Long-distance hikes in Switzerland

Switzerland is known for its picturesque mountains and wide valleys. So the ideal conditions are there for long-distance hiking. Nevertheless, many sportsmen and women are faced with the question of which paths to take. To help you make a well-considered choice, we present the best long-distance hiking trails in the country.

The classic: Via Alpina

If you want to discover the heart of Switzerland on a long-distance hike and get to know five cantons, you should take a closer look at the Via Alpina. The so-called Grüne Weg leads you from the east through historic villages to the west. You will also enjoy majestic peaks along the way - from which you will be rewarded with a picturesque view.

How long is the Via Alpina?

The start of the approximately 300-kilometre route is marked by Liechtenstein's capital, Vaduz. From there you will cross the Rhine Valley, the Glarus and Uri Alps and the Grosse Scheidegg Pass. Your destination is the town of Lenk. There you will also find a railway station - so you don't have to worry about getting there and back. Plan on around 15 days for the route, as the walking time is 106 hours.

On the Bernina Trek through Graubünden

You can get to know the canton of Grisons in detail on the Bernina Trek long-distance hiking tour. This route is a true classic, divided into 7 stages. It is 124.4 kilometres long and will take you a total of 44 hours. If you are a leisurely hiker, the classic variant is recommended. If, on the other hand, you are a particularly experienced and ambitious athlete, you can complete the summit trail and cover a few additional metres of altitude.

The Europe Trail 2

Many long-distance hiking trails take you into the Alps in Switzerland. This is also the case with the Europaweg 2. You hike between Grindelwald and Zermatt on one of the most spectacular high-altitude trails in the country. On your tour you can look forward to a beautiful view of the Weisshorn. The route is classified as difficult, which is why you need suitable clothing and sufficient fitness. You need to plan at least two days for the relatively long distance of 33.7 kilometres - after all, you will be on the trail for 16 hours. Incidentally, the Europaweg 2 is also a stage of the Monte Rosa Tour. For the latter, you need eight days for a long-distance hike.

The canton of Valais is popular with many sports enthusiasts. Because in the French-speaking region, the mountains are particularly varied, with green meadows and unspoilt forests awaiting you. One of the well-known long-distance hiking trails there is the Tour des Dents du Midi. It is 48.6 kilometres long and can be completed in 3 to 4 days. The route was inaugurated in 1972, making it one of the most popular long-distance hiking trails. You will not only pass mountain peaks and lakes, but also charming alpine inns.

You will find several places to stop along the route - so you have the option of dividing up the long-distance hiking stages according to your preferences. Nevertheless, the tour is considered difficult. So only attempt it if you have the right equipment and sufficient experience.