Price
ON SALE
Share this trip with a friend
From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
The Matterhorn, or Cervin, is one of the world's most renowned and historical mountains. A near perfect pyramid, it stands at an altitude of 4478m above sea level, and is surrounded by some of the most spectacular alpine scenery and typical Swiss villages. The trail around the Matterhorn crosses between Italy and Switzerland, adding a cultural dimension to the journey. With high passes and steep ascents aided by steel ropes it is one of our more challenging hikes. However, with a good level of fitness and prior outdoor experience, this is an immensely rewarding traverse affording spectacular views throughout including some of the highest peaks in the Alps such as Dent Blanche (4357m) and Zinalrothorn (4221m).
More info about grading system
23kg of CO2-e PP per day
(116kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
Expand all | Collapse all
Day 1
Arrive St Niklaus, hike to Grüben (6hrs)
This morning at 9am (time to be confirmed before departure) we rendezvous with the group at St Niklaus, and have a briefing with our guide before commencing the ‘Tour du Cervin’, the official name for our 6 day hike. The first day is tough as the route begins with an ascent across high mountain pastures with awesome views to 4000m peaks from the village of Saas-Fee. The ascent continues to the Augsbordpass pass (2894m/9495ft) and then down into the Turtmann Valley through the forest. Overnight Grüben. Ascent +938m/3077ft, descent -1075m/3527ft
Meals: L,D
Day 2
Cross the Forcletaz Pass (2874m) to Zinal at the base of Dent Blanche (6-7hrs)
Today's hike takes us to the chalets of the high mountain pasture of Chalteberg to take advantage of a magnificent view over the glacier of Turtmann. We hike via either Forcletaz Pass (2874m/9429ft) or Meidpass (2799m/983ft) for the highest point of the day, crossing the linguistic boundary between the German-speaking and French-speaking parts of Switzerland. We'll continue by the high mountain pastures of Nava and Barneuza and visit the villages of Zinal and Grimmentz in the Zinal Valley. Overnight in St Jean. Ascent +1056m/3465ft, descent -1239m/4065ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Via the Tsaté Pass (2868m) to Les Haudères / Arolla (6-7hrs)
Today we hike along the stunning Moiry lake and continue to Tsaté Pass (2868m/9409ft). This long hike includes numerous ascents and descents to reach Haudères in the Val d'Hérens. During our hike through the flowered meadows we will be surrounded by the famous peaks of Zinalrothorn, Obergabelhorn, Weisshorn and Dent Blanche, all 4000m plus peaks. Ascent +778m/2552ft, descent -1244m/4081ft
Day 4
Ascend glacier & the Col Collon (3074m), descend to Prarayer (2005m) (7-8hrs)
Today we hike to the Bertol hut then the Plan de Bertol, which opens up to the Arolla Glacier. We cross the glacier which has a small slope and doesn’t require technical equipment. This is the historic road that once connected two valleys, used by caravans between Switzerland and Italy by the Collon pass (3074m/10085ft) at the border. We enter the Aosta valley with a magical arrival into the Italian hamlet of Prarayer and the emerald lake of Place Moulin. Overnight Prarayer hut. Ascent +1034m/3392ft, descent -1064m/3491ft
Day 5
Via the Finestra di Cignana to Breuil Cervinia (6-7hrs)
Today is a wild and alpine stage, far from the modern world; it is the longest and the most technical stage of the tour. Thanks to metal ladders, we reach the pass of Valcournera (3066m/10,059ft). Having followed a magnificent waterfall and crossed the torrent of Cignana, we arrive at the 'Finestra di Cignana', where the Matterhorn appears in all its beauty. Tonight we sleep at the foot of the limestone pyramid. Ascent +1062m/3484ft, descent -1133m/3717ft
Day 6
Cable car to Théodule pass, descend on foot to Zermatt (6hrs), trip concludes
Today we ascend by cable car to the Théodule pass, which brings us back into Switzerland. We have views of the Matterhorn all day as we descend using the most famous passage of the western Alps and arrive at the resort town of Zermatt (around 4pm), a highlight of the day. As Zermatt is a pedestrian zone, by taxi to Tasch just along the valley (to collect luggage). Depending on your fitness and weather/mountain conditions, there may be an option to ascend the summit of Breithorn (4165m) today, one of the most climbed +4000m peaks in the western Alps. This involves some organisation on your guide's behalf in respect to engaging a UIAGM qualified mountain guide and climbing equipment. The additional cost is approximately EUR460 for 1 person or cost can be shared between 2. This includes the mountaineering guide, crampons, harness and group climbing equipment. One way cable car fare is separate - approx EUR90. This must be paid for in cash locally. There are some technical aspects to the climb requiring care and attention at all times. The decision to ascend will be at your guide's discretion based on current conditions and your fitness. Those not ascending Breithorn will descend with your hiking guide. Descent -1645m/5397ft
Meals: B,L
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 5 - The daily guided hikes are around 5-8 hours. There are many challenging stages during the hike with steep uphills, descents, and sections of the trail which require care. Daily ascents are between 768 and 1062m whilst descents range up to 1645m. There is a non technical glacier crossing and some pass crossings using ladders and cables. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need an excellent level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for experienced hikers only, with a strong walking pace. Early in the season (June) you may encounter snow on the passes which may be quite deep making the hike more difficult. At any time during summer, weather conditions may be variable and you should be prepared for all conditions including snow, ice, strong sun and extreme winds. The route is subject to modification depending on the conditions. As with all our challenging programs, we expect participants to be regular outdoors people, enjoying aerobic sport around four or five times a week over some period of time. Preferably this has been a long term interest but if not, you have set a program of fitness preparation with at least three months lead in time to your trip. The fitter you are for your trip, the more of a holiday it will be. Activities as close to the actual activity on your trip are the best training; in this instance walking with and without a pack. This builds leg strength, aerobic capacity and confidence in your ability to travel comfortably with a pack for extended periods. At the same time, you are also comfortable with the layers you like to wear and footwear. Important note: good quality hiking boots with ankle support are a pre-requisite for your participation. Runners or shoes without ankle support are not suitable for the conditions encountered on this hike.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
|
We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.
Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.
With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love.
7Days
Moderate to Challenging
Challenging
4Days
Moderate