Starting
spontaneously is not
goalless. Proper
organisation and
panning of the route,
as well as having the
correct gear, are essential components
of each trip. But I always like to keep a
bit of uncertainty in the mix. This is,
after all, what makes physical activities
challenging. Overcoming these
challenges is the goal.
Switzerland has many stunning mountain
lakes. Some are easy to reach by bike,
others only via an exhausting climb.
Depending on how much time I have and
how motivated I feel, I will either plan a
short tour or a longer hike stretching across
a couple of days. There are many
possibilities with different degrees of
difficulty close together – something for
everyone.
I would recommend starting with an easier
route for those coming to the area for the
first time. The weight of an inflatable SUP
on your back is not something to
underestimate. If you also take gear to
sleep over somewhere on the way, that
additional luggage can easily weigh more
than 20 kilos. So after the first three hours
walking, or biking, the load of backpacks will
take its toll on bodies.
Often hiking or biking with my girlfriend we
save weight by only taking one inflatable
SUP with us. Like that we can split other
gear into three bags and share the board for
paddling once at the lake. Sometimes we
stay over in one of the abundant mountain
huts found close to the water. If you want a
bit of normality on your tour, this is a good
option – nothing wrong with a comfortable
night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast.
Personally I prefer the uncertain and
unsettled. That´s why I like to sleep under
the stars or in a small tent which I carry
with me. You have to consider that it gets
really cold at night, even in the summer.
Long trousers and shirts are absolutely
necessary – even when daytime
temperatures are around 30 degrees. I once
made the mistake of starting a tour only
with one pair of shorts and tee. I fell in the
water and did not have spare clothing with
me. Luckily I did have a warm sleeping bag.
But it was still chilly during the night. Since
then I would rather save weight in other
areas.
43
s
t
a
n d
u
p
p
a d
d
l
e
m
a
g
u
k