Scenic view of a wooden bench overlooking snow-covered mountains under a bright blue skyScenic view of a wooden bench overlooking snow-covered mountains under a bright blue sky

A complete guide to Verbier

Everything you need for your Verbier ski holiday.
24th April, 2025
5 min read time

Verbier epitomizes the glamour and allure of Alpine skiing. Renowned not only for its lavish appeal, this premier ski destination offers a vast ski area within the 4 Vallées, boasting incredible off-piste terrains and tranquil blue runs. Beyond the slopes, its vibrant nightlife, world-class bars, and clubs further accentuate the resort's charm. As one of the most prestigious ski resorts in Switzerland, Verbier offers an unparalleled experience for both adventure seekers and those who enjoy après-ski indulgence.

We've created this guide to make planning your Verbier ski holiday easy. You'll discover everything you need to know, from its location to its ski areas, snow history, and the best spots to grab a bite or relax after skiing. At the end, you'll also find the resort map, plus some handy contact numbers and links.

Ready? Let's get started!

Verbier, Switzerland - overview

  1. Where is Verbier?
  2. Verbier the resort
  3. Verbier ski area
  4. Skiing in Verbier
  5. Verbier ski season dates
  6. Verbier snow history
  7. Restaurants in Verbier
  8. Things to do in Verbier
  9. Verbier après-ski, and nightlife
  10. Verbier town map
  11. Verbier tourist information

Where is Verbier?

Verbier is located in the canton of Valais in southwestern Switzerland.


Nearest airport

  • Geneva: 160 km (99 mi)

Transfer time

  • Geneva: 2 hr

Verbier the resort

  • Resort altitude: 1,500 m (4,921 ft)
  • Resort permanent residents: ~3,653

Verbier stands as a beacon for adventure and sports enthusiasts worldwide. Revered for its panoramic vistas of the Combins and Mont-Blanc massifs, this iconic ski resort combines the charm of traditional chalet-style architecture with the modern buzz of a vibrant town. From its heart at Place Centrale, the resort spreads out in a maze of hotels, ski shops, bars, and boutiques, all set against the mesmerising backdrop of towering alpine peaks. Verbier basks in sunlight throughout the day, providing numerous sun terraces where visitors can relax and soak in the serene mountain atmosphere. As night falls, the town comes alive with a medley of restaurants, bars, and discos, offering culinary delights and vibrant nightlife.
                                                                                                           
ProsCons
Amazing mountain sceneryCan get overcrowded
Excellent freeride terrainExpensive accommodation, après and nightlife
Easy to get to from Geneva airportLift system doesn’t link up the Mont Fort area
Great après ski & nightlifePowder gets tracked fast

Here is how Verbier looks like

This short video provides a glimpse of everything Verbier has to offer.


(Ref: Verbier)

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Verbier ski area

  • Summit elevation: 3,330 m (10,295 ft)
  • Local skiable terrain: 100 km (62 mi)
  • Vertical drop: 1,830 m (6,003 ft)
  • Ski lifts: 17
Verbier, nestled within Les 4 Vallées ski area alongside Nendaz, Veysonnaz, and Thyon, unfolds over 410 km (254 mi) of ski runs. Within its own bounds, Verbier divides its skiing into three main sectors: the Verbier sector, the Savoleyres/La Tzoumaz sector and the Bruson sector. Together, these three areas encompass 100 km (62 mi) of skiable terrain, with 34 pistes divided into 19 blues, 20 reds, and 5 blacks. The longest descent, La Piste de l'Ours, stretches over 15 km (9.3 mi) and offers an exhilarating experience for those bold enough to take it on. The Gentianes-Tortin run is particularly challenging, appealing to the most adventurous and skilled skiers. Verbier is also a haven for snowboarders and freestylers, renowned for its snow and terrain parks that provide a myriad of features for practicing jumps, grinds, and aerial tricks.

Skiing in Verbier

Beginners

Beginners can start their journey on the sunny nursery slopes in the heart of the village, benefiting from reliable snow conditions ensured by effective snowmaking. Les Moulins offers a dedicated kids’ club perfect for young learners, while older beginners can revel in the picturesque views of the Les Esserts run.

Intermediates

Verbier’s intermediate terrains are a blend of excitement and tranquility. Above and below Les Ruinettes, skiers can navigate the vast landscape, though these areas can get a bit crowded. For a more serene experience, the Savoleyres area, coupled with the smaller La Tzoumaz resort, offers a mix of blue and red runs, ensuring steady progress for those looking to hone their skills. Another recommendation for intermediates is the Tortin, boasting fantastic red runs with fewer crowds.

Advanced

From the thrilling descent of the Chassoure-Tortin run to the challenging Mont Gele summit, the resort poses tests that demand both skill and courage. Skiers seeking a unique experience should explore Verbier’s extensive itineraries, such as the Bruson trees, which offer avalanche-controlled but unmaintained routes.

Off-piste skiing

For those with a penchant for off-piste skiing, Verbier doesn't disappoint. Renowned runs like Col des Gentianes Tortin, Mont Gele, and Hidden Valley provide an adrenaline rush like no other. But to truly uncover the magic of unmarked territories, hiring a guide is a wise choice. Remember, Verbier’s powder-covered slopes are legendary, and the allure of the Bec des Rosses descents is hard to resist.

Glacier skiing

At an altitude of up to 3,330 m (10,925 ft), the Mont Fort summit promises an unparalleled glacier skiing experience.

Snowboarding

The resort boasts a snowboarder-friendly ski area, complete with terrain parks at La Chaux and Thyon, equipped with rails, jumps, and even an airbag jump. Beginners in snowboarding can practice at the Les Esserts nursery run, while more experienced boarders can chase powder days in Bruson.

Verbier ski season dates

The ski season in Verbier typically runs from mid November to late April. While the official 2025/26 opening and closing dates have not yet been confirmed, we’ll update this page as soon as they are announced. Please note that these dates can vary depending on snow conditions and other operational factors. Planning ahead? Don’t forget to check out our Verbier ski deals for the best ski offers available.

Verbier snow history

Verbier offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 39 cm (15.3 in) and 40 cm (15.7 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.2 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 32 cm (12.5 in) but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.6 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the second week of December, traditionally the snowiest week in Verbier, with an impressive 51 cm (20 in) of snow over 3.6 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days, when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 26 cm (10 in) of snow over 3.9 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.


                                                                                                                                                                   
MonthSnow amount (week)Snow days (week)
December39 cm3.4 days
January40 cm3.3 days
February32 cm3.6 days
March33 cm3.8 days
April26 cm3.9 days

(Ref: snow-forecast.com)

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Restaurants in Verbier

Verbier's culinary landscape is diverse, featuring everything from traditional Swiss fare to innovative international cuisine. The resort is home to several acclaimed establishments, including Michelin starred restaurants. Highlights include:

  • Le Mouton Noir: perched high in the alpine setting, it offers skiers a blend of traditional mountain cuisine with a touch of modern flair.
  • La Croix-de-Coeur: known for its panoramic views, this restaurant serves up classic mountain dishes.
  • Chez Dany: a charming mountainside retreat, it offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary dishes
  • Le Flocon: a favorite among skiers, its cozy ambiance and delicious menu promise a delightful break from the ski trails.
  • La Pinte a Fromage: a haven for cheese lovers with a wide selection of fondue and raclette dishes.
  • Au Vieux Verbier: A true embodiment of Verbier's culinary heritage, this restaurant serves up classic dishes with a touch of sophistication.
  • Les Chamois: A gem within Verbier resort, it offers a range of delectable dishes that capture the essence of mountain cuisine.
  • La Table d'Adrien: a Michelin star restaurant offering a blend of Italian and French gastronomy in an elegant setting

Things to do in Verbier

  • Snowshoe hiking
  • Hiking tours
  • Zip line
  • Paragliding
  • Skydiving
  • Dog sledding
  • Horse riding
  • Sport centre
  • Spa & wellness
  • Museum
  • Cinema

Verbier après-ski and nightlife

Verbier's après-ski scene is lively and diverse, catering to a wide range of preferences. Highlights include:

  • Lumi: a popular après-ski spot boasting a relaxed atmosphere with a great selection of cocktails.
  • Monoski Klub: known for its vibrant energy, Monoski Klub is the go-to place.
  • SOUTH Sports Bar: this bar offers live screenings of various sports, accompanied by a great range of beverages and snacks.
  • 67 Pall Mall: a wine enthusiast's paradise.
  • Farinet Lounge Bar: renowned for its chic ambiance and diverse drink menu.
  • W OFF PISTE By Giorgio Armani Neve: exuding elegance and class, this bar offers a unique blend of signature drinks and high-end fashion.
  • Pub Mont Fort: a classic ski pub, offering a range of beers and live music.
  • Bar 1936: set amidst snow-covered peaks, this outdoor bar provides a unique experience of sipping drinks surrounded by the majestic alpine scenery.
  • Fer à Cheval: with its rustic charm and extensive drink menu, it's a welcoming spot for those seeking an authentic après ski atmosphere.
  • Farm Club: a legendary club in Verbier, it has been setting the standard for nightlife with its pulsating music and lively atmosphere for decades.
  • Coco Club: for those seeking an upscale nightclub experience, Coco Club offers a blend of great music, premium drinks, and a chic crowd.

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Verbier town map

Verbier town map

Download Verbier town map here

Verbier tourist information

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