If you are looking to book your next ski vacation but you’d like to try something a little different, this is the article for you. We’re going to talk you through the best countries in the world for skiing, with a focus on the underrated. We’ll also take a glimpse at where some of the wealthier people go to get their powder fix. Here’s everything you need to know…
Which is the best country to go skiing in?
Choosing a single ‘best’ country for skiing in the world is incredibly difficult because you will never be able to get all of the skiing enthusiasts – expert or otherwise – to agree on it. It all comes down to the type of skiing experience that you are looking for, your ability levels, how far you are willing to travel, and how you like to spend your evenings after a long day on the slopes. So, to make it a little fairer, we’re going to share 5 of the best countries in the world for skiing and why:
France: France is widely considered the undisputed champion when it comes to skiing. It has many resorts, all of which are easily accessible, and they are often rated among the most popular winter holiday destinations in Europe.
The Alps are truly stunning and some of the most well-known mountains in the world. They have sharp peaks that are scattered with evergreen trees and boast a spectacular range of slopes. Not only that but there are many off-piste runs that are perfect for the more advanced ski enthusiast who would prefer to steer clear of the main tourist runs.
One downside is how incredibly expensive the restaurants and bars can be, even by ski resort standards! Then again, for those who love to ski and have money to burn, you can’t go wrong.
Switzerland: Switzerland is without question one of the most beautiful skiing destinations in the world. It has beautiful snow, well-kept slopes, and an iridescent sun that shines throughout most of the ski season.
There are many different slopes, all of which are well-marked and suited to people of all skill levels. And of course, there are a few challenging off-piste adventures for the thrill-seekers among you.
Not only that, but Switzerland’s ski resorts boast an exceptional nightlife with many clubs staying open until the early hours of the morning which is ideal for those who want a little action in addition to their powder fix.
Italy: Italy is a great country for skiing because you can experience the Alps, but at a cheaper cost compared to France. While many of the slopes are not as extreme as the Swiss resorts, you can definitely find some intense and challenging runs if you know where to look.
For reasonably priced food and accommodation, Italy is definitely a contender. The only trouble that many people have is finding the motivation to leave their delicious restaurants and hit the slopes again after lunch! That said, if you can pull yourself away from the world-class cuisine, you can enjoy some high-quality skiing.
United States: The States makes it onto the list due to its impressive size and thus, a wide variety of ski resorts. The US works well for skiing because it appeals to people of all skill levels and abilities. There are intense runs with high-risk verticals, luxurious accommodations with gourmet restaurants, and laid-back slopes for the perfect family skiing adventure. Whatever you crave, the US ski scene will surely deliver.
Japan: Japan is often hailed as one of the most underrated and often ‘best’ countries in the world for skiing. This jewel has countless pristine slopes, all of which are meticulously maintained (as is the Japanese way), with many a luxury resort to boot.
If powder skiing is high on your list, Japan should not go overlooked. Each year the country sees an astonishing 10 to 18-metres of snow! If that doesn’t pique your interest for a season, then nothing will!
Which countries are underrated for ski resorts?
The number one underrated country? Skiing resorts in Japan take the prize on this one. That said, there are many other countries that are often overlooked that can surely deliver an exceptional skiing experience. Again, it all comes down to taste:
Underrated ski destinations you’ve likely never heard of:
- Gulmarg, India
- Yongpyong, South Korea
- Levi, Finland
- Mzaar, Lebanon
- Shymbulak, Kazakhstan
- Oukaïmeden, Morocco
- Rosa Khutor, Russia
- Soldeu, Andorra
- Borovets, Bulgaria
- Les Houches, France
- Pamporovo, Bulgaria
- Serre Chevalier, France
- Obergurgl, Austria
- Grindelwald, Switzerland
- Crans Montana, Switzerland
- Golden, Canada
- Arabba, Italy.
As you can see, there are a number of destinations on the above list that many people would never have considered for skiing. That said, if you do plenty of research, you’ll find a wealth of phenomenal ski destinations out there!
Where do wealthy people go skiing? What ski resort do celebrities go to?
So, where do wealthy people go skiing? If you are hoping to bump into some famous faces while on your skiing adventure this year, here are 3 winter hotspots that will be worth a look:
- Aspen, Colorado: Aspen is affectionately referred to as the Hollywood of winter. It has long been a magnet for celebrities who are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle and swap big, sweltering cities for open, refreshing mountains.
- Verbier, Switzerland: Verbier is another great hotspot for celebrities. The Farm Club, for example, has seen many recognisable faces, including Madonna, Prince William, David Bowie, and more!
- Courchevel, France: For the ultimate in luxury, you can’t go wrong with Courchevel in France. This is arguably one of the most affluent resorts in all of the Alps and celebrities often fly into the airstrip on their private jets.
Final thoughts: Japan is worth a look
If you are looking for the ultimate skiing experience and wish to try something a little bit different from the ordinary, then Japan comes highly recommended. Particularly if you are from a Western country, experiencing the wonderful culture of Japan, while also enjoying some of the finest powdered slopes in the world is well worth it!
