRIP CODE

PGMEJ PETTJ

DAYS

13 15

TRIP PRICE FROM AU$ 2855 3650

SINGLE SUPP FROM AU$ 490 940

PEGPX PEGEX PEEPX PGMCX PGMMX PEIEX

5 3 3 5 3 4

1950 1095 745 1480 645 860

345 120 170 120 205 655

PEIT PELD PEMT PECT PESA PESY PEID PEIF PERR PEPC PEFF

10 8 10 8 8 11 8 16 9 7 7

4850 3330 3995 3175 2835 4395 3115 7125 5550 3250 3550

1535 590 545 565 485 770 430 1180 1445 635 860

PELC PEES PEAA PEIP PESM PGME PGHM PGCM PGMS

8 13 8 7 15 13 16 8 11

2965 5560 2235 2525 3825 1995 2430 1295 1750

490 1715 360 740 765 525 675 405 555

PEHT PERJ PEJA PEHC PESL PEDC PEAM PCRH

9 10 15 8 8 8 15 8

2775 4695 5840 2580 3195 2825 4695 2665

830 975 1315 430 760 555 1295 1115

PEHG PEGI PETG PETT PERE PEBE PEGL PECE PEGF PCAG

8 12 21 15 10 22 8 15 12 17

2460 4670 7395 2525 1850 3695 1395 2395 2895 4395

285 530 1425 955 635 1430 475 955 875 1010

PAGE

TRIP NAME

TRIP CODE

64

WINTER IN EUROPE

66 67

Icelandic Northern Lights NEW European Christmas Markets NEW

68

THE ARCTIC

70 71

Spitsbergen in Depth Scotland to Spitsbergen

72

OTHER INFORMATION

72 73

Responsible Travel Booking conditions

DAYS

TRIP PRICE FROM AU$

SINGLE SUPP FROM AU$

PEII PERC

8 8

4175 3540

540 1025

PPSD16 PPSNE16

13 15

9900 11200

* *

*Single supplements available on request. Prices shown are “from” prices and are on a shared basis. All our trip prices are subject to variable and seasonal pricing, both of which are standard practice within the travel industry. This means they may vary at any time in accordance with demand, market conditions and availability. Please refer to our website for our current prices.

Guaranteed departures All of Peregrine’s tours are guaranteed to depart (subject to the standard terms and conditions), so you can confidently arrange your time away from home, flights, and other travel, safe in the knowledge the trip will run as scheduled. We encourage you to book your adventure as early as possible, particularly during peak seasons.

Book with confidence We’ll guarantee the price of your tour. By choosing to travel with Peregrine, you are choosing to travel with confidence. Once you have paid for your Peregrine trip in full, there’s no surcharge within the validity of this brochure.

We want to reward our favourite travellers, the Peregrine faithful who travel with us each year. If you’ve travelled Become a with us nine times before, we can offer you a tenth trip for free, as well as the title of Peregrine Legend. Loyalty discount Peregrine legend For more information, visit http://www.peregrineadventures.com/loyalty

peregrineadventures.com

When it comes to travel, there are no certainties. Trip prices can change for all sorts of reasons, including inflation, currency fluctuations and supplier costs (e.g. fuel). Many other tour operators will ask you to cover these additional costs. But as a Peregrine customer, we don’t think you should be responsible for them. Instead, we will bear the cost of any price increases that may occur after you book. Visit www.peregrineadventures.com/price-guarantee for more details.


Anywhere is possible In 1978, a couple of expert trekkers led a small group of travellers into Nepal’s Annapurna region. They were looking for adventure, a new style of travel and an escape from the daily grind. No one knew it at the time, but they’d just embarked on the very first Peregrine group tour. Nearly four decades later, Peregrine is known around the world as the most esteemed name in small group adventure. And just like our passengers, we’ve matured a little over the years. These days I’d opt for a charming, family-run hotel over a chilly tent, and I’ve swapped the tequila for a good Riesling. Backpacks are no longer my badge of honour, and I’m wise enough to know that a soft pillow and comfy minibus are essential ingredients in any good expedition. Although Peregrine has grown from six travellers to more than 10,000, the important things haven’t changed. Our staff are still passionate experts who love their work, and we’re still curious about the world and everything in it. While I love trekking in remote mountains, Italy is my favourite country on earth. They just have their priorities right – family, food and culture seem far more important than all that boring bureaucratic stuff. I am also very keen to explore Macedonia, Albania and Georgia. Now it’s time to find your own Europe Peregrine adventure within the pages of this brochure. The tricky part, I always find, is picking your favourite trip. Welcome to Peregrine. Steve Wroe Peregrine General Manager

Why choose Peregrine?

The Peregrine difference...

Seeing the famous sites is a must, but it’s often the unexpected moments that leave a lasting impression. Wandering through a remote village, sampling fresh fruit in a market or staying overnight with a local family are just some of the ways that Peregrine helps you get under the skin of a destination. We’ll take you beyond the highlights and travel at a relaxed pace that allows you to stop and savour each experience along the way. Of course we all want to see the crayon-coloured buildings of the Cinque Terre; but afterwards let’s wander into a little hamlet to sip wine and listen to the locals banter over a plate of freshly caught octopus. We’ve spent 38 years building our reputation and believe that travel should benefit the places it touches. With Peregrine you’ll travel with an average of 10 people (16 maximum) guided by the knowledge of a born and bred local.

Find out more It’s pretty ambitious to try and cover our entire Europe experience in one brochure. The following pages provide an overview of our trips and different styles of travel, but we have more comprehensive information on our website: peregrineadventures.com. You can also follow us on social media: facebook.com/peregrineadventures youtube.com/peregrineadventures twitter@peregrinespirit instagram.com/peregrineadventures

2 // peregrineadventures.com

Photo: Saxon Templeton

Authentic Q

Over 20 years ago we became the first travel company of our kind to exclusively employ English-speaking local leaders born and raised in the regions we visit.

Q

Where possible we choose accommodation that reflects the style of a region rather than a big global chain. In some places you’ll even stay as guests of a local family.

Q

Occasionally we mix things up by taking local transport, such as a gondola in Venice or train through the Alps, to give you a feel for the rhythms of local life.

Immersive Q

An average group size of 10 travellers means a deeper connection with the destination and more time with your local leader.

Q

A slower pace means you’re not rushing from place to place. Our itineraries are deliberately paced to minimise long travel times and allow you to enjoy each stop along the way.

Q

Our small group itineraries give you the chance to see places that large coach tours could never hope to access.

Better service Q

With 38 years of experience, we have attracted the world’s best staff and leaders, and have earned a global reputation as a leader in small group travel.

peregrineadventures.com // 3

Where you’ll stay We believe the magic of a place lies in its charm, not in its star rating. We’ve chosen our accommodation based on character, convenience and comfort. Where possible we prefer to stay in smaller hotels that reflect a region’s style rather than large global chains. A central location, private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning are all part of our selection criteria. In Europe and Morroco you might stay in a chateau in France, a family-run guesthouse in Italy or a traditional riad in Marrakech.

Chateau des Briottieres, Champigne, France

Where possible we stay in locally owned accommodation. This not only helps to ensure profits stay in the community, but gives you a greater insight into local life. And on some of our trips we have special feature stays, which we’ve showcased here. Riad Ritaj, Meknes, Morocco

Pazo Santa María, Arzúa, Spain

The Schlosshotel, Zermatt, Switzerland

The Schlosshotel, Zermatt, Switzerland

Pazo Santa María, Arzua, Spain Your feet won’t feel so weary with the Pazo Santo Maria as your destination for the night.

Set within a beautiful garden and mere minutes from the centre of Zermatt, the Schlosshotel is a cosy, welcoming hotel in which to relax in.

Nestled in a garden oasis, this 18th-century stone-wall hotel is a welcome resting spot on the well-travelled Camino de Santiago. Relax in comfortable lounges, wander through the orchard, treat yourself to a massage or sit on the terrace with a cocktail and watch the sun set. A pilgrimage never looked so good.

Built in the tradition of Swiss chalets, this charming hotel is on the doorstep of the Alps. Hike in the summer sun and then return to stylish accommodation, a relaxed lounge, a heated pool and tasty local cuisine. Castello di Spaltenna, Chianti, Italy



How you’ll travel You didn’t come all this way to rush around ticking items off a list while catching glimpses of the world through a coach window.

Pletna, Lake Bled, Slovenia - Photo: Saxon Templeton

At Peregrine we like to take things slow and believe that getting from A to B should be a comfortable experience. So most of the transport you take will be private, which generally means air-conditioned minibuses with modern safety features. Private transport means less waiting around and a little more flexibility in each destination. Where possible we dabble in some interesting local transport, such as a traghetto on the ancient canals of Venice, the Glacier Express Train in Switzerland or a camel safari across the Sahara. It not only helps you get a feel for the rhythms of local life, but minimises the impact on the places we visit. These aren’t your primary means of getting from A to B, but they add a little authenticity and fun into the mix.

Glacier Express Train, Switzerland

Private Minibus

Physical activity Every Peregrine trip has been given a physical activity rating, on a scale of 1-5. Most of our itineraries are designed for people with an average level of fitness, but some involve a little bit of huff and puff (e.g. walking in the Dolomites).

Make the most of each day

OOOOO These trips are a relaxing break. You don’t have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

No matter what transport we take, we like to keep the pace slow. We’ve designed our itineraries specifically to reduce long travel times and allow, on average, two-to-three nights at each destination.

OOOOO Some easy physical activities are included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey. OOOOO This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Some trips can be a little more active than others. Obviously a tour focused on walking will require a decent level of fitness, but there are other physical factors to consider before booking your trip. Europe, for example, has more stairs than other destinations, particularly in museums and hotels. You might also need to consider the cobbled laneways of the little villages we explore along the way. To make things easier, this year we’ve introduced physical ratings to help determine if a trip is right for you.

OOOOO Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The fitter you are, the more you’ll enjoy it, as most activities will be challenging. OOOOO Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You’ll be required to be seriously fit for this trip, as difficult activities are included. Hot Air Ballooning, Cappadocia



Group tours

Solo travellers

Peregrine group sizes are capped at 16 people, which means you’ll visit places the big groups can’t and stay in more interesting accommodation. We’ve softened the edges of adventure travel with comfortable accommodation, more inclusions, private transport in most cases and more time in each destination.

Peregrine tours are perfect for solo travellers.

And all of our small group tours are available as private departures, which are perfect for those who wish to travel with their friends, family, sporting clubs or others they know that have a shared interests. Find out more on page 10.

It’s a great way to meet people with similar interests, and there’s no additional cost if you’re happy to bunk with someone of the same gender. We have lots of solo travellers on our trips, and our itineraries offer a good balance of group activities and free time to explore independently. It also means less hassle trying to find a friend or family member who is available to travel on the same dates as you.

Photo: Zoe Rees

What’s included Our prices include all the major expenses, so you only need to budget for additional meals, optional activities and souvenirs along the way. The tour cost covers: Q Q Q Q Q

Q

Q Q

All included sightseeing and entrance costs All transport and accommodation Many meals (as indicated) A highly experienced Peregrine tour leader Additional specialist guides and porters where needed Gratuities for services received as part of your tour package 24-hour emergency support from our local teams Airport arrival transfer in Morocco, Turkey, Russia and Azerbaijan.


Food We believe that tasting the flavours of a destination helps you forge a deeper connection with its people and history. From humble street food to fine dining experiences, the world is full of flavour. Discover the hidden tapas bars of Madrid, try fresh local seafood overlooking the Adriatic in Croatia, and share a meal in the home of a Cossack family in Russia. Your local leader can help you decipher menus, give you tips on where to find the most delicious local delicacies and point you towards the most interesting markets. For our new dedicated food trips, please see pages 29 and 62.


Private Groups Families, friends, sports teams, yogis, photographers, food lovers – you name a group and there’s every chance we’ve taken them on a private tour.

Independent Journeys While we feel that travelling with a small, likeminded group can elevate a holiday experience, we recognise that some travellers may prefer to see the world with just their friend or partner. So we’ve selected some of our most sought-after tours and re-imagined them for one person or an intimate group of just two. The aim is to accommodate those people who are inspired by our range of tours but want to experience them as more of an independent traveller.

Photo: Anna Bulleid

Our experts love designing itineraries to suit your needs. Simply choose the dates, pick your travel companions and we’ll do the rest. Whether you want to take one of our existing itineraries privately or would like to create a trip that is unique to your interests, we can design an adventure based on your group’s needs. Be it for friends, family, a walking club or book club, the only limit is your imagination. Contact us at [email protected] for a quote or to find out more.

The itinerary itself remains the same, but you will travel independently and be met by a specialist Peregrine guide in each destination. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of a fully comprehensive itinerary but with the freedom and intimacy of a private tour.

Journey trip finder Q Morocco Explorer

37

Q Treasures of Turkey

56

Photo: Anna Bulleid



Independent Experiences Departing for a group tour on a specific date doesn’t suit everyone. So we’ve created a range of short ‘mini tours’ that you can link together to create your own unique holiday. Our Independent Experiences have been designed for just on or two people, departing every day of the week. Simply mix and match to create your perfect trip combination then we’ll book the transport between each experience for you. You can even tag a single experience onto a preexisting small group trip or Independent Journey. It’s independent travel without the stress.

Benefits • • • •

Depart any day of the week Gain an in-depth understanding of the region Arrival and departure transfers are included Meet your personal Peregrine tour guide at each location.

Istanbul Gallipoli

TURKEY Fes

Casablanca

Goreme

Ephesus

Marrakech

MOROCCO

Photo: Drew Dunlop



INDEPENDENT EXPERIENCE

INDEPENDENT EXPERIENCE

Istanbul & Gallipoli

5 DAYS

Casablanca & Fes

5 DAYS

There’s a modern twist to the myth of Troy. When German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann found gold in the area in the 19th century, he touted it as the lost treasure of Priam – the king of Troy in Homer’s epics. While this discovery renewed some faith in the legend, Schliemann, a fervent fan of Homeric literature since childhood, later admitted he had fabricated his story.

The charms of Fes are many, but there’s nothing more intoxicating than Fes el Bali, the old walled town. To stroll through the sprawling maze of this vast medina is to step into the Middle Ages. At every twist and turn there seems a new sensory oddity, from the aromatic smell of tajines wafting through the air to the olfactory assault of the age-old leather tanneries.

ITINERARY

ITINERARY

TRIP CODE:

Day 1 Istanbul Arrive in Istanbul, the heartland of Turkey. Spend free time at the Grand Bazaar or visit some of the city’s many mosques.

Learn more about the plight of the ANZAC, Allied and Turkish forces. Consider taking an optional visit to Kabatepe Museum.

Day 2 Istanbul Spend the day with a local guide on an Istanbul city tour. Check out the sights, such as Aya Sofya, Basilica Cistern, Topkaki Palace and the Grand Bazaar.

Day 4 Gallipoli Embark on a tour of the World Heritage-listed site of Troy and witness the Trojan Horse monument. In the afternoon, board a boat and tour the Gallipoli beaches.

Day 3 Gallipoli Travel to the battlefields of Gallipoli for a guided tour of this historic WWI site.

Day 5 Istanbul This historical trip in Istanbul concludes after breakfast this morning.

Goreme

3 DAYS

‘Fairy chimneys’ is a fitting nickname for the rock formations of Cappadocia. The odd shapes and caverns of this otherworldly landscape, formed from the lava of volcanic eruptions in ancient times, often appear more like surrealist sculptures than accidents of nature. ITINERARY

TRIP CODE:

Day 1 Cappadocia Discover the rich history and panoramic vistas of Cappadocia. Venture into Kaymakli, the biggest underground city in the world and learn about the lives of those who lived there. Witness the rock-cut Byzantine castle of Uchisar and enjoy a Turkish lunch before heading to Goreme Open Air Museum to see frescoes and ancient churches. End the day with a pottery demonstration in Avanos.

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO

Day 2 Cappadocia Travel to Red Valley and see the fascinating rockscapes. Delve into the Ihlara Valley and walk along the Melindiz River via the Ihlara Gorge. Then continue to the vast rock-hewn Selime Monastery. Over lunch, take in the spectacular views across Pigeon Valley before heading back to Goreme. Day 3 Cappadocia Your Independent Experience ends after breakfast this morning.


PEGEX

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 2 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners Price See inside front cover.

PEGPX

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner. Price See inside front cover.

Ephesus

3 DAYS

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis suffered a fraught existence before being finally destroyed in AD 401. A flood destroyed the first incarnation of the temple. Its second undoing was the work of Herostratus, who burned it down while seeking notoriety. The Goths were the next to attack it and the temple remained in a state of disrepair following this. Such was the plight of Ephesus’ crown jewel, the glory of the Temple now living only in the realm of legend. ITINERARY

TRIP CODE:

PEEPX

Day 1 Selcuk Take a guided orientation walk of Selcuk. Visit the ruins of Ephesus and see the facade of the Library of Celsus. Learn more about this ancient Greek city at the Archaeological Museum, then view the Basilica of St John, built by Justinian I in the sixth century. Witness the remnants of the Temple of Artemis and the impressive Isabey II Mosque – one of the oldest Anatolian architectural works.

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 2 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners Price See inside front cover.

Day 2 Selcuk Learn about the traditional art and intriguing history of carpets from a local expert. Visit Sirince, a quaint village near Selcuk. Enjoy a local lunch and wine tasting before unwinding with a haman (Turkish bath) back in Selcuk. Day 3 Selcuk Your trip ends after breakfast this morning.

Photo: J McGrath

Day 1 Casablanca Arrive in Casablanca. Transfer to the hotel and freshen up for your welcome dinner. Day 2 Casablanca – Meknes Witness the immense Hassan II Mosque – so big it can fit 25,000 people. Drive to Rabat, the Moroccan capital, and see the grand Arab monuments that date back to the Almohad and Merenid dynasties. Visit the Sala settlement and the remains of the ancient citadel. Continue to Meknes.

Day 3 Meknes – Fes Discover the medina in Meknes, walking from the northern gate, Bab Berdaine, to the shrine of Moulay. This monument pays tribute to the leader who transformed this town into an Imperial metropolis in the 17th century. Visit Volubilis – the most impressive Roman site in Morocco. Continue to Fes.

Istanbul

4 DAYS

Tulips may have become the symbol of the Netherlands, but in fact they were first cultivated in Turkey by the Ottoman Empire. In April Istanbul explodes with the colour of tulips that have been planted throughout the city. ITINERARY Day 1 Istanbul Welcome to Istanbul. Attend a whirling dervish performance this evening. Day 2 Istanbul Start today with a visit to the Justinian’s Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmet’s Blue Mosque with its six minarets and the ancient Hippodrome. Spend the afternoon at the opulent Topkapi Palace and enjoy a Turkish coffee in the labyrinth of the Grand Bazaar. This evening, join a tasting trail full of local cuisine, visiting a local meyhane and trying mezze and raki. Then stroll through hidden streets and learn about the city’s unique food culture and, of course, indulge in delicious baklava. Day 3 Istanbul Spend a full day cruising the Bosphorus and Black Sea. Disembark at Ortakoy, a chic, arty neighbourhood, then travel on to Kucuksu Palace. After a traditional Turkish lunch, continue to the end of the Bosphorus Strait into the Black Sea. End the cruise at the picturesque fishing village of Anadolu Kavagi. Return to Istanbul.

Day 4 Istanbul Your independent Istanbul exploration comes to an end after breakfast. TRIP CODE:

PEIEX

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine local guide, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 3 nights hotel. Transport local transport, private transfers Meals 3 breakfasts , 2 lunches, 1 dinner Price See inside front cover.

Days 4–5 Fes Explore the streets and alleys of Morocco’s cultural heartland. Enjoy the European atmosphere of the Nouveau Ville area, then head to the very different Fes el Bali – the World Heritage-listed old city. Stop in at the Belghazi Museum and visit the Funduk Nejjarine, a well-preserved 18th-century inn. Dine on pastilla, a local Moroccan speciality. Your trip finishes after breakfast on Day 5.

TRIP CODE:

PGMCX

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine local guide, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 2 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights traditional riad. Transport Private vehicle, taxi. Meals 4 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Price See inside front cover.

Marrakech

3 DAYS

Behind the dazzling Bahia Palace lies a colourful history. Its construction flourished under the power of a former slave, Abu Ahmed, whose newfound status as a vizier enabled him to enlist top artisans from Fez to complete the building, which eventually housed his four wives and 24 concubines. ITINERARY Day 1 Marrakech Arrive in Marrakech and settle into your hotel. Day 2 Marrakech Enjoy a half-day guided tour of the city. Witness the Bahia Palace and explore its serene courtyards and myriad salons. Visit the Photography Museum of Marrakech, home to an impressive collection of photographs housed in a beautiful courtyard building. Head through the streets of the old medina back to Djemaa el-Fna before dining at a restaurant specialising in traditional and modern Moroccan fusion.

Day 3 Marrakech Your Independent Experience ends after breakfast today. TRIP CODE:

PGMMX

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine local guide, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 2 nights traditional riad. Transport: Private vehicle, taxi. Meals 2 breakfasts, 1 dinner.

Price See inside front cover.


What’s new Christmas Markets Trade in your fake tree for the real deal on this spectacular trip through some of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets. Visit the wintery environs of Strasbourg, Munich, Salzburg and Vienna, and snack on roasted chestnuts while meandering past stalls lit up by strings of festive lights. And while the snow creates a winter wonderland outside, end each day with a mug of mulled wine and a wedge of fresh gingerbread. It’s Christmas, after all. See page 67 for more.

Icelandic Northern Lights Pack your thermals and travel to northern Iceland to view the mysterious and majestic display of the Aurora borealis. Visit Akureyri, just a stone’s throw from the Arctic circle, explore the strange moonlike surrounds of Iceland, discover the Golden Circle and take in spectacular waterfalls, bubbling mud pits and geothermal hot springs by day, and mesmerising dancing lights in the skies by night. Visit page 66 for details of this icy adventure.

Alpine Rail Journey Ride the rails in style on our Alpine rail journey through the Alps, travelling through Italy, Switzerland and Germany. With stops to explore quaint lakeside towns, castles and palaces, this relaxing and picturesque adventure will see you crossing 290 bridges, going through 91 tunnels and passing over the magnificent Oberalp Pass. Experience the Alps in all their panoramic glory on this unique alpine journey – visit page 43 for more.

Highlights of Northern France A bit like a holiday degustation, this French journey takes in a little bit of everything. Wander Paris at your leisure, visit Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny and take in the spectacular island commune of Mont St-Michel, all the while sampling Normandy apple brandy, wine in the Loire Valley and local delicacies along the way. Spend your evenings in exceptional accommodation, from a moat-enclosed chateau one night to a grand French manor the next. If you like your adventures with equal amounts of culture and food, then this is the trip for you. See page 27 for details.


Walking the Camino For those wanting to walk the Camino de Santiago with the security of having a guide and the joy of travel companions, then this beautiful journey through the heartland of Spain is for you. Travel between 13-28 kilometres each day along tracks and roads, over undulating hills, through rustic villages and past rivers, cathedrals and canals. Check into comfortable accommodation each night, including the exceptional stone-walled Pazo Santa Maria, and enjoy walking interspersed with culture during the day. Turn to page 32 for details.


Italy and France

It’s the simple things... Walk the purple hills of Provence or the rocky pathways of the Amalfi Coast and you’ll tread on ground that has thousands of years of stories buried within. Like the wines they’re famous for, France and Italy have improved with age, through empires and kingdoms, war and revolution. Soak in the distinct regional flavours of these countries and enjoy a cultural bouquet crowned by satisfyingly simple pleasures – a traditional local meal, a walk through medieval streets or a

glass of wine from a centuries-old vineyard. These are countries whose people and landscapes will open themselves up to discovery – from dramatic mountains and ancient cities to stone villages hidden away in rolling hills and down to the Mediterranean shore. Let Peregrine show you the Italy and France we love, where the eyes of a local direct you on a path that uncovers secrets, even when passing through well-known settings like Rome or Paris.

Seasonal weather patterns

Best time to go

ITALY Rome Milan Florence Portofino Levanto Cortina Amalfi Syracuse Venice


JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

FRANCE Paris Nice Aix-en-Provence Avignon Bayeaux Mont Saint Michel Amboise Hot & dry 30-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC

Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry 0-15oC

From sun-filled beaches to snow-covered mountains, France and Italy are beautiful throughout the entire year. However, May, June, September and October offer more comfortable temperatures, richer colours and fewer crowds. Cortina d’Ampezzo

Milan

Bayeaux

Paris

Mont Saint Michel

Cinque Terre Florence

Amboise

ITALY

Tour leader profile – Serena Chianese Serena is one of Peregrine’s most beloved Italian leaders. Her bubbly Italian character makes everybody love her, and she takes great pride in her work and her country, helping travellers uncover the true essence of vibrant Italy.

‘Travelling makes me feel alive. Sharing my passion with people makes me very happy. Especially when I get to do it in my home country, Italy. There’s nothing better than seeing people happy, than contributing in creating and sharing

precious moments together. And this can happen everywhere, in front of a Spritz in Venice or on a boat in Cinque Terre... magic is all around! I am lucky to have this job. I don’t see myself doing anything else.’

Venice

Rome

FRANCE

Amalfi

Avignon

Nice

Aix-en-Provence Palermo

SICILY Syracuse



ITALY & SWITZERLAND

Secrets of Italy

10 DAYS

Still standing with elegance, the Leaning Tower of Pisa has overcome more than just a shaky foundation. Though without the intervention of US infantryman Leon Weckstein during World War II, it would no longer be standing at all. So struck was the young soldier by the medieval marvel – and by his own fear – that he aborted orders for it to be destroyed, despite the strong suspicion it was harbouring German forces. all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Days 1-2 Venice (Mon) Explore the narrow streets and 400 (or more!) tiny bridges of Venice. Hop on a vaporetto to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and climb to the top of the bell tower. Cruise through the waterways aboard a traditional traghetto before indulging in some signature tiramisu. Days 3-4 Florence Soak up the architecture, history and beauty of this Tuscan gem. Perhaps pay a visit to Michelangelo’s David and then take a walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy the view over Florence. Days 5-6 Pisa - Lucca - Cinque Terre Enjoy the sights of the Leaning Tower of Pisa and perhaps sample a gelato as you walk around the town. Take in sweeping views of the Cinque Terre’s coast. Hike at a steady pace or

catch a train between the five towns, passing vineyards, olive groves and the famous pastel-coloured buildings. Day 7 San Gimignano - Chianti Region Visit the walled town of San Gimignano and stroll among the vines on a guided tour. Continue on to a feature stay in a converted castle amid a vineyard and relax by the pool with a glass of wine. Day 8 Monteriggioni - Siena Rome Take in the sights of the towns of Siena and Monteriggioni en route to Arezzo. Then journey to Rome in the afternoon. Days 9-10 Rome Get acquainted with the Italian capital with a walk through its historic streets. Perhaps visit Vatican City and see St Peter’s Basilica before a final meal together. This journey through Italy ends on Day 10 after breakfast (Wed).

Castello di Spaltenna, Chianti, Italy Once a monastery in the tenth century, the Castello di Spaltenna is now the height of sophistication set among the rolling hills of Tuscany. With comfortable character-filled rooms, endless views over wine groves, a delicious restaurant, sun-filled deck, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and spa facilities, you may find it a little hard to leave the grounds to explore this beautiful area of Italy.


TRIP CODE: Venice


Cinque Terre Lucca Florence Pisa San Gimignano

Chianti Region Arezzo

Monteriggioni Siena

PEIT

ITALY

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 8 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night Chianti region feature stay. Transport Taxi, train, traghetto, private vehicle. Meals 9 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES

Rome

Selected Mondays from April to September Enter trip code PEIT on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Italian Lakes Discovery The great Mark Twain wrote in his 1869 novel, The Innocents Abroad: “One almost believes that nowhere else than on the lake of Como can there be found such a paradise of tranquil repose.” We tend to agree.

Day 2 Milan – Como – Breglia Take a walking tour of Milan, including a climb to the roof of the Gothic Duomo. Then drive north to Como and enjoy free time to explore the city and its lake. Overnight in the mountain village of Breglia, located near Menaggio. Day 3 Menaggio – Varenna Walk into the mountains above Menaggio and enjoy views of the whole region, including Lake Lugano (5 hours). Travel by boat to the lakeside village of Varenna. Day 4 Lake Como – Varenna Enjoy a boat trip through the central part of Lake Como. Walk in the countryside surrounding the village of Bellagio (3-4 hours) and discover the Villa Melzi and Villa Carlotta.

all departures guaranteed TRIP CODE:

PELD


ITINERARY Day 1 Milan (Sun) Your trip starts in Milan, Italy’s second-largest city.

8 DAYS

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

Day 5 St Moritz (Switzerland) – Tirano Drive along the shore of Lake Como and on to St Moritz, Switzerland. Go on a walk to Morteratsch Glacier (3 hours), then return to Italy on the historical Bernina Express, heading to Tirano.


Day 6 Lake Garda – Riva del Garda Drive through the Brenta Dolomites to Lake Garda, then boat cruise to the village of Limone. Walk through the Singol Valley (4 hours).

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays from April to October Enter trip code PELD on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 7 Lake Garda – Riva del Garda A boat ride takes us to the southern shores of Lake Garda. Explore Garda town and walk along the beach to the peninsula of San Vigilio (3-4 hours). Drive back along the eastern shore to Riva del Garda. Day 8 Verona After breakfast you are transferred to Verona where the trip ends on arrival at around midday (Sun).

SWITZERLAND St Moritz Chiavenna

What to know This is a walking trip. You will need to be in good health with a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this experience.

Plesio Menaggio Como Milan

Varenna Lake Como

ITALY

Tirano Limone

Riva del Garda

Garda Lake Garda

Verona


8 DAYS

When the martyr bishop Fruttuoso appeared to monks in their dreams in the tenth century and told them to bury his remains in the village of San Fruttuoso, the monks responded by building a monastery so beautiful and in such an idyllic spot that it begs to wonder whether they had ulterior motives at hand (like living in a place with a beautiful swimming beach and incredible seafood). all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Day 1 Levanto (Sun) Meet your tour leader tonight when you arrive at the beautifully positioned Park Hotel Argento, our feature stay. Day 2 Monterosso Walk along the coast to the village of Monterosso, the first of the five villages of the Cinque Terre (walk 3-4 hours). Day 3 Levanto Catch the train to Riomaggiore then take the coastal path (5 hours). Finish your walk with a harbourside drink in Vernazza.

Magical Tuscany & the Portofino Peninsula 10 DAYS Known for its ancient tradition of producing macrame lace, the colourful fishing port of Portofino is an example of centuries-old Italian culture. Originally named after the swathes of dolphins that inhabited the Tigullian Gulf, it’s as close to a living museum as you’re likely to find. all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Day 1 Florence (Fri) Arrive in Florence and check in to your hotel. Day 2 Arezzo – Montepulciano A walking tour of Florence includes Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria and some back streets that don’t appear in the tourist guides. Visit the Etruscan town of Arezzo on the way to Montepulciano. Day 3 Monticchiello – Montepulciano Walk from the 16th-century Chiesa di San Biagio through vineyards and olive groves to Monticchiello (walk 3.5 hours). Return to Montepulciano for a free afternoon and a tasting of local wines in the evening. Day 4 Pienza – San Quirico d’Orcia – Siena Enjoy a tour around Pienza and its piazzas and palazzis. Then depart for San Quirico d’Orcia and walk through the Val d’Orcia in the heart of Tuscany to Bagno Vignoni (3.5 hours). Drive to Siena. Day 5 Siena Take a morning tour of Siena including Piazza del Campo, the Duomo and the 14thcentury Palazzo Pubblico with its Renaissance frescoes. The afternoon is free to explore on your own.


Day 6 Colle Val d’Elsa – Volterra Visit the hill towns of Monteriggioni and Colle Val d’Elsa on the way to historic Volterra. Take a guided tour of the town, Roman theatre and Etruscan ruins.

Day 10 Santa Margherita Ligure This trip ends after breakfast in Santa Margherita Ligure (Mon).

PEMT

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 9 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Boat, private vehicle, train. Meals 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

Day 7 Cinque Terre – Santa Margherita Ligure Drive to La Spezia to catch the train to Riomaggiore, the most southerly village on the Cinque Terre. Make your way along the coastal path to the village of Manarola, then travel by train to Santa Margherita Ligure (4 hours).


DEPARTURE DATES Selected Fridays in May, June and September Enter trip code PEMT on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 8 Portofino – Santa Margherita Ligure Walk to Portofino. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring this impossibly glamorous hamlet before returning to Santa Margherita Ligure (3 hours). Day 9 Camogli – Santa Margherita Ligure Catch a train to the fishing village of Camogli and take a scenic walk along the Portofino Peninsula to San Rocco. Bake a boat to visit San Fruttuoso Abbey before returning to Santa Margherita Ligure (2.5 hours).

TRIP CODE:

Santa Margherita Cinque Terre Portofino

What to know This is walking trip. You will need to be in a good state of health with a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this experience.

Florence

ITALY Siena Volterra Colle Val d’Elsa San Quirico d’Orcia

Monticchiello Montepulciano Pienza

Day 4 Portovenere – Levanto Take the train to Riomaggiore and enjoy a scenic walk along the path to Portovenere. Relax and explore the village before returning to Levanto.

Day 5 Bonassola – Santa Margherita Ligure Enjoy a morning walk to the seaside town of Bonassola. Stroll through the hillside hamlets of Framura and Costa (4-5 hours). Catch a train to colourful Santa Margherita Ligure. Day 6 San Fruttuoso – Camogli Walk across hills before descending to the Abbey of San Fruttuoso. Return by boat to Camogli and see apartments rising up from the shoreline. Take time for a sundowner or gelati by the lapping waves (4-5 hours). Day 7 Portofino Walk to Portofino and the castle and lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula (3-4 hours). Enjoy free time to explore the area.

Day 8 Santa Margherita This Cinque Terre experience ends in Santa Margherita after breakfast (Sun).

What to know This is a walking trip. You’ll need to be in good health and able to walk for a few hours, with some up-and-down, and on varied terrain, from welldefined paths to rocky trails.

TRIP CODE: PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 3 nights comfortable hotel, 4 nights feature stay in Levanto. Transport Boat, local bus, private vehicle, train. Meals 7 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

Camogli

ITALY

Santa Margherita Levanto Portofino Monterosso Corniglia Vernazza Manarola Riomaggiore Portovenere

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays from May to September Enter trip code PECT on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Spirit of Amalfi

8 DAYS

Villa Jovis is perhaps the most awe-inspiring of all Emperor Tiberius’ island residences. A lasting symbol of Roman opulence, it is located on the island of Capri and was completed in AD27. The 7,000-square-metre complex is typical of the luxury abodes visiting Roman emperors would build for themselves.

Day 5 Atrani – Ravello – Amalfi Walk to Atrani before following the


PESA

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Boat, local bus, private vehicle, train. Meals 7 breakfasts, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

ITINERARY Day 1 Naples (Sun) Arrive in Naples and check into your hotel. Day 2 Naples – Pompeii – Agerola Begin with a walking tour of Naples covering the major historical structures. Then travel to Pompeii and the days of the Roman Empire. Enjoy a scenic drive to Agerola. Day 3 Punto Panoramico – Furore – Agerola Today is your first real day of walking as you head to Punto Panoramico, perhaps the most scenic viewpoint on the Amalfi Coast. Continue to the hamlet of Furore before climbing back up to the village of Conca dei Marini (4 hours). Day 4 Pathway of the Gods – Positano – Amalfi Walk on the famous Sentiero degli Dei (Pathway of the Gods) to Positano (6 hours). Explore Positano before taking a scenic boat ride to Amalfi, where you spend four nights in the heart of town.

PECT


Photo: Zoe Rees

Valley of the Dragon up to Ravello, which has inspired writers, musicians and travellers for centuries (5 hours). Enjoy dinner on the beach. Day 6 Isle of Capri – Amalfi Take a boat to the Isle of Capri, walking to Villa Jovis, once home to the Emperor Tiberius, and the village of Capri (5 hours). Day 7 Valle dei Mulini – Valle delle Ferriere – Amalfi Walk up to the village of Pontone, then to a viewpoint before continuing to

Valle dei Mulini (Valley of the Mills) – home to ghostly ruins, forest and crystal-clear streams (5 hours). Day 8 Amalfi Say farewell to the Amalfi Coast after breakfast (Sun).

What to know This is a walking trip. A good level of general fitness is required. A big part of the walks involves steep ‘ups’ and ‘downs’ across varied terrain and we may be walking for up to 6 hours per day.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays from May to September Enter trip code PESA on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

ITALY Agerola Valley of Naples the Mills Ravello Pompeii Pathway of the Gods Atrani Positano Amalfi Capri


ITALY

The Cinque Terre Explored

ITALY

Spirit of Sicily

11 DAYS

As the largest Mediterranean island, Sicily’s landscape is draped in soft hills and rugged mountains. Mt Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe (which still erupts frequently), resides in the east and keeps watch over the stunning surrounds. A multitude of pre-historic architecture dots the landscape, but it’s the agriculture that dominates it all. all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Day 1 Palermo (Tue) Arrive in Palermo. Meet your new travelling companions over a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Day 2 Monreale – Palermo Visit Monreale and enjoy a coastal walk in Zingaro Nature Reserve (2 hours). Explore the village of Scopello. Day 3 Cefalu – Montalbano Travel to Cefalu and walk in the surrounding mountains. Visit Tindari and the ruins of the old Greek city of Tyndaris. Go on an afternoon coastal walk (3 hours) then travel to the medieval town of Montalbano. Day 4 Moio dell’Alcantara Enjoy a short walk through Montalbano and the forest of Malabotta. Walk to Moio dell’Alcantara and its castle (4 hours).

Day 5 Taormina Walk to Castelmola village, then down to Taormina, which has spectacular views along the way (3.5 hours). Taormina is noted for its Roman theatre – if your timing’s right you can still catch a performance there. Day 6 Mt Etna Mt Etna is Europe’s biggest volcano and still very active. Walk on recent lava flows. For the less volcanically inclined, there’s wine tasting at a local vineyard. Day 7 Mt Etna A cable car and jeep will take you to the southern slopes of Mt Etna, where you will go on an easy walk in the area beneath the summit (4 hours). Day 8 Sortino – Ragusa Visit the town of Sortino. Walk through Anapo River Valley and explore Pantalica (3.5 hours). Drive to Ragusa, built on a limestone hill.

Day 9 Modica – Syracuse Visit the Baroque city of Modica. Go on a coastal walk in the nature reserve of Vendicari (3.5 hours). Visit Noto, then travel to Syracuse to check in to your feature stay. Day 10 Syracuse Take a walking tour through historic Syracuse, one of the key cities of Ancient Greece (2.5 hours). Visit the famous Greek theatre at Neapolis. Day 11 Syracuse Your trip ends after breakfast in Syracuse (Fri).

What to know This is a walking trip. You’ll need to be in good health and able to walk for a few hours, with some up-and-down, and on varied terrain, from welldefined paths to rocky trails.

TRIP CODE:

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 8 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights feature stay in Syracuse. Transport 4x4 vehicle, private vehicle. Meals 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 6 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Tuesdays from April to September Enter trip code PESY on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Palermo

Alla Giudecca, Syracuse, Sicily You’ll adore this restored 15th-century residence located in the heart of the Old Town where the streets are too narrow for cars. Built over an ancient Jewish ritual bath from the Byzantine period, it is situated on Ortigia Island and features archways, impressive stonework and museum exhibits on the walls. Relax in the reading room, music room and the charming breakfast room of this feature stay. You are also near the Cathedral of Syracuse and Temple of Apollo.


PESY


Monreale

Montalbano Tindari Cefalù

Taormina

Francavilla Mt Etna

SICILY Syracuse Ragusa

Noto Modica

Walking in the Dolomites

8 DAYS

The multi-coloured columns of limestone looming above the shadowy Fanes Valley are an awe-inspiring sight. This is the world of the Dolomites, north-eastern Italy’s geologically unique alpine mountain range, steeped in the dramas of history and spanning over 90,000 hectares. all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Day 1 Verona (Sun) Arrive in Verona, the backdrop of many a Shakespearian scene. Settle into your hotel before enjoying a welcome dinner in a local restaurant.

to the mountain hut. After a stroll along the high plain, it’s time for the descent. Take in lovely views of the Fanes-Sennes ranges on the way back to your hotel.

Day 2 Trento - Monte Bondone Travel to Trento, the frontier between Mediterranean and Alpine cultures. Take the cable car to Monte Bondone. Soak up the rural atmosphere and panoramic views of the different mountain ranges of the breathtaking Dolomites.

Day 5 Fanes Valley From San Vigilio, hike up into the Fanes-Senne Ranges, passing underneath the colourful Col de Ru, which towers at over 2,000 metres. Take a lakeside stroll through the idyllic alpine setting of the Fanes Valley and retire for the night in a comfortable mountain hut.

Day 3 La Villa Travel through the charming villages of the Adige Valley and into the land of the Dolomites. Take in views of Mt Marmolada from the valley of Canazei. Then from the famous Sella Pass, descend into the Gardena Valley. End the day in the lush alpine surrounds of the Alta Badia Valley, unwinding with dinner and perhaps a sauna. Day 4 Puez Plateau From the village of Colfosco, begin the hike up onto the Puez Plateau. Along the way you’ll see the Val Gardena in its full splendour and pass along the beautiful Ciampani Mountain, enjoying a picnic lunch on approach

Day 6 Cortina d’Ampezzo Walk amid historic mountains perforated with WWI mazes. Walk the Alta Via, the ‘high route’ of the Dolomites stretching from north to south. After taking in the striking peak of Rifugio Lagazuoi over a drink, end the day with a cable car ride into the valley and over its rock pinnacles. Day 7 Cortina – Tre Cime di Lavaredo The pace changes today with a leisurely walk along the Tre Cime (three tops) of Lavaredo. Cross to the other side to see its north face too. Then take a bus from the Auronzo hut down to the Cortina d’Ampezzo, the famous

luxury resort. Relax on the shores of Lake Misurina before heading back down to Cortina. Day 8 Venice After breakfast, travel to Venice, where your trip will end among the canals of one of the world’s most romantic cities (Sun).

What to know This is a walking trip. A good level of fitness is required. You may be walking for up to 6 hours per day. While the footpaths are well maintained, you will still be walking over rough surfaces with some ups and downs. While perfectly safe, some sections of the itinerary may prove challenging to sufferers of vertigo, however, alternative options are available on these days.

TRIP CODE:

PEID

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Trek altitudes Max 2773 m. Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 6 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night comfortable mountain hut. Transport Private vehicle, train, local bus, cable car. Meals 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays in June, July and September Enter trip code PEID on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Fanes Cortina

La Villa Trento

ITALY

Venice Verona


ITALY & FRANCE

Splendours of Italy & Southern France 16 DAYS Founded by the Greeks then ruled by the Italians, Nice didn’t actually become a permanent part of France until 1860. This storied heritage means walking the streets here feels more like wandering through Liguria or Piedmont than Provence or Paris.

Day 1 Florence (Fri) Welcome to Italy. Arrive in Florence and settle into your hotel. Day 2 Florence – Montepulciano Take a guided tour of Florence. Travel to Arezzo and enjoy lunch amid its monuments before heading into the Tuscan countryside to the ‘village in the sky’ – Montepulciano. Day 3 Monticchiello Walk from the 16th-century Chiesa di San Biagio to Monticchiello (3.5 hours). Relax during a free afternoon then try some of the local vino nobile at an evening wine tasting. Day 4 Pienza – Siena Enjoy a morning tour of Pienza where you can take in classic Tuscan views. Walk from Val d’Orcia to Bagno Vignoni (3.5 hours). Day 5 Siena Wander through Siena on a guided morning tour. The afternoon is free to explore or simply sit in the Piazza del Campo and with a glass of sangiovese. Day 6 Volterra Visit Monteriggioni on the way to the ancient town of Volterra, with its Etruscan, Roman and medieval history. Watch the sunset from the town walls before dinner at a local restaurant. Day 7 Cinque Terre Travel to the Cinque Terre. Begin the walk from Riomaggiore’s harbour, populated



PEIF


ITINERARY

Inclusions Peregrine tour leaders, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 15 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Local bus, private vehicle, train. Meals 15 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

by tiny row boats and painted in a kaleidoscope of colours. Day 8 Santa Margherita – Portofino Walk from Santa Margherita to Portofino (1.5 hours). There’s free time in the afternoon to either relax at the hotel or catch a boat to the hidden monastery at San Fruttuoso. Day 9 Portofino Peninsula Walk along the Portofino Peninsula (2 hours). Visit the fishing village of Camogli – one of the prettiest towns in Liguria. Day 10 Italian Riviera – Villefranche-sur-Mer Take the train along the spectacular Italian Riviera coast into France. Arrive in Nice where you will meet your French local leader and travel to the village of Villefranche-sur-Mer. Day 11 St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat Visit St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Follow a pleasant coastal footpath around the peninsula on an easy afternoon walk, including a scenic picnic lunch (3 hours). Visit Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Day 12 St Agnès – Menton Travel to St Agnès and walk to Gorbio (2.5 hours). Visit the town of Menton, which is surrounded by lemon, tangerine and orange groves.

Day 13 Nice – Aix-en-Provence Take a morning walking tour of old Nice, including its maze of staircases and lanes, fine Baroque churches, flower market and famous Promenade des Anglais. Drive to Aix-en-Provence. Day 14 Aix-en-Provence Spend free time wandering Aix-en-Provence’s morning market. Then stroll through the landscapes immortalised by Cézanne in the afternoon (2.5 hours). Day 15 Les Baux de Provence – Arles Visit Les Baux de Provence – a village hewn from sheer cliffs. Choose to visit La Cathedrale d’images in Les Baux before travelling to Arles.


DEPARTURE DATES Selected Fridays in June and September Enter trip code PEIF on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Genoa

Santa Margherita Cinque Terre Portofino Florence

ITALY Siena Volterra Monticchiello Colle Val d’Elsa Bagno Vignoni Pienza Montepulciano

Day 16 Arles Farewell new friends when this trip concludes after breakfast in Arles (Sat).

What to know This is a walking trip. You will need to be in a good state of health with a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this experience.

new trip

Arles Aix-enProvence

Lac Zola Le Tholonet

9 DAYS

Mont St-Michel looks like it has appeared from the pages of a fairytale. In ancient times it was a strategic fortification, it then became a monastery in the eighth-century and then a gaol from the 1400s onwards. all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Days 1-2 Paris (Sun) Arrive in Paris and make your own way to the hotel. Attend an evening briefing and meet your tour leader and travel companions, followed by a welcome dinner at a Parisian restaurant. The next morning, see some iconic Paris sights on a city tour, including the Pere Lachaise Cemetery and Sacre Coeur. This afternoon, perhaps hire a bike and cycle to the Eiffel Tower, enjoy a walk along the ChampsElysses or enjoy a baguette and some cheese on the famous banks of the Seine. Days 3-4 Bayeux Travel to Giverny and visit Monet’s house and beautiful, colourful gardens. After lunch, stop at a distillery on the Cider Route for a Calvados tasting (Normandy apple brandy) before continuing on to Bayeux. Spend

some free time exploring, perhaps visiting the Battle of Normandy Museum or Bayeux Tapestry. Join the group for a tour of the D-Day beaches – Arromanches, Longuessur-Mer and Omaha – with a local guide. Day 5 Chateau Head to the spectacular island commune of Mont St-Michel and visit museums, the parish church and the imposing central abbey. Spend the night in a comfortable chateau. Days 6-7 Loire Valley After breakfast, enjoy a free morning to explore the surrounds of the chateau. Then travel through the Loire Valley by private bus, stopping at the riverside Chateau Villandry. Sip delicious Loire Valley Sauvignons at a wine tasting on Day 7.

Days 8-9 Paris Visit the Chateau de Fontainebleau, one of the largest royal buildings in France. Spend some time exploring the galleries, chapels and gardens before returning to Paris by private bus. Enjoy a farewell dinner with the group and perhaps go on a night cruise of the Seine after a celebratory meal. Your tour ends after breakfast on the morning of Day 9 (Mon).

TRIP CODE:

PERR

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night feature stay in a chateau. Transport Private vehicle, metro. Meals 8 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Bayeux Paris Mont Saint Michel

FRANCE

Selected Sundays in May, July, August and September Enter trip code PERR on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Chateau stay Amboise

Chateau des Briottieres, Champigne

FRANCE Les Baux de Provence

Highlights of Northern France

St Agnès Gorbio Menton Nice Cap-Ferrat

Escape into luxury at the family-run Chateau des Briottieres. Feel like you’ve stepped back into the 18th century enjoying spacious rooms with original furnishings, peaceful park surrounds and the very best of cuisine. Either luxuriate in the beautiful living areas, take a walk around ancient trees in the 80 hectare gardens, swim in the heated pool or explore the surrounding area on bicycle or by horseback.


FRANCE

new trip

Images of Provence & the Côte d’Azur In 1888 Vincent van Gogh arrived in Provence and was struck by the ‘brilliance and light’ of the region. In the fifteen months he stayed here, van Gogh produced some 300 works, including the celebrated oil painting ‘Farmhouse in Provence’. ITINERARY Day 1 Menton (Sun) Arrive in Menton, the ‘Pearl of France’. Enjoy dinner with the group this evening. Day 2 St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat – Menton Visit St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Enjoy an easy afternoon walk and scenic picnic lunch (walk 3 hours). Day 3 St Agnès – Menton Walk from the village of St Agnès to Gorbio (2.5 hours) and soak up the stunning coastal views. Day 4 Nice – Aix-en-Provence Catch a local bus to Nice and tour the Old Town in the morning. After lunch, travel to Aix-en-Provence. Have a coffee or wine at the Deux Garçons cafe, haunt of the late Paul Cezanne, Emile Zola and Ernest Hemingway. Day 5 Aix-en-Provence Explore Aix’s morning market. Take an afternoon stroll through picturesque

landscapes made famous by Cézanne (2.5 hours). Day 6 Les Baux de Provence – Arles Travel to Les Baux de Provence and its citadel, which was carved from the rock hill it sits on. Enjoy a picnic lunch and choose to visit La Cathedrale d’images in Les Baux. Travel to Arles for your final night together.

Day 7 Arles Visit the quaint local market before your trip ends today in Arles (Sat).

What to know This is a walking trip. You will need to be in a good state of health with a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this experience.

7 DAYS


PEPC

Gourmet Explorer Provence The cheese from the goats of Le Rove is so highly prized in France and worldwide that demand always outstrips supply. The subtle, creamy and ever-so-slightly salty curd can be enjoyed as a sweet or savoury dish.


ITINERARY

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 6 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Local bus, private vehicle, train. Meals 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 16.

Day 1 Avignon (Fri) Welcome to Avignon. Take a walking tour to acquaint yourself with your group and the city.


DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays in May, June, September and October Enter trip code PEPC on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

FRANCE

Les Baux de Provence

St Agnès Gorbio Menton Nice

Lac Zola Arles Le Tholonet Aix-enCap-Ferrat Provence

Day 2 Avignon Pay a visit to Les Halles this morning – Avignon’s famed covered market. Purchase ingredients from the colourful stalls and have them cooked fresh for lunch in a nearby cafe. Take a taxi to Chateauneuf-du-Pape, famed for its Rhone valley wines. Go for a walk through vineyards (1.5 hours) and savour a tasting at one of the centuries-old estates. Return to Avignon in time for dinner. Day 3 Isle sur la Sorgue Catch a morning train to L’Isle-sur-laSorgue. Dive headfirst into their renowned Sunday market before taking a walk around the village. Perhaps join locals for a game of petanque and sip of pastis. Finish

7 DAYS all departures guaranteed TRIP CODE:

PEFF


the day with a hands-on cooking class preparing provençal dishes. Day 4 Isle sur la Sorgue In the morning, travel to Robion, nestled against the stunning slopes of the Luberon Mountains. After a short walk around town stop for lunch at a table d’hote, where our host will cook us a traditional meal in her ancestral home. Day 5 Marseille A scenic train ride delivers you into cosmopolitan Marseille, where the cuisine is a melting pot of many cultural influences. Launch into a culinary tour of the city. In the afternoon, there are plenty of optional activities: perhaps a coastline hike, a boat excursion along the Calanques (limestone inlets) or a ferry ride to the Chateau d’If and Frioul islands. Day 6 Marseille Take a short taxi ride to the village of Le Rove, where

a special breed of goat roams the hills. Visit a local producer to sample the cheese. From Le Rove, travel to a quaint fishing village, where a limestone inlet makes for the perfect post-lunch swimming spot. Return to the city on the coastline train. Choose to end the trip with Marseille’s signature dish, bouillabaisse.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 6 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Local bus, taxi, train. Meals 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Group size Maximum 12.

Day 7 Marseille Say adieu to this adventure after breakfast (Thu).

DEPARTURE DATES


Selected Fridays in May, June & September Enter trip code PEFF on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Chateauneuf-du-Pape Avignon

Isle sur la Sorgue

FRANCE

Le Rove Marseille



Spain, Portugal and Morocco

Rhythms of Iberia and beyond When the sun goes down on a sleepy Seville afternoon, the sultry beginnings of a flamenco performance can be heard. The last remnants of siestas have been yawned away and Spain is about to spring to life once again. At La Carboneria, the guitar and dancing gather momentum, and a voice swoops in slowly with a mournful croon.

It’s a voice that echoes all around the Iberian Peninsula. To the west, in Portugal, it comes through in the fado, with its tales of love, loss, and life at sea. To the south, in Morocco, it’s found in an older, more languid expression of life’s highs and lows – traditional Berber music.

It’s a voice that sings of hardship and loss, but whose melody is life affirming. It goes beyond city and country, transcending genre and dating back centuries – past the flamenco’s 19th-century heyday and past the Spanish Inquisition.

It’s the voice of the everyday folk – the folk you’ll encounter on a Peregrine trip. We’ll take you away from the well-worn tourist routes to the troubadours hiding in the corners and behind the doors – the ones who give their countries the rhythm and verve they are famous for.


Best time to go

SPAIN, PORTUGAL JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC & MOROCCO Barcelona Seville Granada Madrid León Santiago de Compostela Bilbao Lisbon Porto Casablanca Marrakech Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry 0-15oC

Very hot & dry 35oC+ Hot & dry 30-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC

Spain and Portugal are best enjoyed in May, June and September, when temperatures aren’t so warm. Similarly, Morocco is best explored outside its summer peak – ideally between March and May or September to December.

Santiago de Compostela

Pyrenees Porto Barcelona

PORTUGAL

Madrid

SPAIN

Tour leader profile - Said Baadoud Said started with Peregrine in 2007 and won the award for Peregrine’s best Moroccan tour leader in 2009. He, unsurprisingly, comes from a family of experts in the trade. “All my family and relatives are in tourism. We’ve been in this industry for 25 years. 30 // peregrineadventures.com

I found myself in this line work because I love my country and want to give a wonderful image of it. I love its diverse mix of cultures, histories and landscapes – all of it. It’s my oxygen to breathe. I love even the dust and stones of my country.”

“My favourite Peregrine trip is the 16-day Highlights of Morocco. It is the full package for the traveller: it covers the imperial cities, history, architecture, countryside, remote places, nomads and indigenous peoples and their cultures.”

Valencia

Lisbon

Seville Ronda

Granada

Fes Casablanca

MOROCCO Marrakech

Essaouira

Merzouga

Photo: Michael Armstrong


SPAIN

new trip

Walk the Camino de Santiago Also known as the Way of St James, the Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage route to the shrine of the apostle St James the Great, located in Santiago de Compostela, and was an important pilgrimage during the Middle Ages. Traditionally, the beginning of the walk began at your front door. ITINERARY Day 1 Sarria (Sat) Meet your guide and travelling companions at the hotel over a welcome drink. Enjoy dinner in the hotel’s restaurant. Day 2 Sarria-Portomarín Walk along rural roads or corredoiras (tracks) through oak groves and small hamlets such as Lavandeira and Ferreiros. Before reaching Portomarin, cross the bridge of the River Mino to witness the remains of the old town of Portomarín, which lie under the waters of a nearby reservoir. Day 3 Portomarín-Palas de Rei Climb up to Castromaior and then to the Sierra de Ligonde before descending gradually through the hamlets of Eirexe and Ligonde. Arrive in the town of Palas de Rei and enjoy dinner accompanied by queimada (traditional Galician punch). Day 4 Palas de Rei-Arzua Trek along beautiful rural paths to Coto,

from where it is an easy walk to Melide. Pass over hills and through picturesque landscapes like that in Ribadiso. Relax at Pazo Santa Maria, our feature stay in Arzua which is an original Galician Manor House. Day 5 Arzua - Rua Start the secondto-last stage of your Camino journey, walking over small hills and passing through sweeping agricultural countryside. Walk down into Rua past the Chapel of Santa Irene. Day 6 Rua - Santiago de Compostela After bypassing Pedrouzo, climb through Amenal and drop down to Lavacolla. It’s time to start climbing again up to the Monte do Gozo, from where you can see the towers of Compostela Cathedral. Now you are just four kilometres from the city, which you’ll reach through the beautiful streets of the Old Town.

Day 7 Santiago de Compostela Ribeira Sacra Excursion Today it’s time to relax after all that walking. Take a tour to Ribeira Sacra and visit a vineyard to enjoy a wine tasting and a stroll around its charming grounds. Then board a boat for a gentle cruise along the area’s rivers and canyons. Take a picnic lunch next to the river and head back to Santiago in the afternoon for a farewell dinner. Day 8 Santiago de Compostela This Camino walking trip concludes after breakfast this morning.

8 DAYS all departures guaranteed TRIP CODE: PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 6 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night feature stay in Aruza. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Saturdays in May, June, September and October Enter trip code PELC on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

A week on the Camino What to know This is a walking trip. You’ll need to be in good health and able to walk for a few hours, with some inclines and declines and on varied terrain, from well-defined paths to rocky trails.

We also run a self-guided walking trip on the Camino de Santiago. This trip operates daily on request from 01 April to 31 October. Please see our website peregrineadventures.com for details.

Pazo Santa Maria, Arzua Your feet won’t feel so weary with the Pazo Santo Maria as your destination for the night. Nestled in a garden oasis, this 18th-century stone-wall hotel is a welcome resting spot on the well-travelled Camino de Santiago. Relax in comfortable lounges, wander through the orchard, treat yourself to a massage or sit on the terrace with a cocktail and watch the sun set. A pilgrimage never looked so good.


PELC

Rúa Santiago de Compostela

Arzúa Sarria

Palas de Rei

Portomarin

SPAIN

Essence of Spain

13 DAYS

It was described by Moorish poets as ‘a pearl set in emeralds’, and the grand Alhambra Palace doesn’t disappoint as a true gem of Spain. Allowed to fall into disrepair after many centuries of grandeur, this 11th-century masterpiece was restored to what you see today in the 1800s by European scholars and travellers.

all departures guaranteed TRIP CODE: PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO

ITINERARY Day 1 Barcelona (Sun) Arrive in Barcelona and check in to your hotel. Day 2 Barcelona In the morning, take in the key sights on a walking tour and in the afternoon enjoy free time to explore. Day 3 Valencia Head to Valencia. Your main destination is Calatrava’s Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of the Arts and Sciences), an architectural wonder that has come to be the key image of the city. Day 4 Albufera Lake – Valencia Travel to Albufera Lake, ringed by beaches, dunes, lagoons, wetlands and Mediterranean forest. Visit the island of El Palmar and explore the lake on a cruise. Continue to Sagunto and its castle before returning to Valencia. Day 5 Granada En route to Granada, visit the university town of Murcia with its fascinating mix of architectural styles. Stop in at Guadix. Day 6 Granada Take a guided tour of the incredible Alhambra Palace – built in the 11th-century as a fortress and then became a royal palace in 1333. Have the afternoon to explore before a group dinner in the evening.

Day 7 Cordoba Travel across typical Andalucian countryside to Cordoba. On arrival, take a guided tour of the city’s historic and contentious cathedral-mosque.

Day 11 Toledo – Madrid Take a tour through the winding streets and sword-swishing history of Spain’s old capital, Toledo. Return to Madrid with a free afternoon and evening.

Day 8 Seville Travel to Seville – famous for its olive oil. Visit an olive oil mill and then wander the streets of Seville, exploring the cathedral and the quarters of Santa Cruz and Triana. Attend a fiery flamenco show this evening.

Day 12 Ávila – Madrid Spend the day in the art cities of Avila, with its cathedral, and Segovia, with its castle and Roman aqueduct. Travel back to Madrid for a farewell feast. Day 13 Madrid Tour ends after breakfast in Madrid (Fri).

Day 9 Jerez – Seville Visit Jerez, the sherry capital of the world. Go on a walk around the Atlantic coastal city of Cadiz before heading back to Seville for a final night in Andalucía. Day 10 Madrid Say farewell to Seville and travel to stylish Madrid. Explore the Old Quarter before enjoying some down time to try the local tapas bars or wander through the many art galleries.

Ávila

PEES

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 11 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night feature stay in Cordoba. Transport Private vehicle, train. Meals 12 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays in May, June, August and September Enter trip code PEES on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Segovia Madrid Toledo

Barcelona

Valencia

SPAIN Córdoba Cadiz

Seville Jerez

Granada

Macia Alfaros, Cordoba Located in the centre of Cordoba’s historical centre, this traditional Andalucian-style building provides the upmost in comfort and style. Next to the Barbican of the Roman wall and a short walk to the Jewish Quarter, Mosque of Cordoba and myriad museums, this hotel offers a swimming pool and fine dining on site all dressed in the charming architectural designs – arches, tiling and columns – of the area.


SPAIN & PORTUGAL

Trails of Andalucia

8 DAYS

As the largest olive oil producing region in the world, it goes without saying that Andalucia is home to a rich culinary heritage. Famed for gazpacho, a cold vegetable soup, the region’s food is as exciting to explore as its rolling olive groves, Moorish architecture and villageladen landscapes. ITINERARY Day 1 Seville (Sun) Welcome to Andalucia! Arrive in Seville at any time before the briefing for your trip this evening. Day 2 Seville Walking tour of Seville’s finest sites, including the magnificent Alcazar Palace (walk 3-4 hours). Free afternoon to explore. Enjoy local tapas bars in the evening. Day 3 Zahara de la Sierra – Grazalema Guided walk around the white-washed village of Zahara de la Sierra (3 hours). Visit a traditional family-run olive oil press en route to Grazalema National Park. Day 4 Grazalema Spend the day walking in the forests and hilly landscapes of Grazalema National Park (4-6 hours). The walk begins in the village streets then heads into the surrounding mountains.



PEAA

ITINERARY

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 5 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights guesthouse. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 7 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

Day 1 Lisbon (Sun) Arrive in Lisbon at any time today.

DEPARTURE DATES

Day 6 Granada Drive to Granada and take an afternoon walk in the historic Christian Cathedral district (2 hours). Free time to visit the cathedral or the Moroccan souq. Day 7 Granada Visit the 11th century Alhambra Palace with a local guide.

Wander around Granada’s Moorish Albayzan Quarter. Evening walk through the flamenco district. Day 8 Granada Farewell your new friends when your tour ends in Granada after breakfast (Sun).

Selected Sundays in May, June, August, September and October Enter trip code PEAA on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

SPAIN

What to know You will need a good state of health with a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this experience.

Seville Grazalema Granada Ronda

7 DAYS

An absolute haven for World Heritage sites, the history of Portugal abounds at almost every turn. From the scenery of the Alto Douro wine region and the cultural landscape of Sintra, to the celebrated centres of Guimarães and Porto, man-made and natural wonders blend to create enchanting images of Portugal.



Day 5 Ronda Explore Ronda, one of Spain’s oldest towns dating back to the ninth century BC (3-4 hours). Sample local wines and try traditional Spanish food.

Images of Portugal

Day 2 Lisbon Explore the city of Lisbon using the ‘electrico’ (tram) with a local leader. See the cathedral and Sao Jorge Castle and wander through the narrow streets. Enjoy a free afternoon before a fado show this evening. Day 3 Sintra – Lisbon Travel along the coast following the estuary of the great Tagus (Tejo) River. Visit Cascais, Estoril and the colourful fortress of Sintra. Return to Lisbon in the afternoon. Day 4 Obidos – Coimbra Visit the medieval village of Obidos. Discover the monastery in Batalha (100 years in the making) and the sanctuary of Fatima. Drive to Coimbra, home to Portugal’s oldest university.

all departures guaranteed Day 5 Porto Drive to the city of Porto. Explore the cathedral and the Tower of Clerigos and taste port, the city’s signature tipple. Day 6 Guimaraes – Porto Head to Guimaraes. Explore the pre-Roman settlement of Citania de Briteiros and the city of Braga with its Baroque buildings. Return to Porto for your final night and a farewell feast.

Porto

TRIP CODE:

Coimbra


SPAIN

Óbidos

PORTUGAL Sintra Lisbon

Day 7 Porto Your trip ends in Porto after breakfast (Sat).

PEIP

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights feature stay in Porto. Transport Private vehicle, tram. Meals 6 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays in May, June and September Enter trip code PEIP on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Photo: Katie Gosman


MOROCCO

Photo: Steve Wroe

Highlights of Southern Spain & Morocco 15 DAYS

Morocco Explorer

As much a merging of these two countries as you’re likely to find, the famed flamenco actually originated from the Moors (Moroccans) that ruled Andalucia for around 900 years. Look closely and you’ll see the similarities between some styles of flamenco and the traditional Moroccan shikat (belly dance).

Descendents of the pre-Arab inhabitants of North Africa, Morocco’s Berber people are living examples of centuries past. Communing largely in the mountainous and desert regions, most Berbers are sedentary farmers, while others cultivate lowlands and spend their lives as pastoral nomads.

ITINERARY Day 1 Seville (Sun) After arriving in Seville, settle into your hotel and begin exploring. Day 2 Seville Take a guided walking tour of Seville (3-4 hours), including Alcazar Palace. In the evening, join the ‘Sevillanos’ and ‘Sevillanas’ and see the city come alive after dark.

Day 4 Grazalema Choose to relax for the day or walk into the forests and hilly landscapes of Grazalema National Park (4-6 hours). Day 5 Ronda Go on a walking tour of Ronda and its dramatic surrounds, which are perched on a plateau 744 metres high (3-4 hours). Day 6 Granada Drive in a private vehicle to Granada. Walking tour around historic Christian Cathedral district (2 hours). Day 7 Granada Take a guided tour of the Alhambra Palace. Walk through the Moorish Albayzan quarter of Granada. Enjoy a flamenco show at a local tavern tonight.


TRIP CODE:

PESM


ITINERARY

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 2 nights traditional riad, 9 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights guesthouse, 1 night feature stay in Bine el Ouidane. Transport Plane (Malaga-Casablanca flight), private vehicle. Meals 14 breakfasts, 5 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

Day 1 Casablanca (Sun/Thur) Arrive in Casablanca at any time and take a private transfer to the hotel.


Day 3 Meknes – Fes Visit the city’s old medina and the souq at Meknes, the Roman ruins of Volubilis and then travel to Fes.

DEPARTURE DATES Day 8 Granada – Casablanca Enjoy a free morning before driving to the airport for your flight to Casablanca. Day 9 Casablanca – Rabat – Meknes Visit Hassan II Mosque and the new medina. Drive to Rabat and visit the Chellah, Kasbah des Oudaias and Hassan Minaret before continuing to Meknes. Day 10 Volubilis - Fes Visit Meknes bazaars before exploring the ruins of Volubilis, once a provincial Roman capital. Arrive in Fes. Day 11 Fes Explore the old city of Fes, including Funduq Nejjarine – a beautifully restored 18th-century inn. Day 12 Bine el Ouidane Spend a relaxed evening at a boutique hotel

overlooking red rocky hills and an expanse of blue water. Day 13 Marrakech Travel to Marrakech and spend two nights in a traditional-style riad hotel, just a few minutes from Djemaa el Fna – the great square. Day 14 Marrakech Take a morning tour of the old medina, including Bahia Palace. The rest of the day is free to explore or shop in the bazaar. Day 15 Marrakech Your trip ends in Marrakech this morning (Sun).


Selected Sundays in May, June, August, September & October Enter trip code PESM on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Seville SPAIN Granada Grazalema Malaga Ronda

Atlantic Ocean

Rabat

Volubilis Fes

Casablanca Meknes

MOROCCO Bin El Ouidane Marrakech

Day 2 Casablanca – Meknes Visit the Hassan II Mosque, which can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. Drive to Rabat and stop by the Kasbah des Oudaias and Hassan Minaret before continuing to Meknes.

Days 4-5 Fes Visit the old and new parts of the city, including Funduq Nejjarine. Enjoy free time exploring the medina.

Rabat Volubilis

Camp overnight, enjoying lively music and sleeping under the stars. Day 8 M’Goun Valley Drive to Todra Gorge for a walk before continuing on to the Dades Valley and M’Goun Valley. Overnight in a Berber house. Day 9 M’Goun Valley Spend a full day exploring and walking in the beautiful M’Goun Valley. Pass through Berber villages and perhaps meet some curious local children. Day 10 Ait Benhaddou Set off on the fabled Road of 1000 Kasbahs. Visit the oasis town of Skoura en route to Ait Benhaddou.

Casablanca

all departures guaranteed Fes

Meknes

MOROCCO

TRIP CODE: Midelt

Marrakech Mt M’Goun Ait Benhaddou M’Goun Valley Merzouga

Independent Journey This trip is available as an Independent Journey, departing any day, for 1-2 people. Please see page 11 for details.

Day 11 Marrakech Drive over the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech.

Day 6 Midelt Drive to Midelt and go on a walk to discover the local way of life in the villages.

Day 12 Marrakech Take a city tour that includes the Bahia Palace. The rest of the day is free to explore.

Day 7 Merzouga Go on a morning walk before driving to Merzouga. Ride camels to a desert camp.

Day 13 Marrakech This trip ends in Marrakech this morning (Fri/Wed).

PGME

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, professional local guides, arrival transfer, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 2 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights mountain guesthouse, 1 night desert camp, 6 nights traditional riad, 1 night feature stay in Meknes. Transport Private aircon vehicle, camel. Meals 12 breakfasts, 6 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES


Selected Sundays and Thursdays Enter trip code PGME on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 3 Zahara de la Sierra – Grazalema Take a guided walk around the hillside village of Zahara de la Sierra (3 hours). Visit a traditional olive oil mill en route to Grazalema.

all departures guaranteed

13 DAYS

Riad Ritaj, Meknes Beautiful and opulent, this hotel is a charming example of traditional Moroccan architecture both inside and out. Enjoy the colourful authentic furnishings, relax by the fountain in the central foyer or enjoy tea on the terrace that overlooks the town. And while situated in the heart of the Meknes Medina and close to all the sights of the city, the Riad Ritaj is a tranquil haven from the bustle and heat of the city outside.


8 DAYS

“Morocco is the land of contrasts. I like the lifestyle and the culture. ‘Going out’ doesn’t mean going to sit inside somewhere. It means going into the street, walking and people watching, or sitting in coffee terraces for a few hours. I like the no-stress lifestyle.” Issam El Hadri, Peregrine local leader ITINERARY Day 1 Casablanca (Sun) Meet a Peregrine representative on arrival in Casablanca and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Casablanca – Meknes See the Mosque of Hassan II, second only in size to the great mosque at Mecca. Drive to Rabat and visit the earliest known settlement of Sala and the remains of the citadel. Continue on to Meknes.

Photo: Michael Armstrong

Highlights of Morocco Fes’s fascinating leather souq contains the oldest leather tannery in the world, which dates back to the 11th century. Stone pots full of dye are flanked by committed workers, who often labour in the searing Moroccan heat, as they have done for almost nine centuries. From the souq’s balcony, one can glimpse a colourful insight into an almost unchanged Moroccan practice.

Day 2 Casablanca – Meknes See the Hassan II Mosque before heading to Rabat. Visit the Chellah, Kasbah des Oudaias and Hassan Minaret then continue to your feature stay in Meknes. Day 3 Meknes – Fes Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the old medina and bazaars of Meknes. Drive to Fes. Days 4-5 Fes Visit the old city, including Funduq Nejjarine. Enjoy free time to explore the medina. Day 6 Midelt Drive to Midelt, a market town nestled between the Middle and High Atlas mountains, at an elevation of just over 1,500 metres. After lunch, set off on an easy hike in the nearby hills. Day 7 Merzouga – Sahara Desert Morning walk before driving to Merzouga. Ride camels to a Sahara Desert camp, enjoying a sunset along the way.


Day 8 M’Goun Valley Travel to Todra Gorge for a two-hour walk, then on to the Dades Valley and M’Goun Valley. Spend the night with a local family in a Berber house. Day 9 M’Goun Valley A day exploring and walking in M’Goun Valley. On the walk you’ll pass by Berber villages, meeting locals along the way.

TRIP CODE:

Selected Thursday & Sundays Enter trip code PGHM on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 15 Marrakech Free morning to relax and further explore before returning to Marrakech.

Day 12 Marrakech Take a guided walking tour, including the Bahia Palace. Thread your way through the streets of the old medina.

Day 16 Marrakech Your trip ends in Marrakech this morning (Mon/Fri).

Rabat Volubilis Casablanca


Fes

Meknes

MOROCCO Essaouira

Day 7 Marrakech Take a morning tour of the old medina and Bahia Palace. The rest of the day is free

Day 8 Marrakech Farewell new friends when your trip ends in Marrakech this morning (Sun).

PGCM

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, professional local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights traditional riad, 1 night feature stay in Bine el Ouidane. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays Enter trip code PGCM on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 3 Meknes - Fes Visit the bazaars of Meknes. Then explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis before continuing on to Fes.

Volubilis

Day 4 Fes Visit the old city and the fascinating Funduq Nejjarine.

Rabat Casablanca

Day 5 Bin el Ouidane Spend the evening at a boutique hotel, surrounded by rocky outcrops and pretty scenery.

Fes

Meknes

MOROCCO Bine el Ouidane

Marrakech

Midelt

Marrakech Merzouga

Ait Benhaddou M’Goun Valley

Moroccan Serenade

11 DAYS

‘It’s not easy to see everything, even if you are here for a whole month. Getting lost in one of our cities is a highlight because in every corner of each narrow street there is something to see – a bakery or a school or a medina where the medieval atmosphere is still surviving.’ Moha Ait Aamou, Peregrine local leader ITINERARY Day 1 Casablanca (Sun) Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to your hotel for a welcome meeting.

DEPARTURE DATES

Day 11 Marrakech Drive over the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech. This evening, head to Djemaa el Fna.

to explore further, or shop in the crowded bazaar.

TRIP CODE:

PGHM



Day 10 Ait Benhaddou Stop at the oasis of Skoura, home of several privately owned kasbahs. Arrive at Ait Benhaddou, the site for many Hollywood movies.

Days 13-14 Essaouira Two nights in the coastal town of Essaouira. Your time here can be spent wandering the narrow streets and sampling Moroccan seaside cuisine.


Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, professional local guides, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 4 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights mountain guesthouse, 1 night desert camp, 7 nights traditional riad, 1 night feature stay in Meknes. Transport Private aircon vehicle, camel. Meals 15 breakfasts, 6 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

ITINERARY Day 1 Casablanca (Sun/Thu) Arrive to a warm welcome in Casablanca and a private transfer to the hotel.

16 DAYS

Day 6 Marrakech Travel to Marrakech. Head to Djemaa el Fna for the evening.


Day 2 Casablanca – Meknes Visit Casablanca’s colossal Mosque of Hassan II. Drive to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, and visit the Roman settlement of Sala and the remains of the ancient citadel. Continue to Meknes. Day 3 Meknes – Fes This morning, visit the medina and palaces of the old imperial city of Meknes before driving to Fes via the Roman ruins at Volubilis.

Day 6 Marrakech Travel to the fabled city of Marrakech. The lively Djemaa el-Fna provides a great introduction to this magical city.

before heading back to Marrakech. A night at one of the restaurants overlooking the square would be a fitting way to end your trip.

Day 7 Marrakech Enjoy a tour of the old medina in the morning and see the Bahia Palace and Marrakech Museum. Spend the rest of the day exploring in your own time. Perhaps shop in the bazaar or drink mint tea overlooking Djemaa el-Fna and people watch.

Day 11 Marrakech Your trip ends this morning after breakfast (Wed).

Day 5 Bine el Ouidane

Days 8-9 Marrakech – Essaouira Explore the narrow streets, squares and markets of this delightful coastal town. Feast on fresh Moroccan seaside cuisine and soak up the cool sea air.

Experience some down time at our feature stay that looks out over scenic mountains and a dam.

Day 10 Essaouira – Marrakech There’s time to pick up some last-minute bargains in the bazaar

Day 4 Fes Experience the medieval medina of Fes on a walking tour.


PGMS

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights traditional riad, 1 night feature stay in Bine el Ouidane. Transport Private aircon vehicle. Meals 10 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays Enter trip code PGMS on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Rabat

Volubilis Fes

Casablanca Meknes MOROCCO Essaouira

Bin El Ouidane Marrakech

Photo: Steve Mortimer


MOROCCO

Classic Morocco

Central & Eastern Europe

Discover the beauty that history left behind For the Peregrine traveller there’s a beautiful, stripped-back feeling to be found as you move through this side of Europe. ‘The cities, palaces and landmarks rival anything you might find in the West,’ says Steph Millington, Europe Regional Product Manager. ‘Some of my highlights include the Buda castle in Budapest and Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Croatia’.

Czech Greenways: a web of pathways leading to fairytale villages and fields of poppies; the Wachau Valley, with its castellated villages, Danube spires and local riesling and gruner veltliner wines; the Palava Hills in the Czech Republic, with their Maiden and Orphan Castles lying in decorous ruin; Lake Bled in Slovenia; or any one of a dozen fishing villages along the Dalmatian Coast.

But we think the true beauty of this destination lies off the beaten path. Destinations like the



EASTERN EUROPE Prague Vienna Budapest Bled Split Zagreb Dubrovnik Tirana Skopje St Petersburg Moscow

Best time to go

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Central and Eastern Europe are blessed with temperate summers, making for generally comfortable travel during July and August. However, May, June and September are great times to avoid peak crowds and still enjoy the warmth – unless of course you are looking to ski the alpine slopes of Austria or Slovenia.

Hot & dry 30-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Warm & wet 20-25oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry 0-15oC Very cold, below freezing

Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC GERMANY Munich

Vienna

AUSTRIA

Budapest St Petersburg

HUNGARY

Tour leader profile – Martina Salaj Martina is a sought-after leader in Central Europe who receives rave reviews and many compliments from her passengers for her enthusiasm and willingness to go the extra mile. ‘Being a tour leader is my dream job. I started

leading tours in 2009 when I was a student. Since then I gained a Master Diploma in Art History and Information Sciences and have developed interests in different aspects of travelling. All the beautiful cities and monuments,

landscapes and national parks, historical events, music, food, sport activities and meeting new people from all over the world gets me going! It will be a pleasure to share my knowledge with you, welcome to central Europe!’

SWITZERLAND

SLOVENIA

Pilatus

Ljubljana

RUSSIA

ITALY Zagreb

Moscow

CROATIA BOSNIA & Zadar HERZEGOVINA Split

Sarajevo

MONTENEGRO Dubrovnik

Kotor Tirana

KOSOVO Pristina Skopje

MACEDONIA Ohrid Bitola

ALBANIA Berat



MULTI COUNTRY

new trip

Alpine Rail Journey

10 DAYS

Think you’ve seen spectacular scenery? Think again. With snow-capped mountains, rolling green hills, deep gorges, tunnels through sheer mountains, winding rivers and towering bridges, the Glacier Express railway from Zermatt to Chur is the ultimate in astounding. all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Day 1 Milan (Sat) Arrive in Milan and settle in to your hotel before meeting your group leader and fellow travellers at a welcome meeting. Enjoy dinner at a local trattoria with your group.

Heartland of Central Europe An ancient symbol of the Czech lands, Prague Castle is the most important monument and cultural icon in the country. Founded around AD 880, the castle is the largest coherent castle complex in the world (according to the Guinness Book of World Records). Covering a staggering 70,000 square metres, it boasts both tenth century Romanic buildings and 14thcentury Gothic structures. ITINERARY Day 1 Munich (Mon) Arrive in Munich and enjoy a welcome dinner in a traditional Bavarian beer hall. Days 2-3 Prague Visit Prague Castle to learn about kings and past emperors. Explore the Old Town streets by night on a guided tour. Days 4-5 Cesky Krumlov Stroll the streets of Cesky Krumlov with a local guide and learn all about this fairytale-like city. Perhaps take an optional tour of the castle. Days 6-7 Vienna Explore the marvels of Vienna, from chic urban spaces to Gothic spires on a guided walking tour. Days 8-9 Budapest Arrive in Budapest and take in the rolling hills of Buda and the grid layout of Pest. Taste Hungarian wines in Budapest castle before this adventure ends in the morning of Day 9 (Tue).


Prague

CZECH REPUBLIC GERMANY Munich


PEHT

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, sightseeing and transport. Accommodation 8 nights comfortable hotel. Transport private vehicle. Meals 8 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

Cesky Krumlov Vienna

AUSTRIA

9 DAYS

DEPARTURE DATES Budapest

HUNGARY

Selected Mondays from April to November Enter trip code PEHT on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 2 Milan - Stresa A morning walk of Milan takes in the main sights of the second-largest city in Italy. Then board the train for the first leg of this rail journey where the first stop is Stresa – a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Take a ferry ride across the lake in the afternoon where you’ll have a first glimpse of the Alps. Day 3 Stresa - Zermatt Today it’s on to Zermatt – a mountaineering and ski resort of the Swiss Alps where the famous Matterhorn is visible on the skyline. Enjoy a free afternoon strolling around the village and soaking up the alpine atmosphere. Day 4 Zermatt to Lucerne Today is one of the most scenic on this alpine journey when you take the Glacier Express train, which runs from Zermatt to Chur through Andermatt. With a five and a half hour rail journey over hundreds of bridges and through scores of tunnels, you will experience the Swiss Alps in all their breathtaking beauty from the comfort of your seat in the panorama car. Enjoy a three-course lunch along the way. Day 5 Lucerne Begin with a short boat ride on Lake Lucerne this morning and then board the world’s steepest cog railway to the top of Mt Pilatus. Perhaps try some local Swiss

fare while enjoying views of Alps, then take the aerial cableway and panorama gondolas down to Kriens. A short drive back to Lucerne is followed by an orientation walk of the city in the afternoon, with plenty of opportunity to scout out the perfect spot for dinner. Day 6 Lucerne - Zurich - Munich Board the train to Zurich; perhaps enjoy lunch in one of the famous Zurich restaurants after a stroll around town. Onward travel to Munich in the afternoon. Day 7 Munich Take a walk around Munich this morning. You might enjoy visiting Marienplatz, the Neues Rathaus (the New Town Hall) or perhaps the medieval city gates. Another wonderful place to relax is the Englischer Garten, one of the biggest urban parks in the world. Take a leisurely afternoon to sample local food and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this city.

Day 8 Munich - Neuschwanstein Castle Take a short train ride early this morning to the Schloss Neuschwanstein castle, a 19thcentury Romanesque Revival palace located on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau. Most of the day will be spent here learning of the history of the area with the opportunity to enjoy a lunch in the castle’s restaurant. Return to Munich in the late afternoon for dinner. Day 9 Munich Today is spent at leisure sightseeing and enjoying the sights of the city. Enjoy a final group dinner together. Day 10 Munich After breakfast this morning it’s time to say goodbye to this alpine rail journey (Mon).

TRIP CODE:

PERJ

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 8 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night feature stay in Zermatt. Transport Train, boat, taxi. Meals 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Saturdays from April to September Enter trip code PERJ on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Munich

GERMANY

SWITZERLAND Lucerne Pilatus Alpnachstad

Schloss Neuschwanstein

Chur

Glacier Express Zermatt Stresa/Lake Maggiore

ITALY Milan

Schlosshotel, Zermatt Set within a beautiful garden and mere minutes from the centre of Zermatt, the Schlosshotel is a cosy, welcoming hotel in which to relax in. Built in the tradition of Swiss chalets, this charming hotel is on the doorstep of the Alps. Hike in the summer sun and then return to stylish accommodation, a relaxed lounge, a heated pool and tasty local cuisine.


MULTI COUNTRY

Jewels of the Adriatic

15 DAYS

For an island that’s less than one square kilometre, Lokrum has a lot to take in. With its Napoleonic fortress, botanical gardens, ruins of a Benedictine monastery and 25-metre cliffs dropping into clear blue waters, it seems the only thing missing from this World Heritage-listed haven is the sand. all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Day 1 Venice (Sun) Arrive in romantic Venice and meet your leader and group. Day 2 Postojna Cave – Ljubljana Discover a world-famous karst phenomenon – the Postojna Cave. Continue to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Explore its Old Town on a guided tour. Day 3 Lake Bohinj – Bled Visit Lake Bohinj and explore its surrounds. Take in vistas of Mt Vogel and beyond with a cable car trip up the side of the mountain. Continue to Bled and cruise across turquoise waters to Bled Island on a traditional boat.

Days 6-7 Plitvice Lakes National Park - Zadar Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park and see its waterfalls and pristine lakes. Then travel to Zadar, an ancient walled city of varied architecture. See the first-century Roman Forum and the ninth-century Church of St Donatus. Day 8 Sibenik – Split Travel to Split, visiting the towns of Sibenik and Primosten en route. Day 9 Split – Trogir Enjoy a guided tour of Split. You’ll see Diocletian’s Palace and the St Domnius Cathedral. Visit the 16th-century castle of Kastel Luksic and end the day in the coastal village of Trogir.

Day 4 Motovun – Pula Arrive in Croatia and sample some wine and truffles in the medieval town of Motovun. Continue to Rovinj and go visit the Baroque basilica of St Euphemia. Overnight in Pula.

Day 10 Hvar Island Rise early and take a ferry to Hvar Island. Discover its Old Town on a walking tour. Try some local wine at a tasting in Jelsa and perhaps unwind on the beach in the afternoon.

Day 5 Pula - Plitvice See the sights of Pula and stop at Opatija and Rastoke on the way to Plitvice, Enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Day 11 Prapratno – Mljet Island Return to the mainland and drive to Prapratno, taking in coastal scenery en route. Board a ferry for Mljet Island and check into your feature stay.

Day 12 Mljet National Park Enjoy some outdoor activities today – canoeing, cycling and swimming in Mljet National Park. Take a boat to the impressively located Sveta Marija Monastery. Day 13 Dubrovnik Travel to Dubrovnik by ferry. Settle into your hotel before a tour of the Franciscan Monastery, Rector’s Palace and the historic city walls. Don’t miss the sunset here. Day 14 Lokrum Island Head to the clear waters of Lokrum and see Napoleon’s fortress and visit the lush botanic gardens. Enjoy a farewell dinner with new friends this evening. Day 15 Dubrovnik Your trip concludes after breakfast in Dubrovnik. (Sun).

TRIP CODE:

PEJA

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 12 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights Mljet Island feature stay. Transport Bicycle, boat, ferry, private vehicle. Meals 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays from May to October Enter trip code PEJA on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

SLOVENIA

ITALY

You will need a good state of health with a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this experience.

Day 3 Sarajevo Travel to Sarajevo and visit the medieval towns of Bihac and Jajce on the way.

Palace, Franciscan and Dominican Monasteries, Stradun Promenade, Onofrio’s Fountain and the Orlando statue, before a free afternoon.

Day 5 Mostar – Dubrovnik Explore the ancient town of Mostar, see the 16th-century bridge and Cejvan Cehaj Mosque. Continue on to Blagaj to visit a former Dervish monastery near the source of the river Buna. Continue on to Dubrovnik.

Day 7 Montenegro Spend the day in Montenegro. See the Boka Kotorska Fjord and visit the town of Kotor. Return to Dubrovnik for a farewell dinner in a local seafood restaurant.

Day 6 Dubrovnik See the sights of Dubrovnik, including the Rector’s

Day 8 Dubrovnik Your trip ends after breakfast in Dubrovnik (Sun).

PEHC

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Bicycle, boat, ferry, private vehicle. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays from May to September Enter trip code PEHC on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Zagreb

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

Sarajevo Mostar

Split

MONTENEGRO

Dubrovnik

Hvar Pomena LOKRUM

LOKRUM


Day 2 Plitvice Lakes National Park Go on a morning sightseeing tour of Zagreb, including St Mark’s Square, City Hall, Parliament, Stone Gate and St Stephen’s Cathedral. Then travel to Plitvice and explore the string of 16 lakes in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Day 4 Sarajevo Take a sightseeing tour of the living museum that is Sarajevo, which includes visiting the old Turkish quarter and war tunnels.

TRIP CODE:

CROATIA

Plitvice Lakes National Park Trogir

Day 1 Zagreb (Sun) Arrive in Zagreb, Croatia’s capital city.


Plitvice Lakes National Park

Zadar Sibenik

ITINERARY

8 DAYS

Jajce

CROATIA

What to know

Sarajevo serves as a living museum, a lasting example of the cruel hand Bosnia and Herzegovina has been dealt by the past. Humbling as it is, Sarajevo makes for a surprising visit. Though scars remain, a remarkable reconstruction effort has allowed the city to again stand on its own two feet. With a supporting cast of medieval villages, rugged countryside and rich cultures, a visit here is a highlight in itself.

Bihac`

Bled Ljubljana

Rovinj Pula Venice

Highlights of Croatia & the Balkans

Dubrovnik Kotor


MULTI COUNTRY

Slovenia & Croatia

8 DAYS

Caves and waterfalls abound in Plitvice Lakes National Park, but it’s the 16 interlinked lakes flowing between Mala Kapela Mountain and Pljesevica Mountain that draw the crowds. Renowned for their distinctive colours, the lakes can appear green, grey or blue depending on the minerals in the water and the angle of the light. ITINERARY Day 1 Venice (Sun) Begin your journey in Venice. Meet your local leader and travelling companions. Day 2 Postojna Cave – Ljubljana Stop by Postojna Cave – the largest classic karst cave in Europe – on the way to Slovenia’s capital. Arrive in Ljubljana and take a guided tour of the Old Town. Day 3 Lake Bohinj – Bled Drive to Lake Bohinj with time to wander around. Take a cable car up Mt Vogel for views of the entire region. Continue to the alpine resort of Bled and take a traditional ‘pletna’ boat ride to Bled Island. Day 4 Motovun – Pula Welcome to Croatia. Visit the medieval town of Motovun and try some local wine and truffles. Visit Rovinj then travel to Pula for the night.

Day 5 Pula - Plitvice Lakes National Park Explore the streets of Pula before travelling to Plitvice Lakes National Park via Opatija and Rastoke.

walled city of Zadar. An afternoon of sightseeing includes the Roman Forum, built in the first century, and Church of St Donatus, which dates back to the ninth century.

Days 6-7 Plitvice Lakes National Park - Zadar Spend a day exploring the lakes and trails of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Then travel to the

Day 8 Split Travel to Split, where your tour comes to an end (Sun).


PESL

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays from May to October Enter trip code PESL on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

SLOVENIA Bled

ITALY

Ljubljana

CROATIA

Rovinj Venice Pula

Plitvice Lakes National Park Zadar Split


Croatia’s Dalmation Coast At the turn of the fourth century, Roman emperor Diocletian built a monumental palace in Croatia as a retirement gift to himself. After being abandoned in the sixth century it remained empty until residents started making their homes and businesses within the palace walls. It eventually became the town of Split, and it’s hard to tell where the palace ends and the city begins.

Day 2 Split Morning sightseeing tour of Split including Diocletian’s Palace and St Domnius Cathedral. In the afternoon visit Kastel Luksic’s 16th-century castle and the old fishing village of Trogir. Day 3 Hvar Island Catch the ferry to beautiful Hvar Island for the night. A guided tour of the Old Town is followed by wine tasting in the town of Jelsa. Then, a chance to sample the legendary Hvar nightlife. Day 4 Prapratno – Mljet Island Return to the mainland this morning. Then enjoy a scenic coastal drive to Prapratno to catch the afternoon ferry to Mljet Island for an evening at our feature stay.

Day 5 Mljet National Park Spend the day exploring the island and its national park on canoes and bikes (cycle 15km), before cooling off with a swim. Visit the Sveta Marija Monastery by boat.

Day 8 Dubrovnik Your trip ends in Dubrovnik this morning (Sun).

TRIP CODE:

PEDC

PHYSICAL RATINGOOOOO


Day 6 Dubrovnik Travel to Dubrovnik. After lunch take a guided tour of the city, including the Franciscan Monastery, Rector’s Palace and city walls. Day 7 Lokrum Island – Dubrovnik Take a boat trip to Lokrum Island and enjoy a walking tour of the Napoleonic fortress and botanic gardens. Return to Dubrovnik with free time to shop for souvenirs and enjoy a final dinner with new friends.


Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 5 nights comfortable hotel, 2 nights feature stay on Mljet Island. Transport Bicycle, ferry, private vehicle. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

ITINERARY Day 1 Split (Sun) Arrive in Split and enjoy a welcome dinner in a local restaurant in the evening.

8 DAYS

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays from May to October Enter trip code PEDC on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

CROATIA Trogir Split


BRAC HVAR Prapratno Pomena MLJET Dubrovnik LOKRUM


MULTI COUNTRY

Western Balkans Unveiled

15 DAYS

Lake Ohrid is more than 3 million years old and is home to over 200 endemic species that can’t be found anywhere else on earth. The city of Ohrid lies on its shores and abounds with archaeological sites, basilicas, ornate mosaics and beautiful churches – a testament to its rich cultural history.

Days 3-4 Kotor Arrive in the fifth-century town of Kotor in the afternoon. The next morning, take time to explore the marbled lanes, churches and scenic streets and go on a boat tour of the bay. Days 5-6 Shkoder - Prizen On the journey to Prizen, stop in Shokder, one of Albania’s most historic cities. Visit the ruins of Rozafa Castle and then travel into Kosovo and spend time exploring ancient Prizen. Days 7-8 Pristina Walk the streets of town and take in the Ottoman architecture, Mother Theresa Cathedral, Germia Park and the

Moscow’s Red Square came into being when Ivan the Great expanded the Kremlin to reflect the city’s increasing power. Featuring St Basil’s Cathedral at one end, the State Historical Museum at the other and Lenin’s mausoleum in between, this iconic square has seen the tides of history turn on many an occasion since the 1400s – speeches, demonstrations, political gatherings and a massacre or two has stained its stones and aided in its infamy.

TRIP CODE:

Days 9-10 Skopje Go on a walk around the city, visiting Macedonia Square and the Daut Pasha Hamam. The next day, travel to Matka Canyon and enjoy lunch. Days 11-12 Ohrid Take an orientation walk around town. See churches, the tenth-century Car Samoil Castle and Ohrid Lake. Take a boat ride on the lake and perhaps take a walk through Galicica National Park. Day 13 Berat Transfer to Berat and spend the day exploring the World Heritage-listed Old Town. Days 14-15 Tirana Explore Tirana’s Ottoman-era architecture. Your trip ends after breakfast on Day 15 (Sat).


ITINERARY

Faith Mosque. The next day, take a daytrip to Kosovo Polje.

PEAM

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing. Accommodation 14 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Private vehicle, boat. Meals 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. MONTENEGRO

KOSOVO Priština

CROATIA

Dubrovnik Kotor Shkodër


Prizren Skopje MACEDONIA

Tirana ALBANIA

Berat

Ohrid

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Saturdays in May, June and September Enter trip code PEAM on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 1 Moscow (Tue) Transfer to your hotel on arrival and settle in. After a welcome meeting in the evening, enjoy a dinner with your group. Day 2 Suzdal Travel to the charming Golden Ring town of Suzdal, and spend the afternoon seeing its Kremlin, markets and monasteries with a local guide. In the evening share a home-cooked meal with a local family. Day 3 Moscow Go on a walking tour of Suzdal before returning to Moscow. Use a free afternoon to visit some of the city’s wonders, including St Basil’s Cathedral, the Izmailovo Markets, Red Square or the Bolshoi Theatre. Day 4 Moscow Learn about Red Square’s turbulent history from a


8 DAYS


ITINERARY Days 1-2 Dubrovnik (Sat) Take a walk along the city walls and explore the stunning Old Town.

Essential Russia

local guide. Wander this impressive city square that is lined with some of Russia’s most iconic buildings, before entering the Kremlin grounds and visiting the famous Armoury Museum. Day 5 St Petersburg See Lenin in his eternal state in the morning then take a fast train to St Petersburg, one of Russia’s most celebrated and beautiful cities. Day 6 St Petersburg Discover the cultural wonders of St Petersburg with a visit to the celebrated Hermitage Museum, and see the acclaimed art collection housed in the Winter Palace. Day 7 St Petersburg – Peterhof Travel to the opulent Peterhof Palace, Peter the Great’s residence

modelled roughly on Versailles. Enjoy the spectacle of fountains, wander through the lavish Grand Palace and picturesque gardens. This evening is our final night together so choose to celebrate this adventure with a final group dinner Day 8 St Petersburg You are free to depart anytime after breakfast.

St Petersburg

Peterhof

TRIP CODE:

PCRH

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, local guides, arrival transfer, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights hotel. Transport Boat, minibus, private vehicle, fast train, train. Meals 7 breakfasts, 1 dinner Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

RUSSIA

Suzdal

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Tuesdays Enter trip code PCRH on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Moscow


Greece & Turkey

Ancient stories, modern times For us here at Peregrine, there are three images that capture the essence of Greece and Turkey. The first is the sight of freshly caught polpi (octopus) draped over lines on the Mykonos waterfront, drying in the sun. The second is a sea of wildflowers blooming in and around Agia Irini in Crete. The third is flying over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia in a hot air balloon at dawn. The common theme? To be unhurried. Much of our daily life is spent locked in a battle with time. In Greece and Turkey, the relationship between life and time is far more relaxed. Here you can slowly sip a retsina while watching a Santorini sunset, drift along the Sapphire Coast between


Fethiye and Antalya on a sailing boat or even stand in quiet contemplation at the beaches of the Dardanelles or Gallipoli. This is how our local leaders show you the best of the eastern Mediterranean, without the rush. Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan are home to another realm of beauty again, active mud volcanoes bubble away, wine is consumed straight from its clay jar and monasteries are hewn from rock. Travel by road through some of the most spectacular mountain passes on earth, and break freshly baked lavash bread with some of the most hospitable people on earth.

Best time to go

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Athens Crete Santorini Mykonos Istanbul Goreme Antalya Canakkale Armenia Azerbaijan Georgia

Greece’s warm Mediterranean climate makes May, June and September great times for travelling, especially if you’d prefer to avoid the beach bound masses. Visit Turkey and the Caucasus between May and October for the best cultural festivals and mountain access, though the summer months can get hot, especially on the southern coast.

Hot & dry 30-35oC Pleasantly warm 20-30oC Cool 15-20oC Cold & dry 0-15oC

Photo: Drew Dunlop

Photo: Amy O’Brien

Bl a ck S e a

Tour leader profile – Iskender Us One of Peregrine’s most devoted leaders, Iskender loves to show people around what he considers to be one of the greatest places on earth – Turkey. Those who have taken trips with him can attest to his warm nature and ability to entertain – not


to mention his exceptional knowledge of his country. ‘Turkey is a country where you will fall in love with friendly people, beautiful green mountains, incredible landscapes and a wide range of history. Then, of course, there’s the truly wonderful

Turkish cuisine – menemen, borek, kofte, manti… With thousands of years of human history, Turkey is the bridge between Asia and Europe. You can see how this colourful mosaic of people has been formed throughout the years.’

Istanbul

Ankara

GREECE TURKEY Athens Mykonos

Antalya

Santorini Crete

M e d i t e rra ne a n S e a


GREECE

Greek Island Odyssey

12 DAYS

After a few days spent exploring the Greek Islands and their myriad ruins, coastlines and seascapes, nothing comes closer to perfection than watching a world-renowned Santorini sunset sinking gently below the horizon. Immortalised in photographs and paintings for decades, this is an unmissable Grecian marvel.

Highlights of Greece

8 DAYS

To keep their gods happy, the ancient Greeks built elaborate temples to honour them. Popular gods like Apollo had many temples built in their name. He chose the temple in Delphi to establish an oracle who could predict the future, speaking through this oracle to the rich kings, merchants and common foreigners who came to consult her. ITINERARY Day 1 Athens (Sun) Arrive in Athens at any time and begin exploring. Attend a group meeting before heading to a local tavern. Day 2 Athens – Nafplion Take in two of Greece’s most famous icons – the Acropolis and Temple of Olympian Zeus. Drive to the Peloponnese peninsula and visit ancient Epidaurus en route to the seaside town of Nafplion – the first Greek capital. Day 3 Mycenae – Dimitsana Mycenae is surrounded by mountains, sea and rolling olive and orange groves. Explore ruins and tombs before driving east into the Lousios Valley. Spend tonight at a feature stay in the medieval village of Dimitsana and enjoy a dinner with the group. Day 4 Andritsena Take a morning walk between Prodromos and


Pilosophou Monasteries. See Greece’s most isolated temple, Andritsena’s Temple of Vasses, which stands high on Mt Kotilio. Drive onwards to Olympia, the site of the first Olympic Games. Day 5 Olympia – Delphi Explore the Olympia complex, with its main stadium, gymnasium, wrestling school (palaestra), priest houses (theokoleon), Temple of Hera, Temple of Zeus and the hippodrome, which was a site of ancient chariot races. Drive to Delphi and settle into your hotel. Day 6 Delphi – Kalambaka Take a guided tour through Delphi’s Sanctuary of Apollo, Temple of Apollo and Sanctuary of Athena. Minibus to Kalambaka, where you have dinner at a local taverna. Day 7 Meteora – Athens Meteora was built on a series of ancient rock

pinnacles. Monks built monasteries high up in the rock face, attracting many writers, painters, poets and philosophers. Head back to Athens for your last evening together. Day 8 Athens Your trip ends in Athens after breakfast (Sun).


PEHG

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 6 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night feature stay in Dimitsana. Transport Private vehicle. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays in May, June and September Enter trip code PEHG on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

GREECE Kalambaka Ionean Sea

Aegean Sea

Delphi Corinth Canal

Athens

Olympia Nafplion Dimitsana

ITINERARY Day 1 Athens (Sun) Arrive in Athens and settle into your hotel before meeting with your local leader and having dinner at a local tavern. Day 2 Hania Take a short flight to the island of Crete. Walk through the town of Hania, stopping by the Venetian Quarter and exploring the Old Harbour. Spend the night at our feature stay, Halepa Hotel. Day 3 Agia Irini – Sougia Discover Crete’s flora and fauna on a guided walk through the Agia Irini Gorge (3-4 hours). Relax in Sougia with a swim and a drink in one of the seaside tavernas before returning to Hania. Day 4 Crete Enjoy a free day to explore Crete. Perhaps take a walk along the coast or simply relax on one of the many beaches. Day 5 Oia Catch a ferry to Santorini and have free time to explore the town. Then it’s on to Oia (pronounced ‘ia’), which was built on a slope of Santorini’s caldera. A seafood dinner is the perfect accompaniment to Santorini’s breathtaking sunset.

Day 6 Santorini Stretch your legs on a walk around Santorini’s caldera. Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira in the afternoon before having free time to perhaps sample wine at a local vineyard. Day 7 Santorini Today is free to explore Santorini further– perhaps visit another winery or spend some time on the beach. Day 8 Mykonos Take the ferry to Mykonos. Walk through the town, past traditional whitewashed houses and windmills. Enjoy dinner in the village of Ano Mera Day 9 Delos Spend the day exploring the island of Delos – considered the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, which has been inhabited since around 3000 BC. Return to Mykonos for another night on the island (weather dependent).

Day 10 Mykonos No activities are planned for today. It’s a free day to spend as you please. Cruise the coast in a boat or relax on the beaches or in a cafe. Day 11 Athens Enjoy a free morning before catching an afternoon ferry back to Athens. Day 12 Athens Your trip ends after breakfast in Athens (Thu).

Athens

GREECE Delos

Sea of Crete

Agia Irini Gorge Sougia


PEGI

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, local guides, transport, flight from Athens to Crete, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 8 nights comfortable hotel, 3 nights feature stay in Crete. Transport Boat, plane, private vehicle. Meals 11 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays from May to September Enter trip code PEGI on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Mykonos Oia Santorini

Hania Iraklio Crete

What to know You will need a good state of health with a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this experience. However, the walk on Day 3 is considered moderate walking.

Halepa Hotel, Crete This feature stay hotel is a perfect blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences, nestled on a quiet road just minutes from the centre of Hania, Crete. The Halepa Hotel is finished in the New Classical style, having been built in the late 19th century by a wealthy merchant. During the late 1800s it was used as the British Embassy building and played a very important role in Cretan history. Relax on the rooftop garden with its ocean views.


TURKEY & GREECE

Classical Turkey & the Greek Islands

21 DAYS

Istanbul’s Blue Mosque (aka Sultan Ahmed Mosque) provides a true glimpse into classical Turkey. Built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I, this blue-tiled monolith is still a functioning religious hub as well as a major tourist attraction. With a dome reaching 43 metres and six minarets piercing the sky at 64 metres, it’s not hard to see why. ITINERARY Day 1 Istanbul (Fri) Arrive in Istanbul to a warm welcome. Attend a group meeting in the evening. Day 2 Istanbul – Cappadocia Enjoy a tour of the city. Visit the Hippodrome, the sporting capital during Byzantine times. See the Blue Mosque and its impressive interior. Spend free time exploring, then fly to Cappadocia. Day 3 Cappadocia Choose to take an early morning hot air balloon over the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia. Visit Goreme’s Open Air Museum and see its unique rock landscapes and troglodyte dwellings. Take a stroll through the impressive Love Valley.


Day 4 Cappadocia Witness the terracotta rock formations of Kizilcukur. Travel to the Pasabaglari Valley (Monk’s Valley) and witness its fairy chimneys. Day 5 Cappadocia – Konya Drive to Derinkuyu Underground City before continuing on towards Konya, stopping at the archaeological site of Asikli Hoyuk, which was first settled in the Aceramic Neolithic period. Arriving in Konya in the afternoon, we visit the tomb of the Mevlana and have the opportunity to enjoy tea with locals on Aladdin Hill. Day 6 Pamukkale Drive to Pamukkale, with its travertine terraces, hot springs and brilliant

pools. See the ruined ancient city Hierapolis nearby, then settle into your hotel.

introduced to your Greek leader in the afternoon and enjoy a feast at a local tavern.

Day 7 Ephesus – Selcuk Visit the famed and well-preserved ancient ruins of Ephesus. Marvel at the facade of the Library of Celsus and its theatre. Drive to Selcuk for a tour of the city.

Day 11 Crete Fly to Crete this morning. Explore Hania on a local guided tour of the Old Town and Old Harbour areas before returning to Halepa Hotel, our feature stay on this trip.

Day 8 Canakkale Head to the site of Troy and discover its 4000-year-old history. Continue to Canakkale. Day 9 Gallipoli – Istanbul Head to Anzac Cove and see the beaches and cemeteries of this historic WWI site. Visit Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair nearby. Return to Istanbul. Day 10 Istanbul – Athens Fly out to Athens early in the morning. Be

Day 12 Agia Irini – Sougia Leave the hotel early and drive to the village of Agia Irini. Take a guided walk through Agia Irini Gorge (3-4 hours) and a dip in the ocean at Sougia. Day 13 Hania Relax for the day with no activities planned. Find a quiet beach to go for a swim or head into town for some shopping.

activities on the island or simply relax on one of the many beaches.

Day 14 Oia Catch the early ferry to Santorini. Spend a free afternoon exploring the steep streets of the town before a walk to Oia to watch Santorini’s world-famous sunset. Day 15 Oia Walk around Santorini’s caldera in the morning. The walk ends in the village of Thira with a visit to the Museum of Prehistoric Thira. Day 16 Oia Enjoy a free day to enjoy Santorini. Choose from a range of

Day 17 Mykonos Take the ferry to Mykonos. Settle into the hotel and see the sights on a walking tour of the windmills and buildings of the Old Town. Enjoy dinner in Ano Mera. Day 18 Delos Spend the day on the island of Delos (weather dependent). Considered a sacred place, Delos is known as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

Istanbul

Troy

TURKEY

Göreme

Pamukkale Selçuk

Mykonos

Day 21 Athens Farewell new friends when the trip ends after breakfast in Athens (Thu).

What to know


PETG

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, flights from Istanbul to Cappadocia, Istanbul to Athens and Athens to Crete, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 17 nights comfortable hotel, 3 nights feature stay in Crete. Transport Aircon bus, boat, ferry, private vehicle, plane. Meals 20 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES

Gallipoli Canakkale

Ephesus

Athens

Day 20 Athens The morning is yours to enjoy. Catch the ferry back to Athens in the afternoon.

You will need a good state of health with a reasonable level of fitness to enjoy this experience. However the walk on Day 12 is considered moderate walking. The flight between Istanbul and Athens is unescorted.

Bl a c k S e a

GREECE

Day 19 Mykonos Cruise around Mykonos’ stunning coastline on a boat ride. Relax in the afternoon.

Konya

Selected Fridays in May, June, August and September Enter trip code PETG on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Santorini Crete

Mediterranean Sea


TURKEY

Treasures of Turkey

15 DAYS

There are many strange natural wonders in Turkey, but Pamukkale is perhaps the most surreal. Named the ‘Cotton Castle’, this unique formation of travertine rock shelves, stalactites and pools that reflect an icy-blue hue was formed from the high calcium levels of the waters flowing over its cliff, making for a dreamlike white landscape that almost evokes the Arctic. ITINERARY Day 1 Istanbul (Sun/Tue) Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the hotel. Days 2-4 Goreme – Cappadocia Take a tour of Istanbul city before flying to Goreme. Choose to take an optional hot air balloon ride over the Cappadocia landscape the next morning and watch sunrise. Visit the Goreme Open Air Museum and take a short walk through Love Valley. Walk through the Kizilcukur (Red Valley) – perhaps the most beautiful valley in Cappadocia. Then travel to the Pasabaglari Valley with its clusters of fairy chimneys. Day 5 Konya Visit the underground city of Derinkuya before driving to Konya. Spend time exploring the museums or old centre of this university city at your own pace. Day 6 Antalya Visit Mevlana’s Mausoleum then drive to the coastal city of Antalya. Days 7-8 Kas Explore the Lycian city of Phaselis before driving to

the seaside village of Kas. Visit the settlement of Ucagiz and the village of Simena. Day 9 Fethiye Explore the abandoned village of Kayakoy. Drive to Fethiye, located on a bay surrounded by pine forests and islands. Enjoy a free evening to enjoy a meal and the view from a waterfront restaurant. Day 10 Pamukkale Visit the unique site of the Pamukkale terraces. This natural phenomenon was created by deposits from thermal waters that cascaded down the mountainside over hundreds of years, forming many little pools. Days 11-12 Selcuk – Ephesus Travel to Selcuk then continue to Ephesus – possibly the greatest GrecoRoman site in the world. Visit the Isa Bey Camii Mosque and travel to Sirince to enjoy a tasting of local fruit wine.

Heybe Hotel, Goreme The rooftop terrace at this charming boutique hotel offers views over Göreme, home of the famous fairy chimneys. The Turkish bath provides the perfect way to unwind after a day’s exploring thanks to a sauna, massage room and Cappadocia’s largest indoor pool. All rooms offer city, mountain or courtyard views and the hotel is close to Göreme Open Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, Sunset Point, Rose Valley and Cavusin Church.


Day 13 Canakkale On the way to Canakkale, visit the ancient site of Troy. If there is time see the Trojan horse gifted to the city by the producers of the 2004 movie, Troy. Day 14 Gallipoli – Istanbul Take a guided tour of the battlefields of Gallipoli and Anzac Cove. Drive back to Istanbul – a great place to spend your final night. Day 15 Istanbul Trip ends in Istanbul after breakfast (Sun/Tue).


PETT

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, flight Istanbul to Goreme, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 14 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Boat, plane, private aircon bus. Meals 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch. Group size Maximum 14.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays & Tuesdays Enter trip code PETT on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

B la ck Se a Istanbul Gallipoli Canakkale Troy

TURKEY

Independent Journey This trip is available as an Independent Journey, departing most days, for 1-2 people. Please see page 11 for details.

Pamukkale Ephesus

Selçuk

Göreme Cappadocia Konya Antalya

Fethiye

Turkey Revealed

10 DAYS

Large enough to shelter around 20,000 people, the 60-metre deep underground city of Derinkuyu is awe-inspiring. Built between the seventh and eighth centuries, the city included such mod cons as wine and oil presses, cellars, refectories, stables and chapels. It was opened to tourists in 1969, but at this stage only half of the city is open to explore.


What to know This trip can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.

Photo: Moyan Brenn on Flickr

Kas M ed it erra nean S e a


ITINERARY

Day 2 Istanbul – Cappadocia See the sights of Istanbul including the iconic 17th century Blue Mosque and Hippodrome, scene of ancient chariot races. Free afternoon before flying to Cappadocia.

en route to Konya. Stop at the archaeological site of Asikli Hoyuk, which was built around 8000 BC during the Aceramic Neolithic period. Arrive in Konya in the afternoon and visit the tomb of the Mevlana. Enjoy tea with the locals on Aladdin Hill.

Day 3 Cappadocia Visit the rockhewn churches at the Goreme Open Air Museum. Take a short walk through Love Valley before enjoying an optional hamam (traditional Turkish bath) to unwind.

Day 6 Pamukkale Travel to the pretty, terraced travertines of Pamukkale, also known as ‘Cotton Castle’. Wander the nearby ruins of Hierapolis before checking into our Pamukkale hotel for the night.

Day 4 Cappadocia - Konya Walk toward the Kizilcukur (Red Valley) with its magnificently sculptured red-rock formations. Drive to the Pasabaglari Valley and explore the unique fairytale chimneys and a cavern chapel dedicated to St Simeon.

Day 7 Ephesus – Selcuk Explore the ruins of Ephesus – one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean. Drive to Selcuk where we take a guided tour of this sprawling town at the base of Ayasoluk Hill.

Day 1 Istanbul (Fri) Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to your hotel.

Day 5 Cappadocia – Konya Visit Derinkuyu Underground City

Day 8 Canakkale Visit the ancient site of Troy then drive to Canakkale on the shores of the Dardanelles.

Day 9 Gallipoli – Istanbul Explore the beach and cemeteries of Anzac Cove, then head up the hill to pay respect at Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair. Drive to Istanbul and head out for a final dinner together to celebrate the adventure. Day 10 Istanbul Your trip ends this morning in Istanbul (Sun).

TRIP CODE:

PERE

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, flight from Istanbul to Goreme, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 9 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Plane, private aircon bus. Meals 9 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 14. Price See inside front cover.

Bl a c k S e a Istanbul

DEPARTURE DATES

Gallipoli Canakkale Troy

TURKEY Göreme Selçuk Pamukkale

Ephesus

Selected Fridays Enter trip code PERE on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Konya

Mediterranean Sea



TURKEY Photo: Moyan Brenn on Flickr

The Best of Turkey

22 DAYS

Turkish delight was invented over 230 years ago by confectioner Bekir Effendi at his shop in the Bahcekapi district of Istanbul. Its popularity quickly spread and Bekir was appointed chief confectioner for the Ottoman Court and awarded a medal of honour by the Sultan. You can still visit the original shop, which is now run by Bekir’s descendants and has the honour of being the oldest company in Turkey to operate from its original location. ITINERARY Day 1 Istanbul (Sun) Arrive in Istanbul and meet up with your local leader for a briefing tonight. Day 2 Istanbul See some of Istanbul’s most important sites this morning. Start with a visit to the Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern then move on to the Blue Mosque. Spend a free afternoon shopping in the Grand Bazaar.

Day 5 Amasya Great care has been taken to restore the full Ottoman splendour to Amasya’s homes and significant buildings. Witness ancient tombs carved into the town’s sheer rock. Day 6 Sivas Drive to Sivas, the centre of the Sultanate of Seljuk (11th to 14th centuries). Explore the ruins of Cifte Minare Medressa and Gok Medressa.

Day 9 Mt Nemrut - Kahta Travel to Mt Nemrut and see statues dedicated to Greek and Armenian gods strewn across of the mountain. Head to Kahta for the night. Days 10-12 Cappadocia Take your time exploring the landscapes of Cappadocia. Take in the cave dwellings and rock-cut churches.

Day 3 Safranbolu Stop in the charming coastal town of Amsara and take a walk around the streets.

Day 7 Sivas Explore more sites of this city that has been inhabited since about 2600 BC.

Day 13 Konya Choose to take a hot air balloon ride over the fairy chimneys of Goreme. Visit the underground city of Derinkuyu en route to Konya.

Day 4 Safranbolu Explore the cobblestone lanes and traditional buildings of this World Heritagelisted town.

Day 8 Darende Visit the village of Darende, once a significant stop on the Silk Road. From here, walk to the waterfalls at Gunpinar.

Day 14 Antalya Visit Mevlana’s Mausoleum, home of the famous whirling dervishes. Drive to the coastal city of Antalya. Like much


of Turkey, ruins and historic sites abound in Antalya. Day 15 Antalya Explore the Antalya Museum this morning, which includes 13 exhibitions halls and an open air gallery. Day 16 Kas After breakfast, travel to the Lycian city of Phaselis, which was founded in the seventh century, before travelling on to Kas. Day 17 Kekova Drive to Kekova and board a local boat for a relaxing cruise around the area’s picturesque islands. Keep an eye out for the sunken cities of Ucagiz and Simena.

Day 18 Pamukkale Witness the cascading terraces of pink-andwhite rocks in Pamukkale. This natural phenomenon was created by thermal waters splashing down the mountainside over hundreds of years and is a truly unique sight.

all departures guaranteed TRIP CODE: PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 21 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Boat, private aircon bus. Meals 21 breakfasts, 1 lunch. Group size Maximum 14.

Day 19 Selcuk – Ephesus Travel to Selcuk then continue to Ephesus. Many of the buildings are still largely intact, making it easy to see the great city it once was. Day 20 Canakkale On the way to Canakkale, visit Troy. The original wooden horse has long turned to sawdust, but the producers of the 2004 movie, Troy left their version to the people of Canakkale. Day 21 Gallipoli – Istanbul Take in the war beaches and escarpments of Gallipoli. Ataturk’s victory here formed the basis for a modern, secular Turkey. Drive back to Istanbul for a feast with new friends. Day 22 Istanbul The tour ends in Istanbul after breakfast. (Sun)

PEBE


DEPARTURE DATES Bl a c k S e a

Selected Sundays Enter trip code PEBE on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Istanbul Gallipoli Troy

Safranbolu

Canakkale

TURKEY Ephesus

Pamukkale

Cappadocia

Amasya Sivas Göreme

Darende Mt Nemrut

Konya

Selçuk Antalya Kas Mediterranean Sea



TURKEY

Glimpse of Turkey

8 DAYS

Phaselis was founded in the seventh century BC. It flourished as a commercial trading centre where anything could be bought and sold, including citizenship for 100 drachmas! The Phaselians were more concerned about preserving the affluence of their commerce than with staking any political independence, so they pragmatically accepted any conquerors who came their way.

Day 2 Kas Take some time to explore the Lycian city of Phaselis. Spend the next two nights in the seaside village of Kas. Day 3 Kas A boat cruise takes you through the islands and coves of Kas. Visit the sunken cities of Ucagiz and Simena. Day 4 Pamukkale Arrive in Pamukkale – an iconic Turkish site. Standing among its cascading terraces of pink-and-white rock, you’ll quickly understand why.


Day 5 Selcuk Travel to Selcuk then continue to Ephesus. It’s easy to see what a great city this once was, as many of the buildings are still largely intact.

Day 8 Istanbul This trip comes to an end after breakfast, but you can speak to us about booking another day or two to continue exploring this great city (Sun).

PEGL



Day 6 Cannakale Visit the ancient site of Troy on the way to Cannakale. You can see the replica wooden horse left behind by the producers of the 2004 Brad Pitt movie, ‘Troy’. Day 7 Gallipoli - Istanbul Spend a sobering day among the war beaches and escarpments of Gallipoli. Reflect on this humbling experience on the drive back to Istanbul, then share a feast together this evening.

TRIP CODE:

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, transport, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Boat, Private aircon bus. Meals 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch. Group size Maximum 14.

ITINERARY Day 1 Antalya (Sun) Today is an arrival day, so there are no activities planned. Antalya is a fascinating town, with a history spanning thousands of years. Why not get here early to wander the old streets of the Kaleici district and explore the harbour.


DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays Enter trip code PEGL on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Black Sea Istanbul Cannakale


TURKEY Selçuk

The Ottoman era is alive and well in Safranbolu. Back in the 13th century it became an important caravan station on the main east-west trade route. By the 17th century, Safranbolu’s architecture influenced much of the urban development across the Ottoman Empire. Walk the Old Town and discover mosques, tombs, Turkish baths, bridges, rock tombs and ancient settlements. ITINERARY Day 1 Istanbul (Sun) Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to your hotel. Day 2 Istanbul Take a guided tour of the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Perhaps spend the afternoon exploring the Grand Bazaar or along the Bosphorus River. Day 3 Safranbolu Make a stop in Amsara before heading to Safranbolu for the night. Day 4 Safranbolu Explore the charming lanes and traditional architecture of Safranbolu. Day 5 Amasya Enjoy a free morning in Amasya before heading to Sivas. Day 6 Sivas Enjoy a free morning in Amasya before heading to Sivas.

Photo: Drew Dunlop Gallipoli

Central Turkey & the Black Sea

Pamukkale Antalya Kas M e di te rr a n e a n S e a

Day 7 Sivas Wander the town of Sivas, taking in the sights of this charming place. Day 8 Darende Visit the village of Darende and walk to the waterfalls at Gunpinar.

Day 9 Mt Nemrut - Kahta Travel to see giant stone heads strewn across Mt Nemrut. Stay the night in Kahta.


Day 10 Cappadocia It’s a long travel day today but it is worth the journey to see fascinating Cappadocia. Shaped by wind and water, its otherworldly rock formations have to be seen to be believed. Days 11-12 Cappadocia Explore the lunar-like landscapes of Cappadocia. Walk through valleys and see the cave dwellings and rock-cut churches.


PECE

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 14 nights comfortable hotel. Transport, Private aircon bus. Meals 14 breakfasts. Group size Maximum 14. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES

Photo: Drew Dunlop

Selected Sundays Enter trip code PECE on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 13 Cappadocia – Konya Visit the underground city of Derinkuyu. Drive to the religious hub of Konya. Days 14-15 Konya - Antalya Visit the home of the whirling dervish. Then drive to Antalya and enjoy a final night of Turkish cuisine. This trip comes to an end on Day 15 (Sun).


MULTI-COUNTRY

Azerbaijan, Georgia & Armenia new trip

Photo: Moyan Brenn on Flickr

Gourmet Explorer Turkey

12 DAYS

A common drink in Turkey is ‘raki’ – a potent anise-flavoured drink. It’s traditionally taken with water, which turns the drink cloudy when added, giving it the popular name Aslan Sutu, or Lion’s Milk. Raki is traditionally accompanied by a variety of ‘meze’ to graze on or is supped in local bars.

Day 7 Bodrum Relax by the sea and explore the white-plastered streets of this coastal town.

Day 2 Istanbul Take a tour of the Egyptian Spice Bazaar, tasting cheeses, pastries and lokum (turkish delight). Continue on through Sirkeci and Sultanahmet, seeking out the city’s very best street food.

Day 8 Bodrum Learn how to make delicious baklava in a cooking class. In the evening take an overnight train to Konya.

Day 3 Bursa Sip tea in a charming han (Ottoman warehouse), try Bursa’s signature dish, the iskender kebab, and take in a sema (whirling dervish) performance. Day 4 Ayvalik Enjoy the flavours of the Aegean. Stroll along the waterfront restaurants of Cunda Island and sample some of the best olive oil in the region. Day 5 Ayvalik Explore the lively Thursday market. Purchase provisions for a picnic lunch overlooking the sea. Day 6 Selcuk Discover the ancient site of Ephesus. Journey on to Sirince and sample fruit wines before rolling the perfect ‘manti’, a traditional Turkish dumpling.


Day 9 Goreme Continue on to Goreme. Along the way, stop to explore the famed underground city of Derinkuyu.

Day 12 Istanbul Fly back to Istanbul where your journey ends (Thu).

PEGF



DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays Enter trip code PEGF on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 10 Goreme Today discover the secrets of central Anatolian cuisine in a cooking class. Take a sunset tour of nearby vineyards, learning about the region’s millennia-old wine industry. Day 11 Goreme Visit the Goreme Open Air Museum before taking a Cappadocia Valley walk to stretch your legs. Enjoy a relaxed final dinner in an atmospheric caravanserai (historical inn with a central courtyard).

TRIP CODE:

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, flight from Goreme to Istanbul, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 10 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night overnight train. Transport Private aircon bus, overnight train, ferry, plane. Meals 11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 12.

ITINERARY Day 1 Istanbul (Sun) Welcome in Istanbul with a dinner at a meyhane, an atmospheric traditional taverna.


Black Sea Istanbul Ayvalik

TURKEY Selçuk

Göreme Konya

Bodrum M e di te rra n e a n S e a

17 DAYS

Built in the ninth century on a plateau on the edge of a deep gorge, Tatev Monastery is a spectacular sight. This Armenian plateau hosted a pagan temple in pre-Christian times and a modest church in the fourth century, so it was already a holy site when Tatev was built by the local bishop. A succession of invasions and earthquakes over the prevailing centuries saw the monastery damaged, looted and burnt, but each time it was restored and still stands in all its glory today. all departures guaranteed

ITINERARY Day 1 Baku Be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to the hotel. Day 2 Absheron Peninsula – Baku Tour Baku’s Old City and continue to the Absheron Peninsula to visit Ateshgah Fire Temple, Mardakan’s medieval fortress and Yanar Dag Fire Mountain. Return to Baku. Day 3 Qobustan – Baku Drive past formations of old oil rigs and view ancient rock carvings at the Qobustan Petroglyph Reserve. Day 4 Sheki Journey north-west and view active mud volcanoes before continuing towards the Caucasus Mountains. Visit the Diri Baba shrine in Maraza, the Yeddi Gumbez Tomb and Juma Mosque in Shemakha along the way. Stop at Sheki, home of famous ‘shebeke’ stained-glass artwork, and visit Sheki Khan’s Palace. Day 5 Azerbaijan-Georgia Border (Lagodekhi) – Tbilisi Visit a traditional bazaar then drive to Georgia. Stop for lunch with a local family and later sample Georgian wine from clay jars in a historic wine cellar. Then continue to Georgia’s capital, Tbilisi. Day 6 Tbilisi Wander the narrow streets in the Old Town, viewing churches, synagogues, mosques and 19th-century houses with multicoloured wooden balconies. Stop at sulphur baths, visit the Georgian

National Museum and take a stroll along Rustaveli Avenue – the main street in Tbilisi. Day 7 Mtskheta – Gudauri Head to Mtskheta, the ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia. Visit the sixth-century Jvari Church and the 11th-century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, where the robe of Jesus Christ is reportedly buried, before driving up the Georgian Military Highway. Day 8 Kazbegi – Gudauri Drive along the Tergi River to Kazbegi and a two-hour walk through valleys and woodlands to Gergeti Trinity Church. Visit a local art studio Day 9 Gori – Kutaisi Visit the town of Gori, birthplace of Joseph Stalin, and the 3,000-year-old Uplistsikhe cave city – one of the most ancient relics of the Silk Road. Drive to Imereti province and visit Kutaisi. Day 10 Kutaisi – Akhaltsikhe Explore the local farmers’ market before visiting the historical sites of Kutaisi and 12th-century Gelati Cathedral. Travel to Akhaltsikhe. Day 11 Akhaltsikhe - (GeorgiaArmenia Border) – Yerevan Stop at the tenth-century Khertvisi Fortress on the way to the cave town of Vardzia. Discover dwellings, wine cellars and a church hewn out of rock, then travel into Armenia and onwards to Yerevan.

Day 12 Matenadaran – Yerevan Get to know to the Armenian capital on a walking tour. Visit the Echmiadzin Cathedral, which is the spiritual centre of the Armenian Apostolic Church, and witness the ruins of the seventh-century Zvartnots Temple. Day 13 Khor Virap - Goris Journey past vineyards and through villages to Khor Virap. Visit a local winery before touring Noravank Monastery and overnighting in beautiful Goris. Day 14 Goris - Tatev – Yerevan Explore the caves of Khndzoresk (Cave Village) before being wowed by the Tatev complex that dates back to the tenth century. Return to Yerevan for a free evening.

TRIP CODE:

PCAG

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, arrival transfer, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 16 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Private airconditioned bus. Meals 16 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays Enter trip code PCAG on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 15 Geghard – Lake Sevan – Yerevan Discover the pagan temple of Garni, then stop at a magnificent monument of medieval Armenian architecture, the World Heritage-listed Geghard Monastery. Lunch at a local home, tasting Armenian bread, before driving to the alpine Lake Sevan. Day 16 Yerevan Travel to the Amberd Fortress to see these impressive ruins then return to Yerevan to visit the local market – a wonderful way to taste the cuisine of Armenia and meet its people. Day 17 Yerevan Farewell new friends when this journey ends in Yerevan this morning.


Lands of fire and ice

Winter

Lava flowing into frigid glacial rivers. A bubbling geothermal pool surrounded by icy mountains. Boiling geysers erupting over frozen ground. A mug of mulled wine under a snow-filled sky. Chill wind softened by the roar of a fire. Winter in Europe is a time of contrasts, especially in Iceland, the ‘land of fire and ice’. And over on the continent, the Christmas markets are warming refuges from shivering conditions.

in Europe

The beautiful wild shores of the geologically unique island of Iceland is home to the northern lights, the midnight sun and a welcoming people – time among them will make it difficult to leave. In central Europe, cobbled streets take on an even more magical feel in the winter months – ancient buildings festooned with lights, medieval squares filled with seasonal artisanal goods and yuletide spices that conjure up a special Christmas feeling that can only be found in Europe.

Tour leader profile - Dora Bergsdottir In 2016, Dora will be in her second year of leading for Peregrine. Travellers regularly compliment Dora’s superb local knowledge and enthusiasm for sharing her love for Iceland. Dora relishes the opportunity to recount her favourite stories

and may even treat groups to a rendition of traditional Icelandic songs. ‘I love showing people the Iceland that I know. There is so much beauty and stillness here, but most people only see a tiny part of the country. These trips

go off the beaten path and show you the real Iceland. Iceland is two different countries, it shows one side during the summer and a whole different one during the winter and both are breathtaking.’ Photo: Moyan Brenn on Flickr



MULTI COUNTRY

new trip

European Christmas Markets new trip

Icelandic Northern Lights


ITINERARY

Day 2 Reykjavik - Hvolsvollur After breakfast, explore Reykjavik on a city tour, passing the old harbour, the city centre, the towering Hallgrimskirkja Church and the dome-shaped Pearl. Continue on to the geologically important Thingvellir (Parliament Plains), the original site of Iceland’s old parliament. Visit the geothermal geysers and witness spouting hot springs before driving to Gullfoss (Golden Waterfall), Iceland’s largest waterfall where, on a sunny day, a rainbow is visible in the spray above the falls. After checking into tonight’s accommodation, enjoy dinner and aurora spotting in the crisp night sky. Day 3 Hvolsvollur - Glacial Lagoon - Vik Begin the day with a visit to Skogafoss, a waterfall on the Skoga River. Drive to the Skaftafell National Park through the lava of 1783’s Laki volcanic eruption. From there, drive to Jokulsarlon for a walk around the


Glacier Lagoon before continuing to the small village of Vik for our overnight stay. Day 4 Vik - Blue Lagoon Reykjavik Drive through the beautiful scenery and dramatic black sands of Iceland’s South Shore. Wander past the enormous basalt sea stacks at Reynisdrangar and admire the spectacular Seljalandsfoss waterfall before a stop at the Blue Lagoon for a relaxing bath in this geothermal spa. Return to Reykjavik and enjoy an evening of free time. Perhaps try the famous lobster soup or the infamous fermented shark washed down with a shot of Brennivin (Icelandic schnapps) in the Old Harbour. Days 5-6 Lake Myvatn After an early morning flight to Akureyri, transfer to Lake Myvatn. Walk past solfataras, natural volcanic mud pits that bubble and boil (and omit a rather foul odour), the craggy lava fields of Dimmuborgir and the craters at Skutustadir. Have a free day to explore Myvatn and its surrounds; perhaps visit Husavik,

The oldest Christmas markets date back to the 14th and 15th century. The original purpose of these markets was to stock up for the long winters and as a means to add a bit of light to the dark months. Over the centuries, Christkindlmarkets have become a source to buy Christmas presents for children, and an opportunity for local craftsmen and artists to sell their work.


a well-known spot for whale watching, relax in the Myvatn Nature Baths or head to Godafoss (if you haven’t had enough of stunning waterfalls). In the evenings, enjoy dinner at the hotel and look skywards for the northern lights. Day 7 Reykjavik Return to Reykjavik by plane. Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace. Perhaps window-shop in central Reyjkavik or enjoy a beer and some live music in a cosy city bar. Day 8 Reyjkavik Your northern lights trip ends after breakfast (Sat).

PEII

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 7 nights comfortable hotel. Transport Private bus. Meals 7 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Group size Maximum 16. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Selected Saturdays from November to February Enter trip code PEII on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

Day 1 Strasbourg (Sun) Meet in Strasbourg for a welcome dinner at a traditional restaurant. Days 2-3 Munich Take a walking tour of Strasbourg, taking in a handicraft demonstration. Enjoy a gluhwein (mulled wine) tasting and some traditional local food after the tour. Take the train from Strasbourg to Munich in the afternoon then transfer to your hotel. The evening’s dinner is in a traditional Bavarian beer hall. The next morning, take a walking tour of Munich and make your first stop at the some of the famous Munich Christmas markets. With more than 20 markets dotted around town, you’ll be able to get into the festive spirit with music, crafts, gingerbread and gluhwein. Day 4 Eibsee Head into the countryside and visit the imposing Neuschwanstein Castle. Get a closer

look at this incredible building on a guided tour and choose to take a horse-drawn carriage ride to and from the castle. Stay at the picturesque Eibsee Hotel, our feature stay, and enjoy dinner in the restaurant with the snow-capped Alps as your backdrop. Day 5 Salzburg Travel to Salzburg in the morning and stop to visit the beautiful Ettal Abbey. Choose to take a look through the Benedictine beer brewery here and do a beer tasting. Take a walk through Salzburg in the afternoon and maybe pay a visit to Mozart House, sampling a Mozartkugel, and then spend the evening at the Christmas Market enjoying spicy gluhwein, roasted chestnuts, toasted almonds and cinnamon-baked apples.

Inclusions Peregrine tour leader, sightseeing and entrance fees. Accommodation 6 nights comfortable hotel, 1 night feature stay in Eibsee. Transport Private vehicle, train. Meals 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Group size Maximum 16.

afternoon depart for Vienna by rail. Take a taxi to your hotel. The evening is spent at your leisure enjoying the Vienna Christmas market. The next day is yours to enjoy: perhaps take a walking tour of the city, indulge in some delicious festive food and be sure to spend plenty of time enjoying the festive Christmas market. Have a final farewell dinner, and then the tour concludes in the morning of Day 8 (Sun).

FRANCE

PERC


ITINERARY

Recently declared the second-happiest country on earth, Iceland has no army, navy or air force (it does, however, have a coast guard). Police don’t carry guns either.

Day 1 Reykjavik (Sat) On arrival into Keflavik airport, make your own way to the hotel. Meet your group at an evening welcome meeting.

8 DAYS


DEPARTURE DATES Selected Sundays in December Enter trip code PERC on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 & 2017 departure dates.

GERMANY

Vienna

Munich

Strasbourg Eibsee

Salzburg

AUSTRIA

Days 6-8 Vienna Enjoy a free morning in Salzburg, then in the

Akureyri Lake Myvatn

Eibsee Hotel, Grainau

ICELAND Golden Circle Reykjavik

Jökulsárlón

Blue Lagoon Hvolsvöllur

Vik

With a clear-water lake lapping at its doorstep and being nestled at the foot of the imposing Zugspitze Mountain, the Eibsee Hotel is the ultimate location for nature lovers and our feature stay. Decked out in traditional Bavarian style, this 19th-century hotel is a comfortable place to return to after time spent in the crisp mountain air. Take a wintry walk around the lake or relax in the warmth of the hotel’s indoor pool & sauna.


The Arctic

Ancient stories, modern times Spitsbergen

Norway

Spotted roaming the ice floes or swimming between the frozen shores in search of prey, polar bears are known to frequent this region more than any other in the Arctic. As the largest land predator in the world, the polar bear commands a healthy level of respect. Even experienced leaders who frequently encounter these majestic beasts are rendered speechless in their company.

The deeper you venture into the Arctic Circle in summer the longer the days become. Orange and red billow across the sky as the sun kisses the edge of the horizon in a continuous loop. Looking down across the rough peaks and fjords of Tromso, Norway’s northernmost city, life continues unabated, and seeing it bathed in the ethereal glow of the midnight sun is a stirring experience.

Photo: Alex Burridge

Tour leader profile - Dutch Willmott Dutch has always loved sailing the seas and exploring the world’s wilderness. Having led well over 70 voyages across both Antarctica and the Arctic, it’s clear he is a polar addict. ‘My passion is the ocean and this led me to gaining my Skipper’s licence

in 2002 and working on luxury yachts in Europe. A lot of my working life has been on the water’. In 2011 Dutch led his own two week kayak and camping trip starting and finishing in Ittoqqortoormiit East Greenland. A man with a lust for adventure,

Dutch loves to share this polar passion with fellow voyagers. ‘North and South are two of the world’s great destinations - the emptiness, people, history, ice and animals are unbeatable.’ Photo: Jimmy Chu



15 DAYS

Eerily beautiful, starkly secluded and richly interwoven with Norse myth, the Arctic territories of Scotland, Norway and Spitsbergen stand as travel destinations both spectacular and captivating. Like any adventure worth its (sea) salt, the journey is all part of the experience, and in cruising from isle to inlet, fjord system to fishing village, you’ll develop a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of this ecosystem and for those who first chartered it. ITINERARY

Spitsbergen in Depth

Day 1 Embarkation Edinburgh Your journey commences in Edinburgh, Scotland’s brooding but gracious capital. A World Heritage site, this city has much to interest visitors so consider arriving a few days early to check out the scene if you can. Embarkation is set for the afternoon, when you’ll set out north for the Scottish Isles.

13 DAYS


This journey will take you around the rugged, untouched and wild coastline of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago. With its prolific wildlife, continuous daylight and expansive polar desert, Spitsbergen makes for a truly spectacular Arctic destination. Brace yourself for marauding polar bears, breaching whales, lazing walrus, antlered reindeer, flocks of seabirds and the cute Arctic fox. This is a journey for wildlife lovers and budding explorers alike. ITINERARY Day 1 Embarkation Longyearbyen Your voyage begins when you board the ship in Longyearbyen, the island’s largest settlement. Enjoy your first view of the island’s rugged, glacier-topped mountains rising from icy Arctic waters. Days 2-12 Circumnavigating Spitsbergen Expect a new adventure every day while this journey navigates around Spitsbergen and its smaller, outlying islands. The variety of wildlife, landscapes and geological formations is astounding. Every expedition will be unique, but a few of our favourite landing sites include the 14th July Glacier, Ny London, Phippsoya, Aklefjellet and the seldom-visited Kvitoya. For birders, the 14th July Glacier is home to purple sandpipers, common eiders, barnacle geese and Arctic terns while Alkefjellet is home to nesting Brunnich guillemots (thick-billed murres). If you want to prove that reindeer are real, then have your camera ready at places like Ny London, Sundneset and Alkhornet.


PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions All voyage activities and excursions, education program, meals and expedition parka. For included transfers, please speak to your travel agent. Flights Need to be booked into and out of Longyearbyen. Voyage Starts and ends in Longyearbyen. Ships This voyage is operated on board the Ocean Nova and Sea Adventurer.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS As for the largest land carnivore in the world, searching for polar bears is a constant activity, with Phippsoya and Isbukta being two of their preferred places for hunting. This means great potential to capture them in action. Spitsbergen has a long history of whaling; the first hunting expedition was in 1604. The abundance of these majestic creatures soon had English, Dutch, Spanish, French and Norwegian hunters all vying for exclusive rights to hunt here. So it’s not surprising that whaling became a key industry, and you will see blubber ovens and other whaling evidence at landing sites such as Smeerenburg.

Sea kayaking is an optional extra and must be arranged before travel.


IMPORTANT REMINDER

DEPARTURE DATES

Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. When travelling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

Enter trip code PPSD16 or PPSP16 on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 departure dates.

A rc ti c Oc e a n

Phippsøya Kvitøya

Moffen Nordaustlandet

Day 13 Disembarkation Longyearbyen Your adventure ends as it began, in the settlement of Longyearbyen. From here we’ll transfer you to the airport for the flight home unless you’d like to stay on longer to explore this icy region.

PPSD16/PPSP16

Monaco Smeerenburg Glacier Alkefjellet SPITSBERGEN G re e n l a n d Sea

Longyearbyen

B e l l sun d

H orn sun d

Barentsøya Edgeøya

Calypsobyen S VA L B A RD (region of Norway)

Day 2 Kirkwall Arrive in Orkney, an archipelago of almost 70 islands with a history stretching back over 8,000 years. Your time here will include a visit to local attractions like the Standing Stones of Stennes, Ring of Brodgar, Skara Brae, Skaill House and the Italian Chapel. The remains of the famous polar explorer John Rae rest here, lying under the shadow of the St Magnus Cathedral. Day 3 Lerwick, Shetland Islands Further archaeological intrigues await on the Shetland Islands. The prehistoric Norse settlement of Jarlshof is particularly interesting for how it charts the progress of human civilisation from the Bronze Age through to the Middle Ages, as well as the Pictish and Norse eras. Lunch is taken back aboard the ship, after which it’s on to Norway. Day 4 Bergen, Norway A crossing of the North Sea will bring us to Bergen, Norway’s second-biggest city. A guided tour of the city will introduce you to the city’s various World Heritage sites, its medieval houses and quirky array of street art. Day 5 Alesund Arriving in Alesund by mid-morning, you’ll have time to become acquainted with this city renowned for its Art Noveau architecture. A quick trip to the summit of Mt Aksla offers sweeping views of the town. Day 6 Trondheim The day begins with a walk through Trondheim, the historic capital of Norway. Characterised by attractive wooden architecture, cosy eateries, quaint

cafes and artisan stores, the city’s historic centre is a delight to explore. Day 7 Vega Island Witness sustainable living in action at the World Heritage site of Vega. Farmers, fishermen and their families have eked out a living here for over 1,500 years, deriving a livelihood from the waters and the harvesting of eider duck feathers. Rendered against a backdrop of colourful cottages and foreground of fishing skiffs, the birdhouses built for the industry paint a pretty picture. Day 8 Moskenesoy Island Stop in at Reine, a tiny fishing village situated on Moskenesoy Island. With its translucent green waters, craggy mountain backdrop and glacial-sculpted shoreline, Reine easily qualifies as one of the most picturesque villages in all of Norway. Day 9 Bleiksoya – Nyksund (Lofoten Islands) Cruising around the Lofoten Islands by Zodiac, you’ll spot some of the region’s iconic birdlife. Puffins, cormorants, razorbills and sea eagles all exist here in their thousands, and whale sightings are also common. Day 10 Tromso Museums, theatres, galleries and a thriving music scene all go into making Tromso somewhat of a cultural hub in northern Norway. Situated almost 350 km inside the Arctic Circle, the city has adapted to long periods of sunlight and darkness by creating a vibe that’s artsy and cosmopolitan. Surprisingly, the climate here is fairly temperate, thanks to a warming Gulf Stream that funnels through. Day 11 At Sea Return to sea for the voyage across to Svalbard. Take advantage of the lectures and knowledge of onboard experts to learn more about the region you’re sailing through. Day 12 Hornsund Come ashore at Hornsund, a landscape riven by glaciers and brooding mountain peaks. Walk out to an abandoned

science station at Gashamna, passing scattered whale bones along the way, and get the chance to hike across a glacier. Some time in Isbjornhamna may also include the option of a visit to a Polish research station and possible sightings of auks and reindeer. In cruising back to Brepollen, keep eyes peeled for lumbering polar bears. Day 13 Bellsund Tour the historic mining and trapper sites of Bourbanhamna and Calypsobyen, hike along flower-strewn tundra and treat your eyes to striking vistas of the Bellsund region. Day 14 Poolepynton – Alkhornet Poolepynton and Alkhornet offer what are possibly the best opportunities for wildlife photography on this trip. In Poolepynton, huge masses of walrus hustle for space, making for a strangely entrancing spectacle, while the cliffs of Alkhornet play host to substantial populations of seabirds. Herds of reindeer can often be spotted grazing the tundra below.


PPSNE16

PHYSICAL RATING OOOOO Inclusions All voyage activities and excursions, education program, meals and expedition parka. For included transfers, please speak to your travel agent. Flights Need to be booked into Edinburgh and out of Longyearbyen. Voyage Starts in Edinburgh and ends in Longyearbyen. Ships This voyage is operated on board the Ocean Nova. Price See inside front cover.

DEPARTURE DATES Enter trip code PPSNE16 on our website peregrineadventures.com for a full list of 2016 departure dates.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS Sea kayaking is an optional extra and must be arranged before travel.

IMPORTANT REMINDER Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy – and excitement – of expedition travel. When travelling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

Day 15 Disembarkation Longyearbyen Your expedition to the Arctic Circle comes to an end in Longyearbyen where, if heading straight home, you’ll be transferred to the airport. SPITSBERGEN Longyearbyen

Gr e e n l a n d Sea

Bellsund

Ar

Hornsund

to Spitsbergen

Tromsø

cti

cC ircl e S V A L BA R D

Lofoten Islands

(region of Norway)

from Tromsø

Norwegian Sea

Vega

Alesund Shetland Islands Atlantic Ocean

Orkney Islands

Trondheim Geiranger Fjord

Bergen

NORWAY

SCOTLAND Edinburgh


ARCTIC

Scotland to Spitsbergen

Booking Conditions

Responsible Tourism Peregrine’s six tenets of responsible travel

“There are no foreign lands. It is the traveller only who is foreign.” Robert Louis Stevenson To travel responsibly, simply consider your choices and outlook while abroad – always respect the local people, their economy, culture and of course the environment in which they live. To ensure we always promote responsible travel, we have embedded some key features into our trips: • Minimising our travellers footprint by carbon offsetting all main emissions on all our trips and using public transport where we can

• Staying in locally owned or run accommodation and working with local leaders, guides and porters where we can • Buying and eating locally and using a range of local supplier to spread the benefits • Including authentic experiences that promote cross-cultural understanding and interaction • Initiating and supporting projects to help vulnerable environments and communities around the world

Please take the time to read and understand the conditions of booking set out below prior to booking a trip with us. We strongly recommend that you also read the website’s Essential Trip Information relating to your trip prior to booking to ensure that you understand the itinerary, style and physical demands of the trip you are undertaking. 1. OUR CONTRACT All direct bookings are made with Peregrine Adventures Pty (ACN006831941). All other bookings are made with Intrepid Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 35 007 172 456) trading as Peregrine Adventures (us/we). By booking a trip with us you are deemed to have agreed to these Booking Conditions (which constitutes the entire agreement between you and us) and your booking will be accepted by us on this basis. The services to be provided are those referred to in your booking confirmation invoice. 2. VALIDITY Dates, itineraries and prices are valid from 01 January 2016 until 31 December 2016. Beyond 31 December 2016 dates, itineraries and prices are indicative only. 3. DEPOSIT REQUIREMENT You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of $250 per person per trip for your booking to be confirmed. If your booking is made within 56 days of the departure date then the full amount is payable at the time of booking. Please note that a higher deposit is required for Polar bookings and some selected other trips. 4. ACCEPTANCE OF BOOKING AND FINAL PAYMENTS If we accept your booking we will issue a confirmation invoice. A contract will exist between us from the date we issue the confirmation invoice or if you book within 7 days of departure the contract will exist when we accept your deposit. Please refer to your booking confirmation invoice for details regarding final payments. Payment of the balance of the trip price is due 56 days before the departure date. Please note that full payment is required earlier for Polar bookings. If this balance is not paid on or before the due date we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled. 5. OVERLAND KITTY On some Overland trips you are required to contribute to a Kitty. The Kitty is a compulsory on-ground payment put into a central fund and overseen by the travellers and the crew. It helps fund accommodation, camp meals and some included activities. A full description of what the Kitty includes is on the website. Kitty amounts are subject to change so please check our website for the up-to-date amount 48 hours prior to your trip commencement. 6. YOUR DETAILS In order for us to confirm your travel arrangements you must provide all requested details with the balance of the trip price. Necessary details include full name as per passport, date of birth, nationality, passport number, passport issue and expiry date and any pre-existing medical conditions you have which may affect your ability to complete your travel arrangements. On some more demanding trips we also require you to complete and forward a Self-Assessment form. Your booking cannot be confirmed without provision of these details. 7. CANCELLATION BY THE TRAVELLER If you cancel some or all portions of your booking cancellation fees will apply. A cancellation will only be effective when we receive written confirmation of the cancellation. If you cancel a trip: • 56 days or more prior to departure, we will retain the deposit; • Between 31 and 55 days prior to departure, we will retain the deposit or 50% of the total booking cost; whichever is greater, and • 30 days or less prior to departure, we will retain 100% paid by you in connection with the booking.

Photo: Katie Gosman

Peregrine has partnered with The Intrepid Foundation to give our travellers an opportunity to donate to some incredible community and environmental grassroots projects that improve the lives of the communities that host us. You can choose to donate 1% of your trip cost to The Intrepid Foundation when you book your trip online with us. Or visit our website once you finish your journey to give back. Head to theintrepidfoundation.org to learn more about The Intrepid Foundation and the projects we support globally. 1 // peregrineadventures.com

Photo: A Bowditch

Note that different cancellation conditions apply to Polar bookings and some styles of trips and additional services. Your booking consultant will advise if differences apply. Please note that for certain travel arrangements the cancellation charge may be higher than those shown. In certain cases a 100% cancellation fee applies as soon as the booking is made and the ticket is issued. You will be advised of different cancellation charges at time of booking. You are strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of booking which will cover cancellation fees. If you leave a trip for any reason after it has commenced we are not obliged to make any refunds for unused services. If you fail to join a tour, join it after departure, or leave it prior to its completion, no refund will be made. The above cancellation fees are in addition to fees which may be levied by accommodation providers, travel agents or third party tour and transport operator fees. 8. CANCELLATION BY US We may cancel a trip at any time up to 56 days before departure, subject to clause 14. We may cancel a trip at any time prior to departure if, due to terrorism, natural disasters, political instability or other external events it

is not viable for us to operate the planned itinerary. If we cancel your trip, you can transfer amounts paid to an alternate departure date or alternatively receive a full refund. In circumstances where the cancellation is due to external events outside our reasonable control refunds will be less any unrecoverable costs. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess or non-refundable flights. Please note that different cancellation conditions may apply to some styles of trips, your booking consultant will advise if differences apply. 9. BOOKING AMENDMENTS If you wish to transfer from one trip to another or transfer your booking to a third party you must notify us at least 56 days prior to the proposed departure date. A fee of $150 per person per change will apply (in addition to any charges levied by hotels, ground operators or airlines). If you notify us less than 56 days prior to the proposed departure date the refund policy applicable to cancellations will apply. Transfers to a third party are only permitted where the transferee meets all the requirements in relation to the trip, and transfers to another departure can only be made to a departure within the current validity period. Amendments to any other arrangements made in conjunction with your trip will incur a $100 administration fee per booking per change. This fee is in addition to any charges levied by hotels, ground operators or airlines. No amendments are permitted to your booking within 10 days of departure. 10. INCLUSIONS The land price of your trip includes: • all accommodation as listed on the website • all transport listed on the website • sightseeing and meals as listed on the website • the services of a group leader as described on the website 11. EXCLUSIONS The land price of your trip does not include: • International or internal flights unless specified • Kitty as specified on the website • Airport transfers, taxes and excess baggage charges unless specified • Meals other than those specified on the website • Visa and passport fees • Travel insurance • Optional activities and all personal expenses 12. PRICES & SURCHARGES Our trip prices are subject to variable and seasonal pricing, both of which are standard practice within the travel industry. This means our trip prices may vary at any time in accordance with demand, market conditions and availability. It is likely that different passengers on the same trip may have been charged different prices. Your best option if you like the price you see is to book at that time. Once you have received a quote the price will be locked in provided you pay the required deposit prior to the quote’s expiry. Any reduced pricing or discounts that may become available after you have paid your deposit will not apply. If you wish to cancel your booking to take advantage of a cheaper price, full cancellation conditions apply. The most up to date pricing is available on our website. Prices are based on currency exchange rates as of June 2015. We reserve the right to impose surcharges up to 56 days before departure due to unfavorable changes in exchange rates, increases in airfares or other transportation costs, increases in local operator costs, taxes, or if government action should require us to do so. In such instances we will be responsible for the any amount up to 2% of the trip price and you will be responsible for the balance. If any surcharge results in an increase of more than 10% of the trip price you may cancel the booking within 14 days of notification of the surcharge and obtain a full refund. We will not surcharge any booking for travel within the validity of this brochure once paid in full. Air Passenger Duty is included in the price of your air inclusive trip. In view of the current volatility of world oil prices, a fuel supplement may be added to the price of your holiday at the time of booking. Please note that a levy of up to 2.35% may be applied to all purchases made by credit card. 13. AGE & HEALTH REQUIREMENTS Minimum General Policy: For the majority of our trips the minimum age is 15 at the time of travel. All travellers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a legal guardian, or in lieu of a legal guardian, by an escort over the age of 18, appointed by their legal guardian. The legal guardian or their designee will be responsible for the traveller under the age of 18 day to day’s care. If a legal guardian elects to designate an escort in their lieu, they will be required to complete and sign a relevant document, to delegate their authority. Please note we cannot guarantee triple or joining rooms for families; accompanying adults may be required to share with others in the group on a twin share basis.

Variations: A higher minimum age applies to some trips, while a lower minimum age applies to Family trips and Independent Adventures. Please check with your consultant or agent at the time of enquiry. Maximum General Policy: For the majority of our trips we have no upper age limit though we remind you that our trips can be physically demanding and passengers must ensure that they are suitably fit to allow full participation. We are able to provide details on mandatory health requirements; however, we are not medical experts. It is your responsibility to ensure that you obtain proper and detailed medical advice at least two months prior to travel for the latest health requirements and recommendations for your destination. 14. SMALL GROUPS & COMBINATION TRIPS Our trips are guaranteed to depart once they have one fully paid traveller unless minimum group size specifically states otherwise. This means at times we can have small groups. Many of our trips are designed to fit with other departures to create a longer “combination” trip; this means that some of your group may have already been travelling together for some weeks when you commence your trip. If you would like to know how many people are booked on your trip or any combination trip it is part of please ask prior to making your booking. 15. PASSPORT AND VISAS You must carry a valid passport and have obtained all of the appropriate visas, permits and certificates for the countries in which you will visit during your trip. Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the duration of the trip. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of the correct visas, permits and certificates for your trip; please refer to the website for details. We are not responsible if you are refused entry to a country because you lack the correct passport, visa or other travel documentation. 16. TRAVEL INSURANCE Travel insurance is compulsory for all our travellers and should be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US$200,000 for each of the categories of cover. We also strongly recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide proof of your travel insurance on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without it. If you obtain travel insurance through us you acknowledge that you are satisfied with the level of insurance we have arranged. 17. FLEXIBILITY You appreciate and acknowledge that the nature of this type of travel requires considerable flexibility and you should allow for alternatives. The itinerary provided for each trip is representative of the types of activities contemplated, but it is understood that the route, schedules, itineraries, amenities and mode of transport may be subject to alteration without prior notice due to local circumstances or events. 18. CHANGE OF ITINERARY While we endeavor to operate all trips as described we reserve the right to change the trip itinerary. Please refer to our website before departure for the most recent updates to your itinerary. Before departure: If we make a major change we will inform you as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before departure. The definition of a major change is deemed to be a change affecting at least one day in five of the itinerary. When a major change is made you may choose between accepting the change, obtaining a refund of money paid on the land portion of the trip only or accepting an alternative tour offered. After departure: We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or events outside of our control. In such emergency circumstances the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itinerary such as visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. 19. AUTHORITY ON TOUR Our group trips are run by a group leader. The decision of the group leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any person participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a group leader, or interfere with the well-being or mobility of the group, the group leader may direct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund. We may also elect not to carry you on any future trips booked. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our responsible travel guidelines. 20. ACCEPTANCE OF RISK You acknowledge that the nature of the trip is adventurous and participation involves a degree of personal risk. You will be visiting places where the political, cultural and geographical attributes present

dangers and physical challenges greater than those present in our daily lives. We use information from government foreign departments and reports from our own contacts in assessing whether the itinerary should operate. However it is also your own responsibility to acquaint yourself with all possible relevant travel information and the nature of your itinerary. You acknowledge that your decision to travel is made in light of consideration of this information and you accept that you are aware of the personal risks attendant upon such travel. 21. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY We contract with a network of companies, government agencies and individuals to assist in the running of our trips as agent for these third parties. We are not responsible for the acts and omissions of these third parties. To the fullest extent permitted by law: • Any liability for any loss, death, injury or damage which you may suffer (directly or indirectly) in connection with or arising out of your participation in a trip, or any breach of the Booking Conditions, is excluded; • You release us and our officers, employees, agents and representatives from any liability and expressly waive any claims you may have against us arising out of or in connection with your participation in a trip; and • Any condition or warranty which would otherwise be implied by law into these Booking Conditions (Implied Warranty), is excluded. To the extent an Implied Warranty cannot be excluded, our liability in respect of the Implied Warranty is limited to (in our absolute discretion): (i) the provision of a similar trip to an equivalent value; or (ii) a refund of the total amount received by us from you in connection with your booking. Any claim by you is excluded to the extent that it is for indirect or consequential loss, loss of profits or economic loss, however it arises, or for indirect, special, punitive or exemplary damages. 22. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES Optional activities not included in the trip price do not form part of the trip or this contract. You accept that any assistance given by your group leader or local representative in arranging optional activities does not render us liable for them in any way. The contract for the provision of that activity will be between you and activity provider. 23. CLAIMS & COMPLAINTS If you have a complaint about your trip please inform your group leader or our local representative at the time in order that they can attempt to rectify the matter. If satisfaction is not reached through these means then any further complaint should be put in writing to us within 30 days of the end of the tour. 24. SEVERABILITY In the event that any term or condition contained in these Booking Conditions is unenforceable or void by operation of law or as being against public policy or for any other reason then such term or condition shall be deemed to be severed from this contract or amended accordingly only to such extent necessary to allow all remaining terms and conditions to survive and continue as binding. 25. PHOTOS AND MARKETING You consent to us using images of you taken during the trip for advertising and promotional purposes in any medium we choose. You grant us a perpetual, royaltyfree, worldwide, irrevocable licence to use such images for publicity and promotional purposes. 26. PRIVACY POLICY Any personal information that we collect about you may be used for any purpose associated with the operation of a Trip or to send you marketing material in relation to our events and special offers. The information may be disclosed to our agents, service providers or other suppliers to enable us to operate the Trip. We will otherwise treat your details in accordance with our privacy policy (available for viewing on our website). 27. APPLICABLE LAW The laws of Victoria, Australia govern these Booking Conditions to the fullest extent allowable. Any disputes in connection with a trip or these Booking Conditions must be initiated in the courts of Victoria, Australia. 28. REGISTERED ADDRESS Peregrine Adventures, Level 4/380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC, 3000, Australia 29. UPDATING OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS The Company reserves the right to update and/or alter these terms and conditions at anytime, and it is the Clients responsibility to be familiar with them. The latest terms and conditions can always be found on the Company website www.peregrineadventures.com and will supersede any previous versions.


CLIENT SALES & ENQUIRIES

1300 854 445 [email protected] AGENT RESERVATIONS & ENQUIRIES

1300 655 433 Fax: 03 8601 4300 [email protected]

www.peregrineadventures.com YOUR TRAVEL AGENT

VICTORIA - PEREGRINE TRAVEL CENTRE Level 3, 380 Lonsdale Street Melbourne VIC 3000 Tel: 1300 854 445 Fax: 03 8601 4422 [email protected]

SOUTH AUSTRALIA - PEREGRINE TRAVEL CENTRE 1st Floor, Scout Outdoor Centre 192 Rundle Street Adelaide SA 5000 Tel: 08 8223 5905 Fax: 08 8223 5347 [email protected]

QUEENSLAND - PEREGRINE TRAVEL CENTRE 222a Barry Pde, Wickham Street Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 Tel: 07 3850 7699 Fax: 07 3854 1079 [email protected]

GROUP ENQUIRIES Tel: 1300 854 439 [email protected]

WESTERN AUSTRALIA - PEREGRINE TRAVEL CENTRE 1st Floor, 862 Hay Street Perth WA 6000 Tel: 08 9321 1259 Fax: 08 9481 7375 [email protected]

Peregrine Adventures Pty Ltd Lic: 31009. A.B.N. 54 006 831 974 www.peregrineadventures.com AUD