WINTER SPORTS IN SWITZERLAND

WINTER SPORTS IN SWITZERLAND. Benson, E. F. (Edward Frederic), 1867-1940, Hardcover. London: George Allan & Company Ltd., 1913, First Edition. 197 pages, 25,5 x 20 x 3,5 cm. Blue cloth binding, gilt titles, 12 full-page illustrations in colour with tissue guards by Clifford Fleming Williams (1880 - 1940) and 47 reproductions from photographs by Mrs. Aubrey Le Blond (1861 - 1934). Scarce, unusual dust jacket in a clear protective sleeve. Contents : The sun-seekers, Rink and skaters, Tees ans crumpets, Tobogganing, Ice-hockey, Ski-ing, Notes on winter resorts, For parents ans guardians. - "Winter Sports in Switzerland" by E. F. Benson is a travel guide written in the early 20th century. This work provides an engaging exploration of winter sports and activities in the Swiss Alps, focusing on the unique conditions and experiences offered by the region's high-altitude resorts. The opening chapters suggest that the book captures not only the excitement of winter sports like skating, tobogganing, and skiing but also delves into the enchantinglandscape and the peculiarities of experiencing winter in such a beautiful setting. At the start of the book, the author introduces a whimsical observation about perception versus reality, using the metaphor of a conjuring trick to discuss the seemingly paradoxical conditions of the High Alps in winter. He reflects on the warmth felt by visitors despite the frost, depicting the picturesque scene of winter sports enthusiasts engaging with the snow-covered landscape. Through rich, descriptive prose, Benson vividly describes his desire to escape England's dreary winter for the exhilarating beauty of the Alps, setting a tone of both nostalgia and eagerness for adventure. This foundation establishes the book as not merely a manual for winter sports but as a celebration of the Alpine experience. …