FRIBOURG REGION THE LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND DISCOVERIES GUIDE WELCOMING DELICIOUS UNEXPECTED 2019

THE UNEXPECTED THE NOCTURNAL ADVENTURES OF BEAVERS

EXPERIENCE i'VE EXPERIENCED: AN EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE

PASSION KEEPING WALKERS ON THE RIGHT TRACK... ALONG 1800 KM OF PATHWAYS! www.fribourgregion.ch 2 REGION FRIBOURG REGION 3

LIFE IS A BEAUTIFUL WALK IT'S PAGE 22 KEEPING WALKERS DZ¡N ! ON THE RIGHT Discover unique activities and inspiring encounters with local MEADOWS: TRACK... ALONG people. Create memories NATURE’S 1800 KM OF as a group or individual, TREASURES PATHWAYS! for children and adults alike. www.dzin.ch PAGE 4 PAGE 26

TONE Publisher FRIBOURG REGION

Layout CONTENTS A WALKER’S So Graphic Studio, Bulle DELIGHT Editorial Mélanie Rouiller, Susi Schildknecht

Meadows: nature’s treasures...... 4 Hiking in Fribourg Region, Take a walk in the Fribourg Region’s countryside, Pictures Aline Hayoz-Andrey accompanies amateur botanists the joy factor!...... 20 where thrilling discoveries and delicious delicacies Pascal Gertschen, André Meier/ Suisse Tourisme, Carim Jost, await. Whether they are walking the shores of Mélanie Rouiller, Marc-André Marmillod, Life is a beautiful walk...... 22 I've experienced: an extraordinary Eric Fookes, Elise Heuberger, Pierre Cuony, adventure...... 8 The Trans Swiss Trail, a shared long-distance project a lake, under the cover of a forest or along a mountain Stemutz, Jorgenn, Maxime Schmid, Jean-Claude Pesse perpetuates an ancestral tradition ridge, hikers will always find the path that’s right for Aurélie Felli, Restaurant du Port, Keeping walkers on the right track... rawkingphoto.ch, Gruyère Escapade, them. Walkers and sports lovers will be delighted outsideisfree.ch, Fabrice Savary. “The philosophical sweeper”...... 10 along 1800 km of pathways! ...... 26 by the wealth of itineraries available to them. Interview with Michel Simonet on the streets of Fribourg The diligent professionals who maintain the waymarks Fribourg, December 2018/553'300 The nocturnal adventures Valuable advice from Bruno Jelk ...... 28 Amazing cultural discoveries can be made simply Printed in ...... A leading expert on safety in the mountains of beavers 14 by wandering around the town of Fribourg or Romont, on FSC certified paper Nature and people get along together in the Grande Cariçaie A visit to Romont that’s full while the area’s rich, varied nature is an endless source of surprises ...... 32 of discovery and new experiences. Get walking, get “When I’m on a trail, I feel all the energy Simone Devaud shares historic finds away from it all and succumb to life’s sweet pleasures. of the mountain inside me”...... 17 , the perfect playground for Mike Aigroz Online...... 35 Quiz 4 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 5

CURIOSITY MEADOWS: NATURE’S TREASURES

With a PhD in natural science, Aline Hayoz-Andrey shares her expertise so that the riches of our environment are accessible to all. She takes amateur botanists, or those who are simply curious, on a meticulous exploration of the plant world that prospers before our very eyes! 6 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 217

line Hayoz-Andrey studies of the complexity of a biotope. For nature in all of its forms. example, creating a floral clock can LAKE GRUYÈRE A The specific environment, highlight the interaction between insects, plants, soil and exposure, flora and insects. In the undergrowth, Novi lé all contribute to the biodiversity she notes the importance of of a landscape. The hiking leader symbiosis, such as that between Download the app and discover a considers the area around Charmey fungi and trees, which exchange new version of the Lake Gruyère trail! the ideal place to share her scientific nutrients. The condition of the fields, This fun treasure hunt takes you on knowledge. From Lake Montsalvens and the species that grow there, an augmented reality journey that (800 m) to the summit of Vounetse indicate the quality and balance teaches you all about the region and (1600 m), via the small valley of of the soil. This fragile harmony its nature. The seven itineraries, each Les Morteys, the ecosystem is rich will affect the cows’ fodder and lasting approximately 1.5 hours, are and varied. Moist terrain, unused influence the flavour of the cheese! interspersed with digital animations areas of grass, lush meadows, Aline cheerfully demonstrates how that allow you to collect points. You can and deciduous or conifer forests close a tie there is between the even win vouchers and gifts into the abound, revealing an abundance meadows and the local gastronomy. bargain. Happy hunting! of fascinating ecological features. This foodie is happy to share her www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences1 Aline offers botanical walks that tips: “Plantain makes an excellent teach you how to read the landscape. mushroomy pesto. And dried sweet She shares her observations and woodruff flowers have a delicious knowledge to create a broader view vanilla flavour.” LA GRUYÈRE JAUN Passeport A centuries-old La Gruyère tradition Whether you’re planning a romantic For over four centuries, the Jeûne Fédéral weekend or a family trip, the bank holiday Monday has celebrated Passeport La Gruyère makes visiting the arrival of sheep on the plains. After the region a piece of cake. An several months in the alpine pastures, the opportunity to discover the region animals are sold at this traditional fair through its museums, gastronomy that joyfully brings the centre of Jaun to and landscapes. Two nights from life, marking the beginning of the désalpe CHF 125.– per person. period, when animals are brought down www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences2 from the mountains. www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences3 8 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 9

FRIBOURG i'VE EXPERIENCED! Traditional flavours IT'S At Gérald Saudan’s workshop, you can immerse yourself in the saffron DZ¡N ! and aniseed aromas of Fribourg’s culinary tradition. All the secrets of Bénichon mustard and Cuchaule AOP bread production will be revealed! It only takes an hour to try your hand at this gourmet tradition. Enjoy a tasting session and then take your delicious creations home with you. www.dzin.ch

EXPERIENCE AN EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURE

At the foot of the little valley of Les Morteys, in the Gros Mont valley between Charmey and Jaun, Jean-Claude Pesse is carrying on an age-old tradition. BULLE MOLÉSON-SUR-GRUYÈRES Discover the town A perfect e approach the 500-metre way down!” says Jean-Claude, who the skin. The path becomes a stream of Bulle climb that awaits us with gives them constant encouragement and the mountain is showing its anger, evening W enthusiasm. Patricia, Thaïs and draws on his subtle sensitivity but the atmosphere is spectacular. Learn everything you need to know On summer evenings you can enjoy and Laurence have also joined us to understand and motivate them. I The thunder threatens to frighten the about the history of the buildings, a wine-tasting experience at an for this very unusual hike. Since 2014, know so little about equine creatures mules, but Jean-Claude reassures the lives of historical characters, and altitude of 2002 metres. As the sun sets, Jean-Claude Pesse has been working that when Patricia hands me Marco’s them with a soothing gesture. Lightning the parks and churches of Bulle. the pink sky is reflected on the surface as a barlatè, an occupation in danger lead rein, I’m surprised that I instantly illuminates the front of the Cabane This journey through time promises of Lake Geneva. At the summit of the of dying out. During the summer feel a magical bond, a force that is des Marindes. We press on and arrive to be a truly enriching experience. Moléson, this little corner of paradise is pasturing season, he transports perceptible through the rope, strong at Les Morteys chalet at an altitude www.la-gruyere.ch/tour far removed from the hustle and bustle alpine cheese by mule. Their pack yet gentle. The sound of hooves on of 1888 metres. Centaure’s coat is of the plains. saddles in position, the animals set the the scree gives me the sensation that steaming, and I take refuge inside. www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences5 pace. At the head of the train, Marco, we are working together, walking A coffee with double cream later, the a gentle and experienced mule, leads in unison. I feel proud to be walking cheeses are packed onto wooden the way for Centaure, his counterpart. alongside him! crates and loaded onto the animals. The rhythm is interspersed with rest A raindrop falls onto my hand, the The descent threatens to be a slippery stops imposed by the animals. “At sky darkens and a storm is unleashed one, but the sun has come out. first, you need to let them warm up without warning. There’s no time to www.dzin.ch and manage their load. Each one will get out my raincoat (in any case, I’ve be carrying 120 kg on its back on the forgotten it) before we're soaked to 10 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 11

PEOPLE “THE PHILOSOPHICAL SWEEPER”

is book, “Une rose et un balai“ spirituality. He draws his happiness (A Rose and a Broom) won from a very simple source: rejoicing H international recognition, in a job well done by turning back proof that the philosophical musings to look at the road he is sweeping. of this writer-sweeper have touched “Then comes that instant feeling of the hearts of his readers. usefulness that does me so much His gentle, humorous verse gives an good: a little Nirvana on earth for a insight into the delicate subtlety of voluntary outcast.” (p.113) Michel Simonet Michel Simonet. After 30 years as Having graduated from business is both the oldest a street cleaner, he took just a few school, he studied theology before road sweeper in months to complete his book: “It’s my starting a family and choosing to invitation for you to look at the little, work as a road sweeper. The Bourg the town of Fribourg everyday things in life in a new light.” district is his kingdom, through which and a renowned To him, the streets are society’s central he roams from five in the morning philosophical author. nervous system; the abandoned onwards, pushing his cart, which is Everyday encounters, marks on the ground tell stories that always adorned with a rose. From religious beliefs the author understands and the municipal council, he heads for transposes into words and poetry. Place du Marché-aux-Poissons, and books like “I love the repetitive movements of my which he views as the heart of “The Little Prince” broom, pushing my cart and piling up Fribourg. He continues his journey are all sources dead leaves.” This repetitive manual towards the until he gets of inspiration for him. labour opens the doors to his inner to the Zähringen bridge. He loves his town self, forming the foundations of his and the usefulness of his work. 12 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 13

FRIBOURG “I love bridges. They are an opening onto the Old Town, where the sun Take the high shines.” On his return journey, he road crosses the Espace Jean Tinguely-Niki de Saint Phalle and passes the Five gates, six towers and seven Museum of Art and History, where sections of ramparts make up the it’s not uncommon for this multilingual largest example of medieval military ambassador to come to the aid of architecture in Switzerland. The passing tourists. The writer ends his Tour-Henri’s parapet walk offers tour at the cantonal library. Books remarkable views. Learn all about have always been important to him. the site with a guided tour of its “The Little Prince“, one of the first he impressive fortifications. Book on ever read, made a deep impression www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences8 on him. Its author, a young Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, spent two school years in Fribourg. He later wrote, “3000 kilometres of African coasts do not have the density of 20 square metres in Fribourg.” Fribourg is certainly a major source of inspiration for artists. “I love bridges. They are an opening onto the Old Town, where the sun shines.” Michel Simonet

FRIBOURG FRIBOURG A journey through City Break time At the heart of the Old Town, the Explore the town of Fribourg through Werkhof has risen from the ashes to the its narrow streets and bridges. Stroll delight of the entire district. It features past the Loreto Chapel, go down a model of 17th century Fribourg to the Old Town by funicular, and which, at 52 m2, is the largest model let yourself be tempted by its wealth in Switzerland. Multimedia content of culinary and cultural delights. immerses spectators in the town’s One night from CHF 89.– per person. history, while temporary exhibitions www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences7 complete the cultural offering. www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences6 14 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 15

THE UNEXPECTED THE NOCTURNAL ADVENTURES OF BEAVERS

iologist Christophe Le Nédic has a dream job in the B largest lakeside marshes in Switzerland. Together with the Grande Cariçaie Association, he helps humans and nature to live together as harmoniously as possible. The task is a delicate one in this 50 km stretch of lakeside terrain, where beautiful sandy beaches alternate with conservation zones that host a rich collection of protected species. “Most of our visitors are nature lovers. Whether cycling or walking, they follow the marked pathways and make grateful use of the observation platforms we build for them.” The beavers play an active role in constructing the landscape, which provides them with the ideal Nature and humans live together harmoniously in the Grande living conditions in the calm waters of Cariçaie on the banks of Lake Neuchâtel. the lakeside reed beds. By following their tracks, and with a bit of luck The nature reserve is home to 800 plant species and and patience, you may well catch a over 10,000 animal species, including a flourishing population glimpse of them. of beavers, who build their dams under the friendly gaze of passing hikers. 16 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 17

n the bay of Yvonand, not far from VITALITY Cheyres, a standup paddleboarder I appears on the horizon of this idyllic location. Over a distance of 25 metres, buoys are used to separate bathers from the protected “WHEN I’M ON A TRAIL, banks. This sensitive zone is home to rare birds that need peace and I FEEL ALL THE ENERGY isolation to reproduce. It is vital that all instructions and navigation limitations OF THE MOUNTAIN are respected. “The purple heron, for example, abandons its nest if you get too close,” warns biologist course of two or three nights, the sure to indicate the presence of a INSIDE ME” Christophe Le Nédic. Meanwhile, largest rodents in Europe are capable beaver nearby. In the evening, the beavers are actively building their of felling a 30-metre-high alder, embankment at the mouth of the habitat. By creating the dams they willow or poplar tree. It is mainly the Menthue river is the ideal place to need to preserve their stock of food, trees on the shores that fall victim observe the comings and goings they can completely stem the flow of to their sharp teeth. Once the trees of this lovely creature. And if the a waterway. “Beavers are obstinate,” have been felled, they feed on the beavers decline to show themselves, and will not stop while there is still tender leaves at the top. A cut trunk the magic of nightfall in the Grande work to be completed. Over the in the reeds and a few shavings are Cariçaie is a joy in itself!

ESTAVAYER-LE-LAC ESTAVAYER-LE-LAC Local delicacies On the hoof IT'S

The Chandines food market in Joseph Winiger invites you to join him Delley-Portalban is an Aladdin’s on a walk with his lamas and donkeys. DZ¡N ! cave of gastronomic delights. You’ll These friendly, approachable animals find fresh fruit and vegetables for are made for a fun, original expedition. sale, as well as various gourmet Setting off from the farm in Trey – a specialities. typical village of the area – you’ll www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences9 explore the Broye valley with its forests, rolling hills and cultivated fields. You’ll then continue your stroll through the countryside until you get to Boulex pond, whose neighbouring caves are the perfect picnic spot. www.dzin.ch

ESTAVAYER-LE-LAC Mike Aigroz was a professional triathlete for 22 years. He was regularly ranked among the highest achievers, particularly at Ironman in Hawaii and Active fun! Malaysia (2011-2015) as well as the European Championships (2012).

If you’re a fan of board sports and At the age of 41 and freer than ever, he still goes for mountain runs just like adrenaline, why not give the he did at the age of 10. He strides across hills and valleys, particularly 800-metre-long water ski lift a try? enjoying the area above Les Paccots. www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences10 18 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 19

LES PACCOTS LES PACCOTS Festi’Rando, walk Gourmet and more! pathways Walking takes pride of place once A pleasant walk of a few kilometres a year in Les Paccots. Festi’Rando is all that separates a tasting platter offers delicious food and fun activities of regional delights from some that encourage discovery. While delicious meringues with double cream. these festivities take place over two The views from these four gourmet days at the end of summer, the trails pathways may not contain any calories, are accessible for much of the year. but they are still highly addictive! www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences11 www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences12

fter a day at the office, Mike IT'S Aigroz feels the need to A stretch his legs. Nature helps him to recharge his batteries. He often climbs the (T4), his DZ¡N ! favourite mountain, near Teysachaux (T3). His rapid runs require an agility equalled only by the area’s wild goats, and his itineraries are only recommended for experienced hikers. Since leaving his professional Ironman career behind him in 2016, he has always respected nature on his runs, as well as listening to his body. For a LES PACCOTS long time, competing was a constant internal struggle; today, running is A bouquet pure pleasure. The trails are, of course, of flavours a quick way of getting about at high altitude, but for him they are also a With Valérie Veron, you can learn all philosophy, a childhood memory and about survival in the wilderness. the logical continuation of his sporting She forages for edible plants, skilfully journey. The summits that overhang turning them into sweet or savoury Les Paccots and the region’s various dishes. Spend half a day in her pathways are the ideal playground company and you too will see seeds, for this exceptional man. flowers and herbs as the delicious gifts of nature that they are. www.dzin.ch 20 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 21

Hiking

Vuy 8 Historical in FRiBOURG REGiON, Path 8 Vuy A1 / the joy factor! Murtens Morat

Lac de Neuchâtel THE A12 The region oers abundant experiences and walks. Grande Whether you have a few hours or several days available, Fribourg Cariçaie Estavayer-le-Lac CircuitHauterive Schi„enens d’HauteriveA’ey will amaze you. From Schwarzsee to Estavayer-le-Lac, from the gentle banks of Lake Murten to the steep clis Fribourg of the Gastlosen, you will find pleasures and new hiking ideas to be tested absolutely!

La Sarine Romont Brea 2 Vaey Schwarzs Lac de la Gruyère 2 Plan your hike Walk Bue Charmey Visit Jaun around www.fribourgregion.ch/hiking Nd Rue Gruyères 3 Select a guide? hikes on the interactive map Moléson-sur-Gruyères 2 4 Find all the information 5 Download you need for an Les Paots the map as a PDF file or GPX points 3 unforgettable walk at Gastlosen www.fribourgregion.ch/ 3 tour Get your kit ready guides. With the help 4 following Bruno Jelk’s advice on page 28 of your hiking leader and armed with some great tips and places to visit, your walk Areciate promises to be truly idyllic! 5 5 the marvels of nature The top 4 of the Moléson 1622 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 2317

CONTEMPLATION LIFE IS A BEAUTIFUL WALK

Mägy and Charles Pürro from in Fribourg have been walking together for 37 years. In addition to caring for their grandchildren, they share a long-term goal: to walk the Trans Swiss Trail that crosses the Lake Murten Region.

he Trans Swiss Trail long- On the panoramic terrace of Mont distance route number 2 crosses Vully (653 m), Mägy and Charles T Switzerland in 32 stages, from look towards Lake Neuchâtel and the Jura to Ticino. For Mägy and Charly distance they have travelled since this Pürro, stage 7 is the home section, but morning’s departure from Cudrefin. one that still has surprises in store. In They have followed the SuisseMobile the past, Mägy has already had the path number 2, walking the length of opportunity to walk a 15-stage route the wetlands of the Grande Cariçaie together with her daughter Cindy. nature reserve. Step by step, adapting to everyone’s pace, crossing valleys and climbing hills, tongues are loosened and key topics emerge: “A long walk is as good as a therapist”. 24 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 2521

RECIPE FROM THE RESTAURANT DU PORT IN MÔTIER PERCH FILLETS WITH

n the birch trees, reeds, willows and Mägy and Charly never cease to full of great restaurants, but for these MEUNIÈRE SAUCE long grass, the area’s numerous be amazed by everything their walkers who regularly enjoy picnics I birds perform a concert of multiple region has to offer, taking hundreds for two, the evening meal will be a Ingredients (serves 4) voices. The couple continue their of photographs! At the foot of the time to savour life’s simple pleasures. journey along the Broye canal via the vineyards, Lake Murten sparkles a When hiking, as in life, the magic Perch fillets BirdLife centre in La Sauge. Next, they deep blue colour and on the other happens when you are in the right 800 g perch fillets take the forest path towards Mont bank lies their final destination for the company! 20 g flour Vully to explore a fortified building day, the medieval town of Murten. 20 g cream from the First World War. Once they Gurmels is a short distance away, and Salt and pepper have passed a rock deposited by the in the background lie the magnificent 1/2 lemon (juice) Rhône glacier, a faithful reproduction snowy peaks of the Bernese Alps. At 30 g butter of the Celtic Oppidum lies before the foot of the mountains, the path Oil them. Over 2000 years ago, it was crosses the idyllic vineyards of Vully. part of a 600-metre-long fortification. It's already time for dinner! The area is Meunière sauce Approx. 100 g butter LAKE MURTEN REGION LAKE MURTEN REGION Approx. 50 g parsley, finely chopped Heaven for foodie The finer 1 lemon, quartered cyclists! things in life Method Marinate the perch fillets in the lemon Armed with a collection of gourmet Wine grower Cédric Guillod would juice, season, sprinkle with flour and vouchers, bike rides feel like be delighted to guide you through his mix with the cream. Brown the fillets on holidays. The 28 kilometres around estate’s vineyard and wine cellar. On the skin side in hot oil, add the butter, the lake are a treat for the eyes and this visit, accompanied by a tasting fry for two minutes until golden, turn the taste buds. session, you’ll learn all about the region’s and wait for two more minutes. www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences13 terroir. Of course, the legendary Vully Tart won’t fail to make an appearance! Heat some butter in a frying pan until www.dzin.ch slightly brown, pour over the hot fillets, sprinkle with parsley and garnish with a quarter of lemon. IT'S Bon appétit! DZ¡N !

Mägy and Charles Pürro from Gurmels in Fribourg have been walking together for 37 years. 26 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 27

arrying out checks and FRIBOURG LA GRUYÈRE maintenance of the walking C trails in the region of Lessoc An aquatic gem Natural is a role cheerfully performed by tobogganing Kristien Van der Gucht. Since The azure waters of the Motta answering a job advertisement by Lido on the banks of the river Sliding on water with Gruyère the Union fribourgeoise du Tourisme, Sarine are extremely inviting. This Escapade! A canyoning trail open this mountain and nature lover has symbolic location in Fribourg’s Old to beginners who love jumps and been walking around with three Town opened in 1923. This oasis of ziplines promises new adventures paint pots in her backpack! In 2013, freshness is enjoyed by athletes and in the twists and turns of the river she joined the team of 30 technical pleasure-seekers alike. People of Sarine. This white-water walk employees tasked with taking care all ages are entranced by the charm becomes a game suitable for all of the 1800 km of walking routes of this gem of a place. Open from sporting levels and is guaranteed to PASSION in the . Behind May to early September, it’s the be an unforgettable experience. every excursion on the pathways epitome of summer fun. www.dzin.ch of Fribourg Region lies a precise www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences14 waymarking exercise. Kristien Van IT'S der Gucht crosses Les Millets, Brâ, KEEPING WALKERS Montbovon and Pointe de Cray, ensuring that all the signs conform DZ¡N ! to current standards. She freshens ON THE RIGHT TRACK… up any flaking paintwork and LA GRUYÈRE checks the state of the yellow signs ALONG 1800 KM OF so beloved of walkers in the area. Wear out those Snowfalls sometimes cause damage, tyres! so in the springtime everything PATHWAYS! must be returned to order. She Thanks to the hybrid lift you can corrects the actions of the small reach the height of adrenaline! With number of walkers who, in their its two panoramic downhill tracks, wisdom, have attempted to modify the Berra Bike Park promises stunning certain directions by force. Ideally, views of the countryside and a inspections should be carried out on thrilling high-speed experience for Pathways indicated every section in both directions, twice all mountain-bike lovers! a year. “The work is very meticulous, www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences15 with yellow signs, rocks everything is standardised, even the adorned with three width and length of the paint marks on the rocks!” explains Kristien. Her brush strokes, and a job gives her great pleasure, far from hike becomes a marked the hustle and bustle of the plains. It’s success! not uncommon for her to be invited into an Alpine chalet or to witness a remarkable scene, like the time she caught the eye of a wolf through her binoculars. 28 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 29

Bruno Jelk spent his childhood on the Riggisalp above Schwarzsee, where he had little time to spend on sporting activities. He then became a mountain border guard, SAFETY a ski instructor, a mountain guide and a rescue leader in Zermatt. Today, his experience makes him the go-to person VALUABLE ADVICE FROM in terms of safety and mountain rescue. BRUNO JELK 30 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 31

SCHWARZSEE A valley filled with surprises The Brecca valley and its idyllic landscape are the perfect compromise between a walk and a more demanding mountain hike. Setting off from Schwarzsee, the path or chair lift leads to this magnificent nature reserve with a glacial past. The route is a feast for the eyes, but How should we plan a mountain also for the stomach. Various Alpine hike in order to stay safe? restaurants offer traditional recipes Above all, you should learn to judge that will delight cheese and dessert the conditions you encounter for lovers in particular! yourself. A good level of fitness, www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences16 good balance and not suffering from vertigo are all essential attributes. It’s vital to know the distances, the sections of steep terrain, and the technical difficulties for each SCHWARZSEE SCHWARZSEE participant and be able to adapt your route according to each individual’s Wild Lakeside abilities. flavours relaxation

What happens once the route has Savour nature’s delights and a few All your hiking routes lead to the been planned? legends around the fire. What could Hostellerie am Schwarzsee, where It’s important to stay abreast of the be better than butter with wild herbs your well-being is paramount, current situation. What is the weather IT'S spread onto bread cooked on the from spa to dessert. forecast? Can the route be shortened campfire? www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences17 or cancelled if the weather changes? at high altitude it’s particularly very well organised, and I’m basing www.dzin.ch Are there refuges or chalets? Putting important to be well hydrated. A first this statement on years of personal N ! your trust in the local mountain aid kit, any personal medications, a experience. DZ¡ guides or the tourist information mobile phone with a charged battery, centre is always a good option. It’s pre-recorded emergency telephone What are your favourite routes interesting to note that it’s usually the numbers and maps of the area are between here and Schwarzsee? professionals who are well informed, all vital. Around the lake there’s a one-hour whereas occasional hikers are often flat path that I think is very pleasant. just happy to walk. Giving your What should we do in case For a more panoramic hike (3 hours), itinerary to your hosts or friends and of emergency? the chair lift takes you to the Riggisalp family is an extra safety precaution Above all, you shouldn’t take any Alpine restaurant (1,493 m) and then that you can take. Of course, you additional risks. Dial the emergency you can walk to the Riggisalp. From should never set off into the mountains number (112), provide the coordinates there, you can return to Schwarzsee alone. of your position and answer the via Salzmatt and Hohmattli. Another operator’s questions as accurately longer route (5 hours) leads to the What should we know about as possible. If it’s not possible to raise Kaiseregg (2,185 m). The view is equipment? the alarm or there are only two of spectacular, it’s my favourite! You can Suitable shoes and functional layered you, wait for other hikers or the rescue see Jura, the Three-Lakes Region, clothing are essential. Don’t forget sun team. It’s vitally important never to the Bernese Alps and even the protection and walking poles, which attempt to continue alone on difficult Matterhorn. And if you have any take the strain off the joints. Take terrain, leaving someone behind doubts about the route, book a guide sufficient food and drinks, because you! The Swiss Alpine Rescue team is and enjoy a wonderful, safe walk! 32 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 33

The history of Romont is filled n the square in front of the town with anecdotes as hall, overlooking rolling countryside I through which the river Glâne well as a number weaves its way, Simone Devaud of illustrious reveals one of her dreams: “I’d like to close my eyes and open them to personalities, find myself in the Middle Ages, to stories that the guide spend a few minutes discovering the Simone Devaud, atmosphere of the era. ”During her guided tours she takes her audience a native of Romont, on a journey through the centuries, tells with enthusiasm. encountering various celebrities Gripped by her tales passing through Romont. The town’s strategic position between and eager for and Fribourg, as well as its railway historical details, station inaugurated in 1862, made it visitors are treated a major stopover point for travellers. Victor Hugo, Paul McCartney and to a whole renowned illustrator John Howe have host of surprises. all passed through the capital of the Glâne region. While meandering around Romont, Simone Devaud tells anecdotes linking certain personalities HERITAGE to this historic 10th century town. Courbet said of Romont, a fortified town perched on top of a gentle hill, “I have never in all my life seen such A VISIT TO ROMONT a pretty promontory.” Its medieval architecture silhouetted against the horizon is a truly impressive sight. THAT’S FULL From the window of his carriage, Napoleon III saw this sculptural sight, ending with the 38-metre-high Boyer OF SURPRISES Tower, and declared, “Here’s a pretty phrase punctuated by a handsome exclamation mark! ” 34 FRIBOURG REGION FRIBOURG REGION 35 ONLINE

FRIBOURG QUiZ REGION TOP FIVE FRIBOURG REGION SECRET Which of the attractions below are the five most popular places BENCHES in FRIBOURG REGION? Try your luck at www.fribourgregion.ch/quiz to win a Magic Pass worth CHF 499. ntil 1914, Romont had the largest horse market in ROMONT ROMONT U French-speaking Switzerland, providing numerous anecdotes and An earthly Artistic adventures for Simone Devaud to paradise craftsmanship tell to her guests as they walk along the ramparts. She has a twinkle in A few minutes’ drive from Romont, Discover the magic of her eye when revealing the name of the village of Villarimboud conceals windows and wallpaper with a an illustrious personality, delighted a paradise of greenery for nature two-day package that includes the to be able to help her beloved town lovers, as well as a wealth of activities hotel, entrance to the museums and to shine. She shares her precious for families, couples and groups of a delicious souvenir. One night from historical finds like delicious treats friends. Sleep in the trees, rocked by CHF 89.– per person. Les Bains de la Gruyère, Charmey Fribourg Cathedral and spices up her tales with joyful the gurgles of the river, walk barefoot www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences19 emotion. It’s a great opportunity to through a garden, or calm your mind learn more about history in a fun with the sweet scent of plants from all atmosphere. four corners of the globe: anything The Collégiale Notre-Dame is possible in this bountiful garden. ROMONT Public benches are a part of everyday de l’Assomption church, with its There’s even a geranium that smells culture that mark special times and flamboyant gothic style, has also of chocolate! Tour du Sauvage places. Send us a picture of your welcomed a star: John Howe. www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences18 favourite bench for a moment of Internationally known for his artistic In Romont, the Tour du Sauvage is reflection in FRIBOURG REGION. Use direction of the film “The Lord of transformed into an escape room. #bankgeheimnisse on Instagram and La Maison du Gruyère, Pringy Papiliorama, the Rings”, he drew inspiration from Immersed in this highly unusual Twitter. Share your discovery on the sculpted monsters on the stalls. architecure, this escape game lets your www.bankgeheimnisse.ch and inspire Who would have thought that the imagination run wild! the whole world. fantastical world of Tolkien had such www.fribourgregion.ch/experiences20 a strong link to this building? The tour allows visitors to discover Romont from an unusual point of view, with plenty of surprises in store. Call us Prices shown in our magazine are indicative rates only. You can La Maison Cailler, Broc Gruyères Castle find out more on our website: www.fribourgregion.ch. Not online? Don’t worry! We will willingly answer all your questions on +41 (0)26 407 70 20. Live beautiful stories i th Lan of D i ! adveo.ch ©Photo : André Meier ©Photo adveo.ch

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