The alpine region of Switzerland offers some of the most spectacular scenery on earth – and no-one showcases it better than Collette.
As the world leader in coach touring, Collette offers countless bonus inclusions. The perks begin even before your holiday does, with private transfers to and from the airport for all international tours.
And with all gratuities included, authentic tour experiences, award-winning tour leaders, and guaranteed departure dates, Collette makes touring super easy.
From the alluring holiday destination of Lake Geneva, to the charming villages and vineyards that dot the countryside, Switzerland is home to some of the most iconic scenery in all of Europe.
Nestled peacefully between the snow capped mountains, these magical destinations seem almost insulated from the outside world.
Included as part of your Collette Trails and Peaks of Switzerland journey, the Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited access to the country’s transport network, as well as complimentary entrance to over 500 museums throughout Switzerland.
Your tour will take you to the alpine town of Zermatt, where you’ll experience incredible views of the Matterhorn. Perched on the northern border of Italy, the pyramid like peak soars almost 15,000 feet in the air.
Soak in all the stunning views of the Alps and the Swiss Riviera, sample a wine at the terraced Lavaux Vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and walk among the old and new in the Swiss capital, Bern.
Enjoy lunch at family-owned restaurants, indulge in a chocolate workshop, and dine inside Neuchatel’s historic Collégiale church.
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Day 1 – Neuchatel, Switzerland
You’re on your way to a world wedged between Germany, Austria, France and Italy — the country of four languages that’s one of the most heralded destinations in Europe.
Your journey through Switzerland will be entirely by train, offering an up close and personal rendezvous with the best the country has to offer, from the Alps to the historic villages of the Swiss Riviera. Get ready to experience the culture, history and lifestyle of Switzerland firsthand.
Wilkkommen and Bienvenue! Board a Swiss Rail train to Neuchatel, where Gothic landmarks and sandstone grandeur beckon you to discover the abounding history of this medieval waterfront city. A reception of cocktails and canapes welcomes you to the first stop on your tour: the centuries-old cloister of the Collégiale*, a church and chateau perched atop Neuchatel’s highest point.
Retire this evening in your lakefront room with incredible views of Lake Neuchatel.
Overnight: Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac
Day 2 – Neuchatel – Auvernier – Neuchatel
Set out on a walking tour this morning and discover the treasures of Neuchatel’s historic quarter with its unique architecture and structures from the Belle Époque period.
Next, it’s on to the village of Auvernier and Caves du Chateau d’Auvernier, a centuries-old vineyard that has remained in the same family for fourteen generations. A tour of the chateau’s cellars demands a tasting of their everlasting vintages and a chance to learn how nature, soil and tradition converge to create a vintage’s character and flavour.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac
Day3 – Neuchatel
Enjoy a day of leisure in Neuchatel. You may use your Swiss Travel Pass to explore the surrounding areas or gain admission to museums (your rail pass provides free admission to over 500 museums). Or, just relax and stroll this charming village.
Perhaps you will choose to join your guide for an optional e-biking excursion on Switzerland’s Absinthe Trail to Maison de l’Absinthe to learn the history of production and enjoy a private tasting and cooking experience.
In the evening, gather to unwind over dinner at a local brasserie and sample local favourites such as boeuf tartare and fromage.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac
Day4 – Neuchatel – Bern – Zermatt
From Neuchatel, travel via train to Bern, the Swiss capital. Enjoy time at leisure to discover Bern’s enthralling blend of influences – old and new. Then it’s on to the striking resort village of Zermatt, nestled against the backdrop of the famous Matterhorn.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: Unique Hotel Post
Day 5 – Zermatt
Zermatt’s modern amenities are steeped in traditional Alpine roots, making this pedestrian city a wonderful experience. The day is yours to explore all the village has to offer.
Consider using your Swiss Travel Pass to ascend the Gornergrat Railway to take in breathtaking views of the famed Matterhorn.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Unique Hotel Post
Day 6 – Zermatt – Vevey
Say goodbye to Zermatt and head to the north shore of Lake Geneva to Vevey, one of the “Pearls of the Swiss Riviera,” with awe-inspiring views of the Alpine panorama.
Whilst the city’s promenades and majestic hotels are classic reminders of the Belle Époque, its modernity is characterised by its art and music festivals, and the ever-present memory of Charlie Chaplin, who spent the last quarter of his life as a resident.
Enjoy a walking tour before paying a visit to Läderach. Switzerland is world-famous for its chocolate, and Läderach chocolate is Swiss perfection. Participate in an immersive tasting workshop that reveals a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the artistry behind the handmade Swiss chocolate.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Astra Hotel Vevey
Day 7 – Vevey – Lavaux – Vevey
A relaxed morning in Vevey preludes your journey to the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. Begin with lunch at a family-owned restaurant before visiting Jacques and Aurelia, for a wine tasting nestled amongst the vines.
Traipse the Lavaux vineyards (UNESCO listed) on foot before enjoying another tasting of the region’s finest varieties. Next, it’s your choice! Return to Vevey via rail and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure; OR, continue your exploration through the miles of Lavaux vineyards to Saint-Saphorin, a medieval village dating back to Roman times, located on the banks of Lake Geneva.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Overnight: Astra Hotel Vevey
Day 8 – Vevey
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Check out everything Vevey has to offer. Don’t forget to take advantage of your Swiss Travel Pass to explore any one of the city’s museums, among them the Swiss Camera Museum, Charlie Chaplin Museum, or the Nestle Foundation’s Nest. Or use your Pass to board a ferry to discover Montreux and Chillon.
Join your tour group in the evening for a farewell dinner at one of Vevey’s best local restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight: Astra Hotel Vevey
Day 9 – Tour Ends
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel as your tour finishes. Consider extending your tour or continuing on with your Swiss Rail Pass to explore the region further. Ask us about options available.
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