Grand Alps Tour: E-Bike Through Switzerland, France, and Italy

Make your way to Geneva in Switzerland, the “smallest metropolis in the world.” You’ll meet your guides and your team at the hotel reception at 4pm. We will then embark on a captivating city walk through the charming streets of Geneva, where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly.

In the summer months, Geneva dazzles with vibrant energy and scenic beauty. We will marvel at the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain, a towering spectacle over 140 m (460 ft) high, serving as Geneva’s unmistakable landmark. We’ll take in breathtaking panoramas over the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva, the largest inland lake in Western Europe. As evening descends, we’ll go to our first dinner together, an opportunity to savor Swiss cuisine and bond with fellow travelers. We’ll then retire to our accommodations and get some rest for tomorrow.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Rotary MGallery Collection

As the morning sun rises over Geneva, we leave the city and head to Mont Salève, Geneva’s local mountain, aboard the Terranova bus. At the summit, we enjoy panoramic views. We start our bike ride through the Savoy Alps, where each bend in the trail reveals breathtaking views of Lake Geneva juxtaposed against snow-capped peaks of Mont Blanc. Along the way, we take breaks to appreciate the natural scenery.

A highlight of our journey is crossing the historic Pont de la Caille, the highest bridge in the world until 1912. Its suspension cables offer a thrilling crossing and a look into the region’s history. Arriving in Annecy, the “pearl of the French Alps,” we explore the old town with its arcaded houses and castle. In the afternoon, we’ll board the bus to Chamonix, a legendary destination steeped in alpine history. Here, beneath Mont Blanc, we enjoy dinner and settle into our upscale hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Cycling: 48 km / 30 miles
Accommodation: Hôtel Le Morgane

Prepare for an unforgettable journey through Mont Blanc, where glaciers and snow stretch as far as the eye can see. We start our adventure aboard one of the world’s most spectacular cable cars, the aerial tramway to the summit of the Aiguille du Midi, standing at 3,842 m (12,605 ft) above sea level. From this lofty perch, we enjoy panoramic views of iconic peaks like Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and Mont Blanc itself.

Our adventure continues as the cable car glides across the eternal ice, connecting the Aiguille du Midi to the Pointe Helbronner over a breathtaking 5 km via the Vallée Blanche cable car. We soak in sweeping vistas of Mont Blanc and the rugged mountain terrain, with the Vallée Blanche beneath our feet, flanked by imposing glaciers. We descend into the Italian Valle d’Aosta aboard a third cable car, where e-bikes await. In the afternoon, we explore ancient Roman ruins, panoramic views, and delectable mountain cheese. We pedal leisurely towards the capital, Aosta, where we enjoy a guided tour of the city’s oldest and most sacred sites. We conclude our day with a delicious dinner and settle in for our first night in this enchanting city.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Cycling: 35 km / 22 miles
Accommodation: Designhotel Duca D’Aosta

Today we’ll explore the stunning Aosta Valley and its surrounding areas, starting with a morning bike ride along a former railroad line to the charming village of Châtillon. Here, we’ll soak in the tranquility and beauty of this idyllic setting. We’ll then board the bus for a scenic journey through one of the most enchanting side valleys of the Aosta Valley, arriving at Breuil-Cervinia, nestled in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn.

In Breuil-Cervinia, we’ll witness the legacy of modern alpinism, where mountaineers have set off to conquer the Matterhorn since the 19th century. We’ll experience the “Matterhorn Alpine Crossing,” a cable car connecting Cervinia to Zermatt in Switzerland, featuring the Matterhorn Glacier Ride. From the viewing platform, we’ll marvel at the 38 four-thousand-meter peaks dominating the horizon. After a day of exploration, we’ll unwind in the car-free resort town of Zermatt, enjoying its timeless charm and a delicious dinner before settling in for our first night in this enchanting mountain paradise.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Cycling: 29 km / 18 miles
Accommodation: Alpenhof Hotel

Today, we’ll start with a leisurely breakfast before strolling through the charming streets of Zermatt. As we take in the sights and sounds of alpine life, we’ll immerse ourselves in the unique atmosphere of this picturesque village. Next, we’ll board the Gornergrat Bahn to Riffelalp, offering unparalleled views of the majestic alpine world. After a delightful lunch on Riffelalp’s panoramic terrace, we’ll have the option to hike back to Zermatt.

Along the hike, we’ll encounter the Swiss stone pine, known as the “Queen of the Alps,” and enjoy its soothing aroma. The trail through the stone pine forest features vibrant green hues and a copper-colored ground blanketed by tree needles. We’ll also experience the surprise of a waterfall cascading into the Findelbach. In the evening, we’ll explore Zermatt at our leisure, with our guides available to offer dining recommendations. After a day filled with adventure and natural beauty, we’ll settle in for our second night in Zermatt.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Alpenhof Hotel

Prepare for an unforgettable journey aboard the Glacier Express, one of the most unique rail experiences in Europe. We set off from Zermatt, winding down to Visp before traversing the Mattertal valley via Brig and onwards to Oberwald. Here, the panoramic train plunges into the Furka Tunnel, a remarkable 15.4-kilometer engineering feat, before emerging in Andermatt. The real spectacle begins as the train ascends the breathtaking Oberalp Pass at 2,033 meters above sea level, en route to Disentis (Mustér). Nestled atop the Vorderrheintal of Graubünden, the monastery of Disentis stands as a testament to centuries of history and culture.

Our e-bikes await in Disentis, ready to lead us through the idyllic landscapes of Grisons. We begin our descent along the vibrant Vorderrhein, passing through the Surselva region with its vast forests, charming meadows, and tranquil lakes. We pedal through picturesque villages like Sumvitg and Valendas, where we encounter the rugged beauty of the Vorderrhein Gorge, often called the “Grand Canyon of Switzerland.” Our journey ends in Chur, where we continue our travels in first-class comfort aboard the train, marveling at the stunning scenery. Arriving in the heart of Chur’s old town, we settle in for our first overnight stay, surrounded by the charm and history of this ancient city.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Cycling: 40 km / 25 miles
Accommodation: Hotel Stern Chur

Get ready to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, nestled in the stunning Alpine landscape. As the cultural heart of Graubünden, Chur’s car-free old town is filled with boutiques, restaurants, bars, museums, and galleries, offering a unique charm. Wander through centuries-old buildings and immerse yourself in the city’s fascinating history.

Chur, the central hub of the Rhaetian Railway, offers a gateway to adventure. We board the Rhaetian Railway and travel from Chur to Thusis, traversing the iconic Albula line, a marvel of railroad technology. In Thusis, we embark on a cycling adventure through the legendary Via Mala gorge. After a refreshing break in the gorge, we continue along a panoramic route above the Hinterrhein, passing quaint villages, medieval fortifications, and magnificent castles on our way back to Chur. As evening approaches, we return to our hotel in the old town, enjoy a delightful dinner, and reflect on the day’s adventures. With a second overnight stay in Chur, we have time to savor the charm and history of this captivating city before our departure.

Meals: Breakfast and dinner
Cycling: 36 km / 22.5 miles
Accommodation: Hotel Stern Chur

After breakfast, the adventure comes to an end. From Chur, you have convenient options to reach the airport or to continue your journey through Europe. You can also choose to stay in Chur for an additional night—let us know upon checkout if you’d like us to arrange that!

Meals: Breakfast