- Expansive terrain spanning the whole 4 Vallées region.
- World-famous backcountry skiing.
- Non-skiing activities ranging from luxurious spas to gorgeous viewpoints.
There’s skiing, and then there’s skiing in the Swiss Alps. Seasoned skiers and riders dream of carving down some of the best-groomed trails in Europe at ultra-high altitudes, and Verbier is one of the most exciting places to do just that.
This alpine village in the southwest corner of Switzerland is one of six resorts that make up the 4 Vallées (Valleys). The famous ski zone has long beckoned serious shredders to explore more than 250 miles of linked trails.
Perched at about 5,000 feet, Verbier offers direct access to Mont-Fort, the area’s highest peak. There, you can ski or ride at over 10,800 feet with panoramic views of Mont-Blanc and the Grand Combin massif. The 4 Vallées’ primary resort is known for its expansive terrain, home to some of the finest backcountry skiing you’ll find anywhere.
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Down in the village, you’ll find everything from glamorous five-star accommodations to cozy pubs and lively late-night clubs. The dining is fine and the shopping is high-end. Needless to say, a trip to Verbier can be very expensive, but it’s worth the splurge to experience one of Europe’s largest and most sought-after ski destinations.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect getaway to Verbier this winter (or spring).
When to Go
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Verbier’s ski season kicks off in early to mid-November and typically lasts until late April or early May. Be cautious about going too early in the season because the resort is only open on weekends throughout November, fully opening in early December. The end of the season is arguably the best time to plan your ski trip, as the temperatures begin to climb out of the 30s Fahrenheit and spring showers bring lots of fresh powder to the mountains.
If you’re hoping to avoid crowds at Verbier, don’t go around the holidays or in February, when students around Europe get a break from school and pack into ski resorts throughout the Alps. Also, avoid Freeride Week, which draws thousands of competitors. Even though it may be more crowded with families, February tends to be the most affordable time to visit.
Where to Stay
W Verbier
For the best access to the slopes, book a stay at W Verbier, located just steps from the lifts. The perfect blend of modern and classic, this five-star hotel has 123 rooms and suites, each with its own fireplace. Other highlights include an on-site spa, yoga classes taught by a pro snowboarder, indoor and outdoor pools, and multiple spots for dining and drinking.
Experimental Chalet
Those looking for a personalized stay should consider the Experimental Chalet. With just 39 rooms and suites, it offers an intimate experience and all the bells and whistles of a typical ski getaway, including a full-service spa. The retro ’70s-inspired decor and snazzy cocktails spiked with vintage spirits from Experimental Cocktail Club are selling points as well.
La Cordée des Alpes
Luxury seekers will adore La Cordée des Alpes, which caters to its guests’ every whim. The hotel has 32 rooms and suites, along with 17 apartments for longer stays. Some of the accommodations come with balconies and fireplaces. You’ll find fine dining in the on-site restaurant, fireside massages at the spa, and a ski concierge with expert knowledge of the mountain.
Where to Eat
La Table d’Adrien
This Michelin-starred restaurant in the chic Chalet d’Adrien hotel serves contemporary French-Italian cuisine in a cozily appointed dining room overlooking the village. The Pugliese chef presents gourmet seasonal tastings in four, six, or eight courses. In past seasons, menus have included veal carpaccio, quail, and burrata tortelli.
Restaurant Le Caveau
Cheese enthusiasts will find some of the best fondue and raclette around at Restaurant Le Caveau. The interior is warm and relaxed, perfect for settling in around a table of melted goodness after a day on the snow. For a special treat, elevate your fondue with sparkling wine or truffles.
Restaurant La Marlénaz
This mountaintop restaurant is more than the traditional Swiss cuisine it serves. Perched at about 6,200 feet, away from the hustle and bustle of the village, Restaurant La Marlénaz offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the ski resort. Snag a seat on the terrace, hands down the best place to take it all in.
Where to Après-ski
Bar 1936
Wind down with mulled wine and snacks in a yurt or on a mountainside deckchair. This buzzing indoor-outdoor spot at the heart of the resort is the most convenient place to grab post-ski libations and barbecue. If you request it in advance, the bar will even organize a special Mongolian fondue (the Swiss interpretation of hotpot) evening for you, available for parties of 20 or more.
Fer à Cheval
For more of a local vibe, head to Fer à Cheval in the village. The upper-level bar often hosts live music and a party crowd, but those who prefer a quieter evening can eat pizza and pasta downstairs in the snug, wood-lined dining room.
Pub Mont Fort
Pub Mont Fort keeps the après going long into the night. Known for its themed parties and live music, this watering hole just around the corner from the lift station is where the mountain crowd winds up at 2 a.m. Earlier in the evening, you’ll find a more casual scene and a menu of burgers and tapas.
Off-mountain Activities
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Visit the Mont Fort viewing platform.
Sitting at nearly 11,000 feet of elevation, the 360-degree viewing platform can be reached by taking the gondola from La Chaux. From here, you’ll be able to spot some of the Swiss Alps’ most famous peaks like the Matterhorn and Mont-Blanc.
Ride a toboggan.
Verbier is home to a gorgeously scenic and very long toboggan run, providing over three miles of thrilling fun. Whip down the mountain as fast as possible for an adrenaline rush, or make a few stops along the way to extend the experience.
Enjoy a spa day.
Unwind after a long day on the slopes at one of several spas. Le Spa at W Verbier offers everything from traditional massages to cryotherapy. If you need to thaw out, head to the Spa by Biologique Recherche at the Experimental Chalet, which has a hammam, sauna, and Jacuzzi.
How to Ride
Tickets
Powerhounds have a range of tickets to choose from, with single and multiday passes valid for Verbier, La Tzoumaz, and Bruson starting at the CHF equivalent of around $99 for a half-day pass. Single and multiday passes providing access to the entire 4 Vallées ski area are priced a little higher, starting at approximately $115.
Skiers and riders who plan to visit more often might prefer to opt for a yearly pass starting at around $1,800. Verbier also accepts the Epic Pass.
Rentals
You shouldn’t have any problem finding rental gear in Verbier, and you can shop around the village for a wider selection and lower prices. Ski Service, No 1 Sports, Xtreme Sports, and Backside are among the options. Mountain Air, next to the Medran cable car station, will even deliver equipment to your lodging.
Skiing and Snowboarding Info
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Verbier’s elevation may sound intense (its highest point sits at almost 11,000 feet), but it’s truly a mountain for all skill levels. Opinions regarding the number of beginner-friendly, intermediate, and expert runs vary. Generally, you’ll find that about half the runs are intermediate, and the other half is split almost evenly between beginner and expert runs.
Beginners should start at Les Esserts, the largest beginner ski area in Verbier. There’s also Le Rouge, which has two slopes with a slightly bigger incline to progress, and La Chaux, which sits a little higher up the mountain for beginners looking for more of a challenge.
Expert-level shredders will no doubt want to go to the top of Mont Fort, the highest point, for more difficult runs and epic panoramic views.
Programming
If you want to progress quickly, Verbier has many independent ski schools (though none operated by the resort itself). Apart from skiing, there are other things to do on the mountain, such as soaring on the highest zip line in the world (3,330 meters and the longest in the Alps). If you’re traveling with children too young to ski, check out the Kids Club at La Tzoumaz. Within the larger 4 Vallées ski area, it offers half and full-day options with lunch and activities like games and crafts.