Explore Colditz and The Great Escape site with historian Guy Walters
DISCOVER the intimidating Colditz Castle and tour some of the great German cities – including historic Dresden – that were at the heart of Hitler’s Nazi state on this five-day Second World War excursion.
You’ll begin in the Polish town of Zagan to explore Stalag Luft III – a Luftwaffe-run PoW camp which held Allied air force personnel. It was immortalised in the 1963 epic The Great Escape, starring Steve McQueen. Historian and TV presenter Guy Walters will join you to reveal the real-life stories behind the film as well as show you around the camp and the escape routes taken by the PoWs.
On this escorted tour you will get to spend a day at Colditz Castle, too. The imposing Renaissance stronghold was converted into a high-security prison during the Second World War, and its history is a stirring example of the plight and pluck of the officers who were famed for their heroic break-out.
It’s hard to think of two more legendary locations associated with wartime heroism and inventiveness – and Guy will bring to life the incredible stories of the men who were held in these bleak camps.
‘I am really looking forward to returning to Colditz and Stalag Luft III,’ he says. ‘I cannot wait to see you there and I promise we’ll have a great time.
‘We shall not only immerse ourselves in the history, but also in fine food and drink – and great company!’
As well as talking about the exciting escape plots, this tour will also provide an opportunity
to reflect on just how tough life was for the prisoners who were trapped behind huge walls and barbed wire for many years.
Your trip will take you to Dresden
and its Museum of Military History, too, where you can deepen your knowledge of the defining conflict that shaped the modern world.
REASONS TO BOOK
Get insight from Guy Walters: The author and presenter will accompany you throughout your tour, drawing on his superb knowledge of the Second World War and the real-life stories of Colditz and The Great Escape. He’ll give exclusive talks and be on-hand to answer your questions on your trip.
Explore Colditz Castle: Building of the castle began in about 1158 and it served as a watchtower over the Zwickauer Mulde river in Saxony. After the outbreak of war, due to its location, the castle was repurposed as a high-security prison for dangerous or escape-prone officers.
On a fascinating guided tour you will see wartime tunnels as well as some ingenious escape equipment, including a home-made radio and false uniforms.
Discover the city of Dresden: In February 1945, British and US bombers dropped some 3,000 tons of explosives and incendiary devices on Dresden.
An area of more than 1,600 acres was largely destroyed in the 12th Century city by the three-day bombardment, but is today restored to its former glory.
You’ll visit the Museum of Military History and the Frauenkirche – a beautiful Lutheran church which was reconstructed in 2005.
Stay in comfort: Surrounded by beautiful grounds and a large vineyard, Wiechlice Palace offers en suite rooms with classic-design interiors, wooden furniture, free wi-fi and TVs. Located close to the city’s popular landmarks, the Holiday Inn Dresden is perfect later on in your stay, equipped with a gym, relaxing rooms and a restaurant.