For majestic views from the slopes, few resorts can match Grindelwald and Wengen. Together they make up two of the three resorts in the Jungfrau ski region, towering above the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Small, relaxed and with charm oozing everywhere, Grindelwald/Wengen share their pistes, with some tougher slopes at neighbouring Mürren which is all accessible with a Jungfrau lift pass.
Set beneath the towering north face of the Eiger, this is the place to come for long runs, free from the crowds at some of the bigger Swiss resorts. There are some convenient nursery slopes in the heart of Wengen (part of around 100km of piste in total) that are ideal for beginners. And intermediate skiers can get their kicks on the long, leisurely runs higher up. All of which makes this a top family or group destination. And, the mountain railways make it really easy to get around.
Grindelwald, with its 51 pistes stretching over 157km, might not be known for its tough skiing but there are several very notable exceptions. There’s a black run all the way down to the valley from the First Egg lift, following the gondola. There’s another toughie from Oberjoch, and the Lauberhorn World Cup descent is an obvious choice for advanced skiers.
There are also some sweet off piste options, including a day tour starting from the Jungfraujoch and returning from the Bernese Oberland. And if skiing through the trees pushes your buttons, you’re in luck (but be sure to avoid the protected forest zones).
If conditions are good, the White Hare off-piste run beneath the Eiger is pretty extreme (avalanche risk can be high here). Also the rock-lined blacks at the south of the ski area will get the heart beating a little faster. All around the Wengernalp there is stable open terrain which is perfect for those looking for fresh snow.
And, if the Snowgods are not smiling kindly upon Grindelwald/Wengen, fear not, because there are plenty of snow cannons keeping things running the entire season.