Where to Ski And Snowboard - Could you build a prize-winning igloo?

Could you build a prize-winning igloo?

20th February 2015, by Abi Butcher

A unique igloo-building competition takes place in the ski resort of Adelboden in March

A unique competition takes place in the Swiss ski resort of Adelboden next month — igloo building.

The resort, which shares a ski area with nearby Lenk, will host its annual Igloo Festival on 14 and 15 March on the Engstligenalp, at 2,360m the highest peak in the ski area. Would-be igloo builders are invited to go along to compete to build the best dwelling out of ice.

Ski passes for Adelboden-Lenk, entry for the adventure park (for summer zip wires, high wires, abseiling etc like Go Ape…), outdoor clothing from Sherpa and fondue dinner in the fondue igloo at Engstligenalp are all up for grabs for the best igloo.

And you don’t have to be a professional builder to take part. All the tools of the trade will be provided — spades and snow saws — as well as instruction and advice from experts at the Alpine School in Adelboden.

There are two levels of entry. Teams can either opt for self catering and pay CHF89 (approx £58) per person for a lift pass up to Engstligenalp, a welcome pack, instructions, equipment use and a night cap, plus of course the joy of competing, but they must take their own cooking utensils and food with them to make their own meals. Alternatively, teams can select the luxury (read soft) option and pay CHF149 (approx £97) per person for a lift pass up to Engstligenalp, a welcome pack, instructions, equipment use, a night cap and the joy of competing, plus have lunch, dinner and breakfast provided – inside in a warm mountain hut! 

Igloo builders need not have experience to take part!

The competition starts at 9am on Saturday 14 March and work on the igloo must be complete by 5pm, ready to be judged, with prizes being awarded for creativity, architectural aesthetic, safety and functionality.

Once the serious business is complete, the village comes alive to the sound of sunset drinks, then it’s time for the builders to hunker down in their newly-made homes, before a hearty cooked breakfast in the morning.

For more information, visit adelboden.ch