A recent cinematic production, 'Zermatt to Verbier', masterfully brings to life the celebrated Patrouille des Glaciers, an iconic cross-country ski route through the majestic Swiss Alps. This compelling short film chronicles the journey of four accomplished athletes who, amidst the global challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, embarked on a remarkable 57-kilometer expedition from Zermatt to Verbier, via Arolla. Unlike the original race, their adventure was a profound exploration of the journey itself, a testament to the timeless allure of alpine wilderness and the spirit of discovery that transcends competitive pursuits.
The Patrouille des Glaciers: A Journey Through Time and Terrain
The Patrouille des Glaciers, a storied cross-country ski route deeply embedded in Swiss military history, found a new interpretation through the eyes of contemporary adventurers Sam Anthamatten, Elisabeth Gerritzen, Yann Rausis, and Anna Smoothy. Their compelling journey is meticulously documented in a short film, offering a fresh perspective on this challenging traverse of the Swiss Alps.
The genesis of the Patrouille dates back to 1942, originating as a rigorous military training exercise. Elite soldiers, organized into three-person teams, raced against the clock, with the swiftest completing the arduous course in just 12 hours. Colonel Daniel Jolliet, a venerable figure in the Swiss military and former commander of this revered Glacier Patrol, provides invaluable historical insights, weaving a rich narrative that accompanies captivating archival footage. This historical backdrop illuminates the evolution of the event, including moments of forced relocation, such as in 1943 when Zermatt was under quarantine—a poignant parallel to the circumstances under which the film's protagonists undertook their journey during the recent pandemic.
A somber chapter in the Patrouille's history unfolded just seven years after its inception, when a tragic accident claimed the lives of eight men who perished after falling into a crevasse. This devastating event led to the military's decision to discontinue the race. However, the deep affection and reverence held by local alpinists for the event ultimately led to its reinstatement in 1984, opening its challenging slopes to public participation, and later, embracing women competitors.
The year 2020 presented an unforeseen hurdle: the COVID-19 pandemic compelled the official cancellation of the Patrouille. Undeterred by this setback, the four adventurous protagonists of the film took it upon themselves to uphold the tradition. Their private endeavor diverged from the traditional race's competitive ethos, prioritizing a deeper engagement with the majestic landscape. Their expedition was not merely about speed but about immersing themselves in the vastness of the mountains, seeking out untouched slopes, and finding solace in remote mountain cabins. They ventured far beyond conventional ski resorts, exploring pristine, rarely seen facets of the Alps. This odyssey included navigating the highest traverse in the Alps and confronting the formidable descent of the Dent d'Hérens, a testament to their skill and unwavering spirit. As Anna Smoothy eloquently expressed, the experience was a powerful reminder to venture beyond the familiar and embrace the boundless exploration that the mountains offer. The film culminates with their triumphant arrival in Verbier, a successful completion of their journey, having skillfully navigated the perilous glacial terrain.
This film serves as a poignant reminder that true adventure often lies beyond the pursuit of victory, residing instead in the profound connection forged with nature and the indelible memories created along the way. It underscores the enduring human desire to explore, to challenge limits, and to find beauty and meaning in the untamed grandeur of the natural world.