Women's Only - Via Valais Highlights
Trail Running through the heart of the Swiss Alps
with Audrée Lafrenière

Dates: Jul 27 - Aug 3, 2026

Price: 4100 EUR

A 25% deposit is due to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is due 90 days before the start of the tour.

(View the cancelation policy below in the section "Price and Details")

This journey is for runners who feel a quiet pull toward the big mountains, the kind of people who see a high pass in the distance and instinctively wonder what lies on the other side.

Audrée is an experienced trail runner with a particular affection for long distances. In recent years she successfully completed some very hard mountain races (TDS, Tot Dret and UTMB, just to name a few).

When she's not tackling big races, she loves going on multi-day adventures in the mountains. She has been fastpacking a lot near her home in BC, far away in Patagonia and Slovenia, and of course around the TMB.

Some routes are beautiful. Others stay with you long after the run is over. The Highlights of the Via Valais is one of those.

Stretching from the glacier-carved valley of Arolla to the unmistakable silhouette of the Matterhorn in Zermatt, this journey links together some of the wildest terrain in the Swiss Alps. Valley by valley, pass by pass: Val d’Hérens, Val d’Anniviers, the remote Turtmanntal, and finally the Mattertal, each day revealing a new landscape and a deeper sense of the mountains.

You’ll run above turquoise glacial lakes and through centuries-old alpine villages. You’ll cross high mountain passes surrounded by the “Imperial Crown” of 4,000-meter peaks, and descend into valleys where the rhythm of life is still shaped by the mountains.

This is a trail running journey designed for runners who want big alpine terrain, authentic mountain villages, and the freedom of moving light through the Alps.

The itinerary you’ll follow wasn’t pulled from a guidebook. It was carefully designed by trail runners, for trail runners, selecting the most spectacular passes, the most runnable trails, and the villages that make the journey unforgettable.

This is the Via Valais — Highlights Edition. We’ve curated the finest sections of the Via Valais and stitched them together into one extraordinary week of alpine running. The result is seven days that capture the very best of the region, spectacular passes, remote valleys, and unforgettable descents into some of Switzerland’s most beautiful mountain villages.

And the best part? You run light. Every morning, while you lace up your shoes, your luggage is already on its way to the next village. Daily bag transfers are included, so all you carry is your running vest, water, a few snacks, and the freedom to move through the mountains the way trail running was meant to be experienced.

All you have to do is show up and run.

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Why travel with us

At Vagabond Trails, we’re a family-run business, and that means we care deeply. Every trip we craft carries our personal touch, because we know this isn’t just a vacation. It’s your dream. It’s your time away from loved ones. It’s the result of months of training and planning. We’re here to honor that.

We’re dedicated to creating unforgettable, meaningful adventures at fair value, making sure every step, every view, every moment feels worth it. Your trust means everything to us. We’re honored to be part of your journey.

Don’t just take our word for it. Read here what past guests have said about their experience with Vagabond Trails. The memories made, the friendships formed, the transformation felt.. And feel free to reach out to them directly to hear their experiences.

Is This Tour Right for Me?

If you’re a road runner or a trail runner with expereince, then yes — this adventure is for you.

Our trips aren’t just about miles. They’re about growth, connection, and joy. This is where challenge meets purpose, where you’ll feel deeply alive, grounded, and transformed.

What’s the Pace Like on a Trail Running Trip?

Think of it like a long, adventurous weekend with friends: You’ll hike the uphills, run the downhills, and jog the flats.

You don’t need to be a fast or elite runner. But you should feel confident covering the daily distances and elevation gains outlined in the itinerary below (shorter versions available).

This isn’t a race—it’s an experience.We’ve designed the trip to give you time to savor the journey. Once you reach your next refuge or hotel, you’ll have time to unwind, enjoy a glass of wine, journal, read a book, or simply take in the view. On some days, you can even shorten the route using public transport or cable cars, just ask your guide.

What if I am traveling solo?

More than 40% of our guests join solo, and many of them tell us it was the best decision they ever made. You’ll quickly feel part of a tribe of like-minded adventurers.

We don’t charge single supplements for solo travelers, because adventure should be accessible, no matter how you arrive.

I’m a Woman Traveling Alone. Is This Trip for Me?

Absolutely. Many of our female guests join solo. You don’t need to wait for a friend or partner to say yes. You’ll be surrounded by supportive runners, incredible guides, and the freedom to reconnect with yourself in the mountains.

We understand that traveling solo can feel intimidating. But it might help to know that our tours often have a 50/50 gender split, and a welcoming, inclusive vibe from day one.

Take the leap, you won’t regret it.
You’ll feel empowered, free, and wonder why you didn’t travel solo sooner.

I have never done a multi-day trail running adventure

In fact, 95% of the runners who join us have never done a multi-day adventure before.

If you can handle the distance and elevation outlined in the itinerary below, you’ll be more than ready.

The multi-day journey builds strength and confidence, mile by mile, day by day—and that’s part of both the challenge and the magic.

Bags Transfer

To keep your run light and joyful, we’ll transfer your main luggage from hut to hut daily. All you need to carry is your running vest and the essentials.

Expert Guides

You’ll be guided by some of the best and most experienced guides in the Alps, all certified International Mountain Leaders. They’re passionate about their work and committed to keeping you safe while ensuring you fully enjoy the adventure. For trips with more than 9 runners, we provide two guides, ensuring a personalized and well-supported experience. Group sizes are capped at 14 runners per trip. Read more about our guides here.

One Last Thing…

Please review the itinerary carefully and make sure your fitness aligns with the daily requirements. If you have any doubts or questions, we’re here to help.

This is your adventure. Let’s make it everything you hope it will be.

Reach out anytime here. We can’t wait to welcome you to the trail.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 | Arrival in Arolla

From Geneva Airport, the easiest way to reach Arolla is by train to Sion, followed by a scenic PostBus ride that winds its way up through the Val d'Hérens. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, and the scenery alone is worth every minute.

📍 Starting Village: Arolla, 1,998 m

🛏️ Accommodation: Grand Hôtel & Kurhaus, twin rooms
🍽️ Meals included: dinner

Day 2 | Arolla

From the hotel, the trail immediately lifts you into the high alpine world, winding in zig-zags above the treeline and into a landscape of rock, sky, and silence. The route climbs steadily toward the Cabane des Aiguilles Rouges, perched at 2,821 m above sea level. The views across the valley are simply breathtaking.

On the descent, the trail passes the legendary Lac Bleu, a glacial lake of impossible turquoise tucked among Swiss stone pines.

The final stretch winds back to Arolla and to a warm meal and the quiet satisfaction of a day well spent in the mountains.

📏 Distance: 13 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +1,000 m | −1,000 m
🏔️ Highest point: 2,821 m (Cabane des Aiguilles Rouges)
🕓 Time: Approx. 4–6 hours

🛏️ Accommodation: Grand Hôtel & Kurhaus, twin rooms
🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Day 3 | Arolla - La Crettaz - Grimentz

The day begins with a short transfer from Arolla to La Crettaz, a small hamlet perched in the Val d'Hérens. From here the trail begins its long ascent toward the high passes separating two of the most beautiful valleys in Valais.

The climb toward Pas de Lovégno is a slow reveal, the kind of ascent where every switchback opens a wider horizon. Soon the Cabane des Becs de Bosson appears, perched at 2,985 m on a col that sits at the crossroads of five valleys. From here, the views stretch across a sea of alpine summits.

From the hut, the trail descends toward the shimmering Lac de Lona, a peaceful alpine lake reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks.
The final descent leads into Grimentz, widely considered one of the most beautiful villages in Switzerland.

📏 Distance: 21 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +1,500 m | −1,500 m
🏔️ Highest point: ~2,985 m (Cabane des Becs de Bosson)
🕓 Time: Approx. 6–8 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel Alpina, twin rooms
🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Day 4 | Grimentz - Cabane de Moiry - Zinal

The day begins with a short transfer from Grimentz to the Barrage de Moiry.

From the dam, the trail traces the western shoreline of the brilliant turquoise lake, with the Moiry Glacier slowly revealing itself ahead. The climb to Cabane de Moiry rewards you with sweeping views of towering seracs and deep glacial crevasses.

After returning toward the lake, the trail climbs again to Col de Sorebois, where the Val de Moiry and Val de Zinal collide in a breathtaking alpine panorama.

The descent into Zinal is long and flowing, a trail runner’s dream through alpine pastures and forests.
Zinal is also the legendary finish line of Sierre-Zinal, the oldest mountain race in the Alps, known as the Race of the Five 4000s.

📏 Distance: 21 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +1,100 m | −1,500 m
🏔️ Highest point: ~2,826 m (Cabane de Moiry)
🕓 Time: Approx. 6–8 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel Europe, twin rooms
🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Day 5 | Zinal – Gruben

From Zinal, the trail climbs steadily through forest before opening into a wild high traverse above the valley floor.

The route ascends toward Col de la Forcletta (2,874 m), the boundary between French-speaking Valais and German-speaking Wallis. From the pass, views stretch north toward the Bernese Alps, while the Weisshorn dominates the skyline to the east.

A long descent leads into Gruben, one of the most remote and peaceful valleys in Switzerland.

A note about tonight: Hotel Schwarzhorn is the only hotel in the valley. It offers simple dormitory-style shared rooms that are comfortable and full of the camaraderie that comes with a true mountain journey.

📏 Distance: 18 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +1,400 m | −1,250 m
🏔️ Highest point: 2,874 m (Col de la Forcletta)
🕓 Time: Approx. 6–8 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Hotel Schwarzhorn, dormitory rooms
🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Day 6 | Gruben - Turtmann Hut - Randa - Zermatt

From Gruben, the trail climbs deep into the wild Turtmann Valley, a place that feels completely removed from the modern world. The route passes glacial lakes and cascading streams before reaching Turtmann Hut (2,519 m) beneath the towering Weisshorn and Bishorn.

From the hut, a long and spectacular descent leads toward the Mattertal valley, where the terrain gradually softens from rugged alpine rock to lush pastures.

From Randa, a short train ride brings you to Zermatt.

Tonight Zermatt is yours: car-free streets, wooden chalets, and the unmistakable presence of the Matterhorn. Find a terrace, order a glass of Valais wine, and celebrate the week’s adventure.

📏 Distance: 20 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +1,800 m | −2,100 m
🏔️ Highest point: ~2,519 m (Turtmann Hut)
🕓 Time: Approx. 6–8 hours

🛏️ Accommodation: Arca Aparthotel & Spa or similar, twin rooms (2 nights)
🍽️ Meals included: breakfast

Day 7 | Europaweg - Charles Kuonen Bridge - Fluhalp → Zermatt

Today is the biggest day of our itinerary, the Europaweg is often called one of the most spectacular trails in the Alps, and today you experience it firsthand.

From Herbriggen, the trail climbs into the famous high traverse above the Mattertal. Soon you reach the unforgettable Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge — at 494 meters long, it is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the Alps.

From here the trail continues across sweeping alpine terrain toward Täschalp and the meadows of Tufteren, before climbing toward Fluhalp, where the Matterhorn finally reveals itself in full.

We take the lift back down to Zermatt.

Tonight we celebrate together one final dinner, tired legs under the table and an unforgettable journey behind us.

📏 Distance: 25 km
⛰️ Elevation gain and loss: +2,800 m | −1,300 m
🏔️ Highest point: ~2,606 m (Fluhalp)
🕓 Time: Approx. 6–8 hours
🛏️ Accommodation: Arca Aparthotel & Spa or similar, twin rooms
🍽️ Meals included: breakfast and dinner

Day 8 | Zermatt

We enjoy one last breakfast together before it’s time to pack up and say goodbye. You'll leave the Alps with tired legs, a full heart, and memories that will last forever.

🍽️ Breakfast included

A note about fitness: This adventure involves physical activity for around 6 - 8 hours per day. To fully enjoy this experience, you should be in good physical shape, accustomed to running or hiking for 4+ hours per day. Expect ~7 hours of activity daily, with significant elevation gain and loss. Please consult your doctor if you’re unsure of your ability to participate.

The entire tour is done in English.

*We reserve the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather conditions, National Parks regulations or notifications and unforeseeable circumstances.

This tour is governed by the Terms and Conditions

How Challenging ?

High effort. This is a challenging adventure where we can expect 6 - 8 hours of running/hiking per day, with up to 1500 m/4900ft of elevation gain. Previous trail running experience is highly recommended.

Price and Details

The tour includes:

Everything described in the tour
All of the scheduled activities
All accommodation during the tour (7 nights)
2 nights in a 3* hotel in Arolla
1 night in a 3* hotel in Grimentz
1 night in a 3* hotel in Zinal
2 nights in a 3* hotel in Zermatt
1 night in gites or huts in shared dorms
Luggage transfer between accommodations
Transfers mentioned in the itinerary
Lift in Zermatt
Meals during the tour (7 breakfast, 6 dinners)
Guiding from a certified International Mountain Leader
Amazing trails & beautiful landscapes

The tour excludes:

Flights to Geneva or Zurich
Transport to Arolla
Transport from Zermatt
One of the dinners in Zermatt
Single room supplement available for an extra price (if available)
Insurance. All participants are required to have their own insurance appropriate for outdoor sports; such as health, accident, mountain rescue, repatriation, cancellation, personal liability, etc.
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Expenses for extra activities, such as; massages, spas, saunas, lunches, hot tub, etc.
Any accommodations for extra days in Arolla or Zermatt
Any lifts or cable cars not mentioned in the itinerary
Any private transfers not mentioned in the itinerary
Tips for the International Mountain Leader

Price: 4100 EUR

A 25% deposit is required to secure your spot, with the remaining balance due 90 days before the trip's start. Once confirmed, the deposit is non-refundable but can be transferred to other trips.

Participants:

min 7 - max 14

Guide Ratio:

If there are more than 9 runners, there will be two guides, with a maximum of 13 runners.

Start: Arolla

End: Zermatt

We reserve the right to change the itinerary without previous notice due to weather conditions, and unforeseeable circumstances.