Tour Details - Alpine France and Switzerland 2012

Welcome to Geneva! Some of the world's most important international organisations are based in this beautiful cosmopolitan city including the International Red Cross. This evening, join your companions and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and evening orientation drive.(Welcome Reception)

Your day starts with a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Geneva. In Lausanne, visit the Olympic Museum, home to an extensive and fascinating archive of Olympics related memorabilia. Your picturesque journey continues to Montreux, where the world's most famous jazz festival has been held since 1973, and on to the Château de Chillon which was the inspiration for Byron’s poem, the Prisoner of Chillon. Here enjoy a guided visit inside the Château before driving up to the mountain resort of Villars.(Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)

Today there is time to appreciate the magnificent scenery and the clear mountain air with the chance to follow one of the many hiking trails through the alpine meadows. Take time to enjoy the wonderful panoramas from the viewing points. There will also be the opportunity to take an excursion to the vineyards at Lavaux, one of Switzerland’s most celebrated wine regions, featuring wine terraces dating back to the 11th century.(Buffet Breakfast)

The next morning head south through breathtaking landscapes to Chamonix, France's legendary mountaineering . Sitting in the shadow of Europe's tallest mountain, Mont Blanc, the scenery in Chamonix is simply awe-inspiring. After checking in to your hotel, there is an included trip to climb a part of the slope of Mont Blanc aboard a little red mountain train leading to the Mer de Glace, an ice cave carved into the glacier. Remember to bring warm clothing! This evening, dine on traditional alpine cuisine at your hotel.(Buffet Breakfast / Dinner)

Take time today to relax in this resort which is renowned for its wonderful café culture. Enjoy some of the best mountain bike and walking trails in France. Or choose to experience the ride of your life this morning when you take the cable car to the summit of the Aiguille de Midi, a mountain in the Mont Blanc massif, featuring panoramic views from 12,600 feet above sea level. This is where you can see La Vallée Blanche, an off-piste ski run which takes intrepid skiers on a hair-raising 17km trip down the glacier.(Buffet Breakfast)

Admire the magnificent scenery on your drive from Chamonix this morning. Visit Megève, regarded as one of the most beautiful ski resorts in Europe. It started its development as a ski resort 100 years ago when the wealthy Rothschild family started to spend their winters here after becoming disenchanted with the Swiss resort St. Moritz. Continue via Albertville and Chambéry to Aix-les-Bains, the spa town renowned for its mountain views, thermal baths and relaxed atmosphere.(Buffet Breakfast)

After a leisurely breakfast, take a short drive to the quaint old town of Annecy. Here enjoy an orientation walking through the narrow arcaded streets and beside the quiet canals lined with medieval buildings. After free time, enjoy a wonderful Be My Guest lunch of local specialities in a family run restaurant. Later return to the hotel in Aix-les-Bains.(Buffet Breakfast / Be My Guest dinner)

In Geneva there is time for you to explore this picturesque city. You might like to wander along the lake front and see the charming old town where art galleries line cobbled streets. Shop for luxury Swiss goods in smart boutiques on Rue du Rhone. Tonight, celebrate with your Travel Director and fellow travellers at a special Farewell Dinner.(Buffet Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)

This morning say goodbye to the magnificent alpine scenery, your Travel Director and fellow travellers at the end of a memorable holiday. Airport transfers are available. Conditions apply.(Buffet Breakfast)