Here are some of the best resorts for your next ski weekend getaway. All offering exceptional skiing and après ski, with speedy transfers from nearby airports; so you’ll have plenty of time out on the powder during your weekend ski trip. Maximise your time on the slopes and explore the ski resort in just a few days. Drop your luggage, click on your skis, and feel the breeze of the chairlift in no time!
A long weekend spent hitting the slopes in the best ski resorts can recharge the batteries like nothing else. You may be limited on annual leave or want an additional ski fix during the season, this is where short breaks and sweet ski weekends come in.
1. Courmayeur, Italy
With an altitude of 1,224m and transfer times of 90 minutes, Courmayeur makes for a great weekend ski trip getaway. This snow-sure Italian ski resort is bursting with charm. Built around a medieval market town, its pedestrianised cobbled streets are packed with lively restaurants and bars to sample. There’s also a fantastic après ski scene to tempt you late into the night.
The wide, open runs are wonderful for intermediate skiers and the off-piste opportunities are endless. There is something for everyone in Courmayeur making it a great choice for families and groups looking for the perfect weekend getaway on the slopes.
Stay At:
Le Massif Hotel & Lodge is a fabulous five-star hotel with everything at your fingertips. From the in-house ski concierge to the gourmet restaurants, not forgetting the incredible spa area.
2. Cervinia, Italy
Cervinia stands out as one of the top weekend ski resorts for this winter. At an impressive altitude of 2,050m, it guarantees excellent snow conditions from November to May. The resort features 160km of pistes, primarily catering to beginners and intermediates, making it a perfect choice for families or those who are just looking to improve their skills on the slopes.
For advanced skiers, the nearby Zermatt area expands the skiable terrain to 360km, featuring varied runs and exciting off-piste opportunities. Skiers can even experience the highest border crossing in Europe, the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, on their way to Zermatt from Cervinia.
With a quick two-hour transfer from Turin, Cervinia is easily accessible, making it an ideal weekend getaway for high-altitude skiing and reliable snow without the hassle.
3. La Clusaz, France
Nestled in the Aravis mountain range in France, this compact resort is just 50km from Geneva, making it an excellent choice for a weekend getaway. La Clusaz boasts a total of 220km of slopes, shared with its neighbouring resort, Le Grand Bornand, catering primarily to beginners and intermediates. Its charming village atmosphere is reminiscent of a traditional Austrian or Swiss resort, creating a welcoming environment for families and groups alike.
At an altitude of 1,100m, with lifts reaching up to 2,500m, La Clusaz guarantees reliable snow conditions at high altitude throughout the season. While it primarily suits beginner and intermediate skiers, there are also more challenging slopes for advanced skiers to enjoy. Families can enjoy the dedicated tobogganing spots at Les Confins and Champ Giguet. La Clusaz stands out as a truly well-rounded ski destination, combining beautiful Alpine scenery and excellent skiing, with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Stay At:
A great four-star hotel just 5-minute walk from the centre of La Clusaz. Stay at Hotel Le Chamois and enjoy its wonderful spa facilities.
4. Crans Montana, Switzerland
Crans Montana, nestled in the stunning Valais region, is one of Switzerland’s premier ski destinations. Located at 1,500m, it enjoys a south-facing position that guarantees exceptional sunshine throughout the season, perfect for bluebird days on the slopes. With 140km of pistes and 40 lifts, the ski area caters to all levels, with a strong focus on beginners and intermediates.
Advanced skiers will get their adrenaline rushes on the dramatic 11km descent from the Plaine Morte glacier, descending from heights of nearly 3,000m. Crans Montana’s diverse terrain includes some fantastic off-piste opportunities near La Tza and Chetzeron.
Beyond skiing, Crans Montana offers breathtaking views of the Valais Alps, a gourmet dining scene, and luxurious accommodations. With a short two hour transfer from Geneva, it’s ideal for weekend trips, making it the perfect choice for an unforgettable Alpine getaway.
Stay At:
Situated in a quiet corner in the heart of Crans-Montana, Faern Hotel Valaisia is a well equipped four-star hotel with is own extensive spa and wellness centre complex.
5. La Thuile, Italy
La Thuile ski resort is a serene alternative to the more crowded European destinations, located in the Aosta Valley just two hours from Geneva. This former mining town offers over 160km of well-groomed slopes, seamlessly linked to the French resort of La Rosière. With stunning views of the Mont Blanc massif, the area features open bowls and charming tree-lined slopes. Most runs are north or east-facing and rise above 2,000m, ensuring reliable snow conditions even during peak times. Families and skiers of all levels will appreciate the crowd-free pistes, especially the gentle blues and reds on Les Suches, ideal for cruising and practicing carving.
The resort caters to a variety of skill levels, providing ample options for beginners and intermediate skiers. Two nursery slopes at the base make learning enjoyable, while the upper mountain offers a selection of red and black runs, including an exhilarating descent right back to the village. For the more adventurous skiers out there, heliskiing offers access to even more thrilling terrain. With its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, La Thuile promises to be one of the best weekend ski trips available.
Stay At:
A 5-star luxury hotel on the edge of La Thuile, the Montana Lodge and Spa has everything you could need for a luxurious ski weekend. Both the in-house dining and spa facilities are well regarded among guests.
6. Chamonix, France
Chamonix, one of the oldest and most iconic ski resorts in the Alps, is renowned for its exceptional skiing and amazing views of Mont Blanc. Nestled at an altitude of 1,035m, the resort features a remarkable 150km of diverse slopes, reaching heights of nearly 3,840m. This expansive terrain caters primarily to intermediate and advanced skiers, with areas like Col de Balme and Les Houches offering gentler blues for beginners, while the challenging Vallée Blanche is a must for thrill-seekers.
Beyond its impressive ski offerings, Chamonix boasts a vibrant town atmosphere filled with charming cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and an excellent selection of shops and restaurants. Although not a ski-in ski-out destination, the convenient bus service connects the six distinct ski areas, allowing skiers to explore the vast and varied terrain. With breathtaking scenery, vibrant après-ski, and a convenient 90-minute transfer from Geneva, Chamonix promises an unforgettable Alpine ski weekend getaway. Bluebird days on the slopes flow seamlessly into lively après that lasts well into the night.
Stay At:
Nestled in a quiet and calm garden setting, Hotel Mont-Blanc exudes luxury. With all hotel amenities being of the highest specifications, this hotel is a great pick.
7. Engelberg, Switzerland
Perfect for short ski holidays, this little-known ski resort is only 90 minutes south of Zürich. You can easily fly in for a weekend ski trip from London and get straight on the slopes that afternoon. When it comes to skiing, long runs also mean maximum time on the pistes. Try Engelberg’s thrilling 2,000m vertical drop, or the north-facing Titlis glacier, renowned for its exceptional powder.
An itinerant monk supposedly founded the town itself, and you can still visit his Benedictine monastery. We also recommend squeezing in a visit to the cheese factory next door. In the evenings soak up exceptional views of the exceptional scenery from one of the Alpine bars.
Stay At:
Hotel Central is in a great location just moments away from the slopes. Guests will enjoy the laid back atmosphere in this relaxed Swiss hotel.
8. Norefjell, Norway
Norefjell ski resort offers a warm Norwegian welcome to everyone who visits. The ski resort is perfect for those looking for stunning scenery and a peaceful atmosphere to unwind in. The resort reaches an elevation of 1,888m and has breathtaking views of Lake Krøderen below.
The ski area has 25km of slopes giving weekend skiers enough terrain to discover in a short amount of time. Plus, if you’re looking for something different, Norefjell has a vast range of non-skiing activities. Experience cross-country skiing, indoor rock climbing or unwind by swimming in the pool.
Stay At:
Enjoy ski-in ski-out access when you stay at Norefjell Ski & Spa. Guests of the hotel will benefit from the extensive wellness spa area and abundant choice of treatments and massages.
Voss, Norway
Surrounded by dramatic fjords and majestic mountains, skiing in Voss is nothing short of breathtaking. Being just 1.5 hours from Bergen airport, it’s easily accessible for a weekend getaway to the slopes. It’s 40km of groomed alpine trails, 24 diverse slopes and one of Europe’s best evening skiing facilities, you can ski to your heart’s content.
Voss offers a variety of slopes that are perfect for both relaxed skiers and those seeking a challenge. The beautiful terrain combined with consistent snowfalls makes it ideal for a couple of days of skiing in Norway. With fewer people than other bustling ski destinations, you’ll sometimes feel like you have the mountain to yourself.
Unlike bigger ski resorts, Voss has a cosy atmosphere that appeals to those looking for an authentic alpine retreat. Here, après-ski is more about enjoying a quiet conversation over a hearty Norwegian meal than chasing the crowds. Dip into a snug cabin, quaint café or rustic wine bar to relax after a day on the slopes.
Stay At:
Park Hotel Vossevangen is a cozy and welcoming hotel located in the picturesque village of Vossevangen, Norway.
Plose, Italy
Tucked away in the stunning South Tyrol region of northern Italy, Plose is the scenic ski getaway straight out of a dream. Visit Plose and ski against the stunning backdrop of the soaring Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Offering both adventure and tranquillity, its 40km of ski slopes cater for every kind of skier. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, leisurely carver or snow-plougher, there’s something for everyone. The legendary Trametsch descent is a great run for ski fanatics while Plose’s quieter, gentle slopes are perfect for those wanting to improve their turns.
The resort is just a short 20-minute drive from Brixen, the nearest town which is also the oldest and one of the most beautiful in South Tyrol. Full of vibrant culture, delicious restaurants, art galleries and shops, spend a day here to immerse yourself in Italian charm.
Stay At:
My Arbor is a unique four-star hotel immersed in the beautiful treelined region of Plose.
To find out more about the best weekend ski resorts for your ski trip speak to our experts on 0207 471 7700.
