A series of huttes or huts tucked away on hiking trails in the mountains of Switzerland offer a “cool” summer escape. In Switzerland, where 60% of the landscape is covered in Alpine splendor, huts and hiking are an unbeatable combination offering fresh, clean, and crisp air, panoramic views, and a break from life’s daily stresses. It’s all part of the Swiss Alpine Club (SAC).
Founded in 1863, the club now has over 150,000 members, making it Switzerland’s largest mountaineering club and one of its biggest sports associations. The club’s goals include: promoting mountain sports, protecting and sustainably developing the Alpine region, practicing mountaineering responsibly, and making the mountains accessible to the public at a low cost.
With sustaining the natural environment a top priority, the SAC’s huts are designed to a be a leader in developing centers of sustainability. The goal of SAC’s new climate initiative is to achieve net zero CO2 emissions by 2040 by employing renovations that rely on renewable energy sources such as solar panels and photovoltaic systems.
SAC’s Huts fits in well with one of Switzerland’s most popular leisure activities–hiking. So lace up those boots and get your camera ready for a unique summer adventure.
Monte Rosa Hut (SAC)
The Monte Rosa hut, known as the “Highttech hut” with its special shape and silver aluminum shell, accommodates up to 120 guests in a sustainable way, as it generates over 90% of its own energy. With an advanced energy management system from ETH Zurich (Technology University of Zurich) and innovative water filtration, it is a symbol of innovation in the mountains. Nevertheless, it retains its cozy charm and serves authentic Valais and Swiss cuisine on its terrace with breathtaking views of the mountains.
Zernez, Graubünden
Chamanna Cluozza (SAC)
An overnight stay in the wild and romantic Val Cluozza is an unforgettable experience. The recently renovated Chamanna Cluozza is the only managed hut located in the heart of the Swiss National Park, the oldest national park in the Alps and a UNESCO biosphere reserve at 6,180 feet above sea level. It is open from mid-June to mid-October and offers hikers simple but sustainable accommodation with 61 beds, 34 of which are in a dormitory and 27 in rooms.
Zinal, Valais
Cabane de Tracuit (CAS)
The Tracuit Hut, nestled on the edge of the Turtmann Glacier, stands among the highest SAC huts. Its sunny dining area offers views of towering 13,000-foot peaks, while cozy sleeping quarters ensure restful nights. With last year’s webcam installation, visitors can conveniently monitor the breathtaking mountain scenery and trail conditions from the comfort of their kitchen or sofa, aiding in tour planning.
Alternatively, it offers a chance to experience the alpine world for those hesitant about the long, demanding ascent to the hut, which demands alpine skills.
Bever, Graubünden
Chamanna Jenatsch (SAC)
The Swisstainable-certified Jenatschhütte is the highest SAC hut in Graubünden and serves as a stage destination on the “Bernina Trek” in summer. Mountain enthusiasts, climbers and mountain bikers appreciate the peace and seclusion in Val Bever between the Julier and Albula Passes as well as the unique hut atmosphere. A highlight of the hut, situated at 8,701 feet above sea level, is the sauna.
While the cuisine offers regional specialties such as pizzoccheri, polenta and maluns, and the hut cellar stocks fine wines from the Bündner Herrschaft and Italy.
Engelberg, Nidwalden
Hiking Heaven
Nidwalden leads the way with its 40 cable cars, including 26 Buiräbähnli, and offers a range of transportation facilities that is hard to beat. These cable cars criss-cross the Alps and provide access to the most beautiful places in the Engelberg Valley. Ready for nostalgia, adventure and breathtaking views?
The Buiräbähnli Safari with its 8 rustic cable cars around Engelberg is waiting to be discovered and offers a unique hiking experience. The entire route spans 28 miles with over 12,000 feet in elevation and is perfect for a multi-day hike.
Across Switzerland: Glacier Bike Tour
The Glacier Bike Tour, a new offering in Swiss bike tourism, stretches 230 miles from St. Moritz via Andermatt to Zermatt, covering a total of 31,000 feet in altitude. The route is divided into ten stages and combines gravel, asphalt and easy trails, making it ideal for 3 to 4 hour rides that combine physical activity with cultural exploration. Highlights include the beautiful town of St. Moritz, the Matterhorn, picturesque villages and breathtaking Alpine landscapes in three Swiss cantons.
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Overnight stays at the huts are popular, especially in the high season and at weekends. It is therefore strongly recommended that you reserve your bed well in advance by phone, email or simply via the online reservation system.
