switzerland ski trip

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The Most Beautiful Lakes

Foods to Try

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Weather & Climate

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How to Go Skiing

Skiing in Switzerland: The Complete Guide

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The Best Time to Ski in Switzerland

• How to Plan Your Ski Trip

Top Swiss Ski Resorts

• Where to Ski as a Beginner

Summer Skiing

• Renting Ski Gear

Budget Travel Tips

Additional travel tips.

• Frequently Asked Questions

Switzerland is practically synonymous with the swish of skis—as the first place in Europe to develop winter tourism, the country's skiing tradition is long and storied. A long ski season, terrific snow conditions, and large, well-developed resort areas make Switzerland a bucket-list destination for skiers from around the world. A comprehensive transit system of trains, funiculars, cogwheel rails, ski gondolas, and cable cars connect thousands of miles of ski pistes, some of which even cross into Italy, France, Austria, and Germany.

To help you make sense of the country's staggering number of skiing options, we've created this primer for the best skiing in Switzerland.

The ski season generally runs from November to March. However, resorts at a higher elevation, or locations with heavy snowfall, may be able to stay open until the end of April. Zermatt and Saas-Fee are able to offer year-round skiing, as a few high-altitude pistes have enough snow to remain open even in the summertime.

December and January tend to be the most popular months, especially during the Christmas and New Year periods. Those charming chalets and snow-capped mountains of the Swiss Alps might be one of the most beautiful places in the world to ring in the New Year with a glühwein, but a lot of people have the same idea — so be sure to book as far in advance as possible, and prepare to pay top dollar for accommodations in high season.

How to Plan Your Switzerland Ski Trip

There are nearly 350 ski resorts across the country, so you'll need to start by narrowing your choices! If you’re arriving internationally, you’ll most likely fly into Geneva or Zurich , but keep in mind that many popular ski resorts are several hours' drive or train ride from the airport. 

When selecting a place to stay, proximity to the lifts is key. Ski-in, ski-out accommodation is ideal, since you can cruise straight from your front door down to the slopes without needing to lug heavy boots and skis around. However, ski-in, ski-out accommodation will almost always be more expensive than places a bit further away from the lifts. Swiss ski chalets are one of the most popular options — they might be self-catering or managed by staff who’ll provide skiers with a hearty breakfast and sometimes dinner. You can also find everything from simple apartments to luxurious 5-star hotels, some with their own ski shuttles.

When you’re planning your trip, you can also book your ski or snowboard hire and lift passes in advance — often, suppliers offer a small discount for gear booked in advance and for multi-day lift passes. Depending on your home country and insurance coverage, travel insurance that covers snowsports is a must, too.

The skiing in Switzerland is truly world-class—the country is home to some of the best, and most famous ski resorts in the world. The Swiss Alps are dramatic, gigantic, and intimidating, so it’s true that many Swiss resorts are best for intermediate or advanced skiers. However, you don't need to be an Olympic-level athlete to ski in Switzerland, as you can find such a variety of ski terrain geared toward every level of skiier.

Here are some of the top ski resorts in Switzerland to help you plan your trip. 

• Zermatt: This is one of the most iconic ski resorts in the world, thanks to the presence of the Matterhorn looming large over the charming car-free village. The connected resorts of Zermatt and Breuil-Cervinia in Italy comprise the highest ski resorts in Switzerland, with the highest slope sitting at a sky-high 12,792 (3,899 meters). You’ll find around 223.7 miles (360 kilometers) of pistes in Zermatt, with the majority of those rated red, so best-suited for experienced skiers. 
• Verbier: Many skiers love Verbier since the resort’s 248.5 miles (400 kilometers) of runs mean you can ski all winter and still barely scratch the surface. It’s part of the vast 4 Valleys ski area, which includes Verbier, Nendaz, Thyon, and Veysonnaz. Verbier also offers heli-skiing and plenty of off-piste opportunities for advanced skiers. The quaint village of Verbier is picture-perfect, with plenty of restaurants and nightlife as well. 
• St. Moritz: As the first Swiss town to develop winter tourism, St. Moritz remains one of the premier ski resorts in the Alps. This luxury town seems to drip wealth, but it also offers incredible skiing on around 96 miles (155 kilometers) of terrain spread across three ski areas: Corviglia, Corvatsch, and Diavolezza-Lagalb. With its high altitude, St. Moritz is known for its consistently great snow quality, but there’s plenty for non-skiers to do as well as a "see and be seen" apres-ski scene.
• Les Portes du Soleil: As the largest ski complex in Switzerland, Les Portes du Soleil has enough variety to keep everyone happy. It’s on the border of France and Switzerland and easily accessible from Geneva. Some of the most popular resorts at Les Portes include Morzine, Les Gets, and Avoriaz. This huge area, 360 miles (580 kilometers) of slopes, gets reliable snowfall throughout the season and also offers plenty of beginner and intermediate runs. 

Where to Ski as a Beginner 

Beginners shouldn’t be put off by Switzerland's steep runs, as plenty of resorts cater to both families and beginners. If you’re new to skiing, be sure to invest in a few lessons so that you can learn the basics. Some hotels and resorts offer free kids' ski schools as part of their family packages. Here are a few resorts to consider if you’re new to skiing:

• Saas-Fee: You can find plenty of English-speaking ski schools in Saas-Fee and lots of bunny slopes on which to master your turns. The beginner ski area is separate, so you can practice (and maybe take a tumble or two) without getting in the way of other skiers. 
• Grindelwald: Grindelwald is a great choice for families, with plenty of ski schools and several bunny slopes, such as the Bodmi practice area, which cater to children. Once you’re ready to head up the mountain, about 30 percent of Grindelwald’s runs are rated blue, meaning they’re on the easier side. 

However, everyone needs to start somewhere, so you’ll find ski schools and beginner runs at every ski resort. Beginners can usually buy a beginners-only pass, which offers access to the lower-level learning areas only, but is much cheaper than a full mountain pass. 

Incredible as it may seem, it’s actually possible to ski in Switzerland during the summer months thanks to the presence of several glaciers where it's winter year-round. The resorts of Zermatt and Saas-Fee are some of the best if you want to catch some ski time in June or July.

Zermatt is home to the Theodul glacier. With 13 miles (21 kilometers) of runs, it’s the largest summer ski area in Europe and attracts professional skiers looking to train year-round. The glacier slopes here are beautifully scenic and offer skiers up-close views of the Matterhorn.

In Saas-Fee, skiers can enjoy the Allalin glacier, which includes lots of intermediate slopes and a snowpark. You can leave your thermal layers at home, the weather will be no nowhere near as cold as in the winter months. 

Renting Ski Gear in Switzerland

If you don’t have your own equipment or don't want to lug it with you from home, you can rent poles, skis, and helmets from even the smallest ski resort. You’ll generally need to bring your ski clothing, thermals, and gloves, but if you’re left anything at home, there’s no shortage of ski shops to purchase anything you need.

Rent your gear before you arrive to save time, or pop into any ski rental shop on arrival—they’ll take your measurements and recommend the best gear for both your size and ski abilities. Experienced skiers often use different equipment, allowing for speed and more precise turns, while beginners are better off with wider skis that they can use to learn the ropes and maneuver safely. 

A ski trip to Switzerland usually doesn’t come cheap, but that doesn’t mean you can’t save some money here and there. These tips can help:

• Avoid peak season: Visit during the start or end of the ski season. Accommodation and lift pass prices are often higher over the winter holidays, so you might be able to save some money if you’re willing to visit during less popular times. 
• Self-cater: Dining out in Switzerland is expensive compared to most of the rest of Europe. If you rent a small apartment or home with kitchen facilities, you can prepare some of your own meals to save. Even at smaller resorts, a grocery store is never far away.
• Head to smaller, less popular resorts: Smaller ski resorts may have fewer miles of terrain, but they also often have smaller price tags. Or head to a less popular ski resort for more affordable lift passes and fewer crowds. 
• Enjoy the snow without skiing every day: If the sticker shock of a daily lift pass has you wondering how you can afford to ski all week, know that you can have fun at ski resorts even if you don’t ski every day. Ice skating, tobogganing, winter hiking, or just having a snowball fight are all more affordable ways to enjoy the Swiss winter landscape. 
• Make safety your number one priority: Avalanches and blizzards might be what you’re initially worried about when coming to Switzerland, but your fellow skiers are a much more common danger. Always ski safely, move to the side if you need to take a break, and familiarize yourself with the resort’s safety rules to avoid collisions. 
• Don’t overestimate your abilities: The vast terrain of the Swiss Alps means it’s very easy to end up in a dangerous situation if you’re not careful. Red runs in Switzerland are no joke, so never attempt something if you don’t feel comfortable. Injuries, sometimes serious ones, are common among skiers, unfortunately. 
• Enjoy the apres in moderation: The apres-ski scene in Switzerland is fantastic—you’ll find parties that go on long into the night, especially in places like Verbier and Davos. Have a great time, but remember that skiing is vigorous exercise, so you’ll enjoy your day of skiing more if you limit your alcohol consumption and get a good night’s sleep the night before. 
• Bring a trail map: The long runs in Switzerland mean it can be easy to make a wrong turn, especially on days with poor visibility. Always carry a piste map from the resort so you know how to find your way to where you need to go. 

December and January are the most popular months to ski, but the season typically lasts from November to March.

The resorts of Zermatt and Saas-Fee are your best options for summer skiing in Switzerland.

While most resorts are best-suited to intermediate and advanced skiers, Saas-Fee and Grindlewald are great for beginners.

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The 12 Best Places to Go Skiing in Switzerland

By Lindsay Lambert Day

With mellow, low-altitude mountains, sky-high peaks with near-vertical drops (hello,  Matterhorn and  Gemsstock ), powder-covered glaciers, and gently rolling Alpine forests, it's no wonder skiing in Switzerland tops most winter sports enthusiasts' travel wish lists. Plus, the country is home to some of Europe's largest  winter resorts , with new panoramic cable cars, high-speed chair lifts, and  scenic trains offering easy connectivity between mountains. When it comes time to unbuckle your boots and click out of your skis, a  whole après-ski world awaits, from slopeside cocktail bars to sprawling, tranquil spas. 

And then there's the food. Whether you want to munch on Michelin-star sushi at a luxury resort, feast on a fireside meal of modern French fare, or down mounds of melty raclette while the kids run around, there's a spot in Switzerland where you can make it happen. 

Ahead, you'll find 12 places to consider when planning your next Swiss ski vacation. 

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Located in Switzerland’s Engadin region, St. Moritz is touted as the ski resort “on top of the world,” and it has deep roots in the sport. Its Corviglia mountain is considered the birthplace of winter sports—and winter tourism. The resort opened in 1864, welcomed one of Switzerland’s first lifts in 1935, and has hosted the Winter Olympics twice—in 1928 and 1948. The high-end ski destination’s elevation begins at nearly 6,000 feet and only increases as you reach the tops of its surrounding peaks. Join the hoards of well-heeled Swiss and international jet-setters who visit St. Moritz looking to enjoy the good life.

Stats: With 44 lifts giving you access to 67 runs, you won’t get bored—or even have to ski the same run twice. Pay between roughly $70 and $87 per  adult day pass and experience nearly 220 miles of runs.

Where to eat and drink nearby: From an Italian pizzeria set in a 17th-century farmhouse to the two-Michelin-star IGNIV by Andreas Caminada, the restaurants at iconic  Badrutt’s Palace are where you’ll want to see, be seen, and, of course, eat when you’re in St. Moritz. (There are several more to choose from, too, including a restaurant by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa that’s set in a former indoor tennis hall.) Elsewhere in town, at  Restaurant Engiadina , menu items include everything from classic fondue to homemade noodles with wild boar bolognese. And dishes—think sole, saddle of venison, and oxtail consomme—at cozy  Dal Mulin are like the restaurant itself: classic, but with a decidedly modern twist.  

Where to stay:  St. Moritz is synonymous with grand hotels, and there are plenty to choose from here. Treat yourself to the extravagance of Badrutt’s Palace, the place where your sheets are warmed with hot water bottles each night—and where Alfred Hitchcock once spent his honeymoon. If you’re looking for over-the-top accommodations, check into the hotel’s Penthouse, which is now available to book for the  first time in 30 years . Other luxury mainstays include the  Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski , the  Carlton Hotel St. Moritz , and  Kulm Hotel St. Moritz , where a bet between Johannes Badrutt and a few dubious English tourists is said to have birthed the concept of winter tourism. 

Experience classic Switzerland at the foot of the country’s iconic Matterhorn mountain, which soars 14,692 feet above sea level in a stunning, pyramid shape. Found in Valais, just six miles from the Theodul Pass, which borders Italy, Zermatt is never short of fresh powder, avid skiers, and views of some of the highest peaks in the country. Shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants line the bustling main street in town, Bahnhofstrasse, where you can partake in après-ski as it was meant to be enjoyed: warm, cozy, and with plenty of apple strudel.

Stats:  Zermatt day passes are priced starting around $83. The ski areas of Zermatt-Matterhorn and Breuil-Cervinia have a combined total of 54 lifts and 148 slopes totaling more than 200 miles. Heli-skiing is also on offer, if that’s more your style.

Where to eat and drink nearby: You won’t go hungry at Zermatt. In addition to the nightlife along Bahnhofstrasse, local resorts offer some of the best dining options in the country. Defrost with a fireside espresso at  The Omnia ’s restaurant, enjoy classic cocktails at the  Grand Hotel Zermatterhof ’s Stars Bar, and refuel with some of the top alpine cuisine at the resort’s Brasserie Lusi & Terrace. For an elevated fondue or raclette feast, snag a reservation at saycheese!, Grand Hotel Zermatterhof’s cheese cafe.

Where to stay: Make yourself at home off the slopes at  The Omnia , the sprawling Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, the splurge-worthy  Mont Cervin Palace , or cozy  Backstage . All are located just steps from the Glacier Express train, which connects St. Moritz and Zermatt. Conscious travelers will want to check out  Cervo , a contemporary, Alpine resort whose operations and offerings center around sustainability and social responsibility. 

Set in southwestern Switzerland, in the German-speaking canton of Bern, Gstaad opened in the early 1900s but has only more recently become a hotspot for travelers in search of the most luxurious skiing in Switzerland. With well-groomed slopes offering varying degrees of difficulty, the resort is perfect for a  family trip . Snowpark Glacier 3000 will get snowboarders’ adrenaline pumping as they carve their own tracks down the mountain—and if downhill isn't what you're looking for, the resort has a run for cross-country skiers.

Stats: With its 124 miles of downhill ski runs, 111 miles of cross-country skiing, 100 miles of winter hiking trails, 18 miles of sledding trails, and 41 lifts, Gstaad does not disappoint.  Dynamically priced passes typically run between roughly $53 and $85. 

Where to eat and drink nearby: Restaurants in Gstaad run the gamut, from Michelin-starred Sommet, inside the  Alpina Gstaad hotel, to elegant Megu, which offers up modern Japanese dishes and a more casual sushi counter. For the best fondue you’ve ever had—options include truffle and goat cheese—head to Le Petit Chalet, at  Le Grand Bellevue . Make sure to reserve: Max capacity is 18 (or 24, for travelers who want to book the whole place).

Where to stay:  Treat yourself to fine dining and a luxury spa at  Alpina Gstaad , or book a suite at the castle-like  Gstaad Palace , which has been on  Traveler ’s  Gold List for several years running. Located in the heart of the village,  Le Grand Bellevue is pure luxury, from its suites to its spa.

If you’re looking for proof that Verbier is a worthy winter vacation destination, note that the village was named Switzerland’s Best Ski Resort in 2022 and 2021 by World Ski Awards voters. Verbier is the gateway to the 4 Vallées ski area, which is home to nearly 100 lifts and more than 250 miles of ski runs of all levels, plus plenty of off-piste options. With varying conditions and extremely steep runs, this compound in southwestern Switzerland is an advanced skier’s dream. Many of the area’s most famous off-piste runs—including Bec des Étagnes, Marlenaz, Croix de Coeur, Col des Mines, and Couloir de la “Banane”—are known and respected around the world. Newbies can also learn a thing or two from the resort’s renowned ski school, which gives lessons to guests of varying ages and skill levels. Keep an eye out for  royalty and celebs, who frequent the resort.

Stats: Home to 400 acres of skiable terrain, 37 runs, and 48 lifts, quantity and quality are both at large here. The average  day lift ticket costs roughly $73.

Where to eat and drink nearby: The  W Verbier is a one-stop shop for slopeside food and drinks. Sip hot drinks and cocktails at the outdoor après-ski bar W Off Piste, order plates to share from Eat-Hola Tapas Bar, or dig into dashi, sashimi, sushi, and other Japanese dishes at brand-new U-YAMA, all located within the W Verbier. For gourmet pub grub in a party atmosphere, order a plate of nachos or “burnt” rib ends (they’re smothered in homemade apple glaze) at the popular Pub Mont Fort.  

Where to stay: The W Verbier is your best bet for an enjoyable stay. Alpine style meets urban chic in the hotel’s 123 rooms. Even better? The hotel is close to the main gondola, which means immediate ski-in, ski-out access. With just nine rooms and suites, Sir Richard Branson's  The Lodge is a more intimate option. The extremely photogenic, 39-room  Experimental Chalet , which offers views of Mont Combin, is a dream for skiers who also happen to love mid-century modern design.

María Casbas

Jessica Chapel

Madison Flager

Crans-Montana

Situated in the French-speaking Valais region, Crans-Montana is home to 87 miles of trails that criss-cross elevations ranging from roughly 5,000 feet to 10,000 feet and are suitable for skiers of all skill levels. Skiers can carve tracks on the Plaine Morte glacier and, if they’re lucky, catch some of the FIS World Cup, as competitions are often held at the resort. (Crans-Montana will host the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Alpine Women February 25-26, 2023.) Not feeling the rush of downhill? Give ski mountaineering, or ski touring, a try. Crans-Montana offers 15 ski-touring routes, including three introductory-level routes and one, appropriately called La X’trême, that challenges advanced skiers with four uphills and an elevation gain of 10,000 feet. Snowboarders can head to Crans-Montana’s snowpark, which has its own snowpipe.

Stats:  A total of 27 lifts will deliver you to 41 runs, stretched over 87 miles of terrain. And even during low-snow years, with 16 acres of snowmaking, there’s still plenty to explore.  Day lift tickets  are dynamically priced; expect to pay between $30 and $89. 

Where to eat and drink nearby: Every delicately plated dish that emerges from the kitchen of LeMontBlanc, one of the restaurants and bars within  LeCrans Hotel and Spa , is an edible work of art. While you’re there, order from the restaurant’s list of 48 wines. At  L’Ours , the Michelin-starred restaurant at Hostellerie du Pas de l’Ours that’s helmed by Chef Frank Reynaud, order a bottle of Champagne and sit down for a multi-course tasting menu. If it’s raclette or fondue you fancy, head to  Le Mayen . Many say it’s the best place in the Valais region to experience the Swiss culinary tradition.

Where to stay:  The new  Six Senses Crans-Montana is scheduled to open February 1, 2023, bringing its distinctive brand of zen—plus a minimalist spa and elegant restaurants—to Switzerland. Book a Terrace Room or Suite for peaceful views of the Chetzeron piste. For travelers who prefer a more intimate hotel experience, the 15-room  LeCrans Hotel and Spa could be just the ticket.  Hotel Crans Ambassador ,  Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences , and  Hostellerie du Pas de l’Ours are other perennial favorites that will place guests right in the lap of Alpine luxury. 

Grindelwald

Travelers heading to Grindelwald can ski in two areas. The first, Grindelwald-Wengen, is situated at the foot of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau and is home to the Lauberhorn World Cup downhill run, which runs from Lauberhorn down to Wengen over a distance of roughly 2.8 miles. Travelers looking for other outdoor activities can take advantage of Grindelwald-Wengen’s toboggan runs and world-famous hiking trails. The Eiger Express takes skiers from the Grindelwald Terminal to the Eiger Glacier in just 15 minutes. Travelers can also reach the skiing area from Grindelwald and Wengen by rack railway or by cable car. The second ski area, Grindelwald-First, is home to a snow park with a halfpipe, kickers, rails, and other features designed to send advanced skiers and snowboarders airborne. Guests can reach Grindelwald-First in about 25 minutes by taking the gondola cableway from Grindelwald. 

Stats: Skiers will have 64 miles of ski runs to enjoy at Grindelwald-Wengen, and 35 at Grindelwald-First. For 75 CHF (a little less than $80 USD), adults can get a day pass that’s valid for the whole Jungfrau Region: Grindelwald-Wengen and Mürren-Schilthorn. 

Where to eat and drink nearby: At  Berggasthaus First , a mountain inn situated directly next to the Firstbahn gondola station roughly 7,200 feet above sea level, hungry skiers can satisfy an appetite for hearty fare and mountain views at the same time. Its casual, self-serve restaurant offers everything from Alsatian sausage salads to goulash soup, and, of course, rösti and raclette served with all types of trimmings. At the self-service restaurant Berghaus Männlichen , in picturesque Männlichen-Kleine Scheidegg, skiers and hikers can refuel with stick-to-your-bones dishes like grilled sausages, burgers, and chili-cheese hash browns. Traveling with a crew who can’t agree on a single style of cuisine? Head to the new  Hotel Restaurant Fiescherblick , whose restaurant features Japanese-, Scandinavian-, and French-influenced dishes. Second only to the food are views of the Eiger North Face, the Fiescherlicka, Männlichen, and the village’s charming church. Located just above the town of Grindelwald, directly on ski run number three, cozy and rustic  Jägerstübli serves burgers, bar bites, and cold beer—the perfect formula for an apres-ski feast. Travelers who don’t mind venturing a bit farther for a five-star dining experience will find it at the  Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa , in Interlaken. 

Where to stay : Set in a formerly vacant building just behind Grindelwald’s white, steepled church, the new  Hotel Restaurant Fiescherblick has just 19 Scandinavian-inspired rooms and is surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain views. At  Hotel Eiger Selfness , staff take pride in getting to know guests on a first-name basis and helping them reconnect with both nature and themselves. Upon completion of a renovation spanning from fall into December, the hotel will unveil a refreshed entrance area. 

Get close to the stars in the highest official town in Europe. Located in Graubünden, Davos sits at more than 5,000 feet, but its peaks top out at more than 9,300 and offer both downhill and cross-country skiing. Davos’ roots date all the way back to 1213, when the area was first mentioned as an immigration spot for the Rhaeto-Romans. Tourism peaked in the area in the early- to mid-1900s but has since slowed down, making Davos a prime—but less-crowded area—to spend a  winter holiday .

Stats:  Access 54 lifts and 85 runs, the longest of which stretches for seven and a half miles, for about $78 per  day pass . When it comes to degrees of difficulty, roughly a quarter of the area’s trails are intermediate, 42 percent are advanced, and 35 percent are categorized as expert runs.

Where to eat and drink nearby: In addition to flavorful Italian fare, Sapori, at the  AlpenGold Hotel , offers a variety of vegetarian- and vegan-friendly dishes. For a warming pick-me-up, order a hot cocoa at the hotel’s Nuts & Co. While you’re in town, visit “the last beer stop before heaven,” also known as the BierVision Monstein brewery, in the neighboring town of Monstein.

Where to stay:  A Davos mainstay, the AlpenGold Hotel (formerly the InterContinental Davos) offers spacious rooms, alpine-inspired interiors, and unbelievable views of the Grison Alps.  Grischa Das Hotel Davos is situated directly outside the Jakobshorn cable car station, and its services include assistance with ski rentals and ski school reservations.

Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets

Set at an altitude of 4,000 feet in the canton of Vaud,  this village —once home to the Abbey of Saint-Maurice monks—is a skiers’ haven offering views of Mont Blanc, the Dents du Midi, and the Diablerets massif. Villars and adjoining Gryon and Les Diablerets feature kid-friendly lifts and toboggan runs, plus snowshoeing trails (some even cater to  strollers ), and cross-country-ski-specific trails. About half of the ski runs in the resort are graded intermediate or below, making the area an ideal pick for travelers who have little ones in tow or are just learning to ski. Note, though, that, on the Diablerets side, the Glacier 3000 runs are for more experienced skiers. One not to miss: a new run that, with its 41-degree pitch, will be among Switzerland’s steepest.

Stats: Brace yourself for nearly 80 runs that span about 84 miles of terrain. You’ll pay roughly $70 for a  day pass , which will grant you access to all 45 lifts.

Where to eat and drink nearby:   Restaurant L'Alchimiste serves one of the most mouth-watering steaks in town. For refined, homestyle fare prepared from local ingredients (think roast ham with honey, or mushroom casserole served with crispy rosti), settle in at  L’Étable . If a refreshing, post-ski cocktail is calling, head to the contemporary yet cozy  Bar 1870 at Villars Alpine Resort. 

Where to stay: Relax at Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa , where rooms are decorated with wood, fireplaces, and cushy furniture.  Villars Alpine Resort is a something-for-everyone hotel complex. It comprises a Lodge, a four-star hotel slated to open this month, and the five-star Villars Palace, which was renovated this past summer. Other amenities at the eco-conscious, Swisstainable-designated resort include seven restaurants and bars, plus two swimming pools and fitness facilities.

Skiers and snowboarders of varying levels will find the perfect vacation at Laax. Here, you can always count on reliable powder, and there’s nothing quite like skiing the sharp slopes of the  local glacier , Vorab. Located in Graubünden, the resort is set in a lush valley, filled with fresh snow in the winter months. Two additional cableways extended Laax in recent years. The addition means easier access to more shops, bars, and fine dining, resulting in an après culture that matches the variety of the ski runs themselves.

Stats: Five terrain parks, 100 acres of skiable terrain, 64 runs, and 28 lifts make up Laax. The average  day pass rings in at around $91. Crap Sogn Gion is home to the world’s biggest halfpipe. 

Where to eat and drink nearby:  As more of a family-friendly ski town, Laax isn’t especially known for its nightlife. The trendiest bar in Laax is Satellite Bar, which has a lounge feel and always plays the best music. In the valley, Indy Bar is where you want to be. Stomach rumbling after all those ski runs? Head to  Riders Restaurant , at Riders Hotel, for three-course modern-vegetarian meals that feature fresh, seasonal ingredients served at family-style tables. Alternatively, step out of the valley’s cable car station and into  Grandis , a luxe wine store and restaurant in the heart of Laax’s Rocks Resort.

Where to stay:  One of the most popular hotels in Laax is  Hotel Bellaval , where the staff is welcoming, the rooms are warm, and you’re not far from the beautiful Laax Lake. For sustainable, family-friendly accommodations, book your crew at  Rocks Resort or  Riders Hotel . Both are located directly at the valley station. 

Surrounded by four-thousanders (peaks measuring in at more than 4,000 meters), Saas-Fee calls to some of the most adventurous skiers and snowboarders. In Switzerland’s Valais area, Saas-Fee is one of the villages around the valley of the Rhône. The Dom and the Allalinhorn glaciers are right there, which help make skiing available well past the typical winter months. At the resort, cruise down some of the highest mountains in the Swiss Alps. Beginners can gain practice close to the village, and freeskiers can venture into the Mittelallalin snow park. The wildest adrenaline junkies can chase the snow on the nearby glaciers.

Stats: The average  day-pass lift ticket will run you $83. With it, hop on 22 lifts that’ll take you to 48 runs over 100 acres.

Where to eat and drink nearby: Nesti's Ski Bar is the classic place to grab a pint at the bottom of the slopes. And if you want to go out, Poison nightclub will keep you dancing until 4 a.m. To replenish all of those burned calories, order some of the best cuisine in Switzerland from  Waldhotel Fletschhorn , which features black truffle poached in Marsanne blanche, hand-dived scallops, and some 45,000 bottles of wine in its wine cellar.

Where to stay: In 2019, the Ferienart Resort and Spa underwent a complete renovation and emerged as  Walliserhof Grand-Hotel SPA . The Relais & Chateaux-member hotel is home to 73 modern, Alpine-style rooms, as well as three restaurants and a sprawling spa complex. 

German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe first drew attention to Andermatt's tourism appeal when he wrote about its mountain villages in the 18th century. Today, just 40 miles from  Lucerne in the Urserntal Valley, Andermatt is a storybook base for accessing  SkiArena Andermatt-Sedrun , the largest ski area in the heart of Switzerland. It's where you'll find Gemsstock, a 10,000-foot paradise for expert, off-piste skiers, and the more beginner- and intermediate-friendly Nätschen-Gütsch and Sedrun-Oberalp Pass areas. A long day on the slopes is well rewarded with a ride from Andermatt to Disentis aboard the  Après Ski Train , which serves up food, drinks, music, and plenty of mountain views.

Stats:  A dynamic pricing model, used increasingly at resorts around the country, dictates what you'll pay to play at SkiArena, but expect to hand over $77 to $87 for a peak-season  day pass . It'll get you access to 33 lifts and more than 40 runs that span 110-plus miles. Note that the Epic Pass is valid in Andermatt-Sedrun.

Where to eat and drink nearby:  Five- to 10-course Kaiseki menus are the specialty at  The Japanese Restaurant . It's located inside The Chedi Andermatt and has sported a Michelin star since 2017. Locals and visitors satisfy more casual cravings at  Spycher , a pizzeria and bar with an impressive menu of pies and pasta, plus a couple of classic Swiss dishes.  

Where to stay: With its sleek, Asian-inspired design—think smooth, honey-hued wood, deep bathtubs, and heated stone floors—everything about  The Chedi Andermatt is zen. Light-filled rooms and suites at the more wallet-friendly  Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen combine Swiss-chalet and Scandinavian style.     

One of Switzerland's oldest tourist destinations, Champéry began welcoming out-of-towners in the early 1850s. And with its location—between the Dents-du-Midi peaks and the Dents Blanches, in the Lower Valais—it persists as a base for modern-day plankers who come to ski their way around the massive  Les Portes du Soleil ski area, which comprises 12 resorts on both sides of the France-Switzerland border. From Champéry, the most seasoned of skiers can access the famed "Le Mur Suisse," or The Swiss Wall. It's one of the steepest and most difficult tracks in the world, with a near-vertical slope.

Stats:  For roughly $60, a single adult  day pass grants access to the area's four Swiss resorts—Champéry, Les Crosets, Champoussin, and Morgins—and their combined 37 lifts. 

Where to eat and drink nearby: Overlooking the Dents-du-Midi, Le 42 strikes a just-right balance of cozy and refined thanks to its timber interiors, crackling fireplace, and modern, French-inspired fare. Prefer to refuel with some gooey raclette? The chalet-style  Cantine des Rives has been melting cheese over a wood fire since 1949.

Where to stay:  What this area lacks in ski-in/ski-out options (a cable car and chair lift in the village center carry skiers to surrounding slopes) it makes up for with charming hotels in the center of town. Among them:  Hotel National Resort & Spa , whose architecture harkens back to the belle époque era, and the modern-meets-traditional  Hotel L’Etable at Les Crostes .

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Switzerland Ski Vacations

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• Switzerland Ski Vacation Packages

Skiing is this country's national sport, so you’ll never be short of a slope to swoosh down when you book a Switzerland ski vacation package. From A-list destinations like Verbier and St. Moritz to mountains of myth such as Matterhorn and Eiger, this Alpine nation is a skier’s dream.

Consider Verbier Ski Resort for your ski vacation package. It’s part of Switzerland’s largest ski area, the Four Valleys , which offers 255 miles of runs to play on. A magnet for celebs and royals, it’s also famous for its excellent freeriding terrain. Zermatt is one of Switzerland’s best all-round ski resorts. It’s part of Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , which is home to Europe's highest mountain station and where you can go skiing and snowboarding 365 days a year. Tickets here range from a one-day to an annual pass and start from 92 Swiss francs (around $94). Traveling with the kids? Head for Grindelwald at the foot of the breathtaking Eiger . Little ones can learn the ropes at Männlichen Children's Paradise. When it’s time for après-ski, enjoy a craft beer and “opfelchuechli” (apple fritters) at Brandegg restaurant. If it’s glitz and glamour you’re chasing on your Switzerland ski vacation, choose St. Moritz , or swerve the crowds at Pizol Ski Area .

Top Ski vacation packages in Switzerland

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Top reasons for your vacation to Switzerland

• Breathtaking Alpine Scenery : Switzerland offers stunning views of the Swiss Alps, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
• World-Class Ski Resorts : Whether you're a beginner or an expert, Switzerland's ski resorts cater to all skill levels, providing thrilling slopes for everyone.
• Renowned Chocolate and Cheese : Indulge in Switzerland's famous chocolate and cheese, sampling the country's culinary delights.
• Charming Villages and Picturesque Lakes : Explore picturesque villages and relax by the shores of Lake Geneva and Lake Lucerne, immersing yourself in the beauty of Swiss landscapes.
• Rich History and Culture : Discover Swiss history through museums and indulge in luxury shopping, experiencing the unique blend of tradition and modernity that Switzerland has to offer.

Book a Package and Save Money on Your Switzerland Vacation

A travel package combines flights with hotels or car rental, making it convenient to book everything you need for your ski trip to Switzerland in one place. It not only saves you time and effort, but it can also help you save money. With customizable options, you can find a package that suits your preferences and budget. Choose Expedia for the best deals.

Booking a ski vacation package in Switzerland is the perfect idea because it offers a wide range of activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountain exploration. You can enjoy breathtaking views, visit museums, indulge in shopping and dining experiences, and create unforgettable memories with your family. Plus, it saves you time and money.

How to Save Money on a Vacation to Switzerland

• Take advantage of Expedia's OneKey program to save money on your ski trip to Switzerland.
• Consider booking accommodations and flights together through Expedia to get a better deal.
• Look for discounted lift tickets or ski passes online before your trip.
• Take advantage of public transportation in Switzerland, such as trains or buses, which are often cheaper than renting a car.
• Consider staying in smaller towns or villages near the ski resorts, as accommodations tend to be cheaper there.
• Pack your own snacks and drinks for the slopes to avoid pricey food and drink options at the ski resorts.
• Research free or low-cost activities and attractions in the area you are visiting, such as hiking trails or local museums.
• Check out local ski rental shops instead of renting equipment at the resort, as they often offer more affordable rates.
• Look for package deals or discounted group rates for ski lessons or guided tours.
• Consider purchasing a Swiss Travel Pass, which offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and boats, as well as free admission to many museums and attractions.

Where to Stay in Switzerland

When it comes to planning a ski vacation in Switzerland, you'll find a variety of exciting areas to explore. From the charming neighborhoods of Zermatt and St. Moritz, known for their luxurious resorts and stunning mountain views, to the bustling city of Geneva, which offers a mix of skiing and urban attractions, Switzerland has something for every ski enthusiast. Don't miss the picturesque village of Grindelwald, nestled in the Bernese Alps, or the world-class ski slopes of Verbier.

• Zermatt : Experience the thrill of skiing, snowboarding, and hiking in the majestic mountains of Zermatt. Explore the stunning glaciers, soak in the breathtaking scenery, and witness unforgettable sunrises. After a day of adventure, unwind at a spa and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
• Saas-Fee : Discover the charm of a small town while enjoying thrilling ski and snowboarding activities in Saas-Fee. Experience the exhilaration of innertubing and cross-country skiing, and marvel at the mesmerizing glaciers. With plenty of recreational opportunities, this destination offers a memorable winter getaway.
• Anniviers : Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Anniviers while indulging in exciting ski adventures. Explore ancient ruins, embark on thrilling snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, and conquer the slopes on a snowboard. Don't miss the chance to visit the UNESCO site and experience a unique winter adventure.

Explore the best places to visit in Switzerland

Switzerland is a dream destination for ski enthusiasts. The local atmosphere is filled with the excitement of winter sports, offering world-class ski resorts and breathtaking mountain views. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, Switzerland has slopes to suit all levels. Experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding down powdery slopes, and indulge in après-ski activities like cozying up in chalets, enjoying delicious Swiss cuisine, and exploring charming alpine villages. With a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, Switzerland promises an unforgettable ski trip vacation.

• Zermatt-Matterhorn Ski Paradise : Experience the ultimate ski getaway surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Whether you're skiing, hiking, biking, or snowboarding, Zermatt offers endless outdoor adventures. Explore the stunning glaciers, soak in the beauty of the scenery, and witness unforgettable sunrises. Don't miss the chance to visit the serene lakes and immerse yourself in nature's wonders.
• Verbier Ski Resort : Embark on an exciting ski adventure in Verbier, known for its thrilling slopes and snowshoeing opportunities. Discover the awe-inspiring glaciers, indulge in the adrenaline rush of snowboarding, and hike through picturesque mountains. After a day of adventure, relax and rejuvenate in the resort's luxurious spa or enjoy a round of golf. Explore ancient ruins and soak in the breathtaking views that surround this enchanting destination.
• Engelberg-Titlis Ski Resort : Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the mountainous landscape at Engelberg-Titlis Ski Resort. Enjoy thrilling ski activities, indulge in spa treatments, and admire the beauty of the nearby lake and glaciers. Explore the charm of the small town, try rock climbing, and savor the delicious cheese and wine produced in the region. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing waterfalls that add to the allure of this incredible destination.

Best months to visit Switzerland

Switzerland boasts a year-around average temperature of 45.5°F, peaking at 62.2°F in August, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 31.5°F in January, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 65.8mm annually, with June seeing the heaviest showers and January, February being the driest month.

Planning your Switzerland ski vacation

What are some things i should consider when booking a switzerland ski trip package.

Yes, you want pristine powder and perfect runs, but take a moment to consider how close you want to be to the slopes, what extras you want from your resort, and—of course—how much après ski you intend to indulge in.

How can I find cheap Switzerland ski packages?

Fly down the slopes during low or shoulder season, either side of , for a ski package to please your purse. Right now, ski trips start at just $1,433. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Can I book a beginner ski package in Switzerland?

Yes! Head for the green runs—wide, sweeping slopes—for a gentle introduction to snow life in Switzerland. Book lessons so you can gear up to take on the rest of the mountain with confidence. Après awaits for all after an eventful day in the snow.

How much does a ski trip to Switzerland cost?

Sensational ski trips to Switzerland start from $1,433. Use the budget filter to find powder at your perfect price. As always, prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

When’s the best time of year to plan a ski trip to Switzerland?

The best time to hit the slopes in Switzerland depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re all about powder-packed pistes and brilliant blue-sky skiing conditions, aim for the middle of the season. Alternatively, if you’re willing to take a chance on start or end of season snow, you’ll bag much cheaper prices —just make sure there’s a spa or après bar to shelter in on white-out days.

Can I book Switzerland ski packages with airfare?

Save money on your snow time by booking your accommodation, airfare, and car rental in a brilliant bundle. It’s both convenient and cash-flow friendly.

Can I book a Switzerland ski trip with free cancellation and/or flexible dates?

Flexibility is always a bonus when you’re flying down the slopes—and it makes for an easier booking process, too. Check the payment option filter to find trips with free cancellation as well as buy now, pay later options.

Why should I book a ski package in Switzerland with Expedia?

Simple search and fantastic filters make it easy to find, build, and book your dream Switzerland ski vacation in just a few clicks. It’s ‘snow’ joke, it really is that easy.

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12 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Switzerland, 2023/24

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 7, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Whether it's the glamour of St. Moritz or the dazzling vision of the Matterhorn towering above Zermatt's classic chalets, every skier dreams of skiing the Swiss Alps. Contrary to what you may have heard, not everyone here skis like James Bond, and these majestic mountains are not just for experts.

Most resorts have easy cruising terrain and excellent learning programs . Many have dedicated slopes and lifts just for learners and beginners. And while après-ski may be lively in some larger ski centers, Swiss ski resorts are equally well tuned to the needs of families, with family-friendly lift passes, lodgings, and packages.

Some skiers love first tracks in fresh powder , others prefer groomed trails — both will be happy skiing in the Swiss Alps. Likewise, whether it's the adrenaline rush of a narrow piste at dizzying heights or a broad cruiser with a panoramic view, you're never far from a Swiss mountain that offers it.

Everyone loves great scenery, dependable snow conditions , and a good network of lifts; Switzerland promises all these and a choice of resorts to appeal to every taste. Caution: Backcountry terrain is unpredictable and should not be attempted without a qualified and well-equipped backcountry guide.

The high altitude of the major Swiss ski resorts means that you don't need to worry too much about what month is best for skiing in Switzerland. Most resorts have plenty of runs open by late November, and good skiing lasts well into April or even longer.

But if fresh powder on the widest variety of runs is of prime importance to you, opt for the coldest months of January and February. Be aware that school vacations are scheduled at various times throughout February, so facilities for children may be more crowded then.

Find the best slopes for your next winter vacation with our list of the top ski resorts in Switzerland.

2. St. Moritz

3. davos-klosters and parsenn, 5. grindelwald, wengen, and the jungfrau, 6. saas-fee, 7. arosa lenzerheide, 8. engelberg-titlis, 9. adelboden-lenk, 10. andermatt-sedrun, 11. crans-montana, 12. flims laax falera, map of ski resorts in switzerland, the best ski resorts in europe and north america.

The highest winter sports area in the Alps , with ski terrain at altitudes between 2,500 and 3,900 meters and more than 2,133 meters of vertical drop — Switzerland's greatest — it seems almost unfair that Zermatt should also have Europe's most iconic mountain.

The bold pyramid of the Matterhorn rises directly behind the town and is visible from much of the mountain's 360-kilometer trail system, which connects two countries and three resort towns. The other side of the Matterhorn is in Italy, and one of the greatest moments in a skier's lifetime is skiing over the Theodul Pass and down into the Italian trail system.

The world's highest 3S cableway, the Matterhorn Glacier Ride, carries 2,000 skiers an hour to the Matterhorn Glacier, at 3,883 meters altitude, where you can ski year-round. Opened for the 2020/2021 season, the 10-person Kumme gondola is the first gondola in Switzerland that can run without staff. It takes skiers to the Unterrothorn area, where a new snowmaking system also began last season.

New for the 2023/2024 season , the 100-seat Doppelmayr aerial tramway at Zermatt-Furi will carry 1,000 passengers per hour, and the new 28-person Leitner lift raises capacity to 1,300 skiers per hour.

A free Zermatt Skiguide app uses GPS to help skiers navigate between mountain locations, with time and routes adjusted to the user's skiing style, safety concerns, weather, and the currently open lifts and pistes.

Along with offering skiing and snowboarding 365 days a year in a postcard setting, Zermatt is famous for its long ski runs, with terrain for all skill levels. Beginning skiers and children will find non-threatening terrain at Wolli's Park, at the top of the Sunnegga funicular.

From here, experienced skiers can access the gondolas, chairlifts, and a cable car up to the Rothorn's trails and snowfields or link to the Gornergrat ski pistes. The Gornergrat can also be accessed by a rack railroad that climbs up the slopes of the Riffelberg, where the Riffelhaus 1853 hotel has a restaurant and terrace, all with superb views of the Matterhorn.

An unforgettable experience for skiers is a moonlight descent from Rothorn as the surrounding peaks gleam in the light of the full moon and the trailside forests meld into darkness. Lights twinkle in the village below, where at the end of the run, a supper of traditional Swiss fondue awaits.

All skiers pay only for the mountain areas they ski, with the Easy SkiCard that bills only for actual rides taken. Zermatt was the first destination in Europe to be a partner on the Ikon Pass , allowing access to 41 ski destinations on five continents.

Children: Zermatt is known for its family-friendly vibe: Children up to age nine accompanied by an adult with a multi-day pass travel free on the mountain lifts, and the free Wolli Card, valid for one year, gives them access to the Gornergrat Bahn and free lodging in some Zermatt hotels. The Stoked Kids Club in the Schweigmatten is a snow sports school that has the latest learning aids and a conveyor belt lift on kid-friendly terrain.

The creative new terrain in Snowpark Zermatt challenges riders with tunnels, hills, banked curves, jumps, and obstacles. It is also possible to toboggan down the Alps' highest toboggan run on a Snooc, a toboggan with a seat mounted above a single ski.

With state-of-the-art facilities and all these activities in a postcard village under Europe's most iconic mountain, it's no wonder so many skiers name Zermatt the best place to ski in Switzerland.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Zermatt & Easy Day Trips

One of the world's oldest and most famous winter sports resorts, St. Moritz has twice hosted the Winter Olympics , in 1928 and 1948, and its Olympic ski jump and slopes are frequently the site of world ski events. But St. Moritz is not just for experts and Olympians. Its more than 20 lifts carry skiers to terrain for all skill levels, and it's known for some of Switzerland's best intermediate terrain, with several very long intermediate runs.

Ride the Corviglia Funicular from the town to Corviglia , at 2,486 meters, for prime skiing and sweeping Alpine views.

With 30 obstacles, Corviglia Snow Park is regarded as one of the finest in Europe , and for less experienced riders, there's the gentler three-kilometer (two-mile) Paradiso. From St. Moritz Bad, on the shores of the lake, you can take the Signalbahn to the Signalkuppe ski area, at 2,150 meters. Freeriders head for the glorious terrain at Diavolezza and Lagalb.

At Corvatsch, one of the region's largest snow parks is opening a new superpipe in February of 2024. At 180 meters (590 feet) long, 21 meters (69 feet) wide, and 6.8 m (22 feet) high, it is almost as big as the world's largest halfpipe at nearby Laax. When it's not in use for competitions and professional training sessions, the new halfpipe is open to anyone. Corvatsch also has St Moritz's longest skiable vertical .

Although the town center has lost some of its former charm, St. Moritz is still known for its smart — and pricey — social life. But you'll find family-friendly accommodations a few minutes away in Silvaplana, where there's a gentle, kid-friendly slope and a lift and cable car to the Corvatsch ski area. Conrad's Mountain Lodge in Silvaplana is a good value for families.

There are plenty more things to do in St. Moritz in the winter, including ice-skating rinks, tobogganing, Nordic skiing, bobsledding, and kite skiing.

Official site: https://www.stmoritz.ch

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in St. Moritz & Easy Day Trips

One of Europe's largest winter sports areas and one of its highest in altitude, Davos is a series of ski resorts, which string for several miles along the valley of the Landwasser River in eastern Switzerland.

The two main centers are the completely dissimilar towns of Davos and Klosters; for Alpine village atmosphere, choose Klosters as a base, but the multiple ski areas are interconnected , so it's easy to ski any combination. All together, they offer more than 300 kilometers of groomed runs , much of which is classed for intermediates. But the tremendous off-piste terrain attracts a loyal following of experts.

Parsenn , which links Davos and Klosters, is the major area, with some of the most challenging terrain and some of the longest runs in the Alps. The longest is 13 kilometers, from Weissfluhgipfel to Küblis, with a vertical drop of 2,034 meters. You can reach the Parsenn ski runs from Davos using the Parsenn funicular railway and from Klosters on the Gotschna cable car.

Both Jakobshorn and the Pischa area are favorites for boarders, especially the latter with its off-piste free ride terrain . Davos is also popular with Nordic skiers for its 140 kilometers of cross-country ski trails, some lighted for night skiing. Thanks to a practice known as "snow farming" experts can get a head-start on the season as early as October on a four-kilometer cross-country ski trail in Davos's Flüela Valley.

Make no mistake: these are not laid-back little mountain villages, but posh resorts where you might share the slopes with royalty. The World Economic Forum brings world political, economic, and civic leaders to Davos-Klosters each January.

Official site: http://www.davos.ch/en/

Expert skiers take note: Verbier is for you, endowed with well-laid-out runs for long-distance skiing and an abundance of backcountry terrain that make it one of the world's best resorts for off-piste skiing .

The Tortin is famed as one of Europe's steepest descents . Set on a natural terrace, with views of the Grand Combin and the Mont Blanc group, Verbier is part of the Four Valleys ski area, joining Thyon, Veysonnaz, and Nendaz for a total of more than 410 kilometers of ski runs and 93 lifts all included in a single lift pass.

Skiers not up to the rigors of the expert terrain will find some high-intermediate runs; the cable car to 2,050-meter Tortin brings you to several, and Bruson, across the valley at 1,080 meters, is less crowded and has good intermediate terrain.

The intense terrain of chutes and drops brings advanced free riders to Verbier's snow park , which hosts the annual Verbier Ride freestyle event and the Verbier Xtreme free ride competitions, part of the Freeride World Tour.

New lifts for 2023/2024 include a six-person chair and a gondola carrying 10 skiers at La Matze, with a combined capacity of 2,000 per hour, and a new J-bar at Le Vallon.

Verbier has been named Switzerland's best ski resort in the past World Ski Awards. You can expect lodging here to be expensive, although the characterful Hotel Les Chamois offers comfortable rooms in a chalet-style atmosphere, at more budget-friendly prices.

The three peaks of the Jungfrau massif, all at around 4,000 meters, provide the splendid backdrop for 206 kilometers of slopes and runs, which include plentiful intermediate cruisers. Ride the Jungfraubahn railway from the Kleine Scheidegg, easily reached from Lauterbrunnen or Grindelwald, to the highest railroad station in Europe at 3,454 meters, or take any of the dozens of lifts and cableways to reach runs as long as 12 kilometers.

The Jungfrau's ski areas are known for their long runs , as well as for reliably deep snow. Beginners and learners should head for the slopes near Wengen, while experts will find Mürren's runs the region's most challenging.

Grindelwald is an idyllic photo-worthy Alpine village with the North Face of the Eiger towering above, and it shares its ski slopes with neighboring Wengen, where you can ski on the same lift ticket. The rustic and car-free chalet village of Mürren, at the foot of the Schilthorn, is reached from Lauterbrunnen by funicular to Grütschalp and from here, by a 5.5-kilometer narrow-gauge railroad.

The Schilthorn is a ski legend of its own for its hair-raising black-diamond Inferno run , the scene of the annual Inferno Race, the world's biggest amateur ski race, this year on January 24 to 27. A few days earlier, January 12 to 14, is the Lauberhorn Alpine Ski World Cup Race , Switzerland's biggest annual winter sporting event.

Installed two years ago, the new Eiger Express tri-cable gondola carries skiers from Grindelwald to the Eiger Glacier station. A direct transfer to the Jungfraujoch cuts the overall time by 45 minutes. In addition to saving skiers time, the tri-cable system saves the environment, too. Its double carrier cable is supported by only seven towers over its 6,483-meter length, requiring far less disruption of the forests below.

Grindelwald-First is a favorite of boarders for the freestyle superpipe by the Schreckfeld station and for off-piste free riding. One of Europe's longest gondola lifts carries skiers and boarders to dozens of kilometers of Alpine ski trails.

From January 15 to January 20, 2024, Grindelwald hosts the 40th World Snow Festival, where artists from all around the world will create sculptures from 10-foot-high blocks of snow. A one-minute walk from the cable car station in Mürren, Hotel Alpenruh has spectacular views. So does the moderately priced Hotel Edelweiss , which is more convenient for those arriving in Mürren by train.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Jungfrau Region

Winning top honors for the quality and dependability of its snow in this year's Best Ski Resort Awards, Saas Fee is close to the glaciers of the Dom (the highest peak entirely in Switzerland) and the Allalinhorn, in the Valais region.

The 150 kilometers of ski trails and slopes at Saas-Fee provide 1,800 meters of vertical, all of which is terrain where intermediate skiers will feel comfortable . In all, 26 trails covering 96 kilometers are classed as intermediates.

This, plus 37 kilometers of beginner trails and the practice slope and lift at the edge of the car-free village, ideal for children and learners, make Saas-Fee popular with families.

Despite its well-earned reputation for gentle runs, there's plenty of terrain to challenge experts, with 23 kilometers of black-diamond trails . Boarders can ride year-round, at a winter snow park, and in the summer on a halfpipe, boarder-x, and jumps on the glacier.

Open for skiing year-round, the glacier offers 12 miles of skiing. Ride the Metro Alpin, the world's highest underground funicular railway, to dine in the world's highest revolving restaurant , the glass-walled Drehrestaurant Allalin.

Official site: http://www.saas-fee.ch/en/

Until 2013, when they were linked by the mile-long Urdenbahn cable car, Lenzerheide and Arosa were separate resorts. Now they are a five-minute ride apart and joined in a single ticket, making this one of the five biggest ski resorts in Switzerland.

Adventure-seeking experts may find less to captivate them here, but this less-known resort is a sure hit with intermediate skiers , with 140 miles of groomed runs across three different mountainsides. Most of these are blue-rated and above the tree line, so they are open to spectacular views elsewhere reserved for summit-skiing experts. The region also gets more sunshine than many other Alpine resorts.

Powder and backcountry skiers aren't left out; the scenic Ski Safari route links three descents with stashes of deep powder, and from the summit of Parpaner Rothorn, you can ski across a glacier.

Arosa Lenzerheide is especially well-suited for families with children . Beginning lessons are free with local lodging, and skiing is taught in a charmingly playful way as beginning skiers make their way between colorful figures or ski through the honeycomb arch at Honigland Prätschli. This and Berry Land in Arosa, along with the children's areas at Auarara, Fastatsch, and Heimberg in Lenzerheide, are largely free, and the gently sloping terrain makes those first turns easy.

Specially marked family slopes are gentle cruisers, where families can ski together while young skiers practice their turns without faster skiers whizzing past. Find the family slopes in Lenzerheide on the Heidbüel/Scalottas side of the valley at the Tgantieni chairlift and the Stätzertäli chairlift. In Arosa, these are in the Tschuggen area.

An additional bonus for families at Lenzerheide is sledding at night on the lighted sledding course . In choosing a base, Arosa is the more attractive ski town. You can reach the design-style Home Hotel Arosa by bus from the train station, making a car-free ski vacation easy.

Official site: https://arosalenzerheide.swiss

Only 45 minutes from Lucerne and just over an hour from Zürich, Mount Titlis is one of Switzerland's most popular attractions, with tourists ascending to its summit in a state-of-the-art revolving cable car year-round. But in the winter, the mountain and the small monastery village of Engelberg at its foot become Central Switzerland's largest family winter sports resort.

Between Brunni and Jochpass, the more than 80 kilometers of runs lean heavily to beginners and intermediate skiers , with 27 kilometers of easy runs, 47 kilometers of intermediate, and only eight kilometers of expert pistes.

Many of the easiest runs are in the lower slopes around Trübsee and Gerschnialp. The steeper slopes are in the higher areas and on the glacier, where heavier snowfall allows skiing from October until May. With a 609-meter vertical drop, the area's longest trail is just under 13 kilometers.

The quality of the powder and the abundant high-Alpine terrain here make it especially popular with free riders and off-piste skiers . Another perk is that much of the off-piste terrain is readily accessible from the lifts. The 80-person Stand-Titlis II aerial tramway with a reversible ropeway opened last season.

Opened in the summer of 2021, the Kempinski Palace Engelberg Titlis offers 129 luxury rooms and suites in a magnificent Belle Epoch flat-iron building in the village center.

Official site: http://www.engelberg.ch/en/

The interlinked resorts of Adelboden and Lenk share the mountain scenery of the Bernese Oberland, and between them offer something for all skiers—beginners, daredevils, Nordic, and even spectators.

The ski resort Lenk im Simmental has the feel of a small ski village , and its setting in a wide, flat valley makes it popular with those who love Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and winter walking. It is very family-friendly , and beginner and intermediate skiers will find plenty of skiing among its 44 skiable acres and five terrain parks. Experts can find a few challenges, but most head to the more advanced pistes at nearby Adelboden, which is linked by the lift system.

The chalet village of Adelboden sits at an altitude of 1,350 meters, and the 160 acres of ski terrain reaches upwards another 1,000 meters. Its altitude assures consistent snow conditions , and its abundance of other winter activities makes it popular with families of mixed skiers and non-skiers.

A single ski pass also includes the Oeschinen Lake region and Sunnbüel in Kandersteg, and the Adelboden-Lenk ski area is also part of the SuperPass of Gstaad Mountain Rides. Another combined ticket is the Top4 ski pass, good at Adelboden-Lenk, Gstaad, Meiringen-Hasliberg, and the entire Jungfrau Ski Region.

Each January, Adelboden hosts the FIS Ski World Cup , pitting the world's top male skiers in a 1,290-meter downhill race on what's considered the world's most challenging giant slalom course. During the event, this year on January 6-7, lodging is often more plentiful in Lenk, where the newly renovated Hotel Sternen is in the center of town.

Official site: www.adelboden-lenk.ch

This is one to watch. The previously sleepy little town of Andermatt is poised to become the largest ski area in central Switzerland, and you can be there first, before the inevitable crowds.

Three new lifts and replacements for several old ones are well underway, linking the Nätschen ski terrain to the slopes of Oberalp and Sedrun. The first main linking lift, a high-speed, six-seater chairlift, opened for the 2018 season, along with a two-stage gondola carrying eight skiers, from the train station to Gutsch, at the top of the Nätschen area.

The Andermatt-Sedrun ski link in the SkiArena opened with the inauguration of the Oberalppass-Schneehüenerstock gondola (Schneehüenerstock-Express) and the last new piste from Oberalppass to the Schneehüenerstock. Completion of the project made SkiArena Andermatt-Sedrun the largest and most modern ski resort in Central Switzerland .

Most of these new trails are intermediate, like the current ones in the Nätschen area, and are entirely covered by snowmaking. Andermatt's north-facing Gemsstock, across the valley, has plenty of trails and off-piste ski terrain to challenge experts, with a 900-meter vertical; it's some of the world's most extensive terrain for powder skiing.

Most of the Gemsstock slopes are between 2,000 and 3,000 meters in altitude, promising good snow even when other Swiss areas don't. Along with altitude, a factor leading to a dependable snow cover is that storms hit this combined terrain from all directions; the downside of this is that heavy storms can shut down transportation and cut visibility.

The big news this year at Andermatt-Sedrun is the purchase of majority ownership by Vail Resorts, bringing the resort into the Epic Pass system and promising major infrastructure improvements. Vail plans to invest $118 million on upgrades to ski lifts and snowmaking capabilities, as well as adding more base services and restaurants.

Complementing the new ski facilities and located between the newly linked slopes is Andermatt's first four-star hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen , along with shops and restaurants around Piazza Gottardo.

Official site: www.andermatt.ch/en

Views from Swiss ski pistes don't get much better than Crans-Montana's, stretching from the Matterhorn to Mont Blanc. Only two hours from Geneva and 90 minutes from Lausanne, Crans-Montana can get crowded on weekends, but the crowds quickly fan out across its 140 kilometers of slopes and wide runs, reached by 27 different lifts.

The mountain is best known for its preponderance of intermediate terrain — 70 kilometers of trails are classed for intermediates — and for its variety of beginner slopes and runs; 55 kilometers are rated as easy.

Children get special attention with the covered magic carpet at the Ski Kindergarten and accessible via the new (and free) Montana-Arnouva cable car. Snow Island is a family favorite for snow tubing, with a magic carpet for novice skiers and sledders. The latest addition is Chalet Alaïa, an action sports center with trampolines, indoor ramps, foam pits, bowls, and a large outdoor skate park.

Snow maintenance and grooming are high priorities, and about a third of the slopes and trails have snowmaking . This is especially helpful because Crans-Montana's south-facing slopes get more sunlight than any other Swiss ski resort. Good snow conditions in the lift-accessed Plaine Morte section last into June. Some trails are lighted for night skiing , and there is a dedicated snow park for boarders.

A number of international snowboard and ski races are held here, including the Women's FIS Alpine Skiing World Cup Downhill, this year on February 16-17. A Magic Pass combines access to lifts in Crans-Montana with 25 smaller resorts, including Grimentz-Zinal, Villars-Gryon, and St. Luc; the pass is good for the entire season.

Official site: http://www.crans-montana.ch/hiver/en/

The three towns of Flims, Laax, and Falera lie in a valley beneath the peaks of Vorab Gletscher (3,018 meters) and La Siala (2,810 meters), whose summits are connected to the towns by 235 kilometers of pistes; four snow parks ; and the longest half pipe in the world , at 200 meters.

As you might guess from this, the area is a favorite of snowboarders and is considered Europe's leading freestyle resort for both amateurs and professionals. It hosts the Burton European Open and the European Freeski Open and other international events. More than 90 obstacles are divided among the four snow parks; the Curnius Snowpark has an Olympic-size Pro-kicker-line .

But the resort is not just for snowboarders. The trails are among the most evenly divided for different skill levels of any Swiss resort, with 64 kilometers graded easy, 70 kilometers intermediate, and 46 kilometers for experts. About 44 kilometers are designated free ride routes. The Flims Laax Falera ski resort is 90 minutes from Zürich , in one of Europe's best snow regions, and skiing is at altitudes between 2,000 and 3,000 meters.

A 10-person gondola carrying 1,500 per hour in the Foppa-Startgels area, and another gondola lift with the same carrying capacity at Flims-Foppa, will be operational for the 2023/2024 ski season .

The Snow Kindergarten for children under age four combines one hour of ski lessons with two hours of supervised activities, so parents can enjoy a half day of uninterrupted skiing.

Official Site: https://www.flimslaax.com/en/outdoor-activities/ski-resort/ski-snowboard

Ski Elsewhere in Europe : The Swiss Alps are only the beginning of Alpine skiing. There's a lot more to discover in the French and Italian Alps and among Italy's soaring Dolomites. Our articles on the Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Italy , Austria , and France can help you plan your next winter vacation in Europe.

Ski the American West : If you haven't skied the spectacular mountains in the American West, let our articles on the Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Utah , Colorado , and California lead you to some of the world's best powder!

Ski America's East Coast : The best skiing in the eastern US is in Vermont's Green Mountains and New Hampshire's White Mountains, but there are also excellent ski resorts in Maine and upstate New York. Learn where to find the perfect resort for you and your family in our articles on the Top Ski resorts in New Hampshire and Vermont .

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The 12 best places to go skiing in Switzerland

By Lindsay Lambert Day

With mellow, low-altitude mountains, sky-high peaks with near-vertical drops (hello, Matterhorn and Gemsstock), powder-covered glaciers, and gently rolling Alpine forests, it's no wonder skiing in Switzerland tops most winter sports enthusiasts' travel wish lists. Plus, the country is home to some of Europe's largest ski resorts , with new panoramic cable cars, high-speed chair lifts, and  scenic ski trains offering easy connectivity between mountains. When it comes time to unbuckle your boots and click out of your skis, a whole après-ski world awaits, from slopeside cocktail bars to sprawling, tranquil spas.

And then there's the food. Whether you want to munch on Michelin-star sushi, feast on a fireside meal of modern French fare, or down mounds of melty raclette while the kids run around, there's a spot in Switzerland where you can make it happen.

Ahead, you'll find 12 places to consider when planning your next Swiss ski trip.

Located in Switzerland’s Engadin region, St Moritz is touted as the ski resort “on top of the world,” and it has deep roots in the sport. Its Corviglia mountain is considered the birthplace of winter sports – and winter tourism. The resort opened in 1864, welcomed one of Switzerland’s first lifts in 1935, and has hosted the Winter Olympics twice – in 1928 and 1948. The high-end ski destination’s elevation begins at nearly 6,000 feet and only increases as you reach the tops of its surrounding peaks. Join the hoards of well-heeled Swiss and international jet-setters who visit St Moritz looking to enjoy the good life.

Stats: With 44 lifts giving you access to 67 runs, you won’t get bored – or even have to ski the same run twice. Pay between roughly £63 and £76 per  adult day pass and experience nearly 220 miles of runs.

Where to eat and drink nearby: From two new Michelin-star-chef residencies by Eric Kragh Vildgaard and Zineb Hattab to a sleek restaurant led by Nobu Matsuhisa, the 12 on-site restaurants at  Badrutt’s Palace are where you’ll want to see, be seen, and, of course, eat when you’re in St. Moritz. Elsewhere in town, at  Restaurant Engiadina , menu items include everything from classic fondue to homemade noodles with wild boar bolognese. And dishes — think sole, saddle of venison, and oxtail consommé — at cosy  Dal Mulin are like the restaurant itself: classic, but with a decidedly modern twist.

Where to stay:  St. Moritz is synonymous with grand hotels, and there are plenty to choose from here. Treat yourself to the extravagance of Badrutt’s Palace , the place where your sheets are warmed with hot water bottles each night — and where Alfred Hitchcock once spent his honeymoon. If you’re looking for an over-the-top bolthole, check into the hotel’s Penthouse, which is now available to book for the first time in 30 years. Other luxury mainstays include the  Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski , the  Carlton Hotel St. Moritz , and  Kulm Hotel St. Moritz , where a bet between Johannes Badrutt and a few dubious English tourists is said to have birthed the concept of winter tourism.

Experience classic Switzerland at the foot of the country’s iconic Matterhorn mountain, which soars 14,692 feet above sea level in a stunning, pyramid shape. Found in Valais, just six miles from the Theodul Pass, which borders Italy, Zermatt is never short of fresh powder, avid skiers, and views of some of the highest peaks in the country. Shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants line the bustling main street in town, Bahnhofstrasse, where you can partake in après-ski as it was meant to be enjoyed: warm, cozy, and with plenty of apple strudel.

Stats:  Zermatt day passes are priced starting around £66. The ski areas of Zermatt-Matterhorn and Breuil-Cervinia have a combined total of 54 lifts and 148 slopes totalling more than 200 miles. Heli-skiing is also on offer if that’s more your style.

Where to eat and drink nearby: You won’t go hungry at Zermatt. In addition to the nightlife along Bahnhofstrasse, local resorts offer some of the best dining options in the country. Defrost with a fireside espresso at  The Omnia ’s restaurant, enjoy classic cocktails at the  Grand Hotel Zermatterhof ’s Stars Bar, and refuel with some of the top alpine cuisine at the resort’s Brasserie Lusi & Terrace. For an elevated fondue or raclette feast, snag a reservation at saycheese!, Grand Hotel Zermatterhof’s cheese cafe.

Where to stay: Make yourself at home off the slopes at  The Omnia , the sprawling  Grand Hotel Zermatterhof , the splurge-worthy  Mont Cervin Palace , or cosy  Backstage . All are located just steps from the Glacier Express train, which connects St. Moritz and Zermatt. Conscious travellers will want to check out  Cervo , a contemporary, Alpine resort whose operations and offerings centre around sustainability and social responsibility.

Set in southwestern Switzerland, in the German-speaking canton of Bern, Gstaad opened in the early 1900s but has only more recently become a hotspot for travellers in search of the most luxurious skiing in Switzerland. With well-groomed slopes offering varying degrees of difficulty, the resort is perfect for a family ski holiday . Snowpark Glacier 3000 will get snowboarders’ adrenaline pumping as they carve their own tracks down the mountain – and if downhill isn't what you're looking for, the resort has a run for cross-country skiers.

Stats: With its 124 miles of downhill ski runs, 111 miles of cross-country skiing, 100 miles of winter hiking trails, 18 miles of sledding trails, and 41 lifts, Gstaad does not disappoint.  Dynamically priced passes typically run between roughly £45 and £55.

Where to eat and drink nearby: Restaurants in Gstaad run the gamut, from Michelin-starred Sommet, inside the  Alpina Gstaad hotel, to elegant Megu , which offers up modern Japanese dishes and a more casual sushi counter. For the best fondue you’ve ever had – options include truffle and goat cheese – head to Le Petit Chalet, at  Le Grand Bellevue . Make sure to book ahead though – the maximum capacity is only 18, or 24 if you want to book the whole place.

Where to stay:  Treat yourself to fine dining and a luxury spa at  Alpina Gstaad , or book a suite at the castle-like  Gstaad Palace , which has been on  Traveller ’s  Gold List for several years running. Located in the heart of the village,  Le Grand Bellevue is pure luxury, from its suites to its spa.

If you’re looking for proof that Verbier is a worthy winter vacation destination, note that the village was named Switzerland’s Best Ski Resort in 2022 and 2021 by World Ski Awards voters. Verbier is the gateway to the 4 Vallées ski area, which is home to nearly 100 lifts and more than 250 miles of ski runs of all levels, plus plenty of off-piste options. With varying conditions and extremely steep runs, this compound in southwestern Switzerland is an advanced skier’s dream. Many of the area’s most famous off-piste runs — including Bec des Étagnes, Marlenaz, Croix de Coeur, Col des Mines, and Couloir de la “Banane”— are known and respected around the world. Newbies can also learn a thing or two from the resort’s renowned ski school, which gives lessons to guests of varying ages and skill levels. Keep an eye out for royalty and celebs, who frequent the resort.

Stats: Home to 400 acres of skiable terrain, 37 runs, and 48 lifts, quantity and quality are both at large here. The average  day lift ticket costs roughly £58.

Where to eat and drink nearby: The  W Verbier is a one-stop shop for slopeside food and drinks. Sip hot drinks and cocktails at the outdoor après-ski bar W Off Piste, order plates to share from Eat-Hola Tapas Bar, or dig into dashi, sashimi, sushi, and other Japanese dishes at brand-new U-YAMA, all located within the W Verbier. For gourmet pub grub in a party atmosphere, order a plate of nachos or “burnt” rib ends (they’re smothered in homemade apple glaze) at the popular Pub Mont Fort .

Where to stay: The  W Verbie r is your best bet for an enjoyable stay. Alpine style meets urban chic in the hotel’s 123 rooms. Even better? The hotel is close to the main gondola, which means immediate ski-in, ski-out access. With just nine rooms and suites, Sir Richard Branson's  The Lodge is a more intimate option. The extremely photogenic, 39-room  Experimental Chalet , which offers views of Mont Combin, is a dream for skiers who also happen to love mid-century modern design.

Crans-Montana

Situated in the French-speaking Valais region, Crans-Montana is home to 87 miles of trails that criss-cross elevations ranging from roughly 5,000 feet to 10,000 feet and are suitable for skiers of all skill levels. Skiers can carve tracks on the Plaine Morte glacier and, if they’re lucky, catch some of the FIS World Cup, as competitions are often held at the resort. (Crans-Montana will host the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Alpine Women February 25-26, 2023.) Not feeling the rush of downhill? Give ski mountaineering, or ski touring, a try. Crans-Montana offers 15 ski-touring routes, including three introductory-level routes and one, appropriately called La X’trême, that challenges advanced skiers with four uphills and an elevation gain of 10,000 feet. Snowboarders can head to Crans-Montana’s snowpark, which has its own snowpipe.

Stats:  A total of 27 lifts will deliver you to 41 runs, stretched over 87 miles of terrain. And even during low-snow years, with 16 acres of snowmaking, there’s still plenty to explore.  Day lift tickets  are dynamically priced; expect to pay around £24 to £71.

Where to eat and drink nearby: Every delicately plated dish that emerges from the kitchen of LeMontBlanc, one of the restaurants and bars within  LeCrans Hotel and Spa , is an edible work of art. While you’re there, order from the restaurant’s list of 48 wines. At  L’Ours , the Michelin-starred restaurant at Hostellerie du Pas de l’Ours that’s helmed by Chef Frank Reynaud, order a bottle of Champagne and sit down for a multi-course tasting menu. If it’s raclette or fondue you fancy, head to  Le Mayen . Many say it’s the best place in the Valais region to experience the Swiss culinary tradition.

Where to stay:  The new  Six Senses Crans-Montana opened earlier this year, bringing its distinctive brand of zen — plus a minimalist spa and elegant restaurants — to Switzerland. Book a Terrace Room or Suite for peaceful views of the Chetzeron piste. For travellers who prefer a more boutique stay,  LeCrans Hotel and Spa has only 15 rooms.  Hotel Crans Ambassador ,  Guarda Golf Hotel & Residences , and  Hostellerie du Pas de l’Ours are other perennial favourites that will place guests right in the lap of Alpine luxury.

Grindelwald

Travellers heading to Grindelwald can ski in two areas. The first, Grindelwald-Wengen, is situated at the foot of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau and is home to the Lauberhorn World Cup downhill run, which runs from Lauberhorn down to Wengen over a distance of roughly 2.8 miles. Those looking for other outdoor activities can take advantage of Grindelwald-Wengen’s toboggan runs and world-famous hiking trails. The Eiger Express takes skiers from the Grindelwald Terminal to the Eiger Glacier in just 15 minutes. Travellers can also reach the skiing area from Grindelwald and Wengen by rack railway or by cable car. The second ski area, Grindelwald-First, is home to a snow park with a halfpipe, kickers, rails, and other features designed to send advanced skiers and snowboarders airborne. Guests can reach Grindelwald-First in about 25 minutes by taking the gondola cableway from Grindelwald.

Stats: Skiers will have 64 miles of ski runs to enjoy at Grindelwald-Wengen, and 35 at Grindelwald-First. For 75 CHF (around £67), adults can get a day pass that’s valid for the whole Jungfrau Region: Grindelwald-Wengen and Mürren-Schilthorn.

Where to eat and drink nearby: At  Berggasthaus First , a mountain inn situated directly next to the Firstbahn gondola station roughly 7,200 feet above sea level, hungry skiers can satisfy an appetite for hearty fare and mountain views at the same time. Its casual, self-serve restaurant offers everything from Alsatian sausage salads to goulash soup, and, of course, rösti and raclette served with all types of trimmings. At the self-service restaurant Berghaus Männlichen , in picturesque Männlichen-Kleine Scheidegg, skiers and hikers can refuel with stick-to-your-bones dishes like grilled sausages, burgers, and chili-cheese hash browns. Travelling with a crew who can’t agree on a single style of cuisine? Head to the new  Hotel Restaurant Fiescherblick , whose restaurant features Japanese-, Scandinavian-, and French-influenced dishes. Second only to the food are views of the Eiger North Face, the Fiescherlicka, Männlichen, and the village’s charming church. Located just above the town of Grindelwald, directly on ski run number three, cosy and rustic  Jägerstübli serves burgers, bar bites, and cold beer — the perfect formula for an apres-ski feast. Travellers who don’t mind venturing a bit farther for a five-star dining experience will find it at the  Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa , in Interlaken.

Where to stay : Set in a formerly vacant building just behind Grindelwald’s white, steepled church, the new  Hotel Restaurant Fiescherblick has just 19 Scandinavian-inspired rooms and is surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain views. At  Hotel Eiger Selfness , staff take pride in getting to know guests on a first-name basis and helping them reconnect with both nature and themselves. Upon completion of a renovation spanning from fall into December, the hotel will unveil a refreshed entrance area.

Get close to the stars in the highest official town in Europe. Located in Graubünden, Davos sits at more than 5,000 feet, but its peaks top out at more than 9,300 and offer both downhill and cross-country skiing. Davos’ roots date all the way back to 1213, when the area was first mentioned as an immigration spot for the Rhaeto-Romans. Tourism peaked in the area in the early- to mid-1900s but has since slowed down, making Davos a prime — but less-crowded area — to spend a winter holiday.

Stats:  Access 54 lifts and 85 runs, the longest of which stretches for seven and a half miles, for about £62 per  day pass . When it comes to degrees of difficulty, roughly a quarter of the area’s trails are intermediate, 42 per cent are advanced, and 35 per cent are categorised as expert runs.

Where to eat and drink nearby: In addition to flavorful Italian fare, Sapori, at the  AlpenGold Hotel , offers a variety of vegetarian- and vegan-friendly dishes. For a warming pick-me-up, order a hot cocoa at the hotel’s Nuts & Co. While you’re in town, visit ‘the last beer stop before heaven,’ also known as the BierVision Monstein brewery, in the neighbouring town of Monstein.

Where to stay:  A Davos mainstay, the  AlpenGold Hotel (formerly the InterContinental Davos) offers spacious rooms, alpine-inspired interiors, and unbelievable views of the Grison Alps.  Grischa Das Hotel Davos is situated directly outside the Jakobshorn cable car station, and its services include assistance with ski rentals and ski school reservations.

Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets

Set at an altitude of 4,000 feet in the canton of Vaud, this village —once home to the Abbey of Saint-Maurice monks — is a skiers’ haven, offering views of Mont Blanc, the Dents du Midi, and the Diablerets massif. Villars and adjoining Gryon and Les Diablerets feature kid-friendly lifts and toboggan runs, plus snowshoeing trails (some even cater to  prams ), and cross-country-ski-specific trails. About half of the ski runs in the resort are graded intermediate or below, making the area an ideal pick for travellers who have little ones in tow or are just learning to ski . Note, though, that, on the Diablerets side, the Glacier 3000 runs are for more experienced skiers. One not to miss: a new run that, with its 41-degree pitch, will be among Switzerland’s steepest.

Stats: Brace yourself for nearly 80 runs that span about 84 miles of terrain. You’ll pay roughly £56 for a  day pass , which will grant you access to all 45 lifts.

Where to eat and drink nearby:   Restaurant L'Alchimiste serves one of the most mouth-watering steaks in town. For refined, homestyle fare prepared from local ingredients (think roast ham with honey, or mushroom casserole served with crispy rosti), settle in at  L’Étable . If a refreshing, post-ski cocktail is calling, head to the contemporary yet cozy  Bar 1870 at Villars Alpine Resort.

Where to stay: Relax at Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa , where rooms are decorated with wood, fireplaces, and cushy furniture.  Villars Alpine Resort is a something-for-everyone hotel complex. It comprises a Lodge, a four-star hotel slated to open this month, and the five-star Villars Palace . Other amenities at the eco-conscious, Swisstainable-designated resort include seven restaurants and bars, plus two swimming pools and fitness facilities.

Amy Abrahams

Rick Jordan , CN Traveller

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

Skiers and snowboarders of varying levels will find the perfect vacation at Laax. Here, you can always count on reliable powder, and there’s nothing quite like skiing the sharp slopes of the  local glacier , Vorab. Located in Graubünden, the resort is set in a lush valley, filled with fresh snow in the winter months. Two additional cableways extended Laax in recent years. The addition means easier access to more shops, bars, and fine dining, resulting in an après culture that matches the variety of the ski runs themselves.

Stats: Five terrain parks, 100 acres of skiable terrain, 64 runs, and 28 lifts make up Laax. The average  day pass rings in at around $91. Crap Sogn Gion is home to the world’s biggest halfpipe.

Where to eat and drink nearby:  As more of a family-friendly ski town, Laax isn’t especially known for its nightlife. The trendiest bar in Laax is Satellite Bar, which has a lounge feel and always plays the best music. In the valley, Indy Bar is where you want to be. Stomach rumbling after all those ski runs? Head to  Riders Restaurant , at Riders Hotel, for three-course modern-vegetarian meals that feature fresh, seasonal ingredients served at family-style tables. Alternatively, step out of the valley’s cable car station and into  Grandis , a luxe wine store and restaurant in the heart of Laax’s Rocks Resort.

Where to stay:  One of the most popular hotels in Laax is  Hotel Bellaval , where the staff is welcoming, the rooms are warm, and you’re not far from the beautiful Laax Lake. For sustainable, family-friendly accommodations, book your crew at  Rocks Resort or  Riders Hotel . Both are located directly at the valley station.

Surrounded by four-thousanders (peaks measuring in at more than 4,000 meters), Saas-Fee calls to some of the most adventurous skiers and snowboarders. In Switzerland’s Valais area, Saas-Fee is one of the villages around the valley of the Rhône. The Dom and the Allalinhorn glaciers are right there, which help make skiing available well past the typical winter months. At the resort, cruise down some of the highest mountains in the Swiss Alps. Beginners can gain practice close to the village, and freeskiers can venture into the Mittelallalin snow park. The wildest adrenaline junkies can chase the snow on the nearby glaciers.

Stats: The average  day-pass lift ticket is available for around £66. With it, hop on 22 lifts that’ll take you to 48 runs over 100 acres.

Where to eat and drink nearby: Nesti's Ski Bar is the classic place to grab a pint at the bottom of the slopes. And if you want to go out, Poison nightclub will keep you dancing until 4 a.m. To replenish all of those burned calories, order some of the best cuisine in Switzerland from  Waldhotel Fletschhorn , which features black truffle poached in Marsanne blanche, hand-dived scallops, and some 45,000 bottles of wine in its wine cellar.

Where to stay: In 2019, the Ferienart Resort and Spa underwent a complete renovation and emerged as  Walliserhof Grand-Hotel SPA . The Relais & Chateaux-member hotel is home to 73 modern, Alpine-style rooms, as well as three restaurants and a sprawling spa complex.

German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe first drew attention to Andermatt's tourism appeal when he wrote about its mountain villages in the 18th century. Today, just 40 miles from Lucerne in the Urserntal Valley, Andermatt is a storybook base for accessing  SkiArena Andermatt-Sedrun , the largest ski area in the heart of Switzerland. It's where you'll find Gemsstock, a 10,000-foot paradise for expert, off-piste skiers, and the more beginner- and intermediate-friendly Nätschen-Gütsch and Sedrun-Oberalp Pass areas. A long day on the slopes is well rewarded with a ride from Andermatt to Disentis aboard the  Après Ski Train , which serves up food, drinks, music, and plenty of mountain views.

Stats:  A dynamic pricing model, used increasingly at resorts around the country, dictates what you'll pay to play at SkiArena, but expect to hand over £61 to £69 for a peak-season  day pass . It'll get you access to 33 lifts and more than 40 runs that span 110-plus miles. Note that the Epic Pass is valid in Andermatt-Sedrun.

Where to eat and drink nearby:  Five- to 10-course Kaiseki menus are the speciality at  The Japanese Restaurant, a two Michelin star hotspot located inside The Chedi Andermatt . Locals and visitors satisfy more casual cravings at  Spycher , a pizzeria and bar with an impressive menu of pies and pasta, plus a couple of classic Swiss dishes.

Where to stay: With its sleek, Asian-inspired design — think smooth, honey-hued wood, deep bathtubs, and heated stone floors —everything about  The Chedi Andermatt is zen. Light-filled rooms and suites at the more wallet-friendly  Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen combine Swiss-chalet and Scandinavian style.

One of Switzerland's oldest tourist destinations, Champéry began welcoming out-of-towners in the early 1850s. And with its location — between the Dents-du-Midi peaks and the Dents Blanches, in the Lower Valais — it persists as a base for modern-day plankers who come to ski their way around the massive  Les Portes du Soleil ski area, which comprises 12 resorts on both sides of the France-Switzerland border. From Champéry, the most seasoned of skiers can access the famed ‘Le Mur Suisse,’ or The Swiss Wall. It's one of the steepest and most difficult tracks in the world, with a near-vertical slope.

Stats:  For roughly £48, a single adult  day pass grants access to the area's four Swiss resorts — Champéry, Les Crosets, Champoussin, and Morgins — and their combined 37 lifts.

Where to eat and drink nearby: Overlooking the Dents-du-Midi, Le 42 strikes a just-right balance of cosy and refined thanks to its timber interiors, crackling fireplace, and modern, French-inspired fare. Prefer to refuel with some gooey raclette? The chalet-style  Cantine des Rives has been melting cheese over a wood fire since 1949.

Where to stay:  What this area lacks in ski-in/ski-out options (a cable car and chair lift in the village centre carry skiers to surrounding slopes) it makes up for with charming hotels in the centre of town. Among them:  Hotel National Resort & Spa , whose architecture harkens back to the belle époque era, and the modern-meets-traditional  Hotel L’Etable at Les Crostes .

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Ski and Snowboard

Switzerland offers first-class slopes for winter sports enthusiasts - whether professional or beginner, classic skier, freestyler or snowboarder. Red, blue and black pistes, plus modern lifts and cable cars guarantee unique skiing pleasure. Enjoy varied descents, magnificent mountain scenery and culinary delights during a stop on the slopes!

Winter sports resorts

Switzerland, a winter paradise, offers first-class ski resorts with perfectly groomed slopes and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Skiers, snowboarders, cross-country skiers, snowshoe hikers or simply enjoyers of the mountain world - everyone finds their own bliss in Switzerland's winter wonderland.

The 10 most popular ski resorts in Switzerland

You always wanted to go to Zermatt, Davos or Arosa? These are the most popular ski resorts in Switzerland, where winter fans prefer to spend their vacations.

Learn to ski

You can try your first turns on skies or on a snowboard really easily in Switzerland. Whether with First Ski Experience – an all-in-one half-day package – or in a course that will have you skiing or snowboarding within the space of three days. Come to a Swiss Ski School and experience the exhilaration of your first successful downhill run.

Chosen for you

Six ski areas close to the city, calm and peaceful: car-free winter sports resorts in switzerland, deep snow dreams.

Ascend a mountain in quiet solitude, leaving your own prints in the deep, pristine snow: the multitude of peaks in the Swiss Alps provide the perfect conditions for ski touring and freeride adventures.

More topics

The top world cup ski classics in switzerland.

Adelboden, Crans-Montana, St. Moritz, Wengen: Switzerland has some top sunny spots in the Alpine Ski World Cup calendar. And 4 classics offer a magnificent sporting spectacle in the snow.

What more could freestyler hearts desire? This selection will leave skiers and snowboarders spoilt for choice – Swiss snowparks are sure to inspire with their incredible variety.

On the move, unburdened by luggage

Have your luggage picked up from your home and delivered to your holiday destination – and taken back to your home after your holiday.

• From 25 Apr 8th European Formation Skiing Championships Samnaun, 25.04. - 28.04.2024
• 30 Apr Top of the Mountain Abschlusskonzert mit Black Eyed Peas Samnaun, 30.04.2024
• From 28 Jun ÖKK BIKE REVOLUTION Davos Davos, 28.06. - 30.06.2024
• From 5 Jul Trail Verbier St-Bernard by UTMB La Fouly, 05.07. - 07.07.2024
• From 30 Nov 45th Blick cross-country skiing fun Davos Davos, 30.11. - 08.12.2024
• From 4 Dec 33rd Arosa Humorfestival Arosa, 04.12. - 15.12.2024
• From 13 Dec FIS Cross Country World Cup – Davos Nordic Davos, 13.12. - 15.12.2024
• From 26 Dec 96th Spengler Cup Davos 2024 Davos, 26.12. - 31.12.2024

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