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>>> CZECH REPUBLIC " GERMANY
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CCZ
Prague, Saxony & the Elbe
8 days Hotels Explorations along the Elbe
CYCLE GRADE A
The Vltava and Elbe rivers meander throughout this delightful tour and link some of central Europes finest historic towns and cities. We also experience the magnificent countryside from rolling vineyards to the wilder landscapes formed by the Elbe as it carves a path through the basalt hills of the Ceske Stredohori, separating the Czech Republic from the Saxon lands of Germany.
Prague & the Garden of Bohemia Our explorations both start and end in the romantic Czech capital with its incredible mix of architectural styles from the Medieval through to Art Nouveau and a vibrant intellectual and artistic scene. Known as the city of a hundred spires , the delights of
great Czech romantics and German composer Wagner. Across the border into Germany, the massive fortification of Konigstein crowns a thousand foot cliff on a sweeping bend of the Elbe. Saxon Switzerland & Meissen As we journey north, we enter a region known as the Saxon Swtizerland , typified by bizarre sandstone rock formations and wild and craggy canyons, the captivating landscapes are only now being discovered by hikers and climbers. Entering Dresden we pass Pillnitz castle and Blue Wonder bridge as we head to the historic centre, home to the renowned Zwinger gallery, and its five museums. Through a multitude of vineyards, we come to Meissen, famous for its porcelain, this compact cathedral city with its perfectly preserved old centre, makes the perfect base to relax and enjoy a glass or two of the famous local wines.
Prague Old Town
Itinerary Day 1 Fly London/Prague. 2 Cycle to Melnik through Garden of Bohemia . 3 To Litomerice via fortress at Terezin. 4 Cycle via Strekov castle to Decin. 5 Cycle to Pirna via Konigstein fortress and Saxon Switzerland . 6 Cycle via Dresden to Meissen. 7 Drive to Prague; afternoon walking tour. 8 Fly London. Accommodation & Meals: 7nts hotel; 7 breakfasts included. See p45. Bicycle: 21 gear Unibike touring bikes with rear pannier and water bottle holder. Daily distances day 01 day 02 day 03 day 04 day 05 day 06 day 07 day 08
50km 41km 48km 44km 46km
Prague, Saxony & the Elbe Ref CCZ
MEISSEN
Dresden Pillnitz Castle
GERMANY
E lb e
PIRNA
Bad Schandau Schmilka Spa town
Konigstein Fortress
G ERZ
U KR
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DECIN
Valtirov Velke Brezno Strekov Ruined fortress
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H É Usti nad
Labem
Y OR
Prague spread either side of the Vltava river. We then peddle to more tranquil places into an area of rolling countryside known as the Garden of Bohemia . We reach the small town of Melnik, beautifully sited on a vinecovered hill at the confluence with the mighty river Elbe, our companion for the remainder of our ride. Ruined Fortresses Along the Elbe The towns and villages along this ancient trading route have a long and colourful history. Litomerice with its rich Baroque architecture was founded on the site of a 9th century Slavic hill-top settlement, whilst the fortress town of Terezin has a grim history, used as a prison by both Habsburgs and Nazis. Later the valley narrows and steep verdant hills roll down directly into the swirling river. High above looms the romantic old ruined fortress of Strekov. Numerous legends attach to this atmospheric castle, which is said to have inspired many of the
Grade & Terrain: Grade A 229km/5 days (average 45.8km/cycling day). Cycling is mostly on the flat or downhill though there are several short uphill sections, generally when ascending out of river valleys. 70% asphalt, 30% well maintained gravel lanes. Much of the cycling is on dedicated cycle paths. Tour Staff & Support: Explore Tour Leader/guide cycles with the group on each day. Luggage is transferred from point to point by hotel vehicles. No vehicle back up provided whilst cycling as predominantly on cycle paths. Group Size: Approx. 12 to 16.
LITOMERICE
Terezin Fortress town Roudnice
MELNIK
Palace Vinyards
CZECH REPUBLIC
km 0 40
Vl
City walking tour Wenceslas Square
Along the cycle path in Dresden/German National Tourist Board
Essential information about our tours see pages 45-51
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PRAGUE
Viewpoint of the river Elbe
DATES & PRICES in £s per adult 8 days from London (Sun-Sun) 2008 deps 25 May-01 Jun 06 Jul-13 Jul 03 Aug-10 Aug 07 Sep-14 Sep 2009 deps 24 May-31 May 05 Jul-12 Jul 02 Aug-09 Aug 06 Sep-13 Sep Flight Incl 599 615 615 615 Flight Incl 639 639 639 639 Land Only 475 475 475 475 Land Only 489 489 489 489
Land Only tour: 8 days - start Prague day 1 (Sun), end Prague day 8 (Sun) Plus Local Payment: ¬100 (approx £70) payable Prague Single Room Option: £135* These are guide prices, see p46 for full details
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