Out-of-the-ordinary winter activities away from the slopes

Switzerland is the snow sports paradise par excellence. Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and sledging are probably the most popular winter sports in the country. But how about a special experience away from the slopes in the winter months? Here are our ideas for out-of-the-ordinary winter activities that are sure to give you your money’s worth as a fan of the slopes or après-ski hero:

Snowtubing through the ice track

At the Tobogganing Park in Leysin, in the Vaud Alps, you can try out the crazy leisure activity of snowtubing. This activity is best compared to the Olympic sport of bobsleighing, except that you speed down the groomed ice tracks on a tyre rather than a bob. Created by former Swiss bobsledder Silvio Giobellina, the slopes ensure rapid descents at top speeds. For the brave, there’s even a loop and a jump on the tyre with a soft landing on the big air bag. Cool, isn’t it?

Open: December – March
Accommodation: Montreux Youth Hostel

Hot dip in the cold lake

What could be nicer than warming up with a warm bath in winter temperatures? Of course: Relax in a floating hot tub! On Lake Brienz, you can drift in a hot tub filled with water at a temperature of 38°C during the winter months. The HotTug boat with an electric motor is warmed up by a wood stove and offers space for up to six people. A unique experience that you should definitely try with family or friends in winter.

Open: All year round
Accommodation: Interlaken Youth Hostel

Melting away at lofty heights

Saastal Bergbahnen offer a very special experience for all gourmets: Round off your winter day in Saas-Fee with a leisurely gondola ride and enjoy a delicious fondue at lofty heights. This delicious trip starts at Spielboden valley station and takes around an hour. The views of the mountains and the evening lights over Saas-Fee are sure to stay with you for a long time to come.

Open: December – April
Accommodation: wellnessHostel4000

Through the deep snow at full speed

Although it’s not bike season at the moment, the conditions are right for the ultimate fatbike adventure. In Davos Klosters, you can race through the snow on mountain bikes with extra-wide tyres. On the unspoilt Pischa mountain, a three-kilometre fatbike tour awaits you, leading you down a groomed descent through the deep snow. The fatbike is transported to the starting point by mountain railway. After, you tear up the slopes and enjoy a magnificent view of the Flüela Valley.

Open: December – April
Accommodation: Davos Youth Hostel

On your bike, get set, go

What you simply can’t miss in Grindelwald: A ride on the historic Velogemel. The traditional «snow bike» was once used as an everyday means of transport in the Eiger village in winter. Today, you can hire the wooden bicycles on runners at Grindelwald railway station and use them to ride down the groomed trails from the Bussalp to the village. You’re sure to have tons of fun riding this unusual vehicle against a unique backdrop of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Open: December – March
Accommodation: Grindelwald Youth Hostel

Our St. Moritz tips

Need a few more ideas for St. Moritz? Nina has summarised our favourite experiences in the birthplace of winter sports for you.