Switzerland’s Top Hiking Destinations

With over 65,000 kilometres of hiking trails passing through serene valleys, around stunning lakes and over impressive peaks, the options for remarkable hiking in Switzerland are endless. Whilst a hiking holiday in the Swiss Alps may seem a bit daunting to the uninitiated, lift-assisted trails mean that you can do as much (or as little!) up-hill walking as you like.

To help you narrow it down for your next trip, we have chosen our top five destinations for hiking in the Swiss Alps. You could visit some of the country's most well-known and captivating destinations, like Zermatt with its resident celebrity, the Matterhorn, or you could take the road less travelled and explore a hidden gem like Bettmeralp in the Aletsch Arena. Each of the following destinations offer a distinct experience, but what they do have in common is stunning scenery, a plethora of hiking trails for all abilities and the promise of an unforgettable experience.

Zermatt

Zermatt needs no introduction. The village at the foot of the Matterhorn, the most photographed mountain in the world, is a hugely popular alpine destination throughout the year. The car-free village exudes charm with its traditional Swiss chalets and vibrant atmosphere. Hiking in Zermatt means pristine nature, glacial landscapes, and, of course, the majestic Matterhorn. And Zermatt is also home to Europe’s largest summer ski area, so you can always hit the slopes if you fancy a break from the trails!

Top Trails:

• Five Lakes Walk: This moderate trail takes you past five beautiful mountain lakes, each offering spectacular views of the Matterhorn reflected in the water. It's perfect for a leisurely hike with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Hörnli Hut: For the more adventurous, hike up to the Hörnli Hut, the starting point for Matterhorn climbers. The trail provides stunning views and a taste of high-altitude hiking.
• Gornergrat: Take the Gornergrat Railway to the top and hike down, experiencing breathtaking views of the Gorner Glacier and surrounding peaks. This trail is a must for anyone wanting to see some of the best vistas in the Alps.

Wengen

Perched high above one of the most spectacular valleys in the world, Wengen is well-known for its charming chalets, lush meadows, and spectacular views of the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch. The idyllic alpine village (which, like Zermatt, is car-free) is in the heart of the wonderful Jungfrau region, so you can easily visit nearby Grindelwald or Mürren, each offering unique access to stunning hiking trails and fantastic mountain excursions.

Top Trails:

• Panoramaweg: True to its name, this trail provides sweeping views of the Bernese Alps and the valley. Taking you from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, it's a relatively easy hike that rewards you with incredible landscapes.
• Lauberhorn Trail: A stunning hike between Wengen and Kleine Scheidegg, this trail roughly follows the route of the Lauberhornrennen, one of the fastest and most famous races in the Ski World Cup.
• Eiger Trail: For those seeking more of a challenge, the Eiger Trail runs along the foot of the Eiger’s north face, offering dramatic views and a sense of adventure.

Engelberg

Engelberg, known for its stunning landscapes and the towering Mount Titlis, offers a mix of adventure and tranquility. This charming village, whose name appropriately translates to Angel’s Hill, is surrounded by pristine nature, making it a perfect base for hiking enthusiasts. The trails here range from gentle walks to more challenging hikes, all set against the backdrop of the most stunning scenery in central Switzerland.

Top Trails:

• Brunni to Ristis: This family-friendly trail offers beautiful views of the valley and surrounding peaks. It’s an easy hike that’s perfect for a relaxing day out.
• Fürenalp Trail: A more challenging hike that rewards handsomely with panoramic views and a serene alpine atmosphere. This trail is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
• Titlis Cliff Walk: Not so much a trail as a very short bridge, but any trip to Engelberg is incomplete without a visit to the Titlis Cliff Walk, Europe’s highest suspension bridge. The views from here are nothing short of spectacular.

Bettmeralp

Much like Wengen and Zermatt, Bettmeralp is a stunning car-free village in the Swiss Alps. Unlike Wengen and Zermatt, Bettmeralp is a hidden gem less frequented by tourists, which means you can enjoy the beauty of the mountains all to yourself (well, nearly all to yourself). The quiet village in the Aletsch Arena, alongside its neighbours Riederalp and Fiescheralp, is renowned for its stunning views of the Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps. This idyllic location offers a serene hiking experience with a variety of trails suitable for all levels.

Top Trails:

• Aletsch Panoramaweg: This trail provides breathtaking views of the Aletsch Glacier and is ideal for capturing stunning photographs. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Bettmeralp.
• Bettmerhorn to Märjelensee: A scenic trail that offers close-up views of the glacier and serene alpine lakes. This hike is perfect for those looking to explore the glacier’s beauty up close.
• Eggishorn: Hike up to the Eggishorn (or take the lifts and hike down) for a panoramic view of the Aletsch Glacier and surrounding peaks. This trail offers some of the best views in the region and is well worth the effort.

Nendaz

Nendaz has a special place in the hearts of all of us at OTP. The most central of the four resorts that make up Les 4 Vallees ski area, it is known primarily as a winter destination, however it certainly shouldn’t be overlooked in the summer. With stunning views over the Rhone Valley, a family-friendly atmosphere and a number of gentle hikes along beautiful ‘bisses’, Nendaz is perfect for the whole family. As a lesser-known destination, it offers a certain undiscovered charm in which you can explore the beauty of the Swiss Alps without the crowds.

Top Trails:

• Bisse du Millieu - Bisse Vieux: A scenic trail following ancient irrigation canals, offering beautiful views and a gentle hike suitable for families. This trail is ideal for a relaxing walk with plenty of picturesque spots.
• Dent de Nendaz: For a more challenging hike, tackle the Dent de Nendaz for panoramic views of the Rhone Valley and the Alps. This trail is perfect for those looking for a bit more adventure.
• Cleuson Dam: Anyone who has skied or snowboarded in Nendaz will have seen this dam looming above Siviez. In summer it makes for an excellent hike in which you can admire the stunning turquoise water of Lac de Cleuson and gain a fascinating insight into Switzerland’s use of hydropower.

So, whether you’re an avid hiker seeking challenging trails or a family looking for scenic walks, Switzerland offers something for everyone. Our top picks each provide unique experiences and stunning landscapes that promise unforgettable adventures - and with the Swiss Travel Pass Flex,

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