

 | See the best of Switzerland from Lausanne |  |  |  |
|
| Starting out from Lausanne, a wide range of excursions by coach accompanied by a guide is available. The mosaic of the lake and Alps provides an unlimited terrain for exploration, accessible in a few minutes or a few hours. The quality of the many means of communication in the Geneva region, like that of Switzerland as a whole, enables groups to combine a stay in Lausanne with a visit to the country’s classic highlights: the Jungfraujoch and Lucerne by the Golden Pass Line panoramic train, Zermatt and the Matterhorn by coach, Evian and the medieval city of Yvoire by a Belle Epoque boat of the General Navigation company, the Glacier 3000 and its restaurant designed by Mario Botta reached by aerial cableway, to quote just a few examples. The following list is therefore not exhaustive and several of these suggested exhibitions can be combined. Cultural, technical and/or professional visits can also be organised.
| |
DURATION FROM 1 TO 3 HOURS | | | | | | |  | | LAUSANNE CITY TOURIncludes a tour of the whole old town with its wonderful Gothic cathedral dating from the 13th century, the characteristic openair market, the town hall dating from the 16th century, the Federal Courts of Justice and lakeside promenades in Ouchy. Short visit to the Roman ruins in Vidy on the shores of Lake Geneva. | | 2h | | | | | | |  | | LAUSANNE CITY TOUR WITH VINEYARD OR OLYMPIC MUSEUMTour of the wonderful 13th century Gothic cathedral, the old town and its antique shops, the university, the Federal Courts of Justice… followed by an excursion through the famous Lavaux vineyards including a break to taste some wine in a typical winecellar. Souvenir glass. Or, alternatively, a visit to the Olympic Museum. | | 3h | | | | | | |  | | SAUVABELIN OBSERVATION TOWER, LAUSANNEThis 35 meter high monument is built exclusively out of recyclable materials and offers a 360° panoramic view of the Lake Geneva basin. This attraction was built to mark the beginning of our era in the third millennium. | | 1h | | | | | | |  | | CGN CRUISESUnforgettable cruise on Lake Geneva on board a “Belle Epoque” ship to discover the ports and their castles, the hills with their vineyards and the snow-covered peaks of the Swiss and Savoy Alps. Lunch on the ship or at a local restaurant. Min. 20 people, max. 480 people. | | 3h | | | | | | |  | | SWISS NATIONAL MUSEUM IN PRANGINSThe history of Switzerland in the 18th and 19th centuries! Objects, written documents and multimedia facilities convey cultural, political, economic and social aspects of everyday life. Fruit and vegetables of that period are cultivated in the castle's vegetable garden. Min. 20 people / max. 40 people. | | 3h | | | | | |  | | AQUAREL SOLAR POWERED BOATSThe best way of reconciling relaxation and sustainable development: discover the shores of Lake Geneva and its vineyards by taking an excursion in a solar-powered boat; enjoy the finest scenic display that you could imagine under the sun. Up to 70 persons spread between three boats can set sail from the banks of Lake Geneva. An aperitif or even a meal can be served on board. | | 3h | | | | | | |  | | THE GALLEY"La Liberté" – the all new Venetian galley built for the third millennium to enable better exploration of the treasures of Lake Geneva and the countryside surrounding it. This extraordinary vessel, created thanks to the expertise and passion of people today inspired by past traditions, provides an opportunity for individual cruises, theme cruises, celebrations, receptions out of this time… | | 3h | | | | | | |
 |
DURATION 1/2 DAY | | | | | | | |  | | GRUYEREThe picturesque medieval town of Gruyères situated at the top of a hill is dominated by a magnificent 12th century castle (tour optional). Visit to the exhibition cheese dairy and an opportunity to try the famous Swiss Gruyère cheese. This visit can be combined with a film / presentation at the Nestlé chocolate factory. | | | | | | | | |  | | CHOCOLATE TRAINVisitors travel exclusively in first class, in authentic “Belle Epoque” Pullman cars dating from 1915 and/or in a modern panoramic coach. Leaving from Montreux and passing through Gruyères and Broc, discover the home of the famous Gruyères cheese and delicious traditional Swiss milk chocolate. | | | | | | | | |  | | CHILLON CASTLE (CHÂTEAU DE CHILLON) AND MONTREUXThis splendid 12th century castle is superbly situated, not far from Vevey and Montreux, at the foot of steep mountains, on the shores of Lake Geneva facing the Savoy Alps. Optional guided tour of Chillon Castle, which was immortalised by the poet Lord Byron. On the way back, stop in Montreux.
| | | | | | | | |  | | GENEVA INCLUDING A CITY TOURAn exciting excursion which combines a tour and relaxing stroll in this international city. Visit to the United Nations Palace (optional), the Reformation Monument, the University, the Ariana Park and its museums, not to mention the old town with its antiques shops, art galleries and bistros coloured by animated student life. | | | | | | | | |  | | VEVEY - BLONAY - LES PLEIADESThe new astronomy centre at the "Star Train's" (Train des Etoiles) Les Pléiades summit station will surprise even seasoned Planet Park visitors. Timeline, rhythm of the seasons, planet paths, solar system, galaxies and cosmology in general – everybody will find something to add to their knowledge. | | | | | | | | |  | | LA SARRAZ - ROMAINMÔTIERDiscovery of the Vaud countryside consisting of green pastures and forests. Tour of Sarraz Castle, dating from the 11th century. Optional visit to the Horse Museum before continuing to Romainmôtier. The 11th century abbey situated in a woodland valley facing the Jura mountains, is a masterpiece of Swiss Romanesque art. Organ concert on request. | | | | | | | | |  | | UNESCO LAVAUX VINEYARD32 km of pedestrian trails between Lausanne and Montreux. Crossing the different villages in the region, panels along the route tell you the story of the wine-growing industry. This excursion can be combined with the Train des Vignes which takes you through the Vevey vineyard to Chexbres. This unique terraced vineyard was entered on the UNESCO world heritage in 2007. | | | | | | | | |  | | VALLORBE FORTERESSUnique in Switzerland. Built from 1937 to 1941, this typical example of a Swiss Army fortification is now open to the public. Unique opportunity to tour an impressive Swiss Army construction from World War II. Min. 20 people, max. 100 people. | | | | | | | | |  | | AQUAPARC, LE BOUVERETIn this place inspired by the luxurious world of the Caribbean there are three different areas to attract adventure-lovers! "Jungle Land", a world of strong sensations and speed, "Captain Kid's Land", a world of fun for all ages, and "Paradise Land", a world of relaxation and wellbeing. In summer, the park offers a privileged access to a unique sandy beach on the shores of Lake Geneva. | | | | | | | | |  | | BEX SALT MINESYou penetrate into the earth's stony heart…amazing! The Bex salt mines convey the history of salt by showing extraction techniques used from 1684. Lunch or refreshments in an unusual setting. (Not open to visitors in winter). Min. 20 people, max. 150 people. | | | | | | | | |  | | ST-LEONARD SUBTERRANEAN LAKEVisit to the biggest subterranean lake in Europe in a guided rowing boat. Refreshments served at the local cafeteria. An unusual experience (Not open to visitors in winter). Min. 20 people, max. 120 people. | | | | | | | | |  | | ADVENTURE LABYRINTH, EVIONNAZThe biggest permanent labyrinth in the world. Along a three-kilometre-long course, suitable for everybody, you will experience unforgettable moments as you try to find your way amidst over 18 000 thujas! Various possibilities for activities, such as a climbing wall, tunnel, treasure hunt and orienteering make this expedition an ideal day out for groups and incentives (open April to September). Min. 15 people. | | | | | | | | |  | | ECHALLENS, HOUSE OF WHEAT AND BREADDiscovery by train of the biggest cereal cultivating area in Switzerland. From Echallens railway station on foot to the "Maison du Blé et du Pain". In this old farm building dating from 1790, the story from wheat to bread is told on three exhibition levels. You can even work your own dough and take home the 'tresse' (bread resembling a plait) you made! | | | | | | | | |  | | MUSEUM OF THE OLD PAYS D'ENHAUT AND L'ETIVAZ CHEESE CELLARSThe museum of the old Pays-d’Enhaut embodies the memory of a region which was long isolated in its mountain setting. The exhibitions are shown in 15 rooms, some of which are reconstituted versions where you can experience the atmosphere of olden times. L’Etivaz is the first Swiss product to have obtained an appellation of controlled origin (AOC); a visit to the cellars is completed by an aperitif and tasting session. | | | | | | | |
 |
DURATION 1 DAY | | | | | | | |  | | MONTREUX AND THE ROCHERS-DE-NAYE (6,600 FEET)Departure along the road by the lake to Montreux, then by rackrailway up the Rochers-de-Naye. Spectacular view of Lake Geneva and the Swiss and French Alps. Short stop in Montreux on the way back (optional tour of Chillon Castle). | | | | | | | | |  | | LES DIABLERETS AND GSTAAD 3000In the morning travel along the panoramic route via Aigle to Diablerets. Spectacular ascent by cableway to the Diablerets Glacier (10’000 feet). Superb view of the Swiss Alps and their famous peaks, such as the Matterhorn. Optional lunch at the panoramic glacier restaurant designed by the famous Swiss architect Mario Botta. | | | | | | | | |  | | LEYSIN AND KUKLOS RESTAURANT (7’000 FEET)Departure from Lausanne along the motorway in the direction of Aigle, then along the mountain road to Leysin, summer and winter resort in the Vaud Alps, situated on a magnificent sun-terrace. Journey by cablecar up the Berneuse. The revolving "Le Kuklos" restaurant offers a spectacular panoramic view. | | | | | | | | |  | | GSTAAD BY GOLDENPASS – BELLE EPOQUE TRAINBy coach along Lake Geneva to Montreux, then journey on the "GoldenPass Panoramic" on board the "Belle Epoque" train via Château-d'Oex and Saanen to Gstaad. Free time in Gstaad to eat lunch (optional), go shopping and tour this world-famous resort. Return by coach to Lausanne via a different route. | | | | | | | | |  | | LEBAn electric railcar from 1947 has been adapted and transformed into the “Gros-de-Vaud” restaurant train. It can accommodate up to 32 guests. The railcar can be rented to travel between Lausanne and Bercher. On request, the restaurant train can be combined with coaches from the steam rolling stock. | | | | | | | | |  | | EVIAN AND YVOIREExcursion on the lake and discovery of the medieval village of Yvoire, its narrow streets with their historical signs. Stroll along the quayside in Evian, the famous spa town facing Lausanne on the French shore of Lake Geneva. Duration: whole day. Prices on request
| | | | | | | |  | | ZERMATT - GORNERGRATIn the morning journey by coach to Täsch (Valais). From there by rack-railway to Zermatt. An unforgettable experience ... at the foot of the famous Matterhorn. A day you'll remember for the rest of your life! From Zermatt, optional excursion to the Gornergrat. At about 10’000 feet above sea level this magnificent plateau offers an incomparable view of 36 over 13’000 feet high mountain peaks. | | | | | | | | |  | | JUNGFRAUJOCH TOP OF EUROPEThe most famous excursion destination in Switzerland, at an altitude of 3'571 metres. Visitors travel to the highest railway station in Europe by the train which cuts through the very heart of the mountain. Admire the North face of the Eiger, the Ice Sea, the Mönch and the Jungfrau, the Aletsch glacier. The ice palace with its sculptures carved out of the eternal ice, a ride in a sledge drawn by huskies. | | | | | | | | |  | | INTERLAKEN AND SCHILTHORN (8'000 FEET)Via the motorway to Berne and Interlaken: free time and tour (without a guide) of this famous holiday resort. Optional: from Interlaken there is the possibility to go to Stechelberg to catch the cableway to the Schilthorn (Piz Gloria, 8’000 feet) and its revolving restaurant. Lunch optional. | | | | | | | | |  | | LUCERNEFrom there via Brienz and the Brunig Pass to Lucerne situated on Lake Lucerne. Lunch optional. Tour of the city and its most important sights. Return to Lausanne via the Zurich- Berne motorway. Possibility to visit the Museum of Transport or to go to Mount Pilatus and Rigi Kulm. | | | | | | | | |  | | BERNE, UNESCO PATRIMOINETour of this jewel among Swiss cities, unique with its medieval architecture, fountains and bridges, its Gothic cathedral, not to mention the incomparable Clock Tower (Zytglogge). The ancient streets lined with covered arcades and boutiques of all styles reflect the atmosphere of the historic past of the town and the quality of life of today. Lunch optional. Afternoon free for strolling, going shopping, visiting museums etc. | | | | | | | | |  | | JURA – WATCH-MAKING COUNTRY / ROMAINMÔTIERThis excursion includes a visit to the Museum of Musical Boxes in Sainte-Croix where you will have the opportunity to admire a unique collection of mechanical musical instruments. You then continue through the charming Jura region to La Chaux-de-Fonds. Visit to the International Watch Museum which owns a unique collection of works of art. On the way back stop in Romainmôtier. This 11th century abbey situated in a woodland valley facing the Jura mountains is a masterpiece of Swiss Romanesque art. Organ concert on request. | | | | | | | |  | | CHAMONIX - MONT BLANC (FRANCE)Departure along the panoramic motorway above Lake Geneva and Chillon Castle, then along the Rhone Valley to Martigny, where the ascent to the La Forclaz Pass and the French-Swiss border begins. Arrival in Chamonix and free time or optional excursion by funicular, cablecar or rack-railway to the famous Aiguilles du Midi or the Mer de Glace. | | | | | | | | |  | | 3 ALPINE COUNTRIES: SWITZERLAND, ITALY AND FRANCEIn the morning, departure along the panoramic motorway above Lake Geneva and Chillon Castle, then along the Rhone Valley – the orchard of Switzerland – and ascent to the Grand St. Bernard Pass (the place of origin of the famous dogs) and on to the picturesque Aosta Valley (Italy). Lunch stop (optional). Drive through the Mont Blanc tunnel to Chamonix, world-famous French ski resort. | | | | | | | |
 |
|

|