Hiking in Switzerland: Our 7 Favourite Routes

The "Walker's Haute Route" connects two of the most famous mountain villages in the Alps - Chamonix in France and Zermatt in Switzerland. Typically starting at Mont Blanc and finishing at the Matterhorn, it covers around 200 kilometres and crosses 11 mountain passes, offering a wide range alternative routes. Chamonix is also recognized as the starting point for the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB). Unlike the TMB, the Haute Route doesn’t circle Mont Blanc, but it shares several stages of the TMB's route towards Champex and through Trient in Switzerland.

In Switzerland, the route passes through Le Chable, Mont Fort, Prafleuri, Arolla and La Sage. Along the way, the trek offers an incredible range of contrasts. You'll encounter majestic glaciers and snow-capped peaks alongside lush green valleys, vibrant alpine meadows and charming alpine villages. Cross the Rösti Curtain, the symbolic border between French- and German-speaking Switzerland, between Zinal and Gruben. The final stages through St. Niklaus and the Europa Hütte take you to one of the most iconic peaks in the Alps - the Matterhorn - and to Zermatt, another mountaineering capital. Ready to walk to Zermatt? Find out about our treks here.

Experience the breathtaking Tour des Muverans, a captivating circular trek in the Valais that offers a wide range of walking options. The official route is 54 kilometres long, with a total ascent and descent of 4300 metres, and takes approximately 23 hours to complete. The route mainly crosses altitudes of over 2000 metres, reaches a peak of over 2600 metres and descends to its lowest point at 1230 metres.

The Tour des Muverans takes you around the majestic Grand Muveran, which rises to over 3000 metres and straddles the border between the Swiss cantons of Vaud and Valais. You can set off from three points: Pont de Nant, Derborence or Ovronnaz, and you can choose to go clockwise or counter-clockwise. Ovronnaz, a charming tourist town famous for its spa featuring three hot springs at 32-35°C, serves as the most convenient starting point for this remarkable journey. Start your Tour des Muverans journey here.

The Tour des Combins is a quieter alternative to the popular Tour du Mont Blanc, which is considered one of the most crowded hikes in the Alps. If you're looking for a more tranquil experience without sacrificing the stunning views and challenging trails, the Tour des Combins might be the perfect choice for you. This trek begins and ends in Bourg Saint Pierre, a charming town close to the border between Switzerland and Italy..

The Tour des Combins takes you around the impressive Massif des Combins, past magnificent lakes and across open fields surrounded by mountains. The highest point of the hike is the Col des Otanes at 2863 meters.. The trek is divided into 7 stages, but there's also an intensive 6-day option for experienced walkers. Although the trails are generally well maintained, don't underestimate this trek; you'll be climbing and descending up to 1000 metres almost every day and some sections can be quite narrow. Evenings are spent in cosy huts - cabins in Switzerland and rifugios in Italy - where a hot meal awaits you after your days of walking. Start creating your memories of the Tour des Combins here!

The Vier-Quellen-Weg, (which translates as Four Springs Trail) was introduced in Switzerland in 2012. This route crosses four cantons: Uri, Graubünden, Ticino and Valais. Compared to more popular treks such as the Tour du Mont Blanc, the signposting of the Tour des Combins is excellent, making it very easy to follow. The starting point is Andermatt, easily accessible by car or public transport.

The Vier-Quellen-Weg leads you to the main sources of four rivers, the most famous being the Rhine. The Rhône is also well known, especially for its wine. Meanwhile, the Ticino flows into the Po, and the Reuss eventually meets the Rhine at Koblenz via the Aare. But it’s not the rivers that will capture your attention during the trip. Instead, you’ll be mesmerized by the enchanting blue lakes and the impressive Gotthard and Furka passes. This challenging tour consists of 5 stages and although suitable for children, be aware that some sections are technical and some stages are longer. Accommodation options range from cosy mountain huts to local hotels, allowing you to enjoy both the authentic experience of hut trekking and the occasional comfort of a more luxurious stay. You can book your Vier-Quellen-Weg adventure here.

Yes, it is definitely possible to do an independent hut-to-hut trek in Switzerland on your own. If you are travelling alone, it is usually much easier to find a place to stay, as it is easier to be allowed to occupy a spare bed in a shared dormitory. Solo trekking is very popular among Swiss hikers, and in the huts you'll often find others to chat to, so you won't spend your evenings alone.

The most important rule for hut-to-hut trekking in the Alps or other high mountains is that weather conditions above 2000 metres can change much more quickly and are very different from those at lower altitudes. Always check the weather forecast when planning your hut-to-hut treks and mountain hikes. Even in summer, when the temperature in the valleys is over 30°C, it can still snow on the high peaks. This is because temperatures can drop by 5-6°C for every 1000 metres of altitude. Cold air also holds less moisture, so rain or snow is more likely to fall in the high mountains than at lower altitudes. Thunderstorms can be particularly dangerous in the mountains, as they are more likely in the afternoon and the weather can change rapidly due to the altitude.

You can recognise a potential thunderstorm if you see lightning or small cumulus clouds starting to form. A sudden drop in air pressure is another clear sign of an approaching storm. In the event of a storm, it is important to avoid via ferratas: fixed rope routes and any metal objects, and to seek shelter in a cave or under an overhang as soon as possible. Good sun protection is also essential. The tree line in the Alps is typically between 1800 and 2200 metres - above that you are exposed to intense sunlight, which can be particularly strong in the high mountains.

Packing the right equipment is key to any multi-day trekking adventure in Switzerland. Below is a list of recommended equipment for hiking in the Alps.

Essentials

• Medium size backpack (up to 40 litres capacity) and raincover
• Lightweight sleeping bag
• Hiking boots
• Rain jacket
• Rain pants
• Two pairs of socks
• Two sets of wicking underwear
• Two wicking shirts
• Insulation long-sleeve jacket (fleece, synthetic, down, merino wool)
• Trekking pants
• Water bottle/hydration reservoirs
• Knife
• Headlamp/flashlight
• First aid kit
• Garbage bag (to carry out trash)
• Hat or cap and thin gloves (liners)
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Topographic map
• Toiletry kit
• Quick-dry towel
• Snacks (e. g. fruit, energy bars)
• Cell phone

Optional

• Trekking poles
• Windproof jacket (e. g. softshell)
• Emergency shelter/bivy
• Lightweight stuff sacks to keep everything organized
• Earplugs
• Alpinist Association Membership Card (if you are a member)
• Blister treatments, tape
• Slippers
• Bandana or buff
• Camera

A hut-to-hut trek can be done by anyone in normal physical condition. But to get the most out of the experience, it's wise to prepare physically. As the Alps may not be on your doorstep, you'll need to get creative with your preparation. Here are five effective ways to prepare for your hut-to-hut trek:

Cardio

It's best to get moving as soon as you start thinking about hiking in Switzerland. With the right aerobic fitness you will have a better heart rate, healthy muscles and a large lung capacity. Running, walking, more walking and cycling or swimming are excellent ways to exercise. One hour, 3 to 4 times a week is enough.

Endurance

Building up your stamina is also important. The best thing to do is to walk long distances at least once a week. When you can walk comfortably for a long time, you are ready to go!

Train with gear

Use the rucksack and shoes you will be using for the hut trip and add this to your workout as you work on your cardio and endurance.

Altitude

If you can, you can mimic the altitude by walking and hiking in the hills and mountains. If you don't live in the right area, don't panic. The first two points are the most important.

Know your body

This is probably the most important part. If you have any doubts about your physical abilities, it is a good idea to see your GP for a check-up.

There is no set way to prepare for a walk. Your preparation will depend on the duration of your trip, the environment and what you want to achieve. Not everyone is a mountain goat. Don't think too much about your preparation, just take it easy and enjoy your time in the mountains.

When you go on a hiking trip, it is wise to be aware of a few key points. Even if this isn't your first time, never underestimate the mountains. Good tour planning and adherence to regulations will significantly enhance your safety. To ensure your hiking experience is safe and enjoyable, here are 8 recommendations for hiking safely in the mountains:

Know Your Limits

Hiking in Switzerland is the perfect way to escape daily life. It combines endurance with a beautiful nature experience, positively affecting both body and mind—provided you're in good shape and have a realistic understanding of your abilities and limits. Never overestimate yourself or underestimate the route. Don't push yourself too hard! Always opt for a slower pace and allow more time for your plans. Hiking under time pressure isn't enjoyable and can be dangerous if you're moving too quickly. Be wise!

Plan Carefully

Good planning is half the battle! Hiking maps, literature, the Internet, and expert advice are invaluable for planning your route in Switzerland, helping you determine the length, altitude gain, difficulty, and conditions of the hike. When planning group treks, always base the itinerary on the weakest member of the group! Weather in the mountains can change incredibly quickly; rain, wind, and cold can all increase risk factors. Therefore, always check the weather forecast in advance and consult our trekking experts to familiarize yourself with the route before you start.

Be Fully Equipped

Equipment is everything. In extreme cases, it can mean the difference between life and death, and in any case, it significantly affects whether you have a good time or a bad one. Always pack food and water, sunscreen, and waterproof, warm clothing, as well as a first aid kit and a fully charged mobile phone (for emergencies). However, packing light is important for easier walking, so avoid taking too much extra luggage. Ensure your equipment is suitable for the terrain you'll be hiking in Switzerland.

Wear Suitable Footwear

Good walking shoes protect your feet and enhance your overall experience. Shoes should fit well, have non-slip soles, and be water-resistant and lightweight for optimal comfort while hiking in Switzerland. Trail running shoes are great for a weekend in the mountains, but for longer hikes or more technical trails, at least A/B hiking boots are recommended. This means wearing high mountain shoes that are water-repellent and offer extra ankle support to prevent sprains.

Stay on Marked Trails

Switzerland boasts countless marked hiking trails that are well-maintained and should not be deviated from. While it may be tempting to take shortcuts or explore unmarked terrain, this increases the risk of disorientation, making it more likely to get lost or have accidents in the mountains. Even steep slopes covered in old snow can be dangerous and are often underestimated. If in doubt, don’t do it. For easy navigation, we collaborate with our trusted partner, Komoot, whose interactive maps, also available offline, provide the necessary tools to get from A to B. As a backup, make sure to carry a hiking guide or a paper map. FYI, 75% of stumbles occur due to carelessness on marked paths or roads, not in open terrain!

Take Regular Breaks

Remember, you're on a hiking trip. Timely and regular breaks not only offer welcome relaxation but also allow you to enjoy the beauty of Switzerland. Your body requires regular food and hydration to maintain performance and concentration. Our advice is that if you have limited time, it's better to stick to the shorter itinerary than to rush through a longer one.

Stay Reachable

If you're hiking solo or in small groups, inform someone back home about your plans, including your route and expected return time. Even minor incidents can lead to unpleasant emergencies, so ensure you remain reachable. Bring a charged phone containing the numbers of immediate family members, your accommodations along the way, and the emergency contact numbers operating in Switzerland.

Respect Nature

Leave no rubbish behind, minimize noise, stay on marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife or grazing animals, and respect protected areas.