A Beginner's Guide to Skiing the Slopes of Switzerland
Switzerland is the ultimate destination for skiing - combining world-class slopes, charming mountain villages and a uniquely authentic Alpine experience. Of course, this will not come as news to those of you who have been on a Swiss ski holiday before. However, if you’re yet to experience the joys of skiing in Switzerland, these tips will help you make the most of your first time on the Swiss slopes.
Take the Time to Find your Ideal Resort
Switzerland offers a huge range of top-notch ski resorts. If you’re looking for beginner-friendly resorts, try Grindelwald, Engelberg or the Aletsch Arena which all feature gentle slopes and welcoming ski schools. For a lively apres scene, try Arosa or Verbier. For no-nonsense challenging skiing, head to Andermatt or Engelberg. For all of the above and more I recommend OTP Premier Resorts Zermatt and Nendaz - I’m not biased, honest!
Choose the Right Accommodation for You.
Finding the perfect place to stay is key to an enjoyable ski holiday. Switzerland has everything from cozy chalets to luxury hotels, and staying close to the slopes makes all the difference. Our team at OTP & SwissPasses can help you choose a place that offers easy access to lifts, breathtaking views, and authentic Swiss charm.
Prebook Lift Passes and Rental Equipment
Any skier will tell you that arriving in resort and then having to organise lift passes and rental equipment for the whole group can be a bit of a faff. Save yourself time, stress and often a bit of money by arranging everything before you travel.
You can book lift passes and ski hire at discounted rates right here on SwissPasses.com. In selected resorts, including Zermatt and the 4 Vallées, lift passes can even be delivered directly to your accommodation, making your first morning on the slopes that little bit easier. If you're in need of ski clothing but don't want to shell out a small fortune on all the right gear, you can even rent it with our partners Cirkel Supply and have it sent straight to your accommodation!
Take the Train to the Slopes
One of the unique aspects of skiing in Switzerland is the incredible train access. Swiss trains are known for their punctuality, comfort, and scenic routes— the majority go directly to resort! Leave the minibus behind and enjoy a stress-free ride with panoramic views of the mountains. Train transfers are included in an OTP ski holiday, so you can just sit back and relax.
Hire a Local Guide
It can be tricky to find your way around a new resort, so it’s always a good idea to get a local to show you around for a day or two. If you choose to go to OTP Premier Resorts Zermatt or Nendaz, your rep will be more than happy to show you around completely free of charge!
Warm Up with Swiss Comfort Food
When it’s time to take a break, treat yourself to Swiss alpine delicacies. Warm up with a pot of gooey cheese fondue, a plate of rösti, or a mug of glühwein (AKA vin chaud in the French-speaking part of Switzerland). Most mountain huts serve traditional dishes, offering a cosy place to refuel and soak up the Swiss ambiance.
Stay Hydrated and Pack Snacks!
Skiing can be demanding, especially at the higher altitudes you’re likely to find yourself at in Switzerland. Bring water to stay hydrated and keep your energy up with local snacks - I find a bar of Swiss chocolate is unbeaten here!
With these tips in hand, you’re ready to make the most of your first Swiss ski holiday. Our team can help you plan everything from resort selection to accommodation and transport, meaning you just have to worry about the skiing! Head to otp.co.uk or get in touch and make this the year you finally tick Switzerland off the bucket list.
