• Arras - Arras boasts a rich architectural heritage, exemplified by its two Flemish Baroque style squares: “La Place des Héros” and “La Grand Place.” This historic city has roots dating back to Roman times and has evolved over the centuries. During the hour-long tour, the guide will share its history while strolling along its cobblestone streets.

• Cimetiere du Cabaret Rouge - The Cabaret-Rouge British Cemetery was established near a small café named Cabaret Rouge, frequented by soldiers during the early days of World War I. It holds 7,655 Commonwealth burials from WWI and WWII, relocated from 100 other cemeteries. On May 25, 2000, the CWGC exhumed the remains of an unidentified Canadian soldier, whose ashes were returned to Canada and interred at the National War Memorial in Ottawa.

• Nécropole Nationale Française de Notre-Dame de Lorette - Legend has it that in any war, the army that captures the hills where Notre Dame de Lorette stands will be victorious. At 165 meters high, overlooking the Douai plain, Notre Dame de Lorette is the largest French military cemetery, resting place to over 40,000 soldiers who perished in the 1914 and 1915 battles of Artois. The site also features the stunning Neo-Byzantine Basilica Notre Dame de Lorette, a lantern tower, and seven ossuaries.

• Canadian National Vimy Memorial - The first Canadian troops arrived in France in December 1914, in the largest convoy to cross the Atlantic. Their bravery, respected and feared by the enemy, led to victory in the Battle of Vimy Ridge, a defining moment for Canadian nationhood and identity. This tour includes a visit to the “Canadian National Vimy Memorial” and the battlefield. Walk through the trenches, explore one of the pre-battle tunnels, and learn about the events from April 9th to 12th, 1917.

• Ablain-Saint-Nazaire - L’Estaminet de Lorette
  Enjoy an hour-long lunch at this charming spot near Notre Dame de Lorette.

• Courcelette Canadian Memorial - This memorial honors the Canadian soldiers who fought in the 1916 Battle of the Somme. It was here that Canadians faced their greatest losses in France, with 24,000 casualties during the Battle of Flers-Courcelette. This battle also marked the first use of tanks on a battlefield. The guide will provide insights into this battle and its significance within the context of the Battle of the Somme.

• Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial - The Newfoundland Memorial Park is the largest battlefield site in the Somme, dedicated to all Newfoundlanders who served in World War I. The Battle of the Somme was the regiment’s first major engagement, resulting in significant losses on July 1, 1916. The guide will recount their actions on that pivotal day. The land, purchased in 1921 by the women of Newfoundland and their government, symbolizes sacrifice and serves as a source of identity for the island.

• Air-conditioned vehicles

• Lunch

The victory of Canada at Vimy Ridge is recognized as a defining moment for Canadian identity and nationhood. However, what were the preceding events that led up to this critical battle and why does it hold such a special place in history? Who were the men who fought and how did they live day to day? On this 8-hour guided tour, we will delve into various aspects of World War I, particularly focusing on the CEF. Our tour is customized and limited to just three participants at a time. This provides us with the flexibility to accommodate any special requests you might have, such as visiting a specific location or paying homage at the grave of a loved one. Just inform us in advance and we will strive to meet your requests.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.