Itinerary Details
MT Sobek: Alps Chamonix & Zermatt Hiking
Day 1 Arrive in Geneva, Transfer to Chamonix
1.5-hours private van transfer
Arrive at the Geneva airport, Switzerland, for a 2pm pick-up. Transfer by private van to the charming mountain-ringed resort town of Chamonix, France. Upon arrival at the hotel, rest or explore the town before meeting your guides and group for a trip orientation. End the day with a delicious welcome dinner at a lovely restaurant in town.
Accommodation: Park Hotel Suisse & Spa
(D)
Day 2 Hike to the Grand Balcon
3.5 hours/2.5 miles moderate hiking with 1,450' elevation gain and loss
Today begins with a fun cog railway ride up to Montenvers (6,276'), high above the Mer de Glace glacier. From here, head up to Signal Forbes (7,215') for fabulous views of the towering Chamonix Aiguilles. Next, follow trails towards Blaitiere and join the famous Grand Balcon for a hike that leads to Plan de l'Aguille. Return to Chamonix from here or opt to visit the Aiguille du Midi. Enjoy an evening of warm alpine hospitality.
Accommodation: Park Hotel Suisse & Spa
(B, L, D)
Day 3 Tour du Mont Blanc Trail
4.5 hours/6 miles hiking with 1,800' elevation gain and loss
Start the day in the charming mountain village of Les Praz de Chamonix, where a cable car will whisk you up to La Flegere ski resort (6,158'). From here you'll take the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc trail to Lac Blanc (7,716') and be wowed by magnificent views of the Mont Blanc range. Take the loop trail back to La Flegere passing Lac des Cheserys, lush pastures, and mountain chalets. Return to Les Praz by cable car.
(B, L, D)
Day 4 Journey from Chamonix to Zermatt
2-hour private van transfer
It's time to rest those legs with a leisurely drive to the Swiss Riviera! See the delightful towns of Vevey and Montreux on the east side of Lac Leman (Lake Geneva) and experience the healing properties of Lavey thermal baths. Continue the day with a drive through Wallis (Valais) valley to Zermatt, a storybook mountain town at the base of the mighty Matterhorn. Settle into your hotel, where you'll spend three relaxing nights, then head to dinner with the group.
Accommodation: Hotel Bella Vista
(B, L, D)
Day 5 Explore Matterhorn Trails in Zermatt
3-5 hours/1.5-3 miles hiking with 2,620' elevation gain and loss
Discover Zermatt's spectacular surroundings as you explore trails at the foot of Switzerland's most famous mountain: the iconic Matterhorn. Hike to the renowned Zmutt hamlet (6,352') and then to Zum See. Once at Furi mountain station (6,125') take a cable car up to Schwarzsee (8,373'), a small, picturesque lake just below the Matterhorn. If you're motivated and time allows, there's an option to push a little further to the Hirli cable car station (9,107') for an elevated view of the lake. Return to Zermatt for a well-deserved meal and rest.
Accommodation: Hotel Bella Vista
(B, L, D)
Day 6 Ride the Cog Railway & Hike to Gornergrat
4.5 hours/4 miles hiking with 500' elevation gain and 4,900' loss
Experience the Monte Rosa side of Zermatt's mountains, starting with a ride on the famous Gornergrat cog railway up to 10,140 feet. At the top, soak up gorgeous views of the Monte Rosa massif and Dufourspitze, the second-highest peak in the Alps. From here, follow trails down the sunny, northwestern side of the mountains passing shimmering lakes, pretty hamlets, and alpine pastures all the way back to Zermatt. End your mountain adventure with a farewell dinner this evening.
(B, L, D)
Day 7 Depart from Geneva
2.45-hour private van transfer
Bid farewell to the Alps today and return to Geneva airport for your homeward-bound flight.
(B)
