Blessed with fairytale peaks that are drenched in powdery snow, the Swiss Alps is one of the world’s best destinations for cross-country skiing. Journey between traditional alpine villages and lofty pines that soar above scenic valleys and inhale the spectacular views. Kandersteg nestles deep in the heart of Bernese Oberland and is incredibly beautiful, making it a wonderful destination for Swiss Alps holidays. The blend of open plateaux and high trails is ideal for cross-country skiing and Oeschinensee and Sunnbuel can be easily accessed by cable ca
Tour du Mont Blanc
This world-famous hiking route circumnavigates the tallest peak in western Europe and leads you on a remarkable tour of the massif. Witness some of the most breathtaking views on earth and discover the diverse scenery of France, Switzerland and Italy. Led by our expert guides, traverse six mountain passes, trek through alpine meadows and explore pretty villages.
Wildlife
The Swiss Alps are rich with wildlife and in the spring and summer verdant pastures and valleys are punctuated by shimmering glacial lakes, gushing waterfalls and colourful wildflowers such as fire lilies, lady slippers and various species of orchid. As you walk through scented pine forests and lush meadows, keep your eyes open for eagles, kestrels and buzzards.
Alpine villages
Resembling scenes from a fairy tale with their traditional wooden chalets and mountain backdrops, the villages in the Swiss Alps are truly beautiful. Kandersteg, Gimmewald and Grindelwald are known for their jaw-dropping settings made up of imposing mountains and alpine lakes. They also give you an insight into the heritage and traditions of the Swiss Alps where you can appreciate a simpler and slower way of life.
Stunning lakes
A surprising fact: you’re never more than 10 miles from a lake in Switzerland, and some of the most beautiful can be found nestled in the Alps. On our classic Swiss Alps hiking tour, we will guide you among two of our favorites – Oeschinensee and the Blue Lake of Blausee. Oeschinensee is considered the jewel of Bernese Oberland with the dramatic peaks of the Doldenhorn and the Bluemlisalphorn reflecting on its cobalt waters.
Swiss Alps Hiking Tours
Hiking the Swiss Alps offers a breathtaking experience, where dramatic, snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys create a stunning backdrop for adventure. The trails wind through picturesque alpine meadows, past crystalline lakes, and alongside rushing streams, revealing panoramic vistas of rugged mountains and charming mountain villages. Hikers can enjoy the serenity of remote, unspoiled landscapes while encountering diverse wildlife and flora unique to the region. Each trail, from gentle hikes to challenging ascents, provides a rewarding journey through one of Europe‘s most pristine and awe-inspiring natural environments.
Switzerland is renowned for its astounding Alpine scenery, crisp snow-capped peaks and formidable panoramas. Home to some of the most dramatic scenery in the world, it’s said that hiking enthusiasts have come to explore the Swiss Alps since the Middle Ages. Stretching over both the Western Alps and Eastern Alps, the Swiss Alps southern ranges also encompass the Mont Blanc Massif and the Bernina Massif that cross into the French, Italian, Austrian and Liechtenstein borders.
In addition to its natural beauty, hiking in the Swiss Alps allows you to immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage. You’ll encounter charming mountain villages where traditional Swiss architecture and local customs are preserved, providing a glimpse into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
This twin centre holiday immerses you in an unforgettable mountain scene with exceptional walking trails stretching far out across the alpine landscapes.
Although the Swiss Alps are arguably most well-known for skiing, these rugged peaks also provide an idyllic backdrop for hiking tours. In the spring and summer months the pretty foothills are filled with wildflowers and present fabulous walking trails with uninterrupted panoramas of the mountains and valleys. Two of the most famous long-distance routes include the Tour du Mont Blanc and Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn. The alpine village of Kandersteg is another scenic destination for exploring the Alps. Nuzzled high in the mountains, the village is within easy reach of Lake Oeschinen, Blausee Nature Park and the Allmenalp region.
Where is best for cross-country skiing in the Swiss Alps?
While the more famous resorts of Verbier and Zermatt are considered meccas for skiing, Kandersteg provides a fantastic base for cross-country skiers wanting to explore lesser-known trails. Boasting incredible views over the Bernese Alps, this picturesque town is wrapped inside wide valleys and high plateaus which makes it perfect for beginners as well as seasoned skiers. You’ll find approximately 50 miles of well-maintained tracks that are suitable for various levels of ability.
FAQs on Swiss Alps Hiking Tours
How can I prepare for my Swiss Alps hiking tour?
Preparing for your hiking adventure is essential to make sure you have a comfortable and unforgettable experience. Take note of your trip’s activity level rating during the booking process, and look at the trip notes for insights into daily hiking distances and elevations. Use this information to guide your training and physical preparations.
In the weeks and months leading up to your trip, increase your daily activity level and embark on long walks, wearing the kit that you plan to wear on your tour so that you can get used to things like the weight of your backpack. Make sure to thoroughly break in your boots to avoid painful blisters on the trail. Check out our fitness guide for more advice on the physical preparation needed for your active tour.
When is the best time to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc?
Although late June to early October is considered the best time to trek the Tour du Mont Blanc owing to the drier weather conditions, mountains can be extremely unpredictable, and you should expect rain at any time. On the higher trails it can also get very cold, even in summer. One of the quieter times when there are less walkers is late June, and you’ll also enjoy the lush scenery of flower filled meadows. July and August tend to be the busier months so you’re probably best avoiding them if you prefer to go off-peak.
Is the Bernese Oberland good for hiking?
Crisscrossed by stunning mountain trails, the Bernese Oberland is an exceptional destination for walking and there is a diverse range of routes to choose from. Hike along lofty alpine passes, between traditional towns and villages and below the gaze of majestic peaks such as Jungfrau, Titlis and Eiger. You’ll also be greeted with immense views, cascading waterfalls and some of the most beautiful lakes in Europe. Along the way, immerse yourself in the wildlife and look out for chamois, golden eagles, red deer and bearded vultures.
Are the Swiss Alps good for biking?
Home to mountainous and remote trails that wind through magnificent scenery where you’re often accompanied by the sound of cowbells, the Swiss Alps have endless opportunities for biking. Whether you prefer to climb the high mountain trails or bike along the lower valleys through pine forests and sun-drenched meadows, there’s a wealth of routes for everyone. For more challenging rides, head to the Valais Matterhorn region where contrasting landscapes of glaciers, vineyards and forests fringe the trails. You can even soothe any aching muscles at the end of your Swiss Alps biking tours in the thermal springs at Leukerbad.
What is the national dish of Switzerland?
Most widely known for its cheeses, Switzerland boasts delicious cuisine, but you’ll find far more than fondue and Gruyere on the smorgasboard. Much of the food is influenced by German, French and Italian cuisines with potatoes and cheese being popular ingredients. Made from fried grated potato, rosti is an iconic Swiss dish that can be found in most restaurants and is very often topped with cheese, mushrooms, onions or corn. Raclette (melted cheese served with boiled potatoes) is another major player in Swiss cuisine and is delicious!
