Lucy, Corina and Marie-Therese met for the first time in a dormitory at wellnessHostel3000 in Laax. Although they all come from very different parts of Switzerland, do not speak the same language and are at different stages of their lives, they understand each other immediately.
The perfect unexpected find: Three single travellers became friends in the dormitory at wellnessHostel3000. © Cornelia Vinzens
During the day, Corina studies for her exams, Lucy explores the fantastic nature and Marie-Therese tears up the slopes. In the evening, they meet again over a meal, talk about their experiences and relax in the spa. The three of them are immediately bosom buddies and have kept in touch ever since.
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A friendship for eternity
It’s 2008: Both Serena and Muriel’s family decide to spend their skiing holidays at St. Moritz Youth Hostel. For a whole week, the two girls do not dare to talk to each other. Shortly before leaving, Serena musters all her courage and speaks to Muriel.
Serena and Muriel have had many unforgettable experiences at St. Moritz Youth Hostel. © Leonidas Portmann
What follows are numerous letters, meet-ups and the highlight – annual winter holidays at the youth hostel. Watch the video to see what they still look forward to most when they visit our hostels.
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Finding eternal love
More than half a century ago, Silvia and Hanspeter met at Zermatt Youth Hostel during a school camp. It was the start of a perfect love story: The first sparks were felt at the youth hostel, followed by marriage and children shortly afterwards.
The wonderful love story of Silvia and Hanspeter began at Zermatt Youth Hostel. © Cornelia Vinzens
Back then, youth hostel life was a little different. Watch the video to find out why they had to climb through the kitchen window, for example. Today, the couple associate the youth hostels above all with family holidays – and they appreciate the uncomplicated atmosphere.
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Keen to learn more about the history of the Swiss Youth Hostels?
Visit the anniversary exhibition “100 years of Swiss Youth Hostels – savouring, slumbering, adventuring together” at the Burgdorf Castle Museum until 29 December 2024.
At home in the youth hostels
Heinz Egli was actually planning a long-distance hike through the USA: quit his job, gave up his place of residence. Then came the COVID pandemic, spoiling his plans. So without further ado, Heinz took to the youth hostels, moving from place to place.
Heinz Egli lived at the Swiss Youth Hostels for almost two years. © Cornelia Vinzens
Despite all odds, he didn’t have to give up his long-distance journey. He decided to hike along the Swiss border. He mainly spent the night in a tent, or a youth hostel if there was one nearby. It was an experience that pushed the boundaries and that he will be talking about for a long time to come.
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She has been travelling to youth hostels for 67 years
Iris Gauckler caught the youth hostel bug when she was 17 years old. The adventurous young woman wanted to travel to Stockholm on her own. Despite her mother’s reservations, she was able to quench her thirst for discovery on one condition: Iris had to become a member of the Swiss Youth Hostels and was only allowed to stay overnight in hostels that were part of the Hostelling International network. Back then, almost 70 years ago, these hostels were considered to be particularly safe and guests had to be back in their accommodation by 10 p.m.
Even at the age of 84, Iris Gauckler still travels from youth hostel to youth hostel by bicycle – even abroad. © Cornelia Vinzens
From then on, the adventurous Iris can’t stop travelling. To this day, she has explored numerous countries from India, Australia and New Zealand to Nepal and Uzbekistan. Even now, she stays overnight in a multi-bed room in youth hostels whenever possible, where she connects with people from all over the world.
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The Vespa Club in search of the Easter bunny
I meet a diverse group of people when I visit Vespa Club Nidwalden at Bern Youth Hostel. Twelve of the 33 members are present. A roar of laughter, lots of joking around, a good mood overall. No wonder the club has been around for 73 years with such an exuberant and cheerful atmosphere.
The good mood of Vespa Club Nidwalden is instantly contagious. © Cornelia Vinzens
For more than a decade, Vespa fans have been drawn to a youth hostel for a weekend outing at Easter. As some of the members start families and have children, most hotels suddenly become too small to accommodate 50+ people. Initial scepticism quickly turns into enthusiasm: The spacious recreation and games rooms for the children, the laid-back atmosphere, the delicious food and the friendly staff ensure that Vespa Club Nidwalden is a regular guest in the youth hostels from now on.
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