Scenic French Alps And Stunning Lakes

Itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1: We make our way into France for our overnight stay in Troyes

Day 2: Departing after breakfast we arrive at the delightful Alpen Roc Hotel in time for dinner. After our delicious meal, you may want to relax with a drink or two from the free bar.

Day 3: This morning we travel to Annecy, the jewel of the Haute-Savoie and known as the ‘Venice of the Alps’.  Our 90 minute guided walking tour gives us an insight into the rich history and heritage of this beautiful lakeside town. With its backdrop of the dramatic Alps and infused with antique charm it’s a pleasure to wander around  the medieval Old Town with its charming canals, narrow streets and 16^th and 17^th century buildings in colourful hues. There will be free time to enjoy some lunch at one of the many waterside restaurants before we embark on a 1-hour circular cruise on the lake. Sit back and relax as we cruise through the crystalline waters taking in the 360° panorama of the

Day 4: Today we travel to the chic mountain resort of Chamonix with its spectacular scenery and phenomenal views.  Nestled in a valley, at the base of Mont Blanc the town gained international fame after hosting the first ever Winter Olympics in 1924.  We spend the morning here enjoying the relaxing town centre and taking in the numerous sights, including the impressive Aiguille du Midi, the highest cable car in France. After free time for lunch in the town, we board the Train du Montenvers for our astounding return journey to the impressive Mer de Glace glacier.  The famous rack and pinion railway brings us to the Montenvers site at 1,913 metres where we disembark and take in the imposing panorama of this natural wonder.  At the summit, we can descend via cable car and walk within the glacier itself to the man-made ice grotto. Entering through a large opening in the ice, you will be able to walk through a small maze of tunnels and marvel at the ice sculptures and caves inside. Our day also includes a visit to the Glacorium, a fascinating museum dedicated to history and evolution of the glacier over the centuries.

NB: Entrance to the ice grotto requires a significant number of steps and uneven terrain so it is unsuitable for those with walking difficulties.

Day 5: We can do as much or as little as we wish as today is at leisure. Perhaps spend your time at our delightful hotel or why not explore the beautiful resort of La Clusaz. Monday is market day in the town and a delight for the senses with an abundance of stalls selling fresh local produce. There is also a range of independent boutiques and shops selling clothes, gifts and gourmet delicacies as well as wonderful cafes and restaurants.  Alternatively, it’s the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind at the hotel, sitting on the sun terrace taking in the breath-taking views, switching off with a book and a drink in the comfy lounge or perhaps enjoying the leisure facilities.

Day 6: Today we drive through the majestic Alps to the lakeside spa town of Evian-les-Bains. Famous for its spring water and elegantly perched on the border between France and Switzerland there will be time to explore this famous town at your leisure  The walk along the lakeside promenade is particularly alluring with its views across to Switzerland on one side and fabulous 19^th century buildings on the other. After enjoying the cosmopolitan charm of Evian we travel to the lakeside village of Yvoire on the shores of magnificent Lake Geneva. This charming medieval village has hardly changed over the centuries, with its 14^th century castle, beautifully decorated houses and gardens, and wonderful shops and cafés to explore. Departing from Yvoire’s pretty port, we take a circular cruise on Lake Geneva and have time to relax and admire the wildlife and quaint villages surrounding the lake. 

Day 7: After a delicious breakfast, we say au revoir and begin our return journey, making an overnight stop in Reims.

Day 8: We continue our journey home after breakfast this morning.

Hotel Alpen Roc, La Clusaz, French Alps

Mer De Glace Express

Accommodation

Hotel Alpen Roc, La Clusaz, French Alps

Located in the centre of La Clusaz, with the main shopping street within easy walking distance this  charming hotel is decorated in a wooden chalet style throughout. On the ground floor you will find a large restaurant serving a fabulous buffet.

The first floor is home to an open plan bar with an open fire in middle of room. There is a free bar serving a selection of beer, wine, soft drinks and tea & coffee between 10:00-23:00 each day. Additional unlimited alcoholic drinks and spirits are free between 18:00-23:00 daily. 

All rooms are en-suite with TV, hairdryer and safe. Leisure facilities include an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. There is a lift at the hotel.