Switzerland is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, alpine terrain and striking slopes, so it’s no surprise that it’s home to some of the continent’s finest mountain resorts. Most of Switzerland’s ski resorts can be found in the south of the country and feature world-class facilities both on the slopes and in the accommodation.
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, we’ve rounded up a guide to the best ski resorts in Switzerland that you can visit when ski season arrives.
Zermatt
Even if you haven’t heard of Zermatt, chances are you’ll recognise the iconic Matterhorn. Considered a national landmark in Switzerland, and the inspiration behind the Toblerone, the famous peak has been photographed more times than any other resort.
Zermatt itself is a picturesque resort, situated at the foot of the Matterhorn. It’s placed in the heart of the Valais region and enjoys a huge skiing community that regularly take to the nearby slopes.
As Europe’s highest ski resort, Zermatt offers some of the most impressive ski routes, winter sports and epic outdoor adventures in Europe. Take a trip to its Gornergrat mountain railway, where you’ll be whisked 3,089 metres above sea level, to soak up spectacular views over the Gorner glacier.
You’ll also find refreshments available slope-side and an array of restaurants, serving traditional Swiss and Italian fare in the historic town.
St Moritz
This world-class winter sports village is situated at the foot of Piz Nair in Switzerland’s Albula Alps and has hosted the Winter Olympics twice. St Moritz is a popular base for tackling the slopes of Corvigilia, offering some of the best intermediate ski terrain. Other popular ski areas in the Engadin Valley include 350 kilometres of scenic slopes at Diavolezza.
During the peak winter months, St Moritz has a variety of fun activities on offer, including ice skating rinks, curling, and kite skiing. The luxury alpine town is also home to the world’s only natural bobsled run, which is 1722-meters long, and an outdoor Olympic ice rink.
Aside from its slopes, St Moritz a culturally rich area, full of award-winning museums, galleries, and architectural landmarks. Take a stroll through the quaint streets and admire the charming medieval churches and farmhouses that give St Moritz a unique and characteristic feel.
Verbier
Verbier is situated in south-western Switzerland, in the canton of Valais, and is home to magnificent terrain, alongside a host of challenging runs – expert skiers will be spoilt for choice. It’s also the main gateway to Les 4 Vallees ski area, which links to the nearby resorts of Nendaz, Thyon, Veysonnaz, Bruson and La Tzoumaz.
The resort itself is perfectly orientated to the south, meaning it captures the sunshine all day and offers incredible sunset views during the early evenings. You can find some of the most luxurious chalets in the world on site, even Richard Branson owns a mountain retreat here, which is available to rent.
Aside from being situated among jaw-droppingly beautiful scenery, it features an indoor heated pool, a steam room and its very own private ice rink. If the chalet lifestyle isn’t for you, there’s a selection of upscale hotels, many featuring an indoor pool and spa – perfect for unwinding after a busy day on the slopes.
Gstaad
With luxury chalets, gourmet restaurants and Saanen Airport right on its doorstep, Gstaad is a firm favorite among some of the world’s most rich and famous. Madonna and Princess Diana are just a few of the famous faces that have spent their winters at this luxurious mountain village resort.
Live like the stars by visiting the boutique shopping promenade, which lays in the center of the village and features designer labels such as Louis Vuitton and Cartier. Gstaad is also a major hub for winter sports and has over 47 chair lifts, which can be reached from several villages and transport links nearby.
Montreux-Oberland railway connects Gstaad with the nearby villages of Saanenmöser, Zweismmen, Lauenen and the French speaking region of Pays’d Enhaut. Although Gastaad is often considered a winter resort, it also attracts many tourists during summer who attend international sporting events, like the Swiss Cup and the Swatch Beach Volleyball Major.
It is worth noting that aside from the Diablerets Glacier area, the ski slopes in Gstaad aren’t that high. Gstaad is home to 90km of slopes that are best suited to intermediate skiers, and if you’re a beginner, there’s plenty of moderate terrain for you to practice your technique.
Davos
Davos is the ultimate winter sports metropolis, with peaks ranging between 1124 and 2844 meters above sea level. Holidaymakers have access to 54 transport facilities, 300km of ski slopes and 132 km of cross-country ski trails and its varied slopes are suitable for skiers of all levels.
If all that wasn’t enough, Davos is also home to two artificial ice rinks, an igloo restaurant and snow bar. Cozy on up on the outdoor terrace and enjoy stunning mountain views with a hot drink and a platter of Swiss mountain cheese.
Off the slopes, Davos has a wide range of restaurants and of course, world-class spa facilities. The nightspots in Davos range from elegant lodges to die-hard rock n roll sheds.
If you’re in town during March, make sure you check out Coverfestival. The annual festival takes place in the alpine huts around the resorts and sees international and tribute bands perform a versatile lineup of classic hits.
Rent a car with Hertz today and explore Switzerland’s best ski resorts at your own pace on your tour of Switzerland.
