Montreux to Montreux Christmas Market Adventure

Departure Dates: December 1 – 9, 2024

 

Join us for a Magical Journey through Europe’s Christmas Markets!

Join fellow Montreux members on an unforgettable 8-day tour showcasing the some of the best Christmas Markets in France and Switzerland. This exclusive adventure promises not only enchanting markets, but also deluxe accommodations, exquisite dining experiences, and wonderful Swiss wine tastings.

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as you wander through world-renowned Christmas Markets. From beautifully crafted gifts to mouthwatering delicacies, there’s something for everyone!

Did you know that Switzerland is a major wine producer? Savor the taste of fine Swiss wines and learn about their rich winemaking heritage. With the Swiss being avid wine enthusiasts, you’re in for a treat!

 

Meet your Hosts

Your hosts, Hawley MacLean and Jill Savery, are seasoned travelers with a passion for adventure. Hawley is a travel expert with 30 years of experience and has led groups with Jill to destinations worldwide. Jill, an Olympic Gold Medalist and sustainability advocate, brings a unique perspective to the journey.  As a Team, they’ve been taking groups on Adventures together for many years.

 

Inclusive Package

This Adventure includes deluxe accommodations, daily breakfasts, gourmet dinners, rail tickets, and airline ticketing service. The price is $8,650 per person, based on double occupancy. Gratuities, most alcohol/drinks, most lunches, incidentals and airline tickets are not included.

Secure your spot with a $2,500 non-refundable deposit per person. 

While the trip is nonrefundable, you have the option to transfer your reservation to another person.

 

SPECIAL OFFER
Book early and save!
Pay in full by May 15th and enjoy a $250 discount per person.

 

Embark on this extraordinary journey and create lasting memories with Montreux.
Join us as we explore the magic of Christmas Markets and indulge in the festive spirit of the season. 

Reserve your spot today!

 

 

Day 1: Zurich, Switzerland

Monday, December 2, 2024
  • Arrive in Zurich, Switzerland
  • Check in at the Storchen Hotel

On arrival at the Zurich Airport, you will be greeted by a private transfer to the Storchen Hotel, a prestigious five-star hotel located in the heart of Zurich. Situated along the picturesque river Limmat, the hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Zurich’s most iconic landmarks, including Paradeplatz, Bahnhofstrasse, the Fraumünster church with its renowned Chagall windows, the Opera House, and the Tonhalle Concert Hall.


Highlights

 

  • Private transfer from Zurich Airport to the Storchen
  • Welcome dinner
  • Explore the romantic heart of Zurich, with its charming alleys, squares, and world-class shopping opportunities.

 

 

    

 

Day 2: Zurich

Tuesday, December 3, 2024


Begin the day with a fantastic breakfast in the hotel’s dining room.  Then explore the Zurich Christmas Market, immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere and browsing through the charming stalls offering a variety of gifts, decorations, and local treats. Wander through the historic old town, with its medieval buildings and quaint streets.

Enjoy lunch at your leisure, with the opportunity to sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants or market stalls.

Continue your exploration of the Christmas Market or wander through the historic old town, taking in its medieval architecture and rich history.

We will enjoy a delicious dinner together in the Old Town, savoring the flavors of Swiss cuisine in a charming and historic setting.

   

 

Day 3: Zurich to Strasbourg, France

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

 

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before we depart by First Class rail to Strasbourg, France. 

Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas” (or Capitale de Noel).  It is France’s oldest Christmas Market (from 1570!). Hundreds of wooden holiday chalets line the city squares.  A highlight of the market is the tallest decorated Christmas tree in Europe – a spectacular a sight to see!

Explore the beautiful old town of Strasbourg, the most picturesque district of Strasbourg, with a rich history dating back centuries. Admire the magnificent half-timbered houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, with their sloping roofs and attics where skins once dried.

Enjoy lunch on your own at one of the local eateries, sampling traditional Alsatian cuisine.

Conclude the day with a wonderful dinner with the group, sharing stories and experiences from your experience.

   

 

Day 4: Strasbourg to Colmar, France

Thursday, December 5, 2024

 

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your scenic train journey to Colmar, known as the “Venice of France.”

Explore the world-famous Christmas market in the beautiful old town of Colmar, known for its enchanting atmosphere and festive spirit.  Discover the unique charm of Colmar, with its well-preserved medieval and early Renaissance architecture. Browse through the stalls of the Christmas market, offering a variety of traditional crafts, gifts, and local delicacies.

We’ll enjoy a delicious dinner together, savoring the flavors of the region in a historic setting.   After dinner, take some time to explore the village and soak in the magical holiday spirit of Colmar at night.

       

Day 5: Colmar to Montreux, Switzerland

Friday, December 6, 2024

 

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy one of the most beautiful train routes in the world, winding through the majestic Alps.

We’ll stay at the luxury Hotel Fairmont le Montreux Palace, situated a block from the beautiful shore of Lake Geneva.  

Explore Montreux, known for its Swiss wine, cheese, and chocolate.  Take a stroll along the lakeside promenade, right outside the hotel, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market.

Indulge in a culinary delight together for dinner at Le Palais Oriental, a beautiful restaurant located on the lake, offering a taste of Montreux’s culinary diversity.

   

 

Day 6: Day Trip to Gruyeres

Saturday, December 7, 2024

 

Embark on a day trip to Gruyeres, a charming medieval village dating back to the 13th century, known for its picturesque beauty and world-famous Gruyere cheese.

Enjoy another spectacular train ride, this time through the Swiss mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. 

Visit the La Maison du Gruyère cheese factory and learn about the traditional cheese-making process.

Explore the medieval village of Gruyeres, with its well-preserved architecture and rich history.

Indulge in a traditional Swiss lunch featuring fondue, a local specialty, in a picturesque setting.

Return to Montreux for a unique wine pairing dinner prepared by Jerome Ake Beda, an acclaimed sommelier who has been named Sommelier of the Year and the Official Sommelier of Switzerland. Jerome will curate an exceptional dining experience, showcasing the best of Swiss wines paired with exquisite dishes.

    

 

Day 7: Montreux

Sunday, December 8, 2024

 

Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace, relaxing at the spa or exploring the charming town of Montreux.

  • Optional: Spa Day – Spend the day pampering yourself at the hotel’s spa, indulging in rejuvenating treatments and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
  • Optional: Visit to Lausanne – Take a short train ride to Lausanne, known as the Olympic Capital of the World. Explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, and perhaps visit the Olympic Museum to learn about the history of the Olympic Games.

Gather for a farewell dinner, reflecting on the wonderful memories made during your journey through Europe’s Christmas markets.

 

Day 8: Geneva

Monday, December 9, 2024

 

  • Breakfast at Hotel
  • Train to Geneva Airport
  • Depart to USA