If you thought ski resorts were just sleepy hamlets after the winter, think again. Verbier hosts many exciting events during the summer and autumn months. Come and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
For moments of high culture in a ski resort, why not check out the Verbier Festival, with its diverse programme of classical performances and masterclasses? This year’s event, which took place from 15th to 31st July, saw James Gaffigan conducting Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff and Prokofiev, whilst international star cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason transformed Elgar’s cello concerto.
Following hot on the heels of the Verbier Festival comes Verbier Jumping, a national and international show jumping event, which took place this year from 12th to 22nd August. Spectators can sit within metres of the competition, and the atmosphere is always lively with Moet Chandon flowing, and waffles and crêpes for the children. There is great admiration for the two and four legged competitors, and the obvious strong bond of trust and respect that is shared between horse and rider. “It is poetry in motion” observed Ethan, my twelve-year-old companion for the day, who also doubled as my photographer.
Why not explore the Val de Bagnes beautiful mountains and valleys on an E-bike? This year, the Verbier E-Bike Festival is running weekend events from 19th June to 19th September. Showcasing the latest innovations in electric bikes, and including trails such as the ‘Rando Gourmande’ from Verbier down to the valley below, taking in the breathtaking views and enjoying four stops for meals and drinks over approximately five hours.
Back for its second year, the Cha Cha Cha Ultra Trail took place on 11th and 12th September. With four different distance races to choose from, the aim is to offer something for everyone, from the 10-kilometre race, suitable for all ages and abilities, through to the challenging Ultra-82. This 82-kilometre race, with 5,900 metres of elevation difference, is not for the faint-hearted. I tried the Cha Cha Cha 21, setting off from Le Chable and finishing over four hours later with a punishing 800-metre climb to beautiful Champex-Lac.
Get away from it all with a stay in a beautiful chalet in Verbier over summer or autumn. It’s easy to retreat from the world in the safe haven of one of our properties, many of which have private gyms, spas and swimming pools, as well as a dedicated team of highly trained staff. And of course, there are plenty of activities and events right on your doorstep should you wish to leave the sanctuary of your chalet. From hiking and biking, to classical music and show jumping, there is something for everyone.
Tucked into the mountainside in a quiet setting just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Verbier, Chalet La Vigne is one of Verbier’s most luxurious properties and, at the time of writing, has good availability throughout summer 2022.