Thinking of heading on a ski vacation this month? We round up our favourite destinations across the globe.
- St Moritz, Switzerland
St Moritz
A favourite with celebrities from Kim Kardashian to Kate Moss, St Moritz is probably one of the most well-known ski resorts in Europe. With as much happening off the slopes as on them, there is no end to the experiences you can have in this luxury destination. The Corviglia mountain in St Moritz was in fact the birthplace of Alpine winter sports around 150 years ago and has played host to two Winter Olympic Games. Off the slopes, you’ll find regional delicacies in the finest restaurants and luxury accommodation is in abundance. There are beautiful spas and even the world’s first yoga slope for fitness enthusiasts. And if you’re looking for a little retail therapy, the local shopping street; Via Serlas is home to the finest luxury brands including Cartier, Versace, Gucci, Giorgio Armani and more.
2. Courmayeur, Italy
Courmayeur
Situated in North-West Italy Courmayeur is located at the foot of the iconic Mont Blanc. It is known for its iconic SkyWay MonteBianco cable car, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks including Matterhorn and Mente Rosa. This medieval town offers a charming Italian mood and some of the cutest ski chalet’s you’ll find in Europe. It’s a great choice for families and there are many ski routes for beginners as well as plenty to do off the slopes. The medieval town centre is the perfect spot for discovery, with meandering narrow streets featuring glamorous restaurants, boutique shops and some of your favourite luxury brands.
3. Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier
Known for its celebrity clientele and its party lifestyle off the slopes, Verbier is also the largest ski area in Switzerland, with 410 kilometres of runs. It’s a great location for beginners and seasoned skiers alike. There are dozens of slopes for every experience level and some of the best scenery in the country. The highlight is the iconic Mont-For run which has been a regular for athletes for generations. It is one of the steepest slopes in the world. Off the slopes, there is something for everyone from luxury shopping to nightclubs to relaxing restaurants. The ideal destination for a girls trip or a group vacation.
4. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt
Situated in Southern Switzerland’s Valais canton, Zermatt is located at an elevation of around 4,000m it is the highest winter sports area in the alps and consequently offers almost year-round skiing conditions at its highest points. Off the slope, its main street Bahnhofstrasse is lined with boutique shops, hotels and gourmet restaurants, and also has a lively après-ski scene. For those who are not so into skiing the scenery is absolutely breathtaking making this the perfect destination for discovery and soaking up the atmosphere. There are many public outdoor rinks for ice-skating and curling. Close to the border of Italy Zermatt attracts a cosmopolitan range of travellers and is buzzing with international flair.
5. Gstaad
Gstaad
Another celebrity hotspot Gstaad first became well-known in the seventies when it was a favourite destination of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Today it still attracts celebrity attention with the likes of Madonna, Anne Hathaway and even Elton John being huge fans of the area. This upscale resort town in the Bernese Oberland region of the Swiss Alps is surrounded by soaring mountains and some of the world’s most beautiful properties and resorts. Cable cars connect the surrounding ski area with hundreds of kilometres of all-level pistes and cross country trails. The pace of life is slow here and it’s the perfect destination to relax, unwind and be at one with nature.
6. Gudauri, Georgia
Gudauri
A little closer to home Gudauri, Georgia is fast becoming one of the most popular ski destinations with UAE-based travellers. Located around 2,200 metres above sea level it is around a two-hour drive from the country’s capital Tbilisi. The ski season here ranges from December to April and the weather is absolutely beautiful with bright blue skies on most days when it’s not snowing. With helicopters granted almost unrestricted access to local mountains, skiers can experience some of the most sublime runs in Europe – at altitudes between 1,500 and 4,200 meters above sea level. The helicopters drop clients off on mountain tops, glaciers, fabulous ridges, and in the hands of highly experienced guides. While you’re visiting be sure to discover local Georgian culture and food which is in abundance!
7. Mzaar, Lebanon
Mzaar
Mzaar is the Middle East’s largest ski resort with over 100km of ski runs. It is located just a 45-minute drive from Beirut and easily accessible by road. As well as being a great destination for seasoned skiers, there is plenty to discover off the slopes too with a full calendar of events and activities for all the family. From a kids ski park, zipline experience and even a snowmobile, you’ll be able to discover the beauty of Lebanon in so many new ways. There are several hotels and chalets to stay in in the area all in perfect proximity to the slopes.
8. Whistler, British Colombia, Canada
Whistler
For those looking to travel further afield Whistler in Vancouver, British Colombia is home to one of the largest and perhaps most iconic ski resorts in North America. Besides skiing and snowboarding, the area offers snowshoeing, tobogganing and ski jumping at the Olympic Park which was home to the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. The main ski resort Whistler Blackcomb benefits from impressive snowfall every year. The snow often comes early in the season offering a sold snow base and a long season. When the sun goes down there is so much to do including cross-country skiing, ice skating, evening shows, restaurants, bars and even festive light walks. You’ll never want to leave this idyllic destination!
9. Niseko, Japan
Niseko
Unbeknown to many, Japan offers some of the world’s best skiing conditions. Niseko, located on the southwestern coast of Hokkaido is renowned for its powdery snow and perfect ski conditions. Niseko consists of four main resorts that can all be accessed with one universal ski pass. There are incredible spots to be discovered with vast mountain ranges offering breathtaking views of Mount Yotei. There are plenty of fun activities to discover too including snow rafting, snow tubing, horse riding, snowmobiling, luxury dining experiences and more.
