Epic Round the World Ski Tour

A once in a lifetime epic skiing itinerary, this journey showcases some of the world’s best ski destinations, from pristine glaciers in British Columbia to the legendary powder fields of Niseko. The round the world itinerary will not only allow you to finesse your off piste ski technique but takes you around the world in 30 days, starting in the Alps and ending in Iceland, sandwiched by city stays, glitzy resorts and spectacular mountain experiences – the ultimate ski tour.

1. London Heathrow – Zurich

2. Days 1-5: Zermatt

   Begin your epic skiing tour in the charming village of Zermatt, arguably the most iconic ski resort in Europe. Located in the majestic shadow of the Matterhorn mountain, shrouded by the tales of historic climbers wishing to conquer the peak. Zermatt has it all, including fabulous restaurants, historic mountain railway and wonderful experiences, such as visiting the under-glacier ice palace. Brush up your technique on the groomers or cruise over to Cervinia for a delicious Italian lunch.

   Accommodation: Schweizerhof (4 nights)

3. Zurich – Sapporo New Chitose

4. Days 5-10: Niseko

   From Zermatt you will transfer back to Zurich, traveling in style by Swiss rail, taking in the landscapes as you descend from the Alps. Your onward travel will require an overnight flight to Sapporo via Tokyo and a transfer to Niseko where you will begin your stay in the Japanese mountains. As powder capital of the world Niseko is famous for its dry and deep champagne powder, artic winds from the north of Siberia bring frequent and abundant snowfalls. In the backcountry you’ll be greeted by the vast expanse of exquisite snow inviting you to let rip, cruising through the deep stuff, weaving through the icy white trees, letting your powder skis run. After days on the hill relax and rejuvenate in an Onsen, these geothermally heated baths contain natural salts and minerals and are one of Japan’s most famous traditions. After days of cruising the gradients of Hokkaido you will travel back to Tokyo for a couple of days to enjoy the buzzing metropolis.

   Accommodation: Aya Niseko (5 nights)

5. Sapporo New Chitose - Tokyo

6. Days 10-12: Tokyo

   After your thrilling time on snow the contrast of ultra-modern Tokyo is a feast for the eyes. The sprawling energetic city is full of neon lights, sleek skyscrapers and modern boutiques and cafes. Beyond the hustle and bustle there is a wealth of history and culture to explore as well as a wealth of fantastic restaurants, there are more Michelin stars here than in any other city in the world, whether you want to splash out on the finest sushi restaurants or enjoy street side noodles.

   Accommodation: Aman Tokyo (2 nights)

7. Tokyo - Vancouver

8. Days 12-17: Whistler and Ski British Columbia

   After landing into Vancouver, next up is the big boy of the Canadian Rockies. You will transfer up to Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway, taking in the breath-taking views of the Rockies’ glacial lakes and mountains. Considered one of the best ski destinations in the world Whistler ticks the boxes for every skier, enjoy wide open groomers, pretty tree lined tracks or heli-ski the backcountry and abundant powder fields. Off the mountain the superb dining scene offers an array of cuisines, much of which is sourced locally, including some of the best seafood restaurants in British Columbia.

   Accommodation: Four Seasons Resort Whistler (5 nights)

9. Days 17-19: Vancouver

   Before your onward travel a stay in Vancouver is a must, the cosmopolitan city nestled between the Canadian mountains and beaches has a cutting-edge food scene as well as boutique shops, galleries and museums. Vancouver is an active city and being outdoors is essential to seeing the best of the city, explore by foot, bike or seaplane. Cycle Stanley Park, take a boat trip whale watching on the Strait of Georgia or spot wildlife along the shore of the coastline in a seaplane.

   Accommodation: Rosewood Hotel Georgia (2 nights)

10. Vancouver - Smithers

11. Days 19-23: Whistler and Ski British Columbia

    After your relaxing time in Vancouver you will be traveling north to the wilderness of British Columbia, close to the border of Alaska for one of life’s ultimate ski experiences, this is heli-skiing at its best. Boasting a ski area of 9,500 sq. km (compared to the average Canadian heli-ski area of 2,200) and annual average snowfall of 25 meters, the combination of terrain and conditions is unsurpassed. The small groups guarantee a swift and efficient service to maximize your vertical feet. Your four-day tour will include 17,500 vertical meters of guaranteed skiing, as well as comfortable cosy accommodation in one of the two main lodges where you can share and relive the day’s adventures in front of the fire.

    Accommodation: Last Frontier Heliskiing (4 nights)

12. Smithers - Vancouver

13. Vancouver - Aspen (via Denver)

14. Days 23-28: Aspen Snowmass

    The next week of your grand tour will be in the famously luxurious resort of Aspen. Landing into Aspen Airport, just 15 minutes from the town, is an experience in itself and the ultimate way to arrive into a ski resort. With four mountains Aspen Snowmass allows you to choose your own ski adventure each day. Those looking for a thrilling experience should hike the Highlands bowl, the hardcore skiers rush to seek out the untracked powder after fresh snowfalls. By this point in the trip your adjustment to the altitude and having found the ski legs should make this an exhilarating day. As an all year-round destination, Aspen town has it all covered, including one of the best après ski scenes in North America. The ski in / ski out Little Nell is known as the place to be seen but with an understated elegance. A visit to the J-Bar at the hotel Jerome is a must, take in the cowboy charm and silver mining history of the town.

    Accommodation: The Little Nell (5 nights)

15. Aspen - Akureyri (via Chicago & Reykjavik)

16. Days 28-32: Troll Peninsula, Northern Iceland

    After skiing Aspen’s vast mountains, you will continue your itinerary, traveling on to one the most unique and dramatic ski destinations in the world, Iceland. An overnight flight via Chicago will take you to Reykjavik where you will transfer on to Akureyri by domestic flight and arrive in the depths of northern Iceland’s Troll peninsular. The months of March to June are dedicated to heli-skiing which is an unforgettable experience here, with long descents over the North Atlantic, benefitting from extended daylight hours and a maritime climate. Ski descents average 915 vertical feet, with vast couloirs, narrow chutes and expansive valleys, you can ski through until dinner and enjoy the stunning sunsets as you descend. Skiing however is just one of the many Icelandic adventures guests of Deplar Farm can enjoy, riding Icelandic ponies, kayaking, surfing and whale watching are all frequently enjoyed in between your heli-skiing time. Deplar Farm is a luxurious retreat, once a sheep farm in a remote corner of Iceland and now one of the most exclusive winter lodges. You will leave Iceland feeling pampered, exhilarated and challenged after the most epic grand ski tour.

    Accommodation: Deplar Farm - Heli-Ski (4 nights)

• Glacier helicopter tour

  Jump in a helicopter for a truly unique adventure to one of Iceland's incredible glaciers. Enjoy the incredible view from above before landing on Langjokull glacier and venturing inside the bright blue ice tunnels.

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• Glacier Palace

  Billed as the highest glacier palace in the world, this ethereal attraction is well worth a visit. Mysterious sounds accompany you as you discover this glacial world, and there's even an ice slide.

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• Heli Ice Cave Adventure

  Take off from Whistler by helicopter to explore the frozen wonderland beneath the Pemberton Icecap.

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• Helicopter Tours around the Matterhorn in Zermatt

  Take in a bird's-eye view of the wonder of the Matterhorn with a helicopter tour in Zermatt, Switzerland. A thrilling sightseeing flight, ideal for a special occasion or treat.

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• Iglu-Dorf

  Visit Zermatt's igloo village at the top of the Gornergrat railway, at 2,727m. A unique experience to dine or even sleep overnight in an igloo.

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• J-bar at the Jerome

  This is Aspen's favorite watering hole and has been for well over a century now. Enjoy a fashionable prohibition cocktail in this Old West bar and even Aspen's best burger.

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• Lake Myvatn tour

  A true natural wonder, Lake Myvatn is an other-worldly landscape of natural hot springs, volcanic craters and bubbling mud pools. The ever-changing scenery of the lake is simply breathtaking and a must-see in Northern Iceland.

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• Paragliding in Zermatt

  An exhilarating and spectacular view of the winter wonderland that is Zermatt and the Matterhorn from the heady heights of paragliding. Tandem flights are available throughout the winter months with different take off points around the resort.

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• Riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola

  Riding the gondola between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains is an exhilarating experience that everyone should try on their vacation - the views are spectacular. Combine with a hike to Little Whistler Summit (approx. 2 hrs round trip hike).

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• Snowmobiling in Aspen - From The Little Nell

  A fantastic and thrilling way to explore the surrounding area of Aspen is by snowmobile. There is fantastic scenery to be seen and it is a real adventure for older families, couples or even the more adventurous honeymoon couple.

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• Snowmobiling in the Troll Peninsula

  Explore the mountains of the stunning Troll Peninsula on the back of a snowmobile, taking in the incredible views as you speed across the snow. During the winter, look out for the Northern Lights dancing through the sky above.

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• Whistler Fresh Tracks Mountaintop Breakfast

  If you are an early riser and want to experience skiing the first fresh snow tracks of the day combined with a hearty mountain breakfast then a 'Fresh Track' ticket is a must. Available for 'any day' you can decide the best time to go.

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Zermatt, Niseko, Whistler, British Columbia Heli-Ski, Aspen & Iceland