Our Journeys
Swiss Alpine Experience
September 24 to October 5, 2023
Journey Highlights
Venture into the soaring Alps of Switzerland. Captivated by the picturesque landscapes, journey through Ascona, St Moritz and Zermatt. Dabble in Swiss chocolate and savoury Swiss cheese. Embark on a mesmerizing railway adventure aboard The Glacier Express and reach the ‘Top of Europe’ aboard Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch Cog Railway and stroll along the magnificent medieval streets in Lucerne. This is an extensive adventure that is sure to put all postcards to shame.
Glacier Express
Glacier Express
Embark on a truly indescribable journey aboard the Glacier Express. As you travel the entire length of the railway, admire the views of snow-covered alpine peaks, roaring streams, lush meadows, and picturesque villages. Travelling along the Rhine River while snaking through 91 tunnels, across 291 bridges, over the Oberalp Pass and past the Landwasser Viaduct, it is sheer pleasure for your eyes.
Matterhorn
Matterhorn
Towering 4,478 meters across the skyline, the iconic and hypnotizing Matterhorn calls like a siren pulling you towards her majestic beauty. Embrace the magnificent grandeur of the famous Matterhorn as we climb aboard the cogwheel train for the best view from Gornergrat. The incredibly scenic landscapes of the monstrous Alps follow us at every turn throughout our journey.
The ‘Top of Europe’
The ‘Top of Europe’
Venture to the ‘Top of Europe’ aboard the ultimate rail journey. Climbing 3,454 metres above sea level on the Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch Cog Railway. Step out and feel the icy air on your skin and snow crunching beneath your feet as we explore the spectacular Ice Palace. Marvel at the breathtaking views while standing on the Jungfraujoch.
Cheese, Chocolates & Timepieces
Cheese, Chocolates & Timepieces
Learn about Swiss chocolate, cheese and Omega watches during expertly guided tours. We travel to Maison du Gruyère, and the fabled Emmental and its cheese factory for cheese tastings and to Broc to the Maison Cailler to learn about decadent Swiss chocolate. It is in Switzerland ‘watch capital,’ Biel, that we tour the impressive Omega Watch Factory.
As for Switzerland, what a beautiful, beautiful country! Clean, safe, friendly, fabulous scenery…the trains were just amazing…And the group…the group was fabulous. It really was a perfect trip, perfect pace, interesting, fascinating & relaxing.
Trip Planning Expert
“Switzerland was on the top of the list of destinations our guests want to travel to when surveyed. The country is home to shimmering lakes, picturesque mountains tiny walled medieval towns, soaring peaks, endless green fields, delicious chocolate, incredible beer, and friendly, welcoming people.
Switzerland is a melting pot of cultures, sharing borders with France, Germany, Italy, and Austria. For that reason we wanted you to be able to experience several different regions of the country during one Journey.
Journey Itinerary
DETAILED ITINERARYDepart for Milan, Italy
Start your Journey with us by enjoying a private car pick up service from your home. Upon arrival at the airport, guests departing from the Toronto airport are assisted with their checkin. Meet your Journey Manager and fellow guests, and board your flights to Milan. Our Journey Manager travels with you to take care of all the details, allowing you to embrace your Journey.
| Overnight: | Flight |
| Meals: | — |
Welcome to Milan
Upon our arrival in Milan, we are transferred by private coach along the snowy peaks of the Italian Alps and across the Swiss border of Lugano, known as the “Monte Carlo” of Switzerland. We are greeted by our local guide who will be with us the entire Journey. After lunch, the day is at your leisure to relax or explore. Tonight, join us for a casual welcome dinner.
| Overnight: | Lugano, Hotel International au Lac Lugano |
| Meals: | Lunch, Dinner |
Lago Maggiore
This morning we head out for a scenic drive to the gorgeous lakeside paradise of Ascona, known as ‘the pearl’ of Lake Maggiore. Following lunch, we stroll through the avenues of one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, lined with breezy palm trees and pastel homes. We return to Lugano following a scenic drive along the Monte Ceneri mountain pass.
| Overnight: | Lugano, Hotel International au Lac Lugano |
| Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
St. Moritz
Garnering the attention of celebrities and royals alike, St. Moritz is a shimmering alpine town with emerald forests, frosty mountains and a glistening turquoise lake. Relish in a scenic drive to St. Moritz through the mountainous villages of San Bernardino Pass, Mala, Julier Pass and Engadin with breathtaking views of the Alps at every bend. After arriving at our hotel and enjoying a delicious lunch, we take a cable car to Piz Nair to admire the snow-covered slopes of St. Moritz, Pontresina, and Celerina sparkling in the sun. Dinner this evening is served at our hotel.
| Overnight: | St. Moritz, Hotel Schweizerhof |
| Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
The Glacier Express
A day to remember, today we board the world-famous Glacier Express on a first-class rail Journey to Zermatt. Settle in to the Panoramic Car and drink in the spectacular scenery of snowy mountains reaching above the valleys, grassy slopes and charming villages. The seven-hour trek carries us along the Rhine River while snaking through 91 tunnels, across 291 bridges, and over the Oberalp Pass at its highest altitude of 2,044 metres. The Journey’s signature structure, the Landwasser Viaduct, is one of the most photographed bridges in Europe due to its enormous yet delicate beauty. Indulge in lunch on board before arriving in Zermatt later this afternoon. A short walk brings us to our hotel.
| Overnight: | Zermatt, Hotel Sonne |
| Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Zermatt & Matterhorn
A blissful mountain village nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is a cozy town lying beneath a majestic mountain. Towering 4,478 meters across the skyline, the iconic and hypnotizing Matterhorn calls like a siren pulling you towards her majestic beauty. Enjoy a day at your leisure or join us on a scenic train ride from Zermatt to Gornergrat to catch the best view of the iconic Matterhorn mountain and the surrounding Alpine vista. Grab your camera for the perfect postcard shot!
| Overnight: | Zermatt, Hotel Sonne |
| Meals: | Breakfast, Dinner |
Signature Inclusions on This Journey
THE JOURNEYS DIFFERENCEIn addition to our essentials, your Journey includes our following Signature Inclusions:
24/7 Professional Journey Manager
- Will travel with you and handle every detail
- In addition to knowledgeable
local guides
Private Car Pick-up Service
- Within a 200-kilometre radius of the airport, let your Journey begin in elegant comfort
Generous Tips & Gratuities
- For the porters, local guides, hotel staff & many more, paid by us on your behalf
Memorable Excursions
- Excursions crafted by our team
- All sightseeing & entrance fees included
Our essentials included with your Journey:
- 10 nights in outstanding hotels
- Most meals included: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners
- 1 Glass of Wine or beer included at dinner
- Round-trip airfare from Toronto with Air Canada
- “Whisper” radios included for use during excursions
- All taxes as well as service charges
- Flights from select Canadian gateways for only $100
- Other gateways & travel classes available
- Porterage for one piece of luggage per person
- Complete information & assistance leading up to your departure
- Branded overnight carry-on or backpack
Hotels
Hotel International au Lac Lugano, Lugano
This unique hotel boasts 100 years of family operation and is located on the lake promenade in the centre of Lugano. The Old Town is just around the corner, with numerous shops a stone’s throw away. One of the most renowned hotels of Lugano, it features a unique exhibition of its 100 year history and is listed by ICOMOS / UNESCO jury as a ‘Historic Hotel with Honour’.
Hotel Schweizerhof, St. Moritz
At the Schweizerhof, a classic yet modern hotel, the art nouveau of the Gründerzeit period blends with modern elegance and restraint. Here, beauty is more than meets the eye, grounded in the natural splendour of the Engadine with a little St. Moritz glitz. It’s for those who value the exceptional, yet appreciate the genuine.
Hotel Sonne, Zermatt
Set at the foot of the Pennine Alps and offering views of the Matterhorn, this hotel has been run by three generations of the Forster family. Their attention to detail is evident in the care they take to maintain the garden or deliver relaxing services in their day and roman spas. Guest rooms feature warm wood tones and plush, inviting bedding.
Hotel Victoria Glion, Montreux
The majestic Victoria Hotel can be found in Glion above Montreux (connected by funicular) and is renowned for its breathtaking views of Lake Geneva and the snow-capped Alps. Discerning guests are offered a peaceful setting, an open-air swimming pool, personal service and dining of the highest standards. The chef personally chooses the products from the market gardener, the fisherman, the breeder and the wine grower.
Hotel Swissôtel, Bern
Swissotel Bern lies in the city centre, with a gorgeous view of the Alps and the historic, UNESCO World Heritage old town – which is just across the bridge (5 walking minutes). Its the ideal starting point for exploring picturesque medieval alleys and squares full of culture, lined with many small galleries, specialty shops and gastronomic gems.
Hotel Radisson Blu, Lucerne
Trendy designer city hotel for leisure stays, next to the central railway station and Culture and Convention Centre with a view of Lake Lucerne and Central Switzerland’s mountain panorama. The designer hotel was opened in 2006 and is part of the “Lakefront Center” designed by Rüssli Architects. The fully glazed façade lends a dash of colour to the city’s profile.
