Day 1 - London to Vevey
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)
Day 2 - Excursion to Château de Chillon
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 are taken on a guided tour of the 13th century Gothic château, considered to be one of Europe's best-preserved medieval castles. During the return journey to Vevey, you may decide to stop in Montreux to explore. (B)
Day 3 - Through the Golden Pass
Today's excursion begins with a short coach ride to Gruyères, famous for its cheese production. You have plenty of time to explore this pretty town with its medieval hill-top castle. We continue to Montbovon and join the train to the chic resort of Gstaad. After some time here, we board the GoldenPass Line train for the scenic rail journey to Montreux. We travel in comfortable observation cars, relaxing and admiring views of majestic peaks and valleys as we descend into Montreux. (B,D)
Day 4 - A day at leisure in Vevey
Vevey is perfectly situated for excursions by rail and lake cruiser into the surrounding area. Lausanne, the 'Olympic capital', with its medieval town centre and world-famous Olympic Museum, is just 10 minutes away by train. Alternatively, a stroll around Vevey's narrow streets and shops is also an excellent choice. (B)
Day 5 - Lake Geneva cruise and Les Pleiades
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. In the afternoon, we enjoy the rack-and-pinion mountain railway journey up Les Pleiades. Les Pleiades is perched in the hills high above the lake at 4,500 feet (1,372m) and gives spectacular views over Lake Geneva and the surrounding area. This evening we travel by funicular for a typical Swiss dinner at 'Le Chalet' restaurant with magnificent views of the town and lake. (B,D)
Day 6 - A day at leisure
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. (B,D)
Day 7 - Excursion by rail to Rochers de Naye
During a short train ride we travel from Vevey to Montreux. Here we join the rack-and-pinion mountain railway for the journey, high above the tree line, to the summit of Rochers de Naye. The views over Lake Geneva from the summit are fabulous. Rochers de Naye is the home of 'Marmot Paradise' and seven species of these small, curious mammals can be seen in their natural environment. Our return journey is via Caux and you have the opportunity to spend some time here before returning to Vevey if you wish. (B,D)
Day 8 - Vevey to London
After a short journey to Lausanne, we connect with the 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 Jazz Festival
Tours departing on 28 June and 12 July will be in Vevey during the Montreux Jazz Festival, which takes place between 2 and 18 July 2010. There are a host of free concerts and events to enjoy, in addition to many payable concerts. Montreux is easily accessible by Trolleybus (free of charge with your included Swiss Riviera Card) and with so many musicians performing both Jazz and other types of music, this is a fantastic time to be on Lake Geneva.
