Explore the magic of a Swiss winter: Unique activities beyond skiing

Saturday, November 2, 2024

The Swiss winter season is truly enchanting, offering far more than just skiing.

For those looking to explore a winter wonderland filled with variety, Switzerland has a wealth of unique activities.

From gliding across frozen lakes to cozy evenings under starlit skies, here are some exciting ways to embrace Swiss winter magic.

Ice Skating, Curling, and Igloo Building
Imagine gliding over crystal-clear frozen lakes or trying your hand at curling on polished ice – Swiss winters make these experiences possible. Building an igloo is also a favorite, giving you the chance to create your own frosty fortress while enjoying the pristine beauty of snow-covered landscapes.

Adventurous Winter Sports: Sledding and Velogemel Rides
For thrill-seekers, Switzerland’s scenic sledding runs offer exhilarating fun. A must-try is the velogemel – a unique wooden vehicle combining elements of a bicycle, sled, and skis, hailing from Grindelwald in Bern. While it takes a bit of practice, learning to steer this single-track sled through the Jungfrau region is both challenging and rewarding.

Magical Night Tobogganing and Lantern Walks
A Swiss winter evening can feel like stepping into a fairy tale. Night tobogganing on illuminated trails, such as Melchsee-Frutt’s 5-mile track, is a magical experience, lit by autonomous, solar-powered LEDs and set against a winter wonderland backdrop. For something romantic, try the Lantern Path at Schwägalp Nature Experience Park. Over 50 oil lamps guide you along a snowy trail, perfect for couples or families to soak up the serenity of winter.

Indoor Escapes: Saunas and Spas
For those who prefer indoor relaxation, Swiss winter spas and saunas offer a cozy retreat. Basel’s sauna on the Rhine provides a scenic, warming experience with panoramic views of the river. Warm up with refreshing infusions or unwind in a cozy yurt with coffee and snacks. Many Swiss towns also feature excellent museums, ideal for exploring the culture and heritage of this winter wonderland.

New Sledding Adventure at Gornergrat, Valais
The Gornergrat toboggan run in Valais is one of Switzerland’s most thrilling. Starting from Rotenboden station, this scenic descent offers spectacular views of Europe’s highest peaks, including the Matterhorn. This year, new sleds like the snooc, a ski with a seat, add an extra twist. Although a bit tricky to steer, snoocs make for a truly unforgettable sledding experience.

Explore Bellinzona in a Retro Electric ‘Bubble’ Car
For a unique way to explore, Bellinzona in Ticino offers eco-friendly electric bubble cars, inspired by the 1950s. Visitors can pick from four scenic routes, each with an audio guide that shares insights into Bellinzona’s rich history, including the UNESCO-listed Fortress of Bellinzona.

Play Ice Stock Sport at Schwarzsee, Fribourg
Ice stock sport, similar to curling, is one of Switzerland’s oldest winter activities and is perfect for all ages. Set against the breathtaking beauty of frozen Schwarzsee, this fun and social sport doesn’t require experience and offers an ideal way to connect with friends and family while enjoying the winter scenery.

Swiss winters offer endless ways to explore and make memories, from thrilling outdoor sports to warm, cozy escapes. Embrace the charm of Switzerland’s winter wonderland and discover activities that go beyond the slopes for an unforgettable seasonal adventure.

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Tags: Activities, skiing, Swiss winter, Switzerland