Geneva to Interlaken

During the day arrive in the city of Geneva. If you have time why not take a boat trip on the sparkling lake or enjoy a walk taking in the city’s attractions, such as the European headquarters of the United Nations known as the Palais des Nations or the beautiful Cathedral de Saint-Pierre dating from the 12^th century. Of course, you can also sample some of Switzerland’s sweet treats – Chocolate! 

Today you set out on your bike along the banks of Lake Geneva mainly on traffic-free roads. Along the route are several sleepy wine villages. Soon you will reach the town of Rolle where you can visit the Chateau. The Chateau de Rolle dates from the 13th century and was likely built during the House of Savoy. There are records indicting this from 1291. After your visit you can decide to continue along the route all the way to Lausanne or take a boat for the remaining section. Once in Lausanne be amazed as medieval mixes well with modern. Take time to visit he Cathedral and maybe Chateau de Vidy now the home of he International Olympic Committee. In the evening maybe eat in one of the many lake side restaurants.

Today you continue east along the north bank of Lake Geneva, cycling amongst a cascade of terraced vineyards. This is the Lavaux region which is now a UNESCO Heritage Site.  Here you’ll have the opportunity to pedal up to Chexbres, known locally as the Balcony of Lake Geneva, and enjoy postcard-like views across the Lake. In Vevey, you will have the chance to climb to Chatel Saint Denis, a 500m climb but over 8 miles 13km. Should you decide this is a little too difficult you can take the funicular cable car to Mont Pelerin and then cycle a different route to Chatel Saint Denis. This is an ideal place for lunch as after this there are fewer opportunities as you cycle out into the pastures. You are now on your last stretch to Gruyères, your overnight destination.  Gruyères itself is an ancient, one-street village noted for its Cheese Museum and the Castle of Gruyères, perched on the hilltop and dating from the 13^th century.  

Before heading out on your bikes today take a last look around Gruyères. Today you will follow a more northerly path along the west bank of Lac de la Gruyère. Your shall cycle through many quaint Swiss villages, surrounded by green valleys and high mountain peaks, true bliss!  Just as you enter the small town of Le Bry, at about your halfway point, you can take a small detour to Pont-en-Ogoz, the perfect resting point for stunning panoramic views of the lake and Ogoz Island. If you wish, you can even hop on the boat to see the island with its restored chapel and historical ruins. Now from Le Bry, the route will be mostly downhill. Shortly you will enter Fribourg, long recognized as one of the Europe’s most beautiful medieval cities. You will be met by fountains and flowers which adorn Fribourg’s ancient streets. Fribourg is a fascinating medieval town and impressive ancient architecture. One of the highlights is the 76m high cathedral of Saint Nicholas with its beautiful inside with masses of stained-glass windows. There are a few museums, one dedicated to bikes and another to paintings! If you prefer the outdoors then the botanical gardens and lovely to walk around.

Today’s ride is the most difficult. The first section takes you to Schwarzenburg and involves a climb but you can avoid this by taking the train. Once in Schwarzenburg, you follow a gently rolling route into the breathtaking Bernoise countryside. There is a wonderful viewing point over Lake Thun just before the village of Wattenwil but from here you continue downwards to Thun situated on the lakeside. Thun again has a lovely old center worth exploring. It has a lovely 12th-century castle

Your final cycling day will bring you to Interlaken along a quiet, traffic-free route with constant views of the lake. Before leaving Thun, feel free to take a lake cruise! You will also have plenty of time for a coffee or snack stop in Spiez, an ancient lakeside village. Once in Interlaken if you are adventurous there are many activities you can enjoy, Paragliding, a tree climb or even enjoy a Segway tour to name a few. For spectacular views, you can take a cable car (about 8 minutes) to Harder Kulm, or enjoy a longer journey by train (2.5 hrs) to the Jungfraujoch.

Depart after breakfast.