144 pages , 57 photos , 51 maps in 1:50,000 / 1:100,000 , 1 overview map at 1:800,000

Valais, with its over four -thousand -meter high mountain giants, such as the Matterhorn and Monte Rosa, with wild glaciers of ice and wings reaching toward the heavens , is not only a paradise for mountain climber , but, at second glance, reveals itself to be the ideal hiking region : above the often narrow and gorge -like valley walls lie higher up the slopes , which are covered with a network of trails that is as comfortable as it is thoroughly signposted , picturesque Alpine cabins are sprinkled along lush meadows and whispering forests , sun- blackened hay barns and lofts lend this picture -book landscape , embedded in a magnificent setting , its cozy charm. Michael Waeber and Hans Steinbichler, both experienced Alpine journalists and excellent Valais experts , have divided their previous hiking guide, "Valais " into two volumes , Upper ( East ) and Lower ( West) Valais, in order to do justice to the wealth of hiking opportunities of the mountain canton between the Grimsel Pass and Lake Geneva. This volume , "Valais East , " presents 49 day tours in the German - speaking area around Zermatt , Saas and Fiesch , as well as a six -day round -trip tour in Matter , and a three- day crossing of the Simplon Pass on Stockalper the historic trail. The second volume, "Valais West, " presents 50 hikes in the Welsch part , on the other side of the language border near Sion , down to Lake Geneva. For each tour , the avid hiker will find tips on accessibility via public transport, accommodation and dining opportunities, as well as tips on variations which, depending on the hiker 's mood , wants to lengthen or shorten the hike. All tour recommendations are illustrated by clear map sketches, and a colour- coded assessment further difficulty Facilitate selection of the tours.