Götz Friedrich's famous Ring production is our excuse for the first Habsburg Heritage visit to what is probably the most exciting European capital today. We stay in a luxurious 5* hotel on the crossing of Unter den Linden and Friedrichstrasse, at the absolute epicentre of the historic city. There are spa facilities we can make use of when not sightseeing or at the opera. The Deutsche Oper is in the Western part of the city and we have a coach transfer there and back. This Ring is conducted by Donald Runnicles as he takes up his duties as music director. Singers include Evelyn Herlitzius, Violeta Urmana and Matti Salminen. The production with its Time Tunnel was brought to Covent Garden in the 80s but was designed for the Deutsche Oper with its very deep stage and straight sight lines. This will probably be the last opportunity to experience it.