Day 1 - December 12th - This morning we meet at our Charles De Gaulle Airport accommodation to begin the tour. As we make our way north our first stop is at Château de Chantilly where the magic of Christmas takes hold. For the occasion, the château is decked out in its finest decorations and offering a magical program. Christmas visits, a horse show, a gourmet Christmas market and a meeting with Santa Clause.Visiting the Château de Chantilly during the festive season is a real fairytale. Whether you're strolling through the gardens, admiring the incredible architecture of this famous monument, or indoors, soaking up the magic of Christmas. We then make our way to Amiens to visit the Amiens Christmas Market, one of the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in France. You will be able to find plenty to munch on and get your fill for lunch while we are here. Visitors have been coming to the Amiens Christmas Market since 1997 to wander through it's 130 chalets that offer great choices for gift ideas. Craftsmen from France and all over the world will offer a variety of handmade gifts, Christmas décorations and delicious delicacies. We then get checked into our accommodation at Lille before we gather for our Welcoming Dinner. Dinner and Overnight Lille. (B,D)

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Day 2 - December 13th - This morning we are up early to make our way back a short ways to Arras to enjoy the Christmas Market which is laid out in the magnificent setting of the Grand’Place, a Flemish Baroque architectural ensemble unrivalled in Europe. A remarkable backdrop with a forest of Christmas trees, where 140 artisans and exhibitors await you in an authentic and festive atmosphere in the heart of this lovely town. After a festive lunch we make our way back to Lille. The legend says that Lille was founded in 640 by Lydéric and Phinaert giants, but the first mention of Lille in writing was in 1066. Lille was in turn under Flemish, Burgundian and Spanish rule before becoming French in 1667 during the conquest of the city by Louis XIV. Successive enlargements over the centuries have made it the fourth city of France today. In the heart of winter, Lille sparkles and glows with joie de vivre! With the wave of a magic wand, the city takes on a festive atmosphere and welcomes you to a winter wonderland! The Christmas Market of Lille is the largest of its kind in the Hauts-de-France region and the focal point of central Lille is the large square of Place du Général de Gaulle, also known as the Grand’Place. On Place Rihour, more than 80 chalets teem with gift ideas, nativity figurines, Christmas decorations and festive food. You can find regional specialties here, and you can also find arts and crafts from Russia, Poland, and Québec, as well as products from Native America. Dinner on your own this evening. Overnight Lille. (B,L)

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Day 3 - December 14th - This morning we make our way southeast to Reims with a few stops along the way. A gem of Northern France is the medieval city of Laon, the capital city of Aisne department in Picardy. The walled city was built on a sedimentary base of sand, clay and limestone which were readily available in the second part of the 12th century and a magnificent cathedral sits on the top of the hill dominating the view. Laon is divided into two districts (the upper town and the lower town) and a cable car called the Poma links the two. Although the market is quite small, the upper town is very quaint with lots of shops and beautiful architecture. You will have plenty of time to enjoy the market and find some lunch on your own before we make our way to Soissons. Soissons was the former capital of France during the time of the Kingdom of the Franks, but it has a very ancient history dating back before the Ancient Romans, when it was the main settlement for the Suessione people (one of the Gaul tribes in the centuries before the Romans conquered the region). The town has two important monuments: the Cathedral of Saint-Gervais and Saint-Protais, and the Abbey of Saint-Jean-des-Vignes, as well as various other monuments of buildings of interest, which have contributed to the town being classified as a Town of Art and History. After our visit we make our way to our accommodation in Reims. Dinner and Overnight Reims. (B,D)

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Day 4 - December 15th - This morning we make our way south of Reims to the town of Épernay which is the Champagne Capitol. It is nestled amidst vineyards and steeped in Champagne culture. The Place de la République transforms into a Christmas village with its traditional wooden chalets, while Avenue de Champagne lights up brilliantly. Visitors can stroll among the Christmas market stalls, taste local Champagne specialties, and admire the historic facades of the champagne houses. We will explore the Christmas Market here, have lunch together and then visit Château Comtesse Lafond where we are invited on a journey where the elegance of the champagnes will rhyme with the majesty of the place. We then make our way home to explore the Christmas Market and streets of Reims. Ideally situated on the forecourt of the famous cathedral, the Reims Christmas market has become over the years a significant event with 145 chalets gathered on the Parvis of the Cathedrale where the magic of Christmas will amaze you with a plethora of street lights, illuminations, animations for children, concerts, Nativity scenes, gourmet food stalls, a funfair, and much more! The Christmas Market is open until 8:00 to better take advantage of the illuminations. Dinner on your own. Overnight Reims. (B,L)

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Day 5 - December 16th - This morning we make our way to Metz, a charming provincial city in the Lorraine region located on the east side of the Moselle River, between Nancy and Luxembourg. Along the way we will stop in Chalons-en-Champagne, the capitol for both the Marne department and the Champagne-Ardenne region and another City of Art and History. It has been an active regional trading centre since Roman times, 2000 years ago, due to its position on a major trade route. This role continued and flourished during the Middle Ages when it became an important centre for the wool trade. Criss-crossed by rivers and canals, it has earned the nickname "Little Venice" and the essence of its past can be seen in both its rich civil and religious heritage: half-timbered houses, beautiful civic buildings, abbeys and convents, churches and an internationally renowned cathedral. After we get our fill of this lovely wee town we are off to Metz where we get into the spirit of the festive season and enjoy the warmest of welcomes as we visit the Christmas markets on Metz’s six main squares. We will take in the ice sculptures at the Frozen Fairyland, then warm up cold hands around a hot spicy drink or mulled wine. The illuminations will chase away the dark winter days, and traditional treats like the merry-go-round, or a walk through the magic forest will bring out your holiday spirit. You will also want to take the opportunity to stock up on gastronomic Christmas essentials at the city market hall. We then get checked into our accommodation before gathering for dinner. Dinner and Overnight Metz. (B,D)

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Day 6 - December 17th - This morning we make a journey north to Luxembourg and Luxembourg City. As the festive season approaches, the city of Luxembourg is transformed into a winter wonderland that plunges its visitors into the heart of the Christmas magic. A magical world waiting to be discovered during a guided tour! Christmas decorations, craft products, toys, clothes, jewellery, confectionery, food and drink, rides (Ferris wheel, miniature train), concerts, workshops and shows... there's something for everyone, from the traditional to the more unconventional. We will learn all about the past and present of the Christmas traditions of Luxembourg while on our guided tour. After our tour we will stop for lunch and then you will have some free time in the city where you can explore the 5 different Christmas Markets -Lëtzebuerger Chrëschtmaart in the Place d'Armes,Wantermaart in the Place de la Constitution,Wanterpark at Kinnekswiss, Parc Municipal Nikloosmaart in Place de Paris and Winterkids in Place Guillaume II. Then we make our way back to Metz where you have the rest of the afternoon and evening free. You will find the lights and illuminations in the town centre far more illuminating after the sun goes down! Overnight Metz. (B,L)

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Day 7 - December 18th -  This morning on our way to Colmar we will stop in Saverne, an important gateway for trade, dating back as far as Roman times, due to its position at the end of a pass through the Vosges mountains. The importance of the town was further reinforced when the Bishops from Strasbourg established their homes here. A walk through this lovely town will reveal  pretty streets lined with medieval steep-rooved houses and half timbered buildings in the historical centre. In the centre of Saverne is the Place de la Licorne (Place of the Unicorn). The association between unicorns and Saverne dates back more than a thousand years and relates to a legend that a unicorn dipped its horn in the waters here and thus conferred them with therapeutic powers. We then make our way to Strasbourg where we will take in the Christmas Market that in 1570 was very first edition of the oldest Christmas market in Europe, then called the "Christkindelsmärik" (market of the Infant Jesus). Since this time, Strasbourg has continued the tradition of a traditional, authentic, warm and generous Alsatian Christmas and these are all the reasons why "Strasbourg, the Capital of Christmas" continues to enjoy repeated success. It's a chance for everyone to explore Strasbourg at the end of the year, with its iconic landmarks such as the Place de la Cathédrale and the Place de la République, and to admire the unique decorations and magical atmosphere of the Christmas capital.Then on to Colmar to get checked into our accommodation before dinner. Dinner and Overnight Colmar. (B,D)

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Day 8 - December 19th - As we are half way through the tour today will be entirely at your leisure in Colmar, the capital of the Alsacian wines, situated near Germany and Switzerland between the Vosges and the Rhine, Strasbourg and Mulhouse. Nestled among vineyards, its traditional houses, canals, floral displays, amazing cuisine, famous wines and charming accommodation make Colmar an outstanding microcosm of Alsace, and offers visitors an exciting glimpse of 1000 years of European history. Although it has a population of 67,000, Colmar retains a 'country town' atmosphere which contributes so much to its charm. You will have the whole day free to experience the magic of Christmas in Colmar. First of all,  there is the ambiance of the Old Town, illuminated and decorated like a fairy tale: a historic setting made magical by the Christmas illuminations which, in this festive period, blend harmoniously with the wonderful lighting designed to enhance the town’s heritage, and lay a soothing aura of light over the centre of Colmar. The Colmar Christmas Market in the picturesque streets of Colmar with its succession of stalls, Christmas decorations and lights will sweep you up in the magic of the Christmas season. Wherever you look, you will be spellbound. Truly the place to be for a genuinely exceptional Christmas experience! Get rested up this evening for the second half of the tour. Overnight Colmar. (B)

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Day 9 December 20th - This morning we visit Turckheim, a magic village built by elves on Place de l'Hôtel de Ville. You can stroll among the decorated cabins and taste, smell and admire regional specialties. You will receive a special gift to commemorate your stay in our beautiful medieval city. Take a stroll through the stalls of local craftspeople, and you're sure to find something to put under the tree! Meet the animals at the Ferme de la Bassette, along the Sentier des Chèvres.
Continue on to the enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Turckheim Christmas Market. Take your time and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the elves' Christmas market. Next, combining tradition and creativity, the Bergheim Christmas market will delight you with its warm and authentic atmosphere in the heart of the walled city. The charm of the city of Bergheim lies in its beautiful setting arranged around its medieval fortification, its winding alleys, and its old houses (winegrowers’ houses dating from the 15th to the 17th century). It is in a festive setting, between decorated houses, windows and fountains that Bergheim is adorned with a thousand lights and invites you to discover its Christmas market. This afternoon we will visit the Choco Story in Colmar. We will first take a tour of the museum and learn the history of chocolate followed by a demonstration and chocolate tasting including their famous hot chocolate with 6 different choices. Finally we will get creative and join a Christmas Workshop where we get to make a Chocolate Santa, Chocolate Lollipops and other treats to eat and take with us. This is a chocolate lovers dream! We then make our way back home before dinner. Dinner and Overnight Colmar. (B,D)

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Day 10 - December 21st - In Alsace, the end of the year has always given rise to some amazing winter rituals. The Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg brings these traditions to life with a look back at how decorations have changed over the centuries. Fir trees are decorated with apples and communion wafers, as in the Middle Ages, or with more modern blown glass balls. Wreaths and woodland creatures from the Celtic or Germanic traditions also take over the fortress. The pleasures of the table are not forgotten either, with an exhibition evoking festive tables from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Then we have a Christmas Tea Party and a visit to a nearby Wine Cellar. We will discover the estate and its history with a guided tour of the cellar, the old underground vats and the evolution of the estate in its 4th generation. Then, enjoy their Goûter Vigneron, in a charming room where we share a convivial moment of wine tasting and Christmas treats. In partnership with the village bakery, they offer typical regional products that may include: Bredeles (Alsatian cake), gingerbread, kougelhopf, foie gras, smoked salmon and chocolate. Once we are in Obernai yuu will of course want to take in the Christmas Market, where the gourmets go as a haven for foodies! In a fairytale setting, almost forty chalets take up residence in front of the Belfry for the greater delight of your taste buds. Here, expect nothing but delicious treats. And while tasting the spice bread, foie gras, bredele and Christmas beer, you’ll have the ideal opportunity to meet producers and craftspeople who will take great pleasure in sharing their passion and know-how. Whiffs of spice bread and wafts of mulled wine delicately fill the streets. And it has to be said, the real star of the Christmas market is that typical Obernai mulled wine - concocted with white wine and simmered to perfection in a huge cauldron. Its unique flavour is another essential element in the magic of a true Alsatian Christmas! Overnight Obernai. (B,L)

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Day 11 - December 22nd - This morning we discover the pretty imperial town of Kaysersberg, on the Alsace Wine Route, where you will be charmed by its authentic heritage! Kaysersberg surprises by the charm of the medieval sites around the Ste Croix church (Romanesque portal, a carved altarpiece: a masterpiece rarely equalled) and the fortified bridge dominated by the castle (remains of the former free city of the Décapole). Its strategic position reawakens the memory of the old Roman road which linked the Alsace to the Lorraine. Kaysersberg is considered one of the most charming cities in Alsace, with its paved streets and half-timbered houses. After you find some lunch we will visit Riquewihr, situated between the peaks of the Vosges mountains and the Plain of Alsace. This medieval town right in the heart of the Alsatian vineyards is classified among the Most Beautiful Villages in France. For centuries this magnificent town has managed to combine the quality of its architecture with the quality of its world-famous wines, from where it gets its nickname "The Gem of the Alsace Vineyards". It has managed to preserve its authentic character behind its city walls, which are now besieged only by the vines. we then return home to Obernai before making our way out again for dinner. Dinner and Overnight Obernai. (B,D)

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Day 12 - December 23rd - This morning we will be treated to a lovely epicurean moment with a complete presentation of the Cattin Family, Alsatian winegrowers for 300 years. This is followed by a private, guided tour of their cellars in order to better discover the secrets of the development of their Grands Crémants and Vins d'Alsace. Through this guided tour, we will visit the cellars as well as the modern vat room. Our guide will be at our service to answer all of our questions. Upon our return from the tour, we will have a delicious experience in their Belvedere, first enjoying a breathtaking view of the plain and the vineyards of Alsace. Finally, it is time to taste a panel of their best bottles and a delicious selection of artisanal products from Alsatian gastronomy. We then visit the Pearl of the vineyard, the wine-growing city of Dambach-la-Ville. It is as attractive for its picturesque and medieval charm as for the fame of the wines of its terroir, including the famous granite wines. It is said that the bear fountain, an emblematic animal of the city, evokes the history of the city and viticulture. In the past, driven by famine, a child ventures deep into the forest. There he discovers a bear feasting on large juicy berries. Conquered by the sweetness of the fruit, men hunt the animal and since then cultivate the vine of this beautiful sunny region. Its walled enclosure and three imposing door trimmers, its numerous wine-growers and half-timbered houses, its synagogue transformed into a cultural space, its grand Frankstein cru, its famous Labonal sock factory and the proximity of Bernstein Castle make it well worth visiting. Overnight Obernai. (B,L)

 

Day 13 - December 24th - Christmas Eve - It is just a short hop across the border into Germany and Baden-Baden, so as we make our way to our accommodation we will stop in Freiburg on the western edge of the Black Forest and situated close to the Rhine river in the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwest Germany. It boasts one of Germany's most beautiful Old Towns, so while here we will embrace the magic of the Christmas at will permeate the town! Freiburg's history, which dates back to the 11th century, is still apparent in the city’s historic buildings and picturesque narrow streets. The medieval Swabian Gate, the elaborate facades of the buildings and, of course, the Freiburg Cathedral strike an exciting contrast to the city’s modern, trail-blazing architecture. Our next stop is Gengenbach is located between woodland and vineyards at the entrance of the Kinzig Valley in the Ortenau region. The town hall in Gengenbach which has been a magical attraction during the Advent season for many years: with its 24 windows, it becomes the world's largest Advent calendar house! We will have lunch while we are here and then make our way to Baden-Baden to get checking into our accommodation to begin our wonderful Christmas Celebration. Her in Badebn-Baden Christmas is celebrated primarily on Christmas Eve with a Festive Christmas Eve Dinner. This evening we will have a 5 Course Festive Champagne Dinner Dinner and Overnight Baden-Baden. (B,L,D)

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Day 14 - December 25th - Christmas Day. Merry Christmas! First things first, so we will all want to see what Santa has left in our stockings! In Germany December 6th is Saint Nicholas Day as he is the Patron Saint of Children and credited with the very first Christmas Stockings, so Children in Germany generally get their stockings on this day and then open gifts on Christmas morning. I've had a word with Saint Nicholas however, and he has agreed to deliver Christmas Stockings to each of you on Christmas morning. It will be a very leisurely morning of seeing what Santa has brought you, indulging in a late breakfast, followed by exchanging gifts and then a Festive Sparkling Wine Afternoon High Tea for which the hotel is well known. Before tea, you may want to take a walk through town and take in all of the festive decoration. The Romans valued and used the hot springs in Baden-Baden, which became a fashionable spa, the 'Summer Capital of Europe', at the end of the 19th century. Baden-Baden is still highly regarded by locals and visitors; its thermal baths, culture, the magnificent countryside, the large number of villas of the rich and beautiful, luxury hotels as well as the Kurhaus and the casino exude the atmosphere of an international spa. Overnight Badeb-Baden. (B,L,D)

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Day 15 - December 26th - As we are not done celebrating yet, we will Celebrate Boxing Day visiting the Merker Mountain Funicular. The longest funicular railway in Germany is at Baden-Baden, and a popular destination for excursions. You can climb all the way to the highest point in Baden-Baden with its summit of the 2,191 feet, Merkur Mountain can be easily reached with Europe’s steepest, and most technically advanced, funicular railway. In little over 5 minutes, and after negotiating inclines of between 23% and 54%, and a difference in altitude of 1,214 feet, we will have reached our target. After some time to take in of the spectacular vistas we will return to the hotel for lunch. After lunch we visit Baden-Badener Weinhaus am Mauerberghe, a wine house in Baden-Baden that combines the flair and charm of the world heritage city with excellent wines from the Baden-Baden wine region. Enjoying life in Baden-Baden also means enjoying the excellent regional cuisine and the excellent local wines, so a dream day in the city definitely includes a personal Baden-Baden wine moment! We will be welcomed into the cellar for a tour with entertaining commentary. After an informative cellar tour, we will be introduced to three representative wines from the house. You will gain an insight into their classic grape varieties and the history of this Baden-Baden wine house. Farewell and Dinner Overnight Badeb-Baden. (B,LD).

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Day 16 - December 27th - This morning we make our way to an overnight accommodation at Frankfurt International Airport as the distance to the airport from Baden-Baden is about 3 hours. Our accommodation is within walking distance of terminal 1, so you can take a flight from the airport at the best time suited for you. (B)

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Day 17 - December 28th - Make your way to the airport for your flight home.

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