We last visited this region in 2006,and have decided it is now time to return to the old imperial city of Ulm, on the bank of the Danube. Ulm minster is the second largest Gothic church in Germany, and a climb up its soaring spire offers amazing views stretching to the Alps. The area has a variety of steamy attractions, plus picturesque towns and villages.

PROVISIONAL OUTLINE ITINERARY

Monday) Morning departure by Eurostar from London to Brussels, thence onward via Koeln to Ulm, arriving during the evening. (Please note that we may travel via Paris depending on 2012 timetables)

Tuesday) Standard gauge steam between Korntal and Weissach, a branch line west of Stuttgart.

Wednesday) We take a very scenic rail journey along the valley of the Danube to its source at Donaueschingen. We then enjoy a spectacular steam journey between Zollhaus Blumberg and Weizen, a steeply graded line, close to the Swiss border, featuring viaducts, spirals and tunnels!

Thursday) Either Augsburg or Stuttgart for a vintage tram tour. (Special charter) Time also to visit the city.

Friday) A special charter train on the very attractive narrow gauge museum line which runs from Amstetten to Oppingen, hauled by a 1904 built well tank locomotive. A very friendly railway and great fun! We continue with a trip to Tubingen, a most picturesque and ancient university town.

Saturday) Along the "Baroque Highway" further into Upper Swabia to the delightful lakeside resort of Bad Waldsee, followed by the 750mm narrow gauge steam line from Warthausen to Ochsenhausen..

Sunday) Hopefully another steam run, details to be confirmed.

Monday) After breakfast we join a train to Frankfurt for an ICE connection direct to Brussels, and thence our Eurostar service back to London, returning early evening.

OUR HOTELS

Our holiday hotel will be the InterCity Hotel, adjacent to the railway station in Ulm.

Tour price is £1095 per person sharing twin / double room, with £230 single supplement if required. This includes travel with the group from London, seven nights hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis (our normal practice on continental tours), plus excursions as outlined above. Deposit £200 per person.