My journey across magnificent Switzerland continues in Part 3, following visits to Mürren with its dramatic peaks and Engelberg for its glacier.
Now, it’s time for Andermatt — a world-class ski hub moving confidently into the future. Located just 90 minutes from Zurich and Milan, Andermatt is the fastest-growing town in Switzerland and has been listed among the 10 best ski resorts in the country by numerous publications.
Once a quiet military base in the heart of the Swiss Alps, it is transforming into one of Europe’s most luxurious resorts and there’s two world-class partners working together on this dream. Andermatt Swiss Alps AG is developing the property while Vail Resorts, Inc. operates the ski resort so you can expect an incredible experience on and off the mountains. The ambitious development plan is already underway. What was once the epitome of a low-key European resort is evolving into a world-famous, year-round destination for everyone in the family.
The town may not be as large as Zermatt or Kitzbühel, nor as busy, but it offers every amenity you could want.
511 inches of snowfall each season
Known as Europe’s premier powder destination, Andermatt sits in the Ursern Valley where the Swiss Alps meet the Gotthard massif, averaging an astonishing 511 inches of snowfall each season. It is part of the Andermatt, Sedrun and Disentis region, the largest ski area in the heart of Switzerland, boasting 180 kilometres of slopes. Its location between the Oberalp, Gotthard and Furka Passes guarantees reliable snow conditions. Sitting at 1,444 metres, you’re already high in the mountains before even boarding a lift, and the wide-open bowls are breathtaking — especially on bluebird days.
What makes Andermatt truly unique is its blend of past, present and future. The historic village reveals traditional dark larch-wood chalets and a charming mix of shops and restaurants. To understand Andermatt better, I finished skiing in the morning then took a stroll through the “old town” to The Talmuseum Ursern, dating back to 1786 and located in the historic “Suworow House,” showcases local history, alpine farming and military heritage. At the same time, there are clear signs the town is positioning itself among Switzerland’s most luxurious destinations.
The Chedi Andermatt
Leading that charge is the renowned five-star Chedi Andermatt. From the moment you walk through its doors, the Asian-Alpine fusion architecture impresses. The hotel features eight restaurants, including ‘The Japanese Restaurant’ Michelin-starred Japanese venue and one of the most innovative dining concepts I’ve experienced: “The Restaurant,” which houses four open kitchens serving Swiss or Asian cuisine from the same core ingredients. Every detail is extraordinary, from a two-storey cheese tower presented after dinner to a wine library of more than 1,000 bottles and a cigar collection that includes untouched boxes from Fidel Castro and John F. Kennedy.
Andermatt’s culinary scene is exceptional, with more than 30 restaurants, 13 hotels and nine sports shops for equipment rentals. I stayed at the four-star Radisson Blu Hotel Reussen, conveniently located near the lifts. This is far from a typical airport Radisson — it offers 244 suites, a full breakfast buffet with an omelette chef and shuttle service to the lifts or your favourite restaurant. The hotel is very impressive from the outside and inside with modern Swiss design.
On the slopes, Andermatt delivers in a big way. Epic Pass holders will love the 180 kilometres of terrain, 33 lifts and elevations reaching 2,962, it is a paradise for powder lovers.
The Gemsstock area, the highest peak, is known for world-class freeriding and dramatic Alpine views. Natschen area offers more family-friendly terrain, while Sedrun area features wide-open groomers and stunning scenery for intermediates. Kinderland Matti area is perfect for beginners and young skiers.
The resort is massive and can feel overwhelming, so as always I recommend hiring a guide on your first day. My guide, ski school director Fränggi, whom I highly recommend led me to fresh powder in the glades of Gemsstock before we enjoyed my classic two-hour European lunch of local Raclette, apple strudel and craft beer. The stop was exceptionally sweet at Wachthaus, a mountain hut with stunning mountain views owned by 1972 Olympic downhill champion and FIS overall winner Bernhard Russi. His gold medal proudly hangs on the wall and great for photos.
An evening view of Andermatt.
Food and slopes are out of this world
There are signs of thoughtful progress everywhere, including a small wind farm atop the peak over looking Wachthaus, reinforcing Andermatt’s commitment to sustainable energy. In all my travels, I’ve never seen a wind farm at a ski resort and unique to see riding the gondola. Beyond skiing, the town offers a vibrant high-end cultural and culinary scene, including six Michelin-recognized restaurants and 96 GaultMillau points across various establishments. There’s even a Michelin-listed Japanese restaurant atop the Gutsch Express operated by Chedi Hotel, “The Japanese at Gütsch”, at an elevation of 2,344 meters above sea level.
For non-skiers, Andermatt provides plenty of adventure: Dog sledding, skating, snowshoeing, sledding, hiking, spa experiences, paragliding or a scenic ride aboard the Glacier Express.
In summary, my 10-day journey across Switzerland was not only memorable but full of surprises — especially at the lesser-known resorts that deliver world-class experiences of their own. Andermatt already possesses all the ingredients of a premier luxury destination, and under Vail Resorts, Inc. and Andermatt Swiss Alps AG vision, it is poised to become one of Switzerland’s most luxurious and sought-after mountain escapes.
Glenn Crouter is an Ambassador, Canadian Ski Council / Ski Reporter, 640 Toronto Radio
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