- Train Chartering & Private Rail Cars / Foter / CC BY-SA
A seven-day rail holiday aboard the Glacier Express is the perfect way to enjoy the majesty and tranquillity of the Alps. The region is synonymous with gorgeous scenery, characterised by lush meadows, crystal-clear rivers and vast mountains, which makes a slow train ride the perfect means of transport to drink in the region’s serenity.
Getting started
Your magical getaway begins in style, as you’ll take the Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Paris. After a few short hours, and more than a couple of glasses of champagne, you’ll arrive in the delightful city of Strasbourg.
Strasbourg’s most iconic attractions include the Cathédrale Notre Dame and the Astrometric Clock. Be sure to sample the sauerkraut while you are there, as it is one of the city’s most delicious culinary offerings.
A haven of tranquillity
The second day of your adventure sees you taking the train to Hergiswil, which will be your base for the next four nights. Staying in a shore-side hotel, you can bask in the majesty of dazzling Lake Lucerne and its mountainous backdrop.
The third day of your holiday provides you with the opportunity to explore the stunning city of Lucerne, home to Chapel Bridge, the oldest preserved wooden bridge in Europe. The city also has a maze of quaint streets where you can stroll and marvel at its historic buildings.
No trip to Lucerne would be complete without taking a cruise across the crystal waters of the lake, as well as venturing to the summit of Mount Rigi for one of the most awe-inspiring views that the region has to offer.
The short cruise across Lake Lucerne is an unforgettable experience in its own right, but nothing will quite prepare you for the view from atop Mount Rigi. You’ll reach the summit via the Mount Rigi Railway, Europe’s oldest cogwheel railway. Once there, you’ll be astounded by the unspoilt view of up to 13 of Switzerland’s lakes.
The Glacier Express
After a day spent at leisure in Hergiswil, you’ll reboard the Glacier Express on the sixth day. On the journey to Brig, you’ll see snow-capped peaks, alpine streams, lush meadows and visually breath-taking passes, making it one of the most unforgettable train holidaysthat you could possibly hope to take.
The perfect end to a perfect trip
Zermatt is the perfect place to end your seven-day exploration of one of the world’s most naturally stunning regions. In the shadow of the Matterhorn, Zermatt serves as a haven of serenity, laden with spas, fantastic restaurants and chic bars, where you can take the opportunity to unwind and reflect on a magical week.
