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Switzerland is the land of incredible mountains, cheese and fondue, and quintessential mountain villages. With iconic resorts like Zermatt, Verbier, Gstaad, Engelberg, Davos and St. Moritz, this country offers more than just luxury slopes—it's a full-on winter wonderland. Imagine carving your way down pristine runs beneath the towering Matterhorn, the birthplace of alpinism, while soaking in the traditional Alpine vibes. And let’s not forget the local hospitality and cuisine—fondue, anyone? Switzerland’s ski resorts are all about experiencing the best of Swiss culture and hospitality.
Switzerland is credited with the invention of winter tourism. The resort town of St. Moritz, in particular, is recognized as the birthplace of winter sports tourism, having hosted the world’s first winter tourist season in 1864. This deep-rooted history adds an unmatched cultural richness to the skiing experience. But it's not just the skiing that makes Switzerland a must-visit. The convenience of major international airports like Geneva and Zurich makes access a breeze, while the proximity to neighboring French and Italian ski resorts adds an extra layer of adventure to your ski holiday.
Swiss resorts boast some of the highest altitudes in Europe, with Zermatt offering skiing up to 12,793 feet on the Klein Matterhorn. The combination of high altitude and extensive glacier skiing ensures reliable snow conditions, making Switzerland one of the few destinations where you can ski year-round. Beyond the slopes, charming Old-World villages and scenic spots like the Interlaken and Jungfrau regions offer plenty to explore. And who could resist a ride on the Jungfraujoch railway or a cozy evening in a picturesque chalet? Switzerland transcends a mere ski vacation; it represents an expedition across the Alps' most legendary landscapes and cultural offerings.
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Andermatt is the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern luxury, where traditional chalets and cobblestone streets meet contemporary amenities. Ski.com Experts and clients alike love it for its authentic vibe and year-round skiing on the Sustenhorn Glacier. As part of the largest ski area in Central Switzerland, SkiArena Andermatt-Sedrun, you'll find over 75 miles of slopes and a variety of winter activities like snowshoeing, ice climbing and one of the longest toboggan runs in the Alps. With deep powder, epic off-piste opportunities and a strong commitment to sustainability, Andermatt is a prime destination for those who crave adventure and care about the environment. Plus, its strategic location at the crossroads of key Alpine passes makes it super accessible from Zurich, Lucerne and Milan, and a gateway to exploring the stunning Swiss Alps.
Highlights: Andermatt boasts extensive off-piste terrain, a blend of modern and traditional Swiss architecture, and a tranquil, unspoiled alpine environment.
Closest airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH) - 78 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: The latest buzz on the Epic Pass is all about Crans-Montana, and it’s easy to see why. Known for its incredible sunshine—300 days a year—this resort is a skier’s dream for those who love carving turns under clear blue skies. With more than 86 miles of varied terrain, Crans-Montana has something for everyone, whether you’re just starting out or you’re an advanced skier seeking a challenge.
Perched at 4,921 feet, the village offers jaw-dropping views of iconic peaks like the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc. Crans-Montana is also home to some of Switzerland’s top ski schools, perfect for those looking to fine-tune their skills. Expert instructors provide personalized coaching, making sure skiers of all levels get the most out of their time on the slopes.
Families love the resort’s “Snow Island,” where kids can safely enjoy gentle slopes, magic carpets and play areas designed just for them. And while the skiing is world-class, Crans-Montana offers so much more. The village blends the cozy charm of a mountain village with the sophistication of a vibrant town. From high-end shopping and art galleries to gourmet dining, everything you need is just steps away from the slopes. Plus, Crans-Montana’s convenient access by train and road makes it a top choice for international travelers looking for the perfect alpine getaway.
Highlights: Crans-Montana features sunny, panoramic slopes, a chic town center with luxury shopping and fine dining, and a lively après-ski culture.
Closest airport: Sion Airport (SIR) - 19 miles (30 minutes)
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Gstaad has been the go-to spot for the rich and famous, earning its nickname "the Alpine Beverly Hills." Celebrities, royalty, and high-profile jet-setters flock to this glamorous resort, with the iconic Gstaad Palace at its heart. Opened in 1913, this luxurious hotel has played host to the elite for over a century, offering stunning views, world-class dining, and a history steeped in luxury—adding that extra touch of opulence to your ski getaway.
Gstaad boasts over 124 miles of ski slopes spread across six distinct areas, catering to everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. What makes it truly special? The mix of glacier skiing on Glacier 3000 and low-altitude forest runs offers diverse terrain all within one destination. This variety is a big reason why our Ski.com Mountain Travel Experts are hooked on Gstaad. But skiing is just the beginning. Gstaad offers a wide array of winter sports, from snow biking and ice skating to curling. The resort is also home to the Snow Polo World Cup, a winter polo tournament that adds a unique and glamorous flair to the snowy season.
Wander through Gstaad’s charming, car-free village center, where cobblestone streets are lined with boutique shops and gourmet restaurants, creating a peaceful, timeless ambiance. It’s a perfect blend of traditional Swiss culture and modern innovation, with eco-friendly initiatives like solar-powered ski lifts showing the region’s commitment to preserving its stunning natural environment.
Highlights: Gstaad boasts a serene atmosphere, traditional chalet-style architecture, and a selection of high-quality dining and accommodations.
Closest airport: Bern Airport (BRN) - 50 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Known as the birthplace of winter tourism, St. Moritz is where luxury and sophistication meet the stunning Swiss Alps. Our Mountain Travel Experts are drawn to its glamorous ambiance and world-class skiing, where perfectly groomed slopes meet breathtaking lake views. As a two-time host of the Winter Olympics in 1928 and 1948, the resort still buzzes with an Olympic spirit, offering top-notch facilities and a rich legacy of competitive sports.
St. Moritz is also home to the iconic Cresta Run, a natural ice skeleton track that’s been thrilling adrenaline seekers since 1884. It's one of the last of its kind in the world. The frozen Lake St. Moritz transforms into a spectacular stage for winter events like the White Turf horse races, snow polo and St. Moritz Ice Cricket, blending sport and elegance in an unforgettable setting. Synonymous with luxury, St. Moritz offers high-end shopping, exclusive hotels, and a vibrant après-ski scene that attracts the elite and trendsetters. Yet, this glamorous resort also embraces sustainability, with initiatives dedicated to preserving its natural beauty and promoting eco-friendly tourism.
Highlights: St. Moritz features luxury accommodations, high-end shopping, and a plethora of winter activities, including ice polo and the Cresta Run.
Closest airport: Samedan Airport (SMV) - 4 miles (15 minutes)
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Our Mountain Travel Experts can’t get enough of Verbier’s epic off-piste terrain and buzzing nightlife. Nestled within Switzerland's largest ski area, Verbier connects you to over 250 miles of pristine slopes across four valleys. Known as a freeride mecca, Verbier is home to the legendary Xtreme Verbier, the final showdown of the Freeride World Tour, where the world’s best riders tackle its steep, wild slopes.
For the ultimate challenge, take on the Mont Fort Glacier, perched at 10,925 feet. The views are jaw-dropping, with panoramas of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc and Grand Combin, and the descent is an adrenaline rush for advanced skiers. Looking for untouched powder? Verbier offers some of Europe’s premier heli skiing, whisking you away to remote, pristine runs only accessible by helicopter. After a day of adventure, dive into Verbier’s vibrant après-ski scene. Iconic spots like Le Rouge and Farm Club keep the energy high, blending world-class skiing with unforgettable nights. And while Verbier shines with luxury, it’s also a leader in sustainability. From electric transport to renewable energy initiatives, Verbier is committed to preserving its stunning alpine landscape for generations to come.
Highlights: Verbier offers world-class off-piste skiing, a bustling après-ski scene, and a chic, international atmosphere.
Closest airport: Geneva International Airport (GVA) - 100 miles (2 hours)
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Zermatt is where skiing reaches new heights—literally. Home to the highest ski resort in Europe, Zermatt’s slopes stretch up to 12,793 feet at the Klein Matterhorn. This altitude guarantees stellar snow conditions all year round, with summer skiing available on the Theodul Glacier. Our experts can’t help but be captivated by the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most iconic peaks. Its majestic presence serves as a breathtaking backdrop to every run. Zermatt also offers access to the world’s highest cable car station at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. From here, you’re treated to panoramic views spanning 38 Alpine peaks and 14 glaciers, covering Switzerland, Italy, and France. It’s a must-visit for skiers and non-skiers alike. And the skiing? It’s unparalleled. Glide down slopes with uninterrupted views of this legendary mountain, making every descent an unforgettable experience.
For those seeking a cross-border adventure, Zermatt delivers. The Matterhorn Glacier Ride connects you from Switzerland to Italy, linking with Cervinia for an international skiing escapade. Plus, Zermatt boasts Switzerland’s longest downhill run—a 13-mile descent from the Klein Matterhorn to Zermatt, dropping over 7,152 feet and offering a diverse, thrilling ride. What truly sets Zermatt apart is its commitment to preserving its pristine Alpine environment. As a car-free village, Zermatt relies on electric taxis and horse-drawn carriages, maintaining a serene and charming atmosphere. The resort is also a leader in sustainability, powered by renewable energy and dedicated to protecting its stunning natural surroundings.
Highlights: Zermatt features year-round skiing, breathtaking Matterhorn views, and a picturesque, car-free village.
Closest airport: Sion Airport (SIR) - 48 miles (45 minutes)
Our Mountain Travel Experts are here to craft your dream trip. From matching you with the ideal destination to booking accommodations, flights, transfers, lessons and more, planning your perfect Switzerland vacation has never been easier.
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