The "Bern: Gruyères Cheese and Cailler Chocolate Tasting Tour" offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich culinary heritage of Switzerland. With visits to a renowned cheese dairy, a historic castle, and a celebrated chocolate factory, this 10-hour experience promises a delightful exploration of local flavors and traditions. As travelers embark on this journey, they’ll uncover the stories behind these beloved Swiss specialties, whetting their appetite for more.
Key Points
- A 10-hour culinary tour from Bern focused on Swiss cheese and chocolate, with visits to a Gruyère cheese dairy and the Cailler chocolate factory.
- Tour priced at $390.38 per person, limited to 15 participants, and offered in English, French, and German.
- Includes cheese tasting sessions, exploration of Gruyères Castle and Old Town, and chocolate tasting at the Cailler factory.
- Tour led by a knowledgeable guide, providing insights into Swiss culture and history.
- Meeting point at the Tourist Information office in Bern, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The Gruyères Cheese and Cailler Chocolate Tasting Tour is a 10-hour excursion that takes participants on a journey through the heart of Swiss culinary heritage.
Priced from $390.38 per person, the tour is limited to 15 participants and offered in English, French, and German.
Highlights include visiting a cheese dairy, exploring Gruyères Castle, strolling through the old town, and indulging in chocolate tasting at the Cailler factory.
Tour-goers will travel by train with a guide, seeing Swiss culture, flavors, and stunning landscapes.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but stroller-friendly, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bern.
Itinerary Highlights
First, the tour takes participants to La Maison du Gruyère cheese dairy, where they’ll get to learn about Swiss cheese-making and partake in cheese tasting sessions at various aging stages.
Next, the group will explore the 13th-century Gruyères Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning views. Participants will then stroll through the picturesque cobblestone streets of Gruyères Old Town.
Explore the 13th-century Gruyères Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning views, then stroll through the picturesque cobblestone streets of Gruyères Old Town.
The tour culminates with a visit to the Cailler chocolate factory, where guests can indulge in chocolate tasting.
Throughout the day, the group will travel by train with a knowledgeable guide, taking in the breathtaking Swiss landscapes.
Tour Experience
During the Gruyères Cheese and Cailler Chocolate Tasting Tour, you will have the opportunity to enjoy Swiss culinary traditions.
At the Gruyère cheese dairy, they’ll learn about the cheese-making process and participate in tasting sessions to experience the different aging stages.
Next, they’ll visit the historic Gruyères Castle and stroll through the charming old town.
The highlight for many will be the chocolate tasting at Maison Cailler, where they can indulge in the rich, creamy flavors that have made Swiss chocolate world-famous.
Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable guide will provide insights into Swiss culture and history.
Meeting Point & Accessibility
Participants will meet at the Tourist Information office in Bern, located on the ground floor level near the railway ticket office. This meeting point is easy to find and conveniently situated. However, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, though it is stroller accessible.
| Accessibility | Yes | No |
|—————-|—–|—–|
| Wheelchair | | ✓ |
| Stroller | ✓ | |
| Pet-Friendly | | ✓ |
| Multilingual | ✓ | |
| Free Cancellation| ✓ | |
The tour is offered in English, French, and German, catering to diverse participants. Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
What do past travelers have to say about this Gruyères Cheese and Cailler Chocolate Tasting Tour?
Based on the reviews, this tour offers an exceptional experience. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guide, Mike, who brings the tour to life.
The tour’s highlights include:
-
Visiting the Gruyère cheese dairy and participating in cheese tasting
-
Exploring the picturesque Gruyères Old Town and its 13th-century castle
-
Indulging in chocolate tasting at the renowned Cailler chocolate factory
-
Enjoying the stunning Swiss landscapes during the train journey
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 3 reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an immersive Swiss culinary and cultural experience.
- Bern Old City Walking Tour
- Bern: Engelberg & Mount-Titlis Escapade Private Day Trip
- Alpine Heights: Small Group Tour to Jungfraujoch From Bern
- Bern Old Town – Private Historic Walking Tour
- Exploring UNESCO Gem: Private 3-Hour Walking Tour of Bern
- Bern: Private 18-Minute Helicopter Flight for up to 3 People
Gruyère Cheese Tasting
A key highlight of the Gruyères Cheese and Cailler Chocolate Tasting Tour is the opportunity to learn about and sample the renowned Gruyère cheese.
At the La Maison du Gruyère cheese dairy, visitors gain insights into the traditional cheesemaking process. They witness skilled cheesemakers as they carefully craft the iconic wheels of Gruyère.
The tour includes multiple cheese tasting sessions, allowing participants to savor the cheese at different stages of aging. From the young, mild flavors to the rich, nutty notes of the mature Gruyère, this immersive experience provides a comprehensive understanding of one of Switzerland’s most celebrated culinary treasures.
Gruyères Castle and Old Town
After the cheese tasting, the tour moves on to explore the captivating Gruyères Castle and the charming old town.
Towering over the town, the 13th-century medieval fortress offers a glimpse into Switzerland’s rich history.
Visitors can:
-
Wander the castle’s impressive corridors and rooms, admiring the well-preserved architecture.
-
Take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the castle’s ramparts.
-
Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Gruyères Old Town, with its quaint shops, galleries, and cafes.
-
Immerse themselves in the town’s distinctive character, shaped by its medieval heritage.
Cailler Chocolate Tasting
Next, the tour group makes its way to the renowned Cailler chocolate factory for the ultimate chocolate tasting experience.
At the factory, guests learn about the art of Swiss chocolate-making and indulge in a tasting of various Cailler chocolate varieties. They discover the unique flavors and textures that make Cailler a beloved brand.
The tour provides an opportunity to savor the rich, creamy goodness of Swiss chocolate and gain insights into the production process. Guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and heritage that go into every Cailler chocolate creation.
Ask Away
Is Transportation to the Meeting Point Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point. Participants are responsible for getting themselves to the designated meeting location at the tourist information office in Bern before the tour begins.
Can We Purchase Additional Gruyère Cheese or Cailler Chocolate During the Tour?
Yes, participants can purchase additional Gruyère cheese and Cailler chocolate during the tour. The tour includes time to browse the factory shops, allowing visitors to buy their desired products to take home.
What Is the Recommended Attire for This Tour?
Casual and comfortable clothing is recommended for this tour. Dress in layers as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities. Wear sturdy walking shoes as there’s quite a bit of walking involved throughout the day.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Tastings?
The tour accommodates various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options during the cheese and chocolate tastings. Guests should simply notify the tour company of any special dietary needs when booking.
Can We Extend Our Stay in Gruyères or Bern After the Tour Ends?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Gruyères or Bern after the tour ends. The tour does not include accommodation, so you’re free to explore the areas further on your own schedule.
Final Words
The "Bern: Gruyères Cheese and Cailler Chocolate Tasting Tour" offers a luxurious 10-hour experience to indulge in Swiss culinary heritage. Visitors can savor Gruyère cheese, explore the historic Gruyères Castle, and delight in Cailler chocolate – all while marveling at stunning Swiss landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a comprehensive and delectable journey through the flavors of Switzerland.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Food & Drink Experiences in Bern
More Tours in Bern
More Tour Reviews in Bern
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Bern we have reviewed
- Exploring UNESCO Gem: Private 3-Hour Walking Tour of Bern
- From Bern: Schilthorn Adventure Small-Group Tour
- Bern: Private Walking Tour With a Tour Guide
- Best of Bern: Private Walking Tour With a Local
- Bern: the Best Walking Tour With a Local Guide
- Private Day Trip: Bern>Neuchatel, the Largest Swizz Lake
- Private All Day Car Trip From Bern to Gruyeres & Fribourg
- Bern: Gruyères Cheese and Cailler Chocolate Tasting Tour
- Highlights & Hidden Gems of Bern: Small Group Guided Walking Tour
- Bern: Highlights and Old Town Self-guided Walk
- 6 Best Guided Tours In Bern
- 25 Best Tours In Bern