The history of our territory and its development are strongly linked to tourism, and particularly to winter tourism with skiing.

The beginnings of skiing in Verbier


In this article, we'll explore the beginnings of skiing in Verbier, a renowned winter sports resort in Switzerland. Over the years, Verbier has become a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts from all over the world. Discover how this small alpine town evolved into a skiing paradise.


In 1927, skiing became an official tourist activity in Verbier


In 1927, skiing became an official tourist activity in Verbier. The locals began to realize the potential of their beautiful mountain region to attract visitors by offering winter activities. The first ski slopes were developed, giving winter sports enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy the fresh snow.


Over time, Verbier has seen its number of tourists increase every year. The exceptional skiing conditions, combined with the natural beauty of the surrounding Swiss Alps, have attracted more and more enthusiasts. As a result, new investors have begun to show interest in expanding the ski resort.


The first hotels are being developed in the center of the village


The development of tourism in Verbier led to the construction of the first hotels in the village center. These establishments offered comfortable and convenient accommodation for visitors who wanted to fully enjoy the activities of the ski resort. The first hotels were modest, but they quickly gained popularity and played a key role in the development of Verbier as a renowned tourist destination.


Over the years, new hotels have been built to meet the growing demand from tourists. Today, Verbier offers a wide range of accommodation options, from small family-run hotels to luxurious five-star resorts. Verbier's hotels provide quality service and modern facilities, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors.


The Swiss Ski School of Verbier was created in 1933 to meet the growing demand from tourists


In 1933, to meet the growing demand from tourists, the Swiss Ski School of Verbier was founded. This school played a vital role in the development of skiing in Verbier by offering lessons and training for all levels. The school's qualified instructors helped beginners learn the basics of skiing, while more experienced skiers benefited from advanced tips and techniques.


The Swiss Ski School of Verbier quickly became a pillar of the Verbier ski community. It helped create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for skiers of all ages and abilities. Today, the school continues to offer high-quality learning programs and plays a key role in promoting skiing in Verbier.


Thanks to these key developments, Verbier has become a must-visit destination for ski enthusiasts worldwide. The humble beginnings of skiing in Verbier have evolved into a renowned winter sports resort, transforming this small alpine town into a prestigious destination. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier, Verbier offers an exceptional skiing experience in a stunning setting.


Infrastructure development


In this article, we will explore the history of infrastructure development in Verbier, highlighting the key steps that have contributed to making this destination a world-renowned ski resort.


1935: The road linking Le Châble to Verbier-village

In 1935, a major event marked the beginning of infrastructure development in Verbier: the construction of the road linking Le Châble to Verbier village. This road facilitated access to the resort, paving the way for increased tourism in the region. Visitors began flocking to Verbier to enjoy its spectacular scenery and winter activities.


1950: The first chairlift in Médran

In 1950, another important milestone was reached in the development of Verbier's infrastructure: the inauguration of the first Médran chairlift. This chairlift revolutionized the skiing experience, offering skiers a fast and efficient way to move around the slopes. It also opened up new possibilities for the development of the Verbier ski area, attracting even more passionate skiers.


1968: The opening of the Sport Hotel

In 1968, a new stage in Verbier's tourism development was marked by the opening of the Sport Hotel. This iconic hotel offered quality accommodation to visitors, thus strengthening the resort's appeal as a tourist destination. Furthermore, the opening of this establishment stimulated the local economy, creating new job opportunities in the hotel and restaurant sector.


Today, Verbier has become a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts, thanks to its well-developed infrastructure. Skiers from all over the world come to enjoy its diverse slopes and breathtaking panoramas. Thanks to continuous investment in infrastructure, Verbier continues to grow and improve as a world-renowned ski resort.


Infrastructure development in Verbier has played a vital role in the evolution of this ski resort. From the construction of the road linking Le Châble to Verbier-village to the opening of the Sport Hotel, each step has contributed to making Verbier a leading tourist destination.

Key events


Since its inception in 1994, the Verbier Festival has become one of Europe's most important music events. Every year, world-renowned artists gather in the picturesque Swiss resort of Verbier to deliver exceptional musical performances.


In 2009, Verbier hosted the first Xtreme, a freeride competition that attracts the best skiers and snowboarders from around the world. This daring event showcases the region's incredible slopes and mountain scenery, offering spectators moments of pure adrenaline.


In 2020, a significant merger took place in the region with the creation of the Val de Bagnes Development Company. This merger marks a key step in the region's economic and tourism development, combining the strengths of the two development companies to work more effectively and promote the Val de Bagnes as a whole.


TL;DR


Since 1994, the Verbier Festival has become a major music event. In 2009, the first Xtreme showcased freeride talent in Verbier. In 2020, the merger of development companies created the Val de Bagnes Development Company, thus strengthening the region's economic and tourism potential.

History | Verbier – Val de Bagnes | Swiss Alps