Valleys of the Bernese Oberland

Day 1  Kandersteg  
Transfer to your hotel in Kandersteg.  

Day 2  Kandersteg  
To see the area's jewel in the crown, beautiful Lake Oeschinen, take the gondola into the mountains above Kandersteg, then make the steep climb to a panoramic ‘balcony’ path high above the north side of the lake for superb views over its turquoise waters and the peaks beyond. We also provide notes for a shorter, easier walk near the lake (7km), if you prefer a more leisurely introduction to your week.  

Day 3  Kandersteg to Adelboden  
Leaving Kandersteg, there is a choice of routes, the most challenging and rewarding of which follows a high-level path up to and over the rocky Bunderchrinde Pass. Here, at over 2,000 metres, the views often stretch as far as distant Lake Thun, and you can look right along the Gasterntal glacial valley. Once in Adelboden, you spend two nights at the superb Hotel Adler.

Day 4  Adelboden  
One of the most rewarding walks from Adelboden is to follow an undulating path across meadows and through woodland to the breathtaking – and famous – waterfall at Engstligen. You return to Adelboden along a pleasant riverside path.

Day 5  Adelboden to Lenk  
Your route from Adelboden starts through two gorges, before the steep ascent to the summit of Sillerenbüel (1,972 metres), which rewards with ever-improving views back over Adelboden. Your next target is the Hahnenmoos Pass, the link between the Adelboden and Lenk valleys, from where you descend via a former mule track into the Simmen Valley and the village of Lenk where you spend the night at the Hotel Kreuz. For a grade 2-3 walk, you can shorten the ascent by taking a cable car up to Sillerenbüel or alternatively you can descend into Lenk by bus from Hahenmoos.  

Day 6  Lenk to Lauenen  
Today’s route begins with a short cable car journey up to Leiterli, from where you start your walk. High alpine meadows stretch before you as you head via the Stübleni crags to cross the Trüttlisberg pass, where you can often spot chamois and marmots going about their day. From here, the route descends – steeply at first, then more steadily – through peaceful pastureland and woodland to the pretty Lauenental Valley.

Day 7  Lauenen  
For a contrast to the tranquil scenery that you have explored during the week, we suggest that on your last day you walk to the bustling resort of Gstaad. The walk, uphill through farmland, then along the grassy Höhi Wispile ridge, also offers the opportunity to look back at the majestic mountains through which you have walked. Descend by cable car to the outskirts of Gstaad for panoramic views and an easy stroll into town, re-energising you for the beautiful return walk along the river to your hotel. A bus back to Lauenen is also available, should you like more time to explore Gstaad.  

Day 8  Lauenen  
Take the bus to Gstaad and board your train to Zurich airport.