Couple’s Getaway
A little scenery, a little cuisine, and a whole lot of romance
Food, Wine, Fun (and romance!)
Explore the glorious Swiss Alps and relax like royalty in the Italian Lake District
There is no better place for romance than Europe. Whether you're relaxing at a world-class Swiss spa or strolling along the shores of Lago Maggiore, the slower pace of life on the Continent is deliciously conducive to couples time.
From Instagram-worthy views of snow-capped Swiss alps to a heady whiff of Italy’s aristocratic splendor, join a select group of couples for in the trip of a lifetime.
Schedule
Thursday & Friday, July 8&9
USA to Zurich, Switzerland
Depart from your home city for an overnight flight to Zurich, Switzerland. We’ll meet you at the airport then wind our way along Zurich’s Gold Coast for a scenic tour on our way to the hotel and our local village just outside the city.
Set off, just the two of you, to explore our village or join other couples for a relaxing afternoon with Negronis on Lake Zurich. That evening, join us for a group dinner at one of Zurich’s best views or I’ll direct you to a romantic spot for dinner à deux.
After dinner, we’ll take the train along the lakefront back to our hotel or snuggle up with a nightcap at one of the town’s local cafes.
Saturday, July 10
Zurich, Switzerland
Have an early morning stretch or walk along the lakefront before we explore our village and all the quaint treasures it has to offer.
Next Up: A Guided (or DIY) Tour of Downtown Zurich
Just before/after lunch, we’ll head to Zurich’s downtown. Join a guided tour of Old Town, New Town, and Historic Sites; or take off on your own for for strolling, shopping, or a bit of the cafe life along Zurich’s famous Bahnhofstrasse. Probably the safest major metropolitan city, downtown is pretty compact so you can get lost and we’ll still find you!
In the evening, we’ll do drinks and dinner downtown — or you can return to the village and I’ll share the address for my favorite typical Swiss meal near our hotel.
Sunday, July 11
Luzern, Switzerland
After breakfast, join us as we wind our way to beautiful Luzern, celebrated as one of the Europe’s most picturesque cities. We’ll take a gondola ride to the top of the mountain with a breathtaking view of Lake Luzern, nestled among the soaring alps.
Next up, lunch in a fabulous old hotel with an outdoor restaurant and my favorite view of Switzerland — after 30 years of searching, I always return to this spot because it still takes my breath away!
Back to Zurich, where you can choose your own adventure — quiet and cozy fondue dinner or, if you’re up for it, a lively night out, clubbing with the Swiss.
Lake Lucerne
Known as the most beautiful city in Switzerland, from our viewpoint above Lake Lucerne, we’ll be looking out over one of the most beautiful vistas in all of Europe!
Monday, July 12
Swiss Alps
On Monday morning we’ll be heading to the alps to stay overnight in a typical Swiss village. If you’re outdoorsy, you can opt to hike through alpine meadows or enjoy a picnic by one of my very favorite lakes, a secret hiding spot nestled in the mountains.
If you’re in for a luxury afternoon, our village is home to world-renowned spas made famous by European royalty.
Tuesday, July 13
Switzerland to Italy
Next up, we head to the famed lake district of Northern Italy, stopping at picturesque towns along the way and landing on the shores of beautiful Lago Maggiore — whose vistas inspired Italy’s Romantic artists.
We’ll be staying in one of my favorite hotels, filled with old world Italian charm — every room in the hotel is different, so everyone will get a surprise!
Late afternoon and evening I’ll have a handful of recommendations for sightseeing, activities, and dinner — either as a couple, with some new friends, or with the whole group.
Wednesday, July 14
Lago Maggiore, Italy
Take the whole day to yourselves or join us for a trip to the most famous market on Lago Maggiore — an Italian tradition that has been around for five centuries! From there, you can take off on your own or join us for a leisurely day of strolling, noshing, and people watching.
That night, we’ve arranged for the group to have dinner at a hillside Agriturismo. Agriturismos are actual working farmhouses that started inviting guests to their traditional family dinner each night to bring in a little extra income. It’s the best way to experience an Italian family-style meal.
Lago Maggiore
Nestled between Piedmont and Lombardy, the Eden of Italy has been a popular getaway for wealthy Italian families since Napoleon.
Thursday, July 15
Lake Maggiore, Italy
I’ll help you craft a perfect day, be it relaxing by the pool or on the lakeside or exploring the lake’s storied islands. There’s something for everyone here, so let’s plan something special, just for the two of you.
Beautifully ornate Italianate gardens adorned with botanical treasures. The famous church Sanctuary of the Santissima Pietà houses a “miracle” painting of Christ believed to have once shed blood and tears. And for thrill-seekers, there’s the longest zip line in Europe for a breath-taking bird’s eye view of this paradise.
In the evening, you’re welcome to join us for dinner at a charming, off-the-beaten-path grotto — or let me help you decide on one of the many deliciously romantic restaurants dotted throughout this lovely region.
Friday, July 16
Isola Bella, Italy
Take another day to explore alone or join us for a ferry ride to Isola Bella, the crown jewel of the famed Borromean Islands, an archipelago of stunning weekend palaces built by one of Italy’s most aristocratic families during Italy’s Romantic Age.
The island’s grand palace is surrounded by a quaint fishing village where we can stay for dinner or, if you want to explore more, set off on your own to another of the lake’s beautiful nearby islands.
Saturday, July 17
Italy to Zurich, Switzerland
Departure: Sunday, July 18
On our way back to Zurich, we can stop for lunch at one of the picturesque villages along the way or, if a little shopping is needed, travel straight to the Bahnhofstrasse.
That night, we’ll be staying close to the airport for your early morning flight — so we can either hang out in the swank Hilton Zurich bar, or enjoy a final night out at some local hangouts.
FAQs.
How much does it cost?
The cost of the trip, per person, is $3,800*, double occupancy, which includes all hotels, breakfast, rental car/gas, and all-day concierge service. Airfare, (other) land transportation, food, drinks, spa services, solo excursions and shopping are not included.Couples price, for two: $7,600.
When do I have to commit by?
The trip fills up on a first-come, first-serve basis. A non-refundable* deposit of $500, per person, is required to reserve your space. *In the event that borders will be closed, barring travel to Europe from USA — or back — 50% of your deposit, $250, will be returned. This determination will be made 30 days prior to the scheduled departure date.
When is the balance due?
The full balance of the cost of the trip is required by December 1, 2020. No refunds will be made after that date, with the exception of border closing.
Do we have to join the group for every outing?
While you’ll need to join us for the overall itinerary, there is certainly lots of opportunities to explore wherever we are on your own. I’ll have recommendations and will be happy to help you craft a wonderful day!
How do we make our flight reservations?
While I recommend that you arrange your own flights, to ensure you get mileage and points, I am happy to assist you in booking your flight for and additional fee of $100.
Do we need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended, and I recommend you read the fine print carefully — unfortunately one never knows if a pandemic might come through.
If your travel insurance does not cover health, be sure to check in with your health insurance provider that you are covered overseas.
One note: Chase Sapphire Reserve credit cards offer excellent insurance coverage, you might want to check it out!
Passports and Visas.
You will need a valid passport that will not expire fewer than six months from the date of your return. Please double check, the airline will be confirming this at check in and they give no exceptions.
If you need a new passport, it is recommended you apply prior to December 1, 2020.
Visa requirements for US citizens is changing. Please confirm with the State department at travel.state.gov.