Autumn hikes in the heart of Switzerland's most beautiful landscapes
In summary
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Sports
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Duration8 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationSwiss / French Alps
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions128.43 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Let yourself be captivated by the magic of autumn on a week-long hiking trip in the heart of the Swiss Alps . Accompanied by a professional guide , this small group tour invites you to explore exceptional scenery, enhanced by vibrant colors.
Each day unveils a new and spectacular panorama. You'll walk along the UNESCO-listed Lavaux vineyards before gazing at the iconic Matterhorn from the Gornergrat viewpoint. The adventure continues with the majestic Aletsch Glacier , the alpine shores of Lake Oeschinen , and the summits of Rochers-de-Naye and Brienzer Rothorn .
The unique aspect of this journey lies in the exclusive use of Swiss public transport . Without any car, your travels become memorable experiences thanks to panoramic , cogwheel, steam, or Belle Époque- style trains, complemented by a superb lake cruise .
This package perfectly combines sustainable tourism , comfort, and authenticity. Between traditional villages and soaring mountain ridges, enjoy a complete escape and a memorable immersion in one of Europe's most beautiful mountain ranges.
The highlights
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Spectacular panoramic view of the Matterhorn from the Gornergrat
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Discover the Aletsch Glacier, the largest in the Alps (UNESCO site)
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Hiking around Lake Oeschinen, a true alpine gem (UNESCO site)
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
You practice a regular sporting activity and are able to walk for up to 5 hours with 600 meters of positive/negative elevation gain.
It is advisable to bring your hiking poles.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h30
- Average distance/day: 11 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 179 m
- Average daily descent: 365 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
French
Your guide holds a mountain leader's certificate and will supervise the group throughout the trip.
Program
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Arrival in Switzerland, settling in Vevey and hiking in the Lavaux
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 01h - 70km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 10 km
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Welcome to Switzerland, the land of chocolate, cheese and punctual trains!
Make your own way to Geneva train station, then take the train to Vevey, a charming town nestled between Lake Geneva and the Alps. Once in Switzerland, all your public transport journeys are included.
In the afternoon, head to Chexbres, the starting point for your first hike through the famous terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Amidst autumnal colours and views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, the trail leads you to the picturesque village of Saint-Saphorin.
Return to Vevey at the end of the day and first convivial dinner with the group.
Day 1 -
Hiking to Rochers de Naye and visiting Montreux
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 01h - 50km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 12 km
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
This morning, take the cog railway from Montreux to Rochers-de-Naye. As you ascend, the landscapes change between vineyards, forests and alpine pastures, before giving way to a spectacular panorama of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
From the summit, embark on a magnificent hike offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and the vibrant colors of autumn.
In the late afternoon, head back down to Montreux to enjoy a pleasant stroll along the flower-lined quays, bordered by palm trees and sculptures, before returning to Vevey for the evening.
Day 2 -
Visit to Sion and settling in Zermatt
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 03h - 150km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 200 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
This morning, take the train to Sion, the capital of Valais. Explore its charming old town before heading to Tourbillon Castle, perched atop its hill. The climb is rewarded with a stunning panorama of terraced vineyards and the Alpine peaks surrounding the Rhône Valley.
In the late afternoon, continue your journey by train to the famous car-free village of Zermatt.
Check into the hotel and enjoy a free evening at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn. You may wish to visit the Matterhorn Museum to learn more about the first ascents of this iconic mountain.
Day 3 -
Hiking in the exceptional alpine landscape of Zermatt
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 01h30 - 50km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 12 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
This morning, board the legendary Gornergrat cogwheel train, one of the most spectacular in Europe. As you ascend, the panoramas of the Matterhorn and peaks over 4,000 meters become ever more impressive.
From the Gornergrat, set off on a magnificent hike in the heart of an exceptional alpine world, between high-altitude lakes, glaciers and mineral landscapes.
Return to Zermatt in the late afternoon to enjoy the unique atmosphere of this car-free village.
Day 4 -
Hiking to the Great Aletsch Glacier
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 02h - 50km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 12 km
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Today, after a train journey from Zermatt to Fiesch, set off to discover the majestic Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From the Eggishorn, at an altitude of 2,900 meters, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views before embarking on the hiking trail leading to Bettmeralp, amidst magnificent alpine scenery. The route will be adapted according to snow conditions to ensure the best possible experience.
At the end of the day, return to your hotel in Fiesch for a relaxing evening.
Day 5 -
Hiking to Lake Oeschinen
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 02h - 100km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 9 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
This morning, take the train to Kandersteg, then the cable car to the famous Lake Oeschinen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Surrounded by vertiginous cliffs and majestic peaks, this alpine gem offers an exceptional setting for a magnificent hike in the colours of autumn.
In the late afternoon, take the train to the charming town of Spiez, nestled on the shores of Lake Thun.
Check-in at the hotel and free evening.
Day 6 -
Cruise on Lake Thun, hike to the Brienzer Rothorn and visit to Interlaken
- Transportation Boat - 01h - 20km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 8 km
- Positive elevation gain 50 m
- Negative elevation 50 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
This morning, embark on a magnificent cruise on Lake Thun to Interlaken, then continue by train to Brienz.
You will then travel to the summit of the Brienzer Rothorn aboard the famous steam train, before setting off on a superb panoramic hike along the ridges, offering spectacular views of the turquoise lake and the peaks of the Bernese Alps.
In the late afternoon, stroll through the narrow streets of the charming village of Brienz, then discover the lively atmosphere of Interlaken, nestled between Lakes Thun and Brienz, before returning to Spiez by train.
Day 7 -
Belle Époque train journey and return to Geneva
- Transportation TER / Metro / Tram - 04h - 220km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
For this last day, enjoy a free morning to visit Spiez, its castle and its vineyards.
Then, board the legendary GoldenPass Belle-Époque train, whose elegant retro carriages will transport you to Montreux.
Then travel to Geneva by train, your heart filled with memories and beautiful moments shared with your guide and hiking companions.
Day 8
Note
The program is given as an indication and may be adapted by the guide according to weather conditions, trail conditions, mountain conditions or the physical level of the participants, in order to guarantee the safety and smooth running of the stay.
Accommodation
Access
Once in Switzerland, all your travel on public transport is included.
Go to the starting point
Long-term parking at Geneva Airport, then direct train from Geneva Airport.
Price details
The price includes
- The trip will be led by a certified, French-speaking mountain guide who is an expert on the destination.
- All transport by train, bus, boat and cable car throughout your stay (in 2nd class)
- Accommodation in 3* and 4* hotels (7 nights)
- All breakfasts
- All dinners
- The journey aboard the Belle Époque train in 1st class
The price does not include
- Transportation to Geneva train station
- Lunches (picnics)
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- hiking poles
Clothing to bring
- hiking outfits
- hiking shoes
- warm jacket for high altitudes (even in summer)
- cap/hat
- casual outfits
The Elsa team
Based in Corseaux, on the shores of Lake Geneva, our local partner has an agency entirely dedicated to Switzerland. It designs immersive experiences in the heart of spectacular landscapes and remarkable cultural richness.
Between crystal-clear lakes, iconic peaks, ancient glaciers, and authentic villages, Switzerland offers exceptional diversity within a compact territory. A true land of superlatives, it boasts over 65,000 kilometers of hiking trails, 358 ski resorts, and unique infrastructure: funiculars, cable cars, and cogwheel trains among the most spectacular in the world.
Specializing in rail travel, the agency leverages one of the world's finest train networks to offer seamless, sustainable, and scenic itineraries. Each trip is designed to allow for an in-depth exploration of the country, at the traveler's own pace and according to their preferences.
A small, personal agency, it transforms its passion for the mountains into active and authentic experiences for sporty travelers: hiking, snowshoeing, e-biking, and other outdoor activities. Group trips are led by certified mountain guides, guaranteeing safety, on-the-ground expertise, and immersion in the heart of the Swiss Alps.
