This trekking holiday in the Alps is ideal for those wanting to experience the Walkers Haute Route in a shorter period of time and takes in Valaisian valleys and high mountain terrain all the way to Zermatt over approx 80 kilometers. The Walkers Haute Route easterly guided trek goes from Arolla to Zermatt in 5 days with an added rest day during the trek in Zinal. Includes bag transfer.
suggested intinerary
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN AROLLA
On the day of arrival we have a trek briefing in the hotel lounge at 5pm, this gives you the opportunity to meet your guide and the rest of the group.
During the briefing we will go though all the necessary information including itinerary, accommodation, meals and bag transfer. The guide will also discuss plans for the first day of the trek. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you might have so you are fully informed before you start your adventure.
AccommodationHotel, private en-suite rooms, evening meal & breakfast.
DAY 2 AROLLA TO LA SAGE:
An easy day as we make our way via Lac Bleu to the typical Valaisian village of Les Hauderes and on to the hamlet of La Sage in the Val d'Herens. We arrive in Val d'Herens around mid-afternoon with time to rest and relax.
Daily stats:Distance: 12km | Height gain: +215m | Descent: -700m
AccommodationHotel with private en-suite rooms, evening meal and breakfast.
Guide notes:Enjoy the lofty traverse and rest a while at the beautiful Lac Bleu with wonderful views back down the Arolla valley and the mighty Mont Colon.
DAY 3 LA SAGE TO ZINAL:
We climb steadily to the Col du Torrent before descending via Lac Autannes to Lac de Moiry and the barrage. From here, we have two options. Ascend towards Col de Sorebois and descend steeply through the ski area where you take the cable car to Zinal, or take the bus from the barrage to Zinal to shorten the route and reduce the height gain and descent (dependent on weather, fatigue and time).
Daily stats:Distance: 12.5km | Height gain: +1750m | Descent: -900m
AccommodationHotel with private en-suite rooms, evening meal and breakfast.
Guide notes:This potentially can be a very long day but we have options! Don't underestimate this col as its high at 2916m, with far reaching views from the col back towards Arolla and its significant peaks, on a good day you can see Mont Blanc!
DAY 4 REST DAY:
A free day to rest & relax in Zinal
AccommodationHotel with private en-suite rooms, evening meal and breakfast.
DAY 5 ZINAL TO GRUBEN:
A steady climb through woodland to the high mountain pastureland passing the remote Barnueza Alpage. Once at the Col du Forcletta, we make your descend in to the Gruben valley to the small village of Gruben.
Daily stats:Distance: 14km | Height gain: +1200m | Descent: -1000m
AccommodationAuberge with private rooms & shared facilities, evening meal and breakfast.
Guide notes:Making your way over the Col de la Forcletta and into one of the most remote valleys of the trek is a fabulous experience. This valley is closed off from autumn to spring and is used during the summer months for cattle farming. Get ready for the Hotel Schwartzhorn which seems totaly incongruous to this remote valley.
DAY 6 GRUBEN TO ST NIKLAUS:
Another steep climb from Gruben to high-level pastures of the Augustbordpass. We make your descent steadily from the col towards Jungen where we take the cable car to St Niklaus and your accommodation for the night.a short train ride on the Matterhorn Valley Express train ride to Randa.
Daily stats:Distance: 16km | Height gain: +1100m | Descent: -1000m
AccommodationHotel in private en-suite rooms, evening meal and breakfast.
Guide notes:The Augustbordpass passes without any notable acclaim as the col seems to be somewhat hidden away, the views are reserved for later in the day with the narrow traverse above Jungen which reveals the delights of the Matterhorn valley!
DAY 7 ST NIKLAUS TO ZERMATT
Departing from St Nicklaus, we take the matterhorn Valley train to Randa. From Randa we ascend to the Europaweg and take the Charles Kuonen suspension bridge for the final day on this stunning traverse via Taschalpen and finish taking the hight route into Zermatt.
Daily stats:Distance: 21.5km | Height gain: +1175m | Descent: -850m
AccommodationHotel in private en-suite rooms, B & B.
Guide notes:In August 2017 the Europaweg was reopened after closure for some years. Therefore there are many options for today, which can be decided before the day. My recommendation would be to include the final stage from Taschalp, which has stupendous views on the mighty Matterhorn.
DAY 8: DEPART ZERMATT:
Breakfast is included however on the departure day you are free to leave at any time you wish.
Option to add an additional day in Zermatt.
Guide notes:Once you have completed the trek I hope you will agree that the Walkers Haute Route is truly an exceptional trek & has a worthy place as of one of the worlds top 10 long distance walks.