THE RIDING EXPERIENCE

Skiing and touring over 6 days with LGA’s local IFMGA guides into the heart of the central Swiss Alps and across multiple valleys. The tour starts in the historic town of Andermatt and finishes in Engelberg allowing guests to ski two incredible resorts along the way. Explore Andermatt Ski Arena and the vast terrain of the Uri Canton with endless off-piste options. With over 5,000′ feet of vertical from the top of Gemsstock, our groups will have an unforgettable first day in the Alps. Andermatt gets some of the most snow in Switzerland as it sits in a perfect location for storms and is typically colder than other resorts. Andermatt Ski Arena is one of the most snow sure resorts in Europe. 

Average descents equal 2,500-5,000 feet through the high alpine of the Swiss Alps. Daily ascents can range from 2,000 to 3,000 feet as we ski tour our way through central Switzerland. Ski touring between Andermatt & Engelberg will take the group through some steep, rugged and magnificent terrain surrounded by glaciers. During the ski tour, we will have incredible descents, beautiful ascents through the Swiss mountains and the option for numerous summit options if conditions and energy permit. We will finish our last day riding Engelberg- The freeride mecca of Switzerland with some of the biggest descents in the Alps. Over 6,000 vertical from the top of Mt. Titlis, a wide range of terrain options and some of the best snow in Switzerland. An area every skier should visit at least once.

THE CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Every morning you will be treated with healthy Swiss breakfasts at the hotel or huts before we start our day. All dinners are included for the trip. We host 3 group dinners (Arrival Day, Welcome & Farewell) so everyone gets to sample the local favorites. Dinners will be provided nightly by the Swiss huts to make it easy for you to kick back and relax after a great day of skiing. Swiss meals are known for their quality & local ingredients at each region we visit. A great way to experience the unique flavors of the culture. The group will have lunches along the way as we ski through the day. A great way to take in the 360′ Swiss Mountain views while grabbing a snack. 

THE LODGING EXPERIENCE

In Andermatt, we will be staying 2 nights at a classic Swiss hotel that has hosted skiers for decades. Located in the center of town and close to the lifts, its a prime spot for starting any ski trip. Along the tour, the group will be staying in traditional Swiss Mountain huts and sharing the group rooms. A classic touring experience in the Alps. Our last night in Engelberg we will be staying at a beautiful hotel situated in the center of town overlooking the Engelberg Valley with stunning views of the Swiss Alps.  The hotel features a full restaurant and bar, ski room with heated boot dryers and free wireless internet. After a long day skiing Engelberg and exploring this vast area, enjoy access to the Wellness Center after a great week of skiing.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1 – Arrival Day

Fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) by 1pm where the group will be there to transport you. In some cases you may need to plan your arrival the day before. There are many hotels near the airport offering shuttle service so it is easy to meet the group back at the airport by 1pm. The LGA team is happy to assist you with booking a hotel room before or after your trip. If you would like to book a hotel room yourself, we suggest using Booking.com to find a nearby hotel.

Le Grand Adventure Tours welcomes you to Switzerland! Upon landing at Zurich International Airport (ZRH) you will travel via scenic Swiss train to your hotel in Andermatt. Inspiring views along the way of the Swiss Alps and other ski resorts await you. The group will check in at the hotel in the afternoon around 3:00pm. At our hotel in Andermatt, the group will assemble the gear for the week and get ready for the next day of skiing the resort area. Enjoy our Half-board dinner at the hotel for an easy first night to get some rest. Great way to get to know the other group members and talk about some skiing! 

If rentals are needed, we can arrange snow equipment for the week through our partnership with Scott Sports. We will have a selection of powder skis with touring bindings to choose from. There will also be the brand new Scott E-1 Patrol Backpack and avalanche kits available for rent for guests during the trips. Both items can be rented for the duration of your trip to save you time and money. If you wish to rent ski/snowboard equipment please let us know so that we can coordinate your rental.

Day 2 – Preparation day in Andermatt (4,700 to 9,721 feet 5,000 vertical feet of skiing!)

Today we will ski the resort and do a short ski tour in the area if weather permits. A perfect time to check everyone’s equipment and prepare for the week ahead. Any last minute items can be purchased in town at one of the ski shops. Today gives the LGA Guide Team a chance to get to know everyone and have some fun skiing! Andermatt has an extensive amount of terrain that offers a chance to ski open bowls, a 5,000 vertical foot drop from the top, couloirs and hopefully lots of powder. In the afternoon we can prepare our packs and food for the tour this week. Enjoy our Welcome Group Dinner at one of our favorite places in town and relax at the hotel before the real fun starts!

Day 3 – Realp (1,540m/5,050 feet) – Albert Heim Hütte (2,543m/8,350 feet)

The first day of the tour begins with a train ride from Andermatt to the town of Realp, located up valley from Andermatt. One of the many gateways into the surrounding high peaks of the Swiss Alps. Realp dates back to 1799 when the area was used for trading and smuggling goods between Italy and Switzerland as it sits at the bottom of Furkapass. From here we will start working our way up the beautiful trail to the Albert Heim Hut. If we have the strength, we can continue to go towards Galenstock and get a nice ride down again. Or we can just sit on the terrace and enjoy the view for the rest of the day.

Day 4 – Albert Heim Hütte (2,543m/8,350 feet) – Chelenalphütte (2,350m/7,700 feet)

Waking up in a Swiss Alpine hut is a special thing. Take your time to go outside, admire the views and watch the stars. The days will start early so we can optimize our time during each tour. Breakfast is served in the dining area of the huts. There will be Half Board accommodations on all nights during the hut tour so everyone gets a hearty meal after each day. We begin the day with a small downhill ski to the start of the first ascent for the day. We walk about 1600+/- vertical feet until we get to Winterlücke. From here we ski down directly against the Göcheneralpsee. 3300+/- glorious vertical feet of skiing! If weather and conditions allow we have the option to take the route via Lochberg. We continue into Chelenalphutte against the hut, about 1600+/- vertical feet.

Day 5 – Chelenaalphütte (2,350m/7,700 feet) – Steingletcher (1,865m/6,120 feet)

We start the day directly with the skins on and heading towards the Sustenlimi about 2100 vertical feet of altitude gain. Here we can choose whether we want to continue moving towards the top of Sustenhorn that lies at 11,500 feet, or ski down directly through Steingletcher to the night’s accommodation at the bottom of the valley. 5500+/- fabulous vertical feet from the top, welcome to the Swiss Alps!

Day 6 – Steingletcher (1865m/6,120 feet) – Süstlihütte (2,257m/7,400 feet)

Today we travel towards the Fünffingerstock which passes through the Obertaljoch pass (2,835m/9,300 feet). From here we have multiple choices down to Sustlibach depending on weather and conditions. A scenic descent, stunning views of central Switzerland and a classic alpine tour! The last bit to the hut will require the group to put the skins back on for a short approach to the hut. Once we are at the hut, we will make sure to enjoy the last night in the hut and the inspiring mountains around us.

Day 7 – Süstlihütte (2,257m/7,400 feet) – Engelberg (1000m/3,280 feet)

The last day in the Swiss Huts but also a day with a big descent! The day begins with the group moving uphill towards the Grassengrat / Stössensattel – a climb of about 2,000 feet. Once on the top enjoy the views of central Switzerland and the surrounding peaks as it’s all downhill from here! This could very well be the best ski descent of the week. We have an astounding 5,900 foot downhill run to cap off a sensational week of ski touring in the Swiss Alps. If time/ weather permits the group can go by the Grassen bivouac located just below the overwhelming southeast wall of the Titlis. A remarkable view! Once we are down in the valley we will take either the local bus or taxi back to Engelberg. Time to enjoy a cold beverage at the Yucatan of the Ski Lodge Engelberg to celebrate a great week of ski touring.

Day 8 – Departure Day

It’s been an amazing week of skiing Andermatt, the Swiss Alpine huts, and the angel- Engelberg. Lots of great skiing, Swiss hospitality and a section of the Alps that has some of the best skiing in the world . We will have breakfast together in the morning before we head out to Zurich airport. Please make sure to book your departure flights after 1:00pm. Thank you for a great week! (If you want to stay after the trip and get a few extra days, let us know and we can help you book extra nights of lodging, lift tickets, and guiding.)

NOTE: This itinerary is an example. The tour may be altered to adjust for weather and conditions. Our guides will plan the tour around the conditions to make sure you have the best trip possible.

FAQ

Check out our General FAQs section. Here you will find answers to your general questions.

What is the Best Way to Get There?

Fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) by 1pm where the group will be there to transport you. In some cases you may need to plan your arrival the day before. There are many hotels near the airport offering shuttle service so it is easy to meet the group back at the airport by 1pm. We suggest using Booking.com to find a nearby hotel.

When Should I Make My Travel Arrangements?

Please wait until you receive confirmation from Le Grand Adventure Tours before making any travel arrangements. Our team is happy to assist you with any travel needs.

Hotels Before & After Your Trip

There are a lot of great hotels in the Zurich and the surrounding areas close to the airport or in city center. If you plan to arrive early, a day before the trip start, or if you plan to stay for an extra night before you leave. We suggest using online resources like Booking.com to check availability. We are always happy to help and offer recommendations for all of our guests.

Can I Reserve My Trip With a Deposit?

Yes, you can reserve your trip with a Deposit for all Multi-Day Tours lasting twenty-four hours or longer. If you seek to reserve a spot on the Tour more than 90 days prior to the Date of Departure. The Deposit amount is twenty percent (20%) of the Tour Price. For Private Group Tours the Deposit amount is fifty percent (50%) of the Tour Price. Within 89 days or less prior to the date of departure, the full amount is due at time of booking.

When is The Final Payment For This Tours Due?

Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure, or 7 days from booking confirmation if booking is within 90 days.

What Is Your Cancellation Policy?

• 90 days or more prior to Departure: LGA will retain the deposit as an “Adventure Deposit” for a future trip. Full refund will be given.
• 89-60 days prior to Departure: LGA will retain 50% of the total Tour Price and the deposit will be held as an Adventure Deposit for a future trip.
• 59 days or less prior to Departure: LGA will retain 100% of the total Tour Price.Le Grand Adventure Tours cannot be held responsible for snow and/or weather conditions. Trips cannot be cancelled or amended on the basis of snow and weather conditions.

What Is Your Refund Policy?

No refunds, reimbursements or discounts will be granted if, for any reason, Client misses the Tour, fails to join the Tour, leaves the Tour, is dismissed from the Tour, or cannot fully participate in the Tour. Any Refunds will be at the discretion of Le Grand Adventure Tours if you are involuntarily forced to leave a tour for any reason.

What is The Group Size?

Small group sizes that don’t exceed 8 guests.

Do We Need to Tip Our Guides?

Gratuities are not included. Tips are accepted at your discretion based on the overall trip experience provided by our team.

Do I Need Trip Insurance?

Trip Insurance is Not Included: We require trip insurance for all trips abroad. Protecting your trip & safety is our priority!
We recommend World Nomads as they are the ultimate in travel protection and global emergencies and evacuations.

What Type of Skis To Bring?

A ski with roughly a 100mm to 110mm is the best option. If you want to bring a wider pair of skis please feel free or we can rent these if needed.

Do I Need Ski Touring Equipment?

Yes, as this is a backcountry touring trip. If you have a pair of touring bindings (Dynafit, Plum, Marker, Salomon, etc) and are comfortable skiing a wide variety of terrain on them, please feel free to bring them. We also have Alpine Touring & AT Touring skis from Scott during the trip to rent for the duration of the trip. Splitboarders are welcome!

Do I Need Backcountry Safety Gear?

Avalanche safety gear is required on all of our tours. If you have your own equipment please bring it. We have Scott E1 Airbags, Avalanche Beacon, Shovel and Probe available to rent for the duration of the trip. (Option available to add-on at checkout. If you wish to add later please feel free to contact us.)

Ski & Gear Rentals

If you wish to rent ski/snowboard equipment please let us know so that we can coordinate your rental. Please advise the LGA Team before the trip if you will need gear.

What Should I Bring With Me?

Ski/Snowboard Gear:
Skis/Snowboard, boots, poles
Goggles
Helmet – stay safe on the slopes!!

Misc/Recommended:
Backpack
Avalanche Transceiver
Shovel/Probe
Touring Gear and Skins
Packable Puffy
Climbing Harness (that fits over ski pants)
(We can assist with some gear, please feel free to contact us)

Après Clothing:
You will be in the Alps for a week so please bring proper clothing for when you’re not on the slopes.

Travel Requirements:
Current Passport
Credit card, cash and/or traveler’s checks
ID or driver’s license
Medical insurance cards
Prescriptions or other medications
Important phone numbers
Proof of Travelers Insurance

What Is The Weather Going To Be Like?

For the most accurate weather please check the Andermatt Weather Online a few days before your trip. We will be in the mountains so bring clothes that will keep you warm in a wide variety of conditions. We will guarantee you get the most out of your ski holiday as we have a wide range of activities that we can add into the trip incase there are down days due to snow storms or weather.

How Long Does It Take to Fly to Switzerland?

Flight time from the West Coast of the United States to Zurich is approximately 11.5 hours if you book a non-stop flight. From the East Coast the flight time is approximately 8 hours.

Can I Use My Credit Card in Switzerland?

Credit cards are widely accepted, but Amex is not always accepted. Better stick with Visa. You will need some cash – but just for casual expenses. Most things can be paid for by credit card. The currency is CHF/Swiss Franc. EUR is not the currency of Switzerland (even if it is sometimes accepted by some merchants at a bad exchange rate). It never makes sense to carry too much cash on you – anywhere. Withdrawing cash from your checking account using your US cash/debit card is usually much cheaper than converting dollar bills at an exchange desk and you will get the BEST Exchange rate. Many credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee around 3-5%. This may be the time to get yourself a fun new rewards travel credit card that comes with “No Foreign Transaction Fees.” We never leave home without it.

Which Languages are Spoken in Switzerland?

The four national languages of Switzerland are German, French, Italian and Romansh. In the Davos & St. Moritz area they speak German or a Swiss-German dialect. You will find English is widely spoke all over Switzerland. It is still great to learn a few of the day to day vocabulary to be polite.

Is It Safe to Travel to Switzerland?

Switzerland is very safe. Always take regular precautions whenever abroad to save yourself from any potential headaches that could interfere with your travels.

I Heard Switzerland is Expensive, How Expensive is it?

With its plethora of international banks, the country is a center for global wealth. This means prices are high, but people are paid quite well. Supermarket sell pre-made meals for between 5-9 CHF. Bars and cafés are the cheapest food option, cost about 9-15 CHF for a lunch special. Restaurants with table service are around 20 CHF for lunch and 40 CHF for dinner (starter, main, and drink) to start. You’ll typically find pizzas for around 20 CHF in a restaurant. If you’re dining out (but still trying to stick to a budget), you’ll spend an average of 25-45 CHF a day on food.