The Best Places to Hike in Switzerland

One of Switzerland’s premier wine growing regions is also a great place for a summer hike. The Lavaux Vineyards have been producing wine for centuries, possibly as far back as the heady days of the Roman Empire. Today, on a walk through the region you can stop off and rest, with a glass of wine of course, at the many wine cellars and open houses. All the way along the Swiss wine route you’ll have glorious views of Lac Léman and the Alps beyond for company.

The so-called Aletsch Arena has over 300 km of trails open to exploration. One of the best is the Aletsch Panoramaweg, which follows mountain paths high above the Great Aletsch Glacier, Switzerland and Europe’s largest glacier.

Follow this 65 km long trail from Thusis in the canton of Graubunden over the spectacular Splügen Pass to Chiavenna in Italy. Part of the journey follows a historically important trail, the via Spluga, that was the main road for travellers, workers and traded goods moving between Graubünden and Italy. Discover more great hikes in Graubünden.

The Creux du Van is one of Switzerland’s incredible natural wonders. A huge naturally carved amphitheatre, it is also one of the best places to spot native wildlife such as ibex which walk with ease along the precarious rock face. The journey starts in Noiraigue and by the end you’ll have ascended exactly 725m to stand in the middle of the great amphitheatre. Follow this guide for the best views.

The Five Lakes Walk is a classic of Zermatt. All the way you are shadowed by the figure of the Matterhorn, the iconic tooth-shaped mountain. At three of the lakes you’ll see the mountain reflected in the mirror-like water. The trail is easy to follow and can be done with a moderate level of fitness.

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From Grindelwald in the Bernese Oberland, embark on a hike that’ll take you past the fearsome north face of the Eiger mountain. The trail leads up steep scree slopes right to the foot of the Eiger, to where the world’s best climbers begin their ascent of the notorious rock face. Along the way, you’ll also pass by breath taking views of the Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. At the end of the trail, you’ll be able to look down the Grindelwald valley in wonder.

Oeschinen is known as Switzerland’s most beautiful lake. Hiking to it from the nearby village of Kanderstag is a rewarding experience as you meander gently along the path through pine forests. The trek takes around one hour. Wrap up warm in the winter, but in summer bring your bathing suit and enjoy a dip in the cool waters of Oeschinen.

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The village of Andermatt is the gateway to the Gotthard hiking area which has over 60 well signposted trails to follow, each leading to stunning scenery. One of the highlights takes you through on a 9km round trip through the Oberalp Pass to discover the source of the mighty Rhine river.