Magical Switzerland - Small Group, Winter
Magical Switzerland - Small Group, Winter
$4538
Magical Switzerland - Small Group, Winter
7 Days Starting in Zurich, Switzerland and ending in Geneva, Switzerland
Visiting: Lucerne, St. Moritz, Swiss Alps, Grindelwald, Geneva
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SW850M20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a breathtaking winter journey through Switzerland with the "Magical Switzerland - Small Group, Winter" tour. This enchanting adventure begins in Zurich and takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Lucerne, St. Moritz, Grindelwald, and Geneva. Experience the iconic Glacier Express, marvel at the Lion Monument, and explore the charming streets of Lucerne. Discover the spa quarter of St. Moritz and the stunning views from the Jungfrau mountain. Visit the historic Chillon Castle and enjoy a traditional Swiss fondue dinner in Geneva. With luxurious accommodations, authentic dining experiences, and insightful guided tours, this trip offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration amidst the serene beauty of the Swiss Alps.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Zürich And Lovely Lucerne
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation: Astoria, Lucerne
Accommodation Name: Astoria Lucerne
Welcome to Switzerland, an enchanting winter wonderland of frozen waterfalls, peaceful cozy villages, snow-laden forests, and imposing mountain ranges crowned by breathtaking peaks. Upon your arrival at Zürich airport, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Lucerne allowing you to unwind and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the lake and majestic mountains that frame the city. Stroll through the charming streets, where the atmosphere is filled with a sense of calm. In the evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow guests for a light dinner and drinks.
Day 2: Lucerne And St. Moritz Relaxed Start
Location: Lucerne
Accommodation: Laudinella, St. Moritz
Accommodation Name: Laudinella, St. Moritz
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day exploring Lucerne, a captivating 14th-century city still protected by medieval fortifications. Your Travel Director will detail the city's treasures, including the iconic covered wooden bridges, intricately painted gables, and the famous Lion Monument. Afterward, enjoy some free time to discover Lucerne's excellent shops or take a leisurely lakeside walk, where you can soak in the tranquil atmosphere and stunning views. The bustling markets and quaint cafes offer a glimpse into local life. Later, embark on a scenic journey along the dramatic Walensee, passing through the historic town of Chur, to reach the fashionable ski resort of St. Moritz. Located in the Engadine Valley, the resort sits among the awe-inspiring Grisons Alps, offering a blend of natural beauty and sophisticated elegance.
Day 3: St. Moritz At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: St. Moritz
Accommodation: Laudinella, St. Moritz
Accommodation Name: Laudinella, St. Moritz
Meals Included: Breakfast
This day is entirely yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps start with a leisurely breakfast before exploring the chic resort's spa quarter, known for its luxurious wellness facilities and relaxing ambiance. Admire the traditional sgraffito plaster-coated facades that adorn many of the local buildings, showcasing intricate designs and rich history. If shopping is on your agenda, St. Moritz's stylish boutiques offer a range of high-end fashion and unique local crafts. The vibrant local market is perfect for finding artisanal goods and souvenirs. Alternatively, take an epic rail journey over the Bernina pass, which runs through a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering breathtaking views of the alpine landscapes, from glistening glaciers to verdant valleys, making it an unforgettable adventure.
Day 4: Aboard The Glacier Express
Location: Swiss Alps
Accommodation: Romantik Schweizerhof, Grindelwald
Accommodation Name: Romantik Schweizerhof, Grindelwald
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Board the world-famous Glacier Express for a spectacular ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps, with lunch included. The panoramic journey descends through the tunnels of the Albula Pass and traverses the stunning Landwasser Viaduct, a marvel of engineering that soars above deep gorges. As the train joins the broad Rhine Gorge, it meanders beside rock-strewn rivers, climbing through snowy pastures and woodlands. After spiralling to the highest point of the route, the icy Oberalp Pass, you'll descend to Andermatt. Here, rejoin the coach and drive through the dramatic Schöllenen Gorge, passing the Devil's Bridge, a site steeped in local legend. Marvel at the Wetterhorn Peaks as you travel along the Grindelwald Valley, with each turn of the route revealing stunning view that capture the essence of the Swiss Alps.
Day 5: Grindelwald At Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Grindelwald
Accommodation: Romantik Schweizerhof, Grindelwald
Accommodation Name: Romantik Schweizerhof, Grindelwald
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day at your leisure to explore Grindelwald, a charming village nestled in the Bernese Alps. Perhaps take a cogwheel train ride to the summit of the Jungfrau mountain, where you can marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding alpine splendour. The Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe," offers stunning vistas and a chance to explore the Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observation Deck. Alternatively, hike one of the many trails that wind through the lush valleys and up into the high mountains, where the diverse flora and fauna are a delight for nature enthusiasts. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, spend your day shopping in the quaint village shops or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the area.
Day 6: Chillon Castle And Geneva
Location: Geneva
Accommodation: Royal, Geneva
Accommodation Name: Royal, Geneva
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey to the shores of Lake Geneva where the associations with the early European Romantic movement are very strong. Join Maud, the curator of the Chateau, to visit the 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. Enjoy a beautiful journey alongside the lake, passing Vevey and Lausanne, to reach the immaculate town of Geneva. On arrival, your orientation includes the United Nations Building, officially known as the Palais des Nations, the Old Town and the Jet d’Eau. Visit the Red Cross Museum for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and learn how this world-renowned organization provides vital assistance to refugees, migrants and asylum seekers. Spend your night in Geneva, rejoicing with your newfound friends at a local restaurant, as you are treated to a delicious, traditional fondue dinner complete with wine.
Day 7: Depart Geneva
Location: Geneva
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your magical journey through Switzerland concludes after breakfast. Your transfer will arrive at Geneva airport, bidding you farewell as you reflect on the unforgettable memories and experiences from your Swiss adventure. As you head home, you'll carry with you the sights of this beautiful country, enriched by the connections you've made and the stories you've gathered along the way.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Astoria in Lucerne, the Laudinella in St. Moritz, and the Romantik Schweizerhof in Grindelwald, with your final night at the Royal in Geneva. Enjoy the serene beauty and luxurious amenities each location offers.
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Meals
The tour includes 4 dinners with wine, 6 breakfasts, and 1 lunch.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you won't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency. All taxes and porterage charges at hotels are also included.
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Luggage Handling
Your bags will be carried for you and promptly delivered to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with friends and family with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Luxury Coach
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
What's Not Included
Transfers Outside Scheduled TimesIf your flights are outside the scheduled times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, and enjoy a scenic ride on the world-famous Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views and a memorable journey.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 6 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Lake Geneva: Visit Chillon Castle with the Head of Collections to discover the artefacts, treasures and history of the chateau.
Travel Director
- "It's magical to see how a group of guests comes together over the course of our trip. I can always tell when that's happening because suddenly the enthusiasm is palpable."
- "One food I really love introducing my guests to is cheese or meat fondue. It's not only a great meal, but it's an experience of its own and always lots of fun. Especially when I see all our guests bonding and having a good time discovering the way we enjoy it over here."
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
During the tour, you will enjoy a savory dinner surrounded by the natural beauty of Lucerne and a delicious fondue dinner at a local restaurant in Geneva, which is a real Swiss treat.
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What is the Glacier Express experience like?
The Glacier Express offers a spectacular ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps, with panoramic views as it descends through the Albula Pass and traverses the stunning Landwasser Viaduct. The journey includes lunch and provides breathtaking views of snowy pastures, woodlands, and the icy Oberalp Pass.
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What unique experiences are included in Geneva?
In Geneva, you will visit the Red Cross Museum to learn about their work with refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers. This visit supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes travel aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom. You will also enjoy a scenic ride on the world-famous Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps.
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Are there any special activities in Grindelwald?
In Grindelwald, you have the option to take a cogwheel train ride to the summit of the Jungfrau mountain, explore the Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observation Deck, or hike the trails that offer diverse flora and fauna.
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What is included in the tour regarding meals?
The tour includes 4 dinners with wine, 6 breakfasts, and 1 lunch.
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What kind of accommodations are provided on this tour?
You will stay at the Astoria in Lucerne, the Laudinella in St. Moritz, the Romantik Schweizerhof in Grindelwald, and the Royal in Geneva, each offering serene beauty and luxurious amenities.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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