Switzerland is the crown jewel of alpine skiing, home to some of the most iconic resorts in the Alps – Verbier and Zermatt. Skiing in Switzerland offers extensive skiing terrain and picturesque mountain views, with both resorts providing a superb location for a luxury ski holiday in the Swiss Alps.

Finding it hard to choose between these two exceptional resorts? That’s where we can help. Bramble Ski has been based in Verbier since 2005. We live, breathe and work in the mountains, meaning we can offer guests exceptional knowledge of our resorts and on-the-ground expertise, to create your perfect ski holiday. Read on to discover what makes Verbier and Zermatt unique and which is better suited to your group for the ultimate ski holiday in Switzerland.

Zermatt – A picturesque mountain village with a charming alpine allure 

Steeped in tradition and alpine history, Zermatt offers that quintessential alpine feeling, set with high-end shops and elegant luxury chalets. Most famously, Zermatt is known for its picturesque setting, overlooked by the infamous Matterhorn, one of the world’s most photographed peaks. This car-free village offers a peaceful and charming atmosphere and the ability to travel by horse-drawn carriage. It truly feels like you’ve stepped into another world, giving you that elusive ski getaway feel. Stay in the centre of the village, in the Christiania residence. This complex of luxury ski apartments is a short stroll from the centre of the village and only 500m from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which takes you directly to the main ski area. This 20-bed residence is able to sleep 40 across 5 luxury apartments, providing the perfect solution for a large family, group ski holiday or corporate group, with access to a large gym, outdoor hot tub and massage room.  

The village is not the only appeal; Zermatt’s skiing is truly world-class. With a vast 360km of pistes, you won’t be short of opinions. Zermatt’s Matterhorn Ski Paradise is the highest ski area in the Alps, reaching an altitude of 3,899 meters, making it the highest ski resort in the Alps. This altitude means it is possible to ski 365 days a year, head to Zermatt in summer to experience skiing in summer! View our chalets available in summer here. 

Visitors flock from all over the world to come to Zermatt for its pristine slopes and breathtaking scenery, with many runs offering perfect views of the Matterhorn! Another huge benefit to the ski area is its proximity to Italy. Enjoy breakfast in Switzerland, then ski over to Cervinia for coffee and pizza in Italy, all included in the one lift pass! Making it the perfect destination for your next ski vacation in Switzerland. Zermatt is also included in the Ikon Pass, a multi-resort, unlimited season pass that provides access to over 50 ski resorts in both North America and internationally with just one pass.

After a busy day of skiing, retreat to your luxury chalet for relaxation. Discover Chalet Elbus, Chalet Denali or Chalet McKinley, some of the finest private luxury chalets in the Alps, part of the incredible 7 heavens development in Zermatt. Offering gorgeous interiors, incredible spa facilities and perfect views of the Matterhorn! After you’ve enjoyed relaxation in your chalet, take the opportunity to refuel in one of Zermatt’s incredible fine dining restaurants. One of the resorts with the most gourmet restaurants on offer, including Michelin-starred options, adds to the refined feel of this resort. 

Steeped in alpine history from the first ascent of the Matterhorn to the creation of the ski resort as it is today, learn more about Zermatt in the Matterhorn Museum, a perfect trip with the children if you have a day of inclement weather. Discover more activities in Zermatt here. 

Zermatt is renowned for its luxury and tradition, with elegant chalets, five-star service and old-world Swiss charm. Choose Zermatt for your Swiss ski holiday for a peaceful, charming and luxurious retreat in the Alps. 

Verbier – A freeride and off-piste mecca with renowned apres ski 

While Zermatt captivates with its classic elegance, Verbier offers a more contemporary take on alpine living, characterised by a buzzing energy, exceptional off-piste terrain, and a stylish, laid-back atmosphere. Located in a south-facing bowl, Vebier experiences plenty of sun throughout the winter, making for many sunny ski days. 

Part of the 4 Vallées ski area, Verbier offers vast ski terrain, with access to over 400 km of pistes, easily connected lifts, and slopes suitable for all abilities. Get out early and complete all four valleys in one day, making sure you get back in time to make the final gondola back to the Verbier side! For perfect mountain views, choose Chalet Les Etrennes for magnificent views of the Verbier valley below. This luxurious six-bedroom chalet is the epitome of style and sophistication, with carefully chosen interiors and an inviting outdoor hot tub to relax in whilst soaking in the breathtaking mountain surroundings. Chalet Les Etrennes is conveniently located a short drive from Carrefour and the Savoleyre ski lift.

The piste skiing in Verbier is excellent with runs for beginners and experts alike. Head to the Savoleyre side for wide, open, gentle green and blue runs through the trees that the children will love. Known for its off-piste paradise, Verbier is the natural choice for those looking for a freeride adventure in the Alps. Boasting marked ‘itinerary’ runs, unlike other resorts. These are unpisted, marked slopes that allow those new to the freeride world a chance to experience off-piste without the risk of avalanche and develop their skills without the risk. Famous itinerary routes such as Tortin, Gentianes and the Vallon D’Arby make Verbier internationally renowned for its off-piste potential. Note, the itineraries are reserved for advanced skiers.

For ski-in ski-out access, stay in Chalet TessIn, perched high above Verbier with breathtaking mountain views, located in a sought-after area of Verbier. This bright, spacious traditional alpine chalet offers the ultimate luxury ski retreat, perfect for your next ski holiday in Switzerland. 

After a busy day of skiing, head back to your luxury ski lodge to relax and rejuvenate, before experiencing the infamous Verbier apres ski! For on the mountain apres, head to Le Rouge for a long leisurely lunch in the sun before heading upstairs for live DJ sets every day in the season. For a more centrally located choice, head to Farinet apres-ski, a classic Verbier institution, playing live bands every day of the season, with an electric atmosphere and a great crowd, this is a must-visit. Conveniently located only 2 hours from Geneva, Verbier is a great choice for a short ski break, easily accessible via train or by a short transfer.

Verbier is also now part of the Epic Pass, with one pass you have access to over 80 ski resorts across North America, Australia, Japan and Europe. The Epic Pass also includes the French resorts of Meribel and Courchevel, where Bramble Ski also has luxury ski chalets. 

Both Verbier and Zermatt promise exceptional ski holidays, each offering its own unique charm and standout experiences in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re drawn to Verbier’s vibrant après scene and off-piste adventure or Zermatt’s picture-perfect village and high-altitude skiing, your choice comes down to the type of alpine experience you’re seeking.

Both resorts offer something truly special, and with our handpicked selection of luxury ski chalets in Verbier and Zermatt, you’ll enjoy comfort, style, and impeccable service throughout your stay. Get in touch with our team to explore the best of skiing in Switzerland.