I’ve wanted to visit Andalucia for more than 20 years and this trip did not disappoint. It was, to me, the perfect blend of rural walking and city time- with my favorite moments being the pastures and small villages, learning about olive production, local plants, and life in Algamitas. The Cortijo is lovely, and though simple, had everything we need (including a pool!) The staff were all incredibly friendly and helpful and Felipe, the manager, was especially thoughtful in taking care of everyone. My traveling companion and I both have dietary/medical restrictions and Felipe and the wonderful kitchen staff went to great lengths to ensure we had what we needed (we know gluten free pasta, bread and cereal can’t be easy to come by in a rural area, and that making a separate version of a meal is a lot of work), but made it seem effortless. Our guide, Miguel, is funny and personable and knows so much about the area: archaeology, geology, plant life, birds, and people- and he clearly makes a great effort to know the neighbors in the village and connect with people. He also runs a tight ship to keep people safe and cared for! He also goes to great lengths to make sure his groups have a great time and get to do the things they want to do. I thought the walking was the right challenge for a level 2- the biggest variable was the sun and heat, but he made sure we were hydrated and prepared. We didn’t have any rain, but that would also make for a different kind of challenge. And we lucked out with a group of lovely, funny, caring fellow-travelers. This trip was to celebrate my friends’ and my 40th birthdays this year, and it was exactly what we wanted it to be!
Hiking Tours Switzerland
Our Best Hiking Tours in Switzerland
Top 5 Hiking Trails in the Swiss Alps
1. Mont Blanc Bovine Route
Being the tallest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc is a beautiful beast of a mountain and a seriously challenging trek, but the scenery you’ll encounter is well worth the effort. The Tour de Mont Blanc is split into 11 stages and the Bovine Route to Champex is a popular trail on hiking vacations in Switzerland, which leads you through high alpine pastures and larch forests overlooking the Sion Valley. Along the trail you’ll pass pretty mountain cafes, perfect for taking a quick break and enjoying the traditional Swiss Rosti. From Champex Lac, a magnificent alpine lake surrounded by dramatic peaks, you can peer over to the Val Ferret from its eastern shore.
2. The Gasterntal and the Klus Gorge
The UNESCO-listed Gasterntal, known as Kandersteg’s ‘Hidden Valley’, sets the scene for one of the best trails on Switzerland hiking tours. Cascading waterfalls tumble down its rugged rock faces into the River Kander and the sound of water and scent of pine trees is like a sweet elixir for the senses. You can opt to hike higher up the valley or continue through the alpine meadows and woodlands to the Waldhaus Nature Reserve, where the landscape erupts with orchids and fire lilies. Following the stunning ravine of Klus Gorge with its roaring waterfalls, you’ll hike beneath the lofty slopes of the Balmhorn, Tatlishore and Atels.
3. Blausee and the Nordrampe
Imagine a dreamlike scene where bright turquoise and emerald waters are fringed by a canopy of towering firs and gnarled trees and it will give you some idea of how idyllic Blausee Nature Park is. Its natural beauty is so intense, it almost seems unreal, but then hiking in Switzerland never ceases to amaze you at every turn. From here you can continue through the Kanderground valley to join the Nordrampe Bahnwanderweg. Hike along the mountain railway and past the ancient ruins of Felsenburg Tower where you’re hugged on all sides by breath-taking views.
4. Edelweiss Trail, Zermatt
Perhaps most synonymous with the song from ‘The Sound of Music’, Edelweiss is a pretty, alpine flower that carpets Swiss meadows, creating a sea of white stars across the landscape. The Edelweiss Trail in Zermatt is one of the most picturesque you’ll find on hiking trips in Switzerland and guides you up to a spectacular vantage point where the views are beyond compare. From here, as you ascend to Trift, views of the unmistakable Matterhorn begin to unfurl. With one last push uphill, you’ll reach Höhbalmen for even more spellbinding views of the Matterhorn.
5. The Golden Madonna Pass
Gazing down over the Monto-Moro Pass, which lies on the border of Italy and Switzerland, the Golden Statue of Mary takes center stage atop a rocky summit. Winding around the central lake, explore this ancient hiking route along the pass. The menacing peaks of Monte Rosa soon come into sight, and you can pause to inhale some of the most remarkable views you’ll find while hiking in Switzerland
Rebecca Cox Walking in Andalucia
Sophie Harrowes Hike Morocco's Anti-Atlas MountainsHaving booked somewhat last minute, we were anxious approaching our first multi day trek, mostly about our fitness (particularly for me as an energetic 57 year old weekend walker without any training regime), but also about travelling with strangers for 8 days. We need not have been. It was hugely challenging, especially with the unseasonably hot weather (34-36C), but the demanding ascents/descents and long days were achievable and gave us a huge sense of achievement at the end of each day. Campsites were amazing, from dusty village to green (but mostly dry) oasis and awe-inspiring mountain plateau. We barely saw a soul during the days and only small numbers of villagers at night. Seeing the little group of green tents already set up below us as we made our final descent of the day and knowing that the wonderful Exodus team would have a absolutely delicious dinner on, a brew and biscuits (or sometimes pancakes straight from the pan) on arrival was a fantastic reward at the end of each day’s walking. It was a real privilege to be looked after by such experienced, dedicated and kind people – and a hardworking mule. We always felt safe and our guide Mohamed ensured that the pace was regulated to push us onwards, but give decent rests. Lunch was a welcome reward each day, and quite extraordinary given the environment to have a hot dish and a beautiful spread of salads and fresh bread with mint tea. Shade was our one issue during the day, this is a dry landscape that is suffering as a result of climate change. But our team always found lunchtime shade and encouraged us to lie down and rest on carpets after we had eaten our meal! Our group were great, lots of different characters and ages, from multiple countries, travelling as couples, friends or individuals; everyone looked out for each other and the conversation was endless and enriching. We felt exceptionally lucky to have made our last minute decision – it was 100% one of our best ever trips.
Where’s best for hiking in Switzerland?
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.
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.
FAQs on Switzerland Hiking Tours
How do I prepare for a Switzerland hiking vacation?
If you’re gearing up for your first hiking vacation, you’re in for an unforgettable experience, but to ensure your journey is as enjoyable as it is memorable, proper preparation is key. Pay attention to the activity level rating of your trip when you are booking so that you can understand approximately how far you will be hiking each day, as well as the elevation of the walks. This will give you a useful benchmark for your training.
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 and thoroughly break in your boots. Increase your core exercises and ramp up your cardio to help with your trail endurance. Check out our fitness guide for more advice on the physical preparation needed for your active tour.
What will my group be like on my Switzerland trek?
On our guided group hiking trips, you’ll be in a group of 8 to 16 people. A large proportion of our hiking trips are made up of solo travelers, creating a great opportunity to make friends with like-minded people from around the world.
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.
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!
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