Switzerland Skating Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions

We will send you detailed information about the Adventure in a Pre-Departure Packet once you register.

What is the weather going to be like?
In Geneva (the closest city for which we have data) the average high temperature is 77 degrees Fahrenheit in summer. The average overnight low temperature is 56. The Valais Valley where we skate is the driest part of Switzerland. Generally, it is perfect skating temperature during the day and not too cold at night. However, because we spend time in the higher-altitude towns of Bettmeralp and Gstaad, we suggest you bring a warm jacket for the evenings.

What is the best way to get to the tour and where do we meet?
The gateway cities are Zurich and Geneva and you can easily take a train from either city (actually directly from the airports) to the start of the Adventure. We meet on the first day in the town of Brig. When you register for the trip, we will provide you with the name of a hotel in Brig if you would like to stay the night before the tour starts. It is also possible to fly to and from Milan in Italy, although train connections are less reliable.

What should I do if I want to extend my vacation in the area?
Both Geneva and Zurich are big and can be interesting if you want to visit museums. However, we prefer other parts of Switzerland and suggest you head to the mountains. Our starting point in Brig is very near the famous resort Zermatt at the base of the Matterhorn. Another option is to visit the town of Interlaken which is in the Bernese Oberland and at the base of two beautiful alpine valleys. Finally, not far from Geneva is the French resort town of Chamonix at the base of Mount Blanc, highest peak in continental Europe.

What ability level do I really need to be for this Adventure?
This tour is rated for Intermdiates and Better. The skating is on paved trails and low-traffic rural roads. The skating is surprisingly flat because we are in a glacially carved valley floor. There are some hills (usually leading up to small towns) but these are rarely very large. You do need to be able to brake.

For what type of people would you recommend this trip?
The Switzerland Skating Adventure is an outstanding trip for someone who wants culture and variety in a skate tour. In addition to the skating, we spend a day hiking in the Alps and have time to visit local castles, test the wine, and tour the small towns. Switzerland is famous for its scenery and culture and is a very easy country to travel in if you have never been to Europe. Almost everyone speaks English but you will also be able to practice your German, French, or Italian.

Where can I find more information about the area?
See our hotlinks page or request a detailed Trip Description by email.