Luxury Swiss & Italian Alps Walk (Lakes & Luxuries From St. Moritz To Como) 6D5N, Fully Guide

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 1.6km (1 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 30m (100 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 9.7km (6 miles), 4-7 hours walking, Elevation gain: 183m (600 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 11.3km (7 miles), 5-9 hours walking, Elevation gain: 335m (1100 ft)

Your journey begins at 10 a.m. at the Chur Train Station, located at Bahnhofplatz 1 in Chur, Switzerland. Your dedicated Trip Leaders will be waiting to greet you on the Bahnhofplatz side of the station, near the roundabout leading to the ABC Hotel. Please arrive dressed in your hiking attire. You should bring your luggage and a daypack with rain gear, extra layers, and any personal items for today's hike. Your main luggage will be seamlessly transported to our hotel for the evening.

Welcome to Switzerland and the exclusive canton of Graubünden, also known as the Grisons. As the largest and easternmost of Switzerland's 26 cantons, Graubünden is treasured by the Swiss as the heart of their country's indigenous language, its only populations of wildlife such as bears and wolves, and some of its most ruggedly beautiful landscapes. The area's scale and seclusion have kept it largely off the international tourist circuit—and we will spend a week discovering its many hidden treasures.

Following our rendezvous in the charming mountain city of Chur, we proceed to Lenzerheide, where the final leg of our journey is a high-altitude gondola ride from the valley floor to Alp Scharmoin. Here, you'll enjoy a morning hike around the alp's small lake before indulging in your first lunch of hearty Alpine fare at a country restaurant.

In the afternoon, choose between two bespoke hiking options, the longer of which leads you to a thunderous waterfall. Both routes pass through Lenzerheide town—an opportunity to procure any forgotten items and, for those on the shorter hike, perhaps browse the main street—before continuing to our exceptional home for the night. The high-altitude village of Guarda Val is one of the few remaining places where the first language is Romansch, the only uniquely Swiss language, often called the closest living language to Latin. Today, this melodious tongue has fewer than 40,000 native speakers. In this peaceful cluster of farms and homes, locals may greet you with a friendly "allegra" or clink glasses with "Eviva!".

You'll stay at the Hotel Guarda Val, a unique property spread across eleven 300-year-old huts and barns. Unwind in the hotel's 'Guarda Sana' wellness center, featuring a log-lined hot tub and sauna.

Tonight, we inaugurate our trip with a welcome toast, followed by an elegant meal at Guarda Val's rustic-chic restaurant, a former cow shed which has been converted into an award-winning bistro.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 8km (5 miles), 2-4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 300m (1000 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 8km (5 miles), 2-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 730m (2400 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 11km (7 miles), 4-6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 730m (2400 ft)

This morning, we step right out of our hotel and onto the trails in Guarda Val’s backyard, offering something for every adventurer. Whether you’re up for a relaxed stroll or a more challenging climb, the options are endless. For those seeking a rewarding ascent, gradual switchbacks lead to the summit of Piz Scalottas, where stunning views await. If you prefer to take it easy, a free chairlift provides an optional boost, skipping several hundred feet of elevation gain.

Midday, we all come together for a hearty mountain lunch at the Piz Scalottas restaurant. Afterward, choose to hike or ride the chairlift back to Guarda Val.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 6.4 km (4 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 61m (200 ft)
Level 1, Approx. 6.4 km (4 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 152m (500 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 6.4 km (4 miles), 2-4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 396m (1300 ft)

Our journey through the Alps continues aboard one of the most iconic Swiss transportation methods: the train. After bidding farewell to Guarda Val, a short morning shuttle takes us to the station where we board the famous red cars of the Bernina Express. This World Heritage-listed railway winds through tunnels and over stunning stone viaducts as it ascends toward the source of the Albula River. Sit back, relax, and soak in the breathtaking alpine views as the train carries us through this scenic wonderland.

Next, we hop onto the steep Muottas Muragl funicular, which climbs high above the Engadine Valley. At the top, expansive views unfold across snow-capped peaks, stretching into Liechtenstein, Austria, and Italy. From here, we set off on a panoramic trail with stunning vistas in every direction, from the Bernina Glacier to the shimmering twin lakes of Silvaplana and St. Moritz. The crystal-clear mountain light here once inspired 19th-century Italian painter Giovanni Segantini, and for those seeking a challenge, the hike to the Segantini Hut offers even more incredible views. Alternatively, there are gentler routes perfect for soaking in this spectacular alpine setting.

In the afternoon, we descend to our next destination: the elegant resort town of St. Moritz. Known as the birthplace of winter tourism in Switzerland, St. Moritz owes its fame to Johannes Badrutt, who bet his British friends that they'd love the town’s crisp, sunny winters. He won that bet, and the legend of St. Moritz was born. The town’s pastel-colored belle époque hotels and mansions overlook Lake St. Moritz, exuding old-world charm.

Tonight, we stay at the historic Kulm Hotel, a luxurious yet welcoming retreat once owned by Badrutt himself. This world-class hotel boasts a luxurious spa and wellness center with panoramic views, an indoor pool, and astate-of-the-art wellness area including a Salt Water Grotto and sauna. After settling in, you’ll have the evening free to explore and enjoy dinner at your leisure. Your trip leaders will be happy to share their favorite local restaurant recommendations.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 8km (5 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 183m (600 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 13km (8 miles), 2-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 366m (1200 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 16km (10 miles), 4-6 hours walking, Elevation gain: 549m (1800 ft)

Today's adventure celebrates the best of the Engadine region. A shuttle takes you to the Furtschellas gondola, where you can choose to hike up the valley wall or take a scenic shortcut. Once at the top, follow a panoramic trail that winds through stunning Alpine landscapes high above icy blue lakes. The trail features rugged ascents, descents, wildflower fields, and crystal-clear mountain streams, with breathtaking valley views at every turn.

When hunger strikes, enjoy a picnic by one of the charming Alpine lakes along the route. Whether you opt for a direct path or a more leisurely one, all routes lead to Lej (Lake) Marsch, where the shuttle will return you to town.

Spend your afternoon exploring the streets of St. Moritz for souvenirs or relaxing at the lakefront spa (at your own expense). Tonight, dinner is on your own—choose from one of the hotel’s many dining options and enjoy a meal at your own pace.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 3 km (2 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain:150m (500 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 6.5 km (4 miles), 2-4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 450m (1500 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 11 km (7 miles), 2-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 500m (1600 ft)

We set off early this morning, heading across the border and down the mountain to our final destination: Lake Como. Today promises a full itinerary of hiking and exploring along the lake’s stunning shores. The journey’s last stretch takes us on a public ferry to the charming town of Bellano. From there, we tackle a short but invigorating climb to Biosio for lunch, before continuing our hike past elegant villas, lush gardens, and the ruins of a 14th-century castle. Stone paths, stairways, and dirt trails lead us to Castello di Vezio, a historic fortress offering breathtaking views of the lake. Feeling daring? Take on the climb, or opt for a shuttle ride to Varenna.

After visiting the castle, we follow an old mule path (mulattiera) to Varenna, often called the most romantic spot in Italy. For those looking to extend the adventure, take a detour to Italy’s shortest river, the Fiumelatte, named for its milky-white waters. Flowing only six months a year, this unique 800-foot-long river even puzzled Leonardo da Vinci.

As the hike concludes, a boat ride takes us across the lake to our luxurious retreat, the Lake Como EDITION. This stunning lakeside escape features a floating pool and ample space to relax. There’s time for a swim or a peaceful moment in the sun before we gather for our farewell reception. As the famous Italian golden light bathes the scenery, we’ll raise a glass to an incredible week in the eastern Alps. The evening ends with a sophisticated Italian dinner—a perfect, romantic finale to our journey.

Level 2, Approx. 5 km (3 miles), 2-4 hours walking, Elevation gain: 305m (1000 ft)

On our final morning together, you have a choice. Rise early for one last hike to a viewpoint above the lake, passing by a charming old church along the way. Alternatively, spend a leisurely morning on your terrace at the EDITION, soaking in the views over a lingering breakfast and a final caffè espresso. Mid-morning, we'll say our goodbyes to your Trip Leaders before you board the shuttle to Milan, where your trip concludes.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.