Five Lakes Trail, Bachalpsee, the Lavaux vineyard path, Pilatus ridge… Discover the most beautiful hikes in Switzerland, by level, and our tips for hiking well.
With over 65,000 km of marked trails, Switzerland is a hiker's paradise. From family-friendly lakeside walks to great Alpine traverses, there is something for every level. This guide gathers the most beautiful hikes in Switzerland and our practical tips for enjoying the mountains safely.
The most beautiful hikes at a glance
- The Five Lakes Trail (Zermatt): five mountain lakes with the Matterhorn as a backdrop.
- The Bachalpsee (Grindelwald-First): the reflection of the peaks in a high-altitude lake.
- The Lavaux vineyard path: through the terraced vineyards above Lake Geneva.
- The Pilatus ridge trail: ridges and views over central Switzerland.
- The Dents-du-Midi loop: a great circuit for seasoned hikers.
Easy and family hikes
To start, choose lakeside trails or panoramic paths reachable by cable car. The Bachalpsee from Grindelwald-First, the shores of Lake Brienz or the Lavaux vineyard path offer big landscapes with little elevation gain. Many regions also offer themed trails designed for families.
Intermediate hikes
The famous Five Lakes Trail above Zermatt (about 9 km) unfolds unforgettable views of the Matterhorn, reflected in Lake Stellisee. The Pilatus ridge trail or the loop around the Creux du Van in the Jura are other half-day or full-day classics.
Long hikes and treks
For experienced walkers, Switzerland offers legendary routes: the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt, the Dents-du-Midi loop, or stages of the Via Alpina. These multi-day treks rely on a dense network of Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) huts.
Practical tips for hiking
- Trail markings: yellow (hiking trail), white-red-white (mountain), white-blue-white (alpine).
- Equipment: good shoes, warm layers, water, sun and rain protection.
- Weather: check the conditions; in the mountains the weather changes fast.
- Transport: trains, postbuses and cable cars serve most trailheads.
When to hike in Switzerland?
The ideal season at altitude runs from June to October, once the snow has melted. At lower and middle elevations, spring and autumn offer superb conditions. Always check trail and lift openings before setting off.
Plan your hike with TOP SUISSE
With TOP SUISSE, find all the good spots near your routes: huts, mountain restaurants and accommodation. Browse the categories, run a search by region, find where to eat in the restaurants category, explore the starting towns or read our guide getting around Switzerland.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most beautiful hike in Switzerland?
The Five Lakes Trail in Zermatt is often cited, for its views of the Matterhorn and the peak's reflection in Lake Stellisee. The Bachalpsee at Grindelwald-First and the Lavaux path are also must-dos.
Is hiking in Switzerland suitable for families?
Yes. Switzerland offers many easy trails along the lakes or reachable by cable car, with little elevation gain and themed paths designed for children.
When is the best season to hike in Switzerland?
At altitude, from June to October, once the snow has melted. At lower and middle elevations, spring and autumn also offer beautiful conditions. Always check the weather and trail openings.
How do you read Swiss trail markings?
Yellow indicates an easy hiking trail, white-red-white a mountain trail (more demanding) and white-blue-white an alpine route requiring equipment and experience.
