Explore Top Skiing Destinations Accessible by Train from the UK

Does getting to the slopes require airport queues and carbon-guzzling flights? Not a bit of it. There are plenty of ski resorts in Europe you can reach in style and comfort by train from the UK.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt can only really be described in superlatives. Under the constant view of the tooth-shaped Matterhorn, everything here is just achingly good. The skiing is tantalizing, with slopes linked to Cervinia in Italy, accessed by the sumptuous Ventina run. Some of the easier pistes are reached via the cute Gornergrat railway. So good is the view of the Matterhorn from this part of the slopes that skiers actually slow down to gaze as they descend. Moreover, the creative endeavors of chefs on the mountain are unparalleled, and arguably the greatest challenge a skier faces here is prising themselves away from a lunchtime restaurant seat. Restaurant Alm specializes in fresh trout, reeled in from the adjacent fish ponds while over at Cervinia, Bontadini is renowned for its carpaccio with rocket and grana cheese. Oh, and the closest railway station to Zermatt? It’s in the heart of the village, of course. What did you expect?

By train: Eurostar to Paris, then TGV to Lausanne, InterRegional to Visp, and local train to Zermatt.
Rail journey time: 10 hours 50 minutes.

La Clusaz, France

La Clusaz, nestled in the Aravis mountain range, is a fantastic destination for both novice and experienced skiers. With its charming village atmosphere, visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and cozy après-ski experiences. The picturesque slopes are perfect for all skill levels, ensuring a fantastic skiing experience with a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. Consequently, La Clusaz attracts a variety of winter sports enthusiasts seeking a well-rounded holiday.

By train: Eurostar to Geneva, then local train to La Clusaz.
Rail journey time: Approximately 8 hours.