Fashionable Gstaad ski resort is the centrepiece of a region that also includes several other ski areas boasting up to 250kms of excellent runs. Lying east of Lake Geneva, this part of the country is one of the most beautiful parts of Switzerland and is surrounded by dramatic glaciers and bucolic Alpine pastures. Gstaad, with its varied and prepared pistes, mainly appeals to the beginner and intermediate skier.

Gstaad is the region's main attraction and is the most chic Alpine town in the Bernese Oberland, retaining much of its turn-of-the-20th century charm. Facilities and shopping here are superb, with elegant boutiques and a host of non-skiing attractions. There are over 11,000 beds in moderately priced hotels, taverns and guesthouses.

Seventy ski lifts move up to 50,000 skiers per hour over Gstaad's 85kms of prepared runs and the other 175kms of pistes in the region. Runs are divided into 45 per cent beginner; 35 per cent intermediate; and 20 per cent for advanced skiers. In addition, there are 100kms of classic cross-country trails.

Other winter activities and facilities include: snowboarding, 14kms of world class toboggan runs, 40kms of skating (natural and artificial), heli-skiing, sleigh riding, mountaineering, curling and ballooning. There is also a fitness centre, and indoor swimming and tennis, among many other activities. Après-ski features hotel entertainment, fine dining, concerts, cinemas, and bars and discos.

The December to April ski season has the best snow in February and special rates before the Christmas holidays, and in January and March. There is also summer skiing.

The most practical way to get to Gstaad ski resort is to fly to either Zürich, or Geneva, and transfer by train to the resort. There are also numerous train connections to the airports, while car hire is an attractive alternative.