The Swiss have been mastering the art of navigating their majestic mountains for centuries, employing cable-cars, tunnels, and high-elevation railways to provide seamless access to peaks and historic towns. Skiing is deeply ingrained in the Swiss way of life, and the country boasts a world-class skiing experience. While it’s true that the Swiss adventure can lean towards the expensive side, the value it offers is exceptional, encompassing everything from indulging in the delectable rösti potato bake at a mountain restaurant to enjoying the warm hospitality and efficient service in immaculate, family-run hotels. Moreover, the Swiss transportation network operates with impeccable precision.
Although the British ski holiday tradition traces its roots to St Moritz, the decline in the pound’s value against the Swiss Franc and a decrease in catered chalet holidays have somewhat diverted UK skiers’ attention away from Switzerland. However, this picturesque Alpine nation deserves a prominent place on the list.
Most Swiss resorts have evolved from traditional farming villages, preserving their picture-perfect charm while adapting to modern tourism needs. Unlike some purpose-built resorts in the Alps, these locales maintain their original style and attract a vibrant year-round community. For British skiers who appreciate expansive, interconnected ski areas, it might come as a surprise that Zermatt shares 224 miles of piste with Cervinia in Italy, or that Verbier is linked with the family-friendly villages of Nendaz, Veysonnaz, and Bruson. Additionally, Switzerland easily meets the British preference for high-altitude, snow-sure skiing, with options ranging from the glaciers of Saas-Fee and Zermatt to the resorts of St Moritz, Engelberg, and Laax.
While Klosters and Gstaad are renowned for their luxurious hotels and upscale clientele, Switzerland offers more unassuming resorts. Families, for instance, may find the small, south-facing resort of Anzère in Valais appealing. Neighboring Crans Montana and Laax in Graubünden cater to adventure seekers with expansive terrain parks and a vibrant freeride scene.
Switzerland stands out as a global leader in environmental conservation, with Laax notably pioneering ecological development decisions since 1970. The resort has achieved a remarkable milestone by operating entirely on 100% renewable energy. Additionally, Laax is committed to nature preservation, optimizing energy efficiency, promoting electrified transport, and decarbonizing existing buildings.
For frequent skiers in Switzerland, there are attractive options for cost-effective lift passes. The Magic Pass, for instance, provides access to 69 ski resorts, while the Epic Pass from the US-based Vail Resorts encompasses North American resorts and select European destinations, including Verbier and Andermatt. This pass could prove beneficial for British skiers planning both long-haul and European ski trips, especially considering Andermatt’s distinction as the first Alpine resort to partner with Vail Resorts.
Switzerland’s luxury accommodation sector continues to witness substantial growth. Recent openings include the Mandarin Oriental on the shores of Lake Lucerne, Six Senses in Crans Montana, Grace La Margna in St Moritz, and Faern resorts in Arosa and Crans-Montana. Notably, hotels and restaurants emphasizing local cuisine are flourishing, with establishments like The Krone – Säumerei am Inn, led by British head chef James Baron, earning a Michelin star soon after its winter opening.
Exciting developments in cable-car infrastructure are underway. The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, connecting Zermatt and Cervinia with the highest cable-car in Europe, is set to debut this winter. In Verbier, the long-anticipated link between Essert and Savoleyres is slated to commence construction next summer, with completion expected in 2025. Additionally, Laax is poised to unveil the Flem Xpress, an on-demand gondola designed to use 50% less energy than its predecessors by removing cabins when not in use.
Three Invigorating Winter Activities to Explore in Switzerland
- Winter Walking in Zermatt
Zermatt boasts a network of 250 miles of mountain walking trails, accessible even during the winter months. Ranging from leisurely circular strolls around the car-free village to more challenging hikes beneath the imposing north face of the Matterhorn, these routes offer diverse experiences. To optimize your exploration, download the tourist office’s interactive winter hiking map, providing daily weather updates and highlighting Zermatt’s outstanding mountain restaurants. Enjoy a seven-night stay at Le Mirabeau Hotel & Spa starting from £1,489 per person, including flights and half-board accommodation. - Ski & Spa Retreat in Arosa
Embark on a captivating train journey from Zurich through the canton of Graubünden to the year-round resort of Arosa, renowned for its magical Alpine landscapes. Indulge in a stay at the Tschuggen Grand Hotel, featuring a multi-award-winning spa spanning four floors and 5,000 square meters. The spa’s design mimics vast glass sails emerging from the mountain, adorned with interiors of Alpine granite, maple wood, and rock. Enjoy a relaxing retreat with doubles available on a bed and breakfast basis from CHF 375 (£337) per night, inclusive of spa access. - Ice Climbing Adventure in Saas-Fee
Beyond its splendid glacier skiing, the traditional mountain village of Saas-Fee offers a thrilling adventure in ice climbing. Once reserved for the Ice Climbing World Cup, Saas-Fee’s ice climbing dome is now open to all enthusiasts. Additionally, the village provides opportunities for glacier ice climbing. Saas-Fee Guides offers a full day of ice climbing, accessible through a snowshoe hike, starting from CHF 245 (£220) per person. For a more economical option, consider the winter via ferrata, priced at CHF 25 (£23) per person.