Alpenhotel Schlussel

Gurschenalp skilifts

by Veghel

At the Gurschenalp, a T-bar lift and a chairlift run between 2,015 and 2,285 m. Both lifts are old-fashioned. I wondered why they have not yet been replaced by a new, modern chairlift. The pistes on both sides of the lifts are all classified 'blue', which means particularly suitable for beginners. There are excellent snow-making facilities, so the Gurschen lifts are usually the first to open at the start of the skiing season.
Close to the lifts are a number of bars and restaurants, as well as the middle station of the Gemsstock rop-way. In December and January, the Gurschenalp gets little sun because the slopes face north.

Diamond in the heart of the Swiss Alps

by Veghel

Andermatt is a mountain village with about 2,000 inhabitants. Its houses are built very close to each other to create some sort of micro climate to withstand the snow and cold. Andermatt is situated at the foot of the famous Gotthard pass as well as the Oberalp pass and Furka pass. For centuries, it was an important logistic and postage center, with many hotels for transit travellers.
Since the opening of the Gotthard tunnel 1980, Andermatt has developed into a lively all-year round tourist resort with fine skiing facilities.

"Skiing"

Andermatt has two ski areas: Nätschen and Gemsstock. Nätschen (1,444 to 2,344 m) has 4 ski lifts and 19 km of pistes. It is mainly suitable for beginners and intermediates. With 5 ski lifts and 23 km of pistes, Gemsstock (1,444 to 2,963 m) is the bigger area and definitely suitable for experienced skiers.

"Reus"

The river Reus flows right through the heart of Andermatt and is almost completely frozen in winter time. How easy it is to shoot the perfect picture for your next year's Christmas cards!