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First Class Mountaintops of Switzerland

 
4.5 stars(64 reviews)
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202520262027
Duration
9 days
From per person
£3,499
Tour code
MTS26
Mobility Rating 3
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Stay in some of Switzerland's most spectacular hotels as we enjoy remarkable experiences and journey on the country's incredible trains

Enjoy having your head in the clouds as we stay in a selection of Switzerland's best mountaintop hotels, all with sweeping views of mountains and lakes.

The Belle Époque Grandhotel Giessbach on Lake Brienz is only accessible via boat and funicular railway, while Pilatus Kulm lies at the top of a mountain accessed by Europe's steepest cogwheel railway.

Experience the country's most magnificent rail journeys as we board the iconic Glacier Express, the awe-inspiring Bernina Express across the Alps to Italy, and the charming Brienz-Rothorn Mountain Railway.

Unforgettable experiences

Staying at the Pilatus Kulm mountaintop hotel
Staying at the Pilatus Kulm mountaintop hotel
Witness the sunset and sunrise from the incredible Pilatus Kulm. Accessed by cogwheel railway, this historic hotel is nestled between two peaks nearly 7,000ft above sea level and offers stunning panoramic views.
Enjoying exquisite views from the historic Grandhotel Giessbach
Enjoying exquisite views from the historic Grandhotel Giessbach
Overlooking the turquoise Lake Brienz, our Belle Époque hotel at the top of its own funicular offers tranquility in beautiful surroundings, with a mountain forest and an impressive waterfall in addition to the lake views.
Experiencing the Glacier Express in First Class with lunch
Experiencing the Glacier Express in First Class with lunch
Embark on one of the world’s greatest rail experiences on a First Class journey with two-course lunch passing awe-inspiring snow-capped peaks as we travel in panoramic carriages from Brig to the Engadine Valley.
Journeying on the Bernina Express in First Class across the Alps to Italy
Journeying on the Bernina Express in First Class across the Alps to Italy
Travel on the Bernina Express from St Moritz to the Italian town of Tirano. This route passes the spellbinding Palü Glacier and spirals around the corkscrew Brusio Viaduct on its way to Italy.
Riding the steam-hauled Brienz-Rothorn Mountain Railway
Riding the steam-hauled Brienz-Rothorn Mountain Railway
Glide over the lake from your hilltop hotel to ride this nostalgic steam-hauled mountain railway, witnessing beautiful views of Lake Brienz and a panorama of impressive peaks.
Exploring the picturesque lakeside city of Lucerne
Exploring the picturesque lakeside city of Lucerne
On the shore of an expansive lake, the ‘City of Lights’ contains two covered wooden bridges, including Kapellbrücke the oldest one in Europe, while its Old Town brims with frescoed buildings.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1London to Basel: Straight to Switzerland

Your memorable Swiss holiday begins at London St Pancras as we board the Eurostar in Plus class. Enjoying a light meal at our seats, we make our way to Paris, then take a direct train to Basel - the quickest route to Switzerland.

This First Class journey transports us through Jura and Alsace before arriving in the Rhine-side city of Basel. Our hotel near the station is popular with our passengers and we have some time to explore this typically Swiss city. Basel's redbrick, twin-spired Gothic cathedral is believed to have 9th-century origins and sits in a charming square next to characterful buildings.

This evening, we gather at our hotel and enjoy our first dinner together as a group.

Includes
  • Eurostar light meal
  • Dinner
DAY2Day 2 – A lake cruise to our spectacular Giessbach hotel

Waking in Switzerland, we take a short walk to the train station after breakfast for our rail journey to Interlaken. From here, we board a boat to cruise across Lake Brienz.

Sailing through the heart of scenic Switzerland, the turquoise tones of the glacial waters contrast with the green mountain slopes. During the cruise, we can spot picture-book villages dotting the shores of the lake. As we disembark, the Giessbach funicular railway is ready to transport us to our hillside hotel, the stunning Grandhotel Giessbach.

On arrival, we enjoy a welcome drink and can begin to discover the history and charm of this perfectly located Belle Époque hotel. From its secluded setting, the hotel enjoys views across the lake and onto the cascading Giessbach waterfall nearby. We have time to explore our new surroundings before enjoying a three-course dinner at the hotel in the evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY3A steam-hauled heritage railway up the Rothorn mountain

After breakfast, we set sail from our idyllic hotel to the town that gives Lake Brienz its name. Here, we board the charming steam-hauled Brienz-Rothorn Mountain Railway*.

This rack-and-pinion line traverses steep mountain trails and verdant alpine meadows - all while providing views of glistening Lake Brienz below. A real heritage rail experience, the small steam engine chugs its way up this dramatic route to its destination at an altitude of more than 7,000ft. On a clear day, the scenery is spectacular as we are only a few miles from the lakeshore as the crow flies. Viewing Lake Brienz from a different perspective really brings out the remarkable colour and you may also be able to make out Grandhotel Giessbach.

Returning to Brienz, we have time to explore this pretty Swiss town with its traditional wooden chalets, most notably the geranium-decorated buildings on cobbled Brunngasse. There is time to relax or explore before reuniting for a three-course dinner in the restaurant with views across Lake Brienz.

*Please note: on April departures, we will enjoy an excursion to Harder Kulm with tea, coffee and cake at the summit. On May departures, the Brienz-Rothorn Mountain Railway will only travel as far as Planalp,

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY4Experiencing the iconic Glacier Express in First Class

Today is a highlight of our Swiss holiday. Taking the train to Brig, we board the incredible Glacier Express to the Engadine Valley. The 'slowest express train in the world' traverses incredible mountain passes, with views of picturesque villages and valleys.

Our panoramic First Class carriages provide front-row seats to the 'Swiss Grand Canyon' as the emerald Rhine winds its way past limestone cliffs. Enjoying a two-course lunch at our seats, the breathtaking scenery is constant. After Thusis, we join the UNESCO-listed Albula Line as it clings to mountain edges, zigzagging and spiralling its way round mountains and over bridges, including the curved Landwasser Viaduct, before arriving in the impressive Engadine Valley.

This part of the Graubünden canton epitomises the beauty of alpine Switzerland with lush meadows on the valley floor surrounded on all sides by imposing mountains. Even in summer, many of the peaks are dusted with snow. This evening is free to explore our new base and dine independently.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
DAY5Day 5 – The Bernina Express: Crossing the Alps in elegance

Dubbed the rail experts' best-kept secret, crossing the Alps into Italy on the Bernina Express is an incredible experience. From our First Class panoramic carriages, the exceptional alpine scenery continuously impresses as we wind our way up to Ospizio Bernina. Reaching the summit at more than 7,300 feet above sea level, we pass the turquoise waters of Lago Bianco before we cross the Bernina Pass. Pausing to admire jaw-dropping views of the Palü Glacier, the UNESCO-listed route then winds down the mountains, spiralling round the corkscrew viaduct at Brusio before arriving in the Italian valley town of Tirano.

Crossing the Adda river and entering the Old Town through the Porta Poschiavina, we are greeted by scenes of rustic cobbled streets and stout palazzos. With free time to explore, you could wander the narrow, cobbled streets, uncovering the Collegiate Church of St Martin or the preserved 16th-century Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of Tirano.

We return to Switzerland in First Class on a local train in the afternoon before enjoying a three-course dinner at our hotel.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY6Day 6 – Lake views on the journey to our mountaintop hotel

This morning, we travel by rail to Chur in First Class seats, continuing to Lucerne. The fourth most populus city in Switzerland, Lucerne is draped across an inlet of the expansive Lake Lucerne.

We have time to wander independently round the picturesque Old Town. One of the most striking landmarks is the 14th-century Kapellbrücke, which is the oldest wooden bridge in Europe and was constructed to help protect the city from attacks.

Our hotel for the next two nights, Pilatus Kulm, is reached by way of the steepest cogwheel railway in Europe. Reaching a gradient of 48%, the half-hour ascent takes us past alpine meadows and rocky outcrops to a land above the clouds. With such a jaw-dropping location nestled between two peaks, Pilatus Kulm provides stunning views. Due to its position, there are unforgettable sunrises and sunsets (weather permitting) - and we arrive in good time for the latter, before enjoying a three-course dinner in the restaurant. Afterwards, perhaps step outside to view the magnificent display of stars if the night sky is clear.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY7Sunrise over the ‘City of Lights’

If you wake in time, you could witness a sunrise that gradually illuminates the mountainous surroundings. While today is spent exploring independently, you might not want to leave this heavenly location. However, with a complimentary return ticket on the Pilatusbahn, you could explore Lucerne or beyond. According to local legend, Lucerne was founded after an angel beamed a light on to the spot where a chapel should be built. The 'City of Lights' has a charming Old Town of cobbled streets, ornate churches and frescoed historic houses.

Alternatively, you may want to explore further afield. With your Swiss Travel Card, you receive a 50% discount on rail, boat and most mountain railways, so you could hop on a boat for a cruise across Lake Lucerne to Vitznau. The Rigi Mountain Railway, Europe's first mountain railway, has been departing from here since 1871 and offers beautiful views across to Mount Pilatus.

Returning to the hotel via the Pilatusbahn, there is another opportunity to delight in the sunset as we indulge in a three-course dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY8Day 8 – From Lucerne to the Alsace city of Strasbourg

After breakfast, we descend the mountain by funicular, ready to catch a late-morning train from Lucerne in First Class. We arrive in Strasbourg in mid-afternoon, and there is chance to explore after we check in to our four-star hotel. With an interesting blend of German and French culture, Strasbourg's architecture ranges from Gothic to modern.

Located on an island, the historic Old Town is dominated by the spectacular 13th-century Notre Dame Cathedral, while Place Kléber is the city's main square lined on one side by the imposing l'Aubette. This 18th-century building was redecorated in the 1920s by three avant-garde artists and has since been known as the 'Sistine Chapel of abstract art'.

La Petite France is one of Strasbourg's most popular districts. In the Middle Ages, it was home to the city's millers, tanners and fishermen but today draws in tourists with its colourful half-timbered buildings gathering round narrow lanes, and bridges criss-crossing peaceful canals. In the evening, we gather for a three-course dinner at a local restaurant.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY9Day 9 – Homeward bound

Switzerland's spectacular mountain scenery and glistening lakes have been uncovered on some of the world's most famous train journeys, while our incredible hotels have elevated the experiences by providing exquisite views. Sailing across Lake Brienz to the Grandhotel Giessbach, we admired stunning vistas from our idyllic vantage point before enjoying a trip on the charming Brienz-Rothorn Mountain Railway. First Class journeys on the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier Express showcased the jaw-dropping scenery of this astonishing country, while the panoramas from our Pilatus Kulm hotel were truly breathtaking.

Leaving Strasbourg after breakfast on a morning train bound for Paris, we pass the vineyards of the Champagne region before arriving in the French capital. Changing to Plus class on the Eurostar, we enjoy a light meal as we travel back to the UK, arriving at London St Pancras early this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast
  • Eurostar light meal

Additional information

Classic collection

Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.

Departure times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with our dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We write to all booked customers approximately 10 weeks prior to the start of their tour to advise the exact departure and return time for their particular group.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

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Hotels

Grand Hotel Giessbach
Grand Hotel Giessbach, Giessbach
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Hotel Pilatus Kulm
Hotel Pilatus Kulm, Kriens
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Hotel Schweizerhof, St Moritz
Hotel Schweizerhof, St Moritz
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Hotel Bernina 1865, Samedan
Hotel Bernina 1865, Samedan
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Bernina Express arriving in Tirano

The Bernina Express is dubbed the rail experts' best-kept secret. Connecting northern and southern Europe, the narrow-gauge railway offers a spectacular means of crossing the Alps. The breathtaking route runs through the ancient landscape of Switzerland's beautiful Graubünden region and beside spellbinding glaciers, providing a stunning connection to Lombardy in northern Italy.

Brienz-Rothorn Mountain Railway

The delightful steam-hauled Brienz-Rothorn Mountain Railway was opened in 1892 and provides a real heritage rail experience. A charming small steam engine carries us up the route beside steep and rocky mountains and verdant alpine meadows - all while providing beautiful views of the glistening Lake Brienz below. Its destination is Rothorn mountain at an altitude of more than 7,000ft. On a clear day, the vistas from this vantage point are spectacular and, as it is only a few miles from the lake shore, viewing Lake Brienz from a different perspective really brings out the remarkable colour.

Eurostar

The high-speed Eurostar trains link St Pancras International in London with Paris and Lille in France as well as Brussels in Belgium.

Glacier Express

Undoubtedly Switzerland's best-known train, the Glacier Express winds its way through some of Europe's most dramatic and beautiful scenery. Called 'the slowest express train in the world', the panoramic carriages allow us to soak up the spectacular views as we traverse incredible mountain passes, picturesque villages and valleys between the popular alpine resorts of St Moritz and Zermatt. Enroute, the train clings to the mountainsides on the Albula Line, zigzags and spirals its way round mountains and over bridges, and delves into the Rhine Valley - also known as the 'Swiss Grand Canyon'.

Mount Pilatus Railway

Opened in 1889, Lucerne's Mount Pilatus Railway is the steepest cogwheel railway in the world. Spend a delightful half hour ascending almost two kilometres from lakeside Alpnachstad to Pilatus Kulm. Mount Pilatus affords beautiful views of the Alps and Lake Lucerne, and is home to astonishingly diverse flora.

TGV

Introduced in 1981, France's TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) was the original European high-speed train. Linking Paris with Lyon, the new service revolutionised train travel and meant that travelling by air over medium and short distances was no longer seen as the best option, even for business travel.

Enhance your holiday

Door to door luggage service

Enjoy hassle-free travel to and from Switzerland with our return door-to-door luggage transfer service for only £249 per bag.

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The service includes one 20kg bag per person which will be collected from your home before you depart and will be ready and waiting for you at your first destination hotel in Switzerland. Your bag will also be delivered back to your home address on your return.

If your tour involves an overnight stay enroute, you'll need to travel with an overnight bag. If flying to or from your destination, you will take your own luggage with you on the flight.

London Hotels

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

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We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

London hotels
UK rail connections

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

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We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.

UK train tickets

Reviews

4.5 stars4.5 / 5 · 64 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (41)
  2. 4 stars
    (16)
  3. 3 stars
    (5)
  4. 2 stars
    (1)
  5. 1 star
    (1)

Gordon S

5 stars

Submitted 29 Oct 2024

Another superb holiday organised by GRJ. Excellent all round.

Collected by Trustpilot

S Fox

5 stars

Submitted 23 Oct 2024

Excellent tour company. Excellent tour manager. Wonderful hotels and fantastic train rides.

from Great Rail Journeys
Dear Mrs Fox, Thank you for your 5 star review and sharing your beautiful photo. It is wonderful to hear that you had an excellent tour. I will be sure to pass your praise across to the relevant teams. Kindest regards, Sarah
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

Jennie Bragg

5 stars

Submitted 21 Oct 2024

Great guide. Good hotels, good company on the trip.

from Great Rail Journeys
Dear Mrs Bragg, Thank you for your 5 star review. That is wonderful to hear! Kindest regards, Sarah
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

Margaret

5 stars

Submitted 21 Oct 2024

An excellent trip with stunning scenery. We had a brilliant tour leader in Gordon.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Margaret, Thank you for you 5 star review. That is brilliant to hear! I will pass your praise across to my tour management team directly. Kindest regards, Sarah
1 comment

Collected by Trustpilot

Peg Norris

5 stars

Submitted 12 Oct 2024

A wonderful experience, great fellow travelers, comfy hotels, and unbelievable scenery.

Collected by Trustpilot

Edwin Moore

5 stars

Submitted 09 Oct 2024

The trip was well-planned and coordinated by a fantastic guide. We would happily and enthusiastically go again.

Collected by Trustpilot

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