Switzerland

Think of a skiing vacation in Europe, and Switzerland automatically comes to mind. This is hardly surprising as Switzerland has some of the most superb skiing at wonderful resorts with excellent facilities. Most resorts are set in very scenic picture postcard landscapes, with many of the resorts being built in small villages complete with the traditional Swiss atmosphere.

Some of the highest, toughest and most challenging slopes are found in the Swiss Alps. There are plenty of challenges for intermediates too, so this is the perfect vacation place to hone your skiing skills. Service is excellent and the ski lifts are run most efficiently. One can choose from a number of resorts which differ in their atmosphere and skiing opportunities.

Gstaad is a glamorous ski resort where you can indulge in celebrity-spotting on the slopes and in town. Stunning alpine scenery surrounds this picturesque resort with its traditional Swiss chalets. The slopes just around the town are gentle and suitable for beginners and intermediates. The tree lined trails are perfect for the novice and Les Diablerets, Villars and Leysin offer intermediates a challenge.

The challenges of the more difficult runs can be experienced with a Gstaad Super Ski Region pass that lets you ski in Gstaad, Chateau d’Oex, Rougemont, Sannen, Villars, Leysin and the Diablerets glacier. The Schonreid and Saanenmoser area offer plenty of off piste skiing while the truly adventurous can go heli-skiing here. The apres-ski atmosphere here is very glitzy.

Saas Fee is a value for money resort, with excellent snow and skiing for all abilities. No cars are permitted here and it is a traditional, attractive village, with a vibrant night life. There are plenty of hotels and some catered chalets for tourists. Children can learn on nursery slopes situated in the village, while higher up there are excellent slopes for intermediates. Cruise on your skis from Mittelallalin, famed for its revolving restaurant, back to the village, a breathtaking drop of 1700m. In addition to skiing and snowboarding you can go walking, tobogganing and paragliding in the designated area of Hannig.

Switzerland Resorts: