Thinking of hitting the slopes this winter? We’ve put together a list of our favourite European ski resorts. Whether you’re a total novice or fly down the black runs without hesitation there’s something for everyone.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
After Johannes Badrutt made a bet with his guests in 1864 that should they return to his resort in the winter they would enjoy it just as much as in the summer St. Moritz grew into the first winter holiday resort.
This exclusive and luxurious resort, which acted as the backdrop for James Bond’s ski scene in ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’, features world-class hotels and restaurants loved by the rich and famous. There is also chic shopping and a wide range of leisure & sporting activities at St. Moritz. Not forgetting the world-class skiing which takes place across the Corviglia, Corvatsch and Diavolezza mountains.
If you’re looking to experience St. Moritz like royalty Suvretta House is the place to stay. Over 100 years old, this 5-star hotel is more like a fairy-tale castle set on its own private grounds. Offering quality and style at every turn Suvretta House provides its guests with superb dining, a beautiful sports and pleasure wellness club and attractive shopping.
Saint-Moritz Roi Soleil is set near the St. Moritz lake and is the ideal choice for an all-inclusive family skiing holiday. This hotel offers its guests all their meals, an open bar, ski passes & lessons, entertainment and a kids club.
Courchevel, France
Courchevel is made up of 6 villages which reveal themselves as you twist through the Tarentaise valley. Each village offers a new experience, meaning there’s something for everyone here.
Located in Les 3 Vallées there is extensive skiing for all standards at Courchevel. The organisers here are extremely proud to be pioneers so at Courchevel you will find the latest innovations in snow grooming, slope preparation, ski lifts and slope rescue.
Looking for seclusion this holiday, take a look at Portetta’s lodges. Nestled within the trees right on the piste these luxury lodges offer the seclusion you want, but with everything you need at your fingertips. The Portetta hotel is five minutes away if you fancy dining out, snuggling up at the outside bar, or having a more extensive spa treatment.
If you want to experience more of the action, try staying in Hotel De La Loze. Positioned at the foot of the slopes in Courchevel 1850, where you can ski, shop and party, La Loze. Decorated in a traditional chalet-style, with carved wooden balconies and murals, La Loze is the place to stay if you want a cosy and warm atmosphere.
Sölden, Austria
Sölden’s skiing takes place in Austria’s only ski area to have 3 peaks higher than 3000 meters and features a 9 mile long run on the Rettenbach glacier. Due to it being very snowsure many of the early races on the World Cup Circuit take place here.
Following a day of skiing, there is plenty to do as Sölden is known for it’s excellent après ski and nightlife scene – with countless bars and pubs open till the early morning.
If you want to experience the vibrant nightlife of Sölden take a look at Hotel Tyrolerhof, set right in the centre of Sölden. The hotel offers it’s own après ski bar – the Grizzly bar and is ideally located to go and explore the rest of Sölden’s offerings.
The Bergland Hotel offers a quieter, more relaxed time in Sölden. Set in a central yet peaceful location the 5-star hotel fuses minimalist and traditional alpine style design. With gourmet dining experiences and great access to the slopes, it’s no wonder Daniel Craig stayed here during the filming of Spectre.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is a beautiful Walser village featuring houses over 500 years old. As you take in the historic architecture you will also be blown away by the scenery surrounding you as Zermatt is Switzerland’s highest resorts and sits among mountains such as the Matterhorn.
The ski area features many high altitude top stations including the Matterhorn glacier paradise which, at 3,883m, is the highest station accessible by cable car in Europe. Due to its height you can guarantee snow on the very high glacier all season long.
For a typically Swiss stay consider Hotel Walliserhof. This 4-star hotel which was founded in 1896 is still run by the same family making it a cosy home away from home for its guests. Offering a homemade breakfast buffet, small spa, partner crossfit gym and simple yet comfortable rooms, Walliserhof hotel is ideal if you want to enjoy a traditional stay in Zermatt.
Omnia Hotel is almost a complete opposite. This 6 story hotel in the centre of Zermatt is sleek and minimalist. Guests can enjoy floor to ceiling windows, Tempur mattresses, a tennis court, golf course, spa and additional yoga.
www.the-omnia-hotel-zermatt.hotelmix.co.uk.
Kitzbühel, Austria
Kitzbühel is Austria’s most popular winter holiday resort and is a medieval town with a reputation for being Europe’s most beautiful ski town.
The skiing here features mostly intermediate terrain, although those who know about ski racing will have heard of the Hahnenhamm race that takes place here and is the meanest and scariest downhill race on the World Cup Circuit.
Tiefenbrunner Hotel has been owned by the same family for over 200 years. Situated in the heart of the medieval pedestrianised centre of the town, this 700-year-old building has been a guest house, brewery, stables and hospital. The rooms are all individually designed and ooze romance and comfort.
If you want a little more luxury whilst still experiencing the history of Kitzbühel, Hotel Schloss Lebenberg provides it. Formerly a hunting lodge and stately home this 5-star hotel offers its guests elite service in a stylish atmosphere. Enjoy the hotel facilities such as a rooftop pool and award-winning restaurant whilst being only a ten-minute walk from the town centre.
www.hotel-schloss-lebenberg.h-rez.com.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Two hours from Venice this 1,000-year-old town is carved into the valley of the Boîte river. After being part of the 1956 Winter Olympics Cortina d’Ampezzo became a must visit spot, and thanks to its low key upscale vibe it has remained a place to be for many high profile visitors.
It is the only Italian mountain resort to be included in the Best of the Alps Collection and snow is always guaranteed thanks to its excellent snowmaking facilities.
Rosa Alpina, an alpine style hotel that offers quiet luxury and elegant interiors is a must visit for any foodies – their St. Hubertus restaurant is 2 Michelin starred. The hotel also features a luxury spa and ski concierge for any of your ski needs.
If you’re looking for the same luxury a little more centrally located look no further than the Grand Hotel Savoia. This 5-star hotel is located in the centre of Cortina only 100m away from the pedestrian and shopping area. The hotel boasts an elegant contemporary décor meaning you can relax in style.
www.grandhotelsavoiacortina.com.
Chamonix, France
Chamonix Mont Blanc was the sight of the first Winter Olympic games in 1924 and sits at the intersection of France, Italy and Switzerland. Since it’s traffic free the centre of the village is ideal to stroll through and take in the stunning views of the highest mountain in the Alps – Mont Blanc.
The skiing at Chamonix is versatile, ranging from challenging slopes where instructors go to qualify to nursery slopes ideal for even the most inexperienced skiers.
If you’re taking a group holiday why not consider Chalet Valhalla. This 5-star catered chalet sleeps 12 to 16 people and is within walking distance of the town centre. Built from natural timbers with views of Mont Blanc this chalet will be the ideal getaway spot for a large group of friends or family.
Grands Montets is the B&B hotel for anyone looking for the best access to the slopes. The chalet-style hotel is located next to the Grand Montets cable car station making it the best for slopeside convenience.
Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier is the ultimate destination for youthful and sporty clientele.
Found in the Four Valleys, Verbier offers a buzzing après ski scene with bars which have welcomed royalty and celebrities for years.
Not just a party destination, Verbier also offers amazing skiing with 410km of runs. Known for its off-piste and itinerary runs, the ski area around Verbier is more suited to an experienced skier, although there are some offerings for beginners.
The W Hotel Verbier is a fresh hotel with an excellent location. Featuring contemporary urban design fused with an alpine touch, the hotel sits opposite the Médran Gondola. Every room has a fireplace and private balcony and facilities include 6 restaurants and bars and a luxury spa.
For something a little cosier take a look at Hotel Mirabeau. Built in 1973 the hotel has been run by the family since then. The rooms are cosy, small and functional and features from the original décor remain intact. As well as a Turkish bath and sauna, the lounge is spacious and sociable.
St. Anton, Austria
This cosy town of 2,470 inhabitants is situated in the ski area of Arlberg which receives more snow than anywhere else in the Alps. Arlberg features lots of steep runs ideal for a ski enthusiast and is part of Austria’s biggest lift linked area.
The town itself is known for its famous after skiing party which takes place every day at 3:30pm despite this St. Anton remains an authentic Tyrolean mountain village with many historic aspects to visit.
Skihotel Galzig offers the charm of a ski lodge with the luxurious amenities of a 4–star hotel. Situated centrally and with a refined yet relaxed style this hotel looks to offer their guests a home away from home experience.
If you want to experience the nightlife of St. Anton whilst staying in luxury the Mooser Hotel is the place to be. Next door to the infamous Mooserwirt Bar, one of the most popular in St. Anton, it is easy to get involved in the nightlife of the town. However, once inside the hotel you wouldn’t know a buzzing hotspot was just next door – thanks to soundproofing and intelligent design. The hotel itself is chic and welcoming with a superb spa and restaurant and beautifully designed rooms where you can relax and take in the stunning views.
