Top 3 Winter Activities In Switzerland For Families & Kids That Do Not Ski
by Melinda Taylor Schoutens from Fresh Air Kids
When most of us think of winter in Switzerland, we naturally think of skiing. The gorgeous mountain slopes, the sun in our faces and the quintessential Swiss villages. However, to think only of skiing, is to miss the opportunity to experience new and exciting aspects of winter. While Switzerland is indeed a stunning location for skiing, it is also a haven for an array of winter sports and events for families and kids. If your family is looking for alternatives to skiing this year, here are a few tips for you.
Snowshoeing
There are endless snowshoeing options in Switzerland. For those new to the sport, snowshoeing is an ideal way to hit the trails despite the snow. Snowshoe trails are indicated by the pink trail markers, oftentimes with the white foot and snowshoe icon.
Remember!
- Stay on the trail and select a route that is not too challenging if you are a first-timer.
- Don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks, water and a first aid kit for all of your winter excursions.
- Having sunglasses and sunscreen is essential during the winter months, as the sun will reflect off of the snow.
If this is your first season trying out the sport, we recommend you rent your snowshoes as opposed to buying them. Snowshoes can be rented at almost all of the sporting goods stores in Switzerland and on occasion, at the gondola lift stations. Please make your reservations in advance to ensure they are available upon your arrival. Poles are extremely helpful when snowshoeing, so make sure you have a set for each person in your group.
Tip for Kids
Children will need snowshoes that fit their feet and poles for traversing the snow. Snowshoeing can be a tiring activity, so if your children are new to the sport, consider a short route with lots of stops! Some children find it easier to simply hike than to wear snowshoes. That’s OK too!
Sledding
Sledding is an invigorating sport for families of all ages. If you are not experienced in the world of sledding, here are a few tips to keep your experience fun and safe this winter.
Select an easy route that is short for the first time. There are several routes throughout Switzerland that are perfect for those new to sledding. We highlight multiple locations for all abilities in our latest book, Winter Kids Switzerland.
Remember!
- Wearing solid winter boots is essential, as you will use your feet to steer and stop your sled. Please also wear warm and weather appropriate clothes, which will help ensure that you remain cozy and dry throughout the day.
- Helmets are a must on all sledding routes as you will gain intense momentum!
- Wear snow goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes not only from the sun, but from snow and ice as well.
- Gloves are a must for holding onto the sled rope, which assists when steering your sled.
- Remember to stay on the designated trails and be aware that some sledding routes are sometimes shared with skiers, snowboarders and on occasion, even dogs. Should you fall off your sled, please move to the side as quickly as possible to avoid a collision with an oncoming person.
Tips for Kids
- Sleds can oftentimes be rented from the gondola stations or sporting goods stores in close proximity to the gondola stations.
- If you are sledding with small children, please have your child ride in the front of the sled as you steer and circumnavigate the route.
- Older children will need to be taught how to properly and safely use a sled if they are riding independent of an adult.
Festivals
For those looking to enjoy a cultural or international event this winter, Switzerland is the ideal place.
The Basel Fasnacht, begins each year on the Monday after Ash Wednesday, is an experience not to be missed. Starting at 04:00 with Morgenstreich, when the entire city of Basel goes dark, the start to Fasnacht officially begins!
For the following three days, the city streets will be covered in colorful confetti or 'Räppli', as parades unfold.
On Monday afternoon, consider a visit to the lantern exhibit, where the cliques or 'groups' display their beautifully painted lanterns in Münsterplatz.
Tuesday afternoon of Fasnacht is always dedicated to the children. Have your child dress up in their favorite costume and hit the streets. Children will gather candy, flowers and other trinkets and they celebrate this special day. The carnival ends with a bang late on Wednesday evening.
Remember!
If you intend to visit Fasnacht this year, taking public transportation is highly advised.
You may support the local cliques by purchasing a Fasnacht Badge or 'Blaggedde', which are always sold at the Basel train station. This is a wonderful way to help absorb some of the costs these groups incur in order to put on a memorable carnival each year.
This winter, embrace the cold and try something new. By stepping out of the norm, your family might just experience their best winter yet!
