Swiss Alps Hiking & Photography Workshop
August 24th - 30th
Release your creativity in the Swiss alps
After the success of both our 2024 & 2025 workshops, Mathilde Rietsch and I are excited to again host a small, intimate group of outdoor lovers and photographers for a workshop in 2026 in the Swiss alps. Connect with like-minded adventurers, sharpen your photography skills, release your creative energy and find inspiration in the Alps’ breathtaking beauty.
Highlights
Start with a workshop on creative storytelling at the start of the trip, so you can spend the week putting new ideas into practice.
A curated itinerary dedicated to being in the most beautiful places for photography and nature.
Switch off and allow yourself to be guided and shuttled by us, giving you all the mental space for your creativity
Daily photography guidance from both Jade and Mathilde
Editing workshop at the end of the trip, with time to go through your photos and learn new Lightroom skills
Creative photoshoot with an outdoor brand, simulating a creative commercial environment
Location
Switzerland, Valais & Gimmelwald Region
Dates
August 24th - 30th 2026
Cost
€2900
Group size
5-7 participants + 2 creative hosts
But first… Let me tell a little backstory. Why do I run these workshops?
Hiking in the mountains has always been my biggest meditation, source of joy and spiritual connection. It is my way to fully connect with myself and calm my nervous system, finding comfort in the nature of trees and the cleansing repetition of putting one foot after another.
As a creative person (side note: we are all inherently creative), I started sharing photographs of the places I explored, wanting to showcase them in the way they made me feel – at peace, with joy and vibrancy in my heart. Fast forward several years of sharing my photography and honing my craft; I found myself with a wonderful community of like minded people on Instagram.
I wanted to connect with my community in an offline space and enable others to experience the deep sense of belonging and joy that hiking, photography and connecting with kindred spirits creates for you. It is food for the soul. It is profoundly healing.
I realized that I have the opportunity to create an environment of joy by bringing together a group of people with the same intentions and places in life. The love of nature, the love of creativity, and the love of connection. After successful workshops hosted in Switzerland and The Dolomites in 2024 and 2025, I’m so delighted to be able to continue and improve the experience for you in 2026. We mix hiking in the outdoors, connecting with other creatives, learning fundamental photography skills for nature and brand shoots, plus challenge ourselves physically with new adventures (on ice!).
So, will you join me to live a vibrant life outdoors and experience the absolute raw majesty that this Earth has to offer?
Day 0: Arrival & Orientation
We meet at our hotel in Saint Luc and start our week together by getting to know each other over dinner and a photography workshop to prime your creative eye for the week ahead. You’ll be briefed for the next few days on what to expect and we can understand your wishes and intentions for the trip. The starting photo workshop will teach you the tools you can utilise in the field over the next week. On your first day your knowledge is put into action
Accommodation: Wellness Hostel in Saint Luc
Days 1 ~ 2: Valais Region
Embark on an alpine adventure in the breathtaking Valais region of Switzerland, a haven for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Nestled among majestic peaks and pristine landscapes, you’ll explore trails that lead to tranquil alpine lakes like Lac de l’Armina and spend a memorable night at the Cabane des Becs de Bosson. This iconic mountain hut, perched near 3,000 meters, offers panoramic views of Valais’s 4,000-meter summits and starry skies unmarred by city lights.
Hike Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Elevation gain: Up to 1180m
Time Hiking: Average 4~5 hours
Accommodation: Hostel & Mountain Hut
Days 3 ~ 5: Gimmelwald Region
After descending from our hut stay in Becs de Bosson, we transit to our hostel in Gimmelwald. Gimmelwald is home to the Eiger and Lauterbrunnen - two of the most iconic views in Switzerland. We have the afternoon to relax with an editing workshop to keep your creative juices flowing. After a restful sleep, we hike up to the nearby Rotstockhütte to spend another night in the high alpine for an epic sunrise the next morning.
Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: Up to 1000m
Time Hiking: Average 4~5 hours
Accommodation: Hostel & Mountain Hut
Days 5 ~ 7: Rotstockhütte & Gimmelwald
Rotstockhütte provides a charming Swiss mountain pasture vibe with iconic Eiger peaks in the background. Our morning here allows for a majestic sunrise lighting up the surrounding peaks, directly from the hut. After breakfast we embark on a longer day hike to explore the peaks of the region before descending again to Gimmelwald for our final evening dinner together. After a night of chatting and sharing our final memories, we enjoy a final breakfast together before descending back into the valley and complete the tour.
Hike Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.
Elevation gain: Up to 1000m
Time Hiking: Average 6 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Hut and Hostel
Meet your guides
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Jade is an Australian Photographer based in Austria. She specialises in capturing a vibrant life outdoors; travelling the globe on adventures into the mountains and sea - telling stories along the way.
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Mathilde is an outdoor photographer based in Switzerland. Through her work, she wants to inspire people to go on adventures, connect with nature and experience the great outdoor in a sustainable and authentic way.
FAQ & Important Information
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It is very important you have a moderate to high level of fitness and openness for physical challenges for this tour. Please note it is aimed at adventure photography, and not necessarily a relaxed retreat.
Some of these ascents are high altitude and can be steep and physically demanding. Guests should have a good level of fitness and be comfortable hiking for several hours a day on steep and uneven terrain. Altitude can affect anyone, regardless of experience or fitness, and symptoms may develop as you ascend. Our guiding team will manage pacing, but it is important that guests communicate openly with the guides if they feel unwell at any point. -
Travel insurance is compulsory for all participants. Your policy must include high-altitude trekking (up to at least 3,000m) and emergency helicopter evacuation. Without valid insurance meeting these criteria, guests will not be permitted to join the trek.
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You will be trekking and carrying your own camera gear each day. We strongly advise travelling light and bringing only the equipment you truly plan to use. While we will be hiking with only day packs (we can leave unused gear in the car) extra weight can significantly impact comfort and performance on the trail.
Please ensure that all camera bodies, lenses, drones and other valuable equipment are covered by your own personal insurance policy, including protection for theft, damage, and loss in remote, high-altitude environments. These items are not covered by the trip provider.
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Please see further information on terms and conditions here
Learn what to expect with testimonials from our past participants.
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When I signed up for Jade and Mathilde’s Switzerland trip I was hoping to learn some things about photography, see some beautiful sights, and meet some lovely people. As it turned out, my hopes were massively underestimating how transformative and powerful the trip would be. I came away having grown not just as an artist, but as a person as well. The trip that Jade and Mathilde put together is a one of the best experiences of my entire life. From the meticulously planned itinerary to the astoundingly funny, creative, and generous group of people that they curated, it’s hard to put into words how special this experience was. The hikes were challenging, but so incredibly rewarding and led to some of the most breathtaking sights in the world. The photographic storytelling skills that Jade and Mathilde taught us have opened my eyes to new ways of shooting. The trip was an investment that was worth the money tenfold. I can’t speak highly enough of Jade and Mathilde and the trip they made. If you’re considering going on one in the future, don’t hesitate to apply. It will change you.
Will - Switzerland 2025 Workshop
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Jade and Matilde curated an unforgettable experience where I learned new visual storytelling techniques, captured the most breathtaking landscapes Europe has to offer, and enjoyed some deeply satisfying alpine hiking. We stayed in the most charming mountain huts - my new obsession - and, maybe unexpectedly, formed a joyous tight-knit little hiking family throughout the week. This trip was a week away from the world, immersed in laughter, art, and nature. It left me speechless by the end. I came home with more incredible images than I could’ve hoped for, a deep longing to be back in the mountains, and a desire to travel far and wide to reunite with some of my new favorite people. WHY must you all live so far AWAY!?
Landon - Switzerland 2025 Workshop
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I can’t stop smiling when I think back on how life changing my experience was during Jade and Mathilde’s Switzerland workshop! I’ve joined countless retreats and group adventures over the years and this one genuinely was the most life changing for both for my craft and for me as a human. The workshop was a rare kind of journey that blends creativity, bucket list adventure, community, movement, and self reflection (with a lot of laughter ) into something truly magical. Jade and Mathilde are genuine, wildly creative spirits who lead with heart as much as skill. To witness their way of seeing the world, and then to learn from it, was such a gift. Even with all the logistics and moving parts, they carried the week with such calm confidence that made everything feel effortless. They were the most relaxed planners I’ve ever met. It was inspiring just to be in their orbit. Each day came with a plan yet nothing ever felt planned. The landscapes they shared with us felt like local secrets and it often seemed as if the Alps belonged to us alone. And then there were the humans :). The group that came together for this workshop was truly unmatched as every person brought their own story, energy, skill, and flavor. I left with new friends and a photography support system I know will stretch far beyond this one week together. Some experiences fade with time, but this trip is a memory I keep returning to whenever I want to remember a time when I felt most myself.
Marisa - Switzerland 2025 Workshop
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This workshop wasn’t just about photography, it was a truly empowering experience, both creatively and emotionally. More than learning new techniques, I discovered new ways of seeing nature through the eyes of other creative minds. Spending an entire week surrounded by fellow photographers was such a joy. The trip was perfectly organized, and thanks to Jade and Mathilde, we got to explore so many stunning places across Switzerland. It was, without a doubt, one of the best group experiences I’ve ever had, and I came back not only with thousands of photos, but with countless unforgettable memories.
Axelle - Switzerland 2025 Workshop
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You [Jade and Mathilde] created a beautiful, wholesome environment that encouraged learning and growth (and bravery!). I had expressed in my application that I had felt very intimidated by the photography community and that I regularly had imposter syndrome. Not only did I think I had no chance of getting on this trip, but the idea of traveling with photographers was daunting. And I don't know how you did it, but you somehow managed to put together a really wonderful bunch of personalities. It's so lovely to watch us all come together to support each other on social media, and everyone seems genuinely excited to see all the work we've produced. This trip was truly a highlight of my year. You both helped me fall in love with the process again and for that, I am eternally grateful.
Liz - Dolomites 2024 Workshop
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After the most lovely 5 days in the Dolomites, I wrote in my journal, “nothing could’ve prepared me for how transformative and beautiful this experience was going to be.” Jade and Mathilde cultivated such a wonderful, creative, and dynamic space for like-minded individuals to connect. We woke up at 5AM to catch the sunrise, trekked up mountain sides, endured hail storms, and took thousands of photos. The friendships that blossomed from these experiences are my most precious memories though; hikes were colored by incredible conversations, many laughs, and constant breaks to take pictures of cows :) I was completely inspired by everyone’s creative vision and deep love for nature. It’s an experience I will hold near to my heart forever!
Cara - Dolomites 2024 Workshop
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Embarking on a 5-day hiking workshop in the stunning Dolomites was a transformative experience. The days were long and challenging, but every step was worth it, leaving me with a deep sense of accomplishment and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of nature. My favourite part of the trip was the strength and camaraderie I discovered along the way. Sharing this journey with others turned strangers into friends, and the collective support made even the toughest moments more manageable. Overall, this workshop was an incredible blend of physical challenge, personal growth, and awe-inspiring landscapes. It’s an experience I’d recommend to anyone ready to push their limits and find beauty in the journey—stormy peaks and all.
Sarah - Dolomites 2024 Workshop
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The Dolomites landscape was absolutely breathtaking and we were treated to picture-perfect views while hiking hut to hut. Not only did I get to meet my photography heroes, but I was able to adventure and photograph alongside these inspiring women! Jade & Mathilde beautifully balanced the act of confidently guiding us with their professional knowledge whilst creating a warm, relaxed and easygoing atmosphere. Throughout the 5 days and 4 nights, we created many wonderful memories that I’ll cherish forever! Although we started as strangers, by the end I can say that I’ve found lifelong friends and supporters of my ambitions. This trip was a life-changing experience for me as it reawakened my creative heart and passion for photography! Thank you Jade & Mathilde for providing this unique experience that exceeded my wildest dreams!
Briony - 2024 Dolomites Workshop
6 nights accommodation
2 nights in alpine huts
4 nights in hotels
6 x breakfasts
2 x dinners
2 x lunch
Vehicle transport between locations
Photography tuition
Storytelling, landscape, portraiture, shooting on analog
Hands-on photography assistance throughout the trip
Post processing (digital and film)
What is included?
Flights and transport to start location
Travel insurance (mandatory to participate!)
If applicable, entry visa’s
Photography equipment
Hiking gear (see packing list!)
Linens and sleeping gear for huts
Lunches not listed
Snacks, drinks and extra meals not stated in package
What is not included?
Packing List
We will be hiking during August which still has predominately warm weather, however can be cooler in the higher alpine regions at night. Plus, the weather in the alps can be unpredictable and we should always be prepared for all weather circumstances. Merino wool is also preferable over cotton in almost all circumstances as it dries faster and breathes better, this can be crucial if you find yourself in the rain or wind!
Clothing
Hiking boots or trail runners, whichever you are most comfortable wearing. Make sure they’re worn in, there is nothing worse than blisters from a brand new pair of boots on a multi-day trek!
Thermal base layers. While it may not be cold enough to need these, it can get quite chilly in the higher alpine and is better to be warm.
Fleece layer jacket or pullover
Warm down jacket, one that can be packed down small is very convenient
Windbreaker / Goretex rain jacket
Rain pants (optional)
Hiking pants or leggings
Hiking shorts
Hiking tops
Woollen hiking socks
Woollen beanie
Cap or bucket hat
Buff (optional, but is excellent to keep the sun off your neck and when wet and cool you down)
Thin gloves (these will be very useful for cooler sunset/sunrise or astro photography)
Merino underwear
Bathers for lake dips
Casual clothing for towns
Sandals. Sometimes it is fantastic to be able to change to your own Birkenstocks or Teva sandals in the huts after a day of hiking in boots. Otherwise crocs or sandals are often provided in huts (boots are not allowed to be worn inside)
Equipment
Day pack for hiking and overnight hikes, approximately 30L suffices. We won’t be away from the vehicles or civilisation for more than 1 night at a time, so larger multi-day packs are not required.
Duffel bag to store items not being taken overnight on the hikes. Please no large, hard suitcases (for space in vehicles).
Sleeping bag liner and pillow case. This is mandatory for the overnight hikes in huts where linen is not provided on the beds.
Camping pillow
Headlamp + spare batteries
Sunglasses
SPF 30-50 sunscreen
Eye mask and ear plugs (we share dorm rooms, I highly recommend!)
Small first aid kit
Personal medical kit
Personal hygiene products (small containers is best for hiking to reduce weight!)
Fast-drying small towel
Water bottle or camel pack. Tap water is drinkable and places to refill are very frequent.
Your favourite snacks
Your camera equipment
Spare batteries and SD cards
Book or E-Reader
External Hard drive
Laptop (optional)
Universal plugs and chargers
Portable battery (suggested)