Ski season in Switzerland is kicking off and ski charters are on the rise, here’s our handy guide on where you should be skiing.
Where to ski in Switzerland
Ski season in Switzerland is kicking off and ski charters are on the rise, here’s our handy guide on where you should be skiing.
Crans-Montana
Where
Sat side by side, Crans and Montana are two separate towns. Located on a plateau above the Rhone Valley in the canton of Valais at the heart of the Swiss Alps. There’s a funicular up to the resorts from Sierre and Saas-Fee and Verbier are within each reach.
When
The best time to visit is during December as, due to their south facing location, the slopes are bathed in sunshine.
Why
Crans-Montana is home to large, open piste areas with plenty of variety when it comes to the slopes, especially when it comes to slopes for beginners. Add to that outstanding scenery and views and you’ve got somewhere truly special.
St Moritz
Where
Set in the Engadin Valley, at the border of Switzerland and Italy afford St Moritz a host of benefits including reliable snow as well and plenty of sunshine. It’s at an altitude of 1856m and made up of three villages set around a lake.
When
St Moritz is busy with skiers for the entire ski season as there’s not really a bad time to go. It opens in October and doesn’t close till the late May.
Why
Glitz, glamour, outstanding conditions and plenty of skiing opportunities for everyone from beginners to experts. This is the place that celebrities ski, with plenty of après ski opportunities to let your hair down and enjoy the good food and great scenery.
Saas-Fee
Where
Saas-Fee is the main village in the Saastal region, accompanied by Saas-Almagell, Saas-Grund and Saas-Balen. Set in the Saas Valley in the canton of Valais within the Swiss Alps. The slopes are at an altitude between 2500m and 3500m, which is unrivalled across the rest of the Alps.
When
It’s best to visit in the spring or autumn when the light is better, there’s more sunshine and the slopes are slightly warmer.
Why
Due to the altitude Saas-Fee is generally very snow sure, and the resort is ringed by glorious peaks making the views second to none. The village itself is picturesque and there are plenty of easy runs for novice skiers.
Zermatt
Where
Located in the canton of Valais, in southern Switzerland, Zermatt is set below the iconic Matterhorn and enjoys an elevation of 1620m.
When
Zermatt is open year round. During the traditional ski season you’ll find natural snow on the slopes, after then many are topped up with artificial snow, though those near the glacier are often still all natural. If you just want to ski, go during the traditional season.
Why
Great for intermediates and experts, its reliable snow and outstanding scenery make it a great ski choice. The only cars are electric, and there’s also plenty to do off the slopes should you fancy some shopping, or heading to a gallery, forest park or cinema.