Europe’s vintage appeal
Switzerland has been making wine since the Roman era
Q: Planning our route to see as many wine regions as possible on our 10- day European holiday has us wondering what country is the best choice for rail and bike travellers. Which country — Germany, France or Italy — offer the best access to its vineyards using just these two modes of transportation? Our plans are to visit during this year’s fall harvest.
A. The great wine regions of Europe cover such vast areas that visitors really need to rent a car to enjoy more than one region. Some larger vineyards offer arranged one- day coach tours from local rail stations but these usually aren’t available during the busy harvest period.
With only a week to enjoy more than one wine region, you might want to check out Switzerland and its choice of wine districts. Better known for its chocolate and cheese, Switzerland has also been producing wines dating back to the Roman era.
The Swiss wineries border on the more well known vineyards of Germany, Italy and France. This proximity means visitors can savour a great variety of European wines and enjoy the fall harvest activities in a number of local vineyards.
Switzerland’s Valais, Vaud and Geneva vineyards are in the threelakes “French” region of the west, Neuchâtel is in the German- speaking east region and Ticino is in the Italianspeaking south. The excellent vintages made from Pinot Noir and Chasselas grapes highlight Switzerland’s list of exceptional wines.
Swiss Rail provides a rail service that is regarded as one of the best in the world. Its coverage is extensive, plus it has a stellar reputation for ontime schedule and an impressive frequency of service. It has everything that a traveller needs for making a rail journey part of an enjoyable holiday. Bike rentals are available from most stations as well as an extensive bus service to smaller towns and villages. This way you can arrange to cycle to a vineyard and have the option for a bus ride back to the station.
One unique travel bonus available on Swiss Rail is the fast luggage forwarding offer. This is especially helpful for those who would rather walk or cycle between rail stations. Drop off your luggage at any one of 45 stations before 9 a. m. and it will be available at your destination rail station anytime after 6 p. m. the same day. This provides the option to cycle between towns with stops along the way at vineyards and small villages.
Swiss Rail has extended its two- forone pass promotion to November 30, 2012. This offer includes some regular day passes and flexi- passes. Details and prices are listed on www. sbb. ch This site also provides a good map of the rail system plus a list of stations which offer the fast luggage forwarding service.
The timing of your visit is perfect for enjoying all the festivities associated with the wine harvest. Wine festivals offer the best chance to enjoy tasting an extensive variety of wines in one location plus the opportunity to sit down and enjoy the food and music of the region with the local residents. Check the list of festival dates and locations on www. swiss- switzerland. com before setting your itinerary and try to take in at least one festival to enjoy the local traditions.