Day 1 - GENEVA AT LEISURE

Welcome to Switzerland! Prepare yourself for various modes of transport, all of which showcase the majesty of the snow capped mountains, the glaciers, sparkling lakes, the beauty of the rich, green valleys and flower filled meadows. On arrival at Geneva Airport, your airport shuttle service leaves for the tour hotel at 10:30, 12:30 & 15:30. This evening, get to know your Tour Director and fellow travellers over a Welcome Drink.
Hotel: Cornarvin. (D)

Day 2 - LAKE GENEVA EXCURSION

Your morning orientation tour of Geneva shows you the Jet D'Eau, Floral Clock and Reformation Monument. Then follow the shores of Lake Geneva to visit Chillon Castle, which sits on a rocky islet on the lake, immortalised by Byron's 'Prisoner of Chillon'. Before returning to your hotel, embark on a highlight cruise on the serene waters of Lake Geneva, the 'King of Europe's lakes'. Ever since Jean-Jacques Rousseau stayed on these shores in the 18th century it has been a refuge of the Romantics and an attraction for travellers worldwide. (BB)

Day 3 - GENEVA - CHAMONIX - ZERMATT

Today's route takes you into France (remember your passport) for a scenic drive through the picturesque Arve Valley to Chamonix, at the foot of Western Europe's highest peak, Mont-Blanc. Take the excursion by cable-car to the summit of the Aiguille du Midi, where the panoramic views of the French, Swiss and Italian Alps are spectacular! Return to Switzerland by the Forclaz Pass Road, one of the great international routes of the Alps. Descend to Martigny in the southern Swiss canton of Valais, and follow the Rhone valley, whose high summer temperatures support vines and other fruits. The final stage of the journey is by mini-bus and electric taxi to the traffic-free mountain resort of Zermatt. Tonight, enjoy a Highlight Dinner of Swiss cuisine.
Hotel: Alpen Resort (BB,HD)

Day 4 - ZERMATT AT LEISURE

Zermatt in summertime is a Shangri-la of leisure-time possibilities: try swimming or hiking or spend a whole day relaxing in the clean mountain air. Perhaps take an optional ride on Europe's highest cable car to the snow-capped roof of the world for a magnificent panorama of the highest peaks in Switzerland, Italy and France? (BB)

Day 5 - ZERMATT - LUGANO

Descend to Täsch and re-join the coach. Drive via Brig and follow in the footsteps of Napoleon and ascend the Simplon Pass, taking in magnificent views over the Alps from the 2,000-metre summit. Cut through northern Italy, stopping on the gentle shores of Lake Maggiore. Back in Switzerland, drive on to Lugano, one of the most popular resorts in Switzerland with a high proportion of sunny days and a spectacular setting among towering mountains beside the clear lake. Browse beneath the arcades of the Via Nassa or stroll beneath the trees in the glorious Municipal Park and along the lakeside promenade.
Hotel: De La Paix (BB,D)

Day 6 - LUGANO - ST MORITZ

Head north back into the high mountain country of the Grisons Alps today. Ascend the Julier Pass to arrive in the sparkling Engadine Valley and spend the afternoon in the chic cosmopolitan resort of St.Moritz. Free time to browse or take a ride on the Bernina Express.
Hotel: Monopol. (BB,D)

Day 7 - ST MORITZ - ZURICH

Start the day with a scenic train ride along part of the route of the Glacier Express, across the Grisons Mountains and through unforgettable scenes of ice-capped mountains, stone-built villages and lush meadows. At Chur, re-board your coach and drive along the valley of the Upper Rhine to the Principality of Liechtenstein to spend a while in the tiny capital, Vaduz. Then cross back into Switzerland where a beautiful drive takes you alongside the dramatic Walensee and Lake Zurich to the commercial heart of the country, Zurich.
Hotel: Movenpick Hotel Zurich-Airport. (BB)

Day 8 - LUCERNE EXCURSION

Today's excursion is to the beautiful 14th century city of Lucerne with its covered wooden bridges, baroque churches, painted gables, medieval walls and watch towers. You'll also see the sorrowful sculpture of a wounded lion, hewn out of the rock, to commemorate the brave Swiss guards who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Stroll along the lakeside promenades or shop for fine watches, cuckoo clocks or delicious chocolate before returning to Zurich. (BB,D)

Day 9 - ZURICH

Departure transfers arrive at Zurich Airport at 08:30 & 12:30. (BB)