Switzerland -- how to decide when to go?
 

I am a quiet person planning to travel on my own to Switzerland sometime between May and October. I want to do some hiking in the Alpstein and around Zermatt, and possibly in the Bernese Oberland or Ticino. I have friends to stay with in Zurich and possibly Lugano.

I see now that May is too early for the higher ground, but it is a lot cheaper. June sounds good, especially with the wildflowers, but will it simply be more crowded? The fall is also an option...

I'd really appreciate any suggestions anyone has.

Hi Scott567,

The wildflowers in June are pretty spectacular, especially in the Engadin valley (unfortunately not on your list!). Switzerland isn't very crowded in June; it gets busy in mid-July and stays crowded through August & September.

I say go for June.

s

ps,

The Swiss cycling race usually occurs in June, so look for that. It would be neat to try to see part of it. I enjoyed watching the day's run on tv at night (not covered at all well in the US).

s

Didn't Switzerland have record snowfall this winter? If so, I wonder if experienced mountain walkers would consider that a factor in your timing.

I think mid to late June is ok. We were there in late June, and by golly, it was HOT. We were in Brienz one day, and I thought I was in Texas south of Austin in July.

The snow may be a factor, particularly in shady spots. I always have hiking poles and snow banks are not a problem unless they are very steep.

The high passes like the Furka and the Grimsel may be later opening. It all depends on how quickly the temperatures rise.

I've been to Switzerland in both July and August several times each. It was beautiful weather (sometimes downright hot) and I didn't notice "crowds" to speak of where I was. Also one trip in November which was gorgeous but in a rainy wear a wool coat kind of way.

Oh, that's so hard to say. Our weather is so unpredictable.

May: to early for the mountains. The snow is melting but we've there has been some more fresh snow in the higher elevations this week.

June: Last year it was terrific. Two years ago it wasn't. Definately fewer people.

July/August: Summer months. Could be super. August was TERRIBLE last year.

September: We haven't had a great September for awhile. Could change though.

October: Best month for clearest views. Last year it was wonderful.

If the weather cooperates, I personally think October is the most beautiful month in Switzerland. The fall colors, the views and the crisp mountain air are all at its best.