SWISS ICONS
When you think of Switzerland, several classic icons come to mind – not so much as a cliché, but these are the things that have defined Switzerland’s reputation throughout the world. Watches, trains, chocolate, cheese – and you can experience all of them on a trip through the Alps.
Precision, detail, and craftsmanship – all of these are essential in creating a product that is as legendary as the Swiss timepiece. Learn about the process on an exclusive tour of one of Switzerland’s oldest watch manufacturers. Or have a guided tour of the Musée International de Horlogerie in La Chaux-de-Fonds, or the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva. You’ll never look at a watch the same after understanding the work that goes into the creation of one of these mechanical masterpieces.
Just as famous are the trains that crisscross this alpine countryside, as ambitious an undertaking as any engineering feat in post-industrial times. The Jungfraujoch rises high above the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald valleys, pierces the mighty Eiger for over 30 minutes, and arrives at the top station, Europe’s highest gare at 3454m. Just as impressive is the Gornergrat, built 120 years ago, taking passengers high above Zermatt up to 3000m, for a view of the Monte Rosa and Matterhorn. Or the venerable Glacier Express train, which runs between Zermatt and St. Moritz, crossing the Oberalp Pass, with incredible views from its glass-roofed panoramic cars.
The countless cablecars and ski lifts are just as accessible for sightseeing in any season. The views from the top of the Klein Matterhorn (3883m) stretch from Mont Blanc to the Mediterranean on a clear day, an extraordinary sight.
And don’t forget the chocolate Matterhorn, the world-famous Toblerone bar. No trip to Switzerland would be complete without a visit to one of the celebrated chocolate houses like Cailler or Lindt & Sprüngli. Take a tour of the factory, or try your hand at making your own chocolates in a private atelier. We have also sourced many small artisanal chocolatiers who offer private visits and a window into their specialized craft.
Highlights
- Exclusive visit to a leading and historic luxury watch manufacture in Le Locle, UNESCO heritage center
- Ride the historic scenic Jungfraujoch, Glacier Express, or Golden Pass Trains
- Visit Maison Cailler for a private chocolate-making atelier, or the Sprüngli Confiserie in Zürich
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WHAT WE DO
Epic Europe is a luxury experiential adventure travel operator based in the Swiss Alps.
Epic Europe specializes in private bespoke itineraries for small groups. Experiencing the best of each region, from interacting with the local people and enjoying authentic regional food and wine, as well as time-honored traditions and festivals, to recreating in the alpine landscape, and truly understanding why the Alps are the birthplace of adventure travel. From custom ski, hiking, or cycling trips to building in city tours, cultural itineraries, or gastronomic discovery, these award-winning, multi-dimensional trips are tailored to our clients' wishes every time, and are not packaged tours. From Switzerland, Italy, and France's Alps, to world-class cultural cities and larger towns, Epic Europe can design a tailored adventure that fulfills your every need.
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"A day of heliskiing in Italy culminated with a sunset run off the Breuil saddle of the Matterhorn - one of the most thrilling runs of my life - and we left our tracks in a place where they remained for a week afterward, reminding us of the best day of skiing in our life!" - WG, CT USA
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"I have done trips in the Alps and surrounding regions with Epic Europe for the past 4 years, and every one has been unique and surpassed the last. The experiences that they deliver due to their personal relationships are a window into the real life in these incredible locations, and they share these friendships with us." - K.B., CT USA
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"Epic Europe's custom road biking trip that they put together for my buddy's bachelor party was great - the right combination of killer rides, great hotels, and outstanding restaurants. Great guides, and overall a perfect trip." - A.S., London UK
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"I would have to say that Verbier and Zermatt might be the best places I have ever ridden a mountain bike, and I couldn't imagine going without the help of Epic Europe's guides. It was a dream trip for sure." - B.S., PA USA
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“The team at Epic Europe created the most incredible trip for us, where everything came together seamlessly, and we never had to think about what came next - it just magically happened as if it was meant to be. That takes real talent, and they make it look easy." - B.N., WY USA
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"Our family spent last Christmas in Zermatt on a bespoke Epic Europe ski trip. The special thought and care that they put into our holiday made it our best yet." - L.M.; CA USA
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"Epic Europe has coordinated several corporate events for us over the past 5 years, and I cannot imagine a more professional operation to handle all of the details. From a team-building event for 50 people in a 17th-century castle atop a mountain pass, to marketing conferences and catalog shoots, their knowledge of the best locations in the Alps is second-to-none, and they are as good as it gets at being creative." - E.P., Lugano CH
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"Hiking in the Alps has always been on my bucket list, but I wasn't sure that a typical trip was my style. Epic Europe designed a custom route for our group, staying in the best little inns and hotels, and we felt like we had the trails to ourselves. I will come back again and again to explore new trails with their guides every year that I can!" - R.B., NY USA
PROCESS
Would you like more information, or to have us create a tailored trip for you? We would be glad to begin the design process for your ultimate experience in the Alps.
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