Day 1 - Travel via short sea crossing today, driving through Belgium to Valkenburg.
Day 2 - Valkenburg & Maastricht
This morning is at leisure in the pretty town of Valkenburg. Visit the caves and castle and just relax in one of the many cafés. Visit the caves (where the markets are located at Christmas time) and the castle. Valkenburg is perfect for finding somewhere to eat while watching the world go by in its bustling yet charming centre. This afternoon visit the elegant town of Maastricht, situated on the river Maas. Here you find cobbled streets, riverside cafes and shops galore! Leisure Breaks can book you boat trips along the Maas (£5.00) or a wine tasting and snack in a local vineyard (£9.00). Please ask for details.
Day 3 - Monschau and Aachen
This morning drive to Germany and the pretty, medieval town of Monschau, nestling along the river below the Eifel Mountains. After browsing the quaint cobbled streets with their timber-framed buildings, continue to Aachen, site of many German coronations. The city is full of the most beautiful fountains, showing the importance of water for Aachen as a spa town. The Dom should also be visited, built by the Emperor Charlemagne around 786 AD. In addition to its wealth of heritage, there are plenty of places to relax and socialise with its many historical restaurants, café terraces and pubs.
Day 4 - Cologne
One of the oldest German cities attracts millions of visitors annually; the main highlight is the towering Dom Ð the Gothic cathedral that dominates the city's skyline. Other attractions include boat cruises, the chocolate museum and heaps of cafés and restaurants. Why not visit one of the local breweries with a tasting of the city beer, Kšlsch?
Day 5 - Leave this morning, heading back to Calais for your return short sea crossing.