THE five-day hiking trip
VERBIER, SWITZERLAND*
What: A chance to get out and about in the fresh air of the Swiss Alps, even after the snow’s melted. Verbier resort sits high, at 1,500m, in the heart of the vast Four Valleys ski area and is one of the most beautiful mountain resorts in the world – winter or summer.
Start in style with a stay at Hotel La Cordée des Alpes, where a gourmet meal in the Alpine-style brasserie followed by a blissful night’s sleep in a luxurious room sets you up for the hard work to come. BTW, vegetarians will be happy to learn there are delicious veggie options like green risotto, zucchini and grilled almonds, alongside hearty meat dishes.
The next morning it’s time to hit the trails, but before you do, pick up a
VIP (Verbier Infinite Playground) pass from the hotel reception, as it enables you to travel on mountain lifts and buses for free, saving you heaps of time, energy and money.
The ultimate healthy holiday, all 950km of the area’s walking trails are free, well mapped out and the amount of endorphins released striding along them is greater than any spin class – the soaring peaks, wild flowers and bright sky are truly magical. Just make sure you pack (wornin) walking boots, layers for varying climates and a waterproof, otherwise the serenity will quickly turn sour.
Even with the right kit, hiking’s more hardcore than it looks, particularly at altitude, and you’ll soon feel like your legs and abs have had a proper workout.
When you’re tired and mid-trail it doesn’t make sense to return to Verbier, so instead hikers make use of “cabane” (cabins) dotted through the mountains.
This is a totally different kind of travel experience, which feels authentic and enticingly in-the-know. While it’s pretty basic – privacy is rare as accommodation is in shared dorms (don’t forget a sleeping bag and pair of earplugs for a better night’s rest) – it also feels like winning the lottery when you arrive at Cabane Brunet and are treated to a local beer, a bowl of heart-warming fondue and chats with fellow hikers.