SKIING FOR GOOD

Switzerland is synonymous with snow sports and luxury, but one company is working to ensure that combination is also as sustainable as possible

- By Fan Li. Additional reporting by Austin Chan

Gstaad, St Moritz, Verbier: these names that even those who have never hit the slopes will immediately recognise as long-established ski resorts and areas. Perhaps less generally known—though beloved by winter sport aficionados—is Laax, styled LAAX, perhaps to differentiate it from the municipality of the same name in which it is located.

Aside from offering world-class slopes and the world's largest halfpipe for snowboarders, Laax is renowned for its sustainable approach to an often-indulgent pastime. The company’s founder and chairman Reto Gurtner speaks to Tatler about the vision and the Swiss spirit that runs through everything the company does.

Tell us about Laax

Laax is a product of the Swiss spirit. Although Switzerland is not a large country, it is inclusive and diverse. It brings together four completely different cultures, like a miniature version of Europe: French, German, Italian and Romansh—a language derived from Latin, which happens to be my mother tongue. Growing up in such a multicultural environment, we not only learn to be open to differences but also develop the habit of dialectical thinking. Even when we hold different opinions, we try to understand each other's cultures and pursue harmonious coexistence. When we apply this mindset to the skiing industry, we consider how to provide the most inclusive yet unique services, allowing travellers from all over the world to experience one-of-a-kind Swiss-style hospitality.