The 16 January 2027
Wildlife in winter
<p>Join a guided hike to discover animal tracks, learn about the challenges wildlife faces in winter and find out how to enjoy the mountains while respecting its inhabitants.</p>
What happens to wildlife when winter settles over the mountains? Accompanied by wildlife inspector Michel Perreten, explore the surroundings of Château-d’Œx and discover the strategies animals use to survive the colder months. During the hike, you will learn how to identify tracks in the snow and recognise other signs of animal activity. You will also discover why peace and quiet are particularly important at this time of year: being disturbed and forced to flee can cause animals to waste precious energy. Through observations and activities along the way, this outing offers a fascinating insight into the lives of wild animals in winter and shows how outdoor recreation can coexist respectfully with wildlife.
<p><strong>Date and time</strong></p> <p>Saturday 16 January 2027, from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.<br /><strong>Meeting point</strong></p> <p>Château-d’Œx railway station.<br /><strong>Location</strong></p> <p>The hike takes place in the mountains around Château-d’Œx. The route will be adapted according to weather and snow conditions.<br /><strong>Programme</strong></p> <p>Meet at Château-d’Œx railway station at 8:00 am for a short introduction, followed by car sharing to the starting point of the hike. The morning continues with a hike, animal-track observation and various activities. Return at around 12:00 pm.<br /><strong>Age and participants</strong></p> <p>From age 12. Minimum 6 participants and maximum 15 participants.<br /><strong>Level</strong></p> <p>Mountain walking without any particular technical difficulty, with approximately 2 hours of actual walking.<br /><strong>What to bring</strong></p> <p>Bring hiking equipment suitable for winter conditions, a picnic and a drink. In snowy conditions, snowshoes and poles are required. Binoculars may also be useful.<br /><strong>Snowshoe rental</strong></p> <p>Snowshoes can be rented for CHF 10.-. Please mention this when registering.<br /><strong>Price</strong></p> <p>Free activity from age 12.<br /><strong>Optional picnic</strong></p> <p>A picnic featuring Park-certified products can be ordered for CHF 15.-.<br /><strong>Registration</strong></p> <p>Registration is compulsory and must be completed by noon two days before the activity: <a href="mailto:inscriptions@gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch">inscriptions@gruyerepaysdenhaut.ch</a> or +41 (0)26 924 23 33.<br /><strong>Getting there</strong></p> <p>The meeting point is Château-d’Œx railway station, accessible via the MOB Montreux – Gstaad line. Parking is available nearby. Car sharing from Bulle, Montreux or Gstaad can be booked when registering.<br /><strong>Good to know</strong></p> <p>Dogs are not allowed. Participants must inform the organisers of any health issues and bring any medication they may need.</p>