Swiss Know-How on a Map

Europe-bound budget travelers who hope to ski this winter can get help finding budget accommodations in Swiss winter resorts in a free publication called Know-How ’94.

Know-How ’94 is actually a detailed map of Switzerland that includes a listing of the country’s 80 youth hostels.

Knowing about hostels helps because the staff can arrange roommates so you pay economical shared-room rates. Most hostels also offer economical meals, and some even have kitchens that the guests can use. The staff are usually knowledgeable on where to get the best value in the area for everything from equipment rentals to grocery shopping.

Each listing includes the hostel’s address, telephone and fax numbers, rates and facilities, and indicates what types of travelers the hostel is best suited to accommodate--sports and leisure-seekers, families, groups and transit hostels (for those who want longer opening hours for night life).

The Swiss Youth Hostel Assn. says ski equipment (skis, boots and poles) is available at shops at an average weekly rate of $115. If alpine skiing is not in your budget, cross-country skiing and other winter activities are available at most of the resorts.

The charming village of Grindelwald is a favorite stop for backpacking travelers. The chalet-style hostel with its large open fireplace is a major draw. In addition to alpine skiing, travelers can also enjoy swimming, skating, tobogganing and an active night life.

Public transportation will get you to the front door of most Swiss hostels, but the 113-bed Grindlewals Hostel is an exception. The hostel is a good 20-minute uphill hike (up Terrassenweg) from the train station. It has been closed for the late autumn and is due to open for the winter session Dec. 19. The price for bed and breakfast is $17.50. There are kitchen facilities. You can contact the hostel by fax at 011-41-36-53-5029.

In trendy, expensive St. Moritz, the 190-bed youth hostel is due to open for the winter season on Dec. 9. It’s located at Via Surpunt 60, fax 011-41-82-38046. The price for bed and breakfast is $29.26.

St. Moritz, which is known for most every type of winter sports activity, offers 236 miles of ski slopes and is situated in the Engadine Valley, where each year up to 10,000 cross-country skiers participate in the Engadine Marathon.

Klosters is the Swiss resort that has gained world attention because it’s favored by the famous, including Prince Charles and Princess Diana. Its 84-bed youth hostel is at 73 Talstrasse, fax 011-41-81-695209. Beds are available for $11.90.

The Swiss Youth Hostels accept reservations in writing or by fax. For a free copy of Know-How ‘94, contact the Swiss National Tourist Office at 222 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 1570, El Segundo, Calif. 90245; telephone (310) 335-5980.