Skiing in Verbier and accommodation

[inga]

Has anyone ever skiied in Verbier, Switzerland? A few friends and I are thinking of taking a trip there over new years to ski. How is the snow? The town in terms of other things to do, restaurants, nightlife, etc? Also we want to rent an apartment or some type of chalet accommodation so that it's cheaper than staying in a hotel. Any ideas of how I can go about this, the best site?? I have found this site:

http://www.verbierrentals.com/verbier_accommodation.php?showAll=true

I also like the look and prices of these apartments:

http://www.casamundo.co.uk/switzerland/valais/verbier.htm

This site also looks decent, though some of the places look a bit pricey:

http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/verbier/

Has anyone used these sites or know how I can go about this? Should we already be booking something now?

 

[Tony Crocker]

Has anyone ever skied in Verbier, Switzerland?

Daytrip from Chamonix with a ski writers' group in 2004: viewtopic.php?f=5&t=5551
This was the first big interconnected Euro resort I have seen, and I was certainly impressed with lifts and terrain. With about 4 hours and 17K vertical I barely scratched the surface. The resort is at 4,920 feet and the top of the Mont Fort tram is at 10,925.

How is the snow?

223 inches average annual snowfall at 7,200 feet over 30 years. My impression is that this is about average for the Alps. The lower mountain faces mostly west and probably has a lot of variable conditions. Once you get above that big station Les Ruinettes at 7,200 the snow from February onwards should be quite reliable.

The town in terms of other things to do, restaurants, nightlife, etc?

We were only there for the day, but the reputation for both is outstanding. Similarly can't help you on the lodging. My impression was that most of the lodging was ski accessible. Expensive reputation, but looks worth it. I would certainly go back sometime for a more extended visit.