Choosing the Perfect Ski Resort

Tignes – One of the Alps’ most popular resorts and for good reason, Tignes is popular with groups, families and powder hounds alike. The ski area is exceptional, with plenty for skiers of all abilities, as well as unparalleled off piste terrain. Due to its impressively high altitude, Tignes is the perfect spot for early and late season holidays, with a far longer season than many other resorts.

Pas de la Casa – A ski resort perhaps more well known for its party reputation than its impressive ski area, Pas de la Casa is finally getting the attention it deserves as a serious ski destination. Its high altitude, coupled with the numerous snow cannons covering the ski area, mean it offers reliable snow, all season long. The après-ski is still highly entertaining, with many lively bars in resort and great value duty-free shopping!

Montgenèvre – This picture-perfect village with a great snow record lies on the Italian border, with sun-drenched slopes up to 2,700m. A historic resort, which recently celebrated 100 years, it sits amongst 110km of local pistes, with a total of up to 400km of piste when counting the entire area across the border into Italy.

La Plagne – La Plagne is one of our absolute top picks for family ski holidays. It’s got the convenience that families will adore, with the majority of accommodation being right on the slopes, pedestrianised town centres and a huge range of off-slope activities. La Plagne is part of the massive Paradiski area, where younger skiers will enjoy wide, gentle slopes, while mum and dad can take their pick of the 425km of piste on offer.

Les Menuires – Les Menuires sits in the heart of the 3 Vallées ski area, the world’s largest, boasting 600km of linked ski runs. A recipient of the coveted French “Family Plus” award, it is surrounded by accessible beginner slopes, kids clubs and fun zones, as well as entertaining non-skiing activities.

La Rosiere – Another firm family favourite, La Rosiere prides itself on its peaceful, traditional village atmosphere, its incredible views over the valley and its impressively family-friendly ski area. Kids will love being able to ski over into Italy for a pizza or pasta lunch, enjoying the incredible scenery and sunny, tree-lined routes.

Avoriaz – Towering high in the massive Portes du Soleil ski area, Avoriaz gives skiers access to an impressive 650km of skiing. It’s the ideal destination to explore and enjoy varied terrain, with a options for all types of skier, making it a great choice for groups of mixed abilities. The resort itself has a vibrant, buzzing town centre, with many bars and restaurants to keep you entertained.

St. Anton – Though St. Anton is often regarded as a ‘party’ destination, there’s so much more to this resort than just the loud and lively après-ski. The Arlberg ski area is one of Austria’s best, with a huge range of well-groomed pistes and off piste opportunities aplenty. The town itself retains a traditional charm, with a true mountain village feel and a huge variety of restaurants, cafes and bars serving up all types of cuisine.

Mayrhofen – In the heart of the Zillertal ski area, Mayrhofen offers something for everyone, whether you want to take on one of the steepest slopes in the world or whether you’re happiest gliding down gentle tree-lined runs. As the sun goes down, you can take your pick from the many atmospheric cafes, bars and restaurants, which provide entertainment late into the night.

Zell am Ziller – A charming village which offers some of the most picturesque views you’ll find in Austria, Zell am Ziller is a great option for those looking to truly escape the stresses of modern life this winter. The Zillertal region offers 143km of beautiful slopes and 52 lifts, so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to the skiing, as well as the numerous off-slope activities like tobogganing and curling. Nearby Mayrhofen offers a livelier vibe, but we’d always choose Zell am Ziller if we were after a peaceful getaway.

Galtur – If you really want to get away from the crowds, you can’t go wrong with Galtur. One of the highest ski resorts in Austria, you’re practically guaranteed two things; great snow and non-existent lift queues. A picturesque Tyrolean village, it’s a popular choice for families and couples, keeping a relaxed, quiet nature while the neighbouring Ischgl draws the crowds. Non-skiers can also experience the unique peace of the mountains here, with hiking, ice skating and snow-shoeing available, before settling down for a cosy après-ski drink or two.

Ischgl – With a reputation that precedes it, Ischgl is renowned as one of Europe’s must-visit resorts and is a favourite of many a celebrity. The skiing is more than impressive, with over 200km of perfectly prepared slopes and a long, snow-sure season. It’s a particularly enjoyable area for intermediate to advanced skiers, who will enjoy the varied terrain, off piste opportunity and challenging pistes. Off the snow, the area boasts luxury hotels and apartments to satisfy even the most decadent of tastes, with plenty of spa and wellness facilities to boot.

Alpe d’Huez – Alpe d’Huez is renowned as one of the sunniest resorts in the Alps and provides great value ski holidays. The ski area boasts over 250km of ski slopes up to 3,330m altitude and a glacier. This means it has a very reliable snow record, which coupled with the sunshine, can make for some incredible holiday memories. Over 100km combined of the ski runs are blue and green slopes, making Alpe d’Huez a great destination for less confident skiers. The resort itself is large, with a huge range of accommodation, restaurants and bars, mostly offering great value for skiers on more of a budget.

Livigno – One of Italy’s best-kept secrets, Livigno has a reputation for being one of the best value ski resorts in Europe. It’s a unique tax-free area, with charming cobbled streets, delicious Italian food, cheap local stores and some epic skiing. The ski area offers more than enough for all skiers, as well as exceptional off piste terrain and a lot of freestyle opportunities.