Overview
In a land of fairytale mountain beauty, we’ve crafted a special journey using the remarkable Swiss system of cable cars and cogwheel trains to bring you high into the Alps for spectacular—yet moderate—hiking adventures. Around mountain-ringed Lake Lucerne, we’ll hike the panoramic trails of Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Rigi, and in the famed Bernese Oberland, crowned by the breathtaking summits of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau (the North Face of the Alps), a gondola whisks us to incredible high trails with views stretching across the “top of Europe.” High above pristine Lake Oeschinensee, we hike through fragrant fields of gentian and edelweiss, and our grand finale is in charming Vevey for wine tasting and hikes through the historic World Heritage-listed vineyards above Lake Geneva.
This was a fabulous trip featuring spectacular scenery and a variety of hikes on mountain trails, along streams, near lakes and waterfalls, and finally in lovely vineyards. Using the efficient Swiss transportation system, our guides moved us around to perfection.
— Dorothy D., Denver, CO
Days 1-2
Lucerne / Pilatus and Rigi
In Lucerne, we travel by the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the summit of Mt. Pilatus (6,994') for an easy walk with magnificent views. A classic lake steamer brings us across Lake Lucerne to the village of Weggis, where a cable car carries us up Mt. Rigi (5,896'), known as the “Queen of the Mountains.” We’ll visit an artisan cheesemaker here and descend by cogwheel train to lakeside Lucerne.
Lucerne / Pilatus and Rigi - Days 1-2
Hotel des Balances
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Lucerne, SwitzerlandThe Hotel des Balances is, hands down, the place to stay in Lucerne. Set right on the waterfront and in the heart of Lucerne’s Old Town, it’s just steps from the famous covered Chapel Bridge. The breakfast buffet is extraordinary, with everything from smoked salmon to muesli and fresh-baked bread, as well as eggs cooked to order. The gorgeous piano bar opens right onto a waterfront terrace, ideal for enjoying a glass of wine after an exhilarating day of hiking. With its impeccable service, comfortable rooms, and the most wonderful down comforters imaginable, the Hotel des Balances is an absolutely classic hotel with utterly up to date services and style.
Days 3-4
Lauterbrunnen Valley / Mürren
In the dramatic Bernese Oberland, where 37 peaks top 12,000 feet, we view the sheer, snow-capped faces of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau as we hike to the top of Männlichen (7,687'). From our perfect perch in the car-free village of Mürren, we hike high above the gorgeous Lauterbrunnen Valley through a hanging valley dotted with hay barns and chalets to the Schilthorn summit (9,744'), descending to the tiny farming hamlet of Gimmelwald.
Lauterbrunnen Valley / Mürren - Days 3-4
Hotel Bellevue
Days 3 to 4 (2 nights), Murren, SwitzerlandCentrally located in the quiet little village of Murren, the Hotel Bellevue is an absolutely charming place to stay, with great chalet-style decor, friendly owners who are consummate hosts, good hiking trails right out the front door, and—the best part—breathtaking views of the massive peaks of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau. The restaurant serves up a wonderful breakfast spread, and has excellent local beer on tap and amazing desserts!
Days 5-6
Kandersteg / Lake Oeschinensee
We travel by train to the quintessential Swiss alpine village of Kandersteg. Ringed by mountains, this wildly picturesque glacial valley of traditional chalets has attracted hikers since the 19th century. A cable car whisks us above town for a short but steep climb to an amazing viewpoint overlooking turquoise Lake Oeschinensee, surrounded by a backdrop of sheer cliffs and snow-clad peaks. Our hike above the deep Gasterntal Valley brings panoramas of the glaciers of the Jungfrau-Aletsch World Heritage Site, home to the Aletsch, the largest glacier in the Alps.
Kandersteg / Lake Oeschinensee - Days 5-6
Waldhotel Doldenhorn
Days 5 to 6 (2 nights), Kandersteg, SwitzerlandSituated in a quiet garden-like setting just outside the village of Kandersteg, the Waldhotel Doldenhorn is a great place to relax after our day’s hike. Spa facilities include a large pool, two Jacuzzis, and saunas, and its two dining venues—one for fine dining and the other conveying a traditional rustic ambiance—serve excellent cuisine.
Days 7-9
Vevey / Lake Geneva / Lavaux
A beautiful rail journey changes the scene entirely, bringing us to Lake Geneva and beguiling Montreux, with its lakeshore lined by Belle époque villas. We walk the lakeside promenade to one of Europe’s most impressive castles, the 13th century Château de Chillon, and in famed Lavaux wine country high above the lake, we hike through centuries-old terraced vineyards. Depart on Day 9.
Vevey / Lake Geneva / Lavaux - Days 7-9
Hotel des Trois Couronnes
Days 7 to 8 (2 nights), Vevey, SwitzerlandThis classic, historic hotel is set right on the lakefront promenade in the heart of Vevey. Relax on the terrace and sip a drink while gazing at the waters of Lake Geneva with the stunning backdrop of the Savoy Alps, or take a dip in the hotel’s swimming pool. The Michelin-starred restaurant is a grand place to enjoy our Farewell Dinner. The hotel staff is friendly and accommodating, with perfect Swiss efficiency.
Royal Plaza Montreux and Spa
Days 7 to 8 (2 nights), Montreux, SwitzerlandThe Royal Plaza is a large modern hotel right on the shore of Lake Geneva, with a pedestrian walking path right next to the hotel. The views here are outstanding, with glorious sunsets and mountains across the water. Guest rooms are comfortable, with lake or garden views, and there is a sumptuous breakfast buffet. A wide array of spa amenities are available.
Heart of Switzerland
Highlights
Highlights
Details
8 hiking days on moderate trails, 2-6 hours a day, altitudes up to 7,900 feet, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day’s hike).
