Skiing, as well as snowboarding, has become iconic in some places where winter brings them copious amounts of snow. Snow sports enthusiasts eagerly wait for winter so they can finally learn or show off their cool skills. Once upon a time this luxury only belonged to the very rich but thankfully now that’s not the case. From cozy medieval like ski resorts to expensive luxurious one, there is a ski resort perfect for you.
What makes a resort really good?
Honestly, it depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Generally, if they have good rooms and good food available with exceptionally great views, it goes up on the list. Personally, it’s a bummer for me that it doesn’t snow everywhere in winter. But hey that never stopped from visiting warmer countries, like once I visited Thailand in winter even though I was planning to go skiing. What can I say? When I found Cheapest Flights to Thailand, I couldn’t resist. That being said, here are some of the best ski resorts around the world.
Japan
Niseko
Located on the northern side of Hokkaido Island, this area gets ridiculous amounts of snow. With a very lively nightlife, it is one of the most popular ski resorts in Japan. Niseko actually consists of four separate but interconnected resorts and is called Niseko United. The visitors love the ski tracks that sometimes allow them to ski in dry powdered snow reaching up to their chests. Niseko is also known for night skiing and the off-track skiing. It has nine gates till which you can ski, after that its miles of unmonitored area. Niseko Hirafu is the largest among the four and has a charming town at its base. There are more snow-based activities to do there and the soba noodles at Rakuichi are just delicious.
Canada
Whistler
Located in the mountains of British Columbia, north of Vancouver, it is one of the most popular resorts in Canada. With tons of great things to see and experience here. The location offers some really great scenic views. In fact, you can hop on the Whistler Blackcomb gondola, which will take you from one peak to another as it connects two summits in this resort. There is no other ride like this in the world. Once you reach the top you can grab a cocktail and enjoy it in an outdoor bar heated by lamps and marvel at the spectacular view. Other than this, you can take part in other winter sports in its Olympic Park. At the base of the mountains, a beautiful chalet-style village where decorated trees with colorful lights really make it feel cozy.
Kashmir
Gulmarg
Back in the 19th century this was a hill station for the British to get away from the summer heat but these days it’s a world class ski resort with blankets of fresh powdery snow from the Himalayas and unlike the Alpine resorts, there are no long lift queues. This resort is famous for one of the highest ski lift in the world, Gulmarg Gondola. Once at the top, skiers can go all out, enjoying challenging runs with the world’s ninth highest peak, Nanga Parbat in the background. It may have been under lockdown due to security reason or months on end but that did not stop the flock of skiers visiting it once it was open to public again.
Colorado, USA
Vail
This is one of the largest ski resort in the world with 5,200 acres of terrain developed for skiing and snowboarding. It is also home to the legendary Back Bowls reaching above 7 miles and the planet’s most well-groomed ski tracks ever. Vail has also hosted many competitions and even major championships where famous athletes also took part. It is said that the sky remains vibrant blue for at least 300 days a year which make the snowy views even more picturesque. With the awesome ski school teaching you cool techniques, and several quaint shops along with relaxing spa spots, there is something for everyone here. And what’s more is that it has great food to offer, with nice luxurious accommodations for your convenience.
Switzerland
St. Moritz
One of the most famous vacation destinations in the world, it has been a great spot for tourism for at least 150 years now. Synonymous with class and elegance, and with its Alpine lifestyle it has earned a reputation as one of the most luxurious resorts in the world. It is said that the concept of winter holidays was born here and it has hosted the Winter Olympics twice. Its famed mineral springs have been attracting visitors for the past 3,000 years, this is the first resort to have electrical energy and open the first ski school and it is also where Switzerland’s electric tram started. For a great luxurious holiday with sports and cultural activities, it is second to none.
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