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

By Alina GoncharovaMar 14, 2024 20:04 PMThe best
Share:
The perfect winter vacation. Source: Image 12019/Pixabay

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

Endless fun in Switzerland. Source: Image Norbert Höldin/Pixabay
Endless fun in Switzerland. Source: Image Norbert Höldin/Pixabay

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

The majestic slopes of Big Sky. Source: Image durbindr/Pixabay
The majestic slopes of Big Sky. Source: Image durbindr/Pixabay

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.

Top Articles

Top 8 cool hotels in Cleveland, Ohio, USA: close to major attractions, with great views and luxurious amenities

Jul 25, 2024 13:03 PM

Top 8 best hotels in Asheville, North Carolina: from grand estate and industrial boutique to luxury resort with golf course

Jul 25, 2024 08:43 AM

Best Places to Stay in Santorini: A guide to the top tourist spots and attractions for a perfect Greek vacation

Jul 24, 2024 15:44 PM

Top 8 hotels in Williamsburg: from loft-style hostels to urban retreats and luxury suites with stunning panoramas

Jul 24, 2024 09:08 AM
More News

Top 8 Courchevel hotels: the best ski vacation bases with stunning views, Michelin restaurants and world-class spas

Jul 23, 2024 20:44 PM

Munich travel guide: which neighborhoods and hotels to stay in, what to see and where to visit in the capital of Bavaria, Germany

Jul 23, 2024 12:02 PM

Best hotels in Highland-Cashiers: top 5 places to stay in North Carolina for families, couples, or solo travelers

Jul 23, 2024 09:03 AM

Top 15 best hotels for beach weddings around the world, from beautiful secluded hideaways to famous island resorts

Jul 22, 2024 19:15 PM

The best resorts in Colorado for 2024: from luxury mountain getaways with direct access to the slopes to gorgeous resort spas with hot springs

Jul 22, 2024 13:07 PM

The Aerial is an all-inclusive luxury resort in the British Virgin Islands, from its unique approach to wellness to its charitable missions

Jul 21, 2024 13:11 PM

The best resorts in South Carolina, from rustic mini hotels to beachfront boutique hotels and luxury resort spas

Jul 21, 2024 09:11 AM

Top 10 Unique Airbnbs in the US: from a missile base bunker and a rainforest treehouse to a hobbit hole and a haunted castle

Jul 17, 2024 09:08 AM

Top 5 resorts in Puerto Rico where travelers recommend staying: with exclusive spas, fine dining, a coastal water park and breathtaking ocean views

Jul 16, 2024 19:04 PM

Top 7 Florida resorts according to travelers: from beach oases with pools and spas to historic boutique hotels with golf courses

Jun 28, 2024 09:20 AM

Top 9 hotels in the South of France: from beach boutiques and historic mansions to fantastic resorts on the French Riviera

Jun 26, 2024 09:51 AM

The Wilde Resort and Spa is a beautiful resort in Sedona with an impressive spa and an intense experience

Jun 18, 2024 09:15 AM

Top 10 great hotels in Glasgow: from serviced apartments to stylish boutique properties and grand townhouses

Jun 12, 2024 09:15 AM

Top 9 luxury hotels in Lisbon: from opulent palaces and historic residences to chic modern boutiques

May 18, 2024 09:12 AM

Top 10 Boston hotels: from chic urban resorts and sophisticated boutiques to modern skyscrapers and historic hideaways

May 16, 2024 11:10 AM

Overwater bungalows at Jamaica's Sandals South Coast: a dream resort for romantic getaways and special moments

May 10, 2024 10:10 AM

Top 8 awesome Airbnbs in Milan: from a minimalist studio with a sunny terrace to a glamorous apartment in a trendy neighborhood

May 9, 2024 09:06 AM

Sun, sea, relax: South Carolina's top 10 resorts

May 6, 2024 20:05 PM

Top 5 best all-inclusive Maine vacation options, from a schooner cruise on the lake to secluded cottages in the woods alone with wildlife

Apr 29, 2024 09:02 AM

Canals, history and comfort: Top 14 hotels in Venice

Apr 26, 2024 20:12 PM

Top 13 hotels in the USA with amazing water parks, from steep water slides and underwater music pools to open-air whirlpools and lazy rivers with waterfalls.

Apr 25, 2024 20:15 PM

Top 6 all-inclusive resorts in Brazil: from stunning beaches and golf courses to geothermal pools and island water trips

Apr 24, 2024 09:20 AM

Stunning Green O Resort in Montana: from tree houses and stargazing from bed to river rafting and spas among the piney woods

Apr 23, 2024 19:15 PM

Picturesque vacations: your guide to Montana hotels for outdoor adventures

Apr 22, 2024 20:03 PM

Снежные вершины: откройте для себя первоклассные горнолыжные курорты Европы

Apr 21, 2024 20:45 PM

Top NYC hotels with gorgeous rooftop pools: 8 perfect places to relax in the heat by the water with drinks and stunning views

Apr 17, 2024 08:05 AM