Chamonix

HIKING THE HAUTE ROUTE: CHAMONIX TO ZERMATT

Hiking

What you'll do

Hike from the Chamonix Valley to the iconic village of Zermatt on a 10-day alpine adventure. Cross high passes, glacial lakes, and traditional Swiss villages, with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, the Matterhorn, and other legendary 4000m peaks along the way.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Into the Alps: Chamonix to Trient

Meet your host at 08:30 at the Chamonix Sud bus terminal and transfer to Argentière to begin the adventure. The trail climbs steadily to the summit of L’Aiguillette des Posettes, offering sweeping views over the Chamonix Valley and Mont Blanc. Cross into Switzerland via the Col de Balme, then descend through alpine meadows to the quaint village of Trient. Enjoy a warm meal and a restful night in a traditional mountain refuge. Time: 5 hrs | Length: 14 km | Elevation gain: 670m up, 990m down

Day 2 - Through the Fenêtre d'Arpette

Tackle one of the wildest and most remote sections of the trek. Scramble over rugged terrain to reach the Fenêtre d’Arpette, a dramatic high pass with views that stretch to the Matterhorn on a clear day. Descend into the pristine Arpette Valley and continue to the peaceful lakeside resort of Champex-Lac, where you’ll spend the night. Time: 7 hrs | Length: 15 km | Elevation gain: 1,200m up, 1,200m down

Day 3 - Crossing Col de Prafleuri

Transfer to Verbier and ascend via cable car to La Chaux, where the remote trails begin. Hike past the crystal-clear Petit Mont Fort Lake and climb to Col de Louvie for lunch. Traverse the surreal rockscape of the Grand Desert before reaching Col de Prafleuri. A final short, steep descent leads to the Cabane de Prafleuri—your cosy refuge for the night. Time: 6 hrs | Length: 15 km | Elevation gain: 1,290m up, 600m down

Day 4 - Glacier Views & Col de Reidmatten

Begin with a climb to Col des Roux and take in panoramic views of the Grand Dixence Dam. Follow the peaceful lakeshore before ascending towards the base of the Dix Glacier. Navigate a steep and rocky section up to the Col de Reidmatten, then enjoy a gentler descent into the charming village of Arolla. Unwind in a welcoming mountain guesthouse. Time: 6 hrs | Length: 17 km | Elevation gain: 600m up, 1,360m down

Day 5 - Scenic Walk to La Sage via Lac Bleu

A more relaxed day gives you time to breathe and enjoy the alpine beauty. Walk through forests and fields to the striking turquoise waters of Lac Bleu—perfect for a refreshing dip. Continue past grazing black Hérens cows and peaceful villages to La Sage, arriving by early afternoon for a restful overnight stay. Time: 4.5 hrs | Length: 12 km | Elevation gain: 450m up, 750m down

Day 6 - Over Col de Torrent and into Val de Moiry

Brace yourself for one of the toughest and most rewarding stages of the trek. Ascend to Col de Torrent with breathtaking views over the 4000m peaks of the Alps. Descend through the dramatic Val de Moiry, pass its iconic glacier lake, and climb again to Col de Sorebois. From here, descend by gondola into the alpine town of Zinal. Time: 7.5 hrs | Length: 18 km | Elevation gain: 1,800m up, 1,010m down

Day 7 - Language Borders & Mountain Meadows

Follow scenic trails through wildflower meadows and rustic farms as you head for Col de Forcletta—the divide between French and Swiss-German speaking regions. Descend into the tranquil Meid Valley, where a peaceful guesthouse in the village of Gruben awaits. Time: 7 hrs | Length: 17 km / 10.56 mi | Elevation gain: 1,220 m up / 4,002 ft, 1,060 m down / 3,478 ft

Day 8 - Into the Matterhorn Valley via Augstbord Pass

Climb through quiet forest paths to the remote Augstbord Pass, your gateway into the spectacular Matterhorn Valley. Traverse a dramatic cliffside path into the Jungtal and ride the cable car from Jungu down to the picturesque village of St. Niklaus. Check in to a cosy guesthouse and relax. Time: 6 hrs | Length: 14 km / 8.7 mi | Elevation gain: 1,120 m up / 3,675 ft, 960 m down / 3,150 ft

Day 9 - Epic Views on the Europaweg

Start your day hiking past alpine hamlets to Randa, where you’ll pick up the legendary Europaweg. The high trail winds along the cliffs above the Mattertal Valley, offering incredible views of the surrounding peaks. Your destination is the Europahütte, a remote refuge perched high above the valley with a stunning panorama. Time: 5.5 hrs | Length: 15 km / 9.3 mi | Elevation gain: 1,310 m up / 4,298 ft, 150 m down / 492 ft

Day 10 - The Final Push to Zermatt

Cross the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge—the Charles Kuonen Bridge—before continuing along the breathtaking Europaweg. Gaze upon towering peaks like the Weisshorn, the Dom, and of course, the Matterhorn. Descend triumphantly into the charming village of Zermatt to celebrate the end of an unforgettable alpine adventure. Time: 7 hrs | Length: 16 km / 9.9 mi | Elevation gain: 1,110 m up / 3,642 ft, 1,600 m down / 5,249 ft

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

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What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

Hiking Guide

Accommodation

Sheets, pillowcases and towels

All meals

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Tips

Expenditure of personal nature

Accomodations

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Family-run B&Bs, and remote mountain huts

Throughout the Alps, you’ll stay in a mix of charming guesthouses, family-run B&Bs, and remote mountain huts. Most nights are in twin-share rooms with shared or private bathrooms. On a few occasions—such as at Europahütte, Cabane du Prafleuri, and sometimes in Trient—you’ll sleep in multi-share dorms nestled high in the mountains. Each accommodation is different, but you can count on a clean, simple, and cozy stay. Mountain huts typically feature dorm-style sleeping arrangements (up to 20 people), with bunk or single beds, hot showers, running water, and hearty meals. Most offer pillows and blankets, a bar with cold drinks, and charging outlets—a few even have WiFi. While amenities vary depending on the hut’s location and remoteness, the experience is always memorable. Embrace the simplicity, unplug, and enjoy the beauty of Alpine life far from the crowds.

Meeting point

Frequently asked questions

Departures

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