luxury train trips switzerland

9 Luxury Train Rides in Switzerland Worth Splurging On

If there’s one thing that Switzerland is famous for , it’s the magical train rides that offer the best views.  Having lived in Switzerland for a short time, I’ve been on quite a few train rides myself and I have to say the hype justifies the experience. 

While most regular train rides in Switzerland offer great views and a comfortable travel experience, there are also certain luxury train tours that really take it up a notch. Here are my picks for the top nine luxury train rides in Switzerland that you should definitely add to your bucket list! 

Table of Contents

Understanding luxury train rides in Switzerland

Just a quick word before you book that unforgettable train ride in Switzerland: Get yourself a Swiss Travel Pass . Unlike a regular public transport pass, the Swiss Pass actually covers most, if not all, of the luxury train rides in this article! 

While you can certainly purchase tickets for each experience individually, having the Swiss Pass certainly unlocks more experiences and, in my opinion, certainly makes it much easier to explore Switzerland by rail. 

With that said, let’s kick off our wonderful train journey(s) in Switzerland! 

1. Bernina Express

The Bernina Express is undoubtedly one of the most famous train rides in Switzerland. It promises an unforgettable luxury experience as you traverse the land and discover the natural beauty of Switzerland through the train’s panoramic windows on this four-hour journey along the highest railway tracks in Europe! 

The Bernina Express travels from St. Moritz to Tirano, Italy via the Bernina Pass along the iconic Rhaetian Railway —  a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once in Tirano, passengers have the option to transfer onto the Bernina Express Bus and extend their journey to Lake Como in Lugano. 

Along the way, you’ll see picturesque sights like the glistening Morteratsch Glacier, Lago Bianco, a scenic lake 2,253 meters above sea level, and the serene Val Poschiavo Valley. These are in addition to the many romantic gorges, tunnels, and bridges you’ll pass by during the journey. 

One particular highlight of this Swiss train tour is the Brusio Circular Viaduct which will likely remind Harry Potter fans of the scene where they see the Hogwarts Express chugging along the beautiful alpine countryside. 

Things to know about the Bernina Express :

• Route : St. Moritz to Tirano (Italy) to Lugano (bus) 
• Highlights : Morteratsch Glacier, Lago Bianco, Brusio Circular Viaduct, Val Poschiavo Valley, Lake Como (by bus). 
• Total trip distance/duration : Four hours (144km by train); three hours (90km by bus)
• Dining options : Light refreshments and snacks on a mobile snack cart
• Best time to visit : The Bernina Express is a wonderful luxury train ride in Switzerland that’s fit for all seasons. That said, the route is exceptionally beautiful during winter

2. Gotthard Panorama Express

If you opted to go for the full Bernina Express experience and find yourself in Lugano, you’re in luck, because you can then hop aboard another one of the best luxury train rides in Switzerland, the Gotthard Panorama Express ! 

This particular Swiss train offers panoramic views of both the Swiss and Italian countryside as you make your way from Lugano to Lucerne via an epic journey that ends with a boat ride to Luzern! What makes the Gotthard Panorama Express different is that it only operates between April and October. 

On the bright side, this means that whenever you board this famous Swiss train, you’ll get incredible spring and summer scenery right outside your windows! Along the way, you’ll also traverse the Gotthard Base Tunnel, the world’s longest and deepest tunnel which lies beneath the Swiss Alps at a depth of roughly 2,300m! 

Things to know about the Gotthard Panorama Express :

• Route : Lugano to Flüelen (Italy) by train and to Luzern by boat
• Highlights : Castles of Bellinzona, Chapel Bridge, Lake Luzern, Mount Rigi (excursion)
• Total trip distance/duration : Five hours and 30 minutes (182km) 
• Dining options : Light snacks and refreshments on the train; a restaurant boasting a seasonal menu on the boat
• Best time to visit : The Gotthard Panorama Express only operates between April and October

3. Glacier Express

Equally as famous as the Bernina Express is the Glacier Express , one of the most beautiful luxury train rides in Switzerland. 

Just imagine: You’re comfortably seated in your coach, complete with large panoramic windows. The Glacier Express departs its station and thus begins your eight-hour journey through the alpine regions of Valais, Uri, and Grisons.

Along the way, you watch in awe as majestic mountains, scenic ravines, and breathtaking valleys pass by your window. No wonder the Glacier Express is known as one of the most scenic trains in Switzerland!

While the total distance between St. Mortiz and Zermatt, the two terminus stations of the ride, is only 290km, this luxury train ride in Switzerland takes a total of eight hours to complete, chugging along at a leisurely pace of just 38km per hour, making it (intentionally) the slowest express train in the world. 

Things to know about the Glacier Express :

• Route : St. Moritz to Zermatt or vice versa
• Highlights : Matterhorn, Albula Valley, Rhine Gorge, Landwasser Viaduct, Chur (Switzerland’s oldest city), Zermatt
• Total trip distance/duration : Eight hours (290km) 
• Dining options : On-board kitchen which serves both a-la-carte dining options and three-course meals
• Best time to visit : The Glacier Express is best experienced during winter when it snows

4. Luzern–Interlaken Express

The Luzern-Interlaken Express is arguably the shortest route among all the luxury train rides in Switzerland. Covering a distance of 98km, the journey on this Swiss train ride takes only about two hours to complete. And yet, those two hours may well be the most memorable experience on your trip to Switzerland! 

As its name suggests, the Luzern-Interlaken Express connects the two cities of Luzern and Interlaken. But unlike a typical commute, this premium panoramic train turns the journey into an experience in and of itself, allowing passengers to gaze out at pristine mountain lakes, waterfalls, and majestic mountains throughout the short but scenic train ride. 

Upon arrival at your destination, several excursions are available to further explore the beauty of Switzerland. 

In particular, we recommend staying a few nights in Interlaken so that you have the chance to travel to iconic locations like Jungfraujoch, where you will find the tallest railway station in Europe; and upon it, Schilthorn Piz Gloria, a peak in the Bernese Alps complete with its own cable car ride and restaurant. 

Things to know about the Luzern-Interlaken Express :

• Route : Luzern to Interlaken or vice versa
• Highlights : Jungfrau Region, Grindelwald, Lake Luzern
• Total trip distance/duration : Two hours (98km) 
• Dining options : On-board bistro restaurant in the middle of the train
• Best time to visit : The Luzern-Interlaken Express runs daily but the scenery is best during the spring season

5. Golden Pass Express

If you had chosen to ride the Luzern-Interlaken Express to Interlaken, then you’re in luck, because you can then continue your journey with another one of the famous Switzerland luxury train tours — The Golden Pass Express . 

This five-hour journey between Interlaken and Montreux is actually quite new, having commenced operation only in December 2022. It is basically a more premium and luxurious version of the famous Golden Pass Line which connects Luzern and Montreux. 

On this new luxurious Swiss train ride, passengers get to enjoy the view of the Swiss Alps as they chug alongside the scenic Lake Thun, passing through the beautiful Simmen Valley and the alpine village of Zweisimmen, as well as fairytale-esque castles and lovely hillside meadows.    

Then, as you approach your final destination, prepare to be amazed as the picturesque natural scenery outside your panoramic windows gradually fades into the Mediterranean flair of the resort town of Montreux. 

Things to know about the Golden Pass Express

• Route : Luzern to Montreux or vice versa
• Highlights : Lake Thun, Jungfrau Region, The Lavaux Vineyards, Chillon Castle, Lake Geneva
• Total trip distance/duration : Five hours (191km) 
• Dining options : On-board restaurant that serves local and international delicacies, and an exclusive menu for First Class and “Prestige Class” passengers
• Best time to visit : Spring season offers stunning views around Lake Geneva

6. Matterhorn Gotthard Express

From Montreux, it’s actually possible to catch the most beautiful leg of the journey on the Matterhorn Gotthard Express , another one of the best luxury train rides in Switzerland. Basically, from Montreux, you’ll want to take the train to Visp and from there, transfer to the Matterhorn Gotthard Express. 

While your time on this scenic train ride in Switzerland is rather short — the trip from Visp to Zermatt takes only about an hour or so, the views you’ll see along the way are some of the most magical. After all, you’ll be traversing the Nikolai Valley, the deepest-incised valley in Switzerland. 

Picture snow-capped alpine peaks, deep, verdant ravines, and stunning hillside villages passing by your panoramic window before the iconic Matterhorn emerges from underneath the horizon! 

Things to know about the Matterhorn Gotthard Express :

• Route : Montreux to Visp to Zermatt
• Highlights : Matterhorn, Nikolai Valley, Zermatt 
• Total trip distance/duration : Two hours and 30 minutes in total (140km)  
• Dining options : Seasonal on-board menu for specific trips, check here for more info
• Best time to visit : Time your visit closer to winter for the best experience in Zermatt

7. Voralpen-Express

The Voralpen-Express is easily one of the more underrated luxury train rides in Switzerland. After all, unlike many of the other rides on this list, this scenic Swiss train doesn’t take you through the snow-capped peaks of the Alps. Instead, it offers passengers an uninterrupted view of the Swiss countryside, punctuated by verdant hills and ambient villages. 

The train runs between Luzern and St. Gallen where, upon departing against the backdrop of the idyllic Lake Luzern, takes passengers on a quiet journey through Central Switzerland. 

It passes through Lake Zurich, the Sitter Viaduct (Switzerland’s highest railway bridge), and Rapperswil, a lovely town known as the City of Roses, before arriving in St. Gallen, where ou can find the famous Abbey Library, one of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in the world.

Things to know about the Voralpen-Express :

• Route : Luzern to St. Gallen or vice versa
• Highlights : Chapel Bridge, Abbey Library, Lake Zurich, Sitter Viaduct, Rapperswil 
• Total trip distance/duration : Two hours and 30 minutes (125km)  
• Dining options : There are two bistro zones with vending machines onboard the train
• Best time to visit : Summer is the best time to truly take in the hilly views outside your window

8. Thurbo Lake Line

Speaking of St. Gallen, after spending a few days in the city, there’s another luxury train ride in Switzerland you can catch if you’re planning to head to Zurich. The Thurbo Lake Line connects St. Gallen to Stein am Rhein, Schaffhausen, and Zurich along rolling hillside scenery and the shorelines of Lake Constance and the Rhine.

Along the way, apart from lovely natural scenery (which includes the Rhine Falls), you’ll also pass by iconic landmarks like Munot Fortress, and the imposing railway bridge of Eglisau.

While the Thurbo Lake Line isn’t always considered a scenic train route, it’s certainly an underrated luxury Swiss train ride that turns a regular commute to Zurich into an unforgettable treat for the senses! 

Things to know about the Thurbo Lake Line :

• Route : St. Gallen to Zurich
• Highlights : Lake Constance, Rhine Falls, Munot Fortress
• Total trip distance/duration : Two hours and 30 minutes (around 130km)  
• Dining options : There are no food or drink options on the train but passengers may bring their own food
• Best time to visit : Any time is a good time to board the Thurbo Lake Line

9. The Chocolate Train

While not always considered a luxury train ride in Switzerland, the Chocolate Train remains a must-try experience in the country and presents itself as a unique journey in its own right. To be more exact, it is a pre-booked tour experience with a set itinerary. 

As the name suggests, The Chocolate Train is a Swiss train journey that will delight passengers with a sweet tooth, as those who travel along this route eventually make their way to the Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory at Broc. I mean, Swiss chocolates are to die for, right? 

While the train itself stops at Montbovon, passengers then change to the Chocolate Bus which brings them to Gruyeres and later to Broc. Though this may sound like a foodie’s dream road trip, the journey along the way is filled with scenic sights that will charm your heart. Think verdant valleys, rolling hills, and more! 

Things to know about The Chocolate Train :

• Route : Montreux to Montbovon by train, then to Broc by bus
• Highlights : Gruyeres cheese factory, Cailler-Nestlé chocolate factory
• Total trip distance/duration : The entire tour takes around seven hours
• Dining options : Light food and refreshments are available 
• Best time to visit : At the time of writing, The Chocolate Train runs between May and September.

Final thoughts

And there you have it: Nine luxury train rides in Switzerland that are definitely worth every penny! Apart from promising incredible views and experiences, these Swiss train rides are the epitome of the saying, “It is the journey, and not the destination, that counts”. So, which train will you be boarding first? 

Thinking of exploring America this way too? Check out our list of luxury train rides in the USA !

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8 Luxury Trains in Switzerland You Should Try in 2024

Are you dreaming of an adventure on a luxury Swiss train? Like many fellow travel enthusiasts exploring the heart of Europe, travelling on luxury trains in Switzerland sits sky high on the checklist of things to experience. Luxury train holidays in Switzerland are renowned not only for the breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains, spectacularly engineered tunnels, astonishing bridges, and rolling panoramic hills but also for the world-class luxury of the trains themselves. Let’s delve into some of the finest Swiss luxury train adventures you should unquestionably mull over for 2024 that you’ll never forget.

Bernina Express: Experience the Ultimate Luxury Train Ride in Switzerland

The Bernina Express offers passengers magical four-hour Switzerland luxury train tours between the Alpine city of Chur and Tirano in the province of Sondrio in Italy. This luxury Swiss train runs year-round and is among the most iconic railway voyages in the country. Embarking on one of these Switzerland luxury train tours will see passengers journey through spiralling alpine loops, traverse nearly 200 bridges, and wind through over tunnels. Guests onboard can relax in the beautifully appointed coaches and marvel at the architectural wonder of the Landwasser Viaduct, the serenity of Lake Bianco, UNESCO-listed landscapes, the Swiss Alps, and numerous chocolate box villages. If luxury train travel in Switzerland is your thing, this could tick all the right boxes and deliver an exceptional and unforgettable journey.

Gotthard Panorama Express: Discover Switzerland’s Scenic Beauty

The Gotthard Panorama Express is a less high-profile luxury train ride in Switzerland, but no less spectacular. Unlike most luxury Swiss train tours, this one takes you on an adventure that blends rail and boat travel as it unveils some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders during a five-and-a-half-hour journey in total luxury. Switzerland train adventures don’t come much more unique than this, as passengers can relax as the train traverses from Lucerne to Lugano, meandering through incredible scenery that takes in Lake Lucerne and the historic Gotthard Pass. All aboard this Switzerland luxury train ride can absorb the essence of the staggeringly beautiful country, where every view tells a story.

Glacier Express: The Best Luxury Train in Switzerland

Like the world-famous Orient Express, in Switzerland, the Glacier Express is the most iconic and highly spoken of luxury train. The Glacier Express is quite a legendary luxury train in Switzerland that takes passengers on a nearly eight-hour journey that connects Zermatt with St Moritz, taking in 291 bridges and 91 tunnels as those on board get treated to the most spectacular Alpine vistas. These luxury train rides in Switzerland twist their way through picturesque valleys and snow-capped mountain peaks as the breathtaking scenery appears through every window. This luxury Swiss train treats those onboard to vies of the Rhine Gorge and the Oberlap Pass as this magical journey delivers a symphony of natural wonders blended with first-class amenities and service.

Luzern–Interlaken Express: The Epitome of Luxury Train Travel in Switzerland

The Luzern-Interlaken Express is a chocolate-box journey into the heart of the country, offering the lucky passengers an enchanting experience amidst stunning Alpine landscapes. The country’s two most enchanting destinations are seamlessly linked with some remarkable scenery during this two-hour luxury train tour in Switzerland. This luxury Swiss train meanders through lush green valleys, underneath towering snowy peaks, and past tranquil clear lakes, showcasing the best of what Mother Nature has created. If you’re an enthusiast of nature and luxury rail travel, this luxury train travel in Switzerland is too good to ignore. A seat onboard this Swiss luxury train promises a unique and unforgettable adventure. 

Golden Pass Express: Premier Luxury Train Tour in Switzerland with Breathtaking Landscapes

The Golden Pass Express is a luxury Switzerland train that takes passengers on a breathtaking five-hour adventure into the heart of the country, where those lucky enough to be on board get treated to absolutely mind-blowing views. Modelled on the world’s most iconic train, this 1930s-inspired replica Orient Express in Switzerland connects the incredible towns of Montreux on Lake Geneva and Lucerne in Central of the country. From May to December, passengers travel in luxurious surroundings and can explore a cheese and chocolate factory. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking adventure, these luxury train rides in Switzerland deliver luxury and unforgettable exploration. 

Matterhorn Gotthard Express: Explore the Swiss Alps in Style!

Located in the heart of the Alps, the Matterhorn Gotthard Railway is home to a truly stunning luxury Swiss train. The Matterhorn Gotthard Express traverses the unbelievable Alpine vistas, connecting Zermatt and St Moritz. This is luxury train travel in Switzerland in its pomp, and passengers can relax in the luxury of a carriage as the train winds through narrow valleys, crossing dizzying viaducts and numerous tunnels carved out from the rugged mountainsides. This Swiss luxury train is more than simply a means of getting from A to B. It’s an immersive experience that offers a glimpse into the country’s natural and cultural splendour. 

Voralpen-Express A Hidden Gem Among Switzerland’s Luxury Train Rides

There’s more to luxury train travel in Switzerland than towering snowy peaks and deep gorges. The Voralpen-Express offers enthusiasts a picturesque journey through undulating hills, charming villages, and delightful orchards as passengers travel from the Eastern city of St. Gallen to Luzern in the country’s centre. This breathtaking Switzerland luxury train ride meanders through the heart of the region, taking in serene lakes, lush meadows, and the Alps, immersing travellers in outstanding natural beauty. The Vorapen-Express promises to combine modern comfort with traditional charm and character, taking in panoramic views from inside the spacious carriages. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-timer, this luxury train in Switzerland promises an unforgettable adventure. 

Thurbo Lake Line: A Unique Luxury Train Holiday in Switzerland’s Picturesque Settings

Railway fanatics are in for a treat as this luxury Swiss train embarks on an unforgettable journey through the country’s centre, taking in breathtaking landscapes along the Thurbo Lake Line. Nestled amidst the beautiful Swiss countryside, this enchanting route delivers an immersive experience where passengers can soak up every last vista from the comfort of a very comfortable carriage. These luxury train rides in Switzerland traverse the idyllic shores of crystal-clear Alpine lakes and lush green valleys as the Thurbo Lake Line delivers the essence of the country’s natural beauty in its purest form. You don’t want to miss this luxury train ride in Switzerland from Schaffhausen to Rorschach or St. Gallen.

THE MOST POPULAR QUESTIONS

Luxury trains switzerland faqs, what are the top luxury train rides in switzerland i should consider for my next vacation.

Luxury trains in Switzerland are nothing new, and it’s fair to say that you have many trains and destinations to explore. As well as luxury sleeper trains in Switzerland, you’ll also find shorter journeys ranging from an hour to a full day of exploring this incredible country. The Golden Pass Express provides a step back in time with its 1930s-inspired carriages as the beautiful Swiss luxury train takes in some of the country’s most incredible views between Montreux on Lake Geneva and Lucerne. The Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express, and Glacier Express should also be high on your list of Switzerland luxury train tours, as they all provide stunning natural views of snowy Alpine peaks and picturesque chocolate box villages throughout their routes. 

How can I book tickets for a luxury train ride in Switzerland, and are there any passes available?

To book tickets for a luxury train tour in Switzerland, you can visit the official website of the respective train service or book through a trustworthy travel company such as The Luxury Train Travel Company. You can also purchase a Swiss Travel Pass that will offer unlimited travel on the Swiss Travel System Network. Once purchased, your pass will even give you access to certain luxury trains. Tourists often choose this option as it provides flexibility while exploring this beautiful region.

What unique experiences do the luxury train tours in Switzerland offer compared to regular train services?

Luxury train holidays in Switzerland offer bespoke experiences for travellers, combining comfort with breathtaking scenery. In contrast to regular rail services, these luxury Swiss train tours provide opulent accommodations, gourmet dining, and highly attentive service amidst spectacular Alpine views. Switzerland, luxury train tours, often include exclusive stops at some iconic destinations, such as glamorous resorts and cultural landmarks, adding to the allure of the journey. In essence, a trip on a luxury Swiss train epitomises refined travel with a blend of opulence and unbeatable natural beauty.

Are there any luxury sleeper trains in Switzerland for overnight travel?

Yes, there are a couple of luxury sleeper trains in Switzerland, like the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express, for overnight travel. Passengers can enjoy upscale amenities, stunning panoramic views, and incredibly comfortable sleeping accommodations. The Swiss Alps are in full view during these experiences, with the Glacier Express widely regarded as the best luxury train in Switzerland.

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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

On the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, panoramic trains take you to all the highlights and sights in Switzerland, year-round. Get in, lean back and enjoy – wherever you like.  

• 1,280 kilometer
• 11 large lakes
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Alternative section: St. Moritz – Lugano (by bus)

Switch to the bus and road

Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

A panoramic ride between two worlds.

Lugano – Flüelen – Luzern

The panoramic journey by train and boat.

Luzern – St. Gallen

Over gentle hills with a view of the Alps.

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

Up the valley to the “mountain of mountains”.

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zürich

The “maritime” side of Switzerland.

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

From glaciers to palm trees.

Zermatt – St. Moritz

The slowest express train in the world.

Zürich – Luzern – Interlaken

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From St. Moritz to Lugano

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Gotthard Panorama Express

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Luzern–Interlaken Express

From Lucerne to Interlaken

Thurbo Seelinie

From St. Gallen to Schaffhausen

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From Locarno to Lucerne

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From Lucerne to St. Gallen

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A Luxury Alpine Train Journey Through Switzerland

Destinations

Trip highlights

• Learn traditional cheese-making in Gstaad
• Sip an aperitif and soak in spectacular Alpine vistas
• Go paddle-boarding in the Engadine Valley
• Hike some of the 4,000km of trails in Ticino
• Ride the Gornergrat cog railway for views of the Matterhorn
• Take the Glacier Express train from Zermatt to St. Moritz

Taking in the charming views over Tirano

The Glacier Express wends its way from Zermatt

Hiking and glorious scenery near Gstaad

The Gornergrat cog railway in the summer

Exploring the pretty centre of Locarno

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

• Luxury accommodation throughout
• Privately guided tours
• Private transfers
• Meticulously selected experiences
• Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge

• Days 1–4 Gstaad
• Days 4–6 Zermatt
• Days 6–7 Andermatt
• Days 7–9 St. Moritz
• Days 9–12 Ticino

Itinerary in detail

Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Three nights in glorious Gstaad

Begin in German-speaking Gstaad , one of the most exclusive ski resorts come wintertime that returns to the traditional rural ways in the green summer months. This small Alpine village is known for its high-profile guests, luxury hotels and high-end restaurants with traditional Swiss cuisine. Take a stroll in Gstaad and you’ll find boutiques, art galleries and shops, as well as picture-perfect chalets fitted with charming wooden shutters and window boxes overflowing with flowers.

Don your walking boots to hike nearby trails, sit back and relax in one of the cable cars that wind their way through valleys and gorges, or enjoy an aperitif and fine dining while drinking in the views.

Where you could stay

• Honours Swiss heritage with traditional Simmentaler style
• Restorative views of the Bernese Alps and pastoral meadows
• Discover healing treatments in the Six Senses spa
• Michelin-star dining options complemented by a 1,700-bottle wine cellar
• Explore the Alps with a range of outdoor activities

Completed in 2012, the Alpina was the first new luxury hotel to be built in Gstaad in over a century, and is fast redefining the Alpine experience while staying true to the Simmentaler architecture style which characterises the region. The Swiss heritage is also reflected in the rooms and suites, which feature classically carved ceilings and timber-clad walls as well as decorative touches such as the traditional leather straps used to hold cowbells. Choose a room with a private terrace boasting views over the foothills of the Bernese Alps or the Diablerets mountains to feel truly immersed in your spectacular surroundings.

After a day exploring the hiking trails, sit back and relax with a glass of wine or expertly mixed cocktail at the lounge and bar, where large open windows mean you will never feel too far away from the enchanting pastoral meadows and majestic mountains. The wine cellar is home to 1,700 vintages from across the world. For dinner, restaurant Sommet has been awarded a Michelin star for its innovative and immaculately presented dishes, whilst MEGU offers creative Japanese cuisine. The warm atmosphere of the Swiss Stübli is an ode to authentic local favourites such as fondue and raclette.

There are a plethora of outdoor activities to help you discover the beauty of your Alpine surroundings, from the classic – guided hiking and e-biking, to the adventurous – rafting, paragliding and bridge jumping. Besides the mountains, you can find solace in the Six Senses Spa, a haven of peace and tranquillity offering a range of treatments inspired by Asian wellness traditions. There is also an indoor and garden pool, hammam, a gym, two Jacuzzis and a yoga studio.

• Stay in elegant, spacious rooms with inspiring views across the Swiss landscapes
• Enjoy international cuisine prepared by a Gault&Millau awarded chef
• Try traditional Swiss dishes at the hidden Le Petit Chalet
• Experience afternoon tea in The Lounge
• Explore the 17 different wellness areas within the spa
• Wander through the property's private garden

Step into a world of easy-going elegance in the Swiss Alps at Le Grand Bellevue. Set in private parkland on Promenade Gstaad , the hotel has all the perks of a central location alongside the luxurious serenity of a discreet retreat.

The 57 elegant rooms, of which nine are suites, offer panoramic views across the mountains and parklands, as well as light-flooded bathrooms. Stay in stylish, secluded hideaways, turreted tower room or cosy chalet-style suites with rustic wooden beams. Inspired furnishings include playful wallpapers, intricate fabrics and the longest George Smith Chesterfield sofa ever commissioned. Most rooms also feature a private balcony.

Dining options include restaurant Leonard’s, where you’ll be taken on a gastronomic journey by their Gault&Millau awarded chef. For a more intimate experience, dine at the tree-flanked Le Petit Chalet to indulge on traditional Swiss cuisine such as truffle fondue, goat cheese fondue and raclette . At the end of the day you can recline back against the smooth leather sofas in the The Bar with a refreshing drink as vintage melodies tinkle out into the air.

If you wish to relax further then make your way to Le Grand Spa, which hosts 17 different wellness zones across its 3,000 square metres of space. Soothe your body and soul with steam baths and deep tissue massages, or sweat it out in one of the many saunas. The spa also features an invigorating ice fountain along with a private outdoor pool that will allow you to tip your head back and watch the stars as they glimmer in the evening sky.

The property also has various facilities to keep you entertained during your stay, such as a cinema, tennis courts and a private garden of lush greenery and ancient trees that makes for a great backdrop for an afternoon picnic.

The Gstaad Palace is a large, fairy-tale structure set amongst woodland valleys. The beautiful white visage of the building is topped by spires, bright and resplendent above rows of shuttered windows.

Guests are rewarded with incredible vistas of the surrounding countryside from the large windows of the rooms and suites. All of these are beautifully furnished with wooden beams, antique pieces and luxe fabrics that give a warm and comforting alpine feel.

The hotel also offers use of the Walig Hut, located on the higher mountain slopes in a charming rustic setting that has not changed much since its construction in 1786. Here, far up in these high meadows, you can enjoy lunch, dinner or even an overnight stay.

Staying at the Gstaad Palace, you can indulge in a wide selection of culinary treats sure to delight the taste buds and warm the soul. Authentic Italian cuisine awaits at Gildo’s Ristorante while traditional favourites can be found at La Fromagerie. The bar is perfect for coffee or champagne and there is an outdoor barbecue restaurant for those bright summer days.

After a day spent roaming the picturesque streets and boutiques, nothing is more relaxing than a session at the exclusive Palace Spa. Make use of the sauna, Turkish baths, indoor swimming pool and treatments rooms or enjoy a game of tennis or squash, or a session in the gym.

Make it mine

Cheesemaking in Gstaad

Head out early in the morning to an Alpine hut and unlock the secrets of cheese production using the freshest milk from local cows. You can even lend a hand yourself, before sitting down to enjoy a traditional breakfast with the farmer.

Glacier 3000 tour

Take a cable car to up to Glacier 3000, for a ride over the glacier by the Snow Bus and a walk along an ice track to the spectacular Peak Walk by Tissot, the first and only suspension bridge to connect two mountain peaks. You can also have lunch at Refuge l’Espace, a cliffside restaurant with incredible views.

Jungfraujoch glacier hike

The Jungfraujoch is an Alpine viewing point located in between the well-known mountains Mönch and Jungfrau. From Grindelwald, take the cog train to Europe’s highest train station at an impressive 3,454m, from where spectacular views across the surrounding mountains await. Together with your private mountain guide, you’ll then hike across the glacier to the Mönchsjoch hut, before returning and taking the train back to Grindelwald.

Aboard the GoldenPass train

Board the GoldenPass train for breathtaking Alpine scenery, which you can soak up through the panoramic windows. Food can be ordered in advance, including champagne and caviar in Prestige and First Class carriages.

Two nights in the shadow of the Matterhorn

Traditional Alpine architecture abounds in fairytale Zermatt , with wooden shutters adorning windows and pine lodges stretching up the valley side. The town is traffic-free and many choose to hop on bicycles to make their way around. Zermatt is renowned as an important mountaineering centre, with a dozen peaks over 4000m within easy access of the resort, but dominating the skyline here is the solitary Matterhorn.

South Western Switzerland

The unmistakably Swiss Mont Cervin Palace is a Zermatt landmark, a place of quaint charm and warm hospitality.

150 rooms are of the highest quality, all with a fantastic view of the Matterhorn or the snow-capped ‘four-thousanders’. The rooms are spread between three buildings, elegant in the main building, chalet style in Le Petit Cervin with family apartments in the Résidence.

Guests can enjoy not only the hotel’s dining venues, including the Michelin-starred Ristorante Capri, Grill Le Cervin, Le Restaurant and Japanese Myoko, but also at other Zermatt establishments that are part of the Dine Around scheme. There are also two bars, wine cellar and cigar lounge.

The expansive spa features a large pool, sauna, fitness centre, massage and beauty therapists, and a well equipped fitness centre.

On the woodland slopes of Zermatt, CERVO is a luxury resort with fabulous views of the Matterhorn. The hotel goes to great lengths to retain its genuine character, mixing the old with the new in an attractive blend meaning it loses none of its alpine charm.

36 rooms are modern with a stylish touch and contemporary minimalist flair, including the exclusive Owner’s Lodge.

The CERVO Lounge is a great place to sit down friends or family, where you can make use of the cosy fireplace with drinks and delicious snacks. Enjoy tapas and refreshing beverages on the large sun terrace before heading to one of the two main restaurants. Cervo Puro, with its 14 Gault Millau points, always has a fresh menu each week while The Ferdinand crafts traditional fare in a casual yet breath-taking environment. Both establishments work with regional and sustainable ingredients.

Recover from a day on the slopes with a visit to the spa, its exclusive facilities looking out onto the gorgeous mountain scenery of Zermatt. Immerse yourself in one of the luxuriant whirlpools or release some tensions at the hands of professional masseuses and beauty therapists.

Gornergrat Railway experience

The steep Gornergrat Railway is the highest open-air railway in Europe, offering fantastic sweeping views of Zermatt. After the Riffelberg stop, where there’s an amazing view of the Matterhorn, you can see Monte Rosa and its glacier. Enjoy the breathtaking panorama of the numerous tongues of ice and the Valais.

Zermatt walking tour

The Matterhorn has strongly influenced the development of this old village, which was ‘discovered’ a century ago by the British and launched as a resort in 1855 by the Seilers, a family of hotel-keepers. You can learn more Zermatt history on a private guided tour.

Gorner Gorge walk

The Gorner Gorge, a short walk from Zermatt, is a place of exceptional natural beauty. The wooden walkways leading between the towering cliffs provide a dramatic into the deep chasm. The rock, greenish serpentinite, is about 220 million years old.

The Glacier Express from Zermatt to Andermatt

Board the world-famous Glacier Express train for one of the world’s most panoramic rail journeys. Crossing hundreds of bridges and passing through dozens of tunnels, you’ll undertake the first half of the trip to Andermatt, a journey of a little under four hours, travelling on the Mattertal line and Furka section of the route.

An Alpine night in Andermatt

Enjoy an evening in the Alpine village of Andermatt. The village’s narrow streets are lined with traditional chalets. A short walk into Ursern Valley brings you to the Devil’s Bridge, which spans the sheer Schöllenen Gorge.

Bern and the Bernese Oberland

Lost in the valleys and high Alpine regions of Andermatt, the Chedi Hotel is an opulent oasis of luxury and sophistication.

A unique blend of Japanese and Swiss design, the dark wood and natural stone provide a warm and welcoming getaway from the sheets of snow that decorate the village in the winter, and the perfect place to soak up the beautiful scenery in summer.

Rooms and suites are cosy and warm with soft leather chairs and large bath tubs to sink into at the end of the day. Some of the suites come with private balconies from where you can look out across Andermatt’s iconic peaks.

Culinary treats abound with several dining options available to guests. The Japanese Restaurant prepares authentic sushi, sashimi and tempura while The Chalet serves traditional Swiss fare in a timbered restaurant complete with red and white tablecloths and old posters of Andermatt.

Take a seat in front of the roaring fire and wrap yourself in a blanket in the lounge during winter, or head to the courtyard and enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine in the shadow of Gemsstock Mountain in summer.

After a day exploring the deep gorges and mountain paths, relax with a treatment at the spa, take a dip in the indoor or outdoor pool or let off some steam in the Finnish sauna. There is also a fully equipped gym and the option to take yoga classes or train with a personal trainer.

There are numerous snow activities to get to grips with while in the warmer summer periods there are over 500km worth of hiking routes to tackle. Explore paths that will take you across remote natural treasures, lonely mountain lakes and onto icy peaks.

The Glacier Express from Andermatt to St. Moritz

Enjoy a particularly scenic half of the Glacier Express line, travelling east through the mountains from Andermatt to St. Moritz and crossing the famous Landwasser Viaduct en route on a journey that takes five hours.

The Alpine playground of St. Moritz

With backdrops of forests blanketed in snow and dramatic peaks cutting into cobalt skies, lakeside St. Moritz is as picturesque an Alpine destination as you could imagine. In the eastern Swiss canton of Graubünden, it’s the original Alps playground, attracting royalty for some 150 years. The town is more than equipped to cater for discerning crowds, both in the winter and sun-drenched summers.

A stay at Badrutt’s Palace is all about attention to detail. From personal touches that make guests feel immediately welcome, to fine dining and unmatched class, the hotel is a superb place to revitalise while visiting St Moritz.

Sink into luxurious bubble baths, appreciate high-quality fabrics, charming antiques and Italian marble and admire views of the village and the mountain Corviglia from one of the 157 plush rooms and suites. The Master of Suspense, Alfred Hitchcock, was a frequent guest and the idea for his legendary film The Birds occurred to him while staying in Suite 501.

The hotel’s culinary offerings are as diverse as the décor. Dine at seven restaurants, catch up with friends at three bars and dance the night away at the King’s Club.  Perfect for candlelit dinners, Le Restaurant exudes glamour, and the rustic atmosphere of Chesa Veglia attracts visitors and locals alike.

Stimulate your senses and restore balance at the spa. Dive into the infinity pool and make the most of the Engadin mountain scenery. Health has always been a top priority and the Palace Wellness spa is always evolving to offer the latest treatments. Guests looking for a little sporting adventure can swim, hike, ski, ice-skate or play tennis.

Stand-up paddleboarding lesson

If your visit coincides with warm weather, enjoy a private stand-up paddleboarding lesson on one of the beautiful lakes in the Engadin Valley.

The Bernina Express from St. Moritz to Tirano

One of the most spectacular ways to cross the Alps, the Bernina Express from St. Moritz to Tirano links up regions with different languages and cultures. This wonderfully scenic route is even now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Two nights in Italian-speaking Ticino

Your last stop is the Canton of Ticino , a bright, Italianate place of glamorous lakeside towns and rustic mountain villages, where you’ll explore some of its most scenic valleys and the castles of Bellinzona. Sharing more of its border with Italy than Switzerland, Italian is the only official language in Ticino, and great swathes of culture, culinary tradition and history are shared with neighbouring Lombardy and Piedmont. There are some 4000km of hiking trails snaking out across the mountains, wild swimming in the beautiful Valle Verzasca, boating, mountain biking and rustic villages to discover. The Italian cities of Como and Varese are easily reachable too.

Surrounded by forested mountain slopes and snowy peaks, the Castello del Sole E is found on a 14-hectare estate that boasts beautiful landscaped gardens that roll down towards Lake Maggiore. The original buildings date back to 1532 and it has retained its old-world elegance while offering everything you would expect from a contemporary luxury hotel.

The 78 rooms and suites are spread across the main building and the Locarno and Ascona pavilions. The majority come with views of the park that stretches down to the shores of Lake Maggiore. Some are decorated in warm Mediterranean colours while others are more simplistic in design with exposed stone walls and a monochrome colour scheme.

Dining is a pleasure, with three restaurants offering everything from fine dining to casual meals on the terrace. Enjoy a cocktail or after dinner drink at the bar or in the quaint inner courtyard.

With the mesmerising waters of Lake Maggiore just metres away, guests will no doubt want to explore this watery wonderland. The hotel has its own private beach – a bar and terrace means refreshments are always on hand as well as pedal boats, paddle skis and motorboats if you feel like an aquatic adventure. The small marina adjoins a WWF bird sanctuary, a popular activity for adults and children alike.

There is a spa with a sauna, indoor pool and Jacuzzi for when you want to simply drift away, and for little ones there is plenty to do with a playground, donkey farm and organised treasure hunts.

Ticino valley tour

Enjoy a full-day tour to the region’s most beautiful valleys, such as Valle Bavona, Valle Verzasca and Valle Maggia. Bavona Valley, which branches off from the Maggia Valley, is characterised by its wilderness and rustic villages, while Verzasca runs with incredible clear emerald water and Maggia is dotted with small picturesque stone houses, vineyards and dairy farms.

Bellinzona tour

Historic Bellinzona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site has gone from being a thousand-year-long stronghold defending Tessin to being the canton’s administrative capital. The three castles, two of which – Castelgrande and Castello di Montebello – were once joined by walls that can still be seen, give an idea of the fortified buildings that once protected the city.

Incredible Vacation to Switzerland We worked with Alex to design an amazing two week holiday through spectacular Switzerland. Everything went off without a hitch! All the drivers, instructions, and reservations for hotels, dinners and tours were executed and communicated perfectly. Thank you Jacada! We will be using you for many more adventures to come.

Why book with Jacada

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.

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Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.

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