Upgrade your Winter. SEASON 2017/2018 my Switzerland SEASON 2017/201 8 Upgrade your winter: watch TV spot at MySwitzerland.com/ winter Welcome For me, there is hardly anything more beautiful than snow- flakes falling from the sky and covering the world in a thick white blanket. A snow-covered landscape is a source of great tranquillity, but also the stage for sports experiences that people look forward to all year long. Fantastic ski regions with superb pistes and magnificent deep powder snow make Switzerland the home of winter sports – in other words: back to the original ski resort. The mountains here are simply a little higher, the snow a touch deeper and the fun a lot greater. Treat yourself to this winter upgrade.
I hope you have great fun and many happy moments in the snow and ice.
Jürg Schmid, CEO Switzerland Tourism
3 Contents
10 20 Steep, Ice is steeper, nice
Heitz More than snow: Switzerland’s best ice sport experiences A 28-year-old from Lower Valais is shaking up the extreme ski scene
44 5 4 Usbekia Ski-out Valeria Spa-in
How Valeria Holinger From the piste to wellness succeeded in the male-dominated paradise in record time sport of Skikjöring
66 74 Happy To the snow
birthday! The most glorious snowshoe tours in Pays de Fribourg Even after 50 years, the fascination of the Engadin Skimarathon is unbroken
4 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 36 Piste ahoy!
Taking a boat to the piste? Only in Switzerland
5 8 The jibber brothers 6 Snowflakes 10 Steep, steeper, Heitz To the White Elements Snowpark 20 Ice is nice Grindelwald with Gian Simmen’s 26 Ice-cold figures sons Niculin and Florin 28 Posted: black ice 36 Piste ahoy! 42 Made-to-measure winter sports 44 Usbekia – Valeria 54 Ski-out Spa-in 58 The jibber brothers 82 64 School in the snow Bye-bye 66 Happy birthday! 74 To the snow routine! 82 Bye-bye routine! 84 Prix Bienvenu Winter Hideaways: the handbook to take away 86 Genuine summit encounters 92 From ski star to star architect 95 Useful information
5 Snowflakes: winter experiences
Give your winter an upgrade. With these eight tips. From a toboggan ride to a fondue evening and from powder snow to thermal springs. What experience would 7 you like today? 4 3 5 1 6 8 2
2 1 Grächen, Valais Jaun, Fribourg Region FONDUE 6,000 METRES OF FUN WITH A VIEW Fun for the whole family at Jaun toboggan run. A culinary flight of fancy. Take First, head up comfortably on the chair lift, then a night-time trip on the unique shoot down over 6,000 metres on the tobog- fairytale cable car to the Hannigalp. Enjoy “fondue in a gan, dropping 500 metres in height. Away from gondola”, paired with Valais the ski slopes, through snowy forests and white wine, and a traditional pristine nature. Those who have worked up an dessert from the region. appetite can eat to their heart’s content at There is no nicer way to end a winter’s day. the Bärghus Gastlosen restaurant. graechen.ch la-gruyere.ch/jaun
6 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 3 Arosa, Graubünden NO FIXED BINDINGS Lift your heels, bend your knees – the old telemark Fixed-heel bindings are currently enjoying a comeback in Switzer- land. The elegance of turning with a raised heel is beyond compare and refines the technique for “normal” skiing as well. Top trained instructors will show you how to use these bindings – against the backdrop of the impressive mountain landscape of Arosa. Tele ho! skischule-arosa.ch
4 Pilatus, Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region PANORAMA INCLUDED “2,132 possibilities above sea level” on Lucerne’s local moun- tain: the new aerial cableway, Dragon Ride, takes you to winter or snowshoe hiking and a wide range of other snow sports. pilatus.ch 5 Bönigen, Bernese Oberland EVERYONE ABOARD It doesn’t always have to be snow. Water is also fun in winter. A guided kayak tour on Lake Brienz offers a new perspective. High-quality dry suits will keep cold feet at bay. interlaken.ch
7 The best way to experience Switzerland: BY TRAIN, BUS AND BOAT
One of many dream routes: through the winter Bernese Oberland from Wengen to Kleine Scheidegg.
Sit back, relax and look forward to City break or winter sports? In Switzerland, a perfect winter holiday! both are possible! Your holiday begins with a comfortable From Zurich, Lucerne, Bern and Lausanne, journey by train, bus or boat: cosy, pleasant, you can reach the ski area in no time at all spacious. Allow your gaze and thoughts to for an unforgettable day on the slopes. With wander while travelling through Switzer- a Swiss Travel System Ticket, Snow’n’Rail land’s magical winter landscape. Travel with- will even give you a discount on your ski out a care in the world, and let professionals pass. Public transport can be used to get to handle your luggage. The outstanding lug- any Swiss ski region. Klewenalp and Rigi gage service will ensure it is reliably and can even be reached by boat. From the pier, carefully delivered to the desired location pistes, winter walks and scenic points are on time. You can then focus on simply just an aerial cableway or mountain railway enjoying your journey. trip away. Your perfect winter holiday awaits with a Swiss Travel System Ticket!
Swiss Travel Pass – your ticket to everything! With the Swiss Travel Pass, enjoy virtually unlimited travel through Switzerland by train, bus or boat. It also gives free access to more than 500 museums and up to 50% discount on most mountain railways. Children under the age of 16 travel free with the Swiss Family Card when accompanied by a parent. The Swiss Travel System Tickets are only available to those resident outside Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. More information at SwissTravelSystem.com/ticket 7 Zurzach, Aargau SWIMMING IN THE SNOW Even when temperatures drop below freezing, swim outside in Switzerland’s biggest open-air thermal bath: the water is 39.9 °C in the alkaline Glauber’s salt spring. badzurzach.info
6 Rueras, Graubünden SKI LIFT 8 WITH 3 HORSEPOWER Les Diablerets, Lake Geneva Region When Edi Hess attaches the harnesses to his horses, it isn’t for farming or a romantic carriage BLAZING RUN ride through the Surselva. Each Thursday from The speedy run through the night 2 to 4:30 p.m., he runs the most environmentally starts at the top, at Les Mazots. friendly ski lift in the world: the horse-drawn From here, 7,200 metres along a ski lift in Rueras near Sedrun. For young skiers, secured path, first through this is a very special experience as they can pet the romantic forest landscapes and then along the mountain the horses when they reach the top. ridge down to the village of biohof-edihess.ch Les Diablerets. villars-diablerets.ch
9 Winter sports: extreme skiing Steep, steeper, Heitz
To call Jérémie Heitz just a skier would be a great understatement. The 28-year-old from Lower Valais goes down the steepest slopes quicker than anyone else: straight and at full tilt.
Text: Christian Sidow Photographs: Mika Merikanto, Tero Repo, Jeremy Bernard
10 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 55° slopes like we have here in Le Luisin in Lower Valais are a com- mon sight. Before every descent, Heitz climbs up the mountain on foot, as this is the only way to really assess the con- ditions.
11 12 × sheer drops were featured in the film “La Liste”, including Ober Gabelhorn in Valais. With this project, Jérémie Heitz also hopes to honour his role models from the 70s.
120 kph – the top speed that Jérémie Heitz reaches down the Zinalrothorn. Good preparation is not the be-all and end-all – good equipment in perfect condition and a clear head are needed too.
14 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 32 m is the height that Jérémie Heitz jumps down at the Breithorn. In a no-fall zone, where a mistake would be fatal, he skis with full concentration and lets nothing distract him.
15 Hello Jérémie, what made you decide to tackle the steepest slopes? I have always been drawn to the mountains. I think it’s in my genes, as my father was a mountain guide and my mother a skier. I have been skiing since the age of two. How did you start? First, I skied normally, but I wasn’t very good, to be honest, and also not very motivated. By freeriding I then dis- covered the wilder side of the mountains. I was immediately hooked. I assume you didn’t start on the highest peaks? No, no, that happened gradually. I only started going down the 4,000-metre Alpine peaks after I had gained some experience during the Freeride World Tour. What drives you? Curiosity. I couldn’t work in an office. I need to be outside, to travel and see the world. I am very eager to find out where else I can get to with my skis. Are you ever scared? Yes. But the fear stops me from being overconfident and reckless. *1989 Jérémie Heitz was born in Les Marécottes (Valais), where he still lives today. In 2015, he was ranked second overall at the Freeride World Tour. He skis for Mammut, Red Bull, Scott and Audi.
17 READY? GO! 1
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MySwitzerland recommends completing an avalanche training course before skiing off-piste for the first time, checking the weather and avalanche reports and always skiing with a mountain guide when out in unfamiliar terrain. Alongside the right freetouring skis 1 , skins 2 , boots 3 and sticks 4 , other essential equipment includes a wind and waterproof jacket and salopettes 5 as well as a helmet 6 , goggles 7 and gloves 8 . Also never be without these life-savers: backpack with avalanche airbag 9 , avalanche probe 10 , Barryvox avalanche beacon 11 , sturdy aluminium shovel 12 , first aid kit 13 and mobile phone 14 . It is also worth taking along a thermos flask 15 and some food 16 as well as a penknife 17 and sun cream 18 . 5 Tips
for 3 freeriders Airolo, Ticino SOUTH 5 When the snow clouds Disentis, Graubünden gather in North Ticino, the freeride community flocks MORE RUNS, to Airolo. Immediately at the end of the Gotthard road LESS tunnel, a powder paradise WALKING with fun terrain and open 1 slopes awaits. Right around Want to effortlessly ski the corner: Val Bedretto, the down hundreds of metres in AVALANCHE El Dorado of ski touring. powder snow? Then head FOUNDATION to Disentis. Val Segnas and Val d’Acletta are the perfect COURSE playground for freeriders. The A must for all who intend to most amazing deep snow ski off the prepared pistes. descents can be reached by The avalanche training by mountain railway with only a the Mammut Alpine School few short uphill climbs. From offers a varied combination magical powder-snow slopes of theory and practice. to the steepest gullies. alpineschool.mammut.ch 4 Nendaz, Valais 2 Andermatt, Lucerne- L’Eteygeon Lake Lucerne Region Freeride PERFECT Its length, altitude difference 2 5 and remoteness make the 3 MOUNTAIN 4 route from Greppon Blanc The Gemsstock, at almost (2,713 metres above sea 3,000 metres above sea level) to Praperrot in Val level, offers everything the d’Hérémence (1,540 metres More downhills for free freerider heart desires: deep above sea level) something riders can be found at snow, valleys, gullies, cou- truly special for even the MySwitzerland.com/ loirs and breathtaking views. most experienced freeriders. skisnowboard
19 Outdoor: ice sport
1 Zinal, Valais To the ice caves of Zinal on snowshoes All is quiet but for the gushing glacial river Navisence. The snowshoe route goes along snow-covered birch forests and past frozen waterfalls. From the village of the same name, ascend around 400 metres to the Zinal Glacier. After about 2.5 hours, you’ll reach the impressive en- trance to the ice caves. It is only possible to walk here in winter, when it’s frozen. Passing through several natural caves eroded by glacial streams, go almost 100 metres deep into the moun- tain. Up to 40 metres of snow and ice lie overhead: a natural wonder in blue and turquoise. Equipment: snowshoes, lunch Season: mid-December to mid-March © Renato Bagattini Ice is nice Those who think winter is only about snow are missing half the fun. Whether you prefer to explore natural ice caves, climb up vertical ice walls with a pickaxe and cram- pons or race down the track at 135 kph: allow yourself to be guided over the ice.
21 © Remo Nägeli
2 Alp Raguta, Graubünden Fun in the ice above the clouds From Feldis above Rhäzüns, a chair lift takes you to the Mutta mountain station, from where it is only five minutes to Alp Raguta at 1,952 metres above sea level. The panorama terrace not only offers picturesque views over the Domleschg valley, but Equipment: bring warm, has also been the highest natural ice field in Europe anti-slip winter shoes; since 2002. At 15 × 40 metres, this field is prepared ice stocks, curling stones by hand each year and attracts guests from near and and brooms can all be hired far: for curling, Bavarian curling and “chnebla”, as Season: mid-December ice hockey is called here. It is also a great place for a to the beginning of March bratwurst with a view.
22 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 4 Melchsee-Frutt, Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region Fish like an Inuit Fish always tastes better when you catch it yourself. Anglers wishing to fish in winter will receive specialist training from expert ice fishers for an unforgettable day in Melchsee-Frutt at 2,000 metres above sea level. Sur- rounded by white mountains, in glori- ous sunshine or sometimes in the snow, 3 Saas-Fee, Valais drill into the frozen Melchsee or Tann- In the depths of the Fee Glacier ensee to make your own ice hole in the The highest funicular train in the world does lake, bait your ice fishing rod and hope not in fact go underground, but to the Mittel for a good catch. This is a chance to allalin station at 3,500 metres. From here, go enjoy nature, the atmosphere and some deep inside the mysterious Fee Glacier, which tranquillity far away from everyday life. is thousands of years old. The ice cave was Equipment: ice drills and snow shovels are completely revamped in spring 2016 and now provided and a scoop can be rented, ice tells of the mystery, myths and legend of the fishing rods can also be rented, subject to ancient ice spanning over 5,000 square metres. availability This also includes an avalanche production Season: only on certain dates between with light effects and an impressive pressure mid-January and March wave. Also enjoy a glorious view of the Saas valley in the highest revolving restaurant in the world. Equipment: warm shoes with good grip Season: all year
23 MY LITTLE PIECE OF SWITZERLAND TO GO.
Reserve & Collect! zurichdutyfree.com
Inserat 158x219 Schweiz Tourismus DF Branding Sommer 2017.indd 1 27.06.17 13:42 5 Leysin, Lake Geneva Region Ice climbing in the Vaud Alps Climbing up frozen waterfalls is an experience that will get everyone warmed up. Equipped with crampons, a pickaxe and ropes, ice climbers in the Vaud Alps will take their first steps in the “Cascades de glace”. Even pro ficient climbers will find many inter- esting tours in the area around Leysin. Experienced guides will safely take 6 Lenzerheide, Graubünden guests through the ice falls and offer top tips for properly enjoying these A paradise for ice lovers magical moments in the cold. At the heart of the village of Lenzerheide is an atmospheric adventure ice rink for young Equipment: climbing equipment is and old. Couples, or those who hope to be, available to rent skate hand-in-hand along the romantic ice Season: weather-dependent, between path “Heidi’s Skateway to Love”. Glittering December and February lights along the 350-metre route create the perfect mood. Next door, in the Famigros Ice World, children are delighted by polar bears, penguins and a carousel in the centre of the ice rink. There is also a “Chnebelplatz” for private hockey and curling games as well as a separate Bavarian curling rink. Equipment: ice skates are available to hire; children’s helmets are free Season: start of December to mid-March
25 ICE-COLD FIGURES
Let there be ice At zero degrees, water turns into ice. The crystallising water 0 °C molecules attach to a core 6 All ice crystals are (such as dust particles or bacte- hexagonal, meaning ria). Without these crystallisation they have six sides. nuclei, water only freezes at –48 °C, and even –70 °C if it is distilled. Swiss ice days 24 hours of sub-zero temperatures per year:
Jungfraujoch ML 274.8 20 6 years 10 ,000 An average ice cube is Lugano The last great ice age, the 3 × 3 × 2.5 cm and contains Würm ice age, lasted around 0.8 around 20 ml of water. 10,000 years. If the cities of Zurich, Bern and Geneva had existed at the time, they would have been covered in a thick layer of ice.
Iceberg The big freeze 1962/63 ahead! Lake Constance and Lake Zurich were last frozen over in the % harsh winter of 1962/63. For a large lake to freeze, there must 10 be a total of minus 320 degrees over a number of consecutive days (for example, 32 days at –10 °C or 64 days at –5 °C). 90 % of an iceberg’s volume is under water (buoyancy of water versus weight 90 % of ice) and only around 10 % of the volume is above l the surface. 60,000 The Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe, loses around 60,000 l of water Did you know... per second on a hot summer day. This ...there are icebergs in equates to a water-level drop of 20 cm per Switzerland? They float in the day. Conversely, 1 cm of blue glacial ice forms glacial lakes. in around 10 years for every 1 m of snowfall.
Stop! Before walking on a natural ice field, always check the guidance given by the authorities. The load-bearing capacity depends on the state of the ice, whether there are cracks or trapped air, for example. The following minimum thicknesses apply: cm 8 cm 12 20 cm 7 Celerina, Graubünden An adrenalin kick with a history The Olympic Bobrun from St. Moritz to Celerina has offered guest rides since the end of the 1930s. Safely nestled between pilot 4 2 6 and brakeman, experience fantastic, adrena- 7 lin-pumping rides on the 1,722-metre natural 5 1 ice track, which is also the largest ice sculpture 3 in the world. In just 75 seconds, thunder to the finish at speeds of up to 135 kilometres per hour in a slightly modified four-man bob along straights, curves and descents. At the OTHER ICY bottom, a souvenir of the track, a glass of pro- secco and your personal Bob-baptism certifi- WINTER FUN cate await. IDEAS CAN BE Equipment: helmet rental is included, but be sure to bring courage FOUND AT Season: December to March MySwitzerland.com/winter
27 Posted: black ice
marcusclaessen #Melchsee “With its reflections, structures and air pockets, the ice is a spectacular photo opportunity.”
22 Dec. Black ice is a rare natural phenomenon. This dark, gleaming ice layer is formed on lakes only when temperatures consistently drop below zero in winter and there is no snowfall. Black, magical and fascinating for ice skaters and photographers alike. ramonhess #LagoBianco “On this sunny winter’s day, I went on the ice – on the black, smooth glassy frozen Lago Bianco. A magical moment.”
29 Dec. duede #LagoBianco “As the sun set behind the mountains, the clouds over the enormous ice field gradually changed from pink to deep red.”
17 Dec. fourty.2 #Seealpsee “On a glorious day, the rare natural phenomenon of black ice made the visit to the Seealpsee an even more amazing experience. A great start to the new year.”
2 Jan. azurphoto.ch #Oeschinensee “Gliding over black, almost untouched ice amid spectacular mountains – an unforgettable experience!”
1 Jan. maegli_martin_naturbild.ch #Lauenensee “Even if the snowfall is late in coming, there is much to discover in Switzerland. These skaters, too, were delighted by the black ice.”
10 Dec. Ski trip: Klewenalp
PISTE AHOY!
Taking a boat to the piste? In Switzerland, you can. Travel blogger Travelita (on skis) and her friend Nic (with snowboard and camera) visited the Klewenalp ski resort for MySwitzerland. Lines away!
Text: Anita Brechbühl Photographs: Nicolas Glauser
36 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER
8:00 a.m. Off we go! Helmet, ski goggles, sticks, gloves... where did I put my gloves? Half asleep, I pack my bag for a day on the slopes and tell myself yet again that I really should get everything ready the night before. The panic is soon over though. We avoid the many commuters at Lucerne station and head straight for the port stop. Instead of going into the office, we are hitting the slopes today. If only my colleagues knew… I hope that they at least take the time to take in the magical ambience of the city this morning.
9:30 a.m. Across the lake to the piste After the hectic start to the day, it’s time to chill out. We find a sheltered spot on the deck of the MS Winkel- ried, order a coffee and enjoy the glorious views over the snow-capped peaks all around Lake Lucerne. In less than an hour, we will be on top of the Klewenalp looking down at the tiny boats.
38 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER “TO THE PISTE OR THE OFFICE? NOT A HARD DECISION ON A GLORIOUS DAY LIKE TODAY.”
11:00 a.m. Up high, then down fast From the pier in Beckenried, the jour- ney continues by cable car and chair lift. Our first destination is the Klewenstock with the best views over deep-blue Lake Lucerne. While Nic straps into his board, I have time to admire the amazing views. It almost seems as though the piste ends in the lake. Then I need to be quick to keep up with him – with one board under his feet he is much faster than I am on my skis.
12:30 P.m. Lunch with a view After a few runs around the ski area – including a “victory lap” after taking a wrong turn – it’s time for a break. The sun is at full strength in the sky and the loungers by the panorama snow bar tempt us to relax for a while.
39 2:00 P.m. Fun on the slopes Batteries charged, we head to the highest point of the ski area. Atop the Chälenegg, a pristine winter landscape awaits with per- fectly prepared slopes and off- piste powder snow. Down the left or right of the piste? A difficult decision! We have enough time to do both. My favourite run is the Holderi-Büel, winding along the foot of Risetenstock and past the cosy tipi village Alphütten- beizli.
ANITA ALIAS TRAVELITA Under the motto “the world begins on your doorstep”, Anita Brechbühl, from Switzerland, has reported on weekend trips, city breaks and far-away holidays on her travelita.ch blog since 2012.
40 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER FROM THE CITY TO THE SLOPES 3:30 P.m. Start the day with an espresso in the pedestrian zone, then enjoy the sun on the Time for a rest slopes just a short while later – this is Nic has found his groove and would love nothing possible in many Swiss towns. From the city to the slopes in a matter of minutes: more than to keep flying down the slopes, but my stomach is rumbling. We agree to do one more run from Klewenstock – the top bit is perfect for making big carving turns – and end up at the pano- BERN rama snow bar for a snack. It is already totally packed. We find a place at the bar and order a small platter. 80 75 110 5:00 P.m. Homeward bound Zweisimmen Adelboden- It’s unbelievable how quickly the day on the slopes Oey Grindelwald- comes to an end. We ride the cable car down to the Grund valley, then take the boat back to return to our normal working lives. Nic and I agree: it was a great decision to swap the office for the piste. We will be doing LAUSANNE that again soon. Maybe we can go to Engelberg or Andermatt – they aren’t so far after all! 71
71 Leysin 90 Villars-sur- Ollon
Champéry
ZURICH 58
Flumserberg / Unterterzen 75 115
Schwyz / Stoosbahn Lenzerheide / Rothorn cable car
With the all-in-one ticket Swiss Travel Pass, explore Switzerland by boat, bus and train over 3, 4, 8 or 15 days. Includes a discount on your ski pass.
SwissTravelSystem.com/ticket Source: sbb.ch Source:
41 Winter sports: trial days MADE-TO-MEASURE WINTER SPORTS With the First Ski Experience, discover the fascination of skiing and snowboarding at an all-inclusive price. Includes equipment, ski pass and instructor, as well as guaranteed fun after the first successful run.
SIMPLY BOOK MEET HEAD TO From A for Arosa to You will meet your Z for Zermatt: choose personal instructor either THE a ski region online before or after renting SLOPES: and book your trial your equipment. You will days directly by then go to the practice phone or email. lift together.
42 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER MADE-TO-MEASURE WINTER SPORTS Book your First Ski Experience now at With the First Ski Experience, discover the fascination of skiing and snowboarding at an all-inclusive price. MySwitzerland.com/ BLUE PISTE Includes equipment, ski pass and instructor, as well as guaranteed fun after the first successful run. skiexperience AFTER 3 DAYS
Guarantee: whether you’re a total
3D visualisation: Gustav Fodor beginner or making a cautious comeback, the instructors of the Swiss Ski Schools guarantee that everyone can get down an easy blue ski run after just three days. If this promise is not kept, then a repeat course is offered free of charge.
TEST THE INSTRUCTORS
Put the Swiss instructors to the test. On Saturday, 16 December 2017, try out the instructors on a few runs free of charge and with- out obligation in many ski schools across Switzerland to check out their skills. To see which slopes will be hosting these tests, visit this website from the beginning of December: ENJOY You can look forward to a day swiss-ski-school.ch with a patient, multi-lingual instructor and learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding in the perfect place for beginners. Have fun!
43 Lifestyle: White Turf
Usbekia Valeria
Valeria Holinger won two Skikjöring races at the White Turf in St. Moritz. This was a dream come true for the 26-year-old local heroine: having topped the rankings, she is the first to hold the title of “Queen of the Engadin” for one year.
Text: Lucas Roos Photographs: Gian Giovanoli
45 We start as a team – but there is only one winner at the end.
Until a few years ago, it was almost entirely men who competed in the Skikjöring race in St. Moritz. With Valeria Holinger, a woman once again dared to ride on the frozen lake in 2009. Her father, from St. Moritz, was a Skikjöring racer. She started riding at the age of seven, and competed in alpine skiing up to the age of 16. Since making her debut in Skikjöring, Valeria Holinger has taken part in 19 races and has become positively addicted to the sport. To her delight, passion and enthusiasm has inspired others: in 2017, three women joined her at the starting line. More than ever before.
46 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER On the morning before the race, I always walk the route – this is an important ritual for me.
47 “Usbekia, my five-year-old thoroughbred mare, loves running and winning. When she gallops along the track at almost 60 kilometres per hour, there is no stopping her. The way it feels to fly over the snow behind her is quite indescribable. Fear isn’t a factor on the 2,700-metre course, but there is plenty of adrenaline.”
48 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER Lifestyle: White Turf
49 Two starts, two wins – Usbekia is amazing. There is no better place to celebrate.
Alongside Skikjöring, flat and trotting races also take place on the three racing Sundays in Febru- ary. The highlight of the White Turf is always the Grand Prix de St. Moritz on the third Sunday of the month. Great horse racing, gourmet food, music and shows all create a unique atmos- phere against the magnificent mountain backdrop of the Enga- din. Skikjöring races are exclusive to White Turf. Skijoring is done else- where, without the k. The distinction is that there are jockeys on the horses, so the skiers do not hold reins.
White Turf 2018: 4 / 11 / 18 February 2018
51 FUNCTIONALITY IS PART OF OUR FAMILY
Geneva | Zurich | Brunnen | Lucerne
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5 tips for experience seekers 3 Geneva 8–18 March 2018 MOTOR SHOW 5 Zermatt Once a year, Geneva 10–14 April 2018 becomes a paradise for all petrolheads. In 2018, the ZERMATT international automotive UNPLUGGED 1 industry will meet for the 88th Château-d’Oex time. In seven halls, over Five days of musical pleasure 27 January– 4 February 2018 180 exhibitors will be pre- against breathtaking natural senting around 900 models, scenery. Founded as a singer FESTIVAL including exclusive small- and songwriter festival in DE BALLON scale series as well as world 2007, Zermatt Unplugged is and European premieres. today the meeting place for For the 40th time, the canton lovers of pure sounds. The of Vaud will be gearing up for a warm spring sun, exceptional week of hot-air ballooning. Be piste conditions and stars amazed at the magical weight- up close and personal create lessness of a hot-air balloon a truly unique atmosphere. trip on a passenger flight.
2 Zurich 4 26– 28 January 2018 Basel 4 2 22 – 27 March 2018 GLOBAL BASEL- STARS IN 1 3 ZURICH WORLD 5 The top-class competitors, Each year, it sets the trends fascinating shows and exclu- for the international watch and sive surroundings make the jewellery industry. Baselworld Want to discover more perhaps last Mercedes-Benz is the only show that brings events: CSI a must-see in equestrian together all top industry MySwitzerland.com/ sports. players in one place. events
53 Après ski: spa & vitality
Ski-out Spa-in
1
Those cooling off by the ice foundation in the Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel in Gstaad-Schönried are just a snowball’s throw away from the natural outdoor ice. © Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel, Gstaad-Schönried © Ermitage Wellness 2
It takes no time at all to change from ski gear to bathrobe in the Bains de la Gruyère in Charmey. You can even forgo the robe in the large outdoor pool. The spring water is a warm 34 °C with natural mineral salts for pure relaxation.
From 90 °C in the sauna to 5 °C in the plunge pool in record time: this is the only top speed that is encouraged at the Seminar and After a long day on the slopes, 3 Wellness Hotel Stoos. Everything nothing beats relaxing in warm else is about taking it easy. water and steam to soothe body and soul. Whether the outdoor pool, private spa or sauna with a view, MySwitzer- land presents some of the best wellness oases in the Swiss mountains, each just a few steps from the piste.
55 4
From the Gemmi Pass mountain station, cross-country skiers are just a cable car ride away from ten thermal springs at the Leuker- bad-Therme.
Impressive quartzite slabs by archi- 5 tect Peter Zumthor are all that sepa- rates the calm of the thermal springs in the 7132 Hotel from the Vals winter wonderland. In the Hôtel Nendaz 4 Vallées & 6 Spa it is just a few steps from the adrenaline of the slopes to relaxation in the outdoor pool.
It takes just a few minutes to get 7 from the Pizolbahn to the private spa of Grand Resort Bad Ragaz. This means there is plenty of time to enjoy the extensive wellness area. 3 7
5 2 1 6 4
OTHER SPA AND WELLNESS OFFERS CLOSE TO THE PISTE CAN BE FOUND AT
MySwitzerland.com/wellness
57 Niculin, 9
Florin, 6
58 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER Families: snowpark The jibber brothers
With a halfpipe Olympic champion as a father, it is no wonder that the sons are also drawn to snow- boarding. Niculin Simmen tells us about his day at the White Elements Snowpark Grindelwald with brother Florin and father Gian.
Text: Christian Sidow Photographs: David Birri
59 Gian, 4O
My younger brother Florin and I are always up very early in the holidays. We can’t wait to finally get out of bed. After breakfast, we have snowboard lessons at 9 a.m. Sam is a really cool instructor; he knows loads of tricks. We are getting better every day. Florin already slid over a box on his first day in the snowpark. With Sam, I do loads of different stuff: we whirl along the piste, go over jumps and even ride the halfpipe. I also think it’s cool that we can have chips and cola at lunch. (Don’t tell Dad!)
In the afternoon, we go to the snowpark with Dad, which is really a good run. First, I did a 180 over the jump and then carried on backwards. After righting myself, I did a nose slide by sliding over the box on the tip of my board. Next, I did a method jump, which is my favourite trick, by touching the back edge of the board between the bindings with my front hand while in the air. >> Ollie
The basis for every trick It is important to jump up TOP TRICKS with the front foot first, then for the piste, kickers and pipe, explained by the back foot. Don’t jump Gian Simmen, halfpipe Olympic champion in 1998. with both legs at the same Videos of all tricks can be found at time, as this isn’t an ollie but MySwitzerland.com/skisnowboard looks like a frog jumping.
OLLIE
60 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER Dad always flies highest
Spray
FS 180
Spray up snow 180° on the board’s Fast and straight. Then FRONT- own axis bring the board across on After the jump, turn the its edge to kick up as big SIDE 180 board using your head, a cloud of snow as possible. shoulders, arms and back Immediately turn the board leg. Focus on the intended back in direction of travel and landing point. After the turn, S pr ay carry on. carry on backwards.
61 They have the best nut croissants in the world!
At the end, I did a few ollies and then we went to the Bergel egg hut. They have the best nut croissants in the world!
After our snack, our last stop was the halfpipe, where we did some jumps in the transition. That is best for learning to board properly. One day, I want to take part in contests and jump as high as Dad does. Florin always says he wants to learn to hand plant, when you do a handstand on the edge. The day is over too quickly and we have to go back down to the valley. I am hungry now! Dad is cook ing Pizokel. FS AIR
BS AIR
BACK- Now into the pipe The benchmark for style Go up the wall on the front SIDE Board on the backside side edge. At the highest edge and jump with the front point, just before losing AIR to the wall. The board is the momentum, jump and turn highest point, not the body. 180°, focusing on where Hold the backside edge with Front- you want to land. the front hand. side Air
62 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 5
TIPS 5 FOR SWISS SNOW freestyle families 3 ACADEMY Nendaz, Valais Your father isn’t a halfpipe Woodpark champion? No problem. In the The 4 Vallées ski region not Swiss Snow Academy, you only includes six resorts, but can learn the best turns, tricks also has three snowparks and airs from experienced and even a small snow skate riders on and off the piste. You park. At the Woodpark in Nen- will be challenged at your level, daz, tree trunks, branches and so it’s great fun. At the end, benches have been used to you will get your own Swiss make obstacles. The park has Snow Academy Card. Upload 1 been perfectly tailored to riders. your ticket to enjoy some top Leysin, Lake Geneva Region special offers. S, M OR L? In Leysin, there is a choice: the “small park” has little kick- ers and simple rails for be ginners, children and families. swiss-ski-school.ch The “medium park” has boxes and kickers up to ten metres flat. And in the “large park” everything is bigger, so that even the pros won’t get bored. 4 Davos, Graubünden THAT’S 2 JATZ! Crans-Montana, Valais 4 In the extended JatzPark on 1 PURE the Jakobshorn, freestylers 2 ADRENALINE will find a compact, varied and 3 perfectly prepared snowpark. The name of the adrenaline Four lines have been built next snowpark says it all: on an area to the lift for short, intensive Other destinations for spanning 100,000 square me- runs: each a combined line families and freestylers tres, there is a halfpipe as well with rails and kickers for be- MySwitzerland.com/ as three runs with boxes, rails ginners and medium plus family and kickers – jointly designed one medium rail and a pro by Pat Burgener, the first kicker line. snowboarder to do a switch backside triple cork 1440.
63 SCHOOL IN THE SNOW Ski camps are fun, but also a lot of work. To make it easier for the teachers, a fully organised winter sports camp and days are offered at great prices on the platform GoSnow.ch. From trans- port and accommodation, equip- ment hire and lift pass plus an afternoon of tobogganing, every- thing is included. The photographs from Villars-sur-Ollon speak for themselves. The next camp in the snow is just a click away:
gosnow.ch
64 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER
Winter sports: Engadin Skimarathon
50 years Happy birthday!
In 2018, the Engadin Skimarathon turns fifty. The Engadin course between Maloja and S-chanf is addictive. Do it once and chances are you’ll want to do it again. MySwitzerland talked to five of the 13,463 cross-country skiers about their Skimarathon experiences.
Text: Lucas Roos Portraits: Filip Zuan
66 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 1 time
Valerie Glanzmann, Wilen (OW)
“My first Engadin Skimarathon was an amazing experience. I really enjoyed the race. I loved the course, from start to finish.”
67 30 times
Andreas Wüthrich, Schlatt (ZH)
“My anniversary run was glorious and conditions were the best. I had well-waxed skis and crossed the finish line after only two hours and one min- ute. My hip opera- tion was only a year ago, so I am de- lighted.” 2 times
Erika Monahan, Anchorage (USA)
“I’ve never had so much fun at a race: great weather, good runs and so many people cheering us on. It is a wonder to me how you can get so many people at the start.”
69 A
Champfèr km 12 D Patience is S-chanf km 42 required on the ascent Everyone who crosses up the Schanze. the finish line is a winner. A D B
C Maloja km 0 Bever km 30 The scenery at Now it becomes the start on Lake Sils difficult, but all is overwhelming. Pontresina km 20 the competitors are The descent from well looked after. Lej da Staz is particularly popular with the crowd.
C B Record racer Françoise Stahel on the Engadin Skimarathon
49times
Françoise Stahel, you’ve crossed the finish line every year since the first Engadin race in 1969. How do you do it? It wasn’t always easy. For exam- ple, everyone had to give it their all when temperatures dropped to –20°C in 2006. On the course, you are in a world of your own. Once over the finish line, the pain is soon forgotten and you just feel great.
What does the Engadin Skimarathon mean to you? I worry every year that my health will prevent me from entering. I’m not getting any younger, but the Skimarathon is just part of my life.
Can you remember the first time you took part? Yes! There was some debate about whether women should be allowed. Luckily, the organisers decided we could enter. Coming third almost didn’t matter – it was just a great experience!
Françoise Stahel (80) is the only woman to have competed in every Engadin Skimara thon to date. Her daughter and grandchild now also participate. Read the whole story at MySwitzerland.com/ cross-countryskiing
71 22 times
Christoph Gafner, Oberwil in the Simmen valley
“For the members of my club, the Engadin Skimara- thon is always the highpoint of the sea- son. In 2004, I had a private race with for- mer alpine ski racer Peter Müller. He came in at 803 and I at 802. It was great for both of us.” 5 TIPS FOR cross-country 3 skiers Vallée de Joux, Lake Geneva Region FUN ON 5 THE SNOW Goms, Valais Lake shore or forest, skating THERE OR or classic? With more than BACK 220 kilometres of trails, Vallée de Joux has something for The magical trail in Goms everyone, from beginner to connects 12 picturesque 1 expert. Especially because villages from Oberwald to Engelberg, Lucerne-Lake the cross-country trails are Niederwald. The Matterhorn Lucerne Region always perfectly prepared. Gotthard train stops at al- most every village along the MOUNTAIN way. This means that you AND VALLEY can start on the 26-kilometre trail in Oberwald and take Whether longer routes in the the train back from Nieder- valley or short ones round wald. Or vice versa. What- the Trübsee, the 35 kilo- ever you do, Goms is a metres of trails will delight cross-country paradise. recreational and competitive cross-country skiers alike.
4 Kandersteg, 2 Bernese Oberland Montfaucon – La Ferrière, 2 Jura & Three-Lakes TRAIL WITH 1 A VIEW 3 4 5 FOR LEISURE In the unique mountain The trail in Freibergen is landscape of Kandersteg, a dream. The landscape is every trail has a special breathtaking with pleasant profile and can be done as More great tips for cross-country ski trails. It is a round. The 14-kilometre cross-country skiers: 26 kilometres to La Ferrière, panorama trail is particularly MySwitzerland.com/ with the option of taking the recommended with a great cross-countryskiing train back earlier. view as a bonus.
73 Nature discovery: snowshoe tours To the snow When the road ends, the fun begins. Experience more by walking with snowshoes. More nature, more peace, more happiness. Getting there 1 really is half the fun.
Text: Florian Frey © Maya Wipf and Daniele Kaehr
74 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 3
4 OVER (AL- MOST) EVERY MOUNTAIN 5 As of this winter, Switzer landMobility also offers more than 150 snowshoe 2 tours in Switzerland. The platform for non-motori sed traffic offers maps, descriptions and other useful information on planning and safety at the click of a mouse. switzerlandmobility.ch
75 sweat. Aglassoflocalwhitewine tastes even betterafterworking upa mer ontheAlpinepastures. Fondue comes from cows thatspendthesum The fooddishedupinthecaquelon hut prepares itsvery own specialities. draws tothehut.TheAlpine visitors awaits: thewaft ofmelted cheese per AlpVuipey, highlight aculinary it? Onthesnowshoe tour totheup this impressive atmosphere. Ordoes everything allaround. Nothingbeats clean andclear. Thesilence envelopes to thewinterwonderland. Theairis with acloudlessskyabove –welcome Snow glitterinthesunshine, crystals Pont delaCascade Starting point:LesPaccots,Parkingdu 15 min. Time walking:2 h Min./max. altitude:1,135 m/1,470m 430 m/430m Ascent/descent: Length: CAQUELONS DES PARCOURS Les Paccots–LeVuipey You’ll never want toleave! perfect way toround offtheday. from thelocalsareand stories the 1
6.5 km Pont delaCascade
Vuipey d’enBas Vuipey d’enHaut
© Aurélie Felli 2 Jaun–Chalet du Soldat Jaun THE DEVIL AND HIS GRANDMA
Without a doubt, the environment here is harsh. The limestone crags of the mountain range called Gastlosen, meaning guestless, loom overhead. Legend has it that the devil was angry with his grandmother Muserbergli and hurled her against the rock. A hole was left, around five metres wide and twenty metres high. This has created an extraordinary spectacle of nature: in winter, the sun sometimes shines straight through this hole. The snowshoe trail takes you right past the best places to see the phenomenon. The final third of the tour is a breeze. Up to the Chalet du Soldat, with Length: 8.9 km an inviting sunshine terrace and welcoming hosts. Hospitality doesn’t get better than this. Ascent/descent: 346 m/894 m Min./max. altitude: 1,003 m/1,750 m Time walking: 3 h Starting point: Jaun-Kappelboden
Chalet du Soldat
77 Schwyberg
3 Schwarzsee–Schwyberg THE SILENT MOUNTAIN
Length: 9.57 km Schwarzsee Ascent/descent: 633 m/633 m Min./max. altitude: 1,046 m/1,626 m Time walking: 3 h 30 min. Starting point: Schwarzsee, Gypsera
At Schwyberg, nature is reclaiming the land. Where once there were holiday chalets, a forest is now growing. The lifts on the mountain have fallen silent, the masts taken down. The calm is spreading. Ideal conditions for rare black and wood grouse that hatch their brood here in spring. And for all who wish to escape civilisation on snowshoes. The nature offers visitors a chance to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Looking out from the sum mit, the Schwarzsee is a feast for the eyes. A scenic, frozen lake, that seems to be whispering “shhh”. © Marc-André Marmillod © Marc-André
78 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER Le Brand (La Roche)
4 Le Brand–La Berra HALF OF SWITZER- LAND AT A GLANCE Length: 5.45 km Where is it possible to see more than half of Ascent/descent: 740 m/137 m Buvette La Berra Switzerland in one glance? From the top of Min./max. altitude: 1,008 m/1,708 m a 3,000-metre peak? Or at 4,000 metres? Not Time walking: 2 h 30 min. even close! Another mountain would normally Starting point: Le Brand (La Roche) La Berra block your view. However, the Fribourg Pre- Alps are just the place. La Berra, for example. The world is totally white, dazzling the eyes with forests covered in the snowy blanket of winter. The pine trees are like guards, majestic ally enveloped in white snow compacted by the “Bise”, a cold northeasterly wind in Switzer land. A startled snow hare hops around the next knoll. A herd of chamois ahead, white tails bobbing as they flee the snowshoe walkers. The wildlife conservation areas alongside this path offer many surprises. Further up, the for est thins out. Views stretch out to infinity. Where is it possible to see more than half of Switzerland? Anyone who has walked up here knows the answer.
79 It’s not a ight It’s the world’s to Switzerland. longest ski lift. With the skier’s airline of choice your ski or snowboard equipment travels to Switzerland for free.
swiss.com Made of Switzerland.
5 Charmey–Vounetse summit UP AND DOWN AT A LEISURELY PACE
Anyone can go snowshoe walking. But still, Vounetse the first time, it might not be wise to head Charmey straight for demanding alpine routes. So, off to Charmey. This route can be completed either up or down. If you believe in no pain, no gain, Length: 3.19 km you can start at the middle station and work Ascent/descent: 629 m/23 m your way up to the Vounetse summit over two Min./max. altitude: 1,005 m/1,612 m hours. However, if a fast pulse and aching mus Time walking: 1 h 50 min. cles are not your game, take the mountain rail Starting point: Charmey-Montminard way up. From the top, it’s an easy, relaxing stroll down to the middle station. No matter how you conquer Vounetse: the baths of Charmey are the perfect way to round off the snowshoe hike and will also ease aching muscles.
81 Handbook: Winter Hideaways
Bye-bye routine!
Outside, sparkling ice crystals under the full moon rival the stars. Inside, a delicious supper and comfortable bed await. At the most beautiful hideaways in Switzerland, little more is required to relax after a long winter’s day. Let yourself be inspired.
82 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER mySwitzerland
Winter hideaways �
No handbook? MySwitzerland.com/hideaways
83 Prix Bienvenu: the most welcoming
1 Luxury hotel Prix Bienvenu Attention, warmth, SUVRETTA HOUSE, ST. MORITZ empathy and helpful- Personal hospitality defines the Hotel Suvretta House Ä, which has been owned by the same family since being founded in 1912. ness are the criteria The exclusive house has a ski school and is the only hotel in the world for the Prix Bienvenu with a Curling Guest Club, which is under the patronage of Queen award. The Swiss Elizabeth II as a member of the World Curling Association. prize for hospitality is suvrettahouse.ch awarded to 100 Swiss hotels each year. This 2 evaluation is based on Luxury city hotel comments by hotel guests taken from DES BERGUES, GENEVA 250 rating and book- The city’s first hotel to be awarded the Prix Bienvenu for the second ing platforms. These time, the Four Seasons Hotel Des are the winners of the Bergues Ä is in the heart of Geneva. The impressive hotel with five categories in 68 rooms and 35 suites right on 2017. the shores of Lake Geneva impres ses with its nostalgic charm. The competent employees spoil guests with their dedicated warmth.
fourseasons.com/geneva
84 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 3 City hotel Hotel Uzwil
A business hotel with the charm of a hideaway. Rich in tradition, Hotel Uzwil Õ perfectly reconciles work, pleasure and relaxation. 43 exquisitely furnished rooms and all- inclusive apartments invite you to feel at home for a few days or even weeks. The hotel is also the perfect starting point for a discovery tour of the attractive region of St. Gallen-Lake Constance. hotel-uzwil.ch
4 5 Cosy leisure hotel Large leisure hotel Hotel Gädi, Chasa Montana, Samnaun grächen Surrounded by 3,000-metre Relaxation in the familial atmos peaks in the Samnaun range is phere define the hearty Hotel the Chasa Montana Hotel & Gädi Ã. Directly adjacent to the Spa À, near the highest du piste and valley station of the ty-free shopping mile in Europe. new fairy-tale gondola lift to the For those wishing to recover Hannigalp, hikers, skiers and after shopping or skiing, the others looking for enjoyment are traditional, chalet-style wellness all welcome. In the evenings, the hotel features an indoor Roman hotel’s restaurant, new wellness pool with a grotto and award- area and open fireplace are all winning cuisine in the La great for relaxing. Miranda gourmet restaurant. hotel-gaedi.ch hotelchasamontana.ch
More information on the winners of the Prix Bienvenu and the 100 most welcoming hotels in Switzerland can 3 be found at MySwitzerland.com/ 5 prixbienvenu
1 2 4
85 People: snow encounters © Switzerland Tourism/Lorenz Richard © Switzerland Tourism/Lorenz Genuine summit encounters
It is said that a country is like its people. Swiss nature is ex- tremely diverse and so, too, are the people living in Switzerland. MySwitzerland would like to present a few very special indi- viduals. Enjoy.
86 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 2 Arolla, Valais UP HIGH
The thrill of a powder snow descent is one of the best in the Swiss winter world. Especially when you get there by your own strength. Mountain guide Dédé Anzévui has been accompany- 1 ing guests up the legendary Andermatt, Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region Valais peaks around his village of Arolla for more than 40 years. ROLLING BARKEEPER He is himself a living legend in all things ski touring. Since 1969, For a long time, Victor Costa was not he has added many first de- interested in snow. Having grown up in scents to his belt. A tour with the northern Portugal, he was gripped by a spirit 62-year-old promises to deliver spectacular views and thrilling of discovery. Like Vasco da Gama before descents, with secret tips from a him, he was drawn to foreign lands, albeit in professional who knows the area a different direction. He has now lived in like the back of his hand. Andermatt for 23 years. From here, he takes his après-ski train to Disentis and back twice every day. Skiers can look forward to a refreshing drink, a traditional snack and of course Victor’s warm welcome.
87 3 Arosa/Lenzerheide, Graubünden 2 MEN, 2 CABINS A dream commute for city-dwellers: with skis strapped on and a full thermos of milk, Gian Malär (top) heads to “his” idyllic Alp Fops with easy turns. The Sit Hütte below the Arosa Snowpark is more modern. The burgers made by Mirko Schadegg are the best on the mountain.
5 Nendaz/Veysonnaz, Valais Mister DYNAMITE One bang and tonnes of snow thunder down the valley. This is the work of Raphy Gillioz. Once one of the best freeriders in the world, he is today re- sponsible for the safety of the 4 Vallées ski area. He triggers 4 avalanches with dynamite Disentis, Graubünden to protect those engaging in winter sports from danger. FROM HOUSES TO SKIS
Watching Duri Wieland swing down the piste, it is hard to believe that he is close to retirement. Since 2003, the former architect has dedicated his life to his great passion, skiing. When his friend Simon Jacomet established the ski brand zai, he swapped his desk for a workbench and started to build – and use – high tech skis.
88 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER 6 Villars-sur-Ollon, Lake Geneva Region AN APPROACHABLE STAR “Hey, Fanny!” Pupils from Villars rush towards their idol and offer congratulations. Having returned home with the World Cup silver medal, Fanny Smith showed the children how they can best negotiate the ski cross run. Something the skier from Vaud missed out on herself. The 24-year-old was therefore all the more delighted to share her knowledge. She patiently gave autographs after the lesson and left a few fans dreaming of taking their place on the winner’s podium.
89 MY SWISS EXPERIENCE
Meet your Swiss hosts and discover Switzerland with them. MySwitzerland.com/ myswissexperience © Silvano Zeiter Silvano ©
Arolla, Valais, Arolla,
101_17d_01_ins_my_swiss_experience.indd 1 20.07.17 08:45 7 Gstaad-Saanen, Bernese Oberland SEVENTH HEAVEN Getting there is half the fun when heli- skiing. Julie May is one of Switzerland’s MY SWISS few helicopter pilots and regularly brings freeriders up to the summits around EXPERIENCE Gstaad. Such flights are still special for the 30-year-old: “The delight of passengers before take-off is infectious, with almost Meet your Swiss enough energy to fuel the helicopter!” hosts and discover she explains. Now, everyone aboard and Switzerland with them. MySwitzerland.com/ off to the seventh heaven of the Bernese myswissexperience Oberland.
THE EXTENDED STORIES WITH MORE INFOR- MATION CAN BE FOUND AT 8 Jaun, Fribourg Region BATTLE OF THE 3 GENERATIONS 8 1 4 6 7 In the 2000s, Didier Moret (left) was one of the best in 5 the Swiss ski touring scene. In 2008, he won the presti 2 gious Patrouille des Glaciers, the world’s largest race for
ski mountaineering from Zermatt to Verbier. Today, the MySwitzerland.com/winter 42-year-old and his colleague Cédric Remy (13 years his junior) still take part in some gripping duals. In train- ing at one of the four Vitaski parcours in the Fribourg © Silvano Zeiter Silvano © Region, the rivals became the best of friends.
91 Arolla, Valais, Arolla,
101_17d_01_ins_my_swiss_experience.indd 1 20.07.17 08:45 Alpine skiing: interview
What makes the “best piste”? Bernhard Russi It should have flat portions and steep in clines, but also include some natural jumps From ski star that enable skiers to fly much further to star architect than they would normally at such a pace on the course.
Where was it particularly difficult to set up a good piste? Beaver Creek, for the 1989 World Ski Championships. The intended route was so flat that I almost gave up, but the location was fixed so I had to find a way to get the most out of it. I remembered the amusement rides at Disneyland and had them build a snaking channel. Its steep walls then added the necessary dynamism. I called the piste “rattlesnake” and while this wasn’t the best Interview: Christoph Zwaan World Championship piste ever, it was still As an Olympic champion and downhill very good. World Cup winner, Bernhard Russi has achieved it all in ski sport. Since stepping back from active sports, the Swiss star has now been advising the whole world on the construction of ski race routes for more than 35 years. In an interview, he reveals which Swiss virtues a piste architect needs to have, how Disneyland has influenced his work and why the Winter Olympics belong in Switzerland. “IF A STRONG OLD Bernhard Russi, is it a coincidence TREE IS RIGHT IN that the most famous piste architect in the world comes from Switzerland? THE WAY OF THE IDEAL I was just lucky to be in the right place at the right time, but of course alpine racing ROUTE, I CHANGE was born in Switzerland and the particular demands that are placed on a piste architect THE COURSE TO GO to some extent match the clichés that are ROUND IT.” associated with the Swiss.
Which clichés do you mean? The world expects precise and reliable work Can you actually reconcile snow sports from us. This naturally also applies to how and environmental protection? race routes are designed, and I am comforta Definitely, as long as we act sensibly. If you ble being measured against these demands. remove soil below the tree line and put it My training as a structural draughtsman is somewhere else, that is not such a big deal. certainly helpful, enabling me to think It just means a hill has moved from A to B, three-dimensionally. In this way, I strive to which doesn’t really disturb nature. Even I, design the best pistes for the best skiers. as an experienced piste architect, hesitate when faced with a strong old tree, even
92 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER if it’s right in the way of the ideal route. You travel all over the world. Do you I don’t think twice about changing the ever get to experience the Swiss winter course to go round it. these days? It is sometimes difficult, but conditions were Have you ever scrapped ideas for the still amazing in Andermatt in spring this year good of the environment? and I really enjoyed myself. Yes, I have. In one project, I was short 100 metres in altitude. The organisers came to me and said they hoped to artificially build up the mountain to make up the difference. I stood my ground and said that I could not and would not support such a change.
Switzerland hosts some of the best events in the Alpine Ski World Cup calendar. These five classics are spectacular sporting events in the snow. “SWITZERLAND St. Moritz CAN SHOW THE 9–10 December 2017 After the World Championships in WORLD WHAT February, it’s time for the Ski World Cup.
MODERN OLYMPICS Adelboden ARE ABOUT.” 6–7 January 2018 62nd international ski days at the Chuenisbärgli.
Concerns about environmental WEngen protection and sustainability are partly 12–14 January 2018 why the population is very critical of The battle for Ski World Cup points takes Switzerland’s Olympic plans. place on the Lauberhorn. I am in favour of Switzerland hosting, be cause we can show the world what modern Olympics are about. If ice hockey is to Lenzerheide take place in Sion (Valais), we shouldn’t ask 27–28 January 2018 how big the Olympic stadium should be, For one weekend, World Cup craziness descends on Lenzerheide. but what size stadium Sion can use after the games. For me, this approach is the right solution. Such a proposal would put Switzer Crans-Montana land in the best position, not only with the 26–28 February 2018 Committee, but also with the population. A top ski destination and candidate for the 2025 World Cup.
Further information can be found at: MySwitzerland.com/worldcup
93 Cheeses from Switzerland. 600 times unique. Trust your good taste. Choose from over 600 varieties.
Cheeses from Switzerland. Switzerland. Naturally. www.cheesesfromswitzerland.com
SCM_Inserat_600Mal_158x219_CHdfi_EN_ES_NL_uc_RZ.indd 4 16.06.17 11:54 Service: Switzerland digital
WINTER UPGRADE WITH ONE CLICK “Upgrade your winter” – with a visit to Switzerland. Here, where winter sports were invented in 1864, the mountains are higher and the ski runs are fun. Experience all sides of the Swiss winter: MySwitzerland.com/winter
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95 Strategic premium partners
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96 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER Service: recommendations
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RENTING WINTER SPORTS EQUIPMENT Want to pack light and ski with the latest equipment? Simply hire your equipment directly in the ski region. Leave the waxing and edging to the professionals and enjoy the day on the slopes with the best equipment. swissrent.com
Hallwag Kümmerly+Frey From classics to secret tips, the Swiss Alpine Club SAC offers ski and snowshoe tours for every level to suit every taste. Guides with informative route texts and photos are available in German, French and Italian. swisstravelcenter.ch/skitouren.html
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97 End
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ENJOY THE RIDE ENCE ON AND OFF Travel comfortably and enjoy every moment of the journey. An extensive public transport network makes exploring THE PISTE. WHAT ARE Switzerland fun – and offers total flexibility. MySwitzerland.com/travel YOU WAITING FOR? TREAT YOURSELF TO
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98 mySwitzerland UPGRADE YOUR WINTER MySwitzerland.com SWITZERLAND IN WINTER: A SMALL COUNTRY WITH GREAT DIVERSITY
220 km from north to south, 348 km from east to west, with a S wealth of landscape diversity in between: 337 ski regions, more than 120 glaciers, 48 mountains over 4,000 m and the wonderful B o d 2 e n hospitality of the people all make the 41,285-km Alpine country s Rhein Thur e the number 1 winter destination. e Töss F
Limma B t L irs THE Regions B A A H A Aargau A in Re e h uss B Basel Region R Z Säntis S ü 2502 r C Bern i s S c ub h - s e o e D D Fribourg Region e H L Z 2306
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F Chasseral i F Lake Geneva Region e n M e s 1899 t r h F e el Grosser Mythen G Graubünden Bi 1798 G Rigi Vierwald- Glärnisch H Jura & Three-Lakes S 2914 R 1408 2119 N e Napf stättersee Pizol Aar Pilatus S 2844 L I Lucerne-Lake Lucerne Region l S te La S E nd J châ qu Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein u M S 1898 A L art Ne Stanserhorn R C 2834 K Ticino de C e F ac u Weissfluh Piz Buin S C L S 2350 s 3312 E E s Tödi L Valais mm Brienzer 3614 e Rothorn L S e y Titlis A o F M Zurich Region r T M F 3238 Inn Y B a L L rs. M D 2175 ze M in L T n rhe Gantrisch h rie er un B A H rd e a 3503 Vo L Schwarzsee me r r 3294 M Sim s e e e 2998 I Sustenhorn S Piz Beverin Piz Kesch 2362 Joux C G de Niesen A in L S F Eiger 3970 he S Vallée rr 2002 e M 2970 nte n i i Schilthorn Mönch 4107 H 3056 Le Moléson r G a Piz Nair S M 4274 a A L 4158 Finsteraarhorn S M L A r 3402 Jungfrau - e M h h Rheinwaldhorn S C c c S s s C t t M L e a G l le L é m n A g 2973 1677 L S E S L e 2042 Wildstrubel 3272 Diavolezza La Dôle 4049 Rochers- L M 3244 3934 Basòdino S N de-Naye L Bietschhorn F Piz Bernina C L R M G T L i c Ve i n rzasca o M e S sp a ôn a S Rh Vi g Le L gi M S L a E L 3257 T G A C H N Dents G 02040 80 km du Midi S F Dom Dent Blanche 4545 01020 40 miles 4357 LUGANO FRANCE e
no C r ga Lu A Matterhorn o i 3090 i d 1701 Grand 4478 Gornergrat g Monte Combin g Dufourspitze Lago Generoso 4314 a 4634
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F Chasseral i e n M e s 1899 t r h F e el Grosser Mythen Bi 1798 G Rigi Vierwald- Glärnisch S 2914 R 1408 2119 N e Napf stättersee Pizol Aar Pilatus S 2844 L l S te La S E nd châ qu u M S 1898 A L art Ne Stanserhorn R C 2834 de I e F ac u Weissfluh Piz Buin S C L S 2350 s 3312 E E s Tödi mm Brienzer 3614 e Rothorn L S e y Titlis A o F r T M F 3238 Inn Y B a L L rs. M 2175 ze M in L T n rhe Gantrisch h rie er G un B A H rd e a 3503 Vo L Schwarzsee me r r 3294 M Sim s e e e 2998 I Sustenhorn S Piz Beverin Piz Kesch 2362 Joux C G de Niesen A in L S Eiger 3970 he S Vallée rr 2002 e M 2970 nte n i i Schilthorn Mönch 4107 H 3056 Le Moléson r G a Piz Nair S M 4274 a A L 4158 Finsteraarhorn S M L A r 3402 Jungfrau - e M h h Rheinwaldhorn S C c c S s s C t t M L e a G l le L é m n A g 2973 1677 L S E S L e 2042 Wildstrubel 3272 Diavolezza La Dôle 4049 Rochers- L M 3244 3934 Basòdino S N de-Naye L Bietschhorn F Piz Bernina C L R M G K T L i c Ve i n rzasca o M e S sp a ôn a S h Vi g e R g L S L ia M L 3257 T G A C H N Dents G 02040 80 km du Midi S F Dom Dent Blanche 4545 01020 40 miles
4357 LUGANO e
no C r ga Motorway Lu A Matterhorn o i 3090 i d 1701 Main road Grand 4478 Gornergrat g Monte Combin g Secondary road Dufourspitze Lago Generoso 4314 a 4634 Minor road
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Car transport by rail G S 0204080 km a Airport L 0102004 miles ITALY
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Upgrade your Winter. SEASON 2017/2018