Skip to Main Content
Switzerland

From Appenzell to Lugano: Gentle Hiking Through Switzerland

Program No. 24645RJ
Walk through the beauty and history of Switzerland on easy-going hikes that will lead you through Swiss mountains, culture and cuisine.

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

At a Glance

If you’ve dreamed of hiking in Switzerland but are intimidated by its alpine landscapes, join us for easy-going hikes that lead through the history and villages of the Swiss countryside. Explore off-the-beaten-path sites as you’re led by local experts through Swiss mountains and learn about the cuisine and history of the country along the way. Enjoy gentle walks and hikes as you explore olive groves, local wineries and the Abbey Library of St. Gallen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Through hands-on workshops and discussions with locals, you’ll leave Switzerland with a new understanding and appreciation for this country’s culture and natural wonders.
Activity Level
Outdoor: No Sweat
Activity Level: Outdoor: No Sweat Walking 1-5 miles daily; trails and dirt roads are well-marked and generally gently undulating with some rocky sections and steep ascents and descents. Sturdy walking/hiking shoes are required. Elevations up to 9,754 feet.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Enjoy the Swiss alpine experience through hikes on gentle trails through mountains and local communities.
  • Learn how to make risotto and bake biberli in hands-on workshops.
  • Explore interactive museums on Mount Säntis and at the Diavolezza glaciers, with opportunities to learn firsthand about Switzerland’s geology.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Judith Portmann
Judith grew up in the cradle of Switzerland. She studied banking, but soon left this world of facts and figures and studied English, Italian and Spanish abroad before managing a travel office on Lake Lucerne. For the last 15 years she has been working as a relocation consultant. She is also a walking and cycling leader. When not glued to a computer screen or to homework, you will find her in the mountains, on a bicycle, mushroom picking or in her rustico (cottage) in Ticino.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Judith Portmann
Judith Portmann View biography
Judith grew up in the cradle of Switzerland. She studied banking, but soon left this world of facts and figures and studied English, Italian and Spanish abroad before managing a travel office on Lake Lucerne. For the last 15 years she has been working as a relocation consultant. She is also a walking and cycling leader. When not glued to a computer screen or to homework, you will find her in the mountains, on a bicycle, mushroom picking or in her rustico (cottage) in Ticino.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program No.
24645
Duration
13 days
Program Begins
Appenzell
Program Concludes
Lugano
Group Type
Small Group
Activity Level
At a Glance
If you’ve dreamed of hiking in Switzerland but are intimidated by its alpine landscapes, join us for easy-going hikes that lead through the history and villages of the Swiss countryside. Explore off-the-beaten-path sites as you’re led by local experts through Swiss mountains and learn about the cuisine and history of the country along the way. Enjoy gentle walks and hikes as you explore olive groves, local wineries and the Abbey Library of St. Gallen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Through hands-on workshops and discussions with locals, you’ll leave Switzerland with a new understanding and appreciation for this country’s culture and natural wonders.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Enjoy the Swiss alpine experience through hikes on gentle trails through mountains and local communities.
  • Learn how to make risotto and bake biberli in hands-on workshops.
  • Explore interactive museums on Mount Säntis and at the Diavolezza glaciers, with opportunities to learn firsthand about Switzerland’s geology.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Judith Portmann
Judith grew up in the cradle of Switzerland. She studied banking, but soon left this world of facts and figures and studied English, Italian and Spanish abroad before managing a travel office on Lake Lucerne. For the last 15 years she has been working as a relocation consultant. She is also a walking and cycling leader. When not glued to a computer screen or to homework, you will find her in the mountains, on a bicycle, mushroom picking or in her rustico (cottage) in Ticino.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Activity Level
Outdoor: No Sweat
Activity Level: Outdoor: No Sweat Walking 1-5 miles daily; trails and dirt roads are well-marked and generally gently undulating with some rocky sections and steep ascents and descents. Sturdy walking/hiking shoes are required. Elevations up to 9,754 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List: 29 Books
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768





Recommended For You