Day 1 - Zurich to Montreux

We started the day with a walking tour of Zurich. Being a Sunday morning many of the people in Zurich were attending one of the many very beautiful churches in the city. At one stage we stood admiring the view while listening to the peeling bells. They were loud and rang continuously for 15 to 20 minutes. It was an unbelievable sight and sound. 

My lasting impression of Zurich is that it is clean, organised and beautiful. The way that the very old part of town has been blended in with the new, sleek Zurich is wonderful. As Annette (our guide) reminded us, Switzerland was neutral during both World Wars, so most of the old building still stand. 

Our tour group numbers 29. All Aussies. Many of them have linked up with the tour from other cities in Europe. Some have been travelling in Italy, others the Balkans. Many have already been away from Australia for weeks. They all seem nice. I guess we will learn more about them in the coming weeks. 

Our next stop was the capital of Switzerland - Bern. Another absolutely stunning city. We wandered the streets of the town centre for a little while before having lunch in a small Tea Room. Just lovely. 

Bern means 'bear' in German. The town was named after the first animal caught by the founder of Bern when on a hunting trip in the area. 

Our next stop was the town of Gruyere. Talk about take your breath away. We climbed up the hill to find the most beautiful village at the foot of a chateau built on the fortified position at the top of the hill. The town square was stunning. Words and photos really don't do it justice. 

After a short coach ride we have now arrived in Montreux. The Swiss playground of the very rich and famous. We can only dream!!!

We have now moved into the mountain area. Tomorrow it is the Alps. We have caught glimpses of them as we toured along today. From a distance they are spectacular. We can't wait to experience them up close.