Tucked between steep mountains and verdant valleys, the Swiss Alps offer some of
the world’s most spectacular walking destinations. The mountain hamlets are
irresistible.
The village trails are never the same, but instead, they present specific paths and historical alpine settings that will undoubtedly interest any trail walker. Challenge yourself to make steep summit ascents or find a gentle walking meadow through these 15 villages, and discover the perfect basis for your alpine adventure.
Zermatt, Valais Canton
The car-free village of Zermatt sits beneath the iconic Matterhorn at an elevation of
5,310 feet. Traditional wooden chalets and modern mountain lodges blend
seamlessly in this pristine alpine setting.
The surrounding area offers over 250 miles of marked hiking trails for all skill levels. The village is an ideal starting point for accessing the famous Hörnli Hut and the Five Lakes Trail.
The combination of luxury amenities and rugged mountain terrain makes Zermatt a premier destination for discerning hikers.
Mürren, Bernese Oberland
Perched on a cliff 5,374 feet above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Mürren offers
unparalleled views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. This traditional Walser
mountain village maintains its authentic charm with timber houses and flower-boxed
windows.
The village provides direct access to the challenging Via Ferrata Mürren- Gimmelwald and the panoramic North Face Trail. The surrounding mountains feature over 125 hiking routes through alpine meadows and along dramatic ridgelines.
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Grindelwald, Bernese Oberland
At the foot of Eiger’s dramatic north face, Grindelwald evokes alpine charm amidst
modern amenities. An extensive network of cable cars and mountain railways
ensures access to high-altitude trails.
Local hiking highlights include the Eiger Trail and the spectacular First Cliff Walk. This region caters to casual walkers and mountaineers.
Saas-Fee, Valais Canton
Saas-Fee is the ‘Pearl of the Alps,’ located 5,900 feet in a glacier-surrounded
amphitheater. The village is car-free and has traditional architecture, which gives it
an authentic mountain atmosphere.
Hikers can explore the Glacier Trail, which offers close-up views of the Fee Glacier. The surrounding peaks provide challenging high- altitude routes and gentler valley walks.
Wengen, Bernese Oberland
This charming car-free village offers stunning views of the Jungfrau and direct
access to the UNESCO World Heritage region. Wengen’s belle époque hotels and
traditional chalets preserve its historic mountain character.
The village is a gateway to the famous Männlichen Royal Walk and Kleine Scheidegg hiking area. The well- maintained trail network includes options for every ability level.
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Kandersteg, Bernese Oberland
Kandersteg is located in a broad alpine valley and provides access to three distinct
hiking regions. The village’s location makes it perfect for exploring the turquoise
waters of Lake Oeschinen.
Numerous trails lead to remote mountain huts and pristine alpine lakes, and the surrounding peaks offer challenging routes for experienced hikers.
Pontresina, Graubünden
This beautiful mountain resort combines traditional Engadine architecture with quality
hiking infrastructure. Pontresina is favorably located near the Bernina Range and its
ice caves.
Local walks start along the Bernina Trek and from the Val Roseg. Locals can organize tours on thematic issues such as botanical and wild animals.
Champéry, Valais Canton
Champéry, located in the region of Portes du Soleil, retains its genuine Swiss village
ambiance. Its main street still features traditional wooden structures built centuries
ago.
Dents du Midi’s dramatic mountain is accessible for hiking directly from the village. Diverse trails also lead through alpine meadows and forests.
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Arosa, Graubünden
Arosa, set in a sunny bowl at 5,900 feet, combines nature with modern comfort. The
vast lift system enables easy access to high-altitude hiking trails throughout the
village and local paths, such as the Squirrel Trail and tough summit routes.
There are also more than 140 miles of marked hiking trails in the immediate area.
Evolène, Valais Canton
This preserved medieval village showcases traditional Val d’Hérens architecture and
culture. Evolène’s location provides access to remote valleys and high mountain
passes.
The village is a base for exploring the Ferpècle and Mont Miné glaciers. Local traditions and festivals add cultural depth to the hiking experience.
Adelboden, Bernese Oberland
Adelboden, surrounded by green meadows and waterfalls, maintains its farming
village character. The village offers access to the scenic Engstligen Falls and alpine
flower trails.
Local hiking options range from gentle nature paths to challenging mountain routes. The area’s diverse landscape includes dense forests and high alpine terrain.
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Vals, Graubünden
Vals is famous for its thermal baths and offers a unique combination of wellness and
hiking. The village’s remote location preserves its authentic mountain atmosphere.
Hiking trails lead through the dramatic Vals Valley and to pristine mountain lakes.
The surrounding peaks provide challenging routes for experienced mountaineers.
Lauterbrunnen, Bernese Oberland
Set in a valley of 72 waterfalls, Lauterbrunnen offers some of Switzerland’s most
dramatic scenery. The village provides access to both the Jungfrau region and
quieter side valleys.
Local highlights include the Trümmelbach Falls and high-altitude pastures. The valley floor offers gentle walks while surrounding cliffs challenge experienced hikers.
The village’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the entire Jungfrau region.
Lenk, Bernese Oberland
This traditional village sits at the head of the Simmental Valley, surrounded by
pristine wilderness. Lenk’s location provides access to the Seven Springs and Rawyl
Pass trails.
The village maintains its agricultural heritage while offering modern hiking amenities. Local routes include themed trails and challenging mountain paths. The area’s extensive network of mountain huts provides excellent options for multi- day trekking adventures.
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Meiringen, Bernese Oberland
Known for its connection to Sherlock Holmes, Meiringen combines cultural heritage
with outdoor adventure. The village provides access to the dramatic Aare Gorge and
Reichenbach Falls.
Local hiking trails range from historical paths to alpine routes. The surrounding region offers diverse terrain for all hiking abilities. The village’s excellent transport connections make exploring the Bernese Oberland and central Switzerland easy.
Exploring Swiss Alpine Villages Further
The Swiss Alps offer an unparalleled hiking experience through these historic
mountain communities. Each village provides unique opportunities to explore
Switzerland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while enjoying world-class hiking
infrastructure.
Whether you prefer challenging mountain ascents or leisurely valley walks, these
fifteen villages serve as perfect bases for your alpine adventures. Remember to
respect local customs, follow marked trails, and check weather conditions before
fully enjoying your Swiss hiking experience.
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