Join us as we uncover the lesser-known stories honouring the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought retreating German forces in the final stages of the Italian Campaign - both on and beyond the Gothic Line.
Determined by the geography of the country, harsh weather conditions during winter months and dogged resistance by German forces, the Italian Campaign, which opened with the invasion of the mainland across the Straits of Messina on 3 September 1943, finally ended with the cessation of hostilities with German forces on 2 May 1945. This Remembrance Tour focuses on the fighting in Italy after the liberation of Rome as Allied troops sought to breach the vast barrier of heavily-defended German positions, codenamed ‘The Gothic Line’, and uncovers the daring assaults and missions of a secret war behind enemy lines.
Tours explore Operation Tombola when a joint force of British parachutists and partisans successfully penetrated, then devastated, a German base far behind the lines with a crushing effect on German morale. We visit the sites of Operation Herring, the last airborne operation of WWII in Europe, and Operation Roast – a curtain-raiser to the Eight Army’s last great offensive in Italy. A museum visit and drive across the Futa Pass give insight into the challenges of breaking through the last major line of German defences, whilst visits to cemeteries and memorials are testament to the scale of the losses on both sides. Along the way we’ll hear stories of extraordinary bravery and learn about some of the unlikely heroes who played their part in this war.
Ideally located opposite Bologna’s main Central Station and just a 15-minute walk from the central square of Piazza Maggiore, the Starhotels Excelsior blends classic style with contemporary taste. This elegant 4-star hotel has a 24-hour reception and offers complimentary WiFi throughout. There are 193 elegant, air-conditioned guest rooms all served by a lift.
All rooms are equipped with the following:
In the heart of historic Florence and just a 10-minute walk the famous Duomo and other major attractions, the 4-star Grand Hotel Adriatico combines traditional Florentine hospitality with the service and comfort of an international hotel. In the spacious lobby area, the 24-hour reception desk is hosted by friendly, multilingual staff. The hotel with 129 elegant rooms and suites offers complimentary WiFi throughout.
All rooms are equipped with the following: