16—21 Sep '26
High Alps Hike 2026
A stunning high-level summer hike through the French and Swiss Alps.
A firm favourite in our adventure calendar and trust us, there’s good reason for it. The High Alps Hike epitomizes the Virgin Adventure experience.
We’ll rally the crew in Chamonix, where we’ll kick things off at the lively Folie Douce Hotel with a proper Virgin-style welcome: a full Adventure Briefing and the infamous Fondue Challenge (yes, it’s as fun, and messy as it sounds).
From there, it’s boots on, big smiles, and four unforgettable days hiking the legendary Haute Route. We’ll cover 75km of stunning trails, crossing from France to Switzerland with our Red Adventure Leaders and expert International Mountain Guides keeping the energy high and the route smooth. Don’t sweat the heavy lifting, your overnight bags will be whisked ahead, leaving you free to wander with just a daypack and your adventurous spirit.
The Haute Route is no walk in the park (expect 6–8 hours on your feet each day with some hefty climbs), but it’s 100% non-technical and absolutely worth every step. The payoff? Glacier views, wildflower meadows, and that smug, “I did it” feeling at the end of each day.
Along the way, we’ll bunk down in charming inns and alpine chalets. Think hearty dinners, shared stories, and the kind of camaraderie that only comes from the trail. And then, the grand finale: one glorious night of luxury at Virgin Limited Edition’s The Lodge in Verbier. Hot tub, bubbles, and one of our legendary Virgin Adventures finishing parties included.
Adventure highlights
1.Scenic Alpine Views
Experience breathtaking views of the French and Swiss Alps as you hike the famous ‘Haute Routeʼ in late summer.
2.Fuelled By Local Cuisine
Hike through the hills and valleys of the stunning countryside of the French and Swiss Alps. Take in the cultural experience of the local hospitality and cuisine from mouthwatering hot chocolates to gooey fondues.
3.Because You’ve Earned It
Celebrate the end of your adventure with an exclusive stay and party at Virgin Limited Editions, ‘The Lodgeʼ in Verbier.
Adventure with purpose
An impactful purpose is central to all of our adventures. We actively support the communities we visit through fundraising, donations and volunteer experience days.
Fundraising in support of Eve Branson Foundation
We invite all adventurers to create a fundraising page in support of Eve Branson Foundation or make a donation. Thereʼs no minimum, and certainly no maximum, every contribution counts towards the collective legacy we leave behind. To make things easy, weʼll provide the tools, encouragement, and support you need to bring your fundraising efforts to life.
Trip itinerary
Wed 16th Sep '26
Day 1: Chamonix, France
The adventure begins! We assemble in Chamonix by 16.00 latest. From 1700 to 1800 is our trek brief at the Folie Douce Hotel. Then in our own inimitable style, we celebrate in the evening with a dinner and launch party, now a trademark of our adventures. Tonightʼs challenge will be a traditional fondue!
Thu 17th Sep '26
Day 2: Hike to Argentiere, France
Trek Day 1. Our longest distance today, at 20km from Chamonix to Hotel Couronne in Argentiere. Also our greatest elevation gain at 1313m. Youʼll be grateful you trained!
Fri 18th Sep '26
Day 3: Hike to Auberge du Mont Blanc, Trient
Trek Day 2. A little easier today to rest your weary muscles as we cover 13k. Weʼre heading to Trient, and Auberge du Mont Blanc with an elevation gain of 926m.
Sat 19th Sep '26
Day 4: Hike to Hotel Splendide, Champex le Lac
Trek Day 3. By now youʼll be in the swing and itʼs 17km to Hotel Splendide in Champex le Lac. It will be a breeze with a 966m elevation gain.
Sun 20th Sep '26
Day 5: Hike to The Lodge, Verbier
Trek Day 4. The final day of hiking presents you with the perfect incentive to power through. Weʼre heading to The Lodge in Verbier, Richard Bransonʼs Alpine retreat. Only 19km to paradise! The 1300m elevation gain will be worth every step to celebrate in this stunning venue, celebrate our achievement together and put the hiking boots away until next time.
Mon 21st Sep '26
Day 6: Verbier, Switzerland
The morning is all yours, enjoy the opportunity for a lie in. We tend to head off after breakfast. Shuttle buses will take you to Verbier station. Itʼs an easy train ride from Verbier to Geneva airport.
Tickets
This adventure begins in 165 days.
Deposit Scheme Available at Checkout
- Pay 20% today (£330 pp)
- Balance due by 18th Jun 2026
Good to know
What to expect
A challenging but rewarding hike with stunning alpine views and a memorable party at the end.
Over four consecutive trekking days, you’ll push yourself across 75km of mountain terrain, tackling long hiking days, sustained climbs, and serious elevation gain. Expect 6–8 hours on your feet each day, with some steep ascents that will test your stamina and determination.
The Haute Route is non-technical, but it is demanding. This adventure is best suited to those comfortable with long-distance hiking and ready to embrace consecutive big days in the mountains. Arriving fit will make all the difference, this is about endurance, resilience, and showing up ready to go.
Evenings are about recovery and camaraderie. Shared accommodation, hearty meals, tired legs, and the kind of laughter that only comes after earning it. The group dynamic builds quickly when you’re taking on something this big together.
Meeting point
Folie Douce Hotel, Chamonix, before 4pm on the 14th September.
Nearest airport
Geneva, Switzerland
Flights
Not included. We meet at the destination. See meeting point for details.
Airport transfers
Not included
What are the sleeping arrangements?
Our adventures take us far and wide; we see the world with new friends and take on challenges that take us out of our comfort zones. Part of the experience comes from living simply, honouring local culture, and embracing new environments. This can mean sleeping in (very) close quarters, from a tent under the stars, a boat cabin on the water, a hammock in the trees, or occasionally a very nice hotel. Shared spaces help foster connections; through shared laughs and whispered secrets, we form incredible friendships.
Accommodation type
Shared rooms in lodges and hotels.
Sharing rooms with your fellow adventures is part of the adventure. Each room usually sleeps 2, sometimes more. Couples together. Friends together. Solo travellers will share on the basis of same gender. We will accommodate twins where possible for solo travellers, occasionally you may share a double bed with your new buddy.
On occasions single supplements are available (at cost) on request.
How we will get around
Hiking with vehicle support for overnight bags. We carry day bags with water, snacks and packed lunches each day.
We’re (almost) the full package!
We like to keep things simple, so our cost price covers almost everything you’ll need. Occasionally there may be a few exceptions, but we’ll always make these clear in advance.
In some destinations, country-specific taxes can’t be included in the adventure price and must be paid for by the individual. For full details, please refer to the “What’s Included / What’s Not Included” section.
What’s included
Shared accommodation in twin rooms and dormitories. All meals are provided with breakfasts and dinners at our hotels, and packed lunches provided on the trek. Vehicle support, and the final party.
What’s not included
Notable exclusions are flights and other travel needed, additional accommodation before or after the trip and alcohol. Travel insurance, visas or immunisations. Other personal expenses or additional activities.
Do I need any specific experience?
No technical skills required, just a good level of general fitness required, hiking 15-20 km per day on uneven terrain.
What to pack
Itʼs a trek in late summer and so the weather could vary!
- Soft bag/case for all your clothes (transported for you between hotels)
- A small waterproof rucksack you carry, for water, waterproofs, own snacks, provided lunches, phone etc
- Hiking boots – or trekking specific trainers (or trail-running trainers).
- Waterproof jacket and trousers – both essential items, should be as light as possible (not insulated: your other layers should provide the insulation).
- Trekking trousers and shorts
- Mid layer – fleece jacket is good
- Warm jacket – We recommend a lightweight synthetic jacket. Remember, you are carrying this in your rucksack so it should be as light as possible.
- Warm hat (lightweight woolly hat is fine)
- Gloves (a light pair of gloves is fine)
- Sunglasses
- Walking poles (optional)
- You should have your own basic first aid kit, a few plasters or pain killers etc.
Expected weather conditions
Variable alpine weather; be prepared for both warm and cold conditions.
Travel essentials
Travel essentials are not included in your package, please make sure you check local requirements before travelling.
- Travel insurance covering adventure activities
- Any required vaccinations
- Valid passport
- Visa
- Entry fees
Are there any restrictions of who can join this adventure
- You must be 18 years or older at the time of the adventure.
- You should be medically fit and able to hike long distances over consecutive days.
Group size
Our adventures vary in group size, but no matter the number, we pride ourselves on helping to build connections, and creating shared meaningful experiences.
This adventure is more intimate than others, expect it to run with a small group of 18 adventurers + guides. This number may grow with popularity.
We’re here to help
If you have any questions, just drop us a message and we’ll get back to you.
Ask us anything
