Flims/Laax/Falera – marketed as Laax in the winter and Flims in the summer – is the largest linked ski resort entirely situated within Switzerland.
With 220 km of pistes, including many freeride areas and extensive touring, and the largest snowboard half-pipe in the world (just one of the four snowparks available), the area offers something for anyone of any ability. Home to the Laax Open snowboard championship (formerly the Burton European Open), the Brits championship, the Netherlands national championships, and one of the stops on the snowboard world cup and FIS ski racing circuits, the area rises to 3018m altitude, with 70% of the area over 2000m, making it one of the most snow-sure ski areas in Europe. Despite the altitude, there are also plenty of superb tree-lined runs.
Don’t worry – there are plenty of places to stop and wet your whistle and sate your appetite, with over 30 bars and restaurants on the hill, ranging from cafeterias and snow bars to gourmet experiences. For a special occasion, don’t miss the TeePee at Plaun!
If the weather is bad or you fancy a break form the mountains the new Stenna development in Flims contains a 4 screen cinema and Kids entertainment areas located next to a bar for you. https://stennaflims.ch/en/
Summer
The action doesn’t stop when the snow melts. Laax village itself is a proper village along the Rhine valley with a history stretching back over 1000 years, not purpose-built where nobody previously lived. There are plenty of towns to visit nearby including Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, along with walks throughout the area, and white-water rafting on the Rhine. The region is also an absolute treasure for anyone interested in geology.
Once the lifts reopen for the summer, mountain-bikers and hikers alike head for the hills once more, with plenty of challenging or easier trails to check out. Or simply head up the mountain for the views and some dog-walking.
Swim in the Caumasee, discover the various viewing stations, experience September’s “Alpenabzug” when the cows are brought down from the alpine pastures, gourmet tours, concerts on the mountain, summer markets, music festivals and much more… You could even join the summer Romansch language course!