Skiing for both transportation and sport can be traced back thousands of years. Whether cross-country skiing, often required for trekking in northern regions throughout history, or modern alpine skiing, the experience is one well-worth traveling for. Modern ski resorts around the world are known for their high price tags, but also providing the best facilities from equipment rentals, high-speed lifts, and dining options. Ski towns and villages today provide guests with luxury shopping, Michelin starred restaurants, and cultural attractions such as museums and art galleries. The best ski resorts even include personal guides and trainers for beginners as well as spas complete with hot tubs and full body massage options to help you unwind after you’ve had your fill of the slopes.
Aspen
Aspen is home to one of the most well-known skiing communities in the world. Here, you can stay in one of the dozens of top-quality resorts and ski slopes like Snowmass and Aspen to enjoy the challenge of a course over 12,000 feet high — some of the highest in the world with multiple double black diamond runs as well as those recommended for intermediate skiers. While the best time for skiing is between December and March, Aspen flaunts a well-respected summer festival scene that attracts skiers as well as those not looking for high-speed adventure. With high-end boutiques, art galleries, champagne bars, and more, Aspen is the perfect spot for anyone.
Courchevel
This upscale French ski resort is one of the most luxurious in the world. Dating back to 1946, the collection of villages that comprise Courcheval have been welcoming skiers from across the globe. Founders of this resort town invented the concept of ski-in/ski-out resorts — those in which you can ski right outside your hotel and return “home” easily without having to bus or drive to a mountain slope — now seen as essential to the skiing experience. The highest slope starts adventurers up nearly 9,000 feet at the bottom of which awaits Michelin-star restaurants and a thriving village nightlife.
Megeve
If you’re looking for easier runs without the crowds or having to compromise on quality, Megeve is the place to go. This is one of the few ski resorts in the world that claims all of its trails, ranging from downhill to cross-country trails, are suited to beginners. This small community located in the southeast of France also flaunts gourmet restaurants and world-renowned boutiques, perfect for your all-around luxurious winter getaway. As if Megeve couldn’t get any better, it’s located a short drive away from both the borders of Switzerland and Italy for when your weary, snow bunny body needs a rest from all the athletics.
Ski On!
Snowcapped mountains and gorgeous views aren’t all that await skiers in today’s greatest ski resort towns. Enjoy the challenge of new slopes and the rush of action this winter at one of these dreamy snowscapes. Whether you’re looking for a thrill while gliding downhill, or to sit comfortably in a cabin drinking hot chocolate while your loved ones enjoy their adrenaline rush, head to one of these top ski destinations for a winter getaway you’ll never forget.
Ready for adventure? Baroque Travel’s bespoke luxury concierge services will sweep you away from private charters to exclusive villas. Call our travel consultants at +1-212-726-0711 or email us today at info@baroquetravel.com.
—
Meet the Writer!
Taylor Fox is a New York-based travel and food writer, specializing in the impact of food within culture.
Learn more about Taylor at TaylorPerezFox.