Nothing says ‘luxury’ in the wintertime like skiing. The glamorous set that spends summer in St Tropez, Monte Carlo and Mykonos, moves to the mountains in the winter. Some resorts, especially in the European Alps, remain exclusive, luxurious and expensive. As we don’t like anything ordinary, we bring you the best.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is arguably the most iconic ski resort in the world. The scenery is dominated by the Matterhorn, which is a stark reminder of the towns mountaineering history. Today, countless luxury hotels and chalets blend naturally in with the charming and traditional town.
Where to stay
The Omnia
The Omnia, a serene mountain hideaway, is perched on a wooded ledge high above central Zermatt. It exudes luxury in the shape of spacious, curated-to-perfection rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant and a hot whirlpool with Matterhorn views.
St Moritz, Switzerland
Best for ultimate luxury, opulent hotels and Italian fashion. If you are asked what the most exclusive ski resort in the world is, most people would say St Moritz. Glamorous, chic and naturally expensive, St Moritz is understandably exclusive and preserved as a haven for the rich and famous. It was also the first all-round winter-sports resort in the world and boasts a myriad of on and off-snow attractions from skating and bobsleigh to polo, horse racing and cricket on the frozen lake.
Where to stay
Badrutt’s Palace
The history of Badrutt’s Palace Hotel fascinates everyone. Tradition and innovation melt into a stunning backdrop. It is the magic of this hotel that keeps guests coming back again and again.
Kitzbühel, Austria
Possibly, one of the world’s most well known ski destinations. This town is one of the most beautiful in Austria. Pretty, pedestrian streets are lined with luxury hotels, smart fashion boutiques and wickedly expensive cafés. No wonder this place is famous to attract non-skiers as well. Its appealing to everyone most likely because buzzling nightlife scene.
Where to stay
Weisses Rössl
This old resort has become Kitzbühel’s best and most luxurious hotel, with a fine restaurant, atmospheric wine cellar for private dining and outstanding spa with a giant pool.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
All ski slopes lead to Cortina d’Ampezzo – Queen of the Dolomites! The small town in the Northern Italian province of Belluno in the Veneto region can look back on a thousand year history and a centuries-long tradition of tourism. Cortina is renowned as Italy’s most upmarket and fashionable ski resort. However, the most popular sport in Cortina is not skiing, it’s social sport of seeing and being seen outside and inside the elegant boutiques.
Where to stay
Rosapetra Hotel and Spa
Capturing the reflection and essence of the majestic beauty of the Dolomites, Rosapetra Spa Resort gives you the perfect welcome to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Rosapetra Hotel is committed to give you experience of a unique stay in perfect harmony between relaxation and fun, nature and elegance, health and pleasure. The 5-star Rosapetra is entirely furnished in wood. The rooms will give you the most breathtaking mountain views.
Megève, France
Megève is a former farming village that was founded in 1916 by Baroness Noémie de Rothschild, who decided that France should have its own St Moritz. It still retains its name for luxury, good food and good skiing. Situated in the Northern French Alps, close to Mt Blanc, the scenery is fantastic and the skiing varied and suitable for all abilities. Best for families, intimate luxury and relaxed glamour.
Where to stay
Les Fermes de Marie
The 5-star Fermes de Marie is a small, luxurious hamlet of nine beautiful chalet-style buildings set a few minutes outside the town center. The wellness facilities are top-notch with indoor pool, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, three types of sauna, a steam room, a gym and 17 rooms for spa treatments.
Aspen, Colorado
The name Aspen conjures up images of an iconic ski resort known as a winter playground for the rich and famous. Glamorous and fashionable it is delightful to stroll around in the evenings, shopping in designer boutiques from Dior to Moncler and enjoying the varied restaurants and bars, of which there are over 100.
Where to stay
The Little Nell
The Little Nell is situated at the base of Aspen Mountain. This resort is town’s only five-star, five-diamond hotel. The Little Nell is one of the smartest hotels in town, with four bars, two restaurants and a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. Over the top service is guarantied.
