Switzerland: Hidden Trails & Majestic Peaks
Discover a world of pastoral splendour, where the history of the Belle Époque is preserved in awe-inspiring architecture, all set to the grand backdrop of the Alps. Nestled between four countries is a land where crystalline lakes sit amidst mountain peaks, and lush green valleys yield centuries-old vineyards. This is the home of the Matterhorn and Lake Geneva, where chocolate is high art and culture is intrinsic. You’ve booked passage to Switzerland – via the absolute best way to explore it – the Swiss Railway. Start among the historic architecture of Neuchatel, wrought in the grand Belle Époque style. Walk through centuries-old vineyards and taste unparalleled Swiss wine. Soak in views of the Matterhorn from the picturesque mountain town of Zermatt. Sample legendary Laderach chocolate as you watch chocolatiers work their confectionary craft. See the magnificent landscape roll past your window as the train moves through the country’s peaks and valleys.
- Discover Neuchatel’s historic quarter and the treasures of the Belle Époque period.
- Explore the vineyards of Swiss wine country on foot.
- Visit the charming village of Zermatt and marvel at views of the Matterhorn.
- Enjoy a wine tasting at a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Savour lunch at a family-owned restaurant in Lavaux.
- Bring out the kid in you during a chocolate workshop.
- Use your Swiss Travel Pass as an all-access entrée to museums and more
- Soak in the best views of the Alps and the Swiss Riviera.
- Indulge your culinary senses inside Neuchatel’s historic Collégiale.
Day 1: Neuchatel, Switzerland - Tour Begins
You’re on your way to a world wedged between Germany, Austria, France and Italy -- the country of four languages that’s one of the most heralded destinations in Europe. Your journey through Switzerland will be entirely by train, offering an up close and personal rendezvous with the best the country has to offer, from the Alps to the historic villages of the Swiss Riviera. Get ready to experience the culture, history and lifestyle of Switzerland firsthand. Willkkommen! Bienvenue! From Zurich airport you will board a Swiss Rail train to Neuchatel, where Gothic landmarks and sandstone grandeur beckon you to discover the abounding history of this medieval waterfront city. A reception of cocktails and canapes welcomes you to the first stop on your tour: the centuries-old cloister of the Collégiale*, a church and chateau perched atop Neuchatel’s highest point. Retire this evening in your lakefront room with incredible views of Lake Neuchatel.
Day 2: Neuchatel - Auvernier - Neuchatel
Good morning, Neuchatel a la Belle Époque! Set out on a walking tour and discover the treasures of Neuchatel’s historic quarter with its unique architecture and structures from the Belle Époque period. Next, it’s on to the village of Auvernier. Visit a local wine cooperative, where a tour of the cellars demands a tasting of their everlasting vintages and a chance to learn how nature, soil and tradition converge to create a vintage’s character and flavour. Today breakfast will be included.
Day 3: Neuchatel
Enjoy a day of leisure in Neuchatel. You may use your Swiss Travel Pass to explore the surrounding areas or gain admission to museums. Or, just relax and stroll this charming place. Perhaps you will choose to join your guide for an optional e-biking excursion on Switzerland’s Absinthe Trail to Maison de l’Absinthe to learn the history of production and enjoy a private tasting and cooking experience. This evening we gather to unwind over dinner at a local brasserie and sample local favorites such as boeuf tartare and fromage. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 4: Neuchatel - Bern - Zermatt
From Neuchatel we travel via train to Bern, the Swiss capital city. Enjoy time at leisure to discover Bern’s enthralling blend of influences - old and new. Then it’s on to the striking resort village of Zermatt, nestled against the backdrop of the Matterhorn. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 5: Zermatt
Zermatt’s modern holiday amenities steeped in traditional Alpine roots make this pedestrian city a truly peak experience. Today is yours to explore all this village has to offer. Consider using your Swiss Travel Pass to ascend the Gornergrat Railway to take in breathtaking views of the famed Matterhorn. Today breakfast will be included.
Day 6: Zermatt - Vevey
Say goodbye to Zermatt and head to the north shore of Lake Geneva to Vevey, one of the “Pearls of the Swiss Riviera,” with awe-inspiring views of the Alpine panorama. Whilst the city’s promenades and majestic hotels are classic reminders of the Belle Époque, its modernity is characterised by its art and music festivals, and the ever-present memory of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last quarter of his life as a resident. Enjoy a walking tour before paying a visit to Läderach. Switzerland is world-famous for its chocolate, and Läderach chocolate is Swiss perfection. Participate in an immersive tasting workshop that reveals a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the artistry behind the handmade Swiss chocolate. Today breakfast will be included.
Day 7: Vevey - Lavaux - Vevey
A relaxed morning in Vevey preludes your journey to the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. Begin with lunch at a family-owned restaurant before visiting our friends, Jacques and Aurelia, for a wine tasting nestled amongst the vines. Traipse the Lavaux vineyards (UNESCO) on foot before enjoying another tasting of the region’s finest varieties. Next, it’s your choice! Return to Vevey via rail and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure -OR- continue your exploration through the miles of Lavaux vineyards to Saint-Saphorin, a medieval village dating back to Roman times, located on the banks of Lake Geneva. Today breakfast and lunch will be included.
Day 8: Vevey
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Check out everything Vevey has to offer. Don’t forget to take advantage of your Swiss Travel Pass to explore any one of the city’s museums, among them the Swiss Camera Museum, Charlie Chaplin Museum, or the Nestle Foundation’s Nest. Or use your Pass to board a ferry to discover Montreux and Chillon. Join us this evening for a farewell dinner at one of Vevey’s best local restaurants. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.
Day 9: Vevey - Tour Ends
Your tour comes to a close today. Today breakfast will be included.
Multiple departure dates available. Please enquire for a quote on your preferred travel date.
- Days 1 – 3 Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac, Neuchâtel
- Days 4, 5 Unique Hotel Post, Zermatt or Hotel Alex, Zermatt
- Days 6 – 8 Astra Hotel Vevey, Vevey
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
Travel at 60 and Collette booking conditions apply. Please enquire for more information.
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