Arrive by train in Sargans or Buchs, Switzerland, and continue by bus to Vaduz, the charming capital of the mountainside Principality of Liechtenstein. Our women-only journey begins at 2:00 pm, when we’ll gather as a group and set out on a relaxed warm-up walk to Vaduz Castle, the palace and residence of Liechtenstein’s ruling family. Although there is no border control between Switzerland and Liechtenstein, we’ll stop at the tourism office for a fun tradition—having your passport ceremonially stamped. We’ll also take celebratory photos at the official starting point of the Via Alpina in Vaduz’s lively pedestrian center. In the evening, we’ll come together for a welcome and orientation dinner—an opportunity to get to know your guides, share stories, and toast the start of an unforgettable women’s alpine journey. Overnight in Vaduz. (D)
Ascent 400 feet | Descent 400 feet | Distance: 2 miles (may vary)
A morning transfer from Vaduz, Liechtenstein, to Sargans Castle in Sargans, Switzerland, marks the beginning of our Swiss Via Alpina adventure. From there, we continue to Mels, where a brief ascent leads us into high alpine pastures. Our route undulates gently through forests and open meadows, offering calming views of the Weisstannental and its many waterfalls. Along the way, we pass a dozen or more streams and rivulets cascading down the mountainside. The Weisstannental— the longest valley in the canton of St. Gallen—unfolds beneath us as we arrive at our hotel beside a mountain stream in the tranquil village of Weisstannen, nestled high in the valley. Overnight in Weisstannen. (BSD)
Ascent 2500 feet | Descent 1000 feet | Distance: 8 miles (may vary)
As we continue ascending the Weisstannental, the valley narrows and becomes more rugged, eventually rising above a dramatic chasm that opens onto the high meadows of Fooalp. Crossing our first pass, the Foopass (pronounced FOE-pass), brings us to 7,300 feet, offering a perfect introduction to the more challenging alpine passes that lie ahead. The descent to Elm unfolds amidst breathtaking scenery, with waterfalls cascading down the hillsides at every turn. Elm sits at the heart of the Sardona Tectonic Arena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a geological marvel. The villages of the Glarner Alps also boast some of Switzerland’s most beloved specialties—fine chocolates, pastries, and other local treats. Overnight in Elm. (BSD)
Ascent 3000 feet | Descent 4300 feet | Distance: 10 miles (may vary)
From Elm, enjoy a spectacular view of the Martinsloch, a natural “window” in the Alps and a striking testament to the geologic forces that shaped this region. A morning bus carries us from Elm to a ski hut at Obererbs, where our steep ascent begins toward the narrow saddle of the Richetlipass, reaching 7,418 feet. The descent from the pass is unusually steep down to Unterstafel, so careful footing and trekking poles will help us navigate safely as we take our time on the way down. Once we reach the valley center of Linthal, the funicular is ready to whisk us to the car-free alpine resort of Braunwald, perched on a sun-drenched slope with mesmerizing mountain views, including the glaciated Tödi massif—the highest peak in the Glarner Alps. In the evening, we relax and soak in the stunning vistas under a starlit alpine sky. Overnight in Braunwald. (BSD)
Ascent 2300 feet | Descent 5700 feet | Distance: 10 miles (may vary)
Today’s route takes us along a high path above the valley, leading to Urnerboden, the village at the head of Switzerland’s largest alp. The surrounding mountain scenery remains breathtaking, with peaks that feel distinct from the rest of the Alps—reminiscent of the Dolomites. In Urnerboden, we’ll have the chance to stock up on fresh cheese from the large local dairy before continuing, either by bus transfer or on foot, to the Klausenpass. A hotel has stood at the top of the Klausenpass since 1902, and the newly completed hotel, finished in 2021, combines traditional Alpine hospitality with unparalleled panoramic views. Overnight at the Klausenpass. (BSD)
Ascent 1500-3300 feet | Descent 1450-1750 feet | Distance: 8-11.5miles (may vary)
The Klausenpass has served for centuries as a vital trade route, linking the hamlets and farms that dot both sides of the pass. Along the way, several stunning waterfalls capture our attention, with the Stäuber waterfall above the hamlet of Äsch standing out as perhaps Switzerland’s most scenic “hidden” waterfall. As we descend the valley toward Altdorf, we pass through the historic town of Bürglen, the legendary home of William Tell. The 16th-century chapel, built on the site of his house, and the Tell Museum offer a fascinating glimpse into the life and times of this Swiss hero. In Altdorf, a striking monument commemorates Tell with his crossbow and the iconic pierced apple. Overnight in Altdorf. (BSD)
Ascent 140-1090 feet | Descent 2860-4000 feet | Distance: 4.5-7.5 miles (may vary)
We begin the day by crossing the Reuss River, which flows down from the historic Gotthard Pass, before taking a small cable car from the mountainside village of Attinghausen up to Brüsti, just above the treeline. From there, our airy high-route hike leads toward the Surenenpass, ascending beneath dramatic cliffs as the peaks of Brunnistock and Blackenstock rise majestically overhead. A broad, permanent snowfield provides a swift and efficient path to the pass, making the climb feel exhilarating yet manageable. On the descent, the panorama opens to reveal the towering presence of Mt. Titlis, dominating the alpine landscape. Overnight in Engelberg. (BSD)
Ascent 3050-3600 feet | Descent 2600-4470 feet | Distance: 10-12 miles (may vary)
With so much to experience in the Engelberg mountain resort, it’s hard to call today a rest day. We’ll take one of the Alps’ most memorable excursions, ascending Mt. Titlis—one of the giants of the Uri Alps—aboard the world’s first rotating cable car. At the summit, you can explore the glacier cave and stroll along the thrilling cliff walk, soaking in panoramic alpine views. Back in town, we may visit the 12th-century monastery, home to the exquisite Baroque Abbey, before you have free time to wander Engelberg’s charming pedestrian center. Overnight in Engelberg. (B) Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch and dinner independently in Engelberg today.
Rising above Engelberg, we enter a stunning expanse of high alpine lakes and lush meadows. Along the way, we pass the serene Trübsee and cross the Jochpass en route to the sparkling Engstlensee. This is marmot country, home to an extraordinary variety of wildflowers that color the alpine landscape. On the ascent, you can choose between a challenging stretch on foot or a more leisurely pace with the assistance of cable cars. Either way, we arrive at the traditional alpine hamlet of Engstlenalp on the shores of Engstlensee, where we stay at the Hotel Engstlenalp, a charming mountain inn with roots dating back to the 1860s. Overnight in Engstlenalp. (BSD)
Note: Tonight, you’ll stay in a traditional Berghotel. Accommodations are in private rooms with shared bathrooms on each floor. For added comfort, the hotel offers five private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, which may be reserved in advance for an additional $75 USD—please arrange directly with Alpenwild (subject to availability). Please note that there is no elevator, and you may need to carry your luggage up a few flights of stairs.
Ascent 60-4150 feet | Descent 1270-1500 feet | Distance: 2.5-8 miles (may vary)
Departing Engstlenalp, we make our way to the equally charming alpine hamlet of Tannalp, where a tiny church and a herd of friendly goats welcome us. Skirting the serene Tannensee, we begin our ascent along the Erzegg/Planplatten Ridge—one of the true highlights of the Via Alpina and among the most spectacular ridge walks in the Alps. As we walk, the highest peaks and glaciers of the Bernese Alps unfold before us, with the imposing Wetterhorn dominating the dramatic mountain panorama. Our descent along the ridge brings us to the lively town of Meiringen, famed as the birthplace of meringues. Here, we settle in for the night and share stories of the day’s alpine adventure. Overnight in Meiringen. (BSD)
Meiringen, nestled at the base of four historic passes and along the Aare River before it flows into the Brienzersee, has long drawn travelers from around the world—including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who immortalized the town as the site of Sherlock Holmes’ dramatic encounter at Reichenbach Falls. Today, we’ll ascend the falls by funicular before continuing into the stunning Rosenlaui Valley. Our route takes us through a thundering gorge fed by the Rosenlaui Glacier, before crossing the final pass of our trek—the legendary Grosse Scheidegg. From there, we arrive at our charming, flower-decked hotel, where sweeping views stretch to the iconic North Face of the Eiger. A celebratory dinner brings our journey to a close, as we gather to honor our strength, share our stories, and celebrate the incredible adventures we’ve conquered together. Overnight in Grindelwald. (BSD)
Ascent 2200-4950 feet | Descent 500-3500 feet | Distance: 7.5-14.5 miles (may vary)
After breakfast, plan your departure or onward journey. Concluding the tour in Grindelwald, you’re ideally positioned to extend your stay in this iconic mountain resort. Consider the classic mountain railway excursion through the Eiger Tunnel to the Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station, where sweeping views stretch over the Great Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. Alternatively, explore additional hikes and alpine trails in the stunning Jungfrau Region.
Note: It’s a 3.5-hour train ride from Grindelwald to Zürich Airport, with the first train departing at 5:17 am—please plan your flights accordingly. If needed, we can recommend comfortable hotels in Zürich for an overnight stay. (B)
This women’s-only tour is rated strenuous and is designed for experienced hikers in excellent physical condition. You should feel confident hiking 7–8 hours per day on well-maintained alpine trails, including sustained steep ascents and descents. Daily elevation gain typically ranges from 2,500 to 4,000 feet, with hiking elevations reaching approximately 8,000 feet above sea level. Sure-footedness is essential, and hikers with a history of severe vertigo may find certain sections of the trail challenging.
One of the most demanding days is Day 4, which includes a continuous descent of approximately 5,600 feet. There is no lift or public transportation available to shorten this descent, so having strong knees, balance, and endurance is important. On other days, mileage and elevation ranges reflect optional ways to shorten hikes using lifts or local transportation if needed. As a group, we generally hike toward the upper end of the stated ranges, while maintaining a supportive, encouraging pace.
Trekking poles are highly recommended and are especially helpful for stability on long descents. Our female-led environment emphasizes strength, confidence, and mutual support—creating a space where women challenge themselves while lifting each other up.
Pacing Assumptions:
2.5 miles per hour on flat terrain
1,200 feet of ascent per hour
2,000 feet of descent per hour
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