Peaks Of Europe: The Alps To The Dolomites

Postcard-perfect vistas and storybook villages. Rolling hills and the crisp scent of fresh mountain air. There is nothing in this world quite like the Alps. You’re on your way to explore Europe’s iconic peaks and valleys on an invigorating journey through France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria and Italy.

Say bonjour to Chamonix – the perennial ski-hub nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc. Take the afternoon to wander the pedestrian-friendly streets of this quaint town steeped in hundreds of years of history. Tonight, join with new friends and toast to the beginning of your alpine adventure.

Journey to one of France’s most picturesque cities, Annecy – often called the “Venice of the Alps” due to its storybook charm. Join a local guide on a walking tour through an old medieval town featuring canals, crisscrossing bridges, and pastel colored houses. Take advantage of some free time to explore the town’s vibrant outdoor market. This afternoon, we return to Chamonix where the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Today, decide how to explore the legendary Mont Blanc – the birthplace of mountaineering – because it’s your choice! Ascend the Aiguille du Midi by cable car to an elevation of over 12,600 feet (3,842 meters).* This is the closest you can get to the summit of Europe’s tallest peak -OR- relax aboard the Tramway du Mont Blanc rack-railway taking in its vintage charm and the impressive views from the Eagle’s Nest, located 7,782 feet above sea level (2,372 meters). This afternoon, enjoy a stroll through the woods in the bottom of the valley.

*In addition to the high altitude, the Aiguille du Midi choice requires the ability to negotiate 200 steps up/down at the altitude of over 12,600 feet (3,842 meters) above sea level where oxygen levels are scarce.

Bid Chamonix and France adieu and set out for Switzerland. During today’s Impact Moment, learn all about the pups of Barryland, a local foundation that promotes and protects the heritage of the St. Bernard, the official dog of Switzerland. An afternoon train ride on the GoldenPass whisks you through the pastoral Swiss landscape en route to Gtsaad. Check in to your hotel before relaxing over dinner.

Travel through the alpine meadows of the Bernese Oberland, an area renowned for its cheese production. Visit an artisanal creamery producing raclette cheese and taste the local produce during brunch on the farm. This afternoon, head on to Grindelwald, nestled at the base of legendary Mount Eiger. Settle in for a 2-night stay in this charming alpine village. This evening is at leisure.

A short cogwheel train ride brings you to Jungfraujoch (UNESCO), known as the “Top of Europe.” Take your time to explore this eternal winter wonderland with impressive views of the imposing triple peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. Wander the frosty halls of the Ice Palace to see works of icy art carved by local artists or stand next to the Swiss flag to capture your time above it all. Tonight is yours to do as you please.

Before departing Switzerland, spend some time to learn for yourself why the lakeside city of Lucerne is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. Make your way through Liechtenstein, the only country to lie entirely within the Alps on your way to Austria. This evening is yours to relax and to get to know your home in Seefeld for the next 2 nights.

This morning explore the idyllic town of Seefeld in a horse-drawn carriage, pausing to take in the unspoiled beauty of the Tyrolean mountains and forests. Enjoy a free afternoon or elect to cross into Germany on an optional tour of Oberammergau, the world-renowned home of the Passion Play. This Bavarian village of traditionally painted houses comes together every 10 years** to perform a marathon 10-hour folk theatre rendition of the Passion in thanksgiving for escaping the plague of 1633. After visiting the theatre site and town, indulge in homemade Tyrolean cuisine at a local restaurant before returning to Seefeld.

The next Passion Play performance will take place in the year 2030.

Take in the scenery of the spectacular Bavarian Alps en route to enchanting Innsbruck. Walk the charming streets, discover the historic old town, and take in landmarks such as the Golden Roof. Depart Austria for Italy to witness the unique jagged limestone peaks of the Dolomites. Arrive in Brunico, a historic town dating back to the 1200s, and your home for the next two nights.

Journey into the Dolomites (UNESCO) mountain range and discover natural beauty and local traditions. During a walk in the Val Badia valley, learn about the centuries old Ladin culture. Stop at a nearby maso – an alpine farm – for a taste of local Landin fare. After lunch, a cable car ride brings you to Rifugio Lagazuoi*** for a feast of stunning views of the Dolomites. The evening is yours to explore Brunico as you wish.

***The Lagazuoi cable car is closed for annual maintenance between the 2nd weekend of April and the last weekend of May, and again between the 3rd weekend of October and the last weekend of November. During this time, you will enjoy a scenic drive of the Fassa and Badia valleys instead.

Discover the charm of Cortina, a ski town encircled by the scenic backdrop of sky-skimming Dolomite peaks. The rolling hills of Italy’s Prosecco region bring you to a local vineyard where you’ll taste the region’s sparkling specialty. This evening, explore the frescoed halls and grounds of your historic countryside villa before you gather for dinner and toast to new friends, fond memories, and unforgettable scenery.

Your alpine adventure comes to a close today. Today breakfast will be included.