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Hiking in Switzerland

My husband and I are planning our first trip to Switzerland this fall and I'm trying to figure out the best hike. I've heard that Heuberg Loop has fantastic views throughout. The problem is I've also heard it is not for those with extreme fears of heights - but no one has really expounded as to why.

My husband and I love hiking and usually hike the mountains in Virginia for some good views and scramblers. This doesn't bother him. What does bother him is being on the edge with, what he sees, as weak support. For instance, the viewing bridge at Neuschwanstein Castle - he did cross it, but he HATED it. He almost had a panic attack when it was crowded and he couldn't get off the bridge. (And because it was bouncing a little). He has gone up both the Eiffel Tower and Empire State Building with me...but plastered himself to the inner wall of both. Don't think I force him into these things - he WANTS to do them. It just scares the living soul out of him.

However, when I told him what was said about the loop trail, he was concerned. I don't want to hike for 2 hour and get to a point where he can't cross because it's on the edge of a cliff or something. But if it is well supported and he's not right in the edge, he'll be okay. Can anyone provide any insight on this??

Also, would you suggest any other hikes or even places to visit that provide the best views of the Alps?

Posted by
7209 posts

Base yourself in Murren where there are all kinds of hikes, walks, strolls, climbs right at your front door.

Posted by
6 posts

Switzerland has graded hiking trails and there are trails for everyone. Look for the yellow diamond-shaped "wanderweg" signs and consider trails marked Panoramaweg. They tend to give beautiful views without heart-stopping elements. Stay away from the trails with the red and white markings :). In Switzerland, there is a difference between walking trails, hiking trails and mountain trails. I've learned the hard way.

https://www.schweizmobil.ch/en/hiking-in-switzerland/more-wl/hiking-trail-network-and-signalization.html

Are you thinking about this hike? https://beta.oeschinensee.ch/en/summer/hiking/heuberg/ . ? This hike has quite a few areas with narrow trails, steep drops, and unprotected crossings. And an altitude gain of 3000+ feet. It's a stunning hike, but scary for someone who doesn't enjoy the experience of being on an exposed trail.

There are hundreds of other trails in that area. Alternately, he can enjoy the smaller, less intense trail around the lake and enjoy a beer while waiting for you. :)

Switzerland has 60,000 km of trail. Pick an area you want to visit and you're bound to find something acceptable to both of you. As the previous poster said, Mürren and the Lauterbrunnen Valley area also offers spectacular hiking and vistas and trails for everyone.

Posted by
1174 posts

I know the feeling - we hiked Angel Falls in Zion and when I had to get on my knees, I knew it was time to quit !

We loved the Murren/Wengen/Lauterbrunnen area. Many hikes are trails through meadows and clanging cows. Our favorite from Gimmelwald into Stechelberg was lovely.

Take a look at lauterbrunnenhiking.wordpress.com. They have noted numerous hikes and photos in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.

Posted by
768 posts

If you click on my name you'll find a link where I have a dozen hikes listed in the area, with maps and pics. I point out the two (Baregg and Schynige Platte) that skirt steep areas. The others are tame but beautiful. See the pics to judge for yourself.

Posted by
90 posts

Thank you all so much for the responses! We actually will have a car so we will be driving through the area.
I spoke with my husband last night about the responses and did a little more digging on the trail - he says he wants to go for it... I guess we'll see :-)

I'm actually looking to start the day early with a hike probably around Oeschinensee and then head to the Jungfrau Region for an afternoon casually exploring Murren/Wengen area. However, I've heard that it is most clear in the early mornings - is there a lot of truth to that? Would it be smarter to head to Jungfrau Region early in the morning and then hit Oeschinensee in the afternoon?

You all have been great and I really appreciate all the tips and tricks and suggestions!
You guys are awesome!

Posted by
33821 posts

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