Self-Guided Via Alpina

FAQ

Is this a challenging tour?

The Swiss Via Alpina is considered a challenging long-distance hiking route. While it offers stunning scenery and well-marked trails, hikers should be prepared for:

• Significant elevation changes – Many stages involve steep ascents and descents across alpine terrain.

• Varied trail conditions – Paths range from well-maintained mountain trails to rocky or narrow sections, sometimes requiring sure-footedness.

• Daily hiking distances – Most stages cover 12–20 km (7–12 miles) with 500–1,200 meters (1,600–3,900 feet) of elevation gain.

• Variable weather – Sudden changes in alpine weather can make sections more demanding.

What is the route of this self-guided Via Alpina tour?

Our self-guided Swiss Via Alpina tour starts in Sargans, Switzerland, and ends in Grindelwald. The Swiss Via Alpina is a network of long-distance hiking trails that traverse Switzerland’s stunning alpine landscapes, connecting charming villages, high mountain passes, and breathtaking vistas from east to west.

Is this the full route of the Swiss Via Alpina?

The full Swiss Via Alpina route stretches from Sargans to Montreux, comprising roughly 19 stages. We’ve divided the route into two tours: our self-guided Via Alpina tour covers the eastern section (stages 1–9, from Vaduz/Sargans to Grindelwald), while our self-guided Bernese Oberland Traverse tour covers the western section (stages 11–15, from Lauterbrunnen to Gstaad). You also have the option to combine both tours to hike the entire route, and we can include the final stretch from Gstaad to Montreux on a self-guided basis.

Do I have to pack everything with me on the hikes?

No! Luggage transfers are included throughout the Via Alpina tour, so you can hike with just the essentials while your main bags are transported between hotels. You will be responsible for your luggage only at the start and end of the tour. We recommend carrying a backpack with a hip belt for your daily items, such as rain gear, water, and snacks. The tour includes one checked-size suitcase per person, with a maximum weight of 20 kg (44 lbs). If you plan to bring more than one bag per person, please let us know, as there is an additional charge for extra luggage.

Do I need to hike every day?

Yes — this is a point-to-point trekking tour, which means that on each day (aside from your rest day), you will hike from one hotel to the next. However, if you prefer not to hike on a particular day, you have the option to use public transportation or take a taxi to reach the next stop on the tour.

We highly recommend training in advance to make sure you’re ready for the physical demands of the route. If you have any concerns about your hiking ability, please let us know — we may be able to suggest a less strenuous tour option.

Are the meals included with this tour?

The self-guided Via Alpina tour includes a daily buffet breakfast at your hotels. Lunch is not included, but we’ll suggest places to buy picnic supplies or mountain restaurants along the route. Six dinners are included, typically as three-course set menus, while drinks are extra. On evenings without dinner included, we’ll recommend nearby restaurants.

What if I have a dietary restriction?

Although Swiss cuisine is typically dairy-based, we can accommodate most dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and lactose-free diets. Vegan meals are limited and not available at the Mountain Hotel Engstlenalp, where a vegetarian option will be provided instead. Please make sure we know in advance of any dietary restrictions or allergies so we can make sure to inform the hotels.

What are the hotels like?

Many of the hotels on the Swiss Via Alpina route are in fairly remote locations, but they are typically family-owned 3- and 4-star properties. You’ll experience alpine charm, comfort, and authentic local cuisine. Some things to be aware of:

• The hotels on this route do not have air conditioning. You can usually open the windows to cool down in the evenings.
• It is rare to find walk-in showers at hotels in Switzerland, as most of them are deep bathtubs with handheld showers.
• There is one remote mountain hotel, Engstlenalp, on this route that has 5 private rooms with ensuite bathrooms. We try our best to secure these rooms for our self-guided folks. Please be aware that these rooms only have one large bed. If you must have two twin beds in your room, you will need to stay in a nostalgic twin room with a shared bathroom.

Do I need to pay a single supplement fee?

The single supplement is an additional fee for travelers staying alone in a single-occupancy room, so you will need to pay this fee if you are a solo traveler. Our tour prices are based on double occupancy, with the cost of a hotel room shared between two guests. If a room is occupied by only one person, this extra charge covers the full cost of the room. Additionally, the single supplement fee covers luggage transfers for solo hikers, as these services require a minimum of two people.

What is the currency needed for this tour?

Switzerland and Liechtenstein use the Swiss Franc (CHF). ATMs—readily available at banks, grocery stores, and train stations—typically offer the most favorable exchange rates. While most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, it’s wise to carry some Swiss Francs in cash for buses, smaller cable cars, and mountain restaurants where cards may not be accepted.