Self-Guided Haute Route East, Arolla to Zermatt Walking Tour
Journey through the spectacular Swiss Alps on the eastern section of the legendary Walker's Haute Route. This challenging trek takes you from the remote village of Arolla to the iconic mountain resort of Zermatt, showcasing some of Switzerland's most breathtaking alpine scenery. Throughout your adventure, you'll traverse high mountain passes, walk alongside pristine glacial lakes, and witness an impressive parade of 4,000-meter peaks including the Matterhorn, Monte Rosa, and Weisshorn. Experience traditional Valais hospitality in charming mountain villages while enjoying authentic Alpine cuisine after each rewarding day on the trail.
Self-Guided
challenging
13 km / 8 mi
6
Casual+ Inns (4★)
Min. 2, Max. 12
Highlights
Cross Iconic Alpine Passes
Traverse spectacular high mountain passes including Torrent Pass (2,919m), Forcletta Pass (2,874m), and Augstbord Pass (2,894m), each offering extraordinary panoramic views of Switzerland's greatest peaks.
Witness 4,000-Meter Giants
Experience close-up views of legendary alpine summits including the Matterhorn, Weisshorn, Zinalrothorn, Dent Blanche, and Monte Rosa massif throughout this spectacular high-altitude journey.
Explore Traditional Valais Villages
Discover authentic mountain culture in charming villages like Grimentz with its traditional larch architecture, and experience genuine Valais hospitality with hearty alpine cuisine each evening.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Arolla | Hotel du Glacier | D | ||
| DAY 2 | Les Haudères | Hôtel Les Mélèzes | B, D | 13 km / 8 mi | hiking |
| DAY 3 | Zinal | Hotel Europe | B, D | 11 km / 7 mi | hiking |
| DAY 4 | Zinal | Hotel Europe | B, D | 15 km / 9 mi | hiking |
| DAY 5 | Grüben | Hotel Schwarzhorn | B, D | 17 km / 11 mi | hiking |
| DAY 6 | Täsch | Hotel Täscherhof | B | 13 km / 8 mi | hiking |
| DAY 7 | Zermatt | Hotel Capricorn | B | 9 km / 6 mi | hiking |
| DAY 8 | Zermatt | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arolla
Your alpine journey begins in Arolla, the highest village in the Valais canton, nestled at the edge of sparse Arolla Pine and Larch forests. This remote mountain settlement sits at the head of Val d'Hérens, dominated by the dramatic glaciated north face of Mount Collon. After checking into your hotel in the afternoon, take time to explore this beautiful alpine village and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Day 2: Les Haudères
Today's spectacular route climbs to Pra Gra at 2,479 meters, offering sweeping panoramic vistas before entering a dramatic cirque filled with scree slopes and glacial moraines. The trail leads to the Aiguilles Rouges refuge, an ideal rest stop surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Descend past the brilliant turquoise waters of Lac Bleu before returning to Arolla on foot, then transfer by bus to Les Haudères. This charming village provides a wonderful setting beneath the towering Dent Blanche massif.
Day 3: Zinal
Ascend through the rustic hamlet of La Sage-Villaz to reach the impressive Torrent Pass at 2,919 meters elevation. From this high vantage point, extraordinary views unfold across the Grands Combins, Mount Fort, and Pigne d'Arolla. The route continues to Lake Moiry, where you have options to bus or continue hiking to the traditional village of Grimentz, built entirely from larch wood. After exploring this beautifully preserved village, transfer by bus to Zinal for the night.
Day 4: Zinal
Today's excursion takes you to the Roc de la Vache viewpoint at 2,581 meters, positioned south of the Zinal valley. This exceptional vantage point delivers breathtaking perspectives of the Moming glacier, the impressive Zinalrothorn rising to 4,221 meters, and the dramatic northeast face of Dent Blanche. After soaking in these magnificent alpine views, return to Zinal for a second restful night in this peaceful mountain town.
Day 5: Grüben
Trek along a spectacular balcony trail overlooking the Val d'Anniviers, with the imposing Matterhorn and Zinal peaks rising behind you. Cross the Forcletta pass at 2,874 meters before descending through pastoral alpine landscapes filled with flowering meadows and larch forests to reach Grüben at 1,822 meters. Take time to appreciate the traditional chalets of this enchanting village and admire views of the magnificent Turtmann glacier.
Day 6: Täsch
Wind through beautiful forests of Larch and Arolla Pine before traversing a stunning valley with a small glacial lake. Cross the Augstbord pass at 2,894 meters, marking the natural boundary between Turtmanntal and Mattertal valleys. An optional detour to Schwarzhorn summit at 3,201 meters rewards with panoramic views stretching from Mont Blanc to Monte Rosa. Descend to the hanging hamlet of Jungen, featuring a baroque chapel and stunning views of the Nadelhorn and Monte Rosa massif, before taking cable car or hiking to St. Niklaus and transferring to Täsch.
Day 7: Zermatt
From Täschalp at 2,214 meters, follow the renowned Europaweg balcony trail offering a spectacular finale to your trek. This fantastic high route traverses beneath a stunning array of 4,000-meter peaks, with the iconic Matterhorn dominating the landscape throughout. Conclude your epic Walker's Haute Route journey in the famous mountain resort of Zermatt, having completed one of the Alps' most beautiful crossings.
Day 8: Zermatt
Your alpine adventure concludes after breakfast and hotel checkout around 10am. Consider extending your stay in Zermatt to explore additional hiking opportunities and mountain activities in this world-renowned alpine destination.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each accommodation has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.
Hotel du Glacier
A cozy alpine hotel located in the highest village of the Valais canton, surrounded by Arolla pine forests and dramatic glacier scenery. It offers a peaceful mountain atmosphere with beautiful views of Mount Collon.
Hotel Europe
A comfortable mountain lodge-style hotel located in the picturesque village of Zinal in Val d’Anniviers. It provides an excellent base for hikers with panoramic alpine surroundings and easy access to nearby trails.
Hotel Schwarzhorn
A simple and traditional mountain lodge in the peaceful hamlet of Grüben, surrounded by meadows and larch forests. The hotel offers an authentic high-alpine experience in a quiet pastoral setting.
Hotel Capricorn
A cozy alpine hotel in the famous mountain town of Zermatt, offering wonderful access to Matterhorn viewpoints and the charming car-free village center. It provides a relaxing final stay after completing the trek.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
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Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Additional Inclusions
• Accommodation in double or triple rooms
• Breakfasts (7)
• Half-board - Dinners (5)
• Luggage transfers
• Digital travel packet
• Smartphone travel app use during trip
• Tourist taxes
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Arolla
Zermatt
Geneva Airport (GVA), Zurich Airport (ZRH), or Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Geneva Airport (GVA), Zurich Airport (ZRH), or Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP)
Arrival
The nearest major international airports for this trek are Geneva Airport, Zurich Airport, and Milan Malpensa Airport. From any of these airports, travelers can take a train to Sion, the main gateway to the Valais region. From Sion railway station, regular PostBus services operate to Arolla via Les Haudères, covering approximately 39km with multiple departures available daily. Travelers arriving by car can follow the scenic route via Sion – Evolène – Les Haudères – Arolla. Parking is available at the first hotel in Arolla with advance notice. The tour officially begins on Day 1 with hotel check-in available from around 3:00 PM.
Departure
The tour ends in Zermatt after breakfast on Day 8, with hotel check-out around 10:00 AM. Zermatt is well connected by Switzerland’s efficient rail network, with frequent train services to Sion and onward connections to major cities and international airports including Geneva, Zurich, and Milan. Travelers can easily continue their journey by train from Zermatt to their preferred departure airport or other destinations within Switzerland and Europe. For those traveling by car, return travel can also be arranged conveniently via rail connections back toward Sion and the Valais region.
The hiking season for the Arolla to Zermatt trek spans from early July through mid-September.
Summer (July and August) is considered the best season for hiking, offering the most stable weather, snow-free mountain passes, and pleasant daytime temperatures ranging between 15–25°C (59–77°F) in the valleys, although temperatures can drop close to freezing at higher elevations and overnight.
Spring to early summer (May and June) brings mixed conditions, with melting snow, possible snowdrifts on high passes, and cooler temperatures generally around 5–18°C (41–64°F).
Autumn (September) is still a good time for trekking, featuring fewer crowds, crisp mountain air, and beautiful golden alpine colors, with temperatures typically ranging from 8–20°C (46–68°F), though weather becomes more unpredictable.
Winter (October through April) is considered off-season due to heavy snowfall, closed accommodations, and inaccessible high-altitude trails, with temperatures often falling below 0°C (32°F) in the mountains.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Offseason
May
Mixed
June
Mixed
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Offseason
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
Packing wisely ensures comfort and safety on your hiking adventure. This list covers essential hiking gear, clothing, and travel items to help you handle varied terrain and weather conditions.
Recommended Hiking Clothes & Gear
- Lightweight hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
- Moisture-wicking base layers and breathable hiking shirts.
- Quick-dry hiking pants or shorts.
- Light fleece or down jacket for cooler temperatures.
- Waterproof and windproof shell jacket.
- Sun hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
- Hiking poles (optional but recommended on uneven terrain).
- Small daypack with hydration system or water bottles.
- Headlamp or small flashlight.
- Light gloves and beanie for early mornings or high altitudes.
Clothing
- Layered clothing for temperature changes throughout the day.
- Full-sleeved tops for sun and insect protection.
- Comfortable evening wear for lodges or inns.
- Compact rain jacket for unpredictable weather.
- Extra socks (preferably synthetic or wool).
Other Necessities
- Basic first-aid kit with personal medication.
- Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder.
- Snacks like trail mix, nuts, or energy bars.
- Plug adaptor and power bank for charging devices.
Pro Tips
- Pack light — you’ll appreciate it on uphill climbs.
- Break in your shoes before the trip to avoid blisters.
- Keep rain gear easily accessible in your daypack.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one daypack. Mark your luggage clearly with your name, address, and phone number.
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website.
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
This is a Level 4/5 difficulty trek requiring good fitness and mountain hiking experience. Daily hikes last 3-7 hours covering up to 16.9km with elevation gains of 300-1,200m. You should be comfortable hiking in rocky, mountainous terrain at elevations up to 2,918m.
The trek is available from early July to mid-September. Early season (July) may have snow on higher passes and trails. August and early September typically offer the most stable conditions with clear trails and warm weather.
Your main luggage (limited to one bag per person, maximum 15kg/33lbs) is transported by vehicle to each night's accommodation, arriving in early evening. You only carry a daypack with essentials during daily hikes.
Breakfasts are included all 7 nights. Dinners are included at 5 accommodations (not in Täsch or Zermatt where multiple restaurant options are available). Lunches are not included but can be arranged at hotels or purchased in village shops.
From Geneva, Zurich, or Milan airports, take trains to Sion, then PostBus to Arolla (39km, multiple daily departures). Zermatt is well-connected by train to major Swiss cities and international airports. The journey requires planning as these are mountain locations.
