The best ski resorts in Europe

Jan 30

Explore winter destinations with daytrip.com

A Ski enthusiast's guide to Europe's premier destinations

Are you a winter sports enthusiast seeking the thrill of carving down pristine slopes surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best ski resort destinations in Western Europe, where the combination of challenging runs, stunning landscapes, and vibrant après-ski scenes create an unforgettable alpine experience.

Zermatt, Switzerland: majestic Matterhorn views and endless adventure

Zermatt, Switzerland, with charming wooden chalets, a flowing river, and snow-capped Alpine peaks in the background — Zermatt is home to the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most iconic and photographed mountains, and is a car-free village through the lens of Gabriel Garcia Marengo

Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Zermatt stands as a symbol of alpine grandeur, boasting unparalleled views of the iconic Matterhorn. This charming car-free village offers extensive skiing terrain suitable for all levels, making it a haven for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking scenery as you navigate the pristine slopes.

Chamonix, France: challenging Slopes and Mont Blanc views

hamonix, France, featuring a charming alpine village with colorful buildings, a flowing river, and snow-covered peaks of Mont Blanc in the background — Chamonix is home to Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps, and is renowned as the birthplace of modern mountaineering

For those seeking a challenge, Chamonix in France is renowned for its difficult slopes and unrivaled vistas of Mont Blanc. In the shadow of Western Europe's highest peak, this legendary resort town offers a thrilling mix of off-piste adventures and challenging runs that cater to the most adventurous skiers and snowboarders.

Anton am Arlberg, Austria: where Après-ski meets extensive interconnected skiing

A paraglider soars above the snow-covered peaks of St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria, surrounded by rugged alpine mountains and dense evergreen forests — St. Anton am Arlberg is known as the "cradle of alpine skiing," attracting winter sports enthusiasts with its world-class slopes

Austria's St. Anton am Arlberg is known for its lively après-ski scene and vast interconnected ski area. With a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, this resort provides an ideal setting for both daytime adventures on the slopes and evening festivities in the village.

Courchevel, France: luxury blends seamlessly with vast skiing terrain

A group of skiers stand on a snow-covered slope in Courchevel, surrounded by views of the French Alps under clear blue skies — Courchevel is part of Les Trois Vallées, the largest linked ski area in the world, offering over 600 kilometers of ski slopes

Experience the epitome of luxury at Courchevel in the heart of Les Trois Vallées, the world's largest ski area. This French Alpine gem combines opulent accommodations, gourmet dining, and high-end shopping with an expansive network of ski runs catering to all skill levels. Prepare to be pampered both on and off the slopes.

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy: dolomite glamour and diverse slopes

Snow-covered alpine chalets surrounded by pine forests and mountain peaks in Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy, under a clear blue sky — Known as the "Queen of the Dolomites," Cortina d'Ampezzo is a world-famous ski resort that hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics

Immerse yourself in the dolce vita lifestyle at Cortina d'Ampezzo in Italy. This glamorous Dolomite resort captivates visitors with its refined atmosphere and diverse range of trails. From gentle descents to challenging black runs, Cortina offers a perfect blend of sophistication and alpine adventure.

Verbier, Switzerland: a playground for skiing and snowboarding aficionados

A skier carves through deep powder on a steep snow-covered slope in Verbier, Switzerland, under a clear blue sky — Verbier is part of the renowned "4 Vallées" ski area and is a top destination for off-piste skiing snapped by Alex Lange

Renowned as a mecca for both skiing and snowboarding, Verbier in Switzerland attracts adrenaline seekers from around the globe. With its extensive freeride terrain and vibrant après-ski scene, this resort town promises an unforgettable experience for winter sports enthusiasts of all levels.

Kitzbühel, Austria: iconic races and diverse skiing levels

snow-covered ski slope in Kitzbühel, Austria, featuring ski lifts ascending the mountain and stunning alpine peaks in the background — Kitzbühel is home to the legendary Hahnenkamm downhill ski race, one of the most challenging and celebrated events on the World Cup circuit

Famous for hosting the legendary Hahnenkamm race, Kitzbühel in Austria combines world-class skiing with a charming medieval town. Whether you're tackling the formidable Streif downhill course or exploring the varied trails for all abilities, Kitzbühel offers an enchanting alpine escape.

Moritz, Switzerland: where glamour meets world-class skiing

A skier glides down a pristine snow-covered slope under a clear blue sky in St. Moritz, Switzerland — St. Moritz is a world-famous luxury ski resort and has twice hosted the Winter Olympics, in 1928 and 1948

Known as the birthplace of winter tourism, St. Moritz, Switzerland, exudes glamor and sophistication. This resort town, frequented by royalty and celebrities, offers a world-class skiing experience amid stunning landscapes. Prepare to be enchanted by the blend of luxury, culture, and exceptional winter sports.

These ski resort destinations in Western Europe are not just about conquering slopes - they're about immersing yourself in a world where natural beauty meets adrenaline-pumping adventure. Whether you seek challenging runs, glamorous surroundings, or lively après-ski scenes, each destination on this list promises a winter wonderland experience like no other. Get ready to embark on an alpine journey filled with thrilling descents, breathtaking panoramas, and memories that will last a lifetime. Happy skiing! 🎿❄️

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Anastasia Marysheva

Originally from Russia, over the last 13 years Anastasia has lived in several different places, including Málaga, Madrid, Edinburgh, and Prague. As part of the Content team at Daytrip, she researches destinations and picks out the most compelling attractions for the website. While working on Colombia, she discovered Minca, a lovely town up in the Sierra Nevada; it became her favorite destination when she visited it a few years later.