It’s that time of year when your internet search history is dominated by queries like “top ski destinations,” “best ski resorts in the world,” and “great après-ski spots.” A ski holiday is the perfect excuse to don your new snow gear, whether it’s matching snow pants with your favorite wool sweater or showcasing them on the slopes. After a day carving through the snow, unwind with friends around a cozy bonfire or hit up the local ski town for a night of festivities. Whether you’re a beginner sticking to the bunny slopes or an expert navigating the black diamonds, planning ahead ensures the perfect trip to a premier resort. Here’s a roundup of some of the world’s finest ski destinations, spanning from North America to the French Alps.
- Snowmass, Colorado Nestled in Colorado, Snowmass stands out with its convenient access to four incredible mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass itself. Live music venues, superb dining options, and a vibrant après-ski scene make it a top choice. Enjoy intimate dining experiences such as the Lynn Britt Cabin, where you can indulge in mountain cuisine in a private setting, or the Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, famous for its Alpine ambiance and proximity to après-ski activities. Each mountain at Snowmass offers a unique après-ski vibe, complete with distinct dining and drinking opportunities.
- Whistler Blackcomb, Canada Just a skip away from the USA, in British Columbia, Whistler Blackcomb boasts the largest ski resort in North America, formed by the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Its PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, the world’s longest and highest lift system, highlights its global status. The resort, a venue for the 2010 Winter Olympics, features a vibrant village with bustling nightlife, offering everything from shops and cafés to lively bars.
- Zermatt, Switzerland Elevate your skiing adventure to new heights in Switzerland’s Zermatt, renowned for its impeccably groomed slopes ideal for free-skiing, as well as hiking and mountaineering. Beyond emergencies, Zermatt’s helicopters offer scenic flights and thrilling heli-skiing adventures, transporting adrenaline seekers to trails accessible only from the skies. Cap off your days with fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants like After Seven and Alpine Gourmet Prato Borni.
- Val d’Isère, France Amidst France’s competitive ski scene lies Val d’Isère, a must-visit for its traditional charm, extensive network of 90 ski lifts, and seemingly endless off-piste opportunities. Located near the French-Italian border in the Alps, this resort caters to families and couples alike, boasting over 186 miles of terrain. Dining options abound, from the famous Dick’s Tea Bar to diverse experiences like ice skating and tobogganing.
- Niseko United, Japan Venture farther afield to Japan’s Niseko United, a destination that offers four interconnected resorts on Hokkaido Island. Known for its breathtaking views and some of the driest, lightest powder snow worldwide, Niseko United ensures an unparalleled skiing and snowboarding experience. Choose from a variety of terrains and sign up for snowshoe tours or guided snowmobile rides through pristine landscapes before sampling a range of cuisine, from local Japanese to Scandinavian delights.
- Kitzbühel, Austria Kitzbühel stands out in Europe with its 145 miles of trails covered in abundant snowfall, 58 lifts, and over 60 mountain huts. Ideal for both beginners and experts, this Austrian resort offers off-slope adventures like visits to the Aurach Wildlife Park and guided hikes in the Tyrolean Alps. After soaking in the natural beauty, relax at the resort’s spa area, featuring panoramic pools, steam baths, and a solarium.
- Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming Jackson Hole Mountain Resort spans 2,500 acres of terrain extending into Bridger-Teton National Forest, providing endless backcountry skiing opportunities. Perfect for thrill-seekers, this resort offers customisable backcountry ski trips with challenging obstacles accessible with minimal hiking. Early gondola access is available, and the iconic Corbet’s Couloir—a challenging chute resembling an upside-down funnel—beckons skiers ready to test their skills against gravity.
- Ski Arlberg, Austria Returning to Austria, Ski Arlberg is one of the largest connected ski resorts globally and the largest in Austria. Known for its excellent snow conditions, this resort offers over 125 miles of deep snow runs and diverse slopes for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts alike. Conclude your day with fellow snow lovers in the lively après-ski scene, where DJs and champagne set the tone for unforgettable evenings.
