Experience Switzerland's rich cheese heritage devoid of hassles: My reason for embarking on a mini-train excursion tour.
Taking a Shortcut: Vicky Smith's Guided Train Adventure with Intrepid
I chuckle as our guide, Silvia, effortlessly navigates Zurich's main station, tickets to Lucerne in hand. native to Italy but now spending much time in Germany and Switzerland, this woman handles local railway systems like a pro.
Trains are undeniably the best way to explore Switzerland, known for its top-notch transport and breathtaking vistas. But planning this journey can be a challenge for time-strapped travelers, with timetables, routes, and accommodation to consider. That's where companies like Byway come in, helping customers book self-guided train itineraries, and they're seeing great success.
Yet, an even easier option is opting for small-group rail trips like Intrepid's. Not only do you get a knowledgeable guide, but also the chance to meet fellow adventurous travelers. This is what motivated me to try my first European Intrepid trip – ditching the stress of planning in favor of old favorites and new itineraries.
Intrepid's Best of Switzerland: Railing through Switzerland's Highlights
Inspired by the rise in train travel demand, Intrepid recently launched a rail-based collection spanning classic itineraries to new journeys. It was here that I found the Best of Switzerland, offering cheese, chocolate, and unforgettable scenery – pure Swiss bliss!
Switzerland isn't exactlywallet-friendly, and the tour's prices reflect this, starting at €3050. Despite this, my group was a mix of ages, from 60-something Americans to a Aussie in her forties, with a single person younger than me. Age differences rarely mattered, and we all enjoyed the adventure.
Starting Off: Switzerland's Bustling City and Lakeside Lucerne
Our journey begins with an evening welcome meeting and stroll in Zurich, followed by a quick departure the next day. With limited time spent in Zurich during the trip, I agree with Intrepid's advice to arrive early and explore the city's watchmaking, bank, and museum scene.
Next is Lucerne, an hour train ride from Zurich. This charming city never fails to impress with its azure lake, cobblestone streets, frescoed buildings, and mountain backdrop. We spend two days here, including a Golden Round-Trip tour to Mount Pilatus: a steamboat cruise across Lake Lucerne, the world's steepest cogwheel railway, and finally a gondola back down. Though foggy conditions on Pilatus disappoint, our next destination offers clearer skies.
Into the Alps: The Jungfrau Region and "Top of Europe"
Ascending towards Jungfraujoch, 3454 meters above sea level, I experience a mix of picturesque scenery and unexpected fog. The infamous Eiger Express gondola passes through snowy mountains, followed by a journey on the Jungfrau Railway – an engineering marvel – and finally emergence onto the "Top of Europe." Although fog prevented a clear view, Jungfraujoch offers indoor entertainment such as a karst cave and ice palace.
Despite the fickle mountain weather, I come to appreciate our two days of free time in the Jungfrau Region, especially the spectacular Trümmelbach Falls that plunge through rock ravines in a milky-blue roar. The Grindelwald Hotel's wood and mellow lighting and hearty Alpine macaroni are other highlights of our trip.
Taste the Best: Cheese, Chocolate, and Gruyère
After three hours and two train changes from Grindelwald, we arrive in Bulle – a quaint French-speaking town in Switzerland. Our final destination is nearby Gruyère, famous for its cheese.
You guessed it – cheese tasting is the highlight! We also sample artisanal chocolates from Richard Uldry, who sources quality cocoa from places like Peru and São Tomé. Backed by a massive fang-like mountain resembling the Matterhorn, Gruyère is as delectable as its food.
Our Swiss adventure concludes in Bern, home to a UNESCO-listed old town and a 13th-century clock tower. With the tour's end, I reflect on my first-ever guided rail journey. While it was lazier than my usual Europe trips with friends or family, I saved several days of planning, bonded with fellow travelers, and experienced Switzerland's highlights without worry.
If you're considering a multi-stop rail tour without hassle, I highly recommend tours like Intrepid's.
During the tour, we had the opportunity to visit the picturesque town of Gruyère, famous for its cheese and chocolate. (food-and-drink)
This rail-based adventure with Intrepid allowed me to explore Switzerland's highlights while enjoying a unique lifestyle experience, meeting fellow travelers and indulging in food-and-drink delicacies like Gruyère cheese and artisanal chocolates. (lifestyle, food-and-drink, travel)
