One of Europe´s most historical and beautiful ski resorts Wengen sits amongst some of the world´s most famous mountains.
The Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau gives Wengen the title of the most spectacular World Cup on the circuit. Sadly the downhill was cancelled this year but too much snow is never a bad thing!!
You can ski the course known as the Lauberhorn which is famous for being the longest on the circuit. A 4.4 km run at 70 mph tests the skier beyond recognition, you can try the course yourself but be careful the 3 mile course twists and turns, drops and falls away - the leg burn is painful!!!
Wengen has been hosting international ski competitions for 74 years and the traffic-free village adds considerably to its charm. It´s not a fast high tech resort but in my mind it is a proper traditional ski area that has something for everyone as long as you are not in a rush.
You say goodbye to your car in Lauterbrunnen but the best way to travel to Wengen is from Geneva or Zurich by train. Swiss trains are the world´s finest, spoil yourself in first class (still cheaper than standard fair in the UK!!) sit back and enjoy the service as the snowline gets closer and closer.
In Wengen there are a variety of hotels and having commentated and skied in Wengen for over ten years I have slept in most of them. In my opinion the following are the best:
1. Wengener Hof: (Tel: 0041 3385 66969) Small friendly hotel, great food, friendly people and beautiful rooms all with sensational views.
2. Sunstar: (Tel: 00413385 65200) In the heart of the town the perfect location to explore Wengen. The hotel is slightly more modern than traditional.
3. Club Med: (Tel: 0041 33856 8787) Is great for families and kids
Please don´t stay in your hotel at meal times, which is often the temptation when staying in great Swiss hotels. The best restaurant with a fun atmosphere is Da Sina pizzeria. It offers great food and waiters and waitresses who make the whole experience great fun. Try the pub next door if there is a wait for a table. Sina´s is the name and again there is a good mix of people, lively atmosphere and music which make this a favourite for locals and holiday makers alike.
For a special occasion dine in the Regina hotel a la carte dining room. Ask for Torsten Weagar who is an expert on local wines and produce. The rest of the staff leave a lot to be desired but Torsten will make your big night out very special.
Wengen oozes quality and friendliness and all the mountain restaurants are generally of a very high standard. A must however is the Schilthorn revolving mountain restaurant. It is an institution with skiers around the world and of global notoriety due to James Bond´s "On her Majesty´s Secret Service"
Wengen is a must for lovers of mountains and wintersport. Expert to beginner, single or families this resort is one of my all time favourites and has everything you could possibly want.
Remember take the train, eat out, ski hard and enjoy...Wengen will never let you down.
Nick Fellows
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