CHASE MOMENTS: Embracing Slow Travel
Where Time Slows & the Journey Becomes the Destination
Slow travel isn’t just about movement—it’s about presence. It’s about stepping away from packed itineraries and letting destinations unfold naturally, allowing you to breathe in their essence, savor their beauty, and connect deeply. Here are five soulful European destinations within easy reach, perfect for those seeking serenity, culture, and timeless landscapes.
1. Lavaux Vineyards, Switzerland – A Journey Through Time & Taste
Why Visit?
Tucked along the shores of Lake Geneva, the UNESCO-listed Lavaux wine region is a place where time truly slows. Stroll through terraced vineyards dating back to the 11th century, overlooking endless blue waters, and sip wines that capture the very soul of the land. Whether wandering through charming villages like Saint-Saphorin or watching the sunset from a lakeside bistro, this region is pure poetry.
Easily Reachable: 2.5 hours by car or train from Zurich / 1-hour drive from Geneva Airport.
✨ Slow Travel Experience:
- Gruyères Gold Tour with Train Ride & Tastings –Journey through chocolate tradition with tasting the most famous of Swiss delicacies. Book here
- Unlimited Travel on Train, Bus & Boat – Enjoy travel through the best places by train, boat, or bus; stop wherever you like, anytime! Book here.
Where to Stay:
- Auberge de la Gare, Grandvaux – A charming countryside inn with breathtaking vineyard views, offering a peaceful retreat just steps from the Lavaux terraces. Book here
- Hotel Lavaux, Cully – A modern yet cozy hotel nestled in the vineyards, featuring lake-view rooms and a relaxing atmosphere. Book here
2. Hallstatt, Austria – A Fairytale by the Lake
Why Visit?
Hallstatt is a place that feels like it belongs in a painting—a picturesque village hugging the shores of an alpine lake, surrounded by misty peaks and storybook houses. Slow travel here means wandering through cobbled lanes, exploring salt caves, and taking in the silence of the lake at dawn.
Easily Reachable: 3-hour drive from Zurich / 1.5 hours from Salzburg Airport.
✨ Slow Travel Experience:
- Salt Mine Exploration & Funicular Ride – Descend into the world’s oldest salt mine and ride a historic funicular for breathtaking panoramic views. Book here
- Hallstatt Private Walk Tour – Immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery, stroll the charming streets, and witness the history of the Iron Age in this fairytale. Book here
Where to Stay:
- Seehotel am Hallstättersee – A charming lakefront stay offering tranquil views and a relaxed ambiance. Book here
- Gasthof Simony – A cozy, family-run guesthouse in the heart of Hallstatt, ideal for slow travelers. Book here
3. Annecy, France – The Venice of the Alps
Why Visit?
Annecy is a dream of pastel-colored facades, winding canals, and alpine lake serenity. The old town’s slow pace invites you to wander aimlessly, soak in the scents of fresh croissants, and watch the swans glide along the canals. With its crystal-clear lake and surrounding mountains, Annecy is a sanctuary for those craving beauty and tranquility.
Easily Reachable: 3-hour drive from Zurich / 45-minute drive from Geneva Airport.
✨ Slow Travel Experience:
- Cycling Around Lake Annecy – Ride along the famous Voie Verte, a scenic lakeside path where every turn reveals a postcard-worthy view. Book here
- Canal-Side Food Tour & – Savor local cheeses, fresh pastries, and Savoyard delicacies on a slow-paced culinary tour. Book here
Where to Stay:
- Impérial Palace – A lakeside retreat offering Belle Époque elegance, gourmet dining, and a serene spa. Book here
- Hébé Hotel – A beautifully designed, intimate hotel in Annecy’s Old Town, perfect for relaxed stays. Book here
4. Dolomites, Italy – The Rhythm of the Mountains
Why Visit?
In the heart of the Italian Alps, the Dolomites offer an untouched escape where silence is golden and nature takes center stage. Instead of rushing through, slow travel here means hiking through meadows, sipping espresso in alpine huts, and watching the clouds dance over jagged peaks.
Easily Reachable: 3-hour drive from Zurich / 1.5 hours from Innsbruck Airport.
✨ Slow Travel Experience:
- Cortina Valley and Lakes Guided Tour – Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains from the town and discover the beautiful lakes of Misurina and Landro with view of the 3 Cime di Lavaredo. Book here
- Lake Santa Croce to Cortina Adventure - Discover the breathtaking Dolomites with picturesque lakes, charming villages, and stunning mountain views on a memorable day trip. Book here
Where to Stay:
- Majestic - Unique Spa Resort (Brunico) – An alpine sanctuary blending wellness, gourmet dining, and breathtaking Dolomite views. Book here
- Naturhotel Leitlhof – A sustainable alpine hideaway with wellness facilities and a peaceful setting. Book here
5. Black Forest, Germany – Enchanted Woodlands & Storybook Villages
Why Visit?
A land of deep forests, half-timbered villages, and winding roads, the Black Forest is where fairytales come to life. Here, slow travel means strolling through quiet trails, savoring a slice of Black Forest cake in a charming café, and soaking in the warmth of a historic thermal bath.
Easily Reachable: 2.5-hour drive from Zurich / 1-hour drive from Stuttgart Airport.
✨ Slow Travel Experience:
- Baden-Baden Beneath – Wander picturesque streets, parks, and squares as your guide shares the town's history, culture, and spa traditions for an immersive, relaxing experience. Book here
- Best in Baden-Baden and Blackforest – A personalized journey through scenic landscapes, charming villages, and tranquil nature trails in the heart of the Black Forest. Book here
Where to Stay: