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3: Lepontine and Adula Alps

The Lepontine Alps of Canton Ticino (Tessin) rise northeast of the Pennine range between the Simplon Pass and the Lukmanier, where the Adula Alps then continue the line as far as the Splügen Pass. The Lepontines gather round surprisingly remote valleys – perfect for walkers, but less rewarding for the ambitious climber. Glaciers are in short supply and the rock is not always reliable. However, a good number of its peaks would repay a visit by scramblers and first-season alpinists. The highest Adula summit is the 3402m Rheinwaldhorn, while Monte Leone (3553m) and the Ofenhorn (3235m) in the western Lepontines have much to commend them. There are no major resorts, but charming and unspoilt villages provide low-key accommodation in a romantic setting, and the whole area is suffused with the warmth and light of Italy.

4: Bernina, Bregaglia and Albula Alps

In the far southeastern corner of the country these three diverse groups are linked by the Bregaglia and Engadine valleys. In the Bernina massif stands the easternmost 4000m summit (Piz Bernina) among an attractive group of snow- and ice-clad peaks where several classic, traditional routes await the visiting mountaineer. Pontresina is the main centre here. The neighbouring Bregaglia is renowned for its quality granite, and in particular the 800m northeast face of Piz Badile. Carrying the Swiss-Italian border, the Bregaglia is a rock climber’s playground par excellence. By contrast the Albula Alps, which spread along the Engadine’s left flank, have several relatively unknown peaks that form a backdrop to good walking country. Above Zuoz and Madulain the 3418m Piz Kesch is the Albula’s best known summit. Switzerland’s only national park is located on the opposite bank of the Engadine, while some of the country’s most celebrated downhill ski runs are found above St Moritz.