Walking Tour of the Val d’Anniviers

The actual daily hiking time (excluding breaks) ranges from 3h40 (on the first day) to an average estimate of 7h30. This tour is designed for moderately experienced but well-trained hikers. The route has few technical difficulties and should be comfortable if you’re used to hiking in the mountains. You’ll be able to walk at your own pace, take a break for picnics along the way, and soak in the scenery of the valley.

As you hike, you’ll pass views of the Imperial Crown, with its 6 summits of more than 4000 meters: Bishorn, Weisshorn, Zinalrothorn, Obergabelhorn, Dent Blanche, and Matterhorn. These peaks are renowned globally for how impressive they are and this trek is the perfect way to see them all. You’ll also spend time at the Moiry dam, which is a shade of blue like no other. There’s a bus stop here in case you need to descend to the valley, and a restaurant with a view of the dam as well. You’ll pass through multiple nature reserves and see the towns of the area, really getting a full picture of Anniviers.

There are a few ways to attempt this tour. Either you can hike it independently and book the huts yourself, or you can book the tour directly through Anniviers Tourism. Booking with Anniviers Tourism has a few benefits, as they’ll take care of your hut bookings (with tourist tax), all food (full board), and provide you with a topographic map, 1:25’000, of Val d’Anniviers. You will need to bring a lunch for the first day, though.

This trail is accessible from June 26 to September 15, based on the opening dates of the mountain huts. Outside this period, the tour is still possible, but overnight stays will possibly require alternative accommodations.

Keep in mind that the weather in the high mountains is never stagnant, and can change at any moment. You’ll want to pack for this, bringing hiking clothing and gear that can withstand the elements.

If you’re unsure of the conditions, you can call the hut wardens before you go for a real-time report of how accessible the trail is. Additionally, you’ll want to keep an eye on the weather each day before you leave the hut to start hiking. Sometimes delaying your start by just one hour can save you a lot of discomfort!

This trail’s paths sometimes cross areas without clear markings, where there may be steep slopes and narrow, exposed passages. They are intended for hikers with good physical fitness, mountain experience, and an awareness of altitude-related risks. Proper equipment and thorough preparation will be necessary to make sure you have a safe and environmentally respectful hike.

Here are some important guidelines to follow:

• Stay on marked trails.
• Always close gates and fences behind you.
• Take regular breaks and stay well-hydrated.
• If thunderstorms are a risk, start early—storms often occur in the late afternoon.
• If bad weather approaches, seek shelter quickly.
• In case of difficulty, do not take unnecessary risks and turn back if needed.
• Respect nature and follow the regulations in protected areas.

The Walking Tour of the Val d’Anniviers is a medium-difficulty trail. Daily, you’ll ascend between 750-1015 meters, and on the final day, you will descend 1676 meters. This can be trying on your knees, so it’s important to train for a trail like this! Bringing hiking poles will also be beneficial in packing for the tour.

Training for the Walking Tour of the Val d’Anniviers will make it a much more enjoyable experience. Try taking training hikes around your local area, bringing a full pack with you. It’s best if you stay out as long as you can on these hikes, as some of the days on this trail can be up to 7.5 hours of walking.