Skiing in Blitzingen, Switzerland

Beneath the mighty glacier from where the River Rhône begins its winding journey across southern Switzerland, nestles the high Goms Valley, which boasts an enviable snow record from December to April. Running along the valley is a string of ancient wooden villages, their houses the colour of roasted chestnuts, which are all the more charming under a blanket of snow.

The Swiss come to the Goms for the first-rate cross-country skiing, widely considered to be the best in the country. We are sure you will love it too for the tranquillity that reigns over the valley, exemplified by the secluded Hotel Castle which perches above the small village of Blitzingen. This is the perfect winter hideaway, offering panoramic views, outstanding cuisine and service that is second to none.

The high Goms Valley is widely considered to be the best cross-country domain in Switzerland and, as you would expect of a network of this calibre, it caters well for all levels, with trails ranging in length from 3 to 45 kilometres. Access to the 100 kilometres of trails could not be easier with the hotel’s shuttle bus service down to the village, a journey which takes around five minutes. From Blitzingen, you can ski from village to village in either direction, perhaps travelling by train along the valley for one leg to explore further (we include a travel pass for the upper valley, giving you unlimited travel on trains and buses).

It is also well worth taking advantage of the waymarked snow-shoeing trails and 21 kilometres of winter walking paths, many of which lead straight from the hotel door across the panoramic slopes.

Alternatively, don downhill skis and try out the beginners’ runs at nearby Fiesch, a 17-minute train journey away, or take a day trip to the chic resort of Zermatt or the Aletsch Glacier, Europe’s largest. There is an ice rink for skating in the village of Obergesteln, 15 minutes away.

Traveller Reviews of This Trip

Each of the villages in the valley are stunning, with amazing old and tall wooden chalets and barns, in narrow atreets. Exploring these was easy with the train stopping at each village, whether you are walking or skiing. Make sure you find out the times of the hotel shuttle service though, as it is some way above the station in Blitzingen. C Caffall, Ledbury, 23/09/2010

We loved the hotel. Rooms simple but fine for us. Atmosphere warm and welcoming. Food truly excellent. Staff exceptionally friendly and helpful. Ms Y, London, 13/02/2010

A really wonderful hotel with amazing food. A delight, with some fabulous downhill skiing too from Fiesch. Mr P, Shropshire, 16/01/2009

For more reviews of this trip, see: Reviews of Skiing Holiday in Blitzingen