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 around the world. Discover how this small Alpine town evolved into a ski paradise.


In 1927, skiing became an official tourist activity in Verbier.


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


Over time, Verbier has seen its number of tourists increase each year. The exceptional ski conditions, combined with the natural beauty of the surrounding Swiss Alps, have attracted more and more fans. Thus, new investors began to show interest in the expansion of the ski resort.


The first hotels develop in the center of the village


Tourist development in Verbier led to the construction of the first hotels in the center of the village. These establishments provided comfortable and convenient accommodations for visitors who wanted to take full advantage of the ski resort's activities. 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 hotels to luxurious five-star resorts. Verbier hotels offer 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 growing tourist demand, the Swiss Ski School in Verbier was created. This school has played an essential 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 has quickly become a pillar of the ski community in Verbier. She helped create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for skiers of all ages and abilities. Today, the school continues to offer quality learning programs and plays a key role in promoting skiing in Verbier.


Thus, thanks to these key developments, Verbier has become a must-visit destination for ski enthusiasts from all over the world. The humble beginnings of skiing in Verbier have evolved to make this small Alpine town a renowned winter sports resort. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, Verbier offers an exceptional ski experience in a beautiful setting.


Infrastructure development


In this article, we'll explore the history of infrastructure development in Verbier, highlighting the key milestones that helped make this destination a world-renowned ski resort.


1935: The road linking Le Châble to Verbier-village

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


1950: The first Médran chairlift

In 1950, another important step was taken in the development of infrastructure in Verbier: the inauguration of the first Médran chairlift. This chairlift has revolutionized the skiers' experience, providing them with a quick and efficient way to get around the slopes. It also opened up new possibilities for the development of the Verbier ski area, attracting more passionate skiers.


1968: The opening of the Sport Hôtel

In 1968, a new stage in the tourist development of Verbier was marked by the opening of the Sport Hôtel. This iconic hotel has provided quality accommodation to visitors, further enhancing the resort's appeal as a tourist destination. In addition, the opening of this establishment has stimulated the local economy, creating new employment opportunities in the hotel and restaurant sector.


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


The development of infrastructure 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 Hôtel, each stage has contributed to making Verbier a leading tourist destination.

Significant events


Since its creation in 1994, the Verbier Festival has become one of the most important musical events in Europe. Every year, world-renowned artists gather in the picturesque resort of Verbier, Switzerland 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 landscapes, providing spectators with moments of pure adrenaline.


In 2020, a major merger took place in the region with the creation of the Val de Bagnes development company. This merger marks a key step in the economic and tourist development of the region, bringing together the strengths of the two development companies to work more efficiently and promote the Val de Bagnes in a comprehensive manner.


TL;DR


Since 1994, the Verbier Festival has become a major musical event. In 2009, the first Xtreme highlighted freeride talents in Verbier. In 2020, the merger of the development companies created the Val de Bagnes development company, thus strengthening the economic and tourist potential of the region.

History | Verbier – Val de Bagnes | Alps Switzerland