Top 5: Best ski resorts in Switzerland
Are you planning your next ski trip to the Swiss Alps but can’t decide where to go? Read on for Cirkel’s top 5 ski resorts in Switzerland. We’ve weighed up the best ski runs and après ski spots so that you can make the best choice for your ultimate Swiss ski vacation.
Verbier
What is Verbier’s best ski run?
Tortin is a world-famous Verbier ski itinerary that’s guaranteed to get the legs burning. Depending on the snow conditions, you can enjoy mogul skiing, or knee-deep powder. Tortin is the ultimate challenge for holiday skiers after they’ve had a few days to warm up.
As the home of the Freeride World Tour final, Verbier boasts kilometres of steep, technical terrain. While recognised as a freeride mecca, Verbier also offers gentler terrain for beginners and family skiing in La Chaux, Lac des Vaux, and Les Esserts.
Where is the best view in Verbier?
The stunning Combin massif is best viewed from Cabane Mont Fort, nestled next to the red piste that runs from Col de Gentianes to La Chaux. Perched across the valley, the Grand Combin is an impressive 4,314m, while the Petit Combin tops out at 3668m. The picturesque Cabane Mont Fort offers excellent snacks, drinks and lunch offerings to feast on while you take in the view.
Where is the best après ski bar in Verbier?
Le Farinet has a famous après ski bar with an unbeatable atmosphere. Throughout winter, the Farinet hosts live bands and is the après spot for anyone who loves loud music and free-flowing beer. When après ski enthusiasts raise the temperature with their dance-floor antics, the Farinet staff quite literally raise the roof - opening the venue to the stars.
Travel hacks for a Verbier ski trip:
At Cirkel Supply, we specialise in premium ski clothing rental and our HQ is in Le Châble - just a short gondola ride from Verbier. We have partnered with accommodation providers in Verbier so that ski tourists can order their ski and snowboard outfit before their holiday and travel light, knowing that their clothing will be waiting for them as they arrive at their hotel.
If disaster strikes and your ski bags are lost en route to the resort, it’s possible to organise an urgent rental by reaching out to Cirkel through our last minute rental page.
Engelberg
What is the best ski run in Engelberg?
For those looking for a freeride challenge, our friends at Ski Lodge Engelberg recommend the Middle Sulz, accessed off the Jochpass system in Engelberg. You can read their insider’s tips to Engelberg in this article.
For kids just starting their skiing journey, Engelberg has excellent facilities, parks and runs including the Globis Winterland and Yeti Park.
Where are the best après ski vibes in Engelberg?
Ski Lodge Engelberg has a relaxed but buoyant après ski vibe, complemented by fantastic beers, wine and incredible food. It’s a gathering place for the local community and a mix of Swedish and other international guests.
This famous lodge is also a hotspot for professional skiers and snowboarders, so you’ll be sure to hear some tall tales of high alpine hijinks from amazing athletes riding awe-inspiring terrain.
Travel hacks for a Engelberg ski trip:
Book your stay at Ski Lodge Engelberg to enjoy the best food, drink and atmosphere that Engelberg has to offer (and a spa and sauna, to boot!).
Order your skiwear rental from Cirkel Supply before you travel, and it will be ready and waiting at your accommodation when you arrive. Book your rental skis and boots from Arena Sport and Okay Shop and then you can enjoy a convenient trip to beautiful Engelberg without carrying heavy bags of ski gear.
Zermatt
Where is the best skiing in Zermatt?
Schwarzsee Paradise is one of the best areas in the Swiss Alps for family ski trips. Explore bountiful options from beginner bunny slopes, to intermediate and advanced pistes.
For those looking for a challenge, ski to the Italian side of Zermatt and find the black run, Piste 59. Most of Piste 59 is extremely challenging, so make sure to do plenty of squats in advance of your trip!
What is the best view in Zermatt?
It’s hard to go past the stunning Matterhorn - also known as the Jewel of the Alps. This spectacular mountaintop sits high on the skyline of Zermatt, the Matterhorn is simply the best view in the region. The imposing peak is also known as the Cervin (in French), Cervino (in Italian), and the Hörnli (in Schweizerdeutsch).
What is the best après-ski bar in Zermatt?
Dance, drink and be merry at Harry’s Bar for the ultimate après ski experience. Or if you prefer to live the high life with oysters, caviar, and fine wines head straight to Elsie's Wine & Champagne Bar.
Travel hacks for a relaxing alpine holiday in Zermatt:
You can hire ski and snowboard clothing with Cirkel Supply, and have it sent to your hotel anywhere in Zermatt. If you’re staying in accommodation that doesn’t have a reception or office to receive your ski clothing rental before you arrive, email hello@cirkelsupply.com and we’ll find a convenient delivery solution for you.
If you’re looking for the ultimate unwind, treat your body and mind to a visit to the Schloss Hotel adaptogenic spa. The treatments aim to realign your body’s balance and illicit deeper moments of calm.
Crans Montana
Where is the best skiing in Crans Montana?
Crans Montana is the perfect Swiss ski resort for family ski trips. With 39% beginner slopes, 50% intermediate slopes, it’s the best place to learn and build on ski technique.
For families with teens looking for new freestyle challenges on skis, Crans Montana boasts world class parks and half pipes.
What is the most famous après ski in Crans Montana?
Crans is situated on the south side of the Rhone valley to make the most of the sun. Zerodix bar capitalises on the village’s generous sunshine hours with its comfy outdoor terrace. Zerodix hosts events throughout the season with DJ’s and bands to ensure you are well entertained for your après ski session.
Travel hacks for Crans Montana:
Rent ski clothes with Cirkel Supply and have it sent to your hotel or accommodation in Crans Montana.
Andermatt
What are Andermatt’s best ski runs?
Advanced and expert skiers can take on the Gemsstock. This high altitude, north-facing mountain has notorious runs such as the Russi Run (named after Olympic champion Bernhard Russi) - guaranteed to get the blood pumping.
For those looking for a gentler challenge, the Nätschen area has lots to offer for families with beginner and intermediate skiers.
What is the best après ski spot in Andermatt?
The panorama train offers snacks, drinks, and après ski entertainment on your ride from Andermatt to Disentis. Stay tuned on Andermatt channels to book tickets for on-board events such as the Daylight Techno Train.
Travel hacks for Andermatt:
Andermatt Tourism is driving progressive policies on sustainability. They incentivise tourists to travel to the resort on low-impact public transport by offering discounted ski passes with bus and train tickets.
You can also lower the impact of your ski trip by renting your ski clothing with Cirkel Supply instead of buying clothing you don’t use often. To learn more about how rental is a sustainable choice for ski tourists, check out our research on this topic.
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