Meribel Chalet
By Kristina Scuoteguazza
It’s that time of year again – travelers are escaping to their favorite ski destinations. However, light, airy powder isn’t the only thing attracting crowds to world-famous ski resorts. From taxi bob runs and heli-skiing to dog sledding and everything in between, these resorts focus on providing guests with most luxurious, adventurous – and sometimes outrageous – experiences.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
Along with being the birthplace of Alpine winter holidays and destination for European royalty, this resort was also the host to two winter Olympics. Known for it’s sunny days, spas and more than 250 miles of pistes, this destination is the go-to for travelers looking for some culture with their designer snowsuits and gear.
If you want to plan your visit around an event – which we highly encourage – try January for the St. Moritz Polo World Cup on Snow or February for the White Turf St. Moritz International Horse Races – which have been going on since 1907.
If foodie activities are to your liking (and let’s be real – who doesn’t consider themselves a foodie?) then you should head to the Pontresina’s alpine dairy to taste traditional-made cheese.
Luxury Ski Chalet and Ski Town Goldenberg
Gstaad, Switzerland
Known for refined luxury, billionaires, charming architecture and beautiful landscapes, this alpine village is a rival to St. Moritz. In the past, you could have found yourself sipping wine next to Louis Armstrong, Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren and Grace Kelly.
Presently, the town has more than 40 hotels to choose from, a total of 155 miles of slopes, 62 lifts, and a traffic-free shopping mile – yes you read that right…a mile. However, unlike St. Moritz, it is a more subdued snow experience. If you are interested in skiing, unparalleled scenery, wellness spas or listening to jazz bands while lounging in plush hotel bars than this is your spot. However, adventure seekers better look elsewhere.
Ski Chalet Dining with view of the Alps
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada
Whistler Blackcomb – also known as an adrenaline junkie’s winter paradise – is the largest ski resort in North America and home to more than 200 marked trails, 37 lifts and the longest continuous lift system in the world – also known as “Peak 2 Peak”.
Along with amazing trails, travelers can go heli-skiing, ziplining, snowmobiling, bobsleigh and skeleton sliding, dog sledding or take backcountry tours along with many other activities. Also known for unique apres ski options, visitors can take high-end tasting tours or party at one of their many nightclubs in the area. There is something for everyone on your trip.
Ski Chalet Accommodation in Canada
Similar to Whistler, this resort town is perfect for skiers looking to add some adventure into their trip. With activities such as backcountry skiing, cat skiing, dog sledding, fat bike tours, ice climbing, snowbiking, snowmobiling and snowshoeing, it’s no wonder that Telluride is one of the most visited ski resort towns in the U.S.
However, what sets this town apart is the idyllic setting. Downtown feels like the Old West as it features quaint bars, two-story buildings with cozy storefronts and dramatic snow-capped peaks as a backdrop.
