SWISS ALPINE ADVENTURE Drive the World-Famous Klausen Pass

Enjoy an unforgettable three-day, two-night Swiss Alps driving break for two people driving the world-famous Klausen Pass, the venue for the prestigious Klausen Run vintage car race. Home of the legendary Klausen Run vintage car race, the Klausen Pass takes in some of the most breathtaking mountain views imaginable. Connecting the cantons of Uri and Glarus, it extends through the Schächten valley, at high altitude, passing contorted landscapes, majestic mountains and unique flora and fauna only found at such a height. Beginning in 1922, the Klausenrennen vintage car race has thrilled motor racing enthusiasts ever since. As motor racing began to entertain in England, Italy and France, the idea was formed to begin something similar in Switzerland. No other mountain section had proved more fascinating than the 21.5km gravel route from Linthal to the top of the pass. And so it was that the Klausen Run was born. Nowadays, the race continues to attract crowds of over 40,000 spectators, consisting of 136 curves over the course of an incline of 1237 metres. Arriving in Zurich, take the wheel of the thrilling premium sports car. Not just Switzerland's financial hub, Zurich is a captivating mix of tradition, culture and vibrancy. It's unique and contrasting charm is embodied in the gorgeous pre-medieval Old Town, architecturally modern financial centre and buzzing social scene. Heading south into the mountains after a whirlwind tour of Zurich, the Klausen Pass begins along a short stretch of original cobbled road in Glarus. As there is a motorway alternative to the road, the pass enjoys little traffic; perfect for motoring enthusiasts. Klausen Pass Itinerary: From Glarus, the pass then rapidly winds through sections of forest, comprising of several high speed sweeping turns and tight switchbacks. The pass continues through a series of small tunnels, reaching an exhilarating straight incline before speeding out of the forest onto the 5km Alpine Plateaux, with views of some of the most incredible jagged granite peaks imaginable. At this point, surrounded by granite walls, it's highly recommended to leave the car and take in the views, which includes several remarkable waterfalls nearby. The ascent to the top of the Klausen Pass clocks up another 40 hair raising twists and turns to the summit, where the Klausen Café offers a welcome respite, time to recuperate and recollect on the drive up before the thrilling descent. The Klausen Pass descends rapidly and includes some eye-watering sheer drop-offs that must be treated with caution. Once beyond this stretch, the road sweeps across the mountain and dives back into dense Apline forest. Further down the valley is an incredible gushing waterfall, dropping several hundred metres into the green chasm below. The descent ends at Burglen, the birthplace of the Swiss folk hero, William Tell, known as an expert crossbow marksman, who assassinated Gessler, an Austrian tyrant. The village makes for a good location for a pleasant stroll, with an interesting museum dedicated to Tell's legacy. From Burglen, the route heads North West to Lake Lucerne, spending the night wandering the plazas and candy-coloured houses of this fairytale Swiss town. The 14th-century Museggmauer city walls, turreted buildings, spired churches and covered bridges, including the iconic Kapellbrücke, sit amid a backdrop of three snow-capped mountain ranges and, of course, the expansive lake. In Lucerne, spend the night resting in the grandeur of a luxurious, lakeside 5-star hotel which conceals within its walls over 100 years of history. The following day, the route returns to the base of the Klausen Pass before heading directly south to the Italian border and on to the glacial Lake Lugano. At the southernmost tip of the Swiss Alps, Lake Lugano strecthes out into Italy, making for a mild Mediterranean climate in which citrus trees line the promenades, guests sunbathe under palms and light Mediterranean cuisine is served among dainty fishing boats and enjoyed by lakeside revellers. Dine at Lugano's only Michelin-starred restaurant, housed uniquely inside an art gallery, that combines gourmet cuisine and stylish atmosphere. The menu specialises in lake fish and seafood and offers breathtaking views of Lugano as well as a changing scene of international artworks. In the evening, spend the night in true Italian opulence at a 5-star lakeside villa; winner of a top 50 place in Conde Nast's Readers' Choice Awards 2015. Awaken to calm, crystal clear waters feeling refreshed and ready to explore the stunning landscape, be pampered in the sensory spa or indulge in a champagne brunch before jumping back into the cool, sporty convertible and departing in style back through the Klausen Pass to Zurich, and home.