The Swiss Alps boast some of the world’s top ski resorts.

Jungfrau Railways

At one time or another all serious skiers dream of swooshing down the vast, extreme terrain of the Swiss Alps. The Alps are a huge ski region that spans multiple countries and includes many villages connected by trails and cable cars, offering some of the most challenging ski runs in the world, including off-piste routes. Switzerland, home to a wealth of iconic ski areas, is widely considered as the epitome of alpine skiing.

The majestic Eiger mountain backdrops the village of Grindelwald, Switzerland.

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In fact, skiing is the national sport of Switzerland, and youngsters are encouraged to begin their downhill experience at an early age. This is especially true in Grindelwald, an alpine village at the base of the Eiger’s iconic North Face known for its dramatic mountain scenery which serves as a popular gateway for the Jungfrau Region. Here, American travelers can realize incredible savings for families and slopes without lines of thousands of passholders.

With daily lift tickets slowly inching closer to $350 at some ski resorts in Colorado, Utah and California, according to Powder, and averaging around $250 for an adult day pass at many ski resorts, Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region offers a far more affordable alternative at approximately $85. Even better, on Saturdays in the Jungfrau Ski Region, each adult can bring up to three children (ages 6-15) to ski for free, meaning a family of five can hit the slopes for just $170, proof of the country’s start them young ethos. On other days, children’s tickets cost about $41 each. By comparison, the same family could spend around $1,500 (perhaps more) at certain American ski resorts.

The Swiss Alps are a majestic sight to behold.

Jungfrau Railways

Over a three-day ski trip (including one Saturday), the Jungfrau Ski Pass would total about $672 for the family, whereas at a variety of U.S. ski resorts the cost would skyrocket to around $3,900. These Swiss savings, at over 80%, could easily help offset flights to Zurich and spark that bucket list family ski trip.

Snow enthusiasts can enjoy an array on mountain activities.

Jungfrau Railways

Skiers in the Alps can chase fresh powder no matter the conditions, thanks to the expansive and varied terrain covered by the Jungfrau Ski pass. From Grindelwald, a bastion of authentic Swiss alpine culture, families can navigate the Jungfrau Ski Region boasting four separate resorts and over 130 miles of pristine trails. Carmen Fuchs, Sales Manager for the Jungfrau Railways, says, “The Ski Area is open till end of April and due to the high altitude, the snow conditions are still very good in March and April. We have a lot of sun and the snow gets a little bit softer. Further we have many sun terrasses where it is beautiful to have a break from skiing and to enjoy the view to the surrounding mountains like Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.”

In the Jungfrau Ski Region skiers get the perfect mix of easy and challenging slopes, nice mountain hut restaurants and aprés ski on the downhill runs and in Grindelwald Terminal. Every Saturday skiers are treated to the After Slope Sounds with drinks, snacks and top DJs in Grindelwald Terminal or at one the Aprés Ski Bars.

Skiers can choose from a variety of charming accommodations.

Hotel Belvedere Grindelwald

The village, in the shadow of the Eiger North Face, offers great value on accommodations for families without sacrificing quality. Quaint hotels and boutique gems like Hotel Fiescherblick and Hotel Glacier dot the slopeside promising sunrise views of the region’s famous mountain trio, along with Hotel Belvedere and Hotel Aspen (Ski-in, Ski-out), while the village’s gastronomy innovation continues on pace with luxury counterparts St. Moritz and Zermatt. Grindelwald’s slope-to-table dining, rising star chefs and new MICHELIN presence make it a must-visit for foodies looking for more than just fondue. For those who prefer activities off the slopes, the area boasts snow hiking, bungee jumping over alpine lakes and visits to the Jungfraujoch, the highest rail station in Europe, where the panorama almost takes your breath away. On one side the view of the Swiss Plateau as far as France, on the other the Aletsch Glacier, lined with four thousand metre peaks. Standing on the Jungfraujoch 3,454 meters above sea level is a surreal experience.

For a one-of-a-kind adventure, families can conquer Big Pintenfritz, the world’s longest sledging run, offering over nine miles of nonstop downhill excitement. Framed by breathtaking alpine vistas, this high-speed descent promises an unforgettable adrenaline rush. However, sledging enthusiasts need to be in tip-top shape as they have to pull their sledges behind them for a whole two and a half hours before they can experience “Big Pintenfritz.”

Skiers and boarders have a birds-eye view of the Alps.

Jungfrau Railways

The quaint alpine village of Grindelwald beckons skiers of all ability levels who want to experience some of the best snow in the world, all on a budget that won’t break the bank.

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