Full day Australian Battlefields Tour

Our review focuses on a highly-rated full-day tour that brings the story of Australian soldiers on the Somme vividly to life. Priced at $248.83 per person, this experience offers a fascinating blend of history, emotion, and stunning scenery. Guided by Brigitte De Cuyper from Get a Guide, the tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from 70 reviews, with 97% of travelers recommending it highly.

What makes this tour stand out is the passionate storytelling, the immense knowledge of the guide, and the opportunity to truly understand Australia’s role during WWI through immersive visits to key sites. We particularly love how personal and detailed the experience feels, thanks to reviews mentioning the guide’s effort to research family histories and her ability to connect emotionally with visitors.

A potential consideration might be the 8-hour duration, which requires a good level of moderate physical activity and comfort with long days of sightseeing. However, for anyone interested in history, remembrance, or Australian military heritage, this tour offers a highly valuable and emotionally rich experience. It’s best suited for history buffs, families, or anyone with a personal or academic interest in WWI or Australia’s contribution to the Western Front.

Key Points

• In-Depth Itinerary: Visits to major memorials, cemeteries, and battle sites, with personalized touches.
• Expert Guide: Brigitte’s extensive knowledge and personal connections make the day memorable.
• Emotional Impact: Respectful storytelling and visits to graves create a poignant experience.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas over the Somme valley provide context and visual appeal.
• Value for Money: Comprehensive site visits, immersive experiences, and guided commentary justify the price.
• Flexibility: Optional stop for visiting a relative’s grave if it fits along the route.

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Journey Through History

Starting Point: Amiens Cathedral
Your day kicks off with a visit to Amiens Cathedral, which is celebrating its 800th birthday this year. As the largest gothic cathedral in the world, it’s a fitting place to begin. The guide will share stories about the cathedral’s medieval history and the city’s evolution through the ages. Expect to learn about Amiens’ cultural significance and its links to WWI history. This stop sets an atmospheric tone for the day ahead, combining stunning architecture with historical insights.

Villers-Bretonneux Military Cemetery
Next, you’ll head to Villers-Bretonneux, home to the Australian Memorial and military cemetery. Here, the guide explains Australia’s key role on the Western Front, especially during the April 1918 counterattack. You’ll have time to pay respects at the graves of Australian soldiers, affectionately called “Diggers.” The proximity of the Sir John Monash Centre nearby offers a chance to explore interactive exhibits that recount the Australian experience of WWI. Reviewers like Heather appreciated the “heartfelt storytelling” and the guide’s effort to make the history relevant, especially as she noted her personal connection through family members.

Sir John Monash Centre
This innovative multimedia center offers a compelling narrative through interactive displays and immersive experiences. Visitors hear stories in the soldiers’ own words — letters and diaries — which make the war’s human aspect come alive. One reviewer, Ernest, praised how the guide’s thorough research on his family member added depth to the visit. Expect to spend about an hour here, gaining a better understanding of Australia’s sacrifices and the personal stories behind the names.

Australian Corps Memorial
At the Australian National Memorial, engraved with over 10,700 names of fallen soldiers, you’ll feel the weight of sacrifice. The site is particularly poignant during dawn on ANZAC Day, but visiting any time offers a moving reminder of the war’s cost. Gaye noted the guide’s knowledge and kindness, making the experience both respectful and educational.

The Battle of the Somme: Chipilly and Viewpoints
The tour then ventures into the Somme valley, starting with a quick stop at Chipilly to see the 58th British Division Memorial. This stone monument, depicting a soldier comforting his wounded horse, captures both the human and animal toll of war—a detail that reviewers like Heather highlighted, emphasizing the emotional depth of the site.

From there, you’ll visit Camp Cesar viewpoint for a panoramic view of the Somme battlefield, giving context to the scale and terrain where so much fighting took place. Expect insights into why the Battle of the Somme was planned and which nations participated. This scenic stop is appreciated by travelers for its photo opportunities and educational value.

Notre Dame de Brebières
Next, the Neo-Byzantine Basilica of Notre Dame de Brebières stands as a symbol of resilience. Rebuilt after being destroyed in WWI, its iconic golden dome and the statue of Virgin Mary are central features. The guide shares a fascinating story about the statue’s survival during the war, providing a tangible link to the war’s impact on local architecture and faith.

Lunch Break at Le Hygge Restaurant
A well-earned hour for lunch at a local brasserie. The tour doesn’t include the meal, so you might want to prepare ahead or just enjoy the local cuisine. Reviewers enjoyed the convenience and quality, noting that this pause offers a chance to reflect and recharge before the intense afternoon sessions.

Lochnagar Crater
One of the day’s most striking sites is Lochnagar Crater, created by a massive mine blast on the first day of the Battle of the Somme. The crater’s immense size—70 feet deep and 330 feet wide—visually underlines the destructive power of war. Reviewers frequently mention how awe-inspiring the sight is, offering a visceral understanding of the warfare tactics used.

Pozières and the Australian Memorial
The ground at Pozières is densely sown with Australian sacrifice, with nearly 7,000 Australians losing their lives in the nearby battles. The 1st Australian Division Memorial and the Windmill site are key highlights. As one reviewer said, Pozières is “more densely sown with Australian sacrifice than any other place on earth,” making this a deeply emotional stop.

Mouquet Farm and Battlefield Sites
The tour includes sites like Mouquet Farm and a visit to the Tank Memorial, which allow you to reflect on the evolution of warfare and the role of tanks on the Western Front. These stops deepen your understanding of WWI tactics and the human cost involved.

Memorial de Thiepval and Ulster Tower
The Memorial of the Missing at Thiepval is an imposing monument engraved with over 72,000 names of soldiers whose bodies were never found. It highlights the tragic reality of war: many soldiers are commemorated here because their remains were never recovered. Nearby, the Ulster Tower pays tribute to Irish soldiers from Ulster, offering a regional perspective on the conflict.

Newfoundland Memorial Park
Finally, the Terre-Neuviens De Beaumont-Hamel memorial marks the sacrifices of Newfoundlanders, with the site symbolizing their immense losses. One reviewer called the ground “a symbol of sacrifice and identity,” emphasizing its importance beyond mere history.

What to Expect: Experience and Practicalities

Transportation & Group Size
This is a private tour, meaning you’ll travel comfortably in a dedicated vehicle, which makes all the difference when visiting multiple sites scattered across the Somme. With only your group participating, the experience is flexible and personalized. Reviews mention that the guide, Brigitte, is excellent at tailoring her commentary to your interests, whether you’re a history buff or visiting with family.

Timing & Duration
Spanning around 8 hours, the tour is quite full but well-paced. The itinerary balances sightseeing, reflection, and time to absorb the stories. Expect a start time of 9:00 am, with a mix of walking, driving, and seated visits. Some stops, like the Sir John Monash Centre and memorials, include free or included entry, adding value to the overall experience.

Guidance & Knowledge
Multiple reviewers praised Brigitte for her depth of knowledge, engaging storytelling, and genuine passion. She has a talent for weaving personal stories and historical facts into a compelling narrative. Her research efforts, especially when discussing family histories, elevate the tour from a standard sightseeing trip to a deeply personal voyage.

Accessibility & Physical Demands
While the tour is generally suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, expect some walking and standing at memorials and cemeteries. If you are concerned about mobility, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some steps and uneven ground, but Brigitte’s thoughtful explanations and comfortable transport help mitigate this.

Cost & Value
At just under $250, the price reflects a comprehensive, expertly guided experience that covers a broad swath of WWI history on the Somme. Considering the inclusion of multiple sites, immersive multimedia experiences, and personalized guidance, many reviewers agree this offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day Australian Battlefields Tour offers a meaningful, emotionally charged journey through some of the most significant WWI sites in France. It’s best suited for history enthusiasts, families, or individuals with a personal connection to Australian military history. The personal touch from the guide, Brigitte, and the detailed storytelling make it especially engaging for those wanting more than just a sightseeing day.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized, respectful, and immersive experiences will find this tour to be a moving and educational highlight of their trip. The combination of stunning views, heartfelt stories, and expert guidance makes it a memorable way to connect with the sacrifices made during WWI.

For those seeking a comprehensive and personalized history day that balances emotion, education, and scenic beauty, this tour offers a compelling and well worth exploring.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Mostly yes, but be prepared for some walking and standing at memorial sites. It’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included, but lunch is not. You can bring your own or enjoy a meal at the recommended restaurant.

Can I visit a relative’s grave during the tour?
Yes, there is flexibility to include a stop to visit a relative’s grave if it fits along the route, based on your guide’s discretion.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 8 hours, starting at 9 am, with a mix of site visits, photo stops, and breaks.

What makes this guide special?
Brigitte is praised for her extensive knowledge, personal touch, and her ability to make history come alive with engaging stories and tailored insights.

Are the memorials and cemeteries accessible?
Most sites have manageable access, but some walking on uneven ground is involved. It’s suitable for travelers with moderate mobility.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, which allows for a more flexible and personalized experience.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While available year-round, the experience might be more poignant during commemorative dates like ANZAC Day, but every time offers meaningful insights.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set itinerary but has some flexibility, particularly with visiting relatives’ graves or adjusting time at certain sites.

What about transportation?
Travel is in a private vehicle, providing comfort and convenience for visiting multiple sites across the Somme.

This detailed review underscores that the Full Day Australian Battlefields Tour is a well-rounded, respectful, and deeply informative experience — perfect for those wanting to understand Australia’s role in WWI while appreciating the somber beauty of the Somme battlefields.