Overview
Join us for a four-nation odyssey of superb day hikes in the Alps—and in true WT style, we’ll cross all international borders on foot! Our route traces a path through the terraced vineyards of northern Italy’s Valtellina region, famed for its viticulture since Roman times, and into Switzerland’s sunny Engadine Valley, with its ice-blue skies and snow-dusted peaks. Crossing trails in the tiny country of Liechtenstein, a land of mountain panoramas and turreted castles, we make our way into the grand Alps of Austria on the ridgetop Eschnerberg Trail, with vistas into the Rhine Valley. As we move from country to country, we’ll enjoy Romanesque architecture, explore ancient spa towns, and sample mouth-watering culinary delights and wines from four different countries, with a special wine tasting at the renowned cellars of the Prince of Liechtenstein.
We had a great time hiking the Italian Alps and especially loved the variety of the hikes and the four different countries and cultures we experienced. Liechtenstein was an unexpected jewel and the hikes there, the winery, and the dinner were fabulous! Once again, Wilderness Travel has exceeded our expectations and has shown why they continue to rack up awards as the best travel company for hiking experiences! Thanks to the entire company for never failing to delight us!
— Nancy F., Sarasota, FL
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-3
Bergamo, Italy / Valcamonica / Bormio
After exploring Bergamo, an open-air museum of medieval architecture, we head into the green Valtellina region to visit the World Heritage-listed collection of prehistoric petroglyphs at Valcamonica. Our first mountain hike brings us to the alpine spa town of Bormio, famed for its hot springs since Roman times. Our hotel here has saunas, steam rooms, and thermal pools.
Days 4-7
Livigno, Valle di Fraele / Engadine, Switzerland / Davos
Our hike in the Valle di Fraele leads to a wonderful “alm,” a mountain chalet where cattle graze, and past sparkling lakes to the village of Livigno, set in a high and remote valley close to the Swiss border. Hiking into the pristine wilderness of Swiss National Park, we travel by train to Davos, take the funicular up to our hotel, then head up to Weissfluhjoch (8,835') for a breathtaking ridge hike.
Days 8-9
Liechtenstein / Vaduz
Crossing the Liechtenstein border on foot, we walk up to the 12th century Gutenberg Castle for sweeping views. Another hike follows the peaceful trails that link tiny Liechtenstein’s villages, farms, forests, and mountains. A walking tour introduces us to Vaduz, the charming capital, with its atmospheric castle perched high on a hill. The Prince of Liechtenstein resides here, and we’ll have dinner and a tasting at his winery.
Days 10-12
Innsbruck, Austria
Hiking into Austria, we follow the Eschnerberg Trail, with a stop in the alpine town of Schellenberg for views of the Rhine Valley and a visit to the enchanting medieval town of Feldkirch on the border between Austria, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. In glorious Innsbruck on our final day, we take the funicular up into the mountains to stretch our legs on a hike and toast our journey with an Austrian ale. Depart on Day 12.
Highlights
Highlights
Details
9 hiking days on moderate to steep trails, 2-5 hours a day, altitudes up to 8,800 feet, van support