Alexandra Stettler, CEO of Les Elfes International, was born into the family that founded Les Elfes in 1987. Growing up surrounded by the camp’s vibrant international environment, she developed a deep passion for cultural exchange and youth development. This passion has driven her to dedicate her career to expanding the camp’s reach and enhancing its programs, leading to prestigious awards, including the European Travel Awards 2024.
My name is Alexandra, and I have the honor of sharing the story of Les Elfes International, a family camp that began in 1987 thanks to my father’s vision. He sought to combine three great passions: sports, children education, and international culture. Thus, Les Elfes was born, inspired by the Anglo-Saxon summer camp model, which did not yet exist in Switzerland. We started with a small group of campers, but today, we welcome over 10,000 children and young people worldwide each year!
Les Elfes has been an integral part of my life since the beginning. I remember running through the kitchens as a 4-year-old, attending camp every summer, and making friends whom I later visited in the UAE or South America. It was even my first job as an instructor at the age of18. These experiences shaped me and taught me the value of diversity and the importance of an enriching educational environment.
At Les Elfes International, we firmly believe in the significant contribution a summer and winter camp can offer to children and teenagers. More than 75 nationalities come together each year at our camp, creating a space where cultural awareness is fostered.
In our camps, children learn about different religions, languages, traditions, and lifestyles, developing a deep understanding and respect for diversity. The international environment at Les Elfes teaches campers invaluable lessons in cultural sensitivity, empathy, and global citizenship. Moreover, many children experience their first true independence from their parents. This safe and supportive environment helps campers develop essential skills such as independence, teamwork, and self-expression. Parents often notice a positive change in their children after camp, which makes us incredibly proud.
Another essential aspect of Les Elfes is the connection with nature. In a world where children spend a large amount of time on their devices, we offer a space where they can enjoy the outdoors and admire the landscape instead of their phones. Outdoor activities are fun and educational, teaching valuable leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability skills.
Language courses are also an integral part of our experience. During winter camp, the course consists of 6 hours per week given from17:00 to 19:00 on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. During summer camp, languages are given in the morning and are typically taught over four days from9:00 to 10:45. These classes and the students’ interactions help campers build a foundation for lifelong friendships and amore inclusive worldview.
From the beginning, Les Elfes was designed to be international. We quickly grew in markets far from Switzerland, like Argentina and India. Today, we have a strong presence in the Middle East, Russia, Peru, Brazil, India, and the USA. During the pandemic, we began to welcome more Europeans, and this trend continues today. Promoting Les Elfes has always involved traveling the world and connecting with people. Today, we still travel to all five continents at least once a year.
In October, I will visit several countries in South America, including Mexico, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, and Venezuela. I am eager to meet with parents, partners, and schools to discuss our camps, activities, and, most importantly, stringent safety protocols. I recognize that entrusting your child to a camp located far from home can be a significant decision for any parent. We are dedicated to providing opportunities for you to meet us in person and address any concerns you may have. I encourage you to explore more about Les Elfes International and consider the enriching and transformative experiences we offer.
We would love to welcome you to our Les Elfes family!
