Swiss Lakes Cycle

On arrival in Vevey you can check-in at the first hotel mid-afternoon. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Vevey is one of the "Pearls of the Swiss Riviera". Its lakeside location affords breath taking views of the Alpine panorama. The region is famous for its wines. Charlie Chaplin resided in the town and his home is now a museum. There are other various museums and galleries to visit or just soak up the atmosphere along the shores of Lake Geneva.

From the city centre, take the rack railway up to Mont-Pelerin. After absorbing the sweeping views you cycle on quiet, mainly level roads all the way to the Gruyères region. En route pass by green meadows with the sound of cowbells ringing as you ride. Check in to your hotel in Bulle/Gruyères. Whilst cheese is an obvious attraction of Gruyères, its rich medieval history is evident throughout and the imposing castle above offers a unique ambiance. Overnight Gruyères or surrounds (Bulle).

+600-855m (1968/2805ft), -500-735m (1640-2411ft)

Today's cycle takes you through picture postcard Swiss countryside. You'll pass by typical wooden chalets, snowy mountains and cable cars as you cycle through the classic landscape of the Pays d’Enhaut and the Saaneneland. Cheese producers abound and tastings of the Etivaz and Gruyère varieties are a must. Crossing over to the German speaking section of the Canton of Bern, you arrive in the upscale resort town of Gstaad with its promenade lined with international designer brands. Overnight Gstaad or surroundings.

+735m (2411ft), -410m (1345ft)

Today's route takes you by artfully decorated wooden houses of the Simmental, which are some of the most beautiful in Europe. The trail follows the wild Simme river, through the valley along mainly level terrain. On reaching Spiez on Lake Thun, a water-sports paradise, take some time to soak up the highlights of the town which is surrounded by vineyards and dominated by a medieval castle in the historic heart.

+385m (1263ft), -810m (2657ft)

This morning you take a boat ride from Spiez to Interlaken (ticket included), a great way to view the towns and mountains from a different perspective. Reaching Interlaken, where you may like to stop at one of the many cafes, the trail continues along the shore of Lake Brienz. A steep ascending trail next to the Aare River brings you to Meiringen, home of the Meringue. There are a couple of bakeries along the 'high street' where this is evident, in all shapes and sizes. Meiringen is also known for the spectacular Reichenbach Falls into which Sherlock Holmes and his foe Moriarty, the master criminal, fell. A funicular railway may be used to take you to the top of the falls (time permitting) and you can also visit the 'Sherlock Holmes Museum' which is housed in the old Anglican church in the 'open area' by the Park Hotel, which is itself a national monument. From Meiringen you take the train across the Brünigpass (ticket not included), then cycle to Obwalden, a small Canton in a vast valley with a pre-alpine landscape scattered with villages, flat lakes and rich cultural traditions. Overnight near Lake Sarnen.

+1450m (4757ft), -1200m (3936ft)

The route today takes you through picturesque lakeside inlets to Lucerne. As soon as you get a glimpse of the lake, Mt Pilatus is in your path. Lucerne is a picturesque city, with a mountain backdrop, lake and historic heart brimming with sights, watch shops and cafes. Its main landmark is the flower and art adorned Chapel Bridge which crosses the mouth of the Reuss river. Take time to stroll the well-preserved Musegg wall and towers which form part of the old fortifications. In the evening we suggest visiting one of the restaurant-pubs along the river.

+240m (787ft), -310m (1017ft)

The trip concludes in Lucerne after breakfast. There's a lot to see and do around Lucerne including hiking at Mt Titlis and Pilatus. If you'd like to add any extra nights please ask for our rates.