Nights 2-3: These two nights are spent at either the Hostellerie Saint Barnabé tucked away in a vast shady park about 20 minutes drive from Colmar (or for a supplement of £16p.p.p.n) at the Chateau d'Isenbourg an impressive château overlooking the medieval town of Rouffach and about 10 minutes drive to Colmar.

Nights 4-6: Cross the Rhine at Colmar to stay on Lake Tittisee in the southern part of the Black Forest.

Your three-night stay is in the 4-star Maritim Hotel that is on the shores of the lake and a perfect retreat from the stresses and strains of every day living. Here there are walks directly along the lake and into the Forest. From here you can also visit the regions' capital Freiburg that has some great quality shopping facilities. In and around Titisee are small valleys to explore and search out some wonderful old Inns to eat and drink - just beware of the portions!

Nights 7-9: Now your tour turns north to the middle Black Forest to stay in the 4-star Hotel Adler situated in one of the beauty spots of the Ortenau part of the region, close to Wolfach. From here there are starting points to walk into the Black Forest - the hotel has an indoor pool and also a beauty farm offering cosmetic care and massages. Bikes to rent. Restaurant offering meals from £10 upwards. Of course it may be three nights are not enough!

Night 10: Heading home via Strasbourg - we suggest a wander around the old town, there is quite a lot to see, so give yourself some time, before driving the 160 miles to stay the night in Provins at the Hotel Aux Vieux Remparts.

From here it is also possible to visit Fontainebleau or continue north to Calais.

You can also opt to stay at the Hotel Cheval Blanc in the Champagne countryside just east of Reims if preferred.

2008 TARIFF