The most shrewd of all Austria's luxury ski destinations, sunny Lech is renowned for its abundance of good, fluffy snow, first-rate lodging, and well-established fine dining and après ski scenes.

The slopes are less steep at Lech than in other Arlberg resorts, making it an ideal place for beginners to learn how to powder ski. The majority of the slopes at Lech are incredibly big and smooth, making them perfect for skiers just learning the sport. If you become weary of those, the current local ski lift network may whisk you away to more difficult terrain.

There are numerous chic hotels, upscale restaurants, and chic après ski bars in the village center. It makes sense that nobility and even famous people prefer it. Despite this, Lech nevertheless has a genuine, regional vibe because of the presence of old churches and conventional wooden chalets.

Lech is a dedicated skier's paradise with consistent snowfall levels. 25 kilometers of winter hiking routes, sleigh rides over the frozen environment, and the upscale Strolz champagne bar are some of the other delights of this Austrian ski resort.

Country: Austria

Website: https://www.lechzuers.com/en/winter/winter-sports/skiing

One of the most upscale ski resorts in Europe is Courchevel and for good reason. Les Trois Vallées are in the French Alps. It provides amazing views of the mountains in the area.

While there are many luxurious hotels to pick from, if you really want to splash out, consider booking a room at the Hotel de Charme Les Airelles. One of the most opulent hotels in the entire world, it features a Michelin-starred restaurant, spa, and outdoor pool. You might also reserve the Chalet Edelweiss, which is a wonderful alternative.

With its extensive selection of slopes and paths, Courchevel is a treat for skiers. In addition, you may stroll through the quaint town or go on a beautiful hike whenever you want to take a break from skiing.

Everyone can find the perfect blue or green run at this ski resort, which also offers open runs and tree-lined slopes. Its north-facing location and exceptional snowfall history elevate it to the top tier of European ski resorts.

Country: France

Website: https://courchevel.com/en/

Aside from offering some of the best skiing in the world, the Zermatt resort also offers breathtaking views of Matterhorn mountain. The 5-star Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, which has stunning rooms and suites, an award-winning spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant, is one of the opulent lodging options in Zermatt. Another well-known option is the Kulm Hotel, which is the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps and is accessible by train from Zermatt.

At an elevation of 1,600 meters, the resort town is home to quaint brown wooden chalets and winding lanes. Zermatt's lack of cars contributes to its attractiveness, but don't worry—you won't have to walk everywhere because there are horse-drawn cabs and electric cars available.

Numerous factors contributed to the Swiss town's ranking as the most opulent après-ski destination, but the availability of spas and wellness facilities is a major one. After a long, arduous day on the slopes, these refuges provide peaceful moments or even hours of relaxation. You may visit Europe's highest spa, which is located 2,222 meters above sea level and is only a short ride from the main resort, where you can unwind in the outdoor pool while admiring a stunning view of the towering Matterhorn peak.

Country: Switzerland

Website: www.zermatt.ch

As far as premium ski resorts go in Europe, snowy St Anton is frequently preferred by skiers looking for more difficult terrain. The huge snowfields and bustling Tyrolean-style village center in this region of the Arlberg region are well-known. Those looking for a lavish place to stay can choose from a number of opulent accommodations near to the Galzig gondola. For more laid-back lodging alternatives, check out the Nasserein neighborhood.

During the winter, St Anton is frequently occupied by seasoned skiers due to the resort's nearly 200 miles of slopes. The 40-mile Run of Fame route, which finishes in Warth-Schröcken on the other side of the Arlberg, is a major attraction in this area.

St. Anton is a charming Austrian hamlet that is full of personality. The domed church and wooden chalets give the resort a classic appearance, yet at night the main street is bustling with visitors from around the world chatting animatedly in the après ski pubs and bars.

In addition to a sports area with climbing walls, a bowling alley, and tennis courts, St. Anton also features a sports bar for after-piste mingling. Check out Sölden or the Hochgurgl-Obergurgl resorts for other Austrian destinations that provide a little more of a cost-effective option.

Country: Austria

Website: https://www.stantonamarlberg.com/en/home

Megève is a town in southeast France, close to the borders with Switzerland and Italy. It is a ski area with a private airport. It was built in the 1920s as a hangout for the wealthy and famous, yet it now manages to maintain its status as a rather unassuming and reasonably priced resort.

Despite its busy times, Megève is a tranquil location. Skiers can enjoy the expansive slopes while taking in the views of Mont Blanc. Both novice and expert skiers and snowboarders can find paths.

You can select Hotel Mont Blanc from among the many luxurious hotels available. It's the ideal spot to unwind after a strenuous day on the slopes thanks to its stunning mountain views, roomy accommodations, and first-rate services. Check out Les Fermes de Marie if you want an even more opulent experience; it features a private spa and an outdoor pool.

Off-piste, visitors can browse the town's plethora of largely upscale shopping establishments. Alternatively, try out some other sports like ice skating, climbing, bowling, tennis, swimming, or tennis. There are a few eateries with several Michelin stars, as well as more family-friendly spots for pizza, pasta, and fondue.

Country: France

Website: https://www.megeve-tourisme.fr/en/

Gstaad is beautiful in a paradisiacal way. The traditional and perennially popular Gstaad Palace, one of Switzerland's best hotels, is located in one of the most opulent ski resorts in all of Europe.

A public transportation system that connects five different ski slopes is a model of Swiss efficiency. Gstaad provides both easy, wide slopes for newcomers and difficult, wooded sections for more experienced skiers.

In recent years, this traditional Alpine community has flourished and is now well-liked by celebrities from all over the world who visit fine dining establishments, opulent hotels, upscale stores, and posh apartments in addition to the pistes and unmatched views. Gstaad has a fantastic atmosphere because of the castle that towers over the hamlet and the fairy-lit cottages. One of the basic joys of this alluring resort is evening strolls through the car-free streets.

There are several luxurious hotels to choose from in Gstaad, one of which is the Grand Hotel Park Gstaad. This hotel is absolutely stunning, with beautiful mountain views and spacious, luxurious rooms. The atmosphere at Park Gstaad is incredibly relaxed and inviting, and there are plenty of great things to do both on and off the slopes.

Country: Switzerland

Website: https://www.gstaad.ch/en.html

Cortina d'Ampezzo is the ideal place for travelers to experience genuine Italian elegance because it is situated in the breathtaking Dolomites, a region of the southern Italian Alps. Cortina is a favorite among Italians and has an all-Italian flair. This traditional mountain resort in the Italian Alps, sometimes known as the Queen of the Dolomites, rose to fame after serving as the venue for the 1956 Winter Olympics. The charming town has a lot to offer tourists, and celebrities like George Clooney and Naomi Campbell have walked its streets.

The slopes are ideal for both novice and expert skiers, which is great news for ski enthusiasts. However, Cortina d'Ampezzo is the destination to choose if you want a ski trip that will truly be one to remember.

This resort also ranked highly thanks to its seven Michelin Guide restaurants, with two of them holding the coveted star status. Cortina also boasts over 50 spa and wellness centers to relax in, plus luxury shops like Dior, Patagonia, and Guess to pick up a premium souvenirs.

Country: Italy

Website: https://www.skicortinadampezzo.com/

In the Swiss Alps, there is a ski resort called Verbier. It is renowned for its top-notch snowboarding and skiing as well as its opulent lodging. The W Verbier is one of many upscale accommodations in Verbier.

Because of the high slopes, a variety of weather patterns, and resort culture, many professional skiers have relocated to the Verbier region, making it a genuinely international ski destination. Although it lacks Zermatt's signature feature and the extravagant luxury of Courchevel 1850, St. Moritz, and Megeve, it does have the grandeur and thrilling ski culture that appeals to ski enthusiasts all over the world.

The village of Verbier is small and easily navigated on foot. It has a genuine winter wonderland charm because to its small streets and cozy atmosphere. For those who don't ski, Verbier is a terrific destination to spend the winter, but in the summer, when all types of sporting activities are available, it really shines. But Verbier is known for its skiing and skiing culture, which has contributed to its reputation and prosperity, drawn the affluent and famous, and secured its long-term position as one of Europe's most opulent resorts.

Country: Switzerland

Website: https://verbier4vallees.ch/en

One of the most well-known ski areas in Europe, Méribel exudes a welcoming atmosphere. When skiing or snowboarding down the slopes in the French Alps, you may take in the breathtaking mountain views. There are several restaurants and pubs, as well as a wide variety of hotels and apartments, at the resort.

There's always something going on in Méribel, and the mood is exciting. You'll have a terrific time whether you're partying at one of the many nightclubs at night or hitting the slopes during the day. Meribel is one of the top upscale ski resorts in Europe, with a genuine mountain village vibe and bustling après-ski bars.

In Méribel, you can choose between a modest chalet and a five-star hotel. The Le Kaila Hotel is one such establishment that provides breathtaking views of the valley and mountains.

The ski lift system in Meribel is one of its most impressive features. Skiers with experience can log as many miles as possible thanks to the quick chairlift and gondola rides. Another benefit is that Courchevel and Val Thorens are close by the resort.

Country: France

Website: https://www.meribel.net/

France's Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is renowned as the destination for serious skiers. The term "resort" is arguably inappropriate because Chamonix was a vibrant village before it became a destination for fans of winter sports.

At an elevation of more than 1,000m, this ski area is located at the foot of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps. This height makes Chamonix a popular choice for many skiers and ensures that there will be snow until the end of April.

The pedestrian-friendly town, which played host to the first winter Olympics in 1924, exudes alpine charm and offers plenty of beginner and intermediate runs despite the mountain's extreme reputation. The views alone are worth taking the Aiguille du Midi, the highest cable car in Western Europe. Skiers with experience can use a guide (Chamonix has the largest and oldest guiding organization in the world) to descend the legendary Vallée Blanche, a 12.4-mile glacier run in the center of the Mont-Blanc Massif, from the top.

Country: France

Website: https://www.chamonix.net/english/winter-activities/skiing