|
|
|
Train Journeys of the Alps
Discover breathtaking Alpine vistas as you journey on some of the most dramatic and scenic railway lines and roads that pass through Switzerland, Italy, and Austria. Experience Swiss train travel in all its glory, renowned for its special engineering and impeccable service, as you travel on four amazing trains. Enjoy the stunning beauty of the magnificent Alps, charming traditional villages and grand castles, and the distinctive cultural treasures found in this pristine corner of Europe. Tour Highlights
GoldenPass Panoramic Train, Chateau de Chillon, Zermatt, Matterhorn, Gornergrat Railway, Glacier Express, Bernina Express, St. Moritz, Innsbruck, Salzburg Collette Experiences
Set against the backdrop of magnificent Alpine vistas, meet local guest speakers who will enhance your special journey.
- Explore the spectacular natural history of the Alps during a lecture about the geologic wonders of this fascinating region.
- Gain insight into Swiss rail travel, including the special engineering necessary for trains to operate in this mountainous area.
- Learn about Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the social and political circumstances of 18th-century Salzburg, which influenced the education of this musical genius. |
| Call (630) 879-2930 for more information or to book today! Mention code 6832702 | | Collette Vacations | | | Day | Destination | Description | | Day 1 | Geneva | Overnight Flight to Geneva, Switzerland:
| | Day 2 | Lausanne | Lausanne, Switzerland: Your tour begins in the beautiful Lake Geneva region of Switzerland. This evening attend a special welcome reception and dinner.
| | Day 3 | Lausanne | Lausanne - GoldenPass Train: Climb aboard the GoldenPass Panoramic Train for your first Alpine rail journey from Lake Geneva region to Gstaad. Discover astonishing views of the countryside and the delightful ambiance of Gstaad, a world-famous ski resort. Traveling to La Maison du Gruyere, learn about the production of this favorite cheese and sample a variety of the Gruyeres.
| | Day 4 | Zermatt | Lausanne - Chateau de Chillon - Zermatt: This morning travel by motorcoach to visit the legendary medieval Chateau de Chillon, considered the most well-preserved medieval castle in Europe. Next, journey to Zermatt through the region's beautiful wine country. Traveling along the lush Rhone Valley, pass the villages of Sion, with its twin hills topped with a castle and church, and Sierre, characterized by its 17th-century church, chateau and the old watchtower. Your hotel is in the center of the Alpine village of Zermatt, featuring beautiful panoramic views of the Alps, including the famous Matterhorn.
| | Day 5 | Zermatt | Zermatt - Gornergrat Railway - Zermatt: Explore this quaint pedestrian-only village and take a ride on the Gornergrat Railway, featuring a special cogwheel that improves traction on steep slopes. This trip provides sweeping views of glaciers and the starkly beautiful Matterhorn.
| | Day 6 | St. Moritz | Zermatt - Glacier Express Train - St. Moritz: Traverse bridges and tunnels while aboard the world-renowned narrow-gauge Glacier Express, the most charming express train in the world. Enjoy the natural beauty of this scenic route through the heart of the Swiss Alps, filled with forests, fragrant meadows, gurgling streams and deep valleys. Marvel at the endless storybook landscapes and rural Alpine villages accessible solely by rail. Tonight, explore the many splendors of St. Moritz.
| | Day 7 | St. Moritz | St. Moritz - Bernina Express - St. Moritz: Embark on the Bernina Express Train, which travels along one of the most scenic railway lines in the world. En route to Tirano, Italy, the train climbs one of Europe's steepest rail ascents, out of the Engadine Valley toward the Bernina Pass before arriving in Tirano. Enjoy dramatic views of the Italian Alps throughout your journey, including the Morteratsch Glacier.
| | Day 8 | Innsbruck | St. Moritz - Innsbruck: Travel to the magical city of Innsbruck, host to two winter Olympics, nestled comfortably in the mountains. Your home for the next three nights is the lovely Hotel Innsbruck, located just steps away from the well-known Golden Roof villa. The Golden Roof was constructed by Maximilian I of the Habsburg dynasty in the 15th century as a wedding present to his wife.
| | Day 9 | Innsbruck | Innsbruck - Salzburg - Innsbruck: Travel through the Austrian countryside to the magnificent city of Salzburg. Enjoy a leisurely paced walking tour featuring Mirabell Gardens (seen in the Sound of Music), the quaint Getreidegasse (the street where Mozart was born), and many other highlights. While at Mozart's Geburtshaus, learn about the early years of one of the greatest composers in the world. The afternoon is at leisure to explore and enjoy Salzburg's unique blend of sophistication and charm. You may opt to explore independently the Hohensalzburg Fortress, which was founded in the 11th century by Archbishop Gebhard, or return to the famous pedestrian street, the Getreidegasse. Tonight you will attend a delightful dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter's Restaurant, located in the historic city center.
| | Day 10 | Innsbruck | Innsbruck: A local guide leads a city tour of Innsbruck highlighting Maria Theresienstrasse, the Hofburg and the "Golden Roof," all set against the backdrop of the lovely Austrian Alps. In the afternoon, take an excursion to the famous Innsbruck Olympic Ski Jump, used for the 1964 and 1976 winter Olympics. Your evening features a special farewell dinner and a Tyrolean folklore show.
| | Day 11 | Innsbruck | Innsbruck - Tour Concludes: Your tour ends today in the city of Innsbruck.
|
| | | Hotel Alpha- Palmiers, Lausanne | | Schweizerhof Hotel, Zermatt | | Hotel Monopol, St. Moritz | | Hotel Innsbruck, Innsbruck |
| | * NOTE: Tour prices are lead-in land only rates based on double occupancy. Please call your agent for triple or child occupancy rates. Taxes and fees are additional for tours that feature a cruise; port taxes are not included in the prices shown. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking.
Airfare is additional and is available through Collette Vacations. |
|
|
|
|
