Adelboden

The Adelboden ski resort, located to the east of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, is a great choice for an idyllic ski vacation at the foot of the Wildstrubel Mountain. The beautiful Swiss village, lined with old chalets, is traditional, pretty and sedate with spectacular scenery. Adelboden shares the same range as the internationally famous Gstaad ski resort and Wengen and Adelboden Gstaad ski area.

The extensive ski area consists of five domains, three of which are lift-accessed from the village and the other two are reached by an efficient bus service. There are over 200km of runs, which are great for beginners and intermediates. Experts will find some off-piste and challenging black runs. Most of the skiing is at fairly low altitude, but the slopes do hold their snow reasonably well as they are north facing. Adelboden also offers two half-pipes and one dedicated park for boarders.

The fragmented nature of the skiing is probably Adelboden’s greatest disadvantage. There are not many long runs or large areas at a single location. However, it is also a great spot for other winter pursuits, so non-skiers should find plenty to amuse themselves. Après-ski is fairly quiet, unlike its glamorous neighbor Gstaad. Most entertainment here is hotel-, restaurant- and bar-based. The Adelboden/Lenk area is also a great base for a touring ski vacation if you have a car. There are several resorts nearby to explore.