Via Alpina Self-Guided | Swiss Alps Hiking

Via Alpina

Highlights

Complete the classic Via Alpina hike in Switzerland
Hike with a backdrop of spectacular peaks - some topped with sun-glistening glaciers
Enjoy spectacular mountain views while crossing as many as 14 alpine passes
Savor smooth, indulgent Swiss chocolate to fuel your hiking adventure
Stroll through wildflower-filled meadows alive with the sound of cowbells
Explore Montreux’s scenic lakeshore & vineyards, known as the Swiss Riviera

Experience the unforgettable beauty of Switzerland on the iconic Via Alpina, one of the country’s most celebrated long-distance hiking trails. Perfect for avid hikers, this route leads you through postcard-worthy landscapes in the Swiss Alps - from high Alpine passes and crystal-clear lakes to dramatic rock faces and the stunning Bernese Oberland, finishing in the culture-rich town of Montreux.

A true bucket-list Swiss Alps hiking vacation for point to point hiking enthusiasts, the Via Alpina combines rewarding trails with welcoming 3-star hotels and traditional Swiss mountain chalets. Enjoy hearty dinners on select nights and connect with hikers from around the world. With Macs Adventure, planning is easy - our specialists have been crafting self-guided Switzerland hiking tours since 2008 and offer personalized recommendations so you can book with confidence.

Choose the itinerary that suits you best: the East Section from St. Gallen to the high Alps, the West Section from the Bernese Oberland to Lake Geneva, or the entire Full Via Alpina Route for the ultimate challenge. Whether you’re seeking a weeklong getaway or an epic Alpine trek, the Via Alpina promises an inspiring and unforgettable adventure.

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Discover Via Alpina

What is the Via Alpina
The Via Alpina was created in 2000 when eight Alpine countries joined together to showcase their shared mountain heritage through a long-distance hiking network. The full route spans 5,000km (3,107mi), crosses eight countries, and includes five color-coded trails and 342 sections.

Our Switzerland itineraries follow the spectacular Red Trail, offering travelers an accessible way to experience the heart of the Swiss Alps. This section blends dramatic alpine scenery with authentic cultural encounters, making it a perfect trip for European alpine long-distance hiking.

Highlights of the Via Alpina Red Trail (Switzerland):
- Cross historic Alpine passes and scenic valleys
- Explore charming Swiss villages and multilingual regions
- Enjoy a mix of wooden chalets, mountain shelters, and lively towns
- Experience one of Europe’s most iconic long-distance hiking routes
- Ideal for travelers seeking a classic inn to inn Swiss Alps hiking vacation
Why Choose Macs Adventure to book your Walking Holiday in Switzerland?
Macs Adventure has been creating self-guided hiking trips in Switzerland since 2008, helping travelers explore the country’s mountains, lakes, glaciers, and storybook villages on foot. Our passion for Switzerland has led us to handpick the very best regions and routes for unforgettable Alpine adventures.

Every year, we send more than 2,000 hikers to Switzerland, each choosing the itinerary that inspires them most. Travel at your own pace, with the freedom to select your route, and travel companions—while we handle the logistics.

Why Book Your Switzerland Hiking Vacation With Macs Adventure?
- Over 15 years of expertise in self-guided Swiss hiking vacations
- Ideal for travelers from the U.S. and Canada seeking authentic Alpine experiences
- Curated routes with comfortable, friendly accommodations
- Luggage transfers included - hike light and carefree
- 24/7 support while traveling