A ski holiday is one of the most chic, invigorating and luxurious ways to escape it all. The problem is, however, that many other travellers know that too. When everyone decides to get away from it all at the same place, a holiday becomes an exercise in patience and keeping your temper, which is no way to relax. If you’re looking for exclusivity and a chance to escape the maddening crowds, you’ll find it at these locations: some of the most luxurious and exclusive ski resorts in the world.
Zürs, Austria
Luxury stay: Hotel Zürserhof
Austria is one of the first destinations that springs to mind when mulling over luxury ski destinations, and Zürs is its most exclusive destination. While it covers only a small area, Zürs is a favourite of the famous and royal (Princess Caroline of Monaco and Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands frequently take to the snow here).
However, it has retained its welcoming charm against the odds. There’s no ostentatious attitude or condescension here, despite being the haunt of the ultra-wealthy. It’s easy enough to reach by helicopter charter if you land at any of the airports near the village (Innsbruck, Altenrhein and Zürich are all excellent options), and the ride will provide incredible views.
While the skiing is spectacular, the apres ski or nightlife selection is relatively low-key compared to other destinations; if you’re seeking a nonstop party after a day on the slopes, this may not be the place for you. The hotels in Zürs are so opulent and lavish that most visitors don’t feel the need to leave them. If you want to get out a little after dark, visit Hotel Montana’s piano bar for smooth music and an excellent wine and champagne selection.
Klosters, Switzerland
Luxury Stay: Walserhof Hotel (haunt of King Charles)
While it’s not why most visitors head to Klosters (pronounced like CLAW, not CHLO), Klosters in Switzerland is the location of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s first public kiss; an interesting piece of history! Billionaires and millionaires have frequented Royal visits aside, this incredible ski resort for years: George Osborne spends around 11,000 GBP per visit, and a Rothschild has been spotted on the slopes too, as has Leonardo DiCaprio.
The village of Klosters is idyllic, a place that will make any visitor feel instantly at home. Thankfully, despite becoming one of the most desirable ski destinations on the planet, Klosters has maintained its authenticity. While skiing is the apparent reason to visit (and don’t forget this season’s gorgeous ski outfits), there’s much more going on here than just one winter sport, even such a prestigious one. There’s Madrisaland Adventure Park or mountain tobogganing for the little ones (Klosters is a very family-friendly destination), gorgeous boutiques and cosy cafes dot the village, and the view of the Sunniberg Bridge from the Landquart River is something incredible to see.
If you’re looking for something a little more adult-centric, you’ll find it at the Casa Antica nightclub. This locale is also famous for sightings of royals, its unparalleled service and discretion: Princess Diana was known to enjoy a dance and a little apres ski on the premises.
Courchevel 1850, France
Luxury stay: Ecrin Blanc Courchevel
© Kevin Oliveri-Vizelle
Opulence is the word here, and something the French know how to do better than anyone else. Courchevel 1850 (do not get that number wrong: such faux pas are not looked upon kindly) is known worldwide as the crown jewel of Les Trois Vallées, which is the largest ski area anywhere on earth. The alpine lifestyle is celebrated here with gusto: the chalets are all ultra luxurious, the boutiques in town only sell the most unattainable designer brands, the restaurants serve only the best French and international cuisine, and the impeccably maintained pistes offer an option for skiers of every level. Coyurcheel attracts some of the wealthiest and most famous people on the planet, and it’s easy to see why.
Foodies adore Courchevel for its many excellent restaurants, including the 2-Michelin-starred Airelles restaurant, which is decorated in uncharacteristically bright (for the slopes) jewel tones and exquisite Hermes tableware. There’s the Les Caves nightclub for a little after-hours apres-ski or Le Piggy’s piano and wine bar for some soul-soothing music and a good glass of cabernet.
Niseko United, Hokkaido, Japan
Luxury stay: Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Niseko United is perhaps a surprising addition to the list, as many people (even well-travelled skiers) forget that Japan has some of the best, lightest powder slopes in the world. Niseko is made up of four resorts on one single mountain, Niseko Annupuri. This mountain is within the borders of the Niseko-Shakotan-Otaru Kaigan Quasi-National Park (a mouthful, but well worth the visit anyway). The seasonal winds that blow in from the Eurasian continent and carry moisture from the Sea of Japan with them are why the snow clouds in Niseko deliver such smooth, fine, powdery snow, which is perfect for winter sports. The terrain on the mountain is gorgeous, even in winter, and varied enough that skiers of all levels can enjoy it.
Another benefit of visiting Niseko United is the traditional Japanese onsen hot springs, which could be a destination all on their own. A Japanese apres ski experience is like no other, offering traditional izakaya-style dining and fresh-caught seafood with deep-rooted respect and hospitality.
Ski Ready
Each destination on our list is favoured for a different reason and has a distinct character, but they all share one thing: exclusivity and luxury are what they do best. You’ll find no better skiing anywhere on the planet.
