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Exploring the Alpine Countries

Exploring the Alpine Countries

by | May 25, 2016

salzburg_48388348_fotoliarf_5846_480x340waterfrontinnsbruckmts_cvo_9281_480x340exploringthealpinecountries_2017

 

 

 

Exploring the Alpine Countries

collette_logo_197x59

$3,599.00

From $3,599* pp | 12 Days •  17 Meals  *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy. 

Enjoy a journey through the heart of Europe and discover storybook castles and glittering palaces amidst stunning Alpine vistas in Austria, Germany and Switzerland.

  • Take a lovely cruise along the Danube River.
  • Make a stop at the impressive Benedictine Melk Abbey.
  • Meet a Passion Play performer in Oberammergau.
  • Pause at Bavaria’s most famouso castle, King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein.
  • Behold Château de Chillon, located on serene Lake Geneva.
  • Travel through the spectacular Grimsel Pass.
  • Enjoy a choice of tours in Zermatt.

Experience the Shimmer of the Alpine

Discover storybook castles and glittering palaces amidst stunning Alpine vistas as you explore Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Begin in Vienna with a visit to Schoenbrunn Palace. In Grinzing, the winemaking region of Vienna, sit down to dinner at a traditional inn. Cruise on the Danube and see Melk Abbey. Enjoy a dinner at centuries-old St. Peter’s Restaurant in Salzburg, the “City of Music.” Spend a night in the heart of the Black Forest. Visit Oberammergau, famous for the Passion Play and expert woodcarvers. Enjoy a magical dinner complete with a visit by local village performers. Enjoy picture stops at Bavaria’s famous castle, Neuschwanstein, and a guided tour of the Château de Chillon on Lake Geneva. Enjoy a scenic train ride aboard the Matterhorn Gottard Bahn into the relaxing pedestrian village of Zermatt. Spend two nights in the alpine village of Zermatt, Switzerland, at the foot of the Matterhorn where you have a choice of included activities. Relax during two nights in Lucerne, “the Swiss Paradise on the Lake.”

INCLUSIONS

small tick-red-icon Accommodation

small tick-red-icon Meals as per itinerary

small tick-red-icon Tour guide

small tick-red-icon Activities as stated

Please note: Accommodation is subject to change.

EXCLUSIONS

small x red icon  Flights

small x red icon  Meals not indicated on the itinerary

small x red icon Drinks

small x red icon  Optional activities

small x red icon Visas

small x red icon  Comprehensive travel insurance

small x red icon  Items of a personal nature – laundry, telephone, room service

small x red icon  Tips and gratuities

Itinerary

Day 1. Vienna, Austria – Tour Begins
Set out to explore three distinct Alpine cultures set amid incredible landscapes. Your tour opens in Vienna. This evening, meet your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner featuring regional wine and a meal highlighting the local cuisine in the quaint winemaking region of Grinzing.
icons_food  Dinner   icons_therma High  21°  Low  12° icons_hotel  Mercure Grand Hotel Biedermeier Wien

 

Day 2. Vienna

Come to know Vienna this morning during a locally guided tour that showcases its architectural marvels. You will visit the incredible Schoenbrunn Palace and see the impressive St. Stephen’s Cathedral. This afternoon enjoy free time to explore the avenues of Vienna or visit one of its many museums.

icons_food Breakfast icons_therma High  21°  Low  12° icons_hotel  Mercure Grand Hotel Biedermeier Wien

 

Day 3. Vienna – Salzburg

After a short journey through the countryside, enjoy a lovely cruise along the Danube*, one of Europe’s most important waterways. Later, make a stop at the Benedictine Melk Abbey before continuing to the “City of Music,” Salzburg. Tonight, sit down for dinner at the centuries-old St. Peter’s Restaurant.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner    icons_therma  High  14°  Low  5°  icons_hotel  Castellani Parkhotel

 

Day 4. Salzburg

Discover the splendour of Salzburg on a leisurely paced walking tour of the Old Town. Some of the amazing sights you will see along the way include the Cathedral, Mozart’s birthplace and Mirabell Gardens.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High  14°  Low  5°  icons_hotel  Castellani Parkhotel

 

Day 5. Salzburg – Munich, Germany – Oberammergau

Today you travel to Germany. In Munich, feel the energy of this lively and fascinating city during a tour that highlights Olympic Park; the world-famous Glockenspiel; and Marienplatz, a beautiful square surrounded by shops, restaurants and cafés. Later in the day, arrive at your home for the next two nights — the quaint village of Oberammergau, renowned for wood carvings and the Passion Play. This evening, enjoy a magical dinner and a visit by a local performer from the village.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner  icons_therma  High  13°  Low  3°  icons_hotel  Alte Post Hotel

 

Day 6. Oberammergau – Innsbruck, Austria – Oberammergau

Enjoy the scenery of the spectacular Bavarian Alps en route to enchanting Innsbruck, located in Tyrolean Austria. Walk through the charming pedestrian streets and see such landmarks as The Golden Roof on a locally guided tour. As you wind through the narrow cobblestone lanes, it is easy to understand why this city was the centre of European culture and politics during the 14th century.

icons_food  Breakfast  icons_therma  High  13°  Low  3°  icons_hotel  Alte Post Hotel

 

Day 7. Oberammergau – Black Forest

Today fairy tales become reality at a picture stop of Bavaria’s most famous castle, King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein. Next you are off to the heart of the stunning Black Forest, a region famous for its artisans who create authentic cuckoo clocks, Hummels and wood carvings.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma High  14°  Low  4°   icons_hotel  Titisee Maritim Hotel

 

Day 8. Black Forest – Zermatt, Switzerland

Welcome to Switzerland! Your first stop en route to Zermatt is at one of the most photographed castles in the world, the Château de Chillon, located on serene Lake Geneva. Later, enjoy a short train ride aboard the Matterhorn Gottard Bahn from Tasch to the relaxing pedestrian village of Zermatt in the Swiss Alps. Take a stroll and breathe in the fresh Alpine air.

icons_food Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  11°  Low  2°  icons_hotel  Hotel Alex

 

Day 9. Zermatt

Today you have all of Zermatt at your fingertips. You choose how you spend your day! You may choose to explore on foot during a guided walking tour of this charming city. Or, perhaps you’ll choose to discover Zermatt independently and learn more about the triumph and tragedy of the first ascent of the Matterhorn with included admission to the Matterhorn Museum. The choice is yours! The remainder of the day is at leisure.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High  11°  Low  2°  icons_hotel  Judith Stettler

 

Day 10. Zermatt – Grimsel Pass – Lucerne

Views of glaciers, crystal clear rivers and snowcapped mountains will invigourate you as you travel through the spectacular scenery of the Grimsel Pass. Your destination is the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake,” the city of Lucerne.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High  14°  Low  7°  icons_hotel  Ameron Hotel Flora Lucerne

 

Day 11. Lucerne

This morning, embark on a scenic walking tour of this picturesque place, including a stroll through its romantic Old Town. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or independently explore the best Lucerne has to offer. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner featuring local specialities and toast the end of a wonderful trip.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner  icons_therma  High  14°  Low  7°  icons_hotel  Ameron Hotel Flora Lucerne

 

Day 12. Lucerne – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to a close in Lucerne.

icons_food  Breakfast

 

  • The countries on this tour are six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
  • The highest elevation on this tour is 6,000 feet above sea level.
  • The currency in Austria and Germany is the Euro and in Switzerland it is the Swiss Franc.
  • The voltage in the Austria, Germany, and Switzerland is 230 Volts.
This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, upstairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected

 

Jun 23, 2017 – Jul 4, 2017                              $3,599          HOT DEAL

Jul 14, 2017 – Jul 25, 2017                             $4,089

Jul 28, 2017 – Aug 8, 2017                             $4,089

Aug 4, 2017 – Aug 15, 2017                           $4,089

Aug 18, 2017 – Aug 29, 2017                         $4,089

Sep 10, 2017 – Sep 21, 2017                         $4,089

Sep 15, 2017 – Sep 26, 2017                         $4,089

Sep 22, 2017 – Oct 3, 2017                           $4,089

Sep 29, 2017 – Oct 10, 2017                         $4,089

 

 

Apr 13, 2018 – Apr 24, 2018                          $3,809

Apr 20, 2018 – May 1, 2018                           $3,809

Apr 27, 2018 – May 8, 2018                           SOLD OUT

May 4, 2018 – May 15, 2018                          $3,949

May 18, 2018 – May 29, 2018                        $4,079

May 25, 2018 – Jun 5, 2018                           $4,079

Jun 8, 2018 – Jun 19, 2018                           SOLD OUT

Jun 15, 2018 – Jun 26, 2018                         $4,079

Jun 22, 2018 – Jul 3, 2018                           $4,219

Jul 13, 2018 – Jul 13, 2018                           $4,219

Jul 20, 2018 – Jul 31, 2018                           $4,219

Aug 3, 2018 – Aug 14, 2018                         $4,219

Aug 10, 2018 – Aug 21, 2018                       $4,219

Sep 7, 2018 – Sep 18, 2018                        $4,219

Sep 9, 2018 – Sep 20, 2018                        $4,219

Sep 14, 2018 – Sep 25, 2018                      $4,219

Sep 16, 2018 – Sep 27, 2018                      $4,219

Sep 21, 2018 – Oct 2, 2018                        $4,219

Sep 23, 2018 – Oct 4, 2018                        $4,219

Sep 28, 2018 – Oct 9, 2018                        $4,219

Sep 30, 2018 – Oct 11, 2018                      $4,219

Oct 5, 2018 – Oct 16, 2018                         $3,949

Oct 12, 2018 – Oct 23, 2018                       $3,949

Apr 5, 2019 – Apr 16, 2019                          $3,949

Apr 7, 2019 – Apr 18, 2019                          $3,949

Apr 26, 2019 – May 7, 2019                         $3,949

 

 
Exploring the Alpine Countries

Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains

by | May 25, 2016

matterhornlandscape_50765924_fotoliarf_2657_480x340reussriverlucerne_35214566_fotoliarf_5808_480x340alpinelakesandscenictrains_2017

 

 

 

Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains

collette_logo_197x59

$4,069.00

From $4,069* pp | 9 Days •  12 Meals  *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy. 

Enjoy travelling through the enchanting Alpine villages of Switzerland and Italy as you discover the spectacular mountain scenery and fascinating cultures aboard Europe’s legendary railways.

  • Cruise Lake Como on a traditional open-air commuter ferry.
  • Stroll the lakeside boulevards of Lucerne, St. Moritz and Como.
  • Journey through the Bernina Pass on one of the world’s most scenic railways.
  • In St. Moritz, take a cable car to the top of Mt. Diavolezza.

Charming Villages in the Heart of Europe

Experience the enchanting Alpine cultures of Switzerland and Italy as you journey through spectacular mountain scenery and picturesque towns. Ride aboard three of the legendary Alpine railways – the Golden Pass Panoramic Train from Gstaad to Montreux; the Glacier Express from Zermatt to St. Moritz; and the Bernina Pass Train, which takes you into Italy. Cruise across two of the most scenic lakes in the world, Lake Como and Maggiore. Relax in some of Europe’s most stunning and exclusive resort villages, including Zermatt, St Moritz and Lago Maggoire, Italy. Explore Lucerne, the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Spend time at a family-owned cheese farm where you will enjoy a cheese tasting with wine pairing. You may choose to hike in Zermatt, or perhaps ride a cable car in St. Moritz. Enjoy traditional regional cuisine and Italian delicacies. Savour a traditional Italian dinner on the Isola dei Pescatori.

INCLUSIONS

small tick-red-icon Accommodation

small tick-red-icon Meals as per itinerary

small tick-red-icon Tour guide

small tick-red-icon Activities as stated

Please note: Accommodation is subject to change.

EXCLUSIONS

small x red icon  Flights

small x red icon  Meals not indicated on the itinerary

small x red icon Drinks

small x red icon  Optional activities

small x red icon Visas

small x red icon  Comprehensive travel insurance

small x red icon  Items of a personal nature – laundry, telephone, room service

small x red icon  Tips and gratuities

Itinerary
Day 1. Lucerne, Switzerland – Tour Begins

Breathtaking Alpine vistas paint the canvas of your trip of a lifetime through Switzerland and Italy. Experience dramatic views while aboard railways and lake cruises, and enjoy cultural experiences in charming villages in the heart of Europe. Arrive in Lucerne and take some free time to explore this lakeside town on your own. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner in the city.

icons_food Dinner   icons_therma  High  21°  Low  11°  icons_hotel  Waldstaetterhof

 

Day 2. Lucerne

Today, explore the “Swiss Paradise on the Lake.” Enjoy an Altstadt (Old Town) walking tour that follows the ancient pathways of the city. Over 800 years of history lives on with such treasures as the covered Chapel Bridge (1333); the famous Water Tower that once served as a prison; the watchtower and treasury; the Renaissance-style Town Hall; the Baroque Jesuit Church; and the Lion Monument, carved from sandstone to commemorate the heroic soldiers who were protecting King Louis XVI in 1792.

icons_food Breakfast   icons_therma  High  21°  Low  11°  icons_hotel  Waldstaetterhof

 

Day 3. Lucerne – GoldenPass Train – Montreux – Zermatt

This morning, travel to Gstaad where you climb aboard the GoldenPass panoramic train to enjoy breathtaking Alpine views along the route to Montreux. Upon arrival, have free time in this legendary town on the shores of Lake Geneva. Then, continue on to the pedestrian village of Zermatt.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner    icons_therma  High  16°  Low  6°  icons_hotel  Hotel Alex

 

Day 4. Zermatt

Today you have all of Zermatt at your fingertips. You choose the way you spend your day! You may decide to explore on foot during a guided walking tour of charming Zermatt. Or, perhaps you’ll choose to discover Zermatt independently and learn more about the triumph and tragedy of the first ascent of the Matterhorn with included admission to the Matterhorn Museum. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

icons_food  Breakfast   icons_therma  High  16°  Low  6°  icons_hotel  Judith Stettler

 

Day 5. Zermatt – Glacier Express Train – St. Moritz

Traverse bridges and tunnels while aboard the world-renowned narrow gauge Glacier Express, the most charming express train in the world. Enjoy the natural beauty of this route through the heart of the Swiss Alps. Filled with forests, fragrant meadows, gurgling streams and deep valleys, it’s a mountain dream come to life. Arrive in St. Moritz for your 2-night stay. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

icons_food  Breakfast & Dinner  icons_therma  High  15°  Low  2°  icons_hotel  Hotel Steffani

 

Day 6. St. Moritz – Bernina Pass Train – St. Moritz

Embark on a journey through the Bernina Pass while travelling along one of the most scenic railway lines in the world en route to Tirano, Italy. Enjoy striking views of the Swiss and Italian Alps throughout your adventure, including the famed Morteratsch Glacier. Upon your return to St. Moritz you can relax at your hotel or perhaps make use of your included St. Moritz lift pass to take the cable car to the top of Mt. Diavolezza where you can enjoy stunning views of Piz Bernina.

icons_food  Breakfast  icons_therma  High  11°  Low  -3°  icons_hotel  Hotel Steffani

 

Day 7. St. Moritz – Lake Como, Italy – Lago Maggiore

Today you make your way back to Italy with a drive to Lake Como. A ferry ride across the waters of Lake Como introduces you to its stunning beauty. Drive along the picturesque shores to the town of Como. You will have free time to explore this famous resort before continuing to Lago Maggiore, a tranquil resort area with crystal clear waters against the backdrop of the Alps.

icons_food  Breakfast  icons_therma High  19°  Low  14°   icons_hotel  Zacchera Hotels

 

Day 8. Lago Maggiore

Today we make our way to an ancient village nestled in the mountains. Stop at a family farm where you will learn about the artisan cheeses they produce. Then, sample their delicious creations and learn how to pair them with the region’s local wines. Return to your hotel for a free afternoon. Your evening begins with a cocktail party in a wine shop before boarding your lake boat for a cruise to Isola dei Pescatori, the most beautiful of the Borromean Islands, for your traditional farewell dinner.

icons_food Breakfast & Dinner   icons_therma  High  19°  Low  14°  icons_hotel  Zacchera Hotels

 

Day 9. Lago Maggiore – Tour Ends

Your thrilling Alpine journey ends today in Lago Maggiore.

icons_food  Breakfast

 

  • The countries on this tour are six hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
  • The highest elevation on this tour is 6,000 feet above sea level.
  • The currency in these countries is the Euro.
  • The voltage in Europe is 220 to 230 Volts.
  • Why not consider a pre and post tour extension. Start and end your holiday rested.
This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, upstairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected

 

Jul 11, 2017 – Jul 19, 2017                              $4,369

Jul 18, 2017 – Jul 26, 2017                             $4,069       HOT DEAL

Aug 15, 2017 – Aug 23, 2017                         $4,369

Sep 5, 2017 – Sep 13, 2017                            $4,369       1 SEAT REMAINING

Sep 19, 2017 – Sep 27, 2017                          $4,369

Sep 26, 2017 – Oct 4, 2017                            $4,369

Oct 17, 2017 – Oct 25, 2017                           $4,369

 

May 1, 2018 – May 9, 2018                          SOLD OUT

May 8, 2018 – May 16, 2018                        SOLD OUT

May 15, 2018 – May 23, 2018                         $4,489

May 29, 2018 – Jun 6, 2018                         SOLD OUT

Jun 5, 2018 – Jun 13, 2018                             $4,489

Jun 26, 2018 – Jul 4 , 2018                             $4,489

Jul 10, 2018 – Jul 18, 2018                             $4,489

Jul 17, 2018 – Jul 25, 2018                             $4,489

Aug 14, 2018 – Aug 22, 20178                        $4,489

Aug 28, 2018 – Sep 5, 2018                            $4,489

Sep 11, 2018 – Sep 19, 2018                          $4,489

Sep 18, 2018 – Sep 26, 2018                         SOLD OUT

Sep 25, 2018 – Oct 3, 2018                            $4,489

Oct 2, 2018 – Oct 10, 2018                            $4,489