Hut hike Switzerland: The 4 best options

"You have to plan some time for it, and it's not that easy, but the Bernina Trek definitely has its charm," says Sierd. "It's a bit like the Kesch Trek but with muscles." More about the Kesch later. The Bernina Trek of the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) not only leads past all the huts of the SAC Bernina, but also through a breathtaking alpine world: from the Albula Valley with Piz Kesch and the UNESCO World Heritage section of the Rhaetian Railway, through the sublime Julier region with its impressive geological rock formations, on to the Bernina region with the proud peaks of Piz Palü, Piz Moteratsch and Piz Bernina, and finally into the unique Italianità of lovely Poschiavo.

The "Classic" route takes you through a magnificent Alpine landscape for seven days, passing by deep blue mountain lakes, icy glacier streams, and snow-capped peaks. For those who want or need more excitement, there's the 'Summiteer' option, which extends the route to include several summit experiences. Families with children and groups of hikers of all abilities will enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery along the "Pachific".

“For the 2021 Kesch Trek, we had to make do without the Grialetsch Hut, one of the huts on the Kesch Trek. The hut has now been renovated and is open again,” says Natascha, Area Manager for the Alps. The reopening of the Grialetsch Hut means that both the Albula Pass and the Flüela Pass—two famous points near Davos in the canton of Graubünden—can now be conquered. With a duration of just four days and three nights, this trek is a popular option for your first walking holiday in Switzerland.

All the huts on the Kesch Trek are run by the Swiss Alpine Club, the SAC. Natascha is in close contact with this club, which has been in existence since 1863. "We always have good contact with the operators for our hikers' bookings. A member of the SAC is appointed to look after the hut for the season, acting as both our information point and the hiker's. So the host or hostess of the hut can always give you tips or warnings," says Natascha.

In a unique area and in front of one of the most beautiful backdrops of the Alps, the long-distance trail Hintere Gasse, also known as Bärentrek, leads from Meiringen over 8 Alpine passes to Gsteig. "This is a perfect option for beginners," says Rintsje. Why? "You don't have to stay in huts. On the Bärentrek, hikers are accommodated in mountain hotels and hostels that cater for mountain sports."

The Bärentrek is part of the Via Alpina 1, which is actually a network of five long-distance trails through the Alpine regions of Slovenia, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Italy, France and Monaco. The Swiss part of the Via Alpina is 390 kilometers long and is divided into 20 stages. You can choose whether you want to do the entire tour or just a part of it. The Bärentrek is the most popular part of the Via Alpina 1 and is perfect for a hut-to-hut tour in Switzerland. If you wish, you can read more about the Bärentrek and also find a hiking vacation for you.

Can't decide between a hut-to-hut tour in Italy, France or Switzerland? The Tour du Mont Blanc is a combination of all three! It is one of the most famous walking routes in Europe, which means you will meet people from all over the world in the huts. "Trekkers often tell us about the international character of the refuges. Like a backpacker's hostel, but for adults," says Sierd, who has helped many people along the way. "Because the route is so well known, the refuge are always well organised. Breakfast in the morning, hot meals in the evening, it's always nice!" Hikers typically cover the 170 kilometres of the Tour du Mont Blanc in 10 days and the traditional starting point is Chamonix, on the French side of Mont Blanc. Sierd: "Chamonix, also called Cham, is the epicentre of mountaineering on the French side of Mont Blanc. Are you going to the French Alps or specifically to Mont Blanc? Then you go to Chamonix, a very lively little town.

The best time to do the Tour du Mont Blanc is in the summer months of July and August, when there is little snow on the trail and the weather is usually good. At the beginning of the season, the passes can still be covered with snow and it becomes difficult. Although the season doesn't officially start until 15 June, that doesn't mean you won't see snow. "On the contrary," says Sierd. "It often happens that walkers come across old snow in the first two weeks of the season. Crossing the Fenetre d'Arpette can then be a challenge". The trekking experts at Bookatrekking.com know the alternative routes and will always send you detailed directions. If you prefer not to encounter old snow, if we had to recommend a more precise period, it would be the second half of August. During these two weeks there are fewer walkers and climbers and the weather is usually quite pleasant. You can read more about the Tour du Mont Blanc here.

Discover the Walker's Haute Route with insights from Annemiek, our trekking enthusiast who will handle your booking. This iconic route links Chamonix (France), and Zermatt (Switzerland), covering around 200 kilometers from Mont Blanc to Matterhorn. With 11 mountain passes and diverse route options, the itinerary includes a section of the Tour du Mont Blanc to Champex (Switzerland) and through Trient.

As you follow the trail into Switzerland, passing through Le Chable, Mont Fort, Prafleuri, Arolla, and La Sage, Annemiek invites you to experience a world of contrasts. From glaciers and snow-capped peaks to lush green valleys, alpine meadows, and charming villages, the trek unfolds through a variety of landscapes. Encounter the symbolic Rösti curtain, marking the linguistic border between French and German-speaking Switzerland between Zinal and Gruben. The final stages, via St. Niklaus and the Europa Hütte, lead to the iconic Matterhorn and to Zermatt, the mountaineering capital. Considering a hike to Zermatt? Explore our offers here.

For those seeking a quieter alternative to the hustle and bustle of the Tour du Mont Blanc, the Tour des Combins is an ideal choice. Renowned for its tranquility without compromising on breathtaking views and challenging trails, this trek starts and finishes in Bourg Saint Pierre, a charming town near the Swiss-Italian border.

Trekking expert Annemiek highlights the allure of the Tour des Combins, where you'll navigate around the awe-inspiring Massif des Combins, past vast lakes and across open fields amidst towering mountains. The highest point, Col des Otanes (2,863m / 9,393ft), promises a spectacular vantage. Spanning 7 stages, with an intensive 6-day option for seasoned hikers, the well-maintained trails disguise the challenges of the trek. The daily ascents and descents of up to 1000 metres and the narrow trails demand a certain respect for the journey.

Evenings bring respite in the form of snug cabanes (in Switzerland) and rifugios (in Italy), where a warm meal awaits after a day of trekking adventures. Start creating your memories of the Tour des Combins here.

Annemiek, our trekking expert, shares, "The Tour des Combins stands out for its peaceful ambiance, offering a unique blend of challenging terrain and stunning landscapes. It's a trek where every step unravels the beauty of the Alps, making it an unforgettable experience for those seeking a quieter yet equally rewarding adventure."

Explore the awe-inspiring Tour des Muverans, a captivating circular trek in Valais that offers diverse walking options. Covering 54 km with a total ascent and descent of 4300m, the journey demands around 23 hours of walking, navigating altitudes above 2000m, with peaks reaching over 2600m and descents to a low of 1230m.

Embark on the Tour des Muverans to encircle the majestic Grand Muveran peak, soaring above 3000m and straddling the Vaud-Valais border in Switzerland. With three starting points—Pont de Nant, Derborence, or Ovronnaz—the hike can be tackled in either a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. Ovronnaz, a delightful trip and spa town known for its three 32- to 35-degree hot springs, is the most convenient location for this remarkable journey. Discover your Tour des Muverans here.

Trek enthusiast Annemiek adds, "The Tour des Muverans offers a range of trekking experiences, from challenging climbs to breathtaking descents, all set in the spectacular setting of the Grand Muveran. It's a trek that seamlessly blends natural beauty with a variety of trails, promising an unforgettable journey for any keen hiker."

The Vier-Quellen-Weg, also known as the Four Springs Trail, made its debut in Switzerland in 2012. Spanning four cantons—Uri, Graubünden, Ticino, and Valais—his is a route with excellent signposting, ensuring an almost effortless journey compared to established tours like the Tour du Mont Blanc. Andermatt, conveniently reachable by car or public transport, serves as the trailhead.

Charisa, our trekking expert, highlights the allure of the Vier Quellen Weg, where you'll uncover the sources of four rivers, with the Rhine being the most prominent. While the Rhône is renowned for its wine, the Ticino merges into the Po, and the Reuss eventually reunites with the Rhine near Koblenz. En route, you'll encounter enchanting blue lakes, cross the Gotthard and Furka Passes. With 5 stages, this trek presents challenges; although children trek these paths, some sections feature technical terrain and longer stages.

Accommodations vary from mountain huts to local hotels, offering a blend of authentic hut-trekking experiences and some occasional comforts. Secure your huts for the Vier-Quellen-Weg here.

Charisa, our trekking expert, notes, "The Vier-Quellen-Weg seamlessly weaves together stunning landscapes and cultural richness. Excellent signposting makes it accessible while the mix of technical sections and diverse accommodations ensures a memorable adventure for both seasoned trekkers and families."

When embarking on a hut-to-hut tour in the Alps, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Even if it's not your first time, never underestimate the Dolomites. To ensure your hiking vacation is a safe and enjoyable experience, our trekking experts have the following tips for you.

Don't overdo it

Hiking in the mountains is the perfect escape from everyday life. But don't overdo it. "Overestimation and underestimation are dangerous. Don't overestimate yourself, and don't underestimate the route," says Sierd, also a Kilimanjaro expert at Bookatrekking.com. "Choose the slower option and take more time for your plans. Hiking under time pressure is not pleasant, and a fast pace can be dangerous. Don't forget the word 'holiday' in 'hiking holiday'."

Plan carefully

Good planning is half the battle! Maps, literature, the internet and expert advice are essential in planning your walk, allowing you to determine the length, elevation gain, difficulty and conditions of your hike. If you plan group hikes, always plan the tour for the weakest member of the group! The weather in the mountains can change incredibly fast, and rain, wind, and cold increase the risk factor. Always check the weather forecast in advance. Also, consult our trekking experts and gather information before you set out.

Fully equipped

Equipment is everything. In extreme cases, it can make the difference between life and death, and in all cases, it can make the difference between joy and suffering. Food, rain protection, cold protection, sun protection should always be in your backpack, as well as a first aid kit and a mobile phone (European emergency number: 112). Lighter luggage makes walking easier, so don't bring too much additional baggage. Your equipment should always be suitable for your planned tour.

Appropriate shoes

Trail running shoes are good for weekends in the mountains, but for longer tours, you should have at least Class A/B hiking boots. This means high mountain boots that are also waterproof. On the Alta Via 2, for example, a rather technical trail, your ankles need additional support, and you want to avoid sprains.

Stay on marked paths

In the Alps, there are endless marked hiking trails—well maintained and cared for. It may be tempting, but it's not a good idea to cut the trail or take alternative routes through unmarked terrain. If you do, you have a good chance of getting lost. Steep slopes with packed old snow are also often underestimated and can be dangerous. In doubt? Then don't do it.

Take regular breaks

As mentioned, you're on a hiking vacation. Take time for your walk and rest regularly. Our advice: If you have little time, it's better to take the short arrangement than to speed up the long one.

The kids have the power

If you're going on a hut-to-hut tour with the kids, the motto at Bookatrekking.com is, "The kids have the say." The kids are happy, mom and dad are happy. Listen to them and don't exhaust them. Play a game on the way so they don't ask you every five minutes if you're there yet. Of course, always choose the child-friendly option.

Respect nature

Leave no trash behind, avoid noise, stay on marked paths, leave the animals alone, and respect the protected areas.

The most important rule for hut-to-hut tours and hikes in the Alps or other high mountains is that the weather changes much faster in areas above 2000 meters, and different climatic conditions prevail than at the altitudes where we usually travel. When planning a hut-to-hut tour and mountain hikes, always consider the weather forecasts. Even in midsummer, when the temperature in the valley is over 30ºC, it can snow in the high mountains. The reason is that the temperature can drop by 5-6ºC per 1000 meters of altitude. Since cold air can also store less moisture, it rains or snows more frequently in the high mountains than in the lowlands. In the high mountains, a thunderstorm can be particularly dangerous; generally, the likelihood of thunderstorms increases in the afternoon, and the weather can change very quickly due to the altitude.

You can recognize a possible thunderstorm by lightning strikes or the formation of small "cumulus" clouds. A significant drop in air pressure is also a sure sign of an approaching thunderstorm. During a thunderstorm, you should always avoid the via ferrata and other metal objects. Seek shelter in a cave or under a rock overhang as quickly as possible. Nevertheless, good protection from the sun is important. The tree line in the Alps is between 1800 and 2200 metres- above this altitude, you are exposed to the burning sun, which is always strong in the highest mountains.