Depart from Elite Coach, 1685 W. Main Street, Ephrata at 11:00 AM

British Airways (BA) flight #184 departs Newark Airport (EWR) at 5:55 PM and arrives at London Heathrow (LHR) at 5:50 AM (multi-meals).

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BA flight #742 departs LHR at 8:20 AM and arrives at Geneva (GVA) at 11:00 AM. We will drive 45 minutes to Annecy, France, and we will visit some villages along the way.

We will stay at the 3 star Allobroges Hotel (www.allobroges.com) for 2 nights in Annecy. Frequently described as one of the most beautiful towns in France, Annecy is a charming town known for its beautiful lake, canals, and medieval architecture, often nicknamed the "Venice of the Alps".  The town is nestled beside the crystal-clear Lake Annecy, surrounded by the French Alps, providing breathtaking views and opportunities for walking and scenic boat rides.

It’s old town, Vieille Ville, boasts cobbled streets, pastel buildings, historic sites, shops, restaurants, and lively markets, making it a delightful place to explore on foot. The town is known for its vibrant cafe culture, friendly locals, and a relaxed ambiance that appeals to many travelers. Cycling paths along the lake provide fantastic views and connect to surrounding villages. The Haute-Savoie region, where Annecy is located, is known for its delicious food, particularly Savoyard dishes like fondue and regional cheeses such as Reblochon and Beaufort. 

We have a 2 hour scenic drive to Bourg-Saint-Maurice (BSM), the Gateway to the Tarentaise Valley: we will stay 3 nights in a 3 star Hotel Hostellerie du Petit Saint Bernard (www.hostelerriedupetitsaintbernard.com)

It serves as an excellent base for exploring renowned ski resorts with diverse summer activities like Les Arcs, La Plagne, Tignes, Val d'Isère, La Rosière, and Sainte Foy. It has a funicular railway providing quick and easy access to the slopes of Les Arcs. BSM offers a wide array of activities and hiking. It has year-round charm as it maintains a friendly atmosphere and boasts typical local bars and restaurants. It has access to spectacular scenery: It provides access to breathtaking mountain ranges like Beaufortain, Mont Blanc, and Vanoise, with options for exploring picturesque villages and enjoying local Savoyard specialties.

We will have 2 6-8 hour day trips to visit hamlets such as Sainte-Foy and Montvalezan, Le Châtelard, Le Miroir and Le Monal. From Aime, you can take the road that climbs up to the Versant du Soleil, the adret slope of the mountain directly exposed to sunlight. Spectacular views of the Vanoise massif await you as you cross the villages of Tessens, Granier, La Côte d’Aime, Valezan, Les Chapelles and Vulmix. 

The surrounding mountains are breathtakingly beautiful with typical Savoie villages to explore and and local specialties to enjoy, such as fondue, raclette, tartiflette and local cheeses and charcuterie.

Visit the serene Saint Marie Madeleine Chapel, and delve into the art of cheese-making with a tour to see how the famous ‘Beaufort’ cheese is crafted. This town offers an enviable blend of sports and cultural enrichment.

We will stay for 3 nights in Aosta, Italy.  We will stay in the 4 star Duca D’ Aosta (www.alpissima.it).

Aosta has  a great Old Town - lots of nice shops and restaurants, Roman ruins, spectacular views of the Alps. It's mostly pedestrian and peaceful to stroll the streets. It stretches out a long way, too, so take your time and keep going for more shopping/dining options.

We will do 6-8 hour day trips in the Aosta Valley, located in the heart of the Italian Alps. The Aosta Valley is a hidden gem perfect for adventurers and travellers. With stunning landscapes, a rich historical background, and a vibrant local culture, it’s no surprise that this region attracts adventure seekers, history lovers, and foodies alike. 

Aosta Valley, known as Valle d’Aosta, is Italy’s smallest region, nestled in the northwestern part of the country. Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks like Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn, this alpine paradise is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The region’s capital, Aosta, is steeped in rich history that dates back to Roman times, making it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers. With its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites, Aosta Valley offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.  

The Aosta Valley is known for its exceptional outdoor activities, rich historical sites, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast seeking thrilling hiking trails or a history lover eager to explore ancient ruins, Aosta Valley offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of visitor. Discover the beauty of the Alps, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the region’s fascinating history. Aosta Valley truly has something for everyone!

The Aosta Valley is home to several charming towns that are worth exploring. Each town offers its unique character and attractions, including:

• Courmayeur: A      picturesque town at the foot of Mont Blanc, known for its  vibrant atmosphere.

• Valtournenche: A quaint      village offering easy access to hiking in the surrounding mountains.

• Pré-Saint-Didier: Famous for      its thermal springs and relaxing spa experiences.

• Cogne:Nestled in the      heart of Gran Paradiso Park, Cogne is a hub of rich history and culture      which the locals celebrate throughout the year.

• Gressoney: Hike through      stunning alpine scenery and experience the rich Walser heritage in this      enchanting region.

Take a leisurely stroll through these towns and soak in the local culture and history.

One of the highlights of visiting the Aosta Valley is the Mont Blanc Skyway Experience. This state-of-the-art cable car takes you on a spectacular journey to the summit of Mont Blanc, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Make sure to bring your camera, as the views from the top are simply unforgettable.

The Aosta Valley is an astonishing region in Italy, famous for its stunning landscapes and rich history, dotted with impressive castles and historic churches that tell the tales of centuries past. Each site has its own unique charm and architectural style, making them must-visit attractions. Here are some notable sites you shouldn’t miss: 

• Castel Savoia: This fairytale-like castle, built in the early 20th century, is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens filled with vibrant flowers and serene pathways. The castle’s interior features intricate woodwork and stunning frescoes, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the elegance of royal life. 

• Verres Castle: A remarkable medieval fortress, Verres Castle stands proudly on a hilltop, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley. As you explore its well-preserved walls and towers, you’ll learn about its fascinating history, including tales of knights and sieges that shaped the region. 

• Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Guérison: Nestled in the majestic mountains, this picturesque church is not only known for its stunning architecture but also for its reputed healing powers. Pilgrims and visitors alike come to admire the beautiful frescoes inside, as well as the serene atmosphere that envelops the sanctuary. The views of the surrounding peaks add to the spiritual experience. 

No visit to the Aosta Valley is complete without savouring its exquisite cuisine. To truly immerse yourself in the local flavours, consider joining a food tour or participating in an authentic cooking class.

Discover traditional recipes and local specialities that make the Aosta Valley a food lover’s paradise. Enjoy hearty polenta dishes, tantalizing cheeses, and flavorful cured meats. These culinary experiences will not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide insight into the region’s rich culinary heritage.

We will stay in the 3 star Hotel Cristal (www.cristal-grimentz.ch)  in Grimentz, Switzerland for 2 nights…Grimentz, in the beautiful Val d’Anniviers, offers a charming, unpretentious mountain village experience. It's a great destination for families, offering a mix of activities and a relaxed atmosphere. 

Grimentz is known for its picturesque chalets and authentic Swiss village charm, making it a beautiful place to explore. In summer, the area offers numerous hiking trails and opportunities to enjoy the scenery of the Val d'Anniviers.  It offers a long cable car ride across  the valley to Zinal.. Grimentz offers a unique and authentic experience, distinct from more bustling and luxurious ski resorts. 

We will stay in  the 3 star Hotel Les Amis (www.lesamis-saas-fee.ch) in Saas Fee, Switzerland for 2 nights.  Saas-Fee is often referred to as the "Pearl of the Alps" due to its stunning natural beauty and idyllic charm Saas Fee sits at the end of a stunning valley and  is known for its reliable snow cover, even in the summer, thanks to its high altitude and north-facing slopes. The village is surrounded by majestic alpine giants, including the Allalinhorn and Dom, offering breathtaking views. Saas-Fee's car-free status contributes to a peaceful and charming atmosphere, making it a more enjoyable experience for pedestrians., Saas-Fee offers numerous summer activities, including hiking, biking, and even glacier trekking. 

Time to return to Geneva…1 night in the 3 star Holiday Inn Express Geneva airport hotel (www.ihg.com) 

Transport to Geneva airport…BA Flight #747 departs GVA at 12:20 PM and arrives at LHR at 1:10 PM… BA flight #189 departs LHR at 4:35 PM and arrives at EWR at 7:25 PM.  Return to Ephrata.