Walking in the Bernese Oberland. Kev Reynolds

      Snowpeaks on the Lauterbrunnental’s headwall are clearly seen from the path to the Rottal Hut (Route 43)

      Map suppliers are listed in Appendix A, but note that some tourist authorities produce their own Wanderkarten that show local walking routes, and these are on sale at tourist information offices. Specific sheets are mentioned in the valley details within the guide.

Using this Guide

      The layout of this guide follows an east–west convention, beginning with the Haslital and working west from valley to valley as far as Col du Pillon below Les Diablerets. Each valley system is treated as a separate unit, or chapter, for which a locator map is provided. These locator maps are designed to show the general alignment of the district, with major features identified; they indicate the location but not the route of walks described in the text. For that you will need to consult the topographical map recommended for that area.

      Within each valley chapter details are given in regard to the various villages or resorts, their access, facilities, tourist information, huts etc, and a number of walks of various grades are then described. At the head of each walk a note is given as to the general location of that route, to make it easier for the reader to find it on the map. All the walks are listed in an index at the back of the book, detailing the grade and length of time each route should take. An explanation of the grading system is found below.

      Distances and heights are quoted throughout in kilometres and metres. Details are taken directly from the map where possible, but in attempting to measure the actual distance of each walk, it has been necessary to make an estimation, for with countless zig-zags on many of the routes, it’s impossible to be precise.

      Times quoted for each walk are approximations only, and refer to actual walking time and make no allowances for rest stops, consulation with the map or photographic interruptions – such stops can add considerably to the overall time you are out (add 25–50% to times quoted), so bear this in mind when planning your day’s itinerary. Although such times are given as a planning aid they are, of course, entirely subjective, and each walker will have his or her own pace which may or may not coincide with those quoted here. By comparing your times with those given in this guide, you should be able to compensate accordingly.

      Abbreviations have been used sparingly, but some have of necessity been adopted. Although most should be fairly obvious, the following list gives clarification.

      Grading of Walks

      Walks described in this guide have been chosen with the express intention of helping you make the most out of a holiday in the Bernese Oberland of Switzerland. Since it is hoped that walkers of all degrees of commitment and experience will find something useful here, a grading system has been used to direct readers to the standard of outing best suited to their individual requirements. As mentioned above, the walks have been graded into three categories, but since the grading of walks is not an exact science, each category will cover a fairly wide spectrum. Inevitably there will be anomolies that may be disputed, but they are offered in good faith and as a rough guide only.

      Grade 1 Suitable for family outings. Most cover short distances, or are routed along gently-graded paths with little altitude gain.

      Grade 2 These involve moderate walking, mostly on clear footpaths with a reasonable amount of height gain. Walkers should be adequately shod and equipped.