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Switzerland: a summer away from the crowds

Crans-Montana – Wengen – Lake Lucerne

Switzerland:
a summer away from the crowds

Pretty as a picture with a touch of a wild side, the Swiss Alps have quietly worked their way onto the radars of the outdoorsy adventurers and the summer sun chasers.

Their sprawling glassy lakes and tall glaciated mountains swallow up visitors in a wholesome embrace; but for those who want to strike out and go their own way, there are still some places that feel like they have evaded the masses. Take Crans-Montana for example – a hidden gem in these parts, its exclusivity gives the air of knowing a secret only a few are privy to.

Then there’s Wengen, a sleepy village that shines as brightly in the sun’s rays as it does in the twinkle of snow. Lastly, it’s on to popular Lake Lucerne, where the lively streets can be enjoyed for a time before retreating to a quiet hilltop base with a healing spa at its heart.  

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Where you’ll be going

Get to know our favourite spots in Switzerland, from the sunny outlook of Crans-Montana to the serene landscapes surrounding Lake Lucerne.

  • DAY 1 - 3

    Crans-Montana

    Nestled in a south facing position overlooking the Rhône Valley, hidden gem Crans-Montana is the new place to be; known for its long leisurely lunches and sunny outlook. 

    Stay at: Six Senses Crans-Montana

  • DAY 4 - 7

    Wengen

    Sitting on the edge of the Lauterbrunnen Valley, the tranquil Alpine village of Wengen is blessed with unbeatable views of the Jungfrau and Silberhorn.  

    Stay at: Grand Hotel Belevedere
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A taste of what's to come Switzerland: a summer away from the crowds journal

Day 2
Day 4
Day 5
Day 8
Day 11
Day 2
Day 4
Day 5
Day 8
Day 11
  • Ski & Snow, Europe, Switzerland, Crans-Montana, Six Senses Crans-Montana, spa pool

    10am

    Our romantic trip to Switzerland started strong with a delectable meal last night after we arrived at our hotel in Crans-Montana. Now, it’s the first morning and with so many options we’re stuck between relaxing in the spa or heading out to explore. For someone outdoorsy there’s so much to do, from cycling and hiking to attending one of the summer sporting events, but the spa here looks utterly blissful. I think a good dose of both is in order over the next couple of days… I might even book the sunset hike and picnic that was mentioned when we were back home.

    Explore

  • 4:30pm

    Wow what a journey! We’ve just made it to Wengen, and the train ride here was just as stunning as the place itself. We travelled on the Golden Pass Train in the Prestige Class, meaning we not only got to see the views from every angle (it’s not often you get a rotating seat) but we got to enjoy some local cheese and wine along the way.

    Explore

  • 6pm

    We went out to explore Wengen today, it’s such a charming place and so peaceful. After a wander we made our way back to the hotel for our transfer out to a rural village just beyond Interlaken for a slice of tradition – Alpine horn making and a cheese tasting. Tomorrow we’ve got an early start as we head out before the crowds for a private guided trip to the highest train station in Europe, Jungfraujoch, which stands at 3,454m.

    Explore
  • A large mountain by the side of Lake Brienz with a town at its base by the water

    11:45am

    We’re on our way to Lake Lucerne now on yet another scenic rail journey that has taken us past Lake Brienz and over the Brünig Pass. We’ve had a busy couple of days so we’re going to take things slower today and tomorrow, probably to make the most of the hotel’s spa that we’ve heard so much about.

    Explore

  • 3:15pm

    I understand it now, why Lake Lucerne is a firm favourite among those who have been. It all became obvious on the tours yesterday – the first showcasing the city’s beauty from the cutest vintage boat. We then had a closer look on a guided walking tour which ended with a truffle and praline tasting at an amazing chocolate boutique. We’re now back at the hotel after our outing to Mount Pilatus this morning – a picture-perfect way to end the trip.

    Explore
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Where to stay

  • Europe Ski, Switzerland, Six Senses Crans Montana, Exterior
    Six Senses Crans-Montana
    Soaking in the year-round sun at its prime location in Crans-Montana sits Six Senses’ Swiss enclave; ski-in/ski-out access and state-of-the-art relaxation encourage all thrill-seekers to gear up for the tracks that truly matter. Crans-Montana can be somewhat unjustly overlooked. But with Six Senses opening their second ever resort on the slopes, you’d be wrong to ignore just how much it has to offer.
    Six Senses Crans-Montana


Where to stay

  • The lounge area of a lobby with comfy blue chairs set out in front of a large fireplace surrounded by decorative wood panelling
    Grand Hotel Belevedere
    Shouting luxury loud and clear over the quaint village of Wengen, expect an A-star spa, finely finished interiors and even experiences for the culinary curious at this sophisticated Alpine address.
    Explore this hotel


Where to stay

  • The lounge area of a lobby with comfy blue chairs set out in front of a large fireplace surrounded by decorative wood panelling
    Grand Hotel Belevedere
    Shouting luxury loud and clear over the quaint village of Wengen, expect an A-star spa, finely finished interiors and even experiences for the culinary curious at this sophisticated Alpine address.
    Explore this hotel


Where to stay

  • The exterior of Bürgenstock Hotel overlooking a sweeping hill and lake landscape with the sun shining in the background
    Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa Resort
    Cocooned within a peaceful wooded peninsula, wellness and well-being are nurtured at this pioneer of the spa scene. Where a 10,000 square-metre sanctuary houses everything from five pools to private spa suites.
    Explore this hotel


Where to stay

  • The exterior of Bürgenstock Hotel overlooking a sweeping hill and lake landscape with the sun shining in the background
    Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa Resort
    Cocooned within a peaceful wooded peninsula, wellness and well-being are nurtured at this pioneer of the spa scene. Where a 10,000 square-metre sanctuary houses everything from five pools to private spa suites.
    Explore this hotel

Explore all the
places you can stay

  • Ski & Snow, Europe, Switzerland, Crans-Montana, Six Senses Crans-Montana, hammam
    Crans-Montana
    Six Senses Crans-Montana

    Soaking in the year-round sun at its prime location in Crans-Montana sits Six Senses’ Swiss enclave; ski-in/ski-out access and state-of-the-art relaxation encourage all thrill-seekers to gear up for the tracks that truly matter.

    Explore this place
    • Ski & Snow, Europe, Switzerland, Crans Montana, Crans Ambassador, terrace dining with fire
      Crans-Montana
      Crans Ambassador

      Indulge in understated luxury at Crans Ambassador, where sleek interiors place sublime mountain views centre stage. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the great outdoors surrounding Crans-Montana, while you delight in truly exceptional cuisine.

      Explore this place
    • Ski & snow, Switzerland, Pas de l'Ours, Exterior
      Crans-Montana
      Pas de l’Ours

      One of the first hotels to grace the Crans-Montana resort, over a century of hospitality has taught this family-owned chaletesque den how to keep a good table.

      Explore this place
  • The exterior of Bürgenstock Hotel overlooking a sweeping hill and lake landscape with the sun shining in the background
    Swiss summer lakes and mountains
    Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa Resort

    Cocooned within a peaceful wooded peninsula, wellness and well-being are nurtured at this pioneer of the spa scene; a 10,000 square-metre sanctuary houses everything from five pools to private spa suites. 

    Explore this place
  • The lounge area of a lobby with comfy blue chairs set out in front of a large fireplace surrounded by decorative wood panelling
    Swiss summer lakes and mountains
    Grand Hotel Belvedere

    Shouting luxury loud and clear over the quaint village of Wengen, expect an A-star spa, finely finished interiors and even experiences for the culinarily curious at this sophisticated Alpine address. 

    Explore this place

Extraordinary
experiences

    • Take in the scenery on panoramic train journeys

      As one of the most picturesque areas in Europe, the rail journeys through this part of Switzerland obviously have to taken advantage of. Enjoy the luxury of slow travel on the Golden Pass Express from Montreux to Interlaken (complete with rotating seating in the Prestige Class to make the most of the view). And beside Lake Brienz and over the Brünig Pass from Interlaken Ost to Luzern.

    • Embrace some Alpine traditions

      Venturing to the pretty landscapes surrounding Interlaken, enter a world of tradition in two Alpine masterclasses. First, watch a skilled artisan craft a wooden Alpine horn conventionally used by shepherds to communicate high in the hills. Then, indulge in some local delicacies during a cheese tasting. 

    • Cycle the Lauterbrunnen Valley and its waterfalls

      As if breathtaking good looks weren’t enough, the Lauterbrunnen Valley is also blessed with a total of 72 waterfalls. A private cycling tour with an expert guide is the best way to see the valley at its best, passing through verdant forests and lovely villages between stopping off to admire the cascading water – including Europe’s largest subterranean falls.

    • Journey to Jungfraujoch with a private guide

      Affectionately dubbed the Top of Europe, this perfectly perched train station is the highest in the continent. Starting early to beat the crowds, set off on a scenic train journey to the Kleine Scheidegg pass before transferring to a train bound for Jungfraujoch. A pitstop through mountain tunnels makes for a great photo op before arriving at the summit – where the likes of the Ice Palace and views of the Great Aletsch Glacier are highlights.

    • Explore the highlights of Lucerne and its lake

      To get a different perspective of one of Switzerland’s most famous cities, you have to see it from what it’s famous for – its lake. Sail out in a vintage boat to cruise the glassy water to a backdrop of the towering mountains before heading back to land where a walking tour takes in the sights close up. Followed by a delectable tasting in a chocolate boutique.

    • Hike the trails of Mount Pilatus

      Alongside a private guide, venture to new heights on Mount Pilatus. Exploring the likes of Fräkmüntegg and the mountain’s summit itself, beautiful hiking trails take in the scenery and sweeping views of the lake; while transportation like the steepest cogwheel railway in the world makes the ascent a breeze.

Itinerary essentials
  • 11
    NIGHTS
IDEAL TIME
  • May - Oct
    SUMMER SUN
WHEN TO GO
  • 1hr 40min
    LHR - GVA
FLIGHT TIME
  • 5hrs 10min
    BY ROAD
  • 6hrs 45min
    BY RAIL
ALL TRANSFERS
Get in touch your way…
We customise every trip to you and our quotes are bespoke. We’re here to offer advice, recommendations and answer your questions.
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