Contrasts of Switzerland
8 Day Switzerland Rail Tour to Zürich, St. Moritz, Zermatt, Geneva and Lucerne
$4,406
Tour Description
All aboard the world’s first-ever ‘Swisstainable’ tour. Experience the local culture and delight in regional produce as you support the ecology and economy of Switzerland. Every hotel, experience, meal and transport is accredited as ‘Swisstainable’ - Switzerland’s national benchmark certificate for sustainability.
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HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS
Zurich: Begin your Swiss adventure in Zurich, the country’s largest city known for its financial prowess, cultural vibrancy, and stunning lakeside setting. Explore the historic Old Town with its charming narrow streets, visit the iconic Bahnhofstrasse for luxury shopping, and enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Zurich and the surrounding Alps.
Lucerne: Discover the picturesque beauty of Lucerne, a city nestled between a lake and towering mountains. Walk across the medieval Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), admire the poignant Lion Monument, and explore the well-preserved old town. Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Lucerne or venture up Mount Pilatus or Mount Rigi for breathtaking panoramic views.
Zermatt: Journey to the alpine village of Zermatt, located at the base of the iconic Matterhorn. This car-free village offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore Zermatt’s quaint streets, take a ride on the Gornergrat Railway to get up close to the Matterhorn, and enjoy some of the best hiking and skiing in the world.
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Day 1 | Welcome to Zürich
Zürich is your springboard to a spectacular journey
through Switzerland. Meet your Travel Director and
fellow travellers to explore the city's ancient heritage
and modern verve during your orientation tour this
afternoon. This evening, meet your Travel Director
and fellow travellers to launch your Swiss experience
for dinner.
Meals: Dinner
Hotel: Mövenpick Airport
Day 2 | Onwards by Train to St. Moritz
Our love affair with the snow-capped peaks of
Switzerland begins on a scenic train journey via Chur to
the stylish resort of St. Moritz, set against the beautiful
backdrop of Lake St. Moritz. Admire the inspiring natural
setting and perhaps travel on one of Switzerland's most
spectacular rail routes across the Bernina pass this
afternoon, enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Reine Victoria
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Bernina Pass Discovery - Board a train across the spectacular Bernina Pass, one of Switzerland's iconic rail routes. Our
panoramic journey takes us to a local hostelry where you can indulge in a typical apéro of tasty snacks and vintages, a
truly local experience!
Adult: 93.00 CHF
Day 3 | Catch the Glacier Express to Zermatt
Embrace the glamour and romance of a bygone era.
Watch the epic alpine landscapes drift past as you chug
along one of the world's most unforgettable rail
journeys from the comfort of the Glacier Express. Cross
hundreds of bridges and the Oberalp Pass at 6,700 feet
(2,044 m) above sea level. Enjoy an included lunch on
board as you journey past lakes and glaciers bound for
the resort town of Zermatt, at the foothills of the
imposing Matterhorn. Your Tour Director will take you
on an Orientation of the town.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Ambassador
Day 4 | Zermatt at Leisure
Spend a full free day soaking up Zermatt's crisp
mountain air and panoramic vistas. Relax in beautiful
surroundings or consider an Optional Experience to the
Klein Matterhorn for the most spectacular mountain
views.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Ambassador
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Klein Matterhorn Excursion - A unique electric taxi service will drive us to the foot of Zermatt's highest and most
spectacular mountain ride. You’ll enjoy stunning views as we ascend to Furi and Trockener Steg, before boarding
Europe's highest cable car to 3883m (12,740ft) to view the magnificent snow-capped top of the world.
Adult: 135.00 CHF
Zermatt Dinner Experience - Discover the beautiful mountainous resort town of Zermatt. Afterwards, we'll enjoy a
wonderful dinner in a typical chalet-style restaurant with an opportunity to try the world-famous raclette and fondue.
Adult: 96.00 CHF
* This optional experience may not operate during the winter months.
Day 5 | A Train Journey to Lakeside Geneva
This morning we board a train to Geneva and continue to
La Ferme Enchantée for a memorable Be My Guest
experience over lunch. This sustainable farm also hosts
beehives, and we meet the beekeeper during our MAKE
TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This afternoon we return
to Geneva where the orientation will include views of the
Old Town, Jet d'Eau and the Flower Clock. Later, explore
the city on your own. Stroll through the ancient maze of
medieval streets and quiet squares or consider a cruise –
enjoying views of the lakeside villages.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Warwick
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
You will be offered one of the following two optional experiences depending on availability:
Lake Geneva Cruise with Meal - Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the CGN company on
Lake Geneva. The lake is one of Western Europe’s largest and its waters meet the shores of both Switzerland and
France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont
Blanc. A three-course meal will be served in their wood-panelled dining room while you admire awe-inspiring Alpine
scenery dining on the specialities of the Vaud canton.
Adult: 105.00 CHF
Lake Geneva Cruise - Enjoy an unforgettable cruise on the ‘Belle Epoque ‘ steamers of the C.G.N. company on Lake
Geneva. Lac Leman, as it is known to the locals, is one of Western Europe’s largest lakes and its waters meet the
shores of both Switzerland and France. You’ll see picturesque villages and towns in both countries as well as the
majestic Alps and, on clear days, Mont Blanc.
Adult: 52.00 CHF
Day 6 | Journey on the Golden and Brünig Pass to Interlaken and Lucerne
Picture-perfect landscapes are our constant companion
as we journey from Geneva along the Golden Pass
route. Passing through Interlaken, enjoy superb views
of the Bernese Oberland and Brünig Pass on the way to
Lakeside Lucerne. See the Iconic Chapel bridge and the
poignant Lion Monument, built in memory of the Swiss
Guards who bravely defended Louis XVI during the
French Revolution on your orientation tour. The evening
is free to spend as you wish, but you could choose to
show off your vocal talents and learn how to yodel
during an optional fun-packed Swiss folklore show with
fondue dinner.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Radisson Blu
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
Swiss Folklore Evening with Dinner - Tonight we’ll enjoy a tasty Swiss meal, including the famous Swiss cheese fondue,
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throwing and Alpine horn-blowing. Two drinks are also included.
Adult: 111.00 CHF
Day 7 | Explore Medieval Lucerne
Mountain peaks surround you as you spend a day at
leisure in beautiful lakeside Lucerne. Consider an
Optional Experience to a nearby Mountain Peak, explore
the medieval streets and shop for delicious Swiss
Chocolate. Before we enjoy our Farewell dinner
together, you might want to enjoy an Optional
Experience riding a carriage through one of
Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain villages.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel: Radisson Blu
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:
'Swisstainable' Mount Stanserhorn And Lake Cruise - Take a scenic cruise with us across Lake Lucerne to Stans, and
one of Switzerland's oldest mountain railways. Travelling by funicular and the world's first Cabrio cable car, we'll reach
1900m (6300ft), where you’ll have free time to admire the stunning Alpine scenery.
Adult: 121.00 CHF
* On certain departures, this optional may be operated in reverse, ending with the cruise. It may also be operated without
the cruise for CHF 78.
Swiss Countryside & Carriages - A chance to get to know the Swiss, you’ll meet local farmers and enjoy a delightful
countryside tour in horse-drawn carriages. Soak up the stunning scenery as we trot around a typical rural community,
en route to a local homestead where you’ll savour local drinks and snacks.
Adult: 77.00 CHF
* Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Day 8 | Journey Home
We say a fond farewell to Switzerland and newfound
friends at the end of a remarkable Swiss holiday. Your
Travel Director will give you tickets for the short train
journey from Lucerne to Zürich Airport, which can be
used at your convenience, on the last day of the tour, for
your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Optional Experiences and free time
High-speed train from Barcelona to Madrid
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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Booking and Payments
Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required to confirm your booking.
Final Payment: The balance must be paid in full 90 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking.
Cancellations and Refunds
Cancellation by Client:
More than 90 days before departure: Loss of deposit.
30-90 days before departure: 65% of the total tour cost.
Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost.
Cancellation by Company: We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a full refund will be provided.
Changes to Itinerary
Flexibility Required: Weather and road conditions may necessitate changes to the planned route and itinerary. Flexibility is essential.
Substitutions: We reserve the right to substitute accommodations and services of similar standard when necessary.
Travel Insurance
Mandatory: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all participants.
Proof Required: Proof of insurance must be provided before the tour begins.
Health and Safety
Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required for participation in the activities outlined in the tour itinerary.
Medical Conditions: Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.
Liability
Responsibility: The company will not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property that occurs during the tour.
Third-Party Services: The company is not responsible for the actions or omissions of third-party providers, such as airlines or accommodation services.
Visas and Documentation
Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date.
Visas: Obtaining necessary visas and travel documents is the responsibility of the participant.
Conduct
Respect for Culture: Participants are expected to respect local customs and cultures.
Behavior: Disruptive or harmful behavior may result in the participant being asked to leave the tour, with no refund provided.
Complaints
Immediate Reporting: Any complaints should be reported immediately to the tour leader to allow for a timely resolution.
Post-Tour Complaints: Complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour's conclusion.
By booking this tour, you agree to adhere to these terms and conditions.