Where to hit the slopes this season
Where to hit the slopes this season
Top destinations, the coolest après ski and gorgeous hotels, here’s the lowdown on the latest trends…
Main image: Chartreuse Massif
Luxury Stays
This season sees the relaunch of Mürren’s historic Palace hotel, having undergone a huge refurb as well as restoration of its 1911 exterior, and listed ballroom. While you’re there, take the world’s steepest cableway, which launches December.
For a tranquil stay, head to Priesteregg, Austria. Book one of its new lake chalets with a glass sauna and a wood-fired waterside bathtub on the jetty. For total luxury, how about Val D’Isere’s Chalet Machapuchare (via Purple Ski) recently voted France’s Best Chalet in the World Ski Awards with an indoor pool, massage room, hammam, cinema and outdoor jacuzzi.
New Destinations
According to a survey from Club Med, the top destinations for British skiers this season are Switzerland (30%) and France (24%). If you fancy somewhere different, then Norway is rising in popularity with several operators increasing their offerings to the country. Narvik offers skiing for all abilities, fjord views and the chance to spot the Northern Lights. Or head to Anatolia, Turkiye with fabulous views from Mount Erciyes. In France, try the Chartreuse massif. It may be famous for its liqueur, but it also hides a handful of small, traditional resorts ideal for beginners.
Après Ski
Ski holidays are not just about the skiing (unless you are totally hardcore) and there’s a whole host of new ways to entertain you away from the slopes. In Megève, check out the ‘apérigloo’, which can host 20 people for local delicacies and mulled wine. La Plagne has a new experience with its Aérolive, which lifts you 3,080 meters above sea level in open-air cabins, exposed to the elements so you feel like you are suspended while you take in the 360-degree view. If you are heading to Switzerland’s Jungfrau Region try your skills on a velogemel, a cross between a bicycle and a sledge.
Eco Options
No-flight ski holidays are growing in popularity with the option to drive (by electric car) or go solely by train. Iglu Travel has options where you’ll leave from St Pancras to Bourg St Maurice, from where you can access the slopes at Les Arcs, great for beginners and intermediate skiers. Look for greener hotels, too. Five star hotel Au Charmant Petit Lac, which has access to the Champoluc ski resort, operates on renewable energy and is built from recycled wood and glass.
