Skiing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors during the winter months. However, choosing the perfect ski resort can be challenging because there are thousands of resorts worldwide, and preferences vary among skiers. Some factors to consider when selecting the best skiing destination include amenities, preferred terrain, skiing ability, family-friendliness, and more.
These are the best ski resorts if you plan to explore pristine slopes and breathtaking mountain landscapes this winter.
The top 8 ski resorts in the world
1. Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Located in British Columbia, Whistler Blackcomb is one of the world’s premier ski destinations. These two mountains combine to make the biggest ski resort in North America, and currently, they have the world’s largest and highest continuous lift system.
Whistler Blackcomb proved its capability when it hosted several sports events during the 2010 Winter Olympics. In addition to skiing, the neighboring villages offer a vibrant nightlife and other apres-ski needs.
2. Zermatt, Switzerland
The iconic Matterhorn Mountain is the backdrop to Zermatt Resort, which offers the highest skiing altitude in Switzerland. This resort is also famous for its scenic landscape and diverse skiing opportunities, such as freeskiing, heliskiing, climbing, and hiking.
Besides catering to adventure seekers, Zermatt offers a leisurely experience with Michelin-starred restaurants like the Alpine Gourmet Prato Borni and After Seven.
3. Cervinia, Italy
This is another ski resort set dramatically in the Matterhorn Mountain called Monte Cervino in Italy. Better yet, it is connected to Zermatt, which is a godsend not only for skiers, but also for other visitors.
Cervinia was an old climbing village, but over time, it has become one of the best ski resorts in Italy. It offers incredible natural and artificial obstacles and more than 150 km of slopes to explore, making it one of the best skiing destinations for beginners and intermediate skiers. Plus, if you want more challenging terrain, you can find them near the Swiss border.
Another reason to visit Cervinia is their long skiing window from late October to early May.
4. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France
Found in the French Alps, the Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world. Of course, there are other fantastic ski resorts in France, like Val d’Isère and Courchevel.
Still, Chamonix offers panoramic sceneries of the tallest mountain in Europe, diverse ski options because of its terrain, and reliable snowy conditions. Its challenging slopes and access to excellent off-piste routes make it a favorite among experienced skiers. But if you are a beginner, worry not; there’s something for you in Chamonix’s leading ski areas: Flegere, Brevent, Grands Montets, Domaine de Balme, and Les Houches.
5. Aspen-Snowmass, U.S.
Colorado’s Aspen-Snowmass ski area attracts skiers of all levels with itsdiverse terrain and scenic landscapes. It has four distinct skiing mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, and Buttermilk.
In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy shopping inAspen town, live music options, dining opportunities for foodies, and a jolly nightlife. Plus, you can always visit other iconic ski resorts in Colorado, such as Breckenridge and Vail.
6. Niseko, Japan
Venture beyond the traditional ski destinations to Niseko Ski Resort on the island of Hokkaido, where deep powder snow awaits. This resort attracts skiers and snowboarders worldwide and is a great place to experience unique cultural experiences. It’s an excellent place for beginners and experienced skiers with its off-track areas and backcountry lines.
Remember to enjoy onsens (hot springs) and delicious Japanese cuisine. While in Japan, you can also explore the lesser-known Hakuba Ski Resort.
7. Kitzbühel, Austria
Kitzbühel is in the Austrian Alps and is famous for its annual Hahnenkamm downhill race. This resort has a rich history with ski runs for skiers of all abilities, from beginners to experts. It’s one of the best resorts in Europe, with 145 miles (233 km) of trails, 58 lifts, 60 mountain huts, and scenic landscapes.
Besides skiing, Kitzbühel is a hiker’s paradise. You can hike to the nearby Aurach Wildlife Park or throughout the Austrian Alps. The resort also offers steamy baths, amazing pools, and a solarium.
8. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Wyoming’s Jackson Hole is a playground for advanced skiers with 2,500 acres of terrain. It’s the perfect spot for backcountry skiing, plus it features challenging bowls, breathtaking descents, and world-famous chutes like the Corbet’s Couloir — shaped like an upside-down funnel.
The resort’s rugged beauty and vibrant town offer the perfect blend of exhilaration and relaxation.
Lastly
Whether you are an expert looking for extreme slopes or a casual skier yearning for beautiful trails, there’s something for you out there. Consider these top ski destinations for an experience beyond the thrill of the slopes, embracing the culture, history, and vibrancy each place has to offer.
