Skiing, sunshine and world-class luxury chalets are just a few initial words that spring to mind when Verbier is mentioned. Being one of Switzerland’s most renowned ski resorts and one of the most prestigious ski resorts in Europe, Verbier has an immense reputation, and it’s easy to see why. For inspiration on luxury ski holidays in Verbier, we have put together a Verbier resort guide including an overview of the ski area, restaurants, non-ski activities and luxury ski chalets. Read on to discover all that is on offer for your Verbier luxury ski holiday…
Being just a short transfer from Geneva International Airport makes this luxury ski resort in the Swiss Alps easily accessible from all corners of the world. From the airport you can choose to take a scenic train journey, hop in a private chauffeured car, or take a helicopter transfer and view the Alps from a different angle. By rail, the transfer would take just over 3 hours, by road just under 2 hours and as the crow flies, a fleeting but memorable 15 minutes!
A unique aspect of Verbier is that it is in a big mountain bowl and the majority of the resort and pistes are perfectly orientated to the south, meaning you can enjoy the sunshine all day. Typically, sunshine pistes equal slush by mid-day, but due to the perfect combination of high altitude and extensive snow making facilities, Verbier is a snow-sure resort, guaranteeing snow from November through to April. It’s not just about snowboarding and skiing in Verbier; you can enjoy dining in some fantastic alpine restaurants, let your hair down at some of the best apres ski in the Alps, mooch around the designer high street, experience bucket-list mountain activities, and simply enjoy not having to lift a finger in one of the many luxury ski chalets in Verbier.
A paradise for free-ride skiers and snowboarders, but Verbier, the largest ski resort in the 4 Vallees, also attracts skiers of varied ability to the 410 kilometres of piste. On the doorstep of Verbier, there is a fantastic network of ski runs, served mainly by the Medran lift station. As the main hub in Verbier, the Medran can often get busy, it is sometimes worth the short journey to the Savoleyres lift station, which leads to the hidden gem, La Tzoumaz.
Admittedly, Verbier is not the most beginner friendly, but it is not impossible to learn to ski in Verbier. In fact, with a can-do attitude, you are likely to become a better skier quicker. Starting on the nursery slopes will be a good place to build up your confidence, head to Les Esserts and Le Rouge facilitated by drag lifts as well as the magic carpet at Les Moulins. Once you have got the hang of some slow turns and more importantly, how to stop, you can progress up to La Chaux where you can ski gentle blues in the sunshine bowl all day.
For the intermediate skier, there are some great cruising blues and progressive reds to play about on. For almost always perfect terrain, head in the direction of the Lac de Vaux, Thyon and Bruson are also some other ski areas in Verbier popular with the more confident skier.
Now if challenging ski runs, on and off-piste, are what you are looking for, there is no doubt Verbier will deliver. This destination for expert skiers is one of the best ski resorts for black run skiing with one particular bucket-list run from the top of Mont Fort (3,300m), featuring mogul field and panoramic views. Adding to the thrill-seekers playground, are the many itinerary ski runs such as Vallon d’Arby, Tortin and Col de Mines, together covering of a good mixture of tree-lines runs and open powder fields. For the unmarked pistes, the off-piste skiing in Verbier is plentiful and lift-accessible. For couloirs, steep faces and cliff drops head down the back of Mont Fort or consider the exhilarating Highway, Croix de Coeur and Stairway to Heaven ski runs. With varied conditions, it is always highly recommended to take a guide or at least ensure you are educated on the avalanche risks. You could even step it up a notch and take a helicopter to find the hidden, untouched powder!
Verbier is renowned as the freeride capital of the world due to its large network of un-groomed freeride routes. The freeriders amongst you will get your adrenaline fix up at Mont Gele or Bec des Rosses.
Verbier may be renowned for its incredible skiing but rest assured there is plenty to keep the non-skier entertained on your Verbier ski holidays.
For the active mountain lovers, you can enjoy some fantastic snowshoe excursions, experiencing untouched and unseen beauty; test your vertigo with some ice climbing at Val de Bagnes; soar the skies by paragliding amongst the mountain peaks; or reach some speeds with a husky dog sled ride (if you choose to do this without a guide, it requires a certain level of fitness to control the sled!). There are also some beautiful walks around Verbier, particularly in the winter wonderland forest areas.
Those looking to enjoy Verbier at a more leisurely pace can do so by taking a chairlift up to some spectacular views points of the 4 Vallees; book an in-chalet spa treatment for ultimate relaxation; voyage around resort on a horse-drawn carriage ride; book a cultural excursion such as local wine tasting or dining experience; shop until you drop in the range of designer shops; or discover the mountain tops with an unforgettable heli-tour.
The foodies won’t be disappointed by the array of restaurants on and off the mountain in Verbier. From traditional Swiss Cuisine to Michelin star gourmet dining, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes.
We’ve all had it, your stomach convinces you it’s lunchtime when actually you’ve only been skiing for an hour since the lifts opened. Let’s blame the altitude. We all look forward to lunch on the mountain, and Verbier is not short of options. Chez Dany is on our list with its relaxed and friendly setting, serving a locally sourced contemporary cuisine in front of a stunning mountain backdrop. Next to be recommended is Le Dahu. At 2,265m, this is an altitude dining experience not to be missed. You will have a choice of authentic, refined cuisine at the Restaurant le Dahu, a quick bite to eat at The Break Dahu, or stop to quench your thirst at The Dahu Bar. Just sitting at the bottom of the piste is Le Rouge, perfectly positioned for meeting your non-skier friends for a delicious, hearty lunch.
In the village, there are some fantastic restaurants to experience, for lunch and dinner. Centrally located, Le Caveau is ‘the place to be’. This restaurant warmly welcomes you for local specialities, with arguably the best cheese raclette in Verbier. Restaurant La Cordee is lead by Michelin starred chef Fabrice Taulier. Expect a contemporary French-inspired cuisine with a twist. For an extra-special experience you can book a chef’s table and admire the art of cooking. Another fantastic place to try the local cuisine in Verbier is La Grange. With wood-fired meats, fish and traditional, seasonal produce, this homely gourmet restaurant with fantastic service will not disappoint.
*We recommend always booking in advance for any of the above to avoid disappointment.
The standards of luxury chalets in Verbier are extremely high and very competitive. From in-chalet spas and swimming pools, to bowling alleys and wine cellars these luxury chalets in Verbier are impressive to say the least – not to mention the beautiful mountain views and superior service levels. A luxury chalet will be sure to complete your unforgettable Verbier luxury ski holiday experience. To wrap up this Verbier Resort Guide, we have selected some of the best luxury ski chalets in Verbier…
Surrounded by a winter wonderland, The Lodge is Sir Richard Branson’s mountain home. The chalet is well finished with chic furnishings and modern facilities. After a day exploring the mountain, the spa area is a welcoming treat with an indoor swimming pool, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzi, steam room and spa treatment room. Alternatively, you can choose to curl up and watch your favourite blockbuster in the home cinema. There is plenty of entertainment for all. A unique feature about The Lodge is that you can return to the chalet on skis, although the driver service will always be on hand should you prefer.
Chalet Chouqui isn’t just another Verbier luxury chalet with swimming pool (although it is one of the biggest private pools in Verbier). This marvellous mountain home offers warm luxurious comfort throughout as well as unrivalled views over the far reaching peaks in the 4 Vallees. You can enjoy the stunning views from the sunny terrace and with a glass of Champagne in hand, it surely can’t get much better?
The No 14 experience is definitely one to consider. Accommodating a large group of 26, there is plenty of space and entertainment for everyone. With a 10m indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, cold plunge pool and two cedar wood hot tubs, there is plenty to help you recover those aches and pains from a day on the mountain. The stylish interiors are custom made by one of London’s most respected designers, all thought out for your comfort in mind.
This impressive and unique luxury Verbier chalet is the epitome of alpine living. Spanning across 1,500m over 2 connected chalets, Chalet Marmottiere accommodates a total of 18 guests in 9 spacious bedrooms. A chalet with all the bells and whistles, you could find yourself never leaving. Relax and recover in the extraordinary spa facilities, get competitive in the games room, at the billiards table or down the bowling alley, or simply head to the bar for wholesome conversation about your day, accompanied with quality wines from the wine cellar of course!
We hope this Verbier Resort Guide will inspire you for your next Verbier luxury ski holiday. If you would like further advice on what to do and where to stay in Verbier, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team. You can send us an email or give us a call on +44 (0)1202 203653 and we will look forward to further guiding you through this one-of-a-kind ski resort in the Alps.
Blue Skies Lifestyle Ltd, established in 2005, is an online luxury ski holiday agent that specialises in finding clients the perfect luxury ski chalet in France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy. We feature an extensive portfolio of luxury chalet accommodation and luxury ski hotels that are ideal for group and family luxury ski holidays.
