Champéry is great for intermediate skiers looking for a quiet time in a lovely place if you can live with the cost and the negatives. Access to Avoriaz is fairly easy – and there may be good snow in France when the Swiss side is suffering.

Champéry is on the Swiss side of the Portes du Soleil region, with fairly quick links to Avoriaz in France, and to the valley between Avoriaz and Châtel.

We like

Charmingly rustic mountain village
Access to Portes du Soleil circuit
Quiet, relaxed – yet plenty to do off the slopes

We don't like

Lift system is antiquated
Local slopes suffer from the sun
No runs back to the village
Not good for beginners

Village charm

The village is friendly and relaxed, with classic old wooden chalets and some more substantial buildings; a charming spot.

Convenience

Champéry’s slopes are mainly high above the village, reached by a cable car that starts at the railway station, down a steepish hill, away from the main street. The village spreads over quite an area, but there is a free shuttle-bus.

Scenery

The resort sits beneath the dramatic ridge of the Dents du Midi – impressive both from the village and the slopes.

Where to Ski and Snowboard

This guide is taken from Where to Ski and Snowboard, edited by Chris Gill and Dave Watts. Chris now produces Where to Ski guides to individual countries. Find out more and receive an exclusive book discount.