Top 14 ski resorts around the world: planning your winter vacation

There are thousands of ski resorts in the world, represented in more than 60 different countries. From all-inclusive mega-complexes to family-run boutiques, beginner-friendly slopes to expert-only backcountry, there's something for everyone. However, deciding where to go can be a daunting task, especially with so many options on offer. So, if you're planning a winter vacation, take a look at a selection of the world's best ski resorts that offer not only the perfect skiing conditions, but also a five-star experience off the slopes.

Verbier, Switzerland

This wonderful resort located in Switzerland is ideal for families, as it offers pistes for skiers of all skill levels - from beginners to advanced athletes. Verbier also offers a special leisure option - if you wish, you can climb the mountain slope accompanied by an experienced local guide to find the freshest untouched slope and conquer it.

When you've had enough fun, head to the nearby W Verbier to relax and unwind. This five-star hotel is located steps from the lifts, offering comfortable rooms with fireplaces. Other amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, an extensive spa, and a variety of dining options and bars.

Deer Valley, Utah

Among the best ski resorts in the world, namely in North America, Deer Valley, located in Utah, occupies a prominent place. Perfectly groomed slopes, impeccable lodges with fireplaces inside, free equipment storage, a daily limit of 7,500 skiers, as well as uncrowded trails and short lifts make it an ideal option for a winter vacation. In addition, many visitors will be pleased to know that snowboarding is not allowed here. Experts also note the high professional level of ski instructors.

Fans of extreme slopes will definitely appreciate the "black diamonds", the Daly Bowl, Mayflower and Daly Chutes runs. In 2002, the Winter Olympics were held here, so visitors can take advantage of the high-speed Carpenter Express chairlift, which gives skiers access to the entire Deer Valley, including the steep slopes where the competition took place.

Deer Valley is also known for its fine dining options, such as Cast & Cut, specializing in seafood, and The Mariposa, an excellent steakhouse. Another advantage of the location is its close proximity to downtown Park City, as well as its proximity to other Utah ski resorts, such as Snowbird, Alt, Park City Mountain/Canyons.

Aspen Mountain, Colorado

Aspen in Colorado is probably one of the most famous skiing destinations on Earth. It's a truly luxurious destination with world-renowned boutique hotels like the Hotel Jerome, as well as upscale shopping and state-of-the-art amenities. One of the best ski resorts in the world, it includes four areas with a total area of more than 5,500 acres, with Snowmass alone accounting for more than 3,000 acres. Since 2002, the smallest of the resorts, Buttermilk, has been hosting the Winter X-Games. The competition brings together about a hundred of the best skiers and stars of other winter sports.

For those with an intermediate to advanced level of skill, Aspen Mountain is perfect, as it offers steep enough terrain that is rated black or double black. Highland Bowl is particularly popular with backcountry skiers. Although most of the resort is designed for experienced skiers, you will also find several easy areas that are safe for beginners.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

Another must-see ski destination is St. Moritz in Switzerland, which lives up to its luxurious reputation. The resort offers 26 miles of beginner pistes, 49 intermediate routes, and 21 miles of terrain for advanced skiers, so there's something for everyone, regardless of age or skill level. If you're looking for a place to stay, we recommend the luxurious Badrutt's Palace.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a charming town worthy of a postcard or a movie, and it's here that you'll have the opportunity to experience the quintessential New England ski experience. Although it has expanded in recent years with the acquisition of Vail Corp, the atmosphere remains warm and cozy. The main audience of Stowe is those who like to spend all their time - from dawn to dusk - on the mountain slopes.

Here you will find excellent opportunities not only for skiing on the East Coast, but also for après ski. In particular, nothing beats a beer on the Matterhorn. To stay as close to all the action as possible, we recommend staying at the Topnotch Resort, which offers in-room fireplaces for cozy, relaxing evenings.

Courchevel, France

When talking about the best ski resorts in the world, it is impossible not to pay special attention to the luxurious Courchevel. Located in the heart of the French Alps, this place is a real oasis for lovers of winter recreation and outdoor activities. Wealthy travelers have the opportunity to browse through luxury boutiques and buy, for example, a Moncler down jacket from the new collection, and then head to the chairlift to comfortably reach the top of the mountain. There are more than a hundred named trails of varying difficulty levels waiting for you.

After a day full of adventure and skiing, head out to explore the six surrounding villages, which are interconnected to dine in the most luxurious restaurants and have an unforgettable après experience. Of course, in Courchevel, you'll find the right places to stay that impress with high-end service and five-star amenities. For example, Six Senses Residences & Spa Courchevel offers chic apartments, the best views, and access to an extensive spa.

St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria

If you want to challenge yourself, head straight to Austria, where St. Anton is located. Here you'll find more than 187 miles of interconnected pistes, perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers. In addition, St. Anton am Arlberg is ideal for snowboarding enthusiasts thanks to the ample number of free-running locations and various entertainment parks.

If you are planning to spend a weekend or an entire vacation in Austria, we recommend staying at the historic Hotel Arlberg, which has been run by the same family for many years.

Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky, as the name suggests, is a really big mountain. One of the most popular ski resorts, it offers more than 300 trails for skiers and riders, both easy and more challenging for those who need a challenge. Travelers who need something a little more have the option of purchasing early access tickets, which allow them to hit the slopes an hour earlier, before they open to the general public, and ski under the stars by lantern light.

Not long ago, the region was replenished with Montage Big Sky, which adds a touch of luxury to Montana. The new resort has 139 rooms, suites and residences, and a large number of huge windows ensure that guests will be able to enjoy amazing views of the mountain peaks rising in the distance.

Park City, Utah

Park City is an amazing place in Utah where riders and skiers can coexist harmoniously, choosing any day for their fun. For beginners, about 8% of the mountain is designed with flat and slow terrain. The rest of the slopes are ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers who are ready to conquer the black diamonds.

In between skiing, choose one of the 16 restaurants on the mountain, located along different routes. We advise you not to miss a visit to Cloud Dine, which serves the most delicious donuts. There are many hotels in Park City that are worth checking out, including the Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Resorts Collection, which is located nearby.

Niseko, Japan

Located on the northern island of Japan, this ski resort is a real paradise where you can spend the whole winter, because the area actually consists of four interconnected complexes, collectively known as Niseko United, including:

• Niseko Village;
• Annupuri
• Hanazono; and
• Gran Hirafo.

Niseko offers suitable conditions for beginners, as well as intermediate and advanced levels, so this location is perfect for families with children, where everyone has a different level of training. In particular, an entertainment program has been developed for younger guests, and snowboarding and skiing lessons are available. Here you will find well-groomed trails and wooded glades and snow parks, while on the other side of the mountain there is a huge mountain slope for uncontrolled outdoor adventures. Keep in mind that Niseko is known for its low temperatures, so be prepared for cold weather and choose the right clothes.

The highlight of this famous ski resort is the exquisite hot spring spas, without which it is impossible to imagine a trip to Japan.

Telluride, Colorado

Located among the San Juan Mountains in Colorado, Telluride has a special charm. Here you have the opportunity not only to go skiing, but also to get acquainted with the unique history of the city, in particular, through the buildings of the Victorian era. In addition, thanks to its somewhat remote location, you don't have to worry about large crowds, which allows you to explore the slopes in a more intimate way. When you need a break, relax at the first-class Madeline Hotel and Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection, one of the best in Colorado.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

With craggy mountain peaks descending into a picturesque valley, Jackson Hole is one of the most beautiful ski resorts in the world, boasting amazing views and long runs covered in a soft cushion of snow. This place is perfect for beginners who are mastering the art of conquering the slopes for the first time, as talented instructors work here. Backcountry fans have the opportunity to join a guide who will take you off-piste on an exciting journey to even more challenging adventures, teach you how to choose the terrain, and tell you about avalanches and travel techniques.

The resort has two restaurants and several accommodation options. If you want to stay in town, check out The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection, recognized as one of the best hotels in Wyoming.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley, located in Idaho, has been a favorite destination for snow lovers for years. The top of this beautiful ski resort, Bald Mountain, offers fantastic panoramic views of five majestic ranges, and the friendly locals of the small town contribute to a relaxed, warm vacation.

In addition to conquering the slopes (the longest of which is three full miles), visitors come here to go skijoring. After skiing, book an apartment at the chic Sun Valley Resort.

Portillo, Chile

Want to hone your skills all year round? Head south to Portillo, where the season runs from June to September. This popular ski resort in Chile is known for its stunning Andean views and diverse landscapes. Portillo is also in demand due to the limit of 450 visitors per day, so everyone who managed to buy a ticket will be able to enjoy the slopes without annoying queues.