Magical Switzerland (Winter 2012/13) - Insight Vacations - W850AC07

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Price from: for 8 Days

Board your overnight flight (not included).

Welcome to Switzerland - an enchanting winter wonderland of frozen waterfalls, peaceful cozy villages, snow-laden forest and imposing mountain ranges crowned by famous peaks. On arrival at Zurich Airport, your airport transfer leaves for the tour hotel at 09:30, 11:00 and 12:30. Later, an orientation tour shows you the Bahnhofstrasse, the imposing Grossmunster, River Limmat and elegant Fraumünster, famous for its stained glass windows by Marc Chagall. In the evening, join your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception with drinks and a light informal meal.(Welcome Reception)

Your first stop today is Lucerne, a beautiful 14th century city still protected by medieval fortifications. Admire the covered wooden bridges and painted gables, view the Lion Monument or enjoy the excellent shops and lake side walks. Head east to the famous 18C monastery at Einsiedeln. Gain an insight into this colourful baroque world and daily life of the monks. Visit the church and its library, a breathtakingly beautiful room filled with the knowledge of the Middle Ages. Continue along the dramatic Walensee past Chur to the fashionable ski resort of St. Moritz, set in the sparkling Engadine Valley with the majestic Grisons Alps towering above. Maybe opt for a late breakfast the following morning because the whole day is completely at leisure in this chic resort. Perhaps explore the spa quarter, see the museum house with its traditional ‘sgraffito’ façade or shop in the elegant boutiques. Another option is to board the Bernina Express for a scenic rail journey of such epic proportions that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.(Buffet Breakfast / Dinner / Buffet Breakfast)

Alight the world famous Glacier Express for a spectacular ride through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Ascend through the spiral tunnels of the Abula Pass, then traverse the lofty Landwasser Viaduct. Your train then joins the broad Rhine Gorge and snakes along the rock-strewn river before climbing through snowy pastures and woodland. Picturesque landscapes of ice-capped mountains and stone-built villages with chalet-style houses slip past. After a series of spirals you reach the highest point of the route, the icy Oberalp Pass (2,033m). The modern panorama viewing cars means you won’t miss a thing on your descent to Andermatt and down the Rhône Valley. Around mid afternoon, disembark in Brig and continue to the high-altitude spa of Leukerbad for two relaxing nights. In the morning enjoy dramatic Swiss scenery as you follow the narrow valley which leads to Täsch. Here you must abandon the coach to board the cogwheel train which takes you to the traffic-free haven of Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn! Wander along its cobbled streets to browse among the shops, explore the ancient wooden farmhouses and 'mazot' barns in the back alleys, or visit the Matterhorn Museum to pass through the houses and rooms of yesteryear. If you have a head for heights, then you might like to board the cable car up the Klein Matterhorn. From the summit, enjoy the incredible views of the icebound Swiss Alps (weather permitting). Return to your hotel in Leukerbad where the remainder of the day is at leisure.(Buffet Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner / Buffet Breakfast)

Journey along the Lower Rhone Valley to the shores of Lake Geneva where the associations with the early European ‘Romantic’ movement are very strong. Visit 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 pleasant to visit Old Montreux for a wonderful view of the lake and the lower quarters of the town. A beautiful drive along the lake, passing Vevey and Lausanne brings you to the immaculate town of Geneva. On arrival sightseeing includes the United Nations Building (Palais des Nations), the Old Town, Reformation Monument, and, if operating, the Jet d’Eau. In December, there is the chance to visit the International Christmas Market at Place de la Fusterie. Tonight in Geneva, rejoice with your friends at a finale Celebration Dinner complete with wine.(Buffet Breakfast / Celebration Dinner)

Your magical journey comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Geneva airport at 08:00 and 10:00.(Buffet Breakfast)