The Best Ski Resorts Around the World
Whether you're a seasoned skier or a winter vacation enthusiast, choosing the right ski resort can make all the difference in your experience. Here’s a curated list of the top 20 ski resorts around the world, complete with the best time to visit and the average price of lift tickets.
Whistler Blackcomb, Canada
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $150 CAD
Description: The largest ski resort in North America, offering over 8,000 acres of terrain and a vibrant village atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Special note: Whistler is famous for its lively après-ski and nightlife. The village has numerous bars, clubs, and pubs. Places like Longhorn Saloon and Moe Joe's are popular spots for dancing and late-night partying.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Average Lift Ticket Price: $92 USD
Description: Renowned for its iconic Matterhorn view, Zermatt is a picturesque resort with high-altitude slopes.
Where to Stay: The Omnia
Aspen Snowmass, USA
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $200 USD
Description: A luxury destination with four mountains, Aspen offers varied terrain and a lively après-ski scene.
Where to Stay: The Little Nell
Special note: Aspen is a top destination for luxury partying, with an array of high-end bars and clubs. The Caribou Club is an exclusive spot, while Bootsy Bellows offers a lively, celebrity-studded scene.
Niseko, Japan
Best Time to Visit: December to February
Average Lift Ticket Price: $60 USD
Description: Known for its powder snow, Niseko offers a unique blend of Japanese culture and skiing excellence.
Where to Stay: The Vale Niseko
Courchevel, France
Best Time to Visit: January to April
Average Lift Ticket Price: $75 USD
Description: Part of Les Trois Vallées, the world’s largest ski area, Courchevel is synonymous with luxury and extensive slopes.
Where to Stay: Ecrin Blanc Resort Courchevel
Special note: Courchevel is known for its upscale nightlife, with chic bars and nightclubs like Les Caves and La Grange offering an elegant atmosphere and a great party vibe.
St. Anton, Austria
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Average Lift Ticket Price: $65 USD
Description: A legendary destination for advanced skiers, St. Anton is famous for its challenging runs and vibrant nightlife.
Where to Stay: Hotel Tannenhof
Special note: St. Anton is one of the best ski resorts for après-ski and late-night partying. Legendary spots like MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh are famous for their wild après-ski parties.
Jackson Hole, USA
Best Time to Visit: January to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $190 USD
Description: Known for its steep terrain and deep snow, Jackson Hole is a mecca for expert skiers and adventure seekers.
Where to Stay: Snake River Lodge & Spa
Verbier, Switzerland
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Average Lift Ticket Price: $92 USD
Description: Offering stunning views of the Alps, Verbier is a haven for off-piste skiing and après-ski activities.
Where to Stay: W Verbier
Special note: Verbier has a vibrant nightlife scene, with venues like Farm Club and Pub Mont Fort being popular for après-ski and late-night parties. The resort attracts a mix of affluent guests and younger crowds looking to party.
Val d’Isère, France
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Average Lift Ticket Price: $75 USD
Description: Known for its reliable snow and extensive slopes, Val d’Isère is a favorite among advanced skiers.
Where to Stay: Le Blizzard
Banff/Lake Louise, Canada
Best Time to Visit: January to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $140 CAD
Description: Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this resort offers stunning scenery and diverse terrain.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
With HBTT’s commitment to sustainability, 1% of total booking costs are donated to The Elm Project to support reforestation efforts.
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $60 USD
Description: A glamorous resort in the Dolomites, Cortina is perfect for those seeking beautiful scenery and top-notch facilities.
Where to Stay: Ambra Cortina Luxury & Fashion Boutique Hotel
Vail, USA
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $220 USD
Description: One of the largest resorts in the USA, Vail offers a vast range of terrain suitable for all levels.
Where to Stay: The Arrabelle at Vail Square
Sölden, Austria
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Average Lift Ticket Price: $65 USD
Description: With two glaciers, Sölden guarantees snow and offers extensive slopes and lively après-ski.
Where to Stay: Das Central
Chamonix, France
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $70 USD
Description: Known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is a paradise for experienced skiers.
Where to Stay: Hôtel Mont-Blanc
Park City, USA
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $195 USD
Description: The largest ski resort in the U.S., Park City offers a mix of luxury and diverse slopes.
Where to Stay: Grand Summit Hotel, Park City - Canyons Village
Special notes: Park City offers a lively nightlife, especially during the Sundance Film Festival. Bars like No Name Saloon and clubs like Downstairs provide a fun, energetic atmosphere for party-goers.
Hakuba Valley, Japan
Best Time to Visit: January to February
Average Lift Ticket Price: $50 USD
Description: A favorite among powder hounds, Hakuba Valley is known for its deep snow and traditional Japanese culture.
Where to Stay: Hakuba Tokyu Hotel
Kitzbühel, Austria
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $65 USD
Description: Famous for the Hahnenkamm race, Kitzbühel offers charming village life and world-class skiing.
Where to Stay: A-ROSA Kitzbühel
Méribel, France
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Average Lift Ticket Price: $75 USD
Description: Located in the heart of Les Trois Vallées, Méribel is a family-friendly resort with access to vast slopes.
Where to Stay: Hôtel Le Kaila
Big Sky, USA
Best Time to Visit: January to March
Average Lift Ticket Price: $180 USD
Description: Offering uncrowded slopes and breathtaking views, Big Sky is perfect for those seeking a tranquil ski experience.
Where to Stay: The Village Center at Big Sky Resort
Tignes, France
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Average Lift Ticket Price: $75 USD
Description: Known for its high-altitude skiing and snow reliability, Tignes is a favorite among serious skiers.
Where to Stay: Hotel Les Suites du Montana
Special note: Tignes offers a dynamic après-ski scene with plenty of bars and clubs. Loop Bar and Couloir are known for their lively atmosphere and great music, making them ideal spots for partying.
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H & B @ HBTT