Whether it is the altitude, the crystal-clear water or the beauty of the surrounding landscape, there is something extraordinary about the sparkling lakes in Switzerland. Nestled in the country’s four major river basins are hundreds of postcard-perfect lakes waiting to be explored.
Day 1 THURSDAY We travel to Dover for the short sea crossing to France. We continue through France to our overnight hotel near Metz for dinner.
Day 2 FRIDAY After breakfast, we continue south, pausing in Strasbourg, a charming city situated in the Alsace region. Known primarily for its sandstone Gothic Cathedral, with its famous astronomical clock, and for its medieval cityscape of Rhineland black and white timberframed buildings. In the afternoon, we continue to the Park Hotel, Winterthur in Switzerland, arriving in time for dinner and our 5-night stay.
Day 3 SATURDAY A day at leisure in our resort.
Day 4 SUNDAY Delight in a full day excursion to Lucerne, via Zugersee and some free time in the pretty lakeshore town of Zug. In Lucerne, discover the elegant old town, Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge, ending the day with a relaxing cruise on Lake Lucerne.
Day 5 MONDAY It is a short journey to Zurich to discover the squares and alleyways of its medieval centre where a guided walking tour is included to enhance the visit. Travel down the length of Zurichsee, over the bridge to Rapperswil, with time at leisure to walk around in this attractive lakeshore town.
Day 6 TUESDAY Beginning the day in the historic city of St Gallen with its stylish old town dominated by the Abbey of St Gall. Cross the border into Germany and on to the charming city of Constance. Explore the historic Niederburg area which is home to the main attractions in the old town.
Day 7 WEDNESDAY Depart Winterthur and travel north to the charming old town of Valkenburg, located in the South Limburg region of Holland, where we arrive in time for dinner and our overnight stay.
Day 8 THURSDAY Departing after breakfast we return through Belgium to Calais/Dunkirk for our crossing to Dover. We return to the local area and take you to your door.
The Park Hotel Winterthur enjoys a good position in the town - within easy walking distance of the museums and the parks which give Winterthur its name of 'Garden City'. The hotel offers comfortable bedrooms with TV, telephone, Wi-Fi, and complimentary soft drinks from the minibar. At the heart of the hotel is the Bloom restaurant which offers stylish, versatile cuisine in a modern dining room - and in good weather you can eat al fresco on the terrace. Hotel facilities include a lounge/bar, sauna, small fitness area and a lift.
