THE RESORT
The village of Saas-Fee is one of the highest in the Alps, sitting at 1800m. It’s altitude and abundance of north facing slopes guarantees snow covered pistes late into the winter season. Saas-Fee is the only Alpine resort to have so many 4000m peaks seen in one place.
The village is car free, using electric taxis to get about the traditional narrow streets which are lined with old chalets and cow shelters. The village is recognised as a miniture version of Zermatt, only without the ‘glitz’ and conspicious consumption. Upon visiting Saas-Fee, you will come to appreciate the unique Swiss charm and comforting atmosphere.
Buzzing après ski at the base of the slopes and the famous Nesti's Ski Bar will certainly quench the thirst following an active day out followed by a sauna back at base in Jessica Sechs.
PISTES & TERRAIN
The first class ski area is confined to 1800m - 3500m, superb for beginners and intermediates with a good attitude towards snowboarding. For non skiers/boarders, the Hannig lift provides access to the non-ski area which has many marked footpaths, and also the sledging run.
Beginners (39km):
The village nursery slopes provide some of the best terrain for learning in the Alps with a very gentle and wide slope to get used to the feeling of sliding on snow. A second wide but steeper slope allows for a seamless transition allowing beginners to perform basic open turns at controlled speeds.
Intermediate skiing (75km):
Walking out of the tunnel at the top of the Felskinn or Alpin Express lifts (3000m) brings you to some easy blues and gentle reds. A 6 man chair will loop you around ‘Morenia’ where the most suitable terrain lies.
Advanced skiing (39km):
Head straight to the top (3500m) by catching the train after Felskinn or Alpin Express and explore the glacier where some of the best snow in the Alps can be found. DO NOT leave the glacial pistes unless you are with a guide. The numerous intiéraire (yellow marked off-piste) routes change all the time and are dependent on snow and weather conditions meaning you can tackle them one day after the other and have a totally different experience. You are likely to find yourself repeating many of the main pistes during your week, however the width of the pistes gives you the opportunity to explore new lines and re-think how you ski.
Expert:
If you are interested in free-riding and find yourself thinking about challenging lines, Saas-Fee has some incredible off-piste terrain if you know where to find it. Your best bet to make the most of the mountain is to hire a guide who will suggest a number of different tours dependant on the past and current weather conditions.
SUMMER
Saas-Fee is a dual season resort. The summer is just as entertaining and stunning as the winter. Despite the warm temperatures experienced within the village, skiing remains a popular activity for all. The well maintained summer pistes and world renowned snow park attracts the attention of international and national ski teams and free style competitors. For further information on summer activities such as zip-lines, rope swings, rollercosters and hiking, visit: – Saas-Fee Tourism
GETTING HERE
Saas-Fee is easily accessible from Zurich, Geneva, Basel or Milan Malpensa airports. Zurich and Geneva train stations are integrated within the airports whilst the trains from Zurich are more comfortable. At Visp, you need to change and take the post bus up to Saas-Fee, a journey of 40 minutes.
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Geneva airport 227km / 2 hours 32 minutes
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Basel airport 226km / 3 hours 10 minutes
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Bern airport 120 km / 2hours 25 minutes
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Zurich airport 249km / 3 hours 18 minutes
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Milan Malpensa airport 208km / 3 hours