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A stunning hike capturing the essence of Switzerland - emerald alpine lakes, soaring snow capped peaks, flower laden meadows and quaint wooden farm houses. The Bernese Oberland is a region dominated by high peaks, many over 4000m. Following a section of the Alpine Pass Route that crosses the country, the hike traverses from Lenk, known for its stunning variety of wildflowers across high passes to the famous ski resort, Grindelwald. From a variety of vantage points be rewarded with impressive views of vast glaciers, some of the highest peaks in Switzerland including the Eiger (3970m), Jungfrau (4158m) and Finsteraarhorn (4274m) while to the north glimpse the vast lakes surrounding Interlaken (Thunersee and Brienzersee). At night experience traditional Swiss alpine hospitality in the mountain huts designed to comfort weary walkers and feast on simple yet hearty cuisine.
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22kg of CO2-e PP per day
(132kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Lac de Tzeuzier, hike to Lenk (5-6hrs)
You will meet your guide mid morning to start your hike. We recommend you have a pre tour night in Sion (accommodation suggestions can be found in our pre tour information). From Rawil Dam (1778m) we skirt around the lake and ascend alpine meadows to reach the col de Rawill (2429m) to cross into the Bernese Oberland. There is a long descent amidst the limestone walls of the rocky mountain landscape to reach the small settlement of Iffigenalp (1584m). Transfer to Simmenfälle and Lenk. Distance 13km/8mi, +700m/2296ft, -900m/2952ft
Meals: L,D
Day 2
Hike to Engstligenalp via the Col d'Ammerten (5-6hrs)
A beautiful ascent today past the Simmen waterfalls to the Col d'Ammerten (2443m). The route takes you through pastures on the slopes of Mt Wildstrubel before the trail descends to Engstligenalp (1964m). Distance 12km/7.5mi, +1400m/4593ft, -540m/1772ft
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Hike to Kandersteg (5-6hrs)
The high limestone walls of the Bernese offers breathtaking views with its stark beauty against the backdrop of Mt Engstilgen. The route takes you over the Chindbetti Pass (2623m). Following time to absorb the view, we descend along a balcony trail with a frontal view of the mountains of l’Altels and Balmhorn and then continue to Kandersteg. Distance 12km/7.5mi, +700m/2297ft, -1300m/4265ft
Day 4
Ascent of the Hohtürli Pass and descend to Kiental (6-7hrs)
A beautiful hike to the lake of Oschinen and the mountain pastures of Bägli. In front the Glacier Blüemlisalp is in view as we ascend the Hohtürli pass (2778m) at the foot of the massif Blümlisalp (3663m). The extraordinary glacial cirque of Lake Oeschinensee altitude (1578m) is a just reward for our climbing efforts. One last look at Kandertal before a rapid descent into the Kien valley (Kiental). Distance 15km/9.3mi, +1400m/4593ft, -1500m/4921ft
Day 5
Hike to Mürren - Lauterbrunnen (7hrs)
Another day of big ascents and descents as you set out this morning from Kiental. Today takes us through some of the most spectacular scenery of the Bernese as we ascend the col de Sefinen (Sefinenfurgge pass). The trail through alpine meadows takes us part small hamlets of chalets decorated with flower boxes in full bloom. From the pass we gain superb views of the Jungfrau (4158m) and the Eiger. Descend to Mürren. Distance 19km/11.8mi, +1200m/3937ft, -1700m/5577ft
Day 6
Hike to Grindelwald (7-8hrs)
Walking in the alps doesn’t get much better than today’s hike. The focus of the day is an ascent of the Kleine Scheidegg (2061) and skirting the north faces of the Jungfrau, Mönch and the Eiger (the Maiden, the Monk and the Ogre). These three mountains are perhaps the most famous trio in the world and have challenged climbers for over a century. We follow the passage of the "Kleine Scheidegg” inspired by the massive walls above us, before reaching Grindelwald. There is the option of taking an alpine train ride. Distance 17km/10.5mi, +1300m/4265ft, -1200m/3937ft
Day 7
Loop hike (3-4hrs), trip concludes Grindelwald
The final day is a loop hike to the Refuge de Bäregg, along the Mättenberg, high above the gorge of the Lower Grindelwald Glacier. The views from the trail down to Grindelwald are spectacular. Return to Grindelwald where the trip ends at around 2pm. Distance 7km/4.3mi, +680m/2231ft, -680m/2231ft
Meals: B,L
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 4 - Daily hikes of 5 to 8 hours. There are some challenging stages during the hike with steep uphill, descents, and many sections of the trail which require care. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to with time to stop and take photos (subject to weather conditions). You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for experienced hikers only with a good walking pace. 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. Adverse conditions can make the walk more challenging. As with all our moderate to 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 walking 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 walk.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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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