[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]You don’t need to ski to love Switzerland in winter.
Switzerland Tourism have put together a handly list for families who want to visit during the colder months. Hello white Christmas!
Christmas Markets
From Zurich (home to Europe’s largest indoor Christmas market), to Basel (where fairy-tale dollars are used as legal tender in the markets), and Montreux (the gateway to Santa Claus’ Swiss abode atop Rochers-de-Naye), these seasonal markets never fail to impress.
Expect fairy lights, the smell of chestnuts roasting on an open fire, live entertainment, traditional food, art and craft, beer and Glühwein. One visit here an all those nostalgic snowy Christmas songs will make sense.
Zurich Christmas markets. Picture: Shutterstock
Stay in an Igloo
For a stay with a difference, visitors can experience life in an igloo – either by building it themselves or checking in to one that’s already built.
The Swiss igloo experience usually comes with a range of activities including cheese fondue and gluhwein nights, snowshoe hiking and even spa time under the stars.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is a relaxing way to enjoy sliding across the snow with no balancing act involved, while taking in the spectacular alpine scenery.
In Appenzell (east of Zurich), snow lovers can even earn to handle the team of sled dogs themselves and tour at their preferred pace.
Toboggan Ride
For a bit or a lot more speed, adrenaline seekers can even learn to handcraft their very own “Rolls Royce” toboggan before rocketing down the slopes like they would in a go-cart race.
One place where toboggans take over in winter is Col de la Croix, which connects Les Diablerets and Villars in the Vaud region. With the snow-covered paths, cyclists and motorists are forced to take a winter break and this is when the real fun begins.
You don’t have to ski to love Switzerland in winter. Picture: Switzerland Tourism
Elite Sports Events
There are sports events and there are elite sports events.
Elite sports are popular among the well-heeled society. But you don’t have to be well-heeled to watch. In Switzerland the elite sports events include Snow Polo and White Turf (horseracing). Established in 1985, the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz is the only high goal polo tournament played on snow; while White Turf has a history dating back to 1907.
But our favourite elite sport is Cricket on Ice which take place every January and February on the frozen lake in the winter resort of St Moritz. Cricket on Ice will be in its 32nd year in 2019. All three events not only see the gathering of sports lovers, but also a string of rich, royal and famous personalities.
St.Moritz Snow Polo World Cup. Picture: Andy Mettler/ Switzerland Tourism
Panoramic Rail Journeys
A train ride through the unmistakable Swiss scenery is an absolute must-do. Think lush verdant meadows, fairytale villages and captivating snow-capped landscapes.
The Glacier Express (from Zermatt to St Moritz) and Bernina Express (from Chur to Tirano) and the GoldenPass Line (from Interlaken to Montreux) are three panoramic rail journeys that take their passengers through some of the country’s most spectacular snowscapes.
Traditional Alpine Chalets
No Swiss winter experience is complete without experiencing the comforts and surrounds of a traditional Swiss alpine chalet.
With many cosy winter hideaways on offer, guests are spoiled for choice with a number of ski-in ski-out, ski-in spa-out and cross-country hotels. It all depends on the location and type of snowcation planned.
Cute overload. Families will love a stay in a traditional Swiss chalet. Picture: Shutterstock
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Travel allows you to get outside your bubble. It makes you realise there are other ways to do things, and that’s OK. Plus, I am a huge fan of skiing and for the best powder – you need to head overseas.