Winter in Switzerland

Day 2 Kleine Scheidegg

After breakfast, we’ll enjoy a railway journey into the heart of the Bernese Oberland, winding through pristine winter landscapes to Grindelwald. This famous mountain resort is dramatically framed by the legendary trio of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau – peaks that have captivated mountaineers and travellers for centuries.

From here, we’ll board a traditional cogwheel train that climbs steadily to Kleine Scheidegg, perched at 2,061 metres directly beneath the formidable Eiger North Face. As you savour an included lunch, surrounded by soaring Alpine peaks and snow-blanketed slopes, you'll understand why this panorama is considered one of Switzerland's finest.

This afternoon, we’ll continue our railway adventure on another cogwheel train, descending to the picturesque village of Lauterbrunnen. Nestled in a dramatic U-shaped valley, it's famous for its 72 thundering waterfalls – including the spectacular Staubbach Falls, which freezes into glistening ice sculptures in winter. Your scenic rail journey continues back to the hotel, allowing time to relax before dinner. This evening is free for you to explore Interlaken – perhaps you’ll find a quaint restaurant to enjoy an authentic fondue.

Day 3 GoldenPass Express and Chillon Castle

This morning travel aboard the GoldenPass Express, one of Europe's most beautiful panoramic train rides. Settle into your carriage as you travel from Interlaken to Montreux, a journey that showcases Switzerland's incredible diversity – from snow-dusted Alpine meadows to villages of traditional chalets to the surprisingly mild shores of Lake Geneva.

Arriving in Montreux, often called the 'Swiss Riviera', you'll have free time to explore this elegant lakeside resort. Perhaps stroll along the flower-lined promenade, browse the charming boutiques or why not take some time to enjoy lunch at a café overlooking the lake. This afternoon, step back in time with a guided tour of the magnificent Château de Chillon, Switzerland's most visited historic monument. This fairytale medieval fortress has stood guard over Lake Geneva for over 1,000 years, its towers and turrets rising dramatically from the water's edge. Lord Byron was so enchanted he immortalised it in verse. Your visit concludes with a delightful Swiss wine tasting, the perfect way to savour the region's vineyard heritage before returning to Interlaken by rail.

Day 4 Interlaken - At leisure

Today is yours to explore the Bernese Oberland at your own pace. Alternatively, join us on an optional excursion for an unforgettable Alpine experience to Mount Schilthorn, famous as a James Bond filming location. We'll travel by rail to Lauterbrunnen before taking a scenic cable car to Grütschalp. A charming cogwheel train then transports you to Mürren, an idyllic car-free village where wooden chalets cluster amid snowy peaks – accessible only by mountain railway or cable car.

Enjoy a gentle winter walk through this picturesque ski village to the Schilthorn cable car station. Then we’ll continue by cable car to the summit of Mount Schilthorn. At 2,970 metres, enjoy a 360-degree panorama of over 200 Alpine peaks, including the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. We'll enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch at the famous Piz Gloria revolving restaurant, where you can savour delicious Swiss cuisine while the restaurant slowly rotates, revealing ever-changing vistas. This iconic location featured in the 1969 Bond film 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service' and still houses a fascinating interactive Bond World exhibit. Later, we'll return by cable car to Mürren for a bit of leisure time before travelling back to Interlaken via Grütschalp and Lauterbrunnen.

Day 5 Maison Cailler and Gruyères

This morning we journey to the charming Fribourg region and the Maison Cailler chocolate factory, Switzerland's oldest chocolate brand, established in 1819. During an interactive visit, discover the art of Swiss chocolate-making and enjoy the opportunity to create your very own chocolate masterpiece.

Afterwards, a short drive brings us to the enchanting medieval hilltop village of Gruyères, dominated by its fairytale 13th-century castle. Stroll the beautifully preserved cobbled streets lined with traditional houses, browse local craft shops, and soak in the timeless Alpine atmosphere. The village has barely changed in centuries, offering wonderful photographic opportunities.

For lunch, gather with your fellow travellers to enjoy Switzerland's most iconic dish – a bubbling pot of traditional cheese fondue. This convivial meal, featuring Gruyères world-famous cheese, is a wonderful way to experience authentic Swiss hospitality.

Day 6 Interlaken - At leisure

Another day to enjoy Interlaken at your own pace. Perhaps revisit a favourite spot, pick up some last-minute Swiss souvenirs, or simply relax and reflect on your Alpine experiences.

For those seeking one more Swiss adventure, join our optional rail adventure to Lucerne travelling aboard the panoramic Luzern-Interlaken Express. This stunning two-hour journey follows the shores of shimmering lakes, passes through traditional villages, and offers constantly changing mountain vistas – simply sit back and enjoy the view from your window.

Arriving in Lucerne, one of Switzerland's most beautiful cities, we'll join a local guide for a walking tour through the remarkably preserved Old Town. Cross the iconic 14th-century Chapel Bridge (Kapellbrücke) with its colourful 17th-century paintings depicting Lucerne's history, and admire the octagonal Water Tower, one of the most photographed monuments in Switzerland. Our guide will bring the city's fascinating legends, history and culture to life as you wander charming, cobbled lanes and vibrant squares.

Enjoy free time to explore independently – perhaps visit the poignant Lion Monument, browse the local shops, or find a cosy restaurant for lunch before we return to Interlaken.

This evening, we’ll come together for a special farewell dinner, the perfect occasion to share favourite moments from your Swiss Alp adventure.

Day 7 Zurich to UK

As your Swiss winter adventure draws to a close, we'll transfer you to Zürich Airport for your flight home. You'll return with a camera full of Alpine photographs and perhaps a suitcase a little heavier with Swiss chocolate.