Murren (Switzerland)

Murren is one of the original ski resorts, developed by Brits in the '20s, remaining a favourite nowadays. There isn't a great range of skiing for all abilities, but 2 things draw people back every time.

First is the stupendous scenery that provides views into Germany, France and Italy.

Second are the black runs down from the Schilthorn and great off-piste at Blumental, which many advanced skiers find worth the journey alone.

If you want more varied skiing you can slide across the Lauterbrunnen Valley. This provides access to the Wengen and Grindelwald slopes, which largely please the intermediate audience. This is best done in the week, as queues build up at the weekend. Add a small-but-stunning village, picture-postcard chalets and no cars and you have one of the great Alpine spots.

Murren is a low-key, middlemarket destination, suited to more mature skiers and hikers looking for a quiet holiday. There are many British visitors to this resort.

There are 11 smallish but well-appointed, mainly family-run hotels, supplemented by private chalets and apartments. All of the accommodation is arranged along the 2 main "roads" running through the tiny village.

Locality:

Murren is In the Bernese Oberland, 8 mls S of Interlaken, 46 mls SE of Berne and 84 mls SW of Zurich airport. It is perched on a ledge on a mountainside, looking out across the Lauterbrunnen Valley to the vast Jungfrau range opposite.

Ski Information:

Highest lift: 2970m (9744ft), Lowest lift: 1650m (5413ft), Vertical drop: 1320m (4331ft), Number of lifts: 12, Uplift capacity: 10000 p/hr, Number of slopes: 22, Beginner: 50%, Intermediate: 32%, Expert: 18%, Total piste length: 53km, Snowboard parks: 1, Cross country: 14km