Discover the best hiking trails in the Alps and experience the beauty of the mountains in summer.
This guide reveals the best hiking trails in Switzerland, France, Austria and Italy, along with insider tips to make your Alpine holiday unforgettable.
From the snow-dusted peaks of Switzerland to the dramatic cliffs of the Dolomites, the Alps offer some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world. Crystal-clear lakes, flower-strewn meadows and panoramic ridgelines set the stage for unforgettable summer days in the mountains. Whether you seek a gentle family walk or a challenging high-altitude trek, these hand-picked trails showcase the very best of Alpine hiking.
If you like to combine adventure with comfort, Switzerland offers a superb selection of luxury summer chalets. Staying in Zermatt or Grindelwald means world-class hiking trails are right on your doorstep, along with exceptional dining and spa facilities.
This scenic 9.8 km route offers spectacular Matterhorn views mirrored in three shimmering lakes. Starting at Blauherd, the trail leads you past five lakes, each with its own colour and character. Take a refreshing dip in the Leisee, admire rare alpine flowers on the shores of the Grindjisee, and marvel at the milky turquoise waters of Moosjisee. Suitable for families, the walk takes around three to four hours to complete.
Beginning at the Trockener Steg cable car station, this 6.5 km trail leads you across rocky terrain past the Theodul and Furgg glaciers, which have retreated more than three kilometres over the last century and a half. Along the route, information panels detail the area’s fascinating glacial history. The hike finishes at the Schwarzsee station and offers superb close-up views of the Matterhorn.
Covering 16.5 km and almost 1,000 metres of elevation gain, this is one of the most rewarding hikes in the Interlaken region. Expect dramatic ridges, peaceful lakes and sweeping vistas of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau peaks. Allow between five and seven hours for the full experience.
This popular 6 km route runs beneath the sheer north face of the Eiger, offering stunning views over Grindelwald valley. Starting at Eigergletscher station, the path descends to Alpiglen, where you can board the cog railway back to the village.
Base yourself in Chamonix or Morzine for access to some of the finest hiking in the French Alps, with the added pleasure of gourmet restaurants and luxurious mountain retreats.
Famed for its striking reflections of snow-covered peaks, Lac Blanc is reached via a well-marked trail from Col des Montets. The route rewards walkers with 360-degree views of the Mont Blanc Massif and the Aiguilles Rouges. Wildlife enthusiasts should watch for ibex, chamois, marmots and deer in the surrounding nature reserve.
This demanding 14 km hike offers panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the Bossons Glacier. Starting from Gare de Montenvers, the trail winds towards Aiguille du Midi, passing the Mer de Glace and several stunning viewpoints along the way.
From Morzine’s centre, follow the River Dranse to the turquoise waters of Montriond Lake. Circled by forest and overlooked by cliffs, the lake is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding or canoeing. A short detour leads to the impressive Cascade d’Ardent waterfall.
Following a World War II smuggling path, this 6.3 km trail climbs from Lac des Mines d’Or to the Col de Cou on the Swiss border. Enjoy views of the Dents Blanches and Dents du Midi before descending through alpine forest and pastoral hamlets.
Summer chalets in Austria combine traditional Tyrolean charm with modern comfort, providing the ideal base for exploring lush valleys, alpine meadows and dramatic peaks. From the elegance of Lech to the lively atmosphere of St Anton and the rolling pastures of Kitzbühel, each resort offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and relaxed mountain living.
The Tirol’s legendary Eagle Walk spans 413 km across 33 stages, tracing the outline of a flying eagle. The final section, from Kaiserjochhaus to St Christoph am Arlberg, is a challenging 17.5 km route through jagged peaks and flower-filled meadows. Several mountain huts along the way offer refreshment breaks.
At 1,100 metres above sea level, this wildlife park is home to around 300 animals including ibex, lynx and mouflon. Children will love the petting barn, home to friendly ponies, goats and rabbits. Daily feeding sessions add to the charm.
In the Dolomites, summer chalets blend rustic charm with modern luxury, offering the perfect base for exploring one of the world’s most striking mountain landscapes. Dolomites summer holidays are all about long sunny days spent discovering scenic hiking trails, cycling winding mountain passes and enjoying al fresco dining against a backdrop of towering limestone peaks.
Rising prominently from the Cir Group, Gran Cir is an ideal introduction to via ferrata. The 90-minute climb from Passo Gardena reveals sweeping views of the Sella Group, Sassolungo and Monte Pelmo. Sunrise and sunset hikes are particularly memorable.
Constructed during World War I, the Lagazuoi Tunnels near Cortina d'Ampezzo offer a fascinating journey through military history. From Falzarego Pass, follow the Frontline Trail to the tunnel entrance and emerge onto the fore-summit of Piccolo Lagazuoi. Panoramic views stretch across the Dolomites from the top station.
From Switzerland’s glacier-framed trails to Italy’s dramatic Dolomite ridges, the Alps deliver an unmatched variety of hiking experiences. Base yourself in a luxury summer chalet and you can combine each day’s adventure with fine dining, spa relaxation and postcard-perfect mountain views. Your perfect Alpine summer escape is waiting.
The Alps aren’t just a winter wonderland – they’re an unforgettable summer destination too. Explore our guide to summer holidays in the Alps and discover the right summer holiday destination for you.
In this guide, we explore three of the most exquisite destinations for Dolomites summer holidays – Alta Badia, Val Gardena, and Cortina d’Ampezzo – and share insights on what to do in the Dolomites in summer, from family activities to gourmet experiences and much more.
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