Swiss Alps 7-Day Hiking Tour

Canton Glarus, Zurich



Explore Braunwald and Glarus on a 7-day hike from Zurich. Walk 4-6h daily through Oberblegisee, Panorama Trail, and Seerenbach Falls. A perfect alpine adventure for active travelers!

Overview

This 7-day self-guided hiking trip in Glarnerland suits independent travelers seeking alpine scenery, historic villages, and wellness activities.

Highlights

  • Stay in a car-free alpine village at 1,300 meters
  • Flexible self-guided format with curated routes and full independence
  • Explore the Panorama Trail with views of the Tödi peak
  • Visit the historic village of Glarus and see the Seerenbach Falls

Daily Itinerary

Day 0: Arrival in the Clouds
Take the train from Zurich to Linthal, then ascend via the panoramic funicular (free with pass). Settle into Braunwald, a car-free village, and enjoy a sunset walk along the Panoramaweg.

Day 1: Oberblegisee Lake Hike (4.5–5 hours)
Hike via Grotzenbüel to the Oberblegisee lake. After resting by the water, continue to Brunnenberg and descend to Luchsingen. Return to Braunwald by train and funicular.

Day 2: Panorama Ridge Hike (4.5–5 hours)
Hike from the hostel up to Grotzenbüel, then follow the Panorama Trail along high ridges with views of the Tödi peak. Loop around Gumen and descend via Braunwaldalp to complete the circuit.

Day 3: Glarus Heritage & Wellness (Rainy Day Option)
Explore Glarus and its distinctive grid layout. Visit the Freulerpalast in Näfels (CHF 12/8, not included). For wellness, visit Linth Arena for pool access (CHF 9) or sauna/hammam (approx. CHF 20) (not included). Return via Linthal in the late afternoon.

Day 4: Nussbüel Meadows & Waterfall (3.5–4 hours)
Hike through meadows to Nussbüel and descend toward the valley floor to see the Berglistüber Waterfall. Return to Linthal on foot or by bus, then take the funicular back up.

Day 5: Grand Linth Gorge Explorer (4.5–5 hours)
Take the funicular to Linthal, then Bus 505 to Tierfehd (free with pass). Hike the zig-zag path to the historic Pantenbrugg bridges over a 1.4 km deep gorge. Continue to Limmernbahn station for alpine views and return via Hinter Sand. Catch the bus back or walk the 7 km flat path to the station.

Day 6: Riviera Walensee & Seerenbach Falls (4–5 hours)
Walk from Ziegelbrücke to Weesen, then follow the Riviera trail via Lehni to Switzerland’s highest waterfall, Seerenbach Falls. Descend to Strahlegg and return via the cliff-carved Betliserstrasse. Optionally, take a boat from Betlis to Weesen (CHF 10, not included). Notify the organizer for booking; last boat approx. 16:45.

Day 7: Departure
Descend by funicular to Linthal and take the train back to Zurich.

Includes

  • Train travel from Zurich to Linthal
  • Glarnerland pass covering the funicular and all public transport in Glarnerland
  • 7-night stay at the Adrenalin Backpackers Hostel
  • Train travel from Linthal to Zurich

Excludes

  • Meals
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance

Important Information

  • Check supermarket opening times for shopping
  • Be prepared for high-altitude conditions
  • Bring supplies for BBQ sessions
  • Download essential apps:
    • SBB – for all train, bus, and boat transport
    • swisstopo – for official high-quality hiking maps
  • Carefully check the ferry and bus schedules

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Book in advance to ensure funicular and accommodation availability. Pack sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing. The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn for optimal hiking conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes self-guided hiking routes, accommodation in Braunwald, and access to the scenic funicular from Linthal.
The tour starts with a train ride from Zurich to Linthal, followed by a panoramic funicular ride up to Braunwald.
Independent travelers who prefer self-guided hiking with flexible schedules and an interest in alpine scenery can join the tour.
The routes are designed for hikers with a moderate fitness level who are comfortable with alpine terrain; specific trail difficulties vary daily.
Yes, the itinerary includes a visit to the historic village of Glarus and its local landmarks like the Seerenbach Falls.
No, Braunwald is a car-free village accessible only by foot, funicular, or local transport.
The best time to hike is during the late spring to early autumn months; check the website for current availability and conditions.
You can return by descending via funicular to Linthal and then taking the train back to Zurich.
Since the tour is self-guided with overnight stays in fixed locations, you carry a daypack while your main luggage stays at the accommodation.
Wellness activities are available to complement the hiking experience, but you should check the accommodation options for details.

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