THE TOP SKI RESORTS IN EUROPE!
Participants in the Conde Nast Traveler annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey shared their top global destinations. Readers are discerning snow bunnies with a wide variety of preferences when it comes to the top ski areas in Europe: These are the top 5 locations that readers have rated as their best places to ski and enjoy après-ski; they include both well-known Alps hangouts and more secluded, high-altitude locations ideal for experienced downhill skiers.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
The world’s oldest winter vacation destination is the most sophisticated and upscale one can find. As if St. Moritz’s location at almost 6,000 feet above sea level weren’t already auspicious enough, the sun shines 322 days a year, combining with the dry air to create what is described as a “Champagne climate.” However, it’s the top-notch dining options, upscale shopping, and superb on- and off-piste skiing that entice both royals and celebrities. One of St. Moritz’s most exclusive reservations has always been El Paradiso Mountain Club, and that has only increased since Badrutt’s Palace took over operations last winter. Additionally, the well-liked Italian mini-chain Langosteria is opening its first mountain restaurant this winter in the heart of Corviglia, a well-liked ski resort.
Where to stay: A room at the recently remodeled Kulm Hotel, one of our Gold List favorites, or at the alpine grand dame Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, which has been spoiling A-listers since 1896, can’t go wrong. In December, Grace La Margna opened, marking the first time St. Moritz has a five-star hotel available year-round.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Encircled by the highest peaks in the Alps, Zermatt boasts four massive ski slopes with 223 kilometers of runs, some of which are over 10,000 feet high, meaning that snow stays here well into the winter season. At the base of Switzerland’s most famous mountain, the Matterhorn, this charming alpine village boasts modern amenities such as a state-of-the-art lift system and chic après-ski activities. In the village without cars, horse-drawn sleighs are the most popular mode of transportation. A glass of bubbly at the little Champagne bar at the end of the Sunnega run, and a burger at Chez Vrony (booking essential) are must-do stops on the slopes. On the Theodul Glacier, a novel new ski-in/ski-out testing facility lets skiers test-drive the newest gear.
Where to stay: Both the opulent Grand dame Mont Cervin Palace and the stately Schweizerhof Zermatt provide excellent central locations and every facility possible. Slope-side CERVO Mountain Resort, perched just above the settlement, has added an extensive network of outdoor pools, saunas, and soaking tubs to its ashram-inspired spa.
Verbier, Switzerland
One of the swankiest resorts in the Alps, Verbier has hosted a number of famous visitors, including those who stayed in Richard Branson’s opulent chalet The Lodge and the first VIP club in the Alps, Coco Club. A young, active customer is drawn to the 4 Vallées by the mountain’s combination of beginner and expert pistes, as well as the backcountry terrain and over 14 kilometers of groomed Nordic paths. The Pasay chairlift, which ascends one of Verbier’s most gorgeous slopes, receives a much-needed refurbishment this winter. In order to fit in more runs, the previous four-seater has been upgraded to six bubble-protected seats and now accelerates uphill in under five minutes as opposed to 11. A panoramic patio has been added to the Pasay snack bar during renovations.
Where to stay: The W Verbier boasts the greatest location in town, adjacent to ski school meeting places and directly across from the Médran gondola, however there are the opulent chalets noted above.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
After hosting the Winter Olympics in 1956, this historic town nestled in the Boite river valley developed into a must-see ski resort, and it will do so once more in 2026. Although the surrounding Dolomites may give the impression that the town is inaccessible, it is only two hours from Venice. The town’s low-key atmosphere, which is in stark contrast to the showy, see-and-be-seen culture of other comparable ski resorts, continues to draw celebrities like George Clooney. Skiers and riders can access over 750 kilometers of slopes through Cortina, which is a part of the extensive Dolomiti Superski. Additionally, cross-country trail enthusiasts have access to Europe’s largest trail system.
Where to stay: Only 23 rooms make up the little Hotel de Len, which also features a gorgeous rooftop spa with views of the valley.
Val d’Isère, France
Although some complain about the pricing and congestion at this massive resort, Val d’Isère is still a skier’s paradise. The region has one of the largest ski areas in France thanks to its exhilarating, top-notch, snow-sure slopes (and, as a backup, the biggest artificial snowmaking plant in Europe). A visit here is a true vacation in every sense of the word thanks to the fantastic eating options and wild nightlife. Two new on-mountain food options are available to skiers this winter. On the Mangard slope and at the base of the Grand Pré chairlift, L’Empreinte Avaline, from the team behind the acclaimed Edelweiss restaurant, will unveil an open-kitchen concept, René. It has a 60-seat snack bar, a 100-seat patio, and a 150-seat bistro with bay windows. With its large terrace and DJ sets, Airelles Val d’Isère’s chic Loulou branch is the go-to destination for après-ski.
Where to Stay: The first Club Med Exclusive Collection resort in the Alps, the 215-room Club Med Val d’Isère, opens for business this season. The upscale ambiance of Airelles Val d’Isère, Hotel Le K2 Chogori, and Le Refuge de Solaise, the tallest hotel in France, is also something we adore.
Modified From Conde Nast Traveller
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