Experiencing the Lauberhorn Races: Two Unforgettable Days

There are sporting events you watch, and then there are events you experience. The Lauberhorn falls very firmly into the second category. Attending the Lauberhorn Ski Races over two days was one of the most memorable experiences I have done, not just because of the racing itself, but because of the journey, the setting and the sheer sense of tradition that surrounds it.

The Journey to Wengen

Getting to the Lauberhorn is an experience in its own right. After flying into Switzerland with SWISS, the journey continued by train, then gondola, and finally a hike across the mountain to reach Wengen. That final stretch, around 30 minutes on a snowy mountain face with panoramic views in every direction felt genuinely special. Snow underfoot, crisp air, and the sense that you were heading somewhere iconic rather than simply turning up to a sporting venue.

It’s a reminder that the Lauberhorn isn’t built for convenience and that’s part of what makes it so unique.

Day One: Downhill at Canadian Corner (Speed and Spectacle)

The first day was spent at Canadian Corner, one of the most iconic viewing points on the Lauberhorn course. This is where the downhill really comes alive. From this section, you can see multiple key parts of the course, and the speed the athletes carry through here is genuinely jaw-dropping.

The atmosphere was electric. Cowbells, flags, and a real mix of international fans, all gathered in one place to watch the fastest men in alpine skiing commit fully to the mountain. It’s raw, loud and thrilling in a way that feels impossible to recreate anywhere else.

The day was made even more special by the Swiss Air Force fly-by that opened the event, jets cutting through the alpine silence before the racing began. And then came the highlight: watching Marco Odermatt take the downhill victory in front of a home crowd. Seeing a Swiss athlete win on this course, in this setting, felt like a proper moment of national pride.

Day Two: Slalom in Wengen (Precision and Focus)

Day two shifted the experience entirely. This time, we were in Wengen, watching the slalom from right in the heart of the village, with the finish line bringing all the tension and drama together.

Where the downhill is about fearlessness and speed, slalom is all about precision. Tight turns, instant reactions and zero room for error.

Watching the racing from the SWISS Lounge, positioned right at the finish line, gave a perfect view of the action while still feeling immersed in the event. When Atle Lie McGrath secured the slalom win, it was a reminder of just how technical and demanding this discipline is. A completely different challenge to the day before, but just as captivating.

What Makes the Lauberhorn So Special

What sets the Lauberhorn apart isn’t just the racing, it’s the setting. Wengen is a car free village, perched above the valley, and during race week it feels like the entire place is part of the event. Cowbells, Swiss flags, skiers and spectators all moving through narrow streets and mountain paths together.

There’s a strong sense of tradition here. This isn’t about flash or hype. It’s about heritage, respect for the mountain, and doing things properly.

Thinking of Going in 2027?

If you’re considering attending the Lauberhorn in 2027, a few things are worth knowing:

• Plan your travel early. Accommodation in Wengen and the surrounding areas fills up quickly.

• Expect to walk. Getting to viewing points often involves hiking, sometimes in snow, good footwear and warm layers are essential.

• Use public transport. Trains and gondolas are the best way to get around, and they’re incredibly well organised.

• Choose your day wisely. Downhill offers drama and speed, while slalom delivers technical brilliance. If you can, do both.

• Embrace the journey. The effort it takes to get there is part of the magic.