While most of us are more focussed on planning a summer getaway, it’s never too early to start thinking about this winters ski holiday. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or even just the fabulous après ski, there’s a luxury ski destination out there to suit all tastes. This is our pick of the top five.
Lech, Austria
Though popular with celebrities and royals alike, the ski village also readily accommodates the budget friendly skier as well as offering luxury ski holidays. Here, winter sports enthusiasts find 1,625 acres filled with an equal number of slopes divided among different skiing levels. An ample number of lifts take over 40,000 guests to the slopes every hour. There is also a 23 kilometer trail for fans of cross country skiing. Accommodation options range from five star to three star hotels. Après ski, the main street conversion into an expansive bar.
Courchevel, France
Established almost five decades ago, this equally popular area also attracts a wide variety of guests and is regularly featured on the jet-set circuit! Besides a vast number of slopes for all levels of skiers, the area features specially designated locations for learning freestyle skiing and snowboarding techniques. Guests have the choice of staying at one of five different villages having accommodation options ranging from two to five stars. Numerous other activities include the chance to go dog sledding or take a cooking class offered by one of the local chefs. By night, the area has a number of bars and clubs.
Aspen, USA
Once a mining community, Aspen gained notoriety as one of the top ski destinations in the United States, attracting a multitude of billionaires and celebrities. With four mountains and over 5,300 acres of terrain, there are plenty of runs for all skiers and snowboarders. Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands attract intermediate to expert skiers, while Buttermilk and Snowmass attract intermediates and beginners. The wide range of accommodation options cater to guests on all types of budgets. Guests also enjoy mountain tours, dog sledding and sleigh rides. Venture through the colorful streets of the community and go shopping, dining or party at one of the many clubs.
Whistler, Canada
The dream wintersports destination of Whistler offers more than 8,000 acres of slopes that regularly attract skiers and snowboarders. In addition, the area has 16 alpine bowls, 3 glaciers, terrain parks, half pipes and over 200 marked trails. Guests find well over one dozen accommodation options that fit every budget. When not skiing or snowboarding, visitors might embark on a zip lining adventure or tour the back country. Ice skating, snowmobiling and tubing are among the numerous other available activities. When the sun goes down, the area features a wide variety of cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs.
Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier serves as the entrance to the 4 Vallées ski area and offers over 400 kilometers of runs that appeal to all levels of boarders and skiers. Stay in luxury hotels, budget friendly hotels, self-catering apartments or backpacker rooms. When done skiing or boarding for the day, enjoy tobogganing, snow discs or a ride down the slopes on a Ski Bob. The Chez Martin and Crock No Name restaurants offer great food and live entertainment. There are also a number of bars and pubs for relaxing and enjoying a drink. Four nightclubs have a reputation for staying open until 4:00am.
