Switzerland Rails and Sails

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Zurich, Switzerland.

Upon arrival, you will be met by a representative of Mayflower Cruises and Tours and assisted with arriving at the hotel. Flights should arrive by 4pm. This evening, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at the hotel. Meal: D

Depart the hotel by coach for the start of your Swiss adventures! While visiting Rhine Falls - the largest and most powerful waterfall in Europe, absorb the natural surrounding beauty as you witness this site from shore. During a short boat ride, get close to the falls, hear the roar of the water rushing over the rocks, feel the mist, and experience the power of the falls. Continue by coach to the nearby village of Stein am Rhein, situated along the banks of the Rhine River, where charming alleyways lined with frescoed half-timbered houses greet you. Stroll through the well-preserved center of the Old Town for a close-up look at the façades of these houses from the Middle Ages and enjoy lunch on your own. Your taste of Switzerland continues (literally!) with a visit to a chocolate factory. Learn how some of the world’s best chocolate is made, sample the products, and decorate your own chocolate bar. End the day with arrival in St. Gallen, nestled between the Swiss Alps and Lake Constance. Meal: B

The ‘sails’ portion of the program begins with a journey to Romanshore to embark the vessel for a cruise on Lake Constance. The third largest lake in central Europe, it’s situated at the point where Switzerland meets Germany and Austria. Enjoy the scenery of quaint fishing villages and unspoiled nature while sailing along the steel-blue water to Rorschach. Return to St. Gallen where an afternoon excursion showcases its charms during a walking tour. A local guide reveals the history of the city while leading you through the cobblestoned lanes, lined with picturesque townhouses. Explore the UNESCO Abbey Complex of St. Gall, which includes the landmark of the city – the twin-towered cathedral, and one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world. The evening is free to do as you please. Meal: B

This morning begins the ‘rails’ portion of the trip as you board the Voralpen Express to Lucerne. Sit back and relax as the train crosses Sitter Bridge, the highest railway bridge in Europe (325’ high) and traverses the scenic Swiss landscape of rugged mountains and glittering lakes. Upon arrival, leisurely sail on Lake Lucerne, where Mt. Rigi, Mt. Pilatus, and Mt. Bürgenstock loom in the distance, adding an impressive backdrop to the historic sites of the city and tranquility of the lake. After free time in town, return to the train station to board the Interlaken Express. Journey past turquoise lakes and waterfalls cascading down the mountains on the way to Interlaken. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for an evening at leisure. Meal: B

On todays adventure, experience Jungfraujoch, the highest railway station in Europe at 11,332 feet above sea level. Travel by coach to Lauterbrunnen to board the Wengernalp Railway. Climb 6,672 feet during this 40-minute journey through breathtaking scenery to the Kleine Scheidegg station. Ascend the final 4,570 feet aboard the Jungfrau Railway cogwheel train in about 35 minutes to reach the ‘Top of Europe’. Step outside, breathe the fresh mountain air, and stand in awe of the spectacular sight that awaits. Take a walk through the Ice Cave, watch the 360º cinematic movie detailing the challenges in creating this mountain adventure and enjoy an included lunch. Descend via the Jungfrau Railway to Eigergletscher Station for a 20-minute ride on the Eiger Express gondola to Grindewald where the coach is waiting to return you to ground level and the hotel. The remainder of the day is free of planned activities to explore the town independently. Meals: B, L

After breakfast, depart for what is sure to be a fantastic cruise on Lake Brienz. Not only is the turquoise color of the water astounding, but the quaint villages of traditional wooden houses dotting the shoreline are picture-perfect. Known for its wood-carving history, this trait is evident throughout the village of Brienz. Home to the creators of the now famous Trauffer hand-crafted Swiss wooden cows, become a part of this tradition. At a workshop where the production occurs, learn about the history, art of carving and painting these cows, create your own, and take your unique masterpiece home as a souvenir! During free time, walk along the Brunngasse, a street that earned the title of “the most beautiful street in Europe”, and home to many 18th-century houses with wood-carved embellishments. Return by coach to the hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure. Meal: B

Saving the best for last, perhaps one of Switzerland’s most picturesque train routes is in store as you ride aboard the Golden Pass from Interlaken to Montreux, on the shores of Lake Geneva. Panoramic vistas and scenic landscapes of mountains, valleys and vineyards appear as if they are out of a fairytale book. In Montreux, an included lunch awaits before traveling along the coast to Château du Chillon. A guide dressed in period costume will walk you through the medieval castle, complete with ramparts, to discover the mysteries that lie within! Embark an historic steamboat for a cruise on Lake Geneva, sailing through the terraced UNESCO Lavaux vineyards, with a spectacular backdrop of the Swiss Alps. What a perfect way to end the day and return to Lausanne for the evening at leisure. Meals: B, L

The final day in Switzerland starts with a city tour of Lausanne. A panoramic orientation will familiarize you with the area, followed by a walking tour through the center. The guide will reveal secrets of this medieval city, its Gothic cathedral, the picturesque market steps, Place de la Palud and its Town Hall, and the trendy Flon district with its modern architecture. The afternoon is free of planned activities for any last-minute shopping or independent sightseeing. This evening, join your fellow travelers and Tour Manager for a farewell dinner. Meals: B, D

This morning, transfer from Lausanne to the Geneva airport for your flight home. Flights should depart after 11am. Memories of the beauty of Switzerland and the journeys by rails and sails will be cherished for a lifetime. Meal: B