Home to some of the world's most stunning ski resorts offering world-class amenities and upscale accommodations, it's not surprising that Europe is a top destination for a ski holiday. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you will find a ski resort that's perfect for you. But with so many exceptional ski resorts in Europe, it can be daunting to decide where to go. Seasoned skiers who have been to Europe several times have their personal favorites. But if you are visiting for the first time and need ideas on where to go, here are the top European destinations for luxury ski vacations.
Switzerland
As the first European country to develop winter tourism, Switzerland is a top destination for skiing. The country boasts a long skiing season, well-developed ski resorts, and terrific snow conditions. In addition, Switzerland has a comprehensive transit system of funiculars, trains, cable cars, and ski gondolas, making it easier to travel from one destination to another.
When it comes to skiing in Switzerland, Zermatt tops the list. The iconic location sits at the base of the Matterhorn, with impressive ski areas and over 200 miles of skiable terrain. Furthermore, you won't have to worry about parking in Zermatt since it's completely car-free. If bringing a car, you can park outside the village and take a taxi or train. For a more luxurious experience, hire a helicopter to take you to the ski village! If you are arriving in Geneva or Zurich airports, you can take a direct train to Zermatt if you don't wish to rent a car.
St. Moritz is another popular destination for skiing in Switzerland. The sophisticated town has incredible ski resorts offering a fantastic skiing experience. It boasts over 96 miles of terrain spread across three areas, Diavolezza-Lagalb, Corvatsch, and Corviglia. Given the town's high altitude, St Moritz has consistently excellent snow quality, although there's also plenty to do for non-skiers.
Austria
Famous for offering a thrilling downhill skiing experience, the Austrian Alps are a paradise for skiers. In winter, the region transforms into a winter wonderland with ski resorts, picturesque snow-covered villages, and winter adventures galore.
With a long snow season and a high elevation, the Australian Alps guarantees snow almost all year round. As for those in the lower elevations, most are equipped with state-of-the-art snow-making facilities, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted skiing regardless of the season. It's also worth noting that the Tyrol region has five glaciers, with some ski resorts remaining open most of the year.
Ski Arlberg is Austria's largest ski area and consists of seven villages. Amongst them, St. Anton is the best. Although it caters to expert skiers, intermediate skiers will also find some runs up to their level. And aside from offering several miles of in-piste skiing, St. Anton has an impressive dining scene and vibrant nightlife. So, although the purpose of your visit is to ski, you can entertain yourself with many other things.
Italy
Italy may not always be the first place that comes to mind when skiing in Europe, but it has lots going for it. It's home to excellent ski resorts with less crowded slopes and has world-class restaurants offering delectable cuisines. Guests will also find they can stay in luxury ski chalets whilst visiting Italy, great for those seeking a place to relax and unwind. Best of all, a skiing holiday in Italy is cheaper than in many other European countries, even if seeking a luxury experience.
Italy's ski resorts are vast and spread over two mountain ranges, the Dolomites and the Alps. One of Italy's most popular destinations luxury ski vacation is Cortina d'Ampezzo. Set amongst the peaks of the Dolomites, it connects to Dolomiti Superski, offering a dozen ski areas operating under one pass. You will love the sophisticated ski town's easy ticket system and over 70 miles of terrain.
The charming town of Courmayeur is another fantastic ski destination nestled on the side of Mont Blanc. Aside from boasting stunning views, Courmayeur is a little sunnier than the French section of the mountain. Aside from drawing skiers of all levels, Courmayeur is famous for its cable car, where you can admire the Matterhorn's breathtaking views.
France
You can guarantee a world-class experience when skiing in the French Alps. Offering everything from hundreds of kilometers of groomed pistes to famous ski resorts and traditional Alpine villages, skiing in the mountains of France is an incredible experience. These mountains are home to Mont Blanc, the tallest in Western Europe, offering endless possibilities for steep skiing and epic off-piste descents.
Courchevel is the top destination for a European ski holiday in France, giving you access to Les Trois Vallées, the world's largest linked ski area. Aside from skiing, Courchevel has plenty to keep you entertained. The resort's interconnected villages are home to Michelin-starred restaurants, numerous upscale hotels, and a dedicated children's ski area. And thanks to the resort's high elevation and expansive snow making facilities, snow is always guaranteed.
Like Courchevel, Chamonix offers a fantastic skiing experience. Aside from incredible inbound skiing, it boasts legendary off-piste skiing surrounded by stunning views of the French Alps. Although the resort is popular among expert skiers, you will find family-friendly and beginner ski runs.
Iceland
If you're looking for a unique destination for your European skiing adventure, look no further than Iceland. The country's remote landscape makes it one of the world's most epic skiing destinations. Imagine skiing amidst the stunning landscapes of jagged glaciers, lava rocks, and expansive mountain ranges!
If skiing under the Northern Lights sounds like a dream, visit between October and March. You can book with tour operators to take you to the country's best ski runs with the Northern Lights in the background. They can also provide the equipment, so you don't have to bring them yourself.
If you don't want to travel far and want to stay close to Reykjavik, consider skiing in the Blafjoll Ski Resort in the country's southwestern region. While the views are not as dramatic as in the north, it offers a fantastic skiing experience, making it a favorite of locals and visitors.
