When you think of Switzerland, envision majestic mountains and unforgettable experiences. Imagine luxurious retreats sought after by Hollywood celebrities and various royalty. Now, picture yourself in that very place, with the Matterhorn and the renowned resort town of Zermatt within reach.
Whether you visit a Swiss mountain resort during the summer or winter, the sheer beauty and access to nature are truly awe-inspiring.They offer a captivating allure for hikers, skiers, and those seeking relaxation.
However, with a multitude of mountain and ski resorts to choose from, determining which one is ideal for you can be challenging. That’s where we come in to assist.
Join us as we guide you through the finest resorts in the Swiss Alps, enabling you to select the perfect destination for your alpine getaway.
Zermatt
Zermatt, situated at an impressive altitude of 1,600 m and near the border with Italy, is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque mountain resorts in Switzerland. As a car-free resort, it offers a serene and tranquil environment away from traffic and bustling crowds. The resort boasts an extensive network of 360 km of well-marked ski runs, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking surroundings.
Strolling through the charming, winding streets of Zermatt evokes a sense of old-world charm. The absence of cars contributes to the overall calm and peaceful atmosphere that permeates the resort.
For an unforgettable experience, be sure to take a ride on the cogwheel train from the village to the summit of Gornergrat, reaching an elevation of 3,000 m. From there, you’ll be treated to a unique and awe-inspiring view of the majestic Matterhorn massif.
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Winter
Zermatt Ski Resort is world famous for its phenomenal skiing and snowboarding. The highest ski resort in Europe, it spans two countries and 360 km of groomed slopes. The resort’s groomed slopes include 63 km of black runs and 75 km of blue runs.
The resort boasts a remarkable 99% snow guarantee and is open every day. The resort is divided into three areas, each with its own character, level of difficulty, sun exposure and points of interest. The iconic view of this famous mountain is visible from almost every run. With a perfect combination of slopes, parks and mountain restaurants, Zermatt has something for every skier.
Summer
Zermatt also offers year-round skiing opportunities, thanks to the Matterhorn Glacier, which sits at an impressive altitude of 3,883 meters above sea level. Along with Snowpark Zermatt, there are options for skiing and snowboarding available throughout the year. Additionally, the summer season presents a delightful setting for hiking, rock climbing, and various other outdoor pursuits, with the added bonus of potentially even more captivating views of the Matterhorn.
While in Zermatt, don’t forget to take advantage of the savings offered by purchasing a Peak Pass, which grants discounts and free rides on most mountain railways and gondolas, enhancing your overall experience.
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Saas Fee
Nestled amidst a breathtaking landscape of 18 peaks towering over 4,000 m high, Saas-Fee stands as one of Switzerland’s most extraordinary resorts. Within this majestic setting, you’ll find remarkable features that make it truly unique. For instance, Saas-Fee is home to the world’s only “alpine metro,” a remarkable 1.4 km funicular railway carved into the mountainside. Additionally, it boasts Europe’s highest revolving restaurant, Allalin, offering panoramic views at an impressive altitude of 3,500 m.
As an added advantage, a portion of Saas-Fee’s expansive 150 km domain remains accessible year-round, even during the summer months, making it a remarkable destination for outdoor enthusiasts even in July.
Winter
During the winter season, Saas-Fee becomes a haven for skiers and snowboarders. The surrounding mountains, such as Dom and Allalinhorn, provide over 150 km of alpine skiing terrain. With 96 km of slopes spread across 26 trails, it caters perfectly to intermediate skiers. Beginners can explore the 37 km of beginner-friendly trails, while experts can challenge themselves on the 23 km of black diamond slopes. The resort also offers exciting off-piste skiing opportunities for those seeking a more adventurous experience.
Summer
Saas-Fee retains its enchanting allure during the summer months, offering unparalleled access to pristine backcountry terrain adorned with a network of hiking trails. You can embark on scenic hikes to alpine lakes, enjoy picnics and swimming, engage in skiing, conquer mountain summits, and indulge in various other outdoor pursuits. Additionally, summer skiing is available on the Fee glacier of Dom mountain, featuring 12 miles of slopes. Snowboarders can also find thrills with a halfpipe, boarder-x, and jumps.
Saas-Fee truly captivates visitors with its remarkable blend of natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, ensuring an unforgettable experience in any season.
When you have the opportunity to visit this ski resort, make sure to experience an exquisite dinner at Allalin. As the highest revolving restaurant globally, it affords unmatched views of the Alps, perched at an impressive elevation of 3,500 meters above sea level.
Additionally, a must-see attraction is the Mittelallalin Ice Pavilion, a captivating creation carved into the glacier, adorned with stunning ice sculptures. With the Saastal Card, you can enjoy a discount on admission to the Ice Pavilion. This card also grants complimentary rides on the majority of gondolas and cable cars, adding further value to your visit.
Grindelwald, Wengen & Mürren
Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren are nestled in the Bernese Alps in the Jungfrau Region, in close proximity to Interlaken.
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The Jungfrau Region is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland. It is one that many people consider a must-see, and for good reason. If there is such a thing as “perfect scenery”, you can be sure that the Jungfrau Region has it.
It is the perfect combination of magnificent waterfalls, sunny valleys, impressive rock faces and snow-capped mountain peaks. These natural wonders come with the convenience of a wide range of hotels, resorts and lodgings for your exciting vacation.
Grindelwald, Wengen and Mürren are the kind of places where a vacation at any time of the year can reap great rewards. Not only does it serve as a perfect ski resort in the winter, but it also offers a ton of summer activities for children and adults alike.
While the villages exude a more laid-back atmosphere compared to other renowned resorts, they still bear the hallmark of Swiss prices, albeit relatively more affordable.
To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the region, a visit to Kleine Scheidegg is highly recommended. From there, you can continue your journey to Jungfraujoch, where you’ll be treated to even more breathtaking views of sprawling glaciers, including the Aletsch Glacier, the longest in Switzerland.
Winter
With a total of 206 km of slopes, this ski area caters to all skill levels. Intermediate skiers can revel in numerous well-groomed runs, some spanning an impressive 12 km and renowned for their deep snow and fresh powder. The Wengen area offers excellent options for beginners, while experts can test their skills in Mürren. For an exhilarating experience, venture to Schilthorn and take on the intense black-diamond Inferno run.
Snowboarders will find their dreams fulfilled with off-piste slopes and a freestyle superpipe. The lift system throughout the area is highly efficient, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all.
Summer
As the winter months draw to a close, there is no shortage of activities for vacationers in the Jungfrau Region. People from all over the world travel to the Jungfrau Region for hiking and mountain excursions. There are over 500 km of marked footpaths, mountain trails and hiking paths to explore. From cascading waterfalls to crystal blue lakes, what makes hiking in the Jungfrau unique is the stunning scenery everywhere you look. Tourists get the added bonus of stunning views of the Mönch, Eiger and Jungfrau as they traverse these trails.
The weather in the Jungfrau region is pleasant during the summer. The higher mountain sides experience cooler temperatures, and the Jungfraujoch, for example, remains snow-covered most of the year.
The village sides, however, are usually pleasantly warm. For hikers, the months of June, July and August can make you sweat. Temperatures during these months can reach 24 degrees Celsius.
Gstaad
Renowned for its opulent chalets and prestigious five-star hotels, Gstaad holds a unique position within Switzerland. This exclusive resort, known for its refined atmosphere, offers a distinctive experience, relatively free from bustling crowds.
Winter
With a combined 200 km of slopes, Gstaad stands among the most exclusive ski destinations worldwide. It seamlessly blends the thrill of skiing with the allure of art galleries, luxury boutiques, and upscale dining establishments, creating an exceptional experience for those fortunate enough to indulge. From a skiing perspective, Gstaad presents exquisitely groomed slopes framed by picturesque trees. The majority of the slopes cater to intermediate skiers, with a mix of blue and red runs. This makes Gstaad an ideal haven for those seeking a memorable skiing experience at an intermediate level.
Summer
In summer, Gstaad transforms into a true paradise with a variety of activities to do and events to attend. The breathtaking views and authentic Swiss landscape with mountains, lush green landscapes, with cows, authentic chalets and many spectacular waterfalls and torrents leaves no one untouched. With concerts, art exhibitions, sporting events such as the tennis and beach volley tournament, as well as wellness offers, Gstaad is the perfect destination in a varied summer wonderland.
St. Moritz
Renowned as a coveted destination for the international elite, St. Moritz holds its place alongside Gstaad as the epitome of chic resorts within the Swiss Confederation. Immerse yourself in opulence with five-star hotels, upscale boutiques, six Michelin-starred restaurants, and the prestigious yacht club, making it a haven of glamor. However, St. Moritz is not limited to the privileged few, as it offers accessible enjoyment for all.
In St. Moritz, there is an abundance of activities catering to both skiers and non-skiers, many of which are conveniently located within walking distance. Ice-skating, tobogganing, Nordic skiing, and bobsledding are just a few examples of the diverse options available. The resort boasts three noteworthy museums—the Engadiner, Berry, and Segantini—providing cultural enrichment and captivating exhibitions. The town also plays host to some remarkable non-skiing events, including the Snow Polo World Cup, the White Turf St. Moritz snow horse race, and the St. Moritz Ice Cricket event.
Winter
St. Moritz offers excellent snow parks for snowboarders, a wide selection of intermediate ski trails, and great options for beginners. Moreover, it boasts top-notch expert trails that even Olympians utilize for training purposes. Situated lakeside, you can even traverse the frozen lake from St. Moritz Bad to the Signalkuppe ski area, a veritable paradise for free riders.
Summer
St. Moritz retains its appeal during the summer season as well. Whether you prefer swimming, sunbathing, or paddleboarding on the lake at Silvaplana, or embarking on hikes into the mountains, engaging in rock climbing, and conquering summits, the town truly caters to outdoor adventurers seeking a paradise of activities.
Verbier
Size and reputation combine to make this resort truly awe-inspiring. With an extensive 400 km of slopes catering to skiers of all levels, Verbier has earned its well-deserved status as a slice of winter sports paradise. Since 2018, it has consistently topped the annual rankings as one of the world’s best skiing destinations.
The village itself exudes charm, characterized by traditional chalets and a plethora of high-quality restaurants. Accommodation options are plentiful, providing a wide selection to suit every preference. Moreover, Verbier boasts the largest and most diverse alpine domain in Switzerland, offering an unrivaled experience. As an added bonus, the Val de Bagnes resort treats visitors to incredible panoramic views of the Matterhorn and Mont-Blanc, further enhancing its appeal.
Winter
Verbier caters primarily to experienced skiers and is regarded as a haven for backcountry skiing. The array of off-piste opportunities is unparalleled, and it boasts one of Europe’s steepest descents, known as the Tortin. Solid intermediate skiers can also find enjoyment on Verbier’s slopes, while the snow park provides a playground of exciting terrain for free-riders. Additionally, Verbier is home to the Verbier Ride and Verbier Xtreme freeride competitions.
For less advanced skiers, Verbier provides access to the Four Valleys, including Nendaz, Thyon, and Veysonnaz, offering a vast expanse of 490 km of slopes that are less daunting.
Summer
Verbier transforms into a haven of natural beauty during the summer months, with stunning mountain vistas and delightful weather. Countless hiking trails meander up the mountains, making it a hiker’s paradise. Whether you choose to hike through enchanting forests, ascend to majestic summits, take refreshing dips in remote lakes, engage in fly fishing along rivers, or embark on thrilling rock climbing adventures, the options are endless.
Verbier’s summer landscape offers a myriad of opportunities to explore and appreciate the splendor of the outdoors.
Crans Montana
Located just two hours away from Geneva, Crans-Montana stands out as one of Switzerland’s largest and most family-friendly ski resorts. It is aptly referred to as the “Family Destination,” offering a wide range of attractions for all ages.
Situated on a picturesque wooded plateau at an altitude of 1,500 m, Crans-Montana boasts numerous ski schools, nearly 90 restaurants, and an array of activities that cater to both young and old. From a climbing gym and skatepark to curling and exhilarating Saint-Bernard dog rides, the resort offers a delightful selection of unique experiences. It truly provides an ideal setting for a memorable family weekend in the mountains.
Winter
In Crans-Montana, the ski season extends into June, and with snowmaking covering a third of the slopes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Among the expansive 140 km of wide runs, 70 km are tailored for intermediate skiers, while 55 km are designed for beginners to hone their skills. Families with young children will appreciate the presence of a Ski Kindergarten and a designated learning area with magic carpet lifts to help children become comfortable on their skis.
Snowboarders can relish in the snow park, while the illuminated trails offer the opportunity to ski into the night. On off-days, you can make use of the indoor sports center, which features ramps, a skate park, trampolines, and more.
If you time your visit right, you might even have the chance to witness an international race such as the FIS Ski World Cup Downhill.
Summer
Crans-Montana offers an abundance of activities during the summer months as well. From hiking and rock climbing to camping and summiting peaks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Imagine embarking on long hikes, even in winter, indulging in refreshing swims in alpine lakes, leisurely strolls through wooded areas, and for the more adventurous souls, ice climbing and alpinism are within reach.
Davos-Klosters
Situated in Eastern Switzerland, the mountain villages of Davos-Klosters and Parsenn offer a captivating experience and can be conveniently reached from Zurich airport via a two-hour drive.
Renowned as one of Europe’s most extensive winter sports playgrounds and boasting one of the highest ski areas in the Alps, the ski area seems seemingly boundless. It encompasses multiple ski resorts along the Landwasser River, providing a stunning backdrop and a wealth of luxurious amenities.
Winter
During the winter season, you’ll have access to a meticulously prepared network of 300 km of ski runs throughout the ski area. The majority of the terrain caters to intermediate skiers, while experts will find ample off-piste options to challenge their skills.
Parsenn, situated between Davos and Klosters, serves as a central hub that connects the vast ski area. If you crave long runs and exhilarating terrain, this is the perfect location for you. Parsenn features some of the longest runs in the Alps, including a remarkable 13 km descent.
The area is also highly favored by snowboarders, who flock to Pischa and Jakobshorn for their thrilling snowboarding experiences. Cross-country skiers are equally delighted with the 140 km of trails available at Davos, providing an extensive network for their pursuits.
Summer
As you may have already deduced, the arrival of summer in these upscale villages unveils a plethora of hiking trails that wind through the surrounding mountains. This season also offers convenient access to rivers and lakes, perfect for swimming and fishing adventures. Additionally, there are captivating mountain summits waiting to be conquered.
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Swiss Mountain Resorts Conclusion
In conclusion, the Swiss Alps offer an array of extraordinary ski and mountain resorts that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From the glamorous allure of St. Moritz and Gstaad, where luxury and exclusivity reign supreme, to the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Zermatt and Grindelwald, these resorts captivate visitors with their majestic peaks, impeccable slopes, and world-class amenities.
So whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time visitor, the Swiss Alps beckon with their majestic peaks, world-class slopes, and enchanting alpine villages. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty, exhilarating adventures, and unparalleled experiences that await you in this winter wonderland.
