What an Adventure: Galtres District Scouts at Kandersteg
It feels like an age since the early morning load-up of the coach, and even longer since this trip was first launched. After countless hours of planning, meetings, hundreds of phone calls, and thousands of emails over the past two years, it all finally came together when the passports were collected for departure. It was all worth it – because what followed were days that will rank among the best in many of their lives.
The group packed so much into this adventure, and the young people were simply amazing. The leader team was fantastic, and though things never go exactly to plan, everyone’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges meant that no opportunity was lost.
The first day was spent settling into camp and getting oriented. The Kandersteg veterans quickly showed the newer Scouts around the site and village, with many opting to relax in the lovely outdoor pool that afternoon. It was a relatively quiet day to recover from the long journey and prepare for the busy week ahead.
Day two began with everyone in full uniform, ready for the international flag break and games morning. The Galtres District Scouts jumped right in, with Daniel Bliss volunteering to recite the Scout Promise in front of hundreds of Scouts. After the ceremony, the camp staff – known as the ‘Pinkies’ – led mass games, mixing groups from the UK, Denmark, Portugal, the Netherlands, Germany, Catalunya, Ireland, Poland, and more. It’s always inspiring to see Scouts from different cultures and languages, of all ages, working together. If only the rest of the world did this!
The games ended with Arwen, on her first big trip and only 10 years old, emerging as the overall Rock, Paper, Scissors champion. Several others eagerly volunteered to tackle the Human Rope Bridge. From here, the group split for the first time: half stayed for the sports afternoon, while the other half hiked to the Gfellalp mountain hut for an overnight stay.
Gfellalp sits at an elevation of 1,847 metres. It’s a steep climb to reach its isolated location, but the effort of climbing from the Gasternal Valley floor through the trees beside cascading waterfalls was more than worth it. After dropping their rucksacks, the group continued 200 metres further to a stunning mountain pasture, surrounded by wildflowers, waterfalls, and a view of the glacier. That evening, they enjoyed dinner on the hut’s balcony, gazing at the starry sky with the soothing sounds of waterfalls and cowbells in the distance.
The next morning, the groups switched. The first group headed back down to take the cable car to their rock climbing activity, while the second group hiked up the valley, enjoying wild raspberries and strawberries along the way. Crossing the Kander River via a wobbly rope bridge was an experience in itself, followed by another hike to the hut and a night spent watching a lightning storm light up the sky.
Back in camp, group one took on crate stacking and team challenges, while group two made their way down the mountain. A friendly competition arose as Arwen set the record at 14 crates, only to be bested by Emilia with 19, Arwen again at 18, and finally Amy with a remarkable 24. Balancing on a tower of 24 crates – about 8 meters high – takes no small amount of bravery!
The activities continued over the next few days with Jacob’s Ladder, climbing, zip lines, and the highly anticipated mountain tubing. Hurtling down the slopes was a thrilling mix of terror and excitement! In the evenings, the Scouts had time to explore the picturesque village and take part in the Kander Challenge, this year focused on sustainable development.
One of the highlights was a day trip to Brigerbad thermal pools, where the Scouts spent hours on the water obstacle course, slides, lazy river, and soaking up the sun. That night, they gathered for the International Campfire. Over 1,000 Scouts sang, danced, and celebrated together in a powerful display of solidarity and shared values. Georgia, along with a group of Galtres District Scouts, confidently led a song on stage, and the evening ended with a moving rendition of “Kum By Yah.” It’s moments like this that bring tears to the eyes – young people from around the world coming together in friendship and peace.
The final day saw the Scouts take a cable car to Oeschinensee, where, despite the drizzle and mist, many bravely swam in the mountain lake. Afterward, they enjoyed pizza in the village before packing up and beginning the long journey home.
Reflecting on the week, it was clear that everyone had an incredible time. The Scouts embraced the full and demanding programme with good humour and enthusiasm. They cooked, cleaned, washed up after 1,200 meals, sorted recycling, and ran errands, all while making new friends and supporting one another. They learned what it truly means to be a Scout – kind, confident, capable, and considerate. The leaders couldn’t be prouder of them all.
The leader team was also humbled by the dedication of those working behind the scenes, like Kyle Valley’s treasurer, Dorothy. They worked hard, but had an absolute blast. These trips are some of the best weeks of their lives, and they love every moment of being Scouts.
As Kandersteg moves into its second century, it’s heartening to see that Scouting is as relevant and valuable today as Baden Powell knew it would be. A big thank you to all the parents for trusting the team with your children, for your support, and for your lovely feedback.
Kevin Wilson – Event Leader, Galtres District Scouts
