Luxury Alps Hiking Tours
made for you
Go hiking in the rugged peaks of the European Alps
The Alps form a massive crescent-shaped mountain arc that stretches from France through Italy, Switzerland, Austria, as far as Albania. Though only Switzerland and Austria are considered true alpine countries, it’s on the French-Italian border that you’ll find the highest peak in Western Europe and one of the most legendary mountains in the world, Mont Blanc. Ascending the cable cars from Chamonix to the summit of the Aiguille du Midi (at 3,842 metres) is an unforgettable experience, taking in panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the French, Swiss and Italian Alps.
The great joy of the Alps is that you don’t have to be a climber or an extreme adventurer to enjoy its peaks and valleys, there are cable cars, cogwheel railways and funiculars that transport you high into the mountains, to hike mighty glaciers, explore well-marked trekking trails and tackle challenging via ferrata routes. Here in postcard-perfect alpine villages like Gstaad and Chamonix, you’ll find elegant hotels and Michelin-star mountain restaurants showcasing local produce like cheese and cured meats.
In summer, when wildflowers dot the alpine meadows, the Alps climate is cooler than on the coast or in the city, and less crowded. And in winter, when the slopes are blanketed in snow, a deep silence descends on its valleys. Whether you want to combine hiking in the French Alps with thrilling via ferrata climbing in the Italian Alps, or a tranquil spa break in the Austrian Lakes with an expert-led glacier hike in the Swiss Alps, our travel designers will create you a tailor-made itinerary for your hiking tour.
Highlights
Take a cog train to Jungfraujoch, the top of Europe, to hike on the Aletsch Glacier with views of the Eiger
Trek to the Dolomiti di Brenta from Madonna di Campiglio, a classic Dolomites loop trail that traverses from Vallesinella valley to Rifugio Tuckett
Hike through lush alpine meadows around the charming Swiss resort town of Interlaken
Indulge in hearty regional mountain specialities like rösti (crispy potato pancakes), raclette and fondue
Ride on the Zugspitze Cable Railway in Austria’s beautiful Tyrol region, from Ehrwald to the summit of the Zugspitze in Germany
There is nothing like the natural beauty and tranquillity of the European Alps, with their glorious surroundings and exclusive resort towns. For hiking, I recommend spending some time in the Swiss and French Alps, accompanied by a private mountain guide.
Meg Simpson
Senior Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in the Alps
Why book with Jacada?
Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.
Responsible travel
Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
Where to go
Austria
The Austrian Alps cover much of western and central Austria and feature some of Europe's most spectacular alpine scenery and charming mountain towns.
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France
The French Alps, along France's eastern border, are home to stunning cable car rides and dramatic mountain scenery including Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak.
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Italy
The Dolomites and the Italian Alps rise from northern Italy like ancient cathedrals of stone – their pale slopes and emerald meadows creating some of the country's most striking mountain landscapes.
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Switzerland
The Swiss Alps offer historic towns and alpine villages, snow-crowned mountains etched by hiking trails, and rolling meadows carpeted with spring flowers.
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When to visit
The European Alps reward visitors in every season, with summer (June-August) providing the prime window for hiking and outdoor activities. Wildflower meadows are at their most spectacular in June and July and the temperature is comfortable, reaching 24–30°C (75.2–86°F) in southern French Alps and The Dolomites – a refreshing escape from the Mediterranean’s sweltering southern regions. Spring (March–May) brings the magic of snowmelt and trail reopenings, while autumn (September-November) paints the mountains in golden hues with crisp, clear air perfect for photography. Winter (December–February) transforms the Alps into a wonderland of winter activities and hiking opportunities.
The beauty of the Alps lies in their year-round accessibility, whether you’re drawn to blooming pastures and azure lakes in summer or the serene, snow-covered landscapes of winter.
Hiking
April–September
Sightseeing
Year-round
Wildflowers
June–July
Swimming
June–September
Plan your trip to The Alps
Whatever you want from your adventure in the Alps, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
Your trip, your story
We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.
Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.
