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SWITZERLAND
DATES TBC
Seven days. The Via Alpina. Memories that will last a lifetime
Join us in Grindelwald, gateway to the Via Alpina, a mountainous trail through the Bernese Oberland in south Switzerland that hundreds of years ago was roamed by bears. Our group will traverse a magical part of the route - scaling mountains, the deepest of valleys, taking in pristine nature, breathtaking views and the awesome, unrivalled majesty of the Alps - and all in aid of The Brun Bear Foundation.
Registered charity The Brun Bear Foundation supports a mix of community, medical and animal welfare projects. Its diverse programme spans funding the beautification of parks, theatre experiences for inner city children, research programmes into better and kinder treatments for children with leukaemia and outstanding conservation projects focused on bears of any species. It also funds a range of awards and bursaries.
The all-inclusive price is £2,200 and can be paid in interest-free instalments - the earlier you book, the smaller the instalment!
No interest charges. No hidden fees. 7 nights accommodation at a well-reviewed hotel.
8 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
English/German speaking professional guides
Small group sizes.
Organised by The Brun Bear Foundation
We look forward to warmly welcoming you onboard!
OUR EPIC ADVENTURE - SWITZERLAND
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DAY ONE - ARRIVAL
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Arrive in Grindelwald, the gateway to the Via Alpina, a mountainous trail through the Bernese Oberland in south Switzerland. This will be the base for the group and our Epic Adventure ahead which will see us traverse the spectacular terrain and scale mountains to raise money for The Brun Bear Foundation. Today is about checking into the hotel and meeting your team mates at the welcome dinner.
CREDIT: Peter J Coughlan on visualhunt.com
LAUTERBRUNNEN
This hike takes us on a stage of the Via Alpina, Switzerland’s National Hiking Route #1. We will walk from Lauterbrunnen back to Grindelwald.
Total distance = 20km
Total climb/descent = 1,600m / 1,600m
Total hiking time = 8h
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DAY THREE - HIKE TWO
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GLECKSTEINHÜTTE
A dream for those with a head for heights!! A splendidly situated hut, high alpine landscapes and an exciting route with a few tingling spots characterise the tour to the Glecksteinhütte located below the Chrinnenhorn.
Total distance = 20km
Total climb/descent = 1,600m / 1,600m
Total hiking time = 8h
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DAY TWO - HIKE ONE
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SCHRECKHORNHÜTTE
The approach to the Schreckhornhütte (2,530m) from Grindelwald is one of the most beautiful hut trails in the Swiss Alps. A UNESCO World Heritage region and part of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch, Schreckhornhütte is located directly on the Grindelwald Glacier. Enjoy magnificent scenery, the high alpine environment and visiting ibex. Enjoy a gondola ride to Pfingstegg.
Total distance = 17km
Total climb/descent = 1,600m / 1,600m
Total hiking time = 7h 30m
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DAY FOUR - HIKE THREE
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CREDIT: VisualHunt.com
DAY FIVE - HIKE 4A
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CREDIT: Dom Dada/VisualHunt.com
DOSSENHÜTTE
Far away from mass tourism, a visit to the Dossenhütte is an exciting destination for experienced mountain hikers, with stunning views of glaciers. NOTE: The ascent to the hut requires stamina, sure-footedness and a head for heights, but it is absolutely worthwhile. Difficult places have wire ropes, ladders and steps provided. There is an alternative route to the Engelhornhütte for those unsure about this ascent.
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Total distance = 14km
Total climb/descent = 1,435m / 1,435m
Total hiking time = 6h
ENGELHORNHÜTTE
The Engelhornhütte seems to cling to the side of the mountains with stunning views of glaciers. We will walk through the stunning Rosenlaui Gorge.
Total distance = 12km
Total climb/descent = 745m / 745m
Total hiking time = 4h 30m
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DAY FIVE - HIKE 4B
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DAY SIX - HIKE FIVE
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CREDIT: Lukas Schlagenhauf on visualhunt.com
GRINDELWALD FREE DAY AND FAREWELL DINNER
A well deserved rest day after several amazing days, doing more than you thought you ever could, in the company of friends who now feel like family! Take time to rest, recharge, explore the locality... the day is free for you to spend as you wish, We'll all regroup in the evening for a celebratory dinner likely to go on to the early hours. The following morning after breakfast we'll depart having had the Epic Adventure of a Lifetime!
SCHWARZHORN
The highlight of this panoramic hike is the Bachalpsee with its magnificent backdrop of the Bernese Alps. The moor landscape around the lake offers a unique alpine flora. We can even have a quick swim if the weather cooperates!
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Total distance = 17km
Total climb/descent = 1,130m / 1,130m
Total hiking time = 6h
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DAY SEVEN
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CREDIT: Rosmarie Voegtli on visualhunt.com
FAQ
FLIGHTS
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Travel to and from the Epic Adventure is not included in this trip.Grindelwald is approximately 2.5 hours by train from Zurich or Basel airport and 3 hours from Geneva. It is between 4 and 5.5 hours from Milan by train, depending on train connection.
LUGGAGE/BAGGAGE
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You are not required to take your luggage with you on daily excursions. We advise you bring a day pack for personal sundries, bottled water, light snacks, sun lotion and any medication you may require.
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PASSPORTS/VISAS
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Please check with your national embassy to re/confirm current requirements for Switzerland.
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FOR FURTHER FAQs PLEASE CLICK HERE