Community weekend in Ticino
Every September we head to Ticino with the whole takeoff community. This region combines Swiss mountains with Italian vibes. We book a generous villa with an incredible view and plenty of space for everyone.
You set your own pace that weekend. Head into the mountains, cycle along the lake, or explore the town with its Mediterranean terraces. Or stay at the villa with a good book.
- Friday evening we kick off with a group dinner where you meet everyone.
- Saturday has optional activities on the programme, wrapped up with a drink where the stories start flowing.
- Sunday you finish the weekend the way you want: one last dip in the lake, a cappuccino in town or a slow morning at the villa.
This weekend is about connection, freedom and, above all: enjoying it together with other adventurous physios.
The Alpabzug: cows, cheese and culture
The Alpabzug is a Swiss tradition where decorated cows return from the alpine pastures to the valley. It happens every year between mid-September and early October. The cows wear flowers and large bells, and the whole village shows up for a festival with markets, traditional music and local treats.
Where should you go?
The best places to experience the Alpabzug:
- Grächen in Valais: a small village with a big atmosphere.
- Charmey in Fribourg: authentic and warm.
- Gais in Appenzell: tradition at its peak.
The festival is about more than watching cows. Local markets sell cheese, sausage and regional products. Kids chase after the cows. And you stand right in the middle of it with a glass of local wine.
A pro tip from us: combine the Alpabzug with a morning hike. First the quiet of the mountains, then the party in the valley.
Autumn hikes: our top 3
Nature turns orange and gold in September, and the temperatures are ideal for heading out. Not too hot, not too cold. Perfect hiking weather.
Our recommendations
- Oeschinensee (Bernese Oberland): this lake is always beautiful, but in September the larches turn golden yellow and reflect in the crystal clear water. The cable car takes you up, then it is an easy walk to the lake. Bring lunch for a picnic on the shore.
- Zugerberg (Zug): perfect for a relaxed Sunday afternoon. The hike is not too heavy, but the view across Lake Zug and the Alps is spectacular. Bonus: several mountain restaurants along the way for a well-earned break.
- Valle Verzasca (Ticino): here you mix Swiss mountains with Mediterranean warmth. The chestnut forests turn beautifully and the temperature stays comfortable longer. Walk through the valley or explore the quiet paths around Locarno.
What to bring
- Good hiking shoes (mornings can be wet with dew).
- An extra layer for when the sun drops behind the mountains.
- A thermos with hot tea or coffee for that perfect break.
- A camera for those autumn colours.
Join the takeoff community
Keen to join us in September? Or curious about what else we run throughout the year? In our community you share tips, make plans and always find someone to head out on an adventure with.
From spontaneous walks to big weekends away: there is always something happening with takeoff.
Want to know more about life in Switzerland as a physiotherapist? Get in touch and we will happily talk you through it.
