The art of skiing is both majestic and beautiful, but equally difficult to master. In recent years, it has transformed from a specialty sport for adrenaline junkies into a mainstream hobby for the masses. In the United States, skiing is one of the most popular winter sports, raking in millions of avid skiers to some of the most beautiful spots across the world, most popularly in European countries like Italy and France and of course, Aspen in the U.S. We’ve listed some of the most breathtaking resorts for both skiers and keen winter vacationers to see, as these locations are perfect for those looking for the ideal terrains to slide through and others who simply want to relax by some of the most picturesque mountain views in the world.
Aspen Meadows Resort, Aspen, USA
L’Alpe d’Huez, South East France
Located in the heart of the French Alps, L’Alpe d’Huez has a renowned reputation for drawing in vacationers all year round. The unique combination of sunshine beaming down on their icy slopes has allowed frequenters to create its nickname, ‘L’Isle de Soleil’, or Island of the Sun. With the addition of its famous French cuisine and cozy suites to return to after a day filled with skiing, this resort has won the ‘Famille Plus’ award, becoming an ideal location for families to spend their winters (and summers) in.
Madonna de Campiglio, Italy
Many have said that the true spirit of Italy thrives in this ski resort. Perhaps Italy is not primarily known amongst the general public for its snowy attractions, but Madonna de Campilgio combines the essence of Italian culture and cuisine (after all, this is Italy) with absolutely stunning slopes, decorated by stark white snow and gorgeous emerald pine forests. As a bonus, it’s considered to be just a smidgen more affordable than its French counterpart.
Verbier, Switzerland
Switzerland may be considered one of the most expensive locations, but its snowy Alpine locations and views are nothing short of jaw-dropping. Verbier is a gateway to three other main Alpine ski locations, making it ideal for exploration. It is also home to one of the largest and most exciting ski terrains, a dream for true winter sports lovers, and therefore one of the most popular locations on the list.
Amirsoy, Uzbekistan
Although it may surprise you, this location is for those looking to venture into ski locations not among the obvious. Uzbekistan may not strike you as the typical ski location, but nevertheless, avid skiers have dubbed Amirsoy as the current ‘location to watch’. Its doors opened just a mere 3 years ago, but they have already become an increasingly exciting resort for winter goers. Double landlocked and as far from the sea as possible, the snow therefore stays light and fluffy for days on end.
Niseko, Japan
Known as the most famous ski resort in Japan, Niseko Resort is located 90 kilometers from Hokkaido. Filled with breathtaking trails, snow parks, and hot springs, around two-thirds of its yearly goers are beginners and intermediate skiers, making it a welcoming location for intrigued tourists looking to get started.
St. Anton, Austria
Much like Verbier, St. Anton is interconnected with other popular ski villages in the area, consisting of over 300 kilometers of marked slopes and off-piste trails. St. Anton is amongst one of the most legendary alpine attractions and is known as the first ski club in the Alps, founded in 1901. It is not only abundant in ski culture but fine food, shops, and visually stunning ski lifts.
Park City Resort, Utah, USA
Located 32 miles east of Salt Lake City, Park City Resort is known for being frequented by the U.S Ski Team. Offering over 7,300 acres of skiable land, it’s a popular destination dubbed as one of the second largest ski resorts in Utah. Aside from this, there is a multitude of exciting activities; including a bubble lift and a gorgeous gondola ride, as well as spas and restaurants at the base of the slopes for those looking to have a much more peaceful vacation. It’s a bustling location full of things to do for vacationers keen on having a diverse selection of choices.
