22 Top Ski Resorts In The Alps With Guaranteed Snowfall
The Alps are one of the best places in the world for winter sports. They have many ski resorts that welcome all kinds of travelers. Some are great for families, while others are perfect for solo trips or groups of friends. Wherever you go, the mountain views are amazing and unforgettable.
Author:Maya ReyesReviewer:Finn WildeMay 26, 202516.2K Shares772.3K Views
The Alps are known as Europe’s top destination for skiing. This huge mountain range covers France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy, and includes around 300 ski areas with over 3,400 square kilometers of slopes and lifts.
Tall snowy peaks and forested valleys are connected by a wide network of lifts, so skiers can often glide for long distances from one village to another. The Alps offer a great mix of landscapes, weather, and cultures, and each country brings its own style of skiing and hospitality.
We have selected 22 of the best Alp resorts, each chosen for what makes them special. Some are luxury spots with top hotels and fine dining, while others are perfect for families with kids, offering gentle slopes and good ski schools.
1. Val D'Isère, France
Val d'Isère - The Most CHARMING French Ski Resort
While some may find the crowds and higher costs at this large resort a drawback, Val d’Isère remains a top destination for experienced skiers. The area offers thrilling, high-quality slopes with reliable snowfall, supported by Europe’s largest artificial snow-making system. These slopes connect easily with nearby Tignes, creating one of the largest ski regions in France.
Val d’Isère also delivers on dining and nightlife, offering a lively atmosphere that makes it more than just a ski trip, it's a full holiday experience. This season brings several new food options both on and off the slopes, including L’Alpin in the village and three new spots on the Bellevarde peak: a brasserie, a café, and Cocotte, a cozy 55-seat restaurant serving classic French dishes
2. Verbier, Switzerland
The Worlds Most Extreme Ski Resort - Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier is one of the best stylish resortsin the Alps, known for attracting high-profile visitors, including Richard Branson, who owns the luxury chalet The Lodge. The resort offers a mix of slopes for all levels, from beginner runs to challenging expert terrain, along with nearly 14 miles of groomed Nordic trails. This variety draws an energetic, sporty crowd to the wider 4 Vallées ski area.
This season, the well-known Chalet Carlsberg is being transformed into L’Inkontro, a new restaurant celebrating the culture of the Bagnard region. Local chef David Adam will also open A Table, a unique six-seat dining experience in a renovated sheepfold.
Beyond skiing, Verbier is famous for its lively nightlife. Popular spots include the Farm Club, a long-standing favorite since 1971, and Farinet, a nightclub that has been enjoyed by members of the Royal family.
3. St. Anton Am Arlberg, Austria
🇦🇹 St. Anton am Arlberg (Austria) Walk (2025 April)
St. Anton am Arlberg is a famous ski town in Austria with a long history in skiing. It’s known as the start of the large Arlberg ski area and is often called the "birthplace of alpine skiing" because it played a big part in how the sport grew.
The resort is best known for its difficult slopes and fast mogul runs, which are perfect for expert skiers looking for a challenge. When the sun sets, St. Anton comes alive with an exciting nightlife, including busy bars and a fun atmosphere that draws people from all over the Alps.
In addition to great skiing and lively evenings, St. Anton takes pride in its deep connection to the history of skiing. This mix of tradition, tough slopes, and energetic après-ski makes St. Anton a top pick for serious and experienced skiers who love both the sport and the social scene.
4. Courchevel, France
The Most Luxurios Ski Resort In The World - Courchevel, France
Courchevel, part of the Three Valleys - the largest ski area in the world - is a dazzling, multi-tiered resort made up of six interconnected villages. It’s a favorite destination for celebrities and affluent travelers who come to ski, relax, and shop at over 100 high-end boutiques.
The resort offers excellent facilities for families, including the Children’s Village, a dedicated kids' ski area spanning more than seven acres, helping young skiers build confidence and improve their skills.
Known for its reliable snowfall, Courchevel benefits from high-altitude skiing, particularly in Courchevel 1850, where snow often remains well into April. Once you experience the resort’s luxury offerings, like heated walkways and an impressive selection of Michelin-starred restaurants, it's hard to look elsewhere for your next ski getaway.
5. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt Snowboarding - Zermatt Ski Resort - The Matterhorn - Zermatt Switzerland #salvaquest
Zermatt, nestled among the highest peaks in the Alps, offers 223 miles of ski runs spread across four major ski areas, some reaching over 10,000 feet in elevation, ensuring excellent snow conditions that last well into spring. This charming alpine village sits at the base of the Matterhorn, Switzerland’s most iconic mountain, and blends traditional charm with modern comforts, including a cutting-edge lift system and stylish après-ski venues.
As a car-free destination, horse-drawn sleighs are a popular way to get around. On the slopes, a visit to Chez Vronyis a must for its famous burgers (reservations are highly recommended), and skiers can enjoy a refreshing glass of champagne at the small but beloved Champagne bar at the end of the Sunnega run.
The Matterhorn Glacier Ride II connects the entire route between Zermatt and Cervinia via cable car, seamlessly linking the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise station with the Testa Grigia valley station, enhancing access to this vast and scenic ski region.
6. Chamonix-Mont Blanc, France
Why Chamonix Is France’s Most Iconic Ski Area
Chamonix is a must-visit destination for serious skiers, known for its vast backcountry and challenging terrain. As the host of the first Winter Olympics in 1924, this walkable alpine town is full of charm and history. While the mountains are famous for their extreme conditions, Chamonix also offers plenty of runs suited for beginners and intermediate skiers.
A highlight of any visit is riding the Aiguille du Midi cable car, the highest in Western Europe, offering breathtaking views from the top. From there, experienced skiers can hire a guide through Chamonix’s renowned guiding service, the oldest and largest in the world, and take on the legendary Vallée Blanche. This 12.4-mile glacier descent through the heart of the Mont-Blanc Massif is an unforgettable adventure for expert skiers.
7. Val Thorens, France
Discover This Epic Ski Destination: Val Thorens Ski Resort Guide
Val Thorens, the highest ski resort in Europe and the gateway to the Three Valleys offers more than 600 kilometers of slopes. Nestled in a stunning natural mountain cirque surrounded by six glaciers, the resort enjoys long hours of sunshine, making it an ideal destination for skiers who love sunny days on the snow.
Known for its excellent snow conditions and modern ski facilities, Val Thorens is a true winter paradise. Whether you're into carving, off-piste skiing, ski touring, snowparks, boardercross, or telemark, there’s something here for every type of skier. With over 99% of its terrain located above 2,000 meters, Val Thorens guarantees reliable snow and top-quality skiing throughout the season.
As a fully ski-in/ski-out resort, Val Thorens makes it easy to jump right onto the slopes, just step outside and you’re already on the mountain. From gentle beginner runs to wide open powder fields and perfectly groomed pistes, the resort offers fun and freedom for skiers of all levels.
A dream destination for mountain lovers, Val Thorens also delivers unforgettable views. Don’t miss the chance to take in the breathtaking scenery of the Péclet Glacier or enjoy the panoramic vistas from Cime Caron, often called “the most beautiful view in the Alps.” From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to a 360° view of over 1,000 peaks across France, Switzerland, and Italy, an experience that truly captures the grandeur of the Alpine range.
8. Cortina D'Ampezzo, Italy
The BEST SKIING in ITALY | Cortina d'Ampezzo
This old town is in a valley by the Boite river. After the 1956 Winter Olympics, it became a popular place to ski. It will have the Olympics again in 2026. It's not too far from Venice, only about two hours away. But because big mountains called the Dolomites are all around it, it can feel far away.
It's a calm place, not fancy like some other ski towns. Famous people like George Clooney like to visit. Cortina is part of a very big ski area called Dolomiti Superski, which has almost 750 miles of places to ski. If you like cross-country skiing, it also has the biggest network of trails in Europe.
9. Davos, Switzerland
Ski Switzerland - Davos Klosters for Families
Davos is a great town for skiers, with 50 lifts and 300 kilometers of prepared ski runs. The highest lift goes up to 2,844 meters. The area has 3 mountain trains, 12 cable cars, 14 chairlifts, 24 T-bars, 5 kid’s ski tows, and 2 ski escalators spread across 7 mountains. These mountains face in different directions - 1 east, 2 west, 2 south - and 2 can be skied all day while staying in the sun.
There are also 12 marked hiking trails, 1 avalanche training center, 4 fun parks, 4 sled runs, 35 on-mountain restaurants, 1 free natural ice skating rink (with free skates), and 2 paid ice rinks - one indoor and one outdoor. Davos has 2 train stations, with Dorf and Platz being just 100 meters from the Parsenn area, which offers the biggest vertical drop on piste at 1,900 meters. The largest off-piste drop is 2,200 meters.
The longest marked ski run is 15 km, and the longest off-piste route is 24 km. There are 13 marked but ungroomed off-piste runs, and 140 off-piste tours ranging from advanced to expert levels. A regional day pass gives access to all mountains, buses in Davos and Klosters, and trains between Kublis and Glarus.
10. Saas-Fee, Switzerland
Saas Fee Ski Resort Review | The Magic Pass
Saas-Fee is a beautiful, traditional mountain village located in the Valais region of Switzerland. It’s a car-free town sitting on a high plateau at 1,800 meters above sea level, surrounded by stunning glaciers and mountains like the Allalinhorn and the Mischabel range. The ski resort lies at the base of the Dom, which is actually Switzerland’s tallest mountain, though it’s not as famous as the Matterhorn.
The Saas-Fee and Saas Valley area is surrounded by 18 peaks over 4,000 meters, including well-known ones like the Täschhorn, Weissmies, and Lagginhorn. The village is known for its classic wooden Valais houses, making it feel like a true winter wonderland.
Often called the “Pearl of the Alps,” Saas-Fee is also one of the most eco-friendly ski resorts in the world. It has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and preserving the natural alpine environment.
Since 1951, the village has been car-free by choice, helping to protect the environment and keep the atmosphere peaceful. Without traffic, Saas-Fee offers a relaxed and romantic setting, perfect for a stress-free winter getaway.
Related: Skiing In The French Alps
11. Gstaad, Switzerland
Gstaad 🇨🇭 Switzerland - A Luxurious Ski Resort - Night Walking Tour 4K Ultra HD
This traditional winter destination in Europe has a car-free town center, a shopping promenade with luxury shops, and charming Swiss fairy-tale architecture. The entrances to the ski areas are marked by pretty chalet villages. Gstaad offers a variety of great slopes suitable for skiers of all levels.
Food lovers enjoy starred restaurants like the Sommet. The Glacier 3000 Neues restaurant, redesigned by Swiss architect Mario Botta, has a top dining terrace with amazing views of the Matterhorn.
The Alpina Gstaad is the best place to stay. It is made of wood from old farms and local stone. It features two pools, a Six Senses Spa, and a movie theater, making it a favorite among celebrities. The Hotel Ultima Gstaad is another excellent choice, recently reopened after a full-year renovation with a larger spa and fitness area.
12. Méribel, France
Meribel Ski Resort Review
Meribel, located at 1,450 meters, sits right in the middle of the biggest connected ski area in Europe, the Three Valleys, which has over 600 kilometers of slopes. Most of Meribel’s local runs (around 150 km) are above the treeline, offering wide-open skiing, but there are also tree-lined slopes for days when the weather isn’t great.
The resort has well-maintained slopes and a fast, modern lift system with mostly chairlifts and gondolas. Meribel is great for skiers of all levels. There are steep areas for freeriding, long red and blue runs for confident skiers, and gentle, tree-lined slopes for beginners. More advanced skiers can buy a Three Valleys Pass and easily explore nearby resorts like Courchevel or Val Thorens, making it easy to cover lots of ground and enjoy even more terrain.
13. Lech Zürs, Austria
Lech Zurs Ski Resort Guide
Lech Zürs may not have the flashy reputation of places like St. Moritz or Cortina d’Ampezzo, but that’s what makes it special. Behind its traditional farmhouse buildings, you’ll find elegant boutiques, art galleries, and stylish hotels and chalets. The village itself is small, with just around 1,600 residents, yet it has the highest concentration of award-winning restaurants in the world, one not-to-miss spot is the Rote Wand Chef’s Table at Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel.
Another big draw is the fantastic snow and world-class skiing. The famous White Ring is a challenging 14-mile ski route that connects Lech, Zürs, Zug, and Oberlech. Two modern cable cars have opened, making access to the slopes even easier and more comfortable for skiers.
14. Kitzbühel, Austria
The Beauty of Kitzbuhel Ski Resort 4K | Austria
Kitzbühel can has been hosting ski races for over a century; since 1893, when Franz Reisch became the first person in Austria to ski a high alpine route on the Kitzbüheler Horn. That’s when the Kitzbühel skiing story began. Today, it’s best known for the famous Hahnenkamm race and its challenging Streif downhill course.
But it’s not just top athletes who enjoy Kitzbühel. The ski area around the Kitzbüheler Horn and Hahnenkamm is now one of the most popular in the Alps, offering a wide variety of slopes for all skiers.
The resort features snow parks for snowboarders, great freeride routes, modern lifts, and many cozy huts and snack stops. If you’re an experienced skier, trying the Streif is a must, it's one of the toughest race runs in the world. Even though the highest point is around 2,000 meters, the area usually has good snow from December to April, making it a reliable winter destination.
15. Les Trois Vallées, France
A Tour of the World's BIGGEST Ski Resort (Les 3 Vallées, France)
Located in the French Alps, Les 3 Vallées is the biggest connected ski area in the world. It’s a top destination for winter sports lovers, made up of eight resorts like Courchevel, Méribel, and Val Thorens. Together, they offer more than 600 kilometers of ski runs and modern facilities. One of the best things about Les 3 Vallées is that skiers can travel across the whole area without ever taking off their skis.
Compared to other famous ski spots in the French Alps like Val d'Isère, Tignes, and Chamonix, Les 3 Vallées is unique because of its size and variety. While Val d'Isère is known for tough slopes and Chamonix for wild, natural landscapes, Les 3 Vallées brings the best of both together. It has easy runs for families, fast slopes for experts, and everything in between, making it a great choice for skiers of all levels.
16. Les Portes Du Soleil, France/Switzerland
Portes du Soleil Tour – A 25-Mile Skiing Circuit | Ski Guide
For over 50 years, Portes du Soleil has been one of the world’s top ski areas. It connects 12 resorts on both sides of the French-Swiss border, just an hour from Geneva. These include popular spots like Avoriaz, Châtel, Morzine, Les Gets, and many more.
At the heart of the Alps, this vast ski area feels natural and peaceful, with plenty of untouched landscapes. The lifts blend into snowy forests, and the slopes run through open meadows, spruce trees, and traditional mountain chalets.
Portes du Soleil gets excellent snow from November to late April, with around 7.83 meters of snowfall each season. It also offers a special kind of skiing we call a “ski safari” - you simply clip into your skis at your chalet and explore from resort to resort, valley to valley - even crossing from France to Switzerland!
17. Tignes, France
Tignes ski resort review 4K | Ski Resorts Video
Tignes is a great place to visit if you're looking for a long ski season with lots of snow. The main village, Tignes-Le-Lac, sits at 2,100 meters above sea level. Even the lower villages are high up, at 1,550 and 1,850 meters. Above them all is the Grande Motte Glacier, which reaches 3,450 meters and can be skied on even in the summer. That’s right - you can go skiing in Tignes during the summer months.
The original town of Tignes was flooded in 1952 when the Lac du Chevril dam was built. Today, the resort is made up of several purpose-built villages at different heights, with Tignes-Le-Lac considered the main one. The whole resort is designed with skiers in mind, so your accommodation is always close to the lifts.
18. Levi, Finland
Skiing in Levi | Levi Ski Resort | Finland
Levi is Finland’s most popular ski resort, and it’s easy to see why. First of all, there's great skiing. Around Levi and the nearby town of Kittilä, you'll find hundreds of kilometers of cross-country ski trails. There are also 44 downhill slopes and 26 ski lifts for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy. If you're new to skiing or just want to improve your skills, Levi Ski School offers lessons for all ages, including kids.
The long winter season also means perfect conditions for fun snow activities. You can go snowmobiling, take a reindeer sleigh ride, or even go on a husky sled trip under the magical Northern Lights. The snowy landscape brings out the Christmas spirit, and both kids and adults can enjoy visiting the Elves’ Hideaway. Take a walk through the Magical Forest with an elf guide, make gingerbread cookies, or create your own Christmas elf souvenir.
When summer comes and the snow melts away, Levi is still a great place for adventure. With the Midnight Sun shining almost all day, you can hike up Kätkä fell or explore one of its six sister fells. Spend a day fishing for perch and grayling on one of the many lakes or rivers. Or grab a bike and explore the beautiful trails of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. Either way, you’ll get plenty of fresh air and exercise!
19. SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, Austria
SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental | Skiresort.info
The Wilder Kaiser - Brixental ski area in Tyrol, Austria, is the largest connected ski region in the country. It’s known for its dependable snow and offers a wide range of winter activities. Whether you're just starting out or have lots of experience on skis, there’s something here for everyone, and it's also a great place for families with children.
One highlight is the Hohe Salve Mountain. The view from the top is amazing; you can see over 70 peaks that are more than 3,000 meters high. There’s also a mountain church there called Wallfahrtskirche zu Johannes dem Täufer, which is worth a visit. The ski area includes the towns of Söll, Ellmau, Scheffau, Kelchsau, Brixen, and Going. With many slopes and lifts to choose from, skiers of all levels can enjoy their time here.
20. Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn (Skicircus), Austria
Saalbach Ski Resort Guide
The Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn is one of the biggest ski areas in Austria. It covers many mountains and valleys in the Kitzbühel Alps and connects the regions of Tyrol and Salzburg. When you ride the modern "TirolS" gondola on the Reiterkogel and ski down the Vierstadlalm slope, you cross the border between the two regions in just one run.
This ski area is perfect for people who love variety. On the Salzburg side, there are lots of snow parks, night-lit slopes, winter trails, and cozy ski huts. These mix well with the more family-friendly slopes of Fieberbrunn in Tyrol. In recent years, Fieberbrunn has also become popular with expert skiers, especially freeriders. With some of the best powder snow in the Alps, it offers amazing off-piste tours, especially on the famous Wildseeloder mountain. The "Freeride World Tour" even stops here every year.
21. La Plagne, France
The Most POPULAR Ski Resort in The World - La Plagne
La Plagne is made up of small, purpose-built ski resorts and traditional villages located near the Vanoise National Park. It’s known as a great place for families, with plenty of beginner slopes as well as exciting options for more experienced skiers and snowboarders. La Plagne is also part of the popular Paradiski ski area and is connected to Les Arcs by the Vanoise Express cable car.
The main ski resorts in La Plagne are built at high altitudes, between 1,800 and 2,100 meters. These resorts have a range of apartments, chalets, and hotels, all offering ski-in/ski-out access, plus restaurants and places for evening fun.
There are also three traditional villages, Montchavin, Montalbert, and Les Coches, located at lower levels (between 1,250 and 1,450 meters). Although they have their own smaller ski areas, they are also connected to the larger La Plagne ski region.
22. Alpe D'Huez, France
Alpe d'Huez ski resort | Is it WORTH THE HYPE?
Alpe d'Huez is a lively resort that’s popular all year round, not just in winter. The main town is located at 1,869 meters above sea level in the Oisans region of the French Alps. The highest point of the resort reaches 3,300 meters on the Pic Blanc glacier, which you can visit both in summer and winter.
Alpe d'Huez is often called "l'Isle du Soleil" or "The Island of the Sun" because it gets more sunny days on the slopes than many other ski resorts. It’s part of the large Grand Domaine ski area, which brings together Alpe d’Huez with nearby resorts like Auris-en-Oisans, Huez-en-Oisans, Oz-en-Oisans, Vaujany, and Villard Reculas into one big, exciting ski playground.
There are slopes for all skill levels, from beginners to experts, and great snowparks for snowboarders. The resort has also been given the “Famille Plus” award by the French tourism office, meaning it’s a top choice for families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Country Has Most Ski Resorts?
Germany has the highest number of ski resorts at 678, making it an excellent ski destination that is often overlooked in favor of more classical European skiing spots, such as the French Alps.
What Is The Highest Ski Resort In Europe?
Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe at 2,300 metres. Val Thorens is known for its high-quality, dry snow and long season, which usually runs from November to May. Catching the cable car up to Роіntе dе Тhоrеns, the highest point in The Three Valleys аt 3,266 metres, is an experience to remember.
Which Country Has The Best Alps?
If you're looking for pristine mountain landscapes, luxurious experiences, and a true picture-perfect Alpine experience, the Swiss Alps are unbeatable. They are meticulously maintained, with some of the most well-preserved hiking trails, efficient transport, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Is It Cheaper To Ski In Europe Or US?
Skiing in Europe tends to be a lot cheaper than skiing in North America. If you're already heading to a resort that's part of a mega pass like the Ikon or Epic Passes, then you won't have to worry about purchasing lift tickets.
Conclusion
The ski resorts in the Alpsare unmatched when it comes to size and choice. Data shows that 84% of the world’s biggest ski areas are in the Alps, and these mountains welcome 43% of all skiers worldwide.
With so many choices, there’s an Alp destination for every kind of skier. The Alps are waiting for you, ready to deliver a winter trip you won’t forget. Start planning your next ski adventure today!
Read Also: Winter Sports In Canada
Jump to
1. Val D'Isère, France
2. Verbier, Switzerland
3. St. Anton Am Arlberg, Austria
4. Courchevel, France
5. Zermatt, Switzerland
6. Chamonix-Mont Blanc, France
7. Val Thorens, France
8. Cortina D'Ampezzo, Italy
9. Davos, Switzerland
10. Saas-Fee, Switzerland
11. Gstaad, Switzerland
12. Méribel, France
13. Lech Zürs, Austria
14. Kitzbühel, Austria
15. Les Trois Vallées, France
16. Les Portes Du Soleil, France/Switzerland
17. Tignes, France
18. Levi, Finland
19. SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, Austria
20. Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn (Skicircus), Austria
21. La Plagne, France
22. Alpe D'Huez, France
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Maya Reyes
Author
Maya Reyes’s wanderlust was sparked in the temples of Luang Prabang, where the scent of lemongrass and the chants of monks revealed the transformative power of travel.
Since then, her journey has been defined by cultural immersion and authentic connections. From learning batik in Indonesia to sharing meals with nomadic families in Mongolia, Maya seeks experiences that highlight the human stories behind each destination.
Travel for her is a way to weave her narrative into the world’s cultural tapestry, creating bridges across diverse ways of life. Maya has traveled to 15 countries and shares her insights through writing and storytelling.
Finn Wilde
Reviewer
For Finn Wilde, the wilderness is more than just a destination - it’s a way of life. Over the past decade, he has led multiple expeditions in some of the world’s most remote regions, from the icy fjords of Greenland to the rugged trails of Patagonia.
Finn emphasizes sustainability in all of his adventures, helping participants connect with nature while promoting responsible exploration. His expeditions inspire individuals to explore the great outdoors while fostering a deep respect for the environment.
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