Planning to hit the slopes next season? These are the destinations that should be on your radar, whether you’re looking for luxury, a quiet retreat or family-friendly favourite.
1. Luxury Powerhouses
Looking for an indulgent experience where you’re guaranteed the best of the best? Europe’s premium powerhouses are the place to start. Primarily located in the Alps, the top resorts address every detail so you can be confident of a five-star skiing experience, from the slopes to where you stay to the après-ski.
In France, many sing the praises of Courchevel. This resort lies at the heart of Les Trois Vallées, a ski area with over 600km of pistes, and has exceptional spas for those who want to take it easy. Looking for somewhere more intimate? North towards Mont Blanc is Megève, the ultimate romantic retreat. Across the border in Switzerland is St. Moritz, two-time Winter Olympics host with unparalleled facilities.
2. Hidden Gems
Europe is incredibly popular for skiing, but there are still some hidden gems to be discovered amid the heavy hitters.
Forgo the Alps in favour of the Pyrenees, which is less occupied and less visited, giving you the opportunity for quiet moments in the snow. Boí Taüll in Catalonia is highest at an altitude of 2,751m and Andorra ski holidays centre around Grandvalira, the largest resort offering guided mountain excursions in addition to excellent skiing and snowboarding runs.
3. Family Favourites
Heading away with the family? Stave off any chance of boredom by choosing a resort that has plenty of things to do, on and off the slopes. If you’re travelling with younger kids who are just finding their feet, look for options with large nursery slopes and schools on site so they can practise under professional instruction while you have the freedom to divide and conquer as you prefer.
Zell am See in Austria and Courmayeur in Italy are quieter alternatives to the French resorts, ideal if you want to escape the crowds. Zell am See is low-key and laidback with varied runs, quality ice-skating and great childcare. La Plagne in France is busier favourite for families with wide blue runs, perfect for learners graduating from the nursery area and green slopes.
4. High-Altitude Resorts
If you’re a pro in search of thrills, then focus on going higher. These resorts benefit from longer snow-sure seasons and boast off-piste areas where you can find fresh powder in addition to dramatic black and speedy red runs.
Val d’Isère usually tops lists of the best ski resorts in France because of its elevation. A network of world-class routes criss-crosses the mountains, skiable from November to early May, with the option of heliskiing tours for the very brave. Zermatt, which lies in the shadow of the Matterhorn peak, also has a long season and unique climbing and hiking in addition to a lively après-ski scene.
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