We’ll take you through four of the best destinations and explain how to choose the one that will be ideal for you. Ready? Let’s go!

What Makes These Resorts the Best?

High-Quality Slopes and Top-Notch Trail Maintenance

Choosing a hotel is always a key factor shaping our trip. Regarding ski resorts, the quality of the slopes and trail maintenance takes center stage. The best resorts invest heavily in optimal snow cover, regardless of weather conditions. Unique snow cannons and powerful grooming machines work around the clock to create a perfect skiing surface. That’s why the top ski resorts equal top trails with a high level of safety.

Infrastructure and Visitor Amenities

Heated lift seats might seem like a luxury, but it's easy to get chilled when you’re sitting still on the way to the top. Cold feet aren’t just uncomfortable — they can also make maneuvering harder.

Transportation accessibility is also crucial, especially if you’re traveling with family, large suitcases, or specialised gear. At the best ski resorts, this is handled exceptionally well.

Opportunities for Relaxation and Entertainment

Skiing and snowboarding are only part of the experience. The best resorts offer a rich lineup of leisure and après-ski activities, from exclusive spa complexes and gourmet dining to nightclubs and traditional alpine events like torchlit descents or dog sledding.

The 4 Best Ski Resorts in Europe for 2024/2025

Zermatt, Switzerland: Skiing with a View of the Matterhorn

This place is a true gem for those who value skiing in its purest form. High-altitude trails (up to 3,883 meters) are open even in summer thanks to the Klein Matterhorn glacier, which maintains consistent snow cover. One of its main perks is the variety of trails for all skill levels, paired with stunning viewpoints: even non-skiers can ride the panoramic Gornergrat train and marvel at glacial gorges.

Courchevel, France: Luxury and First-Class Service

This is the spot if you’re after the pinnacle of ski luxury. Courchevel stands out with its four settlement levels, ranging from 1,300 to 1,850 meters. The most prestigious, Courchevel 1850, is home to celebrity chalets, private trails, and three-Michelin-star restaurants.

Beyond the luxury, Courchevel offers technically challenging descents. The Traversée de l’Aiguille du Fruit is one of the most thrilling black runs, while the Grand Couloir is a legendary freeride route. However, those seeking solitude might find it less appealing — the resort’s fame means empty trails are rare during peak season.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy: Italian Elegance and Olympic Legacy

This resort is more than just a pretty place — it’s a key point in winter sports history. It hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics and is set to host alpine skiing events again in 2026.

The charm of Cortina’s trails lies in their smooth, natural curves. Unlike Courchevel’s sharp drops, these slopes feature gentler transitions, making it ideal for fans of comfortable carving. Plus, skiing in the Superdolomiti area lets you explore routes across multiple valleys — the scenery is breathtaking.

Saalbach, Austria: Cozy Alpine Vibes and Great Trails

Saalbach offers a warm, almost “village-like” atmosphere alongside excellent trails. Part of the Skicircus Saalbach-Hinterglemm area, it boasts 270 km of perfectly groomed slopes. A standout feature is its extensive training zones, where you can hone your skills before tackling more challenging routes.
Après-ski here is lively — traditional alpine-style bars stay open until dawn. Compared to Courchevel, Saalbach is much more budget-friendly, though its infrastructure is more straightforward: no lavish villas, but plenty of cozy family hotels and a friendly vibe.

How to Choose the Right Ski Resort for Your Winter Vacation

For Families with Kids

A resort with solid kids’ programs means comfort for the whole family. Zermatt and Saalbach, for instance, offer schools with multilingual instructors and safe beginner zones. They also have indoor entertainment centers, sledding hills, and special trails for little ones.

For Experienced Skiers

Resorts with technically demanding routes and extreme descents are the way to go. Courchevel and Cortina d’Ampezzo feature plenty of black runs and safe freeride options with guides.

For Après-Ski Enthusiasts

In Courchevel and Saalbach, the parties don’t stop until morning. For those who prefer a quieter unwind, Zermatt offers relaxation in thermal spas with views of snowy peaks.
Choosing a ski resort is a nuanced decision. Consider your skill level, vacation goals, and preferred extras. If you still have questions, we’re happy to help you find the perfect ski resort to which you want to return.