The Epic Bernese Oberland and Traditional Engadine Valley

Classic Swiss Alps

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Two of Switzerland’s most spectacular regions are showcased on this journey: the grandscale Bernese Oberland and the traditional Engadine Valley, where the Romansch culture and language are preserved in an exquisite mountain setting. We begin with incredible alpine rambles in the epic Bernese Oberland, home to Switzerland’s deepest valleys, most breathtaking glaciers, and the towering Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau massifs. We then board the most famous Swiss train—the Glacier Express—and 91 tunnels and 261 bridges later, arrive in the pastoral Engadine Valley for hikes in an enchanting world of cobalt lakes, flower-filled meadows, and centuriesold chalets. Our journey is all hotel-based (no hike-in lodges), with up to three Trip Leaders for great camaraderie and at least two hiking choices every day.

Below is an Itinerary-in-Brief. To view a complete Detailed Itinerary, Download Full Itinerary or Email our Area Specialist

Itinerary-in-Brief

Days 1-2
Grindelwald

The massive peaks of the Bernese Oberland present a well-defined wall of giants sometimes known as “the North Face of the Alps.” From beautiful Grindelwald, nestled below the sheer faces of the Eiger (13,025'), the Monch (13,401'), and the Jungfrau (11,401'), we hike to Bachsee, a stunning lake at 8,850 feet where shimmering waters reflect the towering faces of the Wetterhorn, Shreckhorn, and Finsteraahorn. Another choice is a challenging high-level panoramic route amid the grandeur that has made the Bernese Oberland world famous.

Days 3-4
Kleine Scheidegg / Wengen

We make the classic Oberland crossing on foot from Grindelwald to the ski station of Kleine Scheidegg (8,250') at the foot of the Eiger, then descend to our hotel in the charming village of Wengen, a climbing and skiing center since the turn of the century. Cable cars and lifts make our traverse as easy or moderate as desired, and we get amazingly close to the 4,600-foot North Face of the Eiger, one of the world’s legendary rock climbs. On the Grindelwald side of Kleine Scheidegg, our trail leads us through green meadows ablaze with wildflowers. We encounter tranquil Swiss dairy cows, with their oversize bells draped around their necks, and perhaps see herds of goats along the hiking paths in this still-pastoral region.

Days 5-6
Pontresina / St. Moritz

A ride on the Glacier Express train brings us to enchanting Engadine, a gracious valley full of oldworld charm. A cable car carries us to a high ridge for a hiking traverse with picture-postcard views of the Upper Engadine and its shimmering lakes. The high reaches of this valley are beautifully traditional, with alpine farming still done the traditional way, by hand. Overnights are at the lovely mountain resort of Pontresina, near St. Moritz.

Days 7-9
Guarda / Via Engadina

The Via Engadina is a fantastic long-distance hiking trail amid flower-filled meadows, magnificent peaks, and classic 17th century hamlets with fabulous old timber houses and cobbled squares. More strenuous hiking options bring us to the great jagged peak of Piz Buin, looming over the Engadine Valley’s upper reaches. Overnights are in Guarda, a cluster of very old and intricately painted farm chalets and one of the most glorious hideaways in Switzerland. Depart on Day 9.

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Tour Costs $4095 (12-14 members) $4395 (10-11 members) $4695 (5-9 members) Single supplement: $325 *Prices are for 2008 dates only **Airfare is not included in Tour Cost unless indicated

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Departures & Leaders

Note: There may be up to 3 leaders on any
departure. Please call for details.

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