Despite the difficult situation due to the pandemic, mother nature continues to dress the mountainous regions of Europe in white. A significant percentage of Europe’s ski resorts have opened their doors, taking all the necessary precautions to welcome again all those who want to spend their days next to the serene white of the mountain peaks.
The Alps mainly focus on these winter activities throughout Europe, which is why the French, Swiss, Austrian and Italian mountains attract the attention of skiers worldwide. Some of Europe’s ski resorts are in a much better position than others and compete for the best in and out of skiing not only in Europe but pretty much everywhere. So if you are looking for the most beautiful ski destinations in Europe, not only for this period but also in general, do not forget to consider the following top resorts.
1. Zermatt, Switzerland – the majestic Matterhorn
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At the Matterhorn, you will enjoy one of the most beautiful and unique experiences of your life. The jagged ridge of the mountain is visible and dominates many parts of the village located just below it. Take the cable car to the top of Trockener Steg and enjoy skiing on this beautiful Matterhorn peak.
Visit the Matterhorn Underground Museum to discover the history of the mountain. There, among other exhibits, you will see the story of the first ascent of the mountain by the Englishman Edward Whymper and his entourage. If you are traveling by private charter flight, the nearest airport is in Sion, from where you can arrange a helicopter ride to Zermatt. Commercial flights are served from Zurich Airport. From there, you only have a stunning and picturesque train ride lasting 3 hours until you reach Zermatt.
Sölden and Obergurgl-Hochgurgl in the Ötztal valley
The Ötztal Valley is located in the heart of Tyrol and is one of the most popular for skiing in Austria. Three very powerful stations are located here: Oetz, Sölden and Obergurgl-Hochgurgl. It has 147 skiable km spread over three peaks and two glaciers. This station guarantees quality snow and makes this destination one of the best for winter sports lovers almost at any time of the year.
The après-ski in the streets of Sölden is simply spectacular. It is not uncommon to see people at 3 in the morning with their boots on and their skis on their shoulders. It also has several viewpoints such as Tiefenbachkogl, a 20-meter long walkway at the top of the peak that gives it its name and which is also the highest in Tyrol.
2. Courchevel, France – Surprisingly a unique water center
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Do not be fooled by the luxury and splendor of this wonderful winter resort in the Trois Vallees region of France. In this corner is the largest ski area in the world with about 600 km of slopes. The demanding slopes of the area fascinate the experienced skiers who want to conquer them, while the beginners have endless slopes to practice in and out of the forest.
Since the beginning of 2016, in the broader area of Courchevel operates a huge water center with water slides, a whirlpool, and even an indoor pool for surfing! If all this sounds exciting to you, you too can book your vacation at one of the fantastic resorts in the area. By choosing the company Erna Low, you can select a complete accommodation program in the resort of your choice, plus all those additional services that will make your overall travel experience stand out at the most economical prices.
3. Lech, Austria – a winter sanctuary
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Austria has some of the most beautiful villages in the Alps, and Lech is the most special. Despite a large number of visitors it attracts – among them many celebrities from all over the world – the Arlberg resort maintains a very relaxed and calm atmosphere.
This is the difference between the neighboring and noisier St Anton. All the activities in both villages have a vivacious and beautiful feeling. In Arlberg, the cradle of Austrian Alpine skiing, you will also find the Lechmuseum Huber-Hus. This museum has been operating since 1960 and has as its primary goal preserving the historical elements of the area.
4. St Moritz, Switzerland – The Snow Polo World Cup
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Switzerland’s most modern winter resort is proliferating. Winter sports have their place in this beautiful city by Lake St Moritz and the Upper Engadin Valley. The Swiss town is reminiscent of a significant winter playground as on the icy lake is organized the World Polo Championship in the snow and a gourmet gastronomy festival.
An entire mountain, the Muottas Muragl, is used exclusively for non-skiing winter activities, such as snowshoeing. However, this does not reduce the available ski slopes. Especially in Corviglia and the top of Piz Nair at an altitude of 3057 meters, you will enjoy excellent skiing on treadmills.
Ski Circus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn
Its more than 400 skiable km make it the largest ski resort in Austria thanks to the union of Zell am See-Kaprun in 2019. This macro winter resort is perfectly connected by tracks that run between forests and that start directly from the towns which give the station its name: Saalbach, Hinterglemm, Leogang, and Fieberbrunn.
In December the Rave on Snow is celebrated, an electronic festival that promises good music DJs and live acts for all clubbing lovers. An explosive mix to live a unique and very fun experience. Promised! So if you are one of those who enjoy this type of festival, this is a great reason to ski in Austria.
5. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy – luxury and history
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The most welcoming winter resort is located in the heart of the Dolomites in northeastern Italy. As in the rest of Italy, here you will see that food is a solemn business. Elegant Italians arrive in restaurants and boutiques, leaving the ski slopes for the most experienced skiers!
If you are a fan of history, you can explore the open-air Grand War Museum, which covers 80 kilometers of moats and tunnels in which the Italians fought during World War I.
