This self- guided trek links the Swiss villages of the hiker's haute route and allows simpler logistics, a shorter hiking time and a grand finish along a high level route into Saas Fee.You will cross the Valais by a number of high passes and connect a number of small villages with their blackened timber houses and slate roofs while enjoying outstanding views of the Pennine alps, including the Dent Blanche, Obergabelhorn, Weisshorn, Matterhorn and the ring of 4000 meter peaks surrounding Saas Fee. Accommodations include a mix of charming country inns and simple hostelries.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Travel by rail to Arolla for an overnight in a atmospheric old turn of the century hotel.

Day 2 A spectacular hike lies ahead with views of Mont Collon. L'Eveque, the Pigne D'Arolla, the Aiguilles Rouges and the Val D'Herens. Overnight in a simple inn in the traditional village of Les Hauderes.

Day 3 Ascend through pastures (one often sees the women raking hay in traditional costume here) with views back to the Aiguilles Rouges, the Grand Combin and the Alps in France. Transfer to St. Luc and a charming old world inn.

Day 4 Cross a pass with views back to the Aiguilles Rouges and the Dent D'Herens, and forward to the peaks above Zermatt: the Matterhorn, OberGabelhorn, Dent Blanche and Weisshorn. Overnight in a simple hostelry in the remote Turtmanntal.

Day 5 Another pass lies ahead, this one along a medieval trading route with views of the Mischabel range separating Zermatt from Saas Fee and the peaks of the Oberland to the southeast. Transfer to Grachen and a comfortable first class inn with superb cuisine and every comfort and amenity.

Day 6 Enjoy a grand excursion along one of the Alps' great hohenwegs, or high level paths from Grachen. A lift ride gives you a boost, and you will traverse the length of the Saastal with views into the Oberland and to the peaks and glaciers surrounding Saas Fee. Overnight at a restaurant with a few small rooms. The rustic atmosphere and the managing family make your stay here very special. Enjoy the atmosphere and the regional cuisine. After dinner, the proprietor often gets going on his accordion and the locals yodel. To substitute a night in a gourmet retreat in Saas Fee for the simple inn, add an additional $175 .

Day 7 Depart.