The Via Alpina
- Hike the epic Via Alpina across Switzerland (18 days)
- Experience the widest range of landscapes, from remote Alps to the Swiss Riviera
- Cross the symbolic ‘Röstigraben’ cultural divide
- Extended time in Bernese Oberland, with views of Jungfrau, Eiger & Mönch
- Stay in comfortable hotels and enjoy Swiss specialties like Potato Rösti
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive ZurichArrive in beautiful Zurich, which is easily reached by train—just 10 minutes from the airport, or a scenic journey from Geneva (3 hours) or Bern (1.5 hours). Switzerland’s largest city feels surprisingly intimate, with a walkable old town, world-class museums like the Swiss National Museum and Kunsthaus, and the sparkling shores of Lake Zurich, perfect for a relaxed stroll or lakeside pause to soak in the atmosphere.
The 3* Superior hotel Townhouse is a small boutique hotel, located in the very heart of Zurich, on Bahnhofstrasse and a block away from the main train station where direct services take you to Zurich airport in less than 15 minutes.
Begin with a scenic one-hour train ride to the small town of Sargans and the official start of the Via Alpina. Today is a a rewarding introduction to the to the rhythm of alpine trekking. Leaving the town behind, you’ll wander through charming hamlets and quiet countryside before leaving the road and gradually climbing above the valley floor.
As the path rises, vineyards stretch out beneath you, offering sweeping views over Sargans, Mels, and the distant peaks of Liechtenstein. The air feels fresher here, the pace slower, inviting you to settle into the experience. After reconnecting with a country road near Schwendi, you’ll continue through serene landscapes until reaching Weisstannen, a tranquil alpine village where tradition and mountain beauty meet.
Ascent/Descent: 641m/144m (2,103ft/472ft)
The Hotel Gemse is nestled in the quiet Weisstannen valley. A warm welcome awaits from the friendly service team. Recently renovated, rooms are modern, spacious and comfortable. Dinner is a real treat with some fine Swiss specialties on offer.
Ease into the day with a relaxed 5.5mi/9km hike along a country road before beginning your clime to Foopass (at 7,293ft/2223m), your first true alpine crossing. As you ascend, pass through scenic farmland dotted with wildflowers, waterfalls, and the occasional marmot, with views growing more dramatic at every step. Crossing the border between St Gallen and Glarus, the landscape shifts to a wilder, more rugged feel before a long descent leads you to Elm, a charming mountain town set beneath the striking peaks of Piz Sardona and Piz Segnas.
Ascent/Descent: 1292m/1301m (4,239ft/4,268ft)
Susanna and Werner are ready to welcome you to this cosy guesthouse with just 10 rooms. Enjoy a refreshing drink on their sunny terrace and take in the mountain views. In the restaurant, homemade regional specialities are served.
A long but deeply rewarding day, crossing two passes as the landscape grows ever more dramatic. After the first crossing, tackle the steep zigzag ascent to the Richetlipass (2261m/7,418ft), where sweeping views open over the wild Durnachtal valley. A sharp, sometimes narrow descent – with a short chain-assisted section – adds a touch of adventure before reaching Linthal, nestled beneath towering Tödi, the “King of Little Mountains.” From here, enjoy a short funicular ride (10min) up to the peaceful, car-free hamlet of Braunwald, perched high above the valley.
Note: The path from Richetlipass to Linthal is narrow and can be tricky in wet weather, so allow plenty of time.
Ascent/Descent: 1427m/17036m (4,682ft/5,587ft)
A wonderfully typical chalet style mountain hotel set in yet another beautiful location. Warm up after a long day of walking with some Swiss fondue in the restaurant while enjoying the stunning surroundings through the window.
From Braunwald, follow the high balcony path with sweeping views across the valley to Urnerboden. One of the Alps’ most striking valleys, its broad, open floor of pastures contrasts beautifully with the sheer, towering cliffs that rise on either side, creating a truly unforgettable setting.
Ascent/Descent: 385m/264m (1,263ft/866ft)
Asimple but comfortable guesthouse in the quiet hamlet of Urnerboden.
A simple but comfortable guesthouse with homemade dishes and a large sunny terrace.
Today’s highlight is the historic Klausenpass (1948m/6,391ft), a storied crossing between Glarus and Uri that has linked these regions for centuries. The ascent is steady and rewarding, followed by a scenic descent through open meadows and forest, passing the hamlet of Aesch and the dramatic Stäubi Falls cascading down the cliffs. Finish in Unterschachen before a short bus ride (30min) to Altdorf, the charming capital of Uri.
Ascent/Descent: 587m/943m (1,926ft/3,094ft)
Steeped in history, Hotel Höfli has been welcoming guests since 1768 and is one of the few buildings to have survived the great village fire of 1799. Today, it blends historic charm with modern comfort, offering well-appointed rooms and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a relaxed dining experience in the on-site restaurant, known for its flavorful Swiss and Italian cuisine—perfect after a day in the mountains.
One of the finest stages of the Via Alpina, today begins with a short bus ride (10min) to Attinghausen and a cable car up to Brüsti (1525m/5,003ft). From here, a steady climb to the Surenenpass (at 2291m/7,516ft) winds past alpine huts and farms, with glimpses of Lake Lucerne below.
At the top, soak in a spectacular panorama dominated by the jagged peak of Mount Titlis before descending through beautiful mountain scenery to Engelberg, a renowned alpine resort.
Ascent/Descent: 836m/1368m (2,743ft/4,488ft)
Perfectly located in the heart of Engelberg, Hotel Schweizerhof offers a great base with easy access to village amenities. After a day in the mountains, unwind in the sauna or fitness room, or relax in the spacious garden with sunbeds. Bright, soundproofed rooms ensure a restful night and include modern bathrooms, free WiFi, minibar, seating area, and cable TV, while the on-site restaurant serves hearty Swiss cuisine – ideal for refueling after exploring the trails around Mount Titlis.
Begin with a cable car ride to reach the heights of Jochpass (at 2207m/7,241ft). Then descend on foot to the serene Engstlensee, a shimmering alpine lake framed by rugged peaks. Ahead, the striking Wetterhorn comes into view, hinting at the grandeur of the Bernese Oberland. From Engstlenalp, follow a spectacular balcony path with sweeping valley views and cascading waterfalls before reaching Reuti, where you can walk or take the cable car down to Meiringen—famed as the setting of Sherlock Holmes’ dramatic final chapter.
Ascent/Descent: 0m/1610m (0ft/5,282ft)
Franziska, Simon and their friendly team are waiting to welcome you to the Hotel Victoria. With just 18 rooms, the hotel has a cosy atmosphere and rooms are designed in modern style with a traditional alpine twist.
This welcoming, family-run hotel offers an ideal base in the heart of Meiringen. With just 13 rooms, it provides a relaxed, personal atmosphere, while the bright interiors—renovated in 2020—combine modern comfort with classic alpine hospitality, making it a comfortable and convenient stop after a day’s hike.
Today, enter the heart of the Bernese Oberland, a landscape shaped as much by mountain culture as by nature itself and popular with tourists. Leaving Meiringen, follow the wooded Reichenbachtal as the trail rises steadily toward Grosse Scheidegg (at 1962m/6,437ft), a sweeping mountain pass with ever-expanding views.
On clear days, your first sight of the iconic Eiger (at 3,967m/13,015ft) is a true highlight of the journey. From the pass, descend past alpine scenery to Hotel Wetterhorn before continuing into the lively mountain town of Grindelwald, a renowned mountaineering hub and the halfway point of the trail. It's an ideal place to pause, add a rest day, and indulge in a well-earned upgrade to 4 star spa hotel.
Ascent/Descent: 1676m/1217m (5,499ft/3,993ft)
Chalet Hotel Gletschergarten is a charming, family-run hotel welcoming guests since 1899 and now in its fourth generation under the Michel-Breitenstein family, offering a warm alpine atmosphere that blends tradition with comfort. Guests can unwind in the wellness area with a sauna, steam bath, and relaxation room, and all rooms feature a private balcony or terrace with mountain views. In the restaurant, Chef François Rollot prepares refined four-course dinners, while packed lunches are available on request for CHF 12 per person, or guests may enjoy fresh baked goods from the bakery just across the street.
Perched in an elevated position above Grindelwald, Hotel Alpenhof offers a peaceful retreat with sweeping alpine views. The hotel features 17 comfortable rooms, many with balcony or garden access, providing a perfect place to unwind. Guests can enjoy a warm, traditional Swiss restaurant serving hearty regional cuisine, with a refined 5-course menu for half-board stays and attentive options for special dietary needs (such as gluten or lactose free requirements). Pet-friendly and welcoming, it’s a relaxed and restorative base in the Bernese Oberland.
Tucked away in a peaceful corner of Grindelwald behind the church, Hotel Fiescherblick enjoys a postcard setting opposite the village’s picturesque white church, with sweeping mountain views all around. Built on values of sustainability, regional sourcing, and understated elegance, the hotel offers 19 Nordic-inspired rooms designed for calm and comfort. Guests can also enjoy a small, refined à la carte restaurant, where the kitchen showcases fresh ingredients from local farms - an ideal taste of the region at the end of the day.
Begin with a short descent from Grindelwald to Grund before a challenging climb to Alpiglen, gateway to the legendary Eiger north face. The trail then traces the dramatic base of this iconic wall as you ascend toward Kleine Scheidegg at 2061m/6,762ft, where spectacular views open up to the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. From this popular mountain pass, continue past alpine meadows via Mettlenalp before reaching the pretty, car-free village of Wengen, perched high above the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Ascent/Descent: 1120m/876m (3,675ft/2,874ft)
Hotel Schönegg dates from 1903, and was fully renovated in 2012. Although not strictly a chalet-hotel, the interior and furnishings with their rich wooden patina are typical of a Swiss chalet. The have a restaurant on site, Restaurant 1903, with a cozy wooden decor. The rooms have charming wooden touches, and guests can enjoy the sauna and massage bed (fee payable for the latter).
This lovely 3-star chalet hotel is located just a short walk from the village centre. Rooms are simply furnished and there is a lovely restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. Rooms have balconies and the bathrooms have a shower (no bath).
Take the scenic train from Wengen via Lauterbrunnen to Mürren, then leave the busier Bernese Oberland behind as you climb into quieter, more remote alpine terrain. Ascend past Schiltalp (at 1948m/6,391ft), with its cluster of traditional cheese-making huts, before tackling the rugged approach to Seefinenfurgge (at 2612m/8,570ft), your highest pass yet.
The final ascent over scree and shale is demanding, but rewards you with a dramatic farewell to the Eiger and Mönch and your first views of the glaciated Blüemlisalp massif. A steep, chain-assisted descent leads down into the wild beauty of Griesalp.
Ascent/Descent: 1007m/1260m (3,304ft/4,134ft)
Griesalp Hotels is a unique collection of five traditional alpine properties nestled at the foot of the spectacular Blüemlisalp massif, surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in the Bernese Alps. Offering simple comfort in a truly remote mountain setting, it’s an ideal place to rest and recover after a challenging day on the trail. Guests can unwind in the small wellness area and sauna – perfect for soothing tired legs while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this high alpine valley (sauna use payable locally).
A challenging yet unforgettable alpine stage awaits as you climb steadily toward the Hohtürli Pass (at 2778m/9,115ft), the highest point of the Via Alpina. The ascent takes you through woodland, open pastures, and streams before the terrain steepens into rugged moraine and alpine grass. The effort is tough, but richly rewarded at the top with a vast mountain panorama stretching from the Schilthorn to the Wetterhorn and Blüemlisalp. The long descent leads past the breathtaking turquoise waters of Oeschinensee, one of Switzerland’s most iconic alpine lakes, before continuing down to Kandersteg on foot or by chairlift.
Ascent/Descent: 1530m/1762m (5,020ft/5,781ft)
Located in the heart of Kandersteg, Hotel Bernerhof combines traditional Swiss charm with modern comfort and offers a welcoming alpine stay with panoramic mountain views and balconies in all rooms. After a day on the trails, guests can unwind in the small spa area featuring a sauna, experience showers, and an ice grotto – perfect for soothing tired legs. Combining traditional Swiss charm with modern comfort, it’s an ideal base for exploring the surrounding peaks and Oeschinensee.
This welcoming, family-run hotel offers a peaceful stay in Kandersteg, with all 15 rooms boasting views of the stunning Bernese Alps. Relax in warm hospitality and comfortable surroundings, while enjoying the convenience of onsite facilities including a restaurant and small gym.
Today’s goal is the Bunderchrinde pass. At 2385m/7,825ft, it’s the last of the classic mountain passes on the Via Alpina. The ascent winds past Alpschele, another cluster of traditional cheese-maker huts where you may catch a glimpse of alpine life in action, before a final push along a narrow scree path to the summit.
At the top, take in sweeping views before a long descent on more scree that gradually softens into woodland, pastures, and quiet country tracks. A final climb leads you into Adelboden, your mountain base for the night.
Ascent/Descent: 1350m/1172m (4,419ft/3,845ft)
The Hotel Adler stays true to its traditional Alpine chalet exterior with a quaint alpine-style interior. Relax in the sauna or jacuzzi after a few lengths in the indoor or outdoor pool. The views from the spa are not to be missed!
Surrounded by the Alps, green meadows, towering cliffs, this luxury boutique hotel has 36 rooms, a beautiful restaurant with traditional cuisine, and a spa and fitness area.
The hotel offers a special combination of traditional chalet spirit and modern comforts of a four-star country house style.
The hotel is situated in the village, slightly elevated, with a fantastic view over the wonderful mountain world. All hotel rooms are equipped with bath or shower, WC, TV, direct dial telephone, radio, WLAN, minibar, hairdryer and safe. Enjoy complimentary access to the panoramic swimming pool of Adelboden, tennis courts and local buses.
Compared to previous days, today is more easy-going with no significant ascents or descents and gentle underfoot terrain. Walk alongside riverside paths through peaceful meadows and quiet woodland. The route rises gradually to the broad Hahnenmoos Pass (1956m/6,417ft), a grassy saddle beloved for its open views and idyllic alpine setting. From here, descend through rolling green countryside dotted with traditional wooden chalets, following scenic trails down to the charming village of Lenk.
Ascent/Descent: 657m/943m (2,156ft/3,094ft)
Set in a peaceful alpine setting, Hotel Simmenhof is the perfect place to unwind after a day on the trail. Relax with a drink on the sunny terrace or make the most of the extensive spa facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools and a soothing sauna designed to ease tired hiking legs. Comfortable, well-appointed rooms provide a calm and restful retreat, offering modern amenities and plenty of space to recharge in comfort.
You are assured the warmest of welcomes at this splendid hotel, designed with comfort in mind. The hotel fits in perfectly within the Alpine setting, with views of the surrounding mountains and Oberland. The en suite rooms come complete with all that one would expect for a most comfortable and enjoyable stay, with satellite TV, minibar, vanity mirror, safe, writing desk, hairdryer and Wi-Fi. There is an indoor swimming pool in which to relax after your day’s adventure plus a wellness centre with Finnish sauna, steam bath, solarium and massage therapy. Please enquire at reception with regard to using the facilities and booking any treatments (all paid locally).
Follow the Walbach stream as you climb steadily out of Lenk, with the trail becoming steeper where steel ladders and stone steps guide you through the dramatic gorge. A welcome pause at Wallegg offers time to take in the mountain air and a refreshing beverage before continuing toward the Trüttlisberg Pass (at 2038m/ft), with mountainous views by your side. From here, descend through peaceful pastures and woodland to the charming village of Lauenen, where a short bus ride takes you on to the lively resort of Gstaad.
Ascent/Descent: 972m/801m (3,189ft/2,628ft)
Dating back to the 19th Century, the Posthotel Roessli is the oldest hotel in Gstaad and they have certainly perfected the art of hospitality over this time! Situated in the pedestrianised centre, the hotel is a firm favourite with visitors.
Located just a 10 minute walk from the pedestrianised centre of Gstaad, this is the perfect place from which to explore the town while being away from the hustle and bustle.
Follow a stunning high-level trail from Gstaad, climbing steeply toward Eggli where sweeping alpine panoramas make the effort worthwhile. While alluring Continue along open ridgelines to the Col de Jable (1884m/6,181ft), crossing from Bern into Vaud, and from German- into French-speaking Switzerland. Along the way, pass traditional wooden chalets with shingled roofs and a strong cheese-making heritage. From the pass, descend into quiet valleys and pastures to reach L’Etivaz, a tiny alpine hamlet of about 150 people famed for its artisanal cheese production.
Ascent/Descent: 1049m/974m (3,442ft/3,196ft)
Located in the heart of the small cheese-making village of L’Etivaz, Hôtel de Ville offers a warm and authentic alpine stay surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery. This traditional inn combines rustic charm with comfort, featuring well-appointed rooms with private bathrooms (shower or bath), TVs, and WiFi, ensuring a relaxing base after a day on the trail. Guests are warmly welcomed and can enjoy hearty local cuisine in the on-site restaurant, where the renowned L’Etivaz AOP cheese takes centre stage—an ideal way to experience true Swiss alpine life.
Set on the edge of a thick alpine forest, Hotel Des Bains offers a warm, authentic stay surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery. This traditional Bed & Breakfast combines rustic charm with comfort, featuring well-appointed en-suite rooms with seating areas, providing a relaxing base after a day on the trail. Guests are greeted with genuine Swiss hospitality and can enjoy local cuisine featuring the village’s famed L’Etivaz AOP cheese, while a small on-site shop adds a unique touch with handmade soaps produced by the owners using water from nearby sulphur springs.
The final stage of your journey is long but deeply rewarding, with the option to shorten the route by taking a train for part of the way. As you leave the mountains behind, the trail softens yet remains beautiful, winding toward Lake Geneva and the last challenge of the Via Alpina: the Col de Chaude (1621m). From the pass, take in sweeping views down to the lake far below and celebrate your 14th and final mountain crossing. The descent gradually transitions from alpine paths to vineyards and lakeside landscapes as you approach Montreux, the elegant “Swiss Riviera” town framed by the lake and the French Alps.
Montreux is an excellent place to extend your journey by an extra day or two. With its mild climate, palm-lined promenade, and vineyard-covered hills of the Lavaux region nearby, it offers a striking contrast to the high Alps you’ve just crossed. You can take a relaxed lakeside stroll, visit Chillon Castle, explore local vineyards, or simply unwind by the water and reflect on your trek. It’s also an ideal place to celebrate the completion of your Via Alpina adventure, with a wide choice of lakeside restaurants, cultural attractions, and spa hotels for a well-earned finale.
Ascent/Descent: 1251m/410m (4,104ft/1,345ft)
Ideally located right on the lakeside promenade, Hotel Splendid offers classic comfort in one of Montreux’s most scenic settings. Many rooms feature balconies with beautiful views over Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps, creating the perfect place to unwind after your trek. The hotel’s relaxed atmosphere and convenient access to the town’s cafés, restaurants, and transport make it an excellent base for enjoying the Swiss Riviera at a gentler pace.
Set in the heart of Montreux just steps from the lake, Hotel de la Rouvenaz combines boutique-style charm with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Rooms are bright and comfortable, offering a restful retreat in a central location close to the promenade and old town. The hotel is also home to a popular Italian-inspired restaurant, known for its fresh cuisine and vibrant ambience — an ideal spot to celebrate the end of your alpine journey.
Upgrade Option: This hotel is peacefully located on the hills above Montreux and offers fantastic views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding alps. This hotel is truly of a different era– historical and grand, the pace of life here is relaxed. Wander the extensive gardens, take a dip in the outdoor pool or relax your muscles in the sauna. This is a special hotel and a great way to end your trip in style and luxury!
Check out of your hotel after breakfast. Montreux is served by railway and frequent trains to Geneva airport take about 1.5 hours.
If you would like to hike even more, after a few days of relaxing, you may want to consider our GR5: Lake Geneva to Chamonix trip, which starts in Montreux!
This trip has a carbon score of 11kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 11kg is equivalent to 2 Neapolitan margherita pizzas. Buon appetito!. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information about how we've carbon counted our trips.
Other Information
Is it for me?This tour is perfect for experienced long-distance hikers who like their creature comforts. Rated 'Moderate to Strenuous' with significant ascent and descent each day (on average 3,280ft/1000m). There are some long hiking days (on average, 11mi/18km per day). The varied terrain includes short sections of aided ascent/descent via cable cars. Daily bag transfer is included, meaning you only need to hike with a light backpack each day. Accommodation is in comfy 3* and atmospheric mountain hotels, always in private rooms.
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way in Scotland, the world renown Tour Du Mont Blanc and Germany's Moselle Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&Bs, inns, and guesthouses.
Long-Distance Trails, Alpine Walking
The minimum age for this tour is: 16 Years
This trip is graded ‘Moderate to Strenuous’ with the average daily distance being 11mi/18km. However, almost every day has an option to shorten it by using some form of public transport. Each day has significant ascent and descent, and the paths are a mix of woodland trails, rocky mountain paths, grassy paths, moraine, scree and paved country roads. There is some light scrambling involved in places, and there are cables, ropes and chains to aid ascent/descent in some places. Please be aware that on the highest passes, there may be some residual snow lying in patches, but this will not require any special equipment or skills; just a steady foot, hiking experience and a head for heights. Hiking poles are highly recommended. To get the most of this trip, you should be in good physical shape.
Stay 14 nights in comfortable 3* hotels in private en-suite rooms and three nights in mountain hotels in private rooms, depending on the availability of en-suite bathrooms; alternatively, there will be shared bathroom facilities. An example of the accommodation we use in some towns along the way can be found below. A hotel of the same or better standard will be used if these accommodations are unavailable. Please be aware that twin & double rooms in Switzerland are typically two single mattresses side by side in one double bed frame with two separate duvet covers and pillows.
Single Rooms
Due to the difficulty of the terrain, this trip is unavailable to solo travelers. Single rooms are available upon request, and a supplement is payable.
Extra Nights
If you have some extra time, we suggest adding a few extra days along the route. We would recommend building extra nights in the following places:
Zurich - After a long flight, you might wish to enjoy an extra night in Zurich before starting your Via Alpina trek. With so much to see and do, you could add a couple extra nights here.
Grindelwald or Wengen - You'll be amazed by the stunning views right under the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks.
Mürren - This place is all about rugged beauty and picturesque scenery—perfect for some adventure and relaxation
Montreux - After all that high-altitude hiking, you'll love the laid-back Mediterranean vibe here. Adding some time at these places will really make your trip even better!
Hotel Upgrades
Why not upgrade your hotel in Grindelwald or Montreux at the trail's end? Contact us for more information.
Meals
Breakfasts are included daily, and there is a buffet selection with many sweet treats like pastries, homemade jams, fruit, and cereals. Savory tastes are also catered to with bread, cheese, ham, and eggs, usually available. Packed lunch items can be bought locally from supermarkets or the local bakery. If you are staying in a small town without these facilities, order a packed lunch with your accommodation upon arrival. Dinner is included at each overnight location except Zurich, Grindelwald, Gstaad and Montreux, with plenty of dining options. Meal times are a real highlight, and you can enjoy homemade Swiss specialities. Please let us know upon booking if you have any dietary requirements, and we can arrange this with the accommodations. Swiss specialities are primarily based on cheese and potatoes, such as raclette and potato rosti. Once you are in French-speaking Switzerland and over the so-called 'Roesti-graben' (Roesti ditch), which refers to the cultural, linguistic and gastronomic divide between French and German-speaking Switzerland, you will notice the food becomes much more 'French'. One famous Vaudois speciality is Papet Vaudois, a dish made from slow-cooked potato, leek and succulent local sausage.
All the hiking trails in Switzerland are very well marked with yellow route signs, indicating distances and directions to all destinations. We provide you with detailed route notes, maps, GPX tracks via the Macs Adventure smartphone navigation app, so you will have no problem finding your way —simply download the tracks for offline navigation and follow the route directly from your device. Download instructions are available in your Macs Adventure Account, and we highly recommend setting up the app before your trip.
- 14 Nights in 3* hotels, plus 3 nights in mountain hotels and guesthouses
- 17 Breakfasts
- 13 Dinners
- Daily bag transfer
- Route notes, maps, GPX tracks and access to our Macs Adventure Navigation App
- 24-hour emergency telephone assistance
- Flights to and from Switzerland
- Travel to starting point/from finish point
- Public transport such as cable cars
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses such as drinks, phone calls, extra transfers, tips, etc.
- Any items not specifically mentioned in the program
- Additional nights
This trip is available to start any day of the week from the start of July to early September.
Grindelwald is hosting the famous Eiger Ultra Trail race (17th to 21st July). We recommend avoiding the Via Alpina at this time as the area is bustling, and most accommodations are full.
Also, please note availability in Montreux (the location of your last overnight stay) can be tricky around the time of the Montreux Jazz festival (usually in July).
Fly into Zurich, Geneva, or Bern, then continue by train to Zurich (10 mins, 3 or 1 hour). For general travel planning and information in Switzerland, please go to www.myswitzerland.com/en-gb/transport-travel/getting-around
Take a train from Montreux to any of the following airports: Geneva (1.5 hours), Zurich (3 hours) or Bern (2 hours). Train timetables and details of public transportation in Switzerland are available via the excellent travel planner at www.sbb.ch.
Baggage transfers are included in the price of your trip. Please limit your baggage to one bag per person, with a maximum weight of 20kg/44lbs.
Booking this tour with Macs Adventure requires suitable travel insurance that covers you for the activity, emergency evacuation, and hospital care.
Both the East and West sections of the Via Alpina are 10-day inn-to-inn hiking trips in the Swiss Alps, but they offer distinctly different experiences depending on the kind of journey you’re looking for. Hikers can choose either section individually or complete the full Via Alpina crossing of Switzerland over 18 days.
The East Via Alpina (Sargans to Grindelwald) follows a quieter, more remote route starting near Zurich. It quickly leaves populated areas behind and moves through peaceful valleys and less-travelled alpine passes. This section gradually builds toward the dramatic Bernese Oberland, finishing in Grindelwald beneath the Jungfrau region. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a more tranquil hiking experience with fewer crowds and a stronger sense of solitude and discovery.
The West Via Alpina (Grindelwald to Montreux) begins in the heart of the Bernese Oberland and moves through a more varied and continuously changing landscape. The route crosses alpine passes, meadows, and traditional mountain villages before descending all the way to Lake Geneva and the Swiss Riviera. It suits hikers who want a greater sense of contrast—moving from high alpine terrain to vineyards and lakeside scenery within the same journey.
In short: the East focuses on quieter trails and a gradual build into the mountains, while the West delivers a wider range of landscapes and a more pronounced transition from high Alps to lakeside Switzerland. Both offer classic Swiss hiking with comfortable accommodation, well-marked trails, and luggage transfer throughout. Breaking the route into 2 trips (an east and west section) allows you to complete the entire route over the course of several years.
Bag transfer is included in this trip. We ask that you limit your baggage to one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg/44lbs per person. Leave your bag at the reception before 9am and it will be transferred to your next accommodation by 6pm each day.
We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as this area is extremely popular with a relatively short season. Please note you can start this holiday on any day of the week.
You will need good hiking boots, comfortable hiking clothes, waterproof jacket and pants and warm layers just to mention a few of the items required. We supply a detailed packing list within the app.
This trip is graded ‘Moderate to Strenuous’ with the average daily distance being 11mi/18km. However, almost every day has an option to shorten it by using some form of public transport. Each day has significant ascent and descent, and the paths are a mix of woodland trails, rocky mountain paths, grassy paths, moraine, scree and paved country roads. There is some light scrambling involved in places, and there are cables, ropes and chains to aid ascent/descent in some places. Please be aware that on the highest passes, there may be some residual snow lying in patches, but this will not require any special equipment or skills; just a steady foot, hiking experience and a head for heights. Hiking poles are highly recommended. To get the most of this trip, you should be in good physical shape.
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Save %9 Days 8 Nights
Trans-Alpine Crossing: Germany to Italy
Hike across the Alps from Oberstdorf to Merano and enjoy spectacular Austrian mountain sceneryHighlights- Cross the mountains between Germany and Italy
- Established mountain trails & spectacular scenery
- Comfortable hotels and one serviced mountain hut
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Save %8 Days 7 Nights
The GR5: Lake Geneva to Chamonix
Follow the classic GR5 trail from Montreux to Chamonix at the foot of the Mont Blanc.Highlights- Enjoy views of Dents Blanches and Mont Blanc
- Summit Le Brévent for superlative views
- Feast on rich cheese fondue, a Savoyard speciality
- 15 Days 14 Nights
Camino del Norte Stage 1 & 2 - San Sebastián to Santander
Walk the first two stages of the Camino del Norte from San Sebastian to Santander.Highlights- San Sebastian, a gastronomic experience.
- Contrasting fishing villages and modern cities.
- The green hills of the Basque Country.