Switzerland

Right in the heart of Europe, Switzerland is divided into four corners or cantons, each of which has its own language and cultural traditions.  A hiking tour in Switzerland is a once in a lifetime adventure, with spectacular views and superbly varied walking through gorges, river valleys, lakes and stunning rock formations.

Our Foothills of Mont Blanc Walk takes place in the Valais region in Western Switzerland near the French border. This region really is a well-kept secret, totally undisturbed, and a paradise for walkers. You will hardly see another soul, just great herds of chamois and ibex, or shepherds in their ancient transhumance chalets, still producing fresh milk and cheeses from their cows. You walk through fragrant cherry and apricot blossom and gentle pastures that sway with dozens of rare wild flowers including Christmas roses, Hairy daphnes and White asphodel, as well as numerous unusual butterflies that inhabit the Emanay valley just above our hotel. The views of the Swiss and Italian Alps, the Matterhorn, the Dents du Midi and even the southern French Alps are simply breathtaking. And, just a stone’s throw from Mont Blanc, the panorama of this spectacular range is unparalleled anywhere else in the Alps.

Whereas our Classic Swiss Alps Walk takes place to the north of here in the German speaking Bernese Oberland region. This region has the lion’s share of Switzerland’s classic alpine scenery, with many of the highest peaks (over 4,000 m), deepest valleys, most extensive glaciers, tallest waterfalls and largest mountain lakes. Here the Alps are at their most spectacular, with lush green meadows set against a backdrop of rugged mountains crowned with permanent snowfields. The alpine wildflowers are at their most stunning in June, and this is when you will see the famous bright pink alpenrose, the edelweiss and around 25 different species of orchid. The long summer days in Switzerland are perfect for high mountain walking, and late September onwards is typically a period of ‘Indian summer’ with fabulous red and golden hues and crystal clear air.