Alps Eiger to Matterhorn Trekking Tour
Oberland Trail Across the Iconic Swiss Alps
- Available: July, August, September
- Activity: Level 4
- Accommodations: Comfortable Hotels, Rustic Lodging
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Group Size:
4-14 Guests
Highlights
- Trek a classic six-day route through the majestic Swiss Alps, from the great Eiger to the famed Matterhorn
- Pass through storybook Swiss villages, including Mu¨rren and Zermatt, and stay in charming chalets
- Follow the lead of expert alpine guides as you challenge yourself on this epic mountain adventure
Itinerary
Arrive in Grindelwald in the Shadow of the Eiger
Day 1
Arrive at Geneva International Airport and transfer by private van to Grindelwald (3,392') in Switzerland's Bernese Alps. This postcard-perfect alpine village is a popular outdoor destination year-round. Dominated by the northern face of the Eiger in the backdrop, Grindelwald is the perfect entry point to the ultimate Alps adventure. Check into the hotel and enjoy some down time or explore the area before the welcome dinner.Accommodation: Hotel Kirchbul
Accommodation: Hotel SunstarTransportation: 3-hour private transfer
Meals: Dinner
Trek to Kleine Scheidegg Pass & See the Waterfalls of Trummel Gorges
Day 2
Start the day with a cable car ride to the trailhead in Holenstein. Then follow trails through forests and meadows, skirting the impressive Tschuggen (6,722') mountain guided by the views of the Eiger Nordwand, the infamous northern face that was inaccessible until 1930. Start your descent from the 6,757-foot Kleine Scheidegg alpine pass. Nature turns up in full splendor at Trummel gorges, where over 70 glacial waterfalls thunder into the Lauterbrunnen valley below. From the valley, walk along the 'white river' of Weisse Lutschine, to your hotel in the pretty, car-free village of Murren.Accommodation: Hotel Alpenruh-Murren, Switzerland
Activity: 9 miles/7.5 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 2,500 feet and elevation loss of 3,700 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Soar Among the Bernese Alps on a Hike from Murren to Bundalp
Day 3
From Murren, embark on the North Face Trail of the famous Alpine Pass Route that spans Switzerland. Take in glorious views of the Bernese Alps, lush green meadows and meandering streams, then hike up a steep path to the dazzling Sefienenfurka ridge at 8,568 feet. Descend over a steep and rocky trail to the remote Bundalp village at 6,036 feet, marveling along the way at strange rock formations, sparkling glaciers, and plunging ravines. Stay at a working farm in Bundalp, right in the verdant Kiental Valley.Accommodation: Mountain Inn Bundalp
Activity: 12 miles/9-10 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 4,400 feet and an elevation loss of 3,600 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Climb Barren Hohturli Pass & Descend to Kandersteg
Day 4
Continue along the Alpine Pass Route over the rocky Hohturli Pass at 8,869 feet, down to the quiet Kandersteg by the Kander River. This the most challenging hike of the trip, with trails that are barren and steep, yet replete with mesmerizing views of the stark, high and wild sceneries. Hiking down, admire the turquoise Oeschinen Lake that sparkles among rocky cliffs. Descend by gondola to Kandersteg at 3,560 feet, one of the most idyllic hamlets in Switzerland towered over by the Blumisalp massif.Accommodation: Hotel Bernerhof
Activity: 9 miles/7-8 hours hiking with an elevation gain and loss of 3,890 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to the Pennine Alps
Day 5
Take a gondola to Sunnbüel and start walking along the serene Daubensee Lake towards the 7,616-foot Gemmi Pass, believed to have been in use as a route since the Bronze Age. Enjoy the first glances of the Valais Alps (Pennines) and the glittering peaks of the Dom, the Matterhorn, the Weisshorn, and the Dent Blanche. Hike down on an impressive path carved into the cliffs, overlooking the town of Leukerbad at the head of the lovely Dala valley. Wave goodbye to the Bernese Alps and stay in the canton of Valais.Accommodation: Hotel Dala
Activity: 8.5 miles/5-6 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet and an elevation loss of 2,900 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover the Europaweg Trail
Day 6
Cross the Rhone River Valley by bus to arrive to the trailhead in the village of Randa, perched at 4,245 feet. Through the forests, ascend to the well-known Europaweg trail that connects Grachen and Zermatt; it is considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the Alps. Soak up the scenic panoramas and cross the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the Alps, nearly 500-meters long and hanging at 85 meters above the chasm below. Stay in the petite village of Tasch.Accommodation: Hotel Walliserhof
Activity: 6 miles/5 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 3,260 feet and an elevation loss of 3,000 feet
Transportation: 40-minute private bus ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Admire Sky-High Peaks on Your Way to Zermatt
Day 7
Today, climb along a forested path to arrive to the green valley of Taschalp at 6,600 feet, where you will reconnect to the Europaweg trail. Along the way, admire the grand Weisshorn peak, the picturesque village of Tash, and the ultimate highlight of the area, the Matterhorn. Arrive to Zermatt in the afternoon on foot, just like the pioneers of alpinism. Settle in and later get together for the farewell dinner.Accommodation: Hotel Butterfly-Zermatt, Switzerland
Activity: 8 miles/6.5 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 2,600 feet and an elevation loss of 2,100 feet
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer to Geneva & Depart
Day 8
After breakfast, hop on a private minibus and transfer to Geneva International Airport. Alternatively, take a train from Zermatt to other destinations in Switzerland or Europe on your own. Flights departing from Geneva this day should be scheduled after 2pm.
Transportation: 3.5-hour private transfer
Meals: Breakfast
Dates & Prices
- 2024
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
2024
Scheduled Dates
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Go Private
Go Private
Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.
Call or email us to get the ball rolling.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Looking for a private family adventure?
This trip can accommodate guests with a minimum age of 18.
Private Trip Pricing:
2023 Pricing
4 to 5 guests from $6,595 per person double occupancy
2024 Pricing
5 to 6 guests from $6,595 per person double occupancy
7 to 9 guests from $6,395 per person double occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
Additional Costs:
Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Make Your Own Dates in These Months
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July, August, September
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
Start PlanningInclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Snacks and water between meals
- Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
- Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
- Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Laurent L.
Laurent hails from Normandy, France, having grown up in Argentan. In 1991, he obtained his European Mountain Leader certification, and in 1995 he was awarded the coveted patch of the Compagnie des Guides. Laurent has been guiding for MT Sobek since 1995, and is a senior guide on our Alps trips, he has hiked the Tour du Mont Blanc close to 100 times! When he isn't guiding for MT Sobek, he teaches First Aid and Mountain Rescue to mountain and hiking guides. During the winter, he's a ski patrol monitor in the mountains above Chamonix.
Florence S.
A native of Chamonix, Florence is a descendant from two of the area’s oldest families. After growing up in the Chamonix Valley, “Flo” spent several years in the south of France, and then traveled abroad to South America and Asia. She returned to her ancestral home, where the mountains now form an integral part of her life. She has led nearly 50 trips to the Alps, not counting how many times she has done this trip for her own fun! In addition to being an accomplished hiking guide, Flo is a skier and climber. As a member of the Compagnie des Guides, she follows in the footsteps of her forefathers.
Beatrice M.
Beatrice is a native of Chamonix, France, and has been guiding professionally in the Alps since 1989. She comes from a family of mountain climbers and her grandfather was also a professional mountain guide. Aside from being an expert hiking guide, Beatrice is also an avid climber and accomplished skier, and is a ski instructor during the winter months. She loves the mountains and will share her enthusiasm and in-depth experience with you during your trip.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. On this trek you will be hiking up to 10 hours a day, at elevations of up to 8,890 feet. The trails are often rocky, making this a challenging experience. To enjoy, you need to be in an excellent physical condition and have a similar previous experience of hiking in the mountains.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
9 miles/7.5 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 2,500 feet and elevation loss of 3,700 feet
Day 3
12 miles/9-10 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 4,400 feet and an elevation loss of 3,600 feet
Day 4
9 miles/7-8 hours hiking with an elevation gain and loss of 3,890 feet
Day 5
8.5 miles/5-6 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet and an elevation loss of 2,900 feet
Day 6
6 miles/5 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 3,260 feet and an elevation loss of 3,000 feet
Day 7
8 miles/6.5 hours hiking with an elevation gain of 2,600 feet and an elevation loss of 2,100 feet
Accommodations
Charming family-run inns and alpine hotels with well-appointed rooms and regional cuisine, plus a night\'s stay in a rustic farmhouse.
Hotel Butterfly-Zermatt, Switzerland
A part of the Best Western Signature Collection, Hotel Butterfly hogs a quiet location in the center of Zermatt. Alpine-style rooms have en-suite bathrooms, and all come equipped with flat-screen TVs. Guests can unwind at the wellness area with a Finnish sauna, an infra-red cabin and a steam room, and enjoy the on-site restaurant and cocktail bar.
Hotel Alpenruh-Murren, Switzerland
Located by the Mürren gondola, Hotel Alpenruh enjoys dramatic views of the three famous peaks, the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. Most of its 26 chalet-style rooms feature balconies and views of the peaks; five come with village vistas. There is a sauna to warm up in, and the hotel restaurant serves Swiss specialties paired with a backdrop of sky-high mountains.
Hotel Kirchbul
Situated in a calm setting amidst the towering Swiss Alps, this hotel offers very cozy chalet-style accommodations. Travelers can look out onto the UNESCO Heritage Jungfrau Aletsch, and enjoy delicious Bernese cuisine with high quality ingredients from the region. It was recently rated in the top 10 for "Best Family Hotels in Switzerland". The spa is impeccable with a Finnish sauna, steam bath, and bubble bath along with an indoor pool and fitness center. Hotel Kirchbuhl is a wonderful place to refresh the body and spirit!
Hotel Walliserhof
The family-run Hotel Walliserhof features 42 cozy and rustic rooms with heaps of alpine charm. The restaurant is known for its delicious daily menus and a good selection of Valais wines, as well as an open fireplace and stunning views of the small Matterhorn and Breithorn. The small spa is ideal for unwinding, with its swimming pool, whirlpool, steam bath, and sauna.
Mountain Inn Bundalp
Part of a working farm, the cozy and rustic Mountain Inn Bundalp offers deep insights into alpine living in remote mountains. Electricity is provided by hydropower, the food served is locally grown, and the family that runs the farm also operates a small cheesemaking business. The accommodations are simple and authentic, as is the experience.
Hotel Bernerhof
The historic Hotel Bernerhof occupies a prime spot beneath the Blumlisalp, Kandersteg's local mountain. All 45 rooms come with balconies as well as amenities like bath/shower, TV, and Wi-Fi. The cozy restaurant serves both international and Swiss dishes, and the spa is well-equipped, featuring an experience shower, sauna, soft steam bath, ice grotto and wellness Kneipp pools.
Hotel Sunstar
The 4-star Hotel Sunset is a wellness and seminar hotel located in Grindelwald. Its comfortable bedrooms provide a cozy feeling, and come with all the amenities you'll need for a restful stay. You may also choose to pamper yourself at their Wellness Oasis, where a wide range of massage, sauna, and spa treatments are available - including Roman-Irish baths with hydro-massage showers.
Hotel Dala
Located near the Gemmi Pass, the comfortable Hotel Dala is a comfortable stay for travelers. The individually decorated guest rooms feature a range of amenities like Wi-Fi, a balcony with great mountain views, and flat screen TVs. The on-site restaurant serves free breakfast, and there are comfortable accommodations that include a sauna and steam bath.
Weather
Mountain weather can quickly change from warm to cold and wet or windy. Snow is possible at the higher passes. Come prepared for everything.
Know Before You Book
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
A MT Sobek representative will meet you in the arrivals hall of the Geneva International Airport (GVA) between 1:30pm and 2:00pm on Day 1.
How basic is the Bundalp Auberge on the third night?
Pretty basic. Guestrooms are very small and lacking in amenities. There is little privacy. This is an authentic mountain adventure!
What type of equipment will I need to bring?
Proper ankle-high, waterproof hiking boot, a daypack large enough to carry your all weather layers, and trekking poles!
Can you accommodate a gluten-free diet?
While Switzerland is known for delicious breads and pastas, with advance notice, we can accommodate most diets, including gluten-free.
Who is this trip perfect for?
People who love to hike! This is a trip designed for outdoorsy people who are more interested in mountains and nature, than city tours.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
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Guest Reviews
"A prominent reason we have chosen MT Sobek as our favorite adventure travel company has been the excellent travel guides."
Carol & Burt D.
MT Sobek Guest
"We have traveled throughout the world, but never experienced a level of service and attention to detail as we did with MT Sobek."
Dennis G.
MT Sobek Guest