Have you dreamed of hitting the slopes at some of the best ski resorts around the world? Do you want to experience the thrill of tackling fresh powder in a stunning mountain setting?
Skiing is one of the most popular winter sports, and with its exhilarating slopes and incredible landscapes, it’s no wonder why it has become such a popular choice for travelers. From Canada to New Zealand, from Japan to Switzerland, skiing destinations are becoming increasingly diverse as more resorts offer unique experiences that make them stand out from their competitors.
In this article, we will explore some of the best ski resorts around the world. We’ll cover everything from beginner-friendly runs for those trying out skiing for the first time to challenging slopes for experienced skiers looking for a good dose of adrenaline. Whether you’re an avid skier or just an occasional snow bunny, this comprehensive list has something for everyone.
Understandings of This Article:
- Skiing is a popular winter sport, and ski resorts are becoming increasingly diverse, offering unique experiences.
- This article covers some of the best ski destinations around the world, suitable for both experienced and beginner skiers.
- Popular destinations include Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, Courchevel in France, Zermatt in Switzerland, and Vail Mountain Resort in the USA.
Exploring Luxury Ski Resorts Around the World
Are you ready to hit the slopes and experience some of the best ski resorts around the world? From Canada to New Zealand, from Japan to Switzerland, this comprehensive list of top-rated ski resorts has something for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced skier or just a beginner looking for a good time, these 20 destinations offer unique experiences that will make your winter vacation unforgettable.
1. Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Whistler Blackcomb is Canada’s premier ski resort and the largest winter sports area in North America. Located two hours from Vancouver, it offers stunning views stretching to the Pacific Ocean. With 200 runs accessed by 37 lifts, five diverse parks covering 99 acres of snow, and an Olympic-sized pipe, Whistler Blackcomb has something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, there are plenty of options for you to enjoy.
The PEAK 2 PEAK gondola is the world’s longest unsupported lift span, connecting two mountaintops and providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The resort also offers accommodation options including hotels in the area and short flights from Vancouver. For those looking to become ski instructors, Whistler Blackcomb is a great place to find your feet with courses and instructor jobs widely available. With its wide range of activities and stunning scenery, Whistler Blackcomb is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit!
2. Courchevel, France
Courchevel in the French Alps is a prestigious ski resort village with world-class skiing facilities. It is part of Les 3 Vallées region, the world’s largest Alpine ski domain, with 600 kilometers of interconnected ski runs across 10 summits higher than 2,500 meters. The yearly average of four meters of natural snow is meticulously maintained and groomed, and off-piste skiing is legendary. There are seven Michelin-starred restaurants in the five villages, although this season won’t see the usual dazzling après-ski scene.
3. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt, Switzerland is a ski resort like no other. With 350 kilometers of trails and slopes, the highest vertical drop in Switzerland, and the magnificent peak of the Matterhorn, it is an ideal destination for adrenaline seekers looking to go off-piste. Last year saw the world’s highest 3S Lift open up to the Matterhorn Glacier at 3,883 meters altitude. Skiers can also ski over an international boundary from Zermatt into Breuil-Cervinia, Italy’s Val d’Aosta, or take Europe’s longest downhill run from Matterhorn glacier into Zermatt. Snowboarders and freeride skiers can enjoy Zermatt Snow Park on Theodul Glacier.
The Haute Route connecting Zermatt to Chamonix is 178 kilometers long and requires a guide and expert skills to complete. Accommodation options in Zermatt include hotels, inns, lodges, and mountain huts.
4. Vail Mountain Resort, Colorado, USA
Vail Mountain Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in the world, boasting 5,289 acres of skiing served by 31 lifts. The resort offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. Seven back bowls provide bumps and glades for more experienced skiers, while three separate terrain parks offer plenty of fun for those just starting out. To ensure that everyone can enjoy their time on the slopes, Vail Resorts will be limiting daily ticket sales in the 2022/2023 season; those without an EPIC pass should reserve ahead to guarantee a spot.
For those looking for a more challenging experience, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is another great option. With 2,200 acres of terrain and 40 feet of average annual snowfall, this resort is most suited to intermediate-to-expert skiers. However, lessons and ski camps are available for beginners who want to learn how to ski or snowboard.
5. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado, USA
Aspen Snowmass is a winter paradise located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It is made up of four ski areas – Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk – with a combined terrain of over 5,500 acres. Buttermilk is known for hosting the Winter X-Games since 2002 and Aspen Mountain is strictly for intermediate and expert skiers. Aspen Highlands is known for its advanced and expert runs and has recently completed a three-year glade project in the Lucky Find area.
Aspen Snowmass offers something for everyone from beginner to expert skiers. For those looking to explore backcountry skiing, Aspen Powder Tours offers snowcat tours into the powder stashes behind Aspen Mountain. Visitors can find accommodations ranging from Viceroy Snowmass offering handsome rooms complete with soaking tubs and a 7,000-square-foot spa to The Little Nell which recently underwent a glamorous renovation making it the crown jewel of hotels in Aspen.
6. Val d’Isere, France
Val d’Isere is one of the most iconic ski resorts in France, made famous by Jean-Claude Killy’s Olympic gold medals. The resort offers over 300 kilometers of interconnected ski terrain and more than 150 ski lifts, making it a great destination for all levels of skiers. Val d’Isere and Tignes offer challenging black runs and exceptional off-piste skiing for experienced skiers, while families can enjoy sledding, hang gliding, and snowmobile rides in Courchevel.
The Three Valleys is the largest ski area in the world, with eight world-class ski resorts including Val Thorens. Here you can find some of the most challenging black runs in Europe as well as plenty of activities for families to enjoy. Hotel Le Fitz Roy, Val Thorens is a five-star ski-in ski-out hotel with incredible facilities that make it an ideal base for your stay in this beautiful region. Whether you’re looking for a challenging ski experience or a family-friendly holiday, Val d’Isere and the Three Valleys have something for everyone.
7. Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina D’Ampezzo is a luxurious ski resort located in the Dolomite Mountains of Italy. It is known for its stunning setting of five ragged peaks and offers visitors access to nearly 400 kilometers of interconnected skiing across 12 resorts. With more than three dozen lifts, skiers can reach the snowfields at the crests of the highest ridges and ski back into town in one run. Cortina D’Ampezzo is an ideal destination for skiing and other winter activities such as bobsledding and ice skating. The 10-person Son dei Prade-Cianzopè-Bai de Dones gondola connects the Tofana and Cinque Torri areas, making it easier to reach the Sellaronda and Dolomiti Superski area from Cortina with skis on.
The ski pass at Cortina D’Ampezzo is great value, making it a popular destination for well-t raveled skiers. The resort also offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to family-friendly apartments.
8. Telluride, Colorado, USA
Telluride, Colorado is a popular ski resort destination for adrenaline junkies. With over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain and a base elevation of 8,725 feet, the resort offers skiing for all levels. Visitors can take advantage of the free gondola which connects the town to the resort. There are plenty of accommodation options and attractions in Telluride for visitors to enjoy. The Hotel Telluride offers a “Two Picks and a Prayer” package which includes ice climbing and two massages. Bridal Veil Falls is another popular attraction located in the area; it is a 365-foot-tall waterfall that provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In addition to skiing, Telluride also offers other outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, sledding, and more. There are also several restaurants and bars in town that offer delicious food and drinks after a long day on the slopes.
9. Niseko, Japan
Niseko, Japan is a premier ski resort located on the northern island of Hokkaido. It offers an unbeatable choice of terrain with 15 meters of average snowfall, including ungroomed areas, powder pistes and pipes, and world-class runs for tree skiing. Niseko United is a group of four ski resorts located 90 kilometers from Sapporo that offer groomed trails, wooded glades, bowls of ungroomed powder, and snowparks for skiing and snowboarding. The slopes of the volcano also provide heli-skiing, cat skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and hot spring spas for visitors to enjoy.
Kiroro Resort has the highest snowfall of any ski resort in the world making it perfect for those looking to experience some serious powder days. Niseko is also Japan’s Best Family Ski Resort offering ski and snowboard lessons in English as well as accommodation options available on their official website.
10. Chamonix, France
Chamonix is a winter wonderland located in the French Alps near the borders of Italy and Switzerland. It is one of the most popular ski resorts in France, featuring Mont Blanc and the world’s greatest height differential. The resort offers something for everyone, from expert runs at Grands Montets to World Cup-approved pistes at Les Houches. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, Chamonix has more than 60 lifts and steep-sided peaks that are perfect for extreme sports like off-piste skiing and snowboarding.
The resort also offers plenty of activities away from the slopes, such as cross-country trails and a lively après-ski scene with classic European dishes like fondue. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, Chamonix has something to offer everyone. With its breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and its wide range of activities, it’s no wonder why Chamonix is one of the most popular ski resorts in the world.
11. St. Anton, Austria
St. Anton is a renowned ski resort in Austria, located in the Arlberg region and boasting an impressive 300km of slopes. The area is perfect for experienced skiers looking to explore the Valluga mountain and Schindler Spitze, descending 1,200m into Stuben village. St. Anton also offers plenty of post-ski fun with drinks at The MooserWirt and traditional dinners at Haus Schindler, or stay in a stylish alpine apartment at Chalet Golden Marmot.
The village itself offers plenty of activities and après ski bars with a great atmosphere, music, and crowds. With 280 kilometers of well-groomed terrain and modern infrastructure, St. Anton is the perfect destination for those looking to party and socialize while traveling in Austria. Whether you’re an experienced skier or just starting out, St. Anton has something for everyone – from skiing down the slopes to enjoying some après ski fun!
12. Kitzbühel, Austria
Kitzbühel is a stunning ski town located in the Austrian Alps, close to Innsbruck and Salzburg. It’s renowned for its medieval buildings and annual Hahnenkamm downhill ski race, as well as its 170 kilometers of skiable pistes and slopes. With the Kitzbühel Alps AllStarCard, visitors can easily explore the region with access to nine areas and 280 more kilometers of trails at the SkiWelt.
In addition to skiing, Kitzbühel offers excellent food and drink, shopping, and nightlife. The ski area is extensive, stretching across Tirol and Salzburg with 57 cable cars taking people up to the mountains every day. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, Kitzbühel has something for everyone – from breathtaking views to thrilling runs down the slopes.
13. St. Moritz, Switzerland
St. Moritz is a chic Swiss ski resort located in the Engadin Valley, known as the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism. It has been a popular holiday destination for the rich and famous since 1864 when it hosted its first Winter Olympics. The resort offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers, from intermediate to black runs, off-piste and backcountry skiing. The steepest and most challenging terrain can be found at Diavolezza and Lagalp, with deep snow bases ensuring excellent skiing conditions.
The luxurious ski resort also boasts high-end designer shops, making it an ideal destination for those looking to indulge in some retail therapy while on holiday. This year, the Kulm Hotel is hosting guests at the recently Michelin star–awarded pop-up restaurant the K by Tim Raue to try his Asian fusion cooking. With its stunning scenery and world-class facilities, St. Moritz is sure to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience.
14. Park City Mountain/Canyons, Utah, USA
Park City Mountain and Canyons have merged to become the second-largest ski resort in Utah, with 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. Canyons are the larger of the two resorts and offer a variety of challenging terrain, including glades, canyon runs, steep fall-line trails, and plenty of moguls. The Ninety Nine 90 Express quad provides access to some of the most challenging terrain at Canyons. Park City/Canyons is owned by Vail Resorts and is included in the EPIC pass.
The ski village offers resorts, a spa, shops, and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. Park City Resort sits right in the town of Park City with a variety of activities and services at the base of the slopes. Deer Valley was recently named 2019’s Best Ski Resort by the World Ski Awards for its luxurious ski destination and lodge-style grub, including popular turkey chili. It also offers a unique opportunity to hang out and ski with Olympians at the resort’s annual Ski with a Champion event.
15. Cerro Catedral, Patagonia, Argentina
Cerro Catedral is a stunning ski resort located in the Patagonia region of southern Argentina. It offers breathtaking views across Lake Nahuel Huapi and the surrounding snow-covered summits of the Andes. The ski season lasts from June to October, with early August to early September offering the deepest snowpacks and best powder. Cerro Catedral boasts 1,150 feet of vertical and 3,000 skiable acres, with excellent off-piste and tree skiing, as well as a dedicated terrain park for freestyle skiers and riders.
Accommodation can be found in San Carlos de Bariloche and there are many top-rated tourist attractions in Argentina to explore. The official website for Cerro Catedral is www.catedralaltapatagonia.com where you can find out more information about the resort and book your stay. With its cathedral spire mountains, Cerro Catedral is an ideal destination for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
16. Deer Valley, Utah, USA
Deer Valley Resort in Utah is a world-renowned ski destination, offering perfect grooming, mountain hosts, and free ski storage. With a daily limit of 7,500 skiers, the resort ensures that lift lines are short and trails remain uncrowded. Expert skiers can enjoy 37% black diamond runs with pristine powder snow, including the runs used in the 2002 Winter Olympic competitions. The resort is conveniently located two miles from downtown Park City and close to other top ski resorts such as Park City Mountain/Canyons, Alta, and Snowbird.
Accommodation options can be found in nearby Park City and Deer Valley was recently named 2019’s Best Ski Resort by the World Ski Awards. It is known for being one of the more luxurious ski destinations in the U.S., with lodge-style grub and unique opportunities to ski with Olympians. Guests staying at the St. Regis Deer Valley can even bobsled alongside silver medalists! Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Deer Valley is the perfect ski destination.
17. Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier is a renowned ski resort located in the Swiss Alps. It is part of the Four Valleys ski domain, which includes Thyon, Veysonnaz, and Nendaz. With access to over 410 kilometers of ski runs, Verbier offers something for everyone from beginner to expert. For free riders, there are breathtaking chutes and vertical drops for the annual Verbier Ride freestyle event and Verbier Xtreme freeride competitions. Intermediate skiers can find good terrain and fewer crowds on the runs at Savoleyres and Tortin. The resort has recently added a new 10-person Médran 1 gondola, increasing capacity to 3,200 an hour.
Accommodation options in Verbier include hotels, chalets, and apartments. Despite its reputation for being expensive, there are options available for those looking to save money while still enjoying all that Verbier has to offer. From skiing to snowboarding to paragliding, Verbier is a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
18. Snowbird, Utah, USA
Snowbird, Utah is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, only 45 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, the resort offers over 2,500 acres of terrain and 9 chairlifts. It is part of both the IKON and Mountain Collective programs, making it an ideal spot for serious skiers looking to take advantage of its deep powder and long-lasting snow. Beginners can enjoy the gentler slopes while experts can challenge themselves on runs like Keyhole, favored by pro skier Forrest Coots. The run begins with a short ski and hikes up to the high traverse before descending down ‘Fields of Glory’ and ‘Thanks for the Memories.’ For those looking for some extra adventure, there are plenty of tree-skiing powder lines off the main run that lead to some of Snowbird’s deepest powder. With so much to offer, Snowbird is sure to provide an unforgettable skiing experience for all who visit.
19. Valle Nevado, Chile
Valle Nevado is a premier ski resort located in the Chilean Andes, 40 miles from Santiago. With 2,200 acres of skiable terrain served by 14 lifts, Valle Nevado offers wide-open terrain and some of the best heli-skiing in the Andes. The resort also has multiple hotels, restaurants, condos, and a spa at the base. Valle Nevado is part of the IKON Pass system and is home to South America’s largest ski resort – Eclipse/Luna. The Eclipse run starts at the peak of Cima Andes mountain (3,483 meters) and descends a steep snowy cliff before leveling off into the red Luna run. At the end of this run is a restaurant where skiers can refuel before taking the Andes Express cable car back to the top to start over.
Valle Nevado provides an unforgettable experience for all levels of skiers and snowboarders alike. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled heli-skiing adventure or a relaxing day on the slopes, Valle Nevado has something for everyone.
20. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming, USA
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming is a premier ski destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With over 2,200 acres of terrain and an average of 40 feet of snowfall annually, the resort offers something for everyone. Beginners can take advantage of lessons and ski camps while more experienced skiers can explore the backcountry with guides or attend a four-day Backcountry Camp. Jackson Hole has also increased its snowmaking capacity and expanded its glade terrain to provide even more options for winter sports enthusiasts.
For those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, Grand Targhee Resort is located just over an hour’s drive from Jackson Hole. This resort offers wide-open trails perfect for skiing or snowboarding, as well as stunning views of the Grand Tetons while you make your way down the mountain. On-site lodging and two restaurants at the mid-station make it easy to enjoy a day on the slopes without having to worry about transportation or meals.
The Best Ski Resorts Summary
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are plenty of ski resorts around the world that offer something for everyone. From Snowbird in Utah to Valle Nevado in Chile and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming, these resorts provide unforgettable experiences for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. So grab your gear and hit the slopes.
