Ready to hit the slopes this winter? Forbes has compiled a ranking of the world’s best ski resort destinations, offering options for skiers of all levels. With over 6,000 ski resorts globally, the competition for a spot in the top ten was significant.
Forbes evaluated resorts based on several key categories, including length and variety of slopes, average costs and accessibility, après-ski scene, and Instagram worthiness.
They used a min-max normalization formula to score each resort out of 100, reflecting their relative performance in these areas.
Here are the top 10 best ski resorts around the world, according to Forbes:
1: Les Trois Vallées, Savoie, France
Ranked as the best ski resort in the world, Les Trois Vallées is the world’s largest linked ski area. It boasts over 600 kilometers (km) of slopes and spans eight resorts in the Northern French Alps.
This resort offers a variety of slopes for skiers of all abilities, including one of Europe’s most challenging runs. Accessing all resorts in the area costs around £59 ($66).
Forbes also recommends Les Trois Vallées for beginners, noting that over half of its slopes across its eight resorts are suited for novice skiers.
2: Les Portes du Soleil, Haute-Savoie/Valais, France/Switzerland
Stretching from Lake Geneva in Switzerland to Mont Blanc in France, this destination allows for seamless skiing between its 13 resorts without repeating the same run.
It features stunning slopes, delicious après-ski options, and affordable passes, making it a fantastic place for a winter getaway.
3: Les Quatre Vallées, Savoie, France
While known for some of the most challenging skiing in the Alps, Les Quatre Vallées also offers over 400 km of slopes that cater to all abilities.
Forbes specifically highlighted its freestyle scene, which attracts adrenaline junkies globally, and its phenomenal bars and restaurants for post-ski refreshments.
4: Ski Arlberg, Austria
Austria’s largest ski resort, Ski Arlberg, is described as a winter wonderland with 302 km of slopes.
It’s a legendary location for alpine skiing, known for its wealth of natural snow and exciting slopes suitable for various winter sports and activities. A full day on the slopes here will cost about $59 for a day pass.
5: Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is an ideal winter destination whether you want to ski all day, explore an igloo village, or enjoy a snowshoe excursion.
It offers 322 km of slopes and provides plenty of places to relax after a long day out. Visitors can also see the Matterhorn, one of Switzerland’s most famous mountains, there.
6: Silvretta Arena Samnaun/Ischgl, Austria
This Austrian resort provides nonstop fun for both seasoned and rookie skiers. Thanks to its high elevation, it offers guaranteed snow from November through early May on its 239 km of perfectly groomed slopes. True thrill-seekers can also enjoy the freeride options available.
7: Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Fieberbrunn, Austria
As one of the largest ski resorts in Austria, the Skicircus has something for everyone across its 270 km of slopes.
The region includes numerous parks and runs. After a day of snow adventures, you can relax at one of over 60 ski huts and indulge in local delicacies.
8: Skiwelt, Austria
Skiwelt is considered a world-class destination, connecting over nine villages to more than 270 km of snowy ski runs and 20 downhills.
A unique feature is its night skiing area, allowing you to hit the slopes after sunset. You can cap off your day by visiting their mountain hut for live music.
9: Vail, Colorado
Vail is notable for being the only resort outside of Europe to make Forbes’ top ten list. Located in Colorado, it’s one of the largest and best-known resorts in the US.
Its legendary wide bowl-shaped slopes are a favorite among skiers worldwide. The source mentions that over 1.3 million people have used a Vail-related hashtag to rave about its views on Instagram.
10: Val d’Isère, Savoie, France
Traditionally more geared towards intermediate and advanced skiers, Val d’Isère now offers terrain in its Solaise sector suitable for beginners and families.
Besides exciting slopes, you can also participate in unique winter activities like floating in an ice-cold lake or getting pulled by a dog sled.
Alicia Richards