Trail running in the Bernese Oberland
Step into a runner’s paradise in the Bernese Oberland, where alpine trails wind through some of Switzerland’s most spectacular landscapes. This is an adventure designed for those who want to do more than just admire the mountains - they want to run among them.
Our routes take you across flower-filled meadows, beneath sparkling glaciers, and along trails framed by towering alpine peaks such as the spectacular Finsteraarhorn, the highest mountain the Bernese Alps. The variety of terrain - flowing paths, steady climbs, and exhilarating descents - makes this region ideal for building trail running confidence and endurance.
Highlights
- Stunning mountain scenery
- Learn from a professional and experienced trail running guide
- Know your luggage will be waiting for you at the end of each day
- Comfortable characterful hotels, 2/3* in valley bases
- Folklore, flora, fauna, and local culture as you run
- 116 kilometers (72 miles) of linked trails over 6 days
With expert guidance, breathtaking backdrops, and the thrill of moving fast and light through world-class alpine terrain, this trip captures the true spirit of mountain running in Switzerland.
Our guide will take the route at a steady pace mixing running with fast hiking on the uphill depending on the terrain. Passing through spectacular mountain scenery, following trails steeped in history, culture and folklore. Many of the trails date back centuries and you will feel the history under your feet as you follow in the footsteps of hunters, herdsmen, smugglers and armies. Smooth, runnable trails are interspersed with technical, rocky sections over the high mountain passes.
Breathtaking alpine landscapes await, flanked by colourful meadows tumbling down into picturesque hamlets and villages. It is both a nature lover's and a trail runner’s paradise. This trip is suitable for experienced mountain trail runners.
Grade: Advanced
READ GRADE DESCRIPTIONAt a Glance
| Holiday Type | Trail Running |
| Duration | 8 Days |
| Group Size | 4-10 |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Maximum Altitude | 2780m (9120ft) |
| Countries Visited | Switzerland |
| Meet In | Interlaken |
Dates and Prices
2027 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BTR1 |
24 Jul 2027
Saturday |
31 Jul 2027
Saturday |
8 days |
£3,275
Deposit: £800 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
2028 Departures
| Code | Start Date | Return Date | Duration | Price | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BTR1 |
22 Jul 2028
Saturday |
29 Jul 2028
Saturday |
8 days |
£3,470
Deposit: £800 |
Spaces Available | Book Now |
What's Included
- Guiding services of a qualified International Mountain Leader, who is an experienced trail runner
- Half board accommodation; breakfast and dinner, based on sharing a twin room
- Daily transfer of your luggage between accommodations
- Train up to the Schynige platte
What's Not Included
- Lunches
- Travel Insurance - required
- Miscellaneous personal spending
- Any cable cars which you opt to use
- Travel to meeting point & from departure point
Itinerary
Today you travel to the famous Swiss town of Interlaken. You will meet your guide at the hotel where there will be an introduction meeting and discuss the week ahead.
Interlaken is gorgeous built on a narrow stretch of valley, between the emerald waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. It has traditional houses and parkland and is surrounded by mountains, forests, alpine meadows and glaciers.
Today you will do a shake out run in the mountains around Interlaken. The guide will have a few ideas and depending on the weather and how the group feels. We might go for a more flat run before tackling the uphills for the next week, or we might already go and get those muscles warm with a bit of angulating terrain. Either way, the area around Interlaken is stunning and it'll be a great way to start the week.
Leaving Interlaken we begin our Bernese Oberland Traverse with a short warm up run to Wilderswil and the Schynige Platte cog rail way station. The train takes 45 minutes and ascends 1500m (4921ft) through woodland to reach 2068m (6784ft) above the treeline and the start of the 'Eiger to First' panoramic trail. This 'must do' mountain path is quite breathetaking offering some of the best views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau along the way. Enjoy 15km (9.5miles) of balcony trail running through mountan meadows, passing traditional alpine farms and up to our highest point so far the Faulhorn summit at 2681m (8795ft) where we gain 360 degree mountain views with the Brienzersee lake below. It's all down hill from here as we pick up the Eiger Trail past the picturesque Bachalpsee alpine lake down to the cable car at First. From there we continue descending all the way down into Grindelwald.
Ascent: 1000m (3280ft) Descent: 1704m (5590ft) Distance: 25km ( 15.5 miles) Duration: 5h00-6h00
Today is all about the Eiger! The notorious Eiger stands at 3970m above Grindelwald and has been enthralling visitors to the valley for decades, most notably since 1858 when local Mountain Guides Christian Almer and Peter Bohren together with their guest Charles Barrington, reached the summit for the first time. The Eiger began attracting a wealth of aspiring mountaineers from all over Europe wishing to tackle its steep north face – known as the ‘last problem of the Alps’ in north face climbing terms. It was finally conquered in 1938 by Anderl Heckmair, Fritz Kasparek, Ludwig Vörg and Heinrich Harrer, in a battle waged over 4 days. Inspired by the myth of the Eiger, the trail running event Eiger Ultra Trail was launched in 2013.
Our route today takes in the Eiger trail below the northface to reach the plateau of Kleine Scheidegg. Leaving our hotel first on flat valley trails we reach Grund then at the site of an ancient mountain chapel at Gletcherschlucht we start a steep hike through the forest to reach the main Eiger balcony trail at 1700m which then traverses gradually under the Eiger itself. It here that one can start to appreciate this mountains true grandure and challenges that climbers face to reach it's summit. The trail passes waterfalls, crosses streams and there is often snowmelt late into the summer months.
From our high point today at 2285m (7496m) we can see clearly view the full Eiger Northface rock climb and if you look carefully the small windows where the Jungfraujoch train passes through the mountain (and the access point for climbers to reach the start of the climbing route)! Our trail opens out to reach the Kleine Scheidegg plateau and from here if there is time take the Jungfraujoch train through the Eiger to 3454m (11332ft) and visit the 'roof of Europe'! We then descend to the famous ski village of Wengen where we will spend the night.
Ascent: 1575m (5170ft) Descent: 1330m (4365ft) Distance: 25.3km (15.7miles) Duration: 4h00-5h00
We start with a descent today as we join the Jungfrau Marathon trail and make our way to the delightful town of Lauterbrunnen.
Lauterbrunnen is situated in one of the most impressive trough valleys in the Alps, between gigantic rock faces and mountain peaks. With its 72 thundering waterfalls, secluded valleys, colourful alpine meadows and remote mountain inns, the Lauterbrunnen Valley is one of the biggest nature conservation areas in Switzerland.
Still on the Jungfrau Marathon trail, but on a surprisingly flat path, our journey takes us past numerous impressive waterfalls to reach Stechelberg and the Sefinen waterfall at the head of the valley. From here we start our climb to the remote Sefinenfurgge pass which is the second highest pass on the Alpine Pass Route. We traverses beautiful meadows with breathtaking views of the high peaks towering above the Lauterbrunnental, Sefinental and Kiental valleys.
The trail ascends through pastures and past small farms on the outskirts of Murren. Great views of the big three, the Eiger, Monch and Junfrau, are your constant companion. After a short, steep climb up the head of the Wasenegg ridge, the trail enters the Sefinental where an overlook showcases the Tschingelspitz, Gspalterhorn and Butlasse towering above the head of the valley.
A beautiful trail now contours through pastures along the valley’s north slopes to Rotstock Hut. Beyond the hut a steep trail ascends pretty meadows and then scree covered slopes to the Sefinenfurrge Pass 2611m (8570ft), a small notch on a remote ridge. Here enjoy your last views of the Wetterhorn, Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. To the west new vistas open to the Armighorn and Dundenhorn rising above the west side of the Kiental.
To descend our trail is initially steep and on some scree, but this soon eases off to fun running trails down to reach a short detour trail that we will take to reach our lunch stop at the delightful Gspaltenhornhutte at 2455m (8054ft). From here we can soak up the views beside the Gamchig glacier and peaks all around before we begin our a fun descent down to the mountain of village Griesalp
Ascent: 1830m (6005ft) Descent: 1660 m (5440ft) Distance: 25.4km (15.7 miles) Duration: 6 - 7 hrs
Today we are starting the day with a climb. Slowly making our way up to Bluemlisalphutte. Passing high alpine pastures and moving from lots of greenery to the more rocky terrain when we get closer to the Hohtürli pass (2778m). Just above the pass you will find the Hut. This mountain hut offers breathtaking views of the Blüemlisalp Glacier and the surrounding alpine landscape, making it an ideal resting point after a long climb.
After a short coffee and/or cake break we will wake up our quads and start descending to the Oeschinensee (1522m). You will get to see the spectacular turquoise color of the lake, which is primarily due to the presence of finely ground particles called "glacial flour." These particles are created as glaciers move over rock, grinding it down into a fine powder. When the meltwater from the glaciers flows into the lake, it carries these tiny particles, which reflect and scatter sunlight in a way that gives the water its stunning turquoise hue.
The high mineral content in the glacial flour also contributes to the vibrant color, creating an almost magical contrast against the surrounding mountains. The clearer the water, the more intense the color, especially on bright sunny days when the sunlight interacts with the lake’s surface.
From the lake we will continue our way down towards Kandersteg.
Ascent: 1350m (4430ft) Descent: 1620m (5315ft) Distance: 17.3km (10.7miles) Duration: 5h00
Today we will wake up our legs by following the valley floor for the first kilometers. From there we will be following the gorgeous Via Alpina trail up towards the Tschingellochtighore (2630m) passing through alpine pastures.
The Tschingellochtighore, the name itself is a bit of a tongue-twister and derives from the local dialect. While the exact translation is a bit unclear, the name can be broken down as follows; Tschingel: Likely refers to the "Tschingel" area, which is a ridge or high point, Loch: This often means a gap, hole, or cleft in a mountain, Tighore: This part of the word may be specific to the local dialect, potentially referring to a feature of the mountain or a geographic term.
From the top we will start descending, initially following the ridge we then descend onto a little plateau (1950m), from which we can admire the path we've just covered. At this point we will begin our last kilometers of this amazing journey in the Bernese overlands and will contour, hugging the mountains for a little while until we run down towards the village of Adelboden.
Ascent: 1550m (5085ft) Descent: 1470m (4820ft) Distance: 21.2km (13.2miles) Duration: Run/Walk 5h00
Tracks and Trails services end after breakfast.
It is our aim to complete the proposed itinerary outlined above, however, it may be necessary for our guides/instructors to adjust the daily itinerary based on the weather conditions, group safety and enjoyment.
Accommodation
We aim to accommodate our guests in well-situated, clean, characterful, family run accommodation. Our trip fees are based on two people sharing a bedroom, what we call a 'twin' means two single beds in one bedroom. If you are booking as a single traveller you will share with someone of the same gender. A single room may be available for your private use, but requires early booking and will incur a supplementary charge. For further details refer to Trip Information > Single Supplements. Our suggested accommodation, listed below, is subject to availability at the time of booking and is an indication of our accommodation, not a guarantee. Note it is unusual to have air conditioning in bedrooms in the mountain areas where our trips take place. If you have any questions about the accommodation please contact us.
Hotel Post hardermannli, Interlaken
Your hotel is nestled in the heart of Interlaken's oldest district.
The Hotel Post Hardermannli is a historical chalet-style building, this cozy hotel is perfectly situated near the scenic river walkways that connect the shimmering Lakes of Thun and Brienz. Surrounded by breathtaking Alpine scenery, Interlaken is a paradise for nature lovers who at the end of a running day can go explore the quaint, storybook charm of the village with its traditional Swiss chalets, cozy cafés, and boutique shops.
Residence Hotel Grindelwald
This charming, family-run hotel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where you will be treated with genuine care and attention.
The Residence hotel Grindelwald blends Swiss alpine charm with modern comfort, providing everything from cozy rooms to spacious holiday apartments, many with breathtaking views of the Eiger. The hotel offers a delicious breakfast and Tom, the owner of the hotel has booked us in for dinner at his favorite restaurant in town.
Braunbär Hotel, Wengen
The Braunbär Hotel is found in the center of Wengen.
This family-owned hotel is the perfect stop on our trail running journey through the stunning Bernese Oberland region. “Braunbär,” meaning “brown bear,” reflects the hotel's strong connection to nature and the mountains. Today when you come back after your run, you can unwind in the spa or simply enjoy a cold drink on the terrace.
Hotel Waldrand, Griesalp
Located in a breathtaking setting, this hotels simple, grandmother-style rooms offer a cozy retreat after a day on the trails.
Step back in time at the family-run Waldrand Hotel, where nostalgic charm and Alpine serenity create a one-of-a-kind experience. Without mobile reception, this is a perfect chance to disconnect, recharge, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the moment.
Nordic Arena House, Kandersteg
The Nordic Arena House, is a group accommodation most commonly used by teams when they come to train at the Nordic Arena.
It is located at the entrance of Kandersteg village, and is a premier facility for Nordic skiing and ski jumping. The Nordic Arena House was established in 1978, and it serves as the National Nordic Ski Center and features ski jumps surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
Hotel Alpina, Adelboden
Ferien- und Familienhotel Alpina is a family-run 3-star hotel located in a tranquil, sunny spot above Adelboden.
From the terrace of hotel Alpina you get to enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. You can enjoy a generous breakfast buffet and Swiss dishes made with local seasonal produce, such as the signature organic Adelboden Alpine flower soup.
Trip Information
Arriving by Train
The easiest way to reach Interlaken is by train. The train service in Switzerland is renowned world-wide for its efficiency and timing. It is a wonderful to see the countryside while relaxing and enjoying the views. You can find full details at the Swiss Train Service website where you can book tickets on line. If you are planning to travel extensively in Switzerland consider buying a half-fare card which is valid for one month.
Arriving by Air
Basel and Zurich are the closest international airports, both of which are 2h20 by train. Check www.sbb.ch for times. Flights from Basel are usually more frequent than Zurich and take 1h30. You can also fly into Geneva airport a day earlier and make use of the Swiss trains to get to Interlaken.
Departure
You will depart from Adelboden where you can easily use the rail network to connect to any onward travel.
It is your responsibility to ensure any insurance taken out is appropriate for your trip and the activity you will be undertaking. Tracks & Trails cannot advise on insurance policies or be held responsible if, in the event of a claim, your insurance is inadequate.
Activity, Injury and Mountain Rescue It is a condition of booking you are insured for mountain rescue, medical expenses, injury, illness, death, cost of repatriation and personal accident risks. The exception to the mountain rescue insurance requirement is if the trip is taking place in the United Kingdom or Norway where mountain rescue is free of charge. Ensure your insurance covers you to the maximum altitude given on your trip itinerary. The maximum altitude can be checked in the 'At A Glance' box on the trip page.
Trip Cancellation/Curtailment Insurance Insurance should be booked as soon as we confirm your trip is going ahead. Deposit and balance payments are non-refundable unless it is Tracks and Trails who cancel the trip due to a failure to reach the minimum numbers required. In this case we offer a full refund or the option to transfer to another trip.
Baggage Loss/Equipment Damage We advise insurance which covers baggage loss/equipment damage.
All the above is detailed in our Terms and Conditions. For further information on insurance options click here.
When packing for a trip in the mountains it is important to have appropriate equipment and clothing. This kit list features items we believe are necessary for the weather you might encounter and accommodation you will be staying in. If you have any questions with regards to what to bring, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Equipment
Trail Running shoes - for a variety of trails
Walking boots - in case of ice and snow on the trail - this may or may not affect your trip depending on the time of season, contact us for clarification OR bring both boots and running shoes. If there is a lot of snow/ice your guide might suggest stiffer footwear for these days/sections
Running poles - highly recommended for long climbs/mixed terrain
Running pack/vest maximum 20 litres, ideally with a chest and waist strap. Test your pack for comfort once full
Rucksack liner/cover - to keep contents dry
Water container 1-1.5 litres, or 2 x 'soft' flasks
Survival blanket 1.40m x 2m minimum
Clothing
You must be able to cover yourself with 3 full layers on your upper body and 2 full layers on your legs
Waterproof jacket with hood - waterproof and breathable membrane designed for mountain use
Waterproof over trousers
Mid-length tights and longs socks or long running tights to cover the legs completely
Thermal top – long sleeves
Thin fleece/lightweight down jacket
Running shorts/skort
Breathable t-shirt/vest
Warm hat
Ear/headband
Baseball cap/sun hat
Gloves x 2 - 1 thick and 1 thin pair
Running socks
Recovery socks/compression socks - optional
Scarf/buff for neck
Fleece/ wind stopper waistcoat - optional
Comfort
Lip salve
Sunscreen
Sunglasses – essential
Toilet/tissue paper - we recommend biodegradable bags to dispose of rubbish
Snacks for running - bars/gels /energy drinks/trail mix/recovery drinks etc
For use on the nights when you are in Refuge/Hut accommodation
Lightweight pack towel
Sheet sleeping bag 'liner' - for use under the blankets/duvet provided by the Refuge. We have some for hire if necessary, contact us to reserve
Personal First Aid
Personal medication – if required
Blister Plasters
Normal Bandaids
Blister tape - eg Strappal
Pain relief/anti-inflammatories
Glucose tablets
2 x Re-hydration sachets
A few throat lozenges
Anti-chaffing cream/Vaseline
Antiseptic cream/spray
Bandage/Knee support
Documentation
Cash – Euros/Swiss Francs
Credit card
Passport
Waterproof bag for documents
Mountain Rescue Insurance - compulsory
GHIC - if travelling from UK for medical cover
Additional Items
Camera
Phone that will function in the countries that you are visiting
Clothing for use in hotels
Swimwear for pool/hot tubs if available
AirTag or similar to track luggage
Ear plugs – recommended if sharing a room
Head torch - also useful when sharing a room
Maps can be bought locally - not essential
Heart rate monitor – if owned
GPS watch/phone - to track your route, optional
Toiletries - soap/shower gel as not all accommodations supply this
Padlock - for luggage being transferred
1 Medium sized - kitbag/holdall/suitcase
Check out the What kit to bring Blog post on our website for further advice on:
the minimum requirement the racers carry
weight saving ideas
how to waterproof your kit
ideal trail shoes for the route
nutrition advice
Your luggage will be moved each day by a taxi driver. The legal maximum weight limit is 15kg (33lbs) per person. If your luggage exceeds this limit it will not be collected. You can take only ONE luggage bag on the trip. Not all hotels have 'lifts' and you must be able to carry your luggage upstairs.
**Supplementary snacks if you follow a gluten free or coeliac diet**
Leaders are all first aid trained and will carry their own first aid kit
On many trips there will be an element of 'group kit'. This kit will will be minimal and usually a case of sharing a few lightweight 'survival shelters'. For example, on a week-long trip you may carry a shelter for one day before passing it to the next person. If you are booking a trip in winter there will be a few additional safety items, such as a snow shovel, probe, spare ski pole etc.
For each trip a minimum number of guests is required before we can confirm your trip will go-ahead. Minimum and maximum numbers are displayed in 'At a Glance' on the righthand of the trip page. If you book travel before we have emailed to confirm the trip is guaranteed we cannot be held responsible for any financial loss.
When booking a holiday as a solo traveller a twin bedded room comprising of two single beds, is booked as standard. This will be with someone of the same gender unless you request to pay extra for your own room. Single rooms are often limited in supply so if you would like to pay a supplement for a single room we urge you to get in touch as soon as possible. This trip has a single supplement of £550 in 2027 and £615 in 2028.
We have graded this trip Advanced. You can read the grades in full here. You can also read the statistics with regard to running distance, ascent, descent etc on the daily itinerary.
On this point-to-point trip you will have luggage support which means your bags are transferred each day to the next accommodation and you only need to carry a small/medium sized 'rucksack' for items you might need during the course of the day. Please refer to the kit list for this trip for guidance on the size of rucksack required.
As your luggage will be moved along the route by taxi we ask that you keep the weight to a maximum of 15kgs (33lbs), and ONE bag per person. Many of the taxi companies who move your bags impose a 15kg (33lbs) limit and restrict the number of bags simply because they have to unload and reload the vehicle many times each day. If you take more than one bag you may be asked to pay a supplement. Also with regard to weight be aware that you may have to carry your luggage to your bedroom, which may involve climbing several flights of stairs as not all hotels have elevators. Luggage on wheels is a good idea.
The statistics given on your itinerary relating to ascent, descent and distance should be used as a 'general' indication of the effort required. This is a guideline to help you decide if, based on previous experience, your fitness and stamina are correct for the trip. We ask you to note that the even the most modern of technology can show considerable variations in terms of ascent, descent, and in particular distance.
Summer mountain weather in the European Alps can vary considerably, and in this respect it is no different to any mountain environment where the terrain influences the weather and it can change from valley to valley. In the summer it is generally good, but it can be everything from glorious sunshine, to rain, fog, high winds and even snow. Temperatures can reach over 30°Celsius (86°F) in July and August, but drop to 5°Celsius (41°F) on the high passes, or 'Cols' as they are known in the Alps. Essentially, as with all mountain journeys, you should be prepared for any eventuality. The average temperatures range from 15-25°Celsius (59-77°F) in the valleys and 5-15°Celsius (41-59°F) on the passes. Even in mid-summer we can be faced with overnight snow.
Food On our trips we encourage you to experience local tastes and dishes. If you are vegetarian catering for your diet is not generally a problem. If you have a 'special' diet because of an allergy/intolerance we ask that you make your needs clear on your booking form so we can discuss your requirements with the accommodation. A diet that is not related to an allergy/intolerance or beliefs cannot be catered for. It is simply not possible for mountain accommodation to deal with many variations in diet while providing meals for groups.
In addition, if you have an allergy/intolerance we would suggest you bring/purchase suitable snacks as a supplement to the picnic lunches. At times finding gluten free bread, for example, can be an issue. If you would like to discuss the suitability of a trip for a vegan diet, gluten or lactose intolerance please contact us. We request that you do not CHANGE your dietary requirements during the trip as we will have pre-ordered your meals.
Water If the accommodation has a problem with the water supply they will post a sign over the tap indicating that you must not drink the water, otherwise it is normal to drink from the tap. Hotels - It is not uncommon for restaurants to charge for tap water at the evening meal. If this is the case then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost. Mountain Huts - If your trip features a stay in a mountain hut/refuge and the tap water is not potable then Tracks and Trails will cover the cost of bottled water at the evening meal. Sparkling water is not included in this option and any cost should be covered by you.
Plastic credit or debit cards or smartphone pay systems are increasingly accepted throughout the areas where we run trips. Some countries, such as Norway, are moving towards a cashless society. However, in Europe, in the mountain areas where we run trips, a small amount of cash in the local currency is useful. For example, if you stop at a family-run mountain cafe or farm they may not accept cards or smartphone systems, and cash will be necessary. We recommend having enough cash in the local currency to pay for a few snacks and drinks. Whether to bring cash or not is at your own discretion.
A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required. We suggest keeping your passport in your rucksack, and a paper copy of your passport in your luggage. If your trip does not include luggage support carry a paper copy with you, but separate from your passport. You should check passport requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the country you are visiting, paying attention to your citizenship. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Visa requirements and charges are subject to change without notice.
NEW European Travel Regulations 2026 If you are travelling to Europe you may be impacted by a change to travel regulations. In the last quarter of 2026, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorisation system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU. It is your responsibility to check for updates with regard to the introduction date.
We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at: Plug, Socket & Voltage by Country
If your trip involves staying in a mountain refuge/rifugio/hut a slimline and lightweight 'battery pack' can be useful for recharging phones etc. This type of accommodation will generally have electricity, but it may be limited in supply, and it is not always possible to charge items.
If you would like help preparing for your adventure you could consider booking a Quick Fix session with personal trainer Kate Brown. This is aimed at those who want to get ready for any of our Summer activities. Your booking with Kate will involve a 45 minute 1:1 video consultation and action plan. You can read more about her ethos and experience here.
We also offer free training videos on our YouTube channel:
Tracks and Trails pays guides/instructors a fair and appropriate fee for their professional service. If you feel your guide/instructor has provided an excellent service that went 'above and beyond' then it is at the discretion of each guest whether to tip or not. Guests will often give a tip of between 2 - 5 per cent of the total value of their trip. It is entirely up to you and any gesture will no doubt be appreciated no matter the size.
Before booking consider whether you expect to be in the appropriate physical condition on the date of your departure to allow you to fully participate in and enjoy your holiday. If you have any doubts because of an illness or injury it would be advisable to check with your doctor. We advise you always carry your insurance documents with details of the Emergency Medical telephone number for your insurance provider, and your policy number.
GHIC For UK residents travelling to an EU country you should obtain and bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC gives access to state healthcare in Europe either free or at a reduced cost. The GHIC is not a substitute for medical travel insurance.
EHIC If you have a UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) it will be valid until the expiry date on the card. Once it expires, you should apply for a GHIC.
We feel strongly about protecting the environment and do not encourage the use of single-use plastic items. We would ask that you arrive with a ‘water bottle’ or ‘hydration system’ that can be used repeatedly. We operate a zero tolerance for rubbish, and would ask you to remove all items from the mountain, this includes toilet tissue, and those items you consider to be bio-degradable.
The waste water in mountain huts, also known as refuges/rifugios, often runs into nearby streams and rivers with a potential impact on the eco-system, though in many places steps are now being taken to avoid this. Whether or not your trip involves staying in a mountain hut we would nevertheless recommend you consider nature friendly sunscreens which only contain mineral UV-blocking ingredients such as oxide, and titanium dioxide.
Working across international boundaries, and with various currencies means the price of our trips can change overnight. We have undertaken to guarantee that once you have paid your deposit the price of your trip is fixed. The website price may increase due to currency fluctuations, but we guarantee that the price advertised on the date of your booking will be maintained.
We go to great lengths to work with first class guides who are passionate about their work. They are fully qualified, insured, and hold the correct documentation. Your guide has our authority to make any route changes they believe are necessary in the interests of safety and enjoyment. Your trail running guide will be a qualified and experienced International Mountain Leader. IML's are trained to ensure the safe management of the group, but are also a source of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, culuture and traditions. Many of our trail running guides have competed in mountain marathons, and ultra marathons in the European Alps and further afield. You can learn more about our guides and instructors on the About Us page.
We do not include lunches in your trip fee for various reasons, the most important of which is food waste. Most people have particular tastes and requirements for 'trail' or 'hill' food and it is better you purchase your own snacks rather than throw away items from the picnic lunch which we would supply. Lunches on our trips are 'picnic' style lunches, in other words you take a packed lunch with sufficient snacks, food and fluid to sustain you throughout the day. Buying snacks and trying local specialities is a great way to inter-act with local people and to practise your language skills.
If there is the possibility of lunch being taken at a restaurant/farm/cafe beside the trail, your guide/instructor will advise you of this. Each evening you can order a picnic/sandwich from your accommodation, or your guide/instructor will advise you of options such as a local shop or market. In all cases we would ask you to settle any 'bill' for lunch or drinks the evening before you depart, and not in the morning when there may be a queue.
