Self-Guided Walkers Haute Route Hiking Tour

Your journey begins in the alpine resort town of Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn. Arrive independently and take time to settle into this lively yet charming mountain destination. Zermatt is known for its picturesque streets, traditional chalets, and spectacular mountain scenery.

With no cars allowed in the village, the atmosphere is peaceful and perfect for the start of an alpine hiking adventure. Spend the afternoon exploring the town, visiting local cafés, or enjoying views of the surrounding peaks that dominate the skyline. Numerous restaurants offer excellent Swiss cuisine, making it an ideal place to relax before the trekking days ahead.

As evening falls, prepare for the upcoming stages of the Walkers Haute Route, one of the most celebrated hiking journeys in the Alps.

Today’s hike introduces you to the dramatic landscapes of the Swiss Alps as you leave Zermatt and follow a high altitude trail along the famous Europaweg. The route offers magnificent panoramic views across the Mattertal Valley and toward some of the region’s most impressive peaks.

Along the way, hikers encounter the remarkable Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Europe. Crossing the bridge provides a thrilling experience high above the valley floor and unforgettable views of the Weisshorn massif. The trail continues across rugged alpine terrain before reaching the remote Europahütte, a mountain refuge perched high in the mountains.

Surrounded by dramatic scenery, the hut provides a memorable overnight stay in the heart of the Alps.

Continue along the Europaweg today as the route gradually descends from the high mountain trails. In recent years, sections of this stage have been adjusted to provide a slightly lower route, though the distance still makes for a full day of hiking. The trail leads across impressive alpine terrain with constant views over the surrounding mountains and valleys.

As you progress, the landscape slowly transitions from rugged high altitude paths to gentler slopes and forests. Eventually you reach the welcoming mountain village of Grächen, known for its traditional alpine character and pleasant setting above the valley. After a long but rewarding day on the trail, the village provides a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the peaceful alpine atmosphere.

This morning begins with a bus transfer to St. Niklaus followed by a cable car ride to Jungen. Perched high above Switzerland’s deepest valley, the small hamlet of Jungen offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including the impressive Mischabel range and the peak known as Dom. From here, the hiking route follows an old trade path that once connected remote alpine communities.

The trail winds through beautiful landscapes as it leads into the quiet and scenic Turtmann Valley. The journey offers a combination of mountain views, alpine pastures, and peaceful surroundings far from busy towns. By afternoon you arrive in the small settlement of Gruben, where a traditional mountain setting provides a comfortable place to rest for the night.

After yesterday’s descent, today’s hike quickly climbs again into the high alpine landscape. The trail ascends steadily toward the Meidpass, which reaches an elevation of nearly 2,800 meters. From the pass, hikers are rewarded with remarkable views of the Bishorn and the Weisshorn, two prominent peaks of the region.

The surrounding scenery is vast and dramatic, highlighting the rugged beauty of the Swiss Alps. After crossing the pass, the route continues through mountain terrain before reaching the historic Hotel Weisshorn. This unique alpine hotel sits high above the Val d’Anniviers and offers sweeping views across the valley.

The remote location and traditional atmosphere make it one of the most memorable overnight stops along the entire route.

The day begins with a descent from Hotel Weisshorn toward the Val d’Anniviers. As you walk along the slopes of the Pointes de Nava, there are once again magnificent views of the distant Matterhorn. The trail leads down to the charming village of Grimentz, known for its traditional wooden houses and alpine character.

From Grimentz, a cable car ride lifts you to Bendolla, allowing the route to continue through higher mountain terrain. The hike proceeds across open alpine landscapes toward the Cabane des Becs de Bosson. Along the way you cross the cultural boundary between the German speaking and French speaking regions of Valais. The mountain hut provides a remote and atmospheric setting for the evening.

Your final hiking stage follows a long descent into the beautiful Val d’Hérens. The trail leads past the alpine pastures of L’A Vieille and Volovron, where traditional grazing landscapes and open meadows create a peaceful atmosphere. As you continue downward, the scenery gradually changes from high alpine terrain to forests and pastoral landscapes.

The route offers a gentle and scenic conclusion to the journey as you approach the historic village of Evolène. Known for its well preserved architecture and authentic alpine character, Evolène provides a fitting end to this remarkable trek through the Swiss Alps. After arriving in the village, a short bus journey transfers you to the nearby city of Sion.

Your Walkers Haute Route journey concludes today. After breakfast, depart from Sion or extend your stay to explore more of the Valais region. With its historic old town, vineyards, and surrounding alpine scenery, Sion offers a pleasant setting for a relaxed morning before continuing your onward travel.

Reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past week as you traversed dramatic alpine passes, crossed high suspension bridges, and visited traditional mountain villages. From the iconic views near Zermatt to the peaceful landscapes of Val d’Hérens, the journey offers a remarkable introduction to one of the most celebrated long distance hiking routes in the Alps.

Depart independently by train or continue your travels through Switzerland.