Walking in Zermatt and Saas-Fee

Book excerpt: Guidebook describing 50 varied walks in the Valais region in the heart of the Swiss Alps. The graded day walks based around the popular resort towns of Zermatt and Saas-Fee explore the Mattertal and Saastal valleys and the surrounding mountains. Ranging from 4 to 18km, the easily accessible routes make use of the area's extensive network of well-made mountain paths and its lift system. There are walks here to suit all tastes, from low-level lake walks or easy strolls up to mountain restaurants, through to serious mountain outings on steep and rocky trails. Distance, walking time and difficulty are shown for each route, and the detailed route description is accompanied by clear mapping. Dominated by 4000m the giants, the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa, this is a land of contrasts, with snow-capped mountains and glaciers above and meadows and vineyards fringing the valleys below. Good transport infrastructure and plentiful accommodation make it a superb area for a walking holiday.