Patrouille des Glaciers

The biennial Patrouille des Glaciers covers 53km by foot and ski along the Swiss-Italian border from Zermatt to Verbier. With over 7000 metres gained and lost along the way, it's the ultimate test for European outdoor enthusiasts.

This international ski-touring race is open to both military and civilian competitors. Mountain experience and a high level of fitness are essential, as is a pack-full of survival equipment to counter potential hazards.

At the start, a phalanx of drummers strikes up an insistent beat, cow bells ring, voices are raised in a crescendo of encouragement and hundreds of three-person patrols sprint through illuminated Zermatt, ski boots thudding on the packed snow. At the beginning of the ascent, arc lights give way to the firefly bobbing of head torches as the participants snake in a flickering line up the mountain. Darkness, freezing temperatures and 70-kilometre winds all lie ahead en route to Verbier.

The blue light of dawn lights up the peaks and a line of racers like black ants on the mountainside. Soldiers in snow holes log skiers' passage on laptops, the odd helicopter buzzes overhead, and the ever-present clang of bells fills the air at checkpoints. Long trudges up treacherous inclines are relieved by exhilarating runs downhill through pristine powder.

Unbelievably, the fastest teams complete the course in just 6 hours, descending into Verbier to be met by men in uniform, chattering loudspeakers and a well-deserved raucous greeting from the crowd. Although there is a time limit, others can take around 20 hours. The sense of achievement is no less, and there's no doubt that if you finish, you've earned your reception.

Related Information

Website: Patrouille des Glaciers Website