Experiences that extend far beyond the mountains
Shaped by the mountains – Sandra and Philipp Fuchs on their personal connection to mountaineering
The mountains have also been a part of Sandra and Philipp Fuchs’s personal lives for many years. From a young age, both were active members of the SAC Youth. The focus there was not on sporting goals, but on learning the basics. This period was characterised by diligence, preparation and a respectful approach to the alpine terrain. These are experiences that do not come about quickly, but grow with time and repetition.
Even later in life, the mountains remained an integral part of their lives. Together, Sandra and Philipp climbed numerous mountains in and around Zermatt, as well as other peaks in the Alps, the Himalayas, Africa and the Andes. Their proximity to the mountains was never taken for granted, but was always accompanied by care and a sense of responsibility. Furthermore, their travels also took them to South America, where they climbed many mountains, including Chimborazo, which at 6,263 metres is the highest mountain in Ecuador. Such expeditions require patience, careful planning and trust in one’s partner. The focus is not on reaching the summit, but on the journey itself and the decisions made along the way.
Sandra has also taken part in the Patrouille des Glaciers twice. It is a gruelling challenge in which perseverance, concentration and teamwork are crucial – not to push boundaries, but to reach the finish line together and safely.
Patrouille des Glaciers: a 57 km ski touring race from Zermatt to Verbier, covering 4,386 metres of elevation gain
Sandra and Philipp do not view these experiences as sporting achievements, but as a formative period. They have shaped their outlook and sharpened their focus on what really matters. Thorough preparation, a calm approach to decision-making and an awareness of one’s own limits continue to play a central role today – in the bakery just as much as in the mountains. Craftsmanship requires time, responsibility and reliability – values that continue to guide Sandra and Philipp to this day, as entrepreneurs, hosts and as people who consciously follow their own path.
More stories about mountaineering
This article is taken from issue no. 29 of the "Brotzeitung", which focuses on ‘Zermatt and mountaineering’. As well as personal stories from Sandra and Philipp, you can look forward to an interview with the Young Mountain Guides Foundation Zermatt, the story behind our mountain guide bread, and fascinating facts about mountaineering in Zermatt.
The latest issue of the "Brotzeitung" is available free of charge at all Fuchs Bakery branches or can be read online.
