SWISS ALPS TREK
The Bernese Oberland
Discover the Swiss Alps on a trekking adventure. Sleeping in mountain huts, hiking under Mt.Eiger and having a dip in one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe.
- 7 days (5 days Leave)
- Challenging
- Switzerland
- Women-Only Swiss Alps Trek led by female hiking guide and adventure company founder Sophie
- Hike daily through the most stunning alpine scenery Europe has to offer
- Experience local mountain life and watch some unreal sunsets in your nightly mountain huts perched at 2800m
- Challenge yourself with your travel fam by your side cheering each other on
- Celebrate the end of the hike with a rejuvenating wild swim in a crystal clear alpine lake
5 - 11 October 2024
- Financial Protection on your payment
All bookings are subject to the supplier’s Booking Conditions and Adventuress in the Wild Booking Conditions.
ITINERARY
Everyone will make their own way to the hostel and we will meet at 4pm for a trip briefing going through the plan for the week, the weather and answering any questions you might have before we depart the next day. Then we will all head into the village for dinner together.
Inclusions:
- Bunk room accommodation.
- Dinner is not Included
Distance: 18km
Ascent/Decent: 1200m/1400m
After enjoying breakfast in the hostel we will pack our bags and prep our lunch before heading out for our first big hike day. We will be making our way from the village of Grindelwald and hiking up towards the North face of the Eiger. We will do all our climbing in the morning with a big 1200m of ascent to do before enjoying lunch at the top. Here we will pass the famous Jungfraujoch which is a famous cog train that takes people from the valley floor to 3,454m. It is the highest railway station in Switzerland and Europe. Then we will descend into the next valley and get a glimpse of our next village Lauterbrunnen. We will check into our hostel where we have twin rooms booked for the night and decide as a group where we would like to go for dinner.
Inclusions:
- Breakfast & Lunch included. Twin room accommodation.
- Dinner is not Included
Distance: 14km
Ascent/Decent: 800m/540m
We will have breakfast together and pack our bags before heading down the valley to enjoy the many waterfalls that the Lauterbrunnen valley has to offer. We will visit the Trümmelbach falls which is a unique waterfall inside the mountains made accessible by tunnel lift. Trümmelbach alone drains the enormous glacial walls of the Eiger (3970m), Mönch (4099m) and Jungfrau (4158m) with up to a spectacular 20,000 litres of water per second. We will then hike to the end of the valley and start our climb up to Murren.
Optional Via Ferrata
On this day there is an opportunity to do the Murren Via Ferrata which is know for being on the best ones in Switzerland. A head for heights is totally necessary as you will be high above the Lauterbrunnen valley, Very steep passages are assisted with the use of stairs, ladders and grips. This climb is 2.2km long with 300-meter altitude difference. One of the highlights is the crossing of the gorge at the end of the climb with a Nepalese style bridge. Time required is roughly 3 hours.
If you have previous climbing/VF experience you can do it on your own or you can hire a guide for 160CHF.
Inclusions:
- Breakfast & Lunch included.
- Entrance to Trümmelbach included.
- Twin room accommodation.
- Dinner is not Included
Day 4 – Mountain Hut
Distance: 7km
Ascent/Decent: 520m/113m
Today we will enjoy breakfast then go grab some supplies from the shop as we won’t have any opportunity now for 3 days. We will stock up on snacks and head of towards our first alpine hut.
Today is an easier day to rest the legs for our biggest ascent the day after. The mountain hut
is a beautiful location and is a nice place to sit and enjoy the surrounding landscapes. Tonight we will eat at the hut and they provide a 4 course menu at 6:30pm. It will be bunk style rooms shared with others who are hiking the via alpina. This mountain hut is also a farm so they have some amazing home-made cakes and milkshakes. They accept cash and card if you wanted to buy any snacks.
Inclusions
- Breakfast, Lunch & dinner included.
- Shared dorm room accommodation.
Distance: 14km
Ascent/Decent: 1870m/1159m
Today we will have breakfast in the hut at 7am. As it is our biggest day we will have an early start to give ourselves plenty of time to get the route done. We have two passes to cross today and we start climbing as soon as we leave the hut. We then descend into the Griesalp valley where we will then begin to climb again. There is a hut en route we can stop off for a cold drink and some fresh cheese which they make on their farm.
We then climb up to our second mountain hut which is located at 2880m on top of the pass next to the glacier. Here we will sit down again at 6:30pm for a 3 course dinner.
Inclusions:
- Breakfast, Lunch & dinner included. Shared dorm room accommodation.
Distance: 12km
Ascent/Decent: 89m/1651m
We will enjoy our last mountain hut breakfast together and pack our bags. We will then spend most of the day descending down to Kandersteg. On route we will pass the beautiful lake of Oeschinen where we can enjoy a celebratory dip if we’re brave enough. Here we can either decide to take the ski lift down to the village of Kandersteg or hike down. We have a lovely hotel waiting for us with an pool, sauna and steam room. We will head out for our final dinner together in a restaurant.
- Breakfast and Lunch. Hotel accommodation – twin room. Dinner not included.
Time to say farewell and swap numbers with your travel fam who you would have shared some incredible moving moments with. Time to start dreaming of your next adventure!
Inclusons:
Breakfast
INCLUDED
- 4 nights accommodation in hostels/hotels
- 2 nights half-board in Mountain huts
- Breakfast & Lunches
- 2 Evening dinners
- Lead by a qualified expert female wilderness guide
INCLUDED
- 4 nights accommodation in hostels/hotels
- 2 nights half-board in Mountain huts
- Breakfast & Lunches
- 2 Evening dinners
- Lead by a qualified expert female wilderness guide
- All trip logistics taken care of
- Financial Protection on your payments
NOT INCLUDED
- Flights/transport to starting point
- 4 Evening meals
- Insurance
- 1/2 Day Via Ferrata - Mürren (optional)
- Transport to starting point (Request for assistance)
NOT INCLUDED
- Flights/transport to starting point
- 4 Evening meals
- Insurance
- 1/2 Day Via Ferrata - Mürren (optional)
- Transport to starting point (Request for assistance)
YOUR GUIDE
You’ll be embarking on this epic journey with Sidetracked Adventures, led by expert wilderness guide and founder of the company Sophie Nolan. Sophie’s life changed when she took a trip to Lapland and fell in love with the remote wilderness. That one trip inspired her to escape the rat race to endure a year of intense wilderness training in Finland, fending for herself in extreme conditions. Since 2018 Sophie has been guiding worldwide, taking travelers to hard to reach places, working with a team of 90% female wilderness guides.
SWISS ALPS
It’s undeniable that the Swiss Alps will move you, as you look out to a never ending sea of snow dusted mountainous peaks, crystal clear glacial lakes, and green valleys, with nothing but the sounds of nature to disturb you.
Only 15% of the Alps lie in Switzerland, but the Swiss Alps boast some of the most impressive peaks, such as Eiger, Matterhorn and Jungfrau. These insane landscapes began to form 65-million years ago as a result of Eurasian and African tectonic plates colliding, and they straddle eight countries – Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Monaco and Slovenia.
Most will experience the Swiss Alps from the little villages and famous train lines, but on this adventure you’ll be wandering deep into the heart of the Alps, experiencing real mountain country.
ESSENTIAL INFO
This is a challenging trip so you will need to have some previous hiking experience on different/steep terrains. You will need to:
- Have the ability to hike 15km along a trail with a backpack of around 10-15kg
- You will need to be able to hike up to1800m of elevation in one day
- The idea is to travel as light as possible so we’re not carrying huge backpacks.
- You need to be happy travelling in a group and have a good sense of adventure
Yes, travel insurance is a must. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance to cover you for all aspects this trip, including cancellation.
As told by your guide:
Hiking the beautiful rocky trails under the epic peaks of the Alps is quite something. After years of trekking and guiding in the Alps here is what I will pack for our 6-Day Swiss Alps Trek this August. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice explorer, proper packing is essential to enjoying multiple days on the mountain. With the convenience of staying in mountain huts, inns, and hostels along the route, I will opt for a lighter pack, focusing on essentials and leaving unnecessary weight behind. The past few summers In the Alps have been incredibly warm but I will always be prepared for a variety of weather as in the mountains you just never know. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to pack for your 6-day Alpine adventure:
Clothing
MOISTURE-WICKING T-SHIRTS
2/3x Lightweight, breathable tops to keep you dry and comfortable during the trek and to change to in the evening after the hike. I will take a mix of Merino and quick-drying T-shirts, long and short-sleeved.
INSULATING LAYERS
A Fleece jacket or lightweight insulated jacket for warmth during chilly evenings and windy cols. Having a thin layer to add on when hiking in the morning, and something extra to add on when we stop for lunch. I will take a thin fleece layer and an insulated jacket ( Arc’teryx delta fleece and a Patagonia Micro Puff)
SHORTS, LEGGINGS OR HIKING TROUSERS
Ideally, I spend all summer in shorts, but I will also pack a pair of thin hiking leggings for the evening and cooler days. Hike in what you are comfortable in.
WATERPROOF LAYERS
Essential for protection against rain, wind, and unexpected weather changes. I will pack a thin pair of waterproof trousers which rarely get used and a waterproof jacket. (Decathlon rain pants & Fjallraven EcoShell)
COMFORTABLE HIKING BOOTS/TRAIL SHOES
Worn in boots/shoes for traction and stability on rugged terrain. I will spend all summer in my trail shoes as I prefer them to boots because they’re light and breathable. The best option is always the pair you are used to.
MOISTURE-WICKING SOCKS
I will pack 3 pairs of quick-drying socks to keep your feet dry and blister-free. It’s really important to look after your feet and if you feel a hotspot to treat it right away with Compeed or similar.
SUN PROTECTION
A wide-brimmed hat (I’m a big fan of a bucket hat), sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield against the strong Alpine sun. We spend a lot of time out in the sun and it’s really important to protect yourself.
GLOVES, BEANIE AND A BUFF
Lightweight gloves and a beanie for warmth during chilly mornings and evenings, they are small items but can make a big difference if the weather drops.
Gear
LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACK 45-55L
Opt for a comfortable, well-fitted backpack with enough capacity for your essentials. Tests that it all fits in well with 1.5l of water before heading out.
SLEEPING BAG LINER
A lightweight sleeping bag liner for added warmth and cleanliness in mountain huts.
WATER BOTTLE/ BLADDER
You will need to carry a minimum of 1.5l a day to stay hydrated on the trail with a durable, refillable water bottle/bladder. Some days you can’t always refill en route.
TREKKING POLES
I highly recommend using hiking poles. They provide stability and support, especially on steep ascents and descents and save your knees for all those future adventures.
HEADLIGHT & MULTI TOOL/KNIFE
The headtorch is useful for having in the mountain huts and its always handy to have a multi-tool or a knife. Even if it’s just used to cut some delicious alpine cheese.
First Aid Kit
A basic FA kit which includes basic supplies such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and blister treatment. If you join one of our guided trips then your guide will carry a full first aid kit but it is always good to have some of your own supplies.
Toiletries and Personal Care
TRAVEL-SIZED TOILETRIES
Pack essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, moisturiser in small containers
QUICK-DRY TOWEL
Lightweight and compact, ideal for drying off after a shower or a dip in one of the stunning alpine lakes
Other
MAP AND COMPASS (OR GPS)
Ensure you have navigation tools to stay on course, especially in remote areas.
CASH AND ID
Carry sufficient cash for purchases in mountain huts and hostels, along with identification documents. Some take cards but it’s always good to have some cash just in case.
SNACKS
Super important for keeping you going throughout the day, especially those long climbs! I’m a big Colin the Catapillar and Medule dates fan!
A list of gear that will be needed for the trip. This basic list is essential so let us know if you don’t have everything and we can help. The idea is to travel light so we can move a bit faster. A way to do this is to clean your t shirts/socks when you have a shower each day. The weather is often warm enough to easily dry it for the next day.
Head Neck
- Cap/ bucket hat
- Sunglasses
- Buff – Neck warmer
- Upper Body
- Waterproof Jacket
- Thin insulated jacket
- Fleece/ mid layer
- T- shirt x2 (x1 for hiking in
- x1 for evenings)
- Thin gloves
- Legs
- Waterproof trousers
- Underwear x2-3
- Swimwear
- Shorts for hiking
Feet
- Trail shoes/ hiking boots
- Socks x2
- Hygiene
- Personal hygiene items &
- medication
- Clothes washing gel
- Soap – Biodegradable
- Suncream
- Camping Towel
Gear
- 30-40l backpack
- Water bottle/Camel back
- Sleeping bag (thin)
- Headlight
- 1.5l Water bottle/Camel back
At Adventuress in the Wild our mission is to support women working in the adventure industry, as we realise the empowering impact they are making on the women that they lead.
What makes this trip so special is that you will be led by Sophie Nolan, expert international wilderness guide and founder of Sidetracked Adventures. Sophie has spent years leading adventurers through remote mountain country.
This tour is operated by Sidetracked Adventures.
We will travel from inn-to-inn on this trip staying in different accommodations each night. We have tried to include the details of the room setup on the trip schedule but this may change due to availability. We will stay in a mix of hostels, mountain huts and hotels. Each will have showers, toilets, running water. In the hostels and hotels we will have shared twin/triple rooms. They will often have WIFI. The final hotel of the trip will often include a swimming pool with sauna so if you’d like to use this please pack your swim wear.
We will stay in a mix of hostels, hotels and mountain huts. We spend 2 nights in different mountain huts, one is a farm and is a small wood lodge set mid-climb up the valley with a beautiful view of the Jungfrau mountains. We will sleep in a 8-bed dorm room here. We will have a 4-course dinner with the whole hut and have a chance to have a shower. The next mountain hut is at our highest point of the trip 2800m. It is a larger hut with lots of hikers and climbers using it. We will stay in a larger dorm with possibly 20 people on bunk beds. We will have a 3-course meal altogether. The atmosphere is always really special in these huts. Then we finish in a fancy hotel on the final night with a pool and a sauna.
Your guide will meet you in Gimmelwald on the first day of the trip at 4pm. Here we will go through the plan for the week, and head out for dinner together (not included)
You’ll finish the trip in Kandersteg on the final day after breakfast and you are free to leave anytime on the final day of the trip as there are no activities planned after breakfast.
The most environmentally friendly option is by train. It would be a beautiful journey into the Swiss mountains.
Zurich – 3.5 hr train to our meeting point
Geneva – 4.5hr train to our meeting point
(similar train times for the return journey from Kandersteg)
Arrival to Switzerland
Once you have booked your travel just drop us a message with your plans so we know when to expect you. We will be meeting at this hostel in Grindelwald Hostel.
Address: Terrassenweg 18
CH-3818 Grindelwald
Meet time: 4pm
The hostel is situated in a quiet, elevated position on the Terrassenweg, slightly above the village centre of Grindelwald at 1130 m above sea level. Directly in front of the house is the bus stop “Naturfreundehaus”
Train from Interlaken to Grindelwald (every half hour), Bus Nr. 122 from Grindelwald
railway station in direction of Klusi / Bodmi to the stop “Naturfreundehaus” directly in front of our doors; with the guest card you travel free with all local buses.
Last departure from Grindelwald railway station 18.44
The hostel can be reached by foot in approx. 15 minutes from Grindelwald station (signposted) -> steep ascent. Any problems just send us a message and we can help organise your travel.
The weather in Switzerland in the summer is often glorious sunshine. We have spent the last 3 summers hiking in just sorts and t-shirts with very little rain. That being said we are in the mountains so you will need to be prepared for colder temperatures and rain. It ranges from 15-35 degrees in the summer.
You will be hiking with your own gear on this trip.
We will fill our water up from the accommodation in the morning and on most hikes, there are water fountains where we can refill or mountain huts where we can buy water from. You should be equipped to carry at least 1.5l.
We provide breakfast and lunches each day and 2 evening dinners when we are in the mountain huts. The breakfasts will be served in the accommodation, these will be continental style. For lunches, we will prepare sandwiches and lunches in the morning before we head out. You will need to supply your own snacks each day.
6-7 women
It will work in most places where we stay, some of the lower valleys we may lose signal.
Yes you can do this in all the accommodations we stay in.
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