Day 1: London to Liège
We depart St Pancras International on the morning Eurostar for Brussels, where we change for our onward train to Liège. Our hotel in Liège, the 3* Hotel Husa de la Couronne, is located beside the railway station and we check in for our three night stay.You have the rest of the day in this lovely town to spend at leisure.
Perhaps take a stroll through the Old Town centre, with its interesting mix of historic buildings, Art Deco architecture and prestigious museums, before continuing on to the New Town, home to most of the city’s bars and restaurants.
Day 2: Liège
Today, you have the opportunity to soak up the festive atmosphere and start your Christmas shopping. The beautiful town square and neighbouring Place du Marché stage a magical Christmas Village, which is a joy to explore. The market is the largest and oldest in Belgium and holds plenty of Christmas tradition and good cheer. More than 180 colourfully painted and brightly illuminated chalets and stalls offer all sorts of great gift ideas, including jewellery, handicrafts and toys, as well as a wide range of Christmas decorations and gastronomic goodies.
Of course, if you have a fondness for Belgian chocolate, you’ve come to the right place – there are stalls laden with chocolate in a multitude of flavours. Savour a glass of vin chaud, or the Belgian liqueur made from juniper berries - Peket. Those feeling more energetic can take a spin on the openair ice rink, or you can just enjoy the seasonal entertainment. (B)
Day 3:Valkenburg
Today we travel by rail across the Dutch border to Valkenburg. This enchanting little hill town is built around a romantic ruined castle and is famous for its unique and atmospheric Christmas Markets which are held in the ancient labyrinth of tunnels and caves which run underneath Valkenburg. The passageways, which are beautifully lit to give a magical feel, hold many wonderful ideas for seasonal gifts.You will receive a pass which includes direct entrance to both cave markets – the ‘Town Cave’ and the ‘Velvet Cave’, with its impressive mural carvings, inscriptions, and exceptional sculptures, reflecting the ancient and almost forgotten legends and memories of the city of Valkenburg.
Every year the caves are decorated to reflect a theme and as you wander through the grotto there are plenty of opportunities for shopping at the many stalls selling seasonal fare and Christmas gifts. Alternatively you may like to relax and soak up the atmosphere of the markets over a glass of mulled wine.We return to Liège in time for dinner. (B)
Day 4: Brussels to London
We check out this morning and board our train to Brussels, where we join our Eurostar to St Pancras International. (B)
Your hotel
Our accommodation for three nights in Liège is the 3* Hotel Husa de la Couronne, recently renovated and located just footsteps from the railway station. Its modern en suite bedrooms feature air conditioning, direct dial telephone, hairdryer, satellite television, free wi-fi internet and a safe.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.
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