Skiing and Snowboarding

Thanks to the altitude and the ‘pistes’ in all the exposure regions, the ski season runs from the middle or end of October to the beginning of May. Perhaps some enthusiasts would seek to try out their new ski equipment whilst others are still hiking? That should be no problem. On the Diavolezza, Pontresina's local mountain, the ‘firn pistes’ are already open in October and November. Public skiing is open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. On the other days, the ‘pistes’ are reserved for World Cup Professionals and young talents. And, incidentally, the skiing season on the Diavolezza runs until the beginning of May each year. Sheer endless fun on the slopes around Pontresina.

Diavolezza (at 2,978 metres) and Lagalb (2,893 metres). These are the two high ski mountains of the Region with beautiful ‘pistes’ and plenty of open terrain. Experienced freeriders will find descents in powder snow all around the snow field, also open slopes, steep ‘couloirs’, intricate hollows, and more. Legendary routes lead through the Val d'Arlas or down to La Rösa. Visitors unacquainted with ‘Avalanche Bulletins’, avalanche transceivers and probe poles, are recommended to hire a guide from the Pontresina Mountaineering School.

Tip: If the conditions permit, skiers may attempt the marked and secured Glacier Descent to Morteratsch , but this is only for good skiers, but also possible without avalanche equipment. Eight kilometres through the glacial world of the Bernina Massif. ‘Phenomenally Beautiful’.

The Number ‘8848’ (being the height of Mount Everest) is the name of the Programme. Visitors need to accomplish precisely as many metres in altitude in one day, before they are accepted into the ‘8848 Club’. Participants do not have to be able to climb mountains, but they do have to be able to ski or snowboard! The challenge is passed by those who have skied down the ‘Lagalb Piste’ eleven times. But that is not all; they also have to walk up and down the steep footpath between the mountain station and the Piz Lagalb - four times! At the end of the season, new members are immortalised on the illustrious Membership Board.