Classic Swiss Alps

Two of Switzerland’s most spectacular regions are showcased on this journey: the grand-scale 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 classic 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 centuries-old chalets. Our journey is all hotel-based (no hike-in lodges), with moderate to challenging hiking options and up to three Trip Leaders for great camaraderie.

Itinerary at a Glance

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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.” We hike to Bachsee, a stunning lake at 8,850 feet where shimmering waters reflect the towering rock faces of the Wetterhorn, Shreckhorn, and Finsteraahorn. Overnights are in Grindelwald, with views of the north face of the Eiger (13,025'), one of the most famous peaks in the Alps.

Days 3-4
Kleine Scheidegg / Wengen

A classic Oberland hike brings us from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg (8,250'), right at the foot of the Eiger. We descend to our hotel in charming Wengen, a climbing and skiing center since the turn of the century. Cable cars 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. Hiking from Wengen the next day, our trail leads us through peaceful meadows where tranquil Swiss dairy cows roam with oversized bells around their necks.

Days 5-6
Pontresina / St. Moritz

A ride on the Glacier Express train brings us to the Engadine, an enchanting valley full of Old World charm. Our panoramic ridgetop hike above the valley brings us picture-postcard views of the Upper Engadine and its serene lakes. The high reaches of the Engadine are lovely, with alpine farming still done the traditional way, by hand. Overnights are in idyllic Pontresina, near St. Moritz.

Days 7-9
Guarda / Via Engadina

We hike the Via Engadina, a long-distance footpath, through storybook hamlets to Guarda, the quintessential Engadine village. The trail takes us through forests with the Inn River on one side and steep mountains on the other. The next day, a more challenging hiking option brings us to the great jagged peak of Piz Buin, looming over the Engadine Valley. 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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What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 4 and 5, Moderate to Strenuous. We enjoy two hiking choices on most days—moderate or challenging—so you can choose a hike that suits your interests for the day. Most hiking is between 5,000 and 9,000 feet on good trails over mountainous terrain. The maximum elevation reached is 9,400 feet. You will carry just a daypack with the essentials: camera, water bottle, and rain gear. A support vehicle carries our luggage between hotels. Hiking experience is recommended, and all participants must be in good physical condition. All participants should truly enjoy mountain hiking (no climbing or mountaineering experience is necessary). Each evening we return to our comfortable hotels to sample the culinary delights that the Swiss Alps have to offer. Single rooms can be requested but are not always available, due to the limited space in the hotels.

Explanation of Trip Levels