A heartwarming tale of bravery and determination during World War II is now being brought to life on the big screen in the new film, The Great Escaper, starring none other than the legendary Michael Caine. The movie tells the true story of Bernard Jordan, a WWII veteran who, in 2014, escaped from his care home and embarked on an unforgettable journey to Normandy to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the D-Day Landings. Inspired by this extraordinary tale, travel company Leger Holidays has created The Great Escaper Battlefields Tour, retracing the steps of Jordan’s incredible adventure.
Battlefield tours may often be overlooked, but they are truly fascinating and captivating experiences once you delve into them. And the Great Escaper Battlefields Tour is no exception. The tour is meticulously organized with military precision. Feeder coaches from various locations across the country set off in the early hours, all converging at a service station just before Dover, where the main coaches and guides await. The friendly Leger staff takes care of every detail, including handling the luggage, so guests can simply relax and enjoy their holiday.
For those on the Great Escaper tour, the service station stop means an upgrade to Leger’s Silver Service coaches. These luxurious vehicles offer extra legroom, reclining seats, refreshments, and even an onboard toilet. To top it off, there is a comfortable lounge where guests can unwind and socialize.
One of the key highlights of the tour is meeting the knowledgeable guide who accompanies the group throughout the five-day journey. The guide can make or break a trip like this, and Leger has a roster of experts who are historians, academics, authors, or passionate enthusiasts – sometimes all of the above. Their storytelling brings the heroic tales of WWII soldiers to life, leaving a lasting impact on every participant.
The tour begins in Portsmouth, where visitors have the opportunity to visit The D-Day Story center, immersing themselves in the history of the landings. A visit to the Naval Monument commemorating those lost at sea follows. While each Battlefield Tour offers a slightly different itinerary, they all include visits to the iconic beaches, graveyards, and memorials of the region. Sword, Juno, Gold, and Omaha beaches are all part of the journey, allowing travelers to walk in the footsteps of the brave soldiers who fought there.
Stepping onto the sandy beaches, one can’t help but feel the weight of history. The memories of Bernard Jordan, as depicted in the film, come flooding back. Yet, it is the sight of the graves that truly leaves a mark. Small clusters of graves in unassuming village churchyards offer a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made. The visit to the British and American cemeteries is especially moving, with rows upon rows of graves marking the ages of the fallen soldiers. The sight of so many headstones bearing the ages 19 and 20 is particularly poignant for our group.
Although battlefield tours may seem somber, there is often a surprising amount of laughter and camaraderie among the participants. The journey includes stays at three-star hotels with breakfast included, such as the Ibis in Falaise, France. Exploring the seaside streets of Arromanches, which are filled with ice-cream parlors and crepe stalls, adds a touch of joy to the experience. The stories of pigeons carrying messages and the heroic D-Day dogs parachuting into action further captivate the imagination. These tours truly showcase the best of France while celebrating the bravery of British soldiers.
If you’re inspired by Bernard Jordan’s remarkable story and wish to follow in his footsteps, Leger Holidays offers The Great Escaper tour departing on June 24, 2024. Priced from £649 per person on a Silver Service coach, this five-day tour promises an unforgettable journey through history. Additionally, Leger offers a range of other guided battlefield tours starting at £379 per person, allowing you to explore different historic sites. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking an immersive and educational travel experience, these tours are sure to leave a lasting impression.
