With the holidays gone and the new year started, the timing is perfect for a ski vacation and Europe has a lot of incredible options. The views at the iconic Zermatt are hard to beat and there are slopes for all levels of skiers. The dry climate however can make some rocky trails impossible to ski and the location of town means hardly any sun gets through. Those planning to be on the mountain all day will not have a problem so checking out Zermatt is a must. There are several hotels on the summit such as Silvana Hotel on Furi allowing for ski-in ski-out, the ultimate skiers experience. With a ski room, indoor swimming pool and great food what else could a skier ask for?
Perhaps the best skiing found in Europe though is in Courchevel which has considerable routes and slopes for all levels of skiers in the Les 3 Vallées. The consistent snow and excellent weather is a boon whether sticking to the open runs or forested areas. There are 600 km of runs, 66km of cross country skiing and 18km of snowshoe routes.
Après-ski in Courchevel is at the top of the game with exquisite culinary options and a multitude of Michelin stars in the village. Le 1947 for example, has two Michelin stars and is run by famous French chef Yannick Alléno of Paris’ renowned Ladurée Champs Elysées restaurant.
5 star hotels and luxury chalets abound in Courchevel 1850 (the highest altitude village of the 4 Courchevels). The Grandes Alpes hotel has ski-in ski-out, butlers, private chefs and a renowned Bellefontaine Spa featuring anti-ageing through unparalleled luxury, natural and precious ingredients from the Alps. The sauna, steam bath, swimming pool and rain showers are sure to do the trick for any looking to relax.
March is one of the best months to ski to take advantage of the weather and relatively slower season as February brings big crowds of families due to school holidays. Do not let the season go by without taking the opportunity to ski some of the best mountains and runs in the world!