Andermatt Ski Resort Guide
The Andermatt ski resort, located in the Swiss Alps, is a breathtaking destination that offers convenient access to the slopes and a delightful village. This German-speaking village in Switzerland provides direct access to 120km of ski slopes. Moreover, the resort has recently been linked to Sedrun and Disentis, which can now be accessed using the same ski pass.
Andermatt Village with the Gemstock on the left.
ANDERMATT SKI RESORT BACKGROUND
Andermatt boasts a rich legacy in skiing and snowboarding, and its commitment to progress is evident in its outstanding lift infrastructure. Andermatt's freeride terrain is highly esteemed worldwide, attracting avid skiers and snowboarders for its off-piste skiing opportunities. Gemsstock stands out as one of the best spots in Andermatt, with top-notch terrain. The resort's extended ski season, which lasts until May, makes it easy to understand why Vail Resorts chose Andermatt as their premier European ski destination.
ANDERMATT SKI AREA
In Andermatt, the skiing area is divided into two distinct parts. The region that encompasses Andermatt, Sedrun, and Disentis is known for its sunny weather and can be accessed through the Gütsch gondola located at the train station. The Gemsstock is a popular choice for many skiing enthusiasts, boasting impressive 1500m descents and an exceptional off-piste skiing experience.
The Gemsstock is a popular destination for experienced skiers and snowboarders worldwide. You can easily confirm the quality of the terrain by observing the lift queue, where some of the world's top freeride skiers can be seen training. The Gemsstock has two cable cars that transport adventurous skiers and snowboarders to just below 3000m, where breathtaking scenery awaits.
Before, the only way to reach Andermatt from Sedrun was by train. However, with the introduction of new lift infrastructure, skiing across the two areas has become much easier and quicker. The lifts are modern and conveniently located, allowing for seamless travel throughout the region.
The slopes that span between the Gütsch gondola and the Oberalpass are perfectly groomed trails that would appeal to the advanced intermediate. Like the Gemsstock however, the Andermatt ski area has plenty of slack country with some interesting sections beneath the Schneehüenerstock gondola.
The Epic Pass allows you access as far as the Dieni chairlift (2022/23 season) but this is being reviewed for future years.
BEGINNERS TERRAIN AT ANDERMATT
The Nätschen area is where the never-evers will be found. Beginners should take the gondola to the Gütsch gondola mid-station accesses the kid’s arena with two covered magic carpets and mellow beginner slopes. When feeling more confident beginners can explore blue terrain with 1000m of vertical drop back to the village and gondola base station.
INTERMEDIATE TERRAIN AT ANDERMATT
Intermediates skiers and snowboarders are spoilt for choice in Andermatt. Epic red decent route 30 from Schneehüenerstock is a highlight but with many red graded routes from the top of the Oberalp flyer lift and the Cuolm Val, intermediates really are spoilt for choice.
ADVANCED TERRAIN AT ANDERMATT
Advanced skiers and snowboarders need to look no further than the Gemsstock. With red and black routes offering 1500m of decent back to the village, combined with off-piste everywhere you look the Gemsstock is unrivalled.
FREESTYLE TERRAIN AT ANDERMATT
Andermatt had two terrain parks open during my visit with the larger located near the mid-station on the Gemsstock. The other was located closer to Dieni and serviced by a rope tow. Both parks had a progression of features including jumps, boxes and rails. Freestyle at Andermatt probably wouldn’t be enough to draw you there… but was certainly good enough for a few park laps.
ANDERMATT SKI RESORT PISTE MAP
ANDERMATT PISTE MAP
LIFTS AT ANDERMATT SKI RESORT
Andermatt has overgone a face-lift in the past decade. Modern lifts have replaced old with new lifts not only faster but with higher capacity. The redesign of the ski area to ensure that the train ride through the Oberalppass is one that is possible but not essential for your ski day has reinvigorated the area.
Further improvement is needed with long queues still possible at the Gemsstock cable cars. An update to this situation would truly put Andermatt amongst the elite European ski areas.
ANDERMATT SKI RESORT PROS
Andermatt has world-class free-ride terrain
Recent investment in Andermatt has vastly improved the ski lifts in the resort
Andermatt now has a dedicated beginners area in Nätschen area.
Andermatt is well-connected by rail to major European airports.
The ski season in Andermatt is long with a fantastic snow record.
Access to Andermatt is included on Epic Pass so you can combine with many leading world ski resorts.
Andermatt was quieter than many ski resorts I have visited during the Easter period.
ANDERMATT SKI RESORT CONS
During poor weather, Andermatt lacks tree-skiing which can mean you are stuck out in the conditions.
Accommodation in the village of Andermatt can be very expensive.
TRAVEL TO ANDERMATT SKI RESORT
TRAIN TO ANDERMATT
Andermatt Sedrun ski resort has incredible transport connections with major cities across Europe. I accessed Andermatt by rail from Zurich which is 100km north of the ski area. From the trainstation in Zurich it was obvious that connections were available from pretty much every mainland European city. Flying to Milan would also be a fairly reasonable option.
The rail connections in Switzerland are fantastic and Andermatt is no exception to this. The route from Zurich required one stop in Goeschenen to change trains before joining the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn. This train which passes through Andermatt links to Zermatt if you were looking for a multi-resort ski holiday.
Booking train travel is easy and I would highly recommend using the SBB app. The app is really intuitive and not only is really clear about your journey but also provides handy maps on how to walk to your connecting platform.
The train cost 50CHF (£45) each way from Zurich airport to Andermatt which I thought was reasonable.
DRIVING TO ANDERMATT
Driving to Andermatt seems pointless with the great rail connections but if you prefer to take the car then the 2-hour journey is very achievable. Beware of local restrictions and requirements to carry snow chains during the winter months.
ANDERMATT SNOW RECORD
Andermatt ski resort is renowned for its excellent snow conditions throughout the winter season. The resort typically receives an average of 5 meters of snowfall every year, making it one of the snowiest ski destinations in Switzerland. The snow season usually begins in November and lasts until late April, offering skiers and snowboarders a long season to enjoy the powder. The resort also boasts a high-altitude skiing area, reaching up to 3,000 meters, which ensures excellent snow conditions even during milder winters. Andermatt's snow history is one of the reasons why the resort has become a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, and why it has been recognized as one of the best ski resorts in Switzerland.
ANDERMATT LIFT PASS PRICES
To access the lifts at Andermatt I used the Epic Pass. The Epic pass is a lift pass product from Vail Resorts in the US. To use your Epic Pass in Andermatt you go to the ticket station with your Epic Pass and ID which is then traded for a local season pass. Use of the Epic Pass in Andermatt has not blackout days or restrictions.
A six-day ski pass for Andermatt is around 273CHF (£242) according to SNO.
Discount prices are available with a half-price subscription. After an initial outlay of 69CHF per season, you can then purchase your day tickets in Andermatt at a discounted rate. More information can be found here.
ANDERMATT VIDEOS
ANDERMATT SKI RESORT GALLERY
ACCOMMODATION AT ANDERMATT SKI RESORT
Andermatt is a picturesque village located in the heart of the Swiss Alps and is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the beauty of the mountains. When it comes to accommodation in Andermatt, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from luxurious five-star hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts. One of the most popular options is the newly renovated Radisson Blu Hotel, which offers modern amenities and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
I stayed in the Andermatt Alpine Apartments which had a great location close to the station and ski bus. The apartment was modern and the building had a spa area with a pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation area. I would stay here again.
For those looking for a more traditional experience, there are several charming chalets and guesthouses that offer a cozy and authentic Alpine atmosphere. Overall, Andermatt has a range of accommodation options that cater to different tastes and budgets, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Swiss Alps.
SEASON DATES ANDERMATT SKI RESORT
Andermatt Sedrun ski resort opens in November and the majority of the ski resort stays open until mid-April The Gemsstock however remain open on weekends through May ensuring that skiing and snowboarding in Andermatt is available six months of the year.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON ANDERMATT
I have developed a fondness for Andermatt, a ski resort that has everything I desire in a winter vacation spot. The village is charming, and getting there by air or train is incredibly convenient. Additionally, the resort boasts all the amenities I seek in a ski area. The fact that Andermatt accepts the Epic Pass further enhances its appeal, as it can make a trip or season more budget-friendly. I can envision myself returning to Andermatt in the future.
