Saas-Fee/Saastal: Switzerland’s Snow-Sure Secret

For UK skiers weary of delayed snowfall, overcrowded pistes, and resorts that feel more like nightclubs than mountain villages, Saas-Fee/Saastal offers a high-altitude alternative. Tucked away in a dramatic Swiss valley and overlooked by no fewer than 18 four-thousand-metre peaks, this lesser-known gem quietly offers one of the most complete alpine experiences you’ll find anywhere on the continent. And with snow guaranteed from the start of November to late April, there’s every reason to make Saas-Fee/Saastal your base for winter 2025/26. And for pop culture enthusiasts, there’s an extra sprinkle of nostalgia—Saas-Fee was the picturesque backdrop for WHAM!’s iconic Last Christmas music video, filmed here in 1984.

Three Resorts, 150 km of Ski Terrain, and a Snow Guarantee

Saas-Fee/Saastal: Switzerland’s Snow-Sure Secret

The Saas-Fee/Saastal region offers 150km of pistes that deliver scenic variety, character, and reliable snow cover throughout the season.

There are several ski pass options available: you can choose a pass that covers all three areas, or opt for local passes tailored to individual regions. All ski areas are seamlessly linked by a free electric e-bus network that runs with Swiss precision. At the heart of it all is Saas-Fee—a charming, car-free alpine village surrounded by towering peaks. Here, high-altitude runs sweep down from 3,600 metres to 1,800 metres, providing confident skiers with everything from challenging reds to dramatic glacier-lined descents.

Head to Saas-Grund and you’ll find beautifully groomed intermediate terrain with sweeping views of the Mischabel massif. It’s a sun-soaked haven for cruisers who like their pistes long, scenic, and low on queues.

Over in Saas-Almagell, families find their alpine playground. At the heart of it all is Kian’s Adventure Land, a snow-covered wonder zone where little ones can zoom about on mini snowmobiles, spin down snowtubing tracks, and take on child-friendly slalom runs designed to build confidence with every giggle. With calm nursery slopes and top-tier ski schools in all three ski areas, it’s the perfect launchpad for young skiers making their first tracks—and for parents looking to balance snow fun with a bit of serenity.

Guaranteed Snow, Reliable Conditions

With its glacial setting and ultra-high base elevation, natural snowfall here is a regular visitor. It’s one of the few Alpine resorts that confidently opens in early November and stays open well into spring. That reliability means UK skiers can book with peace of mind, whether you’re aiming for an early-season escape or a cheeky Easter break.

And the grooming? Impeccable. From the moment lifts open, the pistes are prepped and primed like a Wimbledon centre court. Add to that the resort’s relaxed but efficient lift system and you’ve got a skier’s paradise with less faff and more flow.

Winter Events & Non-Skiing Adventures

This season, Saas-Fee doubles down on unforgettable off-slope experiences. The Snow & Style Night is a dazzling ski show under the stars—a real spectacle for visitors. For early risers, Sunrise Skiing lets you carve first tracks in golden light after breakfast at the world’s highest revolving restaurant. Yes, really!

Non-skiers (or ski-weary legs) will love the Fondue Gondola, a moving alpine feast in the sky, and the Glacier Experience Tour, a guided journey across otherworldly ice fields. Adventurers can tackle the Gorge Alpine, a thrilling via ferrata through frozen canyons, or test their sleuthing skills on the Foxtrail scavenger hunt.

Still not enough? Try sledging and night sledging, snowshoeing, ski touring, winter hiking or a therapeutic soak in the Aqua Allalin spa. Whether it’s thrills or chill you’re after, Saas-Fee/Saastal has your winter sorted.

Après-ski: Refined, Varied and Distinctly Swiss

In Saas‑Fee, après‑ski isn’t about chaotic pub crawls—it’s about choice. At the High Life Après‑Ski Club—right on the village’s “après‑ski mile”—you’ll find a stylish, convivial atmosphere perfect for enjoying cocktails and sometimes live music before locals and visitors converge. It strikes the ideal balance between relaxed sophistication and genuine alpine buzz.

Fancy something more traditional? Head to the Black Bull Snowbar, nestled in a cosy wood-panelled cabin on the après-ski mile. With a booming terrace and upbeat tunes, it captures the soulful heart of Saas‑Fee’s après culture. Meanwhile, the Larix umbrella bar at the slope base extends your slope-time with live music on its sun-drenched terrace and direct piste access.

The Steinbock Bar, tucked near the village church, offers an intimate atmosphere with a curated wine and cocktail list—ideal for winding down with locals.

With around 15 bars and 50 restaurants in one charming car‑free village, Saas‑Fee lets you tailor your après‑ski vibe—whether that’s upbeat dance grooves, a serene sunset drink, or some chill wine by the fire.

Branch out to neighbouring villages for more laid-back options: in Saas‑Grund, wind down at “Zer Meli” for post-ski drinks and music before heading to Platzhirsch for late-night dancing, darts, and live tunes. Or relax slopeside at the Gämschi Bar or Weissmieshütte, both perched high in the Hohsaas ski area with panoramic views over the four-thousanders. In Saas‑Almagell, Schampi’s Snowbar is the go-to spot for a cosy après on the terrace, while the Groovy Bar keeps the alpine spirit alive well into the night with its lively village-centre vibe.

Family-Friendly by Design

From kids’ discos and sledging to husky sledding and even interactive scavenger hunts, Saas-Fee/Saastal takes its family-friendliness seriously. The slopes are backed up by a full programme of non-skiing activities for all ages, making it one of the most well-rounded winter destinations for families coming from the UK.

Better still, the beginner slopes and Snowliland are located right in the village, so little legs don’t have far to walk—and parents can relax a bit more. And with a free electric shuttle service between the valley’s resorts included in every stay, logistics are blissfully easy—even with kids and kit in tow.

New This Season: What’s Fresh for 2025/26

Saas-Fee keeps innovating without losing its soul. This winter sees the launch of VirtuAllalin, a groundbreaking VR experience at 3,500 m, that offers a digital flight through the skies for non-skiers—or a cool après adventure for tech fans.

The Winter Culinary Trail is also new, serving up gourmet mountain cuisine where you can take an easy hike and enjoy small local dishes and drinks at 5 different restaurants.

Families will love the Interactive Sledging Track at Hannig—a high-speed twist on a winter classic, now enhanced with timers, turns, and a little friendly competition.

Accommodation is also getting a boost with the Revier Mountain Lodge, bringing sleek, modern rooms and family suites with a fresh, youthful vibe to the heart of the village.

Snow Magic & Magic Pass: Deals Worth Booking Early

For UK skiers looking to stretch their ski budget without compromising on quality, the Snow Magic Package offers unbeatable value. Available for stays of four nights or more, this all-in-one deal includes accommodation, a flexible six-day ski pass, and the SaastalCard, which covers free electric bus travel throughout the valley. With ski passes already factored into the price, it’s a hassle-free way to access Saas-Fee, Saas-Grund, and Saas-Almagell—making it an ideal option for UK groups planning a week on the slopes or multiple trips throughout the season.

Even more compelling is the Magic Pass, giving you unlimited skiing in Saas-Fee/Saastal and over 90 resorts across Switzerland and France for the entire 2025/26 season. Valid from 1 May 2025 to 30 April 2026, it’s ideal for multiple trips—or spontaneous snow weekends when the forecast looks irresistible.

Why UK Skiers Should Go Now

With direct flights from London to Geneva or Zurich, a scenic train to Visp, and a final 50-minute coach journey to Saas-Fee, the whole route feels more holiday than hassle. It’s a smooth, scenic gateway to one of the Alps’ best-kept secrets.

Early bookers can enjoy great value with the Snow Magic Package, which bundles accommodation, a 6-day flexible ski pass, and the SaastalCard for stays of four nights or more—offering hassle-free access to Saas-Fee, Saas-Grund, and Saas-Almagell during peak weeks.

And with guaranteed snow, fewer crowds, and a resort that feels made for exploring, Saas-Fee/Saastal is a rare blend of reliability, charm and Alpine adventure.

So, if you’re after a ski holiday that feels a little more epic, a lot less hectic, and totally unlike your usual circuit—Saas-Fee/Saastal is where your story should begin this season.

Saas-Fee/Saastal: Switzerland’s Snow-Sure Secret