There are many ski resorts in the Alps, but some stand out due to their altitude and fantastic skiing conditions. Here we present a list of the 15 best high altitude ski resorts in the Alps.
1. Val Thorens, France - Europe's highest ski resort
Val Thorens is the highest ski resort in Europe, located at an altitude of 2300 meters above sea level. This guarantees a long ski season with an impressive snowfall and perfect slopes for all levels of skiers.
Read more about Val Thorens.
2. Tignes, France - Glacier skiing and stunning landscapes
Tignes offers skiing on the Grande Motte glacier and an altitude of up to 3456 meters. With over 300 km of slopes and incredible scenery, Tignes is a great choice for all skiers looking for a high-altitude ski vacation.
Read more about Tignes.
3. Zermatt, Switzerland - The perfect ski resort for freeriders
Zermatt is known for its stunning views of the Matterhorn and an altitude of up to 3899 meters. The ski resort offers a wide range of slopes and off-piste options, making it a paradise for freeriders and adventure-seeking skiers.
Read more about Zermatt.
4. Verbier, Switzerland - Luxurious ski holidays in the Alps
Verbier is part of the 4 Vallées ski area and is known for its luxurious atmosphere and fantastic skiing conditions. The ski resort stretches over an altitude of up to 3330 meters and offers over 400 km of slopes.
Read more about Verbier.
5. Obergurgl, Austria - the diamond of the Alps
Obergurgl is one of the highest ski resorts in Austria with an altitude of up to 3080 meters. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and snowy landscapes, this ski resort is ideal for families and enthusiastic skiers alike.
Read more about Obergurgl.
6. Saas-Fee, Switzerland - Glacier skiing in the pearl of the Alps
Saas-Fee, also known as the Pearl of the Alps, offers glacier skiing up to an altitude of 3600 meters. The ski resort has over 100 km of slopes and is popular with beginners and experienced skiers alike.
Read more about Saas-Fee.
7. Cervinia, Italy - Skiing in the clouds
Cervinia is located in the Aosta Valley and offers skiers an altitude of up to 3480 meters. This ski resort is known for its fantastic snow quality and its connection to the Swiss ski resort of Zermatt.
Read more about Cervinia.
8. Les Deux Alpes, France - A versatile ski destination
Les Deux Alpes is a popular ski resort in France with an altitude of up to 3600 meters. This ski resort offers a wide range of slopes for beginners and advanced skiers as well as access to glacier skiing.
Read more about Les Deux Alpes.
9. St. Moritz, Switzerland - Jet set skiing and exclusive experiences
St. Moritz is one of the most famous and exclusive ski resorts in the world. Located in the Engadin Valley, it offers skiing up to an altitude of 3303 meters and fantastic slopes for skiers of all levels.
Read more about St. Moritz.
10. Andermatt, Switzerland - True alpine charm and challenging terrain
Andermatt is a gem in the Swiss Alps, situated at an altitude of up to 2965 meters. This ski resort is known for its authentic Alpine charm and challenging terrain for advanced skiers.
Read more about Andermatt.
11. La Plagne, France - Part of the Paradiski area
La Plagne is a popular ski resort in France and part of the huge Paradiski area. Skiers can enjoy an altitude of up to 3250 meters and a wide variety of slopes for all levels.
Read more about La Plagne.
12. Alpe d'Huez, France - Sunshine and magnificent slopes
Alpe d'Huez is known as "l'île au Soleil" (Island of Sunshine) due to its sunny location and fantastic skiing conditions. The ski resort has an altitude of up to 3330 meters and offers a wide variety of slopes for skiers of all levels.
Read more about Alpe d'Huez.
13. Lech, Austria - Famous for its exclusive hotels and world-class skiing
Lech is one of the most exclusive ski destinations in Austria and offers skiing up to an altitude of 2450 meters. The ski resort is known for its luxurious hotels and world-class skiing to suit skiers of all levels.
Read more about Lech.
14. Ischgl, Austria - Party and skiing in impressive terrain
Ischgl is known for its lively après-ski scene and fantastic skiing conditions. Located at an altitude of up to 2872 meters, the ski resort offers impressive terrain for skiers of all levels.
Read more about Ischgl.
15. Chamonix, France - The ultimate ski resort for freeriders
Chamonix is the ultimate ski resort for freeriders and is located at the foot of Mont Blanc. The ski resort has an altitude of up to 3842 meters and offers a wide variety of slopes and off-piste options for adventurous skiers.
Read more about Chamonix.
High altitude ski areas also offer high snow safety
If you're looking for ski holidays with great skiing conditions and impressive heights, these 15 ski resorts in the Alps are a great place to start. From Europe's highest ski resort, Val Thorens, to the ultimate freeride paradise of Chamonix, you're sure to find a ski resort to suit your preferences and skills. These high-altitude ski resorts guarantee not only excellent skiing, but also breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Preparing for your ski holidays at altitude
To get the most out of your ski holidays in high-altitude resorts, there are some preparations you should consider:
- Make sure you have the right ski equipment and clothing: To fully enjoy your ski holidays, it's important to have the right equipment and clothing. This includes skis, ski boots, helmet, goggles, gloves and appropriate layers of clothing to suit the weather and temperature.
- Be aware of altitude sickness: Skiing at altitude can lead to altitude sickness, so it's important to take precautions. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and give yourself time to acclimatize to the altitude before you go ski touring.
- Choose the right ski resort for your level: some resorts are more suitable for beginners, while others are ideal for advanced skiers. Choose a ski resort that suits your skills and preferences so you can get the most out of your ski holidays.
- Consider taking ski lessons: If you're a beginner or want to improve your skiing skills, you may want to consider taking ski lessons. Many resorts offer lessons for both children and adults so you can make the most of your time on the slopes.
- Plan your ski holidays well in advance: High altitude ski resorts are popular destinations, so it's a good idea to plan and book your ski holidays well in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
Whichever high altitude ski resort you choose, you're guaranteed an unforgettable ski holiday with fantastic skiing conditions and magnificent landscapes. Get ready to explore some of the Alps' most impressive ski resorts and enjoy world-class skiing.
Planning ski holidays around Europe? You can find inspiration in the articles listed below:
