Wondering where the best country for skiing or snowboarding is this winter? From Europe’s iconic Alpine resorts to North America’s vast mountain ranges, we have all the information you need to explore the top ski destinations and pick your next ski trip. Discover what makes France, Austria, Italy, Spain, and others stand out for your next ski holiday.
1. France
France is home to some of the largest and most popular ski resorts in Europe. Its popularity is for good reason as there is an incredible amount of choice. The ease of travel for Brits makes it one of the best countries for skiing in Europe. Whether you’re flying, driving or taking the train, the French Alps are an easy journey.
French ski areas are very well-linked, which means you can clock up those ski miles very easily. The Portes du Soleil has an incredible 12 ski resorts interconnected in a beautiful area of the Alps. Val d’Isere and Tignes are must-visits for their amazing terrain and off-piste activities. Val Thorens is a party hot spot whereas Flaine is a perfect ski-in-ski-out destination. If you want traditional alpine skiing, head to La Clusaz.
French ski resorts more than any other country on this list have incredible restaurants. There are countless Michelin-star restaurants to have a unique culinary experience. It’s not just high end eating too, there’s a vast amount of choice in each resort. The eating experience is perfect for different ski holiday budgets.
2. Italy
Stunning views and delicious food are in abundance in Italian ski resorts. You can enjoy lunch, dinner as well as an aperitive on the mountain, with excellent service. The skiing is fantastic too with many ski resorts to choose from for all levels of skiers. No wonder Italy is considered one of the best countries for skiing in Europe.
The Dolomiti Superski area has 12 ski resorts connected to the Milky Way, one of the largest linked ski areas. The views are unrivalled too with the spectacular Dolomites dominating a lot of resorts landscape. Whether you are enjoying the gentle blue runs of Corvara or the challenging off-piste Cervinia.
There are many Michelin-star restaurants in Italian ski resorts, so you’re in for a treat when you’re dining out in the evening. You don’t have to go high end to taste delicious food, the local bars and restaurants are guaranteed to have fantastic cuisine wherever you go.
3. Austria
It’s the homeland of winter sport. Snowsports are the national sports of Austria and each ski resort does take a lot of pride in its pistes and villages. The slope preparation and lift systems are state-of-the-art, so you’re guaranteed the best on the mountain experience. There are plenty of choices depending on your budget too. Food, overall, isn’t expensive, but you can treat yourself to fine dining if you need.
Austrian ski resorts have kept their traditional alpine charm, which makes for a more authentic travel experience. The scenery is breath-taking wherever you decide to stay and seems to never end. The connections between ski resorts are fantastic too if you’re looking to adventure far and wide.
The larger ski areas of the Arlberg, Saalbach-Hinterglemm and the Ski Welt have something for everyone and are perfect for mixed ability groups. There are also great hidden gems if you want a relaxing ski experience in places like Alpbach and Kühtai. Austria is one of the best countries for skiing in Europe.
4. Switzerland
Expect top-class service and beautiful scenery when you ski in Switzerland. Each Swiss ski resort still has an Alpine charm and the skiing itself is fantastic. The choice is fantastic and is great if you have mixed skiing ability families or groups on your winter getaway.
Zermatt is an iconic ski resort mostly because of the view of the beautiful Matterhorn. Verbier is a very popular ski resort too and is part of the massive Four Valleys ski area. There are also hidden gems such as Grindelwald which have a great charm. The variety of ski resorts in Switzerland makes it a great option for your next ski trip.
As for the food, you’ll find some of the best mountain restaurants. The local Swiss cuisine is a real treat and is often served in cosy mountain restaurants. Expect to indulge in fondues, röstis and local cheese. Of course, don’t forget about the incredible Swiss chocolate too!
5. Canada
Canada is on most skier’s bucket lists – no wonder the great reputation for skiing. The snow record and choice of ski resorts make Canada very appealing. Powder hounds rush to the country for the best off-piste opportunities. Many resorts are also suitable for families and mixed ability groups because of the choice of pistes.
The most well-known ski resorts are Whistler, Lake Louise and Banff, all of which have incredible skiing and off-slope activities. There are also hidden gems in British Columbia: Revelstoke and Panorama. The atmosphere in each ski resort is always welcoming which is standard with Canadian communities.
The typical après night in Canada is a bar with live music with the best local bands. There’s also a good selection of restaurants in each ski resort if you’re looking for a bite to eat. You can stay in stunning accommodation, the hotel quality in Canada is second to none with incredible service.
6. USA
US skiing is incredible and the level of service is off the charts. Ski resorts are typically owned by businesses, so each ski destination truly aims to please visitors. Expect big mountain terrain and big snowfalls, perfect for those chasing powder ski runs. The lift systems and slope maintenance are state-of-the-art too! The USA is for sure one of the best countries for skiing.
There’s a diverse choice of skiing in America. Whether you’re visiting the star-studded ski resort of Aspen or the cowboy town of Jackson Hole, there’s something for everyone. If you want fantastic off-piste head over to snow-sure skiing in Utah. If you want a bit of luxury Beaver Creek is your destination.
Each ski resort has something special when it comes to eating out. Experience 5-star cuisine at hotels in Beaver Creek or Aspen. In Jackson Hole, there are wild west theme bars and restaurants to enjoy. Expect huge portions and excellent service whatever ski resort you’re visiting.
7. Andorra
Andorra is a truly unique experience it sets itself apart from most ski destinations because of its one-of-a-kind landscape and culture. Each ski resort has its charm and the local mountain villages have maintained their unspoiled look.
One of the main draws to the country is the amazing food. The Catalan influenced cuisine is different to the traditional alpine meals. You can enjoy a glass of sangria and tasty assorted tapas for lunch – a special culinary experience on the mountain!
The skiing is fantastic – there are more than 60 peaks to choose from with varied terrain to explore. If you’re a beginner, nursery areas and lovely tree-lined blues will ensure you gain confidence on the slopes gradually. For more advanced skiers, there is plenty of off-piste opportunities and powder pockets to drop into. Make sure to explore the must-visit ski resorts in the country: Ordino-Arcalis, Grandvalira, Arinsal and Soldeu!
8. Norway
Norway has some of the most unique ski experiences in the world and sets itself apart from classic European ski destinations. All the Norwegian ski resorts have their own unique charm. It’s an ideal destination for families with small terrain and fantastic ski schools.
In addition to skiing, there are wonderful off-slope activities to enjoy. Seeing the marvellous wonders of the Northern Lights and the iconic Fjords can make your trip one to remember. You can also enjoy dog sled rides, cross-country skiing, horse-drawn sleigh rides and night skiing.
Kvitfjell caters for all abilities with its World Cup ski run for advanced skiers and excellent beginner nursery slopes. Voss is one of the largest ski resorts in Western Norway and has the perfect set-up for families. Trysil offers many activities for those not skiing in the family or group. It is also a great place to be able to view the Northern Lights on good weather days.
9. Sweden
Sweden prides itself on a laid-back atmosphere with modern comforts and a long ski season stretching from November to May. With excellent snow reliability, state-of-the-art lift systems, and uncrowded pistes, people of all abilities can enjoy skiing in Sweden. Even during peak weeks like Christmas and Half Term, you’ll enjoy maximum ski time with minimal queues.
Spend your days carving perfectly groomed slopes – some even offer night skiing – and return to cosy accommodation feeling completely fulfilled. Many resorts are just a short transfer from the airport and provide ski-in ski-out access, flexible stays, and welcoming hotels for families and groups.
Beyond the slopes, Sweden is a true winter wonderland. Enjoy husky sledding, ice fishing, or snowmobiling through enchanting forests. The Swedish gastronomical roots go back to the Viking times – smoking and salting being one of their typical methods of cooking, with dishes prepared using fresh and seasonal ingredients. For added variety, day trips to Stockholm or Gothenburg are easy to arrange from many ski areas.
10. Spain
Spain’s ski resorts offer something for everyone, from beginners to experienced skiers, with well-maintained pistes and fewer crowds. Sierra Nevada sitting at altitudes from 2,100 to 3,300 meters, one of Spain’s advantages is its quieter ski resorts compared to Europe’s busier destinations. Fewer skiers on the slopes help preserve snow quality and are ideal for families or groups seeking relaxed, enjoyable skiing.
With panoramic views stretching to the Mediterranean or Pyrenean peaks, you can spot the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and marvel at the unspoiled natural landscapes. Reliable snowfall is ensured throughout the season, running from December to April. One of the highlights of skiing in Spain is the blend of winter sports and vibrant culture – if you’re travelling with friends, swap the usual après-ski for tapas bars, lively markets, and local festivals.
Food goes beyond culture: savour jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, sangria, and add flavour to your experience. Accommodation is often set in charming mountain villages, full of warmth and character. Spain’s welcoming atmosphere with smaller resort sizes is a perfect option for families, groups, or solo ski trips.
11. Germany
A ski holiday in Germany offers an Alpine experience similar to Austria, but often for a more budget-friendly price, with resorts easily reached within 90 minutes of major airports (Munich or Innsbruck). The short transfer times and option to drive from the UK make German ski resorts convenient, cost-effective alternatives to their Alpine neighbours.
Rustic and unspoiled villages like the popular Garmisch Partenkirchen offer 60km of pistes split between the Classic area and a high-altitude glacier ski area on Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain. With access to high-altitude skiing on Zugspitze and varied terrain across multiple regions, Germany caters to both casual and seasoned skiers.
Food in German resorts is hearty and comforting, featuring local classics like schnitzel, Weisswurst, and potato dumplings. Cosy mountain eateries and lively après-ski bars create a warm atmosphere, where you can enjoy a stein of beer. Expect a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds and full of Bavarian charm
To find out more about the best countries for skiing in Europe and North America, please call our ski experts on 0207 471 7700.
