If you’re one of those winter babies who laments their birthday plans being snowed out every year, we’ve got a new birthday goal for you. How ‘bout heading out to the Swiss Alps for a birthday spent slope-side by day and relaxing in a hot tub by night? Set in the powdered white snowy mountains of Zermatt, our new favorite ski-in, ski-out resort, Rifflehaus 1853, promises some of the best slopes on the planet, views of Matterhorn, and the coziest ski chalet accommodations.


Photography: Andreea Orban


Snow-Covered Playground

Skiing is the primary focus of visitors to Riffelhaus, but there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the snowy alpine landscape. Winter hiking trails run throughout the Riffelberg, there’s a toboggan run and a number of ice-skating rinks where you can play ice hockey or give curling a go. Think you’d prefer to see all that fresh white powder from above as an extra special birthday activity? Maybe paragliding or taking a helicopter ride would be your jam.


Photography: Nicole Hunziker | Gaudenz Danuser


Cozy, Comfy, Snuggly, Chalet Life

Wrapped in walls of wood with big windows that look out to the snow-covered terrain and decorated with just the right amount of red gingham, the suites at Riffelhaus are all about that cozy, comfy, snuggly, chalet life. Check out the junior suites so you can wake on your birthday to views of Matterhorn right from the comfort of your bed. Breakfast and an authentic four-course Swiss dinner are included in the booking, so no need to worry about what you’ll do for meals.


Photography: Das Bild | jessicadddddd


The Best Part

Let’s be honest. We all came for the hit of outdoor spa high following a long day of wintery activity. Yes, there’s an outdoor whirlpool. Yes, there’s a sauna. Yes, there’s an outdoor steam bath. Hello, relaxation! The best part? It’s impossible for these b-day plans to get snowed out, so let all the snow fall.


Photography: yingxingdelia | Das Bild


If Switzerland Isn't on Your Bucket List, It Should Be →