Winter Wanderlust: Europe’s Best Ski Destinations
As winter settles in over Europe, its alpine landscape is the ultimate playground for ski enthusiasts seeking a luxurious vacation. With over 4,000 ski resorts across the European mountains, from glamourous to family-friendly resorts, there is a perfect destination for all groups.
For those seasoned skies or beginners first finding their ski legs, plenty of alpine resorts match each requirement. Whether you are seeking high-energy and bustling resorts or the more understated hidden gems, we have put together a list of Europe’s world-class ski resorts to visit this winter:
St. Moritz, Switzerland
St. Moritz, stands as a testament to over 150 years of winter sports heritage. This glamorous enclave, where British aristocrats once pioneered ice cricket and snow polo, now offers an array of lavish hotels, exclusive members' clubs, and an expansive 218-mile ski area.
Zermatt, Switzerland
At the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, is an area of Alpine chic: Zermatt. This car-free haven seamlessly blends centuries-old chalets with avant-garde architecture and Michelin-starred cuisine. Skiers revel in 224 miles of high-altitude pistes, including an epic eight-mile descent from Europe's highest cable car station. Be prepared for a culinary journey as enticing as the skiing itself.
Klosters, Switzerland
Long favored by royalty, Klosters offers a refreshingly unpretentious take on Alpine luxury. With 190 miles of varied pistes and abundant off-piste opportunities, it's a paradise for powder enthusiasts. Follow in the footsteps of kings and unwind at the charming Chesa Grischuna or the secluded Chalet Eugenia for a truly regal experience.
Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier boasts an electric energy that draws thrill-seekers and socialites alike. With 255 miles of pistes across four valleys and some of the world's most challenging off-piste terrain, it's a playground for the adventurous.
After conquering the notorious Mont Fort or the precipitous Rock 'n' Roll couloir, dive into the après-ski scene at Le Rouge or the sultry L'Etoile Rouge supper club.
Les Arcs, France
Found in the heart of the French Alps, Les Arcs is a testament to the combination of convenience and luxury. With its four altitude-named villages and direct access to the sprawling Paradiski area, it's a haven for those who demand both quantity and quality in their ski experience.
For the ultimate indulgence, retreat to the piste-side Bear Lodge in Arc 1950, where VIP Ski offers a harmonious blend of chalet intimacy and hotel opulence.
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
Encircled by the UNESCO-listed Dolomites, Cortina d'Ampezzo is the epitome of Italian ski chic. Here, 75 miles of scenic pistes compete for attention with world-class shopping and dining. The new Cortina Skyline gondola elevates the experience, offering seamless access to the breathtaking Cinque Torri area and beyond.
Cervinia, Italy
Bask in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn while indulging in Italian hospitality and cuisine. Cervinia offers high-altitude skiing with access to neighboring Zermatt's slopes, totaling 217 miles of diverse terrain.
Lech, Austria
Lech masterfully balances high-society prestige with low-key charm. Part of the expansive Ski Arlberg area, it's a powder skier's dream, typically blanketed with twice the snowfall of neighboring resorts. For those in the know, nearby Warth Schrocken offers an even more exclusive powder experience.
St Anton, Austria
Known as "the cradle of Alpine skiing," St Anton is where tradition meets contemporary luxury. The Ski Arlberg area offers a vast playground of 190 miles of groomed runs and 124 miles of off-piste itineraries, all serviced by state-of-the-art lifts.
Chamonix, France
With over two centuries of guiding mountaineers and skiers, Chamonix stands as a symbol of Alpine prestige. The piece de resistance? A breathtaking cable car ascent to l'Aiguille du Midi, followed by the world's longest off-piste route, the Vallée Blanche.
Elevate your experience with the Mont Blanc Unlimited pass, unlocking over 600 miles of pistes across France, Italy, and Switzerland.
Méribel, France
Positioned at the epicenter of the Three Valleys, the world's largest ski domain, Méribel is the ultimate destination for skiers and snowboarders alike. With 373 miles of immaculately groomed pistes at your ski tips, it's a playground without equal for the passionate piste connoisseur.
Soldeu, Andorra
Benefitting from 300 days of annual sunshine, Soldeu in Andorra is the discerning choice for those who prefer their winter sports with a side of vitamin D.
The newly expanded Grandvalira Resorts area now encompasses 188 miles of diverse terrain, offering everything from gentle nursery slopes to exhilarating parks, all set against a backdrop of the picturesque Pyrenees.
