Discussing the natural hazard risks in the alpine environment, learning about the local’s struggle with the wolves and enjoying the regional culinary specialities: 40 young geographers from all over Europe spent a weekend together in Eischoll in the Upper Valais.

After being limited to small, regional events for more than two years, EGEA Zurich finally was able to organise yet another event for an international audience from 15 to 19 June, 2022. 40 geographers from all over Europe, from Germany, Belgium, Slovenia, Finland and the Netherlands gathered in Eischoll in the Upper Valais for the first edition of the Alpine Weekend.

The venue was just a stone’s throw away from some of the tallest mountains and mightiest glaciers of Alps, as this location was strategically chosen to offer our participants fantastic views and convenient hiking excursions as well as an appropriate backdrop to the scientific program.

The scientific part introduced the participants to the significance of natural hazard risks in the alpine environment and how to mitigate them. The theoretical input was mediated in interactive workshops led by present and former EGEA members and in a talk held by a local natural hazard expert. On the two scientific excursions, participants learnt about the impact and management of destructive debris flows at Illgraben and glacial lake collapses at the Aletsch glacier first hand.

On the second day of excursions, EGEAns were able to venture into the area around Eischoll by exploring the ancient “Suonen” irrigation system, learning about the local’s present struggle with the wolves or gazing down into the depths from the suspension bridge nearby. After a hard day of exploring and hiking, there was always plenty of time to relax, take in the stunning views of the Lötschberg massif and feast on the local specialities prepared by our very own kitchen crew.

On the 5^th day of alpine adventures, it was sadly time to say goodbye to old and new friends and to keep fingers crossed for a sequel. This event was supported by the GIUZ. Without this funding, we would have never been able to make this event accessible and affordable to young European geographers. Therefore, we would like to express our gratitude for supporting past and current EGEA events.

Nicolas Steinmann