Though not one of the most well-known names in Swiss ski resorts, Nendaz is at the heart of one of Europe’s most famous ski areas, the 4 Vallees. Offering 412km of ski slopes accessed via 92 ski lifts and incorporating the slopes of Verbier, Nendaz is a great value destination for a catered chalet holiday in Switzerland. The local area also offers 100km of winter hiking routes, 40km of snowshoe tracks and 12km of cross-country trails.

The local ski area, known as the sector “Printse” offers 220km of ski slopes suitable for all levels. This pass incorporates the resorts of Haute-Nendaz, Siviez, Veysonnaz and Thyon / Les Collons. The full 4 Vallees pass adds in the famous Mont-Fort, Verbier, La Tzoumaz and Bruson slopes and gives full access to the largest linked ski area fully located within Switzerland. For intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders, this ski area is a must visit. For off-piste lovers, hire a guide and let yourself be amazed by the huge variety of descent possible.

The resort has also been recognised as a great “Family Destination” by the Swiss Tourist Board. This exacting label guarantees guests will enjoy resort organised activities and a varied children’s programme set amongst the magnificent mountain environment. With several well-regarded ski schools, dedicated snowgarden at the top of the Tracouet gondola along with excellent slopes to progress on, this all adds up to a great beginner and family resort.

The village of Siviez is located 8km higher in the Nendaz valley and is referred to as “Super Nendaz”. This location provides direct access to the Tortin and up to the Mont-Fort, at 3,330m the highest peak of the 4 Vallees ski area.

To ensure snow quality and coverage throughout the winter season, 95% of the ski slopes of the Nendaz-Veysonnaz ski area will now be equipped with snow making equipment. This will ensure skiing from December to April with the best possible conditions.

For the 2019/20 winter season a new gondola will be installed in the Nendaz sector and which will connect Prarion to Plan du Fou directly. This will increase the capacity on this route by 3 times and create a much easier and quicker access to the Siviez sector and onwards to Verbier. This link between Haute-Nendaz and Siviez will now also be possible for pedestrians without having to use the bus and can be completed using only the lift network.

Off the slopes the “Spa des Bisses” in Haute Nendaz is the perfect spot for a day’s relaxation or some post ski rejuvenation. This expansive spa offers 2,200m2 of facilities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, Jacuzzi’s, an array of different saunas, ice, salt and heat grotto’s, treatment rooms and a children’s zone. There is an ice rink which also hosts disco evenings, a 3km long sledge run and snowtubing by the area around the Tracouet lake.

Both the resort and mountain are well blessed with excellent restaurants. One of the joys of a ski holiday is surely the long lunches enjoyed with a stunning mountain backdrop. For families the Restaurant de Tracouet is an excellent option with a large choice of food, children’s menus and entertainment. For those venturing further the Cabane Balavaux located above Prarion is a popular spot for its sunny terrace and traditional regional dishes including rosti and lots of cheese!

The easiest gateway to Nendaz is via Geneva airport as this is serviced by a huge array of scheduled and chartered airlines. From Geneva it is a beautiful 2 hour transfer drive taking in stunning views over Lake Geneva before turning into the Rhone Valley. From the valley floor it is only 20 minutes of uphill driving and the panoramic views simply get better the higher you get. It is also possible to access via Zurich or Milan airports if flying in from further afield, whilst the drive from Calais is easy and can be accomplished in 9 hours.