Private Tour to Gruyères Castle: Explore Cheese and Chocolate Making in Switzerland
5.0
2 Ratings
Bern
Embark on a private tour to Gruyères Castle in Switzerland and delve into the world of cheese and chocolate making. Explore the medieval village, learn how to make Gruyères cheese, and indulge in the creamiest Swiss chocolate at the Cailler Factory.
Duration:
9 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Bern - Your guide will meet you at your hotel, and take you to the train station via some of their favorite local sights. From here you will ride first class to our first discovery.
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Gruyeres - A short scenic hike will bring us to the delightful town of Gruyere, birthplace of the iconic sweet and salty cheese which shares its name. Nestled within the picturesque Fribourg canton, this medieval town is bursting with rustic charm. Explore the maze of cobblestone pathways, glimpsing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside as you make your way to the hilltop Castle of Gruyères.
This stunning fortress dates back to the 13th century, and was once home to the notorious Counts of Gruyères. Now visitors can explore the castle’s sordid history, and wander through treasure lined museum rooms and ancient ruins.
After the tour we will enjoy a quick lunch stop - but don’t fill up too much! -
La Gruyere - Next we head to “La Maison du Gruyère”, a traditional dairy where master cheesemakers will reveal the process behind authentic Gruyère AOP cheese. Watch as fresh milk is transformed into delicious Gruyere, using huge copper cauldrons and giant curd presses.
Learn how the region produces around 48 wheels a day, all of which undergo rigorous inspection by Gruyere AOP before they are allowed to be sold with the official label.
After the demonstration it’s time to indulge your taste buds. Learn to recognize and appreciate the full bodied, nutty flavor of authentic Gruyere as you sample the cheese straight from the wheel. -
Broc - Stomachs full of cheese, we will make our way to our final stop: the Cailler Chocolate Factory.
This legendary cocoa wonderland was created by the grandfather of Swiss chocolate, Francçois-Louis Cailler, whose secret ingredients remain in use today.
His iconic chocolate is famous for its rich, creamy flavor, achieved by using condensed milk rather than the standard milk powder used in most other brands.
Master chocolatiers will show you how to craft your own unique box of truffles, using foolproof ganache techniques. Take your chocolates home, or eat them on the train! - Bern - After a full day of food and adventure, it’s time to head back to your hotel. Your guide will ensure you have a comfortable journey back to your hotel or residence in Bern.
What's Included
- Private local expert guide
- Standard rail ticket (1st class ticket provided upon request)
- Private transfers in Gruyeres’s region
- Visit to La Maison Gruyeres cheese cellars
- Cheesemaking experience at La Maison Gruyeres
- Chocolate tasting at Cailler factory
- Tour of Chateau de Gruyeres
What's Not Included
- Raclette or fondue lunch in Gruyères
Additional Information
This gastronomic journey into the world of Swiss cheese and chocolate is a feast for the senses. Our expedition starts in the historical town of Gruyères, renowned for its flavorful, semi-hard cheese that bears its name. Explore the charming 15th-century dwellings, intricate stone-paved lanes, and one of the jewels in Switzerland’s crown: the grand Gruyères Castle. Indulge your palate at a local dairy, where master cheesemakers will reveal the secrets of Gruyères cheese production. Sample the famous cheese right from the wheel and delve into its rich historical origins. Sweeten your experience with a trip to the iconic Cailler Factory, where Swiss chocolate was born. Learn why Cailler chocolate is often hailed as Europe’s creamiest, and observe the chocolate artisans at work.
Location
Bern
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(2 Ratings)
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1 star
T6997gverinh
Dec 22, 2023
Five stars!! - We can’t recommend this tour enough. Jonas was an exceptional tour guide and made it such a memorable experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Raymond
Dec 31, 2022
Excellent service and well planned - Gruyeres Castle / village is the epic of this well planned and fantastic tour. Jonas was brilliant and took care of us.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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