Verbier & the Val de Bagnes

Sitting in a sun-drenched south-western facing bowl, perched high up on a mountainside at an altitude of 1500m, Verbier has it all. Boasting a wide array of sporting and leisure activities during both the summer and winter months, the resort also has a great nightlife, and stunning scenery which can be enjoyed at whichever pace suits you. And if peace and quiet is what you’re after…you never have to venture too far to get it!

Situated in the south-western part of Switzerland in the canton of the Valais, Verbier is bordered by France to the west and Italy to the south. During the summer months the resort is home to the Verbier Festival, a classical music festival of international acclaim, the Grand Raid Cristalp mountain biking competition and the Grand Concours Hippique horse show; and in the winter, the resort plays host to the world famous Nissan O'Neill Xtreme freeride contest, which takes place on the Bec des Rosses, and the renowned Verbier Ride freeskiing competition. ... more

At the turn of the 20th century Verbier was little more than a few farmer’s huts and cattle pastures. It’s potential as a ski resort was discovered in 1925 when a group of keen mountain men hiked up 15km from Sembrancher in order to ski back down again. Now, thankfully, it’s only the most fervent of ski tourers who need replicate this journey as the first lift system was installed in 1946 and in 1951 the lift company hired its third employee! Over the next 10 years Verbier expanded as a holiday destination but still essentially remained a small alpine village. It was not until the ski boom of the 1960’s that it was established as the snowsports mecca that it is known as today.

Despite the now bustling town centre and the modern developments that have sprung up over the years it is still possible to revisit Verbier’s past. You can learn about the old tradition of cheese making at the dairy and take some local Tomme home to tuck into, or take a walking tour of the villages. Much of the original architecture is still in place in these charming hamlets and you can see old windmills, chalets and chapels as you pass through. A ramble through the pastures of Louvie, Sovereu, Crêt, Giétro and Lia may lead to you the old fashioned alpine stables that were once the only dwellings in the area. Cattle herders would live out in these old stone structures while keeping watch over their herd. ... more

Verbier's nightlife is almost as exhausting as its mountain pursuits! With a wide range of restaurants, bars and cafes to keep you well fed and watered there is also a plentiful array of opportunties for a bit of après or late-night venues for a spot of clubbing. The countless terraces ensure that you can always find a sunny spot to relax in... ... more