Verbier is not the most charming Swiss town; however, skiers will forgive the ugly architecture for slopes so superb that they attract world-class athletes. Each March welcomes the Xtreme Freeride Snowboarding Contest. Beginners will have a tough time finding suitable runs, but the wealth of red and black trails will entice advanced skiers. New gondolas are improving the wait time. For those who seek even more thrills, try snowboarding, hang gliding, paragliding, heli- skiing and luging.