Part of the "Four Valleys" ski area of the Swiss Alps Verbier offers the combination of diverse skiing terrain and strong Swiss-French culture making it a haven for the cosmopolitan skier. Situated 1500m from sea level Verbier's altitude and geographical position means it benefits from views of the Matterhorn to the east Mont Blanc to the west.
In addition to Verbier, common ski passes allow the user access to the surrounding La Tzoumaz, Nendaz, Veysonnaz and Thyon. This means a visitor to Verbier can make use of over 400kms of extensive and challenging ski runs. As well as boasting this variety of marked runs Verbier stands out as the premiere resort for off piste skiing. It is an excellent choice for advanced skiers looking to wander off the beaten track.
Verbier offers, 35 Green and Blue slopes, 55 Red slopes and 10 Black slopes. This provides opportunities for skiers of all abilities. There are two nursery slopes in the centre of town and advancing beginners will enjoy the wide, rolling gentle slopes of Savoleyres. Intermediate skiers are able to take on nearly all the marked slopes and for advanced skiers there are great classics like Mont-Fort, Chassoure, Tortin and Mont-Gele.
Positioned on a south-west facing plateau Verbier is a sun-drenched resort characterised by its chalet style architecture. The natural beauty of the area is undoubtedly a factor that contributes to Verbier's popularity. Celebrities such as Diana Ross, Sarah Ferguson and James Blunt choose to ski here. As well as contributing to the traditional feel of the town Verbier chalets and accommodation benefit from fantastic views and provide a great place to relax after a day on the slopes.
Verbier is home to many festivals and events. Classical music lovers come to town in summer for the Verbier Festival and "Grand Raid", the hardest mountain-bike race in Switzerland, takes place in Verbier every August.
Verbier also hosts "Xtreme Verbier", an event where fearless snowboarders descend the slopes at breakneck speed. It has recently been announced that Verbier will host the final of the new Freeride World Tour, from the 14th until the 23rd of March 2008.
Verbier has much to offer visitors that are looking for alternatives to skiing. For the more adventurous visitor there are 2 x 10 km toboggan runs, paragliding and heli- skiing sure to give you your adrenaline hit. There is also a Sports Centre (with swimming/squash/tennis), and it is possible to ice skate and play curling.
The 25 km of hiking trails and numerous golf courses attract visitors all year round. But the real strength of Verbier is in its Apres ski. It has a buzzing nightlife with 22 bars and 4 nightclubs and with 41 restaurants there is endless choice of quality food. British visitors to Verbier also benefit from the fact that English is spoken throughout the resort.