From luxury in Morzine to fun on the slopes in Banff, we select seven ski resorts and chalets that are perfect for a winter break
Selva Val Gardena
Dolomites, Italy
Lying in the heart of the dramatic Dolomites, Val Gardena is famous for its World Cup ski races and Selva is the best known resort in this area. Also known as the South Tyrol, this enchanting village with traditional Austrian style architecture has well groomed pistes and modern efficient lift systems which are also accessible for night-time skiing. If you grow tired of the slopes, there are a number of other leisure-time opportunities including rock climbing and ballroom dancing.
Don’t miss:
Experienced skiers can have access to much of the Dolomites Superski area as well as the Sella Ronda, a 26km circular tour.
Prices from:
£675pp seven nights half board
Tel: 020 8939 0726 www.crystalski.co.uk
Chalet überHaus,
Bramble Ski, Lech, Austria
This new luxury ski-in ski-out chalet is hailed as one of the most exclusive private properties in the mountain village of Oberlech. Bramble Ski’s überHaus is a sleek chalet that sleeps up to 16 people and is conveniently located in the middle of the piste, meaning immediate access to slopes. Take in breathtaking views from the outdoor hot tub, or relax in the cinema room after a day in the snow. The chalet is available on both a catered and self-catered basis with access to a chauffeur and personal chef.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the magical snowscape from the master suite, which boasts its own living area and sumptuous roll top bath.
Prices from:
£3,788 per night with a minimum stay of seven nights
Tel: 0207 060 0824, www.brambleski.com
The Fairmont Banff Springs
Banff, Alberta, Canada
What could be more beautiful than staying in the heart of an UNESCO World Heritage Site? Located in Banff National Park, the Scottish castle style Fairmont Banff Springs hotel is a year-round luxury mountain resort that offers unparalleled skiing in the winter on the Canadian Rockies. With a number of Banff ski and stay packages available, you can enjoy the luxuries that this resort has to offer while hitting the slopes. The town of Banff is only a short walk away where you can discover upmarket shopping, local galleries and fabulous restaurants.
Don’t miss: The Fairmont Snow School is the perfect way to build up your confidence on the slopes. Ideal for beginners, the school will show you how to ski safely before tackling a more challenging slope.
Prices from:
Ski and Stay package starts at $399 CAD (around £220) per night, based on double occupancy.
Tel: 00 800 0441 1414, www.fairmont.com/banff-springs
The Arrabelle
Vail Square, Colorado, USA
Combining the timeless elegance and old-world village charm of some of Europe’s grandest resorts, with the romance and alluring style of Vail’s renowned alpine heritage, the Arrabelle is a luxury skiing resort experience. Located at the mountain base in Lionshead, you couldn’t be closer to the world-class skiing on Vail Mountain. After the slopes, enjoy an evening of upscale alpine-inspired dining at the Tavern on the Square.
Don’t miss: Take a break at the RockResorts Spa, which was voted #19 out of the top 270 spas in the world in the 2012 Conde Nast Readers’ Poll.
Price from:
£1,636pp including flights for seven days
Tel: 0131 516 5045 (Ski Independence), www.ski-i.com/usa/vail/the-arrabelle
Chalet Husky, Scott Dunn
Val d’Isere, France
With an abundance of stylish après bars, Michelin starred restaurants and of course, world-class slopes, Val d’Isère remains one of the top ski destinations. For families visiting this popular resort, the new Scott Dunn Chalet Husky offers the ideal luxury five-star accommodation. In a private home dating back to 1762, it’s complete with climbing wall and archery so children won’t be restless after returning from fun on the slopes. Sleeping 14 across seven en-suite bedrooms, the contemporary chalet is complete with a fabulous wellness area and large pool with infinity waterfall to the sauna.
Don’t miss: The great children’s facilities. With access to a Scott Dunn nanny or the exclusive kids’ club, it’s the perfect way for adults to sneak away to an après bar!
Prices from:
£900 pp/pw in low season, £4,175 pp/pw in high season
Tel: 020 3355 9238, www.scottdunn.com
Chalet Hörnli
Zermatt, Switzerland
The quintessential alpine retreat, Chalet Hörnli is the perfect combination of a modern space with a cosy feel. Featuring its own private spa, six of you can live in luxury when taking a break from skiing on the iconic Matterhorn, one of the highest peaks in the Alps. The town of Zermatt is only a 15 minutes walk away, making the chalet’s location ideal for dining out and enjoying Swiss nightlife.
Don’t miss: 2015 will see the 150th anniversary of the first ascent of the Matterhorn, so definitely take the opportunity to ski on this iconic mountain.
Prices from:
Seven days full board from £999, departing each Sunday in January, excluding flights
Tel: 020 7962 9933 (Supertravel Ski), www.supertravel.co.uk/ski/zermattchalets
Chalet M, The Boutique Chalet Company
Morzine, France
The traditional resort of Morzine is quickly becoming one of the hottest ski destinations. Chalet M sits high on the sunny side of the town, with spectacular panoramic views across to the slopes of Pleney and Nyon. Built in 2013, this stunning chalet sleeps up to 14 guests and ski lifts can be reached in a few minutes. The ideal place to unwind, it is furnished with a blend of classic and modern pieces and comes complete with a multi-zone entertainment system and games room.
Don’t miss: Once you’ve relaxed in the spa, take a visit to your own wine cellar, where an impressive collection of fine wines and champagne await you.
Price from: £11,950 fully catered for seven days
Tel: 020 3588 6001, www.theboutiquechalet.com
