Beneath the swirling snowflakes, a vibrant resort sits contentedly at the heart of one of the most beautiful freeride areas in the world.
Epitomising the pure and sophisticated aesthetics of the Alpine Eagle collection, this 41 mm-diameter model with integrated bracelet is crafted from Chopard’s exclusive, high-quality Lucent Steel™. It is equipped with the chronometer-certified self-winding Chopard 01.01-C movement. Proudly developed and handcrafted by our Artisans, this exceptional timepiece showcases the finest expertise and innovation cultivated within our Manufacture.
ALPINE EAGLE
Rue de Médran • Verbier
LONGINES SPIRIT
ZULU TIME
DAVID BECKHAM
BLACK BAY
Editorial
No matter where you look, the mountains await your gaze, as wild as they have ever been. Their vast hillsides, covered in snow and peppered with dark rocks, roll over steep slopes in successive waves and sparkling reflections… an untameable force. These Alpine peaks are on par with some of the most savage massifs on the planet, a mythical and enchanting landscape that we approach with both respect and indulgence.
Even after a decade of publishing helvet Verbier — and even after a lifetime spent rushing down these slopes — it’s difficult to not succumb to this region’s beauty and the giddy emotions evoked by this Alpine skyline. The 4-Vallée ski domain and its immense, freeride territories are truly unique in this way.
This hypnotic setting is both the reason for Verbier’s success and the very foundation of its identity. This ski resort exudes a powerful charm, and once you’ve been here, it’s likely you’ll find yourself coming back time and time again. It feels impossible to not seek out these high altitudes, leaving the plains and the valleys behind in favour of the high mountain sunshine and its grand chalets. It’s difficult to not get caught up, once again, in the whirlwind of adrenaline and celebrations in the ski resort, with its cosmopolitan crowd that unites the best freeriders on earth, VIPs (more and more) and digital nomads. Verbier is a spirit, an energy and a youthfulness that’s personified just as much by the Freeride World Tour as it is by the area’s new local talents. Take Jérémie Voutaz, for example, the (very) young prodigy chef with his own intimate, one-table dining establishment in a former barn. He is proof that everyone here is simply on a quest for excellence and carefully curated pleasures.
The winter holidays are upon us and Verbier beckons, ready to delight and enchant once more.
Christian Bugnon Publisher & Editor-in-chief
RACE
THE INTÉGRALE DU ROGNEUX, 8.0
Going from Lourtier up Mont Rogneux (3,084 m) in climbing skins, with a rest stop at the Cabane Brunet, is an adventure of Proustian proportions in the heart of the Val de Bagnes. Ski touring is already technically challenging, but this long race also includes 2,000 m of elevation gain. Participants are rewarded at the summit, where they take in one of the most beautiful panoramic views in the Valais Alps, with the Combin range in the foreground. Every two years, highly skilled ski mountaineers tackle The Intégrale du Rogneux in teams of two, a friendly and cheerful race that welcomes the sport’s elite in addition to amateurs. The next edition takes place on February 8. rogneux.ch
GASTRONOMY LE BISTROT RANKED BY GAULT&MILLAU
If anyone needs proof that high altitude restaurants offer more than just spectacular views, this is it! Located at 2,727 m, just a few steps from the Funispace station in Attelas, Le Bistrot offers lovely rustic and bistro-style gourmet dining (in addition to fantastic views, of course), and they’ve been included in the most recent Gault&Millau guide (13 points). Their signature dish is foie gras with spices, and their Belgian chef — Bert de Rycker, who was named French-Switzerland’s Discovery of the Year in 2019 and who has worked at Lenôtre and La Tour d’Argent in Paris — manages three locales in the skiable area.
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HOSPITALITY
HOTEL CORDÉE DES ALPES GETS A MICHELIN KEY
The famous French guide has launched a new key classification system for its Switzerland edition, which recognizes superior-category hotels that offer “the most remarkable visitor experiences”. Hotel Cordée des Alpes is the only establishment in Verbier that was selected and was awarded one key. Five core elements are assessed for key evaluation: architecture and interior design, service quality, personality and character, value for money and contribution to the local experience. guide.michelin.com kvhotels.com
CULTURE AN ENHANCED 3-D SCULPTURE PARK
Founded in 2010 by English-Swiss sculptor Kiki Thompson and SwissAmerican painter Madeleine Paternot, the Verbier 3-D Foundation offers a promise of ecological awareness via contemporary art installations. The open-air sculpture park, located at 2,300 m between La Chaux and Les Ruinettes, in the heart of the ski area, expanded its footprint in summer 2024 with a new (pink!) installation known as No. 1387 Fence, by British artist-in-residence Rana Begum. The piece revolves around the theme of energy that’s confronted by the natural Valais environment. It’s truly striking!
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WELLNESS
THE CHALET D’ADRIEN REINVENTS ITS SPA
There’s only one hotel in Verbier that’s part of Relais & Châteaux, a 5-star association that always means the ultimate in comfort, luxury and authentic mountain-inspired décor. The spa here was recently refreshed and now partners with Clarins — a brand that’s well-known for its elaborate skincare line derived from sustainable ingredients. Wood, water and stone… here the natural elements take centre stage in a sanctuary that includes a relaxation chamber, sensory showers and the only infratherapy cabin in Verbier. The extraordinary pool, with views of the gorgeous Alpine countryside, also has a newly enlarged terrace. chalet-adrien.com
GASTRONOMY
A GOLD MEDAL FOR SEMBRANCHER WATER
The very pure Artois water from Le Catogne massif (2,598 m) is respectfully collected at the source by the Société des Eaux Minerals de Sembrancher, who only take 1% of the water available, leaving the rest to pursue its natural course downstream. The premium still water, which is appreciated by great chefs for its neutral taste and low mineral content, was awarded the 2024 Taste & Design Award during an international competition held in Spain, along with winning the silver medal for the sparkling water. Now the company is making Limonade 2598, a lightly sweetened line of herbal beverages. sembrancher.com
HOSPITALITY
LA ROTONDE GETS A FRESH LOOK
Steiger&Cie — who are specialized in luxury mountain real estate and have been based in Verbier for years — are partnering with Comina Architecture to refresh the ski resort’s very centrally located Hotel La Rotonde. Construction kicks off this spring and will bring a contemporary look and feel to the hotel’s traditional wood, stone and metal materials. In addition to the two hotel floors, a new bar-restaurant with a panoramic terrace, a secondary residence and at least five retail spaces will also be built in parallel. The project is expected to be completed in summer 2027.
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MOBILITY TRAINS BECOME MORE ECO-FRIENDLY
How do you transform a train into a generator? By modifying the motor so it recovers energy generated by the brakes on downhill sections. The technology, which has been in use on Zermatt’s Gornergrat Railway since the late 19th century, is now being used between Salvan and Vernayaz on the Mont Blanc Express, which runs from Martigny to Chamonix. For the first time ever, the generated electricity will not only be used to power the train going uphill, it will also feed into the broader electric grid! mont-blanc-express.ch
GASTRONOMY LA PASAY MAKES THE TOP 10 MOUNTAIN INNS
The La Pasay Restaurant (2,163 m) was entirely renovated at the same time as the La Pasay chairlift (on the Bruson side), now featuring a large panoramic terrace and delicious meals made with local, seasonal produce from Valais artisans. The changes have resulted in the restaurant being named one of the Top 10 Mountain Inns by Gault&Millau! To accompany your food, take in the falling snowflakes along with good wine from some of the best producers in Valais. lapasay.ch
CULTURE NEW HORIZONS FOR VERBIER FESTIVAL
Hervé Boissière is the founder of Medici TV, one the world’s leading digital platforms for classical music, and as of summer 2024 he is also the Co-CEO of Verbier Festival alongside founder Martin T:son Engström. Boissière’s mission is to expand the reach of the festival beyond the summer season and ensure its lasting legacy. His plans for growth include capturing and distributing new recordings in partnership with Apple, organising Academy masterclasses and training sessions several times throughout the year, and spearheading the construction of a brand new, permanent concert hall. verbierfestival.com
MOBILITY ALL ABOARD!
Now more than ever, public transportation is simply the best way to get to the 4Vallées this winter. As in years past, the Verbier Express offers a direct route from Geneva to Le Châble on weekends and select holidays from mid-December to mid-April. There’s no need to change trains in Martigny! And the Vos Alpes line also goes directly from Fribourg to Le Châble. Take advantage of select package offers to simply hop off the train and climb directly onboard the gondola lift to reach the centre of the ski resort. It couldn’t be easier!
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HOSPITALITY A BUTTERFLY SPREADS ITS WINGS IN LA TZOUMAZ
The welcoming and well-known Alpine bistro Papill’on, which opened in 2022 in the heart of Verbier’s sister resort, is appreciated for its high-quality seasonal dishes and its excellent service. Bolstered by that reputation, the owners opened a 9-room boutique hotel in a cosy and contemporary Alpine ambiance, with each room boasting heated floors and a private balcony. You can also rent skis and bikes on-site and use the provided shuttle to reach the ski slopes. In the evenings, you can enjoy all-you-caneat farm style raclette or the stonegrill, accompanied by live music on occasional weekends.
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APRIL… BUT MAKE IT VERBIER!
The end of the snowy season will be particularly fun this spring with new event programming that lasts almost a month, revolving around the annual Verbier Art Summit (April 4-5) and the Ultime Session (April 1920). At the Ultime Session, skiers in costumes take on the Snowpark’s legendary waterslide for one last time. The full programme includes festivals, concerts and games for all ages, complimented by festive closing ceremonies at local bars. Stay tuned for more details!
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WATCHMAKING
SWITZERLAND’S TIME FOR WATCHES & WONDERS
Maison Bulgari and six independent creators are the newest to join Geneva’s Watches & Wonders for its next edition. This annual trade show for the watch and jewellery industry takes place April 1-7 at the Palexpo Convention Centre, with 60 exhibiting brands on display – a new record! In 2024, the salon already broke records, welcoming the highest number of visitors in its history (49,000). The 2025 edition will highlight fresh perspectives by honouring trainees, new graduates and young talent. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover a new dream job… and maybe even learn a thing or two!
watchesandwonders.com
GASTRONOMY HIGH SCORES WITH GAULT&MILLAU
Of the 12 restaurants in French-speaking-Switzerland who increased their Gault&Millau scores this year, two of them are Verbier-based. Taratata went from 13 to 14 points thanks to their small, seasonal plates and meats made to share in a relaxed and quirky (jungle!) ambiance. Meanwhile, the Table d’Adrien scored 17 points, on par with some of the best tables in the canton. It’s a highlight for Chef Sebastiano Lombardi, who brought the restaurant back to the heights it had known under Mirto Marchesi ten years ago. His indulgences? Asparagus, mountain lamb, Alpine cheese and fish from Valais’ lakes and rivers. chalet-adrien.com taratata-verbier.ch
Verbier 4Vallées
The iconic Alpine ski area
Text Claude Hervé-Bazin
Photos Verbier Tourisme
It’s all a question of attitude and Verbier has plenty! Yes, it’s loved by digital nomads, and is cosmopolitan and delightfully festive, but the region’s real claim to fame is its incredible ski lifestyle — both on and off-piste.
Travelling by car over winding roads is a thing of the past… why not take the Le Châble cable car instead? Clinking softly in the early morning light, the cable car’s altimeter reading rises steadily until it hits 1,531 m as you step off in Verbier. Here the sun-soaked mountains, which surround this iconic ski resort and its snow-covered rooftops, are a harbinger for good times, velvety ski runs and breathtaking natural scenery.
Verbier is just the first stop for mountain sport lovers, who then hop on the Médran gondola towards the area’s winter wonderland. The last trees disappear behind blanketed hills, tracks barely visible. The next stop is Les Ruinettes, which towers over Verbier’s expansive valleys from its 2,191 m ridgeline. To the west, Savoleyres (2,344 m) offers a similarly breathtaking panorama, with slopes that gaze upon the Grand Combin mountain range, while the Dranse de Bagnes river sparkles from across the valley.
THE SUMMITS’ CALL
On your left: Les Attelas (2,734 m) and the solitary Mont Gelé (3,023 m), the starting point for two official freeride routes. To the right: La Chaux’s superb snow park with five lines (including kickers, rails, boxes, and an airbag), the Col des Gentianes (2,894 m), and Mont Fort (3,330 m), the highest local peak. It’s a different world up here, one sharply shaped by tectonic forces and softened by a blanket of ice and snow. Take in a breathtaking 360° view of the Valais Alps, which sweep from the Grand Combin (4,313 m) east to La Dent Blanche (4,357 m), all the way to the peak of the Matterhorn (4,478 m). There’s only two ways down from this Everest: a non-packed, black diamond run… or Europe’s longest zipline, which runs until the middle of winter (expect nose freezing when you hit 130 km/h!).
THE LARGEST SKI AREA IN SWITZERLAND
To understand Verbier is to see the wood for the trees: five other interconnected sister ski resorts that span four majestic valleys. Bruson in the wooded shade, the lowest altitude queen of white snow days. La Tzoumaz (1,508 m), a sledder’s delight. Nendaz and Veysonnaz, which boast a family-friendly appeal (1,400 m). And ski haven Thyon, culminating at 2,100 m at the gateway to the iconic World Cup run “Piste de l’Ours” (the Bear Track).
Crossing cliffs, valleys and ravines, an intricate network (of 80 cable cars!) connects this universe, creating the largest ski area entirely in Switzerland. There are close to 100 recorded runs and freeride itineraries spanning some 410 km. Tracks interweave, link up, lose one another and then are found once again. The network seems to be forever expanding and connecting, from top to bottom and side to side, from the forest’s shadows to the summit’s bright sun.
The largest ski area entirely within Switzerland, the 4 Vallées doubles in size when the freeride zones are taken into account.
INTO THE WILD
So far, we’ve only covered one side of the coin. On the other lies a mountainous galaxy to discover and overcome… The 4 Vallées — with Verbier in the spotlight — is one of Europe’s best freeride destinations, celebrated every year on the Bec des Rosses during the mind-blowing Freeride World Tour. In this parallel universe, muffled by penetrating silence, the white expanse encompasses everything. Punctuated by steep, immaculate (and, at times, treacherous) drops, the only soft landing here is a blanket of snow and fresh powder that line and redesign the rocky outcrops lurking below. Here you are always short of breath, suspended between the void, the bumps, and the rush of adrenaline.
Classes and rigorous training ensure safety. Not to mention at least a dozen secured and marked yellow slopes, which guide a path for beginner thrill seekers. Over time, the most experienced may choose to tackle the legendary backside of Mont Fort… A journey beyond oneself, in the kind of raw natural setting that’s rare in today’s world.
Target: Verbier
Interview with Simon Wiget
Text Claude Hervé-Bazin
Photos Raphaël Surmont | Sam Thomson
Simon
Wiget is an outdoor sports enthusiast who’s been the Head Manager at Verbier Tourism for the past five years. He sat down with helvet to discuss his decisions, his skills and what he thinks of Verbier — which was voted the World’s Best Ski Resort in 2021 and 2022.
Simon Wiget, how would you define Verbier as a destination? Ranging from 700 m in altitude in the Val de Bagnes to the eternal snowscapes of the Grand Combin massif at 4,314 m, from classical music to e-bikes, from the station’s memorable after-ski moments to the Haut Val’s wild forests, Verbier as a destination encompasses a diverse and contrasting range of activities. But its greatest assets are the topography, exceptional nature, altitude and expansive spread (410 km of slopes) of this fantastic playground, which includes the 4Vallées ski area, Mont Fort (3,300 m), and the freeride zones, which offer a truly unique ski experience. Verbier is an extremely dynamic and innovative destination, which makes it appealing in the summer as much as in the winter.
What are your primary target markets? Our main market is Switzerland (primarily the Lake Geneva Regions), followed closely by England! After that, there’s Benelux, France and the Nordic countries. The American market (North America and Brazil) has been developing over the past few years, along with Italy. We were impacted by the strength of the Swiss franc, but we’re lucky that we attract a diverse clientele, which includes wealthier segments that were less affected by that situation. The pandemic also had a major impact, but our formerly favourable markets have mostly returned to their pre-pandemic levels, and the Swiss market has also grown, which is good news for us.
What proportion of tourism comes in the winter months versus the summer months? Winter represents around 65% of our overnight stays but 80% of our total revenues. Our goal is to become a destination that thrives ten months out of the year and we’re investing heavily in summer development, notably through events and infrastructure improvements.
How have you seen Verbier evolve over the past five years? Major underlying trends that were already underway pre-pandemic have only been reinforced, including a return to nature, a longing for wide open spaces and a desire for work flexibilization. These are all very positive for Verbier as it has numerous assets that correspond to these needs, starting with its vast protected territory (more than half of the municipality!). Additionally, more and more people are coming here to work, both regularly, by moving here, and occasionally. The development of international schools and numerous destination activities have also contributed to more families coming, while the flexibilization of the labour market means we can count on an increasing number of clients coming outside of school holiday periods. There’s no longer a slow phase in January, like there used to be!
What role does tourism play in the local economy? The Val de Bagne’s local economy is heavily tourism-based. Tourism here generates a lot of activity and directly provides employment and a means for many people to live in this valley where, less than a century ago, life was very difficult. Tourism also has many indirect impacts, for example in the construction industry. And if our agricultural industry is thriving and bringing in higher revenues than in other places, that’s also because much of our local produce is consumed by tourists. If we have lots of people coming here throughout the year, that’s because tourist-driven activities are attractive and draw people to the area.
What are your personal feelings after five years at the head of Verbier Tourism? From a personal point of view, I feel very privileged to be able to contribute to the evolution of such a dynamic destination, which has really managed to
athlete above all,
is neither the first nor the
reconcile its international renown with its mountain values. My first missions were to create a unique tourism entity (with Verbier Tourism SA coming to life in May 2023) and to reinforce connections with and between the various key players in our tourism industry. We succeeded in creating an efficient working tool and a beautiful overall dynamic. It’s collaborative work that requires a lot of people being involved. The creation of the Tourism Master Plan was also a major milestone, which allows us to define a common goal that’s now our overarching objective.
Does your love of sports influence your approach? Of course! Sports are one of our primary axes of development. The fact that I’ve been a professional in snowboarding, paragliding and canyoning, and have been an event organizer for over a decade, has really given me precious insights and an understanding of the field.
What’s the tourism strategy for the years to come? What main areas does Verbier still have to develop? The vision defined in the Tourism Master Plan — which was based on numerous participatory workshops, surveys and meetings — is for Verbier to become “a sustainable 4-season mountain destination of reference”. We’ve built a programme that pushes us to become one of the best, to innovate and
to make sustainability the cornerstone of what we do. We are lucky to already have a thriving economy and strong, well-developed social standards. Now, we need to place more importance and resources towards developing the environmental pillar of who we are. We have room to improve in that regard, and numerous actions have already been undertaken that we want to maximise. Verbier Tourism has already been labelled “Swisstainable” (Swiss Tourism’s sustainability designation) and our goal is to become a “Swisstainable Destination”. We have many projects that are already in the works and many more that are still to come. One of the biggest projects is developing affordable lodging solutions for families, young people and seasonal workers, for example.
What comes next after having already won the coveted “World’s Best Ski Station” award? We certainly can’t rest on our laurels, because despite the importance of that designation, it is really just a marketing award. Our competitors are always innovating and developing. So, in order for us to stay competitive — and ideally to be among the best — we also constantly have to be striving for more and making improvements.
verbier.ch
An
Simon Wiget
last to carve tracks in the beautiful, powder-filled slopes that make Verbier a freeride paradise.
Aged wood and fireplaces are signature elements of the Hotel Cordée des Alpes, giving the space a timeless and traditionally Alpine atmosphere.
Hotel Cordée des Alpes
A taste of the mountains
The Hotel Cordée des Alpes is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and is the only Verbier locale to have received a key from Michelin, as part of their new classification system. It’s a nod to the hotel’s uniquely discreet luxury, which beautifully marries Alpine authenticity, technology and modern design.
Text Daniel Bauchervez
Photos Hotel Cordée des Alpes
Its large, southern-facing façade basks in sunshine, enveloped by a forest of ornate balconies, as the snow-covered peaks of the Combins rise majestically in the distance on the other side of the valley. Behind this beautiful wooden shell beats a resolutely Alpine heart, with cozy rooms built from a host of local materials — including elegantly rustic hardwood floors, cabinets and furniture that recall the timeless charm of region’s most majestic chalets. Superior rooms with balconies. Deluxe rooms with an additional living area and some that even have a purring fireplace, complete with a basket of reserve firewood to keep the fire going. And still a level above, Elegance rooms and Suites, which offer vast amounts of space.
On the upper floors, a handful of apartments (from 75 to 200 m2) set the stage, offering the same cozy harmony in
an even larger format — the newest of which includes three bedrooms, a living room with a stone fireplace and a large white, snow-inspired rug. The mountain Lofts elegantly merge tradition and urban influences, reinforced by clubstyle armchairs and deer antler chandeliers. And of course, it’s all set before a snowy backdrop featuring the radiant Swiss Alps as the star of the show.
The lighting is filtered, and the bathrooms are beautiful, built with the clean tiling designs of the 1900s. The bath products are organic, the duvets are goose down, and the staff is attentive, professional, kind and friendly, all at the same time.
PAMPERED THERAPY
In that same contemporary yet timeless spirit, the splendid 15-metre swimming pool (heated to 29-30°C), which is
the centrepiece of the Spa by La Cordée, unfurls beneath a wooden cathedral-style roof, offering a warm cocoon amongst the carved wooden shutters and an open fireplace. A large jacuzzi beckons from one corner, across from the relaxation zones, and just a few steps from the sauna and hammam. The Cinq Mondes branded treatments offer benefits derived from some the world’s most proven traditions — ayurvedic and Polynesian massage, eastern scrubs with black soap, Tahitian monoï or cinnamon and nutmeg essential oils.
In this calm haven, wellness is the mantra, and all your desires are on the agenda. Want to reserve the space in the evening for a private duo? Fantastic idea. Want to experience the spa for a few hours, even if you’re not staying at the hotel? Absolutely possible. Two hours of spa access is included with any 50- to 80-minute treatment. There are even (new) massages for children and the Day Spa, including a gourmet breakfast or a light lunch, which is ideal… unless you wish to be massaged the entire morning!
AUTHENTIC DINING
This winter, the hotel’s flagship Restaurant La Cordée has transformed into a chic and welcoming brasserie that’s largely focused on local, seasonal produce. Pike perch and trout gravlax. Verbier tomme served with fire-roasted vegetables.
Free-range, black-legged chicken from Gruyère. Veal chop with scotch bonnet mushrooms… It’s as local as possible and is prepared with respect for age-old traditional recipes and lessons learned over time. The wine cellar is richly wellstocked, and the bar boasts well-crafted classic cocktails.
MICHELIN’S CHOICE
No detail is neglected. Here, the clients’ comfort is the golden rule, expressed as electric bikes in the summer, an in-house ski shop, or even free shuttles to the ski slopes. Surely all part of the reason why Michelin chose Hotel Cordée (along with 86 other Swiss establishments) to be part of their new, high-class ranking system — the only hotel in Verbier to receive the distinction. “It’s an incredible honour that we are delighted to receive”, said General Manager José Esteban. “This award reflects our commitment to creating an unforgettable experience for our guests and is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion displayed by our entire team. We no doubt owe this distinction to our attention to detail, our personalised approach to hospitality, our emphasis on local culture and sustainable development (Swisstainable Level II), and our desire to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the beauty and spirit of Verbier”. Mission accomplished.
hotelcordee.com
The south-facing façade of the Hotel Cordée des Alpes is wrapped in large balconies that offer fantastic views of the Combins mountain peaks.
À Table by Jérémie Voutaz
Interview with a young master
True value does not need the test of time; it’s an adage that seems like it was made for Jérémie Voutaz. Only 21 years old, this highly praised Chef — who reigns over a restaurant that’s discreetly tucked into a former barn in Étiez — speaks with helvet.
Text Claude Hervé-Bazin
Photos Gabriel Monnet
His first food-related memory is his grandfather’s sauerkraut, served with cured meats from Valais, which he would only eat warmed up. Despite his young age (only 21!), flashes of nostalgia flicker across Jérémie Voutaz’s face when he reflects on these precious moments spent with his family around a good meal. Cooking, for him, is above all “a beautiful moment for sharing”. “My grandfather — with his traditional recipes, his sausage with cabbage, his blackcurrant liquor, and his stories told around the table — is the one who taught me the importance of savoir faire and high-quality ingredients. My mother, meanwhile, is the one who initiated me in the art of making pastries and stews that resemble one another”.
At just 14 years old, Jérémie participated in the regional Top Chef competition while at a vocation school — which
was created to help reveal young talents and encourage new career paths. He was up against 130 other students in their 11th year of school — tough competition to say the least! Jérémie advanced through all the stages and won the prize around a joyful theme: a chocolate birthday cake. “Even my chickens loved it”, he recalled, barely supressing a cheeky smile. His 500-franc prize money immediately went towards buying new kitchen knives… and filled him with “a determination to pursue a culinary career”.
SIDE BY SIDE WITH MARIE ROBERT
Jérémie’s victory opened the door for an internship at Safran, at Eurotel in Montreux, on the shores of Lake Geneva. The pressures of the job did not dissuade him — quite the opposite. With his training completed, he contacted
Meticulous in his presentation, Jérémie Voutaz frequently reaches for his tweezers while dressing plates.
*CHAMPAGNE AOC DOM PÉRIGNON VINTAGE 2012, BRUT, 75 CL 229.–(10 CL = 30.53) 95 Robert Parker 96 Wine Spectator
75 CL 135.–(10 CL = 18.–)
96 Decanter
*AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO DOC MAZZANO MASI AGRICOLA 2013,
Only 21 years old, Jérémie Voutaz is the sole master here, beneath the vaulted roof of his repurposed barn, which houses a single chef’s table for 8 people. A convivial evening is guaranteed!
Marie Robert on Instagram and the famous chef of Le Café Suisse in Bex hired him as a pastry chef. For a year he progressed through his challenges. “I showed my creativity, my skills and my desire to always go above and beyond. I had a few different kitchen jobs after that. It was an amazing experience and truly memorable. My adventures with Marie and Betta reinforced my passion for gastronomy and my desire to continue to expand my skillset as a chef”, reminisced Jérémie.
His favourite saying is borrowed from Maupassant: Of all the passions, the only one that seems respectable to me is the passion for food. Jérémie was only 20 years old when he decided to launch his solo career. He chose a repurposed old barn in Étiez, in the Val de Bagnes where he had grown up, between a trough and an altar dedicated to Our Lady of Grace. Why there? For its intimate nature, which encourages conviviality.
ONE-MAN SHOW
His rules are strict: no more than eight people per meal, seated around a single, communal table that’s almost within
reach of the chef as he tends to his cooking. Restaurant? Gathering? Experience? “It’s all of those things at the same time”, responds Jérémie. “Each dish tells a story while also celebrating our region’s richest resources. It’s a welcoming and friendly ambiance that encourages people to share”. It is rather unusual to see the chef dress the plates before your eyes, tweezers in hand (his favourite tool)!
The flavours hail from the local region, “authentic, with an emphasis on seasonal, high-quality local produce”. Changing every three weeks, the unique menu — which is accompanied by a meticulously chosen selection of Valais wines — aims to surprise. It offers a journey through taste, texture and smell, which is enhanced by powerful, refined aesthetics that embrace colours and graphics. Here, it’s more than a meal: it’s a work of art.
À Table by Jérémie Voutaz
Open at noon, Wednesday-Sunday jeremievoutaz.ch
Emily Shaw La magie de l’hiver
Texte Hélène Dubraviez
Photos Emily Shaw
Vu de drone, la station, le domaine skiable et les Alpes Valaisannes prennent une tout autre envergure.
Effets de poudreuse, formes fluides, courbes onctueuses, c’est la texture de la neige fraîche qui inspire le plus Emily Shaw.
Envoûtée par la puissance de la montagne suisse, la jeune Anglaise a acheté un appareil photo peu après s’être installée à Verbier et a commencé à collectionner les flocons et les plus beaux instants. Premier bilan en images, après une décennie de bonheurs en Valais.
Elle n’en revient toujours pas de vivre dans la station-star des Alpes. Grandie dans les grisailles du Yorkshire, Emily Shaw arrive à Verbier un beau jour d’hiver de 2014 pour occuper un emploi de service pour la saison chez Bramble Ski — compagnie réputée spécialisée dans la gestion des superchalets. Trop beau, ces montagnes enneigées ! Durant son temps libre, la jeune fille se met rapidement au ski, puis à la photographie. Une pulsion, comme pour prouver par l’image que, oui, vraiment, sa vie ici n’est pas un rêve.
Toujours fidèle au poste chez Bramble, la jeune Britannique, aujourd’hui âgée de 32 ans, n’a pas pour autant lâché son appareil. Bien au contraire. Améliorant peu à peu sa technique, entraînant son œil et poussant toujours plus avant
ses explorations de la nature valaisanne, la photographie n’a cessé de prendre davantage de place dans son existence. Depuis quelques années, un drone est venu ajouter l’aérien à sa panoplie d’angles. « Un nouveau champ des possibles s’est ouvert à moi, multipliant les perspectives, me permettant de capter des lieux autrement inaccessibles et me poussant à davantage de créativité », précise l’intéressée. L’occasion aussi de découvrir l’abstraction, neige aidant.
L’hiver, voilà son dada. Les hivers blancs, bien sûr. La magie d’une poudreuse tout juste tombée, surprise à l’aube, encore vierge d’empreintes. « Des paysages de contes de fée ». Des instants suspendus. Comme cette image d’un couple sous son parapluie, bras dessus bras dessous, par une nuit de
Un vieux chalet de bois et ses sapins plâtrés de blanc : l’image exprime tout le bonheur de vivre à Verbier.
Noël lourde de flocons — si denses que les chasse-neige ne parvenaient plus à suivre la cadence. Sa photo favorite.
Pas de message subliminal, affirme Emily, mais une simple quête de « beauté pure », à jamais inassouvie et réincarnée à chaque nouvelle tempête, à chaque nouveau blizzard. La nature décide. Elle conserve bien dans un tiroir une liste de lieux à ajouter à sa collection d’images, « mais c’est généralement la spontanéité qui produit mes meilleurs clichés », croit-elle savoir. Pour une belle photo, c’est sûr, elle « déplacerait des montagnes ».
S’améliorer, encore et toujours. Explorer le noir-et-blanc pour sublimer les intenses jeux d’ombres et de lumières
des Alpes et transmettre un sens plus puissant encore d’intemporalité. Développer des narratifs et adopter une approche plus documentaire de la photographie. Les idées et les envies ne manquent pas. Présente sur Instagram, Emily vend depuis peu ses images de Verbier encadrées sur la plate-forme Etsy, en tirages d’archives ou sur plaque d’aluminium brossé. Et elle vient aussi d’être engagée pour des shootings par des hôtels de la station. Une voie pour le futur, peut-être, même si l’essentiel, en vérité est ailleurs. La photo ? « Un moyen d’exprimer ma créativité et de repousser mes limites, tant physiques qu’artistiques », conclue la jeune femme.
Instagram : @thisisverbier
W LIVING ROOM
LOUNGE & COCKTAIL BAR
ENVIRONMENT
THE TRIENT VALLEY BECOMES A NATURE RESERVE
Earlier this summer, residents of the seven communes that border the Trient Valley came together to approve the establishment of a Regional Nature Reserve of national significance. Spread over 222 km2, going from the French border all the way to the Rhône Valley, it will be the 20th such reserve in Switzerland. At least 40 projects are already underway to strengthen the area’s sustainable development, broadly spanning biodiversity, education, tourism and agriculture, with more to come in the future!
parc-valleedutrient.ch
GASTRONOMY
THE ÉTIEZ CHEESE SHOP IN ALL ITS GLORY
Raclette de Bagnes AOP, tomme La Vollégearde and Armaney: the three key cheesy delights on offer from the Étiez cheese shop (united in a very famous fondue by the same name) will be receiving a new showcase by the end of the year. The space will be transformed to welcome Le Reper, a new bar-café-wine library-tasting room, much to the delight of those who already enjoy a good late-night cheese session. The cheese shop, which uses milk from a dozen local producers to make their cheeses, is open year-round.
fromagerie-etiez.ch
SHOPPING
A NEW COFFEE CREATION CELEBRATING THE HERITAGE OF SWISS “CAFÉ CRÈME”
Once again, Nespresso innovates by highlighting its roots and know-how. In collaboration with chef Heiko Nieder, the Swiss company presents an exclusive co-creation: Zurich Lungo. Part of the World Explorations range, this Limited Edition pays tribute to Swiss coffee culture and the city of Zurich. Inspired by the city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, this creation responds to the coffee preferences of the Swiss, and in particular those of lovers of café crème. Café crème, a long coffee enjoyed with milk or cream, remains the local favorite. Zurich Lungo promises an unforgettable taste in the morning or throughout the day. Discover it now in the boutiques or online.
nespresso.com
The Michaud family
Just over a century of watchmaking
Text Daniel Bauchervez
Photos Jaques Betant
The Maison Michaud has grown across three continents thanks to the passion of four generations, finding its sweet spot in jewellery and watchmaking between Neuchâtel and Verbier. Join us for a conversation with their local ambassador, Jean-Nicolas Michaud.
It all began with Charles-Louis Michaud’s adventure: a Neuchâtel native who travelled to East London, South Africa, in the late 19th century to open a watch shop. Back then, one could take the tram directly to Sandy Beach. The ladies gathered there in the tearoom, beneath their parasols, while the men swam to their hearts’ content in the distance. In the changing rooms, the pocket watch — with or without chain — ruled.
In 1906, Charles-Louis Michaud returned to his Swiss homeland. He got married and soon thereafter opened a watch and jewellery store that captured the architectural style of the Belle Époque — a business that would flourish despite both the war and the Great Depression. In 1934, his son, Édouard-Alexis, married the young Madeleine Tschudin. Her father, Gottlieb, sold Basel-made watches in the Far East markets and had recently moved to Japan. Two families, three continents... as they say, the rest is history.
After the war, normal life slowly resumed, and with it came advertisements and partnerships with some of the most prestigious watch brands. Jean-François, the third generation,
Jean-Nicolas Michaud and his wife have forged strong watch industry connections and manage the family’s boutique in Verbier.
became a diamond merchant and travelled to Hong Kong — before eventually returning to Neuchâtel, arm in arm with fashion designer Priscilla Yang. The gold watches designed by his father passed to the wayside and the jeweller’s grand parties took to the spotlight. It wasn’t long before JeanFrançois became President of Bijoutiers Suisses and one of their fantastic jewellery collections became a roaring success. He then went on to enjoy a well-deserved retirement. Then in 2006, to celebrate 100 years of business, the reigns were passed to Marie-Maude and gemologist Jean-Nicolas.
THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES IN VERBIER
To this day, the family’s bonds and professional connections remain strong in Hong Kong, Singapore and China. But it was in Verbier — nowhere else — that Jean-Nicolas Michaud decided to open the company’s first branch office some 15 years ago, leaving Michaud’s original historic location in Neuchâtel in the care of his sister and brother. This magnificent ski town is, in his words, the ideal location to “sell beauty, dreams and excellence”.
“Verbier quickly became the obvious choice”, said Jean-Nicolas. “It’s always been our winter destination, and the market wasn’t too saturated. Jean-Claude Biver (former CEO of Hublot) wanted to accompany us on this adventure and together we opened the first Hublot boutique here in the mountains in early 2009. Verbier has been my home ever since, in addition to being my winter sport playground”.
The jeweller loves his high-altitude lifestyle: “Verbier is a unique ski resort. It has a way of life that’s unlike anywhere else. I recommend getting a drink at No 8, eating at Damien’s l’Écurie, taking in the view on the terrace while having a delightful brunch at Le Chalet d’Adrien, enjoying a fondue at La Grange and, above all, be sure not to miss
truffle season at Marco Bassi’s La Channe. After dinner, you can get drinks at the W Hotel’s lounge and end your night at Farm Club, followed by an early morning cheese pastry at the Pâtisserie de la Poste. And don’t forget about the Patrouille des Glaciers (PdG) — it’s the best way to close out a season of training in climbing skins. The course is steep and requires strength, bravery and endurance... But nothing compares to seeing that sunrise over the Col de Riedmatten before joining the line of skiers snaking downhill to the light of their headlamps. Attempting to master this mountain is both a humbling and exceptional experience!”
PRESTIGIOUS PARTNERS
In Verbier, Jean-Nicolas Michaud has developed privileged partnerships with some of the most famous watch brands, in part thanks to connections he has meticulously maintained since his childhood. “My parents used to invite Pierre-Alain Blum (CEO of Ebel) to the house, along with Mr. Franck Muller (who invented his own tourbillon wristwatch) and other important retailers like René Beyer (eight generations of watchmakers), Jürg and Cecilia Kirchhofer, and the Huber family from Vaduz. I was also lucky enough to work alongside Nicolas Hayek and Arlette Emch (Swatch), among others”.
The Michaud family has worked with brands like Zenith and Longines for a long time, but their longest uninterrupted partnership — passed down from their grandfather — is with Rolex and dates back to 1960! More recently, “new collaborations have developed with younger companies like Norquain and Ressence, but we also work with a lot of jewellery brands like Messika, Pomellato and Fope”, explains Jean-Nicolas. Many treasures await discovery in the boutique’s cosy lounge space, located at 5 Rue de Médran.
michaud.ch
Reflecting Verbier’s style, the Michaud boutique on Rue de Médran features a lounge, décor from Valais, and architectural elements in wood and stone.
The pinnacle of self-expression.
Bentayga Extended Wheelbase Mulliner.
With a powerful V8 engine, as well as the latest technology and truly unrivalled craftsmanship, the Bentayga Extended Wheelbase Mulliner sets a breathtaking new benchmark for SUV luxury and wellbeing.
incredible, but true: this fall, for the 9th consecutive year, the W Verbier was awarded the title of the World’s Best Ski Hotel! Its secret? A banging cocktail of urbanity, Alpine touches, unequalled comfort and glamour.
W FOR WELCOMING
Adorned in aged wood and only three stories high, the W (open year-round) beautifully embodies the mountain identity of Verbier’s great chalets from the outside. The interior, however, is a different story. Rather than copy, the W chose to invent, with an ultra-contemporary design that merges Alpine concepts with urban trends.
The 123 spacious rooms and suites are far from ordinary, with their ice-cube-like suspension lights and Swiss-red pops of colour. Each room has its own fireplace… and its own balcony, ideal for soaking up the views of the Valais Alps. The rooms also boast a provocatively comfortable W bed — complete with a pillow menu and goose down duvet — which may tempt you to never get up. Beyond that, it all depends on your room type: island bathtubs, living rooms with vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and brushed aluminium… or even a 360° rotating bed!
W FOR WOW
FACTOR
Stalactite lighting and coloured metal sculptures set the tone for the common areas: design… but make it funky. There’s no lobby here, it’s more like a living room. In this half-lounge half-cocktail bar with a pool table, it’s easy to get lost in the moment with a 4 Elixirs Cocktail in hand
and beats from the resident DJ. In the courtyard, when the snow replaces the beach, the après-ski welcomes skiers with tunes and mulled wine.
Hungry? At U-Yama, you can enjoy sushi and sake in the company of a large golden dragon, red lanterns and the rising sun. At Bô!, the hotel’s signature restaurant, you’ll be welcomed by beautiful views and copper bell light fixtures that illuminate a gastronomic locavore kitchen, which features the best of the season, like venison, guinea fowl, wild boar, Alpine chamois, or pike perch. Alternatively, the timeless Eat-Hola Tapas Bar, by Sergi Arola (starred chef), offers a compact menu of tapeo, paëlla and tacos, in a welcoming and delightfully Spanish ambiance.
W FOR WELLNESS
After the ski-in, ski-out, it’s time for swim-in, swim-out Divided by large windows, the W’s beautiful pools play between barriers, being half inside and half outside. Swimming in warm waters beneath the snow is sure to be a moment you’ll never forget. And to erase your stress, the 1,300 m2 spa has plenty to offer. Jacuzzi, saunas, hammams, treatment rooms… and even cryotherapy, to stimulate your nervous system.
wverbier.com
Photos W Verbier
EVENTS
LET’S GO SLEDDING!
On February 8, La Tzoumaz – home to one of the longest sled-only routes in Switzerland – will welcome its annual Sledding Festival. You depart from Savoleyres (2,344 m) on a breathtaking 7 km descent (with 711 m of altitude change) along the crests and through the snow-covered forests until you reach the ski resort centre. Musical acts and other entertainment await along the way. And it only costs 30 CHF to participate, which includes the gondola lift, a basic sled rental and a few drinks. A steal! verbier4vallees.ch
ECONOMY GREAT AMBITIONS FOR EPFL IN VALAIS
Located in Sion since 2012 as part of the Energypolis project, the EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne) Valais campus is home to 17 laboratories that are active in the key areas of energy, environment and health, and are managed by researchers and doctoral students from 40 nationalities. The campus has already played a role in the creation of multiple startups, which contribute to the local economy. This summer, EPFL and the Valais Cantonal Government signed an agreement to pool their resources to create a new teaching, research and innovation hub devoted to the renewable energy transition. This includes setting up six additional research chairs at the EPFL Valais Wallis campus by 2032. epfl.ch
DIGNITY, DEVOTION AND SACRIFICE
That’s the motto for St. Bernards, the iconic rescue dogs that are famous for saving travellers gone astray in snowstorms. There’s a museum, which opened in 2005, dedicated to these exceptional animals, located at a traveller’s lodge that shares the same name in Martigny: Barryland. The museum is now being transformed into a 20,000 m2 theme park, scheduled to open in summer 2025. Work is well underway, and the main building (which is shaped like a paw print!) is almost complete. One of the five rooms is dedicated to Barry, the world’s most famous St. Bernard, who saved at least 40 people in the early 19th century. barryland.ch
MOBILITY A NEW CO-WORKING SPACE IN CHÂBLE
SoHome is strategically placed, in Châble — just 300 m from the train station and Verbier’s gondola lift — and is much more than your average co-working space. Here the shared workspace (complete with large tables and ultra-fast wifi) doubles as a welcoming communal living room, complete with a fully equipped kitchen, a call booth for those important conversations and a laundry room. There are even five small but very affordable hotel rooms, with or without a private bathroom. Verbier also welcomed a new (third) co-working space in the centre of town, near the Migros: Le Bivouac. sohomeliving.co/coworking-le-chable lebivouac.ch
BE
Switzerland embraces nomadic lifestyles
The art of merging professional freedom and the great outdoors
Text Samia Tawil
Photos Christian Kalse | Raphaël Surmont
The popularity of nomadism has been on the rise in recent years — even more so since the global health crisis. During the pandemic, many people got used to a hybrid way of life, with mornings of remote work done in Birkenstocks followed by an afternoon spent skiing the sunny slopes. Freedom in flexibility!
Places like Bali, Mexico, Dubai and Mallorca have nomad havens over the past few years. A promise of a better life, experienced far from home. A response to our growing need to rediscover freedom, heightened by the burnout generation who — terrified of being caught up in a deadly routine — have found themselves somewhere between a career change and a midlife crisis. Cross-border working has given digital nomads a chance to prove to even the most sceptical that, yes, it is indeed possible to combine business and pleasure.
LIVING THE MOUNTAIN HIGH LIFE
In this new world, Switzerland has emerged as an ideal destination, a golden promise for nature-loving nomads. High-altitude ski resorts like Verbier, Zermatt and Crans-Montana quickly realised they needed to meet the needs of this new demographic with connected cafés and coworking spaces. Neil Beecroft, founder of PuraWorka, immediately understood the attraction of Switzerland for workers on the go, having opened the first coworking space in Zermatt and later a second location in Sion, tailored towards a more corporate client. “Switzerland’s high quality of living, safety and breathtaking landscapes offer an exceptional backdrop for digital nomads”, said Neil. “In Zermatt, our space is characterized by a relaxed atmosphere and has a greater focus on outdoor activities, which tends to attract a community of adventurers and creatives who are looking for peace and inspiration while they work in the heart of the Alps”, said Neil.
And Neil Beecroft knows what he’s talking about! As a digital nomad with multiple jobs himself, he splits his time each year between his coworking locations, Valais, Lausanne and Portugal, where he has taken up surfing when he’s not working in his usual field of sustainability for sports events. Powered by his own personal experience, he highlights the growing popularity of nomadic lifestyles: “Since the pandemic, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the number of remote workers and digital nomads. That trend has persisted beyond the end of lockdown and that way of life is only continuing to attract more and more people. We saw an increase in the number of people using our spaces from 2021 to 2023, which confirms that flexible, nomadic work is here to stay as a long-term change”.
Other towns in Switzerland have taken a more contemplative approach to the remote work trend. Take Lenk, for example, where Andy Stofferis has created a space for coworking and coliving, as he’s fond of both. In this kind of location, which is less upscale and mostly surrounded by farms and agricultural production, digital nomads bring a breath of fresh air to a small town atmosphere.
THE CULTURAL DRAW OF CAPITAL CITIES
Switzerland also attracts those who love the city lifestyle. In that regard, Zurich is an ideal location for people who want the best of all worlds, as a centre of finance and technology that also has a well-established café lifestyle, rich cultural offerings and a thriving nightlife. The number of digital
80 years of gloves for everyday
Hestra has been making gloves since 1936 in Hestra, Sweden. Now, in our 4th generation as a family owned company we still focus on using the same high standards of quality leather and craftsmanship that Great-Grand Father Martin Magnusson insisted on from day one.
nomads who gathered last summer at the Seebad Enge swimming area, in bathing suits behind their laptops, combined with a few teleworkers who had escaped the office, goes to show there’s no limit to creatively reconciling what seems to be irreconcilable!
The more alternative city of Basel (aka the Swiss Berlin) attracts the artsy nomads: writers, designers and other art industry types looking to grow their networks.
In Geneva, a host of specialised coffee shops and coworking spaces have opened in the past decade. There’s the very corporate Spaces Works, with strategically placed locations at Quai de l’Ile, the main train station, Nations and in the eco-neighbourhood Quartier de l’Étang near the airport. There’s also the funkier Impact Hub, which hosts a weekly healthy community lunch event known as Wednesday’s Sexy Salad. And of course, there’s the local’s choice: Café Voisins, which welcomes a mixed crowd of nomads, entrepreneurs and Genevan freelancers.
SWISS NOMADS ABROAD: A GREAT ESCAPE!
Of course, the opposite phenomenon also exists, and many Swiss people have embraced a nomadic lifestyle that takes them far beyond our country’s borders, testing the limits of reliable international wifi to enjoy half the year in the snow and the other half in the shade of some palm trees.
Neil Beecroft has seen it firsthand in the statistics from his third establishment, an eco-resort and coliving space in Lombok (an island near Bali) that opened in the heart of Covid, and which is very popular among the Swiss. “Lombok is unique for its serenity and is ideal for people who love surfing, yoga and hiking. Our location there welcomes a diverse community of Swiss digital nomads who are often working in fields like web development, digital marketing and other creative professions”.
Some Swiss digital nomads choose to settle in their new host country, welcoming their European family and friends for delightful vacations abroad. Others invest while also making sure they keep one foot firmly planted in Switzerland. Nicolas Cheneve, the owner of Magnitude Construction, which specialises in the construction of luxury villas in Bali’s Ubud region, explains: “The majority of our investors are millennials, many of whom work in digital professions and around 30% of whom are Swiss!”
Beyond all rational explanations, these nomads-nowturned-expats seem to offer us all a lesson in happiness and the courage it takes to go after it. It’s no easy task to be far from where you grew up, often on your own, forging an entirely new path. But perhaps that’s a trivial sacrifice for those who believe in seizing the opportunity to live out their dreams… while they still can.
The area between Verbier and Le Châble boasts at least four coworking spaces. This location is the Mountain Hub, found in the heart of the ski resort.
Time for the Freeride World Tour to shine
At 18 years old, one could say the Freeride World Tour has reached maturity. The perfect occasion for snowboarder and wingsuit pilot Géraldine Fasnacht, who’s based in Verbier, to reflect on the importance of supporting the next generation.
Interview with Géraldine Fasnacht
Text Daniel Bauchervez
Photos FWT | J. Bernard | L. Loye
The Bec des Rosses, the permanent home of Xtreme and host of the
place in March.
Freeride World Tour finale, set to take
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Géraldine Fasnacht returns to the Bec each year. “Not out of fear, but for positive tension. I know exactly what I need to look out for, but I also know I can’t make any mistakes. That sensation is essential to me in everything that I do. It keeps me alive”.
Géraldine Fasnacht was only 25 years old and already had two Xtreme Verbier snowboarding victories under her belt when, in 2005, she and her husband Sébastien Gay decided to create the Mountain Line Foundation to support young mountain athletes. “We started bringing teens from the Val de Bagnes villages to go mountain climbing every Wednesday and we organized camp outs, always in a different location in Switzerland or Italy. We did the same thing in winter but made it a freeriding expedition. Then we decided we should help the most promising teens of the group who wanted to compete, like Jérôme Caroli, Estelle Balet, then Sybille Blanjean and Liam Rivera, to name just a few”.
Crowned with a third Xtreme Verbier victory in 2009, Géraldine was absolutely thrilled to find herself lined up for the Freeride World Tour circuit. Ever more invested in her expeditions, she soon found herself playing a crucial role in supporting her protégée, the late Estelle Balet, who succeeded her on the podium — and even went on to win the freeride world title in both 2015 and 2016. Géraldine could not have been more proud.
A DUTY TO SUPPORT
“I was given the chance to live my dreams and make my greatest passion my career, so I think we have an enormous role to play in assisting the next generation of young freeride talent, bearing in mind the central role Verbier plays in this discipline. Other ski resorts may have the Matterhorn or Mont Blanc, but we are so lucky to have the Bec des Rosses and an exceptional area for freeriding! In my own way, I’m still supporting several young people through my foundation, like Jordan Ray, who’s coming back to the Freeride World Qualifier this winter after recovering from an injury
— and after having placed first in the Freeride World Tour Junior. We’re assisting these kids financially for the season, helping reimburse their expenses and offering training, all financed by a mix of income earned from doing conferences and from individual donations. We’ll also be organizing a raffle in the fall. We need to fundraise every year because there are always more young talents emerging, especially at the higher levels. From that perspective, I think the Freeride World Tour being integrated into the FIS calendar should help us obtain additional funding to support our mission”.
Over the past two years, Géraldine has also stepped back in to lead the Verbier Freeride Club/Team, which was created at the same time as her foundation, in 2005, by the former Director of Téléverbier, Éric Balet (Estelle’s father). “Thanks to financing from the ski lift company, the municipality and the tourism office, the association has grown a lot,” added Géraldine, “and it now supports over 30 riders who represent Verbier and the Val de Bagnes amongst the world’s best at the Freeride World Tour, the FWT Challenger, the FWT Qualifier and the FWT Junior. It’s the best represented team in the world!”
The 2025 FWT circuit, made up of six events (one of which is now at Val Thorens), kicks off on January 18th and will finish (as is customary) on the steep slopes of the Bec des Rosses on March 22-23, 2025. Everyone will be watching in anticipation of the first freeride world championships, which will take place in Andorra early February 2026.
Deep in the Swedish forests, the lumberjacks have ice in their beards, and they take the quality of their gloves very seriously. The best way to understand the values behind the specialized brand Hestra is to embark on an excursion to Småland, where the forests and the ski slopes merge.
Swedish ethics
Text Yannick Nardin
Photos Hestra
The story of Hestra begins in 1936, in a village by the same name that’s located in Småland, in Southern Sweden. Here, Martin Magnusson started making gloves for the local woodcutters. As a lumberjack himself, he wanted to make the best gloves possible. His secret? He used flax yarn — which was more expensive, but which made for more robust seams — and rivets. He quickly began making gloves for winter sports enthusiasts as well, who came in large numbers by train to ski the Isaberg slopes. Four generations of Magnussons — all of whom are passionate about skiing, the outdoors, and gloves — have since firmly established the Hestra brand as a high-quality name with values that are as firm as a Swedish lumberjack’s arms.
KEEP CLOSE RANKS
(AND KEEP YOUR HANDS WARM)
In the Hestra region, long before company ethics became a common household term, respect was the word of the day. Anton Magnusson, the great-grandson of Martin — who is now at the helm of Hestra — describes the tenacity and upright character of the local Smålanders: “100 years ago, the people here always had to work a little harder than the others to have enough to eat. Nothing was taken for granted. Today, Hestra is still a small village of barely 500 inhabitants. Everyone knows each other and thus, everyone is truly responsible for their own actions. We consider it honourable to treat each other with the greatest respect and to be true to our word. The Hestra brand was born of this culture. We place a lot of importance not only on the quality of our gloves, but also on our company and the society that we are part of”.
HESTRA TAKES UP THE GAUNTLET
With its thick coat of winter snow, the Småland region has long sparkled with snowflakes in the eyes of winter sports enthusiasts. It all began in the 1920s in Isaberg, on some of the most beautiful slopes in the southlands — a rarity here, in an area which has largely been flattened by glaciers over the course of thousands of years. One of the country’s first slalom courses opened in the winter season of 1936-1937. All of the skiers needed equipment. Skiers themselves, Martin Magnusson and his two sons, Lars-Olof and Göte, got to work.
As time passed, the brand became well established in the local scene. Then in the 1970s, Hestra, under the leader-
ship of Lars-Olof and Göte, became the first to sponsor the Swedish National Ski Team. The team’s star skier Ingemar Stenmark quickly dominated the podiums, and over the next decade, he always sported Hestra’s colours on his hands while the world watched on television.
Ever a pioneer, Lars-Olof also established a joint venture with two Chinese manufacturers in 1970. But it was the next generation of Magnussons, Claes and Svante, that truly transformed Hestra into an international brand in the 1990s. Determined to ship their products globally, the two brothers would spend whole nights packing boxes listening to Pink Floyd. Success was on the horizon.
THE ART AND TECHNIQUE OF MAKING GLOVES
The brand also has a number of exceptionally long-lasting production partnerships with two distinct Hestra manufacturers, located in Vietnam and Hungary. These countries are some of the last to still practice Europe’s heritage glove-making traditions, and it’s here that Hestra’s line of high-end, leather city gloves are made. Anton and his brother Niklas even received training themselves in this artisan craft — a testament to their dedication to Hestra’s origins and the essential art of high-quality craftsmanship.
ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS
Starting in the 1980s, Hestra began using Ecocuir, which is chrome-free. Today, some of their textiles are plastic based or made of recycled materials. The majority of the company’s water repellent treatments are free from perfluorinated compounds and Hestra uses ZQ-certified merino wool from New Zealand — responsible, traceable, durable, high-quality wool from humanely-treated animals.
The gloves themselves are a vehicle for sustainable development given the level of care that goes into their production and quality. Even better: the interior lining of several models can be independently replaced, extending the longevity of the gloves. Hestra also offers a repair service. There’s nothing better for keeping your hands warm all winter long than a pair of Hestra gloves!
hestragloves.eu
While the first pair of gloves were designed for woodcutters, several styles have since been created in collaboration with mountain guides and competitive skiers.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
What do the sea and motorsports have in common? This Rolex Cosmograph Daytona elegantly unites both worlds. The legendary racetrack in Daytona Beach, FL — from which this watch gets its name — embodies adrenaline and accurate timekeeping. This essence, along with the treasures of the nearby ocean, are reflected in the mother-of-pearl dial.
rolex.com
Chopard Happy Sport
Free, joyful, precise: The Happy Sport collection lets its diamonds dance across the dial. If you hold it to your ear, you can even hear them delicately tinkle as they sway. Yet Happy Sport is still pragmatic, having been designed for sporting use and entirely forged in steel. And there’s a wonderfully wide range of options to choose from.
chopard.com
J12 Calibre 12.1
It is said that Coco Chanel didn’t appreciate women’s watches, deeming them illegible. The J12, which premiered in 2000, finally revealed a watchmaking response that aligns with the brand’s founding codes. The watch is elegant and solid, due to its composition of gorgeous, highly resistant white ceramic and steel for the case and strap.
chanel.com
Longines Conquest
Designed for high colour adventures, the Conquest line from Longines — which originally debuted in 1954 — now also offers certain models with a 34 mm dial. These seductively sporty watches are available in a range of different coloured dials with straps made of rubber or steel, and there’s even a gold two-tone variant.
longines.com
Chanel
1. TAG Heuer Carrera Chronographe “Dato”
How can one resist the charm of yesteryear? To celebrate the Carrera’s 60th anniversary, TAG Heuer launched a version with a single minute chronograph counter at 3 o’clock and a date window at 9 o’clock — a change to the watch’s 1968 aesthetics and functionality. This teal green beauty is powered by the new in-house TH20-07 DATO movement.
tagheuer.com
4. Norqain
Adventure Sport Chrono Day / Date 41 mm
The summit’s call rings loud and clear with this patterned dial that’s inspired by the Swiss mountains. Limited to 100 pieces, and loaded with utility functions, this is a watch for all your greatest adventures, whether they take you to remote backcountry trails or the open seas. A natural choice from a brand that embodies the thrill of exploring.
norqain.com
7. Zenith
Defy Skyline 36
It’s love at first sight for slim-wristed mechanical watch lovers! The Defy Skyline oozes credibility from its modest 36 mm diameter. Within the octagonal case beats the heart of the watch, powered by the Elite 670 automatic manufacture movement, while the brand’s iconic light, green-toned sunray-patterned dial is sure to capture the eye.
The curves of the Curvex™ case on this timepiece perfectly envelop the wrist with its elegantly slim barrel shape. This sophisticated collection reinvents itself with a bold dial design, differently-sized hour markers, intense colours — here, in a lush emerald green — and a leather strap, marking an era of diversity for the new Nuance collection.
franckmuller.com
5. Longines Spirit Flyback
The gold and steel case, with shaded matt green dial, of this Spirit Flyback Chronograph combine elegance and adrenaline. Its flyback function, which was developed by the brand in 1925, allows for successive rounds of timing, facilitating pilot navigation. The watch is powered by a COSC-certified movement, symbolized by five stars.
longines.com
8. Ressence
Type 8 Sage Green
What to make of this minimalist timepiece? Ressence has reinvented the watch with this celestial design from Belgium that boasts 100% Swiss-made inner mechanical workings. The hours have a dedicated display that rotates on the watch face as the minutes tick by, proving there’s still room for creativity in watchmaking!
ressencewatches.com
3. Breitling
Premier B01 Chronograph 42
Flashback to the 1940s, when Willy Breitling first dreamt up the Premier Chronograph: functional, elegant and easy to wear. This modern reinterpretation — here in pine green — lives up to its founder’s guidelines and aesthetics. Its manufactory-made movement is COSC-certified to ensure both precision and reliability.
breitling.com
6. Tudor
Black Bay 58 18k
All that glitters is not gold… or is it? The new Black Bay 58 turns the old adage upside down, illuminating your wrist in 18k yellow satin-finished gold. The matt green dial and bezel embody a strong sporty look, which is to be expected from a dive watch that’s waterproof up to 200 m, and the in-house movement is of course COSC-certified.
tudorwatch.com
9. Hublot
Classic Fusion King Gold Diamonds
In 1980, Hublot made waves in the industry when they dared to accompany a gold watch with (what was considered to be) a crude rubber strap. A few decades later, this unique style is still one of the brand’s signature looks. The Classic Fusion King Gold Green Diamonds, shielded in rose gold and green, is available in both 38 mm and 29 mm.
hublot.com
1. Goldbergh CHOU jacket goldbergh.com
2. Valmont V-Lift Cream Anti-wrinkle face cream lamaisonvalmont.com
3. Louis Roederer Champagne Cristal 2016 louis-roederer.com
4. &Tradition Little Petra VB2 andtradition.com
5. Bogner Arosa lace-up boots bogner.com
6. Michaud Diamonds ring michaud.ch
1. Moncler
Doudoune courte réversible Wengi en teddy moncler.com
1. Richard Orlinski Deer — Resin sculpture orlinskishop.com
2. Stoff Nagel BMF candle holder globus.ch
3. Berkey Water filter berkeyswiss.ch
4. Lintello Isola Side Table linteloo.com
5. Timeline The Day Cream timelinenutrition.com
PRECISION
Our attention to detail is evident in everything we make. It took our skilled watchmakers years to create this delicate dance of levers, jewels, and wheels. OMEGA’s extraordinary Co-Axial Calibre 3861.
A movement Master Chronometer certified for its exceptional precision, performance, and magnetic resistance. We achieve this level of excellence by investing time and obsessing over the details. That’s our uncompromising approach. That’s OMEGA precision.
