Klosters – Switzerland’s Most Charming Ski Village
Klosters is one of Switzerland’s most cherished ski destinations — a beautifully preserved Alpine village in the canton of Graubünden that combines quintessential Swiss charm with access to one of the largest ski areas in the Alps. Sharing 300 kilometres of pistes with neighbouring Davos, Klosters has long attracted discerning skiers who value quality over size, authenticity over resort glitz, and powder skiing over crowded pistes. Most famously, Klosters has been the winter retreat of the British Royal Family for decades.
Klosters at a Glance
| Location | Prättigau, Graubünden, Switzerland |
| Village Elevation | 1,191 m |
| Highest Point | 2,844 m (Weissfluhjoch / Parsenn) |
| Vertical Drop | Up to 1,900 m (Parsenn to Küblis valley run) |
| Piste Length (Davos-Klosters) | 300 km |
| Lifts (Davos-Klosters) | 54 |
| Ski Areas | Parsenn, Madrisa, Gotschnagrat, Jakobshorn, Pischa, Rinerhorn |
| Season | Typically late November to mid-April |
The Ski Areas
The combined Davos-Klosters ski area is one of the largest in Switzerland, spread across six distinct mountain zones accessible on a single pass. From Klosters, the two main access points are:
- Parsenn — The crown jewel. Accessed from Klosters Dorf via the Gotschnabahn cable car, the Parsenn is a vast high-altitude bowl with some of the longest runs in Switzerland. The famous Parsenn run to Küblis (12 km, 1,900 m vertical) is a legendary ski descent.
- Madrisa — A quieter family-friendly area above Klosters Dorf, excellent for beginners and intermediates with good snow reliability and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The other Davos ski areas — Jakobshorn, Pischa, and Rinerhorn — are easily reached from Davos (15 minutes by train).
Terrain Breakdown (Davos-Klosters)
| Beginner (Blue) | 30% |
| Intermediate (Red) | 50% |
| Advanced (Black) | 20% |
The Royal Connection
Klosters became closely associated with the British Royal Family in the 1970s when Prince Charles discovered the resort and began making it his regular winter retreat. He has returned almost every year since, often staying at the private Walserhof chalet and skiing the Parsenn’s famous off-piste routes with mountain guide Bruno Sprecher. The village’s discretion and the locals’ respect for privacy are central to its enduring appeal. Today, the village remains a favourite of celebrities, royalty, and anyone who values quality skiing without the fanfare of larger resorts.
Best For
- Intermediate to advanced skiers — The Parsenn area is tailor-made for confident intermediates who love long, sweeping descents.
- Off-piste enthusiasts — The terrain between pistes and surrounding mountain bowls offers world-class powder skiing after fresh snowfall.
- Couples and romantic breaks — The charming village atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and intimate scale make Klosters a superb romantic destination.
- Those seeking an authentic Swiss village — Klosters retains its traditional Graubünden character far better than the more developed Davos.
Getting There
Klosters is extremely well connected by Swiss public transport. Direct trains run from Zürich (Zurich Airport included) via Landquart to Klosters in approximately 2 hours. From Zurich Airport to Klosters by train takes around 2 hours 15 minutes — one of the best ski resort rail connections in Switzerland. By car, Klosters is about 145 km from Zurich (around 2 hours). Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the most convenient international gateway.
Lift Tickets & Ski Passes
The Davos-Klosters ski pass covers all six ski areas on a single ticket. A 6-day adult pass typically costs CHF 345–370 (approximately €360–390). Day passes are also available. The Parsenn area’s historic funicular (Parsennbahn) runs from Davos and the Gotschnabahn runs from Klosters — both included in the area pass. Advance purchase online saves a small amount, and season passes are excellent value for those visiting 10+ days.
Where to Stay
Klosters has two main areas: Klosters Platz (the main village centre) and Klosters Dorf (smaller, nearer the Madrisa and Gotschnabahn lifts). The village is compact and walkable, with accommodation ranging from cosy B&Bs to luxury hotels and private chalets.
- Romantik Hotel Chesa Grischuna — A historic 4-star hotel in Klosters Platz with character, good food, and a loyal repeat clientele including many celebrity guests.
- Hotel Walserhof — Elegant 4-star property favoured by discerning travellers, with an excellent gourmet restaurant.
- Chalet rentals — Klosters has a strong market for private chalet rentals, often with staff included, for families or groups wanting privacy and space.
Activities & Experiences
Klosters and the wider Davos-Klosters area offer exceptional winter activities beyond skiing. The natural toboggan run from Gotschnagrat is exhilarating. Snowshoe trails wind through the Prättigau valley. The Davos Ice Rink (the world’s largest natural outdoor ice rink) is 15 minutes away. Sleigh rides through the surrounding farmland are a quintessential Swiss experience.
Browse ski lessons, tours & activities at Klosters →Frequently Asked Questions – Klosters
Is Klosters the same ski area as Davos?
Yes. Klosters and Davos share the same ski pass and are part of the same Davos-Klosters ski area, which spans 300 km of pistes across six mountain zones. Klosters accesses the area primarily via the Gotschnabahn (Parsenn) and the Madrisa gondola. The two resorts are connected by a frequent local train (15 minutes).
Why is Klosters popular with the British Royal Family?
Prince Charles (now King Charles III) first visited Klosters in the 1970s and has returned almost every year since. The village’s traditional character, excellent skiing on the Parsenn, privacy, and the discretion of the local community all contributed to his loyalty to the resort. Other members of the Royal Family have also been frequent visitors.
How do you get from Zurich to Klosters?
The most convenient way is by direct train from Zurich HB or Zurich Airport, changing at Landquart. Total journey time is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Trains run frequently throughout the day, making Klosters one of the most accessible major Swiss ski resorts by public transport.
What is the famous Klosters run?
The most famous run associated with Klosters is the Parsenn Weissfluh to Küblis descent — a spectacular 12 km long run with a vertical drop of over 1,900 m, considered one of the great ski runs in the Alps. The Wang off-piste zone above Klosters is another legendary powder terrain accessed from the Parsenn.
Is Klosters suitable for beginner skiers?
The Madrisa area above Klosters Dorf is excellent for beginners and families, with gentle beginner slopes and good ski school facilities. However, beginners wanting to access the full Parsenn area will find much of it intermediate to advanced in standard. Klosters overall is better suited to confident intermediate and advanced skiers.
How does Klosters compare to other Swiss resorts like Verbier or Zermatt?
Klosters is smaller, less commercially developed, and retains a more authentic village feel compared to Verbier or Zermatt. It offers access to a large ski area (300 km) at a somewhat lower price point than those marquee resorts. Skiers who prioritise village character, long descents, and a quieter atmosphere often prefer Klosters, while those wanting non-stop nightlife or glacial skiing year-round may prefer Verbier or Zermatt.