Most ski resorts are visually appealing, but where in Europe are the most picturesque ski resorts? We enjoy getting away to the mountains for a week of skiing or snowboarding amid breathtaking alpine scenery. Even if purpose-built ski areas lack beauty, it’s difficult to call any ski resort ugly when you have a stunning mountain backdrop right outside your door.
Europe has world-class skiing and is home to some of the world’s most famous ski resorts and some of the most beautiful scenery. Check out here the best 10 ski resorts for snow sure slopes before you book your next ski holiday. Here are our top five ski resorts, all of which boast breathtaking scenery.
In 5th place is Wengen in Switzerland
The elite views of the three mountain giants – Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau – are famous for the Jungfrau area. Since no traffic is allowed in the area, the magnificent unspoiled resort of Wengen is only accessible by an enchanting mountain railway. The resort features traditional architecture with beautifully updated interiors, taking excellent quality and luxury into the twenty-first century. The entire area Jungfrau top ski region ski pass includes Wengen and 213 kilometres of pistes, giving intermediates nearly limitless options for calming or challenging runs down the Kleine Scheidegg Mountain.
In 4th place is Megeve in France
The allure of Megeve enchants visitors of all ages, from the charming traditional town to the breathtaking tree-lined runs and breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. It’s challenging to match the natural beauty of Megeve’s surroundings. It’s no surprise that this is the playground for the rich and famous, given its origins as France’s response to Switzerland’s elegant St. Moritz. There are several trendy luxury hotels and chalets in the medieval centre, and the 325 kilometres of piste provide a diverse, leading ski area.
In 3rd place is Alpbach in Austria
Every year, skiers and snowboarders flock to the Tyrolean Alps because of the charming villages and world-class ski areas. Skiing in Tirol is world-class, with over 100 resorts to choose from. The charming resort of Alpbach is one of Austria’s crown jewels, a natural winter wonderland with excellent skiing and cosy, high-quality lodging.
With its charming, wooden chalets and historic buildings, the intimate, family-friendly resort exudes Austrian charm. The newly created Ski Jewel area now offers 145 kilometres of skiing with lifts reaching heights of 2128 m and spectacular views of the Alpbach Valley peaks, the Rofan Range, and the Ziller Valley. The skiing area offers a wide range of free ride options in addition to three breathtaking valley runs.
In 2nd place is Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy
Cortina d’Ampezzo, which is often referred to as the Queen of the Dolomites, is Italy’s most popular ski resort, often compared to Courchevel and St. Moritz. With their distinctive shapes and outstanding natural beauty, the magnificent snowcapped Dolomite peaks provide the ideal backdrop for this charming ski town. These breathtaking peaks and lush wooded valleys, with some of the best mountain scenery in the Alps, are spectacular at dusk.
Expect non-skiers to be parading the abundance of shopping spots or, more importantly, ‘doing’ lunch in Cortina. With access to a large ski area protected by the Dolomiti Superski pass, the ski area is full of well-groomed pistes ideal for novice to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
In 1st place is Zermatt in Switzerland
Zermatt is a traditional town with charming chocolate box chalets and jaw-dropping scenery nestled beneath the majestic Matterhorn. This ski area, located in Switzerland’s Valais region, will never fail to enchant you. It’s no wonder that Zermatt is regarded as one of the best ski resorts in the world, with panoramic views, a crystalline landscape, and the highest glacier in the Alps.
Zermatt’s skiing is among the finest in Europe, with 360 kilometres of pistes to choose from. Intermediate and advanced skiers can appreciate the variety of red and black runs and the well-known cosy mountain restaurants. This winter landscape offers plenty of sunshine, and with high altitude skiing up to 3883 m, it’s the ideal ski resort all year.
