Switzerland / Germany in February - advice on packing

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stuannon
stuannon

We have the opportunity to visit Europe in February and would like to spend a some time in Switzerland and the Black Forest but are concerned about what we would need to take in February. If we go what would we need in terms of warm clothing and shoes? I have read posts about taking hiking and snow boots. We live in a tropical developing country so buying quality gear before we go will be a challenge, not to mention the fact that we are unlikely to use it later.

We would not be hiking or skiing, but we are interested in doing the Bernina and Glacier Express and spending a night in Zermatt (and maybe getting a glimpse of the Matterhorn). We were also thinking of a few nights in Lucerne. We do like to walk but not planning to do anything too strenuous especially not in ice and snow.
The Black Forest is just an idea at the moment, but again nothing too strenuous.

I have had a look to see what average temperatures are like at that time of year but was looking from advice from the experts.

  1. What would be the minimum required as far as shoes and winter gear?
  2. Would we be better off skipping Switzerland or the Black Forest this time and hoping we get another opportunity at a milder time of year?

Any advice gratefully received.

Thanks!!!

Edited by: Stuannon

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marcopolko
marcopolko

All you really may need for foot wear is a pair of thin rubber boots that will slip over your shoes and will protect your feet from snow and water for up to 30 cm or so and won't be slippery on ice. Not the most elegant looking, but you don't have to wear them except when necessary. Dress in layers, there's no way to predict what the weather may be like at lower elevations, it probably will range from 5 to -10C. Of course up higher, it will be colder and there will be more snow. I've always managed with nothing more than a ski jacket adding layers beneath it as necessary, unless you're going to be outside all the time.

Be aware that February is the month for carnival in both Switzerland and the Black Forest. In Germany, all such activities are over before the start of Lent and the big parades will be over by 21Feb. However, carnival goes on still later in Basel. The Narrensprung in Rottweil ( http://www.rottweil.de ) is one of the major events, but carnival activities are all over, my favorites being Guggenmusik festivals as I love the music and the usually elaborately costumed bands.

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mistermoon
mistermoon

in Zürich you will find several discounters - like Migros at the Löwenplatz near the Railstation where you can buy winterboots. Buy them to fit with some additional woolsocks.
as mentioned layers is the way to go. rainjacked and wooljumpers/fleecejackets underneeth or jeans and longjohns. a cap and gloves depending on the temperatur

clothes are in switzerland expensive. depending how you´re travelling to switzerland yu might be better off buying them on your way.

carneval is realy spectacular, if you can make it...

have fun

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stuannon
stuannon

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for the tips. I will look into acquiring some rubber boots and pack lots of layers. I'm relieved to know we're not crazy for going at that time of year!!

Thanks for the tip about the Carneval - I will do some research about that.

S

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blandineforberg
blandineforberg

In case you plan to see the carnival in Basel, book your accommodation NOW, and I mean it.

If you tell us your exact travel dates, we can give you some tips about carnival events in the Black Forest.

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