Not a beach person? Maybe your ideal winter getaway is a dream trip to Switzerland, arguably the best ski destination in the world. You can’t beat the scenery, and the variety of ski activities (and other winter outdoor pastimes) is mind-boggling. Swiss rail passes help to simplify travel between destinations if you plan to ski in more than one location.
- Zermatt, at the base of the impressive Matterhorn, offers extensive lift-served downhill skiing and snowboarding with terrain ranging from intermediate cruising to spine-tingling expert runs. Enjoy back country, freeride and guided ski touring. Expert skiers will want to challenge the Schwarztor glacial route with a vertical drop of 2,000 meters.
- St. Moritz/Engadin is attractive to both downhill and cross country skiers with over 230 meters of well maintained cross country trails. Downhill skiers can reach Mt. Corviglia’s 38 exciting ski runs via the funicular railway direct from their accommodations in the village.
- Serious downhillers will want to attempt the 4 Vallees at Verbier with over 400 kilometers of challenging pistes on Mt. Fort. Free riding, back country and off-piste terrain are also excellent in this location.
You don’t have to be Bode Miller or Lindsey Vonn to enjoy a winter getaway to Switzerland. Even beginning skiers start out here with great instruction and lots of “bunny hills’ to conquer. Cross country skiing is wonderful exercise for people of any age and ability, or shed the skis altogether and go ice skating, tobogganing, snowshoeing, curling or dog sledding. Enjoy strolling through picturesque villages or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Better yet, relax in a steaming mineral pool or upscale spa before joining the skiers for fondue and hot mulled wine at day’s end.
Contact Travel Leaders to plan a getaway for a memorable trip to Switzerland’s winter wonderland.
