Andermatt is a small and cosy resort with an impressive selection of ski runs including some testing off-piste terrain as well as some challenging red and black runs. The resort sits by the 3,000m Gemsstock, which provides exceptional views of the surrounding areas.

The tiny village of Andermatt is known for its friendly atmosphere. A variety of visitors, including local Swiss army trainees, take advantage of the great skiing on offer; while the resort's 7,900 beds offer convenient lodgings plus unique overnight stays in igloos. Entertainment is within easy reach, with many amusements located in the hotels themselves. Mountain restaurants, excellent ski schools and a range of town facilities make the resort a comfortable destination.

There are 56kms of pistes, adding up to a total of 24 runs at the resort. This includes 29 per cent suitable for the beginner, 42 per cent for intermediate and 29 per cent for the advanced. The resort offers some varying runs with challenging slopes and some very taxing off-piste areas great for experts.

There are 13 older lifts servicing the area with a total uplift capacity for 4,100 skiers per hour. The lifts reach up to 2,963m and have a low point of 1,445m, making the total vertical descent 1,518m. Snowboarders also benefit here with a snow park and half-pipe; while students of all genres can attend the commendable ski schools on offer.

Aside from the great ski facilities here, the resort of Andermatt provides the visitor with some engaging non-ski alternatives and activities which include: natural ice-skating, mountaineering, sleigh riding, paragliding, hang-gliding, curling and hiking. There are some convivial mountain restaurants offering local and international cuisine as well as folklore evenings, giving you a taste of culture with local performances to digest.

The season at Andermatt runs from December through to April and the resort's high altitude almost guarantees good snow cover all season.

Zürich is the nearest international airport to Andermatt and is 117kms from the resort. Board a flight from the UK to Zürich and then travel by train direct to the station at the resort. Alternatively, fly to Lucerne, the closest city to the resort via Zürich, and then travel by road to the resort by hire vehicle or bus.