(S) Write here the instructions from the starting point.
(E)
In the Swiss valley, this particularly pleasant hike allows you to explore the many 4000 m peaks that surround the route.
N.B. this route is outlined on Openmap which doesn't have the details of our fine IGN maps. Before being able to get your hands on a Swiss map, which are more precise, the route and GPS layouts will be handy for this pleasant trek.
Caution, this route is Very difficult
This route requires a long and/or intense effort, either because of the difference in altitude or the distance involved, or both. In certain situations, there is also the possibility of technical and aerial sections.
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Activity: Walking
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Distance: 101.83 km
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Calculated time: 7 days
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Difficulty: Very difficult
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Return to departure point: No
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Vertical gain: + 8,346 m
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Vertical drop: - 8,018 m
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Highest point: 2,970 m
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Lowest point: 1,136 m
Description
Step by step walk
This walk needs several days, find the details below:
Useful Information
Water sources are available at each stage and their location mentionned in each stage description.
For this long 7 stage trek, the hiker needs:
- minimum training
- to be used to several day treks, for a first timer this trek could be a bit tricky
- respect schedules as there are lots of postal bus connections
- be able to carry a somewhat substantial amount, you're backpack will weigh between 10 and 12 kg
- the European Health card in case of an incident
To carry out the trek we used these accommodations:
D1: Cabane de Louvie,
D2: Cabane de Prafleuri,
D3: Gîte de l'Ecureuil,
D4: Cabane de Bella Tola,
D5: Hôtel Schwarzhorn (Gruben),
D6: Hôtel Alpina (Grachen),
D7: Hôtel Gletschergarten (Saas-Fee).
You can check out the services of these different places on the internet. Transportation costs (ski lifts, buses, trains) are also available.
To complete the daily rundown Smartphone owners can download the SuisseMobile app giving them access to the Suisse "IGN" map which has a lot more detail than the OSM enclosed here.
Always stay careful and alert while following a route. Visorando and the author of this walk cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident during this route.
During the walk or to do/see around
Zermatt and all the other villages you'll pass by and to finish off, Saas-Fee, another gem nestled at the foot of the huge summits of this mountain range.
Other walks in the area
Valais Day 1: Fionay - Cabane de Louvie (Louvie Hut)
Departure from Bagnes (Valais)
First stage of this trek linking Fionay village to Saas Fee. A pleasant stage reaching Louvie Hut (la Cabane de Louvie) built on the edge of Louvie Lake.
Valais Day 2: Cabane de Louvie - Cabane de Prafleuri (Louvie Hut - Prafleuri Hut)
Departure from Bagnes (Valais)
Second stage of this hike crossing two passes, Louvie Pass and Prafleuri Pass, both snow-covered.
Valais Day 3: Cabane de Prafleuri - Gîte de La Sage (Prafleuri Hut - La Sage Lodge)
Departure from Hérémence (Valais)
An unusual stage today: it starts with a downhill hike before a long climb uphill, a second descent and a ski lift ride followed by a walk over flatland and a bus ride to the lodge.
Plan Monnay
Departure from Liddes (Valais)
A lovely circular walk for a half day out which is good if the weather is forecast to deteriorate in the afternoon. It can also be extended if you want a longer walk. Amazing views from the top of Plan Monnay.
Tour du cervin day 10: Arolla - Refuge de Prarayer (Prarayer Shelter)
Departure from Evolène (Valais)
A high mountain stage which requires hiking boots with crampons to cross the Arolla glacier. You should get an early start for this long stage of the hike.
Raccard du Blé
Departure from Orsières (Valais)
A circular walk in the lower part of the Swiss Val Ferret. One of the walks publicized by the tourist office and well signposted. There are information boards (in French) about the construction of traditional barns made from local stone and timber. Easy walking, navigation and some interesting information. The first section is on a quiet road.
Le Belvedere circular walk
Departure from Orsières (Valais)
This is a variation on the Sentier Le Belvedere walk which is described in the Pays du St-Bernard tourist booklet.
Sentier du Bisse
Departure from Orsières (Valais)
A short and easy walk from Champex Lac, taking the well signposted and good paths beside the Bisse. These are the water channels made to control and route the flow of water for irrigation purposes. The path returns to Champex via part of the Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) path.
For more walks, use our search engine.
The GPS track and description are the property of the author.