TASTE OF SWITZERLAND

October 10–16, 2026

An Intimate Wine & Cultural Journey Through Switzerland

Hosted by Ian LeBlanc, Founder of The Swiss Wine Guys

Autumn is one of Switzerland's best-kept secrets.

As the vineyards surrounding Lac Léman (Geneva) glow with shades of gold and crimson, the harvest winds down, villages settle into a slower rhythm, and the country's extraordinary culinary traditions take center stage.

It is a season that invites you to linger—to savor exceptional wines, unforgettable meals, and meaningful conversations with the people who call this remarkable region home.

Designed for a maximum of eight guests, Taste of Switzerland is not a typical wine tour. It is a carefully curated journey created for travelers who value authenticity, personal connections, and access that simply cannot be found in a guidebook.

Throughout the week, your host, Ian, founder of The Swiss Wine Guys (Insta @theswisswineguys), personally accompanies the group from arrival through departure. Inspired by years of exploring Switzerland and the friendships developed with local winemakers, restaurateurs, and artisans, Ian has designed this journey to reveal the Switzerland that most visitors never have the opportunity to experience.

Every day unfolds at an unhurried pace, allowing time to taste, discover, learn, and simply enjoy one of Europe's most beautiful wine regions. The itinerary below is a work in progress, and certain days/experiences may change based on weather and group preferences.

Day 1 | Saturday, October 10

Welcome to Switzerland

Your Swiss journey begins upon arrival at Geneva Airport, where you will be welcomed personally by Ian before traveling into the beautiful regions of Geneva and Vaud.

As you settle into your boutique accommodations, the pace immediately begins to change. The bustle of travel gives way to vineyard-covered hillsides, alpine horizons, and the peaceful waters of Lac Léman.

This evening, gather with your fellow guests for an intimate welcome reception featuring a selection of Swiss wines and regional specialties.

Dinner introduces you to the culinary character of French-speaking Switzerland, with seasonal dishes thoughtfully paired with local wines.

Day 2 | Sunday, October 11

Lavaux — Vineyards Above the Lake

Few landscapes capture the magic of Switzerland quite like the terraced vineyards of the Lavaux.

Stretching along the shores of Lac Léman, these UNESCO World Heritage vineyards have been cultivated for centuries, creating one of Europe's most extraordinary wine landscapes.

Spend the morning exploring the vineyards with access to local producers and winegrowers. Walk among the terraces, learn about the unique character of the region, and taste wines that are rarely encountered outside Switzerland.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the lake before continuing toward the charming lakeside town of Vevey. Take time to explore its historic streets, waterfront promenade, cafés, and boutiques before returning to the tranquility of the vineyards.

Day 3 | Monday, October 12

Behind the Cellar Door

Today takes you beyond the traditional wine experience.

Travel into the surrounding vineyards of La Côte to visit family-owned estates and historic cellars where generations of winemakers have quietly practiced their craft.

Meet the people behind the bottles. Hear their stories. Explore their cellars. Taste wines alongside the individuals who grow the grapes and make the decisions that ultimately shape what reaches your glass.

Along the way, discover some of Switzerland's distinctive varieties, including the famed Chasselas (aka Fendant), Pinot Noir, Gamay, and others magnificent versions of your favorites that rarely make their way beyond the country's borders.

Lunch is enjoyed at a carefully selected local restaurant, where seasonal cuisine provides another opportunity to discover the character of the region.

The afternoon remains intentionally unhurried, leaving time to relax, explore, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Day 4 | Tuesday, October 13

Montreux/Gruyères — Culture, History & Swiss life

Today offers the opportunity to explore two very different expressions of Switzerland, with the flexibility to experience one—or both—depending on the group's interests and the pace of the day.

Option One: Montreux — Riviera Switzerland

Travel past the Lavaux, along the shores of Lac Léman to Montreux, the elegant lakeside town known for its spectacular setting, Belle Époque architecture, vibrant cultural history, and sweeping views toward the Alps.

Stroll along the famous lakeside promenade, explore the town's boutiques and cafés, and discover the unique character that has attracted artists, musicians, and travelers to Montreux for generations.

Depending on the group's interests and seasonal availability, the experience may include a visit to Château de Chillon, one of Switzerland's most remarkable medieval landmarks, dramatically situated on the shores of the lake.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch before returning through the vineyards and villages of the Vaud countryside.

Option Two: Gruyères — Medieval Switzerland & Alpine Traditions

For those wishing to venture farther into the Swiss countryside, travel to the medieval hilltop village of Gruyères.

Explore its remarkably preserved streets, historic architecture, and imposing château while taking in the surrounding alpine landscape.

The region is equally famous for its culinary traditions. Enjoy a traditional lunch featuring local specialties—including the celebrated cheese of the same name (Fondue, anyone?)—before discovering more about the centuries-old traditions that have made this region synonymous with Swiss craftsmanship and hospitality.

Option Three: Montreux & Gruyères

If our group is feeling really adventurous and want to experience both, the two destinations can be combined into a full-day exploration of the contrasting landscapes and cultures of French-speaking Switzerland, we'll just have to build in some extra travel time.

Day 5 | Wednesday, October 14

Villages, Vineyards & Alpine Horizons

Leave the familiar paths behind as we travel through the picturesque villages and vineyards of Vaud, Fribourg, or Neuchatel.

This is Switzerland at its most intimate—small villages, quiet roads, centuries-old vineyards, family farms, and panoramic views stretching from the lake to the Alps.

Depending on the day's route and seasonal availability, encounters may include winemakers, artisans, food producers, or other local personalities who offer a glimpse into traditions that have shaped these regions for centuries.

Enjoy a leisurely regional lunch before continuing through the countryside.

There is no need to hurry.

The afternoon is about discovery—perhaps stopping for a photograph, wandering through a village, enjoying a glass of wine, or simply taking in the landscape.

Day 6 | Thursday, October 15

A Taste of Switzerland

Your final full day brings together the elements that define the journey: exceptional wine, extraordinary food, beautiful landscapes, and the people who make Switzerland special.

Return to several of the region's hidden corners for a final series of tastings and encounters.

There is time to reflect on the week, revisit favorite wines, exchange stories, and perhaps discover a final bottle, and fill your suitcase with wine and cheese!

This evening, gather for a special farewell dinner at one of Switzerlands finest establishments.

Raise a final glass to Switzerland—to the vineyards, the winemakers, the meals, the landscapes, and the friendships created along the way.

Day 7 | Friday, October 16

Au Revoir, Switzerland

After breakfast, your Swiss journey comes to an end (sad face). Private transportation will return you to Geneva Airport for your departing flight, but don't despair!

You leave with more than memories of beautiful vineyards and extraordinary wines.

You leave having met the people who make them.

Having walked through villages and vineyards that have endured for generations.

Having shared meals, stories, and bottles with new friends.

And perhaps having discovered a Switzerland you never knew existed, but will certainly return to!

WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Exclusive Swiss Wine Experiences

Private visits to some of Switzerland's most respected wineries, where you'll meet winemakers themselves, explore their vineyards, and enjoy guided tastings of wines rarely found outside the country.

Behind the Cellar Door

Access to family-owned estates and historic wine cellars, offering a rare glimpse into Switzerland's rich winemaking traditions and the craftsmanship behind every bottle.

Swiss Culinary Traditions

Exceptional lunches and dinners featuring seasonal Swiss cuisine, thoughtfully paired with regional wines in carefully selected restaurants ranging from charming local favorites to refined dining experiences.

The Lavaux Vineyards

Explore the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage terraced vineyards overlooking Lac Léman, where dramatic landscapes and centuries of wine history come together in one unforgettable setting.

Charming Villages & Cultural Discoveries

Visit picturesque lakeside towns, historic villages, medieval streets, local markets, and cultural landmarks that showcase the beauty and heritage of French-speaking Switzerland.

Scenic Switzerland

Travel through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes—from vineyard-covered hillsides to alpine panoramas and the sparkling shores of Lac Léman.

Boutique Accommodations

Six nights in a carefully selected boutique hotel, including daily breakfast, providing a comfortable and intimate home throughout the journey.

Seamless Travel

Private transportation throughout the experience, including airport transfers and scheduled excursions, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy every moment.

MORE THAN A VACATION

Taste of Switzerland was created for travelers who appreciate experiences that feel personal rather than packaged.

This is not about rushing from one attraction to the next.

It is about slowing down, and sharing a bottle of wine with the family who produced it.

Walking through vineyards that have been cultivated for generations and enjoying unforgettable meals with new friends.

Sitting across the table from a winemaker and hearing the story behind the bottle in your glass.

Discovering a side of Switzerland that few international travelers ever experience. The real Switzerland. Not as a tourist. As an invited guest.

THIS JOURNEY IS FOR TRAVELERS WHO VALUE

• Small groups and personalized experiences
• Exceptional wine, food, and authentic hospitality
• Meaningful cultural immersion
• Private access and insider experiences
• Luxury without pretension
• A relaxed, unhurried pace
• Traveling with a knowledgeable host who is genuinely passionate about Switzerland

AN INTIMATE EXPERIENCE

Maximum 8 Guests

Double Occupancy Required

Taste of Switzerland is designed exclusively for couples or friends traveling together and sharing accommodations. Double occupancy is mandatory.

One Dedicated Host Throughout the Journey

Every detail has been thoughtfully arranged so you can experience Switzerland as an invited guest—not as a tourist.

There are no large groups. No crowded buses. No hurried tastings.

Instead, there is time to taste, explore, connect, and experience Switzerland properly.

MEET YOUR HOST

Ian LeBlanc

Founder, The Swiss Wine Guys

Ian's love affair with Switzerland began years ago and has grown through countless visits, lasting friendships, and a deep appreciation for the country's remarkable wine culture.

His connection to Swiss wine deepened during a 2019 journey to Vevey for the legendary Fête des Vignerons, an experience that revealed just how deeply wine, community, history, and culture are woven into the fabric of Switzerland.

From that experience came the inspiration for The Swiss Wine Guys—and ultimately, Taste of Switzerland.

Ian is creating these journeys to introduce travelers to a side of Switzerland that remains largely unknown outside its borders.

His approach is simple: seek out extraordinary wines, remarkable people, beautiful places, and authentic experiences—and bring a small number of guests along to share them.

Throughout Taste of Switzerland, Ian is not simply a guide. He is your host, your connection to the region, and your companion throughout the journey.

OCTOBER 10–16, 2026

Taste Switzerland. Meet Its People. Discover Its Wine.

Maximum 8 Guests — Double Occupancy required

An intimate week exploring Switzerland one glass at a time.

$1500 Deposit to secure reservation

$7500 all inclusive total per room/couple (does not include flights to/from Geneva or discretionary spending)

All inquiries can be sent to Ian directly at ianL@theswisswineguys.com or by calling +1 (203) 613-3524