November in Switzerland: dark outside, light on the weekends

In the Netherlands, November is often the month when the light seems to disappear... you go to work in the dark and come home after dark. The days are also getting shorter and the air colder in Switzerland, but there is something special here in November: it's the transition from autumn to winter. While the trees are still in warm autumn colors in the valleys, the first lifts open at the top of the mountains. And on the weekend? Then there is more than enough to experience.

‍

The first ski resorts open their doors

Winter is around the corner! The first Swiss ski resorts will open their slopes in November. Perfect for those who can't wait to get back on their feet again.

‍

Three recommendations to start the season:

‍

Engelberg Titlis (Central Switzerland)

Often open from the beginning of November, with guaranteed snow thanks to the glacier and a beautiful view of the Urn Alps. Check the current info

‍

Saas Fee (Valais)

A classic! The glacier provides excellent conditions, and the village exudes a winter vibe even before the winter has really started. Discover Saas Fee

‍

Davos Parsenn (Graubunden)

One of the first non-glacial areas to open, often with a few slopes at the weekend for those who want to get a taste of the season. Check out the options

‍

Hint: Always check the current opening dates and snow conditions on the ski resort websites, which may vary from year to year.

‍

Walking in November: autumn below, snow above

Although the ski season starts, November is also another wonderful month for hiking. It is often surprisingly beautiful in the lower valleys, and the combination of autumn colors with snowy peaks is unique.

‍

Three practical tips for November hikes:

‍

Check out the webcams
This way, you can immediately see whether the area where you want to walk is still free of snow, or whether the trails are already white. This prevents surprises on the spot. Watch webcams throughout Switzerland

‍

Check out the weather in Ticino
In southern Switzerland, it is often about 10 degrees warmer than in the rest of the country. Ideal if you want to enjoy the sun and mild temperatures for a while. Check the weather in Ticino

‍

Search Instagram for recent photos
Using hashtags or locations, you can often see what the conditions are there now, useful for knowing whether the path is easy to walk on.

‍

Cosy markets and November events

In addition to nature, November is also a month of fun. The first winter markets open their doors, often with local products and a lot of atmosphere.

‍

Three ideas to make it a warm weekend:

‍

Zibelemärit in Bern, Monday, November 24

An ancient tradition with thousands of onion garlands and local delicacies. This folk festival attracts tens of thousands of visitors who have been strolling through the Bernese Altstadt since 4 a.m. Expect over 200 stalls, swiebelkuchen, mulled wine and even a confetti battle at 4 p.m.! More info about the Zibelemärit

‍

World Cheese Awards in Bern, November 13-15

First time in Switzerland! Bern will be the “Capital of Cheese” for three days with an international cheese event, a Swiss Fine Food Market and numerous side events for cheese lovers. Discover the cheese event

‍

First Christmas markets from the end of November

The first Christmas markets open their doors in Zurich, Lucerne and Lugano. Perfect for a mulled wine after work and to get into the Christmas spirit.

‍

Bonus tip: European Outdoor Film Tour

From the end of November to the beginning of January, the European Outdoor Film Tour will tour Switzerland. Two hours of adventure, extreme sports, and inspiring stories, from Alaska to Swiss peaks. Check the dates

‍

Lastly

Whether you're looking for the first snow, want to enjoy the autumn colors for a while, or prefer a hot mulled wine at a market... November in Switzerland offers a surprising amount to look forward to in the dark days. All of this can be your new life.

‍

Join the takeoff community

‍