Switzerland Inn-to-inn
This abbreviated Haute Route tour links Grimentz to Zermatt via a spectacular series of trails with high passes, quiet trails, and stunning views.
Self-guided Classic Hiker’s Haute RouteThe full self-guided tour from Chamonix to Zermatt |
Private Guided Classic Hiker’s Haute RouteMake it private! Your companions, your dates, your tour - we do the rest. |
The Haute Route is the rugged heart of the Swiss Alps. Characterized by remote trails, charming villages, and stunning mountain scenery, it’s one of the world’s classic hikes, with a wild beauty deserving of its name. For those without time for the full tour, we’ve designed this Best of the Haute Route covering the stunning second half of the tour from the Anniviers valley to Zermatt. We still include the can’t-miss-it Moiry hut for a memorable night amongst the glaciers, because, well, you’re going to want to go there. This is a quick tour, but still one of our most challenging itineraries.
If your idea of a great day in the mountains is a big hike amid remote scenery, this tour is for you. You’ll have a new pass to cross every day and a welcoming inn each night. It’s a trip of discovery. Sure, it’s a challenge. And you’re going to love it.
Day 1
Grimentz – Arrive in Europe and transfer by train to the sleepy village of Grimentz, a postcard-perfect village of dark timbered houses bursting with colorful geraniums.
Grimentz is a wonderfully under-the-radar mountain village in the heart of one of the prettiest valleys in the Alps. You’ll stay here in a comfortable 3-star hotel in town.
Day 2
Moiry hut – Starting right from town, a scenic traverse of the valley brings you through high meadows to the Moiry reservoir. Those who would like an easier hike today can start with a bus ride to the reservoir instead.
From the blue-green waters of the Moiry reservoir, your trail continues up, high into the rocks to the newly renovated Moiry hut, a gorgeous base camp surrounded by a sea of ice.
Day 3
Zinal – A slightly easier day leads you over a minor pass and gives you a chance to further explore the Val d’Anniviers, an unforgettable valley with a great blend of ancient villages, quiet trails, and breathtaking views.
Descend to the village of Zinal, a postcard-perfect village tucked at the far end of this quiet valley. A modest, family-run 3-star hotel is your home for the night.
Day 4
Gruben – Leaving the Anniviers valley, your Haute Route itinerary continues over the Meidpass to the Turtmann valley and into the German-speaking portion of the Wallis.
Capped by the stunning Weisshorn mountain, this is a quiet, wonderful valley with surprising views around every corner. Stay at a hiker’s inn at the base of the valley.
Day 5
Zermatt – Your final pass brings us up to more grand views of the Weisshorn and Dom, two of Switzerland’s highest mountains, before dropping down to the valley where you catch a short train ride to Zermatt.
Zermatt is a lively village, filled with energy and history, and dominated by the towering presence of the Matterhorn. It also retains its alpine charm, with quiet back alleys, scenic nearby hamlets, and classy shops. Check out the town, take a short walk around Zermatt, or enjoy the local Matterhorn museum or the spa, before settling in for dinner at your friendly village hotel.
Day 6
depart – After breakfast at your hotel, depart for your post-trip destinations.
Read about Troy’s experience hiking with a guided group on a stretch of the Hiker’s Haute Route.
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Our full self-guided Haute Route tour links Chamonix to Zermatt via a spectacular series of trails.
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The Bernese Oberland is a great choice for a first inn-to-inn hike in the Alps.
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