Outdoor Fun this Winter the Swiss Way 

Snow-covered peaks, crisp mountain air, and perfectly groomed slopes set the scene for winter in Switzerland. Beyond the world-famous spots, the country offers an exceptional variety of winter experiences. Whether you’re carving down sunlit pistes, building endurance on cross-country trails, wandering snow-draped forests on snowshoes, or simply admiring the vast mountain scenery, Switzerland promises moments of pure winter magic for every kind of snow lover. 

Ski Resorts 

Switzerland’s ski landscape is as varied as its mountains, with countless smaller resorts and hidden gems offering memorable days on the snow – often far from the crowds. Whether you’re learning the basics, skiing as a family, or seeking a peaceful alpine escape, these lesser-known resorts deliver winter experiences rich in charm and natural beauty. 

In charming villages such as Mürren, perched beneath the Schilthorn with sweeping views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, skiing unfolds against a backdrop of alpine tranquillity. 

Elsewhere, the Engadin ski areas invite an unhurried pace, combining relaxed slopes with authentic mountain culture. Destinations such as Anzère and Les Crosets blend traditional village character with sunlit runs and panoramic vistas.  

Explore unforgettable tiny ski resorts: 
https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/destinations/holiday-destinations/winter-ski-resort/tiny-winter-resorts-search/ 

Cross-Country Skiing 

For those who prefer gliding through snow-covered landscapes at a gentler pace, Switzerland’s cross-country skiing trails offer a wonderfully immersive winter experience. With over 5,000 kilometres of groomed tracks stretching from valleys to rolling Jura plateaus, this discipline suits all levels from first-timers to seasoned skiers. 

In the Engadin, expansive routes wind beside frozen lakes and through silent forests, while the high-valley network in Goms is renowned for its long, scenic tours. Regions such as Saint-Cergue–La Givrine combine forested trails and open plateaus, offering varied routes close to Lake Geneva. 

Three exceptional places for cross-country skiing:  

  • Engadin (Graubünden) – Sunlit trails through high alpine valleys and traditional villages, ideal for longer scenic tours. 
  • Goms Valley (Valais) – A tranquil high valley with wide, immaculately groomed tracks and uninterrupted mountain views. 
  • Saint-Cergue–La Givrine (Vaud Jura) – Accessible yet atmospheric trails through meadows and woodland. 

Find more places to cross-country ski: 
https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/experiences/winter/winter-sport-destinations-search/?regionalspecialities=crosscountry-skiing&noidx=1 

Snowshoeing & Winter Hiking 

Snowshoeing and winter hiking provide a slower, more thoughtful way to experience Switzerland’s winter landscapes. Well-marked trails lead through forests, across open alpine pastures, and along panoramic ridgelines, where the crunch of snow underfoot replaces the rush of the ski slopes. 

From peaceful Jura plateaus to secluded alpine valleys, these routes offer deeply immersive experiences. 

Snowshoeing & winter hiking highlights: 

  • Val Bregaglia (Graubünden) – A lesser-known valley framed by granite peaks, frozen waterfalls, and historic villages. 
  • Parc Jura Vaudois (Vaud) – Gentle routes across rolling landscapes with views over Lake Geneva and the Alps. 
  • Binntal Nature Park (Valais) – One of Switzerland’s most unspoilt valleys, with trails through larch forests and traditional hamlets. 

Discover more snowshoe trails: 
https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/experiences/winter/snowshoe-and-winter-hiking/snowshoe-trails-search/snowshoe/ 

Tobogganing 

Tobogganing is one of Switzerland’s most joyful winter traditions! Across the country, carefully maintained sled runs wind through forests, alpine meadows, and quiet valleys, making them accessible for families. 

By day, trails reveal sweeping views and sunlit descents; by night, illuminated runs create a magical atmosphere as sledders glide beneath starry skies. Smaller regions, in particular, offer a wonderfully authentic take on this classic winter pastime. 

Great places for tobogganing: 

  • Preda–Bergün (Graubünden) – A long, gentle run following the historic Albula railway, with enchanting evening descents. 
  • Melchsee-Frutt (Central Switzerland) – Scenic high-altitude sled runs, beautifully lit for night-time tobogganing. 
  • Les Paccots (Fribourg) – Family-friendly runs above Lake Geneva, combining daytime fun with illuminated evening rides. 

Find more family-friendly toboggan runs: https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/experiences/winter/tobogganing/tobogganing-runs/ 

Events & Activities 

Winter in Switzerland is also a season of celebration. From world-class ski competitions and festive ice rinks to forest walks and seasonal village events, there is something for every family member to enjoy. 

IBU Cup Biathlon Lenzerheide – Dec 15 – 20 

The IBU Cup in Lenzerheide brings elite biathletes to the Roland Arena for thrilling sprint, pursuit, and mass start races, combining precision shooting with fast-paced competition. 

Lenzerheide Magic Forest – Until Dec 30 

The Lenzerheide Enchanted Forest (Zauberwald) transforms a snow-covered woodland into a magical winter experience, combining light art, live music, classical concerts, and family-friendly activities along an illuminated forest trail. 

Fatbike Night-Ride – Until Mar 25, 2026 

Night fatbiking offers a uniquely atmospheric winter adventure, as illuminated trails cut through the darkness. 

View all upcoming winter events: 
https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/destinations/holiday-destinations/winter-ski-resort/#InpageNavigation1_4 

A Season to Savour 

From quiet mountain villages to snow-covered forests and sunlit alpine trails, winter in Switzerland is truly a wonderul time. Whether gliding across cross-country tracks, wandering on snowshoes, laughing your way down a toboggan run, or enjoying an event, each experience is sure to create lasting winter memories.