This Destination is full and no longer accepting applications. Visit this site August 1, 2024 for new 2025/2026 Destinations listings.

Winter Wonderland at Our Chalet: December 27, 2024–January 4, 2025

From sledding the Swiss Alps to campfires with new Girl Scouts friends, experience the magic of a winter wonderland at Our Chalet WAGGGS World Center in Switzerland.

About the Trip

Looking for a winter holiday adventure? During this Destination, you’ll spend your days taking in the stunning views and fresh air of the snow-covered Alps, and your evenings connecting over the campfire at the Our Chalet, one of the five WAGGGS World Centers.

If adventure is your thing, this Destination is for you. We’ll be sledding and cross-country skiing the Alps (no experience necessary!) We will also dive deep into Swiss culture – both at Our Chalet, and the Swiss village of Adelboden, where you can choose to visit a traditional wood carving shop or sample some delicious winter treats. We’ll learn the Swiss sport eisstock (similar to curling) and take a night hike to wonder at the winter sky.

This unique, week-long experience at Our Chalet offers excitement-filled days and cozy evenings at the lodge to connect with your Girl Scout and Girl Guide sisters. Winter is a special time of year to visit this historic WAGGGS World Center.

Who Should Apply?

• Age: Girl Scouts enrolled in grades 9–12 at the time of the trip. 

• Interests: winter sports, culture

• Requirements: Ability to be outside for extended periods in cold weather. You must enjoy winter outdoor activities or be willing to try them (e.g. cross-country skiing and sledding), be able to work as part of a team, and enjoy learning about other cultures.

• Equipment: You’ll need a passport and warm winter clothing, including boots. A full packing list will be provided after acceptance. 

• Ignite Your Passion! This trip is great for Girl Scouts who are interested in winter activities and culture.

The Cost

Program fee: $3,500 (The actual program fee for this Destination is $4,000, but all Girl Scouts who participate will receive a $500 travel grant from GSUSA.)

The program fee includes round-trip airfare from Newark, NJ to Zurich, Switzerland. Girl Scouts will need to arrange transportation to and from Newark International Airport.

Deposit due upon acceptance: $500

Cancellation policy: Trip is non-refundable once flights are purchased for participants (approx. June 2024). Consider travel insurance.

Financial aid may be available. Check with your local council.

Host and Contact Info

Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina | https://www.gsesc.org/

Danielle Sykes, dsykes@gsesc.org, 919-721-1211