The Top 11 Most Amazing Mountain Ski Resorts in the World
Ski resorts are a tricky business. That is why, for one to make it into a list of the best, a lot of hard work, excellent management, and luck would have gone into it. Why do I say that? Because of one thing – snow. Yes, great ski resorts need to have great powder, but it goes beyond that. You see, snow can be very unpredictable. That is why I said luck is one of the key ingredients of a great ski resort. Too much snow and the resort becomes a hazardous place to be in, too little snow and it becomes mediocre.
So where can you find such great ski resorts? Ski resorts where everything works in harmony to give you the best vacation of your life? I’ll point my skis in 11 directions. You choose which you will follow. Here goes.
11 of the World’s Best Ski Resorts Revealed
Starting from position 11, here are the world’s most amazing mountain ski resorts. Each its own strong points but all will cater to your need for powder and the thrill it provides.
11. Niseko United, Japan
Officially Japan’s premier snow resort, Niseko United is located in Hokkaido, a 2 and a half hour drive from Chitose Airport. Renowned for its consistent 15m of quality powder every year, superb tree runs, and natural wide open bowls, it definitely deserves to make our top 11 list.
10. St Anton, Austria
St Anton, in the Arlberg region, is one of Austria’s best ski resorts. It has a history that dates as far back as 1901 and prides itself on being one of the major proponents of modern skiing. St Anton is also known for its very vibrant nightlife for those who enjoy a good party and dance after spending a day on its world-class slopes.
9. Castle Mountain, Alberta
Castle Mountain is run by adrenaline junkies for adrenaline junkies and it prides itself on 2 things – being a one of a kind co-operative-run ski resort, and its one of a kind cat skiing adventures. This activity-packed ski resort will leave you completely satisfied when it comes time to leave.
8. Vail, Colorado, USA
Offering more than 5 000 acres of developed ski terrain and a Swiss-style village, all set among one of the greatest mountain ranges in the world, Vail is one of the top hotspots when it comes to ski resorts. Easily America’s biggest ski resort, Vail has a lot of activities for everyone who visits.
7. Verbier, Switzerland
Nothing is as beautiful as snow on a sunny day. That’s what Verbier is known for – sun, snow, and gorgeous scenery. Oh, and the very lively apres-ski. Just like a Swiss, watch, this resort runs like clockwork – efficiency is its strong point, especially when it comes to the lift system. And like Swiss chocolate, you will always come back for more once you taste its sweet powder and slopes.
6. Courchevel, France
This multiple Michelin Star award winner is a ski resort that oozes of class. With slopes to suit all levels, exquisite lodgings, and excellent food, this is one ski resort that can easily clinch the “best family ski resort” title.
5. Lech, Austria
Despite it being a difficult place to get to, Lech am Arlberg is known for its magnetic power to attract society’s topmost figures – like the late Princess Diana, the Jordanian king, and countless other prominent figures. Once you make it to this resort though, you’ll discover just how much it’s worth all the trouble. With pristine accommodation and superb gourmet restaurants, this is as close to heaven as you can get on this earth.
4. Gstaad, Switzerland
The ski resort of Gstaad is so prominent it is home to 10 ski schools, and is a regular roost for royalty and celebrities. The near perfect powder and, definitely perfect, dining in this place make it a top contender for the “most amazing ski mountain resorts around the world” title. You will definitely enjoy your stay in this beautiful winter wonderland.
3. Revelstoke, British Columbia
Revelstoke is a beautiful yet rugged mountain that offers some of the best skiing experiences in the world – like heli-skiing if you’re up to it. A bit difficult to access, the extra effort is well worth it as this amazing mountain resort promises fun and unmatched adventure – and it certainly delivers.
2. Chamonix, France
The host of the 1924 winter Olympics, Chamonix is a spectacular ski resort that has slopes for every level of skier, though its best parts are for the more advanced ones. What you can definitely look forward to on your visit to Chamonix, though, is a lot of fun in the snow – Chamonix has some of the best snow on earth.
1. Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
Is Whistler the most amazing ski mountain resorts around the world? Most of the world thinks so, but then again, that is subjective. If beautiful surroundings, superb ski trails, excellent service, and a whole heap of fun make a ski resort worthy to be called the most amazing, then Whistler definitely is it.
How to Choose a Ski Resort
When looking into the perfect ski resort for your needs, it’s important to take some things into consideration. First off, you’ll want to see the skill level that they cater to. This could be beginners, intermediates, or experts.
You should also keep in mind what you want out of the ski resort, whether that be a big ski area, terrain parks, or powder.
Aren’t All Ski Resorts the Same
Nope! That’s far from the truth. They greatly vary between each other.
Obviously, they all offer skiing. However, the terrain plays a huge role.
For example, some resorts have small mountains and easy slopes. Others offer enormous mountains and very difficult slopes.
Additionally, nearly every ski resort offers some type of skiing and snowboarding class. However, these will vary in teaching style and the range of classes available.
Finally, each resort offers different amenities. While they all offer skiing, many are known for their non-skiing activities, some having nothing to do with snow. These include sledding, spa treatments, shopping, and sleigh rides.
What to Ask When Choosing a Ski Resort
When you’re deciding on a ski resort, there are some questions that you should ask yourself. These include:
What Should I Avoid?
Just because the name of the ski resort is well-known, doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for you. Do not choose a resort based solely on name recognition. It may not be a good fit for your skiing level or experience. Do your research first!
Can You Enjoy a Ski Resort on a Budget?
Definitely! If you want the best deals, you should go either early in the season or late in the season. But, this doesn’t mean the quality of your trip will be sacrificed!
Check the website of the ski resort for package deals that they may offer. At times, you could feel like you have the entire mountain to yourself and you didn’t have to spend a fortune to get it!
The top 11 most amazing mountain ski resorts in the world revealed. Time to hit the powder on one them!
Featured Image via Pixabay