Travel Story: A Colorado girl on tour in the Alps

Living in Colorado, Go Ahead Groups Account Manager Katie is no stranger to stunning mountain scenery—but a tour of the Alps still took her breath away. Read on to learn about her favorite views from our tour, Jewels of Alpine Europe.

The Alps

Being from the Mile-High City, Katie doesn’t have to go far for incredible views, but the Alps gave even the Rocky Mountains a run for their money. “Some of the drives on tour were the best moments, just because everything around you is so incredible,” Katie said. “It’s definitely a trip for someone who wants to see a lot, and doesn’t mind being on the go.”

Annecy, France

You experience so many different places on this tour, so picking a favorite moment was tough. But one locale that really stood out was Annecy, France, which “was a bit like Venice-meets-the-Alps,” Katie said. With colorful houses and canals that crisscross the city, Annecy seemed straight out of an Italian scene. “Then, you turn a corner and see the lake surrounded by mountains—it wasn’t at all what I expected!” she added.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Another standout was the excursion to Neuschwanstein, the famous fairy-tale castle high up in the Bavarian Alps. Seeing the castle is on plenty of travelers’ bucket lists, and for Katie, the trip was well worth it. The best view is from Marienbrücke, a bridge that spans the Pöllat Gorge—that’s where you’ll capture that iconic shot of Neuschwanstein and the surrounding mountains. “You have to be a little bit brave,” Katie said. “The bridge is pretty high up, but it’s definitely worth it. Just don’t look down!”

The tour of Neuschwanstein is perfect for history buffs, too. King Ludwig II’s tumultuous past shaped the unfinished castle, and Neuschwanstein’s unique story comes to life as you explore its halls. “It’s fascinating to imagine what the castle would’ve looked like,” Katie said. “What was finished is so beautiful and even a little strange, like the indoor grotto.”

Curious to see The Alps on tour with us? Learn more about our guided tours and what's included!