There’s something about the pure thrill of being surrounded by refreshing alpine air, snowy peaks and the magical grandeur of nature. The Alps in particular have a special place in my heart. There is nowhere else in the world that feels winter is so perfect. There is no village, steamed mug of hot chocolate, no promise of adventures at any bend.
That said, when I tore through the ACL, my relationship with skis deteriorated. One bad fall, a sharp pain, and like that, my skiing day is over. Yes, I know I could give it a try again, but I also broke the ankle and leglock climb so I decided to cool it down. But if there is one thing that hurt has taught me, it is that there are multiple ways to enjoy the mountains. And that’s when I really discovered sleds and toboggans, as I’m called in Europe. Trust me, it’s as fun as skiing without the risk of visiting a hospital (well, almost).
Europe has the best sledding in the world, many of which are just as thrilling as ski slopes. Whether you’re looking for a fast descent on the Mountain Pass or a leisurely ride through the snowy forest, there’s a perfect ride for everyone. Unlike skiing, sleds are much more budget-friendly and an accessible way to enjoy the mountains without a large lift ticket price.
My favourite place for sledge:
- Grindelwald, Switzerland
- Blanberg, Austria
- Wildkogel Toboggan Run – 14 km from Wildkogelbahn Lift, the longest flood run
- Courche Belmoriod, France
- Courtevel Moriond Racing – 3.2 km from Ariondaz Lift
- Courtevel 1850, France
- From Courtevel 1850 to Courtevel Village – 2km, at night, you may lift most directly from Granget, or you may lift the Tovet too
- Merribel Center
- Mission Black Forest – 3.4 km, from Tougnete 1 lift
- les menuires
- Roc’n’bob – 4 km from ROC 1 lift
- La Mine – Summer coaster (operated in winter), 1 km
- Val Torrence, France
- cosmojet – 6 km, VT13 Funitel Peclet Lift – Usually 10-16:00, but you can book until 18:00
- Balmorel, France
- Grey – 2.4 km, Doucy’s Combelouvière Hearlift
- Mountain Cart – Pierre Fall Cable Car in Valmorel Village
- Wilderkaiser, Austria
- Rodelbahn Astberg To go, 3.2 km
- Zillertal, Austria
- Spieljoch – 5.5km
- Lady Bret,Switzerland
- A 7km sleigh runs at Alpes Vaudoises
- Switzerland, GSTAAD
- Multiple tons, my favourite is Eggli Run, 6.4km
- The Wispile runs 8.2 km
- Rotach Egern, Germany
- Wallberg Toboggan Run – 6.5 km from Wallbergbahn Lift
- Germany, Zugspitze
- Near the Bibsee cable car, 3km away
We recommend packing/wearing for European sleds and winter.
Sleds are one of the best ways to enjoy the mountains without the high cost (or high risk) of skiing. Most runs cost less than 15 euros per ride and include lift tickets and thread rentals. Plus, it’s just pure and unfiltered fun. Whether you’re going to run through a floodlighted track in Austria, win the Swiss Alps with a 10km descent, or test your nerves on the horns, sleds are an unforgettable experience.
If you are planning a winter trip to the Alps, add a sleigh to your itinerary. And if you see me on the slope, I will be the one riding a sleigh.
The place to sleigh in Europe first appeared in Helen during that time.
Source: Helene in Between – heleneinbetween.com
