Partnering with Mountain Thyme Cookery School Again This Summer

We are delighted to announce that Altitude Summer Camps is once again partnering with the renowned Mountain Thyme Cookery School for another summer of culinary adventures! Our collaboration with Mountain Thyme, a cookery school with over 20 years of experience, promises to bring delicious fun and invaluable skills to our campers.

Mountain Thyme Cookery School: Culinary Excellence

Mountain Thyme Cookery School, based in the heart of the Swiss Alps, is renowned for its engaging and educational cookery classes. With a rich history of working with both adults and children, they are experts at making cooking accessible, enjoyable, and educational for everyone. Whether it’s a family activity, a birthday party, or a group of friends looking to learn new culinary skills, Mountain Thyme has a class to fit every need.

What to Expect in Our Cookery Classes

At Altitude Summer Camps, we believe in offering a diverse range of activities that cater to the interests and passions of all our campers. Our cookery classes with Mountain Thyme are designed to be a fun and interactive way for children to learn new skills, build confidence, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious from scratch. Under the guidance of Mountain Thyme’s expert chefs, campers will:

• Learn basic cooking techniques and kitchen safety.
• Explore a variety of recipes, from simple snacks to gourmet dishes.
• Understand the importance of fresh, local ingredients.
• Develop teamwork and collaboration skills as they cook together.

Join Us This Summer!

We are thrilled to offer our campers the opportunity to cook with Mountain Thyme Cookery School again this year. It’s the perfect blend of learning and fun, and we can’t wait to see what our young chefs will create. Spaces for our summer 2024 camps are limited, so be sure to register your child soon to secure their spot. For more information about our summer camp programs, visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s make this summer a delicious adventure! Check out more from the Altitude Camps blue blog.  

At Altitude Summer Camps, we believe that every day is an opportunity for adventure, and our diverse range of summer camp activities ensures that, rain or shine, our campers are immersed in a world of excitement, learning, and fun. From conquering mountain peaks to crafting delicious treats, here’s a sneak peek into some of the thrilling activities that await campers at Altitude.

1. Hiking

With the Swiss Alps as our backdrop, hiking becomes a journey of discovery. Campers explore scenic trails, breathe in fresh mountain air, and witness awe-inspiring landscapes, fostering a love for the great outdoors.

2. Climbing

Rock climbing and via ferrata challenges empower campers to push their limits and conquer the vertical world. Under the guidance of instructors, they learn essential skills while experiencing the thrill of scaling cliffs.

3. Volleyball

On the sunny days, campers engage in friendly volleyball matches, fostering teamwork, communication, and healthy competition. The sandy courts at the outdoor pool provide the perfect setting for both beginners and practiced players.

4. Trotinetting

Trotinettes – the Swiss scooters – offer a unique and exhilarating way to explore the mountains. Campers can zip down the ‘blue’ road from Ruinettes to Verbier enjoying the view.

5. Mont Fort Visit & Walk

A visit to must-see Mont Fort is a high-altitude adventure, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Swiss and French peaks. Campers can see two of Europe’s most famous peaks – the Matterhorn (aka Toblerone mountain) and Mont Blanc from the Mont Fort summit.

6. Minigolf 

For a leisurely yet competitive day, Verbier minigolf is the perfect activity. Campers refine their putting skills while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Verbier.

7. Cooking & Baking

No matter what the weather, baking is always a hit. Campers roll up their sleeves, don chef hats, and explore the world of culinary creativity with Mountain Thyme cookery school, whipping up delicious treats and snacks to share with their new friends.

8. High Ropes Course 

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the Treetop Park course in Verbier offers a thrilling challenge. Campers navigate suspended obstacles, discovering a world of aerial walkways in the forest.

9. Swimming 

Whether it’s a dip in a natural alpine lake or a refreshing swim in a pool, water activities at Altitude Summer Camps ensure campers stay cool and have a refreshingly good time.

10. Campfires 

As the sun sets, campfires bring everyone together. It’s a time for stories, laughter, and of course, some marshmallows.

Join the Adventure

We continuously enhance and fine-tune our camp programme year-round, ensuring that when summer arrives, the camp experience is thrilling for both newcomers and returning campers. Each week brings something different, making every camp session distinctive, whether you’re with us for just one week or a full six-week adventure!

At Altitude Summer Camps, we understand that weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. That’s why our range of activities spans both indoor and outdoor pursuits, ensuring that campers are active and engaged, rain or shine. Our goal is to create an environment where every day is an adventure, where learning and laughter go hand in hand, and where memories are made that will be cherished for years to come.

Join us this summer, where the weather is just a backdrop to the endless possibilities of adventure at Altitude Summer Camps!

Thrilling Climbing Adventures in and around Verbier

If your child is lover of heights, breathtaking vistas, and heart-pumping adventure, climbing is for them! Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Verbier isn’t just a picturesque haven; it’s a paradise for climbers of all skill levels. At Altitude Camps, we’re thrilled to offer campers the chance to embark on thrilling climbing adventures that promise unforgettable experiences and jaw-dropping views.

Rock Climbing: Conquer the Vertical World

For climbing enthusiasts, Verbier and it’s surrounding area boasts an array of stunning natural rock formations that beckon climbers to scale their heights. There’s the local spot La Barme and if you’re willing to travel a bit further, a plethora of hot climbing spots located down in the valley. Campers at Altitude Summer Camps get the opportunity to challenge themselves on these rocks under the guidance of experienced instructors. From beginners to seasoned climbers, our programs cater to various skill levels, ensuring that every camper can push their limits in a safe and supportive environment.

Indoor Climbing: Learn and Train

Altitude Summer Camps also provide indoor climbing sessions for campers to learn and fine-tune their skills in a controlled environment. Our local indoor climbing wall offer a fantastic opportunity for beginners to get a feel for climbing and for experienced climbers to practice their techniques. It’s not just about physical strength; it’s about strategy, focus, and problem-solving – skills that extend far beyond the climbing wall.

Via Ferrata: Adventure on Iron ‘Paths’

For those seeking a similar-to-climbing experience, Verbier and the local area’s via ferrata routes offer an adrenaline-packed adventure. Equipped with safety gear and guided by skilled professionals, campers navigate these iron paths, clinging to the mountainsides while relishing the awe-inspiring panoramas. It’s a perfect blend of excitement, challenge, and breathtaking beauty.

Learning Life Skills

Climbing in and around Verbier isn’t just about reaching summits; it’s about conquering fears, building confidence, and forging lasting friendships. Campers at Altitude Summer Camps not only engage in thrilling adventures but also learn teamwork, resilience, and determination – qualities that extend far beyond the climbing rocks.

Join Us on the Climb!

Climbing is just one of the many activities and experiences we offer at Altitude Summer Camps. Join us this summer for an unforgettable journey of scaling heights, making memories, and discovering the wonders of the mountains in the breathtaking landscapes of Verbier.

Whilst we’re renowned for our thrilling summer adventures, there is something to be said about the magic that unfolds when summer transitions into autumn in the stunning region of Verbier. From the breathtaking change in scenery colours and a more tranquil pace of life to less crowded biking and hiking trails, here are some of our Verbier Autumn favourites.

Hike & Embrace the Changing Scenery

As the temperatures cool down and the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, Verbier and its surrounding areas transform into a breathtaking autumn wonderland. Autumn is an ideal time to explore the hiking trails that crisscross the region. The crisp mountain air and the warm hues of autumn provide the perfect backdrop for the vast network of well-marked trails that cater to all levels of hikers.

Mountain Biking

Verbier is famous for its mountain biking trails, and autumn is a fantastic time to hop on your bike and hit the dirt tracks. The cooler temperatures and thinner crowds make for a delightful biking experience. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer, there are trails for everyone, and the scenery is simply stunning.

Autumn Culinary Delights

Switzerland is renowned for its delectable cuisine, and autumn brings a cornucopia of seasonal delights including the much-anticipated chasse season. As the leaves change colours, the Swiss eagerly await the start of this hunting season, which heralds a feast of game dishes like venison, wild boar, and vegetarian dishes with chanterelle mushrooms. These hearty and flavourful dishes are expertly prepared by local chefs and offer a taste of Swiss culinary tradition.

Enjoy the Alpine Wellness

As the weather cools, consider indulging in some well-deserved relaxation. Verbier offers a range of world-class spas and wellness centres where you can unwind and rejuvenate. Imagine soaking in a hot tub while surrounded by mountains painted with autumnal hues—idyllic. At Altitude Camps, we believe that every season in Verbier has its unique charm, and autumn is no exception. The crisp air, vibrant foliage, and a myriad of activities make this an ideal time to visit. So, whether you’re considering an autumn camp experience or planning a family getaway, Verbier and its surrounding areas await your exploration. To find out more about local experiences you can head to our activities and excursions page. Verbier is renowned for its world-class skiing and winter wonderland. However, as the snow melts away and the flowers bloom, Verbier transforms into a summer haven, offering an array of thrilling events and activities for visitors to indulge in. In 2023, Verbier has prepared an extraordinary lineup of summer events that promise to captivate and delight both locals and tourists alike. Join us as we explore some of our family friendly experiences awaiting you in Verbier this summer.

Verbier Festival – 30th Edition : 14th – 30th July

Showcasing internationally acclaimed musicians, this event promises awe-inspiring performances set against the backdrop of the majestic Swiss Alps. With an eclectic program featuring orchestral concerts, chamber music, and recitals, it is a celebration of classical music attracting musicians and crowds from across the globe.

Family Festival : 6th August

Located in La Chaux with the impressive backdrop of the Combins Massif, this traditional mid-summer festival offers a range of activities that will entertain both young and old alike. credit: www.verbier.ch

Verbier E-Bike Festival : 10th – 13th August

Taking place for the 5th time this summer, the Verbier E-Bike Festival returns to the Val de Bagnes. With various guided tours, exhilarating downhill races, and family-friendly activities, this festival caters to riders of all ages and skill levels. credit: Verbier E-Bike Festival

Bagnes Capitale de la Raclette : 23rd – 24th September

Rounding off the summer events is the famous ‘Bagnes Capitale de Raclette’. An unmissable event for cheese lovers. Over the weekend, visitors can discover the local produce, especially raclettes prepared with high-quality cheese from the surrounding alpine pastures. For the non-cheese lovers there’s the traditional cow-fighting and live music – fun to be had by all! credit: www.verbier.ch To find out more about what Verbier has to offer in summer, check out the full list of Verbier summer events here: https://www.verbier.ch/summer/inside/events/all-events/top-events/  For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and unique mountain experience, Via Ferrata is an activity that should be at the top of your bucket list. Combining elements of hiking, climbing, and mountaineering, Via Ferrata (Italian for “iron way”) allows you to traverse breathtaking landscapes using a system of steel cables, ladders, and footholds.

What you need:

Before we explore the local routes, let’s ensure you have the necessary gear. While Via Ferrata differs slightly from climbing, safety remains paramount. Equip yourself with a sturdy climbing harness and a helmet to protect yourself. Additionally, you’ll require a specialized Via Ferrata set, comprising two elasticized lanyards with energy absorbers, carabiners, and a braking mechanism. This set enables you to securely attach to the steel cables. Apart from the essential safety equipment, a few comfort items are worth considering. Invest in a pair of gloves with a reliable grip to shield your hands, and opt for comfortable closed-toe shoes with a grippy sole, providing stability and support on the rugged terrain. Verbier and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of Via Ferrata routes suitable for all skill levels. From beginner-friendly routes to more challenging heights, there’s something for everyone, whether you seek an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a family-friendly day out.

Les Gentianes – Mont Fort (Verbier):

This Via Ferrata offers two routes – the first ‘Edelweiss’ route is designed with fixed ladders and security cables. Avoiding excessive exposure, this route is an excellent choice for children aged 8 and above (accompanied by a professional) or anyone seeking a relaxed climb without feeling overwhelmed. The second Androsace route is more challenging and takes you on an adventure along exposed ridges, steep cliffs, and a suspension bridge. Expect breathtaking views of the Mont Blanc massif, Combins, and the Grand Combin at this fantastic Via Ferrata.

La Via Farinetta:

This route takes you deep into the heart of a gorge, revealing its untamed beauty and the origins of the thermal water that feeds the Saillon Thermal Baths. The three sections of this Vi Ferrata increase in difficulty at each stage. It begins with an easy and family-friendly section, providing a suitable introduction for climbers of all ages. As you continue, the route transitions to a more exposed and physically demanding section, before concluding with a final section that requires advanced skills.

Via Ferrata Saxifrage – Mauvoisin:

Located near the impressive Mauvoisin Dam, this route promises a thrilling and unforgettable experience. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of the Mauvoisin Reservoir and the surrounding mountain peaks. The Mauvoisin Via Ferrata offers a mix of vertical walls, exposed ridges, and challenging sections, making it suitable for intermediate and experienced climbers. Via Ferrata in Verbier and the surrounding area provides an exhilarating way to explore the majestic Swiss Alps. Whether you’re a complete beginner or seeking an adrenaline rush, these routes offer a range of difficulty levels and breathtaking vistas. Remember to prioritise safety, follow the instructions, and enjoy the unique blend of adventure and spectacle. Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Verbier and its surrounding region offer a breathtaking range of family friendly hikes and adventurers of all ages. Renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, this picturesque destination also boasts an array of family-friendly hiking trails that introduce children to the wonders of the great outdoors. From high-mountain views to enchanting forests and streams, the region offers a wide range of hiking options that are both fun and accessible for the little ones. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best child-friendly hikes in Verbier and its surroundings, ensuring that your family enjoys an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Bisses du Levron

Embark on an adventure along the Bisse du Levron, a historic irrigation channel that meanders through the serene countryside near Verbier. This family-friendly hike offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The trail follows the gently sloping contour of the mountainside, providing easy walking for children of all ages. As you stroll along the tranquil path, you’ll be surrounded by meadows, wildflowers, and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Click here for the route and more information: https://www.verbier.ch/summer/offers/bisse-du-levron-verbier-en-summer-2794021/

Bisse des Ravines

On the other side of the Val de Bagnes, located in the charming village of Bruson, lies the scenic Bisse des Ravines. As you wander along the Bisse, you’ll encounter wooden bridges, peaceful picnic spots, and benches placed to enjoy the serene surroundings and view of Verbier from across the valley. The trail offers ample opportunities for children to observe local wildlife, and as you walk, you’ll encounter informative panels detailing the history and purpose of the Bisse, providing insights into the traditional agricultural practices that sustained the local communities. More information: https://www.verbier.ch/summer/inside/destinations/must-see-places/bisse-des-ravines/

Treasure Hunt Trail

Perfect for even the littlest of legs, this 1.5km trail follows a treasure hunt meandering through Verbier Village. With 11 stations, children follow the trail of Célestin the Ibex and discover the history of Verbier and Val de Bagnes. A short and easy walk makes this trail suitable for all ages. More information: https://www.verbier.ch/summer/offers/on-the-trail-of-celestin-the-ibex-family-course-verbier-en-summer-3727381/

Lac de Vaux

The trail to Lac de Vaux is well-marked and suitable for families with slightly older children. While the hike involves a moderate climb, it offers a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment. As you climb up to 2,543m and approach the crystal-clear waters of Lac de Vaux, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning sight that reflects the surrounding mountain peaks. You can start from either Ruinettes or Savoleyres. Check the link for more info: https://verbier4vallees.ch/en/experiences-in-verbier/hiking/lac-des-vaux

These child-friendly hikes offer a range of experiences, from easy walks through alpine meadows to slightly more challenging trails leading to stunning lakes. Whether your little explorers are thrilled by spotting wildlife, enchanted by running rivers, or fascinated by the stories of the past, Verbier and its surrounding area have it all. So, pack your backpacks, lace up your hiking boots, and embark on an unforgettable journey that will create lasting memories for the whole family.

Not sure what you need when you’re hiking with children? Make sure you check out our blog ‘Hiking with young children‘ for a complete guide. The Alps is the perfect European destination for a lakes and mountain family holiday, with majestic mountains, beautiful vineyard-laden valleys, green pastures and glacier-fed lakes, both big and small to explore. Verbier, a sunny mountain town in a south-facing bowl soaks up much of the summer sun, and faces the Grand Combin Massif, meaning you get to soak up beautiful views and mountain air each day, with fantastic hiking opportunities on your doorstep.

The perfect escape

Switzerland is renowned for its beautiful, crystal clear mountain lakes, some of which are located at high altitude and can be accessed only by hiking or biking, others are accessible by car or located in towns and villages, and replace beaches for the Swiss and tourists alike. Many of the high altitude lakes are fed by glacial or mountain meltwater meaning they can stay very cold even into the summer months, which makes for a refreshing stop on a hike for a dip! There are many lakes designated for swimming and other water activities, especially the vast shores of Lake Geneva or Lac Leman as it is known in French.

Lake activities

A relaxing day at the lake can be a highlight of the holiday, and best of all there’s no sand, saltwater or tides to worry about! Swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, pedalos or kayaking are just some of the popular activities on the shores of Lake Geneva. Our favourite areas to hang out closest to Verbier are in the town of Villeneuve; the outdoor pool here has an entrance fee which keeps crowd numbers lower, and there are diving boards to use, a snack bar, a pool for the younger ones and paddleboards to rent by the hour. Champex Lac is also a short and very scenic 45 minute drive away, a family-friendly lake in a small mountain resort, offering pedalos, rowing boats, and paddleboards, wonderful for cooling off on a hot day with some great restaurants for lunch.

Wakeboarding and surfing

For those looking for something a bit more special, watersports on the lake on offer include wakeboarding, wake surfing or water skiing. With a group or your family, you head out on the boat for a great experience, whether you’re an expert or it’s something you’ve never tried before! The companies have everything you need, just bring your camera and swimmers! The water is warm enough to not need wetsuits in the summer, but early or late in the season you can borrow these too.

Lake and Dam hikes

We don’t know about you, but there’s nothing better than a hike to a beautiful glacial lake, rewarded at the top by a dip to cool off and a couple of hours of swimming and picnicking before beginning your descent. It’s always best to check if swimming is possible at your destination lake, as some are in protected areas and others are dams with hydroelectric systems where it isn’t possible to swim, but the views are still well worth the trip. In Verbier, our most accessible mountain lake is Lac de Vaux, an uphill hike and relatively steep descent in part, it is best to allow for a 4 hour round trip including a stop off for photos, a picnic and a dip. Some of our other favourites include Mauvoisin Dam, Emosson Dam and Lac Taney (the hike up is pretty steep though a taxi service also runs up the road).   The Swiss Alps in the summertime is a dream destination for a family mountain bike holidays, no matter what your level of experience. For those looking for the perfect base for a family bike holiday, whether you’re interested in road biking, e-biking or mountain biking, Verbier is a great option for the whole family.

Travelling with your bike

Many people choosing to visit Switzerland for a biking holiday may wish to bring their own bikes with them and choose to self-drive, which can be a good option when it comes to the extra luggage travelling with children. Switzerland is very accessible by road from most parts of mainland Europe including France, Northern Italy, Germany, Austria or the UK. If you prefer to fly, there are lots of bike rental services in town where you can hire road, mountain or e-bikes on arrival, and lighten the luggage load a little! Trains in Switzerland are very bike-friendly too, with areas to put your bike throughout the train, whether you’re arriving or jumping on a train during a biking trip. If you need a hand planning your train journey, www.SBB.ch is the Swiss train website with an excellent route planner, or just give us a shout and we’d be happy to help.

Try out eBiking

A new sport that is just finding its feet as technology in e-bikes has really jumped ahead in recent years, the Alps is a terrific place to e-bike. Making the tough ascents much easier, e-bikes are available to hire during the summer in Verbier and a network of trails is ready to explore, from family friendly to day-long e-biking adventures. The ‘Tour du Mont Fort’ route is a fantastic one to try which begins and ends in Verbier and travels through La Tzoumas, Nendaz and Siviez before descending from the Gentianes areas of Verbier, one for the adults to try while the younger kids are in camp for the day! The e-biking festival is also hosted in Verbier every year, giving people the chance to test out different models for a set fee, and explore the nearby trails, or to see which ones suits your needs if you’re thinking of investing in your own model.

Mountain biking

One of Verbier’s biggest summer draws is its bike park, open from the spring through until Autumn every year. Bikers come from near and far to explore the trails, ranging from blue tracks (easy/moderate) for beginners to red (advanced) and black (difficult/very difficult). The expanse of mountain roads and some pedestrian paths are also shared with bikers for those looking for endurance biking, or simply to explore the area on two wheels under your own steam. Bikes can be rented in Verbier, or you can bring your own and simply buy a lift pass for access. For those who are just starting out, are unfamiliar with the area or want to work on their skills, there are some brilliant mountain bike guides and coaches in town too for kids and adults.

Road biking

A very popular sport in Switzerland and Europe-wide, the Alps is perfect for long days in the saddle of a road bike. The surrounding mountain passes and well-kept roads make for a huge draw for road bikers. No need to be an expert though, as long as you can ride a bike there are some dedicated bike paths and flat stretches too for those simply wanting to get out and explore Switzerland’s beautiful landscape. Again, guides are available for those of all abilities. Some fantastic destinations can be reached by road bike from Verbier, even into nearby Italy and France, and you can soak up the incredible views and explore the vineyards, mountains, towns and villages in the process. Knowing how to build a campfire can make a big difference to a camping experience! Some of the most treasured moments of camp can be sitting round the campfire you have just made with your friends, toasting the perfect marshmallow, or sat at an evening campfire with the whole camp telling stories and celebrating achievements from the week before. Building campfires is one of our campers favourite activities, not only is it a great outdoor skill to learn but it also comes with a whole host of other learning outcomes; as well as a sense of achievement and accomplishment. A safe place for building your fire The first step is ensuring your build your fire in a safe place, as well as a place that will aid you in lighting the fire as much as possible. The risk of wildfires in the summer in many forested or grassy areas is high. Make sure you clear an area; ideally there will be bare soil in the area, and you can create a safe boundary for your fire with small rocks to keep it contained, as well as being sheltered from the wind. Make sure there is nowhere the fire can spread to once lit, for example dry grass can easily catch fire. Also ensure there is no fire ban in your area before you decide to light a fire. Selecting the right fuel for your fire First select tinder; the smallest and most flammable fuel to get your fire started, followed by kindling and then larger pieces of wood for fuel. Tinder needs to be very thin shredded material, such as dry ‘old mans beard’, dry pine needles, dried grass, or some types of dried bark. It is hardest to find when the forest floor is damp but this is also when it is most important. Alternatively a supply of matches can act as tinder, or take some with you on damp days. You can create your own by shaving the inside of a log if you are struggling to find dry tinder. Kindling is the next step up from tinder, and the heat from the tinder will get the kindling burning. This is  splinters of wood, small sticks. Remember only use fallen wood from the forest floor rather than breaking from living shrubs or trees; the dry dead wood will burn more easily, as well as protecting the environment. All wood should ‘snap’; if it bends it is too moist to burn. Fuelwood for a campfire is the final step up; start with smaller pieces of wood, twigs and once your fire is going with a  bit more heat you’ll be able to use larger pieces of wood. You’re not looking to burn anything thicker than the width of your wrist, as a rule. Techniques for building your fire The two most common types of fire are the ‘tipi’ and ‘log cabin’; both built to allow air to circulate and for the tinder to allow the kindling to catch light. For the tipi: start by laying your tinder in a small bundle on the ground. Around this use 3 or 4 larger kindling sticks to form the structure and lean smaller kindling around this, leaving an opening for you to access the tinder. You can then lean some smaller fuelwood against this structure. For a log cabin: start in the same way as a tipi with the tinder and a small tipi around this with kindling. Then lay two pieces of fuel wood on either side, and then another two pieces in the opposite direction to form the 4 walls of your ‘cabin’ Continue to lay slightly smaller pieces to build your cabin taller, and then lay some pieces of kindling over the top. Lighting your fire Position yourself between the wind and the fire to act as a wind break. Light underneath the tinder using your match; this can be easier with the tipi than the log cabin as access, so make sure you are able to get to your tinder easily when building.  Hold onto your match while you are lighting rather than letting it go. Extinguishing your fire Ideally, and depending on how large your fire is, extinguish your fire about 30 minutes before you leave. If you are putting out a burning fire then spread the fire with a stick to put out the flames. After this, pour water on the coals and stir the together when you have wet the entire area. Use your hand above the coals to make sure there are no hot spots; if there are wet with more water. Take the coals/ash and spread in the woods away from the trail, especially for larger fires. Any unused wood can be scattered back in the woods, or left if this is a regular fire spot.   Building a fire is a popular activity on our mountain adventure camps which are available as day camps and residential camps.

Some of our recommended summer hiking routes in Verbier

The surroundings of Verbier are truly breath-taking no matter what time of year you visit, but with a wide range of activities on offer, including summer hiking, the summer season is our favourite. From the fresh air to the colourful flowers and of course, the still snow-capped mountains, the views are beautiful and provide the ultimate location for a day out walking with friends or family. With over 400km of hikes in Verbier, taking one of our hiking guides allows you to explore the area and all that it has to offer whilst knowing you are safe, won’t take a wrong turn and of course have a helping hand to keep you going when you reach the steeper parts! There are many different hiking routes in and around Verbier but here are a few of our favourites, all of which can be booked during the day whilst the kids are at camp.

Beginner:  Ruinettes – La Chaux – Ruinettes: 2 hours

This trail is the perfect introduction to walking in Verbier, giving you a chance to get used to walking at altitude whilst also enjoying the magnificent views of the valley below. This route starts with a gondola ride up to Ruinettes which takes about 5 minutes. From here, we walk along a flattish track called the bisse, (a man-made river which goes for miles!) around the mountain towards a bowl known as La Chaux. From La Chaux you can view the famous Grand and Petit Combin Mountains which are still covered in snow even in the heat of July and August. Enjoy the tranquillity of the mountains as well as taking advantage of this great lunch spot by stopping at Le Dahu for a bite to eat before heading back. To make this into more of a loop – you can walk back via the higher bisse trail which starts from a bit higher up in La Chaux. This short route is ideal for those with kids on the day camp as you can head off after drop off time, enjoy a relaxed lunch in the sun and still be back in time for pick up. It’s also a great one for those with dogs as they love the water to splash in and the walk is great for them!

Intermediate :  La Chaux – Lac des Vaux – Col de Mines – Ruinettes – 3 hours

Fancy a bit more of a challenge? This route starts from La Chaux and heads nicely uphill towards Lac des Vaux, a popular spot for skiing in the winter time. The uphill hike is a challenge but definitely worth it for the views once you reach the lake, especially if it’s just you and the mountains with not another soul in sight. On a really warm day, you can brave a dip in the lake to cool off or just stay on the edge and have a quick paddle to cool off your feet. This hike continues with a walk downhill towards Col de Mines where you can see all the way across to La Tzoumaz and the other side of the valley. From here head back round towards Ruinettes where you can enjoy views of the Verbier village from up high, you can even try to spot a few of the landmarks whilst up there!

Advanced : Croix de Coeur – Pierre Avoir – Croix de Coeur – 2.5 hours 

Not for the faint-hearted, this is a more challenging hike, particularly for those who perhaps don’t like heights or narrow trails as there are some more exposed sections. However it is a great challenge and a fantastic reward when you reach the top. 360 degree views make this small peak a wonderful place for a picnic and offers views of the village of Verbier, Savoleyres and even across towards Sion. This hike includes some tough steep sections, a ladder to climb to the peak at the summit (chains are also there to help in some places) so be prepared! If you are up to the challenge, it is by far our favourite hike of the area with some incredible views! Check out our full list of activities and excursions here.