The scenery in the Swiss Alps is some of the most stunning in Europe. Sunny wildflower meadows lie between the slopes of epic, snow-capped mountains, and grand hotels are located next to quaint, cobblestone towns. For keen walkers, Switzerland in summer is a paradise. There are trails for all levels here, from gentle, well-paved valley routes, to more challenging walks that take you higher for crisp mountain air and unforgettable views.
The Haute Route
This spectacular mountain route was first charted by the English Alpine Club in the 19th century, and is still popular today. While you no longer need mountaineering skills, a good level of fitness is recommended. Start in Chamonix in the French Alps and finish in the stunning alpine village of Zermatt, Switzerland. Allow 14 nights for this journey among some of the epic mountains of the Alps, including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. You'll also wander among some of the highlights of the Alps in summer, like rural villages and flower-covered meadows, along with glaciers and towering mountains. If you're after a little more luxury than the simple Alpine huts dotted on the route, stay at VIP hotels like Hotel Mont.Lac, a hidden chalet-style hotel in lake town Champex.
Berenese Oberland
For a shorter break, enjoy a section of some of the stunning trails that criss-cross the Berenese Oberland region, in the canton of Bern. Over five days, lose yourself in a wonderland of crystal-clear lakes and snowy mountain vistas. Stop for refreshments at traditional villages, like quaint Grindelwald, nestled in a verdant valley, then continue to mender beneath the impressive peaks of the Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau. Stay at historic Alps hotels like Hotel Wengener Hof, built in 1898, and refuel yourself with indulgent Swiss fondues and locally-made chocolates in their a la carte restaurants.
The Val d'Anniviers
In the French-speaking canton of Valais, the picturesque Anniviers Valley is a luxurious base for a week of walking. Rather than undertaking a route, stay at renowned Grand Hotel Bella Tola, and spend each day exploring a different section of the valley. Built on a terrace overlooking the Matterhorn, enjoy the historic charm of this 19th century hotel and wander around the quaint village of St. Luc and its chapel, located on a forested hillside. After walking around the grassy valleys and along the banks of the wild River Rhone, relax in a traditional wood-panelled restaurant and sample home-made Swiss chocolates.
Tour du Mont Blanc (photo)
Over ten days, enjoy this route through stunning scenery and the shadow of Europe's most iconic mountain, Mont Blanc. Start and finish in picturesque resort town Chamonix and wander over the French border, passing glaciers and mountain lakes. As you walk between the boundaries of Italy, France and Switzerland, rest in storybook villages, like La Fouly, a pretty settlement situated at the foot of Mont Dolent. Sleep in style at luxurious hotels like Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc, where chalet-style accommodation is combined with VIP facilities like an onsite spa.
The Via Alpina
A classic alpine route that stretches not just across Switzerland, but all the way from Trieste to Monaco, the Via Alpina can be enjoyed section by section. In Switzerland, enjoy a ten day journey along the western stretch of the trail. You'll enjoy the scenic views of the Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger, walking from stunning alpine village Grindelwald and finishing on the shores of Lake Geneva. Finish at lakeside town Montreux, considered the capital of the Swiss Riviera. Don't miss a chance to stay at Hotel Splendid, where you'll sleep in a castle dating back to the 1800s, built over the lake.