Chandolin ski resort is located in the Sierre-Anniviers region of the Swiss Alps, in the canton of Valais, Switzerland. It sits at an altitude of about 2,000 meters, making it one of the highest ski villages in Europe. Chandolin is one of the 4 skiing areas that makes up the ski area Val d'Anniviers.
Chandolin ski resort - Val d'Anniviers ski area
The largest ski area, Grimentz/Zinal, has 19 lifts and 100 km of pistes. Zinal is situated below a glacier and is the last village in the valley, offering the best choice of activities.
Chandolin is the highest resort in Val d’Anniviers neighbouring St Luc and mirrors its qualities both on and off the slopes. The two resorts are connected by the Cabane Bella Tola chair lift and give access to 75km of piste between them. Chandolin enjoys remarkable snow conditions, and nature-lovers will be delighted by its unspoiled setting.
The slightly smaller ski area, Vercorin, with its 35 km of pistes, leaves nothing to be desired. For beginners in particular, Vercorin is a perfect skiing area, as it consists of almost exclusively easier pistes, with only 3 km of black pistes.
The full Val d’Anniviers lift pass also allows skiing on the other side of the valley at Grimentz-Zinal and Vercorin or you can buy a lift ticket for St-Luc Chandolin only.
Shuttle bus travel in the Val d’Anniviers is free in winter to make it easy for you to move between the villages and resorts
Skiing in St.Luc & Chandolin
St-Luc and Chandolin are the name of 2 separate villages that are about 15 minutes away by bus but they are part of one connected ski area. The ski area at St-Luc Chandolin is accessed either by the Tignousa funicular train departing from St-Luc or Le Tsapé chairlift for guests staying in Chandolin. The quad Le Tsapé chairlift is the only one in the Chandolin side with the Etables, Tza and Illhorn T-bar completing the rest of the ski area infrastructure. Both the Etables and Tza T-bar are suited for beginners to stay in the area while the Illhorn T-bar is only for experts as it has a steep incline at the upper section which is only suitable for advanced skiers.
Chandolin is ideal for beginners with its gentle nursery slopes and easy runs. The resort boasts several dedicated beginner areas, the most notable being the Prilett’ area located at the top of the funicular in St-Luc. The Tignousa area also provides a safe and controlled environment for novice skiers to master their skills. Once comfortable on the nursery slopes, beginners can progress to the blue runs like the Bella Tola and the Illhorn.
The red runs provide a good challenge and an opportunity to refine skills. The Bella Tola run, in particular, is a favourite among intermediate skiers, with its panoramic views of the Rhone Valley. The Tsapé sector also offers delightful red runs such as the Tsapé and the Le Basset.
St-Luc Chandolin is a paradise for advanced skiers. The resort boasts several challenging black runs that are sure to get the adrenaline pumping. The Corne de Sorebois is a black run that starts from an altitude of 2,800m and descends through steep and uneven terrain. Another popular black run is the Pas de Boeuf, a steep and narrow trail that offers a thrilling descent. These runs demand technical skills and are sure to test the mettle of even the most seasoned skiers.
Off-piste skiing
St-Luc Chandolin is known for its excellent off-piste skiing opportunities. The off-piste here is also incredible with the resort hosting qualifying rounds of the annual Freeride World Tour. The area around Tsapé provides an exciting off-piste playground with powder-filled bowls and challenging terrain. The Vallon de Réchy, in particular, is a favourite among experienced skiers, offering a long and varied off-piste descent.
Chandolin village
Chandolin is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat, family-friendly skiing, or a romantic getaway in a picturesque alpine setting. It's less suited to those looking for vibrant nightlife or vast ski domains. Nightlife and après-ski options are minimal. The Sunset Bar at the Chandolin Boutique Hotel is a great place for après ski drinks with music and a friendly atmosphere, opens only on Saturdays.
Visit the historic mill and traditional bakery in the old village of Chandolin to experience some local culture.
Chandolin village was the alpine home of travel writer, photographer and Olympic sportswoman, Ella Maillart. Museum with its permananent exhibition shows the different life's stages of this extraordinary woman.