Tourism in Golden became popular in the early 1900s when the CPR employed experienced Swiss guides to safely guide tourists into the mountains. To make them feel more at home, the CPR constructed six Swiss-style chalets and called their accomplishment Edelweiss Village. Thus began the golden age of mountaineering and mountain tourism that still remains a focus for both residents and visitors. Found on a hillside at the west entrance to town, the original homes still stand overlooking Golden and the Columbia Valley and uniquely embody the rich history of tourism, mountaineering and Canadian-Swiss alliances in the region. Please note that the homes are privately owned and are not open to the public. 
See also: Swiss Guides: Shaping Mountain Culture in Western Canada.

Edelweiss Village in Golden BC, Canada, is the historic home of the pioneering Swiss Mountain Guides in the Rocky Mountains. With the property currently on sale, there is a serious risk of the village and its significant history disappearing. 
Swiss Edelweiss Village Foundation is an incorporated non-profit in BC, Canada. Our mission is to preserve and promote Edelweiss Village for present and future generations to enjoy, making it a gift for all communities to enjoy. For more information and to donate please visit www.swissvillage.ca.