International Summer camp 2021 – Switzerland
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3 Age Groups
The age groups enable summer campers to find friends of a similar age from different countries and to learn a little about other cultures in our international summer camp.
More info &Typical week Discoveries
Our Discovery summer camp is designed for our youngest summer campers and provides an ideal first camp experience. Our dedicated staff in this age group offer sensitive guidance and clear structure to nurture the development of the children. We maintain small group sizes for this age group and a challenging range of activities to suit even the sportiest of youngsters.
Discovery Summer Camp Activities
Here's a sample of the things we do; rock climbing, mountain biking, treasure hunts, mini-Olympics, nature hikes, team building, mini-golf, kayaking, paddleboarding, orienteering workshops, tennis, football, banana boating, swimming, table tennis, Labyrinth Adventure park, art classes, cooking workshops, sports day and many more…
Babysitting
Our experienced staff will manage the activities for the summer camp and some of the staff will also be responsible for the pastoral care of the group. Ensuring the well being and happiness of the summer campers throughout their stay and helping them to manage being away from home. For our younger summer campers we monitor students in brushing their teeth, tidying their belongings, separating their clean and dirty clothes, filling their laundry bags, brushing their hair, showering regularly, keeping in regular contact with their parents each evening and even budgeting their pocket money.
Discovery Star Chart
To encourage students at the summer camp to become more independent and to begin to think about managing their belongings and how they approach new activities and new experiences we use to earn your Star Chart. An award system that encourages students to work together and be more confident throughout their time with us to collect stars for their team. It is a fun way to encourage good behavior and a good attitude, especially for our youngest summer campers.
It is an exciting experience being away from home for the first time and, with our discovery summer camp staff, your children are in the best of hands!
More info & Typical week Explorers
For our slightly older and more experienced summer campers we offer a challenging and interactive programme of summer camp activities. In the Explorer group, students are expected to become much more independent and to be prepared to step out of their comfort zones.
Explorer International Summer Camp Activities
Rock climbing, mountain biking, trotinettes, mini-Olympics, nature hike, team building, mini-golf, kayaking, paddle boarding, orienteering workshops, tubing, tennis, football, banana boating, swimming, table tennis, wakeboarding, sports day and many more summer camp activities…
Red & Green Cards
To reflect the maturity of our older groups at the international summer camp, parents can opt for students older than 13 years old to have permission to visit the village with their friends at set times of the day. This is an opportunity that allows them to develop some responsibility and independence during their stay at the summer camp.
More info & Typical week Pioneers
Our most challenging summer camp programme recognises the need for these older students to try new things and to push their boundaries. This summer camp programme is packed with exhilarating activities on the lake and even a final ‘leap-of-faith’ activity to round up the session on a high note!
Our Pioneers are a vibrant and energetic group, many of whom are preparing for being away from home in a couple of years at college or university and it is such a valuable experience for them to spend their summer at the camp standing on their own two feet and making decisions for themselves.
Red & Green Cards
To reflect the maturity of our older groups at the summer camp, parents can opt for members of the Explorer and Pioneer groups to have had permission to visit the village with their friends at set times of the day. This is an opportunity that allows summer campers to develop some responsibility and independence during their stay at the summer camp.
Our core SUMMER CAMP activities include rock climbing,
mountaineering & orienteering, paddle sports and mountain biking and each course offers sUMMER CAMP students the opportunity to learn new skills..
MOUNTAIN ACTIVITIES
Professional mountain guides supervise this summer camp activity. On the climbing wall and natural rock...
Mountain Activities
Les Elfes international summer Camp ensures active participation, a very broad choice of exciting summer camp activities and a high degree of learning in a fun and very international summer camp environment, all by guaranteeing maximum safety through our caring & experienced staff. Summer campers will return home with great experiences, fantastic memories and lifelong friendships.
The mountain summer camp activities proposed include:
Mountain biking
Mountain biking in the Alps and particularly Verbier mountain biking provides you with thrilling downhills, natural single tracks (for all levels). The downhill trail and the hundreds of kilometers of cross-country provide endless summer camp opportunities to explore some of the most spectacular scenery in the Alps. From challenging to leisurely, there’s plenty of mountain biking that is suitable for our summer campers who want to discover Verbier and its surrounding villages without having to furiously pedal uphill or kit up in full body armor.
Rock climbing session
Professional summer camp mountain guides supervise this activity.
On the climbing wall at a natural rock, which has varying difficulty levels, our summer camp instructor ensures that all summer campers make good progress and gain confidence in the safest conditions. Summer campers will learn different skills and progress from one age group to another.
Ropes course
Our campers will go with their summer camp counselors to the rope course in Sion. It’s always an exciting day. This summer camp activity is a high forest adventure of rope bridges, tarzan swings and zip-lines, all set high up in the tree tops. Summer campers will be fitted by professional experts with a climbing harness and supervised during the whole time of this summer camp activity.
Hiking
Summer campers go on the marked trails with our trained counselors. In the Verbier area, 950 km of footpaths are waiting to take summer campers to the heart of nature. Each summer camp skill level is welcome to go hiking.
Summer campers will discover colorful and impressive landscapes, massive water dams, natural mountain lakes, wild forests, traditional villages and nature reserves. Exceptional view of the treasures of the Alps guaranteed! Maybe, visitors at the summer camp will even get a glimpse at Swiss wildlife, such as the marmot or the chamois, an excellent climber in high altitude.
2 Days Hiking Trip
During the first week of each summer camp session, all our summer campers will leave for a 2-day hiking trip and spend a night in the mountain. Discoverers and Explorers will sleep in traditional mountain huts while Pioneers will do summer camping in the wilderness. This is just a perfect way to discover the Swiss Alps and to enjoy stunning views and nature. During the evening, visitors at the summer camp enjoy a relaxing atmosphere around the campfire!
Mountain Activities
LAKE ACTIVITIES
With our summer camp boat on Lake Geneva you can enjoy; swimming, sailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, banana boat....
Lake Activities
When the sun is shining and the kids need to cool off, it is no surprise that the most popular summer camp activities we offer at the Leselfes international summer camp are our water sports, with a multitude of different options here outlines what is on offer. Next to our campus in Verbier the sports centre has a fantastic outdoor pool with diving boards and water slides, a little further afield our boats provide hours of fun on the idyllic waters of Lac Leman.
Swimming
An indoor and outdoor swimming pool with a big garden to relax is located next to the campus (2 minute walk) within the summer camp.
Each day, kids at the summer camp can choose to spend a few hours at the pool, with diving boards and new to 2020 water slides, a great location to mingle with staff and friends and cool off in the afternoon heat. Surrounded by mountains and only 100 meters from the campus, kids can grab an ice cream, enjoy the view, learn some new skills and enjoy. Swimming is also offered each time we head down to the lake and some kids at the summer camp will have the chance to swim up in the Cabanas at Tanay. For those, we who wish structured swimming lessons, simply request upon registration and we can make it all possible.
Water Skiing
So popular and a lot of fun, kids can water ski with our boat down in Bouveret, not the easiest of summer camp sports but really exciting. Even if it's the first time or you are a pro all are welcome to try and give it a go.
Wakeboard
So many of our international summer camp staff are snowboard instructors, and wakeboarding is as popular with these guys as with the kids. Wakeboarding is indeed a challenge, but once you have the hang of it can provide hours of summer camp fun, even though afterward your arms can be a little sore!
Tubing
Certainly the most adrenaline-filled summer camp activity on the lake, the kids are pulled at high speed behind our speed boat whilst sat in their tubes ( think inflatable doughnut ) two at a time, once the tube zips over the wake of the boat, the tubes are thrown into the air usually resulting in a very wet happy summer camper! Not to be missed.
Banana boat
With up to 8 summer camp kids on the large bananas, the drivers do their best to give the kids ascetic experience on the lake, and make sure the kids fall into the lake of course! Kids at the summer camp will get many goes at this and it always a challenge getting them off!
All our water sports are so popular, and our philosophy at the international summer camp as with all our activities is for everyone to take part. We understand that not all the kids are expert swimmers and may even be a little nervous around the water, our dedicated team of summer camp staff are on hand to teach and make sure everyone has a safe enjoyable experience.
Lake Activities
Optional SUMMER CAMP courses & private lessons
In addition, kids at the summer camp can choose between several clubs, which they can attend during the session.
Optional Courses & Private Lessons
Summer Camp goers can book additional private lessons on top of the basic sports program. These include the following.
Tennis
Practice, private summer camp lessons and tournaments on the tennis courts directly next to our campus (2 minutes walk).
Kids at the summer camp can book additional private lessons on top of the basic sports program. Please contact us for extra tennis lessons.
Golf
Kids at the summer camp play on an 18 hole course at an altitude of 1500m with stunning 306-degree views of the mountains. There is also a private practice area, driving range and an approach (pitch & putt) golf course. Our professional golf instructors will coach players of all levels during our sports day or during private lessons.
Horseback riding
Summer camp goers ride with a professional instructor. They are taught how to prepare a horse before they ride, the proper positioning on a horse, how to walk, trot and gallop. Kids at the summer camp will be instructed to wear shoes with a heel and long pants while riding.
Paragliding
Kids at the summer camp fly with a professional pilot on a tandem flight. They receive a helmet and a harness which they must wear while flying. They must wear appropriate shoes and warm clothes during this exciting summer camp activity.
Optional Courses & Private Lessons
GENERAL SUMMER CAMP ACTIVITIES
There are of course lots of other general summer camp activities like mountain biking, ropes course, rock climbing, camping, hiking, & 2 days hiking trip.
General Activities
The general summer camp activities proposed include:
Arts & Crafts
In addition, kids at the summer camp can choose between several art clubs, which they will attend during the session. At the end of the summer camp session we all join together and present what we learnt! We will do vast amounts of different aspects of arts and crafts. Each time a child attends those summer camp clubs we will give them a chance to expand their artistic side. The main aim of those summer camp clubs is to give a new and fun aspect to arts and crafts while involving environmental and cultural aspects.
Social Summer Camp Activities
Billard, trampoline, card games, music instruments, drama, campfires, picnic, bbq, boat trips, disco, talent show, photography at the campus, shopping in Verbier, Geneva, Italy during excursions.
Ball Summer Camp Sports
We propose all kinds of different ball sports: tennis, golf, minigolf, football, volleyball, beach volleyball, basketball (streetball), table tennis, squash, badminton, pétanque.
Tennis
Practice, private summer camp lessons and tournaments on the tennis courts directly next to our campus (2 minutes walk).
Kids at the camp can book additional private lessons on top of the basic sports program. Please contact us for extra tennis lessons.
Golf
We organize golf lessons with a professional golf teacher who teaches our kids a the summer camp the basics of golf.
Mini-Golf
There is 18 holes that kids at the summer camp can play on. There is a monitor who supervises this activity.
Volleyball
1 volleyball court on the grounds around les Elfes summer camp. There is a monitor who supervises this activity.
Basketball
1 basketball court on the grounds around Les Elfes camp. There is a monitor who supervises this activity.
Football
1 football field on the grounds around Les Elfes camp. There is a monitor who supervises this activity.
Badminton
1 badminton court on the grounds around Les Elfes camp. There is a monitor who supervises this activity.
Petanque
Les Elfes summer camp has a petanque playing area. There is a monitor who supervises this activity.
Trampoline
Les Elfes summer camp has a trampoline on the grounds. There is a monitor who supervises this activity.
Squash
We play squash at the sports center. There is a teacher who teaches this summer camp activity.
General Activities
Each year we introduce new enrichment workshops into our SUMMER CAMP programs.
We offer our campers a solid foundation for personal development by engaging them into public speaking and various team SUMMER CAMP building activities.
Arts/Cooking/Theatre
Cooking course
This summer camp course is a great way for students to develop or learn camp skills and talents they already have or wish to unlock. In Verbier, we have a fantastic stimulating summer camp setting and backdrop for any young budding artist; our workshops will nurture the creativity and skills of our young rising future chefs, artists and actors.
The Training Team
The students at the summer camp will be learning from leading professional individuals. We have established close links to popular chefs and artists who are outstanding in their fields and who will provide a fun atmosphere with great results.
What you will learn
How to develop a summer camp menu and prepare food cleanly and food presentation, as well as cooking what your menu entails.
Theatre
Script Writing and Direction, Expression and Emotions, Mixed Media Art, Applied Arts and Theatre in Marketing.
Arts
Small scale sculpting techniques, Painting, Drawing, Outdoor Arts, Canvas Painting and Studio Workshops
Certificates
A certificate of completion will be handed out at the end of the summer camp session.
Etiquette & Table Manners
At Les Elfes international summer camp, we have high expectations for our students and we endeavour to enable them to achieve the most from their time with us. An important part of the camp experience we offer is the ‘family’ atmosphere that we have in our summer camp. We offer different summer camp programmes for each age group but the way the groups are combined during meals and some summer camp activities means that all of our students, regardless of their age group, are part of a bigger supportive team who look after one-another and share their stories together at the end of the day. Unsurprisingly, for many students this is a new environment, and simply being away from home and part of a larger group is a new concept, with many being out of their own culture and country. As a result, we are proud to have conceptualized etiquette classes at Les Elfes international summer camp. Understanding how to feel self-assured, and confident in a range of environments especially away from parents in a new part of the world is something we feel many of our students can benefit.
Our Etiquette course is run once per session, and typically will be around 6 hours long, and is divided into two sections.
In collaboration with
Verbier, a luxury 5 Star Hotel in Verbier with a simply stunning gourmet restaurant.
Students will spend time learning and putting into practice common European customs, such as sitting correctly, manners at the table, table setting, silverware settings, dining etiquette, interacting with wait staff and much more. Although many of us take these topics for granted, for some it can be quite daunting, but with our help and guidance, we believe students will approach these situations with a new found confidence and enthusiasm.
They will learn proper table manners, manners at home, manners when out and about, honesty, integrity including role-playing and exercises, multimedia materials, and comprehensive lesson plans so students learn the value of proper behavior, self-respect, and self-confidence all while having fun.
Manners cost nothing as the saying goes, and more than ever children are tested, graded, and assessed. Manners and decorum into today's world of social media informality are becoming increasingly important. Students will learn the value of proper behavior, the power of pleasing and thank you, public manners, talking to adults, eye contact, standing tall and making small talk. With our fun interactive class, student will carry out role-playing scenarios where they can present their best side and make the most of the summer camp opportunities that come their way.
Being prepared for success in the global economy of the 21st century in a variety of situations is crucial, with this fun, interactive course; students can develop important skills, manners, become more accommodating to others while being impressionable for all the right reasons.
Within our etiquette classes, students will become familiar with understanding decorum in formal and less formal scenarios and how to present oneself in a range of environments. Perfect for students who are stepping into a new arena such as university overseas. With our fun approach, our classes will best prepare students on how to conduct themselves in a confident and comfortable manner, or how to best tackle an interview or even to host a dinner party!
We focus on dining etiquette, first and last impressions and European etiquette for dealing with a range of social encounters.
Interview technique, entering and leaving a conversation gracefully and strategies for managing difficult interactions or finishing the dreaded conversation with the person who never seems to stop talking!
Leadership Training program
Learning and Fun in a Unique Format
Les Elfes has an outstanding, unique, and fun-filled leadership training program. It’s tailored to teach learners time management skills, and enrich them with essential strategies to manage themselves and others beyond the winning margin.
Learners will at the end of the program become experts in three fundamental categories. These are: setting targets, making assessments, and identifying preferences. You can incorporate these skills in your day to day life, studies, sports, and friendships.
Our leadership projects are designed to reach an extensive scope within a spectrum of guidelines in the field.
The program comprises of a 2 to 3-hour support session structured to tackle various matters such as team building, communication skills, and stress management.
There’s also the 1 to 2 weeks residential training that incorporates the comprehensive spectrum of Les Elfes personal development and leadership programs.
Resources for these programs comprise of puzzles and games. These are specially designed to eliminate the idea of single learning.
It allows learners to put their skills into practice in a supportive and secure environment. The learners are then supervised through rational and reflective procedures to evaluate experiences from a different perspective.
Our most treasured resource is our natural surroundings. Our newly launched residential leadership courses are executed within a natural environment as much as possible. This plays a major role in engrossing learners in the setting which intensifies the meaning.
The training team
We collaborate with experienced professionals who enhance your skills in a fun and engaging manner.
The training team has in the past few years had the opportunity and privilege to interact with diverse organizations, teams, and people from captains of industry to young management trainees across the world.
They have also collaborated with middle and high school students sourced from ranking schools from different parts of the world and professional athletes.
What you will learn
Some of the things you will learn during this program include: making choices, setting goals, tips to help you optimize your goals, prioritizing, performance, and effective time management skills. These learning objectives are affiliated to sports, school, and day to day life.
Games and Challenges
You will be exposed to fun and exciting mini-challenges, interactive strategy, and tools presentations, original group games, assessment and feedback after each learning module and games, some of the famous games that we play include the airplane game, the navy game, and the pyramid which students from different parts of the world love.
You will learn and gain skills in:
Utilizing tools such as goal setting, stress, and time management to help you control your behavior while responding to different situations.
You’ll be able to illustrate the impact of your choices on your accomplishments in school, relationships with others, and your achievements in the workplace and community.
- Determining the effective use of these tools to regulate your behavior in challenging circumstances such as work overload in your community and school. For instance, you may be struggling to understand how to create a balance between home responsibilities, part-time jobs, and school.
- Setting productive and specific goals capable of motivating you and understanding how to accomplish the goal.
- Executing choices effectively through the use of the Eisenhower Matrix and displaying excellence in implementing your priorities and those of other people.
- Developing your performance by creating a balance between planning, implementation, and assessment, and taking action on possible areas that can be enhanced.
Certificates and Personal Action Plan
After this exclusive training event is over, you will acquire a personal certificate of participation. If you're interested, you can discuss your vision with your mentors in school and parents.
“This represents one of the first times I was delighted to discuss communication skills. What’s more, I uncovered some of my abilities and had fun. I was not aware that people find me funny, focused, and creative. I also didn’t have an idea of how I can incorporate these skills into a possible future career. My friends and I are interested in playing The Pyramid Game again next year and we plan to win.”
“The training was instrumental in helping me to develop my results. I later passed by IB examination with 34 points in 6 months. The team challenged me at the opportune time and encouraged me to be the best I can. Thank you. It was such an honor and privilege to participate in this program and I don’t take it for granted.”
Swiss Watch making workshop
This unique experience will allow students to discover the thrill of getting a mechanical watch to tick. Students will also have the opportunity to visit a famous Swiss Watch manufacturer’s factory, a great insight into a true Swiss art!
Who could explain what makes a Swiss mechanical watch so special?
Les Elfes offers an exclusive one-day Swiss watchmaking experience. The workshop immerses students into the fascinating universe of Haute Horlogerie. From gears and springs to the escapement and balance wheels, students will have the rare opportunity to take apart and re-assemble every component of a UNITAS 6497-1. This movement was created in 1950 and is still widely used today. This unique experience will allow students to discover the thrill of getting a mechanical watch to tick again.
The training team
Students will be coached by experienced watchmakers who build and repair Swiss watches for different brands on a daily base. Depending on availability, we always try to integrate a short visit to a famous brand’s manufacture.
Coached by industry professionals, this workshop immerses students into the fascinating universe of Haute Horlogerie. From gears and springs to escapement and balance wheel, students will have the rare opportunity to take apart and re-assemble every component of an ETA movement. This movement has been created in 1950 and is still widely used today.
First aid course
Students will spend a day with a professional First Aider. By the end of the course, the students will be able to understand the key aspects of first aid and have the key information needed to recognize and treat an injury confidently.
From resuscitation to choking, spinal injuries or wounds, a range of scenarios will be carried out. Upon completion, all our first aiders will receive a certificate from World Class Training a recognized member of the Association of First Aiders.
Mountain Fitness
Utilising the stunning settings and outdoor environment in Verbier, Switzerland our day programme is run by professional personal trainers.
The day will include a studio circuit session whereby students will take part and enjoy some high intensity cardio/TRX/spin sessions with music to match. Also included, a high altitude hike incorporating yoga, Par Cours Vita and sessions orientated towards, body strength, body weight circuits and active recovery stretch sessions.
Students will also make there own healthy snacks and lunch, with focus on nutrition education and some recipes for them to take home. It all sounds hard work, but we assure you it is all conducted with a fun approach and there is something for everyone to learn and take home with them.
A Swiss International summer camp with over 40 different outdoor activities, quality language classes and discovery of Switzerland with new friends from all around the world..
MOUNTAIN hut
As part of your Les Elfes International Summer Camp experience, you'll be able to spend overnight somewhere in Switzerland in the mountain huts they have through out the Alps.
Mountain Hut
You may find yourself in a daily language classes, snacking on pizza, salad and quiche for lunch, but then packing your rucksacks for an adventure while you head off into the mountains.
The mountain hut experience is usually done on the second day. This is a great experience and after all of the summer campers have bonded making the rest of the trip that much more memorable.
The Discovery group may go to the Bonatchiesse teepes near Verbier. Some may go to the mountain huts that sprinkle the hillside all around the Valais area, all of Switzerland really. You'll be able to gather around a big campfire and eat lots of marshmellows and smores. You will tell stories and sing camp songs laughing and sharing memories with other summer campers from around the world. The next morning, you will wake up and eat a yummy breakfast of cereal, bread, jam and butter. Then you may build shelters out of wood or explore the area nearby.
Explorers and pioneers may go to Lac Tanay, a beautiful picturesque lake situated an hour away from Verbier. Campers will reach the destination via bus and hike up to the traditional mountain huts in this area. The cabins have rules and will show to students their assigned dormitories. In the summer, it may be very hot, so summer campers can use their pocket money to buy gelato. After, kids may go to the forest to collect firewood to make a big camp fire next to the lake. For dinner they may have a delicious dinner of salad, spagetti bolognase and creme brulee made especially for them by the landlady of the mountain hut. After dinner they may tell ghost stories and even sing songs. If a student know to play a musical instrument he/she may want to bring it along for the singing we do around the summer camp fire. The following day, students might hike up to a stunning waterfall, and have a picnic lunch by the lake and even go swimming in a mountain lake. Some of our summer campers are very adventurous and jump off the high rocks, even do daring things like back flips. After, they may play a big game of capture the flag and then hike back down to the buses to head back to the international summer camp.
Mountain Hut
international day
At Les Elfes international summer camp, we have students from all over the world. Within this international community we feel it is beneficial to international-day recognize the traditions of each other...
International day
At Les Elfes international summer camp, we have students from all over the world. Within this international community we feel it is beneficial to international-day recognize the traditions of each other. It not only gives students the opportunity to celebrate their nation or beliefs, but allows them to bring a little piece of their home culture into the camp.
Also students from other parts of the world will learn and hopefully appreciate the cultures of others. The fabrics of society are made up of many different cultures, and here at Les Elfes international camp we constantly strive to recognize them all, and if it means cooking some traditional dishes, or decorating the chalets accordingly, then we are more than happy to encourage summer campers to do so and will help them along the way.
International Day will involve the students preparing a presentation during their language classes. The presentation will be on where the students are from. The students will have the morning to prepare a large poster, have access to arts and crafts, music and pictures, and will present information on their heritage, culture, beliefs, as well as the fun and cool parts of their countries and cities of origin.
Also the students will give a menu or dishes to the chefs in the days leading up to ID. The chefs will then prepare meals from all over the world, so students on this day will not only present and listen to presentations, but eat and sample the flavours and smells of the Far East, South America, Europe, the Middle East and more.
It is a fantastic opportunity for students to present their culture, do some public speaking, and enjoy the food from each other’s countries.
International day
Language Lessons
Each of our summer camp courses follows a set criteria for levels or language proficiency with detailed certificates...
Language lessons
To ensure we offer the best possible tuition for our students we work in partnership with Verbier Language School to offer specialist summer camp teachers in each language for every course.
Students are grouped according to their language levels with a maximum class size of 7 students per teacher. 3 types of courses, Conversational, Intensive and Private are available in French, English, Spanish and German.
Each of our courses follows a set criteria for levels or language proficiency with detailed certificates and a portfolio of work which students may take away with them.
Conversational Language Course
Our conversation course is a highly interactive course designed to get students speaking in their chosen language. The course consists of 8-hours of tuition per week, typically taught in 4 2-hour sessions.
Intensive Language Course
This course combines speaking with reading and writing and consists of 15-hours of tuition per week. It is ideal for students studying for an exam or wishing to make quick, comprehensive progress in their languages in just 1 week. The course is typically taught in 5 3-hour sessions each morning with activities in the afternoons.
Private Language Course
Our final course is for those students who wish to have one-on-one tuition. This can be added to one of our other courses or chosen alone to allow any number of hours per week. The focus is flexible and it is a great course for students with specific learning objectives.
Language lessons
Excursions
Each of our cultural summer camp excursion days is a little different, with new options each year for those returning campers who are ready to see something new! ...
Excursions
What better way to really appreciate the culture of Switzerland than to dedicate a day to visit some of the most iconic cities and some of the famous organisations.
Each of our cultural excursion days is a little different, with new options each year for those returning campers who are ready to see something new!
Whether it is souvenir shopping that interests you or the science exhibitions of CERN the options are endless. Sample some of the finest Swiss chocolates and cheeses at the factories in Gruyere, learn a little about global cooperation with a guided tour of the United Nations or Swiss Red Cross museum in Geneva, an interactive tour of the Olympic museum in Lausanne the home of the International Olympic Committee, walking inside a glacier at the nearby ice caves in Chamonix, visiting many of the beautiful castles in the area, experience the tranquility of the natural Bains de Lavey hot springs, take a stroll through the winding cobbled high streets of Zurich, see how some of the most exquisite and delicate watches in the world are built and many many more options.
Lausanne
A trip to the Olympic Museum with its wealth of memories will keep your passion for the Olympics burning, followed by a walking tour in the old town to one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe.
Geneva
With its humanitarian tradition and cosmopolitan flair, the European seat of the UNO and headquarters of the Red Cross is known as the “capital of peace”. Visit the old town, the heart of Geneva with its shopping and business quarter.
Bern
The capital of Switzerland – the old town of Bern has been entered on the list of UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites. The Houses of Parliament (Bundeshaus) rise above the city just a stone's throw away from the railway station. Bern and bears, the city’s heraldic beast, are inseparable. When visiting the city we will take a trip to the Bear Pits.
Gruyère, Cheese Factory
The Gruyère region, with its rolling green landscape and peaks of the Fribourg Pre-Alps, is home to the world-famous Gruyère cheese. In the famous cheese factory, you will see how the tasty Gruyère cheese is made and the tour of culinary delights will be followed by a guided tour of the Cailler chocolate factory.
Montreux
Visit the town of Montreux that nestles in the shelter of Lake Geneva, surrounded by vineyards, with the breathtaking backdrop of the snow-covered Alps, followed by a visit to Château de Chillon. We also visit the Charlie Chaplin museum.
France
Get a taste of France with a visit to Evian and the famous water factory, with also a walk along the world-famous Lake Geneva.
Italy
Discover the famous Italian city of Aosta, visit the old town and enjoy some Italian shopping.
Every week students can choose among 3 destinations.
alongside our daily adventurous activities, Les Elfes International Summer Camp proposes evening activities and a last day prize giving night.
Afternoon & Evening SUMMER CAMP activities
We offer many summer camp activities including team challenges, quizzes, disco night, games competitions, dine out in a swiss restaurant, Torchlight walk, Camp fire...
Afternoon & Evening Activities
Our evening programmes are tailored to meet the requirements of our students. Our groups participate in an activities programme from 8pm until 9pm and our older groups from 8pm until 9:45pm, with bedtime at 10pm.
We offer many activities including: ice skating, team challenges, quizes, disco night, games competitions,dine out in a swiss restaurant, cinema night, campfires, torchlight walk, mountain BBQ, nightline, bin bag fashion show, dragons’ den and a final prize-giving celebration to finish each week.
Afternoon & Evening Activities
Prize Giving & Certificates
During the last night of summer camp, all of our students will be participating in the prize giving night...
Prize Giving & Certificates
During the last night of camp, all of our students will be participating in the prize-giving night. Since 8 pm, our staff will be rewarding those campers who reached some particular criteria. A slideshow will be accompanying the night and entertain the parents who had the opportunity to participate in the event.
This is also the perfect opportunity to say goodbye to the new friends met and monitors.
In addition to the prizes received, at the end of the evening, every student will be handled the language certificate (if attending the language course) and the activity progression certificate.
Parents are invited to participate in the event.
Prize Giving & Certificates
Summer Camp Activities
Unlike many similar camps over half of our staff are employed for the full year to ensure that the standard of activities we offer is consistently high at all campuses.
Campus
Our two purpose built wood and stone chalets follow the Swiss Alpine tradition and offer charm and comfort to our guests at the summer camp. Both chalets are situated in green, peaceful surroundings....
Campus
Our two purpose built wood and stone chalets follow the Swiss Alpine tradition and offer charm and comfort to our guests. Both chalets are situated in green, peaceful surroundings and only five minutes from the center of Verbier. The girls and boys are separated in each of the two chalets, which are completely equipped for holiday camps :
- A permanently staffed and welcoming reception hall
- Large rooms with two to three beds and ensuite bathrooms
- Two spacious, sunny dining room with an open-planned sitting room
- Open fireplace leading onto a south facing terrace with a barbecue
- A library, games hall, cinema, music room ( or discothèque )
- Conference rooms and internet room
- Professionally equipped kitchens in both buildings
- All equipment for indoor and outdoor games and sports: football field, basketball, volleyball and badminton courts, golf putting/driving range, trampoline, pétanque area and climbing walls
Menu
Les Elfes International Summer Camps offer a large buffet breakfast and a range of varied and exciting lunch and evening meal options. All of our food is prepared using fresh products and the wide-ranging international menus are well balanced, tailored specifically to suit the needs of our students throughout their active programs with us.
Our kitchens cater for all dietary requirements and menus can be personalised to suit the requirements of your group.
With such a busy program of summer camp activities it is likely students will be off-campus for their lunch. For our winter camps in Verbier students will have use of our two, private Les Elfes International Summer camp restaurants on the mountain where they will receive hot fresh meals while they relax after a busy morning of skiing. With our Summer camp programs, we also use these restaurants for stunning, mountain-top BBQs or we provide packed lunches for summer camp activities outside of the resort.
VERBIER CAMPUS
Campus
Location
Verbier with over 450 km of slopes. One of the most popular summer camp resorts in Switzerland. Located at 1500m with lifts up to the Mont-Fort glacier (3300m)...
Locations
Verbier, set in a breathtaking panorama, is one of the most famous resorts in Europe and offers the best in sporting and leisure activities all year round in a cosmopolitan and relaxed atmosphere.
Verbier, a two hours car journey from Geneva airport, is our original home and was purpose built in 1991. Southern facing stone and wooden chalets with a capacity of 146.
Verbier is located in the French part of Switzerland, 1 hour and 45 minutes from Geneva, 2 hours and 45 minutes from Zürich and 30 minutes from the Italian and French borders.
Despite Verbier’s reputation as a leading ski resort in the winter, the summer is packed with festivals, mountain sports and visitors from all over the world.
Each weekend brings a new crowd starting the summer with the Verbier Festival, a prestigious Classical Music Festival, attended by the most esteemed musicians from around the world, to the splendid display of athleticism offered in the Jumping International de Verbier Equestrian events towards the end of August.
Verbier also has many shops and restaurants, from the most informal to the most sophisticated.
Locations
with all material provided by les Elfes INTERNATIONAL SUMMER CAMP, parents don’t need to worry about anything.
Typical day
Summer camp groups meet their monitors for a morning meeting where they are briefed on the clothing and equipment they will need for the day & perhaps a warm-up activity...
Typical day
07h30
Students are woken by Les Elfes monitors for Breakfast
08h45
Groups meet their monitors for a morning meeting where they are briefed on the clothing and equipment they will need for the day & perhaps a warm-up activity
09h00 – 11h00
Language classes, studying in small groups with written work and group tasks
11h00 – 12h00
Optional Activities: Golf, Horse Riding, Private Language Classes, Tennis Lesson
12h00-12h45
BBQ Lunch at camp with all of the groups
12h45-16h15
Afternoon activities, split by age group: Mountain Biking, Rock Climbing, Nature Hike or an Afternoon down by the Lake with Kayaking, Banana Boating, Wake Boarding and Stand up Paddle Boarding
16h30-17h00
Shower Time & Relaxation
17h00-18h45
Optional Activities – Football, Basketball, Table Tennis, Trampoline etc.
19h00-20h00
Dinner at camp, perhaps Fondue Night, Peppered Beef Ragout with Rosti or Cheese burgers with Juan’s secret sauce
20h00
Evening Activities: Les Elfes Clubs Night, select a workshop from: orienteering treasure hunt, bushcraft – learning to build a shelf, photography club or magicians-in-training
Bedtime According To Age – Room Checks – Tidy Room Competition
What to bring
All material needed for the daily summer camp activities is provided by Les Elfes and it is available at the campus. Mountain bikes, trotinettes, ropes etc.
What to Bring
Basic summer articles (for 1 week):
- 1 Waterproof Jacket
- 1 pair of Hiking Boots
- 1 pair of Trainers/ sports shoes (not flip flops or crocs please)
- 7 T-Shirts (Short and long sleeves)
- 2 Sports Trousers or hiking trousers
- 2 Pairs of jeans
- 1 Pairs of Shorts
- 7 Changes of underwear +7 pairs of Socks
- 1 Jumper/ Long Sleeved Top
- 1 Fleece/ Warm Layer
- 2 sets of Pyjamas
- 2 Swimsuits +1 Beach Towel
- Toiletries (Hairbrush, Shower gel, Shampoo, Toothpaste, Toothbrush, etc...)
- Laundry bag
- Sun Cream & Lip balm
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat or Cap
- Indoor Footwear: crocs, flip-flops, slippers
- Book (Optional)
- Cuddly Toy (Optional)
Pocket money
We recommend giving an average of SFr. 100.- per week for your child depending on their spending habits and age, to buy souvenirs and snacks (Meals and activities, apart from optional dine out, are included).
Student can leave their pocket money at the reception for Safe keeping. Pocket money can be withdrawn daily from 16h00 to 17h00 (and from 08h00 to 09h00 on excursion days). An exact statement will be given to the student at the end of the camp upon request.
Staff & Safety
Safety is our highest priority. All of our staff must have a valid First Aid Certificate and a current Criminal Records Check before beginning their training at Les Elfes International Summer Camp...
STAFF & SAFETY
At Les Elfes we have a huge responsibility for the safety of the students in all of the activities. Safety is our highest priority.
All of our staff must have a valid First Aid Certificate and a current Criminal Records Check before beginning their training at Les Elfes.
All our summer staff monitors, instructors, core staff and managers undertake a two-week training course before the start of each season combining one week of technical training and one week to learn and become acquainted with the Philosophy of Les Elfes.
With many of these activities, Les Elfes work with external guides/professionals who are specialists in the corresponding fields, such as rock climbing guides, golf/horse riding/ tennis coaches to name a few, all are vetted and hold the relevant qualifications.
STAFF
Organisation: Each Camp is supervised by a Resort Manager, an Activities Manager, and a Head Organizer. Les Elfes runs the camps with all appropriate staff, including monitors, organizers, kitchen staff, secretaries, drivers, cleaning staff, etc.
Monitors: The organizer to student ratio is 1:6, however including all Les Elfes staff the ratio falls to 1:2.
All our monitors have been carefully selected in accordance with Les Elfes criteria for skills and experience in working with children. On top of this, Les Elfes uses sports experts for some activities.
STAFF SUPERVISION
Our Activity Managers supervise the work of our monitors and instructors all day long. In the summer each instructor is specialized in the different sports offered at Les Elfes.
KIDS SUPERVISION
All our Spring camps, Summer Camps, Winter Camps, have a nurse and a 24-hour reception and night guard, which together with our monitors work, allows us to offer a 24 hours supervision of the children.
video & photos here
SAFETY
TRAINING WEEKS
All our summer and winter staff monitors, instructors, core staff and managers undertake a two-week training course before the start of each season combining one week of technical training and one week to learn and become acquainted with the Philosophy of Les Elfes.
Our training for each season includes a First Aid refresher course, Lifeguard Training, Fire Safety, Child Protection awareness and Training in our SOPs and EAPs.
Our summer training includes intensive training in our core activities including orienteering and safety in the mountains, rock climbing, mountain biking, and paddles sports.
We also hire specific staff with teaching and leading qualifications in these areas to ensure the students not only get the best out of their activities and learn from the Staff but are safe throughout.
DAILY MEASURES
Throughout the year the students take part in what we call activities containing certain risk elements. We, therefore, have strict procedures in place to ensure that during these activities, the students are exposed to as little risk as possible. To ensure this, we make sure our staff is fully qualified and well trained according to the time of year, and whatever time of year the day has to begin with a meeting identifying these risks. In the Summer there are many things to consider when looking at these points, here is an idea of the safety measure taken:
07h45 WEATHER CHECK AND NURSE REPORT
Groups Leave for the Mountain with Instructors, supervised by the Activity Manager and Head of Activities.
08h00 INSTRUCTOR MEETING
Activity or Resort Manager delivers all critical information to the instructors for the day, discussing the weather, the condition of pistes, suitable slopes for the groups according to their level. The location for lunches and transport times.
09h00 GROUPS LEAVE
Groups Leave for the Mountain with Instructors, supervised by the Activity Manager and Head of Activities.
12h00 LUNCH, CHECK OF GROUPS BY HEAD OF ACTIVITIES
The Head of Activities will check and see how the groups are doing throughout the day, and if any changes or issues, to act accordingly.
16h15 INSTRUCTORS MEETING & NURSE INFO
A debrief will take place with the Activity Manager and Head of Activities, any changes or issues of the day will be noted and discussed where needed. Should the Nurse need to look after any students, the information is passed on accordingly.
We are fully aware of the enormous responsibility of taking care of students and are completely focused on their well being. That being said, in case of illness or accident, we are only minutes away from world-class professional help.
Given all the factors to consider when choosing a program, parents should look at the security of the Summer Camp. There are several things that must be considered: Location, facilities, staff, medical support, and activities are points to consider as safe.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
Risk assessments are designed for each activity and are signed by all our monitors and head instructors during daily morning briefings and daily evening debriefings.
We have 3 up-to-date medical clinics in Verbier, and both campuses have access to a regional hospital and two University hospitals only 40 minutes and 75 minutes away respectively, or just 10 minutes by helicopter.
STAFF & SAFETY
At Les Elfes INTERNATIONAL SUMMER CAMP, we have students from all over the world. Within this international community we feel it is beneficial to international-day recognize the traditions of each other..
Day Camps
A new dimension to our residential summer camps, we now offer full-day camps from 08:00 until 22:00 for children in Verbier looking to get outdoors and be active this summer.
Day Camps
Why joining a Day Camp?
Day camps are a great stepping stone for younger campers, ideal for families living in Verbier or surrounding towns or a great way to have a family holiday in Verbier while giving your teenagers a little space to themselves to make friends and experience everything Verbier has to offer.
What better way for your children to spend their days than mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking, visiting all the best Swiss tourist spots and making new friends from around the world? Day camps are available to students aged 6-17 years and entail a full day and evening program of activities in a vibrant international camp environment.
Summer day camp activities
What does a typical day look like for a Day Camper?
We offer full-day camps from 08:00 until 22:00. Campers are dropped off at the camp in the mornings ready for language courses and outdoor adventurous activities.
The program includes lunch and dinner, afternoon optional activities, such as football, basketball, trampolining, treasure hunt, escape rooms, mini-golf and an evening program of social activities, including quizzes, team-building challenges, team games, campfires and much much more.
Is it suited for each age group?
Day camps are available to students aged 6-17 years.
Our campers are split into three different age groups so you can be sure that the activities are designed to suit the age and maturity of your children and we offer a certain amount of flexibility if you would like to have an evening or afternoon together as a family in Verbier during the week.
Each evening campers can go home to their chalet or hotel in Verbier to tell you all about their exciting day and to share their experiences with you.
What is the minimum length of stay ?
The stay is minimum of 5 consecutive days.
Special measures we take with regards to COVID-19
The camp is fully prepared to welcome the students with the following procedures in place: click this link. Apart from that, we offer exclusive 10% discount on the basic price for all our Day Campers coming this summer!
Where can I find more info about the program of activities?
As day campers follow the regular program of international summer camp please click this link to discover the general detailed program.
You can signup online or download our PDF application for the summer camp
What Some Of The Parents Had To Say



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