Top 10 European Ski Resorts

Europe’s best ski and snowboarding destinations are a mixture of olde world charm, and world-class powder. While the North American snowfields are hogging the limelight, Europe is returning to vogue with a vengeance. It was a challenge of triple black diamond proportions, but we’ve managed to collate the ten best European ski resorts

Chamonix/Mont Blanc, France

Chamonix is the behemoth of European ski resorts, and among the finest in the world. Since it played stage to the 1924 Winter Olympics the fragmented ski areas of the Mont Blanc valley have kept skiers of all abilities enthralled by the natural beauty of the Alps. The most coveted run is the 12-mile Vallée Blanche off-trail descent, from the Aiguille du Midi, along the Mer du Glace (Sea of Ice) glacier.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

At the eastern end of the mighty Dolomiti Superski region, is Italy’s answer to St. Moritz: the noble Cortina d’Ampezzo. The Alpine town is equally famous for its nightly passeggiata, which transforms the main street, Corso Italia into a stage play of fine living as Ferraris jostle for parking spaces, and diamonds shimmer in the frosty night sky.

Courchevel, France

Located at the eastern end of Les Trois Vallées, this celebrity-crumbed corner of France is a paparazzi dream, with recent visitors including Elton John, Giorgio Armani, George Clooney and the Beckhams. The primo hotel in the region, Hôtel de Charme les Airelles underwent a staggering £35 million renovation in 2008, sending many of its neighbours marching to their architects. As for the skiing, the numbers say it all: 62 ski lifts, 119 downhill slopes and almost 100 miles of ski runs.

Gstaad, Switzerland

Gstaad is as famous for its luxury hotels, high-class shopping and fondue, as it is for excellent skiing. The eagle-eyed amongst you will know Gstaad as the host of the annual Swiss Open tennis tournament. This is where the rich roil with the nouveaux riches, in a world of fantastical bills and wondrous whims. The local ski pass offers access to half a dozen neighbouring areas, cementing Gstaad’s future as one of Europe’s best ski resorts.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is world famous as the home of the Matterhorn, Europe’s most handsome mountain whose 14,688 ft summit towers above skiers. A little lower down, the car-free haven of Zermatt is a crisp example of what European ski resorts should be. The challenging slopes at Zermatt are the highest in Europe and simply put, it has it all: steeps, deeps, free-ride and the incredible Trifti moguls.

Lech and Zürs, Austria

These twin hamlets stitch together Austria’s winter wonderland, and have been a local favourite since the 14th century. This premier ski resort is known for its laidback approach, and Lech and Zürs continue the Austrian trend of attracting a slightly younger crowd. Famed for its five month season, this is one resort that has its future as a world class ski resort assured.

Kitzbuhel, Austria

This tiny slice of Austria is home to the Hahnenkamm, the most daring alpine ski race in the world. For the rest of the season, visitors can expect a lively medieval alpine village, complete with all the wood and wonder of your favourite fairytales. Off the slopes, enjoy the Bergahnmuseum, where you can test your skills on the simulated Streif run, the thrilling route of the mighty race.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

Barely a day goes by when skiers don’t romanticise about dear ol', St. Moritz. This luxury ski resort in southeastern Switzerland is one of Europe's most romantic winter getaways. Set at 1856m, the snow at St. Moritz is as reliable as your gold Rolex (presuming you have one) and the local vistas are premium class. The rich want the best that money can buy, so it’s little wonder the slopes of St. Moritz are awash with Gucci and Prada, but don’t let that put you off your stride.

St. Anton, Austria

A consistent contender for Europe’s best ski resort: St. Anton is a firm favourite with global snow tourists. A mandala of cable cars connects the resorts slopes, giving ample views of some of Europe’s most impressive Alpine scenery. The snow is reliable, and the homely chalets are a welcome retreat. Après ski at St. Anton is full of energy, with a host of clubs and bars to haul you into the small hours.

Grindelwald, Switzerland

With excellent view of the dominant Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, the folkloric appeal of Grindelwald is cast far and wide throughout Europe’s ski zones. Set amid some of Europe’s highest peaks, the Jungfrau Top ski region offers everything the ski-nut desires; with 213 kilometres of piste, and snow security up to 2,971m this charming blot of winter fun is among friends, as one of the best ski resorts in Europe.

If you’re seething with disdain after we’ve missed your favourite European ski resort, don’t bottle it up — we’re always open to hearing alternative suggestions.