sights – Leger Blog

October 27, 2017July 14, 2023

Inside India: The Highlights of an Incredible Country

Beauty in architecture, the thrill of experiencing a new and exciting culture, incredible cuisines and fascinating wildlife, sounds like the perfect travelling experience, don’t you agree?

Few places in the world offer authentic experiences these days. With the world becoming more and more commercialised, you may not feel you’re getting the real deal when visiting new places. After all, you can fly half way around the world and still find a burger chain restaurant you’d thought you’d left behind on your local high street.
Of course, some of us embrace it. And, why not? Home comforts can certainly make travelling more familiar and, well… comfortable.
But, if you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, somewhere where you can really feel you’re embracing a new culture… say hello to India.
We’ve recently launched our brand new tour and an exciting new destination, exploring India and its incredible Golden Triangle. And, we’re pretty sure this is one of those tours that will really fuel your wanderlust.
We’ve left no stone unturned when it comes to experiencing the very best of India. From iconic destinations to coming face to face with the majestic tiger, here’s just some of the incredible things you’ll experience on our brand new tour…

The Golden Triangle

You may have heard of the Golden Triangle in reference to India before, or maybe not if this is your first insight into the country. But, the Golden Triangle is a must. It refers to India’s three most visited cities in the north-west, Delhi, Agra and Jaipur and is a major tourist route packed full of fascinating sights.
Jaipur is home to some of Asia’s best Bazaars, a city buzzing with activity, nicknamed the ‘Pink City’ from the hue of its buildings, you’ll certainly want to visit its main attraction, the Amber Fort, just on the outskirts of the city.
The capital of India, Delhi, is a real contrast of old and new, from its turbulent past to its thriving future, it is host to a wealth of fascinating historical monuments as well as modern symbols of the present day such as India Gate and Parliament House.
And Agra, well… Where do we start? Obviously the world famous…

Taj Mahal

Topping many bucket lists, a trip to the Taj Mahal is a must when visiting India. A wonder of the world and universally admired, the mausoleum of white marble is a spectacular sight.
Built in Agra between 1631 and 1648, by order of the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, in memory of his third (and favourite) wife who died during the birth of their 14^th child. The iconic building is a true symbol of eternal love and romance.
Easily one of the most photogenic pieces of architecture in the world, you’re probably wondering just when are the best times to visit? Two pieces of advice, early morning and evening. Although, in the morning, your view could be slightly shrouded by mist, but in the evening… expect perfection.
The orange glow of the evening sun, the warm air clearing any lingering residue and the views of the Yamuna River opening up, you don’t have to be an avid photographer to capture the most incredible photos during the golden hours of the evening.
As many as 28 different varieties of semi-precious and precious stone were used to adorn the Taj Mahal, making this more than just a gem on your journey through India, but a truly treasured experience.

Agra Fort

Staying in the city of Agra, there’s more than just the Taj on offer in the former capital city of India. The Agra Fort is a sandstone and marble masterpiece.
It runs along a 2.5km stretch of the Yamuna River and was built as a military fort by Emperor Akbar. It was repurposed as a palace by no other than Shah Jahan, who spent his last years under house arrest there by his own son, Aurangzeb.
Despite being held prisoner following an illness, which saw four of his son’s embroiled in a war of succession, Shah Jahan was given a room with a view, in a tower overlooking the Taj Mahal.
The Shah Burj, as it is known, has an exquisite marble balcony where Shah Jahan spent his final days close to his late wife, overlooking his masterpiece.
If the Taj was the jewel of Agra, Agra Fort certainly shines just as bright. The walls house a number of stunning structures such as the pearl mosque and many hidden rooms, a fantastic experience learning about the grand legacy of the Mughals in India.

Fatehpur Sikri

Follow the Red Sandstone to Fatehpur Sikri, a small ghost city just west of Agra. Ranking among the most visited spots in India, the city was made the political capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585.
Fatehpur Sikri is considered to be one of the architectural legacies of Akbar, hosting beautiful palaces, halls and mosques.
From the Buland Darwaza, the largest gateway in the world, to the Panch Mahal, a beautiful 5-storey ‘pleasure palace’ used for Emperor Akbar to relax and unwind and to be used for his entertainment.
The top floor offers outstanding panoramic views of the surrounding area and the brilliant architecture within Fatehpur Sikri.
The complex took around 15 years to build and is one of the best instances of Mughal architecture and is now a UNESCO heritage centre.

Ranthambore National Park

One of India’s most iconic parks, Ranthambore is best known for its population of Bengal tigers. A former hunting ground of the Maharajas of Jaipur, the park now acts as home area for one of India’s most famous conservation projects, Project Tiger.
The project was launched to protect the diminishing population of tigers throughout India. With just 9 tigers in its care at the birth of the project, with the help of more tiger protection schemes around the country, India now boasts an impressive 70% of the world’s tiger population.
The importance of tiger preservation in India is more than stopping a species from going extinct, the tiger also plays a pivotal role in the health and diversity of the ecosystem.
The top predator of the food chain keeps the population of the wild ungulates (hooved mammals such as goats, cows and deer) in check, and maintains the balance between these herbivores and the vegetation that they feed on. If the tigers were to become extinct, the entire system would collapse.
Ranthambore offers more than just a chance to see the tigers up close and personal, but a real insight into India’s wildlife.
India offers one of those once in a lifetime trips of true experiences and creating lasting memories
If you’re ready to indulge in a fantastic Indian extravaganza, take a look at the full itinerary of our India’s Golden Triangle – Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Ranthambore tour, here.

April 13, 2017September 22, 2023

Belgium: Beauty Nestled Between France, Germany and the Netherlands.

With Easter just around the corner, we decided that we’d like to dedicate some time to acknowledge one of Europe’s sweetest countries, and no, we don’t just mean because of its small size…

If you’re looking forward to tucking into some Easter eggs this weekend, you’ll certainly be intrigued by the fact that Belgium produces a whopping 220,000 tonnes of chocolate per year! But that’s not all that this wonderful country has to offer, from canal side cities, to beautiful beers, almighty Christmas markets and coastal treasures, you’ll certainly not be bored in Belgium.
Dig into our blog, and see why Belgium should not be overlooked when planning your next visit to Europe.

Food glorious food!

Belgium is renowned for its famous variety of delicious delicacies, from the obvious traditional chocolates to deep-fried frites, whilst in Belgium, be sure to indulge in some tasty treats…
As we all know, Belgium is celebrated for its chocolate. There are over 2000 chocolatiers in the country, which is also home to famous brands such as Côte d’Or and Belvas, and Brussels airport is the largest chocolate selling point in the world.
The delicacy has been associated with the country since the 17th century and since then the industry has remained rife. So, as you saunter the streets in Belgium, ensure you pay a visit to a traditional chocolate shop, for a taste sensation you’ll never forget!

Chocolate is not the only sweet treat that the country can claim though, it is also home to the wonderful Belgian waffle. There are two types of Belgium waffle, the Brussels and the Liege. The Brussels waffle is rectangular and bigger than the Liege.
They are also crispy on the outside and light and airy on the inside, and traditionally served topped with whipped cream and strawberries. The Liege waffle is more oval shaped, they are softer, doughier, a lot more flavourful and sweeter, meaning that they are often served without toppings. We’d definitely recommend trying both types whilst in Belgium!

And, if you’re more of a savoury person, you certainly need to ensure that you indulge in some frites. Although the French claim to have invented french fries, the delicious delicacy can actually be traced back to Belgium. It is rumoured that the potato based delights inherited the name the french fries during WW1, when American soldiers, thinking they were in France, called them french fries instead of fried potatoes.

So, if you’ve had a few too many Belgian beers, or you need something to keep you going as you explore the many wonderful streets of the Belgian cities, frites are certainly the way to go!

But where can we find all these tasty treats, you ask?

Well, Belgium is also home to some pretty amazing cities. From the fashion capital of Antwerp, to the canal side city of Bruges, the seaside resort of Ostend and the hidden gem that is Ghent… all waiting to be explored.
Antwerp, one of Belgium’s ‘coolest’ cities, has become increasingly popular with tourists over the past few years, and it’s not hard to see why… Home to Europe’s second largest port and regarded as the world’s diamond capital, Antwerp boasts a lively shopping scene, classic architecture and a host of trendy cafes and coffee shops, making Belgium’s second largest city the place to be.

Belgium’s most underrated city is quite possibly glorious Ghent. This hidden gem is a marvel to behold. Small and cosy, the University City is full of spectacular sights, marvellous museums, and like Bruges, pretty canal side architecture. It’s walkable and the city’s cobbled streets are super easy to get around.
Also, as Ghent is not yet as popular as its neighbouring Bruges and Antwerp, the town is not full of tourists, giving it a calm and welcoming feel and allowing you to take in the city’s sights at your own pace… But hurry, before everyone realises just how amazing Ghent is, which we doubt will be long.

Ostend, the ‘Queen of Belgium’s seaside resorts’, is definitely on our list of places you must visit. The coastal city features five and a half miles of sandy beaches, plus a fantastic promenade lined with shops, bars and restaurants which serve spectacular seafood, and many museums that must be explored.
Last, but certainly not least, we have to mention the Beautiful Bruges, the golden child of Belgian tourism. Bruges is a truly beautiful city and has been popular with tourists for many years. Being the focal point of the hit movie ‘In Bruges’ and being one of the world’s best preserved medieval cities certainly helped the canal side city earn its status. But with so much to see, from the Belfry to the Beer Wall, Basilica of Holy Blood to pretty canals, and with an all-round amazing atmosphere, we’re not surprised that Bruges is so popular.

Belgian Beer & Spirits

With over 180 breweries in the country, producing over a thousand different types of beer, it’s certainly safe to say that Belgium is a haven for those with a taste for the beverage.
There’s something for everyone, with a great diversity of flavours from sweet to fruity, to bitter or spicy. And, as an added novelty, almost every beer is served in its own unique glass, which is said to bring out the exclusive flavours and tastes of the different beers, making drinking Belgian beer an experience as well as a taste sensation.

The beer glasses also make for a brilliant souvenir and can be bought from almost any gift shop in the country. One of the most distinctive glasses is that of the Kwak beer, shaped like a vase, it has a rounded bottom, meaning it can’t stand without its unique wooden holder – make sure you order one and check it out whilst in the country.
Possibly the most popular types of beers produced in Belgium are the Trappist beers, and there are only eleven brewers in the world that can claim this prized label, six of which are located in Belgium. To be able to claim to be a Trappist beer, the beer must be produced by Trappist monks, in a Trappist monastery and it is a century’s old tradition. There are many different types, but the Orval, Westvleteren 12 and the Westmalle Dubbel are some of the favourites.
Not only do the beers range in flavours, the way in which they are produced, and the vessel in which they are served, but they also range from a low alcoholic percentage to a whopping 11-12%, so be careful not to have too much of the stronger stuff, but do ensure you enjoy a tipple or two of the amber nectar…

As well as beer, Belgium is also famous for Genever. Pronounced ‘Juh-nee-ver”, Genever is a flavoured spirit, which is often referred to as the ‘grandfather of gin’, as it is a juniper flavoured drink. It has been Belgium’s traditional spirit for over 500 years and not a lot of people know about it, so be sure to give it a try when you visit this beautiful country

Christmas Markets

Finally, how could we forget the festive markets? From the month of November, right through to the New Year, the cities of Belgium are transformed into fairy tale market places.
Pretty lights, festive decorations, Christmas trees and even ice rinks line the streets, as visitors flock from near and far to do their Christmas shopping. Browse the many stalls, all selling a wonderful array of traditional gifts, whilst you Indulge in some tasty treats from the many street food stalls, enjoy a Belgian waffle washed down with a warm hot chocolate, or enjoy a tipple of two of mulled wine.

Whilst Bruges, Lille and Ypres etc., all host some amazingly magical markets, Brussels Christmas market certainly is a show stopper. Not only does Brussels house fascinating monuments and amazing architecture, it really does have one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. With over 200 market stalls spanning from the Grand Place, the capital city is brought to life with twinkling lights, wonderful aromas and gorgeous garlands. A Ferris wheel allows you to see the markets from above, and a huge ice rink provides fun for all the family.
If you’re a fan of the Christmas spirit and you want a change from the busy shopping malls this holiday season, take a look at our Belgian Christmas Markets.
So, as you can see Belgium is certainly not boring, but don’t just take our word for it. Head over to our website and take a look at the tours we have on offer to Belgium, one of Europe’s sweetest countries.

April 8, 2016June 30, 2023

Europe's Most Colourful Destinations

Spring has blossomed, the darkness of winter will soon be a distant memory and it’s time to say so long to stark trees and grey skies. With spring comes a much awaited injection of colour and that’s just what we’ve been waiting for.

And when it comes to vibrant encounters, Europe is host to many spectacular colour parades from its floral displays to the unique tones of its beautiful architecture.
So, if you’re wanting to get into the spirit of spring, why not take a look at our top destinations to add a pop of colour into your travels?

Holland

Of course, in the true spirit of spring, we have to start off with the tulips fields of Holland.
The cheerful Dutch Bulbfields are enough to brighten anyone’s day, with a gorgeous array of stunning colours and perfectly places windmills, you will well and truly know that spring has sprung.
The spectacular Keukenhof Park blooms between March and May, offering not only the iconic tulip displays, but also a variety of daffodils, hyacinths and crocus – a perfect destination for any avid gardener.

Copenhagen

Down by the Nyhavn is where you will make the most of colourful Copenhagen. It was once the home to the famous Danish fairytale writer, Hans Christian Anderson (Number 20 for any literary fans), too!
Pretty pastel coloured buildings line the waterfront with ornate, old ships bobbing about on the water beside you, it sure does make for a lovely setting to rest your feet and enjoy a coffee or beer. Especially after a long day’s sightseeing.

Berlin

Love it or loathe it, graffiti art can be found in most cities, and Berlin is a haven for Street Art. And, when done properly, the artwork brings the city to life with impressive colourful murals.
One part of the world famous Berlin Wall has been turned into a gallery reflecting on a time of change and the hope for a better world. The East Side Gallery is possibly the largest and long-lasting open air galleries in the world and sure is spectacular.

Lisbon

Lisbon’s streets certainly have a nice surprise when you take a minute to look at the buildings surrounding you. Many homes are covered top-to-toe in decorative tiles, also known as the Azulejos.
They’re a huge part of Portuguese culture and, funnily enough, only private homes are allowed to be adorned in such splendour. So, it’s well worth heading off the beaten track in Lisbon.

Burano

A little known cheerful haven just 7km from the centre of Venice. Burano, the coloured island of lace, is awash with brightly painted buildings, neon pink? You better believe it!
The coloured buildings date back to the islands ‘Golden Age’ when the island was first being developed. It is said that fisherman were the first to paint their homes bright colours so they could see them whilst out on the water.
But, you can’t paint your home just any old colour. You must send a letter to the government who will let you know colours that you’re allowed to paint your home meaning the island keeps its multi-hued charm.

Santorini

Think of Greek Islands and you are sure to conjure up an image of white buildings and blue roofs. And is there anywhere more stunningly in keeping with this than Santorini?
But don’t just think it’s a whitewash, the petite island is awash with stand-out colour, particularly in the town of Oia.
Colourful flowers and buildings painted in pink, yellows, oranges and red, perfectly contrast the clear blue skies and sparkling seas surrounding this cliff-side town.

Isn’t Europe such a colourful place? What’s the most pantone perfect place you’ve visited?

February 26, 2016July 14, 2023

Famous Landmarks in Europe – Our Top Places to Visit

Europe is a world heavyweight when it comes to impressive landmarks, with just about every country packing a punch in the sight-seeing category.

Iconic structures you could pick out in an instant, architecture as old as time, but which are the best landmarks to visit whilst travelling through Europe? Well, we’ve picked out some of our top places to grab some picture postcard pics whilst visiting the continent…

The Colosseum

Oh, yes. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. And what’s more quintessentially Roman than the Flavian Amphitheatre?
While its history may be brutal, the Colosseum’s structure is one to behold, built of concrete and sand, in its day, it could hold up to 55,000 people!
It also takes the top spot as the most famous tourist attraction in Rome – well worth a visit.

The Eiffel Tower

One of Paris’ most visited attractions, the Eiffel Tower takes the top spot of most tourists visiting the City of Lights. And, with the stricture standing at 342 metres in height, it is hard to miss.
The tower actually welcomes around 7 million visitors each year which gives it the title of the most visited paid-for monument in the world.

Sagrada Familia

Whilst Barcelona’s impressive Catholic Cathedral still stands unfinished, you can’t deny that the Sagrada Familia is pretty spectacular.
Designed by architect, Antonio Gaudi, the cathedral has now entered its last phase of construction with the tallest of its new towers set to reach a whopping 172 metres!
After 133 years in construction, if you’re waiting to see the finished piece, it is on track to be finished in 2026 which will also mark the centenary of Gaudi’s death.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

Poor foundations it may have, but if this tower was up right it wouldn’t be as appealing, right? This is one human error we can certainly be thankful for.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a tourist hotspot, and you can be sure to see hordes of people trying to get that one picture showing them propping up the tower, which can be an amusing sight in itself.
Now safely anchored into the ground, you can even take a walk up the tower and what a great thing to say you have done?

Brandenburg Gate

One of the best-known landmarks in Germany, Brandenburg Gate, is a symbol of peace that was built in the eighteenth century, and it’s certainly something to look at.
Originally, the designer’s concept for the gate was a ‘Friedenstor’, or victory arch, as we may know it. Through Berlin’s varied history it has also shared it existence as a political icon and a symbol of a divided city.
Luckily, we can now enjoy the Brandenburg Gate as a symbol of unity. It’s certainly a unique and memorable place to visit during your time in Berlin.

Ancient City Walls of Dubrovnik

Considered the most magnificent fortification monument in Europe, a walk around the walls of Dubrovnik are sure to be a highlight of your trip to this spectacular coastal city.
Stretching around the city, the walls reach over 2km in distance. So, if you’ve indulged in some of that delicious Dubrovnik seafood, it’s the perfect excuse to fit in a post-lunch stroll.

Acropolis

Mention an 80ft hill with a flat top and it may not sound overly impressive. Mention its name, and it suddenly becomes one of the most iconic monuments in Europe.
The Acropolis, especially the Parthenon, are by far the most characteristic sights to see in Athens – a must on any trip to the city.
It is considered to symbol the beginning of Western civilisation and the Parthenon was even dedicated to the patron goddess of Athens, Athena, who is also the goddess of wisdom making it a real treat for culture enthusiasts and historians alike.

Duomo, Florence

It’s hard to miss the Cathedral of Santa Maria, or The Duomo as it’s otherwise known, as it stands high above the red-tiled rooftops that cover the stunning city of Florence.
The iconic dome proved somewhat of a puzzle to the people of Florence, as nobody actually knew how to build it.
It could have been divine intervention, or just good luck, as their prayers were answered by Brunelleschi, a goldsmith and clock maker.
Brunelleschi was the mastermind of the design and engineering miracle and is who we have to thank for one of Europe’s most impressive masonry dome.

Phew, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Are there any on our list that you’re longing to see? Let us know in the comments.

December 11, 2015September 22, 2023

Germany: 8 of the Best Places to Visit

Germany, it’s a big and beautiful place with plenty to see and do. But, with plenty to see and do, how do you decide where to start?

Cosmopolitan Cities, marvellous mountains, fantastic forests and riveting rivers and that’s just the start!
Well, if you’re ready to start your discovery of Deutschland, here are our top 8 places to visit.

Berlin

The beautiful capital city of Germany, packed full of landmarks and history. From the remains of the Berlin Wall to impressive landmarks such as Brandenburg gate, you’ve got plenty to keep you busy if you’re an avid sightseer.

Rhine Valley

One of the most popular destinations for relaxing river cruises, the Rhine Valley is steeped in beauty. And, within the beauty, hides a number of fantastic vineyards. So, of course, this is the place to give wine tasting a go.

Neuschwanstein Castle

If you’re really into romance and fairytales, here’s the one for you. An inspiration to Walt Disney himself, the castle receives over 1.3 million visitors a year and is the most photographed building in Germany, it’s easy to see why. It’s stunning.

Cologne

Germany’s fourth biggest city, Cologne is known as the city of churches, and, to be honest, you can’t miss the impressive cathedral – The second largest religious building in Germany. If you’ve got the energy to climb its 509 steps, reaching the top of the building will reward you with some spectacular views.
If not, there’s a museum completely dedicated to chocolate and even has its own beer, Kolsch. Here’s an interesting fact, the name Kolsch is actually protected so that only beers brewed in cologne can hold this name.

Harz Mountains

Looking for some breath-taking scenery? The Harz Mountains are known as the ‘Land of German Fairy-tale’. Dark forests, cobbled streets and medieval houses. It’s long been known as an important source of German Folklore with famous stories such as Cinderella, Hansel and Gretel, and even The Frog Price coming from these parts.

Black Forest

The Black Forest region is known for its three distinctive features, highlands, scenery and woods. And, they sure are impressive. It gets its name due to its size and the fact that it was uninhabited, others say it is down to its dark green colour from the fir trees found there.
And, If you’ve got this far without thinking of Gateau, we’re about to ruin it. The dessert takes its name from this area as its recipe features the main crop of the forest. Cherries.

Dusseldorf

Known for its fashion industry and art scene, Dusseldorf is certainly an interesting place to be. It hosts one of the biggest fashion fairs in Europe, the Collections Premieren DÃ¼sseldorf. Whilst it may not be as popular as its close neighbour, and rival, Cologne, there’s still plenty to see.
Konigsallee – Germany’s most elegant shopping street, the Museum of Art and the old town to name a few. There’s also a famous song about this fantastic town, it goes by the name of Warst Du doch in Dusseldorf geblieben (“You’d have better stayed in Dusseldorf”). Who are we to disagree?

Munich

Last but certainly not least, it’s the capital of Bavaria and the home of Oktoberfest. It could only be Munich. Home to stunning architecture, such as the Neues Rathaus and the Frauenkirche, and its white sausage, there’s plenty to experience here.
The English Garden is one of Europe’s biggest city parks, even beating London’s Hyde Park and New York’s Central Park! Although, it’s not as English as you may expect. It’s actually filled with Japanese inspired sculptures, a Chinese Pagoda and even a Greek Temple.
And, for the automotive fans, Munich is also home to the German car company, BMW.
Start your discovery of Germany now, click here to see all of Germany tours

November 27, 2015July 14, 2023

Taking back Twixmas – The Perfect Time for a European Escape

All that build up to Christmas day and it feels like it’s over before you’ve even had chance to finish off your Christmas Pudding. Then, you’re faced with mountains of washing up, turkey leftovers to feed you for a week and a whole array of TV repeats you don’t miss from the nineties. Welcome to Twixmas.

Yes, it sounds like a chocolate bar, and whilst there may be a lack of gold wrapping, Twixmas can prove to be just the treat you were looking for.
Traditionally starting on the 27^th December right through to New Year, it covers the time in which plenty of people venture out of the house for a spot of sale shopping. But, if that’s not your thing, how about a European escape?
Now is the time to take back Twixmas! Here, we’ve pulled together our top adventures to spend your Twixmas in style.

Cruising the Rhine Valley

What better way to shake off that Christmas hangover than setting sail on a relaxing river cruise down the beautiful Rhine Valley of Germany?
From the quaint towns of Rudesheim and Koblenz to the stunning Cologne, you certainly won’t be left longing for the Christmas soap re-runs. In fact, if you’ve received a new camera for Christmas, there certainly some sights to behold here.
The Gothic architecture and the sweeping river views are certainly a sight for sore and bleary eyes – or, of course, you could take in the hair of the dog in one of Cologne’s 3000 pubs, cafes and restaurants. The German’s certainly produce some great beer.

Hop into Holland

Visiting Valkenburg throughout Twixmas can offer you some fantastic activities worth leaving the house for.
With its quaint cobbled alleyways, you have a chance to dive into the shops and spend any left-over Christmas money on treats for yourself. How about a lovely meal in one of the many restaurants and bars?
You can even take a stroll around the stunning castle garden of “Kasteeltuin Oud-Valkenburg” and visit the castle mill whilst you’re there.
If you fancy some time out of the daylight on street level, head underground into the Roman catacombs taking a candlelit tour around the underground network of 2000-year-old caves.

Twixmas Treats in Bruges

Christmas doesn’t have to be over, not when it comes to indulging, anyway. With plenty of flavoured beers and that oh-so-delectable Belgian chocolate to tuck in to, there’s plenty to enjoy in Bruges.
This pretty town has plenty of stunning sights to see, and how better to see them than from a horse and cart? Head over to the Markt Square where your chariot will await.
Plus, you can take a look around the famous chocolate factory Choco-Story, take a boat tour of the canal or rest your feet with a selection of tasty flavoured draught beers in the Beer Wall pub.

Picture Perfect Prague

Take a trip into historical Prague. There’s plenty of Iconic sights to see such as the Prague Castle, the Old Town Hall and the famous Astronomical Clock.
It’s also the perfect place to get snappy, head over to the Charles Bridge to get some stunning photographs of the city.
If you’re up for a bit of fun, head over to the mirror maze on Petran Hill, the “Hall of Laughter” should do the trick of relieving those post-Christmas blues.
Did you know: The term ‘Twixmas’ actually comes from the old English phrase ‘Betwix’ that means the middle position.
There’s still time to book your perfect Twixmas break, take a look at our range of Twixmas tours, here.

August 3, 2015July 14, 2023

A Grand Alpine Adventure by Carole Russell

As a 73-year-old lady not used to travelling alone, I was very apprehensive about going on holiday, but one of the best decisions I ever made was to go on the Grand Alpine Adventure in August last year. The Silver Service coach was beyond all my expectations and, once we’d crossed the channel I really felt the adventure was beginning

Right at the start Stuart, one of our drivers, said “remember, you are not on holiday – you are on tour!” We very quickly understood what he meant. Staying in no less than 9 hotels over a 2 week period certainly meant having to be organised with the packing and, if you are expecting a relaxing, restful holiday, do NOT go on this tour!

One of our first visits was to a wine tasting in the Rhine Valley. What better way to get me talking to my fellow travellers who I was to share the next 2 weeks with!

We had so many wonderful experiences and saw the most spectacular sights, travelling through the Alps and Lakes of Germany, Austria, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland and France.

I was simply enchanted by all of the towns we visited, particularly Rothenburg, Innsbruck and Salzburg, feeling I was part of a storybook. And the Alpine regions we visited – welI the splendour, magnificence and beauty of what I saw was simply awe inspiring.

You’d have thought one mountain would look much the same as another, but every area we went to, the scenery was so spectacularly different.Â We stayed in some lovely hotels along the way and the variety of food was excellent.

The only lady amongst five other ‘singlies’, I wonder if I may have earned a bit of a reputation as we did tend to end up together as a group!Â But the whole camaraderie of all the passengers and crew was really good and I felt very safe and secure.

I would certainly say to anyone who is on their own that this type of holiday is probably the best they can take.Â You can spend time on your own when you want, but there is always someone else around who will happily have you join them for a meal, or whatever.

Our crew, Stuart and Ralph, were tireless in their endeavours to ensure everyone was happy and that everything ran like clockwork.Â Their commentaries were so informative and interesting and their driving – well how they get that huge coach around those Alpine bends beats me!

I very soon decided that I wanted to experience more of the world with Leger as it is such a splendid way to have holidays, particularly when you are travelling alone. So I’m off again soon, this time to Eastern Europe. Who wants to lay on a beach when you can go on tour!

Would you like to be a Leger Blog star? Get in touch at blog@legerblog.co.uk

December 10, 2014June 27, 2023

My First Coach Holiday by Dave Tarbrook

Are you thinking of heading off on a tour of Italy? Or maybe you’re thinking about heading off on your first coach tour? Dave Tarbrook took his first ever coach holiday on ourÂ Rome, Pompeii and picturesque CapriÂ tourÂ earlier this year. Read his blog documenting his tour from the coach to the sights and how he found the experience on his first Leger holiday.

This was my first ever coach holiday and first time with Leger Holidays, but I was not disappointed!

Coach Journey & Hotel

I was unsure what to expect with regards to travelling by coach, but the silver service coach was very comfortable indeed with ample leg room, a reclining seat and superb, knowledgeable and professional driver and co-driver – Damien & Steve. From the moment I stepped on the coach I received a warm welcome and was very much looked after.
The coach journey itself was rather long, travelling through France, Switzerland and finally reaching my destination – Italy, but there were plenty of comfort stops and films were screened along the way which broke up the journey. Hot and cold drinks were served throughout which was great!
On reaching the hotel in Fiuggi, again we received a warm welcome from the owners who could not do enough for the coach party. The hotel was set in a beautiful little hill top town and was very clean, tidy with a comfortable room. This holiday offered bed and breakfast only, but guests were able to dine in the restaurant during the evening for a reasonable cost should they choose. The hotel itself was approximately a 5 – 10 minute walk away from the town, where there were ample restaurants and bars available, offering food and drink again at a very reasonable cost.

Sight Seeing

The scheduled sightseeing tours were superb! The beautiful Montecassino Monastery with its grand opulence and the fascinating trip to Pompeii was just out of this world! For a reasonable price, guests were able to opt into a guided tour around Pompeii and I am very pleased that I did, as it ensured that I got the very best out of this vast historical site. The trip to Rome had to be the highlight for me! On our 9 day tour we visited Rome twice. During the first Trip, we visited the Coliseum, The Spanish steps and Trevi Fountain, which were spectacular. On our second visit, we visited the Vatican and Sistine Chapel. Again, optional tours were offered which were very informative, ensuring that guests once again got the most from their time spent in Rome. During the tour, we were offered the opportunity to go to either the island of Capri or visit the town of Sorrento. I decided to visit the beautiful town of Sorrento, which has great shops and plenty of restaurants offering fantastic Italian cuisine! The final trip to Frascati and Castell Gondolfo was great! We went to taste the wine and had a light lunch of bread, cheese, meat and olives… Following this, we had the opportunity to buy the local Frascati wine, which of course I did!!!
All in all, this was a great holiday and I met some truly wonderful people in our coach party. I would definitely recommend this holiday to anyone who has not visitedÂ Italy and very much recommend Ledger Tours which was extremely professional from the initial booking, right the way through the holiday itself!
Thanks for a superb and memorable holiday!
Dave

Do you have any suggestions to people taking a coach holiday for the first time? Leave your comments below.

December 4, 2014

Introducing our New Tour: Grand Scenic Austria

Snow-capped mountain peaks, luscious green hillsides and crystal blue lakes are just some of the images conjured up by the thought of Austria, however, it’s not just the natural beauty that visitors seek out. There is also a rich culture, a fascinating history and spectacular architecture to discover throughout this impressive landlocked country.

In our 2015 Brochure, we have introduced a brand new tour, Grand Scenic Austria. This Grand Explorer tour takes you through some of the country’s most spectacular delights. Here’s a few of our favorite things that you can expect to see and do whilst taking this magnificent tour.

Salzkammergut

The Austrian Lake District, the first port of call. There’s a total of 76 lakes surrounded by picturesque villages. Our tour takes you to delightful Mondsee. Translated to Moon Lake in English, the crescent shaped lake is one of Austria’s famous bathing lakes. Its water temperature reaches up to 28â°C and is a popular attraction to locals and tourists alike. Possibly the most renowned attraction in Mondsee is the Basilica St. Michael, situated in the middle of the town centre, the church was famously used for the wedding scene in ‘The Sound of Music’. For that reason more than 200.000 people are visiting the church every year and give it the honour of being one of the most photographed churches all over the world.

Krems and Melk

Krems an der Donau is the eastern gateway to the Wachau valley, thought to be the most picturesque stretch of the River Danube. One of the oldest cities in Austria, builders and archaeologists throughout the country have created a unique cityscape that has earned the city a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. If you’re a wine lover, you will be happy to know that Krems is said to have the best selection ofAustrian wine, whether this comes from its 1000 year wine making history or the perfect conditions the vineyards are set in is up for debate, however the wine taverns will certainly not disappoint.
Heading down into Melk you will make a stop off to tour the Melk Abbey,Â a fortified castle that is home to the Babenberg’s, Austria’s first ruling dynasty. Located on the bank of the Danube, the Abbey was originally a palace and it most certainly shows. A sight to behold with its baroque architecture, the abbey’s church is the highlight with its numerous windows and rich embellishment of marble and frescoes.Â The abbey contains the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau, an Irish Pilgrim mistaken as a spy due to his strange appearance and was subsequently tortured and hanged.

Vienna

The capital city and also the largest city in Austria, Vienna is home to quarter of Austria’s population. Birthplace of the waltz and hosts up to 200 balls every year, the most popular location for a ball to be held is the Hofburg Imperial Palace. The world’s largest emerald is displayed in the Imperial Treasury of the palace boasting 2860 carats. If you like to do your sightseeing from a height, head to the Prater, Vienna’s most popular fun fair. Hop on the giant Ferris wheel, featured in the James Bond film, The Living Daylight, and see it all from 200 feet up. Although born in Germany,Â Ludwig van Beethoven lived most of his adult life in Vienna. He battled deafness starting at the age of 26 and he composed some of his best-known works, including Symphony Â No. 9 while profoundly deaf. If you are a fan of Beethoven, you can visit theÂ Theater an der Wien where there is a Beethoven memorial room open to the public. This is where most of his compositions were premiered.

Carinthia

Austria’s southernmost province, Carinthia boasts the most sunshine hours per year. The tour stops here for two nights so there is plenty of time to discover the beautiful scenery it has to offer. You can also see Augenquelle St. Kathrein. Known as an ‘Eye Spring’, it is thought to have beneficial healing effects. From stabilising blood circulation to aiding recovery after surgery, people have even been known to splash the 36â°C mineral water into their eyes in order to ensure good eyesight into old age.

Salzburg

Salzburg, where the hills are alive with ‘The Sound of Music’. The home of the von Trapp family and Mozart, from museums to palaces there’s plenty of culture to soak up in this picturesque town. Salzburg used to be an independent country, but was annexed to the Austrian Empire in 1816. Whilst in Salzburg, the Residenzplatz is well worth a visit. With its horse drawn carriages and street entertainers surrounding the most beautiful fountain in the city, it’s most definitely worth a closer look.Â The Sound of Music PavillonÂ can be found at Hellbrunn Palace today, in the movie it was still located at Leopoldskron Palace. This is where one of the most famous and romantic scenes was filmed:Â ‘I am 16 going on 17’

Innsbruck

The capital of the Tyrol and hailed as the capital of the Alps, Innsbruck’s pride and joy stands tall in the old town. The German Renaissance gothic court church was commissioned in 1553 by Ferdinand I, who enlisted the help of top artists such as Peter Vischer the Elder and Alexander Colin to complete the building as a memorial to Emperor Maximillian I. Alpine skiing is a very popular sport in Austria, as are snowboarding and ski-jumping. The city of Innsbruck hosted the Winter Olympics in both 1964 and 1976.Â While in Innsbruck you could also pay a visit to Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens, a sparkling, underground world where crystal comes to life. Take a look around the museum or treat yourself, it’s the prefect excuse.

Krimml Falls

One not to miss! With a total height of 380 metres, the Krimml waterfalls are the highest in Europe and we offer you an optional excursion to visit this natural wonder. The waterfall begins at the end of the Krimml River flowing through three stages of the beautiful Hohe Tauern National Park. To make the waterfall more accessible to visitors, Ignaz von KÃ¼rsinger created a path to the upper part and is well worth a visit.

To see this tour in more detail and to see where else we can take you in Austria, visit the Austria Tours section of our website.

February 26, 2014June 27, 2023

Florence: artistic treasures, amazing architecture and a rapidly-melting

The final city visit on our tour of the Italian Riviera, Tuscany and Rome was the Renaissance city of Florence, a city that was mentioned quite a bit in my art history lessons.

It was a warm and sunny day as we travelled into Florence, or Firenze as itâ€™s known locally, heading firstly to a viewpoint high above the city. Florence sits in the valley of the River Arno and is surrounded by hills and mountains, and it was from the hilltop location of Piazzale Michelangelo that we were given an excellent view over the whole city with the rich terracotta dome of the cathedralâ€™s mighty Duomo dominating the panorama. This is the shot that appears on many postcards so itâ€™s the one to take for your album! Below us the River Arno ran past the pastel-coloured buildings and under the famous Ponte Vecchio which we could see over to the left.

Michelangelo's statue of David stands in the centre of Piazzale Michelangelo, looking over the city — Michelangelo’s statue of David (well, one of them) stands in the centre of Piazzale Michelangelo, looking over the city

At Piazzale Michelangelo, along with many people taking photos and posing for pictures for their album, there was a replica of Michelangelo’s statue of David, one of the masterpieces of Renaissance sculpture. Apart from that, the square itself wasnâ€™t much to look at â€“ but we were there for the view and that was incredible! Once everyone had the photographs they wanted we headed down towards the centre to meet our guide who would introduce us to her city.
Florence was once surrounded by high defensive walls and towers, and the Tower of the Mint, (Torre della Zecca) which we walked past on our way into the city was part of those walls. This tower was once connected to a string of buildings which were powered by water, and one of these was the Florence Mint (Zecca fiorentina) where the cityâ€™s golden florins were made.

Our guide led us past the Mint Tower and along Via dei Malcontenti, a narrow street sandwiched between cream-coloured buildings. This was apparently the road that criminals were led along to the public gallows, and so it was given the name Malcontenti â€“ â€˜malcontentâ€™ meaning unhappy.
After a while, after passing the Franciscan church of Santa Croce with its grand marble faÃ§ade and weaving our way through the narrow streets of the city, we came out at the Piazza della Signoria, dominated by the huge bell tower; the belfry of the Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace). This is the city hall of Florence and it was in front of the building that I spotted another reproduction of Michelangeloâ€™s David, the most famous statue on the square. The real one, created in 1504, used to stand here but it was removed and placed in the Accademia di Belle Arti Firenze.

The belfry of the Palazzo Vecchio on Piazza della Signoria…

Michelangelo's statue of David No.2 — … and another ‘David’!

The square was buzzing with a great atmosphere â€“ apparently itâ€™s one of the most popular meeting spots for locals and tourists alike. Across from the city hall was the contrasting sight of designer stores being browsed by well-dressed shoppers and people strolling around trying to eat their colourful â€˜gelatoâ€™ before it melted in the warm sunshine. Being a girl who doesnâ€™t like shopping (yes, weird, I know!) I opted instead to join the gelato speed-eaters.
Frantically trying to keep the ice cream in its cone, I walked over to the large equestrian statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici standing just beside the city hall. Cosimo was famous for, amongst other things, the creation of the Uffizi which adjoins the Palazzo Vecchio and is now one of the most famous museums in the world, housing one of the greatest collations of art â€“ most of it from the Renaissance period. Works by some of the greatest Italian artists are held here: names such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli and Giotto, again, names I remembered from the A-Level art classes of my school days. This was one place I wouldâ€™ve loved to visit to bring to life all those paintings I’d studied in my text booksâ€¦ to see early works by Giotto; Botticelliâ€™s Birth of Venus and Caravaggioâ€™s Bacchus; all images I still remember. But it was time to move on.

The statue of Cosimo I de' Medici stands proudly on Piazza della Signoria — The statue of Cosimo I de’ Medici stands proudly on Piazza della Signoria

Our guide escorted us along the busy pedestrian street of Via die Calzaiuoli, home to many designer and high street names, a pizzeria here and there and quite a few places to buy those all important ice creams. The sweet smell of crepes and waffles led us along the alleyway until it opened up to reveal the breathtaking Piazza del Duomo. A couple of hours earlier weâ€™d seen the huge domed roof of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore from the hillside across the river. Now we were up close, and it was truly magnificent.

Arriving at Piazza del Duomo â€“ the magnificent Giotto's Tower — Arriving at Piazza del Duomo â€“ the magnificent Giotto’s Tower and the Duomo

Right in front of us was the huge structure of Giottoâ€™s Bell Tower. The column stands at almost 300 feet high and amongst its green, pink and white marble and displays intricate scenes. At the top, our guide advised us, the tower has 7 bells. We decided not to join the queues waiting to climb the 400+ steps to the top for a closer look and instead took her word for it.

Giotto's Tower up close: the beautiful green, pink and white marble — Giotto’s Tower up close: the beautiful green, pink and white marble

The Dome itself, designed and built by Filippo Brunelleschi, is equally impressive. More than 600 years after it was constructed the â€˜Duomoâ€™, as itâ€™s known, still remains the tallest building in Florence. The cathedral is also the 4th largest in the world â€“ the first is St. Peterâ€™s in Rome, the second, St. Paulâ€™s in London and the third, Milanâ€™s Duomo.

The magnificent 'Duomo' — The magnificent ‘Duomo’

A short walk through the network of bustling passageways took us to the oldest bridge in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio. Iâ€™d seen photos of this bridge spanning the River Arno and always thought it looked rather plain, so I wanted to visit it for myself and find out why this well-known landmark is so popular.
The Ponte Vecchio was once the only bridge across the River Arno and the only bridge in Florence that wasnâ€™t destroyed by Germans during WWII. Since the 13th century there have been shops on the bridge. Originally they housed fishmongers, greengrocers, butchers and tanners â€“ the waste from which created a rather unpleasant smell in the river, so much so that in 1593 it was ordered that only jewellers and goldsmiths would be allowed to have shops on the Ponte Vecchio, making the bridge a much cleaner and attractive place to visit. Today, the bridge is still lined with jewellery stores attracting hundreds â€“ probably thousands â€“ of visitors each year.

The Ponte Vecchio â€“ the oldest bridge in Florence

Approaching the bridge I saw the familiar sight of the construction and, even â€˜in the fleshâ€™, it struck me how ordinary it looked â€“ a jumble of mustard and reddy-coloured buildings which looked as if theyâ€™d been stuck onto the main structure. As I got closer I could see just how ramshackle it appeared. Once on the bridge, however, it was a different story. The place had a great atmosphere and was brought to life by the crowds of people gathered around the stalls and the wares of the gold and silver smiths which twinkled in contrast to the dilapidated appearance of the bridgeâ€™s exterior.

Colourful 'add-ons' cling to the bridge — Colourful ‘add-ons’ cling to the bridge

So, I can now say that Iâ€™ve visited Florenceâ€™s oldest bridge. It hadnâ€™t contradicted my view of it as a rather plain and uninspiring landmark and I think there are much more impressive places to visit in the city, but Iâ€™d seen it for myself. The visit to Florence had given me a good overview of the capital of Tuscany, a brief history of the city and some of its landmarks, and of the sights Iâ€™d like to return to â€“ namely the Uffizi Gallery.
Leaving the Ponte Vecchio and walking back along the Arno river, our visit to the Renaissance city had come to an end; another place to tick off my â€˜must visitâ€™ list… and another place Iâ€™d have to return to, one day.

Have you been to Florence? Share your stories and comments with us here!