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The Magic of the Italian Lakes
8 DAYS FROM £670

This holiday has departures available between: 26th Apr 2009 to 4th Oct 2009
665 Brian and Carole Parsons UK We have recently returned from this holiday which we thoroughly enjoyed.

The tour manager (Katerina) was excellent in her organisation and knowledge and her very clear communication. We felt that the tour was very well planned and all the timings perfect.

The optional excursions were all well worth doing and the included ones were all memorable and well thought out. It was a very varied itinerary and the inclusion of Venice and Switzerland were added bonuses.

The second week at the Hotel Sole at Riva was excellent. We were picked up from the Bristol Hotel by private Taxi at 10am and driven to the door of the Sole. Our room was ready for us - and arguably the best in the hotel with a balcony and views of the lake which exceeded all expectation .

We were surprised and delighted to receive complimentary champagne and a basket of fruit which were delivered to our room shortly after our arrival. Everything about this hotel was first class - the room, the service, the food and the staff .

We have had many holidays abroad and this one proved to be among the most enjoyable. We will certainly book another holiday with you in the future.
yes 1 parsons-Magic-Italian-Lakes-1.JPG parsons-Magic-Italian-Lakes-1_TN.JPG This picture was taken from the balcony of our room at Hotel Sole Riva 292 178
665 D Humphrys Leicester We certainly did have the most enjoyable holiday … the first week touring the Italian Lakes and the second week relaxing in Garda town. no 1 665 Dr G. T. Bell Renfrewshire My wife and I have been on eight Archers/Cosmos holidays and we have just signed up for the ninth. And I expect there will be many more. We endlessly chat about hot good they have all been and we can never agree about what was best or even about what was the best things we have seen - it is a very good-natured argument.

My own favourites have been Alhambra, Canada, the Mezquita at Cordoba and the awesome Neuschwanstein Castle while my wife simply loved Isola Bella on Lake Maggiore, the magical island of Capri, and the Tuscan countryside. What we can agree, however, is that every holiday has been terrific - we have seen wonderful things and been to great places. We also have had excellent tour directors and our fellow travelling companions have all been great company - every holiday has been a winner, only personal preference provokes discussion. As soon as the new Archers brochure comes out it is avidly studied - it is my favourite book! We are looking forward to more travels in 2007.

Thanks to all at Archers for some truly wonderful holidays.
no 1

A wonderful tour which combines the truly stunning scenery and old-world charm of Italy's premier lakes, with visits to two historic cities.

Included Highlights

Venice Canal boat ride
Zermatt Full day excursion including Alpine train Visp - Zermatt - Visp
Lugano Visit
Bellagio Boat trip
Lake Garda Scenic drive and visit Sirmione
Verona Juliet's balcony

Included in the Price

Flights: UK - Venice - UK
Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities
Meals on tour 7 breakfasts (B) and 5 dinners (D)
Professional tour director on tour and local representative in resort
Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person)
Transfers between overseas airport and hotels
All local and airport taxes/service charges
Single share option (on tour only) no supplement to pay

Holiday Itinerary

DAY 1: UK - Venice - Venice area.
Fly to Venice where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the Venice area for an overnight stay. (D)

DAY 2: Venice area - Lake Maggiore.
This morning enjoy the included canal boat ride to the heart of Venice. You may also like to choose to join our optional city sightseeing with local guide and a typical Venetian glass-blowing demonstration. This afternoon we travel towards the shores of Lake Maggiore for three nights. (B, D)

DAY 3: Lake Maggiore. Included excursion to Zermatt.
There's a chance to experience the breathtaking majesty of the mighty Matterhorn as we take you on a full day included excursion to the famous Swiss mountain resort of Zermatt, a car-free zone steeped in old-fashioned charm. An added bonus is the included ride on the scenic Visp - Zermatt Alpine train. (B)

DAY 4: Lake Maggiore.
Set between Piedmont and Lombardy, Lake Maggiore is a paradise of crystal waters, backed by towering mountains and surrounded by lush countryside. The day is yours to relax or enjoy some of the many activities available in the Lake Maggiore area, including boating, walking and shopping. Why not join our optional boat trip to the Borromean islands of Pescatori and Isola Bella, exquisite jewels set in the centre of the azure lake? Along the way, you can enjoy marvellous views of the lake and the mountains beyond. And there's also time to visit the extravagant Borromeo Palace, built like a ship anchored just off the shoreline. (B)

DAY 5: Lake Maggiore - Lugano - Lake Como.
Three picturesque lakes are on the agenda today as we leave the southern part of Lake Maggiore and cross the border into Switzerland, heading for beautiful Lake Lugano and the stylish city which also bears its name. We then cross back into Italy and drive to the shores of Lake Como for a two-night stay. (B, D)

DAY 6: Lake Como. Included excursion to Bellagio.
Inspiring everyone from Roman senators to great composers, Como is the romantic image of the lakes, its cobalt blue waters lined with magnificent mountains, lush gardens and grand villas. Today you are free to relax and get to know the area. From Cadenabbia's attractive waterside promenade you can take steamer trips on the lake, and included in your holiday is a short cruise to Bellagio, which occupies one of the most scenic positions in all Italy. (B, D)

DAY 7: Lake Como - Sirmione - Verona - Lake Garda area.
We pay a visit to Sirmione, a picturesque spa town on the shores of Lake Garda, with typical narrow cobbled streets and many shops and ice cream parlours. Continue to the lovely, historic city of Verona for a stop to see Juliet's balcony. This delightful medieval city is in a beautiful mountain-backed setting on the winding River Adige. Continue to Lake Garda for overnight. (B, D)

DAY 8: Lake Garda area - Venice - UK.
Transfer to Venice airport for your flight to the UK. (B)

Check prices and availability for this holiday

Accommodation on Tour

Venice area: Palladio at Malcontenta (3*) or Poppi at Mira (4*); Lake Maggiore: Villa Azalea at Baveno (3*) or Miralago at Verbania (3*); Lake Como: Lario at Mezzegra (3*) or Como at Como (4*); Lake Garda: Royal at Riva (3*).

Platinum Tourer

The ultimate in comfort travel, why not choose to upgrade to our Platinum Tourer Coach?
The Platinum Tourer is offered on the following dates 28 Jun, 12, 26 Jul, 9, 23 Aug & 6 Sept. Enjoy the benefits of a coach specifically designed for luxury touring.

Holiday Extensions

  • Add Eastern Mediterranean Cruise - 7 extra nights from £490

    Why not extend your stay with 7 nights on the spectacular Eastern Mediterranean cruise. The cruise ship MSC Musica, will take you on the trip of a lifetime. On day 8 ( Sun) of your tour you will be transferred to the MSC Musica at Venice's port for a week's cruise before returning to Venice for your flight home.

  • Add a week in Lake Garda - 7 Extra nights from £234

    After your tour why not add a 7 night stay by beautiful Lake Garda. Choose from any of the hotels in Lake Garda. If the price for the combination of your choice is not shown on this page, please ask your reservations advisor for details.
    On day 8 (Sun) of your holiday you will be transferred to the hotel of your choice in Lake Garda for a week's stay before returning to Venice for your flight home.

  • Add a week in Lido di Jesolo - 7 Extra nights from £150

    After your tour why not add a 7 night stay beside the beach in Lido di Jesolo. Choose from any of the hotels in Lido di Jesolo. If the price for the combination of your choice is not shown on this page, please ask your reservations advisor for details.
    On day 8 (Sun) of your holiday you will be transferred to the hotel of your choice in Lido di Jesolo for a week's stay before returning to Venice for your flight home.

Accommodation on Extensions

Add Eastern Mediterranean Cruise - 7 extra nights from £490

  • MSC Musica DiamondDiamondDiamondDiamond

    Your cruise ship, the Italian owned MSC Musica, was built specifically for MSC Cruises and launched in June 2006. This elegant ship has been designed with unmistakeable Italian style décor, fully equipped with the highest quality materials and luxurious amenities to guarantee you cruise in comfort. On board, you will find a long-standing dedication to hospitality and service, in a warm and friendly environment.

    Public Rooms & Facilities
    Sun deck; 2 swimming pools; 9 bars; 2 poolside bars; theatre; shopping gallery; fitness centre; spa area; hairdresser; beauty centre; foreign exchange; laundry service; library and internet café.
    Dining
    Your cruise includes full board. There are 4 restaurants on board, serving the finest international cuisine with a number of Italian speciality choices as well. Main dining is in two restaurants, however, in addition there is 1 cafeteria and 1 à la carte restaurant.
    Cabins
    All cabins have twin or double beds; some cabins may have upper bunks for additional travelling companions; air-conditioning/heating; TV; telephone; radio; minibar; safe; shower and wc. Your holiday price includes a category 2 inside cabin or you may choose to upgrade.
    Options/Upgrades
    Cabin Categories & Descriptions
    2 Twin/double inside lower deck cabin
    3 Twin/double inside upper deck cabin
    4 Twin/double outside lower deck cabin
    6 Twin/double outside lower deck cabin with balcony
    11 Twin/double outside upper deck cabin with balcony
    Tipping
    It is customary to tip staff on board that give a personal service. In order to help, a sum of approximately 9 euros per person will be added as a fixed amount to your cashless account on a daily basis. This gratuity will be shared amongst the staff. This is of course discretionary and should you wish to make adjustments, you may do so by contacting the guest reception desk at any point during your cruise.

Add a week in Lake Garda - 7 Extra nights from £234

  • Astoria DiamondDiamondDiamond

    A friendly welcome awaits you at this relaxing family-run hotel, where you can enjoy beautiful views over the lake from the bar and terrace.

    Location: Situated across the road from a pebble beach; shops, bars and restaurants are 3 kilometres away in the resort centre.
    Facilities: Swimming pool surrounded by gardens with free sunbeds and parasols; pool bar (Jun-Sep); restaurant; lounge bar serving snacks, with TV area; bicycle hire; lift; safety deposit box in bedrooms.
    Price includes: Half board in a twin room with shower and wc; hairdryer; TV with English channels; balcony.
    Options: Single room.
    Official category: 3 star.
    Special offers: Free use of bicycles when available; complimentary bottle of sparkling wine for all bookings made before 15 March 2009.

  • Savoy Palace DiamondDiamondDiamondDiamond

    A popular modern hotel with a sense of spaciousness set in a tranquil location surrounded by bright and colourful gardens. Only a stone's throw away from the lake and promenade into the centre of Riva.

    Location: 150 metres from a shingle beach and 1 kilometre from the centre of Riva.
    Facilities: New swimming pool with free sunbeds, parasols and pool towels; hydromassage pool; heated indoor pool and sauna; pool bar (mid Jun to Sep); spacious restaurant with show cooking breakfast and 4 course evening meals with choice of menu and salad buffet; modern lounge area serving snacks and a wide selection of cocktails; bicycle hire (subject to availability); lifts; twice a week gala dinners; live music and dancing 6 times a week; happy hour 5-6pm.
    Price includes: Half board in a twin room with shower and wc; hairdryer; air-conditioning (15 Jun-15 Sep); safety deposit box (refundable deposit); satellite TV; balcony; minibar.
    Options: Sole occupancy.
    Official category: 4 star.
    Special offers: Complimentary 1/4 litre wine and 1/2 litre mineral water with evening meal; tea/coffee and biscuits from 4-5pm; free use of bicycles when available.

  • Splendid Palace DiamondDiamondDiamondDiamond

    Located in an idyllic setting amidst old lemon groves with spectacular views over Limone and across the lake to Malcesine.

    Location: Situated 300 metres up the hill from Limone village centre.
    Facilities: Two swimming pools with free sunbeds and parasols, one overlooking the lake and one close to the lake, indoor pool with whirlpool and sauna; pool bar; restaurant; sun terrace with bar service; lounge bar; TV area; lifts; live music weekly; safety deposit box in bedrooms.
    Price includes: Half board in a twin room with shower and wc; balcony; lake view; air-conditioning (Jun-Aug); TV; telephone.
    Options: Single room with balcony and lake view; junior suite with jacuzzi.
    Official category: 4 star.
    Special offers: A choice of local wine, beer or soft drinks, all on draught, included during dinner; complimentary afternoon tea or coffee and biscuits (from 4-5pm); candlelit Gala dinner and live music once a week; complimentary bottle of sparkling wine for all bookings made before 28 February 2009.

Add a week in Lido di Jesolo - 7 Extra nights from £150

  • Kennedy DiamondDiamondDiamond

    A pleasant and friendly hotel on the main shopping street very close to the beach, makes this an excellent choice for your holiday base.

    Location: The sandy beach is only 50 metres away; a selection of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants are just outside the hotel which itself is situated close to Piazza Milano, at the quieter end of the resort.
    Facilities: Swimming pool with sunbeds and parasols; private beach with free deck chairs and parasols; restaurant; terrace snack bar; lounge bar with satellite TV; lift; satellite TV, safety deposit box and air-conditioning (charge) in bedrooms.
    Price includes: Half board in a twin room with shower and wc and balcony.
    Options: Side sea view.
    Official category: 3 star.

  • Cambridge DiamondDiamondDiamondDiamond

    With an excellent location on the seafront, the Cambridge is a stylish hotel with a friendly atmosphere.

    Location: Set on the golden-sandy beach of Jesolo, 5 minutes walk from the Piazza Mazzini.
    Facilities: Swimming pool with small whirlpool; sunbeds for hire and parasols; private section of beach with free chairs and parasols; restaurants; pool bar; snack bar by the terrace; lifts; Gala night and live music (Saturday in high season); fridge and safety deposit box in bedrooms.
    Price includes: Half board in a twin room with shower and wc; balcony; side sea view; air-conditioning (Jun-Aug); hairdryer and satellite TV.
    Options: Single room (on request); full board.
    Official category: 4 star.

  • Principe Palace DiamondDiamondDiamondDiamond

    A family run hotel with excellent standards of accommodation and service. The rooftop pool offers great views to the sea and across the resort.

    Location: Facing the Piazza Mazzini with an abundance of cafés, shops and restaurants right outside; 150 metres from the beach.
    Facilities: Rooftop swimming pool with free sunbeds and parasols; pool bar; private section of beach; restaurant; lounge bar; table tennis; lifts; 18-hole golf course nearby (20% discount); occasional evening entertainment in high season; fridge and safety deposit box in bedrooms.
    Price includes: Half board in a twin room with shower and wc; balcony; satellite TV; air-conditioning (Jun-Sep); hairdryer.
    Options: Single room (on request).
    Official category: 4 star.

Holiday Review: ,
The Magic of the Italian Lakes
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