That Saas feeling

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I was tired and bleary eyed at 5 am on a Saturday morning although I wasn't holding a kebab in hand and freezing my ass off waiting for a London night bus home. No, instead I was off to Heathrow for an early morning flight with my Aunt (Deb) and her husband (Brett). A short flight to Zurich, 3 hour train ride to Visp and a 45 minute bus ride later and we were in the picturesque town of Saas Fee, Switzerland.

Nestled down in the south of Switzerland near the border of Italy and stones throw from Zermatt, I had never heard of Saas Fee although I was quickly impressed after hearing that there had just been over half a meter of powder the previous night and it had won the best ski resort in the whole of Switzerland in 2012. I can say that over the 9 days that we spent there, we were not disappointed.

The skiing conditions on piste were perfect with most days being sunny and barely anyone else on the slopes (early Feb before the school holidays). There was ample red and black runs for us intermediate skiers however some nice off piste as well which we were able to explore with our instructor Dario (absolute champion). Apart from the perfect conditions, there was also great food and always smiling faces. I'm not sure if it's the small town mentality, the Swiss charm or being around the Alps year round but the people were all so friendly and generally seemed to be happy. It was also heartening to see that even those in their golden years were getting in on the action, donned with hiking poles and retro ski jackets. Much different to city folk in London who complain that it's too hot, humid or cold to go out.

When not on the slopes there were enough restaurants, ski shops and bars to entertain along the main street. When we had finished replenishing our calories with pizzas, rosti and hot chocolate we spent the time soaking in the jacuzzi or going commando in the saunas. Not a bady way to end the day 😊

Sadly though, the day came when we had to leave. It was a nice sunny day, despite the -16 degree temperature, which was almost tempting us to stay. We all joked that we should just not hop on the bus and let it drive away like a scene in a hollywood movie, however in no time we were back in the big smoke to get ready for work on Monday. Despite the post trip blues however, I am more keen than ever to get back to the snow and if things go to plan will be doing a season at the end of 2013. Any friends/fam having a read, let me know if you're keen and let's do it.

tchoos!

Jord

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Photos

The Dom
The highest peak in Switzerland. Nice visibility on a sunny day :)

Saas Fee
The view looking down on the town from a brief piste stop.

Worlds best Hot choc
A pit stop at Spielbodens Restaurant (I believe is Michelin starred). We were told by the waiter that this concoction is made only of pure chocolate and cream and whacks a calorific punch around the 2000 mark. We weren't sure if he was joking but in either case it was worth it.

The lean
Uncle Brett posing nicely with a great view of the mountains behind.

Comments

[D MJ Binkley]

Hello Jordy,
We are planning a trip to Switzerland in the fall so we look forward to reading your impressions.

[Jordy Hoo]

Hi Dave and Merry Jo
Sorry haven't checked my blog in a long time. Have been doing a lot of travelling! I have been to several parts of Switzerland including Interlaken, Zermatt, Bern, Sion, Saas Fee and a few others. If it is an outdoors holiday you are looking for it is heaven. Please let me know if you have some specific questions about some of the places and hopefully I can help. All the best Jordy