Verbier is an amazing place to visit, whatever time of year. All of our team live and work in the region year round so we get to see the seasons change from the snow arriving in the autumn to melting away again in the spring.
When planning your ski trip to this iconic resort, several key factors come into play: price, crowds, snow quality, and the overall ambiance of the resort. In this article we’ll share our thoughts on the best time of year to come skiing in Verbier.
Need to know:
November
November marks the unofficial start of the ski season in Verbier. The exact date of opening depends on the snow levels, but Verbier aims to kick things off the first weekend in November. Skiing options are limited, most years the only piste that is open is the Lac des Vaux blue and red runs.
November can be a great weekend visit—especially if there is early snowfall!
Most bars and restaurants remain closed during this time, creating a quieter atmosphere. However, if you are coming up for the weekend there will be enough bars and restaurants open for an after-ski beer and bite to eat.
November can be a worthwhile visit—especially if there is early snowfall. It’s an excellent opportunity for die-hard skiers and weekend warriors who can’t wait for the full winter season to commence.
December
As December rolls in, Verbier transforms into a winter wonderland. The month can be divided into two distinct halves.
Early December tends to be quieter, with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation options. Normally the resort will be fully open, but not the connections to the extended 4 Valleys ski area.
December can be split into two halves — Early December is very quite but from Christmas, Verbier get busier and busier
If we are lucky, and there is good early season snow, the start of December can be one of the best periods to ski – cold temperatures, great snow and empty pistes.
However, I would only recommend visiting during this time if you are able to watch the snow report and make a last minute booking.
As Christmas approaches, accommodation prices begin to rise significantly. The crowds start to swell, particularly during the festive period. Interestingly, Christmas week itself tends to be less busy compared to many other European resorts, making it an appealing time for families and holiday travellers.
Aas we push on towards New Year’s Eve, Verbier becomes a hub of excitement with its legendary celebrations drawing in visitors from around the globe. The period between the 26th to 31st is probably the busiest time of year. Not the best time to visit if you are purely interested in skiing, but New Years Eve in Verbier is an experience you won’t forget!
January
January is often heralded as one of the best months for skiing in Verbier. The cold temperatures and larger accumulations of snow ensure excellent snow conditions across the mountain. Typically we can expect dry powder and well-covered slopes. One of the highlights of January is the relative quietness of the slopes; many holiday travelers have returned home, resulting in fewer crowds and more affordable prices.
January is one of the best months for skiing, with cold temperates and large accumulations of snow
Quieter slopes means better snow conditions, as less skier traffic slows the rate at which the pistes turn bumpy or icy.
Although the resort is quieter, the après-ski scene remains lively during January with the seasonaires having more free time to socialise and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. For those seeking prime skiing conditions combined with a spirited atmosphere without overwhelming crowds, January is undoubtedly a top choice.
February
February brings peak winter conditions to Verbier, If I had to choose when to visit, purely based on snow conditions, I would pick Feb! By now, more snow has built up, opening up more off-piste options, the weather warmed up but still cold enough to keep good snow and the days are starting to get longer, meaning an extra beer on the balcony before the sun dips behind the mountain
February is the month with the most visitors to Verbier
However, February also coincides with school holidays across Europe, meaning busier slopes filled with families from the UK, Switzerland, and Sweden. Normally the resort is full from the second week in Feb till the end of the month.
Although this is one of the busiest periods, Verbier handles the crowds well compared to some other big European resorts! It’s rare that you’ll find yourself queuing for more than 10mins, and with a few tricks for avoiding the crowds you can still have a great time skiing during this period.
March
As winter begins to transition into spring, March in Verbier offers a refreshing change of pace. The slopes become quieter again after the February rush, The warmer temperatures in March create a pleasant atmosphere in the village; skiers can enjoy après-ski on sun-drenched terraces while soaking up breathtaking mountain views.
March tends to be warmer and quieter, but still with great snow conditions
Snow conditions remain good at higher altitudes, although lower slopes may start experiencing a freeze/thaw cycle as spring approaches. For those looking for a mix of great skiing and a relaxed vibe in the resort, March is an excellent choice.
April
April signifies the end of Verbier’s ski season but offers unique opportunities for late-season skiing enthusiasts. Depending on when Easter falls within the month, April can see an influx of visitors during holiday weeks—the last busy period before summer takes over. High-altitude areas often retain excellent snow quality thanks to frequent April showers that bring fresh powder.
April is the best month for ski touring in the high mountains
As spring settles into the valley below, visitors can enjoy BBQs on sun terraces while relishing in warmer weather. The icy morning slopes allow skiers to start their day later and extend their après-ski activities into the evening hours. April is also a fantastic time for ski touring and heli-skiing adventures as conditions remain favorable at higher elevations.
Wrapping Up
Determining the best time to ski in Verbier ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities. For optimal snow conditions and fewer crowds, January and early February stand out as prime choices. If you’re looking for lively après-ski activities and don’t mind sharing slopes with families on holiday breaks, late December and February offer exciting options. For those who appreciate pleasant weather combined with good skiing conditions at quieter times, March is highly recommended. Whatever your preferences may be, Verbier’s diverse winter season from November through April ensures that every skier finds something special to enjoy in this remarkable alpine destination.