Walking Holidays in Switzerland

Frequently asked questions about walking holidays in Switzerland

• How difficult are your Switzerland walking holidays?

  Switzerland is a paradise for hiking, with some trails being quite challenging and others suitable for beginners. Our Switzerland walking holidays are graded 1-8, with one to three falling under the ‘leisurely’ category, four to five under ‘moderate’, and six to eight under ‘challenging’. From easy walking in Switzerland to demanding trails, you can find out more about our walking grades here.

• Should I choose a guided or self-guided walking holiday?

  It’s up to you if you choose a guided or self-guided walking holiday. Are you an experienced walker who wants the freedom of being out on your own? A self-guided walking holiday is the perfect option. Would you like to benefit from the expert knowledge of an experienced guide? Then one of our guided walking holidays is right for you.

• What are the best months to hike in Switzerland?

  It all depends on the experience you are looking for. During summer, the snow-covered mountain peaks yield to open trails, creating an ideal opportunity to explore the alpine landscape. Late spring and early summer offer optimal conditions for hikes at lower elevations, whereas July and August are excellent months for high-altitude walking holidays.

• Where do you fly into for hiking in Switzerland?

  For walking holidays in Switzerland, Zurich Airport is the best place to fly into. Our Swiss walking tour packages include return flights to Zurich Airport, as well as airport transfers. Our goal is to make your walking holiday as comfortable and convenient as possible.

• Are your Swiss walking holidays suitable for solo travellers?

  Both our guided and self-guided walking tours are suitable for solo travelers, it depends on what experience you want to achieve. On guided walks, you will travel with a small group and get to meet new people, with approximately half of our guests typically traveling alone. Alternatively, you can experience our self-guided walks where you will have 24-hours emergency support while enjoying the freedom to walk at your own pace.

• What equipment do I need for walking in Switzerland?

  For walking in Switzerland, good quality walking boots with ankle support are essential, especially for moderate to challenging hikes. Layers are important as mountain weather can change quickly. We recommend moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer, and waterproof outer layers. Walking poles can be helpful for steeper sections, and sun protection is vital even on cooler days due to the alpine sun intensity. A detailed equipment list is provided with your booking confirmation.

• How much walking experience do I need for a Swiss walking holiday?

  The required experience depends on the grade of holiday you choose. For our leisurely walks in Switzerland (Grades 1-3), basic fitness and comfort walking for a few hours is sufficient. For moderate walks (Grades 4-5), regular walking experience and comfort with some ascents and longer days is recommended. For challenging alpine hikes (Grades 6-8), you should be an experienced hill walker with good stamina and a head for heights. Our team can help you select the most appropriate holiday for your experience level.

• What's included in your Swiss walking holidays?

  Our walking holidays in Switzerland typically include accommodation, most meals (usually half-board with breakfast and dinner), an experienced walk leader on guided tours, all necessary transportation during the holiday including cable cars and mountain railways, local travel cards, and detailed route information. Some holidays also include additional experiences like chocolate tastings or cheese-making demonstrations. Specific inclusions are clearly listed on each holiday page.

• Can I combine walking with other activities in Switzerland?

  Absolutely! Many of our Switzerland walking holidays include opportunities to experience other aspects of Swiss culture and landscapes. You might ride scenic mountain railways, visit alpine cheese dairies, explore historic towns, or simply relax by crystal-clear lakes. Most holidays include a free day where you can choose your own activities, and our leaders can provide suggestions based on your interests.

• How accessible are mountain huts and refuges on your Swiss routes?

  While some of our more challenging itineraries may include visits to mountain huts or refuges, most of our walking holidays in Switzerland use comfortable hotels in valley towns and villages as bases for daily walks. When mountain huts are used, we select those offering reasonable comfort while still providing an authentic alpine experience. Our holiday descriptions clearly indicate accommodation types so you can choose what suits your preferences.