Exclusive for Mail on Sunday readers: A once-in-a-decade chance to explore Bavaria and see its historic Passion Play – and you’ll be joined by art critic Andrew Graham-Dixon
In 1633, as an outbreak of the Black Death ravaged Germany, the inhabitants of Oberammergau, a small village in southern Bavaria, made an extraordinary promise. If God spared them, they vowed, they would re-enact the final days of Jesus’s life every ten years in gratitude.
Miraculously, the villagers were spared – and almost 400 years later, the people of Oberammergau are still true to their word.
Now you can experience this rare and moving spectacle on our exclusive five-night trip, which takes in both the Passion Play and the beautiful surrounding area, including the magical castles and palaces built by ‘mad’ King Ludwig II in the 19th Century.
Astonishing spectacle: Visit the breathtaking Neuschwanstein Castle on an exclusive five-night trip around Bavaria
One of Britain’s most insightful and entertaining cultural broadcasters, Andrew Graham-Dixon, will join you during your trip, giving his own expert insights.
Andrew says: ‘I’m really looking forward to it – especially the visit to Neuschwanstein, the world’s most spectacular fairytale castle.’
Tickets and good accommodation in the Oberammergau area are very limited around the time of the Passion Play, so early booking is highly recommended.
A scene from the famous Passion Play, which is staged every ten years in Bavaria
OUR SPECIAL GUEST
You’ll be joined by art critic Andrew Graham-Dixon
A brilliant and engaging art critic, Andrew Graham-Dixon is one of Britain’s leading cultural commentators. He has presented numerous TV programmes, including the BBC’s Sicily Unpacked and The Art Of Germany. He is also the author of several acclaimed art history books, including Renaissance, Michelangelo And The Sistine Chapel and his recent bestseller, Caravaggio: A Life Sacred And Profane.
REASONS TO BOOK
The once-in-a-decade Passion Play: The unique Oberammergau production draws visitors from around the world.
It is a remarkable undertaking, involving half the town’s residents as they retell the story of Christ from His entry into Jerusalem to the Resurrection.
Meet Andrew Graham-Dixon: The art historian and broadcaster will join you on this trip, appearing at Neuschwanstein Castle.
He will take part in a Q&A session and talk about the castle, which he described in his brilliant BBC series The Art Of Germany as one of the most spectacular German monuments.
You will find out more about King Ludwig II, who effectively bankrupted Bavaria to construct his astonishing Romantic buildings.
Bavarian castles: As well as Neuschwanstein, which featured in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, you will see Herrenchiemsee Palace, inspired by King Ludwig’s visit to the Palace of Versailles.
This is no less elaborate: 35 seamstresses are said to have spent seven years sewing the cover for the royal bed.
The palace’s gilded Hall of Mirrors, best seen by candlelight, is arguably even more impressive than the Versailles original.
Unforgettable experience: The Oberammergau Passion Play is a truly memorable travel experience.
If you miss this trip, you will have to wait until 2030 for your next opportunity.
WHAT’S INCLUDED Scheduled flights between London and Munich (regional airports available on request).Comfortable coach transfers.Two nights’ B&B at Mercure Hotel München City Centre, Munich.One night’s B&B at a hotel in the Oberammergau area.Two nights’ B&B at Best Western Plus Hotel Füssen.Four dinners (one included with the Passion Play ticket) and three lunches.Ticket for the Passion Play.Exclusive talk, question- and-answer and tour visits with Andrew Graham-Dixon.Visits to Chiemsee, Herreninsel Island, Hohenschwangau Castle, Berg Castle and Neuschwanstein Castle.Services of a professional tour manager.
HOW TO BOOK
The dates: August 3 to 8, 2022. The price: From £2,795pp*.
To find out more, call 01722 638 551, quoting MOS Passion Play, or visit mailtravel.co.uk/passionplay.
Terms and conditions: *Price based on two sharing. Single supplement available. Itinerary subject to change. Our travel partner, Andante Travels, is ABTA-bonded and this trip is ATOL-protected. For full terms and conditions, go to mailtravel.co.uk/passionplay.
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