Switzerland, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled natural beauty, boasts an extraordinary network of hiking trails that traverse its majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and verdant valleys. Hikes in Switzerland offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the country’s rich natural heritage, reveling in its awe-inspiring vistas and engaging in exhilarating outdoor adventures. With a plethora of trails catering to all levels of hikers, Switzerland presents a hiking paradise that beckons adventurers from around the globe. To guide your hiking odyssey in this enchanting land, we present a curated collection of the 10 best hikes in Switzerland, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Via Alpina
The Via Alpina, a legendary long-distance trail, traverses the entire Alpine arc, spanning eight countries over 3,900 kilometers. Its Swiss section, traversing 1,700 kilometers, unveils the country’s breathtaking diversity, from the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland to the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva. The trail is divided into 20 stages, each showcasing a different facet of Switzerland’s natural splendor. Here are some highlights from the Via Alpina:
Distance: 1,700 kilometers
Altitude Gain: Varies per stage
Hike Time: Approximately 60 days
Starting Point: Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Stage 1: Vaduz to Sargans
This stage takes you through the picturesque countryside of Liechtenstein, with stunning views of the Rhine Valley and the Alps. The highlight of this stage is the historic town of Balzers, where you can visit the medieval Gutenberg Castle.
Stage 9: Gstaad to Lenk
This stage offers a glimpse of traditional Swiss mountain life, as you pass through charming villages and lush green pastures. The highlight of this stage is the stunning view of the Wildstrubel mountain range.
Stage 17: Grindelwald to Meiringen
This stage takes you through the heart of the Bernese Oberland, with breathtaking views of the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. The highlight of this stage is the iconic Aare Gorge, a narrow canyon carved by the Aare River.
Aletsch Glacier Route
The Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, serves as the centerpiece of this spectacular hike. The route takes you through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn region, offering unparalleled views of the glacier and its surrounding peaks. Here are some highlights from the Aletsch Glacier Route:
Distance: 23 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 1,200 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 8 hours
Starting Point: Fiescheralp
Bettmerhorn to Eggishorn
This section of the hike offers stunning panoramic views of the Aletsch Glacier, as well as the surrounding mountains and valleys. The highlight of this section is the suspension bridge over the Massa Gorge, which offers a thrilling experience.
Märjelensee to Riederalp
This section takes you along the edge of the Aletsch Glacier, offering close-up views of its crevasses and ice formations. The highlight of this section is the picturesque Lake Märjelensee, where you can stop for a picnic and take in the stunning scenery.
Belalp to Blatten
This section takes you through charming alpine villages and lush green meadows, with the Aletsch Glacier always in sight. The highlight of this section is the quaint village of Blatten, where you can sample traditional Swiss cuisine and relax after a day of hiking.
Faulhornweg
The Faulhornweg, also known as the First to Schynige Platte hike, is a popular day hike in the Bernese Oberland region. The trail takes you through some of the most iconic landscapes in Switzerland, including the famous Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains. Here are some highlights from the Faulhornweg:
Distance: 14 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 1,200 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 6 hours
Starting Point: Grindelwald-First
First to Bachalpsee
This section of the hike offers stunning views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, as well as the crystal-clear waters of Lake Bachalpsee. The highlight of this section is the panoramic view from the Faulhorn summit, where you can see over 20 peaks on a clear day.
Bachalpsee to Schynige Platte
This section takes you through lush alpine meadows, with the towering peaks of the Bernese Oberland always in sight. The highlight of this section is the charming Schynige Platte mountain station, where you can enjoy a traditional Swiss meal and take in the breathtaking views.
Schynige Platte to Wilderswil
This section takes you through the enchanting Alpine Garden, home to over 600 species of plants. The highlight of this section is the scenic train ride from Schynige Platte to Wilderswil, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Lakes of Macun
The Lakes of Macun, located in the Engadine region, offer a unique and unforgettable hiking experience. The trail takes you through a pristine alpine landscape, dotted with crystal-clear lakes and surrounded by majestic peaks. Here are some highlights from the Lakes of Macun:
Distance: 16 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 1,200 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 7 hours
Starting Point: Lavin
Lavin to Chamanna d’Es-cha Hut
This section of the hike takes you through a picturesque valley, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The highlight of this section is the Chamanna d’Es-cha Hut, where you can spend the night and wake up to breathtaking views of the lakes.
Chamanna d’Es-cha Hut to Lakes of Macun
This section takes you through a rugged alpine landscape, with steep ascents and descents. The highlight of this section is the stunning view of the Lakes of Macun, nestled in a remote and untouched valley.
Lakes of Macun to Scuol
This section takes you through lush forests and quaint villages, with the option to take a cable car down to the town of Scuol. The highlight of this section is the scenic train ride back to Lavin, offering panoramic views of the Engadine region.
Gemmi Pass
The Gemmi Pass, located in the Valais region, is a historic hiking trail that has been used since Roman times. The trail takes you through a rugged alpine landscape, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Here are some highlights from the Gemmi Pass:
Distance: 11 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 1,500 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 6 hours
Starting Point: Kandersteg
Kandersteg to Daubensee
This section of the hike takes you through a picturesque valley, with stunning views of the towering peaks of the Bernese Alps. The highlight of this section is the tranquil Daubensee, a crystal-clear lake surrounded by lush green meadows.
Daubensee to Gemmipass
This section takes you through a rugged alpine landscape, with steep ascents and descents. The highlight of this section is the historic Gemmi Pass, where you can see the remains of a Roman road and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Gemmipass to Leukerbad
This section takes you through lush forests and quaint villages, with the option to take a cable car down to the town of Leukerbad. The highlight of this section is the relaxing thermal baths in Leukerbad, perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking.
Rigi Panorama Trail
The Rigi Panorama Trail, located in the Lucerne region, offers stunning views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. The trail takes you through a diverse landscape, from lush forests to rocky cliffs, offering a unique and unforgettable hiking experience. Here are some highlights from the Rigi Panorama Trail:
Distance: 11 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 1,000 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 5 hours
Starting Point: Küssnacht am Rigi
Küssnacht am Rigi to Rigi Kaltbad
This section of the hike takes you through a picturesque forest, with stunning views of Lake Lucerne. The highlight of this section is the charming village of Rigi Kaltbad, where you can stop for a traditional Swiss meal and take in the breathtaking views.
Rigi Kaltbad to Rigi Kulm
This section takes you along a scenic ridge, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The highlight of this section is the summit of Rigi Kulm, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the Swiss Alps.
Rigi Kulm to Vitznau
This section takes you down the mountain on a historic cogwheel train, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The highlight of this section is the charming town of Vitznau, where you can take a boat ride on Lake Lucerne and admire the views from a different perspective.
Höhenweg Höhbalmen
The Höhenweg Höhbalmen, located in the Valais region, offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. The trail takes you through a rugged alpine landscape, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Here are some highlights from the Höhenweg Höhbalmen:
Distance: 14 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 1,500 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 8 hours
Starting Point: Saas-Fee
Saas-Fee to Plattjen
This section of the hike takes you through a picturesque valley, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The highlight of this section is the cable car ride up to Plattjen, offering panoramic views of the Saas Valley.
Plattjen to Höhbalmen
This section takes you along a scenic ridge, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The highlight of this section is the summit of Höhbalmen, where you can enjoy a picnic while taking in the stunning scenery.
Höhbalmen to Saas-Grund
This section takes you down the mountain on a cable car, offering a unique and thrilling experience. The highlight of this section is the charming village of Saas-Grund, where you can relax and unwind after a day of challenging hiking.
Kronberg Treasure Hunt Trail
The Kronberg Treasure Hunt Trail, located in the Appenzell region, offers a fun and interactive hiking experience for families. The trail takes you through a lush forest, with hidden treasures and puzzles to solve along the way. Here are some highlights from the Kronberg Treasure Hunt Trail:
Distance: 4 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 300 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 2 hours
Starting Point: Jakobsbad
Jakobsbad to Kronberg
This section of the hike takes you through a picturesque forest, with hidden treasures and puzzles to solve. The highlight of this section is the panoramic view from the summit of Kronberg, where you can see over 500 peaks on a clear day.
Kronberg to Jakobsbad
This section takes you back down the mountain on a thrilling toboggan ride, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The highlight of this section is the charming village of Jakobsbad, where you can relax and enjoy some traditional Swiss cuisine.
The Eiger Trail
The Eiger Trail, located in the Bernese Oberland region, offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. The trail takes you along the base of the iconic Eiger North Face, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Here are some highlights from the Eiger Trail:
Distance: 6 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 300 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 3 hours
Starting Point: Eigergletscher
Eigergletscher to Alpiglen
This section of the hike takes you along the base of the Eiger North Face, offering stunning views of the towering peak. The highlight of this section is the famous Eiger Tunnel, where you can see climbers making their way up the face.
Alpiglen to Kleine Scheidegg
This section takes you through a rugged alpine landscape, with steep ascents and descents. The highlight of this section is the charming village of Kleine Scheidegg, where you can stop for a traditional Swiss meal and take in the stunning views.
Kleine Scheidegg to Wengen
This section takes you down the mountain on a scenic train ride, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The highlight of this section is the charming village of Wengen, where you can relax and unwind after a day of challenging hiking.
Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail
The Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail, located in the Valais region, offers stunning views of the largest glacier in the Alps. The trail takes you through a diverse landscape, from lush forests to rocky cliffs, offering a unique and unforgettable hiking experience. Here are some highlights from the Aletsch Glacier Panorama Trail:
Distance: 12 kilometers
Altitude Gain: 800 meters
Hike Time: Approximately 5 hours
Starting Point: Bettmeralp
Bettmeralp to Riederfurka
This section of the hike takes you through a picturesque forest, with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The highlight of this section is the panoramic view from the Riederfurka viewpoint, where you can see the Aletsch Glacier in all its glory.
Riederfurka to Fiescheralp
This section takes you through a rugged alpine landscape, with steep ascents and descents. The highlight of this section is the quaint village of Fiescheralp, where you can stop for a traditional Swiss meal and take in the breathtaking views.
Fiescheralp to Bettmeralp
This section takes you back to the starting point on a scenic cable car ride, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The highlight of this section is the charming village of Bettmeralp, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Q&A
Q: What is the best time of year to hike in Switzerland?
A: The best time to hike in Switzerland is from June to September, when the weather is mild and the trails are free of snow.
Q: Are there any guided hikes available in Switzerland?
A: Yes, there are many guided hiking tours available in Switzerland, ranging from day hikes to multi-day treks. These tours offer a unique and informative experience, with knowledgeable guides leading the way.
Q: Are there any safety precautions to keep in mind while hiking in Switzerland?
A: It is important to always check the weather forecast before heading out on a hike, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains. It is also recommended to bring proper hiking gear, including sturdy shoes, warm clothing, and plenty of water and snacks.
Conclusion
Switzerland’s stunning landscapes and diverse terrain make it a hiker’s paradise, offering a wide range of trails for all levels of hikers. From long-distance treks to short day hikes, there is something for everyone in this enchanting country. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on a journey through alpine splendor with these 10 best hikes in Switzerland.