Chocolate & Watches - Gruyères & Vallée de Joux Private Day Tour
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Begin your exclusive Swiss luxury journey with a private transfer from your Geneva hotel in a comfortable BMW. Your first stop is the picturesque Gruyères region, home to Maison Cailler (founded 1819), Switzerland's oldest chocolate maker. Walk through their interactive museum to discover how cocoa beans transform into exquisite Swiss chocolate, followed by a tasting of their signature creations. Enjoy a traditional cheese fondue lunch at a charming mountainside restaurant with panoramic Alpine views.
In the afternoon, travel through scenic Jura landscapes to Vallée de Joux, the cradle of Swiss watchmaking. At Espace Horloger, marvel at rare timepieces and learn how master watchmakers developed their precision craft over centuries. Working ateliers where artisans still hand-assemble luxury watches using techniques unchanged in generations. Your return trip to Geneva includes time to reflect on these twin pillars of Swiss excellence - the art of chocolate and the science of timekeeping.
Available options
CHOCOLATE & WATCHES
PRIVATE DAY TOUR: Embark on a private day trip from Geneva to Gruyères and Vallée de Joux. Cholate & Watches journey<br/>Duration: 8 hours: Approximate tour time including transfers.<br/>Swiss lunch: Traditional cheese fondue lunch at a charming mountainside restaurant with panoramic Alpine views.<br/>JEEP/SUV: BMW<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Entry Tickets Maison Cailler
Bottled water
WiFi on board
BMW.Style JEEP/SUV
Private Tour
Air-conditioned vehicle
Entry Tickets Espace Horloger
Traditional Swiss fondue in one of its most authentic and breathtaking regions
Detailed itinerary
1
The Soul of Swiss Chocolate
Founded in 1819, Maison Cailler holds the distinction of being Switzerland's oldest chocolate brand and a true pioneer in confectionery history. This legendary chocolatier revolutionized the world by creating the first mass-produced milk chocolate in 1875, using fresh Alpine milk from cows grazing just kilometers away in Gruyères' lush pastures. Nestled in a storybook medieval town, Cailler's historic factory invites visitors on an immersive journey through chocolate-making magic - from raw cocoa beans to their signature gold-awarded "Branches" pralines. For over two centuries, the brand has guarded its secret recipes in a vault while supplying European royalty with exceptionally creamy creations. Today, the interactive museum reveals how Cailler perfected the alchemy of Swiss chocolate, blending tradition with innovation in every velvety bite.
2
After exploring chocolate mastery at Cailler, we’ll enjoy an exquisite lunch in Gruyères’ enchanting medieval village, where time seems to stand still. Stroll through cobbled streets lined with 15th-century buildings before sitting down at one of the village’s finest restaurants, where you’ll savor the ultimate Swiss culinary experience. Indulge in the region’s famous food: cheese fondue made with the finest aged Gruyère AOP, and culminating with the legendary double cream meringue – all paired with premium Swiss wines. The authentic flavors, historic atmosphere, and breathtaking Alpine views create an unforgettable gourmet interlude before our horological journey.
3
The Holy Land of Haute Horlogerie
Nestled in the Jura Mountains, Vallée de Joux is the sacred birthplace of Swiss watchmaking, where legendary brands like Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet still craft their masterpieces today. The Espace Horloger museum reveals why this remote valley became horology's global epicenter, showcasing centuries of innovation - from the first minute repeaters to modern tourbillons. Through interactive exhibits and rare timepieces, you'll discover how local craftsmen transformed winter farming traditions into micromechanical artistry. The museum's stunning displays, show hundreds of intricate components beneath, symbolizing the valley's hidden watchmaking secrets. This living heritage continues today in nearby ateliers, where master watchmakers hand-assemble complications using techniques unchanged for generations.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Geneva
Geneva, nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the Alps, is a picturesque city known for its international diplomacy, stunning natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. As the home of the United Nations and the Red Cross, it's a hub of global significance with a high quality of life and a vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Top Attractions
Jet d'Eau
A iconic water fountain on Lake Geneva, shooting water 140 meters into the air. A symbol of the city and a popular photo spot.
Nature
30 minutes
Free
St. Peter's Cathedral
A beautiful Romanesque cathedral with a rich history and panoramic views from its tower. It's a significant religious and historical site in Geneva.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (tower climb CHF 5)
Palais des Nations
The headquarters of the United Nations in Europe. Offers guided tours to learn about the UN's work and history.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (tours require advance booking)
Lake Geneva
A stunning lake surrounded by the Alps, offering various activities like cruises, swimming, and water sports.
Nature
Half day or more
Free to explore, cruises from CHF 20
Reformation Wall
A monumental wall honoring the Protestant Reformation and its leaders. An important historical site in Geneva.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fondue
Melted cheese served in a communal pot, enjoyed with bread. A classic Swiss dish.
Dinner
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance.
Raclette
Melted cheese scraped onto boiled potatoes and pickles. A hearty and comforting dish.
Dinner
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance.
Tartiflette
A rich and creamy dish made with potatoes, onions, bacon, and melted cheese.
Dinner
Contains dairy and pork, not suitable for vegetarians or those with lactose intolerance.
Geneva Salad
A fresh salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a variety of cheeses, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.
Lunch
Can be made vegetarian or vegan by omitting certain cheeses.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Mountain biking
Paragliding
Rock climbing
Boat tours on Lake Geneva
Spa and wellness treatments
Picnicking in the parks
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to January
Summer offers warm weather and outdoor activities, while winter brings festive holiday markets and winter sports. These are the busiest times with higher tourist volumes.
15-25°C (summer), -1-5°C (winter)
59-77°F (summer), 30-41°F (winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, German, Italian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Swiss Franc (CHF)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Geneva is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is relatively uncommon. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night
- • Only use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Geneva Airport • 4 km from city center
By train
Geneva railway station
By bus
Geneva Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Efficient and frequent trams and buses. Easy to use with a single ticket system.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Adagio
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Vieille Ville)
Quartier des Grottes
Paquis
Eaux-Vives
Day trips
Chamonix, France
70 km from Geneva • Full day
A stunning mountain town at the foot of Mont Blanc, known for its outdoor activities and breathtaking views.
Lausanne, Switzerland
60 km from Geneva • Half day
A charming city on the shores of Lake Geneva, known for its Olympic Museum and beautiful views of the lake and Alps.
Annecy, France
45 km from Geneva • Full day
A picturesque town known as the 'Venice of the Alps' for its canals, colorful buildings, and stunning lake.
Festivals
Fête de la Musique • June 21
Geneva International Film Festival (GIFF) • Late August to early September
Geneva Christmas Market • Late November to early January
Pro tips
- Take advantage of the Geneva Transport Card for free public transport and discounts on attractions
- Visit the Jet d'Eau early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and better photos
- Explore the Old Town on foot to discover hidden gems and charming streets
- Take a lake cruise to enjoy the stunning views of the lake and Alps
- Try local specialties, such as fondue, raclette, and Swiss chocolate
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
