ANZAC on the Western Front

Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Lille, where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation at a charming hotel (or similar) and prepare for an evening of culinary delight. Join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner, setting the stage for the historical adventures that await. Savor the flavors of French cuisine as you get acquainted with the rich tapestry of stories that will unfold over the coming days.

Embark on a poignant journey from Lille to Ypres, tracing the footsteps of WWI soldiers. Begin with a visit to the Passchendaele battlefields, where the echoes of history resonate. Continue to Polygon Wood and Tyne Cot Military Cemetery, paying homage to the fallen. The afternoon brings a visit to the shell-scarred Hill 60 and the intriguing Hooge Crater Museum, home to a unique collection of wartime artifacts. As the day winds down, enjoy free time in Ypres, your base for the next two nights.

Delve deeper into the stories of the West Flanders Front with a visit to the In Flanders Fields Museum. This unique institution commemorates the trench warfare of WWI while conveying a message of peace. Spend the afternoon exploring the medieval town of Ypres at your leisure, uncovering its rich history. As evening falls, gather with your group to witness the moving Last Post ceremony at the iconic Menin Gate, a tradition that has endured for nearly a century.

Cross the border into France, where the poignant history of Fromelles awaits. Visit Pheasant Wood Cemetery, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made. Continue to the Wellington Quarries, a testament to the ingenuity of the New Zealand Tunnelling Company. Pay tribute to Australia's role in the Battle of Arras at the Digger Memorial. Conclude the day in the charming city of Amiens, where you can unwind and explore at your leisure.

The Somme region, steeped in history, beckons with tales of valor and sacrifice. Visit Pozières and Mouquet Farm, sites of significance for Australian soldiers. Explore Longueval and Flers, monumental to the Kiwis. Reflect on the colossal loss experienced by Great Britain at the Thiepval Memorial. Return to Amiens for a farewell dinner, reminiscing on the unforgettable journey through history.

Conclude your journey with a visit to Villers-Bretonneux, a cornerstone of Australian WWI commemoration. Explore the Franco-Australian Museum, a tribute to the brave soldiers who saved the town. Make a brief stop at the Sir John Monash Centre before delving into the history of Le Hamel. Return to Lille, where your tour concludes, leaving you with memories of a journey through time.