Aletsch Arena Travel Guide (Switzerland): 41 tips for winter sports in authentic Bettmeralp, Riederalp and Fiescheralp

Winter sports in Bettmeralp, the car-free ski-in-ski-out resort in Valais

One of my oldest memories is of winter sports in SwitzerlandI was about five years old and had to participate in the Gästerennen ski lesson at the end of the week. It was a competition to race down the mountain as fast as possible and show off what you'd learned that week. Slaloming, of course. I hadn't quite grasped that last part, so I went down in a straight line, pushing off as hard as I could with my poles. Apparently, that looked really cute, a little girl in a neon pink ski suit (yes, born in the eighties!), so the crowd applauded and cheered loudly. So I pushed off even harder and, of course, was the fastest down. Even though I didn't knock over a single slalom pole, I got second prize. First prize went to the child who did understand how to do it. When I look back at the photos of that ski holiday in Switzerland, I still laugh.
In the thirty years that I have been coming here, this ski area has lost none of its authenticity.
Many of my childhood memories are on the slopes. And that's precisely why Switzerland holds a special place in my heart. At three and a half, I was on my running skis, and I learned to ski in the Aletsch region. I've lost count of how many times I've been there, but at least thirty. It's one of the most cherished traditions I grew up with: going on a ski holiday with the whole family every year, and sometimes even twice a year. I can literally picture the slopes of the Aletsch Arena in my mind, and from the chairlift, I even recognize the rocks. In the thirty years I've been coming here, this ski resort hasn't lost any of its authenticity. And I find that special. Special and wonderful. Because when you, like me, live in a city like Amsterdam where every year there's a different coffee shop on your street, and things sometimes change so quickly that it's hard to keep up, it's nice that there are also things that remain unchanged. Like the charm of the villages in the Aletsch Arena and the unique experience of skiing along the Aletsch Glacier. This year, I was back in the Aletsch Arena with Switzerland Tourism to create this guide for you. I can't wait to go back with my boys. Because, of course, I'm eager for Manuel to take his first ski lesson!

Travel tips for booking your winter sports holiday to the Aletsch Arena in Switzerland

► Are you looking for hotels in the Aletsch Arena in Switzerland? Via Booking.com you will find a wide range of options, both in the valley and in hotels located directly on the slopes. Click here to view the offer >>

Several tour operators offer apartments and chalets in the Aletsch Arena. You can find the perfect apartment for your winter sports trip through these providers:
⋙ Want to rent your own chalet in the Aletsch Arena? You can, for example, through Belvilla. View the offer and availability here >>
⋙ There are also a number of tour operators specializing in snow trips. For example, take a look at AlpenReizen, Snowmania, Chalet.nl of Skichalets.nl.

► Do you like to go on a winter sports holiday by car or by plane? Skyscanner you can search for winter sports flights offered by airlines such as Easyjet, Transavia and KLM. Click here to search for an affordable flight immediately >>

► Don't forget to offset your CO2 so we can all enjoy skiing in the Alps for a long time to come. Read our Green Policy How you can offset the CO2 emissions from your car or flight to your winter sports destination.

Ski jacket: Protest Sportswear

You will find these tips further on in this Aletsch Arena Guide for Bettmeralp:
⋙ 8 X useful to know
⋙ 3 nights at Bettmeralp
⋙ 16 restaurant tips
⋙ 8 x fun to do
⋙ Tips on how to get there

Have fun planning your winter sports!

**Illegible text** 👀
This is the coolest new hotel for a night away! Meet @viaantwerp, Antwerp's newest boutique hotel on the border of Zurenborg and Borgerhout (yep, voted the 2nd coolest neighborhood in the world by Time Out).

I recently stayed at this gem, and it truly has it all: a lively bar with a cozy atmosphere, walls adorned with creative art, beautiful, bright rooms, and it's within walking distance of great hotspots. And I haven't even mentioned @mea.antwerp! The delightful restaurant, helmed by a chef who previously worked at The Palomar in London. If you know, you know!

And now the best news:
I can surprise one of you with a dream night away at VIA Antwerp. 💛

And in my opinion
• Overnight stay for 2 people
• Breakfast included
• Chef's Dinner at MEA

And in Flanders
• Let us know in the comments which friend you would like to stay here with
• Of course, take a look at @viaantwerp & @mea.antwerp to dream away and follow their updates

The winner will be notified personally via DM on December 10th.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you and will soon share a mini guide with more great tips for Antwerp! 🖤

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#antwerp #antwerp #zurenborg #antwerpcity #borgerhout

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HAPPY ALMOST WEEKEND IN AMSTERDAM

Comment 'weekend' and I'll send you all 32 tips in the new Amsterdam Weekend Guide for December 4, 5, 6 & 7 ✖️✖️✖️

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𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱!

I've rounded up a complete list with the coziest and most festive Christmas markets in Amsterdam you don't want to miss this year. Think twinkling lights, mulled wine, food stalls, live music, unique gifts and lots of Christmas vibes all December long.

Whether you're planning a festive day with the fam or friends, or just want to soak up that holiday spirit. These are the markets in Amsterdam to put on your calendar now. 🎄✨

𝘿𝙧𝙤𝙥 “𝘾𝙃𝙍𝙄𝙎𝙏𝙈𝘼𝙎𝙈𝘼𝙍𝙆𝙀𝙏” 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄'𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝙔𝙇𝘽𝘽-𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨.

Send this list to your festive partner-in-crime, grab a hot chocolate (or mulled wine 😉), and have fun!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #christmasinamsterdam #amsterdammarkets #christmasmarkets #amsterdamguide thingstodoinamsterdam winterinthenetherlands festiveseason christmasvibes marketlovers amsterdamtips

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HOME ALONE 4 INCOMING 😅 My trip to NYC ends in a bad (Christmas) movie when the hotel gives my carry-on luggage with passport to an old lady who doesn't realize this and checks the luggage on a flight to the UK!

Now I'm stuck here in NY without a passport, and I missed my flight.

I've experienced a lot in all the years I've been traveling for Your Little Black Book, but this is a first 😅.

This chat video is purely therapeutic in nature 🤣🤣🤣. Because really: HOW?! 🫢

Note to self: it's better to carry your passport all day, instead of leaving it "safely" in the hotel, apparently... and from now on, attach suitcases with cables in the storage room. Even if you're staying in a luxurious and expensive hotel, everything is still done by humans.

Now I'm stuck in one of the world's coolest cities, but of course I just want to be home with Manuel, as planned. 😔

To be continued 🧳✈️

And thanks for all the sweet DMs ❤️❤️❤️❤️

✖️✖️✖️
Anne

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𝟳𝘅 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗷𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 ...�� 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄

How cool is this? There are places in the Netherlands where you can cut down your own Christmas tree! You don't hear about it very often, even though it's quite common in America (where I'm currently!).

Good to know: some of these places in the Netherlands are only open for a few days a year and you have to reserve a time slot.

💬 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 “𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗧𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗠” and I will send you the article with all the details and dates in your DM.

Have fun!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#christmasintheNetherlands #christmasouting #christmastree #christmasfarm #christmas2025 winterintheNetherlands Christmastips Christmasinspiration Netherlandsdiscover Decembertips winterweekend

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And do you also have a nice garden?

I want to thank you for your patience and help. 𝟳-𝗷𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲!

This time we went to @williams.farmhouse, one of my favorite lunch spots in Amsterdam Oud-Zuid. But is it also fun during the day with kids?

We ordered a 'plain' version of the Farmhouse burger 🍔: yes, really just meat + cheese 🤣… and together with the fries it was a mega success.

Happy child, happy us... and it was such a cozy, rainy afternoon. I mean, this interior makes me dream of the Cotswolds again!

Do you have a favorite 𝗸𝗶𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁 in Amsterdam or the Netherlands?

Let me know in the comments, I'll collect everything for the next 𝗞𝗜𝗗𝗦𝗣𝗥𝗢𝗘𝗙!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdam #amsterdamfood #amsterdamrestaurants #amsterdamfoodie #amsterdamguide amsterdamwithkids kidsproef familyfriendly amsterdamlunch amsterdamoudzuid yourlittleblackbook kidsproofamsterdam

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So happy to finally share this! @lefoodwalk is back this winter with four themed walks during the Amsterdam Light Festival, from November 27th to January 18th.

Perfect for a day out with friends, a date, colleagues, or family. From a Street Food Walk to an Oyster Walk, and from cocktails to an old-school Amsterdam drinks walk.

The Le Foodwalk team has listened to you and there is a different experience to book almost every day.

Tickets (which are even cheaper than last year 🔥) are now live! I've put a link in my bio.

I have a nice garden and a beautiful garden 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗘𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗗 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁'𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱: 4 bites + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @weareedn_amsterdam ⦁ @caferestaurantdebazel ⦁ @soulkitchen_amsterdam ⦁ @blackandblue_reguliers
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50

𝗢𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Thurs-Sat
Package: 4 x 2 oysters + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ Soulkitchen ⦁ De Bazel ⦁ @bellyofthebeastbar ⦁ @vermeerswijnkamer
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €43,50

𝗖𝗢𝗖𝗞𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Wed-Sat
Included: 3 cocktails (also 0.0%) + Amsterdam Light Festival app (worth €6,99)
𝗖𝗼𝗰𝗸𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗯𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @feijoaamsterdam⦁ @lottisamsterdam ⦁ Belly of the Beast
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €35,50

𝗔𝗠𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗔𝗠 𝗪𝗔𝗟𝗞
𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻: Every Sun-Wed
Included: 3 Dutch drinks & 3 Dutch bar snacks + @amsterdamlightfestival app (worth €6,99)
𝗕𝗮𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲-𝘂𝗽:
⦁ @hetkarbeel ⦁ @proeflokaalvanwees ⦁ @beertemple_amsterdam
𝗧𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀: €33,50

Who do you want to do a Foodwalk with this winter?

𝙇𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙗𝙞𝙤 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙫𝙞𝙖 𝙒𝙒𝙒.𝙇𝙀𝙁𝙊𝙊𝘿𝙒𝘼𝙇𝙆.𝘾𝙊𝙈.

✖️✖️✖️
@anne_de_buck

#lightfestival #lefoodwalk #amsterdamlightfestival #amsterdamfoodguide #amsterdamfood #amsterdambynight #canalview

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I have a nice garden in my garden and 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 🎅🏼

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, and I can tell you: this list will instantly get you in the holiday spirit. 🎄

📍In this new video, I've listed the most beautiful Christmas markets and winter fairs in the Netherlands, from Maastricht to The Hague.

Whether you're in the mood for mulled wine, raclette, Christmas carols, ice skating with your besties, or planning a cozy weekend getaway in December, now's the time to block your calendar.

Send the tips to your Christmas date ❤️ and comment "CHRISTMAS MARKET" to receive a link to ALL the Christmas market shortlists on Your Little Black Book.

Let the Christmas fun begin!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #kerstmarktnederland #kerstuitje #winterfair #kerst2025 #weekendtips #thingstodointhenetherlands #magischmaastricht #royalchristmasfair #kerstmarktamsterdam #winterinthenetherlands #kerstvibes #yourlbb #kerstmarkt #christmasmarket

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I have a nice garden – I have a nice garden in my garden

Did you know Bangkok holds a special place in my heart? 💛 If I were ever to live anywhere other than Amsterdam, it would be there. Right now, I'm seriously homesick, and I even have a ticket option open on another screen ☺️. Fun fact: I even got married in Thailand!

Bangkok is one of those cities where you can return so many times and still discover something new every time.

In this mini-guide, I share some of my favorite neighborhood hotspots—from fun neighborhoods and coffee spots to ultimate hotels, street food, and night markets.

The list could easily have 200 tips, but this is a good start!

📍 Prepare your next trip to Thailand with our travel guide & luxury travel planner for your next trip to Thailand.

𝗡𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦
⦁ Talad Noi – creative, raw & surprising
⦁ Songwat & Chinatown – street food heaven
⦁ Ekkamai – laid-back & trendy
⦁ Ari – boutiques & brunch
⦁ Bang Rak – culture meets cool

𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗦 & 𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘
⦁ Charmkrung – trendy restaurant in an old shophouse
⦁ Hong Sieng Kong – riverside coffee spot
⦁ Potong – fine dining in Chinatown
⦁ Baan Rim Naam – cocktails during sundown
⦁ Ann Guay Tiew Kua Gai – comfort noodles, Bangkok style

**Illegible**
⦁ Four Seasons – ultimate luxury
⦁ Mustang Blue – unique & arty
⦁ ASAI – affordable boutique
⦁ The Standard – design & rooftop pool
⦁ Anantara Riverside – riverside resort vibes

I & I
⦁ Sundown on the Chao Phraya River = magical
⦁ Cycle through the city with Co van Kessel
⦁ Big Buddha – new must-see
⦁ Eat street on Banthat Thong Road – local favorite
⦁ What Saket at golden hour – view!

(𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧) 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗧𝗦
⦁ Yaowarat – food, food, food
⦁ Sampheng Market – for your best finds
⦁ ChangChui – creative chaos
⦁ Asiatique – family fun night market on the river
⦁ Train Night Market – vintage & food

📌 Save this guide so you have it with you when you go to Bangkok
💌 Send it to that friend you're making Thailand plans with

Have you ever been to Bangkok?

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

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Amsterdam, get your skates ready — ice skating season has officially begun! ⛸️

The first rinks, like @skabaanmuseumplein, are opening this weekend and we are so ready for it.

I already planned a mom & son date — that's how excited we are to hit the ice. 💙

This year, there are some new links to discover across the city too. And who knows... maybe we'll even get lucky with natural ice again. Until then, these are the 7 best ice skating rinks in Amsterdam you don't want to miss.

Whether you're planning a festive date, a day with friends, or skating with the kids — this guide has you covered.

📍All details are in the Amsterdam Ice Skating Listicle on Your Little Black Book (link in bio).

Send this to your skating buddy and start planning your first winter weekend on ice! ❄️

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #yourlbb #amsterdamwinter #iceskatinginamsterdam #amsterdamchristmas #thingstodoinamsterdam #amsterdamguide #winterinthenetherlands #amsterdamlife #cityguide #amsterdamcheck #wintervibes #travelamsterdam #weekendinams #holidayseason #skating

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𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼 (𝗡𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟯, 𝟭𝟰, 𝟭𝟱 & 𝟭𝟲)

Another cozy November weekend in Amsterdam is here — and the city's buzzing with festive fun, winter vibes, and new openings.

Think: the return of ice skating at Museumplein, vintage treasure hunting in Noord, Sinterklaas magic at Muiderslot, and cocktail week collabs between top chefs and bartenders.

From fondue nights, film festivals, and Sunday markets — I've listed 31+ tips on Your Little Black Book.

Here's your WEEKEND shortlist:

MARKETS & CULTURE
– Nov 15 & 16: IJ-hallen – Europe's biggest flea market in Amsterdam-Noord @ijhallen
– Nov 16: Sunday Museum Market on Museumplein (grab a bite from Mr Brasa!)
– Nov 13–23: IDFA 2025 – hundreds of documentaries across the city's best cinemas @idfafestival

DRINKS & EVENTS
– Every Thursday this winter: Cheese fondue night at Badhuis Javaplein (€26 pp with unlimited crudités & bread). @badhuis.ams
– Save the date! Nov 17–23: Woodford Old Fashioned Week — 10+ cocktail bars, 3 top chef x bartender collabs @woodfordreserve @sidney_schutte @florisvstraalen @dirkmooren

NEW SPOTS
– Café Bica on Weesperzijde – coffee hotspot from the Bam Boa team @cafebica.ams
– Petit Charcuterie on Singel – perfect for bites, drinks & brioche sandwiches @petit.charcuterie.singel

FAMILY & FESTIVE FUN
– Nov 15: Ice skating season officially opens at Museumplein ⛸️ @iceamsterdam
– Nov 16: Sinterklaas parade sails into Amsterdam via the Amstel 🎁
– Nov 16 – Dec 5: Sinterklaas at Muiderslot (meet the Sint in person on Nov 22–23 & 29–30) @muiderslot

Want all 31 tips?

Comment 'WEEKEND' and I'll DM you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide — or check the link in bio.

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#yourlittleblackbook #AmsterdamWeekendGuide #AmsterdamTips #ThingstoDoAmsterdam #AmsterdamEvents #AmsterdamMarkets #AmsterdamRestaurants #WinterInAmsterdam #SinterklaasAmsterdam #IDFA2025 #WoodfordOldFashionedWeek

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𝟱 𝘅𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝘂𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗯𝗯𝗲𝗻.

From new hotspots to low spots and from hand-pulled noodles to an intimate Mediterranean bistro, I've listed 5 new favorite restaurants for you that you definitely want to try.

Save this guide for your next dinner date 🍽️

📍 Orchid House (East)
Vibe: all-day dining at Oosterpark, family-friendly and good vibes.
Must orders: ceviche, angel hair pasta with sea urchin and picanha.
@orchidhouse.ams

📍 Omri (The Pipe)
Vibe: Small and cozy corner space with a warm interior and dimmed lighting. Perfect for a date night.
Must orders: the dolmas and lamb shawarma tostada with watermelon.
@omri_amsterdam

📍 Chingu (The Pipe)
Vibe: Mainly focused on takeaway, but trust me: you'll want to go out of your way for these Taiwanese rice balls.
Must orders: Jumeok Bap with king crab or mayak egg, so delicious.
@chinguamsterdam

📍 Leonardo's Ravioli Bar (De Pijp)
Vibe: Italian bistro full of cozy nooks in the always lively Pijp neighborhood. Now also open for lunch on weekends.
Must-have orders: as many as possible. And share everything. I can be brief about that.
@leonardosraviolibar

📍 Yellow River Handpulled Noodles (Center)
Vibe: like stepping into a Chinese canteen. You order at the kiosk and wait for your number to be called.
Must-try orders: choose your favorite thickness of noodles + the minced meat noodles. The dumplings are also definitely worth trying.
@yellowrivernoodles

Please let us know where you're going first.

Or where you recently had the best meal, I'm curious!

✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck

#amsterdamfood #amsterdam #amsterdamrestaurant #amsterdamlife #amsterdamtravel #amsterdamrestaurants #hotspots

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Open post by yourlbb with ID 17952664892899505

8 Things You Want to Know About the Aletsch Arena in Switzerland

❶ Bettmeralp, like Fiescheralp and Riederalp, is a so-called "ski-in – ski-out" ski area. You can ski straight from your accommodation to the nearest ski lift, so you don't have to take the cable car up from the Rôhne Valley. This is especially relaxing with small children. When we go skiing with Manuel and you have to get up early for the ski class, this is something I'll definitely keep in mind.

❷ The most special thing about skiing in the Aletsch Arena, if you ask me, is skiing on the edge of the Aletsch GlacierAt 23 kilometers, this is the longest glacier in the Alps and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the Moosfluh, Bettmerhorn (2872 meters), and Eggishorn (2927 meters), you'll find special viewpoints where you can take enviable photos in clear weather.

Aletsch Glacier / Ski suit Protest Sportswear

❸ Another unique feature is that from the Aletsch Arena you have a view of 40 mountains higher than 4000 meters, including the famous Jungfrau (4158 meters) and the Matterhorn (4478 meters).

❹ The entire Aletsch Arena ski area has 104 kilometers of slopes and 70 kilometers of trails where you can also hike in winter. Along the slopes, you'll find several restaurants and huts where you can grab a bite to eat and drink. More about that in the next section!

❺ The Aletsch Arena guarantees snow from early December to April. The slopes are perfectly groomed, and have even won an award for it. They use technical snow, produced using green energy and water from one of the mountain lakes. This requires only water and electricity, unlike artificial snow, which uses a chemical additive to produce snow even at higher temperatures.

❻ Are you a big fan of après-ski and enjoy the hustle and bustle of winter sports? Then the Aletsch Arena might not be the perfect destination for you. It's known for its tranquility and sense of security, for which it's even won an award. It's a very authentic ski area with many wooden chalets and restaurants serving regional products where time seems to have stood still. In all the years I've been coming here, not much has changed. I personally love it and find it perfect for a family trip, but it's good to know if you're looking for somewhere with plenty to do in the evenings.

❼ It's interesting to know that despite the authentic atmosphere in Bettmeralp, the lifts are the most advanced in the world. Due to climate change, the Aletsch Glacier is melting, and the mountains are literally moving, shifting their mass as the Aletsch Glacier's ice mass shrinks. In 2015, the lift to the top of the Moosfluh was therefore renovated. Simply put, the lift can now move with the mountain when there is movement in the glacier. Structurally, it's very complex and unique (you can watch a video hereEngineers and geologists from all over the world come to the Aletsch Arena to learn from this.

❽ These days, most ski resorts also have an app. This allows you to view the ski map on your smartphone, and provides a wealth of other information at your fingertips on the go. You can download the Aletsch Arena app here >>

Main street of Bettmeralp

3 X Tips for hotels and apartments on Bettmeralp in Switzerland:

I've mentioned it before, but the biggest advantage of skiing in the Aletsch Arena is that it's a ski-in, ski-out resort. After breakfast, you can step straight from your hotel or apartment onto the slopes! At the end of the day, there's no hassle of lugging ski gear back and forth, as you can simply store it in the accommodation's ski room. I also found it very pleasant and relaxing that the villages are car-free. Only a few snowmobiles zip back and forth, transporting guests' luggage from the cable car to their hotel or apartment.

Through various websites, such as the Aletsch Arena website itself, but also well-known websites such as Booking.com en Interhome You can search for accommodation that suits your budget and taste. I must admit, however, that in Bettmeralp you'll find fewer lifestyle hotels, such as The Capra in Saas-Fee Where I stayed a few years ago. When you stay at Bettmeralp, it's all about the location! From the view of the Matterhorn to putting on your skis and being on the ski lift for your first run in just a few minutes. Most hotels are decorated in the characteristic robust Alpine style with lots of wood.

Hotel Alpfrieden

► Hotel Alpfrieden: During my winter sports midweek in Bettmeralp, I stayed at Hotel Alpfrieden, which is located near the Bettmerhorn cable car. From my room, I had a view of the Schönbiel chairlift, and I must say, waking up to the snow-capped mountains is always special. Breakfast offers a wide selection of local cheeses, and the rolls are fresh from the village bakery. The restaurant at Hotel Alpfrieden is affiliated with the Swiss GuildA label for high-quality restaurants. A four-course Gilden menu costs CHF 63, but à la carte dining is also possible.

View the rates

► Hotel Bettmerhof: The rooms at Hotel Bettmerhof were recently renovated and are truly impressive. These comfortable rooms are decorated in the familiar modern Alpine style: with plenty of light wood, natural tones, and the occasional sheepskin rug, creating an instant cozy feeling upon returning to your room after a day of skiing. The hotel has several restaurants. In good weather, you can enjoy the sun on the terrace during lunch, enjoy a pizza, or dine more extensively in the fine dining restaurant. The hotel also offers family rooms, perfect for skiing with young children. Perhaps the biggest highlight of this modern Alpine hotel? The wellness center, equipped with a sauna and relaxation area. A wonderful way to unwind before dinner!

View the rates

► Hotel La Cabane: One of the other better hotels in Bettmeralp is Hotel La Cabane, located near the Schönbiel and Wurzenbord ski lifts and just 150 meters from the Bettmerhorn cable car. This hotel offers duplex rooms for families, sleeping up to four people. This hotel also has a lovely spa with a sauna and steam bath.

View the rates

VIEW ALL HOTELS IN BETTMERALP HERE >>

Colmar Originals ski outfit

16 X Food and drink in the Aletsch Arena

In the thirty years I've been skiing in this area, I've eaten at a wide variety of restaurants. Most of the restaurants at Bettmeralp, Riederalp, and Fiescheralp feature traditional Alpine cuisine. Comfort food with local (melted) cheeses, Valais-style trockenfleisch (Valais-style stew) with delicious dry meat, and a glass of the local wine. local wine from VisperterminenDid you know that the highest vineyard in Europe is located there, at an altitude of 1150 meters? A well-known wine from the region is Heida, but a glass of Valais Fendant also goes well with cheese fondue. I've compiled a list of restaurant recommendations for each ski area.

Restaurants on Bettmeralp
⋙ Walliserstube: Authentic restaurant near the cable car to the Bettmerhorn, perfect for cheese fondue.
⋙ Bättmer Hitta: restaurant with beautiful views near the Schönbiel chairlift.
⋙ Alpfrieden: culinary restaurant on the main street.
⋙ Bettmerhof: with two restaurants including a pizzeria.
⋙ Café Imhof: for the tastiest sweet cakes and Walliser cheesecake on the terrace.
⋙ Albi's Mountain Rock Café: Dutch: Bettmeralp's après-ski bar.

Bakery Imhof

Restaurants on Riederalp
⋙ Art Furrer hut: Near the small castle at Riederfurka this is a nice place to have something to eat or drink.
⋙ Bar-Buvette Moosfluh: for a drink at the top of the Moosfluh lift.
⋙ Chuëstall: Nice, modern hut with a large, sunny terrace in the middle of the blue piste 'Blausee'.
⋙ Viva Bar: the newest modern hut on Riederalp near the children's meadow.

Art Furrer Hut, Riederfurka

Restaurants on Fiescheralp
⋙ Alpine: lunch address on Fiescheralp with a large sunny terrace.
⋙ Tipi Zelt: the nicest après-ski bar in Fiescheralp.
⋙ Eggishorn: opposite the ski schools for lunch and dinner, among other things.
⋙ Horli-Hitta: When the weather is nice, you can sit up here at Eggishorn in the sunshine. It's a great spot for lunch or just a drink!

Alpina, Fiescheralp

Restaurants in Fiësch
⋙ Of the Alps: For as long as I can remember, we've always eaten here. The familiar menu includes cheese fondue, schnitzel, and raclette.
⋙ Bar-Lounge Talstation: It's a great place to have a drink after skiing before heading back to your hotel or apartment. Also handy if there's a long line at the gondola.

Riederfurka

8 Fun things to do in the Aletsch Arena

If you're heading to the Aletsch Arena for winter sports, you're naturally looking for the beautiful slopes and the opportunity to ski or snowboard. Besides the scenic ski tours, there are also plenty of other things to do in the area. I've listed a few for you!

❶ Ski tour to Riederfurka: at the far left of the Aletsch Arena, you'll find Riederfurka. I personally think it's one of the most beautiful spots in the ski area. It's a great place to ski from Bettmeralp or Riederalp. At the top of the slope, you'll find Villa Cassel, a castle built in 1900 that once served as a luxury hotel. Today, it's home to the Pro Nature Center Aletsch.

❷ The cable car to the Eggishorn: I've already mentioned the three different viewpoints on the Aletsch Glacier where you'll definitely want to take a photo. One of them (and in my opinion, the most beautiful) is at the top of the Eggishorn. Experienced skiers can ski down the black run, but of course, you can also take the cable car back down!

❸ Hiking from Fiescheralp to Bettmeralp: fun for non-skiers, but if the weather's too bad for skiing, I always enjoy a walk in the snow myself. There's a footpath between Bettmeralp and Fiescheralp, where you can walk from one area to the other in about an hour. You can also take the cable car down with your ski pass and return by train.

Church on Bettmeralp

❹ Behind-the-scenes experience: at Bettmeralp you can book a number of unique experiences that allow you to see behind the scenes of the ski resort. For example, you can go with a snow groomer who will prepare the slopes and even a skiing and brunch with the CEO of the cable car. A unique find, as I hadn't seen this before in any other ski resort, and a great way to engage with visitors.

❺ Snowshoeing: I've seen a huge rise in snowshoeing in recent years. I once did it in Lapland, but you no longer need to go to the Nordic countries for a winter hike. In the Aletsch Arena, you can book various guided snowshoeing tours and take a walk off-piste through nature. View the options here >>

❻ Enjoy cake at the bakery on Bettmeralp: one of the most beautiful views in the village is the one of the centuries-old church with the Matterhorn to its right. I mentioned it before, but a piece of cake at the Imhof bakery across from the church is a must. I always order the carrot cake with my coffee!

❼ Torchlight hike: I did it several times as a teenager, and you can still make a guided descent after dark, lit only by torches. You can book this at both Fiescheralp and Bettmeralp. I would only recommend the trip from the Bettmerhorn in the dark for advanced skiers. What makes this torchlight hike extra special is that you start with raclette at the panoramic restaurant.

Ski safari: A new option in Valais is a ski safari. With a single ski pass, you can ski in all the canton's ski areas. Book the package with this comprehensive ski pass, choosing a 3- or 4-star hotel (package 1) and expand it with ski equipment rental and a car (package 2). You'll stay in a hotel in Martigny, Sion, Sierre, Visp, or Brig, and can use your ski pass to ski in Saas-Fee, Zermatt, Les 4 Vallées, Aletsch Arena, and Les Portes du Soleil, among others. Learn more about this special offer >> 

Aletsch Glacier / Fjällräven Kanken backpack in Plum

This is how you get to Bettmeralp in the Aletsch Arena in Switzerland:

► By car, it's about a 10-hour drive from Amsterdam to the Rôhne Valley and the Aletsch Arena. We always drive via Basel and then add an overnight stay to make it a real road trip. If you're driving to Switzerland, you'll need a toll sticker. You can buy one at the border for CHF 40, but you can also buy it in advance from the ANWB (Royal Dutch Touring Club). This way, you don't risk waiting in long lines if you're traveling to Switzerland during official holidays. Another good thing to know: you're required to have a warning triangle in your car when driving in Switzerland. It's also useful to know that you also have to take a car train to reach the valley. You can drive via Kandersteg-Goppenstein or via the Furka car transfer station near Realp. Then you take a slight detour via Lucerne and pass Lake Lucerne, which I personally consider the most beautiful route.

► On my last trip to Bettmeralp, I flew directly from Amsterdam to Zurich with SWISS. One advantage of flying with Swiss is that you can take your ski gear on the plane free of charge! There are four flights a day from Amsterdam to Zurich.

Book tickets

► Switzerland has a fantastic train system. With the Swiss Travel System You can get almost anywhere by train! That inspires me to take a train tour through the Alps someday. For some inspiration, you can take a look at the route of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. The special routes, such as the Glacier Express and the Gotthard Panorama Express, are especially special. The Glacier Express is high on my bucket list! The train has extra-large windows, and you sit facing the window. It's so special, riding through a winter wonderland. With the Swiss Travel Pass, you can travel on trains for a fixed price, depending on the pass you choose. Tip: Children under six travel free when accompanied by an adult! Click here to view all Swiss Travel System benefit passes >>

► A train tour like this is high on my bucket list, but I have to say that the train journey from Zurich to the Aletsch Arena is also beautiful. The route follows part of the Golden Pass Line, and the view near Interlaken is particularly enchanting, with its views of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Niederhorn. I often went there in the summer as a child! The train ride takes just under three hours and goes directly from Zurich to Visp, where you transfer to Betten or Fiësch.

► Bettmeralp, Riederalp, and Fischeralp are car-free ski resorts. This means you take the cable car up from the valley to your accommodation. Your accommodation will then collect your luggage by snowmobile from the cable car mountain station. I personally found it very pleasant that there are no cars in the village. This makes it a great place for little kids to play outside in the snow.

► More travel tips for Switzerland? Then take a look at MySwitzerland, the website of the canton Wallis or the extensive website about skiing in the Aletsch Arena.

View of Riederalp / ski suit Protest Sportswear

PSSSST... you can find more (travel) tips in my books!

• Feed Your Wanderlust – Travel Guide for a bohemian lifestyle
• staycation – 22 guides and shortlists for a holiday close to home
• Wanderlust – Urban Travel Style Guide
• The Amsterdam City Guide (Dutch) & The Amsterdam City Guide (English)

Great as a gift for yourself or someone who loves to travel as much as you do!

WITH LOVE,

ANNE