How I Became a Guide in Switzerland

A few years ago, I was riding full gas in the pro cycling world. My life revolved around watts, training blocks, and chasing results on the road. But after a concussion and the global lockdowns, everything suddenly stopped. For the first time in years, I had space to breathe — and rethink what I really wanted.

That’s when I came to Switzerland fulltime. At first, it was just a change of scenery. But the mountains, the silence, the raw beauty — it all hit me in a way I didn’t expect. I decided to stay longer and ended up renting a small place. I put it on Airbnb to cover the rent, and that’s where the next chapter of my life quietly began.

The guests who stayed with me kept asking for recommendations — a good hike, a scenic drive, a swim spot off the beaten path. Instead of just giving them a list, I started showing them around myself. First informally, just for fun. Then more regularly. Word spread. People loved the personal connection, the spontaneity, the flexibility. And I realized — this is what I want to do.

That’s how VP Excursions was born.

I didn’t want to offer cookie-cutter tours. My goal was simple: to create experiences that feel like a local friend showing you the best spots. Whether that’s a sunrise hike, a scenic cycling route, or a full-day road trip through the mountain passes — it’s always personal, always flexible, and always rooted in a deep love for this place.

Being a guide feels natural to me. I still use the endurance and mental focus I built as a cyclist, but now it's about making people feel safe, inspired, and connected to nature. And honestly? That gives me more satisfaction than any race result ever did.

This journey wasn’t planned. But sometimes, the best rides are the ones that take you somewhere you never expected.