Verbier, Switzerland Resort Review

Rami — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:09:25 +0000

One of the resorts that I had the chance of riding this season was Verbier. In fact, I got a chance to go twice and it would be very unfair to both the resort and you if I wait too long to write up this review. My first trip to Verbier was a quick 2 day experience in February as I was passing through Geneva on my way back to Toronto. My second trip to Verbier was a 5 day non-stop riding and partying bonanza with my closest friends, whom I hadn’t seen for almost 2 years!

60 Second Elevator Pitch

Everyone has heard about Verbier at one point or another. Whether it’s epic stories about their nightlife, their ‘drink till you pass out on the hills’ philosophy, or their slopes and backcountry offering, there’s a wicked time to be had at this popular Alps resort. If you’ve never been to Verbier, you have to go. Families, couples, and friends will have an insane time as there really is something for anyone. Everyone is pretty friendly and you’ll have a wicked time exploring the endless terrain – Verbier is part of the Les 4 Vallees ski are which includes the ski resorts of Verbier, Nendaz, Veysonnaz, La Tzoumaz, and Thyon with a total of 410 km marked runs. Just make sure you’re not wallet shy, because this place is not cheap, but well worth it!

What We Love

Excellent lifts, on-piste and off-piste terrain – it’s endless!
The nightlife, food, and parties
It’s the Alps
Powwwder
Tuesday nights when the Chalet girls have their night out!
Old school log/wood chalet and availability of cheaper accommodation close to the center of the resort
Professional patrol and emergency rescue system
Insane weather!

What We Didn’t Love

Expensive (with that said, its worth it)
The terrain is obviously not beginner/novice friendly
Limited accommodation for trips less than 7 days

Best For

Party lovers
Off-piste and backcountry dare devils
Anyone looking to marry rich

Worst For

Inexperienced riders and skiers
Park junkies (the current park is pretty decent, but nothing you can spend more than a few hours on)

Tips

You can save money by staying down the mountain in Le Chable now thatthe new evening bus service which runs between it and Verbier is active.
Make sure you are there at least on a Friday or Saturday night.
Tuesday night is when the Chalet girls have their night out, so make sure you are ready to shred snow on Wednesday with no sleep at all!
Wednesday nights are the quietest so plan for Wednesday to be your easy night in.
Have the fondue at Le Caveau
If you plan on going off-piste/backcountry, shell out the extra 4 CHF for insurance which includes a free helicopter emergency ride (we got stuck somewhere way off off-piste, and after about 90 minutes of endless exploring, we called ski patrol who sent us a helicopter to get us out from what they called the “late march melting snow trap”.)

Have you had a different or similar experience? Share it with us in the comments!