Summer is coming to a close, which means now is a good time to think about your holiday travels. If you’ve always dreamed of a white Christmas, then booking a ski break is the best way to guarantee you’ll see some snow. Whether you’re just starting out on the slopes or looking for a challenge, here are some resorts that are ideal for your winter holidays.
Sölden, Austria
This resort is more modern and sleek compared to the more traditional Austrian resorts nearby. In fact, Sölden is where James Bond skied in the movie Spectre. One filming location you may recognise is the glass-fronted Ice Q restaurant at the peak of Gaislachkogl, which has incredible 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. Accommodation is upmarket and comfortable, with four large 5-star hotels, the best of which is arguably Hotel Central Sölden. Nestled in the mountains, it has a lavish spa with warm, mineral-rich waters that feed into the pools. The hotel is renowned for its cuisine, giving you the ability to have Christmas dinner in the rustic, wood panelled Ötztaler Stube.
If you tire of skiing, consider taking a day trip to the Aqua Dome in Längenfeld. This thermal spa resort has 12 pools and seven saunas set in a valley, making it the perfect place for you to relax and unwind while looking out at the mountain scenery.
Aspen, Colorado
The name Aspen has long been synonymous with luxurious ski holidays, and during the Christmas season the town really goes all-out with the festive cheer. The ’12 days of Aspen’ include family skating parties, crafting events, film screenings, and lots of other fun. The town is absolutely covered in Christmas lights and decorated trees, and you’ll even be able to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride to really take in that small town charm.
Aspen is full of hotels that re-define luxury, and the largest is the grand St. Regis. This resort is breathtakingly beautiful, with oversized chandeliers, stylish interiors, a heated outdoor pool, spa, and so much more. Rooms have amenities such as spacious marble bathrooms, high-quality linens, and some even have their own fireplaces, which are perfect for gathering around on Christmas morning. Book a suite and you’ll even enjoy butler service with complimentary coffee brought to your room. Don’t be put off by the number of people in Aspen who’ll claim to be expert skiers. The ski area is huge, and there are plenty of runs to suit all abilities. Even non-skiers enjoy coming to Aspen during Christmas because they can enjoy many other activities like appreciating the upmarket restaurants, shopping, and hiking around beautiful, snowy views.
Val d’Isère, France
If your image of a skiing holiday involves snow-topped Alpine chalets and huge pine trees decked in lights, then Val d’Isère is a picture-perfect resort. The Christmas season has snow-sure conditions and luxurious facilities to ensure you can celebrate in style. Val d’Isère has lots of exciting Christmas events, from the annual snow sculpting competition to the arrival of Père Noël, who arrives via horse-drawn sleigh. Many people opt to stay close to the town in their own luxury chalets, such as Chalet Club Bellevarde which has 4.5 stars and sleeps up to 24. Featuring ski-in/ski-out access, open fireplaces, a free stocked bar, and twin outdoor hot tubs, the chalets have everything you will need for a cosy, relaxing Christmas break with friends or extended family. Although Val d’Isère is a resort mostly aimed at intermediate and expert skiers, if you are bringing first timers or non-skiers there’s still plenty to enjoy.
Whistler, Canada
The Canadian Rockies are absolutely beautiful in the winter, with the charming village of Whistler covered in twinkling lights and a thick layer of powdery snow. Whistler has loads of festive activities that are held annually, including the arrival of Santa, an artisan market where you can pick up last-minute gifts, and Skate with Santa sessions at the outdoor rink in Whistler’s Olympic Plaza. If you’re planning to stay a little longer, then New Year’s Eve is also an occasion not to be missed, with fireworks and the Fire & Ice show being particular highlights. Whistler is a great location for mixed ability groups and families, as it has around 8171 acres of piste, excellent nursery slopes, awesome challenges for expert skiers, and everything in between. Snowboarders also love Whistler because of its terrain parks, which include Highest Level Park on Blackcomb. Any snowboarder will tell you this location—with its 310-meter high superpipe and over 40 jumps—is the ultimate destination for those serious about their hobby.
Because the resort is just a couple of hours from Vancouver it is known to be busy, but the friendly, lively atmosphere is what many skiers enjoy it nonetheless. Après-ski ranges from cosy inns to some of the country’s finest restaurants and several large nightclubs. Accommodation wise, the grand Fairmont Chateau really stands out. With ski-in/ski-out access, complimentary ski valet, indoor and outdoor heated pools, a beautiful spa, and yoga classes, it’s the perfect spot for a Christmas break.
Nothing quite beats hitting the slopes over the winter holidays. Book yourself a cosy cabin or splash out on a stay at a 5-star resort and you’ll be able to enjoy time with loved ones this festive season.
