Ian Fletcher Battlefield Tours

It is somewhat ironic that even as Napoleon was suffering his infamous retreat from Moscow, Wellington was having to endure his own setback, the retreat from Burgos. It was his only defeat in the Peninsula and was one that he later called, ‘the worst scrape I ever was in.’ It took place 200 years ago and although the event is hardly likely to be commemorated it makes for an enjoyable and interesting tour. Starting at Burgos, we follow the main events of the ill-fated siege before following the retreat, which many thought was worse than the retreat to Corunna, as far as the Portuguese border, taking in the major actions en route. Another 200th anniversary tour.

Day 1. Fly London to Madrid and drive north to Burgos, checking in at the 4-star Abba Hotel, situated just outside the old fortress perimeter, overlooking the siege lines. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2. Breakfast. We visit the castle to consider flawed Wellington’s strategy throughout the siege, and follow the events of September and October 1812. We explore the Hornwork, the castle ruins, and examine the fortifications and lines around it which kept Wellington’s men at bay. We also consider the role of the garrison commander, Dubreton. Dinner and overnight stay in Burgos.
Day 3. Breakfast. We leave Burgos and follow the route of the retreat. We view the scene of the actions involving the British and KGL cavalry at Celada del Camino, Venta del Pozo (the 200th anniversary) and on to Villadrigo. We visit Torquemada, the scene of much disorder where hundreds of British soldiers were captured and visit Villamuriel and the attempts to blow the bridge over the Carrion. Drive to Salamanca and check-in at the 4-star Abba Fonseca Hotel. Dinner and overnight.
Day 4. Breakfast. We drive to Alba de Tormes to consider the French moves to cut Wellington off from Portugal in November. Drive to San Munoz, the final action of the retreat and view the area where Edward Paget was captured. Return to Salamanca. Dinner and overnight.
Day 5. Breakfast. Visit the battlefield and visitors’ centre at Salamanca. Afternoon visit to Ciudad Rodrigo where the retreat from Burgos finally ended. Return to Salamanca. Dinner and overnight.
Day 6. Breakfast. A complete free day in Salamanca, with its two cathedrals and numerous churches and fine buildings, including the Fonseca College, from where Dr Patrick Curtis ran his network of spies for Wellington. Optional visit to the battlefield of Salamanca. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7. Breakfast. Leave Salamanca and drive to Madrid for the return flight to London.

21-27 October 2012 Price: £1550 Single Supplement £195

Package includes: Return air fare, coach transport, six nights half-board accommodation, six dinners with wine, six breakfasts, and guide Ian Fletcher.