Switzerland·4 - 11 August 2025

Alpine Escape: St. Moritz Luxury, Zurich Charm, and Chocolate Dreams

Switzerland: Where Alpine Dreams Meet Timeless Charm

BOOK NOW INQUIRE
iStock1316007613

Overview

Imagine exploring the stunning beauty of Switzerland with Girls’ Guide founder, Doni Belau, with a little help from her best friend Carolyn, affectionately known as the Swiss girl. Carolyn's deep roots in the Engadin, a breathtaking high Alpine valley in the Eastern Swiss Alps, will add a unique and personal touch to our journey. Picture yourself wandering through glamorous St. Moritz, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious resorts, and immersing yourself in the rich history of the Romansh language, spoken since 15 BC. Our adventure starts in Zurich, the largest city in Switzerland, that still feels like a charming medieval town. We'll stay in the heart of the historic district, but our explorations will take us beyond its cobblestone streets. We'll visit an artisanal chocolatier to sample some of the world's finest chocolates. We'll tour the iconic Le Corbusier Pavilion, strolling through lush botanical gardens. It’s a delightful mix of history, culture, and indulgence. Next, we'll journey to Chur, Switzerland's oldest city, to uncover hidden gems. From there, we’ll hop on a train to the enchanting Engadin, Carolyn’s home turf. Imagine the thrill of ascending the Alps by cable car and the warmth of learning to cook fondue at Carolyn's ancestral home. For those with more wanderlust, the adventure doesn’t have to end. We’ll continue on one of Europe’s most scenic train rides to Italy, where you’ll spend two nights indulging in homemade pasta, savoring Italian wines, and exploring beautiful palazzos and historic churches. Join us for this Alpine adventure with a dash of Italian sizzle – it’s a journey you don’t want to miss!

Highlights

Experience Zurich from the river

Experience Zurich from the river

Savour a traditional Swiss meal

Savour a traditional Swiss meal

Visit Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland

Visit Chur, the oldest town in Switzerland

Luxuriate in Schoul's stunning outdoor & indoor pools and spa

Luxuriate in Schoul's stunning outdoor & indoor pools and spa

Explore an artisanal Swiss chocolatier

Explore an artisanal Swiss chocolatier

Enjoy the views from the top of Muottas Muragl

Enjoy the views from the top of Muottas Muragl

Participate in an Interactive fondue class at a private home

Participate in an Interactive fondue class at a private home

View the beautiful Chagall Windows

View the beautiful Chagall Windows

Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip

Previous

Next

iStock481527983

Zurich

Day 1: Monday, August 4,2025

Arrive in the morning or afternoon, and take a cab to the Ruby Mimi Hotel in central Zurich. Housed in one of the city's oldest former cinemas, the Ruby Mimi invites you to pack your inner celebrity persona and step back into the golden age of cinema. Check-in is open from 3 pm.

For those interested, join your trip leader for an afternoon stroll to admire the beautiful Chagall Windows, an artistic marvel.

Around 6:30, we'll gather for a welcome cocktail at our hotel before heading out to dinner in a 13th-century dining room, where a traditional Swiss meal awaits. Meet your new travel companions and future friends as we toast the exciting week ahead.

Included

Dinner

iStock1492972250

Zurich

Day 2: Tuesday, August 5,2025

Today, we’ll begin with a guided tour of old Zurich, starting with the famous Grossmünster Church. This iconic landmark dates back to the 16th century. It boasts stunning stained glass windows designed by the artist Sigmar Polke in 2009.

Around 11 am, we’ll take a river cruise and get a unique perspective of Zurich from the water. The cruise will provide breathtaking views and a sense of the city’s layout and history.

We’ll have lunch at the trendy Milch Bar, known for its contemporary cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, after the river adventure. The afternoon is free for shopping, so explore Zurich’s chic boutiques and charming shops at your own pace.

Tonight, we’ll experience something quite different. We’ll meet friends who live in Zurich for a delightful dinner at an acclaimed vegetarian restaurant, Haus Hiltl, the world's oldest vegetarian restaurant. Enjoy the exquisite vegetarian and Indian dishes as you immerse yourself in Zurich’s diverse culinary scene.

Included

All meals

02_pavillonlecorbusier_umb4165_3360x17201280x881

Zurich

Day 3: Wednesday, August 6,2025

Today, we’ll turn our eyes to architecture and gardens. After breakfast, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through Zurich’s botanical gardens. Our morning continues with lunch at a cozy Swiss café. Savor the authentic Swiss flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

After lunch, we’ll take a 15-minute walk to the illustrious Le Pavillon Corbusier for a guided tour. Here, we’ll delve into the life and work of Swiss architect Charles-Édouard Jeanneret, known as Le Corbusier. Many consider him the most important architect of the past century. We’ll explore his revolutionary impact on modern architecture and art.

Now it’s time to indulge! This afternoon, we're doing a chocolate safari at a small artisanal chocolate factory. We’ll learn how they transform cocoa beans into exquisite chocolate bars and enjoy delectable tastings.

Then, we’ll head to the water for drinks and snacks on a delightful terrace, soaking up the sun and Lake Zurich's stunning views. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel for an early night, ready to adventure again tomorrow.

Included

Breakfast

Lunch

Drinks and Snacks

Not Included

Dinner

iStock1316485216

Chur

Day 4: Thursday, August 7, 2025

Today, we’ll check out and hop onto a 9:30 train to Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland. It's a 1.5-hour journey away. On arrival, we’ll drop our bags at the 4-star classic hotel, Stern, and set off on a whirlwind discovery of this charming 5,000-year-old town with a guided historical tour. Next, we’ll take the cable car from the center of town to discover alpine meadows, beautiful flowers, and a stunning panoramic view. For lunch, we’ll savor local flavors at the Fondue Beizli, a Swiss treat.

If you want a rest, head back to the hotel or explore and shop. Art enthusiasts can join us at Chur’s cutting-edge Kunstmuseum, featuring works from the early 20th century to the present day. The museum itself is an architectural masterpiece, blending 19th-century and contemporary designs.

After a rest, we’ll dine in the award-winning pine-paneled Buendner stube at the hotel. It's a cozy restaurant serving local specialties with excellent beer and wine.

Included

All meals

Train Tickets

Exteriors_BPHSummer_M011

St.Moritz

Day 5: Friday, August 8,2025

Today, we’ll rise early to catch the 8 am train to St. Moritz, arriving by 10. Our guide will handle our bags so we can head straight to the Segantini Museum. We’ll explore Giovanni Segantini's works. The artist captured the stunning Alpine landscapes, becoming one of the 19th century’s most renowned artists.

In the glamorous town of St. Moritz, we’ll window shop before lunch at Hotel Steffani. Opened in 1928, this was the first hotel with a public restaurant. We’ll indulge in a delicious meal on the outdoor terrace, weather permitting.

After lunch, we’ll drive 30 minutes to the ancient town of S-Chanf, our home for the next three nights. Check-in at Villa Flor is around 2:30 pm, where vintage furniture and crisp, clean rooms await. Carolyn Falco, our guide, has deep roots here, with her family home dating back over 400 years.

After check-in, Carolyn will guide us around the charming village. We’ll conclude the day with dinner at Dorta in Zuoz, enjoying a meal of game with spaetzle and homemade Graubünden barley soup.

Included

All meals

Train Tickets

iStock1445555915

S-Chanf

Day 6: Saturday, August 9,2025

After a hearty breakfast, we’ll head up to the top of Muottas Muragl using the funicular while we soak in the jaw-dropping alpine views. We may walk the philosopher’s path, depending on our energy levels. It's inspired by poets, authors, and painters.

We’ll dine alfresco on the Romantik Hotel's panoramic terrace. This is an ideal spot to try local cheese, rösti with smoked salmon, or a fresh salad. After descending to the valley, if time allows, we’ll visit St. John’s Church, built in the late 19th century with support from the famous hotelier Johannes Badrutt.

This region is renowned for its lakes. The afternoon is reserved for a leisurely walk around the lake—bring your swimsuit. You may want to take a dip.

We’ll return to the hotel to rest before heading out at 5 pm for a short village stroll and a special Saturday evening surprise. Our day concludes at Carolyn’s family home, Chesa Sandri, for an interactive fondue class. After making the classic Swiss dish and touring the charming old house, we’ll sip and savor on the terrace as we watch the sunset over the river.

Included

All meals

iStock509050383

S-Chanf

Day 7: Sunday, August 10,2025

Today, we’ll lie in a bit before heading to the national heritage site, the quaint Guarda Village, known for its perfectly preserved Engadine houses, many dating back to the early 1600s. Guarda was also the setting for the well-known Swiss children’s book A Bell for Ursli, written by Selina Chönz and illustrated by Alois Carigiet in 1945. The story is about a boy named Ursli and his search for the perfect cowbell for the yearly Chalandamarz parade.

After a stroll around this charming town, dating to 1160, we’ll tuck in for lunch at Crusch Alba. We've reserved this afternoon for one of the greatest Swiss delights, the open-air pool and spa at Bogn Engiadina Scuol. Choose from various 20–25-minute treatments included in your package. Relax in any of the six mineral-rich pools, some with massage jets, bubbles, swim channels, or waterfalls. The outdoor pools offer gorgeous views of the Alps. There is also a brine pool and a sauna.

Once our wellness treatment is complete, we’ll head back to our hotel for a short rest. Then, drive to dinner at Venduta for our very Swiss farewell meal. We’ll toast to a week of visual, natural, and culinary delights. 

Included

All meals

Wellness package at Bogn Engiadina Scuol

iStock1273399649

Departure Day or Begin Extension

Day 8: Monday, August 11, 2025

After breakfast, we'll all drive back to Saint Mortiz. Those catching flights from Zurich will board the train, carrying memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. 

For those continuing on the trip extension, onward to new adventures! 

Included

Breakfast

197_13_Morbegno_palazzo

Tirano, Italy

Day 1: Monday, August 11, 2025-Italy Trip Extension

After checking out, we'll drive to St. Moritz and board the Bernina Express for a breathtaking journey through the Alps, arriving in Tirano, Italy, at 11:30 am. We'll leave our bags at the centrally located Domus Cavour hotel before setting out on a guided tour.

Our tour will begin at the historic Palazzo Salis, a 500-year-old palace famous for its detailed frescos, stunning painted ceilings, and hidden garden. Following this, we'll enjoy a wine tasting in the Gasparotti cellar, sampling regional products from the Valtellina area to get a true taste of local cuisine.

At around 3 pm, we'll check into our hotel on the lovely Piazza Cavour in the heart of Tirano’s old town. In the evening, we'll dine at the Parravicini Restaurant & Wine Bar, enjoying homemade pasta or meats from local farms, making for a perfect end to our day.


Included

All meals

Wine tasting

iStock1173695799

Milan, Italy

Day 2: Tuesday, August 12, 2025-Italy Trip Extension

We'll start our day with a lovely breakfast before checking out and taking the train to Milan. After a 2.5-hour journey, we'll arrive and check into the Speronari Suites, a charming hotel in a 19th-century Palazzo near the Duomo Cathedral, one of the world's largest and most impressive cathedrals.

Once settled, we'll go on a guided tour of Milan's historic center, visiting landmarks like Sforza Castle, the medieval Market Square, Duomo Square, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and La Scala. We'll enjoy snacks along the way to keep us energized.

The afternoon you're free to explore or shop. In the evening, we'll gather at a trendy bar and restaurant for a proper Italian aperitivo. The restaurant is owned by three brothers from Sardinia. We'll enjoy a Negroni made with Sardinian ingredients, a Sardinian bitter orange, or a Spritz Frades, accompanied by Sardinian tapas. The Italian cheese and salami, tuna sashimi, and grilled octopus snacks bring our Milan adventure to a delightful close.

Included

Breakfast

Dinner

snacks

Not Included

Lunch

iStock1483885101

Milan

Day 3: Wednesday, August 13, 2025-Italy Trip Extension

Sadly, after enjoying breakfast together, it's time to say our goodbyes. We'll promise to keep in touch and share photos of our wonderful journey. Please book your homeward-bound flight from Milan for mid-day or later to allow for a smooth departure. 

Included

Breakfast

You'll Be Staying Here

Ruby Mimi Hotel Zurich

Ruby Mimi Hotel Zurich

Housed in one of Zurich's historic cinemas, Ruby Mimi is inspired by six screen legends named Mimi. The design pays homage to Hollywood's golden era, exuding cinematic magic. With plush velvet furnishings, vintage cameras, costumes, and posters, Ruby Mimi captures the glitz and glamour of classic film sets. 

Hotel Stern Chur

Hotel Stern Chur

Hotel Stern in Chur offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort in Switzerland's oldest city. Known for its warm hospitality, the hotel features elegant rooms, a renowned restaurant serving local cuisine, and easy access to Chur's cultural and historical attractions.

Villa Flor

Villa Flor

Villa Flor is a charming countryside retreat featuring seven uniquely themed rooms, each designed for a distinct experience. From the cozy Rustic Suite to the opulent Royal Chamber, Villa Flor offers a perfect blend of luxury and tranquility, ideal for a romantic getaway or peaceful escape amidst serene surroundings.

Hosts

Doni Belau

Doni Belau

Doni Belau, the creator of Girls' Guide to the World, is a dedicated traveler who has explored nearly 80 countries and counting. Her passion lies in helping women discover the profound impact of travel, believing it opens doors to a world of possibilities within ourselves. Through her platform, Doni empowers women to navigate the globe confidently, fostering connections and enriching experiences that transcend borders. Her journey inspires others to embrace cultural immersion and self-discovery, encouraging women everywhere to embark on their own adventures with a sense of wonder and empowerment. 

gg2theworld

Price

Base Trip-Private Room

Base Trip-Private Room

Everyone gets their own fabulous room

FROM$9,995

Optional Trip Extensions

3-Day Trip Extension to Italy-Private Room

3-Day Trip Extension to Italy-Private Room

For those wanting to see beautiful Italy. Join us as we explore Tirano & Milan

FROM$2,595.00/pp

Add Ons

Arrive one day early in Zurich

Arrive one day early in Zurich

Includes one night and breakfast at Ruby Mimi Hotel

PRICE$490.00

ADD THIS

“Switzerland, where nature sings the song of beauty.”

Alpine Escape: St. Moritz Luxury, Zurich Charm, and Chocolate Dreams

Switzerland offers a captivating blend of stunning natural beauty and sophisticated charm. From the luxurious Alpine retreats of St. Moritz to the vibrant cultural scenes of Zurich, every visit is enriched by the country’s legendary chocolate and serene landscapes. 

Alpine Escape: St. Moritz Luxury, Zurich Charm, and Chocolate Dreams

What's Included

What's Included

Accommodation of unique, 4-star or better hotels

Wellness package at Bogn Engiadina Scuol

Everything stated in itinerary above including all meals plus two glasses of wine or beer with dinner (except where indicated)

Expert Guides and Trip Leaders

All in-country transport except where indicated

A small group experience

All activity entry fees

International airfare

All personal souvenirs

Any additional spa treatments

Additional wine, beer or spirits beyond what is offered at meals

FAQs

You should fly into the Zurich Airport.

In August, the weather in Switzerland is typically warm with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 82°F, occasionally accompanied by moderate rainfall in the form of showers or thunderstorms. 

We will have a Zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. HERE is a great website that we love that will help you with packing travel and tips.

The trip officially starts on the afternoon of August 4th, but if you are traveling across an ocean, consider arriving a day early so you have time to relax and adjust to the local time zone. If you do decide to arrive early, please let us know and we will book your room for you and make sure you are kept in the same room when the trip starts.

Inquire about this trip

Alpine Escape: St. Moritz Luxury, Zurich Charm, and Chocolate Dreams

Switzerland· 4 - 11 August 2025· 7 nights

FROM$9,995/pp