One of the greatest joys of winter is snow… along, of course with the opportunities to swish on down the slopes and go skiing. The thing is, we’re pretty lucky with some epic places across the continent to ski – but there’s a whole heap of amazing and the best European ski resorts in the Alps that are too good to miss.
Thing is, in cities like London, and across the UK generally, our snow game is never really that great (just being totally honest here). It’s just not something we’re blessed with, especially when it turns to slush in a matter of hours.
That being said, there are some of the best European ski resorts that are merely a few hours away by flight and shouldn’t be missed. This is where the gorgeous Alps come in!
Spanning 8 countries (Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Slovenia, and Switzerland), the Alps are the highest mountain ranges in Europe and are pretty stunning to see in and of themselves. Now, with such an expansive area, there are quite a few of the best European ski resorts that are dotted between all the countries. This is why I had to share some of my very favourites with you.
Honestly, there’s a huge variety of places and resorts that all have their own vibe. If you’re up for some epic ski fun, Apres ski, even some festivals, you’ll find it here. are 9 ski resorts in the Alps.
Take a look at some of the best European ski resorts to visit in the Alps this year. Have a great time!
1.) Tignes
Tignes in the Savoie region of the French Alps has made a name for itself for being open for an impressive nine months of the year. That being said, the opening times aren’t the only thing going for it, it’s one of the best places to ski.
Once here, make sure to spend some time up high on the slopes, you can even ski across to Val D’Isere, too. After a morning of skiing, pop over to Le Panoramic for some of the tastiest views whilst over 3000m up in the Alps.
Also, whilst in Tignes, you’ll find a whole heap of incredible chalets to call home. We stayed at a Black Diamond property that was just out-of-this-world! We even had an actual plane cockpit within our chalet!
Read more: Best chalet in Tignes
2.) Val d’Isère
Many of the world’s top ski events are held in Val D’Isere (we even managed to catch the ski world cups here in December). Plus, with it being right next to Tignes, it’s pretty easy to partner a visit within. Don’t worry, though, you can actually ski between both areas and just grab a taxi back to either Val d’Isere or Tignes (wherever you’re staying).
For us, we stayed at Hip Hideouts that was so sumptuous and totally luxurious. We even had our own chef in our chalet!
Also, a good thing about Val d’Isere is that it’s one of the best European ski resorts with the most consistent snow.
3.) Val Thorens
Nestled in the Tarentaise Valley in the French Alps, Val Thorens is famous for being one of the largest and best European ski resorts. In fact, it’s often considered one of the biggest in the world.
Now, for me, the best thing about this is that it spreads all the people out. Its sheer size means that you’ll never feel like you’re on some crowded slopes. It’s one of the things I dislike so Val Thorens is great.
Obviously, it gets busier during certain holidays but apart from that, you’ll be skiing with much fewer people than the other resorts in the Alps.
4.) Chamonix
Lying at the base of Mount Blanc, Chamonix is the place to come not just for skiing but also for the town. Unlike other resorts, Chamonix actually has a huge amount going on if you are bored with the slopes or fancy taking a good few days away from the piste.
For instance, you can actually go ice climbing in Charmix, husky sledging and even a totally cute Jazz club called La Maison des Artistes.
5.) La Thuile
If you are in the Italian Alps and you want to go heliskiing then La Thuile is the place to do it. Of course, you’ll need to save up some coins in the piggy bank but it’s one of the best European ski resorts if you want a blow out skiing session.
With well over 150 kilometres of runs, you’ll be totally spoilt for choice. Oh yeah, and you’re in Italy so your guaranteed some tasty food!
6.) Livigno
Set in the gorgeous Italian Alps, Livigno is one of the best European ski resorts to visit if you’re looking to have lots of apres ski time.
Better still, it’s also known as one of the cheaper resorts in the region so if you’re looking for a wallet-friendly ski trip in the Alps, this is the place to do it.
7.) St Moritz
St Moritz is widely reputed to be the best European ski resorts and one of the most established in the Alps. That being said, prices are often a little more expensive than some other spots.
Over time, St Moritz has played host to the Olympics, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and it totally cool.
This popularity does, of course, mean that this is one of the more expensive ski holidays to go on. One person told me, you go to St Moritz to be ‘seen to ski’ whilst you go to ‘places like Zermatt to enjoy the skiing’.
Make of that what you will, but with dramatic views, idyllic scenery, and powdery snow throughout, it’s safe to say it’s worth it!
8.) Mayrhofen
After our road trip from London to Austria, we ended up in the incredible Mayrhofen that’s totally cool. Not only is there a whole heap of slopes across this area of the Austrian Alps, but there’s so much more too.
If you’re into music, head across during Snowbombing which is a totally cool music festival that has some world-class artists and loads of venues across the town. It really is one of the best European ski resorts.
Oh yeah, and don’t forget to go for some grub in the mountains, Schihütte Schneekar make the best local pancakes!
9.) Zermatt
For the longest time, I’d wanted to go skiing in Zermatt – and it didn’t disappoint! For me, Zermatt is one of the best European ski resorts to visit in Switzerland. Plus, there’s also the iconic Matterhorn to see, too!
After heading out on the slopes, take some time to find a great place to stay. We decided to stay in an Igloo underneath the Matterhorn. It was such a unique experience and totally cool.
Read more: Staying in an Igloo in the Alps
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