From Zurich: Rhine Falls, Chocolate and Cheese Factory (KTZ373)

The "From Zurich: Rhine Falls, Chocolate and Cheese Factory (KTZ373)" tour offers a well-rounded day trip that showcases some of Switzerland’s top attractions. From the majestic Rhine Falls to the delectable Chocolarium and Appenzeller Schaukaserei, this tour provides a hassle-free experience for travelers looking to enjoy the country’s natural wonders and culinary delights. While the tour is generally well-received, there’s more to discover about the tour’s accessibility, customer feedback, and recent operational improvements.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Zurich includes visits to Rhine Falls, Chocolarium (chocolate factory), and Appenzeller Schaukaserei (cheese factory).
• The tour provides entry tickets, a driver guide, and lunch, with an optional Rhine Falls cruise upgrade.
• The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, with morning at Rhine Falls and afternoon at the chocolate and cheese factories.
• The tour departs from Ausstellungsstrasse 5, 8005 Zürich, and is accessible via public transportation.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The tour from Zurich includes visits to the Rhine Falls, the Chocolarium (a chocolate factory), and the Appenzeller Schaukaserei (a cheese factory).

It features entry tickets to all attractions, a driver guide, lunch, and free time in Appenzell. Guests can opt for a Rhine Falls cruise upgrade for 3 or 10 CHF.

The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, divided into a morning session at the Rhine Falls and an afternoon session at the chocolate and cheese factories.

Itinerary and Transportation

Departing from Zurich at 09:00 am, the drive to Rhine Falls takes 45 minutes.

After exploring the mighty falls, the tour continues to the Chocolarium, a chocolate factory, which is a 1h20 minute drive away.

Next, the group visits the Appenzeller Schaukaserei, a cheese factory, just a 30-minute drive from the Chocolarium.

The final stop is the charming town of Appenzell, 20 minutes away, before returning to Zurich, which takes approximately 1h15.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 27 travelers and departs from Ausstellungsstrasse 5, 8005 Zürich, where guests should look for a white vehicle marked Swiss Tour and KeyTours.

Accessibility and Participation

While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible. The tour meeting point is near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers to participate. The following table outlines the accessibility and participation details:

Accessibility	Participation
Not wheelchair accessible	Most travelers can participate
Stroller accessible	Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Near public transportation	–
–	–

The tour operator welcomes feedback to enhance accessibility and participation for future tours.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Based on the feedback provided, the overall rating for the tour is 4.2 out of 5 stars from 11 reviews.

Travelers praised the beauty of Rhine Falls, the engaging chocolate factory experience, and the delicious cheese.

However, some guests found the chocolate and cheese tours less appealing, especially for adults.

Criticisms included organization issues, the long tour duration, and limited time in Appenzell on Sundays when shops are closed.

The tour operator acknowledges the feedback and expresses gratitude, indicating a need for adjustments regarding timing and attractions, particularly on Sundays.

Operational Notes and Improvements

The tour operator doesn’t provide hotel pickup, requiring guests to reach the meeting point independently.

At the meeting point, the operator recommends better signage to improve identification of the tour.

Feedback indicates the need for adjustments regarding timing and attractions, especially on Sundays when some shops in Appenzell are closed. This suggests the tour schedule may require optimization to enhance the guest experience.

The operator expresses gratitude for all feedback, as they’re committed to continuously improving the tour to meet and exceed customer expectations.

Rhine Falls: A Natural Wonder

The Rhine Falls, one of Europe’s most spectacular natural wonders, is a must-see destination for visitors to the Zurich region. This thundering waterfall, located just 45 minutes from Zurich, is a breathtaking natural attraction that captivates all who witness it.

• Standing over 75 feet tall and over 450 feet wide, the Rhine Falls is the largest plain waterfall in Europe.

• Visitors can marvel at the sheer power of the falls from various viewpoints, including an observation deck that provides a panoramic perspective.

• For a more immersive experience, guests can opt for a boat ride that takes them to the very base of the falls, allowing them to feel the mist and hear the roar of the cascading water.

Chocolarium: Indulge in Cocoa Bliss

After exploring the majestic Rhine Falls, visitors embark on a delightful journey to the Chocolarium, a captivating chocolate factory nestled in the heart of Switzerland.

The tour immerses guests in the enchanting world of chocolate-making, where they witness the transformation of raw cocoa beans into decadent treats. Visitors stroll through interactive exhibits, learn about the history and production of Swiss chocolate, and indulge in tastings of the finest creations.

The Chocolarium offers a unique and engaging experience, appealing to chocoholics and curious travelers alike, making it a highlight of the day’s adventure.

Appenzeller Schaukaserei: Cheese Lovers’ Paradise

Following a captivating visit to the Chocolarium, the tour continues to the Appenzeller Schaukaserei, a true cheese lover’s paradise nestled in the picturesque Swiss countryside.

At the Schaukaserei, guests can:

• Observe skilled cheesemakers handcrafting the renowned Appenzeller cheese using traditional methods
• Indulge in cheese tastings and learn about the unique flavors and aging process of this iconic Swiss delicacy
• Browse the on-site shop, stocked with a variety of Appenzeller cheeses, as well as other local dairy products and souvenirs

The Appenzeller Schaukaserei offers a delightful immersion into the rich cheesemaking heritage of this Alpine region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book Additional Activities During the Tour?

Yes, an optional cruise upgrade for 3 or 10 CHF is available during the tour. Travelers can also explore Appenzell on their own during the free time provided in the afternoon session.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for this tour. Guests are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes for walking. Bringing layers is recommended as the tour includes both indoor and outdoor activities.

Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes lunch, but additional food and drinks are not covered. Travelers should bring any extra snacks or beverages they may want during the day.

Can I Leave the Tour Group to Explore on My Own?

Yes, you can explore on your own during the free time in Appenzell. The tour itinerary allows approximately 1 hour of free time, giving you the flexibility to wander around the town independently.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring for the Tour?

You’ll likely need 20-30 CHF for the optional Rhine Falls cruise upgrade and any additional purchases at the chocolate or cheese factories. The tour includes entry tickets, lunch, and free time in Appenzell, so extra spending is minimal.

The Sum Up

The "From Zurich: Rhine Falls, Chocolate and Cheese Factory (KTZ373)" tour offers a well-rounded experience, showcasing Switzerland’s natural beauty, artisanal traditions, and delectable products. While some organizational improvements are underway, the tour provides a hassle-free way to explore these highlights. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, indulgent chocolate, or authentic cheese, this day trip from Zurich is sure to leave a lasting impression.