Walking and Hiking Holidays in the Alps

Set foot in the magnificent Alps; picture soaring snow-capped peaks, wildflower meadows alive with colour, crystal-clear lakes, and charming mountain villages nestled in lush green valleys. Spanning France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and Germany, this extraordinary mountain range offers some of the finest walking in all of Europe, and our expert-led small group tours bring it to life like no other.

Take adventures in your stride as you traverse ancient mule paths, panoramic ridgelines and idyllic alpine pastures while embracing the true highlights of this breathtaking landscape; on walking holidays in the Alps. From the dramatic Dolomites to the flower-filled meadows of the Bernese Oberland, there is a remarkable diversity of hikes on offer. Venture on a guided walking holiday in Austria's Tyrol to discover exhilarating high-altitude trails with our experienced leaders; before unwinding in a traditional spa village with a well-deserved glass of local wine. Or take on the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc, one of the world's most celebrated long-distance routes, crossing three countries beneath the gaze of western Europe's highest peak.

With over 75 years of expertise in walking holidays, Ramble Worldwide offers the widest choice in the Alps. Choose from guided group adventures, self-guided independent walks, relaxed Adagio explorations, and our brand-new Weekend Walking Trips, all graded from leisurely to challenging so you can find exactly the right holiday for you.

The Alps offer walking adventures surrounded by some of the most awe-inspiring mountain scenery on the planet. Here, every trail reveals something extraordinary, from ancient shepherds' paths winding through aromatic pine forests to panoramic routes that trace the edges of glaciers where the views seem to stretch on forever. This is walking that truly takes your breath away.

What sets a Ramble Worldwide Alps holiday apart? You'll walk with the confidence of an expert, qualified leader by your side, someone who knows the trails intimately, shares the legends and history behind every landscape, and ensures your safety and enjoyment throughout. Our carefully selected leaders bring a wealth of local knowledge, from identifying alpine wildflowers crushed beneath your boots to recommending the best mountain hut for a restorative Apfelstrudel. It's a level of insight and reassurance that simply isn't possible when walking alone.

Travel in a small group of like-minded walkers (typically around 10 to 14), where sociable mealtimes, shared summit moments, and new friendships are all part of the experience. Around half of our group members travel solo, so you'll always be in welcoming company.

And with Ramble Worldwide, you can book with complete confidence. We're fully protected and regulated by ATOL, ABTA, and AITO, and we're proud to be a Which? Recommended Provider in the Walking Tours category. Our prices include flights, airport transfers, accommodation, most meals, and the services of your expert leader, so there are no hidden costs or hassle. We take care of everything; all you need to do is walk.

The Swiss Alps are a walker's paradise, where an exceptional network of trails leads you through landscapes of staggering beauty. We use mountain railways, cable cars, and gondolas to access high alpine pastures with ease, so you can stroll amidst vibrant wildflowers with the Matterhorn, Eiger, and Jungfrau as your backdrop. Base yourself in Zermatt for a week of exceptional walking in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn, or enjoy the serene elegance of the Bernese Oberland. Share a wood-fired melted raclette, fresh local cheeses, and indulge in artisanal Swiss chocolate after a fulfilling day on the trail.

Austria is a captivating blend of historical richness and stunning alpine landscapes. Whether it's easy walking in Zell am See beside a crystal-clear lake, alpine exploration from the traditional spa village of Bad Hofgastein, or trekking the Hochkönig Panorama Trail in Maria Alm with jaw-dropping views of the Berchtesgaden Alps, there is something for everyone. Many of our Austrian holidays offer the choice of two walks, two leaders, and two grades each day, so mixed-ability groups and couples can walk together and still find the perfect challenge. Relax in rustic mountain huts with a local beer, coffee, or apple strudel, and end each evening in a welcoming four-star alpine hotel.

The Dolomites stand as a truly unique natural wonder. These jagged peaks, with their towering stone walls, lush pine forests, cascading waterfalls, and remnants of World War I rock tunnels, are accessible through an extensive network of paths. Walk amongst the unrivalled beauty of the "Pale Mountains" in German-speaking South Tyrol, where Italian and Austrian cuisine combines to create dishes like Knödeln (dumplings) and fresh mountain pasta. From dramatic limestone pinnacles to picture-perfect alpine meadows, this UNESCO World Heritage landscape captivates every visitor. Take it easy on a leisurely Adagio holiday or challenge yourself on a high-altitude Dolomite trek. Alternatively, walk the magnificent Alpine paths of the Aosta Valley, held to be one of the most spectacular corners of the Italian Alps

Where better to enjoy a cool beer or a glass of wine after a thrilling walk than in a traditional Bavarian beer garden? Discover Bavaria's dramatic landscapes from the health-focused town of Bad Kohlgrub, with hundreds of hiking trails on your doorstep. Pass waterfalls, flower-filled meadows, and pretty Bavarian villages with fairytale castles on the horizon. Capture the beauty of the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle and follow the tranquil Ammer River past impressive waterfalls in the Ammer Gorge. There will be plenty of traditional cakes and drinks to enjoy!

From the legendary slopes of Mont Blanc to the little-known Aravis Mountains and the enchanting lakeside town of Annecy, the French Alps offer walking that is as varied as it is spectacular. Take on the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc, crossing three countries on one of the world's most celebrated long-distance routes, or journey through sweeping meadows and scenic passes between rugged peaks to the medieval charm of Annecy, known as the "Venice of the Alps" for its canals and pretty cobbled streets. Savour the finest French cuisine along the way, from local Reblochon cheese and tartiflette to hearty mountain fare. The French Alps perfectly combine alpine grandeur with Gallic charm.

The Alps reward walkers all year round, and our collection of holidays is designed to make the most of every season.

Summer (June to September) is when the Alps truly come alive. As the snow retreats, meadows burst into colour with vibrant wildflowers, ice-blue lakes glisten beneath clear skies, and the long, sunlit days are perfect for reaching panoramic summits. Listen for cowbells ringing out across alpine pastures, look out for marmots and chamois in the high meadows, and linger over dinner on a sun-drenched terrace as the peaks glow pink at sunset. The majority of our Alps walking holidays run during these glorious months, from the Mighty Matterhorn in Zermatt and the Hochkönig Panorama Trail in Maria Alm to the leisurely Delightful Dolomites and the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc.

Winter offers a wonderfully different perspective. Visit the enchanting village of Kandersteg deep in the Bernese Oberland on our Winter Walks in Kandersteg holiday, where charming log chalets overlook a glacier lake and the thrill of walking through snow-dusted landscapes is unforgettable. Or strap on a pair of snowshoes in St. Zyprian in the Dolomites, setting out across crisp snow, unmarked apart from the occasional fox and bird track, for a pure wilderness experience. In Austria, go snowshoeing from Bach in the Lechtal to see the glorious Kalbele and Korber lakes.

Short on time? Our brand-new Weekend Walking Trips in the Alps offer two to three days of guided walking through spectacular alpine scenery, with comfortable accommodation and authentic dining included. They're the perfect way to enjoy a taste of the mountains, whether as a refreshing escape, a first-time alpine experience, or a complement to a longer trip.

Expert Local Knowledge

Our experienced, qualified guides bring the Alps' rich heritage to life on every walk. They'll share the legends tied to the landscapes, explain the history of ancient trade routes and mountain communities, and help you identify the wildflowers, birds, and wildlife encountered along the trail. From recommending the best mountain huts for a restorative stop to knowing where the most spectacular viewpoints are found, their insights transform good walks into unforgettable journeys. With Ramble Worldwide, you're never walking alone.

Accommodation & Dining

Stay in carefully chosen accommodation that showcases alpine hospitality, from traditional wooden chalets and guesthouses in mountain villages to comfortable four-star hotels with spa facilities and panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. We select properties known for warm welcome and authentic character. Evening meals feature regional specialities: perhaps a wood-fired raclette in Switzerland, hearty Tyrolean fare in Austria, or fresh pasta in the Dolomites, always accompanied by local wine and genuine alpine warmth.

Luggage Transfers

On our multi-day walking holidays in the Alps, we arrange seamless luggage transfers between accommodations. Trek high alpine paths with just a light daypack containing water and sun protection while your main luggage travels ahead to your next hotel. This allows you to tackle challenging mountain passes or long valley walks without carrying heavy bags under the alpine sun. It's one less thing to think about, so you can focus entirely on the scenery and the experience.

Well-Planned Itineraries

Our Alps walking holidays are thoughtfully crafted to:

Balance famous summit panoramas with hidden local treasures

Include stops at mountain huts and lakeside refreshment points

Offer easier and harder walk options where possible, with two leaders and two grades on selected holidays

Make use of cable cars, gondolas, and mountain railways for scenic access to higher ground

Allow time for cultural exploration and relaxation

Make the most of the Alps' extraordinary culinary traditions

 Small Group Experience

Travel in small groups of typically 10 to 14 walkers, ideal for navigating narrow mountain paths and creating meaningful connections with locals and fellow travellers. Share the joy of reaching a spectacular summit viewpoint or discovering a secluded alpine lake with like-minded companions who appreciate the timeless appeal of the mountains. Around half of our group members travel solo, so whether you're joining us on your own or with a companion, you'll always be in wonderful company.

Book with Confidence We're fully protected and regulated by ATOL, ABTA, and AITO, and we're a Which? Recommended Provider in the Walking Tours category. With our surcharge policy, no credit or debit card fees, and 100% financial protection, you can relax knowing you're in safe hands from the moment you book until the moment you return home.