|
|
 |
Verbier for Skiing & Snowboarding
| Skiing & Boarding in Verbier |
|
Verbier is one giant natural fun park and there really is something for everyone here. To help you navigate your way around this vast area, we have produced an insiders guide on some of the best skiing and boarding to be had, and where to feed those hungry stomachs whilst your on the mountain. Also in this section is some information on cross-country skiing in the valley, skiing for the disabled, and features on how to improve your ski technique. And if you feel a bit 'all the gear but no idea', our articles on skis and snowboards will help you get a better understanding of the types of skis and snowboards available. |
| Insider's Guide To... |
|
With such a big ski area to explore, it's sometimes good to have a little bit of inside information… For your pleasure, we’ve compiled a list of our favourite runs throughout Verbier and the 4 Valleys and suggested some itineries for you to try. There are also sections on where to find the best off piste, where you're most likely to find the quietest pistes, and where to find the nicest mountain restaurants for lunch. Happy exploring! ... more |
|
last updated 8-Jan-2008 |
| Snowparks in Verbier |
Verbier's 1936 Neipark is the venue for many a Big Air comp and hosts regular demos throughout the season. There are a number of unmissable events lined up for this winter so have a look at our Whats On calendar to find out what's coming up soon.
Open from 9.30-16.15 it is situated in La Chaux at 2842m and is kitted out with all the hips, jumps and rails you need to practice your moves. Whether you’re a beginner, advanced or pro level rider, you’ll find your happiness at the “Neipark 1936”! Even if you're only there to watch it is still a good place to hang out with the music and BBQ area adding to the ambience. Coaching sessions with pro-riders are held for anyone over the age of 12 throughout the winter, check out NeiparkDays for details.
There is no separate entry charge, as long as you have a pass to access the lift you can play all day! |
|
last updated 26-Feb-2008 |
| Cross Country Skiing (Ski de Fond) |
 | Get back to nature and explore tranquil cross-country trails at your own pace. For those used to downhill skis, at first you feel precariously balanced and downhill sections are definitely more exciting on narrow skis with no edges.
A total of 22km of cross-country skiing tracks are found in & around Verbier. The circuits are free to use and given the flat terrain on which they are laid out, are of easy level grades – mainly green and blue tracks.
Situated at an elevation of 2200m, cross-country skiing enthusiasts will delight in the Les Ruinettes – La Chaux trail; a 6km round trip journey offering panoramic views that will take your breath away. Simply upload the Bubbles at Médran (a lift ticket must be purchased for this) up to the Ruinettes station & you’re on your way!
In the resort, you will find a 4km loop trail situated behind the parking near the Sports Centre.
In the Val de Bagnes, directly down the mountain from Verbier, another 10km circuit awaits you in le Châble, while further up the valley you will find yet another 2km, in the quiet setting of Plamproz!
Cross-country equipment can be hired at most sport shops including Philippe Roux Sport (Place Centrale) and in Oreiller Sports (Rue de Médran, midway between Place Centrale & Médran). Equipment hire costs are much cheaper than for alpine gear; the full kit (skis, boots & poles) will set you back around 28 SFR/day, and 123 SFR for a week. Why not book a group or private lesson to learn the basics?
This sport is good for all, as one can be as energetic or slow as one likes!
Adrenaline factor : 1/10
Verbinet verdict : Perfect for anyone who enjoys peace and quiet, or who finds the downhill pistes too crowded or too steep. |
|
|
last updated 26-Feb-2008 |
| Handiski (Skiing for the Disabled) in Verbier |
In Verbier all skiers with a handicap are welcomed, whatever their disability may be. The skiing area is well equipped with facilities such as elevators, which makes access to many lifts quite easy. People with disabilities have access to the entire skiing domain, however, the Savolyeres side is a bit trickier as the main access to the area (via the old gondola) isn’t well suited so it is best avoided.
Those wishing to take lessons or have someone accompany them on the hill can turn to the École Suisse de Ski, who can put their fully trained teacher, Charlotte Dischinger, certified by PluSport (Swiss Handicap Sport Federation) at your disposal. She is a very friendly lady with whom I’ve had the pleasure of speaking, who assures me she would be quite happy to answer any questions you may have related to the matter. She can be reached on +41 79 647-3332.
Rates for such lessons and/or accompaniment are roughly equal to any normal alpine private lesson rates: 80 SFR/1hr, 150 SFR/2 hrs, 215 SFR/half-day & 390 SFR for a full day of instruction.
In terms of accommodation, the best thing to do is check with your tour operator, hotel or chalet rental company about the facilities they provide for visitors with disabilities.
|
|
last updated 8-Jan-2008 |
| Skiing Tips & Techniques |
|
We have teamed up with some of our top ski school instuctors to produce guides on ski technique. The articles featured here include learning how to carve and how to conquer moguls. To ensure you get the most out of your time on the piste, check out our Ski & Snowboard School Listings and perfect your skills! ... more |
|
last updated 22-Feb-2008 |
| Equipment & Clothing Guide |
|
Have you literally got 'all the gear' but have no idea what to do with it?? Unless you want to look like Posh Spice on the slopes, knowing a bit about your skis/snowboards/transceivers etc will help you avoid being any old Wannabe... Having the right equipment for your chosen sport/activity will help ensure that you get the best possible introduction to your sport (if you are a beginner), or speed you along in your learning curve if you are looking to improve. The easier and quicker you learn, the more pleasurable your experience will be! In this section, you will find guides to help you select the most appropriate gear for your sport and your ability. ... more |
|
last updated 7-Jan-2008 |
|
