Mountaineering
and Climbing Ascents in the Swiss Alps

The 4000 summits in the Swiss Alps between Zermatt and Saas Fee:

A stone's throw from Chamonix and Mont Blanc, the Valais massif is the second highest massif in Europe. With Pointe Dufour which rises to 4634 meters above sea level, the resorts of Zermatt and Saas Fee are among the most beautiful villages in the Alps, characterised by the beautiful chalets typical of the Walser people.

Access from France is quick along the Geneva Lake or via the Col des Montets from the Chamonix Valley. Access via Italy is also fairly quick by the Grand Saint Bernard Tunnel or its altitude pass.

Zermatt, at the feet of the Matterhorn and the Dent d'Hérens, is the capital of Swiss mountaineering, you have to take a train to access the center of Zermatt which is pedestrianised.

The Zermatt ski resort has a high altitude area, the highest ski area in Europe, with the summit of Gobba di Rollin at 3899 meters, near Breithorn at 4164 meters. The valleys of Saas Fee and Zermatt will offer you exceptional mountain stays. For those who love adventure trip, there is something for all tastes and levels: from climbing on the snowy ridges, to discovering the hiking trails at the feet of Matterhorn at the heart of a mountain setting of breathtaking beauty!

The giants of Swiss Wallis! Mountaineers know them well, they are peaks that can be seen from many places in the Alps because some are the highest points of Switzerland. The Swiss Alps are characterised by glacial panoramas of Himalayan beauty. Esprit Montagne has selected the major summits in Wallis, accessible for mountaineers with previous experience.

Esprit Montagne offers several peaks at 4000 meters in Switzerland:

Mountaineering Week 3rd Level - Weissmies - Alphubel

In three days, we offer you the ascent of two summits that can be organised in a group of maximum two people, in addition to the Mountain Guide. In three days you will be able to achieve two great 4000 summits and, if you wish, you can continue with other peaks such as Nadelhorn.

The Wallis is a massif reminiscent of the Himalayas with impressive faces, several thousand meters high and of exceptional beauty. Sometimes it is possible to discover large wild and unknown spaces right next door, where we would never have imagined being able to meet a nature of such beauty and immensity!

Mountaineering Week 4th level - The Dome of Michabel and the Pointe Dufour

This program will take you to the discovery of the two highest summits in Switzerland: the Mischabel Dome (4545 meters) and the Dufour Spitze (4634 meters). The Mischabel Dome is not technically difficult, but the vertical drop and the length of the mountaineering route are important. The Dufour Spitze is technically more difficult. We offer the combination of these two mountaineering ascents during our 4th level of mountaineering, after having done several other climbs together which will have you prepared both physically and technically.

41 is the number of peaks over 4000 meters above sea level that are part of the Swiss Alps!

Located between Italy and Switzerland, the Swiss Wallis is known for the multitude of peaks over 4000 meters above sea level which characterise its massif: Monte Rosa, Breithorn, Castor, Lyskamm, Nadelhorn and its Nadelgrat, the Chaine des Mischabels (Mischabels range), Grand Combin or even the Bishorn. Here you will discover the immensity of the glaciers and the beauty of the Swiss summits!

Saas Fee: the “Pearl of the Alps”!

The Saas-Fee station is located in the canton of Valais, more precisely in the Saas valley, a side valley that runs from Stalden to the Mattmark dam. The village is located at an altitude of 1800 meters, at the feet of the vast glacial cirque of the Mischabels range and the “Fee” glacier. The Mischabels Range is composed by the summits of Täschhorn (4491 meters), Lenzspitze (4294 meters) and the Dom, the highest mountain entirely on Swiss territory (4545 meters). However, the Allalinhorn (4041 meters) remains the symbolic mountain of Saas-Fee, with its faces completely covered with ice.

Saas Fee is accessible by car, but the village is completely pedestrianised, for everyone's happiness. A very large underground car parking allows cars to be left outside the village just before entering the station, then luggage transport is organised with electric vehicles. Despite its rapid development since the opening of the road in 1951, the village of Saas Fee has retained its traditional charm with its beautiful, typical Wallis chalets.

Saas Fee in winter:

The Saas-Fee ski area develops at the feet of the Allalinhorn, between 1800 and 3500 meters above sea level, and is characterised by its 100 kilometres of downhill ski slopes at the heart of a breathtaking glacial arc.

Esprit Montagne offers the ascent of the summits of the Monte Rosa massif in Switzerland, but in Italy as well:

The Monte Rosa Traverse takes place in Italy - this mountaineering program can be taken as training to then be able to do some more difficult ascents, such the ones in the Swiss Wallis.

The Italian refuges are very comfortable and allow one of the most beautiful altitude routes in the Alps. It is a great preparation to then achieve more difficult summits such as Nadelhorn or Mont Blanc.

The Crossing of Monte Rosa, better known as the "Spaghetti Tour"

Spaghetti Tour is a week that should be on every mountaineer’s bucket list. It’s a trip that never disappoints and it will probably have you coming back to sample more…
With this peculiar name is known the Monte Rosa Tour, starting from Cervinia and arriving in Gressoney: we are making it shorter to simplify the logistic, to start from and return to Gressoney.
Many consider these mountains and valleys as the finest in the whole Alpine range. It is probably the most beautiful Alpine Route in the Alps with unique landscapes and a variety of incredible views: the gorgeous Monte Rosa Tour, known as Spaghetti Tour, is a crossing at altitude around the Lyskam, Breithorn and Castore massifs, which allows you to reach different peaks above 4000 meters in just few days, comfortably sleeping in the impressive Monte Rosa huts, well known for the quality of their Italian food… Every day we will reach the summit of a 4000 peak, mostly following the itinerary of the famous "Mezzalama Trophy" sky race.
We start from Staffal in the valley of Gressoney, taking the cable car that brings us to the Bettaforca Pass and therefore reach the Rifugio Quintino Sella, where we will be sleeping the first night and from where we will leave at dawn to climb Castor (4221 mt.) the next day. On the third day we will cross the Lys’ Glacier and the Lyskamm Nose Pass (4272 mt.) and head towards the Città di Mantova Hut, where we will spend the night. The next day we will  walk along the great Monte Rosa Glaciers to finally reach the famous Capanna Margherita (4554 mt), Europe's highest Hut where, before walking back again, we will taste Italy's highest pizza!
There are many variations that can be applied to the itinerary, which will be evaluated according to physical conditions and technical level of the group.

Which easy peaks to climb in Switzerland? 

Switzerland is home to many easy to climb and famous peaks for beginners and less experienced mountaineers. There are several peaks in Switzerland that can be climbed with basic mountaineering skills and an experienced Mountain Guide for safety reasons. Here are some examples of easier peaks for mountaineering in Switzerland:

- Pigne d'Arolla: Located in the Valais Alps, this is a 3,796 metre peak that can be climbed in one day from the Dix hut. The ascent does not present any major technical difficulty, but requires a good physical condition.

- Mountaineering course in Chamonix - Switzerland: this route is perfect for beginners looking to discover glaciers. This course will introduce you to some climbing techniques that may allow you to make a more technical ascent. 

Come and discover it with the link right here!

- Mountaineering course in Vanoise: This course is not in Switzerland but is perfect for people who want to start mountaineering! Away from the crowds and with not too long days, this tour is ideal for beginners. You will walk between chamois and ibex!

Want to do your first mountaineering course in the Vanoise National Park in France? Click here for more information.

It is important to note that even for peaks considered easy, a certain amount of experience and physical fitness is required to make a safe ascent. It is also highly recommended to hire a competent mountain guide to accompany you on your ascent!

Which difficult and famous peaks to climb in the Swiss Alps? 

Switzerland offers many opportunities for mountaineering, with famous peaks that attract climbers from all over the world. Here are some of the most famous peaks for mountaineering in Switzerland:

- Matterhorn Climbing: Located in the Valais Alps, the Matterhorn is one of the most famous peaks in the world and one of the most difficult and dangerous to climb. The normal route, via the Italian side, is considered to be one of the most difficult and dangerous of all the normal alpine routes.

- The Nadelhorn: This very technical and physical glacier climb is one of the most beautiful mountaineering routes in the Swiss Valais massif. It offers spectacular views that you won't soon forget! 

Do you want to take up the challenge? Find out more here!

- The Valais 4000s: The two peaks of Weissmies and Alphubel are a must for experienced mountaineers looking for unforgettable climbing memories!

- Mont Blanc: Although not located in Switzerland, Chamonix is only 30 minutes away from Martigny in Switzerland with a railway line connecting Chamonix to Martigny.

 Climbing Mont Blanc is a difficult undertaking and requires good physical fitness and mountaineering experience!

These peaks are just a few examples of what Switzerland has to offer in terms of mountaineering, however, they represent some of the most famous and difficult challenges mountaineers can face in the world!

Accidents and risks of mountaineering in Switzerland: 

Switzerland is known for its beautiful scenery and mountaineering challenges. However, mountaineering is an activity with many risks and it is important to understand these risks and how to spot them before engaging in any such activity. Risks can be related to adverse weather conditions, terrain conditions, poor preparation or planning. This is why it is important to go with an experienced Mountain Guide who will not only ensure safety but also teach you techniques to become increasingly self-sufficient.

Where to go mountaineering in Switzerland?

Switzerland is a paradise for mountaineering enthusiasts, offering iconic peaks and breathtaking scenery. Here are just a few of the top destinations:

• Massif du Mont-Blanc: Although shared with France, the Swiss side, particularly from Trient, offers spectacular technical routes.
• Zermatt and the Matterhorn: The mythical Matterhorn is an icon for experienced climbers.
• Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau: In the Bernese Oberland region, these imposing peaks offer a variety of challenges.
• Saas-Fee: Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Alps”, it's ideal for glacier climbs like Allalinhorn or Dom des Mischabel.
• Graubünden: With Piz Bernina, the only summit in the eastern Alps above 4,000 m, this region is prized for its diversity of itineraries.
• The Uranese Alps: peaks such as the Sustenhorn and Dammastock attract visitors for their accessibility and alpine scenery.
• Val d'Hérens and Dent Blanche: Technical peaks for experienced mountaineers, with spectacular panoramic views.

These destinations offer routes suitable for all levels, with experienced guides and well-maintained refuges for memorable experiences.

Which is the most beautiful mountain in Switzerland?

The Matterhorn is often considered the most beautiful mountain in Switzerland, and one of the most iconic in the world. Located near Zermatt, this 4,478-metre pyramidal peak dominates the landscape with its perfect lines and majestic allure. Its impressive and formidable north face attracts the most daring climbers, while its silhouette attracts photographers and nature lovers alike. It's also the symbol of the Toblerone brand, which has made it famous far beyond Switzerland's borders. The Matterhorn is also surrounded by a rich history of exploration, marked by the first ascent in 1865, which remains a legend in the world of mountaineering. In addition to its unique aesthetics, the Matterhorn's surroundings offer magnificent trails, shimmering lakes such as Riffelsee, and unforgettable panoramas, making this mountain one of Switzerland's natural and cultural jewels.

What is the highest mountain in Switzerland?

At 4,545 metres, Dom des Mischabel is the highest mountain entirely in Switzerland. Nestled in the Valais Alps, near the charming valley of Saas-Fee, it is part of the Mischabels massif, famous for its spectacular ridges and glacial landscapes. Less well known than the Matterhorn or Monte Rosa, the Dom's wild character and its access reserved for experienced mountaineers make it a real attraction. The classic ascent often begins at the Domhütte hut, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Despite its relative discretion, the Dom is a technical and physical challenge, requiring excellent condition and a good command of glacier walking. Its rugged beauty and isolation make it a popular destination for mountain enthusiasts looking for an authentic experience in an unspoilt setting.