Switzerland's Snowy Peaks & Panoramic Railways

Day One

We depart in the early hours for our journey south to Folkestone and our Eurotunnel crossing to Calais. From here, we journey onward to our overnight accommodation in the charming city of Reims, situated in the heart of the French Champagne Region.

Day Two

After breakfast, we depart Reims and continue our journey through France into Switzerland, arriving in the charming lakeside city of Lucerne, where we will stay for the next two nights. Enjoy free time to explore this picturesque city, spectacularly set amid breathtaking mountain scenery and often regarded as Switzerland's most beautiful city. Lucerne offers well-preserved medieval architecture, charming cobbled streets, vibrant waterfront promenades and a wealth of attractions, including the iconic wooden Chapel Bridge and the impressive octagonal Water Tower.

Day Three

This morning we make the short walk to the landing stage on the shores of Lake Lucerne, where we board a boat for a tranquil cruise across the lake to Vitznau. On arrival, we change to a different mode of transport and step aboard the historic cogwheel railway. No other mountain railway in the Alps can boast a longer history, the Vitznau-Rigi Kulm line, opened in 1871, was Europe's first mountain railway. Sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery on this 30-minute ascent to the summit of Mount Rigi. At the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. Take in the snow-capped Alps, the surrounding lowlands dotted with 13 lakes, and, on clear days, vistas stretching into Germany and France, as well as a bird's-eye view of the cities of Lucerne and Zug, an experience that is truly unforgettable. After some free time at the summit, we rejoin the cogwheel train for the descent to Arth-Goldau, where on arrival, we board our cruise once more for a relaxing return journey across Lake Lucerne back to our hotel.

Day Four

Today we enjoy one of the highlights of the holiday with a journey aboard the spectacular Glacier Express, famously known as the slowest express train in the world and celebrated for its panoramic carriages and exceptional Alpine scenery. Our route from Andermatt to Chur is widely considered one of the most breathtaking sections of the entire journey. Sit back and relax as the train winds its way through the mountains, climbing steadily out of Andermatt to reach the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level, the highest point on the route, before descending into the dramatic Rhine Valley. We continue through the spectacular Rhine Gorge, often referred to as the "Swiss Grand Canyon," where towering limestone cliffs and the rushing river combine to create an unforgettable landscape. As the scenery gradually softens, we make our approach to the historic city of Chur. On arrival in Chur, we check into our hotel for a three-night stay, with the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to relax in the peaceful surroundings and stroll through the Gothic old town with its narrow streets, high towers and ornate fountains.

Day Five

We depart the hotel and travel to one of the highest towns in Europe, Davos, where dramatic mountain scenery and fresh Alpine air set the tone for a memorable visit. Here we will enjoy a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride along peaceful mountain trails and open landscapes, offering a relaxed and atmospheric way to experience the region, with sweeping views and the serene calm of the high Alps all around. There will also be some time to wander this peaceful mountain village discovering streets filled with traditional mountain chalets, atmospheric restaurants and cafes and stylish boutiques. From Davos we continue to the nearby village of Klosters, a picture-postcard Alpine resort known for its charm and understated elegance. Here, the pace slows further as you explore a village filled with traditional wooden chalets, winding streets and a welcoming, unhurried atmosphere. Take time to wander at leisure, discovering cosy cafés and small boutiques offering local crafts and elegant mountain-inspired goods.

Day Six

We board the famous Arosa Railway in Chur and begin one of Switzerland's most scenic rail journeys. Departing from the historic town centre, the train gradually leaves urban life behind as it climbs high into the mountains towards Arosa. Covering just 26 kilometres, the line ascends almost 1,000 metres, winding through the spectacular Schanfigg Valley, passing forests, alpine meadows and dramatic mountain scenery along the way. A highlight of the journey is crossing the magnificent Langwies Viaduct, an impressive engineering landmark that spans the Plessur Gorge and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Arriving in Arosa, perched at 1,800 metres above sea level, you will have time to relax and enjoy this charming Alpine resort, renowned for its beautiful mountain setting, fresh air and welcoming atmosphere. Explore at your leisure, enjoy lunch in one of the village's cafés or restaurants, and simply soak up the spectacular scenery of the Swiss Alps. This afternoon we reboard our train and return to Chur.

Day Seven

We check out and bid farewell to Chur this morning, embarking on a journey through Switzerland and into France, for another overnight stay in the champagne region of Reims.

Day Eight

After breakfast we continue northward to Calais for our return Eurotunnel journey to Folkestone and on home to North Wales.

B=Breakfast Included