Discover Germany | Special Theme | Best of Valais
Grächen
The perfect winter getaway in Switzerland Skiing, sledging, winter hikes, snowshoe trekking or just relaxing – no matter what one prefers during a winter holiday, in the Swiss Alps, near the Matterhorn, it can be enjoyed to the fullest. TEXT: INA FRANK I PHOTOS: GRÄCHEN TOURISMUS
The region of Grächen is located on a sunny alpine plateau right in the highest mountains of Switzerland. With its 42 runway kilometres, a great view over the vast snowy winter paradise and many more activities, it attracts visitors young and old alike. Families in particular are comfortable in the region of Grächen. “The parents can relax while their children are pampered like princes and princesses,” says Beatrice Meichtry, marketing director of Grächen Tourismus. Most areas are kept car-free, so kids can bustle in the streets without their parents being distressed. A special highlight is the ‘fairy tale cable car’. According to the motto ‘Grächen ein Märchen’ (‘Grächen is a fairy tale’), guests can listen to audio plays of fairy tales while going up. The outside of 58 | Issue 43 | October 2016
each car corresponds to the fairy tale played inside. Even a laid-back dinner in the cable car is possible. On an evening tour, one can enjoy a typical Swiss cheese fondue and the amazing view of the Matterhorn and its surroundings. Families also love the Family Funslope, where different hurdles invite one to try some tricks, and the Skimovie slope that makes one feel like a ski racer. The run is filmed and the video can be downloaded at home. “Grächen has often been acclaimed for being the best holiday destination for families in Switzerland,” Meichtry adds. This winter, Grächen distinguishes itself again by the particular initiative ‘Grächen Euro 1.30’. There will be varied offers at a fixed exchange rate at 1.30 francs a euro.
The initiative has already run for some time and so far Beatrice Meichtry has drawn a positive conclusion: “The demand for holidays at a fixed euro exchange rate is high and we are happy to have been selling this product successfully for four years already.” The initiative runs from 7 to 27 January and from 11 March to 17 April 2017 and includes lodgings, ski passes, the ‘fairy tale cable car’, restaurants and offers by sports shops, skiing schools and souvenir shops. Yet there is even more to come this winter season. “Guests can enjoy the healthy alpine air during a hot-air balloon ride or drive a snow groomer and feel its powerful horsepower,”Meichtry reveals. www.graechen.ch