On the right track
A train journey through the Rockies that allows you to get off and sleep in stationary bed could be just the thing for those in two minds about the idea of a long train holiday. Safari Canada has arranged nine night trips from Calgary to Vancouver that include two days' travel on the luxury Rocky Mountaineer train from Banff to Vancouver. The scenery and its wildlife, including eagles and black bears, can be viewed through the train's glass observation dome. After spending the day on the train, you stay in a hotel in Kamloops. The rest of the trip includes three nights in the resort of Whistler, two in Calgary and two in Banff to sample the hot springs and lakes. The price tag of £2,100 includes scheduled flights, three-star hotels, train meals and four days' car hire in Calgary and Banff. Under-12s travel half price. Call 020 7740 1221.
Viva Verdi!
Next year will see the centenary of the death of the Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi, writes Stephen Pritchard. Travel for the Arts has prepared a year-long selection of tours taking in some of the most important commemorative events both in Verdi's homeland and in the world's great opera houses, including New York, Vienna and Munich. A guest lecturer will accompany each tour, which includes tickets to world-class performances. For details call 020 7483 4466.
Heidi and seek
Holidays in Swiss farm chalets can give parents the option of children's entertainment that doesn't revolve around bouncy castles and face painting. Inntravel is offering trips to the Lake Lucerne region with accommodation in apartments on farms. The farm owners are happy to let children play at being Heidi by helping with milking or other activities. . The farmhouses are all in the mountain village of Sorenberg, making them ideal bases for walking tours of the area. Suggested routes are clearly marked and are designed to be easy; most are liberally dotted with cafes. Each apartment is self-catering which is an advantage in expensive Switzerland. The trips are self-drive and crossing is by hovercraft from Dover to Calais or Folkestone to Boulogne. The price for two adults and three children, including accommodation and crossing, is from £524. Call 01653 629010.
