Dykes & Diamonds
Holiday brief
Some of our UK holidays have been developed to be a little more “relaxed” and “local” or “country” in their style. Well, now we have one in Holland based in the historic province
of Zeeland. Middelburg, our base, is the capital of the Beveland/Walcheren
region, which is surrounded by the massive estuaries of the Schelde River.
Virtually an island and completely off the
“usual” tourist routes in Holland. From here we’ll enjoy the local steam railways, lovely canal, lake and river cruises, browse
truly historic and fascinating towns and villages, and cross the border into
Belgium for the gem that is Antwerp.
Zierikzee
OUTLINE ITINERARY
Special Note: This trip is especially designed to explore a unique, diverse, and at times
dramatic, part of Holland. Whilst there are 5 or 6 transport attractions to
thoroughly enjoy, there is also a strong maritime interest, and some of the
towns/villages are must do
’s when in this area. Do not book this holiday expecting a “full on” railway tour!
Friday – Meet at St Pancras International late morning from where we travel by Eurostar
to Brussels, then on by Belgium and Netherland (N.S.) Railways to Middelburg
arriving about 18.00.
Saturday – We use the word dramatic, but awesome is probably more appropriate as we head
north from Middelburg driving over the dykes and dams constructed to protect
Holland from the ravages of the North Sea. A circular tour includes an
exclusive privately hired steam train trip along the dykes, stops in a couple
of ancient harbour towns, crosses the Zeeland Bridge, and finally returning to
Middelburg by train from Goes.
Sunday – Steam, vintage trams and magnificent Antwerp are all combined today during the
holiday
’s major day out to Belgium. Narrow gauge steam, a steam driven windmill, and
bakers specialities at Bakkersmolen are followed by a visit to the vintage tram
museum in Berchem, then a real highlight
– by privately hired vintage tram into the centre of Antwerp. Time to enjoy the
compact and beautiful city centre and a harbour boat trip before a sunset ride
back to Middelburg.
OUR HOTEL
Hotel De Nieuwe Doelen, Middelburg
This lovely hotel is a stone’s throw from the centre of delightful Middelburg yet very close to the railway
station and on the banks of the Walcheren Canal. It is a very old Dutch
building, yet has a lift, and features a diverse range of individually
decorated rooms, all with the usual facilities. In fine weather the patio
garden or the outside tables provide a relaxing venue for coffee or beers etc.
Monday – Today we take the train to Krabbendijke then join our coach for one of the
loveliest (short) drives in Holland, over the dykes to Tholen and delightful St
Annaland. Here, our privately hired boat will be waiting to take us on a cruise
to the ancient port of Zierikzee. A light lunch is included during the cruise
on the Oosterschelde, and passing under the Zeeland Bridge. Time in Zierikzee
then a stunning drive back to Middelburg.
Tuesday – A short train ride to Goes takes us to the local steam railway, which operates
over a rustic rural route to the ancient harbour at Hoedekenskerke. Traditional
Dutch hospitality en route and back at Goes precedes a short coach journey to
lovely Veere at the northern end of the Walcheren Canal. Here we catch a
charming and surprisingly large boat to cruise directly back to our hotel in
Middelburg.
Wednesday – An easy morning before commencing homeward bound journeys, arriving back in
London about 16.00.
Date & Price
Tour Ref: DD6/1
Friday August 15th (6 days)
£649.00 based on €1.40 to the £
Price Variation
Single supplement £100.00
See booking conditions for currency
fluctuation clause
Touring by tram
