Saas-Fee

Saas-Fee, known affectionately as the “Pearl of the Alps”, is one of Switzerland’s most snow-sure and visually spectacular resorts. Set at 1,800 m in the Valais region and surrounded by 13 peaks over 4,000 m, it offers 150 km of pistes and year-round glacier skiing reaching up to 3,600 m.

This car-free, traditional alpine village pairs classic Swiss charm with reliable high-altitude snow, making it a favourite for families, intermediates, and those who value tranquillity and authenticity. While often compared to nearby Zermatt, Saas-Fee offers a more intimate and affordable alternative, with equally impressive glacier terrain and dramatic mountain scenery.

Skiing & Snowboarding

The Saas-Fee ski area offers varied and snow-sure slopes that appeal to all abilities:

• Beginners: Wide, gentle glacier runs and excellent nursery slopes near the village create an ideal learning environment, supported by top-rated ski schools.

• Intermediates: Long, flowing red runs dominate, including the spectacular descent from Allalin (3,600 m) to the village (1,800 m) — nearly 1,800 m of vertical drop.

• Experts: Black pistes such as Plattjen provide technical challenge, while guided off-piste and ski-touring routes from Längfluh offer serious adventure.

• Freestylers: The Saas-Fee Snowpark is one of Europe’s best, attracting top international riders to its glacier setup each autumn.

Thanks to its glaciers and altitude, Saas-Fee boasts some of the most reliable snow in the Alps, with skiing from October to April — and even summer snow sessions.

Ski Lift Passes (2024/25 Season)

Saas-Fee is part of the Saas-Fee pass and the Magic Pass network, offering excellent flexibility and value.

• Adult: ~CHF 79/day | ~CHF 390 for 6 days

• Child (6–15): ~50% reduction

• Under 6s: Free

Deals:

• Family and youth discounts available.

• The Magic Pass is exceptional value for multi-resort skiers across western Switzerland.

Resort & Infrastructure

Saas-Fee’s lift system is modern and highly efficient:

• The Metro Alpin, the world’s highest underground funicular, reaches the Mittelallalin Glacier (3,500 m).

• Gondolas and cable cars link Längfluh, Spielboden, and Plattjen with the village.

• Nearly full snowmaking coverage ensures great conditions even at lower levels.

The car-free layout enhances the alpine experience, with quiet streets and only small electric taxis and buses operating within the resort.

Accommodation

Saas-Fee offers a broad range of traditional and contemporary lodging:

• Budget: Guesthouses and self-catered apartments in the village.

• Mid-Range: 3★–4★ hotels like Hotel Allalin and Hotel Europa.

• Luxury: Premium spa retreats including The Capra Saas-Fee, Walliserhof Grand-Hotel & Spa, and Hotel Schweizerhof Gourmet & Spa.

Browse via the Saas-Fee accommodation page.

Dining & Après

Saas-Fee’s dining scene combines cosy Swiss alpine cuisine with refined mountain dining. The Revolving Restaurant Allalin at 3,500 m — the highest of its kind in the world — offers panoramic glacier views with fine dining. In town, du Saas, The Capra’s Restaurant, and Essstube deliver gourmet Swiss and international menus.

Après-ski is relaxed and sociable, centred around Nesti’s Ski Bar, Poison Club, and Popcorn Hotel Bar. Expect friendly fun rather than all-night revelry — Saas-Fee is more about atmosphere than excess.

Non-Skiing Activities

Saas-Fee offers an impressive range of activities for non-skiers and families:

• Visit the Ice Pavilion at Mittelallalin — the world’s largest ice grotto.

• Winter hiking and snowshoeing trails.

• Tobogganing on a 5 km floodlit run.

• Ice skating and curling.

• Spa and wellness treatments in the village hotels.

• Excursions to nearby Zermatt or other Saas Valley villages.

Village Character & Access

Saas-Fee is a car-free, picturesque alpine village, lined with timber chalets and set against a dramatic amphitheatre of glaciers and peaks. Its atmosphere is peaceful yet lively, with welcoming locals and a family-oriented feel.

How to get there from the UK:

• By air: Geneva Airport (3 hrs), Zurich (3.5 hrs), or Milan Malpensa (3.5 hrs).

• By train: To Visp, then 1 hr by bus to Saas-Fee.

• By car: Cars must be parked in covered garages at the village entrance (approx. 11 hrs from Calais).

InTheSnow Verdict

Saas-Fee is one of Switzerland’s most scenic and snow-reliable ski resorts, offering a unique combination of glacier skiing, family comfort, and quiet alpine charm. While smaller and less glitzy than Zermatt, it delivers the same world-class snow and views with a more relaxed, intimate feel.

For families, intermediates, and skiers who prioritise snow-sure quality and authentic Swiss character, Saas-Fee is an exceptional choice.

Discover “The Whiteout,” our regular podcast where we delve into the latest gear reviews, snow forecasts, and the best current ski destinations. We also feature interviews with ski legends and spotlight a different resort every week, among other exciting topics. Tune in to our podcast on Apple, Spotify, or Podcasts, or simply search for “The Whiteout” in your favourite podcast directory.