High-Altitude Romance Fueled by 'Swiss Mountain Tinder'
Mountain Tinder: A Unique Approach to Dating in the Swiss Alps
In the picturesque Swiss canton of Fribourg, a novel dating concept has been making waves. Known as Mountain Tinder, this analogue alternative to digital dating apps has been captivating hikers since its inception in 2023 by Thibaud Monney, a 29-year-old avid hiker [2][3][4].
The idea behind Mountain Tinder is simple yet ingenious. Inspired by the desire to share the breathtaking views of the Swiss Pre-Alps with like-minded individuals, Monney began leaving red notebooks on mountain summits. These notebooks serve as a platform for hikers to connect, making it a unique, nature-based alternative to online dating [2][3][4].
The concept's appeal lies in its "natural filter". Only those fit enough to reach certain peaks can participate, making it distinct from conventional dating apps. The notebooks are strategically placed at various summits with varying levels of difficulty, catering to hikers of different fitness levels. This approach creates connections based on shared interests and physical commitment to the mountains [2][3][5].
One such connection was formed between Cathy Rotzetter, a 58-year-old woman, and Patrick. They met on Wandflue peak, a testament to the authentic and charming way Mountain Tinder facilitates encounters away from digital screens [2][3][5]. Cathy appreciated Patrick's thoughtfulness, as he brought food and drink for their first date, a long scenic walk and picnic, and managed to keep pace with her [6].
La Vudalla, an easier peak at an altitude of 1,669 metres, is another popular spot for messages. Its accessibility allows older or less fit individuals to participate, broadening the pool of potential connections [7]. The notebook on La Vudalla is filling up fast, reflecting the growing interest in this unique dating method [7].
Monney himself found love through Mountain Tinder after appearing on television discussing the initiative. His story demonstrates the idea's growing reach and impact [2][3]. He prefers Mountain Tinder to online dating apps due to the lack of algorithmic dictates, feeling happier and proud when hearing from couples who have met through the notebooks [8][9].
Mountain Tinder has since spread beyond the Swiss canton of Fribourg, reaching as far as Argentina. The red notebooks, serving as a beacon for those seeking companionship and adventure, continue to dot the Swiss Alps, offering a refreshing twist on the traditional dating scene [10].
- Cathy Rotzetter and Patrick, who met on Wandflue peak through Mountain Tinder, share a common interest in outdoor-living, as their first date was a long scenic walk and picnic in the mountains.
- Mountain Tinder has brought a new lifestyle to the Swiss Alps, by creating connections based on shared interests and physical commitment to the mountains, rather than relying on digital dating apps.
- The concept of Mountain Tinder has expanded beyond the Swiss canton of Fribourg, stretching as far as Argentina, symbolizing a love-and-dating revolution connecting people through a shared passion for home-and-garden, in this case, the breathtaking Swiss Pre-Alps.
