Christmas in Switzerland

Monday

We depart and travel to Dover, where we board the ferry for our crossing to Calais. After disembarking, we continue through France to our comfortable overnight hotel in Metz, where we settle in for the evening.

Tuesday

After breakfast, we continue our journey through France and into Switzerland, enjoying increasingly spectacular alpine scenery as we approach the mountains. We arrive in the beautiful Saastal Valley and check into our welcoming, family run Hotel Kristall Saphir in Saas Almagell, our home for the next five nights.

Wednesday

Today we visit one of Switzerland's most iconic destinations.
We travel by coach to Täsch, where we board the shuttle train to Zermatt, a charming, car free alpine resort set beneath the world famous Matterhorn. The scenic train journey adds to the experience, offering wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. On arrival in Zermatt, there will be free time to explore the village, admire the festive decorations, browse boutiques, or enjoy lunch in one of the many cafés and restaurants. Weather permitting, the views of the Matterhorn provide a truly unforgettable Christmas setting. Later in the day, we return by shuttle train to Täsch and onwards by coach back to the hotel.

Thursday

This morning we travel through the scenic Rhône Valley to the historic town of Sion, the oldest town in Switzerland and capital of the Valais region. Sion is dominated by its striking hilltop landmarks, Valère Basilica and Tourbillon Castle, and offers a charming Old Town filled with historic buildings, narrow streets, and welcoming cafés. There will be time to explore at leisure, perhaps enjoying some last minute festive shopping or simply soaking up the Christmas atmosphere in this beautiful alpine town. This evening, we enjoy a special Forest Christmas, complete with mulled wine and festive treats, providing a magical and atmospheric start to the Christmas celebrations.

Friday

After a relaxed morning, we enjoy a two course Christmas lunch at the hotel. The afternoon is free to relax, enjoy the snowy alpine surroundings, or spend time with fellow travellers in the comfort of the hotel. This evening, we celebrate in true Swiss style with a four course festive dinner, featuring the traditional speciality Fondue Chinoise, creating a warm and sociable Christmas night.

Saturday

Today is free to enjoy Saas Almagell at a leisurely pace. You may wish to take a gentle winter walk, admire the mountain scenery, enjoy the hotel's facilities, or simply relax after the Christmas festivities. Following dinner this evening, we are entertained by a live local music band, adding a lively and authentic Swiss atmosphere to our final night in the Alps.

Sunday & Monday

SUNDAY:After breakfast, we depart Switzerland and begin our return journey through France to our overnight hotel in Metz, where we enjoy our final evening together.

MONDAY: We continue to Calais for our ferry crossing back to Dover, before travelling home, arriving in the evening with wonderful festive memories of our Swiss Christmas holiday.