SMGS Trip to the Rhineland

A fantastic time was had by both students and teachers on our recent Fifth Year, jam packed, tour of Belgium, Holland and the Rhineland. Following a very early flight from Dublin we arrived in Brussels and did a walking tour of a very beautiful city. We took in such sites as Grand Place, Le Petit Pisseur, the European Parliament Buildings and The Royal Palace.

Following a short bus trip we arrived at the fascinating Zonneberg Caves in Maastricht and explored the man made tunnels and the St  Pietersberg Grotto.

That evening we checked into our very comfortable hotel near Koblenz, overlooking the Rhine, and spent the next three nights here.

Day 2 brought us to Rüdesheim and the highlight of this visit was the cable car up to the Germania Monument. The awe-inspiring panoramic views over Rüdesheim and the Rhine Valley was a very special experience. We also took a cruise on the Rhine and visited the medieval, Marksburg Castle. The evening came to an end with a game of Lasertag in Koblenz.

Day 3 brought us to the theme park Phantasialand and following a day of rollercoasters we made our way to the Bowling and Games Center in Koblenz.

Day 4 brought us to Cologne and the highlight of this visit was a tour of Lindt Chocolate Factory. Following some shopping in Brussels we made our way to Brussels Airport, returning home to Blarney at 12 midnight.

We were very lucky to have such a well behaved and appreciative group of Fifth Years with us who were a credit to the school and to their parents and guardians.