Skiing in Verbier in December: What to Expect

November 28, 2025

Read time: 3 mins

Thinking about skiing in Verbier in December? This guide walks you through what’s open in Verbier and what the conditions are like. We’ve also included simple checks to help you avoid common mistakes.

Whether it’s a quiet pre-Christmas trip or celebrating New Year on the slopes, here’s what to expect.

Is Skiing in Verbier in December any good? Quick Answer

Yes, it has some great plus sides. However, it is also worth considering some of the drawbacks.

You’ll have very different experiences skiing in Verbier in December depending on whether it is early or late December.

Christmas and the run-up to New Year’s is far busier than early December. Late December will be more similar to the February half-term, while early December will be more similar to skiing in mid-January.

The Verbier ski season begins in early December. Skiing in Verbier in December will be a very different experience depending on which end of the month you ski at.

Skiing in Verbier in December starts with a smaller network of high-altitude runs. More areas are opening as snowmaking operations continue to build the snow base.

By mid-December, more lifts open.

By Christmas and New Year, the resort runs at full capacity. Check the 4 Vallées live opening map before you travel.

If you’re visiting at Christmas or New Year, book lessons, rentals, and dinners early. These weeks are among the busiest of winter.

Flexibility helps. Early-season conditions shift daily, especially on the lower slopes.

Early-Season Snow and Weather: What to Expect

Where can you ski in the first two weeks of December? Mainly on the higher, cold runs. Snow coverage early in the month is strongest above mid-mountain.

If temperatures remain cold, snowmaking operations run at full capacity. This keeps the main pistes in good shape even before large storms arrive.

As the snow base is still being built, lower slopes may close or operate on reduced hours. Coverage improves as December progresses and snowfall adds depth. By Christmas week, a much larger part of the mountain typically opens.

If you’re only looking for snow quality, then January offers another great option. Skiing in Verbier in December will have much more of a festive atmosphere

December offers the early-winter atmosphere and festive village feel. This creates an off-snow, which many visitors come for.

What Opens First: Key Verbier Sectors in December

December openings follow a predictable order. The exact timing depends on the snow and temperature.

Lac des Vaux: First to open and the most reliable early-season option.
Attelas – Ruinettes and La Chaux: Open soon after Lac des Vaux and form the core early-season network.
Savoleyres and La Tzoumaz: Open through mid-December as coverage improves.
Bruson: Usually opens later in December. This is due to its lower elevation.

Check the live opening map each morning for the day’s status.

Pros and Cons of Skiing Verbier in December

Pros of Skiing in Verbier in December

Quiet pistes in early December.
Lower accommodation prices before the festive period.
Festive off-snow atmosphere in late December.
Good snowfall for December

Cons of Skiing in Verbier in December

Limited early-season terrain in low-snow years.
Reduced lower-mountain coverage early in the month.
Christmas and New Year’s bring peak crowds and higher prices.
Restaurants and ski schools will need advanced booking.

What’s On: Events and Festivities in Verbier This December

December comes alive with events that mark the start of winter.

Late November / Early December: Polaris Festival. A major electronic music festival that draws international DJs and fills the resort.

Early December: Opening Session. A celebration marking the launch of winter with music and a lively atmosphere.

Mid-December: Bagn’Art Christmas Market (Le Châble). A cosy market which features artisan stalls, warm drinks, and live music. Ideal for a relaxed afternoon off the slopes.

New Year’s Eve: Place Centrale. Verbier’s landmark night. It features fireworks, street celebrations, and ticketed events.

For updates and timings, please refer to the Verbier Winter Agenda.

Tips for a Smooth December Trip

Booking and Logistics

Book lessons early. Group and private slots fill fast.
Reserve rentals before you arrive. This’ll give you access to discounts.
Book restaurants well in advance. Particularly for Dec 24, 25, and 31.
Check the live opening map. This provides you with resort updates at 8:00 each morning.
Pack for cold temperatures. December doesn’t receive the same afternoon sun as you’ll see in the late season.
Take lessons. If you’re new to skiing, consider taking lessons to maximise your enjoyment of the trip.