We extended our Viking Rhine Getaway cruise to take in the pure mountain air of Zermatt, the car-free haven high in the Alps at the foot of the famed Matterhorn, and explore the rich culture and stunning setting of Geneva, European home to the United Nations. The extension included 4 nights of accommodations: 2 nights in Zermatt at the 4-star Hotel Alex and 2 nights in Geneva at the 5-star InterContinental Geneva and additional excursions in both cities.
Glacier Express
The slowest express train in the world!
After docking, we departed Basel on a scenic coach ride through Switzerland to Chur. In Chur, we boarded the famed Glacier Express for a 6-hour journey on one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
We passed over countless trestles, through dramatic tunnels cut into mountainsides, and up and down alpine slopes. This is one of Europe’s great experiences: a spectacular ride through breathtaking vistas of soaring peaks, plunging gorges, and wide, green valleys dotted with alpine villages.
As the vistas drift past, we could listen to commentary about the rail line’s history and the surrounding wilderness. An enjoyable hot lunch was served complete with wine.
We arrived late afternoon in Zermatt, nestled high in the Alps at the foot of the renowned Matterhorn. It was just a short (2 blocks) from the train to the 4-star Hotel Alex where we checked in for a two-night stay. Our Viking Tour Director was available at all times to help us plan our time in Zermatt so we could make the most of our visit.
This elaborate engineering project took decades to construct, and its completion in 1930 made the remote reaches of the Alps accessible to everyday travelers.