Are you considering a winter vacation to Europe? Are you keen to uncover some of the most picturesque spots to glide down the slopes and sample traditional cuisine? Then you’re in the right place!
Here, we explore three incredibly beautiful places to ski in Europe where you’re sure to create unforgettable memories.
- The Dolomites, Italy
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The UNESCO-listed Dolomites are a mountain range in the Italian Alps, “numbering 18 peaks that rise to above 3,000 meters and cover 141,903 ha.” They’re renowned for offering some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Europe, and there are 12 fantastic ski resorts to choose from.
According to Forbes, the interconnected resorts known as Dolomiti Superski “comprise the largest or second largest interconnected lift and trail system in the world, and all share a single lift ticket.” It “dwarfs anything you can imagine in the United States,” with close to “900 marked trails served by 450 lifts.”.
After a day on the slopes, enjoy some R&R in one of the charming Italian villages, where many eateries serve traditional treats. You can also enjoy nature hikes, whitewater rafting, and quaint Christmas markets (if you travel during the holidays!).
- Courchevel, 1850, France
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If you are looking for picturesque mountain scenery, great shopping and delicious French cuisine, then you won’t be disappointed with a luxury vacation in Courchevel 1850.
As one of the most prestigious resorts in the Alps, Courchevel 1850 attracts the rich and famous keen to glide down the mountainsides, dine in Michelin-star restaurants, and enjoy retail therapy in luxury stores.
This French gem sits in the beautiful Les Trois Vallées, an extensive ski region in the Northern Alps with a range of both gentle slopes and more challenging pistes. With ski options to suit all ages and abilities, it’s the perfect place to head on a ski trip with friends or family.
- Zermatt, Switzerland
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Are you ready to feast your eyes on one of the world’s most famous mountains, the Matterhorn? Then a vacation to Zermatt is a must. This incredible Alpine town sits in southern Switzerland near the Italian border and is made up of charming chocolate box houses, boutique stores, and high-quality restaurants.
It’s truly a winter wonderland with a huge amount to offer American holidaymakers. Spend a day hitting the slopes, enjoy a toboggan ride from Rotenboden station, or immerse yourself in the apres-ski scene.
If you want to get the best view of the iconic Matterhorn, head to the observation platform at the summit of Gornergrat. “Europe’s highest open-air cog railway brings passengers direct from Zermatt station (1,620 m) to the summit of the Gornergrat, 365 days a year,” where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of 29 mountains, including the Matterhorn.
There are many wonderful winter destinations to explore in Europe, including resorts in the Dolomites, French Alps, and Swiss Alps. Each is home to charming towns with great places to eat, shop, and dine, as well as miles of high-quality snow perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
With so many delightful spots to discover, where will you choose for your next skiing vacation?