Exclusive:
Mirror reporter Tom Cavilla ventured to Glacier 3000 — a point in the Swiss Alps with various look out points, a toboggan run and suspension bridge — and discovered adrenaline-rushing adventures
Only when you find yourself at an altitude of 3,000 metres can you truly begin to appreciate the beauty of the world around you.
Here I was, in Switzerland, making the steady ascent to the summit of Glacier 3000 – a tourist attraction offering picturesque views of the Swiss Alps all year round.
My visit to the small village of Les Diablerets came not during the high season of winter, instead in summer, ensuring I swapped harsh snow storms and cold winds for blue skies and a light breeze.
Upon arrival at the mountain station at Glacier 3000, the snow-capped peaks of Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau, the Matterhorn, Grand Combin and Mont Blanc soon came into view. Taking advantage of a nearby telescope, tilting its lens from side to side, I was able to discover further information about this fascinating backdrop with precise details provided regarding each location.
Those wishing to truly savour this experience must take the plunge of walking across the Peak Walk, which connects the smaller peak (View Point) with the five-metre higher peak (Scex Rouge). This 107m-long design, the world’s first footbridge spanning two summits, is not for the fainthearted. Anyone courageous enough to cross this path can soak in the sights by turning their head in any direction.
Upon going over the bridge, a sense of accomplishment is felt as you stare back at those who chose not to follow suit. Pause for a moment here to complete a 360-degree view of the mountain range before braving the return route back.
If this wasn’t enough of an adrenaline rush, move down from the Peak Walk to sample a ride on the Alpine Coaster – the world’s highest toboggan run. Possible to enjoy solo or as a pair, this exhilarating ride enables you to zoom beside the Swiss Alps at speeds of up to 40km per hour.
Twisting and turning around the track, involving 10 curves, six waves and three jumps over a 1km stretch, you will be travelling 6m above ground and taking in the scenery in an unorthodox yet pulsating manner. In control of your speed at all times during the Alpine Coaster, you possess the ability to accelerate and brake using levers located either side of the toboggan.
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Priced at only nine Swiss Francs per ride, or 36 francs for five rides, this is an excursion well worth the admission for those of all ages. You may only book for one go, but don’t be surprised if you end up wishing to head back out for a second spin.
Food and drink can be purchased at Glacier 3000, to be enjoyed inside or the outside of the café located directly above the Alpine Coaster. Here, you can enjoy local delicacies such as Fondue while marvelling at your surroundings.
Suitable for skiers, thrill-seekers and just about anyone else, Glacier 3000 is here to stay. My descent to ground level was equally as stunning as the reverse journey in the morning, only this time offering a fresh perspective of the region. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, do not rush your way back down to civilisation.