The Haute Route trek is one of the world’s great multi-day treks. This 2 day self-guided version covers the haute route trek from Grachen to Zermatt in Switzerland, via the famous 'Europa Weg'.
The Haute Route 'Europa Weg' section self guided trek is one of the world’s greatest trekking trails and is possible only in July, August and September each year. Starting in Grachen and finishing in Zermatt, you trek via the Europa Weg with 1 night in the Europahutte. One of the highlights of this trek is crossing the The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge at 494m long. The suspension bridge hangs at 85m above ground and is considered the longest bridge for pedestrian use in the Alps.
Spectacular views are standard on this trek and it is a great challenge for trekkers to experience the High Alps and its glaciers. The Europa Weg trek is for hill walkers and trekkers keen to get stuck in to the the mountains, travel through some picturesque valleys and go over some high alpine passes.
In the summer the route is non-technical and while being a challenging experience because of its daily elevation gains and distances, it is achievable by any hiker in good physical condition.
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
WHO IS THIS FOR?
The summer haute route trek self-guided is recommended for hill walkers and trekkers with a good level of fitness who are keen to get stuck in to the mountains and experience one of worlds great treks. You should be capable of carrying a rucksack (~10kg) for 6-8 hours a day for 11 days in a row. You will be crossing high passes on most of the days and traversing valleys with sometimes fairly uneven hiking terrain.
Not sure whether you're ready? No sweat! Get in touch and we'll be happy to talk it through with you.
Adventure Overview
Duration
2 Days
Start Location
Grachen, Switzerland
Date(s)
July - September
Ability
Level B
Level B
You have some previous experience in the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, skiing or climbing. You will either be starting to venture into more technical terrain or slightly more 'aggressive' environments. Let's dial it up!
Price
From €225.00
LIVE THE ADVENTURE
Trekking in the Alps - People
00:13
Trekking in the Alps - Trails
00:13
Trekking in the Alps - Glaciers
00:18
Kit & equipment required for this adventure
Please note this is a guide and you may be required to rent or purchase last minute equipment on arrival dependent on the weather and changes in itinerary. You can pre-book luggage transfers if you would like your main luggage back to be delivered to your accommodation each night (excluding mountain huts)
For the full downloadable Haute Route Trek kit list please click here.
Choose your hat of choice as long as it shields you from the sun.
Warm Hat
Ideally thin and single layered so it can fit under the helmet.
Thermal socks
Good walking socks are required
Shorts
Good to have for approaches to the mountain huts especially in warmer temperatures
T-shirts
Sunglasses
Sun cream
Factor 30-50 High Mountain sunscreen
Water bottles
You must be able to carry at least 2L of water in your backpack
Trekking Poles
Foldable or telescopic poles are best
Sleeping bag
Rated to -15 °C comfort temperature
Trekking Towel
Head torch
Don't forget to pack spare batteries. They're essential
ID and documents
Passport / Driver's license, Visa, Insurance
Cash / credit card
For extra costs such as drinks and snacks
First aid kit
Blister kit, paracetamol, etc
Midweight thermal underwear bottoms
Bandana / Buff
Hiking shoes / Trail Shoes
Good grip and ankle support is recommended
Earplugs
Highly recommended for the mountain huts
Insect Repellant
"I’d recommend Adventure Base 100%. I want to be an Adventure Base guide!"
Sir Richard Branson
Mont Blanc, Matterhorn, Tour du Mont Blanc, Haute Route
"The route was stunning and the guides were great. Logistics were really seamless which makes a huge difference. All this contributes to a stunning experience for the participants."
Virgin Strive Challenge
Mont Blanc Trek & Summit, Haute Route
FINER DETAILS
YOUR ADVENTURE PACKAGE
The trek starts from Arolla and ends in Zermatt, Switzerland. If you would like to book pre and post trek accommodation with us please let us know.
What's Included?
1 night accommodation
1 Breakfast
1 Dinner
Planning and reservations
Briefing with an Adventure Base representative (Virtually)
Welcome pack
Detailed Itinerary
24/7 Support communication with our team in the Alps
What's not Included?
Flights and airport transfers
Lunches, snacks and drinks on the trek
Pre and post trek accommodation (pre-book with us)
Luggage transfers (pre-book with us)
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE ACCOMMODATION
We know the importance of having comfortable accommodation on this trip. After long days trekking it's vital to have a comfortable bed and good food to enjoy. We've handpicked this mountain accommodation along the way that we're sure you're going to love.
VIEW GALLERY
+ 4
Mountain Huts
During this trek you will spend 1 night in a mountain hut, beautifully located up in the mountains. The mountain hut is run by full time staff who cook, clean and manage guests during the summer months. Blankets or duvets provided.
Duration
1 night
Internet
Not included
Beds
Dormitory beds
Food
Half board
WHAT TO EXPECT
HERE'S YOUR ITINERARY
Whilst you will try and stick to the tried and tested itinerary below, the mountain and the weather sometimes has other ideas. We will always remain as flexible as possible to help you make any changes necessary.
Day 1:
Grachen to Europahutte
On the first day of the trek you begin the 'Europaweg', a famous 2 day section between Grachen and Zermatt. After leaving Grachen behind, you traverse alpine meadows and deep gorges along the mountainside to the Europahütte, a beautifully located mountain hut which towers high above the valley. This is your final night in the mountains so make the most of it!
15.7km / 1244m up / 597m down / 5-6 hours trekking
Day 2:
Europahutte to Zermatt
Your final day of the full trek as well as the finale of the short 'Europaweg' section. Today you cross the impressive Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge which scales over a gorge for a whopping 494 metres! Known as the longest suspension bridge in the Alps this will certainly get your heart racing and what a way to finish your trek. Onwards to Zermatt, where you can take a cable car down from Sunnegga to save yourself 700m of descent.
21km / 955m up / 1568m down / 8-9 hours trekking
Frequently asked questions about this adventure
What are the mountain huts like?
We stay 2 nights in mountain huts on this trip. They are fairly basic but comfortable. You will sleep in dormitories Read more
We stay 2 nights in mountain huts on this trip. They are fairly basic but comfortable. You will sleep in dormitories on a shared basis, sometimes up to 6-8 per room. The lodges offer breakfast and dinner as well as a few snacks.
You need to be able to hike for 6-8 hours at a moderate pace. Trekking is all about having good Read more
You need to be able to hike for 6-8 hours at a moderate pace. Trekking is all about having good cardiovascular endurance to be able to continue being active for long periods.
Your backpack should be between 20-30l. This will be your day pack and must be a comfortable fit, you’ Read more
Your backpack should be between 20-30l. This will be your day pack and must be a comfortable fit, you’ll spend many days with it on your back. It must fit your essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, camera, etc. Your other luggage will be transported by vehicle to each hotel.
You will need comfortable, durable trekking boots. Something like the Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 Gore-Tex boot. Gore-tex will ensure your Read more
You will need comfortable, durable trekking boots. Something like the Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 Gore-Tex boot. Gore-tex will ensure your feet stay dry and warm. Trail shoes are also OK, although make sure they fit well and are durable.
This depends on a few factors and how bad the weather is. We’ll always aim to continue the trek Read more
This depends on a few factors and how bad the weather is. We’ll always aim to continue the trek even if it’s raining/snowing as long as it is safe to do so. The weather in Summer is generally very reliable with clear skies and dry conditions following the monsoons. If the weather is truly terrible for a day or two we will rest in the lodge until it passes or use our vehicle to move you along to the next stop.
In short, no. Whilst we will always strive to get you along the trek safely, sometimes the weather or other Read more
In short, no. Whilst we will always strive to get you along the trek safely, sometimes the weather or other factors like your personal fitness will prevent you from completing the trek. The lead guide will always conduct a meeting with the clients and other guides each evening to check how everyone is doing and to field any questions or concerns. All decisions will have client wellbeing as a top priority. But in 99 out of 100 cases you’ll make it! We will always provide vehicle support if necessary.
Our adventures are attributed a difficulty level from A to E. This Haute Route Trek 2 Days ‘Europa Weg’ trip is rated Level B, for those with some prior experience We recommend you only book a trip that reflects your ability.
Level A
For beginners and newcomers
You’re not quite sure where to start but you’re hungry for an adventure.
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This 2 day self-guided version covers the haute route trek from Grachen to Zermatt in Switzerland, via the famous 'Europa Weg'. Starting in Grachen and finishing in Zermatt, you trek via the Europa Weg with a night in the Europahutte. One of the highlights of this trek is crossing the The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge at 494m long. The suspension bridge hangs at 85m above ground and is considered the longest bridge for pedestrian use in the Alps.
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We hope this page has described all the information you need, but don't hesitate to ask us if you require a little more. If you're ready to book, follow the link below.
We know things can change quickly in this new travel environment which is why we’ve put together a comprehensive COVID policy to make sure you feel comfortable when booking a trip with us. Read more here to see why you can book and travel with confidence with us: COVID 19 POLICY
Treks
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