{"id":18209,"date":"2018-12-26T18:23:40","date_gmt":"2018-12-26T17:23:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/?p=18209"},"modified":"2019-04-11T13:02:54","modified_gmt":"2019-04-11T12:02:54","slug":"the-swiss-alps-vs-the-dolomites","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tourradar.com\/days-to-come\/the-swiss-alps-vs-the-dolomites\/","title":{"rendered":"The Swiss Alps vs. The Dolomites: Which Climb is Worth It?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Europe is known for its food, culture, and breathtaking architecture (just to name a few reasons to visit!), but it\u2019s the hiking and climbing regions that really take the cake. <\/span>If you\u2019re unsure of where to go next, here\u2019s our essential guide to the Swiss Alps<\/a>\u00a0vs. the Dolomites,<\/a> to help you decide which climb is worth it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
<\/td>\nSwiss Alps<\/b><\/td>\nDolomites<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Location<\/strong><\/td>\nSwitzerland<\/td>\nItaly<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Difficulty<\/strong><\/td>\nHard<\/td>\nModerate<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Highest Peak<\/strong><\/td>\nDufourspitze<\/span><\/td>\nMarmolada<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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Travel to: <\/em>Europe <\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n

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Explore the sights of Switzerland solo, or with new companions on a tour | \u00a9\u00a0AC Almelor\/Unsplash\u00a0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Why you need to visit the Swiss Alps<\/b><\/h2>\n

The picture-perfect landscapes of the Swiss Alps are synonymous with mountain climbing, and attract adventure-seekers from across the globe, ranging from beginners to advanced mountaineers. From the impressive mountains that point to the sky – including the iconic peaks of Eiger, Jungfrau, and Matterhorn – to the small fairytale-style towns, there\u2019s no better place to face your next challenge than the Swiss Alps.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When should I go climbing in the Swiss Alps?<\/b><\/h2>\n

While it depends on your experience and your climbing ability, the best time to climb in the Swiss Alps is during the months of June through August. During this time, the weather is less volatile\u00a0and much warmer.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Alpine glaciers and lakes are just a few of the many amazing sights you will encounter| \u00a9 Pascal Debrunner\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Food in Switzerland<\/b><\/h2>\n

While in Switzerland, you\u2019ll need to fuel up on hearty meals to sustain your climbing adventures. The must-try dishes include:<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. R\u00f6sti: <\/b>A delicious potato dish, similar to a giant hashbrown, is a dietary staple of Switzerland.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Swiss fondue:<\/b> Is there a more fabulous experience than dipping bread into piping hot, delicious melted cheese? Of course not.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Nusstorte:<\/b> For something sweet, this classic tart is a unique combination of walnuts, shortcrust pastry, and cream to top it all off. <\/span><\/li>\n
  4. Swiss chocolates:<\/b> You can\u2019t leave Switzerland without sampling some of the finest chocolate in the world.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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    Sample fondue while in Switzerland| \u00a9 Angela Pham\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    What visas and vaccinations do I need for the Swiss Alps?<\/b><\/h2>\n

    Visa entry requirements for the Swiss Alps<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Similar to many countries in Europe, most travellers from around the world, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the USA do not require a visa to enter Switzerland. Some travellers will need a Schengen visa, and the total stay within the Schengen area must not exceed three months in any six months. <\/span><\/p>\n

    Before you travel, make sure you check with your local embassy to ensure you are up-to-date with all entry requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Read the article: <\/em>Safety Tips for Hiking at Night<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n

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    Vaccinations required for the Swiss Alps<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Vaccinations are not a compulsory requirement to travel to the Swiss Alps. However, it is suggested that travellers are protected against tetanus, hepatitis B, rubella, and polio. Consult a travel doctor to ensure you are covered before your climbing adventure.<\/span><\/p>\n

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    Marvel at the views in Zermatt | \u00a9 Chris Holgersson\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Most popular tours in the Swiss Alps<\/b><\/h2>\n

    1. Hike the Jungfrau<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Duration: 6 days<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

    If you\u2019re an accomplished climber or trekker and looking to make this year one to remember, a hike to the Jungfrau should fulfill your bucket list. Between steep climbs and breathtaking vistas, you can stop for a swim at secluded lakes, or enjoy all the wine and cheese that Switzerland has to offer. <\/span><\/p>\n

    You\u2019ll need confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You will also need to prepare for adverse weather conditions that may be encountered. Most importantly, a degree of mental and physical stamina will be essential to complete the trip, as the journey will be tiring but, of course, rewarding.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

    Learn more about this tour here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

    2. Bernese Oberland Glacier Trek<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Duration: 7 days <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

    If you\u2019re looking for an adventure to get your heart racing, this expedition is the best place to start. Accompanied by an expert high-altitude guide, climbers will begin and end in Interlaken and traverse the Oberland Massive from east to west, come face-to-face with the Aar glacier, the Gr\u00fcneggfirn glacier, and other frozen giants along the way. <\/span><\/p>\n

    The trail itself is considered to be difficult and steep, but it is by no means limited to experienced climbers. With some gentle preparation and a few basic mountaineering skills under your belt, this could easily be your next adventure for 2019.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Learn more about this tour here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

    3. The Haute Route <\/b><\/h3>\n

    Duration: 9 days<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

    If you\u2019re dreaming of a journey that is both challenging and rewarding, the Haute Route is a step in the right direction. During this trek, you’ll be treated to views of green alpine meadows that stretch as far as the eye can see, and dramatic mountain scenery while following part of the well-known Haute Route \u2013 one of Europe\u2019s most famous treks; and for a good reason. <\/span><\/p>\n

    This spectacular adventure reaches an altitude of 2,918m (9,573ft), and most days you\u2019ll be climbing for 6-7 hours at a time.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Learn more about this tour here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

    4. Chamonix to Zermatt <\/b><\/h3>\n

    Duration: 10 days <\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

    The major drawcard of this itinerary, similarly to any route in the Swiss Alps, is its jaw-dropping beauty, but also the challenge it presents to hikers and climbers. Following the Chamonix to Zermatt section of the infamous Haute Route during this trek, you\u2019ll see the Grand Combin and Mont Blanc along with other jagged peaks that tower above you, and while the journey may feel like a rollercoaster, filled with steep ascents and descents, it is most certainly a rewarding journey. <\/span><\/p>\n

    Previous trekking experience is recommended, as the days will feature 6-8 hours hiking.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Learn more about this tour here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n

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    Stop along the way during your hiking and climbing adventure to small, quaint towns| \u00a9 Christian Regg\/Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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    Read the article: <\/em>Hiking for Beginners on a Budget: Everything You Need to Know<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n

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    What to do in Switzerland after your climb<\/b><\/h2>\n