A luxurious journey along the paths leading to Switzerland

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For those who like to travel on beautiful roads with breathtaking landscapes, the way from the UK to Switzerland is full of good surprises. Recently, the Jaguar car brand organized a dream trip among the first owners of the Model E-TYPE 60 Collection, an icon of the brand. The route was inspired by the journey made by Bob Berry and Norman Dewis in 1961 to deliver the first two E-TYPE for participation in the Geneva Motor Show more than 60 years ago. The exclusive expedition from Coventry to Geneva allowed people to create their own memories, enjoying magnificent landscapes and unique experiences. We have set up some unique locations, and with a lot of personality, so that you can plan the trip enjoying the best of this route.

The route to Geneva has epic roads, including the iconic alpine gorges, luxury stays and sophisticated cuisine. A first-stop option is at Long White Cloud, a hotel located on Monkey Island Estate in Bray-on-Thames, Berkshire. The 19th-century Long White Cloud Estate, which is now part of the Monkey Island Estate, is where motorsport legend Sir Stirling Moss was raised in the early 1930s by his parents Alfred and Aileen Crauford Moss, both amateur drivers. Located on a picturesque island on the river Thames in the historic village of Bray-on Thames, it has a rich centuries-old history, and has been home to monarchs, aristocrats, and artists, along with racing drivers, writers and famous artists. Departing from this history-filled paradise, you can stop at Aero Legends in Headcorn in Kent and visit the iconic Spitfire planes before crossing the English Channel to France. Aero Legends has its operation based at Lashenden Airfield (Headcorn), the last grass warfare airfield left in Kent and offers its customers the opportunity to experience the iconic British World War II aircraft.

Heading to Geneva and already on French lands, the stop at the lovely Château Montreuil, located in a medieval village of Montreuil-sur Mer on the Opal Coast, is almost a must for those who like to unite history and comfort. The 1930s castle was originally built by the Fould Springer family as a guest house for friends and family. Over the decades, a so-called group of individuals have stayed at the property, including Sir Roger Moore, Whitney Houston and even the British Royal Family. The Château is surrounded by lush gardens, historic city walls, cobbled streets and rocky landscapes. It’s worth taking a walk to explore.

Another highlight of the trip is the famous French Champagne region, with an exclusive visit to maison Pol Roger to enjoy a guided tour of the cellars. Pol Roger takes great pride in over 160 years producing some of the best champagnes in the world. Founded in 1849, Pol Roger is one of the few Grand Marque Champagne houses that remains in the family and operating. Renowned for its extraordinary and elegant style, it is among the favorites of experts around the world. The region is rich in high-end wineries and scheduled visitation is possible. For the overnight, the indication is the Burgundy region, in the boutique hotel Château De La Resle. It has the charm and personality of a private home, combining luxury with its original architectural features. The nine elegant rooms and suites are cared for by the Dutch Johan Bouman and Pieter Franssens. Guests are invited to share the mansion and two acres of carefully landscaped gardens, with glass houses, orchards and a fully restored inviting swimming pool. The property features a collection of contemporary art and design by Johan and Pieter that attracts connoisseurs from all over the world.

From this point from France to Switzerland, it is perhaps the longest route to be traveled by car. Drivers cross the French-Swiss border and, after more than 300 miles of journey, arrive at Chedi in Andermatt. The Wine Library is a discovery in the world, an elegant space with regular tastings of renowned wines. Located in a quiet area in the middle of the Swiss Alps, 850 metres from the Gemsstockbahn cable car in Andermatt, The Chedi Andermatt combines the tradition of Swiss hospitality with Asian elegance. Already heading to Geneva, with views and exquisite roads, the last 210 miles are an experience with nature. Passing through the mountains at Andermatt, you can make your way to the “Godly” Gotthard Pass, to drive through its impressively beautiful 37 curves. On the famous ollon-villars hill climb, you can make stops and appreciate the view enjoying the fine wines purchased on the way. The Gotthard Pass lies between the Alpine towns Hospental and Airolo in the Swiss Alps. It is often referred to as the “King of the Mountain Passages”. The Gotthard Pass, 690 metres high, is one of the few passages in the Alps, thanks to its 5 km of original road surface, in the form of cobblestones.

Arriving in Geneva, the options are many. The city, which is in southern Switzerland, almost on the border with France, surrounded by the Alps and bounded by Lac Leman, compact but diverse, concentrates its main sights in two regions: the old historical center of the city and the international region where the Red Cross Museum and the UN are located. A highlight of the city is the Parc des Eaux-Vives, one of the oldest parks in the city, offering a fantastic view of the lake. In the 16th century, the property was in the countryside. It joined the District of Eaux Vives from 1912. The green grass and countless ancient trees invite nature lovers for a walk. High on its hill is the exclusive and charming Hôtel Restaurant du Parc des Eaux-Vives. A union between hotel and gourmet restaurant for you to enjoy a meal or a drink with an exceptional view of the lake and the Jura Mountain Range. The ideal place to end the trip and enjoy the city of Geneva in summer or spring. This is one of the itineraries that can be made by car across Europe, and certainly other charming and classy options and elegance can be found. To lovers of a good adventure, we leave this tip and the wishes of a good trip!