About Alpine Adventure: Switzerland, France & Italy Program
Experience the Alps like never before on this 11-day summer adventure through Switzerland, France, and Italy. You'll journey through some of Europe's most spectacular mountain landscapes, starting in Annecy, France—often called the "Venice of the Alps"—where you'll soar above turquoise alpine lakes via paragliding, tackle a thrilling via ferrata ropes course at high altitude, and enjoy water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking on Lake Annecy. Your adventure continues in the Swiss Alps, where you'll stay in a traditional mountain chalet in Saas-Grund and explore the region's stunning trails, pristine rivers, and glaciers. You'll visit the iconic Matterhorn by cog train, experience an exhilarating canyoning adventure through waterfalls and natural rock formations, and have the option to ski on glacier slopes during summer (for intermediate skiers only). Along the way, you'll swim in Lake Geneva with views of the medieval Chateau de Chillon, then finish your trip in the laid-back Italian lifestyle of Lake Como, where you'll cable car to hillside villages, swim at lakeside pools, and indulge in authentic Italian gelato and cuisine.
This program is designed for active teens who love nature and aren't afraid of physical challenge. You'll stay in carefully selected, locally-run accommodations—a charming old-town hotel in Annecy, a traditional Swiss chalet, and a lakeside hostel in Como—that offer authentic cultural immersion rather than impersonal chain hotels. Professional local guides accompany you on all outdoor activities, prioritizing your safety while you push your limits. Meals feature authentic local cuisine: French croissants and fondue, Swiss fresh alpine fare, and Italian pasta and pizza prepared fresh daily. The program includes all ground transportation, accommodation, meals (breakfasts, three lunches, and dinners daily), activities, admissions, and expert chaperones, though airfare is separate. Whether you're hiking alpine highlands, jumping through waterfalls, or relaxing on pristine lakeshores, you'll develop confidence, physical resilience, and an appreciation for European mountain culture that will stay with you long after you return home.