Northern Italy & Switzerland: Dolomites, Venice & Beyond 2026

Wake up, eat a scrumptious breakfast, and get ready for more lakeside adventures. You first travel to elegant Stresa, a resort town on Italy’s Lake Maggiore.

You arrive in the beautiful town of Stresa, back over the Italian border. Here you have the option to take a boat ride to Isola Bella as an enhanced experience. This island sits in Lake Maggiore and offers visitors a chance to wander through gorgeous gardens and admire the exuberant extravagances of a wealthy 17th-century family in Palazzo Borromeo. If you don’t fancy a trip over the water then not to worry! You can spend your free time here as you wish and enjoy wandering among the art deco hotel promenade before finding the perfect spot for lunch on the shoreline.

In the afternoon, you embark on a journey to Sacro Monte of Ghiffa, a breathtaking sanctuary nestled in the hills overlooking Lake Maggiore. This evocative UNESCO World Heritage site comprises of a trinity of stunning chapels set in a luscious nature reserve with views across Lake Maggiore. Enjoy a stroll through the gardens as you ponder its history and soak in the tranquillity of nature.

After a day full of beautiful vistas you travel to Locarno for your second night on the shores of Lake Maggiore, ready for another brilliant evening of food with a view.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Home Hotel Locarno, Locarno (or similar). (B)

We set off early this morning and for good reason! We drive straight into the Alps and your first stop of the day, the alpine town of Santa Maria Maggiore. You have time to grab a coffee and snap a few pictures before taking the winding roads up to the Simplon Pass.

The Simplon Pass is a high mountain pass between the Pennine Alps and the Lepontine Alps in Switzerland. This is a historic location that’s been used as a key route through the Alps by Stone Age dwellers, Romans, and smugglers of the Middle Ages. You make a brief stop here but it’s worthwhile for the views and the incredible photos you will capture. You will also have time to grab a snack and comfort break if required.

Now, it’s time to discover one of the most admired peaks in all of Europe, the Matterhorn. You arrive in Täsch and take a round trip on a train to Zermatt where the views on this journey alone will astound you. Zermatt is the perfect “base camp” for your afternoon. Not just for aspiring mountaineers, you will enjoy the views, the relaxed pace of this car-free ski resort and grab lunch in one of its lively restaurants, all under the watchful gaze of the mountain beyond.

Back on our coach, you travel to Lausanne. Overlooking Lake Geneva, this town is home to the Olympic Museum, grand mountain views, and your bed for the next two nights.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 4* Carlton Hotel Lausanne, Lausanne (or similar). (B)

We set off for the day and wee hope you have an appetite, because your first stop of the day is the home of Gruyère cheese, Gruyères.

You arrive in the town of Gruyères and you may know it from its reputation of course as a mecca for cheese lovers the world over. Those who consider themselves a connoisseur and want to learn more about the centuries old production methods found in the town can opt to visit the cheese museum and maybe partake of a fondue lunch.? But those who might not have the palate for it, do not worry! There is plenty to enjoy about this charming town from the 13th-century hilltop fortress Château de Gruyères to the chocolate factory and the Disneyesque town square and castle. We can’t promise a fairytale but it will be pretty darn close! Opt to enjoy an early lunch here or save your appetite for the next stop on our tour.

You then travel alongside Alpine peaks to Gstaad. This glamourous Alpine village is a favourite hangout spot for ski-loving celebrities. Wander among the glamour and luxury of the village, find a spot to take in a late lunch and see who you can spot! This place is a people watchers dream destination, but we can’t help just take in the views of the surrounding mountains.

On our way to Lausanne, there will be many photo stops on the way. You’ll understand why with such a picturesque drive. Near Montreux, you have the option to visit inside Chillon Castle, an unbelievably idyllic stronghold that deserves its claim as Switzerland’s most visited castle. You arrive back in Lausanne in time for dinner.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 4* Carlton Hotel Lausanne, Lausanne (or similar). (B)

You head out this morning after enjoying your final night in Lausanne but ready for more. The valley of 72 waterfalls, an outdoor pursuits paradise, and your first stop today.

Lauterbrunnen is a village that packs a punch. Set in a valley with a backdrop of the 300m-­high Staubbach Falls, such a setting is something to be seen to be believed. In fact this is the place that in 1911, inspired the fantastical landscape of JRR Tolkien’s Elvish city of Rivendell in his Lord of the Rings novels. You have the day to enjoy as you wish and your driver should be able to help you plan your day ahead.

Those that wish to journey on your driver can help you plan rail tickets to further villages and even Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest altitude rail station considered the ‘Top of Europe’ where you will struggle to find such impactful vistas anywhere else on earth.

Once you’ve gratified your senses with Lauterbrunnen’s imposing mountain views and pastoral Swiss splendours, you travel to Interlaken. This small resort town, nestled snug between the mountains, is your home for the evening.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Hotel Weisses Kreuz, Interlaken (or similar). (B)

You leave Interlaken and head through the bucolic landscape of the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch. Stroll through typical sound-of-music style scenes of cows chomping through fields of green grass and admire sublime views.

Nature may rejuvenate the senses, but it doesn’t fill your belly; so your guide will find you a great place for a lunch break today and we will head there mid morning. We’ll continue to explore this wonderful area, making little stops here and there depending on the group and day, perhaps the historic town of Altdorf – we like to stay flexible!

You then descend from the heights of the Alps to Bellinzona. Since Roman times, grand castles, now UNESCO heritage sites, have stoically guarded the access to northern Italy. You have the choice here to visit the castles or relax in the town for a free afternoon.

After an impressive 6 days,  you finish the first leg of the tour and arrive in Milan.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 4* Hotel AC SESTO, Milan (or similar). (B)

This is the end of the first leg of your tour so say goodbye to your group and get ready for a free day in Milan exploring on your own. You will join the second leg of the tour on day 8.

In Milan, life revolves around art, fashion, and delicious cuisine, so make sure to indulge in them on your free day. If you’re a big city lover, you will thrive on this paradise for art and history lovers. Even if big cities aren’t your favourite thing, you might be surprised by how an aimless stroll around some of Milan’s quieter streets might lead you to hidden gems, like the pink flamingos of Villa Invernizzi or the House of the Omenoni.

Please note: This is a free day for you to explore the city at your own pace and there will not be a guide on hand. The second part of the tour begins tomorrow (day 8) – please see tomorrow for more details.

As the day continues, the city expands out around you. When it comes to art, seeing da Vinci’s Last Supper is a must. This enigmatic piece of work attracts many visitors, so book your tickets in advance. Or perhaps you’re less about art and more about architecture, which means you can’t miss the Duomo, Milan’s most magnificent cathedral. This tremendous tribute to Gothic architecture is one of the biggest churches in Italy and will mesmerize you with its intricate design.

There’s no need to convince you to refuel – you’re in Italy, after all. What we love about Italy is that everywhere you go there will be unique dishes waiting to be served. In Milan, how about some Risotto alla Milanese, the simplicity of its ingredients giving it a refined flavour. And you might be tempted to share a platter of Mondeghili (meatballs), another Milanese dish that will tickle the palate. Don’t fret because you still have hours left in the day. And in a city obsessed with fashion, even window shopping feels like a unique experience. Visit the flamboyant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or Quadrilatero della Moda, the home of the most luxurious brands.

As evening sets in, you might follow in the footsteps of Milanese and partake in aperitivo, the pre-dinner ritual traditionally held anywhere between 5pm and 8pm. Drinks, snacks, and conversation? Given all you’ve seen today, that should be easy. Savour that moment of relaxation after the day and get ready for the next stage of your journey.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 4* Hotel AC SESTO, Milan (or similar). (B)

You meet the new driver-guide and other intrepid travellers in the hotel lobby at 8:15am to begin the second part of the tour.

Don’t get us wrong, we adore Milan. But we’re taking you away from it for now for a very good reason: Lake Garda. Here, the rugged mountains, shimmering ice blue waters, and enchanting villages come together in harmony, creating one of the most-photographed landscapes in the counry. And once you arrive, you’ll understand why…

We stop at the charming town of Peschiera del Garda, with its cobblestone streets, scenic canals, and historical fortifications. Nestled at the southern tip of Lake Garda, this picturesque town invites you to explore its ancient walls, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, or an exciting boat ride. You’ll also have time to try some local specialties all while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

Next, you travel to the place steeped in romance and tragedy where you can trace the footsteps of star-crossed lovers; Verona.

Verona; richly coloured buildings and decadent marbles, luscious flora on quiet streets, neatly hidden cafes and restaurants. The architecture of this city can only be described as romantic. You have free time here to reminisce about past lovers at the famous Juliet’s Balcony, where the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet comes alive. More fascinated by the Ancient Rome? Admire the grandeur of the Arena di Verona, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres still in use today. Or just simply wander leisurely through the ancient piazzas, each offering its own unique charm and still echoing with history.

You then venture to the floating city of Venice, one of the most striking destinations in Italy and your home for the next two nights.

There’s something unique about Venice at night. The island clears, the hubbub settles, and Venice’s ghost stories whisper along the canal’s streets.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3* Hotel La Fenice et Des Artistes (or similar), Venice. (B)

With its wealth, trade, and power; Venice has always been bold. Trust us, you’ll need at least a full day in Venice. We wish we could give you more, and, as there will be so much for you to choose from, we recommend making a list before you go. You enjoy an included two-hour guided walking tour of the city and then it’s up to you what you explore next. From people-watching in Piazza San Marco to frequenting the famous galleries, you have the whole day and night in Venice.

177 canals, 350 gondoliers, and the most idiosyncratic cityscapes in the world: Venice, ‘the Floating City’, is your home for the day. It’s been built on over 118 islands and hosts one of the most famous festivals in the world. Why not try a gondola ride yourself, gliding along the serene canals as you take in the stunning views of the Grand Canal and picturesque bridges?

The labyrinth of Venice is part of its charm. Never knowing where you might end up or how many bridges are between you and your destination, but what’s certain is that every turn, every nook and cranny, every cracked facade holds surprises and stories and memories you will remember for a long time. The magic of Venice lies in the surprises that wait around every corner. Maybe you’ll stumble into a restaurant for one of the best Italian meals you’ve had. Perhaps you’ll step back in the refurbished 17th century pharmacy that now sells luxury perfumes. Maybe you’ll stand quietly in the crypt of a humble Venetian church, hugged by the cool air as you ponder its history.

As the day comes to an end, the day travellers depart the city, clearing out its streets and restaurants, leaving you to savour the eerie beauty of The Floating City.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3* Hotel La Fenice et Des Artistes (or similar), Venice. (B)

Say goodbye to Venice because it’s the traditional flavours of Italy for you to explore today. First stop, Valdobbiadene.

Visiting Valdobbiadene is like stepping into a living postcard, where the rolling hills and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. This land is home to the best prosecco and belongs to a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, recognized for its centuries-old winemaking tradition. You have the option of an exclusive tasting here.

Alternatively, you can explore the town and wander through charming streets and quaint squares.

After the sweet indulgence of Valdobbiadene, now it’s time for your first taste of the Dolomites – the beautiful village of Mel. Nestled in the foothills of the mountains, Mel’s historic centre is a maze of charming, cobbled streets and quaint squares. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to sample authentic Venetian cuisine for lunch, but don’t fill up too much as you’ll want to save some room for dessert at your next stop.

Your guide will show you their favourite spot for gelato in the Belluno province.

Your final stop for the day is the charming mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as “the Queen of the Dolomites”. Famous for winter sports, scenic hiking trails and glamourous town centre, Cortina d’Ampezzo will host the Winter Olympics in 2026.

As you arrive, the crisp alpine air invigorates your senses, and the panoramic vistas of ruggedd mountains stir a profound sense of awe. Now it’s up to you how you decide to spend your evening here

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo. (B)

Cameras ready because today, you’ll be treated to some breath-taking views of the Dolomites, a mountain range that captivates with its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.

Our first stop is Tofana-Freccia nel Cielo where you’ll have the chance to take a cable car ride up the Tofane mountains known for their sheer cliffs, dramatic spires, and deep valleys. Here you can either enjoy a short hike or simply relax and take in the views on the terrace.

After lunch at a spot recommended by your guide, we continue our journey deeper into the Dolomites along the scenic Cortina d’Ampezzo circular drive. We’ll start at the Tre Cine di Lavaredo, a viewpoint where you can admire a trio of towering peaks that have become symbols of the Dolomites.

Then we’ll head to the ‘Pearl of the Dolomites’ – Misurina, where you can take a walk along the stunning alpine lake shimmering with reflections of the surrounding peaks.

Hopefully you won’t be too worn out after breathing in all that fresh mountain air, as this is your second free evening in Cortina d’Ampezzo to explore the glamorours mountain resort.

As the sun sets behind the towering peaks, wander the streets in search of restaurants serving local cuisine or try star gazing at a local observatory.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo. (B)

This morning takes us to the heart of the Dolomites – the Pordoi Pass – nestled between two mountain ranges and offering unrivalled views.

You’ll venture on the Sass Pordoi cable car, taking you an impressive 2,950 metres above sea level to the simmit of the Sass Pordoi mountain as you admire the lush green valleys and rocky ridges of the Dolomites from above. Once your each the top you can enjoy a short hike, or enjoy breath-taking views of Piz Boe – the highest mountain of the Sella group – from the terrace.

From the highs of the mountains to the depths of the valleys, you’ll journey to Val di Fiemme this afternoon – an area famed for its eco-certified spruce forests. Wood from these forests is used to craft string instruments and legend has it that Stardivari himself used to wander the forests in search of the perfect wood for his instruments. Your guide will show you the area’s picturesque towns and can recommend even more hiking routes.

Next it’s on to our final overnight stop, Trento, a lively city with plenty of Alpine charm.

When you arrive, the first place to visit is Piazza Duomo, the heart of the city. As soon as you are there, stop beneath the fountain of Neptune, and take a look around: on one side the mountains, with the small Sardagna waterfall, on the other towers and castellated palaces, which whisk you back to the times of the famous Council of Trent in the blink of an eye. This is the best way to introduce you, in one sweeping gaze, to the two souls of the city.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Trento. (B)

It’s time to say goodbye to the Dolomites, but don’t worry, there are still plenty of Italian treasures to uncover before we arrive back in Milan. First stop, the magnificent Castello del Buonconsiglio.

This imposing castle began life as a fortress in the mid-13th century before becoming the residence of the Prince-bishops of Trento until the Napoleonic era and even later being used as a barracks. Today it is an important museum housing numerous collections of art and archaeology.

After exploring the castle, we travel to Bardolino for a last glance at Lake Garda.

We’ll make one last stop at Lake Garda, visiting the picturesque village of Bardolino. Famous for its olive oil, you can enjoy an olive oil experience here or enjoy a lakeside walk and lunch on the waterfront. Our final stop is the charming hilltop city of Bergamo – one of Lombardy’s hidden gems! The city’s impressive old town is located at the top of a very steep hill offering stunning views across the city. Our tip: take the funicular to the top! There’s plenty of ways to spend an afternoon in Bergamo from admiring the 15th Century Renaissance Cappella Colleoni, exploring the ornate Bergamo Cathedral or simply people-watching in one of the city’s many lively squares.

After six memorable days, you return back to Milan. (B)

With its wealth, trade, and power; Venice has always been bold. Trust us, you’ll need at least a full day in Venice. We wish we could give you more, and, as there will be so much for you to choose from, we recommend making a list before you go. You enjoy an included two-hour guided walking tour of the city and then it’s up to you what you explore next. From people-watching in Piazza San Marco to frequenting the famous galleries, you have the whole day and night in Venice.

177 canals, 350 gondoliers, and the most idiosyncratic cityscapes in the world: Venice, ‘the Floating City’, is your home for the day. It’s been built on over 118 islands and hosts one of the most famous festivals in the world. Why not try a gondola ride yourself, gliding along the serene canals as you take in the stunning views of the Grand Canal and picturesque bridges?

The labyrinth of Venice is part of its charm. Never knowing where you might end up or how many bridges are between you and your destination, but what’s certain is that every turn, every nook and cranny, every cracked facade holds surprises and stories and memories you will remember for a long time. The magic of Venice lies in the surprises that wait around every corner. Maybe you’ll stumble into a restaurant for one of the best Italian meals you’ve had. Perhaps you’ll step back in the refurbished 17th century pharmacy that now sells luxury perfumes. Maybe you’ll stand quietly in the crypt of a humble Venetian church, hugged by the cool air as you ponder its history.

As the day comes to an end, the day travellers depart the city, clearing out its streets and restaurants, leaving you to savour the eerie beauty of The Floating City.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3* Hotel La Fenice et Des Artistes (or similar), Venice. (B)

Say goodbye to Venice because it’s the traditional flavours of Italy for you to explore today. First stop, Valdobbiadene.

Visiting Valdobbiadene is like stepping into a living postcard, where the rolling hills and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. This land is home to the best prosecco and belongs to a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, recognized for its centuries-old winemaking tradition. You have the option of an exclusive tasting here.

Alternatively, you can explore the town and wander through charming streets and quaint squares.

After the sweet indulgence of Valdobbiadene, now it’s time for your first taste of the Dolomites – the beautiful village of Mel. Nestled in the foothills of the mountains, Mel’s historic centre is a maze of charming, cobbled streets and quaint squares. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to sample authentic Venetian cuisine for lunch, but don’t fill up too much as you’ll want to save some room for dessert at your next stop.

Your guide will show you their favourite spot for gelato in the Belluno province.

Your final stop for the day is the charming mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as “the Queen of the Dolomites”. Famous for winter sports, scenic hiking trails and glamourous town centre, Cortina d’Ampezzo will host the Winter Olympics in 2026.

As you arrive, the crisp alpine air invigorates your senses, and the panoramic vistas of ruggedd mountains stir a profound sense of awe. Now it’s up to you how you decide to spend your evening here

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo. (B)

Cameras ready because today, you’ll be treated to some breath-taking views of the Dolomites, a mountain range that captivates with its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.

Our first stop is Tofana-Freccia nel Cielo where you’ll have the chance to take a cable car ride up the Tofane mountains known for their sheer cliffs, dramatic spires, and deep valleys. Here you can either enjoy a short hike or simply relax and take in the views on the terrace.

After lunch at a spot recommended by your guide, we continue our journey deeper into the Dolomites along the scenic Cortina d’Ampezzo circular drive. We’ll start at the Tre Cine di Lavaredo, a viewpoint where you can admire a trio of towering peaks that have become symbols of the Dolomites.

Then we’ll head to the ‘Pearl of the Dolomites’ – Misurina, where you can take a walk along the stunning alpine lake shimmering with reflections of the surrounding peaks.

Hopefully you won’t be too worn out after breathing in all that fresh mountain air, as this is your second free evening in Cortina d’Ampezzo to explore the glamorours mountain resort.

As the sun sets behind the towering peaks, wander the streets in search of restaurants serving local cuisine or try star gazing at a local observatory.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Cortina d’Ampezzo. (B)

This morning takes us to the heart of the Dolomites – the Pordoi Pass – nestled between two mountain ranges and offering unrivalled views.

You’ll venture on the Sass Pordoi cable car, taking you an impressive 2,950 metres above sea level to the simmit of the Sass Pordoi mountain as you admire the lush green valleys and rocky ridges of the Dolomites from above. Once your each the top you can enjoy a short hike, or enjoy breath-taking views of Piz Boe – the highest mountain of the Sella group – from the terrace.

From the highs of the mountains to the depths of the valleys, you’ll journey to Val di Fiemme this afternoon – an area famed for its eco-certified spruce forests. Wood from these forests is used to craft string instruments and legend has it that Stardivari himself used to wander the forests in search of the perfect wood for his instruments. Your guide will show you the area’s picturesque towns and can recommend even more hiking routes.

Next it’s on to our final overnight stop, Trento, a lively city with plenty of Alpine charm.

When you arrive, the first place to visit is Piazza Duomo, the heart of the city. As soon as you are there, stop beneath the fountain of Neptune, and take a look around: on one side the mountains, with the small Sardagna waterfall, on the other towers and castellated palaces, which whisk you back to the times of the famous Council of Trent in the blink of an eye. This is the best way to introduce you, in one sweeping gaze, to the two souls of the city.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 3/4* hotel in Trento. (B)

It’s time to say goodbye to the Dolomites, but don’t worry, there are still plenty of Italian treasures to uncover before we arrive back in Milan. First stop, the magnificent Castello del Buonconsiglio.

This imposing castle began life as a fortress in the mid-13th century before becoming the residence of the Prince-bishops of Trento until the Napoleonic era and even later being used as a barracks. Today it is an important museum housing numerous collections of art and archaeology.

After exploring the castle, we travel to Bardolino for a last glance at Lake Garda.

We’ll make one last stop at Lake Garda, visiting the picturesque village of Bardolino. Famous for its olive oil, you can enjoy an olive oil experience here or enjoy a lakeside walk and lunch on the waterfront. Our final stop is the charming hilltop city of Bergamo – one of Lombardy’s hidden gems! The city’s impressive old town is located at the top of a very steep hill offering stunning views across the city. Our tip: take the funicular to the top! There’s plenty of ways to spend an afternoon in Bergamo from admiring the 15th Century Renaissance Cappella Colleoni, exploring the ornate Bergamo Cathedral or simply people-watching in one of the city’s many lively squares.

After six memorable days, you finish the first leg of the tour and arrive in Milan.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 4* Hotel AC SESTO, Milan (or similar). (B)

This is the end of the first leg of your tour so say goodbye to your group and get ready for a free day in Milan exploring on your own. You will join the second leg of the tour on day 8.

In Milan, life revolves around art, fashion, and delicious cuisine, so make sure to indulge in them on your free day. If you’re a big city lover, you will thrive on this paradise for art and history lovers. Even if big cities aren’t your favourite thing, you might be surprised by how an aimless stroll around some of Milan’s quieter streets might lead you to hidden gems, like the pink flamingos of Villa Invernizzi or the House of the Omenoni.

Please note: This is a free day for you to explore the city at your own pace and there will not be a guide on hand. The second part of the tour begins tomorrow (day 8) – please see tomorrow for more details.

As the day continues, the city expands out around you. When it comes to art, seeing da Vinci’s Last Supper is a must. This enigmatic piece of work attracts many visitors, so book your tickets in advance. Or perhaps you’re less about art and more about architecture, which means you can’t miss the Duomo, Milan’s most magnificent cathedral. This tremendous tribute to Gothic architecture is one of the biggest churches in Italy and will mesmerize you with its intricate design.

There’s no need to convince you to refuel – you’re in Italy, after all. What we love about Italy is that everywhere you go there will be unique dishes waiting to be served. In Milan, how about some Risotto alla Milanese, the simplicity of its ingredients giving it a refined flavour. And you might be tempted to share a platter of Mondeghili (meatballs), another Milanese dish that will tickle the palate. Don’t fret because you still have hours left in the day. And in a city obsessed with fashion, even window shopping feels like a unique experience. Visit the flamboyant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or Quadrilatero della Moda, the home of the most luxurious brands.

As evening sets in, you might follow in the footsteps of Milanese and partake in aperitivo, the pre-dinner ritual traditionally held anywhere between 5pm and 8pm. Drinks, snacks, and conversation? Given all you’ve seen today, that should be easy. Savour that moment of relaxation after the day and get ready for the next stage of your journey.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 4* Hotel AC SESTO, Milan (or similar). (B)

You meet the new driver-guide and other intrepid travellers in the hotel lobby at 8:15am to begin the second part of the tour.

You travel directly from the metropolis of Milan to Lake Como, the most stunning lake in the region. Framed by the Rhaetian Alps, this Italian slice of heaven’s crystal-clear waters seduced the most famous writers of the 18th and 19th centuries. You may even recognise its sparkling waters from James Bond’s Casino Royale (2006).

Admire the mountainous vistas and colourful villas from the unique perspective of the water, as you hop on a leisurely boat trip across to the small Italian village of Lenno. Your boat trip is included in your tour price.

Once you’re on dry land, you’ll have a few hours free to enjoy the charms of Lenno. A walk through town and along the seaside promenade boasts an 11th-century octagonal baptistry, a Romanesque-style crypt, and enough lovely lakeside views to last a lifetime all the way across to Bellagio. Make sure to take a break and enjoy what might be one of the most picturesque lunches of your life before we head back out on the road. We have so much more to see!

You then cross the border into Switzerland and visit Lugano. You have a couple of hours here to explore however you please. People watch over a coffee in Piazza della Riforma, pour over the frescos at the Church of S. Maria degli Angioli, or feast your eyes on more waterside scenes on the shores of Lake Lugano. You travel to the quaint and cultural town of Locarno for your evening and overnight stay.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Home Hotel Locarno, Locarno (or similar).

Wake up, eat a scrumptious breakfast, and get ready for more lakeside adventures. You first travel to elegant Stresa, a resort town on Italy’s Lake Maggiore.

You arrive in the beautiful town of Stresa, back over the Italian border. Here you have the option to take a boat ride to Isola Bella as an enhanced experience. This island sits in Lake Maggiore and offers visitors a chance to wander through gorgeous gardens and admire the exuberant extravagances of a wealthy 17th-century family in Palazzo Borromeo. If you don’t fancy a trip over the water then not to worry! You can spend your free time here as you wish and enjoy wandering among the art deco hotel promenade before finding the perfect spot for lunch on the shoreline.

In the afternoon, you embark on a journey to Sacro Monte of Ghiffa, a breathtaking sanctuary nestled in the hills overlooking Lake Maggiore. This evocative UNESCO World Heritage site comprises of a trinity of stunning chapels set in a luscious nature reserve with views across Lake Maggiore. Enjoy a stroll through the gardens as you ponder its history and soak in the tranquillity of nature.

After a day full of beautiful vistas you travel to Locarno for your second night on the shores of Lake Maggiore, ready for another brilliant evening of food with a view.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Home Hotel Locarno, Locarno (or similar). (B)

We set off early this morning and for good reason! We drive straight into the Alps and your first stop of the day, the alpine town of Santa Maria Maggiore. You have time to grab a coffee and snap a few pictures before taking the winding roads up to the Simplon Pass.

The Simplon Pass is a high mountain pass between the Pennine Alps and the Lepontine Alps in Switzerland. This is a historic location that’s been used as a key route through the Alps by Stone Age dwellers, Romans, and smugglers of the Middle Ages. You make a brief stop here but it’s worthwhile for the views and the incredible photos you will capture. You will also have time to grab a snack and comfort break if required.

Now, it’s time to discover one of the most admired peaks in all of Europe, the Matterhorn. You arrive in Täsch and take a round trip on a train to Zermatt where the views on this journey alone will astound you. Zermatt is the perfect “base camp” for your afternoon. Not just for aspiring mountaineers, you will enjoy the views, the relaxed pace of this car-free ski resort and grab lunch in one of its lively restaurants, all under the watchful gaze of the mountain beyond.

Back on our coach, you travel to Lausanne. Overlooking Lake Geneva, this town is home to the Olympic Museum, grand mountain views, and your bed for the next two nights.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 4* Carlton Hotel Lausanne, Lausanne (or similar). (B)

We set off for the day and wee hope you have an appetite, because your first stop of the day is the home of Gruyère cheese, Gruyères.

You arrive in the town of Gruyères and you may know it from its reputation of course as a mecca for cheese lovers the world over. Those who consider themselves a connoisseur and want to learn more about the centuries old production methods found in the town can opt to visit the cheese museum and maybe partake of a fondue lunch.? But those who might not have the palate for it, do not worry! There is plenty to enjoy about this charming town from the 13th-century hilltop fortress Château de Gruyères to the chocolate factory and the Disneyesque town square and castle. We can’t promise a fairytale but it will be pretty darn close! Opt to enjoy an early lunch here or save your appetite for the next stop on our tour.

You then travel alongside Alpine peaks to Gstaad. This glamourous Alpine village is a favourite hangout spot for ski-loving celebrities. Wander among the glamour and luxury of the village, find a spot to take in a late lunch and see who you can spot! This place is a people watchers dream destination, but we can’t help just take in the views of the surrounding mountains.

On our way to Lausanne, there will be many photo stops on the way. You’ll understand why with such a picturesque drive. Near Montreux, you have the option to visit inside Chillon Castle, an unbelievably idyllic stronghold that deserves its claim as Switzerland’s most visited castle. You arrive back in Lausanne in time for dinner.

Your overnight accommodation will be in 4* Carlton Hotel Lausanne, Lausanne (or similar). (B)

You head out this morning after enjoying your final night in Lausanne but ready for more. The valley of 72 waterfalls, an outdoor pursuits paradise, and your first stop today.

Lauterbrunnen is a village that packs a punch. Set in a valley with a backdrop of the 300m-­high Staubbach Falls, such a setting is something to be seen to be believed. In fact this is the place that in 1911, inspired the fantastical landscape of JRR Tolkien’s Elvish city of Rivendell in his Lord of the Rings novels. You have the day to enjoy as you wish and your driver should be able to help you plan your day ahead.

Those that wish to journey on your driver can help you plan rail tickets to further villages and even Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest altitude rail station considered the ‘Top of Europe’ where you will struggle to find such impactful vistas anywhere else on earth.

Once you’ve gratified your senses with Lauterbrunnen’s imposing mountain views and pastoral Swiss splendours, you travel to Interlaken. This small resort town, nestled snug between the mountains, is your home for the evening.

Your overnight accommodation will be in Hotel Weisses Kreuz, Interlaken (or similar). (B)

You leave Interlaken and head through the bucolic landscape of the UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch. Stroll through typical sound-of-music style scenes of cows chomping through fields of green grass and admire sublime views.

Nature may rejuvenate the senses, but it doesn’t fill your belly; so your guide will find you a great place for a lunch break today and we will head there mid morning. We’ll continue to explore this wonderful area, making little stops here and there depending on the group and day, perhaps the historic town of Altdorf – we like to stay flexible!

You then descend from the heights of the Alps to Bellinzona. Since Roman times, grand castles, now UNESCO heritage sites, have stoically guarded the access to northern Italy. You have the choice here to visit the castles or relax in the town for a free afternoon.

Return to Milan this evening with stories to share and memories that will stay with you forever, of majestic mountains, roaring waterfalls, of lakes and villages lunches and all the people you have met along the way. (B)