Walk and Discover
I am continuously updating this page with newly discovered walking trails and hikes.
The links below will take you to the trails that I have discovered so far. They range from easy to difficult and give a peak into Switzerland’s colourful culture, traditions and wonderfully varied natural environment.
Below the links, I have added a guide to walking and hiking signposts, including what their colours indicate.
Make a choice – Alpine hiking, mountain trails or rambling through the countryside
You have the choice – by keeping an eye on the signs and colours you can choose to take the tough, medium or easy route.
Signs also show the official Swiss routes in green and white
Clearly visible in a snowy environment
Photos by A.Leggett
Sign Meanings
Alpine routes – bold blue sign with arrowhead marked white/blue/white.
This is where you take the Panorama Path along the mountain ridge, brave the scree on the slopes or start climbing rather than walking – with the aid of ropes and ladders.
Quote from Swiss Mobility as to the fitness level required: “Users of Alpine routes must be surefooted, have a head for heights, be physically very fit and know how to use ropes and pick axe as well as being able to negotiate climbing sections with the aid of their hands. They must have knowledge of dangers in the mountains. In addition to the equipment for mountain trails, an altimeter, compass, rope and pick axe for crossing glaciers are essential. Signalization of Alpine routes is a blue signpost with a white-blue-white tip, white-blue-white painted stripes confirm the route. The information panels at the beginning of Alpine routes indicate special requirements. SwitzerlandMobility websites do not include Alpine routes.”
Mountain Trails – Yellow sign with arrowhead marked white/red/white.
Parts of this kind of trail are challenging and often steep. You may find yourself looking nervously downwards as they can also be narrow and exposed to steep drops. Ropes or chains are sometimes used on difficult sections and there is the possibility of exposure to conditions such as fords, rocky areas and barely marked trails. Having all these conditions together isn’t often the case however it is good to be aware. I have done a few of these hikes and haven’t seen many chains but I admit that I plan to avoid the more challenging hiking trails.
With all this action it is a good idea to be fit, have a head for heights and be aware of the dangers of going off the track. You will need the correct equipment such as hiking boots with ankle protection. I recommend using a topographical map. This way you will be fully aware of the trail conditions and can relax and enjoy the whole experience.
Hiking Trails – Yellow signs with yellow arrowheads
These are never too demanding – there may be steps, bridges and, sometimes grassy, muddy areas – now and then you may come across a cow or two but they are harmless (Unless you decide to seriously annoy them).
