: R31170
An intimate journey of discovery. Sparkling lakes, fortified towns, snow-laden Alpine peaks & beautiful panoramas. A spectacular expedition by rail aboard the world famous Glacier Express.
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Starting from | R31 170 |
Package Validity | Set departure date: NOV 2016 - MAR 2017 *** Book & pay by 29 AUG & SAVE 7.5% - discount already included in advertised price *** |
Duration | 7 days |
Destination | Switzerland |
Starts in | Zurich |
Ends in | Geneva |
{tab Description}
- Return airport/hotel transfers
- 6 nights hotel accommodation
- Breakfast daily, a lunch, a Welcome dinner, 2 three-course dinners & a Celebration dinner
- Touring by luxury coach
- Services of a Tour Director
- Sightseeing & Priority Admissions in all towns and cities
- Highlights: Zurich, Lucerne, Glacier Express, Zermatt, Chillon Castle, Montreux & Geneva
{tab Day 1}
Arrive in Zürich & on to Lovely Lucerne
Welcome to Switzerland - an enchanting winter wonderland of frozen waterfalls, peaceful cosy villages, snow-laden forests & imposing mountain ranges crowned by famous peaks. On arrival at Zürich Airport, transfers leave for your hotel in Lucerne at 09:30 & 13:30. Later, join your Tour Director & fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception with dinner & wine.
{tab Day 2}Lucerne, then continue to fashionable St. Moritz
In the morning, experience Lucerne, a beautiful 14th century city still protected by medieval fortifications. Your Tour Director will reveal the covered wooden bridges, the painted gables & the sorrowful Lion Monument. Then there's time to enjoy the excellent shops & lakeside walks before heading along the dramatic Walensee past Chur, to the fashionable ski resort of St. Moritz. Set in the sparkling Engadine Valley, this elegant resort nestles below the awe-inspiring majestic Grisons Alps.
{tab Day 3}
St. Moritz at Leisure.
This whole day is completely at leisure, so maybe opt for a late breakfast to start? Then, perhaps explore the spa quarter of this chic resort, see the museum house with its traditional ‘sgraffito' façade or indulge in the stylish boutiques. Or, consider joining the Bernina Express for a scenic rail journey of such epic proportions that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
{tab Day 4}Aboard the Glacier Express to Brig
Board the world famous Glacier Express for a spectacular ride with included lunch, through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Descend through the spiral tunnels of the Albula Pass, then traverse the lofty Landwasser Viaduct. Your train then joins the broad Rhine Gorge & meanders beside rock-strewn rivers before climbing through snowy pastures & woodlands. Picturesque landscapes of ice-capped mountains & stone-built villages with chalet-style houses glide by. After a series of spirals, you will reach the highest point of the route: the icy Oberalp Pass. Modern, panoramic viewing cars ensure that you won't miss a thing on your descent to Andermatt & down the Rhône Valley. Around mid afternoon, you will disembark in Brig – your home for the next two nights.
{tab Day 5}
Experience the Matterhorn Village of Zermatt.
In the morning, enjoy dramatic Swiss scenery as you follow the narrow valley which leads to Täsch. Here you must abandon the coach to board the cogwheel train that takes you to the traffic-free haven of Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn. Wander along its cobbled streets to browse among the shops, explore the ancient wooden farmhouses & ‘mazot' barns in the back alleys, or visit the Matterhorn Museum to pass through the homes of yesteryear. If you have a head for heights, then you might like to board the cable car up the Klein Matterhorn. From the summit, marvel at the incredible views of the icebound Swiss Alps (weather permitting). Return to your hotel in Brig where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
{tab Day 6}Along the shores of Lake Geneva to Chillon Castle & on to Geneva
Journey along the Lower Rhone Valley to the shores of Lake Geneva where the associations with the early European ‘Romantic' movement are very strong. Visit beautiful Chillon Castle, former home to the Counts of Savoy, set on a rocky islet in the lake. In 1816, the castle inspired Lord Byron to write the poem ‘The Prisoner of Chillon', following his walk through the dungeons. Look out for his name, which he carved into a pillar. Close by is the sophisticated tiered town of Montreux where it is delightful to stroll along the lakeside promenade. A beautiful drive along the lake, passing Vevey & Lausanne, brings you to the immaculate town of Geneva. On arrival, sightseeing includes the United Nations Building (Palais des Nations), the Old Town, Reformation Monument, &, if operating, the Jet d'Eau. Spend your night in Geneva rejoicing with with your friends at a finale Celebration Dinner complete with wine.
{tab Day 7}
Depart Geneva
Your magical journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Geneva airport at 08:00 & 10:00.
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