Discovering Europe one train at a time
08/01/2020 · By Rashmi Guha Ray
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2024 Tour code: HRJ24
About the tour
Join us on a discovery of two of Germany's most picturesque regions. We explore the characterful medieval villages and peaks of the Harz Mountains by historic narrow-gauge railway, then discover the natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge on a cruise of the loveliest section of the river, where the legendary Lorelei Rock still casts its spell.
Unforgettable Experiences
What’s included
Itinerary
We meet our Tour Manager and the rest of our group of travellers at London St Pancras where we join the Eurostar to Brussels. Travelling in spacious Standard Premier Class we enjoy a light meal at our seats. On arrival in Brussels we change trains and travel in First Class to Cologne, where we spend a night. We arrive around mid-afternoon and the rest of your day is free to explore the historic riverside city of Cologne. The city's main attraction is its impressive cathedral with twin spires. You might like to join a riverboat cruise to see the sights from the Rhine River. This evening we dine together at our central hotel.
Additional information
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Reviews
4.4 / 5 · 82 reviews
Rosemary Furley
Submitted 22/Jun
It is a very interesting historical part of Germany to visit, which hour planned visit made the most of. The friendliness of the group was encouraged by the relaxed manner of the tour leader and his ability to be concerned with individuals interests. He dealt excellently with the sudden rail and boat cancellations which occurred, some due to the weather conditions, keeping us informed, even making them seem fun and organising alternative arrangements. A very enjoyable railway holiday.
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D Willis
Submitted 19/Jun
The holiday was first class. David done a very good job sorting out all the eggcups during our holiday. Will use Great Rail Journey again well done.
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Nick Y
Submitted 18/Jun
Wernigerode in the Harz, and Assmannhausen on the Rhein are both excellent destinations. The first is one of the main bases for a network of steam operated railways that ascend and spread out into the mountains. Given a couple of whole days, it would be possible to explore some of it. Our organised trip included a sample of one line, and included coach travel at both ends. This reduced the experience, in my view, since it could potentially have excluded one of those coach sections. The other started at Wernigerode and ascended to the summit of the Brocken. The journey is spectacular, with tight curves, gradients and superb views. It's a lottery as to whether the summit will be in sunshine, or mist and rain, since it's adversely affected about 200 days a year. The are, however, two restaurants and an exhibition to see. It was misty and raining when we got to the top. Wernigerode is interesting, lively, historic and unspoiled. There are plenty of restaurants, and the people are helpful and friendly. The hotel is well-placed to walk into the town, and its meals were very good. There is a bar at the opposite end of the main foyer that is not at all obvious. There is no sign above the doors, and is well worth entering. Like the restaurant, it stocks the local beers. The bar waiter was very engaging and chatty, especially since not many hotel guests found it! It stays open after the restaurant closes at 10. The road train up to the castle departs from the back of the hotel and is a great way to ascend the climb and view the scenery. Assmanhausen is a small town surrounded by vineyards. The Rhein was in flood when we were there. This turned out to be an advantage because an alternative cruise from the town and back was arranged by our guide, thus cutting out an early start and another coach trip. It was 3 hours, about the right length of time, allowing free time afterwards. The hotel was old, rambling and comfortable. The meals, however, were basic with little choice. The staff were accommodating and friendly except for one bar waiter who was constantly rude, ignorant, unhelpful and clearly didn't like visitors. If anybody was in the wrong job, it was him! Many of us complained; the hotel knew who exactly who it was and said they would like to get rid but couldn't get a replacement. They need to sort out their priorities. He cost them many rounds of drinks. Nearby Rudesheim is one stop by rail or by using the cable chair lift up, a walk through woodland overlooking the river, and cable car down. A round trip including return by river is 20 Euros. The cable car departs right next to the hotel and is a silent glide at tree-top level with just the sound of woodland birds for company. The town is, by contrast to Assmannhausen, touristy. It has plenty of places to eat, some wine producer outlets and places of historic interest. By the station is Wien Weld, which has 160 different local wines to sample arranged in 8 cellars. Each has good info about the producers and two wines from each. Small and sufficient samples are dispensed from vending machines in each cellar using tokens purchased on entry; 20 for 22 Euros. 20 tokens for two of us was just right. A glass is provided along with note sheets with all the wines listed so that you can decide which bottles to buy afterwards. This was a really great way to try lots of wines and very enjoyable. The holiday would have got more stars had it not included a disappointing hotel and so much coach travel. This may not be a deterrent to others, of course. It depends upon your expectations.
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D Malkin
Submitted 17/Jun
It did what it said on the tin! Excellent tour manager who kept us fully informed - very helpful. We've never had a bad experience with Great Rail Journeys and this was no exception
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PETER Ramsbottom
Submitted 17/Jun
Too many changes and too much waiting around .
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Yvette Bracewell
Submitted 11/Jun
Great for steam railway enthusiasts.
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