Below is a sample itinerary but the sky is the limit when it comes to exploring this amazing region. Possible options also include Torres del Paine, Chile. Call or email to discuss options and costs.
Day 1: meet guides in Calafate, Argentina then bus to El Chalten
Day 2: hike Laguna de los tres or “Laguna Capri
Day 3: hike to Laguna Torre or Cerro Torre
Day 4: hike to Pliegue tumbado or Piedras blancas
Day 5: bus to Calafate
Day 6: trek at the Perrito Moreno Glaciar
Day 7: boat across Lago Argentina to Estancia Cristina
Day 8: hike Estancia Cristina
Day 9: hike Estancia Cristina then return to Calafate.
The landscape of this region is tamed by never ending steppe and rock bushes until abruptly facing the vertical granite walls of the Andes. Of all the peaks in El Chaltén, Mount Fitz Roy amazes with its 3405 masl and unique silhouette. The town’s name originates from the aboriginal languages Aonikenke and Tehuelche, and means the steaming mountain, due to the cloud columns that form when the wind pushes them against its peaks.
From 2015, El Chalten is nationally recognized as the “National Capital of Trekking” because of its numerous trekking circuits with varied difficulty graduations, dozens of highly technical rock climbing routes and many gastronomic and tourism services available to support visitors coming from around the globe.
In contrast with the rocky Chalten, El Calafate centers around the magnificent Perito Moreno glacier and its wide open skies. This region offers a variety of treks around lakes, natural reserves for bird watching and several distance treks on the glacier.
Our last stop is at the magical Estancia Cristina, a remote residence behind the Lake Argentina only reachable by boat and 4×4 transport. From this exclusive spot in the middle of the Patagonian Wilderness we can visit the Upsala Glaciar and trek on private paths in the National Park that not many people get to know.
At the end of the day, once you’ve filled your body with the purest glacier air, you’ll get the chance to enjoy the coziness and culinary delights of the Patagonian lodges and hotels. We invite you to come and join us in this unique region where the ice meets the sky.
Highlights – Portee: the main town on Skye. Its name comes from the Gaelic Port-an-Righ,which translates as “King’s Port” and dates to a visit by King James V, plus a fleet of warships, in 1540, to persuade the island clans to support him. It had earlier been known as Kiltraglen. The centre of life in Portree is its harbor. This is in a superb natural setting, being surrounded by high ground and cliffs.
Highlights – Cuillin: a mountain range on the Isle of Skye. The true Cuillin is also known as the Black Cuillin to distinguish it from the Red Cuillin (na Beanntan Dearga, known locally as Red Hills). The space between these mountains is Glen Sligachan a large valley green and lush covered in heather. The glen viewed with the jagged ridges and peaks of the Cuillin is an amazing sight.
Highlights – MacLeod’s Tables: two impressive flat-topped mountains, Healabhal Beag and Healabhal Mor. They rise in gentle contrast to the jagged peaks of the Black Cuillin. The hike to the summit of Healabhal Beag is exhilarating and the views are breath-taking.
Highlights – Edinburgh: an amazing fun and beautiful city with a fascinating history. There are so many wonderful things to see that many guests like to arrive a few days before the trip to see the sights: Edinburgh Castle, National Galleries and National Museum and Rosslyn Chapel. Rosslyn Chapel is especially well worth the visit its simply amazing. The history and beauty together leave a moving & lasting impression.
Guides: Shannon Harris and Lynne Laflamme
Call 478/714-0829 to book your vacation or for more details.
Highlights Zakopane and Strbske Pleso – The Tatras are located in the Carpathian Mountains, drawing the border between Poland and Slovakia. The highest peak in the Tatras (and the Capathian Mountains) is Gerlachovsky štít at 2,655 meters. Lomnicky štít (2,633 meters), the third highest peak in the Carpathian Mountains, is easily accessible from a cable-car in Slovakia. The vast majority of peaks in the Tatras reach above 2200 meters of altitude and are very alpine in look.
One particular feature of this mountain range is it’s climate which is heavily influenced by its northern location (approximately on the same latitude as Paris). The tree line sits at around 1500 meters (versus 2300 meters in the Alps), so that even a peak that is barely above 2000 meters, looks a lot higher than it actually is.
While the higher elevations of the mountains tend to be a sequence of rugged, rocky ridges, the lower portions of the mountains are carpeted with some of Europe’s most beautiful fir and spruce forests, and because most valleys are unspoiled by roads, cars or infrastructure, the impression one gets is that of a beautiful and remote place. Still, there also are a few cable cars which facilitate access, particularly on the Slovakian side.
September 24: meet in Geneva and take private bus to Courmayeur
September 25-27: hike above Courmayeur, Italy’s oldest resort mountain resort
September 28: private bus to Cogne
September 29-October 1 hike in Gran Paradiso National Park
October 2: private bus to Chamonix
October 3-4: hike beneath Mont Blanc the highest mountain in the Alps
October 5: train to Geneva or on to your next destination
Valnontey high valley, starting point for high-mountain tours, behind the crest of the Gran Paradiso, Cogne, Gran Paradiso, Alps, Autonomous Region of Valle d' Aosta, Italy
Girl on summit of mountain peak with a valley covered with pine forest at background. Gran Paradiso National Park - Cogne - Aosta Valley
Chamois in the Alps in the Grand Paradis national park. Italy.
Alpine trail in the Gran Paradiso National Park
Lillaz Waterfall,Valle D'aosta,Italy
Aosta Valley, known for the iconic, snow-capped peaks the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Monte Rosa and Gran Paradiso
Highlights – Cogne: Located in the heart of the Gran Paradiso National Park, is a hidden gem in the Val D’Aosta region of northern Italy. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Cogne offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and lush valleys. The village itself is charming, with traditional stone houses and picturesque streets that exude authentic alpine character. Cogne is a paradise for hikers, with numerous trails leading to serene mountain lakes, verdant meadows, and panoramic viewpoints. The area is rich in wildlife, providing opportunities to spot ibex, chamois, and golden eagles. Additionally, Cogne is renowned for its warm hospitality and delicious local cuisine, featuring specialties like polenta, fontina cheese, and hearty mountain fare. With its combination of pristine nature, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness.
Highlights – Courmayeur: Italy’s oldest mountain resort town, is a captivating destination nestled in the Aosta Valley at the foot of Mont Blanc. Renowned for its luxurious charm and stunning alpine scenery, Courmayeur offers an array of outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes to thrilling mountaineering. The town itself is picturesque, with charming streets lined with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and gourmet restaurants serving delectable Italian cuisine. Hikers will be enthralled by the panoramic trails that offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear mountain streams. The Skyway Monte Bianco cable car provides a spectacular ride up to Punta Helbronner, where you can enjoy unparalleled vistas of the Mont Blanc massif. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, Courmayeur is a must-visit highlight on any alpine tour.
Highlights – Chamonix: Nestled at the base of Mont Blanc in the French Alps, is a world-renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Known as the birthplace of alpine mountaineering, Chamonix offers unparalleled access to some of the most stunning and dramatic mountain scenery in Europe. The village itself is vibrant, with a mix of traditional alpine charm and modern amenities, including a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants that showcase the best of French cuisine. Hikers will find a wealth of trails that provide breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks. The Aiguille du Midi cable car, one of the highest in the world, offers a thrilling ascent to panoramic vistas of Mont Blanc and the surrounding mountains. Chamonix’s rich history, combined with its dynamic outdoor activities and scenic beauty, make it a highlight of any tour through the Alps.
Highlights – Selva: Selva Gardena is situated at an altitude of 1563 meters (5,126 feet) above sea level. The charming town is in one of the most beautiful valleys in the Dolomites, Val Gardena, and is surrounded by the mountains Sella and Sassolungo. Hiking here is like no other place in the Alps. The amazing shapes of the mountains will leave an impression of how grand and diverse the Alps are. Stunningly beautiful.
Highlights – Neuschwanstein Castle: Enroute from Ginzling to Neustift we visit the famous Neuschawnstein Castle. The castle was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and in honor of Richard Wagner. A beautiful place especially in the Fall when the leaves are changing.
Highlights – Neustift: Top of Tyrol is a mountain-top viewing platform placed above the Stubai Glacier at 3210 meters (10,528 feet.) The view is amazing. In the distance you can see the unique shapes of the Dolomites. Seeing them from afar really adds to the grandeur of hiking
Highlights – Zermatt: The Matterhorn and the Matter valley, surrounded by 30 peaks topping 4,000 m (13,000 ft.); the Monte Rosa massif and Dufourspitze, the highest point in Switzerland; Gornergrat, a cog railway that travels 3,089 m (10,134 ft.) to an impressive overlook, and the Klein Matterhorn, the end point of Switzerlands’s highest cable car at 3,820 m (12,533 ft.) terrific. Having such impressive gondolas and cable cars and cog trains to our trail heads helps us keep above tree line affording incredible views of an area that holds 3/4 of all 4000-meter peaks in the Alps.
Highlights – Muerren: The Lauterbrunnen Valley seen from the village of Muerren is one of the best views in the Alps. The remote Obersteinberg hamlet deep in the mountains above Lauterbrunnen Valley is a do not miss hike when visiting Switzerland (Shannon’s favorite hike in Switzerland); plus Staubbach Falls, Trümmelbach Falls, and Schmadri Falls and Höldribach Falls make the Lauterbrunnen a top tier Swiss hiking get away.
Lead Guide: Shannon Harris, Cristiano Berta, Carrie Carlquist
Call 478/714-0829 to book your vacation or for more details.
Highlights – Zermatt: The Matterhorn and the Matter valley, surrounded by 30 peaks topping 4,000 m (13,000 ft.); the Monte Rosa massif and Dufourspitze, the highest point in Switzerland; Gornergrat, a cog railway that travels 3,089 m (10,134 ft.) to an impressive overlook, and the Klein Matterhorn, the end point of Switzerland’s highest cable car at 3,820 m (12,533 ft.) terrific. Having such impressive gondolas and cable cars and cog trains to our trail heads helps us keep above tree line affording incredible views of an area that holds 3/4 of all 4000-meter peaks in the Alps.
Highlights – Muerren: The Jungfrau massif (Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau); Lauterbrunnen Valley, including remote Obersteinberg hamlet; Staubbach, Trümmelbach, and Höldribach falls; mountain pass of Klein Scheidegg; Jungfraujoch (aka the Top of Europe railway station) are a few of the amazing sights around the village of Muerren. The view from the Hotel Eiger in Muerren has to be seen to be believed.
Highlights – Sils Maria: Sils Maria a small village as charming as one can be is just 20 minutes from glitzy St. Moritz. St. Moritz is well know for good reason it is in the center of some of the best hiking and outdoor activities in Switzerland as is Sils Maria but without the glitz just unmatched charm. The Upper Engadine is certainly one of the most impressive landscapes in Switzerland. Sils Maria The gate to the romantic Fex Valley is idyllically embedded between Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana. With only 750 inhabitants, Sils presents itself in an introspective, familiar and inviting manner. Besides the tremendous natural experience, the cultural offerings are also exquisite.
Guides: Dr. Valerie Jones and Mr. Cristiano Berta
Our Accessible Swiss Hiking Tours:
Accessible Swiss Adventure Tours are the brain-child of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) physician Val Jones, MD. She believes the Alps provide a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts with disabilities to enjoy an immersive, life-changing travel experience. For more information about their accessible tours visit: Accessible Alpine Adventure Tours 501(c)3
“These tours are an exciting motivator for newly disabled individuals. The possibility of participating in something so challenging and beautiful gives hope and a reason to strive hard at the earliest stages of recovery – when it matters most” says Dr. Jones.
“Switzerland is ideally positioned to support people with disabilities because the mobility infrastructure is already in place. They have trains, gondolas, lifts, eBikes, recreational vehicles, and helicopters everywhere.”
“We chose to partner with Alpine Adventure Trails and Tours because they’re a family-owned U.S. company that has been running trips to the alps since 1977. They have deep knowledge of the local trails, mobility options, as well as access to multi-lingual local guides and relationships with hoteliers and restaurant owners who have embraced accessibility” adds Dr. Jones.
Lead Guides
Val Jones, MD
Dr. Jones received her medical degree at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and completed her residency in physical medicine and rehabilitation in 2006. She has been a medical director and traveling physician for the past 17 years, with licenses in 20 states, an academic appointment at Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, and extensive experience with stroke, brain injury, and spinal cord injury recovery. She most recently was the founding medical director at HCA Florida JFK Hospital.
She is an amateur athlete, whose childhood love of downhill skiing led her to attend Swiss Challenge (organized by the American School in Switzerland) where she had her first exposure to the alps in 1985. She much later planned to join the Canadian Ski Patrol, but suffered a severe knee injury during a race in Austria and switched her focus to hiking and strength training. As a “Master’s athlete” she now enjoys low-risk outdoor activities, culinary delicacies, and helping others achieve their physical and health goals. Dr. Jones believes that this recce will be the first step in unifying her rehab career with her passion for alpine activities.
Christiano Berta
Cristiano grew up in a family of mountain guides with a long tradition of mountaineering. He comes from a little mountain town nestled somewhere in the Italian Alps close to the French border. The Alps are his natural environment, having hiked, mountaineered, skied and climbed since a tender age, and whenever he spends a few weeks away from the familiarity of his peaks, he begins to long for them. He is convinced that mountains are more than just elevations of the earth’s surface, and that hiking is more than a sport. He firmly believes that the combination of majestic mountain scenery and the act of hiking bring a sense of uplifting and self-awareness, contributing to personal growth.
He is very knowledgeable about the Western Alps, particularly about the lesser known regions of Piedmont and the Aosta Valley. In recent years he has started exploring new mountain ranges across Europe, namely the High Tatras in Poland and the Transylvanian Alps in Romania, where he went through some memorable experiences, such as encountering brown bears or being caught in a snowstorm in the middle of the summer.
He enjoys the company of others, and is always happy to share some of his personal stories and knowledge of the Alps.
Partners
Medical Evacuation and Travel Assistance
Support
Interested in becoming a partner or sponsoring a tour, therapist, or hiker?
Contact: Shannon Harris at Alpine Adventure Trails and Tours: 478-714-0829 or alpine@swisshiking.com.
Highlights – San Candido: Tucked away in the northern Dolomites, San Candido offers a serene alpine escape where rolling pine forests, wildflower meadows, and sparkling creeks contrast with the jagged peaks towering above. Still largely undiscovered by American travelers, this charming village invites you to slow down, wander quiet trails, and experience the timeless beauty of Italy’s mountain landscapes. Here, the silence of nature speaks louder than crowds, making San Candido a place of true discovery and peaceful immersion.
Highlights – Cortina: Cortina d’Ampezzo, often called the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is a world-class alpine destination known for its stunning mountain scenery, vibrant town center, and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, Cortina offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, from hiking and climbing in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The town itself blends Italian elegance with alpine charm, featuring lively cafés, boutiques, and a welcoming atmosphere. With breathtaking views at every turn, access to some of the Dolomites’ most iconic trails, and a reputation as both a sports hub and cultural haven, Cortina stands out as one of Italy’s most unforgettable mountain towns.
Highlights – Zermatt: The Matterhorn and the Matter valley, surrounded by 30 peaks topping 4,000 m (13,000 ft.); the Monte Rosa massif and Dufourspitze, the highest point in Switzerland; Gornergrat, a cog railway that travels 3,089 m (10,134 ft.) to an impressive overlook, and the Klein Matterhorn, the end point of Switzerlands’s highest cable car at 3,820 m (12,533 ft.) terrific. Having such impressive gondolas and cable cars and cog trains to our trail heads helps us keep above tree line affording incredible views of an area that holds 3/4 of all 4000-meter peaks in the Alps
Highlights – Sils Maria: Sils Maria a small village as charming as one can be is just 20 minutes from glitzy St. Moritz. St. Moritz is well know for good reason it is in the center of some of the best hiking and outdoor activities in Switzerland as is Sils Maria but without the glitz just unmatched charm. The Upper Engadine is certainly one of the most impressive landscapes in Switzerland. Sils Maria The gate to the romantic Fex Valley is idyllically embedded between Lake Sils and Lake Silvaplana. With only 750 inhabitants, Sils presents itself in an introspective, familiar and inviting manner. Besides the tremendous natural experience, the cultural offerings are also exquisite.
Guides: Shannon Harris, Cristiano Berta, John Wigington
Call 478/714-0829 to book your vacation or for more details.
Highlights – Kandersteg: Situated in the Bernese Highlands surrounded by 12,000-foot summits, Kandersteg is a great base to relish the traditional alpine lifestyle. A small farming village of 1,200, this place of unspoiled natural beauty is a mecca for hikers. The surrounding area holds secluded valleys, remote glacial lakes, hidden alps, and quaint mountaineering huts. Towering above this maze of hiking trails are glaciers that lead to four spectacular summits, the Doldenhorn, Frudenhorn, Oeschinenhorn, and Bluëmilsalphorn.
Highlights – Grindelwald: The Jungfrau massif (Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau); high mountain passes of Kleine Scheidegg and Grosse Scheidegg; and the hike from Grindelwald to the historic Mountain Lodge Faulhorn, with panoramic views over lakes Thun and Brienz; upper and lower glaciers of Grindelwald, Thunersee, Brienz See, and Interlaken; dairy farms and local cheeses and one of the best day hikes in the Alps the route above Grindelwald from First to Schynige Platte.
Highlights – Muerren: The Jungfrau massif (Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau); Lauterbrunnen Valley, including remote Obersteinberg hamlet; Staubbach, Trümmelbach, and Höldribach falls; mountain pass of Klein Scheidegg; Jungfraujoch (aka the Top of Europe railway station) are a few of the amazing sights around the village of Muerren. The view from the Hotel Eiger in Muerren has to be seen to be believed.
Guides: Shannon Harris, Cristiano Berta, John Wigington
Call 478/714-0829 to book your vacation or for more details.
