Walking in Switzerland – 7 easy routes to add to your tick-list

Walking is one of the best activities to do in the Swiss Alps. It's no surprise, given its hard-to-beat natural beauty, abundant wildlife, crisp air and pleasant temps. But while the scenery may be chock-full of steep gorges, carved-out valleys and lofty mountains, not every walk needs to be an intense hike. In fact, there are loads of more leisurely walks to do in Switzerland which make the most of the outdoors and don’t require super levels of fitness.

From shortest to longest, take a look at these seven easy walks in Switzerland and add your fave to your list of holiday must-dos.

This hillside route is a treat for the senses, and perfect for young families. First you can sit back, relax and camera-snap the views over Lake St Moritz as you enjoy a funicular ride to the start point. Once you reach the top, follow the gentle path through pine tree glades and peaceful alpine meadows – where over 200 types of flower will wave you by.

The path leads to a rustic log cabin known as Heidi’s Hut. You might recognise it from the popular TV series Heidi (1978), an adaptation of the famous children’s novel by Swiss author Johanna Spyri. Check out the wooden figures inside – it’s open and free to enter.

This short and mostly level 1km walk is suitable for prams and people of all ages. Alongside the cracking valley views, you’ll find out all about the 1,800-strong colony of ibex that make their home on the mountainside above Pontresina.

Known as the ‘King of the Alps’, ibex are hardy alpine goats with large, backward-curving horns. If you come in early summer, there’s a chance you’ll get a close look at them grazing and play-fighting on the freshly green valley floor.

The path from Iseltwald to Giessbach Falls is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful lakeside walks. Hugging Lake Brienz, you’ll wind in and out of woodland and meadows, passing viewpoints across the dazzling water. There’s a spacious picnic area halfway too – so taking a sandwich and a sweet treat could be a popular idea.

When you reach the Giessbach jetty, there’s a fun reward. Europe’s oldest funicular lift will whisk you up though the trees to see the Giessbach Falls (a return ride is approx. CHF 10 (£9) per person). Finish off your mini adventure with a drink on the terrace of the historic Grandhotel Giessbach.

High up in the hills, this scenic trail takes you past chocolate-box houses and quaint farms, where grass-chomping cattle are usually around doing their thing.

Dotted along the way are apple-themed structures and info points where you’ll learn about all things Swiss fruits. And if you’ve worked up an appetite, then you’re in luck. At Brandegg station where the walk finishes, there’s a restaurant selling the very best apple fritters.

If you’re staying in Ascona and want an easy-going trail with a fantastic view of the lake, then look no further. This shady 5km hillside route begins just above the town and makes its way to the mountain village of Ronco – passing pretty villas, gardens and camera-happy viewpoints.

Once at Ronco, you can either return the same way – or take the 800 steps down to the lake and hop on the ferry back to Ascona. Keen to explore more? Visit the botanical gardens on the Brissago Islands on your way back.

This trail through the 300m-deep Lower Grindelwald Glacier Gorge leads the way for wow-factor. You’ll follow wooden bridges and pass through tunnels and under overhanging rocks, with the Lütschine river splashing along beside you. It’s a really immersive experience – and the kind that people of all ages will get a thrill from.

Towards the end, you can choose to step out onto the ‘spider’s web’ – a net that stretches right across the gorge, with the rushing water 7m below your feet.

The Panorama Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in the Swiss Alps. Starting at the Männlichen summit, you’re immediately met with a 360-degree panoramic spectacle, with views stretching out over the deep, U-shaped Lauterbrunnen valley below to the right and the Grindelwald valley to the left. You'll be playing spot-the-peak with the Mönch, the Jungfrau, and the famous north face of the Eiger as you venture down the wide mountain ridge.

Photo opps come in thick and fast along the route, which passes wildflower meadows and picturesque mountain lakes. You’ll finish up at the lower station of the Jungfrau Railway – the highest railway in Europe and one of the most scenic Swiss trains. Tie in a trip on this if you’re tempted to visit the ‘Top of Europe’.

Getting a sweet spot for all things Swiss? Find more Switzerland holiday inspo here – from the best views to the must-try foods.

Author: Marty Fraser-Turner

Last updated: 24/10/2024