Day trip to Glacier 3000 from Montreux

Travel high into the Swiss Alps on a 7-hour day trip from Montreux to Glacier 3000, with prices starting at $117.38 per person. The tour is operated by Keytours (Switzerland) and is designed for those eager to explore iconic mountain scenery, enjoy panoramic views, and indulge in a mix of outdoor activities. The trip offers three booking options: a Les Diablerets Trip Only with four hours of free time, an upgraded Cable Car experience, or the comprehensive Gold Tour that includes the Peak Walk, a Swiss food tasting, and an Alpine Coaster ride. The tour is highly booked in advance, typically 50 days ahead, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a well-organized mountain adventure.

While this trip is well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in scenic vistas, it does require good weather for the cable car and Peak Walk. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Montreux, with the departure point at the Place de l’Eurovision. The guide-led experience is praised for its knowledge, humor, and ability to maximize your time in the mountains. With many positive reviews highlighting stunning views and engaging guides, this trip offers a reliable way to see the Swiss Alps without the need for self-driving.

Key Points

• Three booking options: Les Diablerets free time, cable car ride, or Gold Tour with Peak Walk and alpine activities
• Includes round-trip transport from Montreux, departing at 9:45am
• Cable car ride ascends 9,842 feet (3,000 meters) in just 15 minutes, offering panoramic views of up to 24 peaks, including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn
• Peak Walk by Tissot is the only suspension bridge that connects two mountain peaks, providing a breathtaking crossing experience (weather permitting)
• Optional activities include tasting Swiss ham, cheese, sparkling wine at the Space Refuge restaurant, and riding the world’s highest toboggan run for adrenaline lovers
• Tour reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and good value, though some mention limited time at the site or logistical hiccups

Leaving Montreux for the Swiss Alps at Dawn

The trip begins early at the Montreux tourism office at 9:45 am. An hour-long bus ride takes travelers along the scenic Col du Pullon mountain pass to the mountain village of Les Diablerets. This picturesque village, made up of charming chalets, sits at the foot of the glacial massif that reaches 3,000 meters above sea level. The journey itself offers a preview of the stunning Alpine scenery that awaits.

Travelers will find the ride comfortable, with the driver guide providing commentary along the way. This initial segment sets the tone for a full day of mountain exploration and panoramic vistas, with some reviews noting the trip’s punctuality and friendly atmosphere.

Exploring Les Diablerets: Choice of Free Time or Mountain Activities

Once in Les Diablerets, the experience diverges based on the booked option. The Les Diablerets Trip Only allows four hours of free time in the village. Visitors can hike the walking trails around the massif, cycle through the alpine scenery, or stroll the quaint streets and admire the traditional chalets.

For those selecting the Cable Car Experience, a 15-minute ride whisks guests up to 3,000 meters on the Les Diablerets cable car, providing unforgettable views of the Bernese Alps. On clear days, up to 24 peaks are visible, including Mont Blanc, the Eiger, the Jungfrau, and the Matterhorn. The cable car ride is consistently praised for its speed and comfort, making the ascent smooth and scenic.

The Iconic Peak Walk by Tissot: Crossing the Mountain’s Suspension Bridge

Included in the Gold Tour, the Peak Walk by Tissot is a highlight for many. This suspension bridge, the only one of its kind in the world, connects two mountain peaks at over 3,000 meters. Crossing it offers a spectacular vantage point over more than 200 peaks over 2,000 meters high.

The Peak Walk generally takes about 20 minutes, and, weather permitting, it delivers a thrilling experience with panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains and valleys below. Several reviews emphasize how breathtaking the crossing is, calling it a truly unique experience.

Dining and Wine Tasting at the Space Refuge Restaurant

The Gold Tour includes a visit to the Space Refuge restaurant, where guests can relax with a 45-minute Swiss tasting. The menu features Swiss ham, cheese, and sparkling wine, all served with views of the surrounding peaks. This tasting adds a culinary dimension to the mountain adventure, and the restaurant’s location provides a cozy spot to enjoy the scenery and local flavors.

The World’s Highest Toboggan Ride

For adrenaline seekers, the Alpine Coaster is an optional activity included in the Gold Tour, reputed to be the highest toboggan run in the world. The ride delivers a rush of excitement as it winds down the mountainside, offering a fun and daring way to experience the snow. Several reviews highlight the coaster as a memorable, high-adrenaline highlight, though it’s only available if the weather and conditions permit.

Additional Mountain Activities: Hiking and Cross-Country Skiing

Hikers can explore the Sanetsch hiking trail, which offers more extensive alpine walking options. Cross-country skiing is also available at the mountain summit—an activity recommended for those comfortable with snow sports. The tour’s flexibility makes it appealing for adventure enthusiasts looking to extend their mountain day.

Practicalities: Transportation and Group Size

The tour is designed for convenience, with round-trip transportation departing from Place de l’Eurovision at 9:45 am and returning by 4:30 pm. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience and personalized attention from the guide.

The guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling, significantly enhancing the trip. Some reviews mention guides like Normunds and Roger, who are noted for making the experience both fun and informative.

Weather and Weather-Dependent Activities

The tour’s success depends heavily on favorable weather conditions. If poor weather cancels the cable car or Peak Walk, alternative arrangements or refunds are offered. Several reviews mention weather as a key factor in the overall experience, especially for activities like the Peak Walk and toboggan ride.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Most travelers can participate comfortably, but some activities like the Peak Walk and tobogganing require a level of physical fitness and comfort with heights and snow. The tour involves walking and riding mountain lifts, so a moderate level of mobility is recommended.

The Value of the Glacier 3000 Experience

At $117.38 per person, this tour offers a mix of scenic transportation, breathtaking views, and optional adrenaline activities. The inclusion of the cable car, Peak Walk, and food tasting in the Gold Tour provides a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price point. Reviews frequently commend the good value, especially considering the high-quality scenery and unique activities.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews note that the time at each stop can feel limited, especially if you wish to explore more extensively. Also, activities like the mountain coaster are weather-dependent, and some travelers mention logistical issues or delays, particularly if the bus is late or if they miss the scheduled start.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour

This trip suits scenic lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and adventure seekers eager to experience the Swiss Alps from a high vantage point. The guided experience makes it accessible for those unfamiliar with mountain travel, but it requires good weather for the best results. Families, couples, and solo travelers can all enjoy the carefully curated activities, although the emphasis on outdoor activities might appeal more to active visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The bus ride, driver guide, Glacier 3000 cable car (if selected), access to Peak Walk (weather permitting), and free time in Montreux are included. Food and beverages are not included but available for purchase.

Can I choose to just explore Les Diablerets?
Yes, the Les Diablerets Trip Only option allows four hours of free time in the village with no additional activities included.

What activities are in the Gold Tour?
The Gold Tour features the cable car ride, the Peak Walk suspension bridge, a food and wine tasting at the Space Refuge restaurant, and an optional Alpine Coaster ride.

Is the Peak Walk suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions are not provided, the Peak Walk involves crossing a suspension bridge at high altitude. Children should be comfortable with heights and snow conditions.

What if the weather is poor?
Activities like the cable car and Peak Walk are weather-dependent. If canceled, alternative options or refunds are offered, ensuring safety and comfort.

How much time do I have at Glacier 3000?
The free time varies based on the booking option. The basic Les Diablerets Trip offers four hours, while the Gold Tour includes additional activities like the coaster and tasting.

Is booking in advance necessary?
Yes, the tour is popular and typically booked 50 days in advance. Early booking is recommended to secure preferred options.

What should I bring for the trip?
Warm clothing, sturdy shoes for walking, and possibly a camera to capture the spectacular views are advisable. The weather can be cold and snowy at high altitudes.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Specific age restrictions are not detailed but consider physical comfort with heights and snow activities.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The cable car ride to 3,000 meters, the Peak Walk suspension bridge, and the stunning panoramic views of over 24 peaks make the trip truly memorable.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most activities involve walking and riding cable cars, which may be manageable for those with moderate mobility. However, the high-altitude terrain and snow might pose challenges.

This full-day Glacier 3000 tour from Montreux offers a well-rounded adventure with breathtaking mountain views, engaging activities, and professional guides. While weather can influence the experience, the trip delivers memorable scenery and unique experiences that make it a worthwhile outing for outdoor lovers.