Swiss Ski Resorts See a Rise in Paris Travellers

Parisians have traditionally gone south for quick getaways, yet over the past few winters, the Swiss Alps have quietly become a popular alternative. Many are now choosing high-altitude skiing over city breaks, partly because the Swiss Alps are easy to reach and feel less overwhelming than busy urban destinations. 

Getting to the Swiss Alps from Paris is straightforward. Trains to Geneva or Zurich run frequently, flights are short, and mountain transfers have become easier than ever. Swiss ski resorts also tend to attract travellers who prefer quality rather than spectacle, which suits Parisians already familiar with the rhythm of Alpine trips.

Knowing they are travelling across the boarder and into another country means French travellers want to know their ski holidays are in safe hand, which is why they are  turning to highly reputable and trusted travel brands like The Luxury Chalet Company to book their ski chalet through. 

Zermatt

Zermatt is often a favourite, and not just for the view of the Matterhorn. Being a car-free village makes a noticeable difference. Getting around on foot or by electric taxi slows the pace, a welcome change for anyone looking to escape busy city life.

Zermatt delivers variety and substance over flash. Thanks to the link with Cervinia in Italy, the runs here are long and varied, and snow conditions tend to be more dependable than in surrounding resorts. Avid skiers appreciate the combination of high-altitude pistes and gentler slopes close to the village.

For all its global fame, Zermatt still has the feel of a living Alpine village. Bakeries open early, wine bars fill quietly in the evening, and restaurants range from simple mountain huts to Michelin-starred dining.

The Gornergrat Railway is popular with visitors since it can be done in a half day and offers a great view of the landscape without feeling touristy.

These days, many visitors are choosing private chalets over hotels, especially for longer trips or if they want a touch of luxury. Chalet Elbrus is a prime example. This private luxury chalet sleeps up to 12 guests and spans five spacious floors. Located in the heart of the village, the ski slopes are only a short walk away. 

Check The Luxury Chalet Company’s other Zermatt chalets: book now. 

Verbier

Verbier attracts a slightly different crowd. It’s more open, louder in parts, and built around skiing culture. For Parisians already familiar with Courchevel or Méribel, Verbier feels similar, just a bit less formal.

Skiing is Verbier’s main draw. The 4 Vallées area offers long routes, off-piste options, and lifts that reach high elevations. Experienced skiers often say they love it here because the terrain stays interesting even after several visits. There are options for beginners too, but Verbier generally suits those who want variety and distance rather than easy cruising.

Away from the slopes, Verbier has plenty to offer. Cafés open late morning, the après-ski scene is social but relaxed, and evenings are spent between casual bars and restaurants.

Chalet stays are becoming more common here, too. These properties offer enough space for everyone to stay comfortably under one roof. Falcon Penthouse, for example, spans more than 500 sqm and has five well-appointed bedrooms for up to 10 guests. It’s close to the lifts but still feels slightly removed from the busiest streets.

Check The Luxury Chalet Company’s other Verbier chalets: book now. 

St Moritz

First-time visitors often have the wrong impression of St Moritz. From Paris, it’s sometimes seen as overly polished or inaccessible, but the reality on the ground is more layered. Yes, it looks well-refined, but it’s also practical, with infrastructure built around winter sports.

The ski area is spread across multiple sectors, including Corviglia and Diavolezza, which means days rarely feel repetitive. Snow conditions are generally reliable, and the lift system is highly efficient. Moving between areas is straightforward, with no long waits or confusing routes.

Off the slopes, St Moritz offers activities that feel genuinely connected to the landscape. Frozen Lake St Moritz has scenic walking paths and hosts fun winter sports, while Muottas Muragl has quieter trails away from the main town.

Accommodation here varies widely, from grand hotels in town to discreet private chalets and smaller lodges in nearby villages like Celerina and Pontresina. Many visitors tend to favour quieter locations with easy access to nature and the lifts. Properties such as Chesa Bellaria reflect this preference. It offers privacy and space while still staying well connected to the ski area.

Check The Luxury Chalet Company’s other St Moritz chalets: book now. 

Why Parisian Travellers Are Choosing the Swiss Alps?

It’s easy to see why more Parisian visitors are choosing Swiss ski resorts for their winter breaks. Many already know the French Alps well, so Switzerland offers a slightly different atmosphere without feeling unfamiliar.

Swiss ski resorts are among the best in the world. They make getting on the slopes easy, with practical amenities and well-planned layouts. Zermatt, Verbier, and St Moritz are known for their varied terrain, efficient lifts, and quieter corners away from the crowds.

Accommodation is another big draw. Options cater to travellers who value privacy, comfort, and convenience. Parisians are also approaching winter trips differently now. Shorter stays, flexible schedules, and a preference for quiet chalets over large hotels are becoming the norm.

The Luxury Chalet Company has a great selection of luxury chalets. These properties provide enough space to relax after a day on the slopes, making longer stays far more comfortable than hotels often allow.

Another reason the Swiss Alps appeal to Parisians is their practicality. The resorts aren’t about flashy spectacle. They work exactly as you’d expect, with efficient lifts, varied runs, and villages that feel authentic.

Going to Switzerland doesn’t mean replacing the French Alps, but it’s becoming a dependable choice for Parisians looking for a winter escape that’s relaxing, reliable, and full of good skiing.