being on another planet – a far cry from the hordes of skiers that come tumbling down the slopes when winter dawns.


 BIKE DOWN THE SLOPES It’s mountain biking for which this region is really renowned, though, with nearly 500 miles of cross- country trails scattered among the slopes of the Val de Bagnes, and a dedicated bike park with beginner and advanced routes. Hard-core riders flock here in their droves – almost every other person I encountered was here to whizz down on two wheels – but it’s not just for the pros, with green and blue trails offering options for novice riders and families too; the descent from Verbier to Le Châble is especially pleasant and easily manageable. The best part is you can take


the bikes up on chair lifts to save tough climbs, then let gravity


The best part is you can take the bikes on chair lifts to save tough climbs, then let gravity do the rest


RIGHT: Verbier bike park FAR RIGHT: Paragliding


do the rest – think fresh breeze whipping your cheeks as you plunge down tracks with soaring pines, snow-dusted peaks and eerie clouds surrounding you at every turn (Verbier bike park is open until October 28; bikes can be hired in town).


 GO WINE TASTING But it’s not only about the active stuff here. Swiss wine might not carry the same clout as that of its neighbours, but it’s been getting a name for itself in recent years, and Verbier is at the heart of the country’s biggest


wine-producing region, Valais. There are regular tastings at


Macbirch – the resort’s oldest winery, set right in the centre and home to an impressive score of mountain vintages – and there’s a string of vineyards in the valley for those wanting


56travelweekly.co.uk28 February 2019


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