Introduction to Switzerland & Italy

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Lausanne, Zermatt or Gstaad, Lake Como

This private tour of Switzerland and Italy is an ideal combination of beautiful villages, alpine landscapes, great food and luxury hotels.

Begin in Lausanne and the beautiful Lake Geneva region for a stay at the elegant Beau-Rivage Palace—one of the best luxury hotels in Switzerland—among lush parkland on the lakeshore. One day, take a private excursion in the surrounding region to visit Chateau de Chillon, Switzerland's most interesting castle, and the Lavaux wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of 800-year-old terraced vineyards that skirt the edge of Lake Geneva and offer dramatic views of the Alps. Artisans of Leisure will arrange for you to enjoy exclusive activities such as private wine tasting and a private chocolate-making experience at a local confectioner. Another day, enjoy a private excursion to Gruyeres, an atmospheric medieval hill town. During a hands-on cheese workshop, learn about cheese-making and taste local cheeses, including the region's renowned Gruyere cheese. Enjoy reservations for a fondue or raclette lunch at one of our favorite local restaurants. Also visit Chateau de Gruyeres, a medieval castle. Other nearby options include touring a renowned chocolate factory; visiting Chaplin's World, the former house and estate of Charlie Chaplin; exploring the Olympic Museum or the historic center of Lausanne; or spending time at the hotel's excellent spa, restaurants and leisure facilities.

Continue to either Zermatt or Gstaad. In Zermatt, stay at a luxurious hotel with views of the Matterhorn, one of the most iconic mountains in the world. During private scenic touring of the region, take a cog railway up to Gornergrat for classic views of the Matterhorn and enjoy privately guided touring and hiking in the hills around Zermatt. Artisans of Leisure will arrange a lunch reservation at a restaurant with breathtaking views. Also tour the historic wooden buildings in the town center, and visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn about the traditional local lifestyle and the human drama surrounding the majestic mountain that looms over the region. Alternatively, stay in Gstaad, a quintessential Swiss mountain town of wooden chalets surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. Stay at an iconic palace hotel that's the perfect base for day tours into the hills. During leisure time, explore Gstaad's luxury boutiques and excellent restaurants, and take advantage of the extensive facilities at your resort. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange an exclusive private lunch of Swiss specialties in a historic mountain hut with unrivalled views.

End at beautiful Lake Como with a stay at the iconic Villa d'Este. Built in 1568 as a private residence, this neoclassical villa is one of Europe's most acclaimed luxury hotels. While there, enjoy a private boat excursion to Bellagio, one of Lake Como's most picturesque towns, to explore the beautiful backstreets and exquisite gardens, or visit other historic estates and aristocratic villas around the lake. Also enjoy free time to take advantage of the hotel's extensive leisure facilities, including the resort's legendary pool that floats on the lake, beautiful grounds and gardens, and fine dining options. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange a memorable lunch on Isola Comacina, the only island in Lake Como, or a private excursion across the border into nearby Switzerland to spend time in charming Lugano or visit designer shopping outlets.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 Arrive Geneva, Switzerland – Lausanne Private transfer to hotel for 3 nights Day 2 Lausanne & environs Full-day private excursion Day 3 Lausanne & Gruyeres Full-day private excursion Day 4 Lausanne – Zermatt or Gstaad Private transfer to hotel for 2 nights Day 5 Zermatt or Gstaad Half-day private touring and hiking Day 6 Zermatt or Gstaad – Lake Como, Italy Private transfer to resort for 3 nights Day 7 Lake Como Full-day private boat excursion Day 8 Lake Como At leisure Day 9 Lake Como – Depart Milan Private airport transfer

Hotels

Lausanne: Beau-Rivage Palace Zermatt or Gstaad: Mont Cervin Palace (Zermatt) or Gstaad Palace (Gstaad) Lake Como: Villa d'Este

Cost

Upon request