Haute Route Verbier - Zermatt

One of the most spectacular glacier traverses in the Alps, the tour from Verbier to Zermatt crosses the heart of the Valais region, through a high-altitude environment of vast glaciers and legendary peaks. Four days on skis, three nights in welcoming mountain huts, and a grand finale with breathtaking views of the Matterhorn: this is a must-do journey for lovers of classic ski touring.

This houte route is a shorter and more condensed version of the famous Chamonix–Zermatt Haute Route, offering the same adventurous spirit in a more compact format for those with limited time.

Below is a sample itinerary, which can be adapted based on the technical level of the participants and the snow and weather conditions.

Day 1 – Verbier to Cabane de Prafleuri

We begin in Verbier, using the lifts to quickly gain altitude to the Col des Gentianes (2,900 m). From there, we enter glacier terrain, crossing the Col de la Chaux and Col de Momin. Time and conditions permitting, we can make an optional ascent of Rosablanche (3,336 m), a beautiful panoramic peak. We then descend to the Cabane de Prafleuri (2,624 m) for our first night.

Day 2 – To Cabane des Dix

We traverse the scenic Lac des Dix, then skin up to the Pas du Chat, a short but slightly more technical section. From here, a gentle climb brings us to the Cabane des Dix (2,928 m), nestled below the impressive north face of the Pigne d’Arolla.

Day 3 – Pigne d’Arolla and Cabane des Vignettes

This is the high point of the traverse, both literally and figuratively. We ascend the glacier to reach the summit of the Pigne d’Arolla (3,796 m), a classic peak with exceptional views over the Pennine Alps. The descent to the Cabane des Vignettes (3,158 m), perched dramatically on a rock outcrop, is the perfect end to a memorable day.

Day 4 – Glacier crossing and descent to Zermatt

We start early for the longest and most remote stage of the traverse. We cross three major glacier passes – Col de l’Évêque, Col du Mont Brulé, and Col de Valpelline – in a wild and spectacular alpine setting. From the final pass, the view suddenly opens onto the Matterhorn, guiding us through an unforgettable descent into Zermatt. 

By train in around 3 hours we will get bacj to Verbier, in the mid afternoon.