Arena Rail Holidays, formerly Diamond Rail, has unveiled its new programme for 2018, which will feature for the first time, two itineraries combining holidays by rail and river cruises. 

There will also be more ‘little trains’ tours on historic narrow gauge and steam railways; and an adventure through Europe to North Africa, alongside upgraded existing itineraries through the mountains, lakes and valleys of Europe.

Steve Goodenough, managing director of Arena Rail Holidays said: “We have taken the opportunity to review and revise, the itineraries and accommodation offering, in order to ensure a consistently high standard for clients. We have responded to demand for more ‘little trains’ options, drawing on the popularity of existing itineraries, as well as introducing tours to a wider range of destinations that many people do not otherwise consider visiting by rail.”

Two of the tours are:

The eight day Heidelberg, Strasbourg & Rhine Discovery itinerary includes visits to several of Germany’s historic cities by rail, before boarding the mps Lady Anne for a cruise through the Rhine Gorge.

Departing in April, June and August, the tour is priced from £895 per person.

The Marrakech Express is a 10-day adventure by rail through Spain and all the way to North Africa, via stops to discover both Barcelona and Madrid. The journey to Marrakech includes ferry crossing to Tangier; a guided visit to Chefchaouen, one of the prettiest towns in Morocco; a stay in Casablanca; and three nights in Marrakech, with plenty of time to visit the souks. The tour departs on 16 September and 21 October, and is priced from £1,395 per person, including outbound travel by rail and return by air.

Prices are based on two adults sharing accommodation in three and four star hotels throughout, including daily breakfast; return travel from London St Pancras by Eurostar; onward rail connections; excursions and services of a tour manager/director throughout.