Swiss Alps Snow Safari

Ready for the ultimate Winter Wonderland experience? Join us as we escape to a Swiss Alps Adventure in Europe’s crown jewel that is packed with thrills off the chart thrills. Imagine the World Snow Festival and Glamping in the Alps.  From Zurich to Grindelwald, Lake Geneva, Bernese Oberland and Monthey, we’ll bring out your inner child as we celebrate the incomparable Winter Snow Festival amid the stunning scenery of the world’s most celebrated mountains!

Been there, done that? Not like this!!  Traveling by cable cars, gondolas, and trains to Switzerland’s famous snow parks, we’ll explore sought-after locales like the epic Glacier 3000! Enjoy a full day train tour up to the famous Jungfrau.  Experience “dark sledding” down the alps under the stars, (An absolute all-time favorite of our past groups) or snow tubing by day. There’s tobogganing, dog sledding, hiking with a husky, wellness spas, fondues with wine and gastronomic wonders.

All of this against the backdrop of the fabled Grindelwald World Snow Festival where global artists gather to reveal their stunning ice sculptures and local artists exhibit their skills with traditional Swiss crafts. You’ll be awestruck by the artistry and can even try your hand at carving or ice sculpting. Each day brings news adventures amid glimmering scenery blanketed by snow and shimmering ice crystals. Each night is filled with festivities. When was the last time you had a really good snowball fight?

Our AFS highlight is being able to experience the fabulously unique Whitepods! Imagine waking up cozy warm in your glass igloo surrounded by snowcapped peaks. Nestled on a mountainside in the heart of the wild Valais region, Glamping here is where luxury meets nature in perfect harmony. Enjoy the nearby toboggan Park as well as snowshoeing, huskies, igloo construction, skiing, or simply unwind in a spa with 360° mountain views, gourmet meals and more.

Winter is actually high season in this region of Europe as travelers flock here for all the frosty fun. The scenery alone with its breathtaking vistas, unforgettable glaciers and rugged mountain peaks will draw you in. We’ll be doing it all with coveted first-class accommodations in ideal locations.

This is a luxury trip for a small group of discerning travelers who long to explore a fairytale land of scenic beauty beyond measure, and I can’t wait. Chocolates, cheese and Swiss cowbells await you. Come soar to the “Top of Europe” and experience the magic of our best European winter vacation ever!

More about this trip…

Welcome to the magical realm of the Swiss Alps – a place where the air is pure, the snow is untouched, and the experiences are unparalleled. This is a land of unique experiences and thrilling adventures, where everyone can find something to suit their taste. Dive into the enchantment of the winter season as we explore the captivating landscapes of Switzerland.

As the first snowflakes gently fall onto the cobblestone streets, Zurich transforms into a winter wonderland. The city’s charm shines brighter than ever, with twinkling lights, cozy cafes, and a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy with cultural delights and festive cheer.  Zurich in winter is a destination that has something for everyone. Enjoy skating at the Dolder Ice Rink, one of the largest open-air ice skating rinks in Europe. As you glide across the ice, take in the breathtaking views of Zurich and the surrounding Alps.

Zurich’s many museums and galleries are the perfect place to warm up and discover the city’s rich history and culture. The Kunsthaus art museum features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, while the Swiss National Museum showcases the country’s history. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Zurich’s picturesque countryside.. After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a visit to one of Zurich’s many thermal baths and spas like the Hürlimannbad features stunning views of the city from its rooftop pool or the Thermalbad & Spa Zurich.

Grindelwald in Winter: A Swiss Alpine Paradise

Nestled in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, Grindelwald is a paradise for those who love the snow, offering a unique blend of breathtaking Alpine scenery, exciting winter activities, and cozy mountain charm.  Grindelwald is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels.  This charming town is a favorite of Rick Steves and has plenty to offer. Explore the numerous winter hiking trails that crisscross the mountains. These serene trails offer a magical way to experience the stunning Alpine scenery, with the snow-covered trees and mountains creating a peaceful winter wonderland.

After a fun-filled day exploring the mountains, Grindelwald’s picturesque village offers the perfect place to relax. Wander through the charming streets, admiring the traditional Swiss chalets and browsing the local shops selling handmade crafts and delicious Swiss delicacies. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as fondue or raclette, and wash it down with a glass of mulled wine. For a special treat, visit one of the many spas, offering a range of relaxing treatments and stunning mountain views.

With AFS, experience the Thrill of the Dark: Sledding in the Swiss Alps
For those seeking a rush of adrenaline, the World Snow Festival in Grindelwald, Switzerland, offers a unique twist on a classic winter sport – tobogganing. Picture yourself gliding down a snowy slope under the starlit sky, the wind whistling past your face, and the world illuminated only by your lantern. This is the magic of sledding in the dark, a truly unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of speed with the serenity of a winter’s night.

Embark on a Sled Dog Adventure: A Journey Through Snow
For a unique way to explore the snowy landscapes of Switzerland, embark on a sled dog adventure in the heart of the Alpes. This thrilling journey offers a chance to experience the thrill of mushing through the snow, guided by experienced sled dogs. It’s an adventure that combines the beauty of the winter season with the excitement of a thrilling ride, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Grindelwald World Snow Festival:

The World Snow Festival in Grindelwald is a mesmerizing celebration of icy artistry, where talented international artists converge to create stunning figures and sculptures from massive blocks of snow (Iamexpat.ch). As you wander through the festival grounds, you’ll be immersed in a world of snow and ice artistry, with sculptures that tell stories and evoke emotions (Alpy.eu). This unique event transforms Grindelwald into a winter wonderland, showcasing the magic of environmental sculpturing in ice during the six-day festival (Carnifest.com).

Glacier 3000, located in the western Swiss Diablerets region, offers a breathtaking Alpine experience. This glacier world provides a fascinating panorama of the Swiss Alps, exciting activities, and a spectacular glacier ski area. The mountain station is situated at 3,000 meters above sea level. One of the highlights is the PeakWalk by Tissot, the world’s only suspension bridge connecting two mountain peaks (TripAdvisor). Visitors can enjoy skiing, sledding, hiking, and dining at the summit restaurant with its stunning views (SwissTours, making Glacier 3000 a must-see attraction in the Lake Geneva region (Travel Switzerland).

For a truly unforgettable experience, take a trip to the Jungfraujoch, the Top of Europe. The Sphinx Observation Terrace and Plateau offer breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, neighboring countries, and the Aletsch Glacier. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Black Forest in Germany. Be sure to send a postcard from the highest post office in Europe, and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the several restaurants.  Jungfraujoch, also known as the “Top of Europe,” is a highlight of every Swiss trip, offering an unforgettable experience surrounded by glaciers and eternal snow. At an elevation of 3,454 meters, Jungfraujoch boasts Europe’s highest railway station (Wikipedia) and promises breathtaking panoramic views from its observation deck. Enjoy spectacular views from the Sphinx terraces and explore the Alpine Sensation, Ice Palace, and Plateau, making Jungfraujoch a once-in-a-lifetime trip (Lonely Planet).

Monthey White Pod –  Luxury in the Alps!

Nestled in the wild heart of Giettes, Valais, Whitepod Original offers an unparalleled luxury adventure in the Swiss Alps. This unique hotel concept features a collection of glass pods anchored on wooden platforms, set at an altitude of 1,400 meters (My Switzerland). Each pod comes with a pellet stove for cozying up amidst the breathtaking Alpine scenery (My Boutique Hotel). The pods change color with the seasons – white in winter and green in summer – blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings (Whitepod). With its focus on luxury, comfort, and harmony with nature, Whitepod provides an unforgettable eco-luxury hotel experience.

Welcome to the magical world of the Swiss Alps, where every moment holds the promise of a memory waiting to be made.  Don’t delay! Your unforgettable Swiss Alps adventure is waiting for you!

Our Glorious AFS Itinerary

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DEPART THE U.S. JAN 14

Flights from the U.S. to Zurich are overnight and you must depart on January 12 to arrive in Zurich the morning of January 13.

JAN 15  –  Arrive  in  Zurich                D (= included meals)

Welcome to Switzerland! Most flights into Zurich arrive in the morning.  Transfer to hotel at airport. Check-in is generally in the afternoon, so if our rooms are not available, we will store our bags and have meet-and-greet with your fellow travelers before heading out for our evening adventure.

Dinner will be a sharp contrast as we indulge in a night of refined culinary pleasure with our Swiss Fondue Welcome Dinner at local restaurant.  This memorable evening promises a delightful fusion of crafted dishes as we get to know our fellow travelers.  (based on flight arrival times, this may be moved to day 2.)

Overnight:  Hyatt Place Zürich Airport The Circle  (Free airport Shuttle)

JAN 16 –  Zurich  to  Grindelwald  via  Lucerne                     B

After breakfast, we take a scenic journey to the winter wonderland of Grindelwald, stopping in the enchanting city of Lucerne along the way. This is a place frozen in time in the 14th century, still encircled by the remnants of its medieval fortifications.  We’ll explore some of the city’s hidden gems, including its unique covered wooden bridges, intricately painted gables, and the poignant Lion Monument. We’ll have time to indulge in exceptional shopping opportunities and enjoy serene lakeside strolls.

We’ll arrive in Grindelwald in the late afternoon and check into the five-star Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof in the heart of town. In this charming city, we get to experience the thrill of the Dark -Sledding in the Swiss Alps! This is a must for those seeking a rush of adrenaline. The World Snow Festival will be underway in Grindelwald, and it offers a unique twist on a classic winter sport – night tobogganing. Picture yourself gliding down a snowy slope under the starlit sky, the wind whistling past your face, and the world illuminated only by your lantern and perhaps the moon. This is the magic of sledding in the dark, a truly unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of speed with the serenity of a winter’s evening.

Overnight:  Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof, Grindelwald (3 nights)

JAN 17 –  World Snow Festival, Grindelwald                        B

It’s Snow Festival Day for us and we explore the magic of this annual Grindelwald event.  We’ll be astounded by the intricately carved ice sculptures, snow art installations, and other winter-themed creations. Enjoy music, dance performances, or cultural demonstrations showcasing the local talent.

And as with any good festival, there is plenty of food when you are ready to take a break and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the festival food stalls.

In the afternoon, you may want to try your hand with one of the many snow-related activities or games available at the festival.  Whether it’s snowball fights or snowman-building contests, enjoy the winter wonderland atmosphere. You can even opt to join workshops to learn about snow sculpting techniques and traditional Swiss crafts. Engage with local artisans and experts to gain insight into their craft.

Live performances carry on into the evening.

Overnight:  Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof, Grindelwald (3 nights)

 

JAN 18 –  Train to Jungfrau and tour, Top of Europe                          B

Our full day tour puts a jewel in the crown of any visit to Switzerland. Everyone loves this scenic day tour high in the Alps of the Bernese Oberland. Today, we ascend the Alp’s most dazzling peak to the UNESCO World Heritage site mountain region of Jungfrau. First, we board the Eiger express gondolas and then ascend by the 100-year-old cogwheel train through tunnels up 3500 meters into the sprawling alpine wonderland. At Eiger North Face, you will marvel at each viewing platform. Time for lunch on own at either the wonderful Crystal restaurant or at Bollywood in the Alps. Explore the Ice Palace and depths of the glaciers.  This is your day to get your best photos of magical landscapes.  Cable cars will then take us back down to the valley and we had back to Grindelwald.

Overnight:  Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald (3 nights)

Immerse yourself in the essence of Swiss luxury at Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald, your 5-star haven in the stunning Alpine village of Grindelwald. Nestled amidst beautiful gardens, our hotel offers a tranquil retreat just a short walk from the village center, blending traditional perfection with modern comfort.

Indulge in exceptional dining in our three restaurants, and rejuvenate in our expansive wellness and spa oasis featuring an indoor pool, saunas, and a range of soothing treatments. For business, our stylish facilities provide the perfect setting for productive seminars and events.

At Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald, we live by our credo: More of Everything! More Cordiality. More Personality. More for your Well-Being. Experience the Schweizerhof difference, where you’ll arrive as a guest and leave as cherished family, eagerly welcomed back home again and again.

JAN 19 –  Grindelwald  Glacier 3000 to Whitepods              B

We’ll begin our day early to make the most of our time, heading out after breakfast by train for Col du Pillon. There, we board a cable car that will take us up to Glacier 3000. Enjoy breathtaking, panoramic views as we ascend. Once at the top, we have the opportunity walk on the wild side, traversing the Peak Walk by Tissot. This is the world’s first suspension bridge to connect two mountain peaks and if you dare, you will enjoy spectacular Alpine views. The Alps most famous peaks – the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau can all be seen from here.

Then, we experience the thrill of Dog Sledding. It’s an exhilarating to be pulled across the glacier and through the snowy landscape by a team of huskies who want nothing more than to run. The cable car will take us back down to the valley where make our way in the late afternoon back to Grindelwald.

Afternoon we make our way to fabulous Whitepods. Arriving here is an adventure in itself. Surrounded by mountains, luxury and unique experiences of await you. Check in and get settled in our cozy igloo like pods.  These pods offer a unique take on winter glamping with luxury eco-friendly pods nestled in the Swiss Alps. (there’s twin beds with fluffy duvets, bathrooms with hairdryers, pellet stove, Nespresso machine and more.)

Once settled in, we try our hand at axe throwing! We’ll get our lessons in this unusual sport with a series of mini-games with different objectives.

Later, we’ll pay a visit to the LaMine brewery in nearby Bex, and learn about their methods of brewing including local spring waters. Above all, we can try their beers and ales with a tasting!

Overnight:  Whitepods (2 nights)

JAN 20 –  Glamping at Whitepods – Free Day                       B

After breakfast buffet in the brasserie, enjoy a free day relaxing at the hotel or exploring nearby. Each day offers teatime from 3 to 5 PM and access to the Swedish bath.  Whitepods offers a selection of wellness options, including sauna, massages, yoga, ice room treatments and Scandinavian baths. Snowshoeing, hiking with huskies, tobogganing, skiing and snowboarding are available nearby. Other options are on-site treasure hunts, igloo building, nature escape games or a curling initiation or a culinary workshop with our chef for up to 10 people.

Overnight:  Whitepods (2 nights)

JAN 21 – Whitepods to Zurich                       B

Start your day with breakfast at Whitepods, take a short walk around the area to enjoy the crisp mountain air before checking out. We then head back to Zurich where we’ll check back into the Leonardo Hotel.

Your afternoon and evening are free to explore glorious Zurich.

Overnight: Overnight:  Hyatt Place Zürich Airport The Circle

JAN 22 –  Zurich Departure                            B

Following breakfast, it’s time to check out from the hotel and proceed to airport for our flights back home.  (one common transfer for group)

Land Price $4495 pp twin share based of 20 participants

Deposit $900  Final due Oct 20, 2024

Includes:  7 nights accommodation, breakfast daily, welcome dinner with wine and fondue, tickets to Jungfrau, activity and brewery visit at white pods, all transfers by private luxury coach, sightseeing, guides and entrances as per itinerary.

Pre-paid gratuities of $95 to be added to invoice for license guides, drivers, porters.

Itineraries are prepared up to a year ahead and things can change.  Modifications may be made.   All rooms are run of house.

Have you read the Trip Tips yet? Scroll to the top of the page and click the link

Itineraries are prepared up to a year ahead and things can change.  Modifications may be made.