Champéry, Région Dents du Midi

Think big mountain access with authentic Swiss village vibes? Welcome to Champéry – a hidden gem in the Région Dents du Midi, loved by those in the know. If you’re used to skiing some of the best destinations around the globe, Champéry deserves a spot on your radar.

Where?

Part of the vast Portes du Soleil — a 600km network of pistes stretching into France — Champéry brings serious terrain variety without the mega-resort madness. Here, you can smash out big days and still wander home through streets lined with classic Swiss chalets and mountain views all around. It’s alpine authenticity you just don’t get in mass-market mega resorts.

How?

Access is a dream too — just 90 minutes’ drive from Geneva, or a scenic ride by train, with the station located right in the heart of the village and next to the cable car for direct slope access.

The vibe?

Think welcoming, laid-back, and just busy enough. It’s easy to rack up vertical all day, then hit an outdoor terrace for an artisanal beer or a classic hot Ovomaltine, and still get a table for a bubbling fondue. Wherever you are on the slopes or in the village, the majestic Dents du Midi mountain range dominates the skyline, offering a breathtaking backdrop to every turn and every après-ski moment.

If you’re chasing the ultimate challenge, don’t miss the infamous Swiss Wall (Le Mur Suisse) – a brutally steep black run linking Champéry to Avoriaz. Too steep to be groomed by machines, the slope starts out smooth early in the season but quickly transforms into a massive mogul field as skier traffic shapes the surface. It’s a true badge of honor for expert skiers looking to test their legs (and nerves).

Off the skis, Champéry has plenty to keep the adventure rolling. Cross-country skiing trails weave through snowy forests for a peaceful glide into the backcountry.

Families and groups will love the Palladium sports centre: ice skating, curling, a heated pool, and indoor climbing. It’s a handy call for windy or foggy days too.

Gear-wise, the village has quality shops stocked with the latest tech, even renting out snow clothes if you want to avoid extra luggage fees.

Champéry nails that elusive balance: massive terrain, Swiss hospitality, and a down-to-earth vibe. If you’re the type who clocks 20+ days a season and loves finding under-the-radar spots that deliver serious skiing with authentic soul, Champéry is calling.

Why?

Fresh lines, no queues, great cheese — what more could you want?

Location: Région Dents du Midi, Valais region, Switzerland

Famous for: Access to the Swiss/French domain of Les Portes du Soleil, traditional Swiss village charm, locally made Swiss cheese, stunning views of the Dents du Midi mountain range, and the infamous Swiss Wall — one of the steepest marked runs in Europe.

Elevation: Base 1,050m / Top 2,150m

Lifts: 33 locally (connected to 208 in Portes du Soleil)

Ski School/s: Yes and a Snowboard Camp

Terrain Park: Yes (Snowparks in Les Crosets and more in the Portes du Soleil area)

Pass: Portes du Soleil Swiss Pass or International Ski Pass

Accessible travel: 90 minutes from Geneva Airport or train into the heart of Champéry village

Best for: Multi-generational families of every age, experienced skiers and boarders, off-piste adventurers, lovers of authentic alpine villages

Article Written by Julie Rebaudo – EVOQ

Photo Credit: EVOQ – Jean-Baptiste Bieuville evoqprojet.com