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The classic trio of the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau, the potent symbols of the Bernese Oberland, stand guard over northwest Europe and are staggering in their scale, yet they rise from a gentler Swiss scene: timber-built chalets bedecked with geraniums, ancient barns embellished with ornate designs, and flower-filled meadows where highland farmers still mow with hand-held scythes. East of the Bernese Oberland is the Engadine, an off-the-beaten-path mountain valley with its own distinct language and unique architecture, both lovingly preserved in tiny alpine hamlets. During our week-long hiker's getaway, we enjoy at least two hiking choices each day and the trailside companionship of two Wilderness Travel guides (or three, depending on group size). Cable cars and gondolas provide wonderful access to this world-renowned mountain paradise, and we spend our nights in the fantastically scenic villages of Grindelwald, Wengen, Guarda, and the posh resort of St. Moritz. Itinerary/Days   Details 1 - 2: Grindelwald, Switzerland 3 - 4: Wengen 5 - 6: St. Moritz 7 - 8: Guarda 9: Depart via Zurich   9-day hiking adventure with moderate and challenging hiking options each day Spectacular Bernese Oberland on a high alpine route from Grindewald Panorama of soaring mountains and lush valleys in the exquisite Engadine Van -supported hiking between 5,000' - 9,000'; ascents/descents from 2,000' - 5,000' Lodging: 8 nights in deluxe inns Meals: all breakfasts and dinners included Meeting point: Grindewald Departure point: Zurich

1 - 2: Grindelwald, Switzerland We meet in Grindewald (3,400'), nestled below the sheer rock faces of the Eiger (13,025'), the Monch (13,401'), and the Jungfrau (11,401'). The next day, various hiking options provide superb mountain vistas. 3 - 4: Wengen We make the classic Oberland crossing from Grindelwald to the ski station of Kleine Sheidegg (8,250'), then descend to our hotel in the charming village of Wengen. On Day 4 hiking options include an outing to the thundering, glacier-fed Trummelbach waterfall or a valley hike with extraordinary views. 5 - 6: St. Moritz We board the most famous Swiss train --the Glacier Express --and 91 tunnels, 261 bridges, and a champagne picnic lunch later, we arrive in the enchanting Engadine Valley and settle into our hotel in the resort of St. Moritz. On Day 6 we can make an easy hike through larch forests to the Upper Engadine lakes, or take the cable car up to the ridgetops for a challenging traverse with tremendous views. 7 - 8: Guarda The quintessential Engadine village is Guarda, a cluster of a very old and intricately painted farm chalets and one of the most glorious hideaways in Switzerland. 9: Deport via Zurich

Departure Dates 1: Jul 5 - 13 2: Jul 9 - 17 3: Aug 13 - 21 4: Aug 29 - Sept 6 5: Sept 8 - 16

COST Land Cost cost/per person, based on double occupancy Cost 8 - 10 members 11 - 15 members   $3195 $2895 Single supplement: $350