Adelboden is a beautiful destination located in the stunning Swiss Alps. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of lush green valleys, soaring mountains and chocolate box Swiss Chalets. With the perfect mixture of adventure and Girlguiding heritage, it’s clear to see why Adelboden is a favourite among Girlguiding groups.
This summer, 27 young members and 11 leaders ventured to Adelboden for an unforgettable Girlguiding adventure, filled with fun, friendships and memories to last a lifetime.
Here’s what Catsfield Guides got up to on their Swiss Escapade.
Day 1: A scenic start to the trip
After travelling to Adelboden by coach and a restful night’s sleep, Catsfield Guides were ready for their first full day of exploration. The day began with a tasty breakfast at their chalet before heading over to the Tschentenalp via the cable car. Here, they got to see incredible views of the panoramic mountains and the Adelboden valleys below. The group returned to their chalet for an evening meal and some well-deserved time to relax.
Day 2: Sights, souvenirs and Swiss culture
The next day started with the group getting a bus to Frutigen, then a train to Spiez and finally a boat to Interlaken where they would spend the day taking in the wonderful sights and the opportunity to pick up some Swiss souvenirs. The Guides spent their free time wandering through the picturesque town, exploring shops, tasting local food and soaking up the Swiss culture.
Day 3: Exploring the Beauty of Oeschinensee
After a hearty breakfast, Catsfield Guides made their way to the Oeschinensee cable car. After riding 480 metres up to the mountain station, the group stepped out into the jaw-dropping, postcard-worthy views of the Swiss Alps before beginning their expedition around the stunning turquoise lake. Following a day of exploring, the Guides headed back for a laid-back evening at their leisure, with a tasty meal and taking time to recount the day’s events.
Day 4: A Day of Guiding History, Hiking and Memories
Day four started bright and early with a guided tour to the iconic Our Chalet, a must-visit for any Girlguiding group. Here, the Guides were welcomed by the volunteers with a Pinning Ceremony, a very special tradition held at the Chalet. The ceremony began with an introduction to the staff, before they raised the flag, sang a song and awarded the Guides with a special pin.
The group then went into the Chalet for an in-depth tour, where they learned about the rich history of Girlguiding and the creation of the first World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts World Centres. The volunteers gave a presentation showcasing the extensive past and present of the Chalet, as well as the important role it has played in the Girlguiding community. The Guides then split up and explored different sections of the Chalet, exploring the historic rooms and discovering memorabilia that has been shared, swapped and saved from across the world and left at the Chalet. From the room decorated with neckerchiefs to the dining hall and the cosy bedrooms, every corner has a story to tell, giving Girl Guides a fascinating insight into the history of the members, friendships and memories made there since 1932.
The day continued with a hike to the Trummer Woodcarvers. The weather was perfect – clear blue skies, glorious sunshine and of course spectacular views made the walk enjoyable. Once the group arrived, they were greeted by the owner of the family-run business, who welcomedthem into the shop to explore their creations. The Guides purchased some unique souvenirs for friends and family and discovered the ceiling covered with badges, some from groups and Venture Abroad reps who have passed by over the years.
Day 5: Reaching New Heights and Making Lasting Memories
Their final day of adventure started with a bus to Frutigen and then a train to Mülenen, where the Guides arrived at the Niesenbahn. The Niesenbahn is a funicular railway which has been operating since July 1910 after transporting the first guests up the Niensen. It provides groups with a unique ride up the pyramid-shaped mountains and the opportunity to witness the magnificent 360-degree views of the Alps. Catsfield Guides returned to their chalet for the final evening of their trip, where they had time to reminisce on special moments shared and lifelong memories they had made along the way, before returning home the next morning after an adventure of a lifetime.
The Adventure Through a Leader’s Eyes
Liz, Catsfield Guides group’s leader shared her thoughts on their Adelboden adventure and here’s what she had to say:
From the moment we arrived, the girls were enthused and just loved the scenery. But it was when we were at the plateau on Engstligenalp when I saw the girls’ true thrills at being there, the cows, hills, mountains and views. It just ticks all the boxes! Adelboden is the most beautiful resort. It has fantastic facilities, the World Centre, clean air, amazing views, good transport connections, and lots to do – everyone should visit.
Milly, our rep in Adelboden was amazing. She escorted us on all our journeys, sorted our tickets and gave advice. Without her it would have been a lot harder work for me and the team. Venture Abroad’s travel app was also very useful.
Ready for your own Adelboden adventure?
From the stunning views, the iconic Our Chalet and a range of fun activities, Adelboden is the place to go! Speak to our friendly team of experts today and let us help you plan an adventure of a lifetime.
