Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a taste of luxury in the mountains, there are some truly memorable luxury ski resorts for a ski holiday. These exclusive ski resorts offer a five-star experience; choose between the top luxury ski hotels in the world, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants and make turns on perfectly groomed pistes. It doesn’t stop there either; think private airstrips, 20,000 bottle wine cellars, designer boutiques and art galleries. Welcome to the most luxurious ski resorts in the world.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the most high-end ski resorts and vacations for a truly luxurious experience.
- Explore premium mountain lodges and lavish slope-side accommodations that offer the height of exclusivity.
- Indulge in gourmet ski resort dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and enjoy exclusive après-ski experiences.
- Book bespoke ski vacation packages that cater to your every need, with vip ski resort services and elite ski resort amenities.
- Discover upscale ski lodging, ski boutique hotels, and lavish ski chalets for an indulgent ski trip like no other.
Gstaad, Switzerland: A Fairy Tale Alpine Charm
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, the picturesque village of Gstaad has retained its fairy tale-like charm, despite being one of the world’s most exclusive luxury ski destinations. Here, charming, traditional chalets stand in contrast to the fabulous designer boutiques, such as Prada and Ralph Lauren, that line the streets. Alongside these high-end shops, you’ll find an array of award-winning restaurants, offering gourmet Swiss cuisine and exceptional dining experiences for discerning palates.
Charming Traditional Chalets
As you wander through Gstaad’s snow-dusted streets, the traditional Swiss chalets with their wooden facades and steeply pitched roofs create a timeless, alpine ambiance. These charming residences evoke the region’s rich heritage and provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere for guests seeking a truly authentic luxury ski vacation.
Exclusive Designer Boutiques
Gstaad’s reputation as an upscale winter getaway is reinforced by the presence of elite designer boutiques that line the streets. From Prada and Ralph Lauren to other prestigious fashion houses, these exclusive shops cater to the discerning tastes of the luxury ski set, offering the latest in high-end apparel, accessories, and jewelry.
Award-Winning Restaurants
Foodies will delight in Gstaad’s vibrant dining scene, which features several award-winning restaurants serving exceptional gourmet Swiss cuisine. These elite establishments draw culinary enthusiasts from around the world, offering a chance to savor the finest Alpine-inspired dishes and indulge in exclusive après-ski experiences.
Iconic Gstaad Palace Hotel
One of the best resorts for a luxury ski holiday in Switzerland, Gstaad is home to the iconic Gstaad Palace Hotel. This five-star property embodies the region’s renowned Swiss hospitality and offers guests a truly glamorous stay, with its lavish accommodations, impeccable service, and stunning mountain views.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy: The Queen of the Dolomites
Often referred to as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a wonderfully glamorous luxury ski destination and one of Italy’s most upscale mountain resorts. The chic and lively town offers a perfect blend of fashion, gastronomy, and premium skiing experiences, catering to discerning travelers seeking an exclusive winter getaway.
Chic Boutique Shops
The streets of Cortina d’Ampezzo are lined with high-end boutique shops, from the latest designer apparel and accessories to premium mountain-inspired fashion. Whether you’re searching for the perfect ski outfit or seeking to indulge in some retail therapy, the town’s vibrant shopping scene caters to the tastes of the luxury ski set.
Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Cortina d’Ampezzo’s culinary prowess is equally impressive, boasting an array of Michelin-starred restaurants that elevate the dining experience to new heights. From innovative gourmet cuisine to traditional Italian fare, the resort’s thriving food scene promises to delight the palates of the most discerning epicureans seeking a premium ski resort dining experience.
Breathtaking Mountain Views
Nestled in the majestic Dolomiti Superski area, Cortina d’Ampezzo offers awe-inspiring mountain vistas that will captivate skiers and non-skiers alike. As you carve down the perfectly groomed pistes or savor a long lunch on a sun-drenched terrace, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the stunning Dolomite peaks, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your luxury ski getaway.
Zermatt, Switzerland: A Pedestrian Paradise
The exclusive Swiss ski resort of Zermatt is home to some of the highest skiing in Europe and is one of the best luxury ski destinations. The vast ski area consists of 360km of terrain, connected by ultra-modern lifts. The skiing at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise reaches up to a spectacular 3,883m. When you arrive at the glacier, take the peak lift to the highest viewing platform in Europe; the view up here really does justify the name ‘Glacier Paradise’.
Zermatt is pedestrianised, aside from the small electric cars used as taxis in resort. As a result, guests access Zermatt itself by a mountain train, leaving their cars behind. It’s a wonderful way to arrive in Zermatt and gives the feeling of entering another world. Just walking through the main streets, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most expensive ski resorts in the world. The streets are lined with designer shops, beautiful fairy lights adorn the buildings and small market stalls sell mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
360km of Terrain
Zermatt’s vast ski area offers premium mountain lodges and lavish slope-side accommodations for guests to enjoy the exclusive ski experiences and elite ski getaways. The well-connected, state-of-the-art lift system allows skiers to explore the entire 360km of immaculately groomed pistes.
Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
The highlight of the Zermatt ski area is the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which reaches an impressive elevation of 3,883m. This high-altitude skiing offers premium ski accommodations and exclusive après-ski experiences against the backdrop of the iconic Matterhorn peak.
Lavish Hotels with Matterhorn Views
Zermatt is home to a selection of upscale ski lodging and bespoke ski holidays, many of which boast stunning Matterhorn views. From ski boutique hotels to lavish ski chalets, Zermatt caters to the most discerning luxury ski getaways.
Aspen, Colorado: A Glitzy Mountain Town
Aspen lies in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, a popular destination for a luxury ski holiday to the USA. It’s one of America’s most upscale ski resorts and boasts a vast ski area. If you’re looking to arrive in Aspen in style, the premium mountain lodge even has its own airport. This luxury ski resort is a little more expensive but it is well worth it.
Extensive Ski Area
The town has an eclectic restaurant scene with every cuisine you could imagine – from farm-to-table, to vegan or sushi – and lures some of the countries top chefs down from New York. Aspen has a vibrant nightlife, and there are a number of exclusive après-ski experiences and private members clubs to choose between, such as the Caribou and Cigar Bar.
Eclectic Restaurant Scene
The luxury ski resort is home to fantastic designer boutiques such as Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton and surprisingly, over 50 art galleries. For bespoke ski vacation packages and lavish slope-side accommodations, Aspen offers some of the most premium ski accommodations and elite ski getaways in the country.
Vibrant Nightlife
Whether you’re seeking exclusive ski experiences, upscale ski lodging, or an indulgent ski trip, Aspen’s elite ski resort amenities and vip ski resort services make it one of the top luxury ski destinations in the United States.
Luxury Ski-In/Ski-Out Lodging
From bespoke ski holidays to lavish ski chalets, Aspen provides the ultimate in upscale winter getaways for those seeking the finest in premium mountain lodge experiences.
Courchevel, France: The Height of Alpine Luxury
Courchevel sits in the Three Valleys and is one of France’s most exclusive luxury ski destinations, with an incredible ski area to match. This upscale winter getaway has its own airstrip and helipad, allowing jet setters to fly in by private plane or helicopter. Courchevel is split into four villages, each with its own unique character, but we recommend 1850 for your ski holiday to France, as it is the highest and largest of the villages.
Three Valleys: Largest Ski Area
The Three Valleys is one of the world’s largest ski areas, with 600km of piste to explore. The slopes in Courchevel are meticulously maintained every night, ensuring guests wake up to perfectly groomed runs. Situated on the far side of the Three Valleys, Courchevel’s slopes are usually quiet, adding to the sense of exclusivity and premium mountain lodges.
Michelin-Starred Dining
It’s easy to see why Courchevel is considered one of the most expensive French ski resorts. Not only does it have the highest concentration of five-star hotels in France outside of Paris, but it also boasts the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the Alps, offering gourmet ski resort dining and exclusive après-ski experiences that are second to none.
Exclusive Five-Star Hotels
From lavish slope-side accommodations and premium ski accommodations to elite ski resort amenities and VIP ski resort services, Courchevel caters to the discerning traveler seeking the ultimate in luxury ski experiences and upscale ski lodging. Whether you’re looking for a bespoke ski vacation package or a ski boutique hotel, this elite ski getaway offers the height of Alpine luxury.
Lech, Austria: Exclusive Alpine Elegance
Lech is one of the most exclusive resorts in Austria, if not the world. Part of the incredible Arlberg ski area, Lech is top class on and off the slopes. The scenery is breath-taking and the skiing is fantastic. On your skiing holiday to Austria, you can explore an impressive 305km of pistes linking to neighbouring ski resorts St. Anton, Zürs, Warth and Schröcken.
Arlberg Ski Area
The Arlberg ski area is one of the largest and most renowned in the world, offering luxury ski destinations, upscale winter getaways, and premium mountain lodges for discerning skiers. With its extensive terrain and world-class amenities, the Arlberg ski region provides an exceptional exclusive ski experience and elite ski getaway for those seeking the ultimate in upscale ski lodging and bespoke ski holidays.
Luxurious Accommodations
Off the slopes, the choice of lavish slope-side accommodations and premium ski accommodations in Lech is brilliant. Whether it’s a chalet, hotel or an apartment, there are incredible 5-star options to book, offering the height of luxury ski destinations and elite ski resort amenities.
Fine Dining and Nightlife
In addition to the exceptional skiing, Lech also delivers on gourmet ski resort dining and exclusive après-ski experiences. Whether you’re looking for a classy piano bar or a vip ski resort serviceed fine-dining experience, this upscale ski lodging destination has it all. One of our favourite hotels is the Hotel Aurelio and Spa, which has all the state-of-the-art facilities and luxury you need to make your bespoke ski holiday one to remember.
High-End Ski Resorts and Vacations
Escaping into a wintery landscape where you can lose sense of time and sink into a hot tub after a long day on the slopes is arguably the best medicine for stress and anxiety. While Europe is renowned for its breathtaking luxury ski destinations and has a long tradition of attracting the rich and famous, premium mountain lodges in other parts of the world also offer equally enticing opportunities for world-class skiing and indulgence. A luxury ski vacation is more than conquering slopes. It’s being amid snow-draped Alpine chalets savoring gourmet ski resort dining, unwinding in private mountain retreats, experiencing horse-drawn carriage rides through snowy landscapes, indulging in exclusive après-ski experiences gazing at the iconic Matterhorn – and a lot more. From the deluge of destinations offering great experiences around the world, we’ve shortlisted some of the best luxury ski resorts for you to choose from.
Whether you’re seeking bespoke ski vacation packages, craving elite ski resort amenities and vip ski resort services, or dreaming of lavish slope-side accommodations and premium ski accommodations, these exclusive ski experiences and elite ski getaways will transport you to a world of upscale ski lodging, bespoke ski holidays, and ski boutique hotels. Indulge in indulgent ski trips and lavish ski chalets that offer the pinnacle of high-end ski resorts and vacations.
Badrutt’s Palace, Switzerland: Regal Experiences
Perched above the resort town of St. Moritz, Badrutt’s Palace will enchant you with its regal experiences. Indulge in a private horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow-laden streets, savor gourmet Swiss cuisine at a cozy restaurant set in a converted farmhouse, or rejuvenate at the opulent spa. This luxury ski destinations and upscale winter getaways promises to combine the thrill of skiing with exclusive après-ski experiences, making every moment of your vacation a truly elite ski getaway.
Private Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Imagine gliding through the picturesque snow-covered streets of St. Moritz in a private horse-drawn carriage, taking in the breathtaking premium mountain lodges and lavish slope-side accommodations that surround you. This regal experience is the perfect way to embrace the luxury ski destinations and bespoke ski holidays that Badrutt’s Palace has to offer.
Gourmet Swiss Cuisine
Savor the finest gourmet ski resort dining at Badrutt’s Palace, where you can indulge in authentic Swiss specialties in a cozy, converted farmhouse setting. Delight your palate with the freshest local ingredients and impeccable service, complementing your premium ski accommodations and upscale ski lodging.
Opulent Spa
After a day on the slopes, unwind and rejuvenate at the opulent spa at Badrutt’s Palace. Indulge in treatments that harness the elite ski resort amenities and vip ski resort services to provide a truly luxurious experience, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to embrace the next exclusive ski experiences that await.
Exclusive Ski Chalets in the French Alps
Easily considered one of the most attractive ski resorts in the French Alps, Courchevel 1850 is set in the centre of the Three Valleys in the resort region of Courchevel, which consists of four ski towns as well as exclusive hotels, Michelin restaurants and designer boutiques. Located just two minutes from Courchevel 1850,
Chalet Edelweiss
is equipped with the latest furnishings and facilities to enjoy the ultimate ski experience in style. Highlights include a private cinema, open fireplace, indoor hot tub and ‘ski in, ski out’ access.
Conveniently located in the serene La Mourra mountain hamlet, close to all the local amenities from the Val d’lsere village and, importantly, the slopes,
Chalet Chene
accommodates up to 16 guests. Famous for its quaint wooden chalets Méribel is one of the largest and most popular skiing destinations in France, with
Chalet Lapin Blanc
Luxurious Ski Retreats Around the World
When it comes to indulging in a premium ski vacation, the options around the world are truly exceptional. From the famed slopes of the Swiss Alps to the majestic Rockies in the United States, travelers seeking the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity have an array of breathtaking ski retreats to choose from. Let’s explore three standout examples that epitomize the height of lavish ski experiences.
The Lodge in Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier’s highly sought-after nine-bedroom luxury accommodation once served as a place of refuge for Sir Richard Branson and those within his inner circle. Today the alpine chalet is ideally situated close to the slopes with some impressive features that would be difficult to find in even the most luxurious ski lodges. Designed to be enjoyed throughout the summer and winter months, the chalet has both outdoor and indoor jacuzzis in addition to some more unusual options for exercise including an ice rink, party room, squash and tennis facilities alongside various entertainment options to keep you engaged in the gym.
Chalet Zeno in San Cassiano, Italy
Part of the Rosa Alpina Hotel, Chalet Zeno offers the services of a five-star hotel with the feeling of a private chalet in a prime location – the heart of the village and close to the Sella Ronda ski area. Guests can indulge in the ultimate in pampering and convenience during their stay in this picturesque Italian ski destination.
Four Peaks Estate in Aspen, USA
A popular ski destination, Aspen, is set in the White River National Forest surrounded by the majestic Elk Mountains which can be viewed from the floor-to-ceiling windows at the Four Peaks Estate. Styled with contemporary American designer furnishings, the sprawling five-bedroom property is ideal for entertaining with its chef-style kitchen and plush seating. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious base for your alpine adventures or a serene retreat to unwind after an exhilarating day on the slopes, the Four Peaks Estate provides the perfect setting.
Elite Japanese Ski Experiences
When it comes to finding the ultimate luxury ski destination, the elite Japanese resort of Niseko should be at the top of your list. Renowned for its world-class powder snow and expansive terrain, Niseko has become a beacon for discerning skiers and snowboarders seeking an exceptional winter getaway. Two standout properties in this premier ski destination are Chalet Kiraku and HakuVillas, offering unparalleled experiences for the most discerning of guests.
Chalet Kiraku in Niseko
Nestled in the heart of Niseko’s renowned powder fields, Chalet Kiraku is a true haven for the luxury ski enthusiast. This exclusive property boasts lavish slope-side accommodations, premium ski amenities, and bespoke services that cater to your every need. Indulge in the chalet’s impeccable design, featuring traditional Japanese aesthetics seamlessly blended with modern comforts. After a day carving through the pristine slopes, unwind in the private onsen or savor gourmet cuisine prepared by your personal chef.
HakuVillas in Niseko
For those seeking the ultimate in exclusive ski experiences, the HakuVillas in Niseko are the epitome of luxury. These lavish ski chalets offer unparalleled access to the region’s legendary powder, with direct “ski-in, ski-out” convenience. Designed to provide the ultimate in VIP resort services, the HakuVillas feature opulent interiors, private spas, and a dedicated team of staff to attend to your every whim. Whether you’re looking to host a corporate retreat or gather friends and family, these elite Japanese ski accommodations will elevate your winter getaway to new heights.