Trans Swiss Trail

As you journey, you’ll cross through three distinct language regions, transitioning from French to German and then to the Italian-speaking part of Switzerland. This diversity is also reflected in the architecture and culinary offerings. Beginning in the quaint town of Porrentruy, the trail leads you through the rolling hills of the Jura Mountains and the lake region near Bern. Next, you’ll stroll through the idyllic Emmental and reach the breathtaking Lake Lucerne. Following historic mule tracks, you’ll reach the Gotthard Pass, the highest point of the Trans Swiss Trail. On the southern side of the massif, you’ll notice a change in landscape and climate, with Italian influences evident in the charming villages and Mediterranean vegetation. Passing through the chic city of Lugano, the route continues to impressive viewpoints overlooking Lake Lugano. Finally, you’ll reach your destination in Mendrisio, renowned for its historical buildings.

Each stage concludes in towns or cities with a good selection of accommodations. During the peak season, it’s advisable to book your overnight stay in advance. Thanks to the well-developed public transportation network, you can shorten or extend most sections by taking a bus or train. Both the starting point and endpoint of the Trans Swiss Trail have railway stations.

The majority of the stages are easy, long-distance hikes, so most of the trail is suitable for all fitness levels. Thanks to the dense public transportation network, shortcuts and switching to train, bus, or ship are possible anytime. A comprehensive range of hotel accommodations also makes the staging of the journey easier. It is very easy to adjust the length of each stage or combine 2 stages. You can also get accommodation in a specific region and do day trips from there to reduce the weight of your backpack.

It is advisable to do the hike over several stages or even years to be able to enjoy the difference of each region. Otherwise, parts of the hike can become quite monotonous since some stages are flat long-distance hikes along rivers without many changes in the scenery.

The majority of the stages can be done throughout the entire year. Crossing mountain ranges or passes like the Gotthard can only be done between July – October without any snow, so it is advisable to plan those stages during the snow-free summer months. Keep in mind that you will also find snow in Ticino.

If you have trouble with one of the stages due to snow, you can also take alternative routes or take public transport to the next stages, which is no problem for any of the stages.

How you prepare for this hike will depend on your itinerary and how much of the trail you plan to tackle. If you’re planning to thru-hike the Trans Swiss Trail, you’ll need to prepare with the goal of carrying your life on your back for a long time. However, if you plan to section hike the trail, like most people do, then you have more flexibility. We have packing lists on the site for all types of hike to help you prepare!

Either way, you’ll need to train properly both your physical and mental skills for being in the mountains for so long. Bring lots of water (at least 2 liters a day) and snacks to keep your energy up.

You’ll also want to share your itinerary with someone you trust and include the day you think you’ll finish. If something changes, be sure to update them on the new plan.