WHAT’S INCLUDED

Lift Tickets: 6 Day Lift Ticket to Ski Zermatt, Switzerland & Cervinia, Italy
Guiding: Professional Local UIAGM Guides for 6 Days, 4-to-1 Client to Guide ratio
Coaching: Ski Technique & Backcountry Skills Sessions with Professional Skiers and Guides
Transportation: To/from Zurich Airport and to all Ski areas
Hotel: 7 Nights at the Hotel La Couronne *Based on 2 people per room. If you would like a room to yourself please contact us.
Meals: Breakfast Every Day, Welcome & Farewell Dinner
Welcome Gift: LGA Goody Bag

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Airfare
• Lunches: Guests will be able to have lunch at local villages and mountain lodges through the week.
• 5 Dinners: Open for the group to explore town together or experience the local cuisine with new friends.
• Alcoholic beverages
• Gratuities for Guides
• Travel & Trip Insurance: We require trip insurance for all trips abroad.
  We recommend World Nomads as they are the ultimate in travel protection and global emergencies and evacuations.
• Gear: Skis, Backpack, Avalanche beacon, Probe, Shovel, Skins, and Helmet. If you have your own equipment please bring it. Avalanche safety gear is required on all of our tours and is available to rent for $150 for the duration of the trip.
• Rentals: If you need to rent ski/snowboard equipment please let us know so that we can coordinate your rental.

THE RIDING EXPERIENCE

Each day we will experience skiing different zones that surround the Swiss and Italian border. The group will explore some of the surrounding backcountry options and lift accessed areas like the Stockhorn. Over the course of the week you will have the opportunity to ski the historic valleys of this region, ski into Italy through various routes, explore the surrounding backcountry terrain and if conditions permit, we can add in an optional day on the heli with Air Zermatt to get close to the glaciers. Throughout the week the group will be skiing the Zermatt ski area, Cervinia Italy, the surrounding backcountry zones and the endless skiing possibilities around this skiing mecca. Each ski area we visit provides a wide range of trails and off-piste options.

THE CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Each day we will enjoy lunch at Swiss mountain huts, small villages and of course some pizza in Italy. Lunch on the mountain is followed by an afternoon skiing some of the best terrain in the Swiss Alps. At the end of the day let us show you the beautiful town of Zermatt and enjoy the lively après scene. There will be a group Welcome Dinner to kick off the week and a Farewell Dinner on the last day to celebrate. Each day offers you the choice of many great on-mountain and village restaurants. Be sure to make time for an evening stroll through Zermatt’s old town area or check out the Alpine Museum to learn the history of the Matterhorn.

THE LODGING EXPERIENCE

Our hotel overlooks the historic town of Zermatt and the world famous Matterhorn mountain. This will be your home for the next week to explore this truly amazing area. Relax at the Hotel La Couronne situated in the center of town overlooking the river and stunning views of the Alps. The Couronne has some of the best views in town of the Matterhorn! The hotel features a full restaurant and bar, ski room with heated boot dryers and complimentary wireless internet. It also has a ski shop, restaurant and lounge area for all guests making this a great place to spend a week skiing Zermatt.

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1 – Arrival Day

Fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) by 1 pm where the group will be there to transport you. In some cases, you may need to plan your arrival the day before. There are many hotels near the airport offering shuttle service so it is easy to meet the group back at the airport by 1 pm. The LGA team is happy to assist you with booking a hotel room before or after your trip. If you would like to book a hotel room yourself, we suggest using Booking.com to find a nearby hotel.

Le Grand Adventure Tours welcomes you to Switzerland! Upon landing at Zurich International Airport (ZRH) you will have a private transfer to your hotel in Zermatt. Inspiring views along the way of the Swiss Alps and other ski resorts await you. Once in the valley, your first glimpses of the Glaciers and the Matterhorn will have you anxiously waiting to ski the next day. Our hotel overlooks the historic town of Zermatt and the world famous Matterhorn mountain. This will be your home for the next week to explore this truly amazing area. Tonight is your time to relax by the hotel fire, explore the town, and enjoy a freshly cooked meal from a local chef at our Welcome dinner. Enjoy the Swiss ski culture and immerse into European life.

If rentals are needed, we can arrange snow equipment for the week through local shops. If you wish to rent ski/snowboard equipment please let us know in advance so we can coordinate your rental. It is advised that you try to arrive with enough time on the arrival day to be fitted. Please advise the LGA Team before the trip if you will need gear.

Hotel: Hotel La Couronne
Included Meals: Welcome Dinner

Day 2 – 7

Once in the car-free town of Zermatt, we are at the base of the ski area and one of the most picturesque valleys in the Alps. Each day we will experience skiing different zones that surround the Swiss and Italian border. The group will explore some of the surrounding backcountry options and lift-accessed areas like the Stockhorn. Situated near the famous peaks of the Matterhorn and the Monte Rosa arena, Zermatt is one of the oldest ski resorts in Switzerland. Over the course of the week you will have the opportunity to ski the historic valleys of this region, ski into Italy through various routes, explore the surrounding backcountry terrain and if conditions permit, we can add in an optional day on the heli with Air Zermatt to get close to the glaciers.

Every day the group will enjoy healthy local Swiss Breakfasts at the hotel with daily departures to ski between 8:00 AM-8:30 AM. Over the course of 6 days our local LGA guides will take you deep into the heart of the Alps and across multiple valleys. On the first day the group will acclimate to the surroundings and terrain with runs on the Rothorn, Stockhorn and surrounding piste areas. One run in Zermatt is 16 miles long if you have the legs for it! Early runs are used to assess skiing ability and go over key fundamentals for safe and effective travel in the high mountains as well as making sure everyone’s gear is ready for the week. Our guides will prepare everyone to be confident and comfortable with the week’s upcoming locations. Daily ski destinations are decided upon with consideration to safety, weather, and snow conditions. Once everyone is up to speed it will be time to start exploring the region. Throughout the week the group will be skiing the Zermatt ski area, Cervinia Italy, the surrounding backcountry zones and the endless skiing possibilities around this skiing mecca. Each ski area we visit provides a wide range of trails and off-piste options.

Enjoy a train from Zermatt along the Swiss mountain side to the top of the Gornergrat at just over 10,000 feet with incredible views of the Monte Rosa area. The tram to the Top of the Klein Matterhorn is not only an engineering marvel but provides access to Italy. The journey climbs to 12,700 feet with some of the most magnificent views of the Alps. The highest mountain lift in Europe!

Each day we will enjoy lunch at Swiss mountain huts, small villages and of course some pizza in Italy. Lunch on the mountain is followed by an afternoon skiing some of the best terrain in the Swiss Alps. Experience non stop skiing and riding through untracked powder with views of the Matterhorn. At the end of the day let us show you the beautiful town of Zermatt and enjoy the lively après scene. If conditions permit we will try one of the local favorite winter sports-sledging (tobogganing.) After a long day skiing and exploring everyone has access to the saunas at the hotel to conclude your day. Relax in one of the most picturesque villages in the world.

There will be a group Welcome Dinner to kick off the week and a Farewell Dinner on the last day to celebrate. Each day offers you the choice of many great on-mountain and village restaurants. Be sure to make time for an evening stroll through Zermatt’s old town area or check out the Alpine Museum to learn the history of the Matterhorn. Relax at the Hotel La Couronne situated in the center of town overlooking the river and stunning views of the Alps. The Couronne has some of the best views in town of the Matterhorn! The hotel features a full restaurant and bar, ski room with heated boot dryers and complimentary wireless internet. It also has a ski shop, restaurant and lounge area for all guests making this a great place to spend a week skiing Zermatt.

Hotel: Hotel La Couronne
Included Meals: Breakfasts | Farewell Dinner

Day 8 – Departure Day

Relax and take in the beautiful mountain scenery one more time on this final morning. We will say our goodbyes over breakfast and laugh over the great memories we shared during the trip. There is nothing like a ski trip to Zermatt and we are sure it will leave you wanting to come back for more. Transportation will take you back to Zurich where you can spend an extra night exploring the city or begin your journey home. Please make sure to book all return flights for the later part of the afternoon.

Included Meals: Breakfast

NOTE: This itinerary is an example. The tour may be altered to adjust for weather and conditions. Our guides will plan the tour around the conditions to make sure you have the best trip possible.

FAQ

Check out our General FAQs section. Here you will find answers to your general questions.

What Should I Bring With Me?

Ski/Snowboard Gear:
Skis/Snowboard, boots, poles
Goggles
Helmet – stay safe on the slopes!!

Misc/Recommended:
Backpack
Avalanche Transceiver
Shovel/Probe
Touring Gear and Skins
Packable Puffy
Climbing Harness (that fits over ski pants)
(We can assist with some gear, please feel free to contact us)

Après Clothing:
You will be in the Alps for a week so please bring proper clothing for when you’re not on the slopes.

Travel Requirements:
Current Passport
Credit card, cash and/or traveler’s checks
ID or driver’s license
Medical insurance cards
Prescriptions or other medications
Important phone numbers
Proof of Travelers Insurance

Can I Reserve My Trip With a Deposit?

Yes, you can reserve your trip with a Deposit for all tours. Reservations are available immediately once a trip is announced and up to 90 days prior to the Date of Departure. The Deposit amount is twenty percent (20%) of the Tour Price. When booking within 89 days or less prior to the date of departure, the full amount is due at time of booking.

When Should I Make My Travel Arrangements?

Please wait until you receive confirmation from Le Grand Adventure Tours before making any travel arrangements. Our team is happy to assist you with any travel needs.

When is The Final Payment For This Tours Due?

Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure, or 7 days from booking confirmation if booking is within 90 days.

What Is Your Cancellation Policy?

• 90 days or more prior to Departure: LGA will retain the deposit as an “Adventure Deposit” for a future trip. Full refund will be given.
• 89-60 days prior to Departure: LGA will retain 50% of the total Tour Price and the deposit will be held as an Adventure Deposit for a future trip.
• 59 days or less prior to Departure: LGA will retain 100% of the total Tour Price.
  Le Grand Adventure Tours cannot be held responsible for snow and/or weather conditions. Trips cannot be cancelled or amended on the basis of snow and weather conditions.

What Is Your Refund Policy?

No refunds, reimbursements or discounts will be granted if, for any reason, Client misses the Tour, fails to join the Tour, leaves the Tour, is dismissed from the Tour, or cannot fully participate in the Tour. Any Refunds will be at the discretion of Le Grand Adventure Tours if you are involuntarily forced to leave a tour for any reason.

What Type of Skis To Bring?

A ski with roughly a 100mm to 110mm is the best option. If you want to bring a wider pair of skis please feel free or we can rent these if needed.

Do I Need Ski Touring Equipment?

It is highly recommended but not mandatory. If you have a new pair of touring bindings (Dynafit, Plum, Marker, Salomon, etc) and are comfortable skiing a wide variety of terrain on them, please feel free to bring them.

Do I Need Backcountry Safety Gear?

Avalanche safety gear is required on all of our tours. If you have your own equipment please bring it. Ski backpacks including a beacon, shovel, and probe are available to rent for $150 for the duration of the trip. (Option available to add-on at checkout. If you wish to add later please feel free to contact us.)

Ski & Gear Rentals

If you wish to rent ski/snowboard equipment please let us know so that we can coordinate your rental. Please advise the LGA Team before the trip if you will need gear.

What is the Best Way to Get There?

Fly into Zurich International Airport (ZRH) by 1pm where the group will be there to transport you. In some cases you may need to plan your arrival the day before. There are many hotels near the airport offering shuttle service so it is easy to meet the group back at the airport by 1pm. We suggest using Booking.com to find a nearby hotel.

What Is The Weather Going To Be Like?

For the most accurate weather please check the Zermatt Weather Online a few days before your trip. We will be in the mountains so bring clothes that will keep you warm in a wide variety of conditions. We will guarantee you get the most out of your ski holiday as we have a wide range of activities that we can add into the trip incase there are down days due to snow storms or weather.

What is The Group Size?

Small group sizes that don’t exceed 10 guests.

Do We Need to Tip Our Guides? If So, What is Standard?

Gratuities are not included. Tips are accepted at your discretion based on the overall trip experience provided by our team.

Do I Need Trip Insurance?

Trip Insurance is Not Included: We require trip insurance for all trips abroad. Protecting your trip & safety is our priority!
We recommend World Nomads as they are the ultimate in travel protection and global emergencies and evacuations.

How Long Does It Take to Fly to Switzerland?

Flight time from the West Coast of the United States to Zurich is approximately 11.5 hours if you book a non-stop flight. From the East Coast the flight time is approximately 8 hours.

Can I Use My Credit Card in Switzerland?

Credit cards are widely accepted, but Amex is not always accepted. Better stick with Visa. You will need some cash – but just for casual expenses. Most things can be paid for by credit card. The currency is CHF/Swiss Franc. EUR is not the currency of Switzerland (even if it is sometimes accepted by some merchants at a bad exchange rate). It never makes sense to carry too much cash on you – anywhere. Withdrawing cash from your checking account using your US cash/debit card is usually much cheaper than converting dollar bills at an exchange desk and you will get the BEST Exchange rate. Many credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee around 3-5%. This may be the time to get yourself a fun new rewards travel credit card that comes with “No Foreign Transaction Fees.” We never leave home without it.

Which Languages are Spoken in Switzerland?

The four national languages of Switzerland are German, French, Italian and Romansh. In the Davos & St. Moritz area they speak German or a Swiss-German dialect. You will find English is widely spoke all over Switzerland. It is still great to learn a few of the day to day vocabulary to be polite.

Is It Safe to Travel to Switzerland?

Switzerland is very safe. Always take regular precautions whenever abroad to save yourself from any potential headaches that could interfere with your travels.

I Heard Switzerland is Expensive, How Expensive is it?

With its plethora of international banks, the country is a center for global wealth. This means prices are high, but people are paid quite well. Supermarket sell pre-made meals for between 5-9 CHF. Bars and cafés are the cheapest food option, cost about 9-15 CHF for a lunch special. Restaurants with table service are around 20 CHF for lunch and 40 CHF for dinner (starter, main, and drink) to start. You’ll typically find pizzas for around 20 CHF in a restaurant. If you’re dining out (but still trying to stick to a budget), you’ll spend an average of 25-45 CHF a day on food.