Welcome to the pinnacle of winter wonderland escapes, where snow-draped landscapes meet opulent retreats. These luxurious resorts and destinations offer an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, adventure, and unparalleled comfort, making them some of the best ski places to stay in the world.
Discover a world of alpine luxury at renowned ski destinations around the globe. Aspen, Colorado, the crown jewel of American ski resorts, offers world-class skiing, high-end boutiques and Michelin-starred dining. The iconic Little Nell, Aspen’s sole Five-Star, Five-Diamond hotel, offers ski-in/ski-out convenience and breathtaking mountain views.
The Omnia combines contemporary elegance with stunning mountain vistas. In India, Gulmarg houses The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, where you can enjoy traditional Kashmiri food and French wellness treatments amidst pristine slopes and the world’s second-highest gondola ride.
Join us as we explore the world’s most lavish ski resorts and their snowy playgrounds.
Essentials to carry on your ski trip
When preparing for a ski trip, packing essentials is crucial. Start with proper clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and waterproof ski jacket and pants. Don’t forget extra socks, gloves, and a hat.
For gear, bring your skis, poles, and boots if you have them. Don’t forget a helmet for safety. Ski-specific goggles and sunglasses are essential, along with high-SPF sunscreen. Carry a small backpack for water, high-energy snacks, a basic first aid kit, and an extra layer. For backcountry skiing, include essential avalanche safety gear like a beacon, probe, and shovel.
Bring your wallet, ID, and a fully charged phone in a waterproof case.
Best ski places to visit around the world
The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Kashmir, India
The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa is a unique retreat nestled in a fragrant pine forest, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas’ Pir Panjal mountain range. The resort boasts 85 rooms designed in traditional Kashmiri style with modern climate control features. The architecture pays homage to local Basholi art, creating a culturally rich and distinctive ambience for guests.
Dining at the resort is a culinary adventure. Cloves, an all-day dining venue, serves a delightful mix of Indian and global cuisines, while Nouf specialises in authentic North Indian and Kashmiri dishes. Calabash, the resort’s lounge and bar, provides a cosy spot for beverages, light bites, and sheesha, and Chaikash, the tea lounge, offers alfresco dining with various tea varieties against the backdrop of mountain views. Daawat is an open-air barbecue and grill restaurant, perfect for live grilling sessions with the Himalayas as your backdrop.
For ultimate serenity, the Mediterranean-themed spa offers French wellness treatments and holistic massages, along with an indoor temperature-controlled pool.
Among India’s finest ski resorts, this destination is a short walk from the renowned Gulmarg Gondola – the world’s second-longest and highest gondola ride, taking visitors to Kongdoori mountain near the majestic Apharwat peak at an altitude of 13,870 feet. This prime location ensures quick access to pristine slopes and stunning Himalayan panoramas for an exceptional skiing experience.
How to reach:
By air: Sheikh-Ul Alam International Airport, Srinagar, is approximately 58 km away
User reviews:
Booking.com: 8.6/10
Trip Advisor: 4.5/5
Agoda.com: 8.7/10
Book your stay at The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa via Agoda.com
The Gstaad Palace – Gstaad, Switzerland
The Gstaad Palace, a legendary hotel nestled in the Swiss Alps, stands as a symbol of elegance and Swiss hospitality. Situated in the charming village of Gstaad, this iconic hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and travellers since 1913.
Sitting high in the Bernese Oberland, Gstaad Palace is a perfect blend of classic and modern architecture and offers stunning mountain views and year-round outdoor activities. Accommodations range from lavish rooms to exclusive chalets, all featuring modern comforts and magnificent views.
The hotel boasts a variety of restaurants catering to a range of culinary preferences. From gourmet Swiss cuisine at Le Grill to Mediterranean flavours at Gildo’s Ristorante, guests can indulge in world-class dining experiences.
As a renowned winter sports destination, the hotel offers easy access to skiing and snowboarding. Guests can maintain their fitness with options such as cardio or strength workouts, Thai boxing, Pilates, and yoga. After a day of mountain adventures, the spa offers rejuvenating treatments, including Japanese Kobido facial massage and back treatments. For those seeking a more exclusive escape, access to a private spa with a jacuzzi and stunning views of the Gstaad mountain is also available.
In the summer, tennis and squash courts are a hit, and you can even receive pro tips from tennis legend Roy Emerson.
How to reach:
By air: Sion Airport is approximately 96.7 km away
User reviews:
Booking.com: 9.1/10
Trip Advisor: 4.5/5
Agoda.com: 8.9/10
Book your stay at Gstaad Palace via Booking.com
Book your stay at Gstaad Palace via Agoda.com
Chalet Edelweiss – Courchevel 1850, France
Courchevel 1850, often hailed as the world’s premier ski destination, is a glamorous playground for ski enthusiasts. It offers exceptional slopes, vibrant nightlife, and an array of upscale ski chalets and two 6-star hotels. Situated in the heart of the expansive Three Valleys ski area, this winter paradise is enveloped by stunning mountain panoramas. The charming village features Michelin-starred restaurants and designer boutiques, making it a perfect fusion of natural beauty and luxury for all to enjoy.
Chalet Edelweiss stands out as one of Courchevel’s most luxurious ski chalets. Only a two-minute ride from Courchevel 1850, this chalet offers stylish skiing. It blends traditional charm with modern luxury, featuring eight spacious bedrooms spread across seven floors.
The chalet offers ski-in/ski-out access and a host of premium amenities, including an indoor pool, hot tub, two exclusive massage rooms, a sauna, relaxation area, steam room, private nightclub, gym, and a bar. For added convenience, there’s a dedicated ski room with boot warmers. The services are equally exceptional, with two butlers and two personal chefs at your service. A cosy open fireplace completes the picture for a perfect alpine retreat.
How to reach:
By air: Chambéry Airport is approximately 109 km away
The Vale Niseko – Japan
As one of Asia’s top ski destinations, The Vale offers 49 fully serviced apartments, including lavish penthouses, boutique apartments, and chalets featuring ultra-luxe amenities in this winter wonderland. What sets it apart is the private onsens in select apartments, where you can relax while gazing at the majestic Mount Yotei, Niseko‘s renowned semi-dormant volcano.
Additionally, a heated outdoor pool and a traditional “kakenagashi” onsen, a hot spring, are available for all guests. Whether you’re an avid skier or seeking a tranquil mountain retreat, The Vale combines luxury and natural beauty for an unforgettable experience.
Located on the outskirts of upper Hirafu Village, the hotel offers convenient access to Niseko’s vibrant dining and entertainment options. The area boasts a range of restaurants offering traditional Japanese dishes, contemporary fusion cuisine, and international flavours. Guests can savour locally produced sake, Hokkaido wines, and craft beers. For those with a sweet tooth, the village’s patisseries offer a delectable array of pastries, chocolates, and Japanese cakes, perfectly complemented by gourmet coffee, tea, or other beverages.
The resort offers a convenient ski rental shop, providing both beginners and experienced skiers the opportunity to rent equipment right on the snowy slopes.
How to reach:
By air: New Chitose Airport is approximately 111 km away
User reviews:
Booking.com: 8/10
Trip Advisor: 4/5
Agoda.com: 8.6/10
Book your stay at The Vale Niseko via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Vale Niseko via Agoda.com
Chalech M – Lech, Austria
Nestled in an idyllic setting, Lech exudes small-town charm and genuine European hospitality, making it one of Europe’s best ski towns. Its secluded location adds an air of exclusivity, complemented by upscale hotels and a stream of visitors. Many choose to visit Lech to relish the serene natural beauty and explore fine dining and shopping venues.
Chalech M, an opulent ski chalet in the heart of the renowned Arlberg region of Lech, beckons travellers to experience alpine luxury. Just a stone’s throw from the Schlosskopf chairlift, this chalet offers seamless access to over 300 kilometres of pristine skiing terrain, catering to enthusiasts of all levels.
Upon entering, guests are welcomed by the inviting open-plan living and dining area, a hub for cherished moments. For relaxation, a separate TV and cinema room stands ready, perfect for winding down with post-dinner drinks. Chalech M accommodates up to ten guests, providing them with the comfort of five generously sized bedrooms, each equipped with its own private bathroom. The master suite even boasts a spacious walk-in wardrobe.
The steam room offers soothing moments of tranquillity, while the wellness and relaxation room provides a serene space to unwind. A sauna is on hand to rejuvenate tired muscles, and a refreshing dip in the swimming pool adds a touch of luxury to your stay. With the convenience of an elevator, you can seamlessly access all levels of the chalet, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The cosy atmosphere is enhanced by fireplaces, and stepping out onto the balconies reveals breathtaking vistas as a backdrop to your mountain retreat.
How to reach:
By air: Innsbruck Airport is approximately 119 km away
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The Omnia – Zermatt, Switzerland
Resting on a pine-covered hill above Zermatt village, The Omnia enjoys a lofty perch at about 1,650 metres above sea level. Its modern glass facade and wooden exteriors not only showcase a clean look but also offer a serene atmosphere and sweeping views. Here, you can revel in the sight of the Matterhorn and mountain forests, making it an ideal ski retreat for those in pursuit of natural splendour and tranquillity in Switzerland. All guests can access the ski resort via an underground rock tunnel and a glass lift.
Luxury defines these accommodations, offering a range of amenities to elevate your stay. Relax by an open fireplace, unwind in cedar wood tubs, or gaze at the stars through telescopes. Whether you prefer a cosy room or a spacious suite, natural light and balconies reveal charming Zermatt or the majestic Matterhorn. Some suites even feature private saunas. For complete seclusion, the roof suite promises absolute privacy and breathtaking vistas. Unwind in your private suite with a sauna and relaxation room, ensuring a stay that’s both lavish and revitalising.
Savour culinary excellence under the guidance of Executive Chef Tony Rudolph at The Omnia. He creates dishes using premium seasonal Alpine ingredients, with a base in vegetarian cuisine that can be customised with your choice of fish or meat. The à la carte menu offers a variety of options for all tastes. For a delightful surprise, try the “OMNIA Experience”, featuring a 4-course menu expertly paired with beverages. Committed to sustainability, The Omnia emphasises the use of the finest regional produce and ingredients.
The wellness centre is a serene escape, offering pure relaxation. It includes both indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, floral and herbal steam rooms, and an outdoor whirlpool with mesmerising views of the village and the Matterhorn. For those who wish to stay active, a well-equipped gym awaits with the latest Technogym equipment. For personalised pampering, there are two treatment rooms for individual massages, yoga sessions, and Pilates.
How to reach:
By air: Geneva Airport is the closest airport, 236.9 km away
User reviews:
Booking.com: 9.7/10
Trip Advisor: 5/5
Agoda.com: 9.6/10
Book your stay at The Omnia via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Omnia via Agoda.com
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The Little Nell – Aspen, USA
A stay at The Little Nell unveils an extraordinary experience, as you step into one of the world’s finest hotels. It stands as the only Five-Star, Five-Diamond gem in Aspen, known for its amenities, tailor-made service, mountain vistas, dining options, and spacious accommodations. Nestled right on the piste, this property offers the ultimate ski-in/ski-out experience, ushering you directly onto the slopes of Aspen Mountain.
Where comfort effortlessly mingles with cosmopolitan flair, each guest room, suite, and residence at The Little Nell is thoughtfully designed to harmonise with Aspen’s easygoing spirit, using soothing palettes of blue, tan, and grey. Every hotel accommodation showcases a distinctive layout and is graced by the warmth of gas-log fireplaces, with the majority offering private balconies. At The Little Nell, all lodgings offer captivating vistas of Aspen Mountain, Red Mountain, the Continental Divide, Durant, and Spring streets, or the hotel’s tranquil courtyard and inviting pool.
Dine at Element 47, a restaurant recommended by the Michelin Guide, and indulge in local wagyu beef, house-made pasta, and seasonal delights. For a more casual experience, go to Ajax Tavern, which offers refreshing cocktails and lunch, and don’t miss the signature truffle fries and the delectable Ajax wagyu double cheeseburger. Housing a cellar stocked with over 20,000 wines, The Little Nell invites you to enjoy the art of wine. Enjoy a private wine-tasting or a wine-paired dinner, tailored to your preferences and hosted by one of the skilled sommeliers on the property.
Whether you seek relaxation after a day filled with adventure or if unwinding is the day’s pursuit, the outdoor heated pool and hot tub are nestled amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, overlooking the Aspen mountain. For those with a penchant for fitness, the Fitness Center awaits, providing access to Pelotons, cardio equipment, and free weights.
As for those in search of rejuvenation and personalised care, The Little Nell’s spa menu is a treasure trove of treatments that harness the latest technologies and tailored ingredients to address each guest’s unique needs. Be it facials, massages, or body treatments, the focus is on delivering results that are both immediate and enduring.
How to reach:
By air: Aspen/Pitkin County Airport is approximately 6.43 km away
User reviews:
Booking.com: 9.5/10
Trip Advisor: 4.5/5
Agoda.com: 9.4/10
Book your stay at The Little Nell via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Little Nell via Agoda.com
Intercontinental Alpensia – South Korea
Perched at 700 metres above sea level in the scenic Taebaek Mountain Range of Pyeongchang, the InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort is one of the best ski destinations in the world. With 238 rooms and suites fitted with modern amenities such as rainforest showers, smart lighting, and temperature controls, guests can marvel at the stunning scenery of Mount Balwang and the serene Alpensia Lake.
This eco-conscious luxury resort features “Flavours”, an all-day dining restaurant known for its stone-oven pizzas, seasonal dishes, and fresh seafood prepared in an open kitchen. For those who love desserts, “Oxy Deli” is a gourmet bakery offering freshly baked cookies, cakes, and chocolates. And if you’re in the mood for a drink, the “Oxy Lounge” is a classy spot with a fine selection of top-shelf liquor, wines, plus coffee and tea. It’s a dining experience for travellers who appreciate sustainability without compromising taste.
Inspired by the enchanting Alpine villages in Europe, this resort is a popular choice in South Korea‘s Alpensia resort town, renowned for its skiing opportunities. Guests can look forward to various attractions, including two ski jump slopes, the Ocean 700 water park, and a golf course. It’s a fusion of alpine charm and exciting activities, all set against a stunning backdrop.
How to reach:
By air: Yangyang International Airport is approximately 69.5 km away
User reviews:
Booking.com: 8.5/10
Trip Advisor: 4/5
Agoda.com: 8.6/10
Book your stay at Intercontinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort via Booking.com
Book your stay at Intercontinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort via Agoda.com
Belmont Estate – Whistler, BC, Canada
Nestled in Whistler’s ski resort town, Belmont Estate is a chalet that provides the services of a 5-star hotel. This unique ski chalet features a gated driveway and a private helipad, making it one of the world’s exclusive heliski-in/heliski-out properties, just five minutes from the ski slopes.
Spanning over a 15-acre estate, the Heli Chalet offers mountain vistas and ample living space, ensuring privacy. The interior features an open-plan living area and two sitting rooms, each with its own fireplace. A guest house stands ready with two bedrooms and a children’s loft, accommodating up to six guests. Inside the chalet, you’ll find a media room, billiards, and games rooms for entertainment.
The property includes a private garden helipad for guests flying in, an outdoor heated pool, a hot tub, and fire pits for starlit evenings. To complete the experience, there’s even a massage room for relaxation.
How to reach:
By air: Vancouver International Airport is approximately 135 km away
(Hero image credit: palace.ch, feature image credit: nisade.com)
Related: 16 Best Winter Family Vacations — From Ski Trips To Caribbean Escapes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– What makes a place an ideal ski destination?
An ideal ski destination offers a combination of factors that make it perfect for winter sports. This includes ample snowfall, well-maintained slopes and ski facilities, stunning mountain views, a range of ski runs for various skill levels, an après-ski scene, accessible accommodations, and quality dining options.
– Is skiing suitable for beginners, or is it for more experienced skiers?
Skiing is suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. Resorts typically offer lessons and slopes designed for all skill levels, making them accessible to everyone.
– When is the best time to visit these ski places for skiing?
The best time to visit ski destinations for skiing is typically during the winter season, which varies by location but usually falls between December and March. These months offer the most reliable snow conditions for enjoyable skiing experiences.
– Are there non-skiing activities available in ski destinations for those who don’t ski?
Yes, many ski destinations offer a wide range of non-skiing activities for those who don’t ski. These can include snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating, spa experiences, winter hiking, sightseeing, and cosy apres-ski activities like shopping, dining, and cultural exploration.
– Do these ski places get crowded during the ski season?
Yes, ski destinations often experience crowds during the ski season, particularly from December to February. This period coincides with the winter holidays and attracts many skiers and snowboarders.
– What should I pack for a ski trip to these destinations?
For a ski trip pack essentials like warm clothing (layers, insulated pants), accessories (hat, gloves, neck gaiter), waterproof boots, ski equipment or rentals, safety gear (helmet, wrist guards), ski goggles, a small waterproof backpack, sun protection (sunscreen), ski pass, travel documents, and cash/cards.
– Is it necessary to book accommodations and ski passes in advance for a ski trip?
Yes, it’s highly advisable to book accommodations and ski passes in advance for a ski trip. Doing so ensures you have a place to stay and guarantees access to the slopes, especially during the peak ski season.
– Are there budget-friendly ski destinations and accommodations available?
Yes, there are budget-friendly ski destinations and accommodations available. Many ski resorts offer a range of lodging options, from luxury to more affordable choices like budget lodges, hostels, condominiums, etc.
– What are the best ski resorts for families with children?
The Little Nell in Aspen and Belmont Estate are some of the best options for families with children.
-Are there après-ski activities and nightlife options in ski destinations?
Certainly! Ski destinations typically offer a vibrant après-ski scene and a variety of nightlife options. After a day on the slopes, you can relax and unwind by enjoying local cuisine, socialising in bars, or dancing the night away in lively clubs.
– Do ski destinations offer vegetarian or vegan dining options?
Yes, ski destinations often offer vegetarian and vegan dining options to cater to various dietary preferences. The restaurant in Omnia Hotel, Switzerland, offers a wide range of vegetarian options to choose from.
– Is it possible to rent ski equipment at these destinations?
Certainly, at most ski destinations, you’ll find convenient ski equipment rental services. These rental shops offer a range of equipment, from skis and snowboards to boots, helmets, and poles. It’s a practical option, especially for beginners and travellers who don’t want to invest in their gear. You can often find rental shops close to the slopes or at the base of the ski resorts, making it easy to get geared up for your skiing adventure.
Written By
Ruchit Rastogi
A journalism graduate, Ruchit has worked with Republic TV as a news writer before venturing into the world of travel with Flynote, covering both local and international stories. Off the clock, Ruchit can be spotted cafe hopping, indulging in his love for reading, cooking, or planning his next solo adventure. A wandering hermit at heart, his days are ..Read More
