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Handpicked Trails for Nature Lovers Seeking Beauty, Solitude, and a Touch of Swiss Magic
Switzerland is home to over 65,000 kilometers of marked hiking trails—making it one of the most spectacular nature destinations in the world. But with so many routes to choose from, how do you know which ones are worth your time, especially if you’re only visiting for a week or two?
That’s where we come in.
At Chantal & Max, we’re not just a luxury Switzerland travel agency—we’re also locals and passionate hikers who spend our free time uncovering the most authentic, awe-inspiring, and off-the-beaten-path trails the country has to offer. Whether you’re dreaming of a tranquil alpine escape, a view-filled ridge walk, or a picnic alongside grazing cows, we’ve curated a list of our favorite hikes that combine all the best ingredients: panoramas, peacefulness, and local flavor.
Ready to lace up?
1. Gastlosen Trail, Pays d’Enhaut
Often called the “Swiss Dolomites,” the Gastlosen mountain range is dramatic, jagged, and utterly stunning. This 11 km circular trail is a feast for the senses, winding through alpine meadows, forest paths, and postcard-perfect ridgelines.
The first 30 minutes are a bit uphill, but nothing too strenuous—and the reward is more than worth it: a charming family-run mountain hut serving delicious Swiss cuisine, with sweeping views of the peaks. If you’re lucky, the owner might even treat you to a tune on his alphorn. Ideal as a day trip from Bern, Gruyères, Montreux, or Gstaad, this trail offers the kind of soulful mountain magic that makes you fall in love with Switzerland all over again.
Where to Stay: the Montreux Riviera, Gruyères, Bern or the Saanenland (Gstaad)
Distance: 11 km
Time: 4 hours
Lunch Stop: Buvette de Sattels
2. Niederbauen – Lake Lucerne’s Secret Viewpoint
Lake Lucerne is known for its beauty—but also for its crowds. That’s why this hidden gem near Emmetten is one of our favorites. The adventure starts with a ride in a self-operated cable car (yes, really!) that lifts you up to the quiet summit of Niederbauen.
From there, take the circular route past Hundschopf to reach panoramic views of turquoise lake waters and rugged mountain peaks. The trail is accessible to most hikers, with only a short uphill stretch near the view point. Along the way, you’ll pass peaceful alpine farms—and if you’re anything like us, you’ll double your hiking time because you’ll stop every two minutes to take photos.
Where to Stay: Lake Luzern region
Distance: 5.3 km
Time: 2.5 hours
Lunch Stop: The Berggasthaus Niederbauen Restaurant, just next to the cable car
3. Horneggli to Rinderberg – Gstaad’s Ridgeline Jewel
Gstaad in summer is a dreamy mix of chocolate-box chalets, wildflower meadows, and cow-dotted hills. This panoramic hike from Horneggli to Rinderberg follows a scenic ridge, offering nonstop views over the surrounding Alps.
You’ll pass curious cows, charming pastures, and a small farm selling homemade ice cream—yes, it’s as wholesome as it sounds. Finish your hike with a mountain scooter ride back into the valley for a perfect end to your adventure. It’s not just a hike—it’s a full-day Swiss story.
Where to Stay: Gstaad
Distance: 5.8 km
Time: 2.5 hours
Lunch Stop: We honestly recommend asking the hotel to prepare you a picnic to enjoy wherever you love the views the most!
4. Isenfluh to Lobhorn – The Wild Side of the Berner Oberland
The Berner Oberland is world-famous, but that also means it can be overrun with tour buses. Enter Isenfluh, a quiet alpine outpost that feels worlds away from the crowds. Board another self-operated cable car and find yourself surrounded by alpine silence and breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Choose from shorter routes or take a two-hour trail to Lobhornhütte, stopping by a family-run cheese farm en route. With wildflowers underfoot and snow-capped peaks all around, this hike feels like stepping into a Swiss folk tale. You can return by trail or hop on a mountain scooter for an adrenaline-boosted descent.
Where to Stay: Berner Oberland region
Distance: 3.96km
Time: 2.1 hours
Lunch Stop: We very much recommend the Sulwald Stübli by the cable car – the food is homemade and delicious!
5. Marbachegg – Hürnli – Marbach: Authentic Emmental Charm
This lesser-known trail in the Biosphere Entlebuch region is a gem we love sharing with our guests. The full circular hike can take several hours, but we often tailor it to shorter, easier versions so you don’t miss the best parts—even if you’re tight on time or prefer something gentler.
What makes it so special? The landscapes are pure Emmental: rolling hills, curious cows, and panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Bernese Alps. Along the way, enjoy a hearty Swiss lunch in a rustic mountain farm, where the views are as good as the Rösti. The calm, uncrowded trails here offer an ideal introduction to Switzerland’s rural soul, far removed from the tourist hot spots.
Where to Stay: The Emmental or Bern
Distance: 14.9km
Time: 4h30
Lunch Stop: At the Alp Imbrig, a beautiful farm where the views are incredible and the cows are friendly!
Ready to Hike Switzerland Like a Local?
Whether you’re seeking scenic strolls or high-altitude adventures, we help design luxury travel experiences in Switzerland that go beyond the ordinary. Our hiking routes are handpicked, crowd-free, and always paired with authentic local experiences—from picnic stops to private cheese tastings.
Contact us to create your tailor-made itinerary, complete with unforgettable hikes, hidden viewpoints, and the kind of Swiss storytelling only locals can offer.
We look forward to welcoming you !
Yours,
Chantal & Max
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