Balderschwang - Hochschelpen/Riedberger Horn

Snow is the first thing in its favour: this high valley in the Oberallgäu counts as one of the most snow-sure corners of the region, and the main runs are backed by snowmaking. Beginners have it easy, with the Gschwend drag lifts in the village, gentle wide pistes and quiet forest descents from the Hochschelpenlift at the top. Cosy huts and an unhurried family feel also get mentions.

The lifts lose it points, scoring only three out of five: the Schelpen to Riedberger Horn link runs on T-bars and platters, and the Riedberger Horn itself has an elderly double chair. Recent seasons have brought a visible decline - pistes groomed to half their width, and the steep reds and blacks by the Riedberger Horn lift not groomed at all, with the lack of coordination between the two operating companies showing. The Gschwend to Schelpenbahn link is awkward, and day guests pay a trail fee.