Winter Adventure in the Swiss Alps - 7 Days

Highlights

• Go sledding, snowshoeing, and scootering around Switzerland in winter
• Ride cable cars to the highest mountain viewpoints in Europe
• Relax in thermal hot springs and sample Swiss fondue
• Hop over to France for a day on the slopes at the massive Les 3 Vallée

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Zürich, Train to Interlaken & Ice Skating

Welcome to Switzerland! Famous for its Alpine peaks and green valleys, this Central European nation is just as beautiful in the snowy winter months—plus, there are more cold-weather adventures to enjoy. You'll arrive in Zürich, the country's financial heart. From the airport, transfer to the station for a two-hour train trip south to Interlaken.

Located in the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland between two turquoise lakes (Thun and Brienz), this picture-postcard town offers a breathtaking backdrop with the towering peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau in the Swiss Alps. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel.

Shortly thereafter, the winter activities begin with a grand spectacle. From the hotel, head into the city center to Ice Magic. Whereas many cities and towns open ice rinks during winter, this attraction tops them all. Open from the middle of December to the end of February, Ice Magic combines five large rinks, all interconnected by ice ramps. So have fun skating from one area to another to your heart's content.

Day 2: Snowshoe & Sled Adventure

You've had some leisurely fun in town; now it's time to visit the countryside and really immerse yourself in the Swiss winter. In the morning, you'll transfer into the mountains outside Interlaken and explore the majesty of the Swiss Alps in style on a full-day snowshoe and sled adventure. Along with a guide, you'll travel by gondola to the mountain hamlet of Sulwald and admire stunning views over the Grindelwald Valley.

There, you'll strap on snowshoes and stomp through the snow-covered forests beneath the soaring Alpine peaks. Later, give your legs a break as you hop on a sled and rush down powdery hills and slopes in the heart of the Swiss Alps. At the end of the afternoon, you'll return to Interlaken.

Day 3: Drive to Zermatt, Gondola to the Matterhorn & Fondue

After breakfast, you'll hop in a rental car and make the 2.5-hour drive south from Interlaken to Zermatt. Located in Switzerland's Pennine Alps, this is yet another idyllic mountain town. Mostly, Zermatt is famous for its views of the nearby Matterhorn peak—an iconic mountain you'll see up close and personal a little while later. For now, check into your hotel and drop off your bags.

A short while later, you'll embark on perhaps the most famous gondola ride in all of Europe: the 40-minute journey up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. At 12,740 feet (3,883 m), this is the highest mountain station on the continent. When you reach the summit, there's a viewing platform where you can enjoy 360-degree panoramas of the surrounding peaks—views you can't find anywhere else in the world.

After some time at the summit, board another cable car for a fun activity that few visitors ever experience: a fondue party in your own private gondola. The classic Swiss fondue is a blend of high-quality cheeses, typically Gruyère and Emmental, served with bite-sized cubes of crusty bread. There will be place settings for up to four guests, during which you and your friends/loved ones can enjoy this national delicacy amid incredible views of the Matterhorn. Later, ride a gondola back down to Zermatt.

Day 4: Day Trip to Leukerbad Hot Springs

The village of Leukerbad, nestled in the Valais region of Switzerland, is home to one of the largest and most renowned hot spring complexes in the Alps: the Leukerbad Therme. This morning, you'll make the hour's drive north from Zermatt to enjoy some pampering in this natural wellness area. The entire region features subterranean geothermal springs that feed many natural pools and baths, which range in temperatures from around 124°F (51°C) to 145°F (63°C).

After a long soak in some pools, you can take advantage of the spa facilities. These include saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas perfect for mind and body rejuvenation. Even better, the experience is complemented with epic views of the surrounding snowy Alps. Later, you'll drive back to Zermatt.

Day 5: Drive to Chamonix (France), Ride the Aiguille du Midi Cable Car

Leave in the morning on a two-hour drive west to Chamonix. Located at the tri-borders of France, Switzerland, and Italy, this charming village is a premier destination for winter sports. This is due to its location at the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe's highest mountain at 15,781 feet (4,810 m). Chamonix draws skiers and snowboarders from around the world, and during the winter months, its colorful town center is transformed into a lively hub of after-ski parties.

However, you're here to enjoy one of the most thrilling mountain experiences in the world. Upon arrival in Chamonix, you'll ride the famous Aiguille du Midi. This cable car will take you on a 20-minute ride from the town center up into the mountains to heights of 12,604 feet (3,842 m). At the top viewing platforms, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the surrounding ranges, including the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. If you're really fearless, you can step into an all-glass viewing box and peer 3,280 feet (1,000 m) down into an abyss (watch your step!). Later, you'll return to your hotel in town.

Day 6: Ski Day in Les 3 Vallée 

It wouldn't be a trip to Chamonix without enjoying some world-class skiing. Rise early and transfer south to France's Tarentaise Valley and Les 3 Vallée. One of the largest ski areas in the world, a full-day pass here gives you access to the resort's 169 lifts and 373 miles (600 km) of tracks. The best part is Les 3 Vallée caters to all skill levels, so everyone from kids to pros will find a run to suit their ability. After a day of carving powder, you'll return to Chamonix.

Day 7: E-Scooter Ride, Transfer to Geneva & Depart

Your time in the Alps may be coming to a close, but there's still time for one more outdoor adventure. In the morning, you'll hop on an e-scooter for a ride in and around Chamonix. Not your average city scooter—this is a souped-up, all-terrain vehicle that can take you from the town to the countryside on land and snow.

After an hour of zipping around and enjoying some serious off-roading fun, you'll trade the scooter for a car. Then make the hour's drive northwest to the airport in Geneva, where you'll catch your flight home. Safe travels!

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