October 2024 Grand “Photography” Tour of Switzerland
9 Days & 8 Nights in Switzerland
October 12th to 20th, 2024
We will be chasing fall colors and experiencing the best of Switzerland.
A collaboration between Outdoortravelphotography LLC and Matthias Conrad (https://www.matthiasconrad.com)
Join us…
for a captivating weeklong journey through Switzerland. Explore a new culture, savor great food, and capture stunning images while creating lifelong memories. This small group adventure, limited to 8 participants, begins in Geneva and ends in Zurich.
We'll spend 3 nights in Zermatt, 3 near St. Moritz, and 2 nights in Lucerne. Along the way, we'll visit Gruyeres Castle, explore the Matterhorn region, see the Aletsch Glacier, and drive along the scenic Furka Pass road, along several other planned stops. Weather permitting, we'll be outside, capturing photos from sunrise to sunset, and maybe even at night.
Day 1 - Saturday
Arrival in Geneva - Travel to Gruyères - on to Zermatt
Our Grand "Photography" Tour of Switzerland begins on Saturday morning at Geneva Airport, where we'll be there to pick you up following your overnight flight. In the event you choose to arrive a day in advance, that's perfectly fine – we'll be happy to arrange for a convenient hotel pickup as well.
Once we've gathered and loaded our vehicles, our journey will commence with a scenic drive around Lake Geneva, heading towards the charming medieval town of Gruyères. Here, we'll take a leisurely stroll through the historic old town and explore the castle, providing ample opportunities for photography. If you find yourself hungry, there's an option to pause for a quick lunch in the old part of town before resuming our adventure.
Our ultimate destination for the day is the picturesque village of Zermatt, nestled at an elevation of 5,200 feet. We aim to reach this car-free village by mid-afternoon. Given its car-free status, we'll need to park our vehicles in a nearby town and embark on a 12-minute scenic train ride to reach Zermatt. After checking into our hotel, you'll have some free time to unwind before we reconvene for our initial sunset photography session within the village capturing our first images of the iconic Matterhorn.
Sunrise 7:49am; Sunset 6:48pm
Day 2 and 3
Sunday, Monday
Zermatt, Matterhorn, Gornergrat, Riffelsee, Stellisee
Our two full days in Zermatt will be dedicated to mountain excursions. The sequence of the described outings below will be dependent on weather conditions and the train schedule.
Two remarkable experiences awaiting exploration in the region include a journey to Gornergrat and the opportunity to capture the reflected beauty of the Matterhorn in Riffelsee. A picturesque train ride transports us to Gornergrat, providing sweeping views of iconic peaks, prominently featuring the majestic Matterhorn. The observation platform at Gornergrat offers an incomparable vantage point, allowing for the capture of the ethereal beauty that envelops the surrounding landscape. There are numerous opportunities for brief hikes, providing diverse vantage points to enhance the experience.
Riffelsee, a pristine mountain lake beneath Gornergrat, introduces an element of serenity to the adventure. The mirror-like reflection of the Matterhorn on the tranquil waters forms a scene of perfection, creating an ideal setting to encapsulate the essence of the Swiss Alps. The play of light and shadow throughout the day adds a dynamic dimension to your photography, ensuring that each photograph narrates a distinctive tale of this alpine paradise. A day spent exploring Gornergrat and Riffelsee is not only a visual delight for photographers but also an emotionally stirring journey into the core of Switzerland's natural splendor.
On the second day we will embark on a 1/2 day trip up the mountains for some breathtaking photography journey as we ascend aboard a funicular train, reaching the captivating vistas of Sunegga and Blauherd. On the train we will gain about 2000 feet in elevation in about 3 minutes. Our early morning adventure is ideal lighting to capture the iconic Matterhorn mirrored in the pristine waters of Stellisee. Following our morning escapade, we will return to Zermatt in the early afternoon to explore the charming town of Zermatt. That evening we plan to have a group dinner at Pöstli Stübli, or a similar traditional Swiss restaurant to enjoy a well deserved dinner.
Sunrise 7:45am; Sunset 6:45pm
Day 4 - Tuesday
Road Trip to Engadin
Aletsch Glacier, Furkapass, Lai de Palpuogna
Day 4 we will set out on a captivating journey from Zermatt as we leave early to explore the wonders of the Swiss Alps traveling on some high mountain pass roadways. Our first stop is the magnificent Aletsch Glacier; the largest glacier in Europe, a colossal expanse of ice that stands as a testament to the raw beauty of nature. We will take ride the cable car to the Eggishorn station to capture the intricate details and sheer grandeur of this glacial marvel.
Continuing our expedition, we traverse the iconic Furkapass, a mountain pass that not only offers breathtaking panoramic views but also a chance to capture the picturesque Hotel Belvedere (as seen in James Bond’s Goldfinger movie). Nestled against the dramatic alpine backdrop, the hotel provides a charming subject for your lens, adding a touch of history and character to your photographic narrative.
As the day unfolds, we plan to arrive at Lake Lai da Palpuogna during the golden hour, a magical time when the soft, warm hues of the setting sun cast a mesmerizing glow over the landscape. This pristine alpine lake, surrounded by rolling hills and framed by distant peaks, becomes an ideal canvas for your photography skills.
We will be spending the next three nights in the village of Silvaplana, nestled just a short distance from St. Moritz in the picturesque Engadin region of Switzerland.
Sunrise 7:46am; Sunset 6:33pm
Day 5 and 6
Wednesday, Thursday
Stazersee, Morteratsch valley and glacier, val Roseg, Lake Sils, Albula Pass
We may change the order of day 5 and 6 depending on weather forecast.
For day 5 prepare for a spectacular start to our day as we rise before the sun to capture sunrise over Stazersee, immersing ourselves in the golden hues and reflections of the serene alpine lake. Following this magical morning session, we may indulge in a delightful late breakfast / early lunch in the renowned town of St. Moritz, savoring both culinary delights and the breathtaking mountain views. The adventure continues in the afternoon as we explore the Morteratsch Valley and Glacier, where glacier-fed rivers and towering peaks create an extraordinary backdrop for our photography pursuits capturing the changing colors of the season in the foreground. Get ready for a day filled with stunning landscapes, culinary delights, and the camaraderie of fellow photography enthusiasts.
On day 6 after breakfast, our next adventure unfolds as we journey to Pontresina and the picturesque Val Roseg. Here, amidst the breathtaking landscape, you'll not only have the opportunity to capture stunning photos but also to handfeed some of the local birds that inhabit this beautiful region. The afternoon will lead us to the lake Sils, providing a serene setting for you to explore. As the day transitions to evening, our focus turns to the Albula Pass, and a possible return to Lai da Palpuogna if the conditions are good. This day promises a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and the dynamic energy of the Swiss landscape, offering you a rich tapestry of photographic experiences.
Sunrise 7:45am; Sunset 6:29pm
Day 7 - Friday
Heading to Lucerne
Saying good-bye to the Engadin Region, and heading to Lucerne
On Day 7 our photographic adventure kicks off with a sunrise session, capturing the first light as it paints the Swiss landscape with enchanting hues, and maybe we can capture the reflection of the local Silvaplana castle in the water. Following this start to the day, we'll indulge in a leisurely breakfast, savoring the moment and fueling up for the next leg of our journey. Our destination is the charming city of Lucerne, where we aim to check into our hotel by mid-afternoon.
As the evening unfolds in Lucerne, we'll explore the picturesque and historic Kapellbrücke, a quintessential Swiss landmark that provides a stunning subject to capture with our camera. This iconic bridge, adorned with its medieval tower, offers a blend of architectural beauty and rich history, creating a perfect backdrop for our photography endeavors.
The day will end with a delightful group dinner in Lucerne, providing an opportunity to share our experiences.
Sunrise 7:44am; Sunset 6:33pm
Day 8 - Saturday
Exploring Lucerne
-The City of Lights-
On our final full day in Lucerne, we'll start with a morning photoshoot along the scenic Reuss River including needle dam, Spreuer bridge, and the historic Jesuit Church, immortalizing the city's charm bathed in the gentle morning light. Following our morning outing, we'll convene for a late breakfast at our hotel, relishing the concluding moments of our Swiss photographic journey. The day unfolds with a leisurely walking tour through the historic Old Town, where every cobblestone street echoes tales of Lucerne's rich heritage, adorned with countless historic corners and elaborate fountains. And, of course, there will be ample time for souvenir hunting and indulging in Swiss chocolate, allowing you to carry a piece of Switzerland home with you. If we still have enough energy left, we may venture out for another sunset and blue hour excursion prior to dinner.
Sunrise 7:51am; Sunset 6:31pm
Day 9 - Sunday
On our final morning in Lucerne, we have the opportunity to capture the timeless beauty of the Kapellbrücke one last time, during sunrise. Following the morning session, we'll gather for our last breakfast after which, with our cameras loaded and memories preserved, we'll head out to Zurich Airport, aiming to arrive after 1 pm for late afternoon flights home.
Sunrise 7:52am
Hiking in the Alps with your Camera Gear
Before starting on our photographic journey amidst the awe-inspiring Swiss Alps, kindly consider the information below as we gear up for this unique experience:
Anticipate hikes of up to an hour from train/cable car parking lots to our chosen photography locations.
Be prepared for varying and uneven terrain across the Alpine landscape, encompassing significant elevation changes that include both ascents and descents.
Expect unpredictable weather in the high-altitude alpine environment.
Participants are required to carry their own camera gear during the hikes, along with any necessary provisions.
The exploration of twilight hours, crafted for distinctive and atmospheric shots, may lead to walking after dark, assisted by headlamps.
To maximize your enjoyment and immersion in this adventure, maintaining good physical fitness is crucial, given the challenging nature of the terrain. While many sites are reachable within a few minutes, some excursions may prove more demanding. Do bear in mind that we can always adjust the length and divide groups based on abilities, if needed, if a trail proves too strenuous.
Lace up your hiking boots, organize your camera gear, and prepare to capture the enchantment of the Swiss Alps!
Check out the AllTrails map for the Stellisee hike, offering a typical hiking experience spanning a few miles roundtrip with elevation changes of a few hundred feet.
Switzerland makes it easy to go up the mountains using a train or cable car, giving us a picturesque hike back down. Some trips might be more challenging, covering longer distances and higher elevations. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out, we are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Cost
The cost for double occupancy is $4,750 per person, with a $750 supplement for a single room.
To secure your spot on the tour at sign-up, a deposit of $1,000 is required.
Included in the price
Arrival and departure services at Geneva (GVA) airport
Comprehensive transportation throughout the entire journey
Inclusive train and gondola trips for ascending and descending mountains
Coverage of fuel and parking expenses
Admission fees for parks, organized tours, gratuities for tour guides, etc., as applicable
Lodging in well-rated hotels
Complimentary internet access at the hotels
Daily breakfast
Enjoy one dinner in Zermatt, one in the St. Moritz Region, and one in Lucerne
Daily preview of the following day's itinerary
Photography guidance services provided by Robert and Matthias
Not included in the price
Air travel arrangements for the journey, including flights to Geneva and the return flight from Zurich
Morning meals on the day of arrival (usually provided by the airline shortly before landing on trans-Atlantic flights)
Daily midday meals, with the option to dine in nearby towns or partake in a packed lunch and picnic during excursions
Evening dinners for five nights; we plan three included group dinners
Beverages, including alcoholic drinks
Travel insurance coverage
Mandatory health insurance (potentially included in your comprehensive travel insurance)
Expenses such as cell phone internet access, personal purchases, gratuities not related to the guides and our activities, and any services not specifically mentioned in the inclusive section
Participant Agreements & Policies
Please take a moment to review and sign the attached PDF documents, covering essential information such as liability waivers, refund policies, payment details, insurance requirements, and privacy policies, and ensure they are returned by August 17th for a seamless participation in our Switzerland trip. Click on the titles below to open and access the respective documents. Thank you!
Ready to join us?
What are the best practices for dealing with changing weather conditions, and are there specific gear recommendations for photographing in diverse Swiss environments?
Switzerland's diverse landscapes mean varying weather. Here are quick tips and gear suggestions:
Layer Up: Wear layers for temperature changes and bring a waterproof outer layer.
Weather-Resistant Bag: Choose a bag that's weather-resistant to protect your gear.
Lens Protection: Use lens hoods and filters; pack a lens cleaning kit.
Sturdy Tripod: Bring a stable, well-built tripod for varied conditions.
Versatile Lenses: Pack a mix of lenses for different landscapes and lighting.
Camera Rain Cover: Have a rain cover for your camera with accessible controls.
Weather Apps: Stay updated with a reliable weather app for real-time forecasts.
Extra Power and Storage: Carry extra batteries and memory cards for longer shoots.
We will have more detailed recommendations for signed-up participants on our Switzerland Insider page, for signed up participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for the higher altitudes in Switzerland if I'm coming from sea level?
Transitioning to higher altitudes, especially if you're coming from sea level, can be an adjustment similar to a journey from New Jersey to Denver and then driving into the Rocky Mountains. To enhance your experience in the breathtaking landscapes of Switzerland, we recommend gradual acclimatization, staying hydrated, and taking it easy during the first day. Just like adjusting to the altitude in the Rocky Mountains after arriving in Denver, giving your body time to adapt is key. If you have had experiences with high altitude sickness and breathing in thinner air, consulting with your healthcare provider before your trip so they can provide additional advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the high-altitude regions of Switzerland.
What can I expect in terms of hotel accommodations during the photo tour? Will the rooms be comfortable, and how do they compare in size to typical American hotel rooms?
While our selected hotels in Switzerland are very comfortable and in great locations, it's essential to note that European hotel rooms, including those in Switzerland, may be cozier compared to their American counterparts. Swiss hotels often emphasize efficient use of space, offering a snug yet comfortable environment. Rest assured, our accommodations are chosen with your comfort in mind, ensuring a pleasant stay despite the potentially more compact room size.
How is the availability of vegetarian or special dietary options in Switzerland, and are there any local dishes or cuisines I should definitely try during the trip?
Switzerland is accommodating to dietary preferences. Most restaurants offer vegetarian options, and chefs are often willing to cater to special dietary needs. It's advisable to communicate your dietary restrictions in advance for us to discuss.
Must-Try Swiss Dishes:
Fondue: Indulge in the quintessential Swiss experience with melted cheese served with bread cubes.
Rösti: Try this crispy, golden-brown potato dish, a Swiss classic often served as a side or main course.
Chocolate: Don't miss out on Swiss chocolate; it's renowned worldwide for its quality. Visit local chocolatiers for a delightful experience.
Why join us?
We are enthusiastic about sharing Switzerland's stunning landscapes through our passion for landscape photography. Traveling with Matthias, an award-winning German photographer with years of experience in Swiss alpine landscapes, and Robert, a Swiss citizen, traveler, and nature photographer, a genuine and immersive experience awaits. While our itinerary is thoughtfully planned for an amazing trip, we are flexible and ready to improvise should mountain weather affect our plans.
We not only strive to assist you in capturing the best compositions at each location but also to empower you for independent exploration to express your unique vision. Photographers of all skill levels are welcomed to join us, as we cultivate a collaborative atmosphere and fostering an environment where individuals can learn from one another, forge enduring connections, and build lasting friendships.
As our adventure fills up, you will receive access to our exclusive Switzerland Insider page, offering comprehensive information, from travel essentials and mountain hiking tips to insights into Swiss culture and cuisine, to help you plan and prepare for the trip. On the page we will cover pretty much everything from gear recommendations for hiking to photography to ensure you capture your best images.