Haute Route “Lite”

The Haute Route is the world-famous “route” between Chamonix and Zermatt. There are in fact many variations of the Haute Route, but regardless of what version you do, it is on many peoples bucket lists.

The route was first charted in the mid-19th century the route has become popular in both winter and summer, but the real attraction of the Haute Route is to do it on skis. Translating to “High Route” it was originally known as “The High-Level Route” and later got translated into French. The route contains large amounts of glacier travel and should only be done with relevant experience and equipment or guided.

Now Swiss Alpine Adventure is giving you the opportunity to bite off a part of the Haute Route with one of our guides. Over 4 days you will tackle the section of the route between Arolla and Zermatt enjoying stunning high alpine scenery while crossing glaciers and finally skiing down to Zermatt past the iconic Matterhorn.

On the first day you will meet in Arolla and take the lift in the ski area before touring over the Pas de Chevres and overnighting at almost 3000m in the Cabane des Dix. After a nights sleep and breakfast, day 2 will see you going over the Pign D’Arolla (3787m) to your second overnight in the Cabane des Vignettes. This tour is almost entirely on glaciers with approximately 1000m of ascent. On day 3 you will have a relatively long day crossing the Col de l’Eveque and descending onto the Haute Glacier d’Arolla before climbing up to the overnight in the Cabane de Bertol. The final day of the tour will involve summiting Tete Blanche before descending between the Matterhorn and the Obergabelhorn to Zermatt.

Who is this for?
This tour is ideal for fit and confident off-piste skiers. You need to be comfortable with doing more than 1000m of ascent at high altitude multiple days in a row and skiing in steeper high alpine terrain on glaciers. If you are unsure of your ability try to attend one of our Saturday or Sunday ski tours in advance of the event.

Equipment
You will require some specialist equipment in addition to your normal ski touring equipment for this tour such as a climbing harness with a sling and two carabiners and also crampons for your boots as well as your skis.

Cost
1100CHF

This includes:

• 4 days guiding
• 3 overnights
• 3 evening meals and breakfast

Not included:

• Transport to and from the start and end of the tour
• Any mountain transport you may use during the tour
• Equipment rental
• Lunch and beverages when on the tour

No. of Participants
The tour will run with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 6 participants.