Self-Guided Via Alpina

The Ultimate Alps Experience

Picture yourself hiking through deep, rugged valleys beneath towering alpine peaks, with cascading waterfalls and meadows filled with wildflowers. Now imagine this breathtaking alpine paradise is yours to explore, shared only with a select few companions. That's the magic of the Via Alpina (National Route 1)—the ultimate Swiss Alps adventure, offering some of the most stunning and serene mountain landscapes in the world, far from the crowds. No wonder Backpacker Magazine proclaimed it “World’s Best Hike.”

Discover the heart of the Alps

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, geology, and flora that the Swiss Alps offer. The Via Alpina takes you through 14 of Switzerland's most stunning alpine passes, unveiling awe-inspiring panoramas at every turn. Along this trail, you’ll experience the Swiss Alps in a way few travelers ever do. Even seasoned hikers will uncover hidden gems and fresh surprises, making every step a new adventure.

Uncover Hidden Hiking Gems in Eastern Switzerland

The Via Alpina (National Route 1) stretches across Switzerland from east to west, starting in Liechtenstein and the Rhine Valley and ending in Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva, with the majestic Mont Blanc range in view. Covering 370 km (230 miles) and divided into 19 stages, this trek offers a captivating journey through Switzerland’s most scenic landscapes.

This adventure highlights the eastern section of the Via Alpina, taking you through stages 1-10. The route winds through the Glarus and Uri Alps, ending in Grindelwald, nestled at the foot of the iconic North Face of the Eiger, with breathtaking views of some of the Alps’ most striking peaks. The Alpenwild Bernese Oberland Traverse continues the journey from Lauterbrunnen to Gstaad (Stages 11-16). 

Alpenwild’s specialization in the Alps

With Alpenwild, you’ll enjoy the benefit of our deep, first-hand knowledge of the Alps and a level of expertise unmatched by any other operator. As the first North American company to offer both guided and self-guided Via Alpina tours, we ensure a seamless experience. Your luggage is transferred every night so you can hike with a light daypack. Our handpicked hotels, exceptional cuisine, and the stunning beauty of the Swiss Alps come together to create a signature Alpenwild adventure.

Experience Exceptional Hiking with Gourmet Cuisine

Every Alpenwild trip emphasizes the exceptional cuisine and regional specialties of the areas to explore, and our Via Alpina 1 journey is no different. You can savor farm-fresh alpine cheeses, crispy rösti, delicious smoked sausages, and an endless supply of Swiss chocolate to keep you energized throughout your hiking adventure.