Ski Resorts in Europe: Top 11 popular destinations for winter travel
Endless peaks covered in snow like crispy meringues, an extensive network of slopes for all skill levels, unique restaurants, and hectares of ski terrain - Europe offers unparalleled opportunities for winter vacations. Each season sees the opening of impressive new hotels across its territory, such as the long-awaited Grace Le Margna in St. Moritz or Hotel Le Majun in the Dolomites in northeastern Italy. Additionally, airlines are adding new ski routes, and the Eurostar train transports passengers to Bourg St. Maurice, Moutiers-Salines-Brides-les-Bains, Chambéry, and other locations during the winter.
The following selection features the best ski resorts in Europe that you should know about. From classic destinations bustling with tourists to more secluded and exclusive ones, everyone can find the perfect option for themselves.
Lech, Austria
Among Europe's ski resorts, Lech in Austria deserves special attention as it has been a favored destination even for royalty, such as Princess Diana in her time. This tranquil and charming place still maintains its authentic alpine character combined with glitz and glamour. The wide, snow-covered slopes of Lech, Austria, attract ski enthusiasts of all levels, as well as families with children. Old wooden chalets and simple but cozy cafes dot the landscape along the river of the same name. After an active day outdoors, you'll definitely want to indulge in a hearty meal and recharge. Head to Rud-Alpe for schnitzel and fresh apple strudel. Cheese fondue and perfectly cooked meat await you at the cozy taverns Hus Nr. 8 and The Stube, while for a classic romantic dinner, visit the gourmet restaurant Alberg.
The resort offers a variety of accommodation options, with classic family hotels being the most popular, including:
- Hotel Alberg
- Severin*s Lech Hotel
- Hotel Post and others.
Also worth mentioning are the Arula Chalets with stylish design, a Bond-style floating fireplace, indoor and outdoor pools, and many other amenities necessary for a perfect vacation.
Verbier, Switzerland
Some of the most luxurious chalets in the Alps, paradisiacal slopes for freeriders, and vibrant parties are just a few of the highlights of Europe's top ski resort. We're talking about Verbier in Switzerland. This ski area spans four valleys, offering over 250 miles of slopes of varying difficulty, as well as some of the world's most challenging off-piste routes. The resort's regular visitors are typically highly skilled athletes, as evidenced by names like Bear Grylls, Pippa Middleton, or James Blunt, co-owner of the popular La Vache. And it's no wonder, as here they can showcase their skills and bravery by tackling pistes like Stairway to Heaven or Mont Fort with 6,500 feet of vertical descent, and participate in the annual Xtreme Verbier competition held in March.
Verbier offers a range of accommodation options, from large chain establishments to vibrant newcomers like W Hotels. However, the most coveted option remains the Experimental Chalet, offering 39 cozy rooms. This trendy establishment from the French brand still houses the legendary Farm Club, whose guests have included Elton John, David Bowie, Diana Ross, and many others.
Avoriaz, France
For those seeking an alpine aesthetic straight out of a postcard, this European ski resort is hardly the place to go. Avoriaz, located in France, with its seemingly clumsy high-rise buildings, some of which perch on the edge of steep cliffs, may resemble a scene from a horror movie rather than a festive Christmas comedy. However, this uniquely striking space, situated at an altitude of 3,500 feet, functions surprisingly well. Here, you'll find an ingeniously designed system of escalators and elevators that allow access to the most inaccessible points. The controversial design of the resort, developed by Jacques Labreau, who drew inspiration from the style of Le Corbusier, has long been a subject of debate in society, as the eco-friendly vision of a car-free world was ahead of its time. The designer, now at a respectable age, continues to advise on new developments in the city to ensure that the aesthetics align with the overall concept. However, most importantly, the skiing, often with panoramic views of the resort, is exhilarating and reliable regardless of your skill level.
Accommodation options include, for example, the traditional Amara resort with separate apartments, each with its own kitchen. Another option is the distinctive pine cone-shaped Hôtel des Dromonts, inspired by Bond-style designs. Recently, Avoriaz has added the Mil8, decorated with birch, which complements the resort's somewhat unconventional yet alluring style.
Riksgransen, Sweden
Even if you've never heard of this outpost in the far north of Sweden on the Norwegian border, Riksgränsen will likely feel familiar thanks to the snowboarding videos that were popular in the 1990s. The history of this place began in 1903 as a railroad station for trains transporting iron ore to the Norwegian coast. Gradually, the mysterious location used by local workers transformed into a popular ski resort in Europe. Since the road was built in 1984, skiing enthusiasts and especially snowboarders have been flocking here. Today, Riksgränsen is a paradise for freeriders and heliski enthusiasts, with the latter able to conquer the pristine snow slopes at almost no cost, especially compared to most other European resorts. The most popular place to stay is the Niehku Mountain Villa, a lodge located in a former railway building. It's also impossible not to mention the classic Riksgränsen Hotel with a sauna and spa.
Alta Badia, Italy
Alta Badia is a picturesque corner of the Dolomites, consisting of many small villages. This destination is known not only for its unique history and amazing cuisine but also for its winter vacation opportunities. One of the best ski resorts in Europe offers the finest Michelin-starred restaurants. In particular, it's worth booking a table at St. Hubertus. However, it should be done as early as possible, as this is one of ten restaurants in Italy to be awarded three Michelin stars at once. Regardless of which restaurant you choose, guests will find a friendly atmosphere and consistently delicious food. Ladin culture, which even includes its own language, is rooted in ties to the land and subsistence farming, so the local menu often features artisanal cheeses and locally raised pork.
Travelers purchasing a lift pass gain access to the Dolomiti Superski, one of the largest ski areas in the world, boasting over 700 miles of trails, including the Marmolada Glacier.
Hotels in Alta Badia tend to reflect a rustic Ladin atmosphere. For example, the Kolfuschgerhof has been run by the Ebner family for more than 50 years. You can also stay at the wonderful Adler Lodge. This eco-resort is completely decorated with wood in a fashionable minimalist style, and its special feature is the presence of outdoor thermal baths, where it is so pleasant to spend time after skiing.
Megève, France
Nestled in the heart of the Alps, one of the best ski resorts in Europe attracts travelers year-round, offering an unforgettable experience no matter the season. Megève is just over an hour's drive from Geneva, making it easily accessible via picturesque car-free cobblestone streets. Additionally, guests are treated to stunning views of Mont Blanc and multi-level slopes.
Founded in 1916 by the Baroness de Rothschild, Megève has a rich history. The baroness aimed to recreate the charm and ambiance of St. Moritz in France and selected this beautiful, serene village for the purpose.
When visitors aren't admiring the views from the secluded and impressive Flocons de Sel restaurant, helmed by Emmanuel Renaud, or enjoying a game of racquetball at l'Alpage, it's always a good idea to partake in a favorite winter activity. The descent to St. Nicholas from L'Epaule is particularly popular among athletes of all levels. La Caboche, with its wide variety of slopes and beginner's schools, provides ideal conditions for novices. Meanwhile, several thrilling runs, such as Emile Allais, and freeride spots (especially Magic Garden Coté 2000) beckon experienced skiers.
If planning a vacation in Megève, consider staying at Les Chalets du Mont d'Arbois or the Four Seasons Hotel Megève, both of which pay respectful homage to the Rothschild heritage. Those who prefer a secluded and cozy vacation can book one of the 11 rooms at the Le Cerf Amoureux boutique hotel. Some apartments offer breathtaking views of Mont Blanc from private balconies. In addition, the Four Seasons Megève offers a unique experience this winter - a romantic candlelit meal in an authentic igloo amidst a lush pine forest.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
When it comes to the most popular ski resorts in Europe, classic St. Moritz in Switzerland is not to be missed. Skijoring on a picturesque frozen lake, moonlit ice skating, and the traditional Cresta running toboggan run will allow you to immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of a winter alpine vacation.
The pistes along the spectacular Engadin Valley offer a variety of freeride and relaxed skiing opportunities, including the Corviglia mountain, home to one of the most glamorous ski clubs in Europe. When you get hungry, stop by Hasellas Restaurant, located next to the Suvretta House Hotel, to enjoy a Viennese schnitzel on the sunlit terrace. After returning to the city, recharge your batteries at the in-house restaurant Veltlinerkeller, where you can enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine and generous portions of pasta.
A long-awaited event was the opening of the new and ultra-modern Grace Le Margna. This is the first hotel to open in the St. Moritz ski resort in 50 years. Most of the suites offer amazing views of Lake St. Moritz, and the interiors are decorated in Art Nouveau style. Another hotel worth mentioning is the Kulm Hotel, which welcomed its first guests back in 1864.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, located in Switzerland, is among the most beautiful ski resorts in Europe. It is exactly the kind of Alps that every self-respecting snow globe aspires to. Guests arrive at the resort on an incredibly cute little train, passing through majestic mountain ranges that have inspired more Swiss chocolate bar makers and Victorian legends than anyone else. The pistes here are high, dry, and perfect for relaxed skiing, and the gastronomic experience rivals any ski resort, especially in classic restaurants such as Chez Vrony and Findlerhof.
Popular hotels worth staying in include the following:
- The grandiose Monte Rosa and Mont Cervin Palace
- Zermatterhof, a luxurious option for discerning guests
- Backstage Hotel Vernissage with glass elements, the creation of the charismatic local architect Heinz Julen
Special attention should be paid to the Schweizerhof, a chalet-luxury hotel created by Michel Reybier of La Réserve, which guarantees an unforgettable experience of a winter adventure in Switzerland.
Bad Gastein, Austria
Once known as the "Monte Carlo of the Alps" before times got tough, this Belle Époque European ski town sits on the slopes of the High Tauern Mountains and is an hour and a half away from Salzburg by comfortable train. But now Bad Gastein is making a comeback in the winter travel guides with new hotels, festivals, and other events, such as sommer.frische.kunst, which has an artistic focus. The valley generally has snow conditions that are good enough for skiing, especially on the Kreuzkogel peak.
The Austrian town offers a variety of accommodation options, including:
- Salzburger Hof
- Miramonte
- Haus Hirt
However, the most desirable place to stay in Bad Gastein is The Comodo. The hotel has a large and modern wellness center with an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness room, and the comfortable rooms offer amazing views of the valley.
Val d'Isère, France
Val d'Isère is deservedly on the list of the top 11 ski resorts in Europe. This popular destination in France offers a wide range of pistes with intricate routes that are fun to explore. Canadians respect the Whistler Blackcomb area, but Espace Killy, which includes Val and Tignes, is five times larger.
While this resort may not be as glamorous as some others in the Alps, it has shown some style and progress in recent years. And it doesn't just apply to dining - L'Atelier d'Edmond offers gourmet ski menus with Arctic char and crayfish dinners (a popular bistro menu is available), while the traditional Le Fornet recreates classic tartiflette recipes.
Various accommodation options are available at the resort. In particular, guests have the opportunity to book a room in the elegantly wood-decorated Refuge de Solaise hotel or choose the Mont Blanc eco-chalet, bordering the amazing Rogoney forest.
Sunnmøre Alps, Norway
The popularity of skiing is growing every year in different parts of the world, but it is the Scandinavians who treat this leisure activity with the utmost devotion and respect, and after each skiing, they say "takk for turen" ("thanks for the tour"). In Norway, you can find several wonderful places, in particular, the Lingen Alps and the Lofoten archipelago. While the Sunnmøre Alps are located near the open sea, an hour and a half's drive from the coastal city of Ålesund amidst a fantastic landscape of majestic fjords.
During meditative hikes, travelers can enjoy epic views. Unlike the Alps, you will usually have a picnic in the open air for lunch, and dinner is a real candlelit rite after a long relaxation in a traditional sauna.
There are several excellent hotels in the area. For example, the Juvet Landscape Hotel, decorated in a modernist style, was used as a location for the filming of Alex Garland's "Ex Machina", or the Union Øye, whose history dates back to 1891 and where Arthur Conan Doyle stayed.
