Imagine planning has started for your luxury ski holiday – the group has been decided and the dates marked in the diary – but no one can decide where to go. With a wealth of options for luxury skiing across the Alps, location can be tough to decide. Well, let this guide inspire your next trip. In our opinion these are some exceptional places that ooze extravagance. Regarded as world-class resorts they are well worth visiting.
Read on for some of the most renowned and exclusive resorts in France, Switzerland, and Austria. They boast exceptional skiing, elegant dining, and extravagant chalets.
Courchevel, specifically it’s highest village 1850, is potentially the most recognisable name on this list. Courchevel 1850 is a prestigious resort in the French Alps and has a reputation for exceptional luxury skiing holidays. Look no further if you’re wondering “Why Is Courchevel so Popular?”. It is a town of glitz, glamour, fur, and diamonds. Sport your Moncler coat here, it’s almost uniform!
With storefronts to make any shopper’s heart leap – Rolex, Louis Vuitton, BVLGARI, Fendi, Gucci and Dior – Courchevel 1850 certainly suits designer tastes. Also, several mountain restaurants have designer boutiques for lunchtime browsing. If you find something you love, the team will deliver it back to your luxury ski chalet in Courchevel 1850 while you continue your day on the mountain. So, if you visit Courchevel 1850 while on your luxury ski trip, maybe bring an extra suitcase so you can make the most of this high-end shopping.
Moving the designer tastes to the dinner table, Courchevel 1850 is the ski resort with the most Michelin stars (13 stars across 8 restaurants). Hence, phenomenal dining is an important aspect of luxury ski holidays in Courchevel 1850. To get your tastebuds tingling, take a look at the Best Restaurants in Courchevel. Also, if you wish, you don’t have to put on a pair of skis at all as there’s a host of non-skiing activities in Courchevel 1850. As a snapshot, there are heli-tours, dog sledding and tobogganing. To learn more; explore this guide to the Top Non-Skier Activities in Courchevel.
Focusing on the pistes, Courchevel 1850 is part of the World’s largest interconnected ski area: The Three Valleys. Stretching across 600km of slopes and incorporating Europe’s highest ski resort, Val Thorens, the skiing around Courchevel 1850 is top tier. It’s no wonder people come back year after year. There’s always more to explore!
One of my favourite runs in Courchevel is Creux, a rolling blue run that is perfectly groomed first thing in the morning. It forks off to a piste aptly named Altiport which passes Courchevel’s private airport. As a resort built purposely for luxury, Courchevel Altiport welcomes private jets, delivering you directly to the pistes. Now that’s luxury skiing! Additionally, there’s infrastructure for a direct helicopter transfer to start your holiday in style. Many fly into the Geneva, Lyon and Chambery with a helicopter or plane transfer directly into resort.
If you’re interested in a more private stay then Le K2 Chalets may appeal. These chalets have all the benefits of a luxury chalet alongside the exclusive Hotel Le K2 Palace and its renowned service. Out of the 7 K2 Chalets, Hidden Peak has a unique twist as the owners have imported rich, Italian marble, each a different colour for the six en-suites. Along with exemplary levels of service and access to the K2 Palace Hotel, the chalet has fantastic ski access right onto the Cospillot piste.
Looking towards other exceptional chalets, Chalet Bruxellois captures the atmosphere of a luxury mountain home perfectly. Decorated sumptuously it’s nearly impossible not to relax and feel immense comfort while staying here. Without a doubt, the pièce de résistance of this chalet is the wellness spa. The area is huge and features an indoor swimming pool designed to feel like you are swimming in a mountain lake, complete with canoe and jetty!
If you’re dreaming of a luxury ski trip to a traditional, chocolate box village then Lech makes this fantasy a reality. When going to the Tyrol mountains the most discerning guests looking for a 5* resort would decide on Lech. Expect a town that’s awash with high quality hotels, luxury chalets and top restaurants. Nevertheless, despite such luxurious attractions, Lech is remarkably grounded and elegant. Due to strict building regulations and limits on tourist numbers Lech has an air of alpine sophistication without any unwanted extravagance. It’s not over the top, it’s simply the top.
Lech is symbolised by its rich, famous, and royal visitors. Dutch royals have enjoyed visiting Lech for the last 60 years. Meanwhile, Princess Diana famously took Harry and William here too. Nevertheless, Lech remains fantastically unpretentious. Simply put, everyone on a luxury skiing holiday in Lech visits to enjoy the unspoilt town, breathtaking scenery, and sublime skiing. Although you could play a game of who’s who: Lech isn’t the place to see and be seen. To go to Lech is to relax and indulge in all the best aspects of luxury ski holidays.
It’s not just the high-end clientele that make Lech a high-end destination, the town itself exudes luxury. For après ski, enjoy a cocktail in one of the lounge bars in town. Your wardrobe can be upgraded at the designer outlets. For your equipment hire there’s Strolz a family-owned ski shop akin to the luxury chalets in Lech – refined interiors, attentive service, with a chandelier for good measure. Time and time again, the infrastructure and amenities in Lech imbue luxury ski holidays here with a premium feel and connote understated opulence.
Lech’s ski area is in the Arlberg. This is the largest connected ski area in Austria with over 300km of pistes. It’s also one of the top five ski regions in the world. If you’re looking for adventure and panoramic views add The White Ring circuit to your luxury skiing bucket list. To summarise, the White Ring is a 22km ski circuit linking Lech, Zürs, Zug and Oberlech. Along the way are several viewpoints and perfect places for lunch. Look out for Balmalp in Zürs. With a beautiful terrace lined with champagne bottles it’s hard to miss and even harder not to venture inside for a glass (or two). For more insider information our Instructors Guide To The Arlberg ‘White Ring’ may be useful.
Lech is also one of the first resorts to put a cap on the number of daily lift passes. This not only adds to the exclusivity of their luxury skiing but also, the quality of their groomed pistes.
It’ll come as no surprise that the most magnificent luxury ski chalets in Lech are ski-in/ski-out. Unrivalled access to the slopes comes with a prestigious postcode. Ski in/ski out chalets in Lech are in Oberlech, the crown jewel. This area is an impressive cluster of luxury chalets and hotels just above Lech’s town. Take Chalet N as an example, the phenomenal location with outstanding service make for the perfect home on your luxury ski holidays. Oberlech is accessed by skis, cable car (open until late), or by your luxury chalet’s chauffeur.
When staying at Chalet 1551 a personal driver (with their unique Polaris Ranger, Range Rover and/or Audi Q8) can whisk you into the centre of Lech in a matter of minutes. However, of course, it too being located in Oberlech the chalet is ski-in/ski-out. There is more to 1551 than its enviable location. The standout feature, or features, is its wellness area; complete with a 10m indoor pool, two Jacuzzis (indoor and outdoor), Finnish sauna, infrared cabin, hyperbaric oxygen chamber, massage room and gym. You and 13 of your loved ones will be spoilt for choice when staying here.
Looking at other standout Oberlech chalets, the Arula Chalets are made up of sister properties Arula 1 and Arula 2. They ensure you are pampered with their extensive wellness facilities. Being two combined properties, you can benefit from two of many of the facilities, including two pools, two saunas, two steam baths, two Jacuzzis, two cinemas and even two party rooms! For large corporate, family or friend groups these chalets sleep up to 30 guests in sublime luxury when both sister chalets are taken together.
That there are multiple chalets in Lech and Oberlech that deserve a mention speaks to this luxury resort. Last but certainly not least is Le Chalet. With all the bells and whistles and an extensive spa area, this chalet is really special.
I was fortunate enough to visit Zermatt in the winter and witness first-hand what makes it an exceptional resort. The first image when picturing Zermatt is the iconic Matterhorn. Snuggled under its wing, Zermatt is a truly special town not just for the one-of-a-kind panoramas but also for a breadth of other reasons. Focusing on the town, the bones of Zermatt haven’t changed and the families that have lived there for years work hard to maintain its authenticity and alpine charm.
An aspect that stood out to me in Zermatt was the restaurants. With over 100 restaurants in Zermatt town and 50 more up the mountain, there’s something for everyone’s palates. Most restaurants have personal twists and unique takes making for truly interesting dining experiences that you can’t find anywhere else. While in other resorts one can guess a mountain lunch menu without reading it, Zermatt offers one-of-a-kind dining experiences.
Getting to Zermatt is done by either train or helicopter. Both routes are scenic and hardly feel like journeying at all. The train has wonderful views. You’ll find the two-and-a-bit hours are not only enjoyable but over before you know it. Ending in an exciting climb through the mountains into Zermatt; it’s a truly special way to transfer into resort.
The Matterhorn Ski Paradise is also home to Europe’s highest ski slopes, up to 3,899m. As a result, it is one of our Top Spring Ski Resorts in the Alps. So, wash away those worries about snow conditions. Indeed, what made my trip so memorable was some of the best snow I’ve skied on in years.
On the first day head to Paradise; a great restaurant on the Sunnega side of the ski area. Surrounded by gentle blue runs it’s the perfect area to warm up and get your ski legs in. Then enjoy your own slice of paradise on its sunny terrace. Expect exceptional Matterhorn views and food designed to be a fusion of the traditional with the new and exotic. When you have a bit more confidence Zermatt’s ski area connects with Cervinia so make sure to head across the border for a proper espresso and lunch in Italy during your trip. With these interconnected areas you have access to 360km of slopes at your ski tips!
Although classic chocolate box chalets line the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town, don’t let this fool you; top end, luxury chalet developments are just as impressive in Zermatt as the other resorts in this list.
When looking for the perfect Swiss home from home there are several ultimate luxury chalets in Zermatt to choose from. To highlight a couple; Les Anges offers over 700m² of pure elegance. With the name taken from “being graced by angels” this chalet is nothing short of divine. Plus, with most rooms offering heavenly views of the Matterhorn you aren’t going to forget that you’re on a luxury ski trip in Zermatt!
I feel like I can’t write this article without mentioning Zermatt Peak. A truly special chalet, it was originally a private home and is still operated with this culture at heart. With opulence throughout all six floors, it’s no surprise that it has won both the World Ski Award for Switzerland’s Best Ski Chalet and World’s Best Ski Chalet in 2020, 2021 and 2022. My personal favourite aspect of Chalet Zermatt Peak is the glass roof over the living area, opening up the magnificent views over Zermatt village and allowing for a peek of the infamous Matterhorn too.
There you have it. With iconic Matterhorn views, Swiss food, wine, hospitality, Italian lunches over the border in Cervinia and a breadth of luxury chalets to come home to; the question is not why Zermatt, but when can I book?
Looking towards another Swiss resort, we have Verbier. It’s the perfect mix of modern ease with the optics of a traditional alpine town. Developed out of Verbier Old Village with new luxury chalets in the traditional architectural style, Verbier still has that charm and charisma.
Verbier is renowned for hardcore skiing. However, don’t let this fool you! Verbier is punctuated by superb sun-soaked restaurants with chairs draped in fur, an energetic après scene with the biggest DJs, and international shopping. All of this while staying in phenomenal chalets. Plus, there is plenty to keep the non-skier entertained. Ergo, Verbier is for a guest wanting superior skiing dowsed in all the finer aspects of an ultimate ski resort. It’s simply the draw of the Verbier luxury ski holiday experience.
Built in a natural bowl up at 1,500m it’s best to imagine Verbier as almost amphitheatre shaped. Within this basin there are luxury chalets spread up and around. The biggest advantage of this layout is that most of the luxury chalets in Verbier enjoy a dramatic view overlooking the valley and mountains opposite. The entertainment in Verbier’s amphitheatre centres around the resort’s renowned back-country skiing.
For the advanced skier, Verbier is one of the top luxury ski destinations to test yourself. The 4 Valleys ski area offers over 400km and a variety of piste difficulties. However, the off-piste shines the brightest. With an extensive programme of glaciers, deep powder bowls and couloirs, it’s a sublime playground for the experienced skier. Polishing your off-piste skills is also possible in this prestigious back-country ski resort. Verbier has 11 marked off-piste runs, also known as itinerary routes. As a result, Verbier provides a world-class introduction to off-piste skiing. For a further boost to your adrenalin levels, you can try heli-skiing in Verbier.
Not to worry if you’re a family group or have any novice skiers. In Verbier, there is a wonderful beginner ski area – Les Esserts. Complete with a drag lift and two magic carpets Les Esserts is specifically separate to the main ski area so, only those practicing their skiing skills are here. It’s a non-intimidating area perfect for improvement. Instructors are also happy to take pupils from Les Esserts to the main Medran lift when they’re ready for the next step.
If you’re still struggling to choose where to go, maybe it will be a case of narrowing your choice down to the luxury chalet that you most desire to stay in? Let’s explore some of luxury chalets in Verbier….
Aptly named Chalet Spa has all the wellness facilities you could dream of. The two outdoor hot tubs, 10m indoor swimming pool, bio sauna and massage rooms are all linked with a Bowers & Wilkins sound system for serene relaxation or to play your favourite tunes with a glass of Champagne in hand!
Meanwhile, Dent Blanche is a perfect example of how Verbier’s chalets, spread out around the bowl, are afforded uninterrupted views and sun drenched south facing terraces. Dent Blanche promises breathtaking panoramas, and privacy juxtaposed against lively town centre only a 2-minute stroll away.
Luxury ski holidays in Verbier may lead you to the exclusive Hameau development: a collection of super luxury properties, including Makini, which overlook a small lake. The interior of this chalet doesn’t disappoint; dazzling chandeliers, intriguing artwork and precious antiques. Head outside, past the expansive terrace overlooking the private lake to the second chalet; the spa chalet. Located 100m from the main building, Chalet Makini’s sublime spa chalet is for your exclusive use. It’s one of the largest in Verbier, and hence deserves its own building to suitably accommodate the swimming pool, Jacuzzi, hammam, sauna, treatment rooms and state of the art gym.
These chalets are sure to tempt you to choose Verbier next winter or in the future. Indeed, if you’re considering a seasonal chalet, Verbier has many seasonal rentals to enjoy the beautiful environment even longer. Being easily accessible from Geneva it’s great if you have to return home for work. Enjoy this Guide to Living in Verbier if you’re curious about a longer stay.
Compared to the other French ski resort on this list (Courchevel 1850), Megève is a different breed. The differences start in the creation. Megève originally dates to the 13th century. This history and heritage heavily contribute to the village’s charm. In the last two centuries the Rothschild family refined Megève into a destination synonymous with excellence.
Megève’s architecture holds all the elements of a traditional alpine commune. Imagine old districts composed of cobbled streets, twinkling lamps and horse drawn carriages. These accompany a medieval square, complete with church tower and, at Christmas, a grand tree.
Luxury ski holidays in Megève follow in this pattern of a chic, winter paradise built upon sophistication and prestige. Après ski in Megève is the picture of luxurious conviviality in cosy piano bars. To clink a champagne glass to live jazz, the sumptuous Club de Jazz Les Cinq Rues is the place for you. For something a little more lively, a VIP table at the infamous Folie Douce should do the trick!
Moreover, Megève is also home to one of the best restaurants in France: La Ferme de Mon Père. Housing three Michelin stars under its farmhouse roof it is the perfect example of Megève’s blend of historical luxury.
Throughout this section, not once have I referred to Megève as a ski resort. Although one of the top places for luxury ski holidays, Megève is far greater than simply a ski resort. Primarily, it does not feel like one. Being only 60 minutes from Geneva, the topography is that of quieter, discreet mountains. Therefore, rather than a ski resort intimidated by striking peaks, Megève’s rolling hills are hardly noticeable, contributing to its provincial French charm.
With this topography, luxury skiing in Megève is gentle. It’s perfect for beginners, intermediates and children, and there are great facilities that support this demographic. The ski area is large, with smooth and well-groomed pistes. The slopes are superb for easy cruising amid beautiful scenery.
Provided you have a car, Megève is the most pleasant base to enjoy a ski safari, exploring the more challenging neighbouring resorts of Chamonix, Courmayeur and Argentière which are also covered by the Ski Pass Mont Blanc.
The distinguished properties that surround Megève often have an air of grace. Most private chalets in Megève are just that: private properties. Second homes are common in Megève, therefore some owners only rent a couple weeks a year. As such, self-catered stays are more common. Rest assured, Megève’s clientele attract enough world-class private chefs to accommodate your needs.
Delving into where to stay in Megève, let’s start with Chalet Alexandra. This property is located in the heart of the village. So, when staying here, take advantage of the charming shops and restaurants. Chalet Alexandra has a “best of both worlds” location: situated in town but off a side street so it remains remarkably private. This makes it perfect for families looking for some peace and quiet. Plus, with a children’s playroom, the little ones will delight in this luxury chalet too!
Up in the prestigious Mont d’Arbois neighbourhood is another ultimate chalet well-worth highlighting; Chalet Izoard. A couple of our team have visited this property, and I’ve quizzed them on why it is so special. They agreed that no expense was spared in this chalet. Everything was to the highest quality, whilst maintaining a very homely feel.
For large groups Ultima Megève may also be a perfect option. More than a chalet, it’s an experience. Ultima Megève is a combination of two extremely luxurious chalets. When paired together these chalets sleep between 14 and 18 guests. For large groups looking for luxury ski holidays in Megève its a great choice.
Alongside choosing which ultimate resort you would like to visit, choosing the right accommodation is just as important. This is something our team of Ski Specialists can help with. Send us an email or call on +44 (0)1202 203653 to start planning your next luxury ski holiday to one of the top ski resorts in the Alps.
Blue Skies Lifestyle Ltd, established in 2005, is an online luxury ski holiday agent that specialises in finding clients the perfect luxury ski chalet in France, Switzerland, Austria and Italy. We feature an extensive portfolio of luxury chalet accommodation and luxury ski hotels that are ideal for group and family luxury ski holidays.
