No one should venture among the mountains, whatever level of walking is proposed, without consulting a good map. Local shops and tourist offices usually have a selection on offer, and the latter sometimes also publish their own walkers’ maps with suggested routes and times given on the reverse. On occasion guided walks are arranged by tourist offices in mountain areas, which may be free of charge for guests staying in local hotels. A series of excellent English-language guidebooks for walkers covering the Bernese Alps, Central Switzerland, Engadine, Ticino, and the Valais, plus several long-distance Alpine walks, are published by Cicerone Press in the UK (2 Police Sq, Milnthorpe, Cumbria LA7 7PY; 01539/562069).

Always check the weather forecast before setting out. The local tourist office or mountain guides’ bureau invariably displays a two- or three-day forecast. Needless to say, do not venture to high altitudes if bad weather is expected. In any case, though, it’s sensible to take a pullover or fleece and a waterproof jacket as minimum protection even if you simply plan to take a cable-car ride followed by a short stroll. On more ambitious outings it is essential to be properly equipped with wind- and waterproof clothing and good footwear. Trainers may be adequate for short valley walks, but for tackling steep hillsides and mountain paths, walking boots with ankle support and hard-wearing soles are indispensable.