MAIDSTONE — Over the Easter break, the Maidstone Travel Club embarked on a breathtaking journey across Europe, with 28 enthusiastic adults and teens exploring the cultural treasures of France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany and Austria.
Paris, France:
The adventure began in the City of Light, where highlights included a visit to the restored Notre Dame Cathedral, a scenic Seine River cruise, and the sparkling nightly show of the Eiffel Tower. The group stepped back in time at the Palace of Versailles, including a walk through the charming Queen’s Hamlet. At the Louvre Museum, iconic works like the Mona Lisa, Egyptian artifacts and the lavish Napoleon apartments amazed everyone. Navigating the city via the famed Paris Metro added to the authentic Parisian experience.
Glittering Eiffel Tower at dusk in Paris, France. | Photos courtesy Michele Bailey, Chelene Freyman and Saidai Mosher
Basilique du Sacre-Cour de Montmartre built high on a hill has a great view of Paris, France.
Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris.
The Queen’s Hamlet with a man-made lake, a place of tranquillity built for Marie Antoinette at Versailles, France.
Switzerland:
A high-speed bullet train ride whisked the group to Switzerland at 200 mph. Switzerland became a favourite for many, with its lake cruise, a scenic train ride up Mount Rigi and a lively cultural evening complete with Swiss fondue, yodelling and traditional dancing.
Jesuitenkirche Luzern, a Catholic Church in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Lion of Lucerne Monument in Lucerne, Switzerland.
Riding the cogwheel train up Mount Rigi overlooking Lake Lucerne, Switzerland.
Germany:
A bus ride brought the travellers to Germany, where they visited the solemn Dachau Concentration Camp with a private guide — an emotional and educational experience. In Munich, the group explored the opulent Residenz Museum and Treasury, marvelled at the Glockenspiel in Marienplatz and enjoyed the bustling Viktualienmarkt and the world-famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall. They also visited the BMW Museum and the Olympic Park.
Austria:
In Salzburg, the group toured the Hohensalzburg Fortress, took a photo stop at Mozart’s birthplace and visited the beautiful Mirabell Gardens and Pegasus Fountain, famously featured in The Sound of Music.
In Vienna, they explored Stephansplatz Square, visited St. Stephen’s Cathedral during Sunday Mass and viewed Roman ruins discovered in the 1990s. A guided tour through the stunning Schönbrunn Palace, once home to Marie Antoinette, was a highlight. Stops included the whimsical Hundertwasser House, a panoramic city bus tour and the delightful Prater Amusement Park, where the group enjoyed Vienna’s Giant Ferris Wheel, roller coasters, bumper cars and delicious fair food.
A Taste of Europe:
Throughout the trip, members delighted in local delicacies such as croissants, crepes, flammkuchen, Wiener schnitzel and apple strudel — a true culinary journey.
This unforgettable adventure was filled with laughter, learning, and lasting friendships. Next stop: Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England in spring 2027.
ng, and lasting friendships. Next stop: Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England in spring 2027.
