Switzerland is made for hiking. From peaceful valley trails to high alpine routes with jaw-dropping views, it’s one of the best countries in the world to explore on foot. Over the years we’ve hiked countless trails across the Swiss Alps as a family, and every region offers its own unique landscape and character.
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If you’re planning a walking holiday in Switzerland, this guide shares some helpful tips on choosing the right destination, accommodation, and gear before setting out on the trail.
Mountain tourism is climbing in popularity, and Switzerland rewards walkers who love dramatic scenery, quiet lakeside paths and villages that still hum with local life. Trails run straight from small stations and cafés keep early hours for hikers. A walking holiday here suits anyone who enjoys well‑designed routes that highlight a country’s character; here’s how to plan the right trip for you.
Choosing the right location
Switzerland’s regions feel surprisingly different, so start by narrowing your destination to the terrain and atmosphere you want.
For high‑alpine drama, look at Zermatt or the Bernese Oberland. Zermatt draws you in with its car‑free streets and direct access to ridge trails where the Matterhorn dominates the skyline. The Bernese Oberland might suit if you enjoy switching between lakeside and mountain strolls. Or for gentler gradients, settle in the Engadine. Its long valley, pine forests and wide paths offer a calmer style of walking without losing any sense of scale.
When you pick your base, check the local transport. Rail travel is on the rise among UK travellers, and Swiss trains and lifts run on precise timetables, so you’ll make better use of your days by moving efficiently between trailheads.
Picking restful accommodation
Where you stay can shape the vibe each morning before setting out. You might like a family‑run inn in a small village, where the owners share tips over breakfast. These places often sit close to trail starts, avoiding long transfers.
For more space to unwind, alpine hotels in resort towns offer easy access to bakeries, gear shops and spa facilities. After a demanding route, you may appreciate a quiet sauna or a terrace with a view of the evening light on the hills.
Wherever you book, look at seasonal closure dates, as many properties in high‑altitude areas only operate from late spring to early autumn.
Brows the map and find your best accommodation in Switzerland
Nailing your packing list
Packing well helps you stay comfortable when the weather swings from warm sunshine to icy gusts in a single afternoon.
Lightweight layers give you flexibility, and a waterproof jacket earns its place in any rucksack even on clear mornings. Include sturdy men’s hiking boots for reliable support on rocky paths; well‑constructed footwear prevents slips and keeps your feet steady during long descents.
A reusable water bottle and compact snacks offer energy boosts between huts, while walking poles strike a balance on uneven ground. Bring a small first‑aid kit with blister plasters, as even well‑fitted boots can rub on steep climbs.
Are you ready to immerse yourself in landscapes that change with every valley and climb? By matching your destination to your walking style and carrying gear that works in all conditions, you’ll only need to focus on the view.
Discover More Hiking Inspiration in Switzerland
If this guide has inspired you to plan your own walking adventure in Switzerland, you might also enjoy some of these hiking guides and travel tips from our blog:
- Swiss Family Hotels – If you’re travelling with kids, these carefully selected hotels across Switzerland make the perfect base for exploring the mountains while keeping the whole family comfortable.
- A T4 Alpine Hike in the Bernese Oberland – For experienced hikers looking for a proper alpine challenge, this trail to the Schreckhorn Hütte offers dramatic scenery and a true taste of high mountain terrain.
- Any Family Friendly hike in Valais– One of the most beautiful region in Switzerland, where historic irrigation channels and easy terrains invites for epic family hiking days on the mountains.
You can find even more hiking ideas, scenic routes and family-friendly adventures throughout Switzerland right here on the blog.
