All hikes: Along Water

The mule track over the Simplon, developed over 300 years ago by Kaspar Stockalper, has long handed over its economic importance to new roads. However, a few years ago it was reborn as a cultural hiking trail.

From St. Saphorin in a diverse route going uphill and downhill through the vines to Lutry. Indeed, it is on the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces where bon vivants get into top gear.

Starting in Interlaken, this varied path leads along the banks of the River Aare and the shore of Lake Thun through Unterseen. In addition to the waters, the ancient fortress ruins and nature reserve at Weissenau are also truly eye-catching.

The Swiss Path leads to historic sites pertaining to the Swiss Confederation. The path is divided into stages that are partially wheelchair-accessible, and can be reached by ship or by train. Overnight stays are possible at the end of some of the trails.

South of Rheinau kilometre-long forest path along slopes above the Rhine to Ellikon. Through woodlands beside the River Thur and cultivated landscape of Flaacherfeld to Flaach. Extensive panorama from Buchberg church. Through sunny vineyards to Eglisau.

«Water is life», a simple law of nature particularly valid for «Three Lake Country». The «Chemin des Trois-Lacs» trail leads along natural shorelines, through reed beds and into nature reserves which give information on sensitive topics.

Many spots with views of the Urnersee lake in all its splendour. Interesting and impressive houses between Seelisberg and Bauen as well as at Seedorf. Plenty of places for refreshment and playgrounds en route.

Nature and humans live together harmoniously in the Grande Cariçaie on the southern shore of Lake Neuchâtel. The nature reserve, Switzerland's largest lakeside wetland, is home to 800 plant species and over 10,000 animal species, who shape the banks under the friendly gaze of passing hikers.

This circular hike starts in Stein am Rhein and initially follows the left bank of the Rhine via the former Wagenhausen Priory to Heimishofen railway bridge, built in 1875. Hikers return on the opposite bank to the small mediaeval town of Stein am Rhein with its nostalgic ambience.

Pure hiking pleasure – the trail that is dedicated to Switzerland is just as diverse as the country itself.

Between Schwaderloch and Rheinsulz, this widely varied section culminates on the forested northern slope of the Tafeljura mountains, with splendid views over the Rheintal valley. Particularly attractive: Koblenz with its four large historic bridges.

The Lake Thun panorama round trail is an exciting and enjoyable, several-day hike through the Bernese Oberland with majestic lake and mountain panoramas, passing historic sites and impressive caves.

The key point of this stage is Disentis, with its Benedictine Monastery. Also Interesting is the saga surrounding the chapel at Disla. Along the banks of the young Rhine to Sumvitg. A detour up to Bostg is recommended at the start.

An excursion to the Zürichsee lake is always well worthwhile. The stretch from Horgen to Wädenswil affords particularly enchanting views over this popular body of water and the opportunity to enjoy a superb panorama.

From Vevey the route follows the lake to Villeneuve. The Swiss Museum of Games in the castle at Tour-de-Peilz and famous Schloss Chillon are worth a visit before you reach the Chablais wine region.

The route begins with a detour into the neighbouring country, making a wide arc around Basel. The hike is marked by impressions along the Rhine, variety in the Markgräfler vineyard region and constantly changing views of the city.

A climb to the high plateau of the Franches Montagnes and peaceful countryside. Dark forests and scattered farmsteads surrounded by horses, cattle and sheep. In between, villages with mustard-coloured houses. Saigneléger is the regional centre.

The second section leads to one of the highlights of the Via Albula/Bernina, the impressive Landwasser viaduct. Prior to this it runs alongside the foaming Albula river and then on the «Wasserweg ansaina» to a scenic spot for a souvenir photo of the world-famous RhB Rhaetian Railway viaduct.

The varied Ellhorn hike offers surprising views of the villages on both sides of the Rhine and of the surrounding mountains. The flowering pastures in the Elltal valley are just as charming as the paths high above the Rhine.

Firstly, along the Klöntalersee reservoir surrounded by steep rock faces. A decent to Glarus then follows - From the dam of the artificial lake through a narrow valley with steep rock faces and imposing boulders lapped by the bubbling Löntsch waters.

The «Aargauer Weg» offers diversity: superb views over the foothills of the Jura and tranquil paths along the edges of river banks provide contrast with Habsburg castles, magnificent monasteries and mediaeval old towns.

Across the lake to Mediterranean Quinten, at the foot of the Churfirsten. Narrow paths secured by forest and ropes to Betlis. At 585m, Seerenbach waterfall is Switzerland’s highest. Over steep root-covered paths and filigree hanging bridges to hotspot Amden.

This route leads from S-chanf into the Val Trupchun through lush alpine meadows, one of the idyllic side valleys of the Upper Engadin. This varies hike offers a fascinating glimpse of the Upper Engadin’s wildlife and plants.

The section from Rapperswil to Schmerikon is a true feast for the eyes. For all who appreciate peaceful, remote paths through idyllic countryside, romantic villages and lush vegetation on the shores of a glistening lake.

A valley hike alongside the babbling Jaunbach crossing the language boundary to Charmey, following Lac de Montsalvens, with its many coves, to the dam and the spectacular Jaun-Schlucht gorge down to Broc and the famous Gruyère Castle.

The Rhine Falls are the centrepiece of this circular hike. It starts from Laufen Castle, towering majestically above the Rhine Falls – unperturbed by the immense force of the waters that rage below it. We descend straight to the water's edge, cross the bridge to the other side and start climbing again opposite the castle.

The circular route on the St. Petersinsel in Berner Seeland is a real feast for the eyes. Surrounded by the idyllic Bielersee lake, you go as you please on an easy path through this luxuriant nature reserve with many species of plants.

Engelberg – a well-known and popular excursion destination. This round tour leads from the impressive monastery to the picturesque River Aa and constantly affords wonderful views of idyllic rural landscapes and the spectacular mountain panorama.

A lakeside promenade along the Vierwaldstättersee from Beckenried into the impressive Risleten Gorge, with its ancient dinosaur traces. After a steep climb, the romantic high-level trail towards Seelisberg. Far below, the shimmering turquoise lake.

The route in Canton Glarus takes you from Schwanden to Netstal, through a broad and open valley surrounded by lush greenery and rugged mountain scenery. A route offering pure tranquillity and relaxation.