Express Transfer GmbH

Spring Skiing in Switzerland

Spring Skiing in Switzerland: Complete March & April Guide

Spring skiing in the Swiss Alps offers something magical that winter skiing can’t match: brilliant sunshine, comfortable temperatures, longer days, and surprisingly excellent snow conditions at high-altitude resorts. Yet many skiers mistakenly assume the season ends in February, missing out on what experienced alpinists consider the best time to ski.

Express Transfer operates throughout the spring season, and we’ve noticed an interesting pattern: clients who discover March and April skiing often become converts, returning year after year for the unique combination of quality snow, sunshine, and value that defines spring in the Alps.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about spring skiing in Switzerland, from which resorts stay open to how conditions change throughout spring, plus essential transfer planning for the season.

Why Spring Skiing Deserves Your Attention

The Spring Skiing Advantage

Longer Days

  • March: Sunrise ~6:30 AM, sunset ~6:30 PM (12 hours of daylight)
  • April: Sunrise ~6:00 AM, sunset ~7:30 PM (13+ hours of daylight)
  • Compare to January: sunrise ~7:30 AM, sunset ~4:30 PM (9 hours)

More daylight means more skiing, leisurely morning starts, and stunning late-afternoon light on the peaks.

Warmer Temperatures

  • March: -5°C to +5°C at resort level, perfect jacket weather
  • April: 0°C to +10°C at resort level, t-shirt skiing possible
  • Comfortable lunch on sunny terraces (no frozen fingers!)
  • Less extreme cold reduces frostbite risk and increases enjoyment

Exceptional Snow Quality (at Altitude) High-altitude resorts maintain excellent coverage:

  • Cold overnight temperatures refreeze the snowpack
  • Morning skiing on “corn snow” (firm, fast, grippy)
  • Afternoon skiing in softer conditions (forgiving, fun)
  • Depth remains good at resorts above 2,500m

Smaller Crowds

  • Families return to school after Easter
  • Many casual skiers assume the season is over
  • Lift queues shrink dramatically
  • More space on pistes
  • Quieter, more relaxed resort atmosphere

Better Value

  • Accommodation: 30-50% cheaper than February
  • Lift passes: Often discounted or spring promotions
  • Restaurants: Lower prices, special deals
  • Transfers: Standard rates (except Easter week)
  • Overall savings: 40%+ compared to peak winter

The Spring Skiing Experience

Spring skiing feels fundamentally different from winter. The entire atmosphere shifts:

Morning (7:00-11:00 AM):

  • Fresh, firm snow refrozen overnight
  • Fast, grippy conditions
  • Cool temperatures, light jacket sufficient
  • Best skiing of the day for advanced skiers
  • Empty slopes (many late risers on holiday)

Midday (11:00 AM-2:00 PM):

  • Snow softening as sun warms slopes
  • Perfect for intermediates and learners
  • Long, leisurely mountain lunches
  • Sunny terraces with mountain views
  • Relaxed, social atmosphere

Afternoon (2:00-5:00 PM):

  • Softer, more forgiving snow
  • Excellent for practicing technique
  • Some slopes may become slushy (depending on altitude/aspect)
  • Beautiful light for photography
  • Extended day allows for extra runs

Evening:

  • Après-ski on sunny terraces extends longer
  • Warmer evenings allow for outdoor dining
  • Less exhausting cold than winter
  • Easier on families with children

March Skiing: Peak Spring Conditions

March Overview: The Sweet Spot Month

March represents the optimal balance of winter snow reliability and spring sunshine. High-altitude resorts maintain near-winter snowpacks while delivering significantly better weather than January or February.

Snow Conditions:

  • Early March (March 1-15): Excellent, winter-like coverage continues
  • Mid-March (March 15-25): Transition begins, corn snow develops
  • Late March (March 25-31): Full spring conditions, altitude matters

Weather:

  • Average sunshine: 6-7 hours daily (up from 4-5 in winter)
  • Temperatures: -5°C to +5°C at resort level
  • Snowfall: Less frequent but still possible (especially early March)
  • Blue sky days: More common than any winter month

What’s Open: ALL major Swiss resorts remain fully operational throughout March with maximum terrain available. Lower slopes at lower-altitude resorts may soften by late afternoon but mornings stay excellent.

Best Swiss Resorts for March Skiing

Zermatt (1,620m – 3,883m)

Why Zermatt Excels in March:

  • Highest skiing in Switzerland (Matterhorn Glacier Paradise 3,883m)
  • Glacier skiing guarantees excellent snow
  • Extensive high-altitude terrain (60%+ above 2,500m)
  • North-facing slopes preserve snow quality
  • Season extends through April into May

March Highlights:

  • 360km of pistes, nearly all open
  • Iconic Matterhorn views in brilliant sunshine
  • Excellent snow-to-sunshine ratio
  • Car-free village remains charming
  • Lower crowds than winter peaks

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 3h 15min Express Transfer Cost: €550-650

March Verdict: Exceptional. Zermatt in March offers the complete package—guaranteed snow, stunning scenery, and spring sunshine.

Saas-Fee (1,800m – 3,600m)

Why Saas-Fee Excels in March:

  • “Pearl of the Alps” nickname well-deserved in spring
  • Extensive glacier skiing to 3,600m
  • High base elevation (1,800m) ensures village-level snow
  • More affordable than Zermatt
  • Excellent for families (gentler terrain, good ski schools)

March Highlights:

  • 150km of pistes, all open
  • Revolving restaurant at 3,500m (stunning lunch venue)
  • Less crowded than other major resorts
  • Car-free village (electric taxis only)
  • Great value accommodation

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 3h 30min Express Transfer Cost: €560-670

March Verdict: Outstanding value. Similar conditions to Zermatt at 20-30% lower cost.

St. Moritz (1,800m – 3,303m)

Why St. Moritz Excels in March:

  • Engadin’s famous “champagne climate” delivers sunshine
  • High altitude preserves snow quality
  • Four distinct ski areas provide variety
  • Glacier skiing at Corvatsch (3,303m)
  • Luxury and sophistication for those who appreciate it

March Highlights:

  • 350km across Corviglia, Corvatsch, Diavolezza, Lagalb
  • Frozen lake activities continue early March
  • Sunny south-facing aspect perfect for spring
  • Upscale dining and shopping
  • Exclusive atmosphere with fewer crowds

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 3h 15min Express Transfer Cost: €550-650

March Verdict: Premium spring experience. Higher prices but exceptional conditions and atmosphere.

Verbier (1,500m – 3,330m)

Why Verbier Excels in March:

  • 4 Vallées ski area (410km total)
  • Excellent off-piste opportunities with spring snow
  • High-altitude terrain maintains quality
  • Lively après-ski scene extends onto sunny terraces
  • Legendary for advanced skiers

March Highlights:

  • Massive ski area rarely feels crowded
  • Mont Fort glacier (3,330m) ensures good snow
  • Excellent for mixed-ability groups
  • Vibrant village atmosphere
  • Spring skiing with winter snow coverage

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 3h 45min Express Transfer Cost: €600-700 (sedan), €700-820 (SUV)

March Verdict: Excellent for groups and advanced skiers. Worth the longer transfer for the terrain variety.

Engelberg (1,050m – 3,020m)

Why Engelberg Works in March:

  • Titlis glacier ensures upper mountain snow
  • Shortest transfer from Zurich (1h 30min)
  • Good value compared to Valais resorts
  • Family-friendly terrain and facilities
  • Rotair revolving cable car (tourist attraction itself)

March Considerations:

  • Lower base elevation means valley runs can be slushy by afternoon
  • Focus skiing on upper mountain after mid-March
  • Still excellent conditions on Titlis glacier
  • Village level may be spring-like or snow-free late March

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 1h 30min Express Transfer Cost: €380-450

March Verdict: Good choice for short trips and families. Stick to upper mountain late March.

Davos (1,560m – 2,844m)

Why Davos in March:

  • Massive Parsenn ski area (300km Davos-Klosters)
  • Excellent north-facing slopes preserve snow
  • Great value accommodation and dining
  • Sunny Jakobshorn for spring park sessions
  • Authentic Swiss town atmosphere

March Considerations:

  • No glacier, so conditions become more spring-like than Zermatt
  • North-facing Parsenn slopes stay better than south-facing Jakobshorn
  • Still excellent early-to-mid March
  • Late March: focus on higher elevations

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 2h Express Transfer Cost: €420-480

March Verdict: Excellent value and variety. Best for first three weeks of March.

Andermatt (1,444m – 2,961m)

Why Andermatt in March:

  • Modern resort with extensive terrain
  • North-facing Gemsstock preserves powder
  • Good mixture of groomed and off-piste
  • Lower crowds than famous resorts
  • Central location, shorter transfer than Valais

March Highlights:

  • 120km of varied terrain
  • Excellent for powder enthusiasts (north aspects)
  • Modern lift infrastructure
  • Good value accommodation
  • Less touristy, more authentic

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 2h Express Transfer Cost: €420-480

March Verdict: Underrated gem. Excellent snow preservation on Gemsstock north faces.

March 2027 Special Advantage

Easter Falls in April 2027

Since Easter 2027 occurs April 4-6 (early April), March 2027 presents an exceptional opportunity:

  • No Easter week premium pricing throughout all of March
  • Excellent conditions without peak-season crowds
  • Book 3-4 weeks ahead instead of 8-10 weeks for Easter
  • Save 20-30% compared to typical Easter-in-March years
  • All the benefits of spring skiing at standard rates

This makes March 2027 particularly attractive for flexible travelers seeking value.

March Transfer Planning

Demand Level: Moderate (Low late March if no Easter)

Booking Timeline:

  • First three weeks of March: 3-4 weeks advance
  • Late March 2027: 2-3 weeks sufficient (Easter in April)

Road Conditions:

  • Generally excellent throughout March
  • Mountain passes begin opening late March (shorter routes possible)
  • Weather improving, less snowfall disruption
  • Still winter tires/equipment required

Optimal Transfer Times:

  • Morning arrivals ideal (ski same afternoon possible)
  • Evening arrivals work well (next-day skiing)
  • Comfortable driving conditions vs. harsh winter

Express Transfer Recommendations for March:

  • High-altitude resorts recommended: Zermatt, Saas-Fee, St. Moritz
  • Mid-altitude resorts (Davos, Andermatt) excellent early-mid March
  • Avoid lower resorts (below 1,500m base) late March
  • Book 3-4 weeks ahead for best vehicle availability
  • Consider longer stays (snow quality excellent, value good)

April Skiing: Late Season Specialists

April Overview: Glacier Season

April separates casual resorts from serious high-altitude skiing. Only resorts with glacier access or very high terrain maintain quality throughout April, but those that do offer exceptional conditions for those who know where to go.

Snow Conditions:

  • Early April (April 1-10): Excellent at high altitude, spring conditions lower
  • Mid-April (April 11-20): Glacier/high resorts still good, lower resorts closing
  • Late April (April 21-30): Glacier specialists only, but excellent quality

Weather:

  • Average sunshine: 7-8 hours daily (brilliant blue skies)
  • Temperatures: 0°C to +10°C at resort level, T-shirt skiing common
  • Snowfall: Rare, but occasionally brings fresh powder to high elevations
  • Stable, predictable weather patterns

What’s Open:

Early April (Including Easter Week 2027):

  • All major high-altitude resorts operating
  • Most resorts still have good coverage
  • Lower slopes beginning to close at some resorts

Mid-April:

  • High-altitude/glacier resorts continue full operations
  • Mid-altitude resorts closing or operating reduced terrain
  • Focus on upper mountain slopes

Late April:

  • Zermatt, Saas-Fee (glacier skiing excellent)
  • Engelberg (Titlis glacier)
  • St. Moritz (Corvatsch limited operations)
  • Most other resorts closed

Best Swiss Resorts for April Skiing

Zermatt (THE April Champion)

Why Zermatt Dominates April:

  • Highest skiing in Switzerland (3,883m)
  • Glacier Paradise operates through April and into May
  • More high-altitude terrain than any other Swiss resort
  • Season officially extends to early May
  • Klein Matterhorn north face preserves snow perfectly

April Highlights:

  • 21km of prepared glacier pistes
  • Morning skiing on perfect corn snow
  • Afternoon sunshine on mountain terraces
  • Iconic Matterhorn views in brilliant light
  • Village level spring atmosphere (outdoor dining, hiking)

April Conditions:

  • Excellent on glacier throughout April
  • Lower slopes close mid-April
  • Focus on Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
  • Some of best skiing of entire season (morning conditions)

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 3h 15min Express Transfer Cost: €550-650

April Verdict: Unmatched. If skiing in April, Zermatt is the obvious choice.

Saas-Fee (Glacier Guarantee)

Why Saas-Fee Excels in April:

  • Extensive glacier terrain to 3,600m
  • Often less crowded than Zermatt
  • Better value accommodation
  • Car-free village charm
  • Excellent ski school for beginners on glacier

April Highlights:

  • Middle Allalin glacier (3,500m) operates full schedule
  • Revolving restaurant with 360° views
  • Spring village atmosphere with alpine hiking
  • Family-friendly terrain on glacier
  • Lower prices than Zermatt for similar conditions

April Conditions:

  • Excellent glacier skiing throughout April
  • Morning snow quality outstanding
  • Afternoon gets soft but remains skiable
  • Some of the most reliable April skiing anywhere

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 3h 30min Express Transfer Cost: €560-670 (sedan), €660-770 (SUV)

April Verdict: Exceptional value. Zermatt-quality skiing at Davos prices.

Engelberg (Titlis Glacier)

Why Engelberg in April:

  • Shortest transfer from Zurich (1h 30min)
  • Titlis glacier operates into May
  • Rotair cable car experience
  • Good mixture of skiing and other activities
  • Weekend trip viable due to proximity

April Highlights:

  • Glacier terrain above 3,000m
  • Lower half of resort closed, focus on Titlis
  • Excellent for combining skiing with hiking
  • Village level: full spring, flowers blooming
  • Very economical accommodation

April Conditions:

  • Glacier good throughout April
  • Limited terrain compared to Zermatt
  • Focus entirely on upper mountain
  • Valley runs not skiable

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 1h 30min Express Transfer Cost: €380-450

April Verdict: Best for short trips. Limited terrain but excellent access and value.

St. Moritz (Corvatsch Glacier, Limited)

Why St. Moritz in April:

  • Corvatsch glacier operates limited schedule
  • Luxury village experience in spring
  • Beautiful Engadin scenery
  • Excellent dining and shopping
  • Some hiking combined with skiing

April Considerations:

  • More limited than Zermatt/Saas-Fee
  • Corviglia typically closes early April
  • Corvatsch glacier has reduced operations
  • Really for those who want St. Moritz experience specifically

Transfer from Zurich Airport: 3h 15min Express Transfer Cost: €550-650

April Verdict: Limited skiing but beautiful setting. Better for March.

Easter 2027 Special Considerations

Easter Weekend: April 4-6, 2027

Easter 2027 falls early in April—excellent timing for spring skiing:

Advantages:

  • Snow coverage still excellent at high-altitude resorts
  • Weather typically stable and sunny
  • Perfect “Goldilocks” timing (not too late)
  • All major resorts fully operational Easter weekend

Recommended Resorts Easter 2027:

  1. Zermatt – Exceptional conditions, maximum terrain open
  2. Saas-Fee – Excellent value alternative
  3. Verbier – Great for groups, 4 Vallées still fully open
  4. St. Moritz – Luxury experience with excellent coverage
  5. Davos – Value option, good conditions early April

Booking for Easter 2027:

  • HIGH demand Easter Saturday (April 5)
  • Book transfers by early February 2027 (8-10 weeks ahead)
  • Accommodation: Book by December 2026 for best selection
  • Premium pricing applies (20-30% above standard)
  • Heavy traffic Saturday April 5 (plan accordingly)

April Transfer Planning

Demand Level:

Easter Week (April 4-6, 2027): HIGH – Peak period Post-Easter (April 7-30, 2027): LOW – Off-peak

Booking Timeline:

  • Easter week: 8-10 weeks advance (by early February)
  • Post-Easter: 2-3 weeks sufficient

Road Conditions:

  • Excellent throughout April
  • All major passes typically open by mid-April
  • Shorter routes available via newly opened passes
  • Dry, stable conditions
  • No winter driving challenges

Optimal Transfer Times:

  • Early morning arrivals maximize skiing time
  • Pleasant driving conditions (no darkness/extreme cold)
  • Scenic routes in full spring beauty

Express Transfer Recommendations for April:

  • Strongly recommend glacier resorts: Zermatt, Saas-Fee
  • Engelberg works for short trips/weekends
  • Avoid non-glacier resorts after mid-April
  • Easter week: book early
  • Post-Easter: last-minute bookings possible, excellent value

Spring Snow Conditions Explained

Understanding Corn Snow

“Corn snow” is spring skiing’s signature surface:

Formation:

  1. Daytime sun melts surface layer
  2. Overnight freeze refreezes into small, corn-kernel-sized granules
  3. Morning sun softens just the surface
  4. Results in grippy, fast, forgiving surface

Characteristics:

  • Forms on warm, sunny days followed by cold nights
  • Best skiing: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Soft enough to be forgiving
  • Firm enough to hold an edge
  • Faster than powder, slower than ice
  • Excellent for learning and improving

Where It Forms Best:

  • South and west-facing slopes (maximum sun exposure)
  • Elevations 2,000m – 3,000m
  • High-altitude resorts with cold nights

Daily Snow Evolution in Spring

6:00-8:00 AM: Frozen Solid

  • Overnight freeze creates icy surface
  • Challenging for beginners
  • Advanced skiers enjoy firm, fast conditions
  • Edges must be sharp

8:00-10:00 AM: Perfect Window

  • Sun begins softening just the surface
  • Corn snow develops
  • Best skiing conditions of the day
  • Get on slopes early!

10:00 AM-1:00 PM: Optimal Corn

  • Surface fully softened
  • Grippy but forgiving
  • Ideal for all levels
  • Fast, fun cruising

1:00-3:00 PM: Softening Further

  • Snow becomes progressively softer
  • Still good skiing at high altitude
  • Lower elevations may get slushy
  • More challenging for beginners

3:00-5:00 PM: Variable

  • High altitude: Still good
  • Lower slopes: Slushy or wet
  • Depends heavily on temperature and elevation
  • Advanced skiers still enjoy it

Altitude Matters More in Spring

Above 3,000m (Glacier Level):

  • Excellent conditions all day
  • Cold enough to maintain quality
  • Can ski all afternoon
  • Minimal slush

2,500m – 3,000m:

  • Excellent mornings
  • Good through early afternoon
  • Late afternoon may soften
  • Still very skiable

2,000m – 2,500m:

  • Good mornings
  • Afternoon depends on aspect
  • North-facing better than south
  • Plan important skiing for morning

Below 2,000m:

  • Morning-only quality
  • Afternoon often slushy
  • May be closed by April
  • Not recommended for spring skiing

This altitude dependence explains why glacier resorts dominate spring skiing recommendations.

Spring Skiing for Different Abilities

Beginners & Learners

Spring Advantages for Beginners:

  • Softer snow = more forgiving falls
  • Warmer weather = more comfortable learning
  • Less intimidating than harsh winter
  • Smaller crowds = less pressure
  • Longer days = flexible lesson timing

Best Resorts for Spring Beginners:

  1. Saas-Fee – Gentle glacier terrain, excellent schools
  2. Engelberg – Good beginner areas on Titlis
  3. Davos (March) – Extensive easy terrain

Timing Tips:

  • Book lessons 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (best snow conditions)
  • Avoid early morning frozen conditions
  • March better than April for learning (more terrain open)

Intermediate Skiers

Spring Paradise for Intermediates:

  • Corn snow perfect for building confidence
  • Empty slopes allow for speed and exploration
  • Great conditions for improving technique
  • Long runs without lift queues
  • Comfortable temperatures encourage all-day skiing

Best Resorts for Spring Intermediates:

  1. Zermatt – Extensive intermediate terrain at altitude
  2. Verbier (March) – Massive cruising opportunities
  3. Davos (March) – Parsenn perfect for intermediates
  4. St. Moritz – Beautiful, well-groomed runs

Optimal Timing:

  • Ski 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (best conditions)
  • March offers more variety
  • April focus on high-altitude resorts

Advanced & Expert Skiers

Spring Challenges for Experts:

  • Corn snow requires technique adjustment
  • Off-piste opportunities in spring snow
  • Steep terrain stays good longer (north faces)
  • Glacier skiing offers all-day challenge
  • Beautiful light for steep descents

Best Resorts for Spring Experts:

  1. Zermatt – Extreme terrain, glacier skiing, north faces
  2. Verbier (March) – Legendary off-piste
  3. Andermatt (March) – Gemsstock north face
  4. Saas-Fee (April) – Glacier steeps

Spring Off-Piste Considerations:

  • Avalanche risk changes with spring thaw cycles
  • Guide absolutely essential
  • Morning-only for off-piste (instability increases with warmth)
  • North-facing aspects safer and better conditions

Families

Why Families Love Spring Skiing:

  • Warmer weather = happier kids
  • No extreme cold concerns
  • Outdoor picnics possible
  • More activities beyond skiing
  • Better value = longer trips affordable

Best Family Resorts for Spring:

  1. Saas-Fee – Excellent kids’ programs, car-free
  2. Engelberg – Short transfer, family-friendly
  3. Davos (March) – Great value, extensive easy terrain
  4. Zermatt – Car-free village, scenic

Family-Specific Tips:

  • March more flexible than April
  • Book accommodations with pool/spa (après-ski activities)
  • Plan afternoon breaks (kids tire in warmth)
  • Glacier resorts = consistent conditions = happy parents

Spring Skiing Value Proposition

Comparing Costs: Spring vs. Winter

Accommodation Savings:

  • March: 20-30% cheaper than February
  • April (non-Easter): 40-50% cheaper than February
  • Easter week: Similar to February half-term

Example: Week in Zermatt, 2 Adults

  • February: €1,400 (mid-range hotel)
  • March: €1,000 (same hotel)
  • April (post-Easter): €840 (same hotel)
  • Savings: €560 in April vs. February

Lift Pass Savings:

  • March: Standard rates
  • April: Spring passes often 10-20% discounted
  • Multi-day passes: Better value

Restaurant Savings:

  • March: Standard pricing
  • April: Many restaurants offer spring specials
  • Less crowded = better service, easier reservations

Transfer Costs:

  • Standard rates both months (except Easter premium)
  • No peak-season surcharges

Total Trip Savings: 30-40% in Spring

A week’s ski holiday in April costs roughly the same as 4 days in February—substantial savings for identical ski quality at high-altitude resorts.

Combining Skiing with Other Activities

Spring Opens Additional Possibilities

Hiking:

  • Lower elevations: Hiking trails emerge
  • Combine morning skiing with afternoon hiking
  • Wildflowers beginning to bloom late April
  • Spectacular scenery in spring light

Photography:

  • Brilliant light on peaks
  • Longer golden hour
  • Blue skies more common
  • Mixed spring/winter landscapes

Wellness:

  • Outdoor spa experiences more pleasant
  • Swimming pools, hot tubs usable
  • Massage after skiing in sunshine
  • Less harsh on body than winter

Sightseeing:

  • Villages more accessible
  • Mountain passes opening (scenic drives)
  • Lakes beginning to thaw
  • Cultural sites more comfortable to visit

Best Resorts for Multi-Activity Spring:

  1. Zermatt – Excellent hiking, village charm
  2. St. Moritz – Luxury shopping, dining, culture
  3. Engelberg – Nearby Lucerne for day trips
  4. Saas-Fee – Hiking, village atmosphere

Many spring visitors adopt a relaxed schedule: ski mornings (best snow), enjoy long lunches, afternoon activities, evening relaxation. This makes spring ideal for non-skiers in a group or multi-generational families.

What to Pack for Spring Skiing

Clothing Essentials

Ski Gear:

  • Lightweight jacket (not heavy winter parka)
  • Mid-layer fleece
  • Waterproof pants (spring snow can be wet)
  • Base layers (still cold mornings)
  • Gloves (waterproof, not extreme cold)
  • Warm hat for morning

Sun Protection (CRITICAL):

  • SPF 50+ sunscreen (higher altitude + sun reflection = extreme UV)
  • Lip balm with SPF (burn risk high)
  • Sunglasses (quality, polarized if possible)
  • Ski goggles (still needed for occasional snow/clouds)
  • Consider sun hat for afternoon

Versatile Clothing:

  • T-shirts for afternoon
  • Light sweaters for evening
  • Both winter and spring clothing
  • Layers (temperature varies significantly)

Footwear:

  • Ski boots (obviously)
  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
  • Potentially waterproof shoes (melting snow)

Forgot Something? Swiss resorts have excellent sports shops. Don’t stress if you under-packed—you can buy quality gear locally.

Equipment Considerations

Skis:

  • All-mountain skis work perfectly
  • Sharp edges essential for morning hard pack
  • Waxing helpful (spring snow builds up on bases)

Rental:

  • Available at all resorts
  • Mention “spring skiing” when renting
  • Sharp edges particularly important
  • Consider demo skis if renting

Practical Spring Skiing Tips

Maximizing Your Spring Ski Day

Early Start Pays Off:

  • 8:30 AM lift opening: Be there
  • Best conditions: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
  • Missing morning = missing best skiing
  • Set alarm, worth it!

Long Lunch Strategy:

  • Stop skiing 12:30-2:30 PM
  • Enjoy leisurely mountain lunch
  • Rest during warmest part of day
  • Resume 2:30-5:00 PM if desired

Hydration:

  • Warmer temps + high altitude = dehydration risk
  • Carry water on slopes
  • Drink more than you think necessary
  • Avoid excessive alcohol at lunch

Pace Yourself:

  • Spring skiing can be more tiring
  • Softer snow requires more energy
  • Sun exposure can be exhausting
  • Take breaks

Safety Considerations

Sun Exposure:

  • UV risk extremely high at altitude
  • Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours
  • Face, neck, ears particularly vulnerable
  • Sunburn ruins vacations—take it seriously

Changing Conditions:

  • Morning to afternoon transformation significant
  • Adjust skiing style as snow softens
  • Slower speeds on soft snow
  • More caution late afternoon

Avalanche Awareness:

  • Spring creates unique avalanche conditions
  • Wet-snow avalanches possible
  • Off-piste only with professional guide
  • Stick to marked runs for safety

Lift Operations:

  • Some lifts may close early (reduced spring schedules)
  • Check last lift times
  • Don’t get stranded on mountain
  • Plan return route

Booking Your Spring Ski Transfer

Express Transfer Spring Service

Why Choose Express Transfer for Spring:

Experienced Spring Drivers:

  • Familiar with spring road conditions
  • Know which passes open when
  • Can take scenic spring routes
  • Professional, regardless of season

Flexible Timing:

  • Accommodate your skiing schedule
  • Earlier starts for morning powder
  • No rush—longer days, flexible timing

Equipment Handling:

  • Wet ski gear? No problem
  • Experience with spring conditions
  • Proper vehicle climate control

Standard Spring Rates:

  • No peak surcharges (except Easter week)
  • Transparent pricing
  • Better value than winter

Booking Timeline for Spring 2027

Easter Week (April 4-6):

  • Book by early February 2027
  • Premium demand period
  • Limited availability if wait

March 2027:

  • Book 3-4 weeks ahead
  • Standard demand
  • Good availability

April (Post-Easter):

  • Book 2-3 weeks ahead
  • Low demand, easy booking
  • Last-minute possible

Optimal Transfer Timing

For Morning Skiing:

  • Arrive previous evening
  • Next morning: First lift
  • Maximizes your ski time

For Relaxed Arrival:

  • Morning flight, afternoon transfer
  • Check-in, relax, dine
  • Ski next day refreshed

Departure Planning:

  • Ski your final morning
  • Depart resort 12:00-1:00 PM
  • Catch afternoon/evening flight

Spring Skiing Month-by-Month Summary

March 2027: Peak Spring Skiing

Best For:

  • All abilities
  • First-time spring skiers
  • Families
  • Those seeking sunshine + snow

Recommended Resorts:

  • Zermatt, Saas-Fee, St. Moritz (high altitude)
  • Verbier, Davos, Andermatt (good value, early-mid March)

Booking: 3-4 weeks advance

Expect: Excellent conditions, great weather, standard pricing

Easter 2027 (April 4-6): Peak Weekend

Best For:

  • Families (school holidays)
  • Those with fixed schedules

Recommended Resorts:

  • Zermatt (best conditions)
  • Saas-Fee (value alternative)
  • Verbier, St. Moritz (fully operational)

Booking: 8-10 weeks advance (by early February)

Expect: Excellent conditions, crowds, premium pricing

April 2027 (Post-Easter): Insider’s Period

Best For:

  • Flexible travelers
  • Value seekers
  • Glacier skiing enthusiasts
  • Combining skiing with other activities

Recommended Resorts:

  • Zermatt (exceptional)
  • Saas-Fee (excellent value)
  • Engelberg (short trips)

Booking: 2-3 weeks advance

Expect: Empty slopes, brilliant weather, great prices

Start Planning Your Spring Ski Adventure

Spring skiing in Switzerland delivers an experience fundamentally different from winter—brilliant sunshine, comfortable temperatures, excellent snow at altitude, and exceptional value. Whether you choose March for maximum terrain variety, Easter week for family holidays, or post-Easter April for empty slopes and deep discounts, the Swiss Alps in spring reward those who discover this special season.

Ready to book your spring ski transfer? Express Transfer operates throughout March and April with professional drivers who know spring conditions intimately. Contact us to reserve your airport transportation and experience the magic of Swiss spring skiing.

Book your spring ski transfer today and discover why experienced alpinists often prefer spring over winter.