Aletsch Arena
Ski Resort

Aletsch Arena Ski Resorts – Overview

With splendid views of the Aletsch Glacier, panoramic views of the Matterhorn, Weisshorn and Jungfrau 4,000m peaks, the Aletsch Arena combines scenic beauty with uncrowded pistes, well-managed infrastructure, and an inviting, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a family-friendly option for skiers, snowboarders and other snowsports enthusiasts seeking stunning alpine scenery without the crowds. Whether you’re a family, couple, or solo adventurer, the blend of car-free villages, diverse terrain, fantastic glacier views, and winter activities makes it one of Switzerland’s most underrated winter destinations. Additionally, many accommodations offer ski-in/ski-out access, and prices are more affordable than in nearby, better-known Swiss ski resorts.

Featuring the largest glacier in the Alps

The region’s landscape is dominated by the Aletsch Glacier, extending for more than 23km and up to 800 metres deep, which makes it the largest glacier in the Alps. It is best appreciated from the spectacular viewing platforms at Moosfluh, Bettmerhorn, and Eggishorn, all easily accessible by cable car or lift. Although not skiable, the fantastic views of the glacier are a magnet for visitors throughout the year. The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jungfrau-Aletsch, ensuring strict environmental protection and a focus on sustainable tourism.

Skiing and snowboarding 

The Aletsch Arena ski area offers 104 km of pistes, ranging from wide, gently undulating blue runs ideal for beginners and families, to more challenging red slopes for intermediates, with a few steeper blacks and off-piste options to satisfy advanced skiers. The terrain is spread across three resorts, and thanks to an efficient lift system, skiers can easily explore the entire area in a day. Bettmeralp and Riederalp offer excellent terrain for beginners and early intermediates, with long, cruisy blues and excellent ski schools. Fiescheralp provides access to higher, more varied slopes, including off-piste areas around Eggishorn and Fiescherhorn. Snow reliability is good, with an average of 440 cm of snowfall and 39 snow days yearly. Much of the skiing is between 1,900 and 2,900 metres, and the north-facing orientation of many slopes helps preserve the snow.

Affordable lift passes

The lift system in the Aletsch Arena is modern, fast, and well-integrated, with 35 lifts, including gondolas, chairlifts, and draglifts. Recent investments in high-capacity gondolas and express chairlifts have reduced queuing and improved comfort. The resorts themselves are car-free, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. Access to the resort villages is via a cable car or gondola from the Rhone Valley 1,000 m below, with luggage transport arranged to your accommodation. Compared to larger and more renowned Swiss resorts, Aletsch Arena’s lift pass prices are 35-40% lower, providing excellent value for money.

Family-friendly ski schools and equipment rental

Each of the three resorts features well-established Swiss Ski and Snowboard Schools, offering group and private lessons for all ages and skill levels. English-speaking instructors are widely available. For families, the children’s ski areas in Bettmeralp and Riederalp are particularly appealing, with dedicated beginner lifts and magic carpets. Each village offers a selection of ski and snowboard rental shops providing top-quality snowsports equipment and other accessories, including child-friendly snow blades for strollers (push chairs)! Most shops encourage online booking to save time on arrival in the resort and offer package deals that include helmets and accessories.

Cosy mid-range hotels and traditional wooden chalets

The holiday accommodation in the Aletsch Arena is varied and atmospheric. Options range from cosy 3- and 4-star hotels to traditional wooden chalets and self-catering apartments. Thanks to their high altitude, many properties offer ski-in/ski-out access. Wherever you stay in the Aletsch Arena, you’ll enjoy ski-in/ski-out access, a relaxed, car-free atmosphere, and some of the most spectacular views in the Alps. Riederalp is peaceful, scenic and best for young families and beginners. Bettmeralp, the largest and prettiest of the three villages, has the widest selection of hotels and is a great all-rounder with central access, varied terrain, and more après-ski spots. Fiescheralp is smaller, higher and closer to the high alpine areas, which appeals to more experienced skiers. Fiesch, 1,000m below in the valley, is a practical, affordable alternative, and well-connected by a high-speed gondola to Fiescheralp. Booking well in advance is recommended for peak periods, especially around Christmas and the February holidays.

Relaxed après-ski and activities for non-skiers

While the Aletsch Arena is not a party destination, it does offer a relaxed après-ski scene with mountain bars, sun terraces, and cosy lodges. Try Chüestall in Bettmeralp or Kühboden near Fiescheralp for apres-ski drinks with a view. For non-skiers or those seeking a break from the slopes, the area is a paradise for winter walking, boasting 75 km of well-marked trails, many of which are ridge-top, offering breathtaking views of the glacier. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and toboggan runs, which are easily accessible, complete the winter sports offering. In summer, the Aletsch Arena transforms into a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers. Over 300 km of marked trails weave through alpine meadows, forests, and along the glacier’s edge. Activities include paragliding, climbing, e-bike tours, and glacier excursions, with panoramic views and fresh mountain air.

Easily accessible by public transport

The Aletsch Arena is easily accessible by public transport from Zurich, Geneva and Milan Malpensa international airports. From the airport, take a train to Brig or Fiesch – the journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Regular local train services connect Brig, Morel, Bettmeralp Talsation and Fiesch. From there, cable cars provide easy access to the traffic-free villages: Mörel to Riederalp, Betten Talstation to Bettmeralp, and Fiesch to Fiescheralp. Luggage transfer services are available and well-organised. For those arriving by car, parking is available at the valley stations, with long-stay options. Cars are not permitted in the mountain villages, which enhances their peaceful alpine character.

Some of the most beautiful views in Switzerland

The Aletsch Arena live webcams provide real-time views across Riederalp, Bettmeralp, and Fiescheralp—as well as panoramic vistas of the UNESCO-listed Great Aletsch Glacier. The webcams are invaluable for skiers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts seeking up-to-date information on weather conditions, snow coverage, and trail visibility. Aletsch Arena’s “Moosfluh Riederalp” webcam was voted the most beautiful webcam view in Switzerland at the Feratel Panorama Award 2025.