The North Face Mountain Festival

Lauterbrunnen is a picturesque valley town in one of the biggest conservation areas in Switzerland.  In this valley at the foot of the tremendous 1000ft Staubbach waterfall adventure is in the air in the form of The North Face Mountain Festival.  The North Face are staying true to their mission, to inspire a global movement of exploration, by hosting a long weekend which brings together adventurers, explorers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Mountain Festival is returning for a second year between 14^th September – 17^th September 2017,  just as the days start to shorten and the alpine sunsets look particularly magical. Lauterbrunnen is surrounded by an impressive seventy-two waterfalls, as well as mountain peaks and rock faces which tempt climbers of all abilities.  There are a range of awesome activities to get involved in throughout the Mountain Festival so this is one to get in the diary now!

The adventures on offer

This mountain festival makes the most of the surrounding hilly terrain and challenging rock faces.  A group of North Face athletes are on hand to guide you through this terrain and are on hand to help you with your technique or learn a new skill.

Whatever your ability there is something for everyone.  The main activities are broken down by skill level (beginner, intermediate and advanced) to help you choose the best fit.

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Climbing adventures

This is a playground for climbing with a seemingly endless choice of routes and faces to summit.  Every part of your climb will be unforgettable but the views from the top will really stand out.  Accomplished experts and North Face athletes the Pou Brothers, James Pearson, Caroline Ciavaldini, and Jacopo Larcher will accompany intermediate and advanced climbers to share their expert tips.

Trail running adventures

You can opt for a 5km dash or a 28km endurance challenge and everything in between.  The trials weave up through the valley so expect some elevations and simply stunning scenery.  Athletes Fernanda Maciel, Jez Bragg and Seb Chaigneau will guide you en route, this guaranteed to be a once in a lifetime experience.

Hiking adventures

There are a range of routes to choose from which take you through classic timber chalet towns and lush green meadows.  We’d recommend choosing a hike which starts in Mürren.  This town was featured in a James Bond film and now has a revolving restaurant the Piz Gloria, host to the Bond World 007 exhibition, with views of Mont Blanc.

Experience the mountain festival from the water or the air

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For those who prefer to experience the mountains on water, on glacier or through air you won’t be disappointed!  Read on for some ideas which are bound to surge your adrenaline:

Alpinism

The Walcherhorn has an elevation of 3,693m and the summit boasts 360 degree views of the Jungfrau region.  Join athletes Simone Moro and David Göttler for a glacier walk or expedition to the summit.

Rafting

To experience the valley from a different perspective, take to the river Simme or Aare by raft.  This is a great activity for those keen to try something new and take in the environment as all instruction is provided.

Paragliding

If you’ve ever gazed in envy at birds gliding effortlessly in the mountain air then embrace the magic of paragliding.  This is perfect for novices as you have an expert guide so you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking views.

Sea-kayaking

The turquoise waters of Lake Brienz are perfect to explore the area from the water.  From this view point you’ll enjoy views of the mountain range, valley meadows and quaint villages.  What could be better?

Canyon action

For a huge hit of adrenaline try a bungee jump or abseil down the canyon which is close to base camp.  It’s a fast paced and exhilarating way to see the valley.

Apres-adventure

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A range of workshops on offer give you ample opportunity to hone your adventure skills.  Get your nutrition in shape with advice from The North Face #NEVERSTOP trainers and outdoor cookery lessons.  Improve your ability to capture the moment, even with a smartphone, by learning new photography skills.

When the sun starts to set the adventure continues.  This festival is brimming with inspiration and in the evening there is a (top secret!) lineup of live music on offer and inspiring talks from experienced explorers.  Put simply it feels unique.

How to find the Mountain Festival

facebooktwitterpinterest Lauterbrunnen Valley. Photo credit: Kosala Bandara

If you’re flying in head to either Zurich, Basel or Geneva.  You’ll need to organize onwards transport from there, either by rail or car.

For those travelling by rail Lauterbrunnen has a railway station and you’ll enjoy an incredibly beautiful train ride in.

By car Lauterbrunnen is an hours drive south of the city of Bern.

Adventure is everywhere, go find it.