There is no doubt that skiing in Switzerland is among the best in the world. With its low-lying mountains, soaring peaks with almost-vertical drops, tenderly rolling Alpine forests, and powder-treated glaciers, it's no wonder skiing in Switzerland tops the wish lists of many travelers.
Thanks to its expansive winter resorts, with modern panoramic cable cars, express chair lifts, and spectacular trains that make it easy to hop between various mountains.
Once you're finished on the slopes and in need of some rest and relaxation, there is an entire world of après-ski waiting for you.
Whether you want to kick back at a cozy slope-side cocktail bar or indulge in a luxurious massage or spa treatment at one of the many upscale resorts, Switzerland has it all.
And when it comes time to satisfy your appetite, you can choose from everything from Michelin-restaurants to traditional French fare by the fire. What's not to love about skiing in Switzerland? It truly is a traveler's paradise!
Keep reading to learn more about the best Swiss ski resorts…
1. Zermatt Ski Resorts
At the top of our list for the best ski resorts in Switzerland is none other than Zermatt. This stunning mountain resort is located under the iconic Matterhorn, one of Switzerland's most famous sights and symbols.
With more than 362 km of snowy slopes stretching up as high as 3,883m, Zermatt is home to the highest ski area in all of Switzerland.
But what truly sets Zermatt apart from other mega resorts in Europe is that it is one of the only resorts where you can ski during the summer months as well.
With over 21 kilometers of trails open during summer, visitors to Zermatt have the freedom to hit the slopes no matter what season it is.
What's more, skiers here can also embark on runs into Italy, making for a truly unique skiing experience. But that's not all - Zermatt is also home to the highest freestyle park in the country, known as the Gravity Park.
Down in the charming village of Zermatt, you can expect a wonderful, traditional atmosphere. This picturesque village is a beautiful mix of old and new; with its quaint 19th-century barns and charming chalets beautifully paired with modern but classically designed buildings.
The quaint streets are often frequented by horse-drawn carriages - making this little town feel like something out of a fairy tale!
When it comes to après ski, Zermatt is truly unrivaled. From cozy retreats like the Papperla Pub, where you can enjoy delicious Flammkuchen alongside local beer, to slope-side champagne bars like the swanky Champagner Bar Teehäuschen Flora, Zermatt has something for everyone.
And when it comes to choosing a place to stay during your trip to Zermatt, the possibilities are endless. With accommodations ranging from cozy cabins tucked away among the mountains to opulent chalets that offer breathtaking views and five-star amenities.
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22. St. Moritz Ski Resorts
The next on our list for the best ski resorts is none other than St. Moritz, located in the breathtaking alpine region of Engadin in eastern Switzerland, St. Moritz is one of the most luxurious and popular ski resorts in the country.
With over 350 kilometers of pistes, St. Moritz is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels. From challenging black diamonds to gentle green runs, there are over 87 different pistes to explore at St. Moritz-all of them boast World Cup quality standards.
If you're a foodie looking for an unforgettable culinary experience, St. Moritz is the place for you. From traditional farmhouse fare at Talvo to Michelin-starred Mediterranean fare at Cà d'Oro and exquisite olive oil-inspired cooking at Martin Dalsass, there's no shortage of outstanding options in this charming village.
And if you're looking for an adrenaline rush, why not try your hand at skating, curling, or even ice hockey on one of the many rinks throughout the area?
Plus, if you'd like to get an aerial view of the stunning mountains and snow-covered landscape, St. Moritz also offers paragliding adventures.
St. Moritz is renowned as one of the world's premier party destinations, and with good reason!
From its lively bars, lounges, and clubs to its breathtaking mountain views, there is something for everyone in St. Moritz when it comes to nightlife and après-ski fun.
One popular destination is Bar Finale, which offers everything from hot jägertee to exotic cocktails to get your evening started. For a more relaxed atmosphere, check out the luxurious and exclusive Cascade Bar, where you can also enjoy a meal before hitting the dance floor.
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3. Davos Klosters Ski Resorts
Located in the majestic Swiss Alps, Davos is a popular ski resort and conference center that plays host to the annual World Economic Forum.
Davos Klosters Mountains are the perfect destination for your winter sport adventures. At altitudes ranging from 1124 to 2844 meters, you will find over 300 kilometers of slopes and tracks waiting for you at every turn.
From exhilarating superpipes and carving slopes to thrilling freeride runs and kid-friendly terrain parks, there is something here for everyone.
Davos Klosters are truly in a class of their own, made up of a variety of different skiing areas, including Jakobshorn, Rinerhorn, Pischa, Madrisa, Schatzalp/Strela, and Parsenn/Gotschna this vast winter sports arena is truly a paradise for skiers of all levels.
For true ski enthusiasts, perhaps no area is as popular and beloved as Parsenn. This sprawling resort connects Davos with the neighboring town of Klosters to create one giant winter wonderland that draws visitors from around the world.
And for those who prefer freestyle skiing or enjoy kicking back with some unforgettable après-ski parties and events, you won't want to miss riding on the top trails at the Jakobshorn resort.
And if cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or winter hiking suits your style best, there are over 150 kilometers of trails for you to explore amidst breathtaking mountain scenery.
Amid all the bustling activity of the Davos ski scene, it can be hard to find a place to unwind and relax. But thankfully, Davos offers an impressive après-ski to suit every taste.
For those looking for a refined evening out, the elegant piano bar is the perfect choice. And if you prefer something more casual, the Chämi bar offers a cozy chalet atmosphere where you can relax after a long day on the slopes.
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4. Grindelwald Ski Resorts
Located at the foot of the majestic Eiger, Grindelwald is one of the best ski resorts in the Alps.
This lively village boasts beautiful 19th-century wooden chalets and stunning views of three impressive peaks: Jungfrau, Eiger, and Monch.
Referred to as one of the "Best of the Alps", Grindelwald offers skiers access to two interconnected ski areas: Grindelwald-First, a smaller but excellent area, as well as Kleine Scheidegg, which together make up one of the largest ski regions in the Alps Jungfrau region.
For those looking for more advanced slopes, there are plenty of options nearby. One great option is to take the cog-railway up to Kleine Scheidegg, where you'll find excellent slopes under perfect snow conditions.
And if you are looking to tackle the longest World Cup downhill course check out Wengen's Lauberhorn, which stretches 4.2 kilometers down to Wengen.
If you're looking for the best nursery slopes in the area, Bodmi is the place to be. This slope has everything you need for a fun and easy skiing experience with your little ones.
Plus, with a big bunny mascot and other kid-friendly amenities like igloos for playing in, this is an ideal spot for families with young children.
Finally, if you're just getting started or prefer to take things slow on the slopes, be sure to check out the new "Slow Slopes" - special blue pistes that are limited to 30km/h and perfect for young learners or anyone looking for a more leisurely skiing experience.
But even if you're not a skier, Grindelwald has a lot to offer. Europe's longest Toboggan Run is at your fingertips and you must try it with the 15km 'Big Pintenfritz' on the Faulhorn.
Grindelwald-First has several snowparks: In the 650-meter long Bärgelegg Park, you'll find everything you need to feed your freestyle spirit, from 130-meter half-pipes, rails and kickers to jumps with jumps and more.
On the other hand, for the less snowboarding expert, is also available the Oberjoch Snow Park with smaller kickers and various rails and boxes of different sizes.
If you're looking for an exciting adventure, you can make your way up to the Jungfraujoch by Cog-Railway, one of the world's highest train lines and is part of UNESCO World Heritage. Nestled between towering snow-covered mountains and deep glacial crevasses, this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won't soon forget.
As well as, here, you'll find a plethora of top-notch hotels at very reasonable prices, many with special discounts and amazing extras such as Jacuzzis, swimming pools, saunas, and much more.
For those traveling with kids, look out for hotels that cater to families by offering playrooms, children's menus, and childcare services.
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5. Verbier Ski Resorts In Switzerland
Situated between the majestic Matterhorn and snow-capped Mont Blanc at an elevation 1,500 meters, this charming mountain village provides breathtaking views and ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and other outdoor adventures.
Organized into the Four Valleys ski area alongside Nendaz, Veysonnaz, and Thyon, Verbier offers access to over 400 kilometers of downhill slopes spread across 205 highly-rated pistes, between 1,700 and 3,300 meters above sea level.
Boasting hundreds of quaint wooden chalets as well as larger apartment blocks and hotels adorned with beautiful wood accents, Verbier truly exudes a traditional Alpine charm that is matched by few other destinations.
In addition, this is the main ski resort of French-speaking Switzerland. But don't worry, even if you don't speak French, you'll have no problem fitting in here – with plenty of English-style pubs and quirky French cafes, this resort offers a truly unique cultural experience.
Across the Verbier Ski Resort is an incredible selection of mountain restaurants to choose from. One of the best and most buzzing options is Le Dahu, which can be found conveniently located at the bottom of the La Chaux lift.
To suit all moods and preferences, this complex offers a self-service area downstairs as well as an inviting table service arrangement upstairs.
If you prefer a more upscale dining experience, there are plenty of great options in Verbier town itself.
For exquisite sushi, check out T-Bar; for high-end French cuisine with a twist, head to La Channe; or if you're looking for a cozy meal followed by some fun apres activities, Carve Sushi Bar is sure to hit the spot.
So if you're looking for the perfect location to enjoy some of the world's best skiing amid stunning natural scenery, look no further than Verbier Ski Resort.
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6. Gstaad Ski Resorts In Switzerland
While Gstaad may be best known for its glitz and glamor, this charming Swiss ski resort boasts a wide variety of stunning ski areas and breathtaking views.
With 200 km of slopes situated between 1,000m and 3,000m above sea level, there is plenty of room for skiers and snowboarders to explore.
Gstaad is also a fantastic option for families, with several family-friendly ski areas boasting extensive slopes specifically designed for beginners.
The best thrilling ski area is Glacier 3000 located at an altitude of 3,000 meters, the most spectacular slopes in Switzerland.
It is a haven for ambitious skiers who will be able to enjoy slopes covering from 3'000m to 1'300m and skiing from about October to May.
Plus, with numerous viewing platforms and restaurants perched at the top of the mountain, it's the perfect spot to soak up breathtaking views while enjoying a warm cup of cocoa.
Finally, those looking for epic skiing action need not look any further than Gstaad's five interconnected bases:
Schonried-Menuhin
Findeln-Bolgen-Eggli
Saanenmoser-Susenberg
Rudersbachberg-Spittelmatte
Wispilwald
Rinderberg-La Videmanette du Chateau d'Oex
- where cable cars connect access points to each other and make it easy to explore different parts of the snowscape any time you like.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there are also many other activities to enjoy in winter.
For example, visitors can try Bavarian curling in the center of Gstaad or test out one of the region's many snowparks or tobogganing runs.
If you're looking for something more peaceful and relaxing, you can also spend your days taking long winter hikes, exploring cross-country ski trails, or going on romantic horse-drawn sleigh rides through smaller towns like Lauenen.
And if shopping is more to your advantage, be sure to scroll through the charming car-free center of Gstaad - touted as the shortest shopping street in all of Switzerland!
So if you're ready to hit the mountains this winter season, don't miss out on Gstaad - one of the best ski resorts in Switzerland!
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7. Crans-Montana Ski Resort
Located on a breathtaking plateau overlooking the scenic Rhone Valley, Crans-Montana ski resort is an idyllic destination for wintertime skiing and snowboarding.
With its beautiful landscape and stunning vistas, the resort offers skiers of all levels a vast selection of 140 km of slopes.
The modern ski lifts at Crans-Montana are fast and efficient, making it easy to fully enjoy your time on the slopes.
Additionally, as if the bountiful snow and fantastic ski conditions weren't enough to draw visitors to Crans Montana year after year, this renowned resort is also known for its Plaine-Morte Glacier in neighboring canton of Bern, where you'll find an incredible 8 km long run from the glacier down into the village.
And with one of the best snowparks in French-speaking Switzerland, complete with ramps and jumps designed by professional snowboarders and skiers, Crans-Montana truly is at the top of its class when it comes to ski resorts.
Whether you're carving down an icy slope or hanging out at one of the après-ski lively clubs on top of the mountain, this resort is sure to keep you entertained throughout your stay!
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8. Arosa-Lenzerheide Ski Resorts
Arosa Lenzerheide is considered to be one of the best and largest ski resorts in all of Europe.
With long periods of sunshine, 225 snow-sure and excellently maintained kilometers of slopes, there is truly something for everyone here: from black slopes that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping, to wide runs with large, sweeping curves, to pleasure slopes.
Coupled with gorgeous mountain huts serving regional cuisine and top-notch apres-ski venues like the KuhBar, a perfect ski day awaits you at Arosa Lenzerheide.
And if you're looking for some fun off the slopes there are over 32 km of cross-country trails winding through the beautiful mountain scenery, and also several pretty footpaths, that journeying up alongside the pistes, providing a perfect opportunity for enjoying breathtaking views while meeting up with skiers at one of the many charming mountain restaurants along the way.
For those who want even more excitement, there are 4.5km of Toboggan Runs to whiz and bump down, providing hours of thrilling fun for kids and adults alike.
And if all that wasn't enough, Arosa Lenzerheide has also been voted as one of the most child-friendly ski resorts in Switzerland, with its special free kid-focused zones like the Honigland Prätschli, Beerenland Innerarosa and Kinderland Heimberg.
With its abundance of snowy landscapes and spectacular ski terrain, Lenzerheide is truly a winter wonderland waiting to be explored.
Whether you opt for one of the scenic snowshoe hikes or hit the best ski resorts in town for thrilling downhill runs or graceful cross-country treks, you'll discover an idyllic world away from city life that's sure to enchant you.
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9. Engelberg Ski Resorts
When it comes to skiing, Engelberg located in the center of Switzerland is truly a mecca.
With over 80 km of slopes available, 18 lifts transporting guests to ever higher heights, and plenty of space between different levels of difficulty, you're sure to find the perfect combination to match your abilities and preferences.
And don't think that the slopes are only for experienced skiers - there are plenty of well-groomed beginner runs as well to help newbies develop their skills.
Boasting one of the longest slopes in the Alps, this magical ski area takes you from the majestic Titlis Glacier down 2,000 vertical meters into the charming village of Engelberg far below.
And with over 8 months of uninterrupted skiing thanks to their state-of-the-art Titlis Glacier and technical snow-making facilities, you can be sure that there'll always be fresh powder waiting for you on these soaring slopes!
The ski resort of Engelberg is known for its incredible powder snow and extensive piste network.
However, Engelberg has deliberately left much of its terrain non-pisted, making the resort especially popular with powder skiers and snowboarders.
Much of the off-piste is easily accessible and perfect for confident intermediates, while for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders there are cliffs, couloirs, glades, tree runs, chutes, and other challenging terrain to explore.
And when you're ready to take a break from hitting the slopes, you can enjoy some of the other activities the resort has to offer, like sledding, ice skating, and even cross-country skiing.
So if you are looking for the best ski resort in all of Switzerland, look no further than Engelberg.
Here, you will experience the ultimate winter adventure!
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10. Andermatt Ski Resorts
Located in the deepest, most untouched corner of Switzerland, Andermatt has long been a favorite getaway for skiers and snowboarders alike.
With its picturesque landscape, friendly locals, and excellent skiing conditions, this alpine paradise is the perfect winter retreat.
The old village of Andermatt retains much of its quirky Alpine charm, with unique shops, charming bars and delicious restaurants lining the twisting streets.
But nestled next door to this quaint village lies an entirely different scene: modern resorts with luxury hotels, state-of-the-art fitness centers, and premier ski slopes.
Andermatt's primary ski area is the world-famous Gemsstock Mountain.
Snow conditions are exceptionally reliable here thanks to its nigh-perfect north facing aspect and high elevation.
With a wealth of non-skiing activities, including tobogganing, snow-shoeing, and hiking, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
And if you're looking for a fun après scene, Andermatt's vibrant bar scene has you covered.
From the exquisite Asian cuisine at Chedi Andermatt to the pizza and steaks at La Curva, Andermatt has a diverse culinary landscape that is sure to please every taste bud.
So don't wait - plan your winter vacation to this fantastic Swiss ski resort today!
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11. Laax Ski Resorts
The Flims/ Laax/ Falera (rebranded to just Laax) ski resort is the perfect destination for winter travelers who love to hit the slopes. Situated high up in the mountains, above the villages of Laax, Flims and Falera in the Bündner Oberland.
With 197 km of magnificent slopes and 25.8 km of challenging ski routes, this resort offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels.
With 28 lifts providing easy access to all fantastic facilities, and some of the highest peaks in the region, including Bündner Vorab and Laaxer Stöckli, this resort provides an unbeatable experience for skiers and snowboarders alike.
But beyond its world-class slopes, the ski resort offers other must-see attractions that make it a true winter wonderland, including sledding, tubing, and even ice fishing!
So if you're looking for the perfect winter getaway packed with fun activities and breathtaking scenery, be sure to check out this amazing Laax ski resort and discover all that it has to offer!
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12. Saas-Fee Ski Resorts
Saas-Fee is a picturesque high Alpine village with a stellar reputation for snow and glacier skiing, earning it the nickname "The Pearl of the Alps."
Some have compared the picturesque resort of Saas-Fee to the historic town of Zermatt, citing its similar appeal but more traditional atmosphere.
Saas-Fee is for sure one of the best ski resorts in Europe, thanks to its altitude and Allinn Glacier, Saas-Fee is open for winter fun all year round.
This resort provides skiers with exceptional opportunities to enjoy the slopes and terrain parks, due to its consistent snow cover, rapid lifts, and proximity to some of Europe's tallest peaks.
For beginners and intermediates, Saas-Fee has miles of long, quiet runs that are perfect for practicing turns and refining technique.
And for snowboarders, the resort's high-altitude terrain parks are a popular choice for those looking to push their skills to new heights.
Beyond skiing, Saas-Fee also offers a variety of other outdoor activities, including ice skating, walking trails, and 5km of toboggan runs.
And if you need a break from all that action, you can head to one of the many restaurants like dining at the revolving restaurant on the glacier Allinn.
Additionally, there is some indoor leisure center with swimming pools and other amenities like Aqua Allalin, making Saas-Fee a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts of all types.
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13. Adelboden-Lenk Ski Resorts
Adelboden-Lenk, linked as Adelboden is one of the best ski resorts in Switzerland, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and world-class slopes.
Situated in the Bernese Oberland, this 6-area ski region offers over 200 km of stunningly beautiful slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
From the exhilarating Gran Masta Park with its jumps, rails, and other obstacles to the fun Bühlberg funslope and Rivella's popular Fun Challenge, there is plenty to see and do at Adelboden.
Don't miss Vogellisi Piste, an international award-winning slope that will leave you speechless with its beauty and majesty.
Beyond the slopes, there are numerous other attractions at this resort as well. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains, hiking trails around the area are perfect for exploring scenic landscapes and rugged terrain.
And when the day comes to a close, you can continue your fun into après ski with evenings filled with dining and partying in the best bars and clubs in Adelboden-Lenk.
So if you are looking for an alpine adventure unlike any other, look no further than this legendary ski resort.
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Conclusion:
With so many amazing ski resorts in Switzerland, it can be hard to know where to start planning your winter vacation.
Hopefully, our list of the thirteen best ski resorts in Switzerland will help you narrow down your options and start packing your bags! We can’t wait to hear about your skiing adventures when you return.
Have you been to any of these resorts? What was your favorite part?
