Alpine summer is just around the corner — but today offered a little preview in the form of fresh mountain air, sweat, and spools of wire.
We were up bright and early (far too early, if you ask me), followed by a three-hour journey via train and post bus toward Saas-Fee. The plan: set up a stretch of fencing on the Hannig Alp. Sounds simple enough.
But the first hiccup came right away: the Hannig cable car is under maintenance. Translation? We’re hiking. Uphill. With backpacks. About 45 minutes later — thoroughly sweaty and running low on oxygen — I finally reach the top. No time to catch my breath though — the others are already busy setting up the fence.
Together with Kurt, the chairman of the foundation board, and three experienced helpers (who carry the fencing gear as effortlessly as if it were a picnic basket), we get to work. We’re building a wolf-proof fence — and that comes with strict regulations. No shortcuts here.
First up: the night pasture. After lunch, we tackle the day pasture. The scenery is breathtaking — and I mean that literally. It’s all steep slopes and rolling terrain, and we’re dragging spools of wire along the way. My mountain fitness? Let’s just say there’s room for improvement.
As a reward, we make an evening stop in Kandersteg for a much-needed meal — and even more appreciated: a chair to sit on. Naturally, I’ve also picked up my first sunburn of the season. Just part of the deal on your first day in the mountains, I guess.
Conclusion: A solid start to the alpine summer — sore muscles included. Thankfully, I’ve got one more week to recover before the real work begins.
