With its snow-capped mountains and verdant landscapes, there’s just something about the scenery of Switzerland that feels impossible to resist, and for hiking enthusiasts, it also happens to be home to some of the best trails and routes in the world.
Although there are many destinations in Europe that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, Switzerland has made hiking holidays feel more accessible to those with limited experience, as well as those who refuse to compromise on luxury. While there are still plenty of routes that cater to seasoned pros and fearless adventurers, there are also many that even first-timers can easily enjoy, and with some seriously swanky hotels en route where you’ll find lavish suites with panoramic mountain views, Michelin-starred dining and five-star amenities, Switzerland ticks all the boxes for the discerning traveller.
Here, we take a look at how the nation has fast garnered a reputation for being Europe’s premier destination for hiking holidays – and why 2026 is the perfect time to visit.
A walker’s paradise
Switzerland’s breath-taking Alpine scenery means that spectacular views are on offer from just about everywhere
Switzerland’s breath-taking Alpine scenery – which includes towering 4,000-metre mountain peaks, glaciers, and more than 7,000 lakes – means that spectacular views are on offer from just about everywhere, and with myriad quaint towns scattered along many of the main hiking routes where you can pause to rest, refuel and immerse yourself in the Swiss culture, it really is a walker’s paradise.
The world-class trail networks are exceptionally well-marked, making them simple to navigate even if you don’t know the route by heart. And you don’t have to take a long transfer just to access them in the first place, as most are just steps from some of the nation’s most picturesque alpine villages or a short stroll from its train stations.
The likes of Zermatt, Grindelwald and Engadin Valley are particular highlights, and also some of the most visited regions in the country because of their proximity to some of Switzerland’s most impressive scenery – including iconic mountain peaks like the Matterhorn. Some of the best Switzerland hiking tours start here, making them great places to choose as a base for the duration of your stay if you’d rather not move around.
The routes here are designed with every type of hiker in mind, from the experienced to the complete amateur. So if a gentle countryside walk is all you can manage, then no problem – you’ll find a variety of gentle trails that will allow you to take in the scenery at an easy pace. Fancy something a little more challenging? There’s no shortage of arduous alternatives, some spanning multiple days.
From relaxed walking holidays to demanding endurance treks, Switzerland has got it all.
The country boasts a comprehensive rail and cable car system
Another thing that really sets Switzerland apart when it comes to hiking is its impressive transport infrastructure. In some countries, the most beautiful landscapes are so remote that simply getting to them feels like a challenge in itself, but here, everything has been thought of to ensure it’s a cinch.
The country boasts a comprehensive rail and cable car system, which makes getting from place to place, or up and down mountains, feel as smooth and seamless as can be. The Swiss Travel System connects remote alpine villages and mountain resorts as efficiently as you could possibly imagine – so if you’re tired after a long day exploring and in dire need of some rest, then you’re never as far from your luxury hotel as it might seem.
With the logistics all taken care of, Switzerland is a place that simply leaves you free to enjoy the experience, and nothing else.
An emphasis on safety
From relaxed walking holidays to demanding endurance treks, Switzerland has got it all
For some, the idea of hiking off into the wilderness might feel somewhat scary – but not in Switzerland. Safety here is taken very seriously, with trails categorised according to their difficulty and weather monitoring and alpine guidance here also known to be excellent – so you can set off with maximum peace of mind.
While it’s not nice to think about what would happen if something were to go wrong – be it an accident, a health incident, or simply getting lost – the mountain rescue services here are also known to be world class, and highly efficient at what they do. So, while the chance of any of those things happening is very small, it’s nice to have an extra layer of reassurance.
Luxury accommodation
Private chalets are a great option if you’re travelling as a family or with a group of friends
Of course, what really makes a hiking holiday in Switzerland feel luxurious is having a lavish hotel or chalet to retire to after a long day out walking, and this is a country that knows how to do high-end hospitality especially well.
If hotels are more your thing, then the Chedi Andermatt and Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St. Moritz are both prime examples, both offering extensive facilities and alpine luxury, with impeccable service throughout your stay.
Private chalets are a great option if you’re travelling as a family or with a group of friends, offering plenty of space and unrivalled privacy. Just like many of the nation’s finest hotels, they also often come with private spa facilities, including hot tubs with breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes – and you can opt to bring in a private chef to cook up a storm come mealtimes so that you can focus on spending your downtime relaxing.