Many of the European Christmas Markets trace their beginnings back to the Middle-Ages, and we will experience them in their present day glory, in some of the most picturesque towns of Switzerland, Germany, and France. Craft your way through these winter wonderlands, all while discovering their festive charm and rich histories.
Experience a trunk show of French yarns and a bespoke knitalong project. Visit a Swiss wool collective renowned for its comfortable duvets and mattresses. Enjoy tankards of Gluhwein and the aroma of gingerbread as you explore unique holiday crafts at the markets. Discover the secrets of Swiss cheese-making in Emmental, and create your own gnome with guidance from a French dollmaker.
Welcome to Switzerland, the land of the majestic Alps and delicious treats! Upon arrival, you’ll make your way to Zurich Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station) to meet up with the group. From there, a bus will take you to your first destination: the charming city of Basel.
After settling in at the hotel, head out to one of Basel’s enchanting Christmas markets and explore the festive atmosphere. Be sure to discover the Basler specialty—Laeckerli. Learn all about the rich tradition and enjoy ample opportunities to taste it!
Once you’ve indulged in the Laeckerli experience, return to the hotel where a group welcome dinner awaits, offering a perfect opportunity to relax as you begin your Swiss adventure.
Today, you’ll journey to Emmental—the picturesque Emme Valley, renowned as the birthplace of the iconic cheese known as Swiss cheese in the U.S. Get ready for an in-depth exploration of how this famous cheese gets its characteristic holes, followed by a fondue lunch.*
After lunch, visit Spycher Handwerk, a family-run business managed by the Grädel family for generations. You’ll see vintage industrial carders in action, tour their duvet-making facility, and meet their merino flock—just don’t mistake them for the resident camels! The visit includes a stop at their well-stocked store, a paradise for knitters, weavers, and crafters. Before heading back to Basel, you might also step into their cozy café for some refreshments and freshly baked strudel.
Once back in Basel, you can drop off any new finds and stroll down to the Rhine, where a variety of restaurants await, or dine at your hotel’s Michelin-rated restaurant, the Bel-Etage.
* Alternative options available for those with dairy intolerances.
Today, you’ll bid farewell to Switzerland and journey to the enchanting Black Forest, famous for its cuckoo clocks and Black Forest cake. After breakfast, you’ll set off for Germany, with a stop in the vibrant town of Freiburg im Breisgau to explore its lively Christmas Market. Here, you’ll have the chance to forage for your lunch amidst the festive stalls.
Afterward, return to the bus and continue to the spa town of Baden-Baden. Once you’ve checked in at the hotel, you’ll head out for dinner together, just a short walk away.
The morning is yours to explore Baden-Baden at your own pace, with the challenge being what not to do! A top recommendation is indulging in one of the town’s world-famous spas—Friedrichsbad still hosts historic Roman bath ruins, and the modern Caracalla Therme is newer with a wonderful roster of spa treatments.
You may also visit the stunning Casino, the Fabergé Museum, or enjoy a slice of Black Forest Cake (Schwarzwald Kirschtorte). For shopping, explore the nostalgic boutiques along the Kurhaus Colonnade, luxury brands on Sophienstrasse, and popular shops in the Pedestrian Zone. Don’t miss the Christmas Market opposite the Kurhaus and Casino, open from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm—perfect for grabbing a famous salmon sandwich for lunch.
Be sure to return in time for a presentation and trunk show by Alice Anquetin of Alice im Wolleland, showcasing French and German yarns. The passionate advocate has prepared a special kit for the group, so we’ll let you know what needle size to bring before your trip in case you want to get started right away. Afterwards, you’ll head back into town for a group dinner at a traditional Weinstube (wine bar).
After breakfast, you’ll depart Germany and cross the French Border to Alsace, with your first stop at the charming Christmas Market in Kaysersberg. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore locally produced mohair, and you might even get to meet the goats at the market. If time and weather permit, you’ll also visit a local wool producer and her merino flock.
With your senses enriched, you’ll continue to your hotel nestled in the Alsatian countryside at the edge of the Vosges mountains, where a delightful dinner will be waiting.
Following breakfast, you’ll be joined by your next guest, Annick Tremel, who may not spin thread into gold, but will certainly help you transform a felted sweater into a charming gnome. Annick, a former Waldorf teacher, has been crafting beautiful dolls throughout her career and hails from just outside Avignon, France.
Lunch will be served at the hotel, followed by a visit to a nearby town’s Christmas Market, where you can indulge in the local fair before returning to the hotel, well-fed and full of festive spirit.
You’ll add the finishing touches to your gnomes before heading to the enchanting city of Colmar for lunch at its impressive Christmas Market. Spend the afternoon exploring this charming town as it lights up with festive decorations.
In the evening, return to the hotel for a final farewell dinner, reflecting on the fun and memories shared with the group over the past week.
After breakfast, you’ll pack up your Christmas sacks and head to Zurich Airport for your journey home.
(For all Trans-Atlantic flights, we recommend arriving at the airport 3 hours before departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.)
Accommodations will include a country retreat in the Alsatian countryside and two grand villas from the Golden Age, all within walking distance of the heart of the historic town centers.
Please note: Most properties do not offer ground floor rooms or elevators.
Return flights to Switzerland are not included, but we are happy to provide a separate flight quote with your package, allowing you to decide whether to book with us or on your own.
Although booking flights might seem straightforward, hidden fees or service classes without seat assignments, meals, or checked bags can arise. With our experience since 1985, we are familiar with the best routings and have access to great contracts, often offering better prices than those available online.
Comfort with walking on cobbled surfaces, which may be icy, is essential for enjoying the Christmas markets. Additionally, many restaurants offer set menus with limited options for dietary requirements.
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