Jump to content

Verbier: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 46°06′N 7°13′E / 46.100°N 7.217°E / 46.100; 7.217
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
m →Transport: updated station name
 
(76 intermediate revisions by 59 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|Swiss village}}
{{Refimprove|date=September 2011}}
{{More citations needed|date=September 2011}}
[[File:Verbier, Switzerland, in 2011.jpg|thumb|300px|Verbier]]
{{Infobox Swiss town|elevation=1500|within_municipality=[[Val de Bagnes, Switzerland|Val de Bagnes]]|image_photo=Verbier View.JPG|canton=Valais|municipality_type=former|postal_code=1936|district=[[Entremont District|Entremont]]|population=2901|highest=[[Bec des Rosses]]|highest_m=3222|subject_name=Verbier|website=https://www.verbier.ch/|populationof=July 2020<ref>{{cite web |title=Les Villages |url=https://www.valdebagnes.ch/bienvenue/49463 |website=Val de Bagnes |access-date=27 February 2024}}</ref>}}[[File:Verbier, Switzerland, in 2011.jpg|thumb|300px|Verbier]]
'''Verbier''' is a village located in south-western [[Switzerland]] in the canton of [[Valais]]. It is a holiday resort and ski area in the [[Swiss Alps]] and is recognised as one of the premier [[off-piste|backcountry ski]] resorts in the world. Some areas are covered with snow all year. Skiers have settled in the Verbier area in order to take advantage of the steep slopes, varied conditions, and resort culture.<ref>[http://www.worldtravelguide.net/ski_resort/65/ski_resort_guide/Europe/Verbier.html Verbier] worldtravelguide.net. Retrieved on 2009-07-17</ref>
'''Verbier''' ({{IPA|fr|vɛʁbje}}) is a village located in south-western [[Switzerland]] in the canton of [[Valais]]. It is a holiday resort and ski area in the [[Swiss Alps]] and is recognised as one of the premier [[off-piste]] resorts in the world. Some areas are covered with snow all year. Skiers have settled in the Verbier area in order to take advantage of the steep slopes, varied conditions, and resort culture.<ref>[http://www.worldtravelguide.net/ski_resort/65/ski_resort_guide/Europe/Verbier.html Verbier] worldtravelguide.net. Retrieved on 2009-07-17</ref>


==Geography==
==Geography==
[[Image:GrandCombin3.jpg|thumb|right|Glaciers of [[Grand Combin]] seen from Verbier]]
[[Image:GrandCombin3.jpg|thumb|right|Glaciers of [[Grand Combin]] seen from Verbier]]
[[File:ETH-BIB-Verbier-LBS H1-026506.tif|thumb|Aerial view (1966)]]
Verbier is located in the municipality of [[Bagnes]], in the Swiss canton of Valais. The village lies on a south oriented terrace at around 1,500 metres facing the [[Grand Combin]] massif. The terrace lies on the east side of the [[Val de Bagnes]], a valley located south of [[Martigny]].
Verbier is located in the municipality of [[Val de Bagnes, Switzerland|Val de Bagnes]] in the Swiss canton of Valais. The village lies on a south oriented terrace at around 1,500 metres facing the [[Grand Combin]] massif. The terrace lies on the east side of the [[Val de Bagnes]], a valley located south of [[Martigny]].


Verbier had 2767 permanent residents in 2006. The number of residents can rise to 35,000 in the winter season. There is a noticeable population of Scandinavian and British residents.<ref name="swissinfo.ch">[http://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/search/Result.html?siteSect=882&ty=st&sid=7598915 Rich Brits invest in "St Tropez of the Alps"] swissinfo.ch. Retrieved on 2009-07-17</ref>
Verbier had 2767 permanent residents in 2006. The number of residents can rise to 35,000 in the winter season. There is a noticeable population of Scandinavian and British residents.<ref name="swissinfo.ch">[https://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/rich-brits-invest-in--st-tropez-of-the-alps-/977148 Rich Brits invest in "St Tropez of the Alps"] swissinfo.ch. Retrieved on 2009-07-17</ref>
[[File:Verbier View.JPG|thumb|right|View of Verbier Village in early morning]]


=== Education===
===Education===
⚫
The town has a public school system for its residents up until high school level, when locals must travel down into the valley for schooling. In September 2010, the Verbier campus of [[St George's School in Switzerland|St. George's]] (now called Verbier International School), a private [[international school]], was founded and opened its doors in the Chalet Mascotte at the entrance of the village. Verbier also has a newly founded school as of January 2021 called Copperfield Verbier, in Le Hameau.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Copperfield Verbier {{!}} An Education For All Seasons|url=https://www.copperfield.education/home|access-date=2021-10-20|website=Copperfield Verbier|language=en}}</ref>


⚫
==History==
⚫
The town has a public school system for its residents up until high school level, when locals must travel down into the valley for schooling. In September 2010, the Verbier campus of [[St George's School in Switzerland|St. George's]] (now called Lemania-Verbier International School), a private [[international school]], was founded and opened its doors in the Chalet Mascotte at the entrance of the village.
{{expand section|date=November 2022}}
⚫
Verbier has been an Alpine resort with guests from European countries since the early 20th century. During [[World War I]], the local economy suffered from a lack of tourist revenue as people were unable or unwilling to travel to Switzerland from countries at war. From 1916 to 1918 Verbier, along with other Alpine resorts, housed interned German, French and British soldiers who required medical treatment.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-36391241|title=Switzerland's forgotten role in saving World War One lives|last=Foulkes|first=Imogen|date=29 May 2016|publisher=BBC News|access-date=2016-05-30}}</ref>


⚫
==Artists and photographers==
⚫
== History ==
⚫
Verbier has been an Alpine resort with guests from Britain, Germany and other European countries since the early 20th Century. During [[World War I]] the local economy suffered from a lack of tourist revenue as people were unable or unwilling to travel to Switzerland from countries at war. From 1916-1918 Verbier, along with other Alpine resorts, housed interned German, French and British soldiers who required medical treatment.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-36391241|title=Switzerland's forgotten role in saving World War One lives|last=Foulkes|first=Imogen|publisher=BBC News|access-date=2016-05-30}}</ref>

⚫
==Artists and Photographers==
There is a vibrant community of photographers and artists in Verbier, most born out of winter sports action photography.
There is a vibrant community of photographers and artists in Verbier, most born out of winter sports action photography.


==Transport==
==Transport==
Verbier can be accessed by road or by train. From Martigny a regional train (known as the ''Saint-Bernard Express'') leads to [[Le Châble]]. From Le Châble a cable car (or a post bus) goes up to Verbier. Martigny is a 1&nbsp;hour&nbsp;45&nbsp;minute journey from [[Geneva]] and a 20&nbsp;min journey from [[Sion, Switzerland|Sion]], travelling with [[Swiss Federal Railways]].
Verbier can be accessed by road or by train. From {{rws|Martigny}} a regional train (known as the ''Saint-Bernard Express'') leads to {{rws|Le Châble VS}}. From Le Châble a cable car (or a post bus) goes up to Verbier. Martigny is a 1&nbsp;hour&nbsp;45&nbsp;minute journey from [[Geneva]] and a 20&nbsp;min journey from [[Sion, Switzerland|Sion]], travelling with [[Swiss Federal Railways]].


Verbier has only one access road, which starts in the town of Le Châble. From [[Sembrancher]] (near Le Châble) a road leads to the [[Great St. Bernard Pass]] and another to Martigny or to the [[Col de la Forclaz]]. Verbier is around 2 hours' drive from Geneva, 1 hour from [[Chamonix]] (Col de la Forclaz) and 1 hour from [[Aosta]] (Great St. Bernard Pass).
Verbier has only one access road which starts in the town of Le Châble. From [[Sembrancher]] (near Le Châble) a road leads to the [[Great St. Bernard Pass]] and another to Martigny or to the [[Col de la Forclaz]]. Verbier is around 2 hours' drive from Geneva, 1 hour from [[Chamonix]] (Col de la Forclaz) and 1 hour from [[Aosta]] (Great St. Bernard Pass).


The nearest international airport is [[Geneva Airport]]. Minibus transfers are available from the airport to Verbier center during the winter ski season.
The nearest international airport is [[Geneva Airport]]. Minibus transfers are available from the airport to Verbier center during the winter ski season.


The town itself is small enough to be explored on foot, but free buses run throughout the resort regularly during the day.
The village is small enough to be explored on foot, but free buses run throughout the resort regularly during the day.


==Skiing==
==Skiing==
[[Image:Verbier Telecabine 066.JPG|thumb|right|[[Mont Fort]] cable car]]
[[Image:Verbier Telecabine 066.JPG|thumb|right|[[Mont Fort]] cable car]]
Verbier’s ski domain ranges from 1500&nbsp;m (Verbier Village) up to 3330&nbsp;m ([[Mont Fort]]) from which there is a panoramic view of the Alps encompassing the [[Matterhorn|Matterhorn Cervin]], [[Dom (mountain)|Dom]], [[Dent Blanche]], [[Dent d'Hérens]], Grand Combin and [[Mont Blanc|Mont Blanc massif]]. It is part of the "Four Valleys" ("4 Vallées") ski area, which includes the ski resorts of Verbier, [[Nendaz]], [[Veysonnaz]], [[La Tzoumaz]], and [[Thyon]] with a claimed total of 410&nbsp;km marked runs. However, an independent expert measured that the real extent of marked runs is 164&nbsp;km rather than 410&nbsp;km.<ref>https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/snowandski/skiing-news/10306625/Ski-resorts-exaggerate-piste-lengths.html</ref>
Verbier's ski domain ranges from 1500&nbsp;m (Verbier Village) up to 3330&nbsp;m ([[Mont Fort]]) from which there is a panoramic view of the Alps encompassing the [[Matterhorn|Matterhorn Cervin]], [[Dom (mountain)|Dom]], [[Dent Blanche]], [[Dent d'Hérens]], Grand Combin and [[Mont Blanc|Mont Blanc massif]]. It is part of the "Four Valleys" ("4 Vallées") ski area, which includes the ski resorts of Verbier, [[Nendaz]], [[Veysonnaz]], [[La Tzoumaz]], and [[Thyon]] with a claimed total of 410&nbsp;km marked runs. However, an independent expert measured that the real extent of marked runs is 164&nbsp;km rather than 410&nbsp;km.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/ski/news/Ski-resorts-exaggerate-piste-lengths/|title=Ski resorts 'exaggerate piste lengths'|first=Cat|last=Weakley|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=February 4, 2016|via=www.telegraph.co.uk}}</ref>


The ski area is divided into four sectors: Medran, Les Savoleyres, Mont Fort and Bruson. Verbier forms the western section of the 4 Valleys ski area. A 4 Valley pass allows a tour all the way from Verbier to La Tzoumaz, Nendaz, Veysonnaz, [[Les Masses]], Thyon and back.
The ski area is divided into four sectors: Medran, Les Savoleyres, Mont Fort and Bruson. Verbier forms the western section of the 4 valleys ski area. A 4 Valley pass allows a tour all the way from Verbier to La Tzoumaz, Nendaz, Veysonnaz, [[Les Masses]], Thyon and back.


The Verbier section of the 4 Valleys ski area has recent lifts made by [[Leitner]], CWA, Poma and Garaventa AG; all operated by Téléverbier SA. In Verbier alone, there are 35 lifts (within the Verbier, Savoleyeres/La Tzoumaz and Bruson sector). A standard Verbier pass gives access to this entire sector, 33 standard ski runs, two [[snowpark]]s, one "Jardin de Neige" (a relatively flat area that is used for small children learning to ski), four cross-country pistes and two walking areas.
The Verbier section of the 4 Valleys ski area has recent lifts made by [[Leitner]], CWA, Poma and Garaventa AG, all operated by Téléverbier SA. In Verbier alone, there are 35 lifts (within the Verbier, Savoleyeres/La Tzoumaz and Bruson sector). A standard Verbier pass gives access to this entire sector, 33 standard ski runs, two [[snowpark]]s, one "Jardin de Neige" (a relatively flat area that is used for small children learning to ski), four cross-country pistes and two walking areas.


===Off-piste===
===Off-piste===
Verbier is known for its off-piste and itinerary runs. Amongst these are popular mogul fields Tortin, Gentianes, Mont Fort and Plan du Fou as well as more advanced itineraries Vallon D'Arbi and [[Mont Gelé (3023&nbsp;m)|Mont Gelé]] (which are often closed). Notable off-piste runs are the Backside of Mont Fort, Bec des Etagnes, Stairway to Heaven, Highway, Marlenaz, Croix de Coeur, Bacombe, Col des Mines, Creblets, Couloir de la Banane, Col de la Mouche, The Rocky Garden, The Hidden Valley (down to Auddes-sur-Riddes), Couloir des Dix, Col de la Banane, and the less accessible [[Bec des Rosses]], annual host for the finals of the Freeride World Tour. Off-pistes skiing can be dangerous, and sometimes lethal, due to the risk of avalanches, hidden obstacles, crevices, extremely steep runs, and other hazards. In the 2012-13 season, a skier was killed by an avalanche on the Col de la Mouche and two others died at the Bec des Etagnes.{{Cn|date=February 2017}}
Verbier is known for its off-piste and itinerary runs. Amongst these are popular mogul fields Tortin, Gentianes, Mont Fort and Plan du Fou as well as more advanced itineraries Vallon D'Arbi and [[Mont Gelé (3023&nbsp;m)|Mont Gelé]] (which are often closed). Notable off-piste runs are the Backside of Mont Fort, Bec des Etagnes, Stairway to Heaven, Highway, Marlenaz, Croix de Coeur, Bacombe, Col des Mines, Creblets, Couloir de la Banane, Col de la Mouche, The Rocky Garden, The Hidden Valley (down to Auddes-sur-Riddes), Couloir des Dix, Col de la Banane, and the less accessible [[Bec des Rosses]], annual host for the finals of the Freeride World Tour. Off-piste skiing can be dangerous, and sometimes lethal, due to the risk of avalanches, hidden obstacles, crevices, extremely steep runs, and other hazards. In the 2012–13 season, a skier was killed by an avalanche on the Col de la Mouche and two others died at the Bec des Etagnes.{{Citation needed|date=February 2017}}

Verbier is one of only a few resorts to contain a mountain with no pistes coming down it (Mont Gelé). On rare occasions, it is also possible to ski 700 vertical metres from Verbier Village (1500&nbsp;m) to Le Châble (800&nbsp;m) in the valley below, though such a run now entails going through terrain with felled trees and other obstacles. The off-piste run from Col des Gentiannes (2,950&nbsp;m) down to Le Chable is a better option, but it is important to check that snow conditions are good and that there is no avalanche risk. Also, some of the trails from Col des Gentiannes to Le Châble lead to dead-ends and dangerous rockfaces, so it is essential to be familiar with the terrain before attempting to ski down to Le Châble from Gentiannes.
Verbier is one of only a few resorts to contain a mountain with no pistes coming down it (Mont Gelé). On rare occasions, it is also possible to ski 700 vertical metres from Verbier (1500&nbsp;m) to Le Châble (800&nbsp;m) in the valley below, though such a run now entails going through terrain with felled trees and other obstacles. The off-piste run from Col des Gentiannes (2,950&nbsp;m) down to Le Chable is a better option, but it is important to check that snow conditions are good and that there is no avalanche risk. Also, some of the trails from Col des Gentiannes to Le Châble lead to dead-ends and dangerous rockfaces, so it is essential to be familiar with the terrain before attempting to ski down to Le Châble from Gentiannes.


The nearest heli-ski landing spots are [[Rosablanche]], [[Petit Combin]], and [[Trient Glacier]].
The nearest heli-ski landing spots are [[Rosablanche]], [[Petit Combin]], and [[Trient Glacier]].

Verbier is a stop on the most commonly taken route by skiers of the [[Haute Route]] from [[Chamonix]] to [[Zermatt]].


===Ski and snowboard schools===
===Ski and snowboard schools===
Various ski and snowboard schools propose private lessons, group lessons, clinics, and performance coaching. Mountain guides companies and a few independent mountain guides complete the offer. Ski and snowboard schools include Performance Verbier, Alpinemojo Ski and Snowboard School, La Fantastique, Altitude Ski and Snowboard School, New Generation Ski School, European Snowsport and the Swiss Ski School.
Various ski and snowboard schools offer private lessons, group lessons, clinics, and performance coaching. Mountain-guide companies and a few independent mountain guides complete the offerings. Ski and snowboard schools include Performance Verbier, Alpinemojo Ski and Snowboard School, La Fantastique, Altitude Ski and Snowboard School, New Generation Ski School, European Snowsport and the Swiss Ski School.


===Summer skiing===
===Summer skiing===
In 1983, 2 [[T-bar]] lifts were installed on the glacier to allow skiing all year. The lifts took 7 minutes and 30 seconds to ride and had a rate of 2,400 people per hour.<ref>http://www.remontees-mecaniques.net/bdd/reportage-372.html</ref> The summer skiing last operated during July 1999.
In 1983, 2 [[T-bar lift|T-bar]] lifts were installed on the glacier to allow skiing all year. The lifts took 7 minutes and 30 seconds to ride and had a rate of 2,400 people per hour.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.remontees-mecaniques.net/|title=Téléski à enrouleurs 2 places (TKE2) Glacier 1 & 2 - www.remontees-mecaniques.net|website=www.remontees-mecaniques.net}}</ref> The summer skiing last operated during July 1999.


In April 2012, the website Verbinet.com published a report as part of an [[April fools]] joke claiming that the resort would re-open for summer skiing during June.<ref>http://www.verbinet.com/events/news/verbier-to-open-for-summer-skiing</ref>
In April 2012, the website SeeVerbier.com published a report as part of an [[April fools]] joke claiming that the resort would re-open for summer skiing during June.<ref>http://www.seeverbier.com/events/news/verbier-to-open-for-summer-skiing{{dead link|fix-attempted=yes|date=March 2020}}</ref>


As a result of exceptional weather conditions, Verbier was able to offering skiing on 13 and 14 July 2013.<ref>http://www.thelocal.ch/20130710/verbier-opens-for-summer-skiing-weekend</ref> 1,630 people attended the event.<ref>http://www.planetski.eu/news/5135</ref>
As a result of exceptional weather conditions, Verbier was able to offer skiing on 13 and 14 July 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thelocal.ch/20130710/verbier-opens-for-summer-skiing-weekend |title=Verbier opens for summer skiing |publisher=www.thelocal.ch |access-date=2020-03-24}}</ref> 1,630 people attended the event.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.planetski.eu/news/5135|title=You are being redirected...|website=www.planetski.eu|date=3 November 2021}}</ref>


== Summer in Verbier ==
==Summer==
In the summertime, there are 400&nbsp;km of hiking trails and hikers can follow the tracks of the chamois and ibex through the mountains, some of them covered with snow all year round. There are 200&nbsp;km of mountain bike piste. Other activities include climbing, paragliding, swimming, golf, badminton, Ice karting, trips aboard the mountain railways in the area, and an annual music festival.
In the summertime, there are 400&nbsp;km of hiking trails and hikers can follow the tracks of the chamois and ibex through the mountains, some of them covered with snow all year round. There are 200&nbsp;km of mountain bike piste. Other activities include climbing, paragliding, swimming, golf, badminton, Ice karting, and trips aboard the mountain railways in the area. Every summer, the [[Verbier Festival]] takes place, featuring seventeen days of musical performances at the invitation of founder [[Martin Engström]].


⚫
==Society==
== Verbier Festival ==
The [[Verbier_Festival|International classical music festival]] combines every summer seventeen days of musical performances at the invitation of founder [[:fr:Martin Engström|Martin Engström]].

⚫
== Society ==
[[File:Wood Cottages Verbier Valais 074.JPG|thumb|Chalets in Verbier]]
[[File:Wood Cottages Verbier Valais 074.JPG|thumb|Chalets in Verbier]]
Verbier is also a popular holiday destination for celebrities and royalty,<ref>[http://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/search/Result.html?siteSect=882&ty=st&sid=10146603 Celebrities flock to the Alps for New Year] swissinfo.ch. Retrieved on 2009-07-17</ref> including [[Prince William, Duke of Cambridge|The Duke]] and [[Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge|Duchess of Cambridge]], [[Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex]], [[Sarah, Duchess of York]] (who owns a Chalet there)<ref>http://www.hellomagazine.com/travel/2007/02/14/beatrice-sarah-ski/</ref> and her daughters, Princesses [[Princess Beatrice of York|Beatrice]] and [[Princess Eugenie of York|Eugenie]], [[James Blunt]], [[Diana Ross]], [[Lawrence Dallaglio]], [[Richard Branson]], [[Rosie Huntington-Whiteley]], and the [[Frederik, Crown Prince of Denmark|Crown Prince]] and [[Mary, Crown Princess of Denmark|Crown Princess of Denmark]].<ref>http://www.hellomagazine.com/travel/2007/02/08/mary-royals-verbier/</ref> The [[Swedish Royal Family]] and the [[Belgian Royal Family]] also come here.<ref>[http://www.expressen.se/resor/vinterguiden/1.939012/verbier-alpernas-graddhylla ''From swedish newspaper Expressen 2009'']</ref> It caters to British customers,<ref name="swissinfo.ch"/> but also receives many visitors from Germany, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, France, Austria, the United States of America and South Africa.
Verbier is also a popular holiday destination for celebrities and royalty,<ref>[http://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/search/Result.html?siteSect=882&ty=st&sid=10146603 Celebrities flock to the Alps for New Year] swissinfo.ch. Retrieved on 2009-07-17</ref> including [[Prince William, Prince of Wales|The Prince]] and [[Catherine, Princess of Wales|Princess of Wales]], [[Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex]], [[Sarah, Duchess of York]] (who is in the process of selling her chalet)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hellomagazine.com/travel/2007/02/14/beatrice-sarah-ski/|title=Sarah Ferguson, Princess Beatrice, Sarah and Beatrice enjoy|website=www.hellomagazine.com}}</ref> and her daughters, Princesses [[Princess Beatrice of York|Beatrice]] and [[Princess Eugenie of York|Eugenie]], [[James Blunt]], [[Diana Ross]], [[Lawrence Dallaglio]], [[Richard Branson]], [[Rosie Huntington-Whiteley]], and the [[Frederik X|Crown Prince]] and [[Mary, Crown Princess of Denmark|Crown Princess of Denmark]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.hellomagazine.com/travel/2007/02/08/mary-royals-verbier/|title=Princess Mary, Prince Frederik, Prince Christian, Mary and|website=www.hellomagazine.com}}</ref> The [[Swedish royal family]] and the [[Belgian royal family]] also come here.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.expressen.se/resor/vinterguiden/1.939012/verbier-alpernas-graddhylla|title=''From swedish newspaper Expressen 2009''}}</ref> It caters to British customers,<ref name="swissinfo.ch"/> but also receives many visitors from Germany, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, France, Austria, the United States of America and South Africa.


==Events ==
==Events==
Recurring events in Verbier include:
Recurring events include:
* the most prestigious extreme skiing and snowboarding contest, the Xtreme Verbier which the final of the [[Freeride World Tour|FWT]]
* the most prestigious extreme skiing and snowboarding contest, the Xtreme Verbier which is the final of the [[Freeride World Tour|FWT]]
* the XSpeedski, FIS World Championship + Pro Race
* the XSpeedski, FIS World Championship + Pro Race
* the [[Patrouille des Glaciers]], ski mountaineering race every second year at the end of the ski season
* the [[Patrouille des Glaciers]], ski mountaineering race every second year at the end of the ski season
Line 72: Line 72:
* the Grand Raid Cristalp, [[Mountain bike]] race Verbier - [[Grimentz]]
* the Grand Raid Cristalp, [[Mountain bike]] race Verbier - [[Grimentz]]
* the Grand Concours Hippique, a [[horse show]] featuring Grand Prix show jumping qualifiers
* the Grand Concours Hippique, a [[horse show]] featuring Grand Prix show jumping qualifiers
*Exercise White Knight, the British Army's RAC & AAC Downhill Championships and race training camp since 1983.
* Exercise White Knight, the British Army's RAC & AAC Downhill Championships and race training camp since 1983.
* Polaris Festival, Electronic Music Festival.
* Polaris Festival, Electronic Music Festival.

=== Other events ===
===Other events===
* Stage 8, [[2005 Tour de Suisse]] - [[Pablo Lastras]]
* Stage 8, [[2005 Tour de Suisse]] - [[Pablo Lastras]]
* Stage 6, [[2008 Tour de Suisse]] - [[Kim Kirchen]]
* Stage 6, [[2008 Tour de Suisse]] - [[Kim Kirchen]]
* Stage 15, [[2009 Tour de France]] - [[Alberto Contador]]
* Stage 15, [[2009 Tour de France]] - [[Alberto Contador]]
* Stage 8, [[2014 Tour de Suisse]] - [[Esteban Chaves]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/news/latest-news/johan-chaves-takes-stage-eight-tour-de-suisse-127484 |title=Esteban Chaves takes stage eight of Tour de Suisse |last1=Puddicombe |first1=Stephen|date=21 June 2014 |website=[[Cycling Weekly]] |accessdate=21 June 2014}}</ref>
* Stage 8, [[2014 Tour de Suisse]] - [[Esteban Chaves]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/news/latest-news/johan-chaves-takes-stage-eight-tour-de-suisse-127484 |title=Esteban Chaves takes stage eight of Tour de Suisse |last1=Puddicombe |first1=Stephen|date=21 June 2014 |website=[[Cycling Weekly]] |access-date=21 June 2014}}</ref>


==Notable residents==
==Notable residents==
* [[Paddy McNally]], Formula One businessman and socialite
* [[Richard Branson]] (born 1950), British business magnate
* [[James Blunt]] (born 1974), English singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://amp.blick.ch/people-tv/musik/ich-will-schweizer-werden-id2134010.html|title = "Ich will Schweizer werden"|date = 9 December 2012}}</ref>
⚫
* [[George Downing (businessman)|George Downing]] (born 1963), property magnate
⚫
* [[Raymond Fellay]] (1932–1994), Swiss Olympic alpine skier
⚫
* [[Itamar Biran]] (born 1998), Israeli Olympic alpine ski racer
* [[Christopher Wood (financial analyst)|Christopher Wood]], Jefferies Global Head of Strategy


⚫
==References==
⚫
*[[Itamar Biran]] (born 1998), Israeli Olympic alpine ski racer
⚫
{{reflist}}
⚫
*[[Raymond Fellay]] (1932–1994), Swiss Olympic alpine skier
⚫
*[[George Downing (businessman)|George Downing]] (born 1963), property magnate
*[[Sarah, Duchess of York]], Author & Businesswoman


== External links ==
==External links==
{{commonscat-inline}}
{{wikivoyage|Verbier}}
{{wikivoyage|Verbier}}
* {{commons category-inline}}
*[http://www.verbier.ch/ Verbier's Official site]
* [http://www.verbier.ch/ Verbier's official website]

⚫
== References ==
⚫
{{reflist}}


{{coord|46|06|N|7|13|E|region:CH-VS_type:city|display=title}}
{{coord|46|06|N|7|13|E|region:CH-VS_type:city|display=title}}


{{authority control}}

⚫
[[Category:Bagnes]]
[[Category:Ski areas and resorts in Switzerland]]
[[Category:Ski areas and resorts in Switzerland]]
[[Category:Villages in Valais]]
[[Category:Villages in Valais]]
⚫
[[Category:Bagnes]]

Latest revision as of 16:20, 18 September 2024

Verbier
Former municipality
Location of Verbier
Map
CountrySwitzerland
CantonValais
DistrictEntremont
MunicipalityVal de Bagnes
Elevation
1,500 m (4,900 ft)
Highest elevation
(Bec des Rosses)
3,222 m (10,571 ft)
Population
 (July 2020[1])
 • Total
2,901
Time zoneUTC+01:00 (Central European Time)
 • Summer (DST)UTC+02:00 (Central European Summer Time)
Postal code(s)
1936
Websitewww.verbier.ch
Verbier

Verbier (French pronunciation: [vɛʁbje]) is a village located in south-western Switzerland in the canton of Valais. It is a holiday resort and ski area in the Swiss Alps and is recognised as one of the premier off-piste resorts in the world. Some areas are covered with snow all year. Skiers have settled in the Verbier area in order to take advantage of the steep slopes, varied conditions, and resort culture.[2]

Geography

[edit]
Glaciers of Grand Combin seen from Verbier
Aerial view (1966)

Verbier is located in the municipality of Val de Bagnes in the Swiss canton of Valais. The village lies on a south oriented terrace at around 1,500 metres facing the Grand Combin massif. The terrace lies on the east side of the Val de Bagnes, a valley located south of Martigny.

Verbier had 2767 permanent residents in 2006. The number of residents can rise to 35,000 in the winter season. There is a noticeable population of Scandinavian and British residents.[3]

Education

[edit]

The town has a public school system for its residents up until high school level, when locals must travel down into the valley for schooling. In September 2010, the Verbier campus of St. George's (now called Verbier International School), a private international school, was founded and opened its doors in the Chalet Mascotte at the entrance of the village. Verbier also has a newly founded school as of January 2021 called Copperfield Verbier, in Le Hameau.[4]

History

[edit]

Verbier has been an Alpine resort with guests from European countries since the early 20th century. During World War I, the local economy suffered from a lack of tourist revenue as people were unable or unwilling to travel to Switzerland from countries at war. From 1916 to 1918 Verbier, along with other Alpine resorts, housed interned German, French and British soldiers who required medical treatment.[5]

Artists and photographers

[edit]

There is a vibrant community of photographers and artists in Verbier, most born out of winter sports action photography.

Transport

[edit]

Verbier can be accessed by road or by train. From Martigny a regional train (known as the Saint-Bernard Express) leads to Le Châble VS. From Le Châble a cable car (or a post bus) goes up to Verbier. Martigny is a 1 hour 45 minute journey from Geneva and a 20 min journey from Sion, travelling with Swiss Federal Railways.

Verbier has only one access road which starts in the town of Le Châble. From Sembrancher (near Le Châble) a road leads to the Great St. Bernard Pass and another to Martigny or to the Col de la Forclaz. Verbier is around 2 hours' drive from Geneva, 1 hour from Chamonix (Col de la Forclaz) and 1 hour from Aosta (Great St. Bernard Pass).

The nearest international airport is Geneva Airport. Minibus transfers are available from the airport to Verbier center during the winter ski season.

The village is small enough to be explored on foot, but free buses run throughout the resort regularly during the day.

Skiing

[edit]
Mont Fort cable car

Verbier's ski domain ranges from 1500 m (Verbier Village) up to 3330 m (Mont Fort) from which there is a panoramic view of the Alps encompassing the Matterhorn Cervin, Dom, Dent Blanche, Dent d'Hérens, Grand Combin and Mont Blanc massif. It is part of the "Four Valleys" ("4 Vallées") ski area, which includes the ski resorts of Verbier, Nendaz, Veysonnaz, La Tzoumaz, and Thyon with a claimed total of 410 km marked runs. However, an independent expert measured that the real extent of marked runs is 164 km rather than 410 km.[6]

The ski area is divided into four sectors: Medran, Les Savoleyres, Mont Fort and Bruson. Verbier forms the western section of the 4 valleys ski area. A 4 Valley pass allows a tour all the way from Verbier to La Tzoumaz, Nendaz, Veysonnaz, Les Masses, Thyon and back.

The Verbier section of the 4 Valleys ski area has recent lifts made by Leitner, CWA, Poma and Garaventa AG, all operated by Téléverbier SA. In Verbier alone, there are 35 lifts (within the Verbier, Savoleyeres/La Tzoumaz and Bruson sector). A standard Verbier pass gives access to this entire sector, 33 standard ski runs, two snowparks, one "Jardin de Neige" (a relatively flat area that is used for small children learning to ski), four cross-country pistes and two walking areas.

Off-piste

[edit]

Verbier is known for its off-piste and itinerary runs. Amongst these are popular mogul fields Tortin, Gentianes, Mont Fort and Plan du Fou as well as more advanced itineraries Vallon D'Arbi and Mont Gelé (which are often closed). Notable off-piste runs are the Backside of Mont Fort, Bec des Etagnes, Stairway to Heaven, Highway, Marlenaz, Croix de Coeur, Bacombe, Col des Mines, Creblets, Couloir de la Banane, Col de la Mouche, The Rocky Garden, The Hidden Valley (down to Auddes-sur-Riddes), Couloir des Dix, Col de la Banane, and the less accessible Bec des Rosses, annual host for the finals of the Freeride World Tour. Off-piste skiing can be dangerous, and sometimes lethal, due to the risk of avalanches, hidden obstacles, crevices, extremely steep runs, and other hazards. In the 2012–13 season, a skier was killed by an avalanche on the Col de la Mouche and two others died at the Bec des Etagnes.[citation needed]

Verbier is one of only a few resorts to contain a mountain with no pistes coming down it (Mont Gelé). On rare occasions, it is also possible to ski 700 vertical metres from Verbier (1500 m) to Le Châble (800 m) in the valley below, though such a run now entails going through terrain with felled trees and other obstacles. The off-piste run from Col des Gentiannes (2,950 m) down to Le Chable is a better option, but it is important to check that snow conditions are good and that there is no avalanche risk. Also, some of the trails from Col des Gentiannes to Le Châble lead to dead-ends and dangerous rockfaces, so it is essential to be familiar with the terrain before attempting to ski down to Le Châble from Gentiannes.

The nearest heli-ski landing spots are Rosablanche, Petit Combin, and Trient Glacier.

Verbier is a stop on the most commonly taken route by skiers of the Haute Route from Chamonix to Zermatt.

Ski and snowboard schools

[edit]

Various ski and snowboard schools offer private lessons, group lessons, clinics, and performance coaching. Mountain-guide companies and a few independent mountain guides complete the offerings. Ski and snowboard schools include Performance Verbier, Alpinemojo Ski and Snowboard School, La Fantastique, Altitude Ski and Snowboard School, New Generation Ski School, European Snowsport and the Swiss Ski School.

Summer skiing

[edit]

In 1983, 2 T-bar lifts were installed on the glacier to allow skiing all year. The lifts took 7 minutes and 30 seconds to ride and had a rate of 2,400 people per hour.[7] The summer skiing last operated during July 1999.

In April 2012, the website SeeVerbier.com published a report as part of an April fools joke claiming that the resort would re-open for summer skiing during June.[8]

As a result of exceptional weather conditions, Verbier was able to offer skiing on 13 and 14 July 2013.[9] 1,630 people attended the event.[10]

Summer

[edit]

In the summertime, there are 400 km of hiking trails and hikers can follow the tracks of the chamois and ibex through the mountains, some of them covered with snow all year round. There are 200 km of mountain bike piste. Other activities include climbing, paragliding, swimming, golf, badminton, Ice karting, and trips aboard the mountain railways in the area. Every summer, the Verbier Festival takes place, featuring seventeen days of musical performances at the invitation of founder Martin Engström.

Society

[edit]
Chalets in Verbier

Verbier is also a popular holiday destination for celebrities and royalty,[11] including The Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Sarah, Duchess of York (who is in the process of selling her chalet)[12] and her daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, James Blunt, Diana Ross, Lawrence Dallaglio, Richard Branson, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and the Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Denmark.[13] The Swedish royal family and the Belgian royal family also come here.[14] It caters to British customers,[3] but also receives many visitors from Germany, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, Italy, Belgium, France, Austria, the United States of America and South Africa.

Events

[edit]

Recurring events include:

  • the most prestigious extreme skiing and snowboarding contest, the Xtreme Verbier which is the final of the FWT
  • the XSpeedski, FIS World Championship + Pro Race
  • the Patrouille des Glaciers, ski mountaineering race every second year at the end of the ski season
  • the Verbier Festival, Appraised international music festival
  • the Grand Raid Cristalp, Mountain bike race Verbier - Grimentz
  • the Grand Concours Hippique, a horse show featuring Grand Prix show jumping qualifiers
  • Exercise White Knight, the British Army's RAC & AAC Downhill Championships and race training camp since 1983.
  • Polaris Festival, Electronic Music Festival.

Other events

[edit]

Notable residents

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "Les Villages". Val de Bagnes. Retrieved 27 February 2024.
  2. ^ Verbier worldtravelguide.net. Retrieved on 2009-07-17
  3. ^ a b Rich Brits invest in "St Tropez of the Alps" swissinfo.ch. Retrieved on 2009-07-17
  4. ^ "Copperfield Verbier | An Education For All Seasons". Copperfield Verbier. Retrieved 2021-10-20.
  5. ^ Foulkes, Imogen (29 May 2016). "Switzerland's forgotten role in saving World War One lives". BBC News. Retrieved 2016-05-30.
  6. ^ Weakley, Cat (February 4, 2016). "Ski resorts 'exaggerate piste lengths'". The Telegraph – via www.telegraph.co.uk.
  7. ^ "Téléski à enrouleurs 2 places (TKE2) Glacier 1 & 2 - www.remontees-mecaniques.net". www.remontees-mecaniques.net.
  8. ^ http://www.seeverbier.com/events/news/verbier-to-open-for-summer-skiing[permanent dead link‍]
  9. ^ "Verbier opens for summer skiing". www.thelocal.ch. Retrieved 2020-03-24.
  10. ^ "You are being redirected..." www.planetski.eu. 3 November 2021.
  11. ^ Celebrities flock to the Alps for New Year swissinfo.ch. Retrieved on 2009-07-17
  12. ^ "Sarah Ferguson, Princess Beatrice, Sarah and Beatrice enjoy". www.hellomagazine.com.
  13. ^ "Princess Mary, Prince Frederik, Prince Christian, Mary and". www.hellomagazine.com.
  14. ^ "From swedish newspaper Expressen 2009".
  15. ^ Puddicombe, Stephen (21 June 2014). "Esteban Chaves takes stage eight of Tour de Suisse". Cycling Weekly. Retrieved 21 June 2014.
  16. ^ ""Ich will Schweizer werden"". 9 December 2012.
[edit]
Wikivoyage has a travel guide for Verbier.

46°06′N 7°13′E / 46.100°N 7.217°E / 46.100; 7.217

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Verbier&oldid=1246381673"