Luxuries of Switzerland & Italy

(11 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Lausanne, Interlaken, Lucerne, Lake Como

This private tour of Switzerland and Italy is an ideal combination of villages, Alpine landscapes, great food, and luxury hotels in Switzerland and a stay in Lake Como at one of Italy's most beautiful 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.

Next, transfer to Interlaken, stopping en route in Bern, the capital of Switzerland, for a private tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Explore the historic architecture and backstreets, and take in views over the rooftops of the historic center from a scenic spot in the hills. Walk along Bern's famous arcaded streets, and opt to stop in upscale shops selling local products. Also visit the Bear Park to see the brown bears that are the symbol of the city. In the summer, perhaps see locals floating down the Aare River, an activity Artisans of Leisure can arrange, upon request.

Continue to Interlaken, the gateway to the dramatic mountain landscapes of the Berner Oberland. One day, enjoy a privately guided excursion high into the Swiss Alps aboard mountain trains, passing through charming villages such as Lauterbrunnen, Wengen and Grindelwald en route to famed Jungfraujoch. Visit the Sphinx observatory platform, and take in spectacular views of enormous glaciers, impressive peaks above and verdant valleys far below. Perhaps also opt for hiking, tubing, sledding or other activities on the snow. Alternatively, take cable cars high up to the Schilthorn—a peak made famous in the James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service—for incredible views of the Jungfrau, Eiger, Monch and other peaks.

Next, stop briefly in Brienz, a village known for wood carving, en route to Lucerne, a picture-perfect Swiss town on the shore of Lake Lucerne. Stay at one of Switzerland's most impressive hotels in a room offering expansive views of the lake and nearby mountains. During private touring with your own guide, explore the highlights of the Old Town. Cross Chapel Bridge, a landmark covered wooden bridge containing paintings of the city history, and walk the cobblestone streets to see the city's tiny squares and painted facades. Also learn about the city's history at the Musegg Wall, a portion of the old city walls, and walk along the tree-lined waterfront. Upon request, also visit museums such as the Kunstmuseum, Rosengart Collection or the Swiss Museum of Transport. Then, enjoy a privately guided scenic excursion in the region. Cruise across beautiful Lake Lucerne, passing lakeside farmhouses and small villages clustered below high peaks. Ride a cog railway up iconic Mount Pilatus for panoramic views over the lake and mountains. Perhaps opt for a lunch of Swiss cuisine at a restaurant on the mountain, take a toboggan run down the slopes, or go for a hike in the fresh mountain air.

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 arrival 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 – Bern – Interlaken Private transfer to hotel for 2 nights, with touring en route Day 5 Interlaken & Berner Oberland Full-day private excursion Day 6 Interlaken – Lucerne Private transfer to hotel for 2 nights, with stops en route Day 7 Lucerne & Mount Pilatus Morning private city tour. Afternoon private excursion Day 8 Lucerne – Lake Como, Italy Private transfer to resort for 3 nights Day 9 Lake Como Half-day private boat excursion Day 10 Lake Como At leisure Day 11 Lake Como – Depart Milan Private airport transfer

Hotels

Lausanne: Beau-Rivage Palace Interlaken: Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa Lucerne: Burgenstock Hotel Lake Como: Villa d'Este

Cost

Upon request