Ticket to Ride: Travel like the Swiss in opulence and natural splendour
Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through Switzerland’s breathtaking landscapes, all while indulging in the finest gastronomy and a sumptuousness fit for royalty.
Much like the horological masterpieces for which they are renowned, the Swiss are all about precision, elegance, quiet luxury and an inimitable reverence for the inspiration behind their myriad crafts.
Little wonder then that these very qualities would influence other aspects of life in Switzerland, especially when it comes to travelling with a certain savoir faire.
Be it by land or by air, why not take a leaf from their book and elevate your Swiss adventure?
Glacier Express
First opened during the golden age of train travel in 1930, this legendary route traverses the stunning cantons of Valais, Uri and Graubünden. A feast for the eyes and palate, enjoy eight hours of panoramic views punctuated with one gourmet delight after another.
Nature’s highlights abound
As you glide through this picturesque terrain, you will encounter a series of natural wonders and cultural highlights. From the elegance of St. Moritz, Switzerland’s most sophisticated holiday resort, to the snowy alpine charm of Zermatt, where the Matterhorn dominates the horizon, each stop along the Glacier Express route promises a unique experience like no other.
Explore the Albula Line and Rhine Gorge
The Albula Line treats passengers to architectural marvels like the Solis and Landwasser viaducts and intricate spiral tunnels, showcasing Switzerland’s unrivalled engineering prowess. Meanwhile, the Rhine Gorge, often dubbed the Grand Canyon of Switzerland, presents a more dramatic natural spectacle in the form of an awe-inspiring chasm carved by the mighty river.
Excellence Class: The epitome of luxury
For those who crave unparalleled style and comfort, Excellence Class aboard the Glacier Express arguably redefines modern luxury. Booking a guaranteed window seat ensures you won’t miss a single precious moment taking in the 291 bridges and 91 tunnels along the way.
In addition, Excellence Class offers a tempting five-course regional menu, each succulent course paired with exquisite local wines. Don’t forget the Glacier Bar, which serves as the perfect place for an aperitif or lively conversations with your fellow travellers under the compass on the ceiling – to keep you oriented during the train’s twists and turns, of course.
Concierge service? Yes, please.
Throughout your journey, a dedicated concierge is on hand to tend to your every need – from culinary delights to providing insights into Switzerland’s rich and vibrant tapestry of nature and culture. Expect engaging anecdotes and informative tidbits that will entertain and add depth to your experience.
Golden gastronomy on the Glacier Express
The Glacier Express takes gastronomy to soaring heights, mirroring the majestic peaks that surround you. All meals are freshly prepared on board and delivered right to your seat. The menu itself features a fascinating array of culinary specialties and traditional dishes crafted from carefully selected regional ingredients as colourful as the land from which they grew.
Whether you choose the daily special or a decadent three-course meal, savour the distinct flavours of Switzerland in every morsel. Regional and seasonal, these tantalising dishes seamlessly complement the passing scenery, making each bite a sensory delight.
Wonderful wines from the Cantons
To elevate your culinary journey, the Glacier Express offers a comprehensive selection of wines sourced from the cantons of Graubünden and Valais, which are known for their exquisite vineyards.
After your meal, prepare for a unique experience: the serving staff will pour your chosen digestif, such as Grappa or Williams, from an impressive height of over 60cm while the train continues its journey, adding another touch of theatricality to your luxurious voyage.
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS)
In terms of luxury air travel, Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) certainly stands out as a fine paragon of the country’s time-honoured values and excellence.
As the official airline of Switzerland, SWISS is deeply committed to delivering the highest standards of quality, encapsulating the very essence of ‘Made of Switzerland’.
Where gastronomy soars to new heights
From the moment you step on board, SWISS ensures that you feel at home. This dedication to passenger comfort is exemplified in the artfully curated culinary experiences offered throughout your journey. Whether you’re in SWISS FIRST, Business, or Premium Economy, you can expect gourmet menus that showcase regional specialties by top Swiss chefs, particularly from the famed Canton of Bern.
If you are passionate about environmental sustainability, you will be pleased to know that SWISS takes huge pride in its commitment to eco-friendliness. Passengers can be part of the effort to go green with food served in sustainable packaging, allowing you to savour your tasty meal with a clear conscience.
Moreover, SWISS has introduced the exciting SWISS Saveurs Pre-Order initiative, enabling passengers to pre-order freshly prepared items from the special SWISS Saveurs menu, which offers a personalised dining experience high in the sky.
For those flying short to mid-haul flights from/to Zurich or Geneva, SWISS Saveurs To Go offers the option to purchase remaining freshly prepared items at reduced prices, making your sojourn even more delightful.
Revel in on-board luxe
Setting new standards for long-haul flights is SWISS’s Premium Economy class, designed for passengers who seek individuality and pure relaxation. Get ready to arrive at your destination feeling rejuvenated and pampered, as SWISS’s exclusive service has received numerous accolades from travel professionals as the best in Europe.
For the ultimate in luxury, the one and only SWISS First awaits. Enjoy a refined ambiance, personalised service and first-class products that redefine air travel. It’s a journey where every detail is meticulously crafted to provide you with a world-class experience.
With its hubs in Zurich and Geneva, SWISS seamlessly connects travellers to over 200 European cities with minimal transit time. This efficient network ensures that your trip is not just comfortable but also as convenient as they come, leaving you free to focus on creating new memories to treasure forever.
