Alpine Pass Route (Via Alpina Route 1)

The Alpine Pass Route (National Route 1) is a classic trans-Swiss trek that crosses the backbone of the Bernese Oberland and the Glarus Alps. Beginning in Sargans near the Liechtenstein border and finishing in Montreux on Lake Geneva, the trail traverses 16-20 major alpine passes, including the formidable Hohtürli (2,778m) and Sefinafurgga. The route is defined by its constant verticality, offering uninterrupted views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau massifs. While technically categorized as hiking, the cumulative ascent of over 24,000 meters and the exposure of the high-altitude pass crossings place it among the most demanding non-glacial treks in the Alps.

Standing as a natural balcony opposite the demandingly vertical walls of the Hochkönig (2,941m), the Hochkeil is an approachable peak that offers one of the best effort-to-view ratios in the Salzburger Land. Starting from the Arthurhaus alpine inn, the trail winds through lush high-alpine meadows and scattered pine trees to a broad, flat summit across from the 'Mandlwände'. Because the area is often overshadowed by the more famous Königssee or Zell am See, the Hochkeil remains remarkably quiet and popular with locals.