Best Places for Winter Snow

Val d’Isère is a true gem, boasting incredible skiing as well as some of the best restaurants and après-ski the Alps has to offer. Everyone from total beginners to expert skiers will love the seemingly endless slopes, but non-skiers won’t be short of entertainment with alpine hikes, dog sledding and snowshoeing to choose from. Stay at Le Yule hotel for a prime spot at the base of the Solaise and Bellevarde slopes. 

Take the scenic route through the Swiss Alps, journeying by train to the cobbled streets of Zermatt, where a horse and carriage awaits to whisk you to your hotel, the historic Mont Cervin Palace. It doesn’t get more idyllic than this, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic Matterhorn. Plus, the village’s car ban means the air up here really is cleaner and crisper.

Courchevel is often referred to as one of the most glamorous resorts in the Alps, with superb shopping, outstanding après-ski and Michelin-star dining, but there’s some serious skiing to be had here as well. The vast network of slopes that make up the Trois Vallées region is at the tip of your skis, and there’s nowhere better to come home to after an active day on the mountain than your own private apartment at Six Senses Residences Courchevel.

Famed for its beautifully groomed pistes and atmospheric mountain restaurants serving up exceptional Italian cuisine, the Dolomites is one of our favourite ski destinations. There’s plenty to keep you busy aside from downhill skiing too. How do you fancy cross country skiing, alpine hiking, snowshoeing or ice climbing? 

Val Thorens is where records are set – not only is it renowned as the highest ski resort in Europe, but the luxurious Hotel Koh-I Nor also holds the title of the highest 5-star hotel in Europe. High altitude means snow-sure slopes late into the ski season. With over 600km of pistes to explore across the entire Trois Vallées region, this is a skier’s paradise – and the après-ski is pretty legendary too.

Swedish Lapland is a magical winter wonderland comprised of thick forests cloaked with snow, intercepted by thundering rivers and dotted with peaceful lakeside villages. Stay at the innovative Arctic Bath Hotel and catch a glimpse of the northern lights from your private terrace, try your hand at husky sledding or snowshoeing and warm up in the thermal spas. 

For those in search of an authentic mountain retreat, head to the Swiss village of Andermatt. Nestled in the meeting point of three mountain passes, skiers can enjoy large swathes of quiet slopes and deep powder on the legendary Gemsstock mountain. The Chedi Andermatt is our top choice in the village for a dose of alpine luxury, with roaring open fires and a lavish spa to ease weary muscles.

Experimental Chalet Val D’Isere is a sophisticated, yet casual haven in the heart of the mountains. A 4-star hotel boasting 113 rooms, two restaurants, a cocktail bar and spa. The perfect getaway for those searching for a chic winter retreat.

The only ski-in, ski-out hotel in Aspen, The Little Nell is a luxurious, 92-room contemporary designed 5* hotel at the foot of Aspen Mountain. Exceptionally high levels of service and some of the best bespoke adventures on snow await Little Nell guests.

AE Expeditions redefines the expedition cruising ship experience, with three purpose-built ships taking travellers to corners of the Earth where other cruise ships simply can’t. With innovative technologies and safety systems, expert guides and an exciting range of activities, a voyage on AE Expeditions brings exhilarating wildlife encounters and a chance to travel through some of the world’s most iconic terrains. Combining this adventure with luxurious onboard facilities brings a balance of exploration and indulgent relaxation.

Jackson Hole should be on every skier’s bucket list. A cowboy town with spectacular scenery in the Grand Teton National Park, this is skiing with a unique edge. Enjoy challenging chutes and bowls or stick to the mid mountain groomers. Away from the piste, you can go on a Yellowstone snowcat wildlife tour or visit the National Elk Refuge. 

The super chic resort of Megève is only a short transfer from Geneva and boasts some of the prettiest skiing in the Alps, with is exceptionally beautiful, bowl-like setting beneath Mont Blanc. Excellent intermediate ski terrain, horse-drawn carriage rides around the village and stunning walking routes make it a great choice for skiers and non-skiers alike. 

An enviable snow record, fantastic off-piste terrain and links to Lech and Zurs make St Anton one of the most popular resorts not just in Austria but in the Alps. Expect lively après ski, supper efficient lifts and hearty cuisine to boot! The resort is one of our top choices for larger groups looking for a spacious chalet and varied activities, including dog sleigh rides, ice skating and cross-country skiing.