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March 17, 2017July 14, 2023

Paul Reed: Exploring the Secret Wehrmacht Bunker

Getting prepared for new battlefield experiences is all part of the work Battlefield Guides carry out in readiness for the tours we do for Leger Holidays.

When there are new tours we always go out on a Battlefield Recce to check the fine details and make sure it all runs smoothly for when we have the groups with us. It’s all part of the professionalism with which we all approach how we operate Leger Battlefield Tours.
I was recently in Germany on such a Battlefield Recce with fellow Battlefield Guides David McCormack and Bill McQuade for the new Peenemunde, Baltic Coast and Berlin tour, which has its first departures this summer. This promises to be an excellent tour looking at different aspects of Third Reich history from the ‘Strength through Joy’ site at Prora to the development of secret weapons at Peenemunde, which will include for the first time having access to the actual rocket test stands and launch sites.

However, one of the highlights of this Recce was our visit to Zossen-Wünsdorf to the site of Oberkommando der Wehrmacht: the Headquarters of the German Wehrmacht. The Wehrmacht wasn’t just the German Army: it was the overall governing body of the Army (Heer), Airforce (Luftwaffe) and Navy (Kriegsmarine). All of these had personnel at Zossen in a massive series of underground bunkers and tunnels.
While some wartime planning was done here, it was in essence the wartime communications hub of the Wehrmacht, a site once buzzing with the orders, commands and information relating to every key battle in the war from Poland to Stalingrad to the final battles.

Zossen-Wünsdorf is a ‘book village’ where there are a large number of second-hand bookshops, and we started our tour there with the group that runs the bunker site. Our guide took us in through the main gate, dating from Cold War days, but which immediately put us into the heart of the above ground bunkers.
These all resemble houses as they were used to disguise the site as a residential area; in reality they were the way into the underground structures used by the various branches of the Wehrmacht. Some had been damaged in bombing but most had been blown by the Russians. They stand as decaying monuments to the failure of the Thousand Year Reich.

Cold War entrance door at Zossen-Wünsdorf

From here we went through the woods to the entrance of the main underground section. Initially we went through some Cold War period doors, which were amazing in their own right, and then into what was the entrance area during WW2.
It was very wide and when we questioned this, it was so that small vehicles such as Kubelwagens could drive in and enter the lift to take them to the lower levels. It was at this point we began to get an idea as to how big this site was!
From here we made our way through the tunnels, rooms and corridors. Because of occupation as a Soviet Airmobile Headquarters during the Cold War, the site is in very good condition and easy to access: it is fully lit and there are easily manageable stairs. No crawling through tunnels or roping down holes! Health and safety on these visits is something we do have to think about as Battlefield Guides!

As we made our way through the bunker site we got some sense of the importance of it and also the scale, and just how modern it was. Having an integrated internal messaging system, it had the WW2 equivalent of email whereby everyone in the complex could message others through a message pod system powered by compressed air! Anyone in the complex could speak to any headquarters on any battlefield.
As you walk the corridors you just wonder what it must have been like when the surrender at Stalingrad came through or when it was clear the fronts in both East and West were collapsing.

Coming back outside from the Wehrmacht Bunker we realised we had been underground for well over an hour, seeing a site not normally open to the public because of the safety issues and which we know will fascinate those who travel with us on this new tour that focuses on many areas of WW2 history we have not been able to discuss in such depth before.

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Paul Reed, our Head Battlefield Guide, will publish regular blogs including personal stories, new tour updates and plenty of interesting and factual information about the Battlefields of Europe and beyond. Sign up below and receive email alerts keeping you up to date with Paul’s blogs.

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March 13, 2017July 14, 2023

Best live events to catch in 2017

With some of the best live events of 2017 in our programme, if you’re looking for a trip with a little more than just stunning scenery, we’ve got you covered.

From high-speed action at the famous European F1 circuits, to the classical concerts of Andre Rieu and Andrea Bocelli and the grand finale of the Tour de France. We’ve got something for everyone looking for a live experience that will stay in your memories for a lifetime. But don’t just take our word for it, take a look at what to expect from the best live events of 2017, and see what takes your fancy…

Formula 1

After a Mercedes dominated season – which saw the now retired, Nico Rosberg finally beat Lewis to become the 2016 world champion – what can we expect from the 68^th round of the sport?
With twenty races on the calendar this year, new regulations being introduced and new owners- Liberty Media, following Bernie Ecclestone’s departure after forty years running the sport- we’re sure to be in for a thrill.
New Year, new start, new regulations, yes, yet again we see major car updates coming into play. In 2017 the cars look a lot meaner, thanks to the wider tyres and revised bodywork. They’re also expected to be a lot faster, with teams hoping to take up to five seconds off their current lap times!
As well as regulation changes, there has also been a stir in the driver line ups. After an extremely extended ‘silly season’, which saw Nico Rosberg retire mere days after winning his first, and, well, only, championship, we were all left to wonder who would join his team mate Lewis at the mighty Mercedes.
With the likes of Fernando Alonso and Pascal Werhlien being rumoured to secure the seat, Toto Wolf and his team decided that the Finish driver, Voltari Bottas was the man for the job.
We also have some new-comers entering the sport, such as the likes of Stoffel Vandoorne, former GP2 champion, replacing the now retired Jenson Button at McLaren. And, with drivers like Max Verstappen already being one to watch, along with the uncertainty of how teams such as Ferrari and Red Bull will fare with the new car updates, we’re in for some ‘edge of the seat’ excitement and brilliant on track battles.
Will we see a shake up on the grid and will the Silver Arrows finally be thrown from the top spot? Although, at the moment, it’s a difficult question to answer, if the results of the pre-season testing are anything to go by, Ferrari certainly look like the team to watch, with Williams and Red Bull not far behind.
Wanting to see how the season will play out? Why not join us on one of our European F1 tours, and witness the on track action first hand.

Andre Rieu

The King of Waltz has inspired a generation with his beautiful music, but it’s his sheer love for his fans and his adoration for what he does that draws people in their millions to concert halls and arenas, all over the world.
Best known for creating the waltz-playing, Johann Strauss Orchestra, his early fascination with orchestra began at the tender age of five, when he first started playing the Violin. From then on he followed his love of music through school, studying under the likes of Herman Krebbers. But it wasn’t until university that he decided to pursue the waltz, and boy are we glad he did!
Forming in 1987, it’s no wonder that the Johann Strauss Orchestra’s range of work is astounding. And, over the years they have turned classical and waltz music into a worldwide concert touring act.
Providing fans with an evening of spectacular showbiz, humor and audience interaction, Rieu’s ability to speak six different languages allows him to tap into the local feel of the place that he is performing so that each and every concert has an intimate feel, which you would struggle to find anywhere else!
So, if you’re looking for an evening filled with beautiful music and utter and sheer joy, then you do not want to miss out on one of Andre’s concerts. With Vienna on our programme for 2017, enjoy an evening with the King of Waltz, on one of our fully escorted tours.

Moto GP

After an exhilarating 2016, with a total of nine different race winners, fans from all over the world have been left wondering just how the 2017 season is going to play out.
With over half of the twenty-three drivers starting the season in new teams, we’re ready to see familiar faces in new places. With Lorenzo’s move to Ducati meaning that he and his two main rivals, Marquez and Rossi, will all be riding for three different manufacturers, we’re sure this season will make for an exciting watch.
Over the last three years, Marquez, Rossi and Lorenzo have finished first, second or third in the championship, albeit, not always in the same order. But, it wouldn’t be a surprise for any of us if the trio were to pull it off again this year. It’s certainly no guarantee that Marquez will be able to retain the championship that he regained last season, but, with such a strong field, we couldn’t possibly guess who will come out on top this season.
One thing we can say, with the preseason testing already underway, Rossi’s team mate Maverick Viñales, certainly looks like one to watch this year, posting some of the fastest times in testing at the moment. Rumoured to be the next big thing in Moto GP, he was a rookie in the Moto GP class last year with Suzuki, and could potentially be a threat to the triumphant trio.
New to our program this year, we are offering guests the opportunity to join the action at Assen, on our first, fully escorted, Motogp weekend break.
Redesigned in 2003 to comply with safety regulations, the original Assen track was built in 1955 (not including the road circuit that was first used to host racing in 1925), and had a length of 7705 metres. Part of the redesign involved shortening the track, which now has a length of 4555 metres, extending gravel traps and adding in a mixture of flat out and slow corners to make the racing more varied and exciting. However, there is one part of the original track which remains unchanged, and since it was first built, the location of the finish line has remained in exactly the same spot.

Andrea Bocelli

Registered blind after a footballing incident aged just twelve, there was no stopping Bocelli, who was already a confident musician. Having learnt how to play the piano, saxophone, trumpet and guitar, to name a few, the Italian is also blessed with a tone that is versatile and powerful, and which ultimately led to his big break in 1992.
This came after a tape of him singing, fell into the hands of arguably one of the most popular classical artists in history, the one and only, Pavarotti. They went onto perform a duet together, which led to Bocelli becoming a household name throughout Europe, and then the world.
Since his initial success he has gone on to record fifteen solo studio albums and nine complete operas, selling over 80 million records worldwide! With massive hits, such as ‘Time to say Goodbye’, a star on the Hollywood walk of fame and a Golden Globe to his name, it’s no doubt that Bocelli is a classical music legend.
In 2006, helped by funds from the star himself, his home town commissioned the opening of the Teatro del Silenzio. Named the Theatre of Silence, the Italian open air amphitheater remains literally silent all year. However, on one spectacular night each summer, the Tuscan hills of Lajatico are brought to life, as Andrea Bocelli returns to his home town, with an abundance of famous guests, to provide fans with an evening of moving music, in the warm evening breeze. And this year, you could be there, too, as we head off to Italy for this incredible Tuscan show.

Tour de France

This year, the Tour de France 2017 will return to Germany for the first time in thirty years, as the Grand Départ gets underway from Dusseldorf.
The 104^th round of the sport will see the riders being put to the ultimate test, as the men are separated from the boys, when they tackle Frances’ five mountain ranges, Vosges, Jura, Pyrenes, Central Massif and Alps, in that order.
Before they actually reach France, though, they will have to tackle the tough roads of Belgium and Luxembourg. From there they will spend many days enduring various different terrain, gradients, and time trials etc., before the traditional final day in Paris, with the finish along the Champs Elysee.
In 2017, join us in Paris and witness the grand finale of what is thought to be one of the most diverse and exciting routes the Tour has seen in years. With the likes of Chris Froome, who can climb with the best of them, being poised for the win again this year, it certainly is an exciting event to witness.

But, which live event has you all geared up for 2017? Let us know in the comments!

February 17, 2017

Formula 1 Vs. MotoGP: Four Wheels or Two?

Now, we don’t want to undermine the love that we have for things such as family, partners, friends, maybe even pets and personal belongings… but, does anything really compare to the passion you have for your sport?

How many times have we been known to utter the words ‘after the race’, or turned down plans because, lets face it, if it’s on the TV, we’re watching it. Maybe you’ve even combined two of your loves, treating your other half to a romantic break, enjoying a race weekend in Europe. If so, you’re our sort of person.
But, we’re about to get controversial. Kind of like a popular card game, we’re pinning two of Motorsports greatest against one another. So, what is better? Four wheels or two? Let the battle commence! Formula 1 Vs. MotoGP … who wins? Let us know in the comments.

Formula 1 cars and MotoGP bikes are powerful machines, built within their own regulations to produce and perfect the fastest, most streamlined piece of machinery in their field.

Every team looks to draw out that little bit of extra performance to put them ahead. Both of these unique motorsports are thrilling to watch, and the differences between four and two wheels can be seen below.

But, that’s the machines. What about the circuits? Iconic tracks make for exciting races and we’ve chosen two of our favourite to battle it out below.

Click here to see our range of European Motorsports breaks available to book, now.

February 16, 2017July 14, 2023

Lights, Camera, Action: Our Top Film and TV Locations in Europe

Have you ever watched a film or TV show and felt so engrossed in the setting that you wanted to pack your suitcase there and then, and set out on your own action packed adventure?

Well, what if we were to tell you that some of the most famous movie locations are right on our door step, here in Europe, and you could visit some of the world’s most famous, real life movie sets, on one of our tours? You better believe it! Take a look at some of our favourite film and TV locations we love to visit.

Prague – Casino Royale

We begin with Prague, which has a long list of movie location credentials, and it’s no surprise that directors and producers alike have chosen to shoot some of the most famous silver screen scenes here.
The capital city of the Czech Republic boasts some pretty amazing architecture, which provides the perfect back drop for any action movie, which brings us to one of the most famous action heroes of all time…Bond, James Bond.
Since the release of the 2006 movie, Casino Royale, Prague has become popular with Bond fans from all over the world, with many visiting the city in order to take snaps in the famous locations.
Some locations in Prague even doubled for scenes in Venice and Miami! The Czech National Museum was used as the setting for the Venetian hotel, and both Prague Ruzyne Airport and the Ministry of Transport, which are both portrayed as locations in Miami. However, the opening scene for the film was actually set and filmed in Prague at The Danube House, which tell us the story of how Bond gained his Double O status.

Salzburg – The Sound of Music

Home to the Vonn Trapp family, the fairy tale city of Salzburg is a must do in its own right. However, it has become renowned for its Sound of Music tours, with fans of this heart-warming story flocking from near and far to walk in the footsteps of Julie Andrews.
Salzburg is home to many wonderful sites, so it’s no wonder the director of the 1965 Oscar winning musical chose to shoot as many of the scenes as he could in the city itself. With an abundance of movie scenes to visit, such as the Do-Re-Mi fountain, why not take a look at our very own Austria, Sound of Music tour?

Taormina – The Godfather

Ah Sicily, home to one of the most notorious families of all time, the Carleone family, from the hit crime series, The Godfather.
Based on Mario Puzo’s bestselling novel, which was inspired by real life events carried out by the Sicilian Mafia, there was really nowhere else for the typically Italian scenes to be filmed but in Italy itself.
Aside from its claim to fame, Sicily is truly memorising and would be enjoyed by anyone, even if you’re not a fan of the hit crime series. However, if you are a Godfather fan, why not take a tour of some of the most iconic spots of the film? Our Treasures of Sicily tour dedicates a whole excursion to the Al Pacino classic.

Dubrovnik – Game of Thrones

View over Dubrovnik — View Over Dubrovnik

Stepping away from the movies, we take a look at one of the most popular TV shows of the present day, Game of Thrones. With the seventh season just around the corner, over the past few years many fans of the show have been journeying to Croatia, in the hopes of catching a glimpse of the stars, in the real life’s ‘Kings Landing’. Or, as we know it, the old town, Dubrovnik.
That’s right, the medieval town offers the back drop for the southern city in this make believe world of fire and ice, and we can see just why it was chosen. The UNESCO world heritage site is filled with wonders and the ancient stone walls of the city really give it that enchanting feel. And whilst you’re certainly not going to catch a glimpse of any dragons, who knows, you may brush shoulders with one of the shows many stars, making Dubrovnik a must visit for any GOT fan.

Verona – Letters to Juliette

This gorgeous romantic comedy, gives you a real sense of the passion of Italy. Set and mostly filmed in Verona, the film tells the story of a writer struggling to find her muse, until, among the sights, she ends up discovering the “Secretaries of Juliet”. The “Secretaries of Juliet” being a group of women in Verona, whom spend their days replying to letters left to Juliet for love advice.
There she discovers one that was written 50 years ago, which then leads to the main character, played by Amanda Seyfried, setting off on a quest to aid one woman whose story she has become engrossed in. It’s a truly beautiful film, with some truly gorgeous scenery, as the cast travel through the Italian countryside in the hopes of reuniting two lovers.
So, if you’re looking to set the scene for your own romantic tale, Italy, and namely Verona, is the perfect place for you.

Copenhagen – The Danish Girl

The streets of Copenhagen’s Old Town set the scene for this dramatic tale. Based on real life events, The Danish Girl, was an immediate success when it was released in cinemas a little over a year ago, and it’s no surprise when you see the Oscar nominated and Oscar winning performances of both Eddie Redmayne and Alicia Vikander.
But aside from the outstanding performances, the stunning scenery of Copenhagen is also Oscar worthy, from the cobbled waterfronts, to the curving and colourful streets of Nyhavn. It really is one for the bucket list!

Bruges – In Bruges

Although the 2008 film didn’t quite make the cut when it was released in cinemas, it soon became a cult classic. The film has the perfect mix of some brilliant comedy moments and an excellent script, but the real star of the show is Bruges itself.
The film follows two hit men who have been ousted to Bruges for making a mess of a job. Whilst there, the lead characters Ken (Brendan Gleeson) and Ray (Colin Farrell) take a tour of the town, visiting celebrated sites such as the Belfry and the Basilica of The Holy Blood, meaning there are probably few places that you can visit whilst there that weren’t key locations in the film.
It is the case that the movie made the medieval town so popular, that the Bruges tourist board even created a map dedicated to the dark comedy, so fans could make sure that they didn’t miss any of the famous sites whilst touring the town.

Rome – La Dolce Vita

The classic black and white film follows a tabloid journalist called Marcello, whose life is torn between wanting to become an establish writer or continuing to publish profitable but meaningless magazine articles.
Set and filmed in the glamorous Roma, the film includes many of the ancient cities treasures, however the most famous scene in the film comes as Marcello meets the beautiful socialite Sylvia, played by the 1960s Swedish bombshell, Anita Ekberg.
As Marcello takes the star on a tour of Rome, we see her character plunge into the Trevi fountain in an all-black evening gown. The scene is mesmerizing, and so it’s no surprise that it attracted fans from around the globe, many of whom wanted to come and recreate the moonlight splash. However, as there’s a ‘strictly no bathing policy’ this is unfortunately not possible, but you can pay a visit to the spectacular monument and the beautiful city of Rome on one of our many tours.
If this blog has you in the mood to visit some of the most famous film and TV sets in Europe, why not star in your story on a Leger Holiday?

February 8, 2017July 14, 2023

5 Reasons to Visit Holland in Spring

With the cold, dark and gloomy winter months soon to be behind us, and the promise of longer days, warmer weather and the smell of flowers, just around the corner, why wait until summer to embark on a trip overseas?

There are many places that you can visit during the most colourful season of the year but nowhere does spring quite like Holland.

1. The Tulips.

Holland is renowned for its tulips, among other flowers, and is often referred to as the ‘flower shop of the world’. Tulips were imported into Holland in the sixteenth century and by the mid-seventeenth century, they were so popular that they created the first economic bubble, known as “Tulip Mania”.
People bought up bulbs and they became so expensive, they were even used as money at one point in time! Due to their unwavering popularity they have appeared in many paintings and still appear in festivals to this day.
Yes, that’s right, each spring the Dutch celebrate their famous flower by spending months transforming the landscapes all over the country into a sea of colour.
Keukenhof Park, the largest flower garden in the world, is certainly a destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list, with its fantastic array of colourful displays, you’d be missing out if you did not consider making a visit here this spring.

2. Dodge the April Showers

That’s right, statistically, April is the driest month of the year in Holland, which means you can really appreciate all that the country has to offer.
You can stroll around the bulb-fields, enjoy a beverage at a canal-side cafe, or even partake in a bike ride, without the threat of the clouds opening above and having to rush to find shelter or retrieve your brolly from your bag.
This certainly ticks our box!

3. Celebrate Kings Day

Formerly Queens’s day, each year on the 27^th of April, crowds of people clad in orange descend on Amsterdam for the world’s largest street party to celebrate the birthday of the Dutch Monarch, King Willem- Alexander.
Whilst this is not one for those who are wanting a quiet spring vacation, it really is a marvel to behold.
The tradition dates back to 1885, where celebrations started in honour of the birth of Queen Wilhelmina and people wear orange in order to show pride for the Dutch Royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau.
So why not ransack your wardrobe, pull out your favourite orange garms and join the people of Holland on this national day of celebrations?

4. See the country from the waterways.

With countless canals and rivers throughout the country, and Amsterdam being referred to as ‘the Venice of the North’, river cruising and Holland really are a match made in heaven.
You’ll be offered a unique perspective of the picturesque windmills and marvellous springtime blooms, as well as being able to cruise down the famous canals of Amsterdam, all from the comfort of your own cabin.
Plus, cruising the highlights means you only have to unpack once and, alongside the milder temperatures, it really makes your stay in Holland much more comfortable. We can’t really think of a more relaxing way to explore the Dutch delights.

5. Amsterdam

Last but not least, of course, we have to mention the capital city. Whilst Amsterdam is pretty amazing all year round, it has a certain feel in spring that you don’t get at any other time of year.
As the flowers start to bloom and tables and chairs suddenly begin to appear on the canal banks and outside terraces, it gives the impression that the city is beginning to come to life, ahead of all of the seasonal festivals.
As the days become longer, the streets are still quite quiet, allowing you to explore this unique city and its famous attractions at your own pace, without all of the hustle and bustle that comes with the summer months.
Don’t just take our word for it, why not join us in Holland this spring? Visit our website to see which tour we have available.

February 1, 2017September 22, 2023

The Dream Tour, Picturebook Norway: Words from our Winner

When we originally asked you to put together your perfect European holiday, as part of our Dream Tour Competition, even we couldn’t have predicted the overwhelming response. With such an exciting array of dream tours that were entered into this amazing competition, picking a winner was difficult.

But, there was one tour that really stood out to us. With an itinerary taking in some of the most spectacular sights of Scandinavia, the Fjordland adventure really stole our heart. And, the decision was made. The wheels were in motion and we got to work on planning the dream tour; Picturebook Norway – Fjordland Spectacular.
Sue Godwin’s dream holiday was a reality, and whilst we’re super excited about Dream Tour, we couldn’t wait to find out how she felt.
So, we sent our Head of Retail Sales, Ashley, down to the South Coast to congratulate Sue in person. Here’s what she had to say about her amazing prize.

Congratulations! How did you feel when you found out you had won the big prize?

I just didn’t believe it, It was a total shock and this lasted for several weeks. I had a big smile every time I thought about it.

What was your inspiration behind the tour you created?

In June 2015 we went on the Arctic Circle & Land of the Midnight Sun with Leger Holidays, this was a truly amazing adventure. We visited Norway and loved it. We only had several hours in Oslo and went on a brilliant tour and wanted to go back and spend more time here and particularly visit the Kon Tiki museum. I wanted to spend longer in each place, be able to settle into a hotel for two or more nights rather than a different hotel each night. To see plenty; but at a more relaxed pace.
I have always wanted to see the Norwegian Fjords but a cruise with a large amount of people never appealed to me. So the only other option was to see them from the land side and with only a max of 40 people whom you get to know well on a 16 day trip.

What are you most looking forward to on your tour?

The overnight cruise to Bergen, the trip on the Flam Railway, the friendly people, all of it; I just can’t wait. I am counting down the months!

How did you find the task of putting together a coach tour?

I knew I wanted to see the Fjords and revisit some of the elements of the previous Scandinavian trip. I plotted a route that covered the Fjords and some interesting sights and fabulous views on the way. I just picked places and looked them up online and read about them to see which ones I would most like to visit.

Have you chosen the lucky person who will be travelling with you to Norway?

I certainly have, my best friend, Jo, who accompanied me on the Arctic Circle & Land of the Midnight Sun.

What would you say to people to get them to join you on your tour?

Scandinavia is an adventure, incredible views and fabulous people. The Leger drivers are always amazing. The food at the hotels on the previous trip was plentiful and delicious. We loved the comfort of the coach and watching the world go by. There was never a dull moment, always something of interest to see. I am sure this trip will be more of the same and the views of the Fjords, glaciers & wildlife will be spectacular. The full day cruise will give everyone the opportunity to see the Fjords and surrounding area from the more conventional way. The Flam Line is rated as one of the most beautiful train journeys and sure to be a highlight of the trip.
Take a look at the winning itinerary and book your place on the Dream Tour, here.

January 16, 2017July 14, 2023

2017 Battlefield Anniversary Timeline – WWI

2017 marks the penultimate centenary year of the end of World War One, and whilst next year will bring a whole host of important anniversaries surrounding the end of the conflict, 2017 itself still has many prominent centenaries including the battle of Passchendaele and the battle of Arras.

We’ve put together a timeline of all WWI anniversaries coming up in 2017, take a look below to see the significant dates we’ll remember this year.

Take a look at our Battlefield tours covering WW1 heading out in 2017 on our website, www.visitbattlefields.co.uk or on our main website www.leger.co.uk/battlefields.

January 12, 2017July 14, 2023

Paul Reed: The Legacy of Passchendaele

This year marks the centenary of the Battle of Passchendaele, a name that will be forever synonymous with our knowledge and understanding of the First World War, but more than that it is part of our collective consciousness of the war. When we think of that conflict we imagine endless miles of water-filled shell craters, thick glutinous mud, and everything from men, mules, guns and tanks disappearing into this mud.

All of this happened at Passchendaele; at times the landscape was as dangerous to soldiers as was the enemy shooting at them. Arguably it was the worst battlefield on which British soldiers served between 1914 and 1918; both in terms of the physical conditions and also the terrible scale of the fighting.

What made Passchendaele such a terrible battle? It is not widely known that the first day of the battle, 31^st July 1917, was a success. Most objectives were taken, and the Germans pushed off the high ground at both Pilkem and Bellewaarde. But it was a costly day, too: more than 6,000 British soldiers died at Ypres that day, one of the worst in Flanders during four long years of war.
Success, but at a cost: but another factor came into play that first day: rain. It began to rain that evening and pretty much did not stop raining for a significant period of the rest of the battle. It was the wettest summer in living memory, with huge amounts of rainfall. That in combination with the unparalleled use of artillery by both sides, the shells just destroyed the Flanders landscape.
Trenches, buildings, and the drainage systems all pulverised by warfare on an industrial scale. The water had nowhere to run except into the holes in the ground occupied by soldiers, or into the lunar landscape of shell craters. The mud became glutinous, in places almost liquid; and everything from men to every man-made object disappeared into it.

Shell Smashed Landscape at Passchendaele

Attacks failed, and the bodies of the fallen could not be recovered; with the mud and shell-fire, all trace of them was lost and Passchendaele is a battlefield that has one of the highest levels of soldiers with no known grave, now commemorated on the Menin Gate or Tyne Cot Memorial.
A century later it is easy to think that the mud, and men disappearing forever are one of the many myths of the First World War. But I have witnessed both in my work with archaeologists in Flanders.
On a dig in 2012 I saw how liquid mud, even after minimal rainfall, could drag us down and how the effort of dealing with a mud-filled landscape was almost impossible at times; and we had modern clothing, tools and no-one shooting at us!

A Century Later, Archaeologists Still Bailing Out an Old Trench

Back in 2001 I saw how the work of The Diggers at Boesinghe demonstrated that Flanders is still one large cemetery; and every year since more and more soldier’s remains are found. It will be one of the almost permanent legacies of the Great War at Ypres, along with the Iron Harvest of shells which are still being found by farmers on the old battlefields.

Archaeologists Working in the Mud of Ypres

To understand more of what Passchendaele was and what it means to us a century later you can travel to Flanders with Leger Holidays on several different tours in 2017. Join us for the actual anniversary commemorations at Tyne Cot on 31^st July, or take the They Called It Passchendaele tour which looks at both Messines and Passchendaele in some depth.
You can walk the Passchendaele battlefield on Walking Ypres, and see it from ground level in some detail, and in November we commemorate the end of the battle with a special Passchendaele themed Armistice tour.

The war poet Siegfried Sassoon wrote, ‘I died in Hell… They Called it Passchendaele’. A century on we owe to the generation which marched to Flanders in 1917 to understand that Hell and never let it happen again; and that is perhaps the real legacy in an ever changing world.

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January 6, 2017July 14, 2023

2016: Our Top Viewed Tours of the Last Year

Another year has come and gone and whilst it seems to have gone in warp-speed, there was plenty to remember it by. From a spectacular show from team GB at the Rio Olympics to Andy Murray lifting his second Wimbledon trophy, unexpected results at the polls and a certain Pokémon game sweeping the nation, we can truly say 2016 has been a roller-coaster of a year. With all that being said we do hope that your Leger holiday brought bundles of happiness and incredible memories to last a lifetime.

But, as we move on into 2017, we take one more look back into the year just passed and bring you our top 10 viewed tours of 2016. Compiled from the most popular tours you viewed on our website, we reflect on which tours caught your eye in 2016.

10. Beer & Battlefields

Coming in at number 10, a relatively late arrival in 2016, our Beer and Battlefields tour has certainly caught your attention in the short time it’s been online. A brand new concept tying in the prominent battlefields of Belgium alongside the prominent breweries of WWI and WWII.

A perfect Battlefields starter tour, expertly crafted by our specialist guide, Marc Hope, it’s a great way to gain knowledge of our history and the impact and sacrifice of these wars alongside a more light-hearted approach looking behind the front lines and just how these beers and breweries affected our soldiers. As Marc himself said, there are ‘hoppy’ times ahead as we kick off our maiden tour in 2017.

9. Cruising the Rhine and Moselle

River cruises are becoming increasingly popular and where better to set sail than down the Rhine and Moselle? Known as the heart of River cruising, you get everything you could wish for meandering through two of Germany most picturesque valleys.

And, it’s certainly proving popular among Leger customers! Sailing on the MV Prinses Christina, you’re in for a real treat. Plus, with both valleys being notorious for their wine production, let’s raise a glass to a fantastic river cruise.

8. Beautiful Bruges

The pinnacle of short breaks? It is no surprise that our Beautiful Bruges tour pops up on this list. A short hop across the channel yet a world apart from the day to day life at home. Stunning architecture, quaint canals and chocolate! What more could you ask for?

With a four-day tour starting from as little as £249*pp, it really is the perfect little getaway.

7.The Elegance & Charm of the Italian & French Rivieras

The glitz and glamour capital of Europe, who wouldn’t fancy time on the Riviera? With this one, with all those fantastic places to visit, you don’t have to choose between where to go. From the iconic French Riviera taking in the likes of Cannes, Nice and Monaco, to the stunning Italian fishing village of Portofino, you really will enjoy the best that this exquisite part of Europe has to offer.

With air options and dedicated single traveller packages available, there really is the perfect trip to the Riviera lifestyle for everyone.

6. Austrian Gems

The hills are alive with the sound of music, and it seems to be calling you over to Austria, the home of the Von Trapp family. Touring through Austria’s most beautiful villages, stopping off at the wonderful Krimml Falls and, of course, enjoying time in spectacular Salzburg. You don’t have to be a fan of the film to enjoy this trip.

With prices from just £349*pp for 7 days, you’ll be stepping into the shoes of Julie Andrews and feeling like bursting into a rendition of ‘My Favourite Things’ before you know it.

5. Lake Garda, Venice and Verona

The Italian lakes are still a hit for British tourists and where better to get a true taste of a lake holiday than at the wonderful Lake Garda? And with excursions to Verona and the picturesque and popular city of Venice, there’s plenty to enjoy whilst you’re there.

Departing from April to October, there’s the perfect opportunity to experience the changing seasons in an already stunning destination.

4. Belgian Grand Prix

The highlight of the racing calendar, the Belgian Grand Prix proves ever popular in our list of most viewed tours. In fact, for the 2016 race, we sent out 13 coaches taking around 650 Leger customers to the summertime race at the Spa-Francorchamps.

If it’s the electrifying race atmosphere you’re looking for, this could be the tour for you in 2017.

3. Imperial Capitals – Prague, Vienna and Budapest

There’s plenty to be said about each of the focus destinations on this tour, so combining them into one trip seems to be perfect for the adventurous traveller among you. Who could say no to 9 days taking in the most delightful destinations that Eastern Europe has to offer? Your journey of discovery will be second to none when you embark on this tour.

From the Astronomical Clock and the Charles bridge in Prague, to the Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest and, of course, the Hofburg Palace standing pride of place in Vienna, you can’t deny this tours popularity.

2. All Quiet on the Western Front

One of the staple battlefield tours, the ever popular All Quiet on the Western Front was still one of the most popular tours on our websites in 2016. It’s an ideal introductory tour covering the major battlefields of Flanders and France and is a great trip for people of all ages with an interest in our military history.

Our expert guides provide a 5* service giving you every chance to really walk in the footsteps of heroes. We think this tour will still be standing proud at the top of this list as we head into 2018, the centenary year of the end of WW1.

1. New Orleans, Nashville & Memphis

You can’t seem to get enough of the Deep South, our New Orleans, Nashville and Elvis Presley’s Memphis tour is once again our most viewed tour of the year.

The idea of jetting off to the USA and sampling the soul of these fantastic cities is extremely popular, once again. And, with a visit to Graceland itself, it sure is one of the best (if we do say so ourselves). If you’re wanting to rock ‘n’ roll over to the states for a trip that’s music to your ears, we’ve got you covered with this one.

*Prices including early booking discount, correct on publication date.

December 15, 2016July 14, 2023

Paul Reed: The Real Dunkirk

With the upcoming release of Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk movie, the newly released trailer gives us an exciting insight into what the film is about.

In quite a long clip of men on the beaches, ships under fire, the little boats taking men home, it is clear that the focus is on Operation Dynamo: the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF) from the beaches between Dunkirk in France and Nieuport in Belgium, in May and June 1940.
The cast looks tremendous, and the scenes depicted in the clip very convincing. There is no doubt this will generate a lot of interest in Dunkirk, but how to cut through the Hollywood take on it and really understand what happened here in 1940?

abandoned-british-equipment-on-the-beach-at-dunkirk-1940 — Abandoned British equipment on the beach at Dunkirk 1940

One way is to dip into the many books on Dunkirk, but nothing beats actually going out to actual visit the ground as it is today. For 2017 we have our usual 5 Day Dunkirk & Fortress Europe tour which looks at the campaign in France, the withdrawal to the coast and the evacuation from the beaches in some detail, as well as looking at the years that followed with the building of the Atlantic Wall.
However, we have a new 4 Day version of this tour that focuses on 1940 and follows pretty much the story seen in the new film: the destruction of the British forces by the German Blitzkrieg to the point where they were taken off the Dunkirk beaches and the Mole. Along the way we see a typical battlefield area at St Venant where the Durham Light Infantry and Royal Welsh Fusiliers fought, look at the massacre of British soldiers by the SS at Wormhout, and then move on to the Dunkirk story itself.

wreck-of-the-ss-devonia-at-dunkirk-small — Wreck of the SS Devonia at Dunkirk

In Dunkirk we look at Operation Dynamo in some detail. Many do not realise that most soldiers were evacuated out via the Dunkirk Mole, the jetty that struck out from the harbour area. Here ships could dock in deep water and more quickly load up.
The beaches were then divided up according to the organisation of the BEF, and here we discuss how not just the Navy, but ships of many shapes and sizes were used to evacuate the men. One of the great things on this tour is that, low tide permitting, we are able to see the wrecks of some of these on the beach, and even after 75 years they are very impressive.

wreck-of-the-crested-eagle-at-dunkirk-small — Wreck of the Crested Eagle at Dunkirk

In the Dunkirk War Cemetery we see the graves of those who never made it off the beaches or who died in defence of the perimeter which held the Germans at bay while over 300,000 got home. Among the graves we find old, experienced soldiers, as well as young lads who had only recently joined up, medics killed aiding the wounded and even a chaplain.
The Dunkirk Memorial is also here which commemorates over 4,500 service personnel who have no known grave. Many died in ships off the coast, or were swept out to sea on the beaches: so many sad tales that will be brought alive in the film by the look of it.

at-the-dunkirk-memorial-small — At the Dunkirk Memorial

Dunkirk has always been a special battlefield for me: my grandfather was here with the RAMC in 1940, which brought his 22 year career as a soldier to an end. I have walked all over the 1940 battlefields with our team of guides, and learned a lot about it from some of our 1940 specialists like David Warren, and in 2009 I did a lot of BBC work for the 70^th Anniversary, including the Dig 1940 series where we filmed a local French group doing archaeology work on the beaches. It was amazing what was still left in the sand!

artifacts-found-on-the-dunkirk-beach-by-archaeologists-in-2009small — Artifacts found on the Dunkirk beach by archaeologists in 2009

british-gas-mask-found-on-the-beach-at-dunkirk-in-2009-small — British Gas Mask found on the beach at Dunkirk in 2009

This new film will undeniably mean that Dunkirk and the men of the BEF will suddenly be back in the public eye again, and if Hollywood can help generate interest in the Second World War that has to be a good thing. But what better way to really understand the events depicted in Nolan’s Dunkirk than join us on a Leger Dunkirk battlefield tour, in the company of one of our team of specialist guides to see, visit and understand, as well as remember a battle that changed world history.

the-german-victors-on-the-beach-showing-of-the-ships-depicted-in-the-new-film — The German victors on the beach, showing of the ships depicted in the new film

Watch the Dunkirk trailer below:

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