SAAS-FEE

Switzerland

Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Alps” Saas-Fee is a picturesque ski resort located in the Swiss canton of Valais. Surrounded by 18 towering peaks exceeding 4,000 meters including the famous Dom, Saas-Fee is known for its stunning alpine scenery, reliable snow, charming car free village, great pistes for all standards, no crowds, making it an ideal for destination for families, beginners, and seasoned skiers. In this guide we cover everything you need to know about Saas-Fee, from ski area and passes, where to stay, dining, apres-ski and how to get here.

PLAN YOUR SKI ADVENTURE

Booking a ski trip involves a range of reliable resources to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. I have listed below our favorite companies we use when we plan our ski holiday.

Ski World– They have been taking customers to the best ski resorts in Europe, the US and Canada for more than 36 years.

Skyscanner– it’s our go to for finding the best flights, we usually start here and usually finish here. They price check over 1,200 sites to help you find the best prices.

Booking.com– for accommodation, we rely on Booking.com for its extensive options and user reviews. We find they have the cheapest rates and offer payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.

Train Travel– to European ski resorts is convenient and scenic, popular trips include Glacier express to Zermatt, the Eurostar from London to the French Alps. We find Omio or Trainline  are the best sites for booking trains in Europe.

Car Hire – we usually hire a car it offers us flexibility and convenience, allowing easy access to most resorts. Companies like Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com provide reliable options with winter equipment.

SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.

Ski Equipment. – Bring your own ski gear, its usually cheaper and much better than renting, it ensures you have a perfect fit. Owning also saves time and money in the long run. Equipment like Skis, Pants and Jackets, Gloves, Ski-helmets and Thermal underwear” can all be bought online. You can purchase everything you need from Berg’s Ski and Snowboard (USA) or Snow and Rock (UK).

ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.

For specific resort information- we turn to the resort website, which often provides details on lift passes, equipment rentals, ski school bookings. These resources together make planning our ski trips a lot easier.

                            Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.       

SAAS-FEE OVERVIEW

The moment you step out of the bus terminal in Saas-Fee you are immediately struck by the breathtaking scenery surrounding you. Situated high up in the Valais region of the Swiss alps, you feel like your part of the mountains, the most awe-inspiring scenery is smack in your face wherever you go. The glaciers are so close you feel like you can almost touch them. On arrival it can take a few minutes to take it all in.

Then, as you are whisked to your accommodation by a small electric car through the narrow cobble (car free) stone streets of Saas-Fee, your attention turns to the charming buildings, classic Swiss wooden chalets and vibrant mountain community going about its day.

Saas-Fee is great for families, couples and groups of friends. Families will love the relaxed atmosphere, the quieter beginner ski area, a ton of extra activities and some conveniently located and some conveniently located lodgings. Couples will love the romance of the village-the gourmet dining and the five-star hotels, and the rustic centuries-old Valasian wooden houses and cow sheds dotted around the village. Groups of friends will enjoy a laid-back, yet lively apres-ski scene along with some excellent moderate accommodation options scattered throughout the village.

I always carry a DAY BACKPACK when skiing, as well as a WATER BOTTLE. It keeps me hydrated all day on the slopes.

SAAS-FEE SKI AREA and PASSES

Saas-Fee boasts a high-altitude ski area with slopes reaching up to 3,600 meters above sea level. Its glacier ensures snow reliability throughout the winter and often extends skiing opportunities into late spring and early summer.

Skiable Terrain :150 kilometers of well-groomed slopes

Difficulty Levels:

Beginner: 25% of slopes

 Intermediate: 50% slopes

Advanced: 25% of slopes

Lift System: Saas-Fee’s modern lift system includes cable cars, gondolas, and chairlifts that provide quick and efficient access to the slopes.

One of the highlights of skiing in Saas-Fee is the Mittelallalin area, home to some of the highest terrain in the alps and offering stunning views of the surrounding glaciers.                                                        

Saas-Fee has wide open pistes that are rarely crowded
Wear a SKI-HELMET, especially if you’re a beginner or in the snow parks and remember to pack your SKI GOGGLES for Saas-Fee. 
 

SAAS-FEE SKI PASS

  1. Saas Valley Pass: This pass provides access to the slopes in Saas-Fee, Saas-Grund, Saas-Almagell, and Saas-Balen, covering the entire valley.
  2. Saas-Fee Only Pass: Ideal if you’re staying within Saas-Fee, this pass includes 100-kilometers of slopes.
  3. Magic Pass: A season pass that grants access to multiple resorts in the Valais region, including Saas-Fee.

Discounts are available for families, children, and seniors. Passes can be purchased at the resort or online for added convenience.

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER SKIING
Our Accommodation

WHERE to STAY in SAAS-FEE

Luxury Hotels
  1. Hotel Allalin; A charming luxury hotel, with spacious rooms, gourmet dining, and a central location to the slopes.
  2. The Capra Saas-fee: A five-star boutique hotel offering alpine charm, friendly service, and wellness amenities such as indoor pool, sauna, and yoga studio.
  3. Walliserhof Grand Hotel & Spa: Known for its opulent design and extensive wellness facilities, this is the ultimate retreat for those seeking relaxation and luxury.
Mid-Range
  1. Parkhotel Saas-Fee: Traditional Swiss décor and convenient location, PARKHOTEL is an excellent option for those seeking value without comprising comfort.
  2. Sunstar Hotel Saas-Fee: A family-friendly hotel offering cozy rooms, excellent dining, and close to the lifts.
  3. Hotel Alpenhof: This mid-range gem offers comfortable accommodations, a friendly atmosphere and stunning mountain views.
Budget
  1. Hotel Tenne: A charming, budget-friendly hotel with basic amenities and welcoming ambience.
  2. Apartment Rentals: Saas-Fee offers a wide selection of self-catering apartments for visitors looking for more space and affordability.
  3. Hostel4000: A modern and affordable hostel with shared and private rooms, perfect for younger travelers and those on a tight budget.
SAAS-FEE VILLAGE

Where to Eat in Saas-Fee

Whether you’re looking for a cozy mountain hut or a fine dining experience, the resort has something to satisfy everyone.

On the Mountain
  1. Gletschergrotte: A popular mountain Hut serving hearty Swiss classics like fondue, rosti, and schnitzel, paired with incredible glacier views.
  2. Restaurant Drehrestaurant allalin: This revolving restaurant at an altitude of 3,500 meters, offers not only delicious Swiss dishes but also stunning panoramic views.
In the Village
  1. Esstube: This was one our favorites, it’s creative menu and cozy ambience, makes it a must visit for foodies looking for a memorable dining experience.
  2. Restaurant Zur Muhle: A traditional Swiss restaurant offering specialities such as raclette and fondue in a rustic alpine setting.
  3. Don Ciccio Ristorante: For a change of pace, this Italian restaurant serves excellent pizzas and Pasta with a family atmosphere.

Apres – Ski

Saas-Fee may be smaller than some of the resorts but still offers a fun apres-ski scene.

  1. Popcorn Bar: One of the most famous apres-ski bars in Saas-Fee, known for its energetic vibe, live music, and DJs.
  2. The Larix: located at the bottom of the slopes, the larix is a popular spot after a day on the slopes.
  3. Black Bull Snowbar: a casual outdoor with a laid-back atmosphere and stunning views.
  4. Nesti’s Ski Bar: A favorite of ours, Nesti’s offers a cozy and relaxed apres-ski experience.

How to get to Saas-Fee

  By Plane

  The nearest airports:

  1. Geneva Airport: Approximately 2.5 hours by car or 3.5 hours by train.
  2. Zurich Airport: Approximately 3 hours by car or 4 hours by train.
  3. Bern Airport: Approximately 2 hours by car.

Compare and BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS HERE

By Train

Traveling to Saas-Fee, from major cities such as Geneva, Zurich, and Bern are convenient and scenic. Take a train to Visp or Brig. Where you can transfer to a regional train to Saas-Fee. BOOK YOUR TRAIN HERE.

BY Car

Visitors driving to Saas-Fee can park their vehicles in one of the large parking areas at a resorts entrance. Saas-Fee is car free, so electric taxis and hotel shuttles transport you and your luggage into the village. For flexibility and convenience compare these car rentals, DISCOVER CARS or RENTALCARS

Ski Lifts

Getting to Switzerland’s best ski resorts couldn’t be easier than with Ski-Lifts, offering both airport and train transfers. Private transfers are a popular choice,  as your not sharing with others or waiting at the airport as your driver will be waiting for you on arrival.

FONDUE WITH THE KIDS
SHOPPING IN THE VILLAGAGE

Resort Activities                                                                           

 Glacier Village Hiking and Snowshoeing

Explore Saas-Fee’s stunning trails, including winter hiking paths and snowshoe tours that showcase the area’s alpine beauty.

 Feeblitz Toboggan Run

Enjoy a thrilling ride on the Feeblitz toboggan, one of the steepest roller coasters in the Alps, suitable for all ages.

 Ice Pavilion

Visit the fascinating Ice Pavilion, a network of tunnels and ice sculptures inside the Fee Glacier, providing a unique experience.

 Wellness and Relaxation

Unwind at one of Saas-Fee’s wellness centers or hotels offering spas, saunas, and rejuvenating treatments.

 Fondue and Raclette Dining

Indulge in traditional Swiss cuisine at local restaurants, featuring fondue, raclette, and other regional delicacies in a cozy alpine setting.

*Handy Tip*
Make sure you have TRAVEL INSURANCE before hitting the slopes.

Saas-Fee is a charming and picturesque ski destination with a lot to offer, its high altitude, glacier views, and car-free village makes it an excellent choice for families, couples, and solo travelers. With a variety of accommodations, dining options, and activities both on and off the slopes, Saas-fee guarantees a memorable alpine getaway.

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