Charming towns and incredible alpine views are calling on this
sensational Swiss holiday, encompassing two iconic rail journeys
through breathtaking scenery
Experience magnificent mountain landscapes and sparkling alpine
lakes on this fantastic holiday to Switzerland.
Discover the Swiss Alps on the world-renowned Bernina Express
and Glacier Express from our bases in Chur and Brig, traditional
alpine towns surrounded by mountains. Enjoy a private aperitif on
the terrace of the lakeside 10th-century Spiez Castle with
spectacular views over glistening Lake Thun and explore the
tranquil mountain resort of Zermatt, nestled at the foot of
Switzerland's iconic mountain, the magnificent Matterhorn.
Unforgettable experiences
Enjoying lunch during a breathtaking journey on the Glacier Express
Experience a stunning journey with lunch onboard, travelling past awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks, the ‘Swiss Grand Canyon’ and gorgeous alpine valleys in panoramic carriages from Chur to Brig.
Travelling on the stunning Bernina Express from Chur to Poschiavo
Enjoy a First Class trip on the Bernina Express from St Moritz to Tirano in Italy. Step off the train for a drink at Alp Grüm in view of the spectacular Palü Glacier.
Savouring a private drink at lakeside Spiez Castle
Indulge in a private aperitif on the terrace of the 10th-century fairytale Spiez Castle while soaking up incredible views of shimmering Lake Thun and the Emmental Alps.
Sailing across the glistening waters of Lake Thun
Relax during a leisurely cruise on the turquoise waters of Lake Thun as we bask in the scintillating mountain scenery on a boat ride from Spiez Castle to the town of Thun.
Basking in majestic views of the Matterhorn from Zermatt
Enjoy the calm buzz of this quintessential alpine resort at the foot of the Matterhorn. Spend time exploring this beautiful town with its wooden chalets, geranium-filled balconies and history of mountaineering.
Discover other popular tours
Still deciding? Explore other journeys that might capture your
imagination. From iconic rail adventures to cultural discoveries,
there's something to suit every kind of traveller.
Classic Glacier Express in Winter
Enjoy wonderful journeys through stunning wintry landscapes on
two of Switzerland's most beloved trains, the iconic Glacier
Express and Bernina Express.
Embark on this exclusive holiday to Switzerland's popular alpine
resorts, experiencing scenic First Class journeys on both the
iconic Glacier Express and Bernina Express.
Meeting our Tour Manager and fellow travellers at London St
Pancras, we begin our Swiss holiday by boarding the Eurostar to
Paris. Travelling in Plus Class, we enjoy a light meal at our seats
and dash through the characterful French countryside. From the
French capital, we continue east to Strasbourg for an overnight
stop.
This historic Alsatian city has a compact but captivating
centre, with grand squares and picturesque narrow waterways.
Blending German and French architectural influences typical of the
Alsace, the picturesque centre is dominated by the incredible
Gothic cathedral. Dating from the 13th century and featuring a
façade of ornately carved portals, the cathedral is topped by a
piercing, octagonal tower. After checking in to our central 4-Star
hotel, we take a short walk to a local restaurant to enjoy a
flavour of the Alsace and get to know one another during our first
dinner together.
Please Note - For departure 27th May we will travel out via
Mulhouse staying at the Du Parc Mulhouse.
For certain departures: we will travel out via Colmar
staying at the Grand Hôtel Bristol Colmar.
Includes
Dinner
Eurostar light meal
Day 2 – A warm alpine arrival in historic Chur
There is a free morning after breakfast to explore the sights of
Strasbourg. Its grand main square, Place Kléber, is the focal point
of city life, while La Petite France is only a short stroll from
our hotel. Home to tanners, millers and fishermen in the Middle
Ages, this pretty area is now a UNESCO World Heritage site of
cobbled streets, flower-lined canals and beautiful half-timbered
houses.
Leaving Strasbourg around noon, we travel First Class to
Switzerland. In Basel, we join the efficient Swiss rail network in
Standard Class and witness the scenery quickly increasing in beauty
and altitude. From the gentle shoreline of Lake Zurich, the
imposing Swiss Alps begin to surround our route as the landscape
becomes more dramatic.
As the country's oldest town, our destination of delightful Chur
is full of history - as is our central hotel. After a welcome drink
and a three-course dinner, we settle down to spend the first of
three nights in a 360-year-old hotel beloved by our customers.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Breathtaking journey across the Alps on the Bernina Express
Dubbed the rail experts' best-kept secret, a journey on the
Bernina Express in panoramic carriages is a highlight of this
holiday. After breakfast in our wonderful hotel, we take the short
walk to Chur train station and join this amazing train. The
UNESCO-listed 100-year-old route twists and spirals its way south
through the rugged landscape of the Engadine Valley, across the
curved Landwasser Viaduct and looping through tunnels as it climbs
the Albula Line. Reaching the summit at more than 7,300 feet above
sea level, we pass the turquoise waters of Lago Bianco before we
cross the Bernina Pass. Pausing to view the spectacular Palü
Glacier beside the tracks at Alp Grüm, we then wind down to the
Italian-speaking town of Poschiavo.
Pastel-coloured buildings line the streets of this compact
alpine town. Hues of light blue, pink and yellow surround pretty
Piazza Comunale, and there are numerous restaurants for you to
lunch independently. On the return journey, we stop briefly in the
chic mountain resort of St Moritz before arriving back in Chur for
a three-course dinner.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4 – Exploring charming Chur, Switzerland’s oldest town
A leisurely breakfast begins a free day, and there are plenty of
fantastic destinations to explore. Chur itself is backed by
mountains and the colourful buildings of its charming Old Town mean
it is a delightful place to wander. The centre of the Old Town is
the idyllic Martinsplatz, where you can find the arcaded
15th-century Town Hall. Overlooking the historic centre are the
800-year-old cathedral and the terracotta-fronted Bishop's
Palace.
For a panoramic view of Chur, take the cable car up Brambrüesch
mountain. Alternatively, if you want to head further afield, you
could use your Swiss Travel Card for 50% discounts on all rail
journeys across the country. The scenic Arosa Line which climbs
more than 3,000 feet in less than 17 miles to the beautiful
lakeside town of Arosa is a popular option, while the stylish
mountain resorts of Davos and Klosters, a favourite of British
royals, are easily reachable too. Dining independently tonight, you
could opt for the local speciality of pizzoccheri, a hearty dish of
pasta, potato, cabbage and cheese.
Includes
Breakfast
An incredible Glacier Express experience in breathtaking scenery
It's one of Europe's most iconic train journeys and, after
breakfast in our excellent Chur hotel, we board the incredible
Glacier Express to Brig. The 'slowest express train in the world'
delves into the Rhine Gorge, where our panoramic carriages provide
front-row seats to the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' as the emerald river
winds its way past limestone cliffs.
Travelling at an average speed of 24mph, we savour a two-course
lunch in our seats, admiring the dramatic landscapes from our
panoramic carriages. The breathtaking scenery is constant as we
rise above the valley floor, passing serene lakes and snow-coated
peaks as we climb to Andermatt. Emerging from the nine-mile Furka
Tunnel, we follow the Rhône to the charming valley town of Brig,
nestled beside the river at the northern edge of the famous Simplon
tunnel. Checking in to our family-run 4-Star hotel near the station
for a four-night stay, we can reflect on the day's spectacular
journey over a three-course dinner tonight.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Views of the mighty Matterhorn from welcoming Zermatt
A dramatic journey greets us after breakfast in Brig. Travelling
by local train, we zigzag through the lush wildflower meadows,
dense alpine forests and thundering waterfalls of the delightful
Matter Valley. Rugged, snow-capped mountains guide our way to
beautiful Zermatt which is only accessible on foot or by train. As
such, the tranquility is immediately striking.
On arrival, there is free time to explore this idyllic mountain
resort. From its location at the foot of the mighty Matterhorn, the
Swiss national symbol, you could take the Gornergrat Mountain
Railway up to the Alps' second largest glacier or hop into a cable
car past Schwarzsee and into a year-round winter wonderland. Both
provide sensational views of the Matterhorn. Alternatively, soak up
the appealing atmosphere in a welcoming café as the iconic peak
rises in front of you.
Later, we embark on a tour of Zermatt with a local guide to
uncover the history of the town, before returning to Brig this
evening for a three-course dinner at our hotel.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Uncovering Brig or venturing further afield
A day at leisure provides the opportunity to see more of this
beautiful part of Switzerland after breakfast. As well as a
charming historic centre, Brig also boasts the impressive
17th-century Stockalper Palace. Built by wealthy local merchant
Kaspar Stockalper, it is recognisable from miles around due to its
three stone towers topped by large, gilded onion domes.
Using your Swiss Travel Card for 50% discounts on rail travel,
the glamorous Swiss Riviera can be reached in under 90 minutes.
Celebrities including Charlie Chaplin and Freddie Mercury flocked
to live in the villas of Montreux and Vevey. With hillside
vineyards and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Geneva looking out
across to the French Alps, it's easy to understand why. Bern (65
mins) is also nearby, with its UNESCO-listed medieval town,
picturesque bridges, and streets lined with arched arcade
frontages.
For those wanting to remain in the mountains, the Aletsch
Glacier can be reached by cable car, and the Italian town of
Domodossola is a short ride from Brig through the tunnel formerly
used by the evocative Simplon-Orient Express.
Includes
Breakfast
A private aperitif at Spiez Castle and Lake Thun cruise
Travelling by rail through the 21.5-mile Lötschberg Base Tunnel
after breakfast, we arrive in the quaint town of Spiez. Set in
beautifully maintained grounds beside the crystal-clear waters of
Lake Thun is the gorgeous Spiez Castle.
Displaying conical turrets and a central keep with stone walls
that are nearly 10-feet thick, this fairytale fortress originally
dates from the 10th century. In its grounds is a charmingly rustic
church, which is reported to be older than the castle. After an
engaging tour of the fortress and its medieval exhibits, we relax
on the glorious terrace for an exclusive private aperitif.
Leaving Spiez by boat, we cruise along the turquoise-hued Lake
Thun, with mountain views in every direction, including the
forest-blanketed Niederhorn that slopes into the water, and the
pyramid-shaped Niesen. Along the shore, pitch-roofed chalets and
attractive church towers peak out of the trees. On arrival in the
town of Thun, we catch the train back to Brig in time for our final
dinner together.
*Please note: On some departures, the excursion to Spiez Castle
is replaced with free time in the mountain resort of Interlaken
followed by the lake cruise.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Homeward bound
We leave the stunning Swiss Alps after breakfast this morning as
we board the train to Geneva. The route takes us down the Rhône
Valley, ensuring the fantastic vistas of mountains and vineyards
keep coming on the way to the stunning shore of Lake Geneva.
Heading behind the romantic lakefront castle of Chillon, we pass
through the elegant Swiss Riveira towns of Montreux and Vevey.
Departing Geneva in First Class seats on the high-speed TGV, the
southern Jura mountains pass by our windows on our way to Paris. In
the French capital, we join the Eurostar in Plus Class, enjoying a
light meal on the final leg of our trip home. Enroute, we can
recall the wonderful sights we have enjoyed in Switzerland, from
breathtaking journeys on the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier
Express to the welcoming hospitality of historic Chur and Brig and
spectacular sights of the Matterhorn and Spiez Castle.
Arriving at London St Pancras, we say farewell to our Tour
Manager and fellow travellers with whom we have shared these
unforgettable experiences.
Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments
with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel
options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are
included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers
and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on
average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.
Departure times
Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be
found together with our dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices
& Availability' button. We write to all booked customers
approximately 10 weeks prior to the start of their tour to advise
the exact departure and return time for their particular group.
Mobility information
Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.
What’s included on the tour?
Tour Manager
Expertise of a UK Tour Manager from start to finish
Transportation
Eurostar Plus
First & Standard Class rail travel
All rail, cruise and coach travel throughout your tour
Accommodation
8 nights’ 4-Star hotel accommodation
Luggage
Group luggage transfers between hotels from Chur to Brig
Excursions & Entertainment
Swiss Travel Card, permitting 50% discounted fares on free days for rail, boat and most mountain railway journeys
All guided tours and excursions
Food & Drink
Breakfast each day, 1 lunch, 6 dinners
Not Included
Cancellation & Travel Insurance is not included in the price of the tour
The Bernina Express is dubbed the rail experts' best-kept
secret. Connecting northern and southern Europe, the narrow-gauge
railway offers a spectacular means of crossing the Alps. The
breathtaking route runs through the ancient landscape of
Switzerland's beautiful Graubünden region and beside spellbinding
glaciers, providing a stunning connection to Lombardy in northern
Italy.
Undoubtedly Switzerland's best-known train, the Glacier Express
winds its way through some of Europe's most dramatic and beautiful
scenery. Called 'the slowest express train in the world', the
panoramic carriages allow us to soak up the spectacular views as we
traverse incredible mountain passes, picturesque villages and
valleys between the popular alpine resorts of St Moritz and
Zermatt. Enroute, the train clings to the mountainsides on the
Albula Line, zigzags and spirals its way round mountains and over
bridges, and delves into the Rhine Valley - also known as the
'Swiss Grand Canyon'.
Introduced in 1981, France's TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) was
the original European high-speed train. Linking Paris with Lyon,
the new service revolutionised train travel and meant that
travelling by air over medium and short distances was no longer
seen as the best option, even for business travel.
The service includes one 20kg bag per person which will be collected from your home before you depart and will be ready and waiting for you at your first destination hotel in Switzerland. Your bag will also be delivered back to your home address on your return.
If your tour involves an overnight stay enroute, you'll need to travel with an overnight bag. If flying to or from your destination, you will take your own luggage with you on the flight.
London Hotels
Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a
difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the
capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager
the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West
End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your
return to London, you would like to break your journey with an
overnight stay before continuing home.
We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.
UK rail connections
Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business -
there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules
and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international
departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible
ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday
change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.
We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.
For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.
Upgrade to a Deluxe Double Room at the Hotel Ambassador, Brig
Upgrade your hotel room to a deluxe double room at the Hotel
Ambassador from £200 per person.
Reviews
4.5 / 5 · 323 reviews
5 stars
(206)
4 stars
(91)
3 stars
(13)
2 stars
(9)
1 star
(4)
Jennifer
Submitted 19 Oct 2024
Excellent hotels, meals and excursions. Liz our leader took very good care of us.
Collected by Trustpilot
Mrs Jenny Beatrice Florence Sharp
Submitted 15 Oct 2024
We had a marvellous trip with your company and enjoyed every moment of it , our tour guide was very helpful and she welcomed us with open arms …..I have recommended your company to all our friends and will go on telling everyone what a fantastic experience we had . Plus everything was sorted out for us every step of the way . So we must thank you from our hearts and definitely go on another one .
Collected by Trustpilot
Chris
Submitted 15 Oct 2024
beautiful scenery
Collected by Trustpilot
Frank Davies
Submitted 15 Oct 2024
A very well organised trip from start to finish
Collected by Trustpilot
Tony C
Submitted 05 Oct 2024
Fantastic trip, great people, and the best tour manager ever.
Collected by Trustpilot
Elaine Jacobsen
Submitted 03 Oct 2024
Only negative was amount of walking with suitcases to get to trains and hotels