Arrive in Switzerland, and transfer by train with your included rail pass to the Alpine village of Grindelwald, stunningly set at the base of the massive Eiger, one of the most famous (and fearsome) mountains in the world. The Eiger soars 10,000 ft above Grindelwald, nearly straight up. And the Wetterhorn and Schreckhorn are not bad either.

We’ll meet in the afternoon and will enjoy dinner together at our cozy 3-star hotel as we take in the scenic splendor and talk about the trip to come.

Arrival: Zürich or Geneva. Plan to arrive by the day your tour starts. There is a train station in both the Zürich and Geneva airports, with hourly departures for this region.  Travel time, 3 hrs (Zürich) or 4 hrs (Geneva)

Today we’ll explore the Grindelwald valley and hike to the famous Kleine Scheidegg Pass. If conditions are right, we can take the Eiger Trail right to the base of the mountain, with countless waterfalls cascading off its vertical cliff faces.

The entire day is dominated by great close-up views of the Eiger North Face – perhaps the most notorious climb in the Swiss Alps.  Return to Grindelwald for a 2nd night under the spell of the Eiger.

After a short morning train transfer, our trail winds through flowery meadows and dense woods to the lush Lauterbrunnen valley floor. The Lauterbrunnen valley is reminiscent of Yosemite valley, with numerous waterfalls cascading down the vertical walls on both sides of the valley.  This was the inspiration for Tolkein’s Rivendell, and it definitely captures the imagination.

After a break for lunch, we’ll hike to a wild and isolated corner of the Lauterbrunnen valley for a memorable night in a remote mountain inn. Tschingelhorn is a simple mountain inn set in a stunning location, looking across the valley at the Jungfrau mountain, Rottal glacier, and numerous impressive waterfalls. There is no luggage transport, but we’ll enjoy charming private rooms (bathroom and shower down the hall) and a filling and delicious meal… this is always a favorite stop!

We have a couple of trail options today – the first, a panoramic climb over a high ridge with breathtaking views in every direction, the second, a beautiful wooded hike filled with waterfalls. You and your guide will discuss which is best for you, but both trails are fabulous.

Both routes eventually lead through sleepy Gimmelwald and up to the car-free village of Mürren. This tiny village is perched on top of a 3000 ft cliff with unparalleled views of the Eiger, Jungfrau and other surrounding mountains. Stay in a friendly 3-star hotel.

With such a peaceful and beautiful location, Mürren is a great place to spend a 2nd night. One nice hike is the undulating balcony walk above Mürren. Hike through the appropriately-named Blumental (flower valley) to a rustic mountain restaurant, with postcard-ready views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains. Take your time. Soak it in.

Another option is the steep and rugged climb up to Schilthorn. Yes, you can simply take the cable car there, but the hike is wonderful as well. Stop at a mountain hut along the way, and gain a real sense of accomplishment as you reach the rotating restaurant atop the mountain. Make sure to leave time for the village pool and spa. Dinner will be on your own tonight in town.

After breakfast, we’ll board the train for a morning transfer to the southern border of Switzerland, to Zermatt, the storied and lively village at the base of the Matterhorn. Walking through the village takes you past 400 year-old houses and into the history of this fascinating town.

After arrival, you still have time for a hike above Zermatt for views of the surrounding mountains. We like to hike to the centuries-old hamlet of Zmutt, where you can stop for a coffee and cake (you’ve earned it) and gaze at the Matterhorn towering above it all. Return to the wonderful spa and friendly reception at the Hotel Europe.

Experience the quiet side of Zermatt. Start with a short shuttle to the Täschalp. Taking a quiet route through scenic meadows, we’ll steer you away from the crowds on a favorite trail to Täsch hut for views of the surrounding mountains.

From here, return to Täschalp and take an absolutely stunning balcony trail to Sunnegga. Constant views of the Matterhorn accompany this quiet walk. Return to Zermatt by funicular train, or make the wooded walk down to the village for a longer day.

Start with a cogwheel train high above town today. Taking a quiet trail through scenic meadows, we’ll hike away from the crowds on a favorite trail to Gornergrat, past marmots and small glacial lakes, to what has to be one of the finest viewpoints in Europe.

From here, the jumbled mass of the Gorner Glacier stretches out below you, and behind that, Dom, Monte Rosa, the Breithorn and the Matterhorn form a glacier-clad wall separating Switzerland and Italy. It’s simply stunning, and a fitting finale.

Today you say good-bye to the Matterhorn and depart for your post-tour destinations.

Departure: Zürich or Geneva. It is 4 hrs from Zermatt to Zürich or Geneva by train.  Trains start at 6 am if you need an early start, and leave frequently throughout the day.