This weekend at Villa Franconis was a perfect balance of productivity and relaxation for our students.

Many were busy studying and making excellent progress on their assignments, while others took advantage of the beautiful weather, going for sunny walks or invigorating runs.

Some made the most of the gym facilities to keep active, while others enjoyed some quality time cooking together and experimenting with new recipes.

A few students had the chance to head out to Geneva for a nice dinner, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Meanwhile, a group spent the weekend in Lucerne, where they explored the charming city, enjoyed the sights, and made wonderful memories.

A well-rounded weekend indeed—filled with focus, fitness, and fun!

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s time to embrace the warmth and comfort of autumn at home. This season invites us to slow down, savor cozy moments, and make the most of our time indoors. Here are some delightful ways to bask in the autumn vibes and enjoy everything this enchanting season has to offer.

Movie Nights: Chill- out Together

What better way to spend a chilly evening than by curling up on the couch with your favorite movies? Create a mini home theater experience—dim the lights, grab your softest blankets, and prepare a bowl of popcorn drizzled with melted butter. Choose a theme for your movie night—whether it’s classic fall films, spooky Halloween flicks, or heartwarming family favorites, there’s something magical about sharing stories on the screen as the wind rustles outside.

Study Sessions: Support Each Other

Autumn often brings a wave of academic challenges, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to foster a supportive study environment at home. Gather around the dining table with your textbooks, notes, and a hot cup of tea or coffee. Create a study schedule that allows for collaborative learning; quiz each other, share insights, and tackle difficult subjects together. Not only will you prepare for those upcoming exams, but you’ll also strengthen your bond through shared challenges and achievements.

Baking: Sweeten the Season

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through the house. Autumn is the ideal time to experiment with seasonal flavors—think pumpkin spice, pecan pie or in our case: cinnamon rolls. Invite friends into the kitchen for a fun baking session. 

Outdoor Adventures: Soak Up the Sun

On those crisp days when the sun breaks through the clouds, take advantage of the beautiful autumn scenery. The vibrant colors of the leaves create a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor activities. Whether you prefer hiking, walking, or running, being outside in nature is invigorating. Bundle up in your favorite sweater, lace up your boots, and explore local trails or parks. The crunch of fallen leaves underfoot and the fresh, cool air will rejuvenate your spirit, making you feel more connected to the season.

After a week full of academic work and school activities, Villa Franconis was hosted a Chinese haute cuisine cooking session:

We also made Pizza:

Everyone created their own version of a perfect dinner, and we shared and enjoyed them all together. The evening was filled with laughter, joy and great food.

On Sunday, the day started with brunch at school which was either followed by a round of golf or meeting up with friends for lunch.

Additionally, some of our students had the exciting opportunity to visit *Europa-Park* in Germany, one of the largest theme parks in Europe. They enjoyed thrilling rides, fun attractions, and a well-deserved break from their academic schedules. It was a day filled with adventure and unforgettable memories.

This past weekend, our boarding students embarked on an unforgettable journey to the stunning alpine town of Verbier. Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Verbier provided the perfect backdrop for a weekend filled with adventure, fun, and plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories.

From the moment we arrived everyone was excited. Our students quickly immersed themselves in a variety of activities that catered to every interest and skill level. Whether it was hiking scenic trails, mountain biking, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and it was wonderful to see students stepping out of their comfort zones, embracing new challenges, and cheering each other on.

In addition to the organized activities, there was plenty of time for relaxation and bonding. Free time allowed the students to explore the town, connect with friends, and take in the breathtaking views.

One of the highlights of the trip was the sense of camaraderie and teamwork that developed among the students. Whether they were working together to navigate a hiking trail or encouraging each other during a challenging activity, it was clear that this weekend was about more than just having fun—it was about building connections and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

As we returned to the boarding house, there was a shared sense of accomplishment and joy. The students came back not only with stories to tell but also with new friendships and a deeper sense of community. It was a weekend that reminded us all of the value of stepping outside, trying new things, and supporting one another along the way.

Now, as we settle back into our routines and prepare for the week ahead, we carry with us the spirit of adventure and the memories of a truly special weekend in Verbier. We look forward to more opportunities like this, where our students can learn, grow, and create unforgettable experiences together.

After a long and beautiful summer, we kicked off the new school year with a relaxing and fun-filled first weekend back at our boarding house. It was the perfect way to ease into the academic year and reconnect with friends, both old and new.

On Saturday evening, we transformed our common room into a cozy cinema. We dimmed the lights and enjoyed a movie night complete with popcorn and a variety of snacks. The atmosphere was full of excitement as we all gathered together to watch a favorite film, making it a memorable night for everyone.

Sunday brought a special treat. One of our talented students volunteered to cook dinner for the entire house. The kitchen buzzed with activity as they prepared a delicious homemade meal. That evening, we all sat down together to enjoy the fruits of their labor—a wonderful way to end the weekend.

This first weekend back reminded us of the strong community spirit we have here at CDL. We’re looking forward to many more weekends filled with good food, great movies, and more thrilling chess games!