
I just returned from Switzerland, where eight of us stayed and cooked in a lovely chalet for a week in the Aletsch Arena, in the Canton of Wallis/Valais(German and French speaking). Fortunately, we had mostly sunshine with one afternoon of rain, loads of hiking, and loads of fun!

We cooked together and ate Swiss and French-inspired delights such as cheese fondue, raclette, Kaeseschnitte (like croque monsiuer), steaks, burgers, roesti, bratwurst, and so much CHOCOLATE! We saw cows, goats, sheep, helicopters, lakes, streams, and the absolutely breathtaking Aletsch Glacier from the peaks of different mountains! There were gifts of views, animals, waters around each corner.

We had picnic lunches along the hikes with incredible mountain views. We took gondolas, trains, and chairlifts! And we did the one-day excursion to Oeschinensee at Kandersteg!

Here’s what one team member said about the trip: “Tania’s love for the region as well as her deep appreciation for nourishing food and drink of the area inspired a beautiful, meaningful time unlike any other I’ve had.” – A.C.

Here’s what another team member had to say: “There was a great sense of community and partnership among our group of travelers who came from various regions across the US. Tania made us all feel special from start to finish.” – G.F.

Overall, we had such a life-changing experience that none of us will forget! Join us next year June 27 – July 4 as we head back to the Aletsch Arena and make visits to Kandersteg and pay homage to the Loetschental Valley! With the landslide in the Loetschental, some of the hikes are still not up and running, therefore in 2026, we may stay in the Aletsch Arena again instead of the Loetschental Valley. Sign-ups for next year are open! Find out more on next year’s hiking tour webpage here!

Follow me on Instagram and find out more about our 2026 tour in Switzerland and my Instagram posts at: #bknswitzerland2025 and Highlights! Also check out my other blog entries related to Switzerland and the tours: What to Pack for Hiking in Switzerland and Best Times to Hike in Switzerland, as well as a post on the hiking tour in the Loetschental Valley in Switzerland, and why I go, which we will go to again in the summer of 2027!





