Thrill-seekers can now experience an adrenaline rush by flying over the majestic Swiss Alps on a massive mountain swing that propels riders over the edge of a cliff.
At the Villars ski resort, visitors can now take on the BalancAIR swing, a 12-meter-high attraction situated at an elevation of 2,110 meters above sea level. This thrilling ride accommodates up to three people at a time, launching them out over a breathtaking Alpine descent. Riders are securely fastened into saddle-style seats attached to a structure resembling an Alpine Ibex. They are then pulled backward to a 90-degree angle before being released high above the valley below.
Alexandra Henchoz, 37, shared her pre-ride jitters before trying out the attraction with her family. She mentioned feeling nervous with “a bit of a pit in [her] stomach” before being secured into the harness. However, once in motion, she described the experience as incredible, likening it to the sensation of flying like a bird.
Introduced earlier this month, the swing is part of the resort’s strategy to draw more visitors beyond the traditional ski season as Alpine destinations adjust to climate change impacts. Martin Deburaux, the head of the Villars-Gryons-Diableret ski area, highlighted the resort’s focus on diversifying its offerings to sustain tourism. He emphasized the swing as an all-season attraction independent of snow conditions, crucial for long-term planning amid warmer weather trends.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by climate change, Martin stressed the resort’s commitment to exploring alternatives to maintain jobs and sustain the local tourist economy linked to ski facilities. Despite welcoming over 700,000 winter visitors annually, the resort aims to boost off-season tourism, drawing around 100,000 visitors during the summer months.
Among the brave participants was Marc Truffer, 70, who admitted to a mix of fear and amazement during the ride, stating, “It was so scary… I didn’t even scream.” Despite the initial fright, he marveled at the magnificent view as the swing descended, capturing his breath and leaving him in awe.
As the resort aims to increase off-season visits, the new swing attraction offers an exciting opportunity to enhance tourism outside the traditional ski period.
