Alpine Trails Trek
A fourteen night, mostly camping, excursion, utilising cable cars, mountain trains and buses. Traverse on foot, three distinct areas in the French, Italian and Swiss Alps, renowned for their famous peaks and majestic scenery. Walking with only a day pack containing lunch, waterproofs and camera, complete the best half of the famous Mont Blanc circuit, then continue beneath the towering Matterhorn into the Bernese Oberland.
From the starting point at Geneva, board a mountain train to Le Praz Village in the beautiful Chamonix Valley. Then begin walking the Mount Blanc trails, crossing the “Grand Balcon”, high above the valley, and the “Col de Voza” Pass. Some six days are spent in this most scenic of areas as you enjoy superb close up views of the Mont Blanc massif (15,547 feet), one of the world’s great climbs.
Bus to Aosta and camp near Brieul at the head of the valley. Then by cable car, climb to Testa Grigia station (11,418 feet) , marking the high Italian-Swiss frontier. The glacier here is sufficiently level in summer to walk across to the famous ski resort of Zermatt. The route affords exceptional views of the Matterhorn (14,962 feet) and Monte Rosa (15,203 feet), and if time permits, short or long walks in the locality; or excursions like the cog railway to Gornergrat.
From Kanderstegg, begin a walking ascent to Hohturli Pass (9115 feet) for the first real sighting of the Bernese Oberland. While there, consider riding the Swiss mountain train which rounds the Eiger and offers classic views of the Jungfrau (13,642 feet). The trek ends with a final day’s walking and sightseeing around Lauterbrunnen. Return by rail to Geneva.
Accommodation is mostly camping at well appointed campgrounds, and some with dormitory style lodging at local inns, or occasionally “in the wild”. Camp meals provided, except on evenings when you need to buy your own dinner at a local restaurant.
Travel is mostly on foot with a support vehicle to carry equipment and main baggage. Cable cars and mountain trains.
For those who enjoy high altitude walking (average 10,000 feet) without the burden of a heavy rucksack. Moderate to strenuous walking (about 6-7 hours a day) but you must be fit. Several rest days to savour the local scene. Bring a sleeping bag, foam mat and daysack.
The cost of this arrangement is HK$6,669 per person (the group size is approximately 12-16). An additional local payment must be made in Geneva of approximately HK$1131.
The cost includes camping (13 nights) mostly at well-appointed campgrounds or occasionally “in the wild” (one night), dormitory style lodging at a local inn (one night). Most camp meals are provided. On seven evenings you buy your own dinner in local restaurants. On non-walking days when excursions are available (about six) picnic lunches
are not included.
This is a suggested itinerary only, which can be varied to suit individual requirements.
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