Experiencing true luxury is one of life’s perks, so we have collated the 10 most exclusive ski resorts in Europe that you need to visit. If you are celebrating a big occasion or simply want to treat yourself next winter read our blog below to explore the world of finer things.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
St. Moritz is a ski resort synonymous with class and sophistication. The ski resort has access to over 326km of slopes in the Engadine Valley and reaches an impressive 3,305m elevation. The ski resort itself retains its beautiful alpine charm, with its traditional architecture intact and wonderful boutiques and restaurants to visit. It’s no wonder why the exclusive ski resort is favoured by celebrities and the social elite.
Gstaad, Switzerland
Gstaad has a unique blend of French and German influences. The charming ski resort has a pedestrianised town centre, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. The ski resort is growing in popularity amongst the wealthy. The skiing in Gstaad is one of the most beautiful in Europe too. Visitors will experience stunning views of the Bernese Valleys as they ski down, paired with some fantastic treelined runs. The town itself has a magical ambience, the picturesque castle overlooks the centre and each building is lined with strings of white lights. We recommend visiting at Christmas for that extra festive sparkle!
Val d’Isère, France
Val d’Isère is one of the most well-known ski resorts in the world. It is also one of the most exclusive ski resorts in Europe. Home to the revolutionised après scene, Dick’s Tea Bar is one of the most lively après bars you will find in Europe. The architecture in Val d’Isère has evolved over the years. Creating a unique blend of traditional alpine buildings with contemporary stylish decor. Part of the Espace Killy ski region, the skiing isn’t too bad either. With a ski elevation reaching almost 3,500m and a sprawling 300km ski area, it is a ski resort that will keep you busy.
Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier, Switzerland is another ski resort synonymous with exceptional style and class. This idyllic, quaint ski town is perfectly situated in the Four Valleys. Just a two-hour drive from Geneva and with over 410km of ski terrain it is a ski resort favoured for weekend trips. Verbier has some of the best restaurants on the slopes. From freshly-made sushi to incredible soup bowls, there is something for everyone.
Sölden, Austria
Sölden is one of Europe’s leading ski resorts, due to it’s reliable snow record and innovative lift system. The ski resort boasts not only one, but two glaciers that visitors can ski. Sölden has an extensive network of slopes, with 155km of groomed slopes and a number of mountains over 3000m. A river separates two areas of the town. One side offers a calm and quiet atmosphere, whilst the other has plenty of après bars and restaurants that open late.
Madonna di Campiglio, Italy
This ski resort deserves a mention in our best luxury ski resorts in Europe list. Predominantly Italian clientele favour the stylish ski resort, in between Brenta Dolomites and the peaks of Adamello and Presanella. The town is traffic-free and compact, with a variety of luxurious boutiques to choose from. The evening atmosphere is vibrant, with plenty of à la carte restaurants and cocktail bars to choose from. The skiing isn’t too bad either, with 150km of slopes and a ski elevation reaching over 2,500m it will keep you busy!
Val Thorens, France
Val Thorens is one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, it also has the best access to the slopes. A mammoth 600km of piste is on VT’s doorstep. The ski resort sits at 2,300m and is one of the few ski towns that almost guarantees snow at Christmas and in Easter. Snow is not the only thing that is boasted about in Val Thorens. The restaurants on offer have some of the best food you will find in the mountains. There are two main après bars definitely worth a visit on your ski trip. The Folie Douce and 360 bar are two of the main hangouts after skiing. Have your bottle of Moët delivered by winch across the dance floor while you relax in the private VIP area.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Popular with tourists since 1838, Zermatt has retained it’s traditional charm by becoming car-free. Being trafficless creates a calm and relaxed atmosphere for visitors as they peruse the many shops and world-class restaurants on offer. Free electric buses are available to ferry visitors to where they need to be. The iconic Matterhorn mountain also adds to the spectacular scenery Zermatt has to offer. The streets are lined with designer shops, wonderful cocktail bars and fabulous eateries, not to mention the magical Christmas lights in December.
Cortina, Italy
Cortina is a small but pretty ski resort in the Dolomiti ski area. Favoured by weekend visitors from Rome and Milan, it is a ski resort for the stylish and wealthy, Italy’s answer to St. Moritz , Courchevel, and Aspen. Smaller than it’s fashionable competitors, Cortina has the calm ambience they crave. Visitors have over 120km worth of piste to keep busy and with an elevation of almost 3,000m it is a fantastic ski resort during the entire winter season. Cortina is just two hours from Venice airport, allowing visitors to slot in a city break before returning home.
Megève, France
Megève ski resort absolutely exudes class and sophistication. Just over an hour from Geneva airport it is a brilliant ski resort to visit for the weekend, or a short break. You won’t get bored with over 445km of piste! Megève village is filled with five-star shopping, with designer boutiques lining the roads of the quaint town. The ski resort has retained it’s traditional charm, with it’s architecture remaining unchanged throughout the decades.
To find out more about the best luxury ski resorts in Europe call our ski experts on 020 7471 7700.
