From Geneva and Zürich, you can easily make a daytrip and ski the Alps — not the big-name resorts like Zermatt, St. Moritz or Verbier, but smaller, less-known ski areas that will satisfy even an expert for a day.

Let’s start with Zürich. Flumserberg offers the closest skiing to Switzerland’s banking capital: You can reach the base of the mountain by train in 45 minutes. The hill, elevation 7,332 feet, is modest but features slopes for all levels, with the majority on intermediate terrain. There are also fun parks for snowboarders and trails for cross-country fans.

Just an hour by car from the Zürich airport is Toggenburg with 38 miles of slopes, again predominantly for intermediates, as well as an area for snowboarders. From the 7,345-foot peak of the Chäserrugg there are outstanding views and an excellent long red run.

Pizol, about an hour from Zürich by train or bus, has 25 miles of runs for all skiing levels. The season begins in early December and may continue until April depending on weather conditions. When there is enough snow, the long run into the valley is a winner.

There is an even greater selection of ski areas close to Geneva. Especially popular is Villars in the heart of the Riviera Alps, a 90-minute train ride from the city through spectacular scenery. Ride an Edwardian cog train or two cable cars to the slopes (78 miles of ski terrain) where, in addition to beginner turf, you’ll find superb intermediate cruising as well as snow parks for freestyle and snowboarding. The ski season lasts from December to April.

The slopes of Villars connect to those of the resort Les Diablerets, 90 minutes by car from Geneva; from the end of October until the beginning of May, you can ski on its glacier at 10,000 feet. The combined areas boast 136 miles of slopes — more than enough for a day. At Les Diablerets, there’s challenge for experts on the steep and deep runs to the village from the Isneau area, which is ideal for intermediates.

One of Switzerland’s sunniest ski areas is Leysin, a mid-sized resort 60 miles from Geneva. Advanced and expert skiers will find thrills on three black runs, but there’s plenty to satisfy intermediates and snowboarders as well. This resort is especially popular with young skiers who often come during school breaks.

Located about two hours from Geneva, Château-d’Oex gets high marks for ballooning as well as skiing. It hosts the largest annual ballooning festival every January (Jan. 22–30, 2011). The resort is small, friendly and relaxed, with some 25 miles of slopes catering to all levels. Its slopes also connect to those of other, larger areas.