If you’re looking for a thrilling winter experience that combines tradition with excitement, look no further than the velogemel, Switzerland’s unique snow bike. Originating in the charming village of Grindelwald in 1911, this fascinating invention offers a one-of-a-kind way to navigate snowy terrain. The velogemel is a wooden contraption that’s part bicycle, part sled, and part ski. It features a wooden frame with two runners instead of wheels, and a handlebar for steering. The name itself is a combination of “velo,” the French word for bicycle, and “gemel,” which means sled in the local dialect.
Learning to Ride: Balance and Technique
To ride a velogemel, start by finding your balance. Sit upright on the seat and use your legs for stability, much like you would on a balance bike. Don’t worry if you wobble at first – it’s all part of the learning process. As one guide reassuringly said, “If you can ride a bike, then it’s easy”.
Once you’re comfortable, point your velogemel downhill and let gravity do its work. You’ll quickly discover the thrill of gliding over snow-covered terrain. To control your speed, simply drag your feet on the snow. For turning, lean into the direction you want to go and use your inside foot to brake around corners.
Key Riding Challenges
One of the most important things to remember is that unlike a regular bicycle, the velogemel doesn’t have brakes. This means you’ll need to rely on your feet and body positioning to control your speed and direction. It might feel a bit daunting at first, but with a little practice, you’ll soon be zipping down the slopes with confidence.
The Perfect Velogemel Experience
The best place to experience velogemel riding is in its birthplace, Grindelwald where you can see people riding velogemels on all the sledding tracks around. With over 70km of sledding tracks it is a fantastic place to give this snow activity a try if you are into fun, quirky or even historical things. A popular route is the 5km section starting from Bussalp, which offers a mix of thrilling descents and beautiful Alpine scenery.
A great way is taking a velogemel tour followed by a Swiss traditional cheese fondue combining two unique Swiss cultural items in one wonderful winter day. For more info read on about this experience here.
Enjoying the Alpine Landscape
As you ride, you’ll notice how the velogemel allows you to enjoy the stunning views and panoramas of the Swiss Alps. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the winter landscape, combining the excitement of sledding with the upright posture of cycling.
Keep in mind that while the velogemel is generally suitable for everyone, it can be a bit bumpy. The lack of suspension means you’ll feel every contour of the snow beneath you. Some experienced riders recommend wearing padded cycling shorts for added comfort during longer rides.
A Unique Winter Adventure
Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking for a unique winter activity, riding a velogemel offers an unforgettable way to experience Swiss winter culture. So next time you’re in the Grindelwald area, don’t miss the chance to try this fascinating snow bike. Who knows? You might even find yourself participating in the annual Velogemel World Championships, held in Grindelwald every February since 1996.
Cultural & historical Significance
Remember, the velogemel is more than just a quirky winter sport – it’s a piece of Swiss history and ingenuity. By riding one, you’re not only having fun but also participating in a century-old tradition that’s unique to this corner of the Alps. So bundle up, hop on, and prepare for a snow adventure like no other!
Just like they did back in the day….
