CLASSIC GLACIER EXPRESS
9 DAYS FROM £1,795
Spectacular views and stunning scenery have made the Glacier Express from Brig to Chur famous the world over. Explore the Alps on Switzerland’s terrific rail network during this incredibly popular mountain holiday.
ITINERARY Days 1-2. To Switzerland.
We board the Eurostar to Paris at London St Pancras. We continue by train in First Class, travelling to Strasbourg where we overnight. Our journey continues by train to Chur via Basel on Day 2, where we check into our hotel.
Days 3-4. The Bernina Express.
Today’s excursion takes us on the historic Bernina Express, passing glaciers, mountain streams and alpine meadows. Day 4 is at leisure. Discover the area by mountain railway, using your included Swiss Travel Card for 50% fares.
Day 5. The Glacier Express.
We board the iconic Glacier Express today for a wonderful journey in panoramic carriages to Brig. We travel along the beautiful Rhine Valley, climbing steadily then steeply as we make our way up and over the Oberalp Pass, the distant peaks of the Italian Alps in view to the south. We then travel through the Furka Base Tunnel, and into the flourishing Rhône Valley, before travelling through expansive vineyards to the small town of Brig.
Days 6-7. To Zermatt.
Today we take the mountain railway to Zermatt. We walk the short distance to Brig railway station to board our narrow-gauge train, heading south through picturesque vineyards and alongside the River Rhône to Visp. From here we join the mountain track for the steep ascent to Zermatt. This spectacular approach takes us through 8 tunnels and across 42 bridges, the gradient of the ascent requiring cogwheels to be engaged. Here you are free to explore in full view of the mighty Matterhorn. Day 7 is at leisure.
Day 8. To Spiez Castle.
Today we travel to Schloss Spiez or Spiez Castle, in the town of Spiez, overlooking the waters of Lake Thun. This impressive castle and its decorative gardens play host to us as we wander its halls and enjoy the Alpine sunshine. In a special moment, we sit down to a wine tasting against a spectacular backdrop of mountains and the lake’s blue surface.
Day 9. Return to London.
Today we begin our journey home, walking to the station for the rail service to Paris via Geneva. Once in the French capital, we transfer to the Eurostar service to London St Pancras.