Alps of Lake Geneva 2012 

We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar for Paris. On arrival in the French capital we cross the city by coach to join the high-speed TGV service to Switzerland. After changing trains, we travel along the shores of Lake Geneva to Vevey, passing snow-capped mountains, rolling hills and extensive vineyards. Our hotel for seven nights is the Astra Hotel, just a short walk from Lake Geneva, with its sweeping promenades and pretty flower displays. Vevey is a genteel market town of Roman origin boasting a medieval Old Town, elegant arcades and squares. (E,D)

Your first morning in Vevey is free to relax, explore the town and perhaps take a gentle stroll alongside the lake. After lunch we enjoy an excursion by trolley-bus to the Château de Chillon, which rises dramatically from the waters of Lake Geneva against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain scenery. We cross the wooden drawbridge and are taken on a guided tour of the 13th century Gothic château, considered to be one of Europe's best-preserved medieval castles. We discover the magnificent baroque architecture as we wander through the main rooms in the medieval castle before our return journey to Vevey. You may decide to stop in Montreux to explore and return independently at your leisure. (B)

Today's excursion begins with a short coach ride to Gruyères, famous for its cheese production. The picturesque medieval town, which has been wonderfully preserved and retains its medieval charm, sits amidst the majestic Swiss Alps. You have plenty of time to explore this pretty town with its medieval hill-top castle - a fairytale building with high walls and turrets which is now a museum show-casing 800 years of the region's architecture, history and culture. We continue by coach to the chic resort of Gstaad, a picturesque town located between four sloping valleys and surrounded by towering peaks. Renowned as one of the most exclusive and luxurious ski resorts in the world, Gstaad is filled with traditional Swissstyle chalets, exclusive shops dotted along the promenade and an array of excellent restaurants. After time to explore we board the vintage GoldenPass Line train for the scenic rail journey to Montreux. We travel in comfortable Belle Epoquestyle carriages, based on the original 1930's Golden Mountain Pullman Express. As we travel, relax and admire the views of majestic snow-capped mountain peaks and deep, river-filled valleys as the train descends slowly through vineyards and country estates towards the waters of Lake Geneva. The train arrives into Montreux, from where we return to Vevey. (B,D)

We take an excursion on the fantastic electric rack-and-pinion railway to Rochers de Naye. Originally opened in 1909 as a direct route, the 'Chemin de fer Montreux - Glion - Rochers de Naye' begins to climb as soon as it leaves the station, and changes direction frequently, giving views of the lake alternating from side to side. The line climbs past flower-filled Alpine meadows, and offers truly stunning views as the train makes its way to the summit - one of the most beautiful lookout points in Switzerland. On a clear day you can see the Eiger, Mont-Blanc and Geneva's famous water jet from the peak of Rochers de Naye. At the summit you have free time to appreciate the scenery, enjoy lunch in the panoramic restaurant, or maybe visit the 'Marmot's Paradise' Centre, home to families of marmots from all over the world. There are numerous walking trails marked all over the peak for those feeling energetic, but if you prefer a more relaxing time you can sit and enjoy the nearby Alpine flower garden while taking in the panoramic views. During our return journey you have chance to explore the resort of Caux. (B,D)

This morning we enjoy a leisurely circular cruise around the eastern part of the lake on a wonderful vintage paddle steamer (or small cruise ship depending on departure date). The cruise gives wonderful views of the mountains on both the Swiss and French sides of the lake. On the southern shore of the lake, we stop in the delightful village of St Gingolph with free time to explore the pretty lakeside promenade, port and castle, dating from the 14th century. (B,D)

Today is market day, which is an ideal opportunity to spend some time browsing around the colourful lakeside stalls, laden with fresh produce and delicious local delicacies. Alternatively, enjoy the scenery, perhaps by taking a journey along Lake Geneva to one of the lakeside towns or cities. Perhaps make a stop in Yvoire, a medieval town on the southern shores of the lake, or the fashionable spa resort of Evian-Les-Bains. Geneva is also within easy reach by train. Explore the cobbled streets of Geneva's atmospheric Old Town, and discover the dramatic story of the Red Cross at the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum. Another popular option is a journey on the fabulous Mont Blanc Express, a narrow-gauge railway which defies the mountainous terrain through a series of switchbacks as it winds its way through the mountains to Chamonix, a bustling mountain town and a major winter sports resort high in the French Alps. (B)

We enjoy the rack-and-pinion mountain railway journey up Les Pléiades. Les Pléiades is perched in the hills high above the lake at 4,500 feet (1,372m) and gives spectacular views over the crystal clear blue waters of the lake, the towns and villages dotted along the shore, and the soaring mountain peaks which surround this most beautiful area. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner together in the hotel. (B,D)

After a short journey to Lausanne, we connect with the high-speed TGV to Paris. We cross Paris by coach, and join the Eurostar service to London. We are served a complimentary meal and drinks on board before our arrival into St Pancras International. (B,E)

E = Eurostar meal, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday

Montreux-Vevey Riviera Card
Your holiday includes a Montreux-Vevey Riviera Card, which offers many reductions on local transport, funicular railways, lake cruises, and museums in the area.

During July our time in Vevey will coincide with Montreux's Jazz Festival. Montreux is easily accessible by Trolleybus, free of charge with your included Montreux-Vevey Riviera Card. There are a host of free concerts and events to enjoy, in addition to many payable concerts. With so many musicians performing both Jazz and other types of music, this is a fantastic time to be on Lake Geneva.