Switzerland’s big-name ski resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz are undeniably spectacular, but they’re also crowded throughout the winter season. That’s why seasoned skiers and locals slip away to quieter corners of the Alps like Bruson for fewer lift lines and uncrowded pistes. This low-key gem is home to just a few hundred people and loved for its calm slopes and locals-only feel.
Just across the valley from Verbier — a picture-perfect destination worthy of a European winter bucket list — Bruson is part of the 4-Vallées ski area, the largest in Switzerland. Despite that proximity, this traditional alpine village remains a quiet corner of the region, known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent forest runs. Bruson boasts four lifts connecting skiiers with around 15 miles of trails — enough to keep its low-key charm intact. It’s especially popular among skiers and snowboarders who want mountainside calm without giving up access to world-class terrain. As Bruson and Verbier are connected, you are still able to tap into the larger neighboring resort town for its lively après ski scene and seemingly endless amount of marked runs.
Bruson is easiest to reach from Geneva, with its well-connected international Genève Aéroport (GVA). From there, it’s about a two-hour drive into the mountains following Lac Léman before climbing up the valley. The Swiss capital of Bern is a similar distance away, but its small Bern Airport (BRN) flies to fewer destinations. Winter driving can be tricky, so rent a suitable car with snow tires or skip the roads entirely and take the train. Beyond being famously reliable, Switzerland has some of Europe’s most scenic train routes. However, the journey will involve at least one connection.
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Things to do in and around Bruson
Friends sharing a fondue pot – Annanahabed/Getty Images
Bruson is ideal for skiers and riders of all ages and experience levels, with a spread of gentle runs and challenging slopes. The forest runs are incredibly beautiful, especially right after snowfall. Mornings are the best time to hit the slopes to take advantage of the fresh snow and fewer crowds, when the valley still feels half-asleep. Day passes for just the Bruson area start at around $65, or you can get a pass that covers all areas of the 4-Vallées — including 72 lifts and over 250 miles of slopes — starting at $110 per day. Even though Bruson’s main draw is undoubtedly its ski slopes, there’s plenty more to enjoy in and around this gorgeous village. It’s also a great destination for snowshoeing with several marked routes that wind through quiet woods and open fields.
When it’s time for a break, La Pasay is the go-to restaurant. Sitting at over 7,000 feet of elevation, it boasts floor to ceiling windows with panoramic views that stretch all the way from Mont-Blanc massif to the Bernese Alps on a clear day. The menu features Swiss fare, including hearty stew, rösti, and rich hot chocolate — with your choice of white, milk, or dark. And make sure you don’t leave Bruson without indulging in a meal at Chez Eddy. This tiny log cabin serves classic fondue and raclette in an impossibly cozy setting (with very few tables), so booking ahead is essential. Quiet evenings are perfect for stargazing or settling into your chalet with a fire and a warm drink or glass of wine. And if you ever crave a livelier scene, Verbier’s shops, spas, and après-ski energy are nearby.
Where to stay during a ski trip in Bruson, Switzerland
couple enjoying hot drink outside of a cabin – Altrendo Images/Shutterstock
While many of the hotels around Verbier cost upwards of $400 per night for a two-person room, underrated Bruson tends to be more affordable. For example, you can book a cozy two-bedroom apartment for around $250 per night, or sleep a family of eight in a chalet for about $350 per night. Note most accommodations in Bruson have a two-night minimum, so plan to make a weekend (or week) of the adventure. It’s a small village and there aren’t that many options, so it’s wise to book in advance!
If you need to expand your search, consider staying in the village of Le Châble, which connects to both Bruson and Verbier via the ski lift. It also has a train station, making it a good place to land after a long travel day. In keeping with the price point, accommodation in Bruson is typically more casual compared to some of the other resort towns around Switzerland. So for a luxurious hotel, you may prefer to stay in Verbier and hop on the ski lift to explore the charming, off-the-beaten-track Bruson as a day trip. Here’s another underrated ski destination in Switzerland where you can avoid crowds.
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