The Harz Mountains
Explore the Harz Mountains, the highest range in northern Germany. Travel by train on the Brocken and Selketal Railways for scenic journeys through the spruce woodland and narrow valleys that characterise this beautiful region.
Itinerary (for full details visit www.raildiscoveries.com/HZS)
Day 1 To Braunlage Leave London on the Eurostar to Brussels, and change for the onward service via Cologne to Hanover. A coach transfer then takes you to Braunlage for a six-night stay at the Maritim Braunlage.
Day 2 Goslar Discover the historic city of Goslar on a coach excursion to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. On arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour of the city, which is home to 1,500 buildings from the 15th to the 19th centuries. After the tour, you have some free time to continue exploring at leisure. Perhaps take in the magnificent Imperial Palace, dating back to the 11th century.
Day 3 At leisure in Braunlage Today you are free to explore the scenic mountain resort of Braunlage at your own pace. Perhaps take one of the pleasant walks that start in the town.
Day 4 Brocken Railway Today enjoy a steam-hauled train trip from Wernigerode, on the Brocken Railway. First opened in 1898, the narrow-gauge line was only open to the military during the Cold War, but re-opened to the public in 1991. The route takes you through the stunning scenery of the Upper Harz National Park to the peak of Brocken, the Harz region’s highest mountain. The views from the summit are stunning.
Day 5 Selketal Railway Your excursion today is to the beautifully preserved town of Quedlinburg, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, with hundreds of delightful half-timbered buildings. A delight to explore, here you have time to wander through the centre and perhaps visit the hilltop Collegiate Church, or the spectacular 10th century castle. Later, enjoy a journey on the Selketal Railway through more striking backdrops of the Harz Mountains.
Day 6 At leisure Enjoy another day at leisure in delightful Braunlage. Relax using the hotel’s facilities or maybe take a stroll along one of the nearby scenic walking routes.
Day 7 Hanover and home Take a coach to Hanover and join the train via Cologne to Brussels. Here you connect with the Eurostar service back to St. Pancras International in London.