Choosing a ski resort can be overwhelming for curious travelers or fans of renowned destinations. There are so many high-quality winter sports resorts in France and around the world that picking the perfect one can be tricky. To help you plan your next ski holiday, Sport 2000 has compiled a list of the most famous ski resorts globally. Some of these resorts are quite exclusive, but they promise unforgettable experiences.
Verbier (Switzerland), the world’s best ski resort
Verbier was named the world’s best ski resort in 2022 by the World Ski Awards. With 400 km of slopes and over 60 lifts, it is also a hotspot for freeride enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy paragliding, wellness, luxury shopping, and other après-ski activities.
The resort is famous for its majestic panorama from Mont-Fort (3,330 meters), elegant chalets, and vibrant town center. Verbier is also renowned for its gastronomy and nightlife.
Val Thorens (France), Europe’s highest resort
Perched at 2,300 meters with slopes reaching over 3,000 meters, Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe. Part of the 3 Valleys—the world’s largest ski area with 600 km of pistes—it's a paradise for alpine skiing and snowboarding.
Visitors can also enjoy ski touring, snowshoeing, or skiing in powder snow.
Val Thorens caters to families with children’s activities at the Forum and many family-friendly restaurants. Nightlife enthusiasts will also find plenty of options: open-air clubs, concerts, discos, and bars.
Nagano (Japan), a premier winter destination
Nagano is Japan’s top ski destination and is famous worldwide. Its ski area spans almost 800 km across multiple resorts, offering excellent snow quality and stunning panoramas. The maximum altitude reaches 2,670 meters, providing a chance to explore Japan’s unique mountainous nature.
Innsbruck (Austria), gateway to multiple ski areas
Innsbruck offers a 300 km ski area suitable for beginners and advanced skiers alike. The city is lively, with plenty of après-ski options, making it perfect for both skiing and leisure.
Whistler Blackcomb (Canada), skiing and nature discovery
Whistler Blackcomb offers a vast ski area with forests, mountains, and glaciers, along with exceptional snow—skiing is possible until May. The resort suits all skiing levels and offers activities such as ski touring, snow parks, helicopter tours, bobsleigh, and family-friendly events.
Mount Ruapehu (New Zealand), skiing on a volcano
The ski area comprises Turoa and Whakapapa, with a strong focus on preserving the exceptional natural environment. Over 1,000 hectares of terrain are available for skiers of all levels. Being in the Southern Hemisphere, you can ski when Europe is out of season.
Baqueira Beret (Spain), a top Pyrenean resort
With a 167 km ski area divided into three zones, Baqueira Beret is among the best resorts in the Pyrenees and Europe. Its higher altitude ensures excellent snow. Skiers and snowboarders enjoy varied terrain, including mogul fields, and the surrounding villages are UNESCO heritage sites, with pristine natural parks like Aigüestortes.
St. Moritz (Switzerland), luxury in the Alps
St. Moritz is renowned for its luxury and low temperatures. Popular with the global elite like Courchevel, the resort offers a great ski area plus activities like ice skating, bobsleigh, horse racing, and ice polo.
Aspen (USA), trendy Colorado resort
Aspen encompasses four ski resorts in Colorado. Peaks reach 3,813 meters with perfect snow, catering to all skill levels. The resort is popular with celebrities and is quite exclusive.
Cerro Catedral (Argentina), skiing in Patagonia
Cerro Catedral has 120 km of slopes suitable for all levels, with 55 slopes served by 29 lifts. The preserved natural environment and breathtaking views of Lake Nahuel Huapi attract many skiers.
Prefer to stay in Europe, or even France, for your winter holiday? No worries: snow, sunshine, and quality resorts abound. Whether you want to ski near Mont Blanc, in the Southern Alps, Jura, or the Pyrenees, there are excellent options. Resorts are also available near the Swiss border (Crans Montana, Zermatt) or in Spain.
Need guidance choosing an authentic village or modern French resort? Explore our guide on the best family-friendly ski resorts and our selection of top ski resorts.