without too many steep sections. The majority of routes are graded 2 or 3, largely as a result of the challenging nature of the district. A full definition of these grades is given at the end of this Introduction.
Throughout the region footpaths are signed with typical Swiss efficiency
Most paths are well maintained, waymarked and signed at junctions with typical Swiss efficiency. Footpath signs generally conform to a national standard, are painted yellow, and bear the names of major landmark destinations such as a pass, lake, hut or village or, indeed, sometimes a name that does not appear on the map, but which refers to a specific trail junction. Estimated times are given in hours (Std:stunden) and minutes (min), while a white plate on some of the signs announces the name and altitude of the immediate locality. Rarely do paths in this book stray onto unpathed territory, but where they do, occasional cairns and/or waymarks act as your guide. In such places it is essential to remain vigilant to avoid becoming lost – especially in poor visibility. If in doubt about the continuing route, return to the last point where you were certain of your whereabouts, and try again. By regular consultation with the map during your walk, it should be possible to keep abreast of your position and anticipate junctions or a change of direction before you reach them.
Waymarks are either painted yellow (the Wanderweg) for easy, mostly valley walks; white-red-white for the higher, more demanding Bergweg trails; while a third type of waymark which indicates an Alpenweg is coloured blue and white. These are reserved for difficult routes which may involve sections of scrambling, via ferrata (fixed rope, metal rungs or ladders), or glacier crossings. Only the most experienced of mountain walkers should attempt these.
For safety’s sake do not walk alone on remote trails, on moraine-bank paths or glaciers. If you prefer to walk in a group but have not made prior arrangements to join an organised walking holiday, the staff at several tourist offices in the region arrange day walks in the company of a qualified leader. These take place throughout the summer months and are sometimes free of charge to guests staying in the organising resort. Enquire at the local tourist office for specific details.
The notice says it all – leave no litter
SAFETY CHECKLIST
Before setting out on a mountain walk check the weather forecast (see above) and be aware that Alpine areas are subject to rapidly changing conditions. When on a long walk watch for signs of a deterioration in the weather, and be prepared for the worst by having suitable clothing.
Study route details beforehand, noting any particular difficulties and the amount of time needed to complete the route. Make sure you can be back safely before nightfall.
On a full-day’s walk carry food (and emergency rations such as chocolate or dried fruit), and at least one litre of liquid per person to avoid dehydration.
Leave details of your planned route and expected time of return, with a responsible person.
Be vigilant when crossing wet rocks, scree, snow patches and mountain streams. Should a section of your path be safeguarded with fixed rope or chains, check that they have not worked loose before relying on them.
Do not stray onto glaciers unless you have experienced companions and the necessary equipment (and know-how) to deal with crevasse rescue. Keep away from icefalls and hanging glaciers.
Avoid dislodging stones onto others who might be below you.
Never be reluctant to turn back in the face of deteriorating weather, or if the route appears to be hazardous. In the event of being unable to reach your planned destination, try to send a message.
Carry map and compass (and GPS if you have one), and know how to use them.
Always carry some first aid equipment, as well as a whistle and a torch for emergencies. The emergency telephone number for rescue is 117 – try not to use it!
Make a note of the International Distress Signal printed at the front of this guide: six blasts on a whistle (and flashes with a torch after dark) spaced evenly for one minute, followed by a minute’s pause; then repeat until an answer is received and your position located. The response is three signals followed by a minute’s pause.
Be insured against accidents (rescue and subsequent medical treatment), for although mountain rescue is highly organised and efficient in Switzerland, it can be extremely expensive for the casualty. (See Appendix A for a list of specialist insurers.)
Finally, please help keep the mountains and valleys litter-free.
Suggested Equipment List
Experienced mountain walkers will no doubt have their preferences, but the following list is offered as a guide to newcomers to the Alps. Obviously some items will not be needed if you envisage tackling only low valley walks.
Clothing
Walking boots – must be comfortable, a good fit, have ankle support and plenty of grip in the soles
Trainers or similar for wear in hotels and villages
Wind- and water-proof jacket and overtrousers
Warm hat and sunhat
Gloves
Fleece or sweater
Shirts – 2 or 3 for a fortnight’s holiday
Warm trousers or slacks (not jeans which can be very cold when wet and take ages to dry)
Shorts (optional)
Socks
Underwear
Miscellaneous
Rucksack – with waterproof liner and/or cover
Sheet sleeping bag (for those who intend to sleep in huts or matratzenlagers)
Bivvy bag – in case of emergencies
Collapsible umbrella – excellent rain protection; especially useful for spectacle wearers
Trekking pole(s) – highly recommended
Headtorch plus spare bulb and battery
Water bottle – minimum 1 litre capacity
Sunglasses, suncream/sunblock and lip salve
First aid kit
Map and compass (and GPS if available)
Whistle
Watch
Guidebook
Penknife
Camera and films (unless digital)
Altimeter
Binoculars
A walker on the Regenboldshorn, a short diversion from the Pommernpass on Route 88
Recommended Maps
The series of maps published by the Swiss national survey – Landeskarte der Schweiz (LS) – are works of art. Open any sheet and a picture of the country immediately leaps from the paper, for by shading, contours and colouring, the line of ridge and rock face, the flow of glacier and stream, the curve of an amphitheatre, the narrow cut of a glen, the expanse of a lake or forest on a hillside all announce themselves clearly. They are a source of inspiration for study at home, and a real pleasure to use in the mountains. Check the LS catalogue on www.swisstopo.ch/en/. LS also produce maps for use with a mobile phone. Check details on