Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general level of the classes and dancers at the camp?
In general, the Swing Summit is open for beginner-intermediate to advanced dancers and the different levels will receive separate classes. We are very flexible when it comes to the levels, meaning you will participate in the classes that you benefit most from and that match your level. In the past years, we experienced that some people grow exponentially fast during the camp, starting out for example as a beginner but finishing the week as an intermediate-advanced dancer 
How many people will there be?
The camp is designed as a small workshop with a total maximum of ca. 50 people per week – this is the maximum, but the camp is guaranteed to run, also with fewer people (= even better teacher to student ratio). Because there are only 8 couples per class (and level), the camp is very individualized and personal.
What is the class schedule?
Classes are held from Sunday to Friday with the goal of ca. 3 hours of Lindy Hop and ca. 2 hours of the respective Bonus track. Saturdays are traveling days, there will be no classes on Saturdays. The class schedule will be flexible and coordinated on place, thus adjusting to the weather and other activities.
Check out the description of “A typical day at Swing Summit” to get an idea of how you will spend your days at the camp.
Do I have to bring a partner?
You can register alone for the camp (any week). However, we will control the lead/follow ratio by opening up a waiting list if necessary. Signing up as a group or with a partner increases your chance to get a spot at the Swing Summit.
During the main classes we will rotate partners like usual. During the aerial classes in week 3, we will not rotate partners and we recommend you to sign up together with a partner.
How / when do I pay for the camp?
Payments will be coordinated through our host in France after registering and once you chose/are assigned your accommodation. The payment can be done through bank transfer or Paypal and a portion of it cash on place (in Euros).
How do I get from my accommodation house to the dance classes?
The accommodation and classes are in the same place – you are never more than 80 meters away from a dance floor
How do I get to the Swing Summit location?
The Swing Summit location – Ferme les Costes – is a 1.5 hours drive from the next train station in Valence and 2 hours from Lyon. Our host Marjorie can help you with information on the different ways to get to Ferme les Costes. Please contact her at ferme.les-costes(at)wanadoo.fr for information and tips on traveling to Swing Summit.
Are there any dangerous insects or bugs in the mountains of Ardeche?
No, to our knowledge there are no insects or bugs that we need to be extra careful against. Naturally, after you take a hike in the woods, just like back home, you should check yourself for ticks. Although you might find one or two spiders in the corners of your houses, these are all harmless and function as natural fly traps 
Are there any animals there?
Yes, Ali&Katja will have their two little dogs there, and Marjorie usually have cats running around in the nature. Marjorie also have chicken that provides us with fresh eggs every morning. However, no animals are allowed into the houses, so you can expect a “furr-free” sleeping.
Can I sign up without a partner?
Yes you can! At the SwingSummit, you’ll learn our way of lead and follow technique to become a fantastic social dancer. That’s why you can sign up without a partner, and we will rotate partners throughout each class. Exception to this is the aerial track. Usually, we find you a suitable partner if you don’t sign up with one and you’ll stay with that person throughout. However, if we don’t find a great match, you are welcome to join the solo-dancing classes that runs in parallel.