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Switzerland has 70-odd youth hostels affiliated to Hostelling International (see www.youthhostel.ch) that also provide budget accommodation. Despite the name there is no upper age limit for users, and although it is a membership-based organisation, non-members can stay by paying an extra CHF6 on top of the normal overnight fee. Small dormitory rooms are standard.

A group of independent, less formal hostels has spread across Switzerland under the heading of Swiss Backpackers (www.swissbackpackers.ch). A number of these are located in cities and large towns, but as many exist in mountain resorts. No membership is required, and facilities on offer are similar to those of youth hostels, with self-catering kitchens and/or low-cost restaurants.

The Naturfreunde organisation also has a chain of traditional buildings in alpine regions that are a cross between backpackers’ hostels and mountain inns, offering a warm welcome to all. Meals are usually on offer, but self-catering facilities are also provided. See www.nfh.ch for details.