Best Ski Resorts in the World

View of mountains covered with snow at Arosa Switzerland ski resorts for winter sports

Ski Resorts in Europe

With over 3000, it’s fair to say there are more ski resorts in Europe that you can shake your ski pole at! Every season there are new additions to these resorts, so there are always new places where you can ski, whether it is just one new slope, or a whole new ski resort – Europe is arguably the king of winter resorts, and we’ve outlined some of the best.

Resorts in Austria

Austria is littered with ski resorts, and they have their fair share of the best - not only for individuals, but for families too. Rauris is one of the best family ski resorts in Austria, it even has its own mascot named Tilly! So before you scroll past, take time to read about the different resorts on this list – Austria really is a gem

Resorts in France

World class skiing, fantastic après and excellent off-slope activities, French ski resorts have it all. A perfect place for your ski or snowboarding holiday, there’s plenty of options depending on your ability, so don’t be put off by the big name resorts, they all have somewhere for you to lay your tracks.

Resorts in Italy

Bordering Austria, Switzerland and France, Italy’s ski resorts are perfect for any level of skiier. The high altitude at which they’re based provide a good level of snow cover, Cervinia for example, which is why the Italian ski resorts can be considered as some of the best in Europe.

Resorts in Norway

Quiet slopes, and the chance of seeing the northern lights on the same trip? The ski resorts in Norway have that extra selling point which is hard to ignore. While après may not be as lively as other resorts, Norway may be the perfect place for a family break.

Resorts in Sweden

Not an obvious destination for your next trip to the slopes, but you shouldn’t look past the ski resorts in Sweden. A more laid-back approach is adopted here compared to the bustling resorts in France or Italy, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed trip then Sweden should be on your radar.

Resorts in Switzerland

Small and mighty or big and bold, Swiss ski resorts pack a punch. Explore the vast 412km of slopes across the Verbier ski area, or get acquainted with Jungfrau on your next ski trip to the slopes. Switzerland’s ski resorts are full of charm and tradition, so after the lifts close, you can learn a little bit more about the country.

Resorts in the UK

You don’t have to travel abroad to get your ski fix, the facilities at ski resorts in Scotland have really improved in recent years. Visitor numbers are growing year-on-year, which is helped by the introduction of the “All Area Season Ticket” which grants access to all five of Scotland’s ski resorts.

Resorts in Bulgaria

With competitive prices, ski resorts in Bulgaria are becoming increasingly popular for winter breaks, meaning they’re also one of the best family winter destinations. It’s not just getting there which is lighter on the purse, but lift passes and tuition are some of the cheapest in Europe. So if you don’t want to break the bank, then Bulgaria should be on your radar.

North America

A playground for skiiers, North America has over 15,000 km of slopes to be explored, so the question on everyone’s lips is where to ski? We’ve compiled a ski resorts list of some of the best North America has to offer (there’s a lot!) So slip on your boots and clip on your ski’s, because your next trip to the slopes will be one to remember.

Resorts in Canada

Enjoy some of the most breath-taking views whilst traversing down the perfectly groomed pistes which line the ski resorts in Canada. Whistler is the perfect place for your next snowboarding holiday, with amazing off-piste routes through the tree’s and freestyle parks Shaun White dreams of, make Canada your next trip.

Resorts in the USA

You’ll be hard pressed to struggle finding a ski resort in the USA that doesn’t have good snow coverage during the winter season. The USA has over 450 ski resorts, ranging as far south as Arizona, to as far North as Alaska, so there’s going to be excellent transfer times no matter where you fly in to!

Resorts Elsewhere

Feel like exploring the snow around the rest of the world? Asia and Australasia shouldn’t be forgotten just because they’re elsewhere. The best thing about this? Visiting the Southern Hemisphere means that you can ski during what would normally be your summer – winning!

Australia

Welcome to the Southern Hemisphere, where the ski season opens around June, and closes in October. Ski resorts in Australia are few and far between, but there are some available should you want to dust off your ski boots and give them a go!

Resorts in Japan

Japan has played host to the Winter Olympics twice in the past, at Sapporo and Nagano respectively. Not to be outclassed by Europe and North America, Japan has over 500 ski resorts, with Sapporo being home to some of the steepest slopes. It’s a long journey, so you need to choose the right ski resort in Japan for you to avoid disappointment.

  • Niseko

Resorts in New Zealand

Like Australia, ski resorts in New Zealand open around June, and close in October. Treble Cone which sits on Mount Olympus is a firm favourite within the ski community, but there are plenty of other resorts which you should check out if you’re looking for the best value for money.