Rinerhorn (ski Zone)

The Rinerhorn is a mountain on the western side of the Landwasser valley above Glaris, a village a few kilometres from Davos, and its lift system forms a small, family-friendly ski area that is reached from the Davos side. The Rinerhornbahn, a gondola from Glaris, carries guests up to the Jatzmeder station, from where the slopes, a restaurant and a children’s area spread out across the mountain shoulder. It is not one of the large Davos ski areas such as the Parsenn or the Jakobshorn, but it is the sort of place where families and beginners feel at home, and it is generally quieter and less crowded.

In winter, the ski area offers wide, gentle runs that suit beginners and relaxed intermediate skiers, along with a children’s area where young skiers can learn in safety. The mountain is known for its evening activities. Some slopes are lit for night skiing on certain evenings, and a long toboggan run, with many bends, runs through the forest and down to the valley, which makes an evening of sledding with a meal on the mountain popular with families and groups. Opening days for night skiing and sledding vary by season and snow conditions, so check the current programme before you plan.

In summer, the gondola also runs, and the mountain becomes a hiking and family destination. A petting zoo with alpacas and a large playground make it a favourite with children, and there are picnic and barbecue areas. A themed walk, the Hydropower Trail, takes visitors along a gentle path with information stations that explain how water is used to produce electricity and why renewable energy matters, which makes it both an educational and an easy outing. From the Jatzmeder area, hiking trails lead to other points, including paths toward the Sertig Valley, one of the quiet side valleys of Davos, with its old Walser hamlets and a rushing stream.

The view from the mountain takes in the Davos valley and the surrounding ranges of the Alps, and the position on the sunny side means that the terrace is a pleasant place for lunch in spring. Prices and operating times change by season, and the gondola may close for maintenance in the shoulder seasons, so check before you go. The mountain is reached from Davos by train and bus to Glaris, and there is parking at the valley station.

The Rinerhorn suits families with small children, beginners, sledding fans and walkers who want an easy day. It is also a good alternative on a busy winter weekend, when the bigger Davos areas are crowded.