The Australian and New Zealand Battlefield Day Tour in the Somme offers a poignant and immersive journey through the historic sites of World War I. Departing from either Lille or Arras, this private tour provides participants with the opportunity to explore the Thiepval Memorial, the Le Hamel Australian Memorial, and other significant locations, gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by troops from Australia and New Zealand. With a knowledgeable guide, round-trip transportation, and a provided lunch, this tour promises an enriching and thought-provoking experience, shedding light on a pivotal chapter in the Somme Offensive. As the tour unfolds, visitors will be invited to reflect on the enduring legacy of those who fought and fell in this once-decisive battleground.
Key Points
- This 9-hour Somme Battlefield tour from Lille or Arras explores key WWI sites, including the Australian National Memorial and Thiepval Memorial, with a private guide and driver.
- The tour includes lunch, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation, providing a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.
- Visitors can learn about the significant role played by Australian and New Zealand troops in the Somme Offensive of 1916.
- The tour is suitable for moderately fit individuals, with a 5.0 rating from previous participants who praised the knowledgeable guide and enriching experience.
- The Somme region was the site of brutal WWI battles, and the tour stops serve as reminders of the sacrifices made by courageous soldiers.
Tour Overview
This 9-hour Australian and New Zealand Somme Battlefield tour from Lille or Arras allows visitors to explore key World War I sites in the region.
The tour includes stops at the Le Hamel Australian Memorial, the Jean and Denise Letaille Museum, and the Thiepval Memorial, the largest WWI memorial with over 73,000 names.
Lunch, entrance fees, and round-trip transportation from the hotel are all included in the tour package.
With a private guide and driver, the tour offers a personalized experience for your party, ensuring an informative and comfortable journey through the historic battlefields.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Arras.
Detailed Itinerary
The tour begins with a pickup from designated train stations in Lille or Arras at 8:30 am.
The first stop is the École Victoria, a former school now serving as a memorial to Australian soldiers.
Next, the group visits the Australian National Memorial, which honors over 11,000 Australians with no known grave.
The tour then continues to the Thiepval Memorial, the largest WWI memorial featuring the names of over 73,000 missing soldiers.
Lunch is included, followed by a visit to the Jean and Denise Letaille Museum and the Le Hamel Australian Memorial.
The day ends with a stop at Pozières before returning to the starting point around 5:30 pm.
Included Amenities
The tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the overall experience.
Travelers will enjoy a provided lunch, as well as bottled water and alcoholic drinks throughout the day.
All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included in the tour price, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Souvenirs and photos are available for purchase, allowing visitors to commemorate their time on the historic battlefields.
The tour is private, with a dedicated guide/driver, providing a personalized and informative exploration of the Somme region.
With these amenities, the Australian and New Zealand Battlefield Day Tour offers a comprehensive and comfortable way to discover the area’s WWI history.
Additional Information
Confirming bookings at the time of reservation, the tour also requires that children be accompanied by an adult.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. Given the nature of the sites visited, a moderate level of physical fitness is necessary for participants.
Detailed tour information and inclusions are provided upon booking confirmation, ensuring guests are well-informed.
The tour’s positive reputation is evident in its 5.0 rating based on numerous reviews, which highlight the knowledgeable guide, Claude, and the overall enriching experience.
Souvenirs and photos are available for purchase, allowing visitors to commemorate their battlefield exploration.
Reviews and Ratings
The Battlefield Day Tour in the Somme has earned an impressive 5.0 rating based on 8 reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor. Reviewers consistently praise the tour guide Claude’s extensive knowledge, highlighting the informative nature of the experience. Travelers also commend the comfortable transportation and the convenience of included lunch, entrance fees, and hotel pickup. The feedback emphasizes the tour’s ability to provide an in-depth look at key World War I sites along the Somme battlefield.
| Reviewer Source | Rating | Review Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Viator | 5.0 | Excellent guide, informative tour |
| Tripadvisor | 5.0 | Highly recommended, memorable experience |
| Tripadvisor | 5.0 | Seamless logistics, knowledgeable guide |
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Historical Context
Situated along the banks of the Somme River in northern France, the Somme region witnessed some of the most brutal battles of World War I.
The Somme Offensive, also known as the Battle of the Somme, was a major military campaign fought from July to November 1916. It resulted in over 1 million casualties, making it one of the bloodiest battles in human history.
This pivotal battle saw the involvement of Australian and New Zealand troops, who played a significant role in the Allied efforts.
The tour’s stops, including the Le Hamel Australian Memorial and the Thiepval Memorial, offer a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these courageous soldiers during the conflict.
Preparing for the Tour
Preparing for the Tour
Travellers booking the Australian and New Zealand Somme Battlefield tour can expect a seamless experience. The tour includes pickup from designated train stations in Lille or Arras at 8:30 am, ensuring a punctual start.
With a private guide and driver, the tour provides a personalized and intimate exploration of the historic sites. Guests should note the moderate physical fitness level required, as the tour involves walking and standing.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and service animals are allowed, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Lunch, bottled water, and alcoholic drinks are included, allowing travellers to refuel during the 9-hour excursion.
Souvenirs and photos are available for purchase to commemorate the insightful journey.
Booking and Logistics
Booking the Australian and New Zealand Somme Battlefield tour is a straightforward process.
Travelers can conveniently arrange their tour through the designated pickup locations in Lille or Arras, with an 8:30 AM departure time.
The private tour includes a knowledgeable guide/driver and round-trip transportation from the hotel. Lunch, entrance fees, and even alcoholic drinks are covered, making it an inclusive experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for moderately fit individuals.
With a 5.0 rating based on positive reviews, this tour promises an informative and comfortable exploration of the significant WWI sites, including the Thiepval Memorial and the Australian National Memorial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Stop for Personal Breaks During the Tour?
Yes, the tour allows for personal breaks. The guide is flexible, and the group can make stops during the day as needed for restroom breaks, stretch, or to explore areas of interest along the route.
Is Photography Allowed at the Memorial Sites?
Photography is allowed at the memorial sites during the tour. The tour overview states that souvenirs and photos are available for purchase, indicating visitors can take photos of the historic landmarks and landscapes visited.
Can We Take a Detour to Explore the Local Town?
While the tour itinerary is focused on key WWI memorial sites, the guide may be able to accommodate a quick detour to explore the local town if time permits and the group agrees. However, this would need to be discussed with the guide.
Are There Any On-Site Shops or Cafes to Visit?
The tour includes stops at the Jean and Denise Letaille Museum, which has a small gift shop for souvenirs. There’s also a café on-site where guests can grab a quick bite or refreshments during the tour.
How Much Luggage Can We Bring on the Tour?
The tour allows guests to bring standard-sized luggage, as there’s ample space in the private transportation provided. However, it’s recommended to pack light for maximum comfort and convenience throughout the day’s activities.
Recap
The Australian and New Zealand Battlefield Day Tour in the Somme offers a poignant exploration of significant WWI sites, providing participants with an enriching and educational experience. With round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a provided lunch, this private tour allows visitors to gain insight into the sacrifices made by the ANZAC troops and the historical context of the Somme Offensive.