The best way to explore Switzerland's breathtaking landscapes is by rail, taking in journeys that meander the Alps, high above glistening lakes and through beautiful meadows and picture-perfect villages. During this five-day tour, you'll experience several rail journeys, including an incredible journey on board the GoldenPass Express.
You'll be staying at a four-star hotel in Montreux, the beautiful resort town is often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Geneva". Your Belle-Epoque base is in the ideal location for sightseeing and is right on the shores of Lake Geneva, so you can expect gorgeous views from your balcony.
During your tour, visit the Château de Chillon, a fairytale castle and the most visited historic monument in Switzerland; cruise the serene waters of Lake Geneva; and enjoy an afternoon in Montreux, where you may see the bronze statue of Freddie Mercury. The town has numerous musical links and is well known for its Jazz Festival.
Of course, the highlight will be a day trip on board the GoldenPass Express, as you travel from Montreux to Interlaken. Each carriage has panoramic windows, so enjoy the sensational scenery as you sit back and relax in your seat. As you pass through Château-d'Oex, you may spot hot air balloons in the sky. On arrival in Interlaken, spend time wandering at leisure and make the most of the views of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.
You'll also visit the vineyards at Lavaux - Switzerland's largest vineyard at 800 hectares. The village of Chexbres is well known for its wine growing, and you'll visit the family-run Domaine Bovy wine estate for a tasting.
Meet at London St Pancras station for your Eurostar to Paris. Upon arrival, make your connection for your high-speed journey to Lausanne, before changing train for your onward journey to Montreux. In Montreux, transfer to the Hôtel du Grand Lac Excelsior for your four-night stay. Enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.
After breakfast at the hotel this morning, travel by trolleybus along the shores of Lake Geneva to Villeneuve. Tour the beautiful Château de Chillon in the company of a local English-speaking guide. This fairytale castle was formerly occupied by the influential House of Savoy and appears as if it is floating on Lake Geneva. After the visit, board a boat to cruise the serene waters of Lake Geneva back to Montreux.
This afternoon, explore Montreux at leisure. Often referred to as the "Pearl of Lake Geneva", make the most of the beautiful scenery and be sure to see the bronze statue of Freddie Mercury, who made this place his home, saying 'if you want peace of soul, come to Montreux'. Enjoy dinner at leisure this evening.
After breakfast at the hotel this morning, you'll board the stylish panoramic carriages of the GoldenPass Express on an incredible journey which will take you from palm trees to snow-capped mountains. The route is a feat of engineering more than 100 years in the making and will take you through untamed forests, rolling mountains and picturesque villages to Gstaad.
From here, glide towards Lake Thun and enjoy spectacular panoramic views, before arriving in Interlaken. This compact town is set between lakes Thun and Brienz and the peaks of the Bernese Oberland. Spend time in Interlaken at leisure, before returning to Montreux. Enjoy dinner at leisure this evening.
After breakfast at the hotel this morning, you'll explore the terraced vineyards of Lavaux. The region is UNESCO-listed and is where Switzerland's Grand Crus are sourced. Of the six Vaudois wine regions, Lavaux in the most spectacular. After visiting the vineyards, travel to Chexbres-Village and take a short walk to Domaine Bovy where we will enjoy a wine tasting with some local bread and cheese before returning to Montreux.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at the hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel this morning, check out and depart for your train back to Lausanne, your connection to Paris and onward journey by Eurostar to London.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a standard room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £460. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Limited (ATOL bonded).