Where to Ski And Snowboard - Verbier reunites with 4 Vallées ski area

Verbier reunites with 4 Vallées ski area

10th September 2014, by Abi Butcher

Skiers will continue to go off-piste between the 4 Vallées at no extra cost

Regular skiers of Verbier are breathing a sigh of relief that the Swiss resort has reunited with Nendaz, Veysonnaz and Thyon to form the 4 Vallées ski area once again, in an agreement that will last 18 years.

Earlier this summer skiers of the hugely popular area in Switzerland were dismayed at the news that the ski domain was breaking up following a disagreement on lift pass revenue. Verbier had decided to “go it alone” which had severe implications for some of the off-piste itineraries so loved of the skiers — particularly Brits — who flock there every year.

The proposed “Verbier Grand Ski” pass was not only to cost more than the 4 Vallées but access to the Tortin chair lift from Siviez to Tortin — which would affect off-piste skiers going off the back of Mont-Fort — was to cost extra. The break-up would also stop skiers staying in the cheaper resorts of Nendaz and Veysonnaz from accessing Verbier’s pistes.

A statement released by the Swiss Tourist Board on Monday night — and announced at the launch of Where to Ski and Snowboard — said the areas had come together following negotiations conducted by State Councillor Jacques Melly. The 4 Vallées ski area has a claimed extent of more than 400km.

“Aware of the importance of finding a solution for the 2014/15 winter season talks and negotiations between the four participating lift companies, Téléverbier, Télé-Nendaz, Téléveysonnaz and Télé-Thyon were conducted,” read the statement.

“These further negotiations have resulted in the extension of the 4 Vallées agreement for a period of 18 years. An agreement has been signed and the partners have also committed to strengthening their collaboration. Discussions will continue in the coming months for this purpose.”

Pierre-Andre Gremaud, director at Verbier/Val de Bagnes – La Tzoumaz added: “We welcome this positive outcome as this is great news for skiers holidaying in the Verbier 4 Vallées area. We are looking forward to welcoming all our British guests this winter to experience the vast ski domain”