Epic Round the World Ski Tour

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.