The Ultimate Guide to a European Ski Holiday
The glamorous ski fields of Europe are among the world’s most popular, for celebrity A-listers, expert skiers and beginners alike. It is not really a budget holiday, but it is hard not to be seduced by the world’s most well-known winter wonderland.
For almost 10 years millions have voted for their favourite ski resorts in Europe but also the most beautiful ski resorts in France, the best ski resorts in Italy or the best ski resorts for families, for luxury holidays, the best ski resorts for New Year’s Eve and the cheapest ski resorts in Europe.
The overwhelming majority of Europe’s top ski resorts are in the Alps, which straddle southeast France, Italy and Switzerland.
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, France
Chamonix consists of six ski areas as well as several small fairy-tale villages. It is the tallest peak in Western Europe. It also offers some of the most exhilarating skiing that you will find anywhere. This is also where you will find the legendary 20km Valleé Blanche off-piste ski route with a descent of 2 700m. However, there are also large beginner areas for those of you who are new to skiing.
Claviere, Italy
Go for an all-inclusive skiing holiday without breaking the bank in Italy’s epic Milky Way region. Experienced skiers will absolutely love the fast-lift queues and 400km of runs which stretch across the French border. Families will appreciate the all-inclusive board in addition to on-site childcare at the three and a half-star Grande Claviere Hotel, which includes a nursery and kids club on site.
Zermatt, Switzerland
If you are searching for a premium ski resort, which is famous worldwide, then Zermatt is your place. Its outer-worldly beauty will leave you breathless. Apart from its famous Matterhorn mountain, the views from its 37 other 4 000-metre peaks are just as astounding.
Zermatt’s high altitude and glacier make this a viable ski destination all year round. There are 360 kilometres worth of trails that are to be explored. These trails accommodate for almost every skill level:
- For expert skiers , the 36-kilometre black track will make sure that you get the most excited and make sure your adrenaline will sure to be pumping. While it is marked, it is not a groomed track and will take you all the way down to the village.
Alp d’Huez, France
Relish in skiing in the Island of the Sun (or L’Ile au Soleil if you are local) at this all-round winner of a resort. South-facing ski slopes mean that there is plenty of sun. In addition, there is something for everyone – from glacier skiing and as well as Sarenne, the longest black run in the world, to plenty of blue runs and nursery slopes.
Livigno, Italy
If you are in the course of shopping around for a bargain and don’t want to use the money you won AFL betting in Australia, then at the Livigno duty-free ski resort, you’ll find good value on everything from accommodation to dining. Direct Ski has a smattering of three-star self-catering apartments which are located close to the lifts.
