What are the best ski resort towns in Valais?
If you’re looking for somewhere to visit and enjoy your next winter sports adventure, you really can’t go wrong with the Canton of Valais. Home to the iconic Matterhorn, this legendary mountain is just one of the key draws to the area, and is also home to world-class ski resort towns with more than 2,500km of slopes and an incredible 585 ski lifts.
But which are the best ski resort towns in Valais? Where should you turn your attention if you’re on the hunt for fun and excitement, or perhaps somewhere to call home?
In this article, we’ll explore the best ski resorts in Valais so you can narrow your search when looking into this incredible part of the world.
A brief history of Valais’ ski resorts
People have lived in Valais since around the 13th century, but it didn’t become anything close to as popular as it is today until the late 19th century after mountaineers climbed to the top of the Matterhorn. Unfortunately, four of the seven who climbed died on the descent, which acted as a catalyst for adventurers who wanted to conquer the enormous mountain themselves.
Over time, this sense of adventure evolved into fun and excitement, as thousands of miles of ideal ski slopes were identified across the region. Slowly, traditional villages turned into ski resort towns and the region grew its reputation as one of the best in the world. It has also hosted popular winter sports events, including the FIS Alpine World Cup and the Freeride World Tour.
Now, if you’re a fan of incredible winter sports, a huge variety of hikes along jaw-dropping landscapes, and extraordinary dining and entertainment, Valais is the place to be.
The best ski resorts in Valais
If Valais ticks a lot of your boxes but you’re not quite sure exactly where you should head first, there are a few places we can recommend. Here is our pick of the best ski resorts in Valais.
Zermatt
First on our list is Zermatt, the closest town to the world-famous Matterhorn. As a result, not only is the town a huge draw for those looking to see the incredible sites for themselves (and those daring enough to climb it) but the amount of world-class ski slopes is tough to beat. There are 75 blue, 63 black and 220 red slopes in Zermatt, so there’s plenty of choice for everyone.
During the times between adventuring, Zermatt has that quintessential alpine village feel despite it being a popular tourist destination. The centre of town is pedestrianised, ensuring peace and quiet so you can recharge after a busy day on the slopes or trekking through the mountains. When it comes to entertainment and dining, you’re almost spoilt for choice, and whatever it is you’re in the mood for you’re bound to find in Zermatt.
Crans-Montana
Crans-Montana is home to more than 140km of incredible slopes with more than 8,000 metres of height gain. Whether you’re new to the world of winter sports or an experienced pro, you’ll find something to test your abilities and have a fantastic time. Crans-Montana was home to the 1987 Alpine Ski Racing World Championships and will host them again in 2027, so you can even have a go at these revered slopes for yourself. Not only that, but Crans-Montana gets over 300 days of sun every year, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and panoramic views of the Swiss mountains.
Crans-Montana has a wonderful family atmosphere, with a huge selection of hotels, restaurants and several golf courses to enjoy during the warmer months. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re bound to find it in Crans-Montana.
Verbier
With more than 400km of pistes, Verbier has a wide selection of options for winter sports enthusiasts. If you’ve spent time skiing or snowboarding before, Verbier should offer you the challenge you seek as it’s known for tricky off-piste terrain, such as the Mont Fort and Tortin itineraries. The high terrain guarantees reliable snow, with perfect skiing conditions usually continuing throughout the winter. To get you where you need to be, Verbier has 93 ski lifts, so one trip is never enough.
Verbier is also not too far from the legendary Matterhorn, and Mont Blanc is just a stone’s throw, providing plenty of chances to soak in that showstopping landscape.
For a touch of culture, Verbier is also home to several festivals, including the Verbier Festival which celebrates classical music, and Verbier Art Summit for all things contemporary art.
Saas-Fee
Saas-Fee is just about as picturesque as a ski resort town can be, with beautiful wooden chalets surrounded by 50 pistes that can be accessed by 22 lifts. It’s smaller than the likes of Zermatt, Verbier and Crans-Montana, but for what it lacks in size it makes up for in beauty.
Saas-Fee is another high-altitude town, which means it frequently has hugely reliable snowy conditions throughout the winter. It has a range of slopes, so skiers and snowboarders of all levels should find plenty to keep them occupied during the day. Then, at night, there’s a selection of restaurants, stylish apres-ski bars, music venues and entertainment options. It’s also car-free, so maintains a wonderfully calm and family-friendly atmosphere all through the year.
Find out more about Valais with Steiger&Cie Sotheby’s International Realty
If you like the sound of life among some of the most incredible landscapes and winter sports opportunities there are, Valais sounds like the perfect spot for you.
For more information on what Valais can offer you, contact us today or browse our properties available in Verbier, Crans-Montana and Zermatt to find your home away from home.