The Alpine Olympics, held 2,000 meters above sea level, offer a unique glimpse into traditional Swiss culture through a series of team-building activities. Participants can enjoy the local heritage, competing in events like cow milking, nail driving, and cheese rolling. These games not only foster teamwork and coordination, but also provide an appreciation for Switzerland’s rich history. With generous cancellation policies and all-inclusive pricing, guests can fully engage in the alpine experience without logistical concerns. The winning team is awarded the coveted Vogellisi cheese prize, cementing the event as a true celebration of Swiss alpine spirit.
Key Points
- The Alpine Olympics refer to a series of traditional Swiss team-building activities held at an elevation of 2,000 meters or more.
- The activities immerse participants in local Swiss culture and include events like cow milking, nail driving, and cheese rolling.
- These activities are designed to foster teamwork, camaraderie, and an understanding of Swiss rural traditions.
- The events are judged on factors such as speed, technique, and style, with the winning team receiving a Vogellisi cheese prize.
- The unique high-altitude setting of the Alpine Olympics adds an exhilarating and challenging element to the traditional Swiss activities.
Cost and Cancellation Policy
The Alpine Olympics activity is priced at £56.58 or more per person, and participants can receive a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The cost covers transport to and from the car park, necessary equipment for the events, supervision by four guides, and the organization of the overall experience. This allows visitors to fully enjoy the traditional Swiss activities without worrying about the logistics.
The generous cancellation policy provides flexibility, ensuring participants can adjust their plans if needed.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bernese Oberland.
Team-building Games Overview
The Alpine Olympics offer a range of traditional Swiss team-building activities that immerse participants in the local culture. These games include cow milking (Chüämälcha), nail driving (Naglä), hay bale throwing (Heüpüntel wärfä), cow bell shooting (Gloggi lütä), and more, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Alps at an elevation of 2,000 meters.
Participants can also try their hand at horseshoe throwing (Hufisä schiessä), cheese rolling (Chees tröla), wheelbarrow racing (Stossgareté Renä), gumboot throwing (Gummistifelvritwurf), and tree trunk sawing (Bumstammsagä).
The games are designed to foster teamwork and camaraderie, and the winning team receives a prize of the renowned Vogellisi cheese from Adelboden. The Alpine Olympics are a truly unique and immersive cultural experience.
Cow Milking (Chuämälcha)
Participants begin the cow milking (Chuämälcha) challenge by approaching a docile dairy cow and carefully grasping the udder, rhythmically squeezing the teats to coax the milk into a waiting bucket. Speed and technique are key, as teams must fill their buckets within a time limit. A successful milking demonstrates coordination, patience, and an understanding of the cow’s temperament. The competition is judged on the volume of milk collected, with extra points awarded for style and efficiency. The top teams receive praise from the judges and the admiration of their peers.
| Technique | Points |
|---|---|
| Gentle grip | 5 |
| Consistent rhythm | 10 |
| Full bucket | 15 |
| Calm cow | 5 |
Nail Driving (Naglä)
Teams line up and take turns driving large nails into a wooden block using only a heavy-duty hammer. Speed and accuracy are critical, as the team that sinks their nail the deepest within the allotted time wins the event.
Competitors must exhibit strong hand-eye coordination and an understanding of proper striking technique to avoid bending or missing the nail entirely. Points are awarded based on depth of penetration, with bonuses given for completing the task in record time.
Spectators cheer as the teams pound away, the sound of metal striking wood echoing across the alpine landscape. Teamwork, concentration, and physical strength are all put to the test in this classic alpine competition.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCheese Rolling (Chees Tröla)
Amid the cheers of spectators, competitors race down the steep alpine slope in pursuit of a rapidly tumbling round of cheese, each vying to be the first to catch and claim the coveted prize.
This heart-pounding event, known as ‘Chees Tr??la,’ is a cherished tradition at the Alpine Olympics, 2000 meters above sea level.
Participants hurl themselves down the hill, jostling and leaping to keep up with the speeding wheel of cheese. The challenge lies not only in catching the elusive dairy treat but also in maintaining balance and control on the uneven terrain.
The winner’s reward, a wedge of the prized Vogellisi cheese from Adelboden, makes the thrilling descent all the more satisfying.
Gumboot Throwing (Gummistifelwitwurf)
Competitors typically grasp the sturdy gumboots, bending their knees as they prepare to launch the weighty footwear down the grassy slope during the Gumboot Throwing (Gummistifelwitwurf) event. Technique is key, as participants must find the sweet spot to generate the most power and trajectory.
The goal is to achieve maximum distance, with judges measuring each throw.
Gumboots are chosen for their heft, providing a satisfying thud as they hit the ground.
Crowds cheer enthusiastically, eager to see who can send their boot the farthest.
Camaraderie abounds as competitors offer tips and encouragement, making this a truly communal experience.
The Gumboot Throwing event is a highlight of the Alpine Olympics, blending tradition, skill, and Alpine charm.
Nature Trivia (Fräga Über D Natur)
As part of the Alpine Olympics festivities, participants engage in a lively Nature Trivia (Fr??ga ??ber D Natur) competition, testing their knowledge on the diverse flora and fauna of the majestic Alps.
Guided by the expert instructors, teams must correctly identify various alpine plants, animals, and natural phenomena. Questions cover topics like the unique adaptations of the ibex, the medicinal properties of edelweiss, and the role of glaciers in shaping the dramatic landscape.
The team that demonstrates the deepest understanding of the alpine environment emerges victorious, earning bragging rights and the coveted Vogellisi cheese prize.
Through this engaging activity, participants gain a greater appreciation for the natural wonders that surround them at this elevated, pristine setting.
Prize and Supervision
The winning team at the Alpine Olympics receives the coveted Vogellisi cheese from Adelboden as their prize, a local delicacy prized for its rich, creamy flavor.
Throughout the events, participants are supervised by a team of 4 experienced guides who ensure the safety and smooth running of the various activities.
The guides are:
- Knowledgeable about the local environment and traditions
- Trained in first aid and emergency procedures
- Adept at facilitating team-building and group dynamics
Their expertise and attentive oversight help create an enjoyable and memorable experience for all participants, regardless of their skill level or background.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions Taken for the Activities?
The activities have safety protocols in place. Guides supervise participants, ensure proper equipment usage, and monitor conditions to mitigate risks. Participants are advised on appropriate attire and safe practices for the events.
Are There Any Age or Skill Level Restrictions for the Events?
The activities have no age restrictions, but participants should have a basic level of physical fitness to safely engage in the team-building games. The guides provide supervision to ensure all participants can participate comfortably within their abilities.
Is There an Option to Participate as an Individual Rather Than a Team?
Yes, the activity allows for individual participation. Participants can choose to compete individually in the various team-building games rather than as part of a team. This provides flexibility for solo travelers or those without a group.
Can Participants Bring Their Own Equipment for the Events?
No, participants cannot bring their own equipment for the events. The activity includes all necessary equipment, which is provided by the organizers. Participants are expected to use the provided gear during the various team-building games and competitions.
What Are the Sustainability Practices Implemented for This Activity?
The activity promotes sustainability by using reusable equipment, minimizing waste, and educating participants about alpine nature. Guides encourage eco-friendly practices, and any waste is properly disposed of to preserve the pristine mountain environment.
Recap
The Alpine Olympics offers a unique cultural experience, immersing participants in traditional Swiss team-building activities.
Guests can fully engage with the generous cancellation policy and all-inclusive pricing, fostering teamwork, coordination, and appreciation for Swiss heritage.
The coveted Vogellisi cheese prize celebrates the Alpine spirit, making the event a memorable celebration of Swiss traditions.
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