We join Christoph Bertschy in the Fribourg Region
Scroll
Intro
Welcome to the Fribourg Region, where the Alps meet the Swiss Plateau and two linguistic cultures shape the local character. Christoph Bertschy grew up here: he has many happy memories of the city of Fribourg and the region around Lake Schwarzsee in particular. The Swiss ice hockey pro reveals his favourite places that are a must-visit between the games of the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in May 2026.
Christoph Bertschy
It was in his home village of Düdingen, Fribourg, that Christoph Bertschy first tried ice skating, marking the start of his successful career as a professional ice hockey player. After time spent away, both abroad and in Switzerland, he has been drawn back to his homeland. Now, a special highlight awaits: Christoph Bertschy is looking forward to the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship in Zurich and Fribourg.
2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship
In May 2026, the IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship will be held in Switzerland again for the first time in 17 years. The games will be hosted by host cities of Zurich and Fribourg.
I hope the fans get to enjoy a great World Championship and get to know our culture, even sampling some delicious fondue.
Fribourg is so much more than just the venue for a World Championship. The region is situated in the Pre-Alps and stretches from the lakes in the Swiss Plateau to the first peaks of the Alps. In between are rolling hills, charming towns and many interesting places to visit – it is an area that has something for everyone.
When hosting friends from abroad, Christoph Bertschy likes to show them his favourite cafés – such as Café Belvédère with its view of the old town. The best way to marvel at Fribourg from above is to tackle the 365 steps up to the viewing platform at the Cathedral of St Nicholas. Once at the top, a panorama opens up that brings the entire city and surrounding region together in one view.
Fribourg/Freiburg
The young, lively and dynamic city of Fribourg is the vibrant centre of the region. At the same time, it is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval cities, with many sights on offer. Situated in the middle of the German-French linguistic divide, the city has a lot for visitors to discover: the imposing cathedral, quiet alleyways between historic buildings, or a stroll along the River Saane, which loops around the old town.
Hint
The ice rink is hectic – it’s loud, intense, and everything happens very quickly. In order to recharge his batteries between games, Christoph Bertschy deliberately seeks out peace and quiet in amongst nature. The Schwarzsee region offers him just that: relaxation, fresh air and an unspoilt landscape. Even as a child, he spent a lot of time here and even learned to ski. In winter, the Riggisalp in Schwarzsee is a modestly scaled ski area that is ideal for families. In summer, it serves as the base for a range of hikes in the surrounding mountains.
Schwarzsee region
The region around Lake Schwarzsee is a popular excursion destination in the Fribourg Pre-Alps. Nestled in the first few mountains of the Alps, hiking trails, biking trails and rustic Alpine huts entice visitors to the area. The lake itself is the perfect place to cool off, especially in summer – and for anyone who would rather not jump right into the lake, rental stations for stand-up paddles, kayaks or pedalos can be found along its shores. Thanks to the accommodation options and restaurants around the lake, a day trip can easily be extended into a relaxing short stay.