Verbier is a cult ski resort, the place where any skier or snowboarder who wants to test their mettle or tick one of the world’s best off their list will make the effort to visit. With a vibrant town and spectacular setting amid soaring peaks, Verbier is a compelling destination for mountain lovers worldwide. It is the main resort in Switzerland’s large 4 Valleys area, the country’s largest lift-linked ski domain, and comes with the added bonus of a massive vertical drop of almost 6561 feet (2000 m) (off-piste from the 10925 feet (3330 m) Mont Fort glacier). All up Verbier offers 256 miles (412 km) of runs divided into 39% beginner, 44% intermediate, and 17% advanced set between 4920 feet to 9920 feet (1500 meters to 3025 meters).
Ferrying people around this vast terrain is a network of 80 lifts that link heady peaks and span enormous valleys all the while affording jaw-dropping views. Extensive panoramas of dramatic mountain scenery stretch in every direction. From the highest points of the resort, namely the Mont Fort, views extend to the unmistakable spire of the Matterhorn and Europe’s highest mountain, Mont Blanc, in France.
Powderchasers and expert skiers and snowboarders are drawn to Verbier equally for the challenging terrain both in and outside the resort, as Verbier is well-recognized as having among the best lift-accessed off-piste in the Alps. Intermediates and beginners however need not fear Verbier’s well-deserved reputation for challenging slopes which have seen it become a major location for extreme free riding competitions. There is plenty of gentle terrains here too, with sunny learner slopes and wide leisurely blue runs. While novices cruise, the advanced can fling themselves down long steep slopes including a World Cup run, leap into several huge mogul fields and hire a guide for off-piste adventures.
Along with the world’s best skiers, Verbier is a magnet for the international jet set, and as such has its fair share of luxury lodging and high-priced venues alongside the generous amount of more moderate options. Nightlife here is renowned, kicking off at apres before rolling onto fabulous restaurants and then into the night at lively and stylish cafes, lounges, clubs, and bars as well as the many chalets which cater for groups. Verbier is on the larger side for a ski resort yet conveniently laid out, with the shops, restaurants, major hotels, and chalets concentrated in the streets leading to the main gondola.
