Switzerland combines high altitude with big vertical and some of the Alps' most celebrated challenges. Advanced skiers should look for steep pistes, mogul fields, accessible off-piste and easy access to guides. These five destinations deliver in different ways.
Our top picks
1. Verbier
The 4 Vallées' steep faces below Mont Fort, the Tortin bumps and the Vallon d'Arbi make Verbier a long-time favourite of freeriders. Home of the Verbier Xtreme, it rewards strong technique and good judgement. Read the Verbier guide.
2. Zermatt
High glacier cruising, long vertical descents and guided off-piste routes around the Matterhorn make Zermatt a bucket-list destination. The cross-border run to Italy adds variety. Read the Zermatt guide.
3. Davos Klosters
Parsenn's long runs, Pischa's powder-friendly slopes and the freeride possibilities around Weissfluhjoch offer advanced skiers a mix of speed and exploration. Read the Davos Klosters guide.
4. Jungfrau Ski Region
Ski sections of the Lauberhorn course when open, and tackle the Schilthorn's long descent associated with the Inferno race in Mürren. Check closures for race preparation. Read the Jungfrau guide.
5. St. Moritz
Corvatsch, Diavolezza and Lagalb give the Engadin an edge for experts, with guided glacier and off-piste routes. Read the St. Moritz guide.
Off-piste safety essentials
- Check the bulletin. The SLF publishes daily avalanche information for Switzerland.
- Carry the kit. Transceiver, probe and shovel, and know how to use them.
- Hire a guide. Local guides know the terrain, snowpack and safe routes.
- Never ski alone. Keep spacing and cross slopes one at a time.
- Respect marked closures. Yellow routes are not controlled or secured.
- Insure your trip. Helicopter rescue can be costly; consider Rega membership and winter-sports insurance.
Best time to go
Mid-January through March usually combines good coverage with stable terrain. Powder days cannot be predicted, so allow flexibility and check conditions each morning.