Is the walking better in Switzerland or Austria?

The alps are a lovely place to walk. Rocky peaks, green pastures, and grazing cows. But the question often arises whether it is better to hike in Austria or Switzerland. On this I’d like to share my observations and preferences.

I’ve spent a year in Geneva and a year in Luzern, giving me much time to explore the hills and valleys in Switzerland. My time in Austria has been a bit more limited, but I’ve explored a good many places in the western part of the country, including two group trips we’ve run there and two more planned for this year.

Switzerland:

The country is absolutely lovely and the Swiss are committed to keeping it that way. There are tight controls on what can be built and where. And things are so expensive there, few things cheap or ugly seem to get built. Add to this an extensive network of Wanderweg walking and hiking trails which are both well maintained and well marked.

Plus, there this an extensive rail system that allows you to quickly get to the loveliest places to start walking. What could be bad?

Austria:

In many ways, Austria has just what Switzerland has, in terms of beauty and a network of walking paths, but there are fewer people to share it all with.

The infrastructure can get you into the hills quickly and easily. The trains sync with the buses and cable cars. The cable cars have been built primarily for skiers, but they run most of the Spring, Summer, and Fall to whisk walkers and hikers up to the alpine pastures. And mountain huts offer a snack or lunch for the weary walker.

My take:

I love the alps in all shapes and sizes. It’s the alpine pastures, the wild flowers, and the sound of cow bells in the distance that appeal to me most. You can find all this in both Austria and Switzerland, but if I had to choose, I’d take Austria.

You might say that money shouldn’t enter into this, but Switzerland is so expensive that it is difficult to enjoy yourself when you feel you’re being constantly gouged. Austria is less expensive and I find the people to be far friendlier and helpful.

So I’d gladly hike in either country, but Austria would be my first choice.