Verbier in Spring & Autumn

Verbier becomes a generally quiet place in Spring and Autumn. This could be just what you are looking for. But if you are looking for action there are a number of winter and summer activities that are still possible.

Ski-mountaineering - Spring is often the best time to access high-altitude snow. This could be anything from a hike/skin to ski down perfect corn-snow (this can be better than powder!) to a major “ski-safari” like the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt which goes right through the Verbier area. Contact hans@verbier.ch or see www.swissguides.com.

Heliskiing – Again the high altitude snow is normally in great condition in the spring. The main heliski areas are the Trient Glacier on the Mont Blanc massif and the Petit Combin – landing right on the summit! Contact hans@verbier.ch

Mountain Biking – Mountain biking is good from Verbier down to Le Chable and is possible in most areas once the snow has melted. In the autumn, conditions are normally good into November. The lift system is not as active at these times of the year but Bike Verbier operates a van-based lift system as part of their operations - contact lucy@bikeverbier.com or go to http://www.bikeverbier.com.

Rock Climbing – As soon as the rock warms up its in condition to climb. The Martigny valley in particular comes quickly into condition in the spring. Rock climbing is often possible well into October and even November in some years – contact Hans Solmssen on hans@verbier.ch

Hiking – The area has hundreds of kilometers of marked trails at lower altitudes which remain in good condition and stay in good weather during spring and autumn.

Sailing – Yes really! Lake Geneva is really a small sea and only 1 hour away. Hans Solmssen has a yacht and is a qualified skipper – contact him on hans@verbier.ch

Go to Chamonix – only one hours drive away and two outstanding tourist trips i.e.

• Ascend the Aguille Du Midi – highest cable car in Europe – incredible views over the Mont Blanc massif – needs good weather at altitude
• Montenvers railway for views over the Mer de Glace – not as spectacular as above but still excellent and not requiring (quite so good) weather at altitude

Go to Martigny – only 40 minutes drive

• Go to Foundation Pierre Gianadda (art gallery). Good for day when weather is cloudy/rain in Verbier but better in the valley. Good sculpture park so better if not pouring down!

Chill-out – If the weather is not so good, just curl up in the apartment with a good book and admire the view through the swirling clouds below.