Hafenmaier´s classic routes

German mountain guide and Telemark expert Martin Hafenmair has compiled a list of the coolest Alpine walking routes.

In his important role as a Halti partner, Hafenmair puts Halti's clothes and equipment to the test. He also organises Alpine walks with the mountain and ski school Vivalpin Allgäun. www.vivalpin-allgaeu.de. Allgäu Alps, a five-day trek The route follows the border between Germany and Austria, with exciting experiences and lovely views on offer. Accommodation in comfortable Alpine huts, typical of the region. Start-off point: Oberstdorf (WCC Nordic 2005).

Crossing the Alps
A dream-come-true, "Crossing the Alps" is a six-day hike starting from Oberstdorf and continuing through Austria to Verona in Italy. On the way you will experience the enchanting atmosphere of glaciers, high peaks and wilderness.

Swiss Slopes
A week's trekking over the finest Swiss Alps, starting from Lake Constance and finishing in San Bernardino in Ticino. You will traverse five, diverse cantons, staying in local, atmospheric hotels with no more than 8 hours of walking each day. Fantastic terrain and views. Zugspitz Trek A two-day trek to the highest peak in Germany, 2,962 metres! Every Alpinist's dream, requiring a high level of fitness.

Walk to the Glaciers
A six-day trek on glaciers on the ‘roof' of Europe. Destinations include Jungfrau- Aletsch-Bietschhorn, regarded
as the best glacial area in Europe and a Unesco World Heritage Site. Here you can enjoy Swiss Alpine nature at its most gorgeous.

Prepare carefully for trekking
It is worth taking the time to prepare for your Alpine walk. The essential hiking equipment includes proper, sturdy boots with a sufficiently deep tread pattern, a good daypack with a hip strap and padded shoulder straps, and the appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.

Correctly layered clothing is important during an Alpine walk, since it will help keep your body warm and dry. Halti's Seamless underwear provides a good base layer. See page 34 for more information. Your hiking jacket should be wind- and waterproof and breathable.

Begin your physical preparation a few weeks before the start of the trek. Endurance training will prepare your respiratory and circulatory organs for the tough conditions. However, don't forget athletic training, which gets you out of breath and sweaty. Find out about your destination and anticipate any possible situations. Finally, walking in the Alps is not all hard exercise - enjoy the fantastic views!