Winter is coming, as we all very well know, and now might be the right time to begin considering your skiing destination for the season. If you’re considering Europe ski destinations and eager to sample some of the best snow in the world, check out one of these six prime destinations. All offer a wondrous winter experience worth your consideration.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
The oldest winter resort in the world remains an elegant and exclusive choice among Europe ski destinations: St. Moritz, the crown jewel. With 322 sunny days in the year, it’s filled with 5-star hotels and restaurants, plenty of shopping, and the snow is delightful, being Switzerland after all.
A holiday here will set you back a bit, and you might just bump into a celebrity or a royal during your stay. If you’ve ever wanted to experience what high-class skiing is like, St. Moritz should be your choice.
Méribel, France
The Three Valleys is known as the largest ski area in the world, and at its center lies Méribel, a prime location for winter sports.
The town is charming with its chalet-style houses, and there are plenty of stylish hotels.
The slopes themselves are most attractive to intermediate skiers, but there are a couple of red slopes you can try if you’ve got the skill. Always put ski safety first in order to prevent any injuries that would ruin your trip.
You can also catch a lift to Val Thorens and enjoy the preparations for the World Ski Championships scheduled to be held there in 2023.
Val Thorens, France
The highest ski resort in the Three Valleys and in all of Europe, Val Thorens stands at 7500 feet. This translates to plenty of snow in the season.
You can hit the slopes between November and May, so even if you can’t get time off during the prime skiing window, you can still enjoy some action on the snow.
You also have access to Méribel and Courchevel from Val Thorens, so you can explore and get to know all three resorts and slopes from your home base. The crowds are usually mixed, and you will be able to enjoy a pleasant conversation with people from all walks of life.
Courmayeur, Italy
The Italian side of Mont Blanc is the sunnier one. While Courmayeur certainly attracts plenty of skiers during the height of the season, there are also those who are there for the Aperol spritz and the Michelin star meals.
From the resort, you can gain access to the glacial run of the Vallée Blanche and encounter some of Italy’s prime skiers who call this their home training ground.
If you’re looking to pair a restful après vacation with some world-class skiing, then Courmayeur is the right destination for you.
Gstaad, Switzerland
Another Swiss ski resort, Gstaad boasts a lovely promenade with amazing shopping. But the fairy-tale Swiss houses bring the most charm. The ambiance evokes the feeling of strolling through the set of a Christmas movie.
The magnificent slopes of Gstaad provide something for everyone. You’ll have no trouble finding a favorite you’ll want to master during your stay.
Gstaad is also a great place to enjoy some romantic time off. If you’re in the mood for just a bit of skiing and plenty of relaxation, this is the right choice.
Val d’Isère, France
If you are at all into skiing, you will have wanted to come to Val d’Isère for quite some time. While the crowds are still something to consider and the prices are certainly not to everyone’s taste, the resort remains an absolute skier dream.
The French have made sure you can ski even when the weather has not obliged, so you won’t have to wonder whether hitting the slopes will be an option.
The nightlife and the restaurant scene are amazing as well. There will be plenty to do when you’re not out on the snow.
Val d’Isère is also a great place to learn to ski if you are more of a bunny than pro. Don’t dismiss it just because everyone else has already been there.
Final Thoughts on these Six Europe Ski Destinations
All of these European destinations are amazing if you want to get away for a bit and enjoy a true winter wonderland on the slopes. Just consider which one would be easiest to reach and what kind of crowd you’re looking for, and book your accommodation early.