Best ski resorts to enjoy this winter
What are the best skiing resorts in Europe?
From Courchevel in France with its amazing snow systems to Kitzbühel in Austria with its sophisticated boutiques, hitting the slopes tends to make for a thrilling, emotional and unforgettable experience. Here is a rundown of some of the best ski resorts around the world to visit this winter.
Zermatt, Switzerland: Open 365 days a year
Zermatt, on the beautiful Monte Rosa glacier in Switzerland offers skiing all year round and is one of the few in Europe to do so. Its breathtaking panorama of the Alpine mountains, and the immense slopes with hundreds of kilometres of slopes attract ski-lovers but also hikers and mountaineers from around the world. Riffelalp Resort is an idyllic place to enjoy this mountain paradise, as the slopes go right by the hotel so you can ski-in and out, and also enjoy its outdoor and indoor pools and indulge in the spa.
Val d’Isere, France: For the whole family
Val d’Isere is a modern ski resort located in the French alps at an altitude of around 1850m. There are several modern stadiums, a downhill track, a snowboard track and a ski area for beginners, as well as charming hamlets to stay at. Suitable for both professionals and beginners skiing for the first time, Val d’Isere is an ideal place to enjoy with the whole family. If you’re travelling with kids, they can be kept entertained with fun rides, slides and skating rinks.
Kitzbühel, Austria: A glamorous and comfortable experience
Kitzbühel, one of the most glamorous winter resorts nestled in the Alps, is home to classic Tyrolean country houses with designer boutiques from prestigious international brands. It is best known for its Hahnenkamm slope— a traditional venue for competitions in the annual ski world cup, which is attended by stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger. Stay at the Josef Kreidl Hütte cabin, which is made using wood from the forest surrounding it if you’re looking for somewhere a bit remote and adventurous, but for a more contemporary experience, book the Hotel Kitzhof Mountain Design Resort, which is inspired by old Tyrolean farmhouses and features modern furniture using local materials.
If you’re eco-conscious, not far from Kitzbühel, you’ll find the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser–Brixental resort, which has a 100% solar powered Sonnelift drag-lift and uses 100% renewable hydropower.
Portes du Soleil, Switzerland and France: Ideal for ski safaris
Portes du Soleil spans eight French and four Swiss resorts, between Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva. It boasts an abundance of protected areas and diverse landscapes, and you’ll find all kinds of accommodation, from tent camps surrounded by greenery, to comfortable apartments and chalets. This ski region is considered one of the most fascinating in Europe, since it unites two countries, 12 ski resorts and more than 600 km of slopes.
As well as discovering charming winter destinations, why not also explore exciting activities to un-grinch yourself during the Christmas season.
For more thrilling adventures and breathtaking panoramas, explore some of the best mountain hikes around the world — and perhaps, add some to your bucket list!
Photo credits: © Wikipedia Commons
Credits for the Main photo: © Patrick Robert Doyle