Guide to the Via Alpina 1 (Swiss Alpine Pass Route) that crosses Switzerland from east to west from the ancient town of Sargans to Montreux on the shores of Lake Geneva.
Passing through the quieter Alps in the east to the Bernese Oberland, it covers some 386km of mountain and valley and crosses 16 passes with over 20,000m of height gain in eighteen daily stages. This is a fairly tough undertaking, with some longish days and a pass (or more) every day with over 1000m of ascent.
The route is suitable for those with some experience of Alpine trekking and can be completed in 2-3 weeks, although it is also possible to walk shorter sections; alternatively postbus, cable-car and rail connections could be used to allow for a tighter schedule. With a wealth of practical advice and information on local points of interest, the guide has all you need to plan a successful trip.
Step-by-step route descriptions are accompanied by 1:100,000 mapping, route profiles and notes on transport, accommodation and facilities. In addition, a 26km prologue in Liechtenstein and an alternative finish following the old course of the Alpine Pass Route via Gsteig are also described. Accommodation options range from mountain huts to hotels and inns, with camping available at a number of licensed sites along the route.
Much of the scenery of the Alpine Pass Route is quintessentially Swiss: rocky peaks towering above flower-strewn meadows, traditional wooden chalets nestled in sweeping green valleys. Each pass has its own character - from the spectacular Hohturli to bustling Kleine Scheidegg - opening onto new vistas and horizons. This is a journey to savour and one which will linger long in the heart and memory - it showcases some of the country's most breathtaking mountain landscapes, boasting views of iconic peaks such as the Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau and Les Diablerets.
Lots of stunning colour photos, maps etc.
By Kev Reynolds.
Card cover with plastic sleeve, 17.5cm x 11.5cm, 219 pages.
Third Edition 2017.
ISBN: 978-1-85284-927-6.