Where to Ski in Switzerland in Winter 2025-26

Snow-sure glaciers, car-free chocolate-box villages and trains that pull you straight into the mountains are only some of the things that make Switzerland truly tailor-made for stress-free ski trips in winter 2025-26. From first turns on gentle nursery slopes to long reds with jaw-dropping views, the country’s big-name resorts deliver the mix of reliability, scenery and slick infrastructure that UK skiers (and not only) love. Car-free bases like Zermatt and Saas-Fee keep streets walkable, and rail links from the airports make onward travel simple.

The season is reassuringly long, too: high-altitude domains and glacier areas keep pistes open well into spring—and in places like Zermatt, even year-round—so choosing where to ski in Switzerland feels less like a gamble and more like a guaranteed good time for mixed-ability travellers. So, let’s lace up, hop on the train, and discover Switzerland’s ski resorts together.

Quick comparison: Swiss ski resorts side-by-side

Resort / Area	Pistes (km)	Top height	Ski pass (adult 1-day)*	Best for
Zermatt (Matterhorn)	~360	3,883 m	from ~CHF 88 — U9 free; Sat<16 free	High-altitude, car-free, icons
St Moritz (Engadin)	~326	3,303 m	from ~CHF 47 (dynamic)	Glamour & variety
Verbier (4 Vallées)	~410	3,330 m	from ~CHF 87	Freeride & mileage
Jungfrau Region – Grindelwald & Wengen	~206 (region)	~2,500 m	CHF 79 (peak) / CHF 67 (std.) — Sat kids free (6–15)	Postcard scenery
Saas-Fee (Saastal)	~100	3,600 m	CHF ~82–83 — U6 free; 6-day: U9 free	Car-free & glacier-sure
Flims Laax Falera (LAAX)	224	3,018 m	from ~CHF 59 (dynamic)	Parks + cruisers
Engelberg-Titlis	82	3,020 m	~CHF 68–74 — U5 free	Glacier day & 12 km run
Arosa–Lenzerheide	~225	2,865 m	~CHF 74–84 (online) — 4th+ child CHF 5/d**	Sun & linked terrain
Davos-Klosters	~253	2,844 m	~CHF 68–90 — U6 free***	Huge network
Gstaad (+ Glacier 3000)	~200	3,000 m	~CHF mid-60s+ — U6 free	Gentle meadows + glacier day
Crans-Montana	~140	~3,000 m	from CHF 59 (online) / ~CHF 89 (desk)	Sunny boulevards
Notes: * Adult 1-day prices are indicative (dynamic pricing is common—always check your exact dates). Kids shorthand: U5/U6/U9 = children under 5/6/9 ride free (area rules apply). Sat<16 free = Saturday child-free offer with paying adult, where available (see resort). **Arosa–Lenzerheide Family Bonus: from 4-day passes, the 4th+ child pays CHF 5/day. ***Davos-Klosters: U6 free when accompanied; some valley/practice lifts excluded.

Zermatt (Matterhorn Ski Paradise)

At-a-glance
Beneath the Matterhorn’s pyramid peak, Zermatt and its cross-border link to Cervinia form one of Europe’s great ski playgrounds, with around 360 km of pistes and (mostly) year-round glacier skiing. The car-free village keeps everything walkable, while high lifts (topping out just shy of 4,000 m) make snow reliability a huge draw from early season to spring.

Who it’s best for
Zermatt is most rewarding for confident skiers and mixed‑ability groups. Families with children who already ski will appreciate the car‑free village and the big beginner zone at Sunnegga, but true novices should stay close to this area until they can link turns. The high‑altitude slopes linking to Cervinia and the near‑year‑round glacier make the resort a magnet for intermediates and advanced skiers seeking long runs and dependable snow. Couples and groups with non‑skiers can also enjoy winter hiking, sledging, spas and scenic train rides.

Good to know
Because the area is so high, wind holds can occasionally close the very top or the Italian link, so check the live lift map before committing to a cross-border day with children. For a smooth progression, book morning lessons at Sunnegga and use the funicular from the village to reach beginner terrain in minutes. Confident intermediates can then roam across long, scenic reds towards Gornergrat and, in good weather, into Italy.

Getting there
Zermatt is car‑free, so visitors finish their journey by train. Direct flights from London and other UK airports to Zurich and Geneva take around 1 hour 40 minutes and about 1 hour 50 minutes respectively. From the airport, UK travellers can choose between rail and road transfers:

• Train: From Zurich airport or Zurich Hauptbahnhof, trains via Visp take about 3½ hours to reach Zermatt. From Geneva airport, the scenic train via Visp takes around 3 hours 50 minutes and up to four hours depending on connections. Most rail journeys to Zermatt involve a change at Visp onto the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn, which runs directly to Zermatt station.
• Car/Transfer: Driving from Zurich takes around 3–4 hours. From Geneva, the drive to Täsch (the last car‑accessible village) is about 3 hours 10 minutes; travellers park there and take the shuttle train into Zermatt.

Why Ski Zermatt in Winter 2025-26

New Gifthittli 8-seat chairlift: Zermatt’s ski area will debut a state-of-the-art 8‑seater chairlift (Gifthittli) for winter 2025/26, replacing the old Riffelberg–Gifthittli lift. Built by LEITNER, this detachable chair (with weather-proof bubble seats) greatly ups lift capacity and comfort on the Riffelberg side of Matterhorn Ski Paradise. This upgrade is timed to open by the start of the 2025/26 season.

Where to stay

After a detailed look at Zermatt’s pistes and access points, our ski-in/ski-out hotels in Zermatt list narrows the choices to solid, ski-to-door picks.

•  Hotel Bristol (3★) — A friendly, family-run base in a quiet yet central spot between the station and the Klein Matterhorn lifts, with the ski bus stopping right outside for swift morning getaways. After the slopes, the small spa brings proper comforts (Finnish sauna, steam bath, infrared cabin and relaxation room), and most bedrooms come with a balcony for Matterhorn-side sunsets. A down-to-earth pick that keeps logistics easy without skimping on warmth.
•  Riffelalp Resort 2222m Ski-in & Ski-out (5★) — A serene, luxury hotel perched above Zermatt, famous for Spa 2222 m and Europe’s highest outdoor pool (35 °C) facing the Matterhorn. Indoors you’ll find a generous pool with whirlpool, steam bath, Finnish & organic saunas, plus cosy grotto spaces, while outside, the Riffelalp Tram and private setting make it feel like your own hamlet. Families get thoughtful perks: a supervised kindergarten (ages ~2–8, 15:00–22:30, winter) and even an in-house guide programme on selected days, while apartments next to the slopes keep mornings faff-free. Big views, zero crowds, maximum ease.

View all hotels near Zermatt

St Moritz (Engadin)

At-a-glance
Glamorous yet surprisingly practical, St Moritz sits at the heart of the Engadin/St Moritz Mountain Pool, a network that rolls together more than 300 km of pistes across Corviglia above town, high and snowsure Corvatsch/Diavolezza, and smaller local hills. For anyone weighing up where to ski in Switzerland, Corviglia’s sunny cruisers are confidence-building. Corvatsch pushes higher to 3,303 m and spices things up with terrain parks and night skiing.

Who it’s best for
St Moritz is ideal for couples and seasoned skiers who enjoy long, groomed pistes and high‑end amenities. The area is a paradise for intermediates and experts, with Corviglia offering sunny red runs and Corvatsch and Diavolezza providing steeper terrain and heli‑skiing. There are nursery slopes and ski schools for beginners and children (particularly at Salastrains and Celerina) but they are scattered, so novice skiers may find more convenient options elsewhere. The resort’s glamour, shopping and fine dining make it well suited to adults seeking luxury.

Good to know
Corviglia = sun-drenched corduroy and wide blues/reds. Corvatsch = steeper pitches, park laps and colder, grippier snow late season. On breezy days, pick your mountain accordingly and book lunch a touch early in peak weeks—midday fills quickly at the popular slope-side restaurants.

Getting there
UK travellers usually fly to Zurich. Flights from London take around 1 hour 40 minutes. The journey to St Moritz then continues by rail or road:

• Train: The most popular route is Zurich – Chur – St Moritz. Trains from Zurich Hauptbahnhof take about 3 hours. The fastest service via Chur takes roughly 3 hours 21 minutes. The Albula line’s scenic vistas make the trip worthwhile.
• Car/Transfer: Driving from Zurich or Milan to St Moritz takes around three hours, although conditions vary with weather. The Zurich‑to‑St Moritz drive is estimated at around 3 hours.

Why Ski St Moritz in Winter 2025-26

• New Randolins–Munt da San Murezzan chairlift: Engadin’s Corviglia ski area is adding a modern 6‑seater high‑speed chairlift (with enclosed bubble seats) between Randolins and Munt da San Murezzan. This 2025 lift replaces an old 1980s lift chain and will greatly speed access from St Moritz Dorf to Corviglia. It is scheduled to enter service for winter 2025/26.
• Expanded snowmaking reservoir: For 2025/26 Engadin is completing a second natural snowmaking reservoir (Lej Nair Pitschen) above Corviglia. When filled in summer 2025, it will allow 100% of Corviglia’s snow to be made from recycled glacier meltwater, saving energy and fresh water. This sustainability project is timed to fully support winter 2025/26 operations.
• St. Moritz Ski World Cup (Dec 2025): The Piz Nair mountain will host FIS Alpine World Cup women’s speed races in mid‑December 2025. Specifically, a Women’s Downhill and Super‑G are on the calendar for 12–14 Dec 2025. These are major international events and a highlight of the 2025/26 season in St Moritz.

Where to stay

•  Hauser Hotel St. Moritz (3★) — In the heart of St Moritz, this long-running, fourth-generation hotel pairs snug, wooden-clad rooms with a lively ground-floor hub: the bakery-confectioner, all-day restaurant and terrace RooBar. It’s a pragmatic choice for skiers who want to step straight into town life and stroll to the lifts, with a local, cosy feel that’s classic Engadin.
•  Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski (5★) — Sitting right at the Signalbahn base, this grande dame makes holiday days flow: the Kempinski Kids Club provides supervised play, snacks and activities, while adults rotate spa time in the 2,800 m² Alpine Spa (pool, sauna landscape, ladies’ spa, Kneipp stream, plus cryotherapy for the adventurous). Rooms and suites span comfortable layouts, while dining ranges from relaxed brasserie to Cà d’Oro (Michelin-starred). For ski school, you’re steps from the cable car and an easy bus hop to Corviglia, making it hard to beat for door-to-lift convenience.

View all hotels near St Moritz

Verbier (4 Vallées)

At-a-glance
Verbier anchors Switzerland’s largest ski domain, the 4 Vallées, with about 410 km of linked pistes fanning across four valleys to a high point at Mont-Fort (3,330 m). Broad, sunny bowls above La Chaux deliver big-mountain views, while the village still makes room for true beginners on in-resort nursery areas before progressing to sweeping blue runs. On clear days, lifts whisk confident skiers up to Mont-Fort for a 360° panorama that spans the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc.

Who it’s best for
Renowned for its challenging terrain and après‑ski scene, Verbier is best for advanced skiers, adventurous intermediates and groups of friends looking to party. The resort is a freeride mecca with technical off‑piste and steep runs. There are nursery slopes in town for novices, but the limited easy terrain means beginners are better served elsewhere. After skiing, Verbier’s nightlife kicks off with busy bars such as Farinet, Ice Cube and Pub Mont Fort, while clubs like the Farm Club and Carve keep the party going late into the night.

Good to know
Verbier’s rep is “freeride heaven”, but early days run smoother if you start on the town-side nurseries (Les Esserts for space; Les Moulins for kids’ club), then ride the lifts to La Chaux for long, confidence-building blues—check the interactive map and live openings on the site before committing to cross-valley links on breezy days. Ambitious teens love the Mont-Fort cable car and even the high-altitude Mont 4 Zipline (weather-dependent) for a bucket-list moment.

Getting there
Many UK visitors fly to Geneva; flights from London take about 1 hour 50 minutes. From the airport, choose between trains, road transfers or self‑driving:

• Train: From Geneva airport to Le Châble (the valley station), trains take around 2½ hours, typically via Lausanne and Martigny. From Zurich, the train journey is about 3¾ hours. A gondola then whisks passengers to Verbier in 15 minutes.
• Car/Transfer: Driving from Geneva takes ~2h–2h30 depending on route/traffic (146–162 km); shared transfers are similar. From Zurich, the drive is just over 3 hours. Geneva – Verbier is roughly 160 km and 2½ hours.

Why Ski Verbier in Winter 2025-26

• New Savoleyres hybrid lift: Verbier is building a two‑stage “télémixte” lift from Les Planards (near Verbier village) up to Savoleyres. Phase 1 – the upper segment (Les Planards to Savoleyres) – will open in winter 2025/26. This hybrid lift combines 6‑seat chairs and 10‑seat gondola cabins, replacing old chairs and doubling uphill capacity (with heated seats and weather covers) between Savoleyres and the main Verbier ski area. (Phase 2 – the lower Planards connection – is planned for the following winter.)
• New Lac des Vaux–Chassoure lift: Also in 2025/26 Verbier will debut a new detachable 6‑seat chairlift (“Lac II”) climbing from Lac des Vaux up to the Col de Chassoure. This replaces an aging lift and opens up a freeride/variant line off Chassoure. The lift provides easier uphill access to off‑piste terrain above Lac des Vaux, benefiting freeriders and advanced skiers.

Where to stay

•  Hotel Montpelier (3★) — A friendly three-star hotel with an indoor pool, sauna and hammam, plus family apartments (2–3 bedrooms and a 2-bed penthouse). There’s an on-site Ski Service hire shop and you can buy ski passes at reception, so mornings are genuinely grab-and-go. It’s not ski-in/ski-out, but the free shuttle stops ~50 m away for quick hops to Médran. Many rooms face broad mountain views, and well-behaved pets are also welcome.
•  Hôtel Vanessa (4★) — A 53-suite, chalet-style base in the heart of Verbier, ~350 m from Médran and ~50 m from Place Centrale. Suites pair with a mellow bar and a small wellness area (jacuzzi & sauna), plus a handy private shuttle to the lifts. You also get free underground parking with an EV charging point, private ski lockers with boot warmers, and on-site dining at Brasserie Le V—ideal “park-once” convenience for ski-school pickups. Many rooms feature balconies with Alpine views.

View all hotels near Verbier

Jungfrau Region – Grindelwald & Wengen

At-a-glance
Skirting the Eiger’s north face and the passes of Männlichen and Kleine Scheidegg, the linked Grindelwald–Wengen sector delivers about 103 km of pistes inside a wider Jungfrau Region ~210 km ski area. It’s an alpine postcard brought to life: rack railways, soaring cliffs above Lauterbrunnen, and the World-Cup Lauberhorn run that you can ski once the pros have packed up. The new Eiger Express tricable gondola vaults you from valley to glacier in minutes, trimming connection times and making winter break days flow.

Who it’s best for
This area appeals to families and couples seeking spectacular scenery and varied skiing. Car‑free Wengen provides a tranquil base with gentle slopes and snow gardens, making it ideal for young families and those who prefer a slower pace. Livelier Grindelwald suits active families and mixed‑ability groups thanks to its wider range of pistes and activities, while the linked area’s famous red runs and the World‑Cup Lauberhorn course give intermediates and advanced skiers plenty to tackle. The rack railways and cliffside views also make it a romantic choice for couples.

Good to know
Base choice matters: Wengen is slower-paced (and car-free), ideal for stroller-age kids and grandparents. Grindelwald is livelier with rapid uplift via the Eiger Express. In peak weeks, book lesson slots and lunch stops early and use the Grindelwald Terminal hub to minimise queuing and backtracking. Nervous skiers will love long, steady blues off Männlichen, while mileage-hunters can loop Kleine Scheidegg laps with Eiger views all day.

Getting there
The Jungfrau region is served mainly by Zurich and Basel airports. Flights from London to Zurich take around 1 hour 40 minutes. Most visitors continue by rail:

• Grindelwald by train: The fastest rail route from Zurich airport via Bern and Interlaken takes around three hours. From Geneva, trains via Bern and Interlaken take around 3h30. Drivers can expect about 2h45–3h from Zurich and about 3h from Geneva.
• Wengen by train: Wengen is car‑free. Direct trains from Zurich airport to Interlaken Ost (every two hours) take approximately two hours; you then change to the Bernese Oberland Railway to Lauterbrunnen and the Wengernalp rack railway. The final section from Interlaken Ost to Wengen takes 37 minutes. Drivers must park in Lauterbrunnen and ride the train up. Interlaken to Lauterbrunnen is about 20–30 minutes.

Why Ski the Jungfrau Region in Winter 2025-26

• Birg–Schilthorn funicular (Funifor): The classic Birg–Schilthorn cable car (to the Piz Gloria summit) is being modernised with a new 100‑person Garaventa funifor system. This 2025‑built funicular will enter service by winter 2025/26, replacing the old Birg–Schilthorn tram. With dual-car cabins on parallel cables, it is highly wind-stable and dramatically increases capacity to ~800 pph (2×400), ensuring fast access from Birg to the Schilthorn summit.
• Lauberhorn World Cup (Jan 2026): The region’s legendary Lauberhorn races return in January 2026. Wengen will host its annual Men’s Alpine World Cup downhill and combined (16–18 Jan 2026) on the famed Lauberhorn piste.

Where to stay

We verified village-to-slope connections around First and Kleine Scheidegg, and our list of hotels with ski-to-door access in Grindelwald gathers the options with genuine slope access.

•  Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel (4★), Grindelwald — Long-running and family-owned, this hotel with a spa features a 6×14 m indoor pool (≈29 °C), an outdoor salt-water Jacuzzi (≈36 °C), a Finnish sauna, a glacier steam bath and a family-friendly “heat mine” relaxation room. Handy extras make logistics easy such as free station pick-up, a private morning ski bus in winter, and free parking with an EV charger. Families get playrooms, kids’ menus and roomy family categories. For dining, there’s a main restaurant plus cosy Swiss classics at “Spycher.”
•  Hotel Spinne Grindelwald (4★), Grindelwald — Central, chalet-style stay below the Eiger with a compact Alpine spa featuring a heated outdoor infinity pool (open roughly 12:00–21:00), saunas, whirlpool and a quiet rest room. Most of its 43 alpine-design rooms have balconies or terraces with mountain views. You’re a short walk from the trains and First gondola, and on site you’ll find two restaurants (Panorama & Mercato) plus a sunny terrace for après.

View all hotels near ski resorts in Grindelwald

View all hotels near ski resorts in Wengen

Saas-Fee (Free Republic of Holidays)

At-a-glance
Encircled by a crown of 4,000-metre peaks, car-free Saas-Fee feels purpose-built for stress-free ski trips: compact streets, electric shuttles, and high, snow-sure skiing that stretches up to the glacier at 3,600 m. The broader Saas Valley offers about 150 km of slopes across Saas-Fee/Saastal; the village’s own area delivers roughly 100 km, with gentle nursery zones near the centre and easy blues higher up when confidence grows.

Who it’s best for
Saas‑Fee’s car‑free streets and gentle lower slopes make it a favourite for families and beginners, yet its glacier and high altitude appeal to stronger skiers too. The car-free village is set up for easy, low-stress holidays, with beginner zones like Stafelwald/Kalbermatten right by the centre. You’ll find gentle blues on the glacier too, but reaching/returning typically involves some red sections, so true first-timers are best off sticking to the lower slopes at first. Meanwhile, advanced skiers can explore higher pitches and off‑piste terrain. A lively apres‑ski scene gives younger travellers some nightlife without overwhelming the tranquil setting.

Good to know
Saas-Fee’s altitude is a blessing for early/late season, but the very top can close in high winds—check the live status before planning glacier laps with little ones. If you’re deciding where to ski in Switzerland, keep first-timers on the valley-level beginner zone until they’re turning reliably. Many upper-mountain greens require an intermediate link to reach.

Getting there

Saas‑Fee is known for its glacier and car‑free village. UK travellers generally fly into Zurich or Geneva. From London the flights are around 1 hour 40–50 minutes. Connections involve trains to Visp and a bus up the valley:

• By road: Driving from Geneva to Saas‑Fee takes about 2 hours 30 minutes; from Zurich it’s about 3 hours 20 minutes. From Sion airport (used mainly by charters) the drive is around 1 hour 20 minutes.
• By rail: Trains from Geneva to Visp take about 2 hours 10 minutes; from Zurich or Basel expect around 2 hours. At Visp, travellers switch to a PostBus; the ride to Saas‑Fee is about 45 minutes and runs hourly.

Why Ski Saas‑Fee in Winter 2025-26

• UIAA Ice Climbing World Cup (Jan 22–24, 2026): The world’s best ice climbers return to Saas-Fee’s spectacular indoor Ice Dome for a prime World Cup stop—always a high-energy, crowd-friendly highlight of mid-winter.
• Allalin Races (Apr 10–11, 2026): One of the Alps’ most storied open downhill events caps the season, with mass-start racing from 3,500 m on the Allalin.
• Season programming (winter 2025/26): Weekly Snow & Style Night torchlight descents light up the village-side slopes (dates across Dec–Apr), alongside a festive Christmas & New Year lineup and other valley events. For an early winter taste, Curling “Perle der Alpen” runs Dec 12–14, 2025.

Where to stay

•  Park-Hotel Saas- Fee (3★) — A cordial, centrally located hotel in car-free Saas-Fee that keeps everything close: rooms sized for one to four guests, an on-site restaurant serving Valais specialities and a sunny terrace for easy après. Simple comforts, welcoming hosts and a position right in the village core make it a stress-free match for ski-school days.
•  The Capra Saas-Fee (5★) — Boutique-style and intimate, The Capra leans into cocooning comfort: generously sized suites, a serious wellness programme at the Peak Health Spa, and thoughtful accommodation options. Its private ski cabin by the lifts streamlines mornings, while the cosy lounges and smart dining keep evenings low-effort. Ideal for style-minded groups who want boutique character with big-resort convenience.

View all hotels near Saas-Fee

Flims Laax Falera (LAAX)

At-a-glance
LAAX is big, modern and versatile: 224 km of pistes, 29 lifts, five snow parks, and—crucially for families—about 70% of terrain between 2,000–3,000 m, which keeps conditions reliable from early winter into spring. Wide valley-station beginner areas make day one unintimidating; once everyone’s cruising, long blue highways thread above tree line with views to spare.

Who it’s best for
LAAX is a high‑altitude playground that caters to freestyle enthusiasts, families and cruisers alike. It’s one of Europe’s premier freestyle destinations, boasting world‑class snow parks and a half‑pipe that attract snowboarders and skiers of all abilities. At the same time, pedestrian-focused bases with underground parking and a wealth of family‑friendly amenities, such as indoor pools and sledging runs, make it excellent for families. Beginners start in the valley‑station nursery areas before graduating to broad blues on Crap Sogn Gion, while intermediates and relaxed cruisers can enjoy long, sunny runs.

Good to know
Treat Chur as your public-transport hub: trains roll in from across Switzerland, and the PostBus up to Laax/Flims is timed to connect—less schlepping with tiny legs and big skis. On busy weekends, start early and lunch a touch before noon; park and lift queues compress around the main bases.

Getting there

LAAX is a freestyle mecca with a reliable snow park. Zurich airport is the nearest major gateway (flights from London take around 1 hour 40 minutes). Travel onward by train or car:

• Train & bus: From Zurich airport, trains to Chur take less than two hours. From Chur, PostBus services reach Flims and Laax in around 40 minutes. Travelling from Geneva is far longer (around five hours by train to Ilanz) and not usually recommended.
• Car: The drive from Zurich airport to LAAX (about 155 km) usually takes around two hours. Roads are well signed and there is ample parking at the base stations.

Why Ski LAAX in Winter 2025-26

• FlemXpress and freeride terrain: LAAX will complete the FlemXpress gondola in Dec 2025, linking Segnes to the main Cassons area. This final section of the “on-demand” gondola fully connects the lower villages to the snowpark and pistes. In addition, two new off-piste freeride routes have been opened from the Segnes plateau down to Cassons, providing advanced skiers with fresh terrain.
• New Crap Masegn‑Vorab gondola: A brand-new 8‑person gondola is being built from Fuorcla La Siala (2,616 m) over to Crap Masegn and up to Vorab glacier. Replacing a 1978 6‑seater, this 2025 installation will run from winter 2025/26 onward, significantly boosting capacity and modernising the link to the glacier area (summer and winter).

Where to stay

We double-checked links across Laax/Flims/Falera, so you can start with ski-in/ski-out hotels in Laax for door-to-lift stays.

•  Peaks Place Apartments & SPA (4★) — Self-catering apartments with hotel polish that feature proper kitchens and living spaces plus a wellness area for post-mountain downtime. The location keeps you close to the LAAX base (walkable, with a handy shuttle), so it suits families or groups who want space and flexibility without giving up amenities.
•  Riders Hotel (3★) — A design-forward, community-minded base near the valley station, known for its lively lounge/bar, creative vegetarian restaurant, and an events/club program that brings the scene together. Rooms are simple and functional, making it a fun, low-fuss pick for sporty crews and teen-heavy groups.

View all hotels near ski resorts in Laax

Engelberg-Titlis

At-a-glance
Framed by the monastery village of Engelberg and the glacier world of Titlis, this mid-sized area skis far bigger than its ~82 km suggest thanks to glacier height, a famous 12 km valley run and the rotating Titlis Rotair gondola that spins you to just over 3,000 m for wide-angle alpine views. For travellers comparing where to ski in Switzerland, the blend of gentle learning zones (Trübsee, village) and high, snow-sure pistes makes an easy match for mixed abilities.

Who it’s best for
Engelberg‑Titlis appeals to strong intermediates, experts and families seeking a quieter resort with big‑mountain thrills. The Titlis glacier and the famous 12 km valley run offer long, steep descents for confident skiers. Beginners and children have protected learning zones at Gerschnialp and on the south‑facing Brunni slopes, which also offer tobogganing and gentle family skiing. The town’s nightlife is low‑key, so it suits couples and families who prefer relaxed evenings.

Good to know
On windy or stormy days, focus lower (Trübsee/Jochpass) and keep the Rotair as a blue-sky treat. If you want to ski the full 12 km run in one go, check the live status and plan your timing so little legs aren’t fading before the final schuss to town.

Getting there

Engelberg is conveniently close to Zurich, making it a favourite for short breaks. Flights from the UK to Zurich take around 1 hour 40 minutes. From the airport, travellers reach Engelberg via:

• Train: There are frequent connections every half‑hour from Zurich airport to Lucerne (approx 1 hour), then the Zentralbahn train continues to Engelberg in about 45 minutes. Overall journey time is around 2 hours.
• Car: By motorway, Engelberg is about 1 hour 20 minutes from Zurich and Basel. The resort emphasises that you can be on the slopes shortly after leaving Zurich because the drive is so short.

Why Ski Engelberg-Titlis in Winter 2025-26

• Titlis Connect cableway: Engelberg is installing Titlis Connect, a new single-cable aerial cableway between Stand (at 1,800 m) and the Titlis summit (around 3,020 m). The installation was commissioned in early 2025 and will initially be used for material/maintenance transport, while guest service is planned to start in 2026. This adds redundancy to the Titlis Rotair and will allow continuous access (even during Rotair maintenance), improving all-weather reliability of summit access.
• Titlis Tower (2026): Construction of the new Herzog & de Meuron Titlis Tower (a cross-shaped viewing tower housing a new restaurant) is underway on the glacier. While it opens in mid-2026, its construction in 2025 is one of the Alps’ most high-profile projects. (Swiss chef Dietmar Sawyere is developing its “casual fine dining” concept.)
• “Moving Mountain” club nights: Engelberg will host unique open-air electronic music events (“Moving Mountain”) at the Trübsee mid-mountain terrace on 22 and 29 Nov 2025. These one-off club nights feature top DJs (e.g. Andrea Oliva, Kölsch) in a snowy alpine setting, marking a winter‑specific cultural highlight for 2025/26.

Where to stay

With access checks around Titlis and Brunni, we’ve gathered all hotels with ski-to-door access in Engelberg that make getting on the hill effortless.

•  Hotel Terrace (3★) — Perched on the sunny south-facing slope above the village, this Belle-Époque grande dame delivers big views and straightforward access to the Titlis area. It features bright, simple rooms, a buffet restaurant, and a small wellness area with sauna/steam room for a quick reset after skiing, plus an easy walk down to the station and village life.
•  Kempinski Palace Engelberg (5★) — A polished, family-friendly hotel in Engelberg with a standout rooftop spa and 15-metre indoor infinity pool gazing over the peaks for the ultimate blissful experience. Kids are properly catered for: the supervised Kempinski Kids Club (typically ages 3–12) runs daily sessions and even serves children’s meals during set times, while babysitting can be arranged for extra flexibility. It’s a short walk to the Titlis valley station and train, with a complimentary ski shuttle available when you’d rather ride than stroll. Dining leans refined-brasserie at Cattani, and the spa’s sauna world and gym round out a luxe but practical base for mixed-ability skiers.

View all hotels near Engelberg

Arosa–Lenzerheide

At-a-glance
Linked since winter 2013/14, Arosa and Lenzerheide form a sun-kissed, snow-reliable playground of ~225 km that ranges from mellow meadows around Tschuggen/Prätschli to higher, steeper terrain off the Weisshorn and Rothorn. It’s a people-pleaser: broad carvers’ boulevards, family zones in the valleys, and that “big resort” feel without the sprawl thanks to fast lifts and a simple, legible piste map.

Who it’s best for
This linked domain is tailor‑made for families but also offers plenty for adults seeking variety. Sunny snow gardens, dedicated family pistes and even free ski lessons for children up to 17 (under certain conditions) make it one of Switzerland’s most family‑friendly ski resorts. However, with 225 km of pistes that range from gentle meadows to high red and black runs—and parks for freestyle fans—the area also satisfies intermediates and advanced skiers. Its welcoming atmosphere and mix of activities suit multi‑generation groups and couples as well.

Good to know
The Urdenbahn gondola that bridges the areas can close for wind; on such days, pick a side and settle into local laps rather than chasing the link with youngsters. For easy starts, base near Tschuggen (Arosa) or Fadail/Auarara (Lenzerheide) where special beginner tickets are offered.

Getting there

Arosa and Lenzerheide are linked by cable car and share 225 km of slopes. Zurich is the main arrival airport for UK visitors (flight time around 1 hour 40 minutes). Travellers continue as follows:

• Arosa by train: From Zurich airport it is under 15 minutes to Zurich HB, about 1½ hours to Chur and one hour on the narrow‑gauge railway to Arosa. Total travel time is around three hours. The road to Arosa is winding (365 bends) and the car journey from Zurich takes about 2–2½ hours.
• Lenzerheide by bus: From Zurich airport, take a train to Chur, then a PostBus to Lenzerheide. The drive from Zurich is around two hours (150 km), and the bus from Chur takes 21–30 minutes.

Why Ski Arosa–Lenzerheide in Winter 2025-26

• FIS Ski Cross World Cup (Dec 2025): Arosa hosts the night Ski Cross World Cup again in mid-December 2025 (most possible date: 17 Dec 2025). Get ready for the trademark floodlit sprint course and compact TV schedule in the Arosa stadium area.
• IBU Cup Biathlon (Dec 17–20, 2025): Lenzerheide’s Roland Arena stages an IBU Cup round with relays, sprints and mass starts across four days, bringing international biathlon back to the valley just before Christmas.
• Valbella valley-run snowmaking (new for winter 2025/26): The long-planned snowmaking on the Valbella valley run goes live for the 2025/26 season, improving early-season reliability and return-to-village coverage on the Lenzerheide side.

Where to stay

We’ve walked the map and lift links around the valley—see our ski-in/ski-out hotels in Arosa for places with genuine slope access.

•  Waldhotel Arosa (4★S) — True ski-in/ski-out convenience with pistes and two mountain lifts right by the hotel, so that morning logistics are as simple as clicking in and gliding off. The mood skews relaxed and family-friendly, with a heated ski room and a mellow spa for easy post-slope downtime. A low-stress launchpad for the Arosa–Lenzerheide area.
•  Tschuggen Grand Hotel - The Leading Hotels of the World (5★) — A Swiss icon where the private Tschuggen Express funicular whisks you straight up to the ski area in minutes, making it ideal for lesson drop-offs and fast laps. Off the hill, the dramatic Mario Botta–designed Bergoase spa brings five-star cocooning and a sense of occasion, making this a luxe-yet-practical base in Arosa.

View all hotels near Arosa

View all hotels near Lenzerheide

Davos-Klosters

At-a-glance
Strung along a high valley with five distinct ski mountains, Davos-Klosters skis like a choose-your-own-adventure: long, classic pistes on Parsenn linking Davos and Klosters, lively park laps on Jakobshorn, and quieter, family-friendly mileage on Madrisa and Rinerhorn, plus the wild-snow playground of Pischa. In total you’re looking at around 253 km of slopes and 81 runs, with valley runs into town when conditions allow and a season that typically stretches November–April thanks to elevation and snowmaking.

Who it’s best for
Davos‑Klosters offers six distinct mountains and suits adventurous skiers and snowboarders who like choice and atmosphere. Davos is a lively alpine city with bars, restaurants and après‑ski, attracting groups of friends and intermediate to advanced skiers. The extensive slopes on Parsenn and Jakobshorn offer miles of red and black runs, plus freestyle parks. Klosters provides a quieter, more picturesque base with a Swiss‑village feel; its Madrisa and Rinerhorn areas have gentler slopes that are great for families and beginners. Overall, it’s a good fit for mixed‑ability groups who want both challenging terrain and family‑friendly zones.

Good to know
Parsenn alone clocks ~97 km of pistes, enough for multi-day exploring without ever leaving the sector. On windy days, favour tree-line laps lower on Parsenn or Rinerhorn; keep Jakobshorn for blue-sky park/play days. Check the live lift report each morning, as links and valley runs change with weather.

Getting there

Davos‑Klosters is easily reached from Zurich. London – Zurich flights take around 1 hour 40 minutes. From the airport:

• Rail: Hourly trains run from Zurich airport to Davos via Zurich Hauptbahnhof and Landquart. Journey times are about 2 hours 40 minutes, while trains to Klosters are around 30 minutes shorter. Both resorts have two stations (Davos Dorf/Davos Platz, or Klosters Platz/Klosters Dorf) so check your accommodation.
• Car/Transfer: The motorway drive from Zurich to Davos is about 2 hours; Klosters is slightly closer at around 1 hour 50 minutes. Heavy snow may require snow chains for the final ascent.

Why Ski Davos‑Klosters in Winter 2025-26

• Parsennbahn renovation: Davos will undertake major upgrades of the Parsenn cableways in summer 2025. The first and second sections of the Davos–Höhenweg cable car (Parsennbahn) and the Weissfluh summit lift will be shut down for extensive modernisation (new drive/control systems, refurbishing vehicles and track). No summer operations ran in 2025 so that these works could be completed, ensuring fully reliable service for winter 2025/26.
• Snowboard World Cup (Dec 2025): Davos is scheduled to host the Visa FIS Snowboard Alpine World Cup on 20 Dec 2025. Both men’s and women’s Parallel Slalom races will take place at Jakobshorn. This one-off World Cup stop is a marquee event for the season (though snowboarding World Cups do recur here occasionally).

Where to stay

We traced return routes across Parsenn and Jakobshorn, so browse all hotels with ski-to-door access in Davos for practical, on-the-snow options.

•  Hotel Seehof Davos (5★) — Steps from the Parsenn funicular, this long-running five-star makes lesson drop-offs effortless and gives families or groups room to breathe with suites and chalet-style options. After skiing, the Bella Vita Spa (≈400 m²) is an easy wind-down, and multiple on-site restaurants keep evenings simple, making it ideal when you’re juggling nap times and ski slots.
•  Mountain Plaza Hotel (4★) — A central Davos Platz all-rounder near Jakobshorn with a sizable 1,000 m² wellness area and a new three-storey fitness zone. Family perks such as kids’ play spaces, a practical ski shuttle to Jakobshorn and Parsenn, and on-site rental make mornings at this family-friendly hotel in Davos calm and keep the value sweet for groups who want space without five-star pricing.

View all hotels near Davos

View all hotels near Klosters

Gstaad (Gstaad Mountain Rides & Glacier 3000)

At-a-glance
For travellers pondering where to ski in Switzerland, Gstaad blends gentle village lifts and sunny meadows with a high-altitude trump card: Glacier 3000, the only glacier ski area in the Bernese Oberland. Across its local mountains you’ll find about 200 km of pistes between 1,000–3,000 m, ideal for families who want relaxed terrain and classic chalet lunches—then a day or two up high for brag-worthy runs and big views.

Who it’s best for
Gstaad combines gentle village skiing with a luxury lifestyle, making it ideal for beginners, intermediates, families and couples seeking a relaxed pace. Around 60% of its 200 km of pistes are blue runs, and there are few challenging black runs. The atmosphere is sophisticated rather than raucous, with gourmet restaurants, high‑end hotels and a select nightlife scene that appeals to more mature guests. Glacier 3000 offers a day of high‑altitude adventure for stronger intermediates but should be approached with care on windy days.

Good to know
Glacier 3000’s lifts typically run November to late April, but winds can close the very top, so check the live info before committing with kids. The Red Run is intermediate-grade but long; plan breaks and watch legs late in the day. For gentle, sun-kissed laps, stick to Eggli and Saanen for a morning, then step it up after lunch.

Getting there

Gstaad offers relaxed skiing and high‑end hospitality. UK travellers typically fly into Geneva or Zurich (flights take about 1 hour 50 minutes and 1 hour 40 minutes respectively). Connections are as follows:

• Train: The scenic GoldenPass route links Montreux with Gstaad. From Geneva, take a train to Montreux and connect to Gstaad; the journey is around 2½ hours. From Zurich, trains via Montreux (via Lausanne) take about 3 hours. A shorter option from Bern via Zweisimmen takes around two hours.
• Car/Transfer: Driving from Geneva takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. From Zurich the journey is about three hours, and from Bern around 1½ hours. The Alpina Gstaad hotel notes similar times: Geneva–Gstaad about 2 hours 40 minutes by train and 2 hours by car, Zurich–Gstaad 3 hours by car and 3½ hours by train.

Why Ski Gstaad in Winter 2025-26

• Winter festivals (Dec 2025–Feb 2026): Gstaad’s classical calendar anchors the season with the Gstaad New Year Music Festival from 26 Dec 2025 to 10 Jan 2026 (concerts across Gstaad, Saanen, Rougemont, Lauenen, and Château-d’Œx), followed by Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad on 30 Jan–7 Feb 2026. In the wider holiday region, the International Balloon Festival in Château-d’Œx runs 24 Jan–1 Feb 2026, bringing daily flights and night glows just over the pass.
• Operations & on-mountain updates: Glacier 3000 resumes public operations on 8 Nov 2025 (conditions permitting), giving Gstaad an early-season glacier start. The 2025/26 Magic Pass (valid 1 May 2025–30 Apr 2026) includes unlimited winter access to Glacier 3000 along with the Gstaad mountain lifts—one pass to ski from November through spring.

Where to stay

Mapping runs and return routes across the area, we’ve compiled ski-in/ski-out hotels in Gstaad for easy mornings on snow.

•  Le Grand Bellevue (5★) — Steps off Gstaad’s promenade, this design-savvy grand hotel pairs boutique personality with big-resort comforts: a 3,000 m² Le Grand Spa (with 17 wellness zones) and a plush private cinema for cosy film nights. A hotel ski shuttle and the handy location keep Eggli access easy, so mornings stay faff-free.
•  Posthotel Rössli (3★) — Gstaad’s oldest inn (dating to 1845) sits on the pedestrian promenade just a two-minute walk from the train station, ideal for car-free arrivals. Inside, it’s all chalet charm and ease: 18 cosy rooms and two restaurants for fondue nights or something lighter. An unfussy, heritage-rich address that lets you park the bags and get straight out on the mountain.

View all hotels near Gstaad

Crans-Montana

At-a-glance
Set on a sunny plateau high above the Rhône Valley, Crans-Montana mixes wide, south-facing boulevards with glacier views from Plaine Morte (≈3,000 m). The ski area offers about 140 km of pistes served by two dozen lifts, ranging from gentle meadows to the famous Piste Nationale, a World-Cup downhill that rolls for around 12 km to the valley. Views take in the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc on blue-sky days, and the village centres (Crans and Montana) keep everything close, making it handy for lesson drop-offs and lunch meets.

Who it’s best for
Crans‑Montana is best for intermediates and advanced skiers who enjoy long cruising pistes and big‑mountain views. The ski area includes challenging runs like the FIS World‑Cup Piste Nationale and well‑marked ski‑touring routes. At the same time, its sunny beginner zones and broad, south‑facing slopes make first turns comfortable. Off the slopes, the resort offers a wealth of activities such as ice skating, sledging, cinemas and a bowling alley, which, together with a laid‑back après‑ski scene of bars, piano lounges and a casino, make it attractive to families and couples seeking a relaxed holiday.

Good to know
If the goal is an all-group victory lap, save the Piste Nationale for strong intermediates and pace it with café breaks, as the opening pitch is steeper than it looks and it’s long. For day-one learners, stay valley-side at Snow Island/Arnouva; many mid-mountain links are at least red. Check the live lifts/pistes page on breezy days before aiming for the glacier sector.

Getting there

Crans‑Montana sits on a sunny plateau above the Rhône valley. UK visitors usually fly into Geneva (flight time about 1 hour 50 minutes) or Zurich (about 1 hour 40 minutes).

• Car: Driving from Geneva to Crans‑Montana (via the A9 to Sierre and a mountain road) takes around 2½ hours. From Zurich it is a longer drive of about 3¾ hours. Sion airport is the closest at about 55 minutes but has limited flights.
• Train + funicular: Trains from Geneva airport to Sierre run roughly every 30 minutes; the journey takes around 2½ hours. From Sierre, a shuttle bus or a 370 m walk brings you to the funicular, which climbs to Montana Gare in about 12–20 minutes. Overall travel time from Zurich by rail is three hours or more. Travelling via Bern takes a similar time.

Why Ski Crans‑Montana in Winter 2025-26

• Aminona–Colombire gondola: Crans-Montana is planning a major new 8‑seater gondola linking Aminona (at 1,500 m) up to Colombire and onto the Grangettes ridge. This monocable lift (about 2 km long, 2,000 pph) is scheduled for 2026, greatly improving access from the lower Aminona valley to the upper slopes of Crans and Plaine Morte.
• Alpine World Cup (Jan 2026): The women’s Audi FIS Alpine World Cup returns with speed events in Crans-Montana on 30–31 January 2026 (one Downhill, one Super-G). A men’s Downhill is also scheduled on 1 Feb 2026. These high-profile World Cup races (run on the Mont-Lachaux and Nationale pistes) are a centerpiece of winter 2025/26 in Crans-Montana and a lead‑in to the 2027 World Championships.

Where to stay

After reviewing how pistes feed back to the villages, our roundup of hotels with ski-to-door access in Crans-Montana highlights the stays that truly work.

•  Hotel Valaisia Crans Montana, a Faern Collection Resort (4★) — A refreshed, family-friendly base close to the lifts that blends apartment-style space with hotel ease. It offers a sizeable wellness area with indoor/outdoor pools, sauna/steam and treatments, perfect for a gentle reset after the mountain, plus an evening adults-only window that keeps things peaceful for parents. Handy location and value make it an easy pick for groups who want room to spread out without losing convenience.
•  LeCrans (5★) — A boutique-style hideaway perched above the resort with wide-angle Alpine views, characterful suites and apartments, and a destination spa. You’re tucked away for quiet, but the hotel’s shuttle links you to the lifts and village in minutes, so you get seclusion between lessons without sacrificing school-run simplicity. A luxurious choice for multi-gen trips that like their calm with a splash of grandeur.

View all hotels near Crans-Montana

Practical extras

Passes, kids & ski-school levels

• Swiss Travel Pass + Swiss Family Card: Children 6–15 travel free nationwide when accompanied by a parent holding a Swiss Travel Pass or Half Fare Card (add children when you buy).
• Swiss Snow League: Most schools teach to this national standard—Blue → Red → Black—so you can match lesson levels across resorts with confidence.

When to go

• Peak weeks: Switzerland’s school ski holidays (sportferien) are staggered by canton and typically run late January to early March. Add the UK half-term (usually mid-February) and that week is among the busiest. For quieter slopes with reliable snow, target late January (roughly the last 10 days of January) or early March (the first two weeks, after half-term), avoiding any local canton holiday spikes and checking Easter dates if they fall early.

Conclusion

Switzerland makes ski trips refreshingly simple: reliable snow, compact, easy-to-navigate resorts, and an efficient rail network that gets you from airport to alpine base with minimal faff. When deciding where to ski in Switzerland in winter 2025-26, whether you’re planning first turns on nursery slopes, chasing long confidence-building reds, or seeking steeps, parks and off-piste, the comparisons above should help you zero in on the headline resorts that best fit your pace, style, budget and wish-list.

Instead of scrolling endlessly, browse Travelmyth to zero in on stays that actually match how you travel. Filter by categories like family-friendly, spa, ski-in/ski-out, adult only and more, across 60 curated hotel categories. Start exploring and find the perfect base for your next trip in Switzerland and beyond!

View all hotels near ski resorts in Switzerland

Don't forget to follow us on social media!
Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | LinkedIn | Pinterest