Winter sports fans know the world’s best ski resorts are in the high mountains of France and Switzerland. The infrastructure is among the best in the world, meaning you can spend more time doing what you’re actually there for – whizzing down a slope – while the high altitude guarantees top-quality white stuff well into the new year. And, of course, they have fondue and gluhwein. All this could be yours after a short flight from the UK. Here’s our pick of the best resorts to get down in.
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France’s winter playground
The La Plagne region offers so much more than quality skiing / Photo: Pierre Augier
What’s the most important element of a skiing holiday? Snow, obviously – and with the majority of its slopes above 2,000m La Plagne guarantees proper quality powder every time. The region has plenty more going for it too, including France’s only bobsleigh course, access to the wider Paradiski® area (and its 425km of ski runs connecting La Plagne and Les Arcs), plus a raft of back-country fun, ziplines, spas, dog sledding, snowshoe hikes and more. For your next winter break, set your sights that bit higher.
The Swiss snowsports hotspot
Embark on a resort-hopping ski safari / Photo: Litescape Media
For a winter getaway with real bite, head for the Region Dents du Midi (‘teeth of midday’). No fewer than six charmingly rustic villages are yours to explore at the gateway to one of the world’s largest outdoor sports areas: the Portes du Soleil. The ski slopes offer something for all levels, from easy, well-manicured boulevards to some of the steepest and most challenging slaloms you’ll find anywhere in Europe. Plus, the tantalising possibility of a resort-hopping ski safari. It’s certainly something to chew over.
