Switzerland: Hidden Trails & Majestic Peaks

Willkkommen! Bienvenue! Climb aboard a Swiss Rail train to Neuchâtel. This medieval waterfront city stands out with its Gothic landmarks and sandstone grandeur. With Lake Neuchâtel as your backdrop, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D) Stay: Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac (3 Nights)

Have you heard of the Belle Époque period? Learn all about it on a walking tour of Neuchâtel's historic quarter. Your day continues at Château de Boudry. This 13th-century castle houses the Museum of Vine and Wine where an expert insider guides you as you wander its galleries. The best part: before you leave, get a taste of the local favorites. (B)

Take off today for the walled town of Murten, the language border between French and German. With free time to explore this medieval town, walk the rampart walls to take in views of the lake below. If you prefer, a full day at leisure in Neuchâtel is also an option. (B)

All aboard! We're traveling by train from Neuchâtel to the Swiss capital city of Bern. Take on the day by exploring the sweetest parts of Bern alongside your expert guide. Retrace and taste the history of chocolate makers in Bern's old town center. Complete your day by settling into the resort village of Zermatt, nestled against the backdrop of the Matterhorn. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Alex (2 Nights)

Rise and shine and begin your morning getting familiar with Zermatt alongside your Tour Manager. Then, it's your choice! Ascend more than 10,000 feet on Europe's highest mountain railway – the Gornergrat. Maybe you'll even decide to hike a portion of the way down -OR- visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise by summit lift and discover towering peaks and glaciers as far as the eye can see. Enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure. (B)

Head to the north shore of Lake Geneva to Vevey, known as one of the “Pearls of the Swiss Riviera,” with awe-inspiring views of the Alps. Take in a breath of fresh mountain air on a walking tour before exploring nature independently during an afternoon at leisure. (B) Stay: Astra Hotel (3 Nights)

A relaxing morning in Vevey before traveling to the terraced vineyards of Lavaux is a perfect start to the day. Enjoy a local lunch at a family-owned restaurant before visiting with our friends, Jacques and Aurelia, for a wine tasting. Wander the Lavaux vineyards (UNESCO) on foot before enjoying a second round of tastings from the region's finest varieties. (B/L)

Today, head to Montreux with your Tour Manager and visit the legendary Château de Chillon for a guided tour. This princely residence faces the lake and portrays the image of an imposing fortress from the mountains. Enjoy free time taking in Montreux's postcard landscapes and lively promenade. If you're looking to see more with your Swiss Travel Pass, maybe an afternoon discovering the Olympic Museum is more your style.

Tonight, join your travel companions for dinner and conversation. (B/D)

Board the train to Lucerne to find out why this destination is called the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Make your way through Altstadt (Old Town) with your Tour Manager, uncovering the town's 800-year-old secrets and history. Stroll along the famous covered Chapel Bridge, built in the early 14th century and stretching its way across the River Reuss. The remainder of the day is yours to explore however you'd like. (B) Stay: Hotel Astoria (2 Nights)

Enjoy the first half of your day at leisure to explore Lucerne on your own. Depart for Rigi — also known as Queen of the Mountains — on an afternoon cruise through Lake Lucerne. All aboard the cogwheel train for a journey from Vitznau to Rigi Klum. On your ascent, a local guide will teach you why Rigi is one of the most sustainable mountains in Switzerland during an Impact Moment. End the day with smiles and say “cheese” for a group photo at the scenic overlook before heading to your private farewell dinner on Mount Rigi. (B/D)

Depart for home, dreaming of snowy Alps and captivating cultures. (B)