Skiing

Powder hounds and snow bunnies alike will find what they're looking for in Gstaad-Saanenland. Since the building of the one-track railroad from Montreux at the beginning of the 19th century, the holiday region of Gstaad has been popular, both for its ideal location at the confluence of several valleys and for the sunny mildness of its slopes. Runs start at 3,608 feet and soar up to 7,217 feet.

Gstaad Mountain Rides. With its 53 lifts, this immense resort can transport more than 50,000 skiers per hour to its network of 220 km (136 miles) of marked runs. In fact, these lifts are spread across a large territory: 20 km (12 miles), from Zweisimmen and St-Stefan in the east to Château-d'Oex in the west, and 20 km (12 miles) to the Diablerets Glacier in the south. The Glacier 3000 Snow Park is open from early November until May, and the Gstaad Snow Park is a highlight for freestyle fans. There are also more than 50 km (30 miles) of well-groomed cross-country trails in the area. Gstaad's expansive area means that most of its lifts are not reachable on foot, and since parking is in short supply, public transport, either by the train or the postbus, is the best option. Some hotels provide shuttle service as well. Gstaad, Bern. www.gstaad.ch. Lift tickets from 63 SF.

Gstaad Snowsports. Head here if you want lessons in snowboarding, or downhill or cross-country skiing. Promenade 63, Gstaad, Bern, 3780. 033/7441865; www.gstaadsnowsports.ch.