They should be waterproof, and you should have worn them at least a few times before the trip. Haute Route Photo Gallery; Trip Itinerary; 2021 Haute Route Tour dates: From mid-March until beginning of May. See our Privacy Policy for further details. All the other lodging was good, too, and the huts exceeded my expectations, as did the food. Contact me to plan, design your ski tour. The food was pretty decent across the board as well, save breakfast. Chanrion also comfortable Bertol a real experience and very friendly welcome. Hotel Glacier in Arolla was excellent as was the Sonne in Zermatt…” Both complement each other.  Adaptor for European charging system. Recent Haute Route Ski Tour Trip Reports . —Jim R., UK, “Thank you all for the excellent administration, granting discounts and upgrades and lastly for delivering quite superb weather. As with most mountain trips (and most things in life in all reality), a little bit of flexibility goes a long way. Is it any surprise we had such a cracking adventure…” Travel by train is convenient: board the train from Geneva-Cointrin to Geneva–Cornavin (one stop; six minute ride) and walk to the hotel (500 meters). The Hiker’s “Haute Route” is an entirely non-technical hike without any glacier travel or exposed trails. Sign me up to receive your Enewsletter, announcing new adventures and special offers. The trip ends in Akureyri where you can either relax for the night and enjoy the town or catch a flight back to Reykjavik. We did not spend a lot of time with Didier, but he was very friendly. From the Chanrion Hut, the original Haute Route's standard route has shifted to the Les Porton, a far more attractive climb than the long trudge up the seemingly endless Glacier d'Otemma. I also appreciated their (and on top’s) flexibility with regard to changing our plans the last day. Mountain Dropoffs is our go-to for transfers between Geneva and Chamonix Valley (Argentiere). It is usually cheaper to buy a SIM card in France but you must have an unlocked phone.  Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or similar) Not fancy, but clean, in great locations, small family-run places with alot of history. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. — Murray C., Australia, “Thomas was an excellent guide. Considering the locations of the lodges we thought they were fine. I am positive that Rosalinda would agree.  Wind and waterproof over-pants with side zippers (Gore-Tex or similar) The trip usually finishes after lunch together, however many of our clients prefer to stay in Zermatt, in which case we offer to arrange and add additional hotel lodging to your trip itinerary. Pretty and super clean rooms in all three spots that I personally stayed, Argentiere, Champex and Geneva. Itinerary: In general, I think the days were perfect, balancing the correct amount of altitude gain and sleeping in relatively high-altitude huts, versus effort per each day. Needed more info about how much cash to take into mountains. We seldom saw other Americans on this trip. The trip had a few ‘escape’ routes in Champex and again another night where a person could bail if it was too much. Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Day time temperatures can vary between 30°C (86°F) in the valleys to -10°C (14°F) on clear mornings when we start our day from a high-level hut. Haute Route Essentials Be Prepared for a Great Adventure You already know that theHaute Routeis the most scenic trail in Europe. He was very open and easy to communicate with and genuinely seemed to enjoy his time with us. Without hesitation I would highly recommend OnTop Mountaineering! In a move focused on providing unrivalled support for cyclists participating in all Haute Route events, Colnago has taken on the role of title partner for the iconic cycling series. The Haute Route, the High Route between Chamonix, France and Zermatt, Switzerland is “the mother” of all ski touring traverses. Sleeping arrangments are co-ed dormitory-style. Please let us know in advance. Let your trip coordinator know if you would like to transfer directly to Chamonix as we may be able to arrange an additional night in a hotel in Argentiere. I don’t have a good advice as to how to overcome this issue without a tiring screening process, and eventually – this can always happen, but this is my food for thought and improvement. Thanks Jorg again for all of his help regarding answering questions. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. Before leaving the Schoenbiel Hut I was asked by another groups members who I had used to organize this trip and your name was written down by several of them.  Pocket knife (optional) Maybe iodine tabs would be better? We would gladly be guided by Sebastion again. Spanning a distance of 180 kilometers in between Chamonix and Zermatt, the Haute Route is the most classic ski touring adventure around. His personality, technical expertise and overall great attitude made the trip a once in a lifetime experience. Also, the gradual ascent to the more elevated portions of the trip made it easier to acclimatize (sleeping at gradually more elevated huts was helpful!). The return transfer is not included in our trip price due to the large number of clients wishing to spend time in Zermatt before returning to Chamonix. …” I have always found them invaluable in helping me to make decisions on whether or not I would use a particular organisation. Very fast communication and responses to my questions. Late June until mid-August is the main season with mostly good weather and good snow coverage on the glaciers, which commonly deteriorates during warm summers as the season progresses. 2021 Haute Route Alps. DURATION. —Brad A., Nova Scotia, Canada, “Lutz is a fantastic climber, he takes extraordinary care for the safety of his clients, and he genuinely seeks out the company of his clients during the long hours that can be spent in a hut, which is unusual and not easy for someone who speaks English as a second language. Unlike hiking in the Washington’s North Cascades, hiking in the Swiss Alps offers the ability to overnight from village to village. It was a fantastic hike and was filled with spectacular views, wonderful villages, awesome food, and some new friendships along the way. The Haute Route is a classic trekking route that goes from Chamonix to Zermatt, connecting Mont Blanc with the Matterhorn. Although not very technically difficult, the trip requires up to 9 hours of hiking per day – mostly uphill and at times on rough, steep trails and on glaciers, where you will be roped together with your fellow trekkers and your guide. Bring or rent the following (see ‘Trip Info Links’ at the bottom of this page):  Light mountaineering boots or sturdy, waterproof hiking boots that cover your ankles (make sure they are comfortable and don’t give you blisters!) In total: 6.5 days hiking, 5,040m / 16,500′ ascent, 5,220m / 17,120′ descent, 71 km distance. On this self-guided hiker's Haute route, you will going to hike through the Pennine Alps, the highest mountain range in Western Europe. Walking Holidays Along the Haute Route An Introduction to Walking The Haute Route The Haute Route (High Route) from Chamonix to Zermatt is steeped in mountaineering legend, a route first taken by British climbers at the end of the 19th century located in the scenic Swiss canton of Valais. Stages from 22- 28 August 2021. Hotels in Argentiere and Alrolla were absolutely fine, with the award for hoteliers of the year going to our new best friends at the Sonne, which was excellent!!!!!!!!!! Most of our international guests arrive at the airport in Geneva, Switzerland, from where scheduled shuttles run almost hourly to the Chamonix Valley (1.5 hours). Trip organisation was good. The drescription of the itinerary difficulty was accurate. start. Note: rigid crampons will not work on hiking boots Hiking Trip Summary. The classic Haute Route is a premiere ski touring journey and a must-do for all backcountry skiers. Our route follows the classic trek across the Swiss Alps starting in Chamonix at the base of Mont Blanc, Western Europe's Highest Peak, and concluding in Zermatt at the base of the Matterhorn, the world's most recognizable and stunningly beautiful peak. We can provide you with the necessary technical equipment for the Haute Route Glacier Trek (crampons, ice axe, harness & locking carabiner). Thu All Day. The Haute Route, also known as the High Level Route or Mountaineer’s Route, is the winter ski tour or summer hiking route linking Chamonix in France with Zermatt in Switzerland. Every day was met with anticipation of where and what we would see and do next. Unpleasant “squat–style” bathroom. It did not seem like the client had a lot of experience in hikes of this sort before, and I’m not sure how strict you are about registering clients (hey, you got me without too much trouble ;)), but I’m wondering if this could have been played out differently. —August M., CA, USA, ” The guides were amazing- so impressed with Geoffroy’s professionalism and always felt safe.  Crevasse rescue equipment (Prusik cords, webbing, pulleys, auto-locking device) Self-guided trekking is the best way to hike at your own pace, but to have all the logistics arranged for you. Mountaineer’s Haute Route – (aka ‘High Route”): Starts in Argentiere and ends in Zermatt, usually takes 6 – 7 days, about 30% glacier travel (usually roped) and 70% mountain trails, at times exposed, lots of up and down, lodging mainly in high mountain, fully catered, helicopter supplied huts in spectacular locations, often above 3000 meters, dormitory sleeping, no showers, travel over high passes face to face with the highest peaks of the Alps including the Matterhorn, not as busy as the “Hiker’s Haute Route” the because the technical nature requires a mountain guide and more stamina and fitness than the low route, no luggage transfer except to the hotel in Champex or Mauvoisin and to Zermatt in the end. Your group may consider bringing one water filter for everyone to use along the way however contamination is not much of a concern in those altitudes and the use of filter – pumos is not customary in the Alps. At the last practical moment, we will look at the Swiss Weather Forecast and pack accordingly.  Sunscreen and lip protection with high SPF The Haute Route connects Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn on one of the most spectacular hikes in all the Alps, showcasing majestic mountain passes, alpine pastures, glorious glaciers, and delightful alpine huts. Everything went smoothly with the organisation and communication and can only applaude you for that. This day can be substantially shortened in case of inclement weather or for custom group departures by lodging at the Chanrion Hut (about 3.5 hours of hiking) and reaching the Vignettes Hut the next day via Otemma Glacier (7 hrs). Also, returning the boots to Chamonix can be a challenge if you plan to return directly from Zermatt to Geneva Airport. The use of crampons might sometimes be required but participants are not expected to have previous experience. Dates: April – May All Rights Reserved. The terrain was new and unfamiliar to me, but I had complete confidence and trust in Thomas’ skills and judgement. The Most Scenic Trek in Europe. There are dozens of other traverses in the alps that rival the Haute Route in terms of pure downhill skiing (The Berner Oberland), comfortable huts (The Ortler Ski Circuit), wilderness experience (The Ecrins The Haute Route Glacier Trek involves strenuous alpine trekking. Currently, the huts do not offer Wi-Fi; most people rely on cell service which is pretty good along most of the Haute Route Glacier Trek with the occasional gaps. While much more dif­fi­cult than the low route, your rewards are earned on this one, but the pay­off is huge. 600 m / 1,970 ft climb, 1,280 m / 4,200 ft descent, 11 km, 7 hrs of hiking. Here is a link with precipitation, sun and temperature averages for the town of Zermatt . If you choose to bring Iodine or other water purification tablets, please be aware that most of the higher huts have a very limited amount of snow-melt water available, which the hut keepers only pass on to patrons in boiled form for a fee. Here are the main characteristics listed for each trip: Starts in Argentiere (Chamonix Valley) and ends in St. Niklaus (about 20 km down valley from Zermatt),  usually takes about 10 – 12 days, non-technical trail hiking with lots of up and down, low elevation lodging primarily in valleys in hotels and hostels, luggage transfer possible but involves a lot of driving, views of the high glaciated peaks only from a distance, the Matterhorn does not come into sight until arriving by taxi or train in Zermatt, very busy because one of the most popular multi-day hikes in Europe, rivalled only by the Tour Du Mont Blanc. We really enjoyed the lodging choices. i.e. Not only do gaiters protect your socks and inside of your boots from getting wet, they also protect your pants and calves from crampon punctures. Photos from trips: Walker's Haute Route. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests. I realize this can happen to anybody – I’ve been there myself. The Haute Route was a spectacular hike; we got to walk through some of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Similar Trips. Itinerary fantastic. Aug. 22 – 29  One or two lightweight garbage bags for extra waterproofing (optional) This option effectively gives us a cushion day should the weather be adverse or other contingencies delay us by a day.  Synthetic or wool base layers – top and bottom Perfectly paced hiking days are complemented by overnights in charming hotels in delightfully quaint villages, with two nights in hike-in lodges to savor sunset alpenglow on the high peaks. Trek the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt. The main Haute Route season runs from mid march to late April when the mountain huts are open and the glaciers are safely snow-covered. The route was incredible, awesome, challenging, unforgettable. There is a strong correlation between lighter packs and the ability to finish the trip in Zermatt. It's a prepaid vacation tailored to your interests, abilities, and budget. Almost everything was perfect, and I mean it – you guys are very ordered, like I said – everything ticked and worked and went smooth, and I really felt I’m getting all the information I need and the value for my money. We were very pleased with the organization. For your leg back to Geneva the most economical transport is by train (we could arrange a private transfer but that would amount to approx. We will gladly set up the Haute Route Glacier Trek for your private group anytime from mid-June to mid-September. The huts were SPECTACULAR – great food, some had awesome beer – only ONE didn’t have running water and more showers would be nice and more women’s only bathrooms but I’m nitpicking for my dream hut! This is the ultimate high Alpine trekking adventure, following the iconic Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt. —Mike M., NJ, USA, “Flory was a really great guide – always ready to help and always sensitive to how everyone was doing. Trains leave Zermatt as early as 6:30 a.m. and depart almost hourly thereafter. Can’t think of anything else I needed. Most guides, if they attach their rope and crampons to the outside of the pack, get away with a 35-litre pack, which is only a little larger than a day pack. A beautiful glacier hike takes us over the Col de l’Eveque (3,400 m = 11,150 ft) to the Upper Arolla Glacier to an unguarded shepherd’s hut at Plan de Bertol (2,670m / 8,750 ft) for a picnic lunch. —Robert P., VA, USA, “Seb was extremely compentent and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Thomas to any group. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category. Food good and plentiful, though breakfast a bit sketchy. When buying, renting, or borrowing gear for the trip, please keep weight, performance, and function in mind. Hope that makes sense! He was knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. blister kit, prescription medicine, anti-inflammatory, contact lenses, prescription glasses, etc.) July 11-18 Would have liked more info as to what to expect on our first morning as it was so crowded, rushed and stressful. The highest point along the Haute Route is the summit of the Pigne D’Arolla at 3,800 m / 12,500 ft. After spending a week high in the mountains, walking down Zermatt’s bustling main street will feel like returning to a different world. Read this trip report from the world's funniest tax accountant THE HAUTE ROUTE - APRIL 6-11, 2009; Call us for references from people who have been on trips … The Walker's Haute Route (aka 'the High Route') is a legendary high level trek, connecting Chamonix and Zermatt. Early September often brings the first snowfalls at higher elevations which makes for a very pretty, pristine ambiance in the mountains, but it is often not enough to improve travel conditions in warm summers. lightly lined Schoeller fabric or similar) Lots of our North American guests are used to carrying heavy backpacks on multi-day trips due to the fewer amenities in North American huts. Delivery is also possible for the valley / hotel night in Champex or Mauvoisin on the second night of the trek. I would not hesitate to recommend OnTop to anyone wishing to do any of your itineraries. June is often still too snowy, especially in early June (which also means participants have to carry food / self-cater) and the weather can be more unsettled. But what mattered most is that he had a sound knowledge of the terrain on every surface that was clear and pronounced especially nearing the end when the glaciers got complicated and routes altered due to changes in landscape. The hotel lodging – in Argentiere and Arolla – was very good. The Haute Route (high road) is the quintessential ‘must do’ ski tour and appears frequently on bucket lists. Check a little promo clip from a past Haute Route we guided for a group who was filming for Outside TV on Vimeo or YouTube.  2-3 pairs good quality trekking socks  Light hut shoes or crocs (optional – most huts provide them) Fridjion was inspirational as well -what a tremendous story about how he came back after his accident. Food was great. The dormitory facilities and food at the huts were superior to anything I expected. —Nancy D., NY, USA, “The whole trip was even better than I expected. For both guides, we literally entrusted our lives in their hands and I felt VERY safe knowing that they would do anything to help us. CALL US: 888.586.8365 Trip Finder 2 hours. The Haute Route Glacier Trek provides perfect acclimatization for climbing Mont Blanc (4,810 m / 15,778 ft.)  in two additional days. Seb was really the best I could wish for, and all the logistics before and while on the trip were handled flawlessly.” Yochai E., Israel, “Markus and Lutz were first rate! OnTop Communication was punctual and thorough. Group of 4 participants: Premium of 10% Rather than just a single path, it’s really a network of trails traversing the Pennine Alps and crossing the high passes and glacial valleys of the region. For returning to the Geneva Airport, the cost is about 85 Swiss Francs per person for the 4-hour train ride. Not a great start to the day – just needed to know what it would be like in advance. Haute Route without hut lodging:  Very fast groups can do the entire Haute Route in 4 days with only 1 hut night in the Bertol Hut – all other nights would be in hotels in villages along the way. The Haute Route was established almost a hundred years ago as a high mountaineering route that linked together two of Europe’s premier mountaineering centers, Chamonix and Zermatt. With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our trail leads through a traditional area of the Valais canton and across two passes, both of which offer tremendous views of icy peaks, including the Dent Blanche (14,290’)—this is one of the most outstanding vistas in the Alps. Plan Ahead, Make Your Reservations Early. We can organize a private taxi service from Zermatt to any destination of your choice. Duration: 9 Days, 8 Nights Distance: Total of almost 800 km with over 22000 Metres Climbing Rider support and travel packages for the 2021 Haute Route Alps. Their breakfast was excellent, a lot of food and great variety. Party of 4 - £275 each, Party of 2 - £450 each. Hut to hut in the European Alps. They always had our safety first and were fun to hang out with and were encouraging the group during some tough sections. Our hiking group totaled 8 people (2 from Brazil, 1 from Canada and the rest from USA). Mountain Drop Offs provides a reliable airport transfer from Geneva to Argentiere or Chamonix for about 40 Euros, depending on the time of year. Haute Route Similar Trips. Haute Route with Chamonix Experience. I joked that you all stay up way too late at night responding to any query in order to get back as soon as possible. An ascent of the Col de Reidmatten (9,577’), with its dazzling mountain-and-glacier vistas, brings you down to Arolla, an ideal spot for an invaluable rest day (or more optional hikes!). We will spend the afternoon of the first trekking day learning about and practising glacier travel. We usually meet at 8 a.m. on the first trekking day at our preferred hotel in Argentiere (first hotel night with breakfast included), about 15 minutes up the valley from Chamonix. Please Note: There are numerous different combinations of huts and accommodation along the route and we frequently vary our itineraries to make best use of bookings and current weather and snow conditions. Regularly voted as one of the world’s top walks the journey from Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn on the Walker’s Haute Route is filled with breath-taking mountain panoramas, challenging mountain passes and Alpine scenes lifted straight from a storybook. Short, summer gaiters will also do the job. This is where the sport of mountaineering was born in the 19th century, and just a glance at the 360-degree panorama explains why: 10 of the 12 highest peaks in the Alps, including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn, rise along this magnificent “high route.” Some cooks really took pride in their meals, and it showed. Haute Route Trips. lightly lined Schoeller fabric or similar), Call Us at +1 (800) 506-7177 | +1 (403) 678-2717, Best of Provence / South of France Hiking, Alps Treks & Hikes: Custom Trips and Private Guiding, Canada Hikes, Treks, Backpacking, & Snowshoeing, Kids & Youth Backpacking Camps Canadian Rockies, Cortina Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Via Ferrata Trek, Brenta Dolomites Bocchette Trail Via Ferrata, Rosengarten Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Via Ferrata Trek, Canadian Rockies and Bugaboos Rock Climbing, Day Tours: Canadian Rockies & Rogers Pass, Canadian Rockies Custom Mountaineering Trips, Haute Route Glacier Trek Equipment List as Downloadable .PDF, precipitation, sun and temperature averages for the town of Zermatt, Lodging in spectacular huts around 3,000 m / 10,000 ft, Instruction in crampon/ice axe use first day, Seven days guiding by an internationally (UIAGM/IFMGA) certified multilingual mountain guide or guide aspirant under supervision including all guide expenses. This trip extension is very popular with our clients! Broad spectrum antibiotics.  Backpack (40-45 litres) with rain cover fitted to the pack Most of the huts were nice, given their location. The communication on your side was above and beyond. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. Being a vegetarian was not a problem, there was plenty for me to eat. Giving out a 10 isn’t suppose to be a good thing so that it leaves room for improvement but from my experience I couldn’t have imagined it being better. The Haute Route is one of Europe's best-known long-distance ski-touring routes, and running roughly parallel is a spectacular and demanding summer trek from Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn.. The Haute Route was established almost a hundred years ago as a high mountaineering route that linked together two of Europe’s premier mountaineering centers, Chamonix and Zermatt. Three options stand out to us: If you want to explore Geneva, we recommend Hotel des Tourelles right in the city of Geneva. We were very pleased..” That said, all of us ate all of the snacks we brought with us – we expended some serious calories. The lodging was awesome both on and off the trail. —Mark D., UK, “The huts and hotels were great. Given sufficient subscription for our subsequent Mont Blanc ascent in connection with the Haute Route, we will have a shuttle transport organized for luggage transfers and return trips to Chamonix on day 8. Train tickets can be booked online at Swiss Rail. 7-day, hut-to-hut trek on glaciers and trails in the Western Alps from Chamonix to Zermatt. The trip was well organized. There are a number of airport shuttle services that provide door-to-door service from Geneva International Airport at very competitive prices for any destination in the Chamonix Valley. While the latter is sometimes cheaper, the former offers more flexibility. Fantastic 7 days of skiing on the trip from Mont Blanc to Matterhorn. It was absolutely incredible and a fantastic experience!! —Alex B., Thailand, July 4 – 11 Half board (breakfast and 3-course dinners) in all huts and at the hotel in Fionay. Ideal conditions on the Haute Route means good snow coverage with well settled, easy-to-walk-on snow on the glaciers and largely dry trails in the non-glaciated terrain. Very professional, knowledgable and helpful. Aug. 29 – Sept. 5 He was super funny, kind and super patient helping those who were timid or not as sure footed without making them feel bad – a real art. This route allows access to the Col du Brenay and the Pigne d'Arolla, from which you … I really appreciated and enjoyed the fact that everything was written, ordered, thought of, and delivered in mail. Be sure to inquire with your cell phone provider as to your roaming capabilities in Europe. Tours + Trips Haute Route. The Haute Route is a clas­sic tour through the heart of the West­ern Alps and some of its most stun­ning scenery. The route covers approximately 100km and travels west to east, across seven Alpine passes linking the valleys of Haute-Savoie in France to the Swiss Valais.