Saas Fee Ski Resort

Saas-Fee is one of the first European ski resorts to open each year, usually in July, offering skiing up on its Allalin glacier which is set among some of the higehst peaks in Europe. Most of the resort's skiing is between 2500-3500m and the largely northfacing slopes help maintain reliable snowcover. Fast, modern lifts serve the ski area and there is very rarely any queuing. 

Beginners and intermediates have miles of long, quiet runs on which which to practise turns. Snowbaorders flock to the high-altitude terrain parks. Unfortunately there isn't much scope for off-piste skiing.

Saas-Fee village, often compared to Zermatt, has a slower, quieter feel and is favoured by families. This car-free centre has pretty, narrow streets lined with traditional chalets, apres-ski bars and family-friendly restaurants. Electric buses and taxis can take you around.

Non-skiing activities: Outdoor ice skating, sledging, a revolving restaurant on the glacier (3500m) and an indoor leisure centre with a wealth of activities including a swimming pool.

Downside? While its northfacing runs make for some great snowcover, Saas-Fee isn't the place to go for sunny lunches on the mountain, it's largely shady ski area can be cold unless you're on the move.