When sustainability reaches new heights, “Swisstainable” emerges as a call to embrace eco-conscious travel in the Swiss Alps, making winter holidays both luxurious and environmentally friendly.
The land of the Alps is also the land of the sustainability focused. Thanks to robust governmental policy and ingrained social practices, Switzerland – a country famous for its epic mountain landscapes and snow-draped resort towns is rightfully being hailed for its commitment to environmental stewardship, renewable energy, and low-emission lifestyles.
The Swiss people are actively contributing to sustainability by embracing public transportation, diligently sorting their household waste, and opting for eco-friendly products. Meanwhile, a similar ethos has been adopted by the Swiss tourism industry, which introduced a sustainability program called “Swisstainable” in 2021.
As a result, Switzerland is, with its pristine ski slopes and cutting-edge eco-initiatives, proving to the world that luxury holidays and environmental responsibility are not mutually exclusive. Here are three alpine escapes perfect for the eco-conscious traveler, where exhilarating adventures are matched by a profound respect for nature.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: December through February, when temperatures average -2°C to -7°C.
Grindelwald
A haven for adventure, guided by ecology.
Reachable by train from Zurich in under three hours, Grindelwald lies nestled amidst the iconic, towering peaks of Eiger and Mönch. This idyllic village beckons both seasoned skiers and nature lovers in search of crisp mountain air. Adrenaline-seekers can ascend to Grindelwald First, an adventure zone that features the First Flyer, an exhilarating zipline reaching speeds of up to 84 km/h over 800 meters, and the vertigo-inducing First Cliff Walk, a 45-meter steel walkway suspended high above the valley floor. After the thrill, unwind aboard the Eiger Express, a state-of-the-art cable car offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped ridges.
Grindelwald stands out not only for its scenic charm but also for its green ethos. The railway leading into town is powered entirely by renewable energy, drastically reducing carbon emissions. Inaugurated in 2020, the Eiger Express is an engineering marvel designed with minimal environmental impact. Its tricable system – supported by just seven pylons – reduces the need for intrusive construction, helping preserve the surrounding forest and fragile Alpine ecology.
