Discovering the Best of Switzerland by Rail, Coach & Steamboat September 24 October 6, 2019 Zermatt & the Matterhorn Swiss Glacier Express Lake Lucerne, Switzerland Lake Como, Italy Highlights Lake Como, Bellagio, Italy Lugano Zermatt Glacier Express to St. Moritz Matterhorn, Dom & Weisshorn Bernina Pass to Poschiavo Kleine Scheidegg Grindelwald Jungfraujoch Vitznau Rigi Kulm Glacier Express to Zermatt Alpnach Switzerland Discover this breathtaking country, and venture across mountain passes, through incredible valleys, and across mountain fed lakes. Experience true Swiss culture as we embrace the legends and myths of ancient mountain tales in intimate settings. Glacier Express Pass picturesque landscapes, snow-covered Alpine peaks, quint villages, historic fortresses, and seductive vineyards on board one of the most incredible railways. Looking for the Ultimate European Experience? Begin your Journey with our Amsterdam to Basel River Cruise, September 10 25, 2019 Why do we encourage you to reserve now? As guests introduce their friends to us often, and more guests return every year, our journeys fill very quickly. Reserve Early and Save up to 5%. Ends February 28, 2019 Be the first to know! Join our private email newsletter today! Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 1 of 11
Your 13-Day Journey Day 1 Depart for Zurich, Switzerland Enjoy your private car home pick up service. Guests departing from the Toronto airport are assisted with their check-in. Meet your Journey Manager and fellow guests, and board you flight to Zurich, Switzerland. Our Journey Manager travels with you to take care of all the details throughout the journey, enabling you to concentrate on your experience. Overnight flight Day 2 Zurich Your friendly local guide greets you at the Zurich airport this morning. Enjoy a relaxing drive to Lake Lucerne for lunch before continuing on a scenic drive through Urnerland and the Gotthard Tunnel to Lugano in southern Switzerland. On arrival, relax and unwind before our casual welcome dinner this evening. (L,D) Overnight Lugano, Hotel International Au Lac, 3 nights Day 3 Lugano & Lago Maggiore We depart Lugano this morning for a scenic drive along Lago Maggiore. We continue to Ascona, one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland, and enjoy lunch in the old town. Stroll the avenues in this gorgeous town before returning to Lugano via Monte Ceneri. This evening, board an intimate boat for a lovely dinner cruise on Lago di Lugano. Day 4 Villas of Lago di Como & Lunch in Bellagio, Italy Few places are as romantic as the Lago di Como, and even fewer places as beautiful as Bellagio. Our boat cruise on the lake this morning shows us the most splendid villas, such as Villa Carlotta and perhaps that of Mr. Clooney. Bellagio is the crown jewel of the area, and there is no better way to soak up the atmosphere than with lunch on an intimate terrace. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before walking aboard the local ferry to cross the lake to Menaggio. Our coach joins us, and we return to Lugano. Lago di Como Lago di Como, Italy is not only spectacular but rich in history and tradition. From Milan to the foothills of the Alps, Lago di Como is the heart of Italian romance and history. It has a flair and sense of history that impresses its visitors in a sense deeper than just tourism. It has been appreciated for its beauty and uniqueness since Roman times. Day 5 Over the Mountains & Through the Valleys to St. Moritz An exceptional journey takes us through mountain valleys, along glittering lake shores, and over magnificent mountain passes. Enjoy the spectacular San Bernardino Pass, Mala, Julier Pass and Engadin before arriving in glorious St. Moritz. Our family-owned hotel is centrally located, only minutes to the funicular, and offers us immediate access to all that is St. Moritz. Enjoy lunch at the hotel followed by free time to explore on your own. Overnight St. Moritz, Hotel Schweizerhof, 2 nights Day 6 Over the Bernina Pass & Cable Car to Muottas Muragl Enjoy an incredible day on a memorably breathtaking rail journey over the Bernina Pass to Poschiavo. From Poschiavo, we continue to Muottas Muragl and board the cable car to the restaurant on top for lunch. The views are endless over the lakes of Engadin as we dine on local fare. We return to the hotel for an afternoon and evening at leisure. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 2 of 11
Bernina Pass We cross the Alps on board the Bernina Express and inhale the breathtaking vistas. Ride over graceful viaducts, through switch-back tunnels, along rushing mountain streams, past glaciers and even an alpine garden. Technical buffs will enjoy knowing that the train climbs up to the 2,253-metre high Bernina Pass without the help of a rack-and-pinion mechanism. The entire trip is narrated. Day 7 Glacier Express to Zermatt Today will be a day to remember. We board the world-famous Glacier Express and settle in to our First- Class Panoramic Car for a spectacular rail journey to Zermatt. This world-famous railway travels through some of the most beautiful and breathtaking scenery in Switzerland. This seven-hour trek carries us along the Rhine River, through 91 tunnels, across 291 bridges, and over the Oberalp Pass at its highest altitude of 2,044 metres. The journey's signature structure, the Landwasser Viaduct, is one of the most photographed bridges in Europe due to its enormous yet delicate beauty. Indulge in lunch on board before arriving in Zermatt later this afternoon. A short walk brings us to our hotel. Overnight Zermatt, Hotel Sonne, 2 nights Day 8 Free Time in Zermatt or Excursion to Gornergrat Enjoy a free day in Zermatt to relax, explore, or wander the quaint streets. For those who are a little more adventurous, there will be an optional excursion to the Gornergrat offered today. Revel in a breathtaking drive as we climb 1,500 metres up to the Gornergrat for a spectacular view of over twenty 4,000-metre peaks, including the Matterhorn and the Weisshorn. (B,D) Gornergrat With its sunny viewing platform at an altitude of 3,089 metres above sea level, the Gornergrat has been a top tourist destination in Switzerland for over 100 years. The panorama is considered to be one of the most beautiful: the Monte Rosa Massif with the highest Swiss mountain (the Dufourspitze, 4,634 metres), and a view over the second-largest glacier in the Alps, the Gornergletscher, as well as 29 peaks higher than 4,000 metres. Climb up to the Gornergrat on the highest open-air cogwheel railway in Europe. Journeys by Jerry Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 3 of 11 519.653.3500 1.800.265.8174 www.jerryvandyke.com journeys@jerryvandyke.com
The Glacier Express Regions Setting off from the glamorous holiday village of St. Moritz, we travel to Zermatt, the internationally-renowned ski town at the foot of the Matterhorn. Our journey takes us into the Engadine to Valais and passes through Switzerland s famous Gotthard Pass. The hidden sources of two European giants the Rhone and the Rhine lie here. Landscapes Pass picturesque landscapes, snow-covered Alpine peaks, roaring mountain streams, lush meadows, historic fortresses, craggy cliff faces, picturesque villages, refreshing mountain lakes, quaint hamlets, and seductive vineyards. But enough of poetic words; a trip on board the Glacier Express is simply indescribably beautiful! Mountains They tower majestically into the skies: the Matterhorn, the mountain of all mountains, the Dom, at 4,545 metres, the highest mountain to lie entirely on Swiss soil, the Piz Bernina, as the sole 4,049-metre peak in the eastern Alps, bearing the pride of an entire region. Train travellers are also "mountain climbers." The Glacier Express travels across the Oberalp Pass, which at 2,033 metres, is the highest point of the journey. Swiss National Park/UNESCO The Swiss National Park in the canton of Graubünden was established in 1909 from a private initiative. Animals are not hunted, trees are not felled, and meadows are not cut in the Swiss National Park. It is still the same untouched landscape that people would have encountered five thousand years ago. The World Heritage Committee of UNESCO also conferred "UNESCO World Heritage" status on the "Rhaetian Railway in the Albula/Bernina Landscape" only the third railway in the world to receive such a listing. Animals & Plants A trip on board the Glacier Express is also a journey through unique flora and fauna. Admittedly though, the discovery of Edelweiss and Pinnate-leaved ragwort from the panoramic viewing cars is just as elusive as discovering a marmot, ibex, red deer, golden eagle, or bearded vulture. But it's good to know that the natural world here remains largely intact. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 4 of 11
Day 9 Fairy Tale Scenery We board our train in Zermatt for a relaxing journey to Täsch, where our coach transports us into a fairy tale wonderland through the Canton Wallis to Montreux. Located on Lake Geneva and protected by 2,000-metre mountain peaks, Montreux is famous for its mild climate and subtropical vegetation. Now, prepare yourself for one of the most beautiful rail journeys in Switzerland as we board the narrow-gauge, world-famous Panoramic-Express, part of the Golden Pass Line, and travel through spectacular mountain scenery uphill to the famous resort town of Gstaad. On arrival, a short walk brings us to lunch followed by a bit of free time in this spectacular place. Later this afternoon, a picturesque coach journey takes us through the Simmental to Interlaken and Grindelwald. Overnight Grindelwald, Hotel Schweizerhof, 2 nights Gstaad Interlaken Grindelwald Gstaad Alpine Authenticity Rooted in History The history of the Gstaad holiday region is deeply rooted, and alpine authenticity is one of its trademarks. The local population takes great pride in nurturing its traditions, which include the harsh living conditions high up in the mountains as well as traditional crafts and customs. Interlaken Bernese Oberland Interlaken lies in the Bernese Oberland on an alluvial plain, between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. This vacation destination is presided over by the three mighty mountains: Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau and is the starting point for numerous activities. Grindelwald Bernese Oberland The Eiger village of Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland lies embedded in a welcoming and green hollow, surrounded by a commanding mountainscape with the Eiger north face and the Wetterhorn. This mountainscape, along with the numerous lookout points and activities, make Grindelwald one of the most popular and cosmopolitan holiday and excursion destinations in Switzerland, and the largest ski resort in the Jungfrau region. There are 300 kilometres of walking trails around Grindelwald. The high-altitude walk from Grindelwald first along the Bachalpsee to the Faulhorn mountain hotel and then on to the Schynige Platte ranks among the most beautiful hikes of the region. An easy walk with fantastic views of the three world-famous mountains of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau leads from the Männlichen up onto the Kleine Scheidegg. Day 10 Train to the Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe Discover the ultimate rail journey as we climb high into the Alps to the Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe.' The scenery today is absolutely amazing! On the return trip, we stop in Kleine Scheidegg for lunch amongst some of the most beautiful views in Switzerland. This is sure to be a day full of highlights. Journeys by Jerry Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 5 of 11 519.653.3500 1.800.265.8174 www.jerryvandyke.com journeys@jerryvandyke.com
Jungfraujoch Top of Europe The journey to the Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe at 3,454 metres, is Europe s highest altitude railway station and is the highlight of every visit to Switzerland. It offers visitors a high alpine wonder world of ice, snow and rock, which can be marvelled at from vantage terraces, the Aletsch Glacier, or in the Ice Palace. On clear days, views extend as far as the Vosges Mountains in France and Germany s Black Forest. The train journey to the Jungfraujoch through the rock of the Eiger and Mönch is also an incredible experience. Visitors enjoy stunning views from two intermediate stations, the Eigerwand (Eiger Wall) and Eismeer (Sea of Ice). Day 11 Lauterbrunnen, Interlaken & the Brünig Pass to Lucerne Depart Grindelwald and enjoy the beauty, sights, and sounds of life in the Swiss Alps as we travel to Interlaken for a brief stop. We continue on through breathtaking scenery along the Brienzersee and over the Brünig Pass to Sachseln for lunch. A short drive brings us to the magical city of Lucerne, where our sightseeing walk takes us over the world-famous Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) on our way to our hotel. Overnight Lucerne, Hotel Wilden Mann, 2 nights Brünig Pass This spectacular pass lies above a deep valley high in the Swiss Alps. The famous Golden Line connects Interlaken with Lucerne and passes through the Brünig Pass, literally connecting the high Swiss Alps with the rest of Switzerland. This breathtaking ride on the panoramic train takes us past flower-bedecked, age-old chalets and through mystical landscapes. Kapellbrücke, Lucerne In Lucerne, in central Switzerland, lies one of the most famous bridges in the world Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge). This covered wooden footbridge diagonally spans the Reuss River and creates a beautiful sight. Named after the nearby St. Peter's Chapel, the bridge is unique since it contains a number of interior paintings dating back to the 17 th century. Built during the 14 th century, the Kapellbrücke is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe and the world's oldest surviving truss bridge. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 6 of 11
Day 12 Classic Boat to Vitznau with Cog Railroad to Rigi-Kulm Switzerland is full of mystery, intrigue, and ancient legends. One famous saying amongst the Swiss is that if you have not cruised on Lake Lucerne, you have not lived. Lake Lucerne offers the greatest scenic variety in the entire country. On arrival in Vitznau, an idyllic holiday resort at the foot of the Rigi, we transfer to the Vitznau-Rigi Railway, the world s first rack and pinion railway. Only 30 minutes separate the village on the lakeshore from the Kulm of the Rigi viewing and climbing mountain, 1,300 metres up. It is difficult to imagine how arduous the pathway up the Queen of Mountains must have once been; more affluent guests could afford to have themselves carried up in a sedan chair. Enjoy the incredible views and a tasty lunch before boarding our train to Goldau and returning to Lucerne later this afternoon. This evening, join you fellow guests one last time for our farewell dinner. Lake Lucerne Encircled by popular excursion mountains, Lake Lucerne is the lake with the greatest scenic variety in the country. It is somewhat reminiscent of a fjord landscape, yet remains characterised by a mild lake climate. Boat cruises on board five historic paddlewheel steamers and 15 elegant salon motor vessels count among the highlights of this region. Vitznau Starting Point for Adventure Vitznau lies in an idyllic bay of Lake Lucerne at the foot of the Rigi. This holiday resort in central Switzerland is a popular starting point for numerous excursions around the lake, primarily and naturally, up the famous regional mountain. Rigi-Kulm Queen of Mountains Well over a hundred years ago, countless incorrigible adventurers and romantics, including one Mark Twain, journeyed to Central Switzerland specially to see the legendary sunrise on the spectacular Mount Rigi. Day 13 Home A relaxing, scenic drive brings us to Zurich where we bid auf wiedersehen to our new friends and make our way to the airport for our flight home. Guests arriving at the Toronto airport are greeted and assisted to their private car home. (B) All information contained in this itinerary is correct at time of printing and is subject to the terms and conditions as listed on our web site at www.jerryvandyke.com or available from our office on request. We must reserve the ability to make improvements. Journeys by Jerry Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 7 of 11 519.653.3500 1.800.265.8174 www.jerryvandyke.com journeys@jerryvandyke.com
Early Reservation Bonus Save up to 5%* Ends February 28, 2019 Since we first started our company over 38 years ago, we have been rewarding our guests for reserving early. We call this our Early Reservation Bonus (ERB)! Reserving early avoids disappointment by ensuring first pick of dates, staterooms, and flight options as our journeys do fill up quickly. It also ensures you peace of mind since your fare will note increase*. ERB: Save 5% Reserve prior to the Early Reservation Bonus date and pay 95% of the published fare at time of your reservation by cheque or electronic bank transfer, and we will deduct the remaining 5% off your journey fare. ERB flex: Save 2% Reserve prior to the Early Reservation Bonus date and pay 98% of the published fate at the time of your reservation by Visa, Mastercard, or American Express, and we will deduct the remaining 2% off your journey fare. Should you not take advantage of the Early Reservation Bonus and decide to pay by cheque or electronic bank transfer at time of final payment, we will deduct $200 off your journey fare. Early Reservation Bonus ends February 28, 2019 *All journeys are subject to supplier fuel surcharges and new/increased government fess/taxes, should they arise. Please note: A deposit cheque and a post-dated final payment cheque are not considered payment in full. Final payment date is 120 days (or more, depending on journey) prior to departure. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer, unless noted otherwise. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 8 of 11
Your Journey Includes Outstanding Accommodation Hotel International au Lac, Lugano, 3 nights Hotel Schweizerhof, St. Moritz, 2 nights Hotel Sonne, Zermatt, 2 nights Hotel Schweizerhof, Grindelwald, 2 nights Hotel Wilden Mann, Lucerne, 2 nights Air Travel International flights in economy with Air Canada Toronto to Zurich Zurich to Toronto Guests from across Canada join us. Contact our office for additional air gateways. Discover, Learn, Explore on Included Experiences Evening Dinner Cruise on Lago di Lugano Fairy Tale Coach Journey from Gstaad to Picturesque Boat Cruise from Como to Grindelwald, with Interlaken Bellagio Incredible Rail Journey to the Jungfraujoch Scenic Drive from Lugano to St. Moritz and the Top of Europe Rail Journey over the Bernina Pass The Breathtaking Brünig Pass Famous Glacier Express St. Moritz to Zermatt Vitznau to Rigi-Kulm, Queen of Mountains Necessities Know your total journey cost before you leave home! All taxes incl. HST, PST, VAT Services of a professional Journey Manager Private car home pick up & return service throughout the journey (where available), or a credit or hotel overnight Services of local guides & coach drivers, All fees, train & service charges for the local perspective Gratuities on all included items: Journey Complete pre-trip information & assistance Managers, local sightseeing guides, coach Most meals included: drivers, porters, hotel staff, etc. 11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners Branded overnight carry-on bag or backpack All sightseeing & entrance fees as listed Porterage for one piece of baggage Journey Fares from Toronto Canadian dollars per guest Double/Twin Single $12,450 $13,650 Fuel Surcharges These journey fares include the current known fuel surcharges. Additional supplier fuel surcharges may apply at final payment date. Combine this Journey with our Amsterdam to Basel River Cruise and SAVE! Journeys by Jerry Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 9 of 11 519.653.3500 1.800.265.8174 www.jerryvandyke.com journeys@jerryvandyke.com
Outstanding Accommodation Hotel International au Lac, Lugano This unique hotel boasts 100 years of family operation and is located on the lake promenade in the centre of Lugano. The Old Town is just around the corner, with numerous shops a stone's throw away. One of the most renowned hotels of Lugano, it features a unique exhibition of its 100 year history and is listed by ICOMOS / UNESCO jury as a 'Historic Hotel with Honour'. Hotel Schweizerhof, St. Moritz At the Schweizerhof, a classic yet modern hotel, the art nouveau of the Gründerzeit period blends with modern elegance and restraint. Here, beauty is more than meets the eye, grounded in the natural splendour of the Engadine with a little St. Moritz glitz. It s for those who value the exceptional, yet appreciate the genuine. Hotel Sonne, Zermatt The charming and superior 4-star Hotel Sonne enjoys a quiet location in Zermatt and offers guests fine cuisine, an indoor pool, an outdoor hot tub, and a Roman-style wellness area. The elegantly furnished rooms all have balconies featuring stunning views of the surrounding alpine landscapes. With friendly hospitality and attention to detail, this family-owned hotel offers a familiar ambiance. Hotel Schweizerhof, Grindelwald Hotel Schweizerhof lies at the foot of majestic mountain peaks, within a truly irresistible walking area, and upholds the superb symbiosis of tradition and modern lifestyle. With its beautiful, tastefully furnished rooms, your stay at one of Switzerland s most hospitable hotels will be a very special delight. All guest rooms have views of the Eiger Nordwand. Hotel Wilden Mann, Lucerne Experience comfortable accommodation blended with a warm hospitality and unsurpassed service at the Hotel Wilden Mann. Ideally located in the historical Old Town of Lucerne and only 200 metres from the Kapellbrücke, this hotel boasts 50 well-appointed rooms that are equipped with all the essential amenities to ensure a comfortable and pleasant stay. Journeys by Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 10 of 11
Personal Notes & Questions Journeys by Jerry Van Dyke Cambridge Ontario Canada Page 11 of 11 519.653.3500 1.800.265.8174 www.jerryvandyke.com journeys@jerryvandyke.com