KCR Autumn 2023 FINAL low res - Flipbook - Page 48
Verbier - An Alpine Adventure
Named one of the best winter ski resorts in Europe, the Swiss alpine town of Verbier
is just as popular in the summer
Increasing numbers of holidaymakers are drawn to the Swiss Alps - not
only to recharge, but also for the region9s roster of globally renowned
events, and for the range of outdoor activities on o昀er.
From the moment you land in Geneva airport, you9re presented with a
scenic landscape, with the Alps as its magni昀cent backdrop. The scenery
becomes even more dramatic as you approach Verbier. Snow-capped
peaks contrast with the bright blue surface of Lake Geneva, dotted with
paddle-boarders; on land, you see chapels, castles, and vibrant 昀elds of
sun昀owers.
The onward journey to Verbier can be enjoyed comfortably by train and
taxi, or via gondola. All guests visiting the area of Verbier, Val de Bagnes
or La Tzoumaz for a minimum of one night are issued a Verbier In昀nite
Playground Pass (VIP pass), which provides free access to the gondola
and public transport, as well as over forty activities, either for free or at
preferential rates.
Taking the gondola is an experience in itself: you are instantly immersed
in the sound of peace, with just the distant buzz of crickets and a violin
being practiced to be heard.
The latter is in readiness for the Verbier Festival, an international
classical music festival, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
The famed event showcases great masters and young artists, including
emerging soloists and chamber and orchestral musicians. There are also
singers and conductors, all combining to welcome international audiences to experience exceptional music-making during a distinctive and
exhilarating calendar of events, both large-scale and intimate.
The buzzing atmosphere of the Verbier Festival continues in the
approach to autumn, with the PALP Festival and E-bike Festival.
Mountain biking is just one of the many popular outdoor activities
o昀ered in Verbier as part of the VIP pass: guests may also experience
golf, horse-riding, yoga, and swimming. There is the even the
opportunity to participate in traditional cheese making, a unique
experience held at the family owned Verbier dairy. Under the guidance
and expertise of passionate cheesemaker Marc Dubosson, guests can
handcraft Tomme cheese while enjoying a selection of 8fromage et vin9
pairings. Raclette-昀lled vending machines are found dotted throughout
the region, and there are plentiful cheese o昀erings across the many
Alpine menus. The PALP Festival has previously taken place in various
locations throughout Verbier, from private apartments to historical castles, and themes have ranged from raclette to dreams and even death.
The festival can easily be reached using public transport, and showcases
unique, tailor-made events featuring music, performing arts, local
produce, and wonderful landscapes.
Verbier is rich in art and cultural experiences. Venture to an altitude of
2,200-metres by cable car to the 3D sculpture park: a 3km walking trail
accompanied by a collection of artworks inspired by the mountains.
Each year, the collection is enriched by varying artists in residence.
Artist Kiki Thompson began the installation with a sculpture entitled
Samsara and is involved in Verbier9s new Creative Space 3 Rue du
Centre 3 which launched in July this year. Creative Space, in the heart
of Verbier, o昀ers courses, workshops and facilities; these are available to
the local community, travellers and tourists alike. Choose from pottery,
printmaking, and woodworking; visitors can even attend painting walks
across the region or 昀lm screenings at the hub.