Exploring Mauvoisin Dam

Nestled at the top of the Val de Bagnes, the Mauvoisin Dam is one of our many day trips. The iconic structure promises a thrilling blend of adventure and natural beauty with a breathtakingly beautiful view: lake, waterfalls, mountains, and valleys as far as the eye can see.

What is Mauvoisin Dam?

The Mauvoisin Dam is a majestic concrete arch dam located in the Val de Bagnes, a picturesque valley in the southwestern part of Switzerland. Standing proudly at an impressive height of over 250 meters (820 feet), this engineering wonder was completed in the 1950s. Its primary purpose is to harness the untamed power of the Dranse de Bagnes River and regulate its flow to generate hydroelectricity. 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/  Looking to enrol your children in the Altitude Verbier Language Summer Camp or to book private language lessons? In order to make the best choice regarding your children’s English ability level, we invite you to follow the CEFR’s levels guide. By following this guide, you will ensure that your children join a class best suited to their ability and are able to improve their skills in English. *Council of Europe, the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages The following is an excerpt from their guide:

Language Ability Levels

Beginner – A0 – Has no knowledge of words or the language at all and has never taken any lessons. Elementary – A1 – Has a very basic repertoire of words and simple phrases related to personal details and particular concrete situations. Pre-Intermediate – A1/A2 – Has a small repertoire of words and uses basic sentence patterns with memorised phrases, groups of a few words and formulae to communicate limited information in simple everyday situations. Intermediate – A2/B1 – Uses basic sentence patterns with memorised phrases, groups of a few words and formulae to communicate limited information in simple everyday situations. Has enough language to get by, with sufficient vocabulary to express him/herself with some hesitation and circum-locutions on topics such as family, hobbies and interests, work, travel, and current events. Upper Intermediate – B1/B2 – Has enough language to get by, with sufficient vocabulary to express him/herself with some hesitation and circum-locutions on topics such as family, hobbies and interests, work, travel, and current events. Has a sufficient range of language to be able to give clear descriptions, express viewpoints on most general topics, without much con¬spicuous searching for words, using some complex sentence forms to do so. Advanced – B2/C1 – Has a sufficient range of language to be able to give clear descriptions, express viewpoints on most general topics, without much con¬spicuous searching for words, using some complex sentence forms to do so. Has a good command of a broad range of language allowing him/her to select a formulation to express him/ herself clearly in an appropriate style on a wide range of general, academic, professional or leisure topics without having to restrict what he/she wants to say. Find out more about our Summer Residential and Day Camps. 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.

At Altitude, we take food seriously! Our campers need to be fuelled throughout the day to enjoy all their activities, so we make sure our summer camp menu is healthy, nutritious, fresh and best of all tasty, every day.

Three meals a day are prepared by our on-site chefs, who make sure they adhere to all dietary requirements of any campers for the week. There is always a meat and vegetarian option as well.

To give you an idea of the food you will get at camp, we have included an example summer camp menu below. Remember this changes from week to week, so that campers are always trying new foods that they love!

Breakfast Bar:

Our residential campers have breakfast each day at 08.00 before activities begin at 09.00. We have a ‘breakfast bar’ where children can choose from the following:

Fresh fruit platter

Croissants

Toast / bread

Nutella, jams, butter

Selection of cereals

Eggs

Cheese & Meat platter

Yoghurt

Fruit Juice, Milk, Tea

 

Lunch Buffet

All day campers, including those on our half-day Marmot camp, enjoy a buffet style lunch each day from 12h00. This includes a build-your-own salad bar, breads, cheese and meats each day, as well as a hot option which changes each day. Wednesdays and Saturdays are excursion days so sandwiches, crisps and fruit are taken for a lunchtime picnic.

 

Salad Bar (served every day)

Mixed Leaves , Tomato, Cucumber, Sweetcorn, Red Onion, Carrot, Beetroot, Cheese

Mixed salad of the day

Salad Dressing

Meat Platter

Bread

 

Lunch hot options:

Monday:

Jacket Potatoes

with Home Made Baked Beans, Cheese, Tuna Mayo, & Black Bean Chili

 

Tuesday:

Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry

 

Wednesday:

Packed Lunch:

Camper’s Choice of Sandwich (Ham, Cheese, Ham & Cheese, Tuna, Egg Mayo)

Crisps

Piece of Fruit

 

Thursday:

Bacon Macaroni Cheese or Plain Macaroni Cheese

Peas & carrots

 

Friday

Beef Lasagna / Aubergine Parmigiana

Garlic Bread

 

Saturday

 Packed Lunch:

Camper’s Choice of Sandwich (Ham, Cheese, ham & cheese, tuna, egg mayo)

Crisps

Piece of Fruit

     

Chalet Dinners

 

Dinner is served in each chalet at 18.30 and consists of a main course and dessert each day, which campers eat together with their fellow chalet-mates and evening staff. Check out our sample menu below.

Sunday

Beef Chilli with rice and nachos

Dessert:

White chocolate and raspberry cheesecake

 

Monday

Chicken Fajitas with vegetables, sour cream and guacamole

Dessert:

Roast peaches with vanilla ice cream

 

Tuesday

Sausages, mash and onion gravy with peas and carrots

Dessert:

Apple Crumble & Ice Cream

 

Wednesday

Beef stew with mashed potatoes, peas and carrots

Dessert:

Lemon drizzle cake

 

Thursday

Salmon Fish Cakes or Sweet Potato and Tofu Cakes, Steamed Rice, Greens.

Dessert:

Chocolate mousse

  

Friday

Homemade chicken goujons with chunky potato wedges, green beans and broccoli

Dessert:

Sticky toffee pudding and ice cream

 

Saturday

Make your own pizza with garlic bread and salad

Dessert:

Chocolate Brownies, Vanilla Ice Cream.

  To find out more about what we offer in summer check out our Residential Camps or our Day Camps. 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. Whilst your children are developing new skills and enjoying outdoor activities at an Altitude summer camp, there is no reason why you shouldn’t also be able to make the most of your time in Verbier in luxury summer chalets. If you’re looking for a property to base yourself at, then look no further than luxury chalet specialists, Leo Trippi, who have an extensive collection of summer chalets in Verbier with fantastic facilities for the whole family. Take a look at their top 5 summer chalet recommendations in Verbier below.  

Chalet Calima

Close to Sonalon in the heights of Verbier, Chalet Calima is a beautiful four-bedroom property with magnificent mountain views, open plan living and incredible wellness facilities. Astounding views can be enjoyed from the indoor pool which is equipped with a moveable floor to adjust the depth – ideal for children or nervous swimmers. Floor-to-ceiling windows slide open onto a south-facing sunny terrace with outdoor hot tub – the perfect spot to unwind.  

Chalet Les Étrennes

In a private location just a short drive from Savoleyres and the resort centre, Chalet Les Etrennes provides a peaceful setting for a summer holiday. With six en-suite bedrooms and four floors of luxury living, there is plenty of room to spread out, relax and enjoy the incredible panoramic views. From the light and spacious living room on the top floor to an outdoor hot tub in the garden, this family-friendly chalet is a true home away from home.  

Chalet Nyumba

Perched above the village in the Sonalon area of Verbier, Chalet Nyumba offers commanding views across the valley, alpine-themed decor and facilities to keep the whole family entertained. The children will be happy with a playroom equipped with countless toys and games as well as a cinema room with an extensive DVD library. Parents can relax in the lavish spa which includes an ‘L’ shaped swimming pool with adjustable depth and counter current, outdoor hot tub, plunge pool, hammam and sauna. Adjoining the chalet is a self-contained guest mazot – ideal for any staff.  

Chalet Milou

Located on Chemin de Clambin, Chalet Milou has a traditional rustic feel yet has been updated to include many contemporary comforts. With far-reaching views across the valley, several lounges to relax and socialise together in and an outdoor hot tub, this six-bedroom chalet has everything you need to enjoy a summer holiday in the Swiss Alps.  

Chalet Toundra

Situated on the south-facing side of Verbier close to Savoleyres, Chalet Toundra is a superb property sleeping up to 10 guests. Combining fantastic views with an alpine-inspired interior, the chalet has a laid-back feel with a wrap-around balcony for soaking up the sun. The children’s bunk room is a total delight and there are a further three tastefully-appointed double bedrooms to choose from.   To enquire about renting a luxury chalet in Verbier this summer ask the Altitude Team when booking your camp, or contact sales@leotrippi.com or visit www.leotrippi.com  for further inspiration. Day Trip from Verbier to Montreux This city is one of our favourite places in the region and a popular choice for our day camp clients to visit at the weekend. Montreux, often described as the Swiss Riviera, is a truly beautiful escape. Whether for a day trip or for a couple of nights stay, Montreux is a great place to visit for those who like a picturesque walk, food with a view or of course some live music. Montreux Jazz Festival Founded in 1967, this event is the second largest jazz festival in the world, after the Montreal International Jazz Festival in Canada. Montreux welcomes over 250,000 people each year and opens 3 ticketed venues as well as numerous complimentary open air concerts to enjoy whilst relaxing by the lake. Although known as the “Jazz Festival”, the event has also expanded in recent years to bring a more eclectic choice of concerts for patrons to choose from. Lenny Kravtiz, Emelie Sande, Prince, David Bowie and Ben Howard are just a few of the renowned musicians to grace the stage! The line up each year is eagerly awaited by locals with tickets selling fast however there are always a few reserved for purchase on the day and trust us, the queue is worth it. Some of the venues are small and intimate which make for a nice relaxed evening and some are much larger for a party style night out. If you are visiting with the family, check the schedule for the day time shows, these are often the free events and open air which means you can enjoy the sunshine at the same time. These shows can be combined with browsing the various food stands and stalls along the shoreline. For dates and prices this year click here. Chateau Chillon For some culture, why not visit the Chateau Chillon, an island castle with a great bit of history. Occupied since the bronze age, Chatueau Chillon is a beautiful castle to look around. Head underground to experience some wonderful architecture or find the Bernese Chamber to see an old-style bedroom. With children, if you are travelling near a birthday, you can book a tailormade scavenger hunt for them and their friends. This way they tour the castle with a costumed guide and enjoy some treats at the end! There are many different highlights to this castle and a guided tour is a great way to get the most out of it. For a more relaxed tour, you can enter without a guide between 9:00 and 18:00 (exit at 19:00) during the summer months. For prices and details on guided tours visit the website here. Dining in Montreux  With picturesque views from most the restaurants, there an abundance of places to select from and many of the hotels on the road behind the promenade boast wonderful terraces where you can enjoy the sun and some time to people watch. Fun with the kids The weather in July and August is often sunny and beautiful and with this comes the heat. There is a mini “beach” where you can relax and paddle but there is also a small jetty, just near the Freddie Mercury statue which is popular with older children (and adults!) to jump off so don’t forget your swimwear! There are also some water fountains in the main square to cool off, great for younger kids that like to play a guessing game of when the fountains will start and stop! Champex Lac Day Trip One of our favourite trips from Verbier is a Champex Lac day trip. This is about a 45 minute drive from Verbier and is a beautiful destination to visit. You can make it a whole day out or just pop over for lunch and see the sights; it is a popular destination from Verbier for road cyclists as well, with a well-deserved lunch at the top! A beautiful mountain lake nestled in the small resort makes for stunning views, a warm sunny day would be the perfect time to plan a visit. Here are a few of our favourite things to do there.   Lake Activities Once the ice melts, usually May-time, and the mountains warm up for the summer, Champex-Lac comes alive again and you can rent pedalos or paddle-boards just by the side of the lake. There is optional instruction for paddle-boarding too if you’ve never given it a go before. You can even take a dip if you’re feeling brave, but be warned that the water usually is still very cold – even at the height of summer!   Hiking There are some beautiful hikes in the area. One of our favourites to enjoy some of the spectacular views of the valley is the bisse walk, which can then be turned into a much bigger walk up the river if you wish. Park at the lift station and follow the road that runs behind this for a short distance, and you will see a sign-posted footpath running slightly downhill which takes you along the bisse, and then joins up with the fast flowing river. Botanical Garden For those fancying a stroll, there is an alpine botanic garden located in Champex-Lac. Just drive past the main section of the lake and town. The easiest way to access this is to park at the lift station again up out of town and on the opposite side of the road you will see signs to the botanic garden going back in the direction you have just come. About 5 minutes walk will take you; there is an entry fee. Lunch Spots There are some lovely restaurants in the centre of the village offering lunch, some with a view of the lake and others just a few moments stroll away. Outdoor Pool If you fancy a swim and don’t want to brave the waters of the lac then there is an outdoor pool just off the road before reaching the village and lake. This can be a great way to cool off after a hike with the kids, or just to enjoy after a stroll around the lake and town. Climbing For climbers, there’s a lovely little spot to check out very close to the town. Before the outdoor pool there is a lay by where you can park, and a hiking trail which actually forms part of the famous ‘Haute Route’ from Chamonix to Zermatt. After a 10 minute walk down the trail there are bolted routes on an outcrop of rock put together by the Guides de Verbier; however please note that you will need to be an experienced climber with all your own equipment.    

Languages in Switzerland

Switzerland is a patchwork of communities and peoples, each with its own heritage and story, as well as their own languages. As early as 1291, communities in the central Alps began to form an alliance to facilitate free trade and maintain peace. They remained as separate states with their own borders and laws until the creation of the federal constitution in 1848 marking their unification and the introduction of a central governing body. As of 1979, following the separation of Jura from Bern, the modern-day 26 states, called ‘cantons’, form what we now know as the country of Switzerland.

Swiss ‘Cantons’ and ‘Communes’

The founding cantons of Switzerland were German-speaking and it was only in the nineteenth century that the French cantons, as well as Ticino, the Italian-speaking canton, became part of the Swiss Confederation. In 1848 it was declared that there would be four official languages: German, French, Italian and Romansh. In the German-speaking part of the country, most inhabitants speak Swiss-German (Schweizerdeutsch), which is considered a separate language to High German (Höhe Deutsch). Romansh is spoken by less than 1% of the country’s population, in small parts of the largest canton, Grisons. The 26 cantons that make up the Swiss Confederation are also divided into communes, giving a three-tiered political structure. For example, Verbier is in the commune of Bagnes, which is part of the canton of Valais. The state has the highest power and is responsible for foreign policy, security and monetary matters. Each canton has its own parliament, elected by its citizens, and deals with matters of education, health and culture. At the lowest level, each commune (of which there are about 2,300 in the country) is responsible for local taxation, roads and welfare provision.

Links between language and culture within Switzerland

There are many cultural differences within Switzerland which vary from canton to canton and most of which can be linked with languages. The stereotype of the Swiss-Germans is that they are more efficient and hard-working but more highly strung, whereas the Swiss-French are more relaxed. French, being a romance language, is commonly thought of as a language of beauty and eloquence, whereas German is associated with power and efficiency. Due to the multilingualism and multiculturalism of Switzerland, the existence of a ‘national culture’ is often called into question. A country is often defined, or at least shaped, by the language of its citizens; so does that mean a country with multiple languages is divided? Or, does the depth of culture and history in each canton strengthen the country’s diversity?

Language at Altitude Summer Camps

What we know for sure is that learning a language is not only a useful skill but a fundamental resource, which is why we continue to promote language learning here at Altitude Summer Camps. Every summer we welcome children from all over the world to come and practice their English and French with our highly qualified staff and tutors. Please get in touch or visit out residential language camps page to find out more!