When it comes to the best ski resorts in Europe, you think about the quality and length of the ski slopes, the beauty of the landscapes, the presence of snow, but also the quality of the services in these resorts. Here, below, is a selection of some of the most beautiful resorts in Europe, which offer real experiences for the winter vacation.
Courchevel, France
Courchevel is located in the largest ski area in the world - the Three Valleys and together with its six villages, all interconnected, form a brilliant resort where celebrities come to ski, relax and shop in over 100 luxury boutiques.
Courchevel is the type of "addictive" resort. The heated sidewalks, the ski area dedicated to children (which covers more than seven acres of land), the restaurants with Michelin stars and the large snowfalls that ensure the practice of skiing until the month of April, easily make it a favorite place for all those who discover it.
Ischgl, Austria
Ischgl is one of the best ski resorts in Europe; attracts skiers from all over the world every year, being one of the most beautiful ski areas in Austria. Hundreds of kilometers of pistes, superb hotels, excellent infrastructure, Ischgl is a dream ski resort.
If you're lucky, here you have a chance to meet Rihanna or Katy Perry, especially since the city hosts concerts of stars and many prestigious events.
Murren, Switzerland
Murren is an authentic mountain village located in Switzerland. With only 450 inhabitants and a breathtaking panorama of the three most famous peaks of the region (Eiger-Mönch-Jungfrau), Murren conquers you with the quality of its services, parties and the way it combines modernity with traditions.
Zermatt, Switzerland
The resort of Zermatt in Switzerland is famous in the world, known for the quality and extent of the ski area, but also for its historical area.
Zermatt has kept its authentic appearance thanks to the drastic urban planning rules and the beauty of its historic center with pedestrian access.
Bormio, Italy
Located in the north of Italy, Bormio is known for its high altitude activities and the super technical World Cup skiing competition - which takes place on the legendary Stelvio.
The Bormio ski area claims the largest vertical ski slope in Italy. Most of the slopes on the mountain are intended for beginner or intermediate skiers, but they start much higher, in the clouds (over 2,000 m), which means that you have a special alpine view.
Last but not least, after a day spent on the slopes, you can go to the historical thermal baths for complete relaxation.
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
This historic town, carved into the valley of the Boite River, became a must-see ski destination after the 1956 Winter Olympics. Just two hours from Venice, Cortina d'Ampezzo is guarded by the jagged peaks of the Dolomites and has a low-key atmosphere that continues to attract stars like George Clooney.
Saalbach, Austria
Saalbach is one of the four resorts in Austria that make up the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, among the most extensive ski areas in the world connected by ski lifts. This super resort offers something for everyone, from challenging terrain to family carers. Ambitious skiers can try the "Challenge", a circuit of 64 kilometers of downhill sections connected by 32 ski lifts.
Saint Jean d'Arves, France
Saint Jean d'Arves is the perfect ski resort, providing access to one of the largest ski areas: Les Sybelles.
The resort has privileged access to over 135 ski slopes for all levels, from beginners to professionals. Saint Jean d'Arves is also a family ski resort, offering access to many activities for the little ones, playgrounds and childcare. Also here you can go paragliding or choose a dog sled ride.
St Anton am Arlberg, Austria
St Anton am Arlberg is the place where alpine skiing was born, becoming over time a reference for enthusiasts of this sport and an authentic cosmopolitan village.
Val d’Isère, France
Although some complain about the congestion and prices in this mega-resort, Val d'Isère remains a paradise for experienced skiers. The area hosts high-quality slopes, lots of snow (and, as a reserve, the largest artificial snow production factory in Europe), the slopes that together with Tignes form one of the largest ski areas in France. With excellent places to eat and a nightlife full of parties, a stay here becomes an unforgettable experience.
Tarvisio, Italy
Tarvisio is an international winter sports resort, located in the north of Italy, on the border between Austria and Italy, and is probably one of the most beautiful mountain villages. With strong influences from its border neighbors (Austria and Slovenia), Tarvisio is different because of this triple identity, which gives it an authenticity that will surely charm you.
Zermatt, Switzerland
This charming alpine village sits at the foot of the Matterhorn, Switzerland's most famous mountain, and has plenty of modern touches such as its state-of-the-art lift system, while horse-drawn sleighs are the preferred choice of village transport without cars.