Saas-Fee - village
The village of Saas Fee is a true gem of the Alps, and when snow covered, it feels like you’re living in a Christmas card scene. The compact village has small streets, no cars (only electric buggies) and is an absolute delight to be in.
Accommodation summary
There’s an abundance of hotels – over 50 in fact – in the village ranging from five to one star properties. Most people tend to stay in hotels or apartments, as there are few chalets.
The two-star Hotel Tenne (+41 27 957 12 12) has impressed us on many an occasion thanks to the wonderful hospitality of owners Richard and Emanualla. Many of the rooms have recently been refurbished and the quality is excellent for its two stars. They may not be a spa or indoor pool, but if you’re looking for a hotel that welcomes you with open arms, the Tenne is the place to stay.
The three-star Hotel Walser (+41 27 957 29 14) is located in the centre of the village and only a short walk from the main cable car, the Alpine Express. The hotel has a friendly atmosphere with a modern lounge bar, restaurant and a sun terrace (with lovely views of the village and mountains). The hotel also has a steam room and solarium.
The small (three-star) Hotel Elite (+41 27 958 60 60) is another family run hotel, where you’re greeted warmly and made to feel at home. With just 19 rooms (four single and 15 double) the hotel aims to provide a personal service for all guests. The restaurant serves delicious food, particularly their specialities, fondue and raclette.
The five-star Hotel Ferienart (+41 (0)27 958 19 00) is the most upmarket hotel in the resort and offers all the perks of a top starred hotel. The rooms (and suites) are spacious and traditionally, yet tastefully, decorated, whilst the bathrooms are modern and elegant. There are four restaurants, the highlight being the Cäsar Ritz, which offers a six-course menu each evening. The spa and pool area of equal high standard, and we’re told the treatments on offer are fantastic.
Ski/snowboard equipment hire
There are numerous ski rental shops in the village and for most you don’t need to pre-book, although this is always recommended at peak times.
Cesar Sport (+41 27 957 37 33) is located centrally on the high street and the service is fast and efficient.
Sport 2000 (+41 27 9571473) also have a shop in the village and have good English speaking staff.
Non-ski activities
Once the lifts close Saas Fee comes alive in the fading alpine glow. However there’s lot on offer for the whole family in the resort, whatever the time of day, and everything is within walking distance.
The Feeblitz toboggan run is a great activity for the whole family, whatever the weather. Hurtle down the valley at speeds of up to 40km/h in the sledge, which is on rails. You can ride on your own, or as pairs: you just need to trust the driver. The Feeblitz is open from 12.30pm until 5pm for most of the season (later in the spring) and costs CHF 6.50 (£4.30) for adults and CHF 4.30 (£2.80) for children aged 15 or younger.
The ice pavilion on the glacier is worth a visit on a whiteout day if you don’t fancy skiing. At 3500m the pavilion offers an insight into a glacier. Explore the underground passages and marvel at the sheer size of the glacier. For children, it’s a great way to understand what a glacier is and how they work. The trip to the top does take a while (2 gondolas and a funicular), so it can be worth combining it with lunch at the Threes!xty revolving restaurant.
In the village there is an ice rink (near the beginners slope and Alpine Express) where you can skate, or try your hand at ice bowling or curling. Skating costs CHF 4 (£2.60) for adults and CHF 2 (£1.30) for children. An hour’s tuition in curling costs CHF 15 (£10). There is also a 5km sledge run in the village. You can rent a sledge for CHF 8 (£5) and admission costs CHF 18 (£12) for adults and is half price for children.
If you’re looking to loosen up and relax after a hard day on the slopes, the Bielen leisure centre (+41 27 957 24 75) has a 25m swimming pool, sauna, whirlpool, steam room, in and outdoor relaxation areas and a solarium. For opening times and prices check the tourist office website. You are able to hire swimming costumes, towels and robes.
There are also many cafés or teashops that flank the high street for chilling and watching the world go by.
Childcare
The tourist office (+41 27 958 18 58) offer a day care centre for children aged 18 months to six years, with costs starting from CHF 30 (£20) for half day care without lunch. For babysitting at your hotel or apartment contact Glu?ckska?fer (+41 79 225 81 54).