If you love winter, you will absolutely adore the Swiss region of Valais. Here, 4000 metre peaks watch over the highest altitude ski regions in Switzerland, where great snow is guaranteed and activity options are endless.
Fly to Geneva or Zurich and a direct train to Valais from both airports will whisk you off to the mountains in between 2 and 3 hours. If you’ve never experienced the beautiful vistas of a Swiss train journey (not to mention the efficiency!) this is the perfect way to kick off your winter holiday.
With over 2,000km of pistes available at an impressive altitude, the ski areas of Valais offer some of the most exceptional snow-sure skiing we’ve ever experienced, with fantastic local wine and unique gastronomy awaiting you off the slopes. There’s no surprise this area is home to some world-famous resorts, with big names such as Zermatt and Verbier attracting skiers from across the globe.
However, some of Valais’ best ski areas are those slightly off the beaten track, where incredible skiing meets small traditional Swiss resorts.
© Valais Wallis Promotion – David Carlier
Aletsch Arena – A True Ski-In, Ski-Out Winter Wonderland
The Aletsch Arena, encompassing the resorts of Riederalp, Bettmeralp and Fiesch-Eggishorn is one such destination. 104km of pistes include beginners’ slopes, snow parks, half pipes and floodlit night runs. With an altitude between 1845 and 2869 metres, the area also boasts exceptional off piste opportunity, with three dedicated freeride pistes in Fiescheralp as well as a number of entertaining routes from the Eggishorn.
An incredibly family focused area, here you will find kids’ playgrounds, children’s entertainment and ski schools that can familiarise children with the slopes from as young as two and a half years old! It’s the perfect place to nurture the growing talent of your child.
Plus, carrying your skis in Aletsch Arena is a thing of the past, with all accommodation ski-in, ski-out in this beautiful car-free resort.
© Valais Wallis Promotion – David Carlier
For non-skiers
In the Aletsch Arena, you can easily enjoy the beauty of an Alpine winter away from the heights of the ski slopes. 75km of marked winter hiking trails, snow shoeing trails, lakeside cross-country runs, natural ice rink and a 13km sledding run offer active travellers a huge array of choice if you fancy a day off your skis.
Or, you can pamper yourself in the only thermal brine bath in the Swiss Alps at Brieten, where 33°C water loaded with mineral salts is sure to be the perfect end to a day on the mountain.
Don’t miss the route from Moosfluh to Riederfurka along the Aletsch Glacier – known as one of the most beautiful high altitude hiking trails in the Alps.
Top Winter Deals?
Ski For Free: Children and teenagers (up to 20 years old) can ski or snowboard for free for one day every Saturday at the Aletsch Arena
Aletsch Winter Hiking Pass: The ideal cableway ticket for all winter hikers and snowshoers.
Nendaz – The Hidden Gem Of Switzerland’s Largest Ski Area
In the heart of the 4 Vallées, Switzerland’s largest ski area, lies the traditional resort of Nendaz. Quieter and arguably more charming than its bigger brother Verbier and with access to the same world-class ski area, Nendaz is the perfect base from which to access the 4 Vallées’ 400km of high altitude pistes.
However, where Nendaz really shines is off the groomed runs. Nowhere else can you find as much secure freeride terrain as here, with legendary routes that draw athletes from around the world to the area.
© Valais Wallis Promotion – David Carlier
And for non-skiers?
Snowshoeing, winter hiking and sun-drenched terraces also await those who don’t fancy hitting the slopes in Nendaz and we know where we’ll be resting our post-walk legs! The 2200m2 Spa des Bisses has both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, hammams and treatment rooms with a team of qualified therapists to boot.
Once sufficiently relaxed, taste local produce and experience the friendly local hospitality that radiates from this charming resort at the thirty fantastic restaurants and bars.
Don’t miss the snowshoe hike and raclette in the woods. Experience the magical landscapes of the mountains as the sun sets, before enjoying delicious melted raclette and local wine.
Top Winter Deals & Events
Dare To Ski: The perfect way to try skiing for the first time or simply refresh your skills! Equipment rental, 1-day ski pass and 2-hour lesson all for 111CHF.
Mud Day Winter: Think ‘Tough Mudder’ on snow! 28 March 2020
Nendaz Freeride Elite: Athletes take on the spectacular face of the Mont-Gond in the most renowned event of the Freeride World Qualifiers. 13 – 21 March
Nendaz Spring Break: Celebrate the arrival of Spring with waterslide contests and tropical dance floors!
© Valais Wallis Promotion – David Carlier