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Accommodation ranges from a 1-star to 5-star in 60 hotels, but this is only a small proportion of the spaces for 7,185 visitors. There are also numerous chalets, apartments and guesthouses. Because the village is not purpose-built, you will struggle to find ski in, ski out accommodation, but this is a small price to pay for the attractiveness of the setting.
If you feel that the walk to the lifts is further than desired, there are buses that run through the village for a small price every day (2chf), starting at 9am, they break from 11am-3pm and finish at 5pm. There are timetables available from the tourist office, but they all run about every 20 minutes. If you know you will be using this service, the fee can be added to your ski pass which you simply present to the driver.
When you arrive, transporting your luggage to your chalet can be a challenge, so if you don’t fancy carrying it all yourself, small electro-taxis can be hired (approx 25chf), or grab a small handcart from the tourist office, after paying a refundable deposit of 50chf.
If you are staying in a hotel however, the hassle is taken away, as they will pick you up from the station. An alternative option is to stay in one of the surrounding villages, Saas Grund, Saas Almagell or Saas Balen, which are all much smaller and cheaper, but less convenient for the slopes, shops and bars.
Luxury
Ferienart has an alluring 5-star status but retains a relaxed atmosphere.
Quiet
If you’re not into the hustle and bustle, try the Schweizerhof just above the centre.
Young children
Alphubel hotel has been praised for its ‘brilliant nursery’ but is at the wrong end of town.
Access
For ease of access, Waldesruh is best situated for the Alpin Express.
Chalet
Fletschhorn is an elegant chalet in the woods, with original art and individual rooms.
Chalets
For many, the beauty of catered chalet holidays is the food - breakfast, afternoon tea and a three course evening meal with free wine - and someone to cook it and wash up afterwards. You have the freedom of your own space rather than the more formal environment of a hotel which can be great if you are with a group of friends and can take over the whole chalet.
Hotels
Hotels tend to be the more luxurious option, often with welcome facilities such as steam rooms, swimming pools and on-site bars (although check out the luxury chalet operators too). They are often the best option for short breaks but at peak times even they may demand a minimum stay of one week.
Self-catering
If you prefer to be your own boss then you should think about self-catered accommodation. You have to be fairly organised to shop and cook after a full day on the slopes and eating out every night can add up, although take-aways are an option, and you have the chance to check out some of the local restaurants too.
