Switch to fluid Switch to wfix Switch to fixed

Africa Getaways

We are here to get you there

Archive for the ‘EUROPE’ Category

ITALY by coach

Posted by Africa Getaways on Jul-7-2010

New Picture (1)

7 Nights / 8 Days Land Only – R 7 495 p/p sharing

• 3 Nights Rome + 2 Nights Florence + 2 Nights Venice
• VISIT : Rome, Assisi, Siena, Firenze, Bologna, Padova, Venice
• All Transport by Deluxe Coach
• Multilingual Tour Escort
• Accommodation in 3* Hotels
• Meals & Tours as per Itinerary
• @ R 7 495 p/p sharing in 3* Accommodation
• @ R 3 140 p/p sharing to Upgrade to 4* Accommodation
• Departs Rome every Saturday & Monday
• Valid till 31 October 2010

Call Stephanie to book this great ITALIAN Tour.  031 769 1305  info@africagetaways.co.za

DALMATIA ISLAND HOPPING AND BIKE ADVENTURE

Posted by Africa Getaways on May-4-2010

SPLIT – ŠOLTA – BRA? – HVAR – KOR?ULA – MLJET – PELJEŠAC & MAKARSKA – OMIŠ & SPLIT

Day 1 (Saturday) SPLIT -Solta Island (approx. 25 km / 15 miles of cycling) Solta

Check in up until 13.00 h in Split harbour. Our first destination is the island of Solta. Next to walled-in fields you can see olive groves, fig trees, and carob trees. The many lavender and rosemary plants give the island its spicy scent. In the evening you will ferry over to Brac Island and spend the night in the harbor of Milna, whose picturesque natural stone houses form the border of a deep bay.

Day 2 (Sunday) Brac Island (approx. 45 km / 28 miles of cycling)brac 2

This first stage begins with a long, but even climb to the crest of a hill, past mulberry and fig trees, pine forests, olive groves and vineyards. The famous Vugaca (white) and Murvica (red) come from this island. The white marble visible here was used for, among other things, the White House in Washington and the Reichstag building in Berlin. The breathtaking panoramic views of the neighbouring island of Hvar on the descent to the beach at Bol are well worth the effort of the ascent. In Bol one can see the Golden Horn, a sand spit whose point turns from one side to the other with the wind. After a break for swimming and a stroll through Bol, the ship heads for Hvar, the longest Adriatic island. It anchors for the night in Jelsa harbour.

Day 3 (Monday) Hvar Island (Jelsa – Hvar, approx 25 km)Hvar 2
The island of Hvar is above all famous for its multicoloured fields of rosemary and lavender. It is sometimes called the lavender island. Olives hang on the trees, and in Autumn the oranges shine in the sun. The clear blue sea contrasts beautifully with the ancient cities of Hvar. Hvar also receives more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in the Adriatic (2718 hours a year). This stage makes its way through the many small villages of the island with their picturesque stone houses. The tour stops at the historical city of Hvar. As well as the Cathedral the city contains many late Gothic palaces. There is an opportunity to visit the cathedral and the historical Theatre. In the evening the ships moves to the island of Kor?ula.

Day 4. (Tuesday) Korcula Island (approx. 45 km / 28 miles of cycling)Korcula2
The peaceful and secluded gardens of Cypress trees here make Korcula perhaps the most beautiful of the Adriatic islands. The tour travels to Blato, a city which like Rome was built on seven hills. We continue over a 300m / 980 ft high street to Smokvica, which along with Venice, proclaims to be the birthplace of Marco Polo. The destination is the medieval town of Korcula with its narrow winding streets. Here we spend the night on board the ship.

Day 5 (Wednesday) Mljet island National Park (approx. 20 km / 12 miles)
The island of Mljet is also known as Honey-Island. In the twelfth century Benedictine created a monastery here, beautifully secluded, and surrounded by pine and oak forests. Today this area is a National Park and the highpoint of any tour of Dalmatian. The pine forest here is one of the most spectacular in the Mediterranean region. On the bikes we tour around the saltwater-lake, in which there is actually another island. The ship brings you that evening to the Peljesac peninsula.

Day 6 (Thursday) Peljesac Peninsula – Makarska (approx. 30 km / 18 miles)mljet
Peljesac is certainly a peninsula, strictly speaking, but life here is very much like that on an island. In the morning the cycle-tour leads you into the backcountry and past the most famous wine growing area in Dalmatian (the delightful Dingac comes from here) and on to Orebic. On an idyllic day we cycle on until we get to a climb that brings us up to almost 1,000 ft above sea-level. From here you will enjoy a magnificent view to the neighbouring island Korcula. A downhill of almost 4 miles leads to Loviste, a small town in the north of the island, where lunch will be served on the ship. Our boat brings us to popular holiday resort Makarska on the base of the 5,500 ft high Biokovo mountain range. The rocks of that impressive mountain make the Makarska coast so impressive, since they reach right to the waterline.

Day 7 (Friday) Omis – Split Trogir (ca. 58 km / 36 miles)Omisomis1
Another bike tour on the mainland leads us from Omis along the valley of the Cetina river right underneath the Mosor mountains. We will pedal in landscapes with quickly changing characters while small and quiet roads lead us back to the important city of Split, where you can   make a  tour of the important Roman Diocletian-Palace. After a relaxed city walk in this world-wide unique historic town return on our boat.

Day 8 (Saturday)
After breakfast disembarkment.
 

NOTE – BIKE ROUTES have most days BREAKFAST and DINNER as HALF BOARD meals with possible exceptions on certain days (will be communicated by the guide during the cruise)

PLEASE NOTE: The Captain reserves the right to change the route due to weather and sea conditions or to ensure the boat stays on schedule. The boats have an onboard motor which is used for the majority of the time rather the sails.

DEPARTURES FOR THIS BIKE & BOAT ADVENTURE :
       25/09;   2/10;   9/10;  16/10  from  R7 500 pp sharing
       * Includes Bike rental for the whole week.

Compulsory surcharges, payable direct only:
• Visitor’s tax & port charges: EUR 16 (±R200 pps)
• Park entry fees (where appl): from EUR 10 (from ±R125, amount will depend on the park)
Other optional surcharges:
• Upgrade to Category A+ cabins (available on KL2 route): R1800 pp
• Drink supplement: R240 pp per week (incl. choice of 1 drink-glass of wine, 1 beer or 1 soft drink with lunch)
• English breakfast supplement*: R600 pp per week
• Full board supplement: R1320 pp per week (min 10 pax req)
• Captain’s dinner suppl: R375
*The continental breakfast in price of the cruise includes: coffee, tea, milk, glass of juice, cereal, bread, a variety of spreads- butter, honey, jam, soft cheese; every day there is an addition such as ham and cheese or hard boiled eggs, frankfurters, salami etc
The English breakfast supplement will then add 2 eggs, bacon, tomato and mushrooms, or fruit & yoghurt, or similar.Adriatic Queen

What’s onboard a Classic boat? 
  Travelling on a sometimes masted, rigged wooden sailing boat (with onboard motor power) with a range of facilities including dining area and plenty of deck space to enjoy the spectacular views and sea breeze, you’ll be in the company of like-minded travellers. Relax as you let the captain and his support crew look after your needs. An onboard cook prepares breakfast and lunch each day, whilst in the evening, we offer you the chance to explore dining options at our numerous ports of call.

Individual boat design varies slightly from craft to craft, but all sailing boats offer a range of cabin types (some top deck, some on main deck and some below), comfortably accommodating 2 persons or at a squeeze, 3. An exclusive feature of the classic boat is that all cabins offer – private en suite bathrooms. Additionally classic boats offer towels, plenty of hot water, board games and ample shaded and sun deck space to lounge about! Should you require a triple cabin, please contact us for further information and availability. As the cruise offers no guided sightseeing, it is entirely up to you how you enjoy each port of call. Relax or explore? The choice is yours!

Adriatic Queen deck  Adriatic Queen deck 2 Adriatic Queen 3   Adriatic Queen Cabins Adriatic Queen Cabins.jpg2

BIKE & BOAT TOUR CROATIA

Posted by Africa Getaways on May-4-2010

OPATIJA – CRES – LOŠINJ – DUGI OTOK – PAG – RAB – KRK – OPATIJA

Our cruises along the magnificent Adriatic coastline of Croatia have become legendary. ships
We have the perfect solution for the very energetic!
During the day you will explore the islands by bike, stopping for a swim every now and then, have some time to admire the lovely countryside and spending time in picturesque villages. 
Then it is time to meet up with the boat to transport you to the next scenic stop.
By night you’re free to explore the quaint ports, enjoying a drink at an outdoor restaurant!
Combining magnificent scenery, wonderful medieval towns and crystal clear water, this has to be the best value for money in Croatia!

ISLAND HOPPING – Kvarner Bay & Bike Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Opatija Cres Island, ca. 24 km BIKE AND BOAT

Make your own way to Opatija. Check in possible until 13.00 h after which the boat leaves for the island of Cres. During the approx. 2 hour journey you have an opportunity to get to know the ship and the crew. The island Cres is the second largest of the Kvarner islands. Our cycle tour begins in the historical town of Cres and goes on to the small village of Predoscica with its whitewashed church. We spend the night on board the ship in Cres harbour.

Day 2: Cres Island and Losinj, ca. 56 km

You cycle to the east side of the island through pine, fig and laurel trees to the picturesque village of Osor, by the freshwater Vraner Sea. Here we meet the boat and have lunch aboard, perhaps after a osorswim in the crystal clear water. You can also stroll through the village with its old buildings and beautiful sculptures from many different artists. In the afternoon you leave Osor and reach the island of Losinj by means of a turning bridge. You then proceed through panoramic surroundings to the old seafaring and health resort of Mali Losinj where the ship waits in the harbour. The harbour area contains numerous cafes and many colourfully painted house fronts. Here you can explore the streets of the old town, travel the 9km. further to the idyllic fishing village of Veli Losinj or visit one of the numerous swimming areas on the Cikat peninsula. The night is spent on Mali Losinj harbour.

Day 3: Dugi Otok Island, ca. 45 km

During breakfast the ship moves off and brings you past many small islands to the spice island of Dugi Otok. Our cycle tour starts at Bocava Bay, surrounded by pine forests and brings you along almost car-free roads. Along the way lies the village of Brbinj with a thick tower for a church, and where you can enjoy pancakes/crepes, fresh figs and espresso. You then continue to the fishing village of Sali where the ship awaits. Along the way you can enjoy the wonderful view of the sea and the surrounding islands. The ship then takes you to Telascica Nature Park.The ship anchors for the night in the largest natural harbour of the Adriatic islands, among uninhabited islands. After dinner on board you can enjoy the view of the 60m high cliffs on the west coast of the island.

Day 4: Pag Peninsula, ca. 15 kmisland-of-pag03

The day begins with a half-day long journey through the north of Kornati, a beautiful world of islands and ocean. Nowhere in the world is there a higher density of islands than this region, and astronauts say that the sea here is the most beautiful in the world. Perhaps this explains why there are so many dolphins in this particular area.
After stopping for a swim you reach a remote bay on the Pag peninsula, around which you spend the afternoon cycling. You can even find a farm where the islands Pag-Cheese is made, and where you can sample this delicacy. The night is spent in Mandre harbour.

Day 5: Pag Peninsula, ca. 32 km

Along this jagged but picturesque peninsula grow many fig and olive trees. Numerous stone walls stand here also, built over the centuries by the inhabitants for protection against the wind. Lunchtime is spent in Novalja. Afterwards you cycle along this always narrowing peninsula to the sea. The ship awaits to take you to Rab. The island of Rab is one of the sunniest spots in Europe, and is the main town of the same name dates from the middle ages and is probably the highpoint of the whole tour. This ancient fortified town with its four famous bell towers is situated on an arrow-shaped spit of land. There are many delightful cafés on its streets which should be visited after dinner.

Day 6: Rab Island, ca. 42 kmTelascica Nature Park

You can cycle today along the islands coast to its east side where virtually no vegetation grows. The bare rock of the area makes it look like an almost lunar landscape. The tour then brings you to a bay with a sandy beach, something rather untypical of the Kvarner islands. For lunch you are on board the ship, in the harbour, just off the old town of Rad. Afterwards you cycle on a lush green peninsula to the north of the island, and to Lopar where you meet the ship. After a break for a relaxing swim you travel to the neighbouring island of Krk, where you spend the night in the town of the same name.

Day 7: Krk Island, ca. 36 km                                                                                                                                                                                      

You cycle over the ridge of the island to a valley of vineyards and then onwards to the small museum town of Vrbnik in the northeast. Built on a 50m high cliff and surrounded by vineyards, Vrbnik is the home of the golden Zlahtina wines. These should definitely be tried after a stroll through the narrow streets and a visit to the ancient glagolitic stone writings. In Vrbnik also you will see the narrowest street in the world. Can you actually go through it? Then the journey leads over the island to Malinska through chestnut and fig trees. Here you can once more enjoy a relaxing peaceful swim before the ship takes you overnight towards OpatijaKvarner_Bay_Biking

Day 8: Opatija

Breakfast at 9.00 am and then disembarkation to make your own way home.

 What’s onboard a Classic boat?
  Travelling on a sometimes masted, rigged wooden sailing boat (with onboard motor power) with a range of facilities including dining area and plenty of deck space to enjoy the spectacular views and sea breeze, you’ll be in the company of like-minded travellers. Relax as you let the captain and his support crew look after your needs. An onboard cook prepares breakfast and lunch each day, whilst in the evening, we offer you the chance to explore dining options at our numerous ports of call.

Individual boat design varies slightly from craft to craft, but all sailing boats offer a range of cabin types (some top deck, some on main deck and some below), comfortably accommodating 2 persons or at a squeeze, 3. An exclusive feature of the classic boat is that all cabins offer – private en suite bathrooms. Additionally classic boats offer towels, plenty of hot water, board games and ample shaded and sun deck space to lounge about! Should you require a triple cabin, please contact us for further information and availability. As the cruise offers no guided sightseeing, it is entirely up to you how you enjoy each port of call. Relax or explore? The choice is yours!

Adriatic Queen  Adriatic Queen Cabins  Adriatic Queen dining area  Adriatic Queen deck 2  Adriatic Queen deck

DEPARTURES FOR THIS TOUR IS ON SATURDAYS.

       DEPARTURE DATES 2010:   25/09;   2/10;   9/10;   16/10     from  R 6 900 pp sharing  

       * this includes bike rental for the whole week.

INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE NOT INCLUDED  -  AFRICA GETAWAYS WILL ASSIST WITH BOOKING OF AIRFARES.

Compulsory surcharges, payable direct only:
• Visitor’s tax & port charges: EUR 16 (±R200 pps)
• Park entry fees (where appl): from EUR 10 (from ±R125, amount will depend on the park)
Other optional surcharges:
• Upgrade to Category A+ cabins (available on KL2 route): R1800 pp
• Drink supplement: R240 pp per week (incl. choice of 1 drink-glass of wine, 1 beer or 1 soft drink with lunch)
• English breakfast supplement*: R600 pp per week
• Full board supplement: R1320 pp per week (min 10 pax req)
• Captain’s dinner suppl: R375
*The continental breakfast in price of the cruise includes: coffee, tea, milk, glass of juice, cereal, bread, a variety of spreads- butter, honey, jam, soft cheese; every day there is an addition such as ham and cheese or hard boiled eggs, frankfurters, salami etc
The English breakfast supplement will then add 2 eggs, bacon, tomato and mushrooms, or fruit & yoghurt, or similar.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR AN ACCURATE QUOTATION ON THIS AMAZING CYCLING TOUR CALL STEPHANIE 031 769 1305

COLOURS OF SPAIN

Posted by Africa Getaways on Dec-13-2009

COLOURS OF SPAINmap-spain

Duration: 9 Days/8 Nights
Visit: MADRID -SEVILLE -CORDOBA GRANADA – COSTA DEL SOL
Departure:  July 4,11,18,25, August 1,8,15,22,29 ; Sep 5,12,19,26 Oct 3,10,17,24; Nov 7,21; Dec 5,19

Day 01: Saturday: Madrid
Arrival at Madrid airport. After clearing simple immigration and customs formalities, you will be transferred to your hotel. It is suggested you take advantage of the free time to get to know one of Europe’s most dynamic capital cities. In the early evening, enjoy an “Illuminated Madrid” drive through the bustling streets of the old city, ending at the historical and impressive Plaza Mayor. This area is home to some of the most typical restaurants and taverns, which serve the delicious “tapas”. PREMIUM PACKAGE includes a Tapas Dinner tonight. Return to your hotel at your own convenience. Overnight in Madrid.

Day 02: MadridMadrid
Buffet breakfast. This morning’s escorted sightseeing tour will allow you to get a glimpse of some of Madrid’s most outstanding attractions, like the Puerta del Sol, the magnificent fountains of Neptune and Cibeles, the stately Alcala Gate, the busy Gran Via, the Plaza de España and the Plaza de Oriente. Free time for lunch on your own. PREMIUM PACKAGE includes a typical Lunch today. Highly recommended this afternoon, is an optional tour to the Imperial former capital city of Toledo, where you will be escorted through its narrow cobblestone streets, soaking up the medieval atmosphere. Touring will include the interior of the magnificent Gothic cathedral and a visit to St. Tome Church, where El Greco’s masterpiece painting is displayed. There will also be some time for shopping for the unique typical local artisanry. PREMIUM PACKAGE includes the Tour to Toledo. Return to Overnight in Madrid.

Day 03: Madrid – Merida – Seville
Buffet breakfast. Depart through the once-remote region of Extremadura, home to many of the “conquistadors”. Arrive in ancient Merida. Free time for lunch. (Paella Luncheon included in PREMIUM PACKAGE.) In the afternoon, visit the impressive Roman amphitheatre archeological site before continuing to Seville. Overnight in Seville.seville-city

Day 04: Seville
Buffet breakfast. This morning’s marvelous tour will explore this gracious and charming city, Spain’s third largest. See the Tower of Gold, the tranquil and extensive Maria Luisa Park, the quaint Santa Cruz Quarter, and finally the huge cathedral (one of the world’s largest) with its Giralda Tower (a former minaret). Free time for lunch on your own. PREMIUM PACKAGE includes luncheon today. The afternoon is free to continue to explore or shop. This evening an optional Flamenco Show is suggested, with the enjoyment of local wine. PREMIUM PACKAGE include Flamenco Show and drink. Overnight in Seville.

Day 05: Seville – Cordoba – Granada
Buffet breakfast. Depart to Cordoba. Visit one of the world’s marvels, the former Great Mosque (now a cathedral). Free time for lunch on your own. Continue to Granada, passing thousands of acres of olive groves. PREMIUM PACKAGE includes dinner tonight. This evening, an excellent suggestion would be to visit (optional) the quaint and typical Albaicin quarter, where Andalusian customs, music and wine join to create an enchanting atmosphere. (PREMIUM PACKAGE includes this visit). Overnight in Granada.

Day 06: Granada – Costa Del Solcordoba-ruins
Buffet breakfast. This morning, enjoy an escorted tour of the magnificent Alhambra and the verdant Gardens of the Generalife. Departure to the world-famous resort area of the Costa del Sol. Overnight in Costa del Sol.

Day 07 & 08: Costa Del Sol
Buffet breakfast. Free days to enjoy this vacationer’s paradise. Overnight in Costa del Sol.

Day 09: En Route
Buffet breakfast. Transfer to Malaga Airport where your tour ends.

Tour includes:
Transfers airport-hotel-airportcosta_del_sol_beach
Accommodations in First Class hotels
Bountiful buffet breakfast daily
Deluxe air-conditioned motor coach transportation
Professional tour escort throughout (bilingual English/Spanish)
Escorted sightseeing tours with bilingual guide in Madrid, Granada, and Seville
Evening Illuminations tour of Madrid
Baggage handling at hotels
Travel bag

Optional PREMIUM PACKAGE includes:
“Tapas” dinner in Madrid
Typical lunch in Madrid
Tour to Toledo
Paella Lunch in Merida
Lunch in Seville
Dinner in Granada

REF# 30/03/10 AZT SPAIN    -  PLEASE CONTACT STEPHANIE FOR A QUOTATION ON THIS TOUR. info@africagetaways.co.za