Top Countries for Snow Sports

There are more than¹ 6,000 ski resorts around the world. Picking the right one for your winter break is tough. Forbes Advisor looked at over 6,000 ski resorts. They checked the quality, cost, and how easy it is to get there. From this, they picked the top 50 places for skiing and snowboarding. The places were rated on 14 points, like slope length, customer reviews, and price. European spots, especially ones in France, Switzerland, and Austria did the best. They took most of the top 10 spots.

Key Takeaways

Europe, especially France, Switzerland and Austria, dominate the top ski destinations worldwide.
Factors like slope variety, resort facilities, and value for money are crucial in determining the best ski areas.
Destinations that offer both snow sports and coastal activities are growing in popularity.
Scenic mountain settings and picturesque villages add to the allure of the top ski resorts.
Families and beginners have a wealth of options for accessible and affordable ski vacations.

Introducing the World’s Best Ski Destinations

Discover the best ski places this winter. From the incredible Alps to North America’s cool slopes, there’s a lot to see. These amazing spots cater to all, whether you’re new or a pro. They’re perfect for sunset travel destinations, beach vacations, scenic getaways, and more.

The Forbes Advisor World Ski Index made a list of the 50 top ski spots. They looked at things like the best North American resorts and places for different ski levels².

From majestic Alps to powdery North American slopes

In the Swiss Alps, Gstaad Palace has been around for more than 100 years. It’s a must-visit for winter fans². Don’t miss the Black Wall at Glacier 3000 with its 265-meter tunnel and a steep 41° slope for thrill-seekers².

Head to North America’s top ski spots next. Montage Big Sky in Montana is huge, with 5,850 skiable acres. That’s more than an acre for each skier². They have a fun Powder Park with a big tubing hill².

In Utah, Montage Deer Valley is perched at 8,300 feet above sea level². Enjoy adventures like Backcountry Snowmobiling and Snowshoeing with Compass Sports².

In Colorado, High Road at Arrowhead Village offers top-tier stays. They have features like stone fireplaces and private hot tubs². Check out the luxury services of Inspirato, too, which partners with High Road².

The Dolder Grand in Zurich, Switzerland, tempts with its Blooms Restaurant. It’s earned two Michelin stars for its delicious, sustainable Swiss food². Be sure to visit its massive spa and enjoy a top-notch wellness experience².

“The world’s best ski destinations offer unparalleled experiences for those seeking sunset travel destinations, beach vacations, scenic getaways, golden hour adventures, coastal retreats, romantic escapes, tropical paradises, mountain sunsets, off-the-beaten-path hideaways, and photogenic journeys.”

Les Trois Vallées: The Crown Jewel of the French Alps

Les Trois Vallées is in the French Alps. It’s the biggest connected ski area worldwide. You can ski in eight resorts for £59 (€68) a day³. There’s something for everyone, from the lively Val Thorens to the family-favorite Meribel⁴. This massive area has slopes in four valleys. It’s perfect for skiers of all levels.

This place is amazing at sunset. The golden hour adventures and mountain sunsets are breathtaking. Visit the French Alps and find the special spots in Les Trois Vallées. It’s a journey through stunninglandscape.

Les Trois Vallées has spots for both party lovers and families. With its ski season that runs from November to May⁵, it feels like a tropical paradise. Imagine skiing while surrounded by beautifulmountain sunsets.

Ski Resort	Highlights	Accommodation
Val Thorens	Longest ski season from November to May⁵ Variety of activities like snow mountain biking, ice driving, ziplining, and toboggan runs⁵ Hosted the 2023 FIS Alpine Ski World Championships⁴	High-quality ski-in/ski-out hotels and apartments⁵ Early booking discounts up to 25% off luxury hotels⁵ Hotel Altapura starting at £1265 per person⁵ Residence Le Hameau du Kashmir starting at £750 per person⁵
Courchevel	Hosted the 2023 FIS Alpine Ski World Championships⁴ Four separate villages, with Courchevel 1850 being the highest⁴ Le Confidentiel restaurant with memorabilia from ski races and Olympic Games⁴	Exceptional restaurants paying tribute to the epic history of the Olympic Games⁴ Luxury spa experiences at the Hôtel 3 Vallées⁴

Looking for a romantic spot or just a beautiful place? Les Trois Vallées has what you need. It’s a photogenic journey that makes unforgettable memories. Check out the best of this off-the-beaten-path hideaway and plan your golden hour adventures in the French Alps.

“Les Trois Vallées is a true winter wonderland, offering everything from world-class skiing to charming mountain villages and stunning scenery. It’s a must-visit destination for any snow sports enthusiast.”

Les Portes du Soleil: A Skier’s Interconnected Paradise

Looking for the ultimate ski adventure? Les Portes du Soleil is your spot, crossing Switzerland’s and France’s borders. It’s a vast interconnected area perfect for sunset travels, golden hour activities, and stunning photo ops⁶.

It covers 373 miles of slopes, 320 runs, and 174 lifts for all skill levels⁶. You’ll find great snow from November to May due to the high altitude and glacier surroundings. From La Cime Caron, see amazing views of 1,000 peaks in the Alps⁶.

But it’s not just about skiing. There are quiet places, romantic getaways, and the coastline to enjoy. Plus, the place has 40 bars, 60 restaurants, and the Alps’ biggest nightclub for fun nights. Les Portes du Soleil has it all for any kind of traveler⁶.

Spanning Switzerland and France with endless terrain

Les Portes du Soleil stands out for linking France and Switzerland without repeating trails. Thanks to this vast ski network, you can enjoy a variety of terrains. From the Swiss Alps’ grandeur to France’s charming slopes, it’s all there⁶.

Looking for a special winter adventure? Les Portes du Soleil is it. With its snowy slopes, diverse scenery, and lively après-ski, it’s perfect for sunset travel destinations and golden hour adventures⁶.

Les Quatre Vallées: Switzerland’s Iconic Ski Area

In the heart of the Swiss Alps lies Les Quatre Vallées. It’s a dreamy place for skiing, with over 410 km of slopes. These slopes cater to everyone, from beginners to experts⁷.

Verbier 4Vallées area is perfect for mountain sunsets. You’ll find stunning golden hour adventures among the peaks. Don’t miss the chance to see Mont-Fort glacier’s off-the-beaten-path hideaways⁸.

Verbier stands out for its challenging off-piste options. It’s a hot spot for freestyle scene lovers from all over⁷. The Nendaz Freeride event shows why it’s a snowboarders’ paradise⁷.

But there’s more to Les Quatre Vallées than just skiing. It’s also a winter wonderland with plenty to do. From 130 km of winter hiking paths to over 40 places for a meal, including a top gourmet spot. You can also relax in Nendaz’s famous Spa des Bisses⁷.

All year round, Les Quatre Vallées is alive with fun events. From the Big Winter Opening to the Nendaz Snow Vibes Festival. There’s always something exciting happening in this scenic getaway⁷.

“Les Quatre Vallées is a true winter playground, offering unparalleled skiing, breathtaking scenery, and a wealth of activities for all to enjoy. It’s a destination that will captivate your heart and leave you craving for more.” – Mountain Enthusiast

Vail: A Legendary Ski Resort in the Rockies

Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Vail is known worldwide for its skiing. It spans 5,289 acres of terrain, easily reached from Denver. This makes it perfect for sunset trips, scenic getaways, and golden hour adventures.

Vail is famous for its iconic bowl skiing, attracting skilled skiers and snowboarders. It has seven Legendary Back Bowls and three parks for varying skills. These include the Sun Down Bowl, China Bowl, and more, offering exciting runs and stunning views.

But there’s more to Vail than skiing. It’s a lively town with lots to do in winter and summer. Activities range from snowmobiling to mountain biking⁹. The town also holds events like the GoPro Mountain Games and the Vail Dance Festival, which draw outdoor lovers and culture fans.

For a deeper look, visitors can explore the nearby Camp Hale’s historic 10th Mountain Division site. Or visit the Colorado Ski and Snowboard Museum, showcasing mountain soldier history. With its skiing, activities, and history, Vail is a top choice for scenic, unique adventures.

Bowl Skiing and Stunning Mountain Views

Vail’s Legendary Back Bowls stand out as a top spot for skiers and riders. They range from China Bowl’s vast spaces to Siberia Bowl’s challenging glades. These features make Vail a skier’s paradise, known for its stunning views.

There’s also fun for those looking for a different experience. Vail’s parks, like Avanti Park and Golden Peak, offer various features. They have pipes and jibs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the over 5,300 skiable acres and 32 lifts available.

Whistler Blackcomb: Canada’s Largest Ski Playground

In the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, you’ll find Whistler Blackcomb. It’s a magical place and one of the top sunset travel spots globally¹⁰. This big ski resort in North America offers more than 200 trails across twin mountains¹⁰. It’s great for everyone, from experts to beginners¹⁰.

Whistler Blackcomb is not just for skiing. It’s an all-year circus for anyone who loves the outdoors¹⁰. You can enjoy biking, hiking, golfing, or relaxing by a lake¹⁰. The place is full of fun providers, where you can get everything from tours to spa treats¹⁰.

British Columbia’s nature is breathtaking. You can stay in luxury hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, or in nature¹⁰. Getting to Whistler Blackcomb is easy no matter how you travel, making it a key place for sunset travel and mountain sunsets lovers¹⁰.

Activity	Description
Glacier Sightseeing Tours	Explore the stunning glaciers of Whistler Blackcomb by helicopter¹¹.
Snowmobile Adventures	Embark on thrilling snowmobile excursions through the pristine wilderness terrain¹¹.
Mountaintop Dining	Indulge in unique dining experiences like fondue dinners and salmon bake barbecues, accessible by various modes of transportation¹¹.
Whitewater Rafting	Experience the rush of whitewater rafting on rivers like the Cheakamus, Elaho-Squamish, and Green River¹¹.
PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola	Enjoy unparalleled views of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains from the world’s longest unsupported lift¹¹.

From exciting golden hour adventures to peaceful coastal retreats, Whistler Blackcomb is a dream place for every traveler¹². It’s perfect for a romantic escape or a family-friendly getaway. This gem in Canada is the top choice for a scenic break¹².

“Whistler Blackcomb is a winter wonderland that offers more than just world-class skiing. It’s a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with a diverse range of activities and unparalleled natural beauty.”

Lake Louise: Picturesque Skiing in Banff National Park

Lake Louise sits in Canada’s Rockies, a dreamy winter spot. It’s the biggest ski resort in Banff with 4,200 skiable acres and 160 runs. Skiers and snowboarders of every level will find their paradise here¹³. The area is known for its high snowy peaks, the pure ice of Lake Louise, and the cozy Fairmont Chateau rests on the lake’s edge. It’s an ideal place for anyone who loves winter sports and beautiful views.

The lake is hard to reach directly. Starting in early 2023, you’ll need to use a special shuttle, stay at the Moraine Lake Lodge, take a bus, or go with a private tour¹⁴. The road to the lake is only open from June 1 to October 14 each year before closing due to snow and avalanche danger¹⁴. Lake Louise itself turns into a giant ice sheet from late October to early June most years¹⁴.

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise sits right on the lake. It’s a top spot for luxury but also comes with a bigger price¹⁴. Besides skiing, there’s stand-up paddleboarding, hikes, and even ice climbing. So, there’s something for everyone here¹³.

If you want to see more than Lake Louise, check out Peyto Lake nearby. It’s famous for its shape and blue water. The Banff Gondola is also a must-do. It gives you an eight-minute, 2,292-foot ride over trees and mountains. The view is simply stunning¹⁴¹³.

Lake Louise is perfect for skiers, nature lovers, and anyone who loves winter. It’s a hidden treasure with lots of things to do and see. A gorgeous and exciting spot in the heart of Banff National Park¹⁴¹³¹⁵.

Big Sky: Epic Vertical Drops and Uncrowded Slopes

In the Rocky Mountains, Big Sky Resort in Montana is a top pick for adventurers. It’s perfect for those who love beautiful getaways and gorgeous mountain sunsets. Skiers and snowboarders find joy in its wide range of trails, long runs, and lower visit numbers¹⁶.

Big Sky Resort has 5,850 acres to ski, making it one of North America’s biggest. Its drop of 4,350 feet is impressive. There are many tough black diamond paths for the daring¹⁶. After skiing fades, the resort swaps to 40 miles of biking trails, with some hard-to-reach spots only open by lift. This makes it a must-see in the summer for unique adventures¹⁶.

In the evenings, life at Big Sky might not be wild, but it’s calm. This calm means more peaceful ski days. Plus, Yellowstone National Park is just a 50-mile drive away. Winter there is magical with fewer people around¹⁶.

Big Sky also has local shops, pretty places to walk, and great food. The restaurants not only offer local dishes but also craft beers from Beehive Basin Brewery¹⁶.

For skiing and nature lovers, Big Sky is a hidden paradise. It offers thrilling adventures and quiet corners to explore, all in a breath-taking mountain scene¹⁶.

Aspen Snowmass: Four Areas, One Iconic Destination

Aspen Snowmass sits in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, a top choice for winter sports fans. It has four main ski spots – Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Snowmass, and Aspen Highlands. This famous spot welcomes all kinds of adventurers, from pros to family holiday-goers¹⁷.

From Buttermilk’s X Games to Aspen’s Luxury

There’s something for everyone at Aspen Snowmass. Buttermilk is known worldwide for holding the Winter X Games since 2002. It brings in daring athletes from everywhere¹⁸. Meanwhile, Aspen Mountain is famous for its glam vibe. It’s a top pick for travelers looking for a luxurious holiday or a romantic spot¹⁷.

The area is surrounded by the grand Rocky Mountains. It includes Snowmass, a large skiing area with over 3,300 acres of land¹⁹. Plus, Aspen Highlands offers tough trails and stunning views, loved by locals¹⁷.

Getting around the ski areas is easy with a free shuttle service. It connects all four spots. So, you can explore from family slopes to tough runs without hassle¹⁹.

Aspen Snowmass also has lots to do beyond skiing. Check out Maroon Bells or Camp Aspen Snowmass for more adventures. It’s perfect for any kind of trip, be it seeking adventure or a serene escape¹⁸.

With varied terrains, posh amenities, and stunning nature, Aspen Snowmass is a prime choice. It suits everyone, from adventurers to those seeking a peaceful holiday. There’s something for every visitor to enjoy¹⁷.

“Aspen Snowmass has it all: amazing skiing, beautiful scenes, and luxury. It’s a true winter wonderland, perfect for everyone’s dream holiday, whether fast-paced or calm.”

Aspen Snowmass Snapshot	Key Details
Elevation	7,908 feet¹⁷
Ski Areas	Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, Snowmass¹⁷
Distance from Denver	Less than four hours by car¹⁷
Airport	Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE)¹⁷
Town Population	Less than 10,000 people¹⁷
Lift Ticket Access	One ticket provides access to four separate mountains¹⁷

For a thrilling winter break, a romantic holiday, or family fun, Aspen Snowmass is ideal. Its superb skiing, luxury amenities, and beautiful nature make it perfect for a sunset trip, beach vacation, or memorable travel¹⁸¹⁷¹⁹.

Sunset travel destinations: Europe’s Best for Bluebird Skiing

Europe’s top ski spots light up brilliantly at dusk, showcasing nature’s stunning beauty. The Alps’ grand peaks and the cozy valleys’ villages provide the best settings for your snowy fun²⁰.

Get lost in the Dolomites’ charm with the affordable Dolomiti Superski pass. This pass lets you ski in 15 resorts for just $78 daily²⁰. In places like Val di Fassa, you can join group ski lessons for $71. They’re often taught in English for visitors’ convenience²⁰. Near the slopes, you’ll find easy-to-reach ski gear rentals, perfect for quick mountain access.

Move off the usual ski trails and find Europe’s hidden treasures. Enjoy the poetic beauty of Provence with its lavender fields against snowy mountains’ backdrop²¹. Mykonos charms with its bright blue seas and white buildings, ideal for celebrating after skiing²¹.

Looking for a quieter ski adventure? The Dolomites offer something for everyone, from newbies to experts. Plus, many resorts cater to families, making it great for a winter holiday with your loved ones²⁰.

Don’t forget to taste the local foods as you explore. The Dolomites serve up hearty mountain meals, while the French Riviera offers fresh seafood²⁰. These dishes bring flavors from the area’s rich culture to your plate.

Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a scenic journey, Europe’s ski spots promise an unforgettable experience. They’ll enchant you with the magic of the mountains and the charm of sunset²².

Destination	Highlights
Dolomites, Italy	Dolomiti Superski pass for $78 per day, accepted at 15 resorts²⁰ Group ski lessons for $71 per day, often taught in English²⁰ Convenient ski equipment rentals near gondolas Diverse slopes for all skill levels²⁰ Family-friendly resorts²⁰ Hearty Alpine cuisine²⁰
Provence, France	Stunning landscapes with vineyards and lavender fields²¹ Opportunity to explore the region’s diverse scenery
Mykonos, Greece	Chic villas and turquoise waters²¹ Vibrant après-ski scene

As the daylight fades behind the grand peaks, Europe’s ski destinations turn into magical havens. They blend awe-inspiring landscapes, outstanding skiing, and deep cultural experiences, ideal for your sunset escapades²².

Top Ski Countries for Beginners and Families

Finding the perfect ski destination for beginners and families is easy. Many top countries offer amazing ski spots. From the Alps to North America, these places are perfect for new skiers and families.

For example, the French Alps offer Les Trois Vallées. Over half its 600 km area consists of blue runs, great for learning²³. Les Portes du Soleil, on the border of Switzerland and France, has 310 km of blue slopes. This makes it easy to ski for beginners²³.

Across the Alps, Val d’Isère is a good pick for new skiers. It’s been improved for novices and families, with special terrain²³.

Ski Resort	Highlights for Beginners and Families
Saas Fee, Switzerland	3 T-bars for beginners and supervised easy slopes²³
Lech, Austria	Less crowded mountain access, perfect for learners²³
Cervinia, Italy	A lot of easy runs for beginners²³
Avoriaz, France	Easy blues and nursery slopes near the village²³
Alpbach, Austria	Nursery slopes designed for new skiers²³

North American ski spots are also great for families. Park City, Utah, is a top choice with easy access from Salt Lake City²⁴. Deer Valley, also in Utah, is known for luxury and added skiable areas²⁴.

These top ski spots in Europe and North America are perfect for learners and families. They offer lots of beginner areas, schools, and family services. They promise a memorable snowy holiday.

“Skiing is not just a sport, it’s a way of life. And when you find the right resort, it becomes a home away from home.”

So, get your snow gear ready and head to one of these top ski countries. Be ready for an amazing time on the slopes.

Snowboarders’ Paradise: The Best Resorts for Riding

If you love snowboarding, there are top places perfect for the ultimate experience. North America’s wide terrain parks and the European Alps’ snow are thrilling. Riders of any skill will find these spots amazing.

In North America, Whistler stands out with over 8,000 acres of land and many features for snowboarders²⁵. Across the border, Revelstoke in Canada offers special riding areas and cat-boarding. Mammoth Mountain in the USA is great for learners and intermediate riders with its snow parks and ski school²⁵.

Heading to Europe, the French Alps have awesome spots like Serre Chevalier, known for its challenging landscape and vast snow park. Villeneuve also has cool areas for those who love freestyle²⁵.

In Switzerland, Davos is rich in terrain and has a famous freestyle spot called JatzPark²⁵. Nearby Verbier offers access to a huge skiing area, perfect for different snowboarding skills. Laax, with its big halfpipe and freestyle training, is also a top choice hosting big snowboarding events²⁵.

If you want a special experience, Mayrhofen in Austria has the Harakiri black piste, known for its steepness. Ischgl, also in Austria, has the biggest snowboard fun park in Europe, ideal for young and freestyle riders²⁵.

For all types of snowboarders, these destinations are the best. They offer unforgettable experiences, making them ideal places for an adventure²⁶.

Après-Ski Hotspots: Where to Party on the Slopes

After a day of skiing, the party starts at many top ski spots. Val Thorens is famous for its nightlife, and Courchevel stands out with Michelin-star meals. Les Trois Vallées offers many après-ski choices, from fun to fancy²⁷.

The fun’s not only in the French Alps, though. St. Anton in The Alps shines with its après scene, known for its huts and bars²⁷. For a classier time, Lech has options like champagne and oysters. But this luxury comes with a high price²⁷.

Ischgl, in the Silvretta Arena, is a true party place, while Samnaun is peaceful. This makes Samnaun perfect for a calm drink²⁷.

From Traditional Chalets to Lively Nightlife

Après-ski is all about choices. You can snug up in an alpine chalet or dance all night. There’s something for everyone in the best ski spots²⁸²⁹.

Ski Resort	Après-Ski Highlights
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado	Venga! Venga! is a popular spot with a Mexican-inspired menu including sangria, tacos, and table-side guacamole²⁷.
Squaw Valley, California	KT Base Bar is a laid-back spot where visitors can indulge in classic carnitas nachos and beverages²⁷.
Mammoth Mountain, California	The Yodler serves Bavarian-style fare including a 12-inch German pretzel with mustard and cheese dip²⁷.

No matter your après-ski style, there’s fun to be had. From loud parties to quiet nights, every top spot has something for you. So, enjoy your time on the mountain safely²⁷²⁸²⁹.

Conclusion

From the majestic Uluru in Australia to the breathtaking Maldives and the lush landscapes of Haleakalā in Hawaii, stunning sunset spots let you experience nature’s wonders. They are perfect for golden hour adventures or romantic escapes³⁰³¹.

Do you want to relax by the sea in Santorini, Greece, experience tropical beauty in Bali, Indonesia, or find a quiet spot in the Norwegian Fjords? These journeys promise memories that will last forever³⁰³²³¹.

Ready to go? Get your bags, camera, and prepare for breathtaking views. With so many beautiful places to pick from, your next vacation for sunset views or golden hour will be amazing³⁰³².

FAQ

What is the Forbes Advisor World Ski Index?

The Forbes Advisor World Ski Index is a detailed study. It looked at over 6,000 ski resorts globally. The goal was to find the top 50 ski and snowboarding destinations based on quality, cost, and how easy they are to get to.

Which countries have the top-performing ski resorts?

In Europe, countries like France, Switzerland, and Austria stood out. These places had the best ski resorts. Nine out of the top 10 were in these European nations.

What are some of the best ski resorts in Europe?

Les Trois Vallées in the French Alps is highlighted by the study. It’s known as the world’s largest linked ski area. Also, Les Portes du Soleil, on the French-Swiss border, and Les Quatre Vallées in Switzerland, are among Europe’s best ski spots.

What are the best ski resorts in North America?

Vail in the US and Whistler Blackcomb in Canada are top choices. Additionally, Lake Louise in Banff National Park ranks high. These North American resorts provide varied terrains and great amenities for visitors.

What are the best ski resorts for advanced skiers?

For advanced skiers, Big Sky in the US and Verbier in Switzerland are top picks. They offer tough terrains and alpine bowls. These places are perfect for skiers looking for a challenge.

Which ski resorts are best for beginners and families?

Places like Les Trois Vallées and Les Portes du Soleil stand out for beginners and families. They have many beginner-friendly blue runs. This makes them ideal for those just starting out in skiing.

What are the top ski resorts for snowboarders?

Vail and Serre Chevalier in France are great for snowboarders. So are the Villeneuve parks with their terrain features. These spots provide exciting experiences for snowboarding enthusiasts.

Where can I find the best après-ski scenes?

For great après-ski, look at Les Trois Vallées, St. Anton, and Lech. These European resorts offer amazing nightlife. They also have spots for champagne and fine dining.