“At a time of year when sunshine is rare, the skier leaves behind gloomy winter days in the city and finds enjoyment in the open country. Bright light and fresh air, as well as physical activity within a beautiful landscape, are the basis for people’s enjoyment of skiing and for its health benefits.” 

So begins the International Ski Federation (FIS) Mainau Manifesto. Created in 1994, the Mainau Manifesto articulates the FIS commitment to supporting the sustainability of skiing through concern for nature and the environment. It has led to initiatives like the Green Event Manual, World Snow Day and other actions that promote the environment and sustainability of skiing.

The namesake of the Mainau Manifesto is the Island of Mainau on Lake Constance; the lake where the borders of Austria, Germany and Switzerland meet. From the air, the island looks almost tropical, where the small, emerald island dissolves into the cobalt waters of Lake Constance. The island is privately owned and is known for its sustainability actions, including hosting international summits, such as a climate conference for Nobel Laureates.

Mainau is one of my favorite places to visit, especially in the spring. The island is filled with gardens whose blooming flowers change through the seasons. In April, the tulip bloom is remarkable, with over a million bulbs blossoming; a number rivaled only by Holland’s Keukenhof Gardens. Taking time in the spring to explore the gardens offers an opportunity to reflect on the past winter and the possibility in store for the next season.

Mainau Island isn’t the only place to explore around Lake Constance this time of year. The bike path that leads around the lake is over 200 miles and travels through Austria, Germany and Switzerland. If you’re looking for easy, flat spring riding, the lake loop is ideal. For more hills, the surrounding orchards and vineyards offer hundreds of more miles to explore as the apple trees blossom.

Regardless of where you are on Earth Day, I hope that you can get out to explore and reflect.

See you on the trail soon,
Garrott