History of the Alps
History of the Dufour map Topographic map of Switzerland
In the heart of the 19th century, a pioneering engineer changed the course of history. Under the bold direction of Guillaume-Henri Dufour, the first 1:100,000 topographic map of Switzerland was produced. The result of a remarkable piece of work, it revolutionized the world of science, the army and administration. Here's the story of the ... Read more
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History of the Alps
History of crystal makers at summit of the Alps
From time immemorial, men have climbed mountains, fascinated by the luminous brilliance of crystals. Treasure hunters exploring the heights. Mineral lovers and thrill-seekers. Here's the story of the crystal makers at summit . Crystals bloom in the Mont Blanc massif It all began 25 million years ago. The Earth shakes, the abyss boils. On the borders of Africa and Europe, tectonic plates clashed and tore each other apart. During their merciless struggle, cavities form in the heart of the rock. Water seeps into them, happy to escape for a while from the fury ...
Ascension Chronicles
Crossing the Aletschhorn In the bernese alps
June 2024. I'm about to reach summit on the Aletschhorn. Mother of the Aletschgletscher, Europe's largest glacier, this titanic mountain stands alone in the heart of eternal snow. I've been thinking about crossing the Aletschhorn for so long. But now it's time to go to bernese alps and make this dream come true. Crossing the Aletschhorn: Prelude to a trip to bernese alps It all began several years ago with a call from Vivian Bruchez. He had just crossed the Aletschhorn from west to east, and wanted to illustrate his expedition with one of ...
Alpine locations
Altitude thermal baths and spas 5 of the most prestigious wellness centers in the Swiss Alps
Where the majesty of summits meets luxury and tranquillity, thermal baths spring up at the foot of the mountains. I take you on a wellness odyssey through Switzerland's four most beautiful high-altitude spas. From the architectural masterpiece of Hotel 7132 in Vals to the healing waters of the Rigi, enchanting pools and crystal baths. Switzerland's spas are overflowing with pleasure. I invite you to take a journey through the four best high-altitude spa addresses. 1 - 7132 Hotel in Vals: thermal baths in the heart of the Graubünden massif In ...
History of the Alps
The Alps in literature Part 3 The mountains, from the golden age of mountaineering to the present day
Highlighted by Romantic writers, the mountains of the 19th century became the stage for all kinds of exploits. At the time of its conquest, it shone with a thousand lights, inspiring poets and mountaineers alike. Until the day when man, replete with his bravery, realizes that summits leads to the rest he had so long hoped for. Perhaps too late, as time will tell. In this third and final instalment, I take you on a journey of discovery of the Alps in literature from the golden age of mountaineering to today's troubled times. Climbing stories: mountaineers conquer literature In the golden age of ...
History of the Alps
The Alps in Literature Part 2 Mountains in the Golden Age of Romanticism
Out of the darkness, the Alps emerge. Highlighted by Romantic literature, the mountains are about to open their hearts to man. Under the lyrical pen of the great writers, the mountains shine and shine. A new era begins in the celestial kingdom. After exploring the genesis of Alpine stories, in this second instalment I take you on a tour of the Alps in literature during the golden age of Romanticism. The Alps in literature: the golden age of Romanticism In the 19th century, the Romantic movement took off. From a threatening realm, the Alps became the place ...
Alpine locations
La Cabane de Mischabel presentation of an exceptional Valais refuge
On the heights of Saas Fee lies an unrivalled refuge. The Mischabelhütte honors the grandeur of the Valais Alps and invites you to escape to alpine horizons. I dedicate this article to Maria Anthamatten, who looked after the hut for 14 years. During these years, her warm welcome breathed life and dynamism into the hut. I wish her all the best for her future adventures. Mischabel hut: a treasure trove of Saas Fee in the Swiss Alps In the shadow of the Valais Alps and their glittering glaciers, Mischabelhütte stands in the middle ...