Snowboardout © Andermatt Tourism
Owing to its relative isolation in the Swiss Alps, the small town of Andermatt hasn’t yet been promoted to the league occupied by giants like Zermatt, Verbier and Klosters. A little harder to reach by train, Andermatt hasn’t been filling bookings at travel agents in the UK but is well-known amongst the Swiss for its typical alpine character. With ski challenges equal to any other resort and a cosy winter atmosphere, this high mountain resort is as desirable as any other if you’re looking for real adventure.
On the mountain
Andermatt is part of the Gotthard Oberalp ski area along with Hospental, Sedrun and some higher villages. In total there are 125km of pisted runs – 40km graded difficult, 57km intermediate and 28km easy.
The best skiing and snowboarding is found on the highest mountain called the Gemsstock (2963m) which is reached using two cable cars from Andermatt (1444m). The mountain offers some long descents and has secured Andermatt’s reputation as one of the best Swiss resorts for off-piste. There is plenty to explore in the two valleys that run down from the top of the Gemstock to a couple of T-bars and one chair at around 1200m. Once you’ve scouted out this mountain head across to the other side of Andermatt and take two chairs to Gütsch at 2344m where there is some more gentle piste.
For parks, either head over to Sedrun to ride the Funpark with its own lift, halfpipe and other obstacles to get air or check out the G-Parc at Gurschenalp with 400m of jumps, rails and boxes.
Scan the map of the Gotthard Oberalp arena before you go and always check the avalanche service before heading up the mountain.
Lift-passes
There are four main areas within Gotthard Oberalp, each with their own lift-fare prices. Single-day passes for the entire area start from CHF28 for children (6-12 years), CHF42 for teenagers (12-17 years) and CHF 56 for adults. Full day passes for Andermatt-Gemstock-Natschen start are CHF 22 for children, CHF 35 for teenagers and CHF 45 for adults. The Sedrun-Oberalp-Vultgeva tickets start from CHF 26 for children whilst an adult day ticket for Realp is CHF 29. All prices in include VAT and children under 5 years go free.
The GOBA annual ticket, Central Switzerland snow pass, Surselva ski pass and Graubünden snowpass are all valid for the Gotthard Oberalp ski area.
Find out the full ticket prices for 2010-11 (link in German).
Getting around
During the winter season you are able to travel for free on the Matterhorn railway between Dissentis, Sedrun, Andermatt, Realp and Nidwalden. Worth making the most of this deal if you’re looking for fresh pistes.
Ski and Snow Schools
Get in touch with Snow Sports School Andermatt and Snowlimit who offer lessons to snowboarders.
Ski and Snowboard rental
Snowlimit are well stocked with the latest snowboards. Swing by theirs for other gear too.
Intersport is always well stocked and is right in the centre of town.
Accommodation
The River House is a new boutique hotel in the old village with eight rooms, each with their own design. The hotel has its own restaurant and bar so you can feel right at home when you come back from the slopes.
Other useful information
Birdos is a neat brand who make handmade freeride skis in Andermatt. Check there shop out in the village and see whether you want to take your skills to the next level.
Every year the King of the Mountain event for skiers, snowboarders and telemark skiers finds its way down the mountain. The link is in German but you are able to enter – just follow addresses to ‘inscription.’
Go to Andermatt Tourism to find out more about winter activities in this winter playground.
Our route
