Ski traverses

The classic traverse in the Bernina massif leads through one of the most impressive high-mountain regions of the Eastern Alps. The tour described here goes all the way to Piz Bernina (4,049 m), the highest summit of the range and the only 4000er east of the Valais. Piz Palü and Piz Capütschin, two well-known ski mountains that require technical skill and alpine experience, are also on the programme. Overnight stays are always in staffed huts – a special mention goes to the Italian Rifugio Marinelli, which surprises with first-class cuisine and even a sauna.

The five-day ski traverse around Andermatt combines impressive summits with two cosy bases. From Andermatt the route leads over the Graustock and on to the Maighels hut, from where Piz Ravetsch is climbed. On the third day we cross wide glaciers and scenic slopes to the Pazolastock, followed by the traverse to the cosy Etzli hut. The final highlight is the Ezlibergstock, from where a long and rewarding descent leads back down to Bristen. The tour offers varied terrain, impressive panoramas and an authentic alpine experience in the heart of Central Switzerland.

The Monte Rosa route is considered a unique ski traverse, as hardly any other tour in the Alps lets you reach so many 4000ers in one go. The variant described here includes summits such as the Breithorn, Castor, Vincent Pyramid, Parrotspitze, Zumsteinspitze, Signalkuppe and Dufourspitze, which combine into an impressive circuit. Some can be climbed directly on skis, but most require crampons, with the skis strapped to the rucksack. The views of Mont Blanc and down into the Po Valley are impressive from every summit.

The Uri Haute Route is one of the classic ski traverses of Central Switzerland. In several demanding stages it links the world of summits and glaciers between Realp, Andermatt and Engelberg. Steep ascents, long descents and impressive passes characterise this high-alpine route, which requires confident skiing and good fitness. The reward is magnificent panoramas, varied terrain and the typical experience of a true ski touring classic in the Uri Alps.

The classic Tour du Soleil starts in Realp near Andermatt in the canton of Uri and leads right across Ticino to the Saas valley in the Valais. Because of the considerable total distance, however, a shorter variant is often chosen, ending in the Binntal – roughly halfway.

Those who decide on the full route experience an increasingly remote and multifaceted traverse. Again and again you descend from deep-snow summits into valleys that already feel like spring, and along the way comfortable mountain huts alternate with simple winter rooms. A varied and impressive route for experienced ski tourers.

The Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt is considered the classic among ski traverses and is at the top of many ski mountaineers' wish lists. It starts in the Mont Blanc area and ends with a view of the Matterhorn – a high-alpine journey through some of the most impressive landscapes in the Alps. Across vast glaciers, narrow passes and impressive ridges, ever new perspectives open up onto mountain icons such as Mont Blanc, the Grandes Jorasses, the Matterhorn and the Grand Combin. Besides the majestic scenery, the tour delights with long, impressive descents, reaching the valley floor only once. The well-equipped huts along the way allow for comparatively light luggage and spoil you with excellent food. Even so, the route remains demanding.

The Tour du Ciel runs from Zermatt to St. Niklaus, following the mighty panorama of the great Valais peaks such as the Dent Blanche, Obergabelhorn, Zinalrothorn and Weisshorn. Anyone who knows the Matter valley or the Val d'Anniviers will hardly believe that a ski route can be found between these steep giants at all – yet this is exactly where the traverse leads, right into the wild high-mountain landscape. Every day brings demanding passes and glaciated ascents, which is why stable weather and reliable snow conditions are essential.

Highlights include the ascents of the Blanc de Moming (3,660 m) and the Bishorn (4,163 m) as well as the long, impressive descents over the Glacier Durand, the Glacier de Moming and the Turtmann glacier. Because of its high technical and physical demands, the Tour du Ciel is reserved for experienced ski mountaineers – an advantage, as it keeps the small, rustic huts quiet and authentic.