Saas-Fee - introduction
Described by locals as ‘the pearl of the alps’, Saas Fee is a quintessential Swiss village that can’t help but lure you back time and time again. The resort oozes alpine charm and romance with its picturesque views, narrow alleyways and buzzing high street.
The white stuff is guaranteed, thanks to the glacier, which makes skiing possible for much of the year, at the dizzy height of 3500m. The Swiss and British National alpine ski teams train on the glacier in the autumn.
Amenities in the village are plentiful with supermarkets, pharmacies, sports shops, ski hire and much more. Supermarket food is reasonably priced compared with some other ski resorts. The village is car-free, with the only transport being electric buggies that whizz around the resort. Most hotels and restaurants own one of these vehicles and offer a shuttle service to guests. There are also taxi companies for those staying in apartments, but be warned, these can be expensive, so it's best to walk where possible.
Après ski and nightlife in the resort is lively, considering its quiet ambience during the day, and if you head to the right place, you’re virtually guaranteed a good night out. With over 50 hotels ranging from one to five stars, there’s accommodation to suit every budget. However, there is a noticeable lack of chalet accommodation.
There’s plenty to do once the lifts close – or for those who don’t fancy skiing – in the village. The centrally located leisure centre has a 25m indoor swimming pool, as well as a full spa, whilst the resort also offers an ice rink, tobogganing, sledging and many more activities.
Saas Fee holds three world records (all of which are slightly bizarre): the world’s highest underground funicular, highest revolving restaurant and largest ice pavilion.
Thirteen different 4000m-plus peaks tower above Saas Fee, notably the 4545m Dom, visible from almost anywhere in the village.
Saas Fee is a resort with character, charm, romance and tranquillity. The relaxed ambience is refreshing and typically Swiss. Saas Fee is on a par, if not better than, its bigger-name neighbours and offers the perfect escape from the melee.
Highlights
- One of the most beautiful villages in the Alps
- High snow-sure skiing with a glacier
- Amazing snow parks for freestyle
- Stunning scenery, great mountain restaurants
- Family friendly resort with lots of non-ski activities
Lowlights
- High altitude so it can get cold
- Accommodation can be a walk from the lifts
- Limited supply of chalet accommodation