Black slopes

Even the ride on the chairlift from Geils to the Luegli is an experience in itself, as you soak up the stunning views of the Bernese Oberland. Then you ski back down to Geils on one of two sensational black slopes. Along the way, the trendy Chumi Hut will tempt you to stop off for refreshment.

The slope that beats all others in the Gstaad skiing area is the Tiger Run. This marked black slope starting from the Wasserngrat has an average gradient of an impressive 45 degrees and descends 660 metres over a distance of 2.5 kilometres. No other ski slope in the resort is steeper or more challenging.

Experience the Lauberhorn Race for yourself! Tackling the longest run on the Skiing World Cup circuit is the ultimate thrill for any experienced skier or snowboarder. The challenge includes a photo start and having your speed measured as you go down – with the magnificent Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau as your silent witnesses.

The steepest ski slope in the Jungfrau area is called Diretissima. It's 400 metres long, 50 metres wide and starts at the Birg top station, just below the Schilthorn. From there, piste no. 9 descends at a precipitous gradient of 88 per cent into the Engetal valley. The ultimate adrenaline rush!

The ride up to the Elsighorn brings you magnificent views of the Niesen mountain range. Then you go back down to the Elsigenalp on the Aeglere or the Chrinde slope. If you have the time and courage to look around you as you whizz down one of these two black slopes, you may be lucky enough to spot a ptarmigan.

The family-friendly skiing area in Habkern offers slopes of all levels of difficulty, and views of the Eiger, Mönch, Jungfrau and Hardergrat as well. The two black runs both begin with a steep slope on the Sattelegg. They divide at the Allmi ski hut and take two different routes back to the valley station.