After a thorough and up-to-date evaluation, our experts still regard these ski resorts as some of the most exclusive available. They combine outstanding locations with a five-star experience at luxury hotels.
Two of the ten resorts in this guide are home to a three-Michelin-starred restaurant: Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc in Courchevel and Flocons de Sel in Megève. Our Key Account Manager James grew up outside Munich, skiing in the Bavarian and Austrian mountains, and has been with Ski Solutions since August 2004. This is his guide to the most exclusive ski resorts and luxury ski hotelsin the world for 2026/2027. Browse our luxury ski holidays or read on for the most luxurious ski resorts in the world.
| Resort | Country | Resort altitude | Ski area | Stay at | Standout dining |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gstaad | Switzerland | 1,050m | 200km | Gstaad Palace | La Fromagerie, Gstaad Palace |
| Cortina d’Ampezzo | Italy | 1,224m | Dolomiti Superski, over 1,000km | Grand Hotel Miramonti Majestic | Masi Wine Bar al Druscié |
| Zermatt | Switzerland | 1,620m | 360km | Hotel Omnia | |
| Aspen | USA | 2,422m | Four mountains | The Little Nell | Element 47, The Little Nell |
| Courchevel | France | 1,850m (1850 village) | Les 3 Vallées, 600km | Cheval Blanc Courchevel | Le 1947 (3 Michelin stars) |
| Lech | Austria | 1,450m | Ski Arlberg, 305km | Hotel Aurelio and Spa | |
| St. Moritz | Switzerland | 1,822m | 326km | Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski | |
| Megève | France | 1,113m | 445km | Les Chalets du Mont d’Arbois | Flocons de Sel (3 Michelin stars) |
| Vail | USA | 2,476m | 234km | The Lodge at Vail | Elway’s, The Lodge at Vail |
| Whistler | Canada | 675m | 200km | The Westin Resort & Spa | Araxi Restaurant and Oyster Bar |
1. Why Is Gstaad One of the Most Exclusive Ski Resorts in the World?
Country: Switzerland | Resort altitude: 1,050m | Ski area: 200km | Stay at: Gstaad Palace | Eat at: La Fromagerie, Gstaad Palace
The picturesque village of Gstaad in Switzerland has retained its fairy tale Alpine charm, despite being one of the world’s most expensive ski resorts. Charming, traditional chalets contrast with fabulous designer shops such as Prada and Ralph Lauren, which sit alongside award-winning restaurants.
On the mountain, skiers can explore 200km of slopes, reaching a snow-sure altitude of 3,000m up on Glacier 3000. The pistes here are immaculately groomed and quiet; you’ll often have the pistes to yourself and rarely encounter a queue at the lifts.
One of the best resorts for your ski holiday to Switzerland, Gstaad has some fabulous five-star ski hotels. Amongst our favourites is the iconic Gstaad Palace, where Swiss hospitality and luxurious design make for a glamorous stay. The Gstaad Palace is one of the most famous luxury ski hotels in Switzerland, welcoming guests from all over the world, with its elegant interior, state-of-the art spa and fabulous restaurants. For an alpine dish with a twist, we recommend the exquisite truffle and Champagne cheese fondue at the hotel’s La Fromagerie.
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In the heart of Gstaad village, the hotel was originally built in 1912 as a Cure House and Spa.
2. What Makes Cortina d’Ampezzo So Glamorous?
Country: Italy | Resort altitude: 1,224m | Ski area: Dolomiti Superski, over 1,000km | Stay at: Grand Hotel Miramonti Majestic | Eat at: Masi Wine Bar al Druscié
Often referred to as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’, Cortina d’Ampezzo is a wonderfully glamorous ski destination and one of Italy’s most luxurious ski resorts. The town itself is chic and lively; if you love fashion and gastronomy as much as a perfectly groomed piste, the boutique shops and Michelin-starred restaurants will tick every box.
Up on the mountain, the views are spectacular. You can look forward to spending your days enjoying long lunches and sipping aperitivo on sunny terraces. Set in the Dolomiti Superski, the skiing opportunities are endless, with over 1,000km of downhill skiing to explore. The fun doesn’t stop beyond the slopes, either. After enjoying a few aperitivo on the piste during après, there are plenty of cosy wine bars and Michelin-starred restaurants to take you all the way from piste to pillow. We recommend Masi Wine Bar al Druscié for a post-ski drink; located on the piste, it’s a vibrant bar with a great atmosphere and incredible views from the sun terrace.
The Grand Hotel Miramonti Majestic is also one of the top five-star ski hotels for a ski holiday to Italy. Originally inspired by the Art Nouveau movement, this is a notable rendezvous for high Italian society and fine Italian hospitality shines through in every aspect of the service.
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The Hotel de la Poste’s wood-panelled bar is one of the most popular meeting places in Cortina.
3. Why Is Zermatt One of the Most Expensive Ski Resorts in the World?
Country: Switzerland | Resort altitude: 1,620m | Ski area: 360km | Stay at: Hotel Omnia | Top lift: Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, 3,883m
The exclusive Swiss ski resort of Zermatt is home to some of the highest skiing in Europe and is one of the best luxury ski resorts. The vast ski area consists of 360km of terrain, connected by ultra-modern lifts. The skiing at Matterhorn Glacier Paradise reaches up to a spectacular 3,883m. When you arrive at the glacier, take the peak lift to the highest viewing platform in Europe; the view up here really does justify the name ‘Glacier Paradise’. Non-skiers have excellent access to the mountain – it’s possible to get right up to the glacier on foot – meaning everyone can enjoy the delicious mountain restaurants and views.
Zermatt is pedestrianised, aside from the small electric cars used as taxis in resort. As a result, guests access Zermatt itself by a mountain train, leaving their cars behind. It’s a wonderful way to arrive in Zermatt and gives the feeling of entering another world. Just walking through the main streets, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most expensive ski resorts in the world. The streets are lined with designer shops, beautiful fairy lights adorn the buildings and small market stalls sell mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
For a memorable stay, Hotel Omnia is one of the most impressive ski hotels in Zermatt. This contemporary mountain lodge sits high on a 45m rock above town and offers uninterrupted Matterhorn views. Omnia’s personal five-star service is all about the detail and the experience is unforgettable.
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One of the leading hotels in the Alps, Zermatt’s Mont Cervin Palace is located near the Gornergrat station in the centre of town.
4. What Makes Aspen One of America’s Most Luxurious Ski Resorts?
Country: USA | Resort altitude: 2,422m | Ski area: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk | Stay at: The Little Nell | Eat at: Element 47
Aspen lies in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, a popular destination for a ski holiday to the USA. It’s one of America’s most luxurious ski resorts and boasts a vast ski area. If you’re looking to arrive in Aspen in style, the ski resort even has its own airport. This luxury ski resort is a little more expensive but it is well worth it.
The town has an eclectic restaurant scene with every cuisine you could imagine – from farm-to-table, to vegan or sushi – and lures some of the country’s top chefs down from New York. Aspen has a vibrant nightlife, and there are a number of private members’ clubs to choose between, such as the Caribou and Cigar Bar. The luxury ski resort is home to fantastic designer boutiques such as Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton and surprisingly, over 50 art galleries.
The ski area is also one of America’s most extensive with 461km of piste split over four different mountains; Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Expect first-class lifts – including heated gondolas – and even pop-up Champagne bars on the piste. Well, what else would you expect from one of the world’s most luxurious ski resorts?
Stay at luxurious The Little Nell to experience one of the finest hotels in the world. The hotel has a Five Diamond rating, awarded for world-class luxury, amenities and indulgence. Little Nell’s restaurant ‘Element 47’ is one of the ‘must-tries’ in the resort for foodies. Specialities like Wagyu beef and lobster grace the menu and the legendary wine cellar holds over 20,000 bottles. The hotel offers unique experiences, such as Snowcat Powder Tours, which take you out into the backcountry to enjoy 10-12 untracked runs in the fresh powder followed by complimentary massages.
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In the heart of Aspen, the Hotel Little Nell is one of the premier hotels in this stylish resort.
5. Why Is Courchevel One of France’s Most Exclusive Ski Resorts?
Country: France | Resort altitude: 1,850m (1850 village) | Ski area: Les 3 Vallées, 600km | Stay at: Cheval Blanc Courchevel | Eat at: Le 1947 (three Michelin stars)
Courchevel sits in the Three Valleys and is one of France’s most exclusive ski resorts, with an incredible ski area to match. This luxury French ski resort has its own airstrip and helipad. Jet setters can fly in by private plane or helicopter. Courchevel is split into four villages and each is unique. We recommend 1850 for your ski holiday to France, which is the highest and largest of the villages.
The Three Valleys is one of the world’s largest ski areas, with 600km of piste to explore. The pistes in Courchevel are meticulously maintained every night with guests waking to perfectly groomed runs. Courchevel sits on the far side of the Three Valleys and as a result, the slopes are usually quiet.
It’s easy to see why Courchevel is one of the most expensive French ski resorts. Firstly, it’s said the ski resort has the highest concentration of five-star hotels in France outside Paris. Further to that, Courchevel also has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin-starred restaurants in the Alps. If you’re looking for somewhere special for dinner, we recommend Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc, which holds three Michelin stars. This five-star hotel is also an excellent base for your stay, with ski-in ski-out access to the Three Valleys and a luxurious spa. Another of our favourites is The Portetta. This is a great choice for families or couples looking for understated luxury with high-end service. ‘Cucina Angelina’ is the hotel’s flagship restaurant. Founded by top British chef Angela Hartnett, the restaurant serves up Italian-inspired mountain food in a rustic setting.
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The Hotel Portetta in Courchevel 1650 is a friendly four-star hotel with easy access to the superb ski area.
6. What Makes Lech One of Austria’s Most Exclusive Resorts?
Country: Austria | Resort altitude: 1,450m | Ski area: Ski Arlberg, 305km | Stay at: Hotel Aurelio and Spa | Linked resorts: St. Anton, Zürs, Warth and Schröcken
Lech is one of the most exclusive resorts in Austria, if not the world. Part of the incredible Arlberg ski area, Lech is top class on and off the slopes. The scenery is breathtaking and the skiing is fantastic. On your skiing holiday to Austria, you can explore an impressive 305km of pistes linking to neighbouring ski resorts St. Anton, Zürs, Warth and Schröcken.
Off the slopes, the choice of luxury accommodation is brilliant. Whether it’s a chalet, hotel or an apartment there are incredible 5-star options to book. In addition, there are great bars and restaurants to enjoy in the area too. Whether you’re looking for a classy piano bar or a fine-dining experience Lech delivers.
One of our favourite hotels is the Hotel Aurelio and Spa. It has all the state-of-the-art facilities and luxury you need to make your ski holiday one to remember. It has 19 individually designed bedrooms which are guaranteed to make you feel the height of comfort. Unwind in the new day spa with a swimming pool, sauna, hot tub and gym facilities. You can also relax in the tranquil meditation centre in front of a soothing open fire.
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With its first-class service and top cuisine, the Hotel Arlberg in Lech has an excellent reputation.
7. Why Do Celebrities Choose St. Moritz?
Country: Switzerland | Resort altitude: 1,822m | Ski area: 326km | Stay at: Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski | Spa: 2,500 square metres at the Kempinski
One of the most luxurious ski resorts in the world is St. Moritz. The Swiss resort regularly hosts celebrities and leading business people because of its vast luxury options. Located in the Engadine Valley, it offers stunning mountain views. In addition, the skiing is fantastic with 326km of pistes to enjoy in the area.
There are excellent 5-star hotels to choose from in St. Moritz. All of them look like stunning palaces and make you feel like you’re royalty. The service in the hotels is unrivalled and the facilities are world-class. It is also home to White Marmot on Corviglia, which continues the mountain fine-dining tradition started there by Hartly Mathis. Enjoy wonderful mountain views whilst enjoying caviar, truffles or Bellinis. It is one of the most expensive ski resorts in the world.
If you’re looking for the best hotel in town, Kempinski Grand Hotel is renowned for being the height of luxury. The famous hotel offers first-class service and has a dedicated 2,500 square metre spa area. There are superb restaurants that offer delicious cuisine, some of the best in the Alps. On top of this, the rooms are spacious and are elegantly decorated.
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The Nira Alpina hotel, at the foot of Corvatsch, is designed for independent, nomadic travellers.
8. Why Is Megève One of the Most Stylish Ski Resorts in France?
Country: France | Resort altitude: 1,113m | Ski area: 445km | Stay at: Les Chalets du Mont d’Arbois | Eat at: Flocons de Sel (three Michelin stars)
Megève is one of the best luxury ski resorts in France. It’s considered one of the most stylish ski resorts because of the chic boutiques, classy bars and top-class restaurants to visit. Not only this, there are superb luxury accommodation options to choose from too. You can also access an impressive 445km of slopes with a full lift pass.
Megève has some of the best restaurants in the Alps. The three-Michelin-starred Flocons de Sel is a favourite. The restaurant serves delicious cuisine with an artistic and creative twist. If you’re looking for great après spots there are plenty of trendy cocktail bars and quaint cafés to enjoy a drink. There are also plenty of designer shops in the village including Hermès, Yves Saint Laurent, Poivre Blanc and Blanc Bleu.
Les Chalets du Mont d’Arbois is a piece of paradise in the French resort. It has a traditional Alpine feel with a modern twist. The hotel is split into three chalets, all of which have superb facilities. Chalets Alice and Noémie are available for sole use, which is great for families and groups. If you’re a foodie you’re in for a treat at La Table de Noémie, the hotel’s restaurant, which serves French cuisine. It doesn’t stop there; you can unwind in the intimate spa with three treatment rooms, a couples’ suite and a heated indoor-outdoor pool.
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Hotel L’Alpaga in Megève is a five-star luxury hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, La Table de l’Alpaga, and a fantastic wellness centre.
9. What Makes Vail One of the Best Luxury Ski Resorts in the World?
Country: USA | Resort altitude: 2,476m | Ski area: 234km | Stay at: The Lodge at Vail | Eat at: Elway’s
Vail is tone of the largest ski areas in the US with 234km of pistes to explore. You can also access terrain in neighbouring Heavenly and Northstar with a Vail Epic Ski Pass. Not only is the skiing excellent, but it’s also considered one of the best luxury ski resorts in the world. The choice of superb shops, bars and restaurant are brilliant.
If you love a bit of retail therapy there are plenty of shops with many designer labels available in town. We recommend Larkspur at Golden Peak for lunch on the mountain. The modern American restaurant serves first-class ingredients and has an extensive wine list. To fill your après itch, Roost & Flower serves delightful calamari and oysters, along with delicious wine or cocktails.
The Lodge at Vail is considered the pinnacle of luxury ski accommodation. Expect the best service and facilities in the world of skiing. Located right next to the main lift, you’re only a short stroll away from the slopes. You will feel deeply relaxed in the 7,500-square-foot spa, offering a divine escape after a busy day on the slopes. Elway’s restaurant offers an incredible menu too.
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Stay at Hotel Lodge at Vail for the ultimate luxury stay. Guests of the hotel will benefit from the fantastic ski-in ski-out access.
10. Why Is Whistler on So Many Skiers’ Bucket Lists?
Country: Canada | Resort altitude: 675m | Ski area: 200km | Stay at: The Westin Resort & Spa | Eat at: Araxi Restaurant and Oyster Bar
The Canadian resort of Whistler is often on many skiers’ bucket lists. The choice of top restaurants and accommodation makes it one of the most exclusive ski resorts in the world. You’ll have access to 200km of piste on your Canadian ski holiday with a full lift pass and there are also excellent off-piste opportunities too.
For the best food in town, you should head to the Araxi Restaurant and Oyster bar. Be prepared to be wowed by the creative dishes served at Araxi, with only the best fresh ingredients used. You’ll find it hard to find a better place to eat on a mountain. The village also has plenty of local art, music and culture to experience too during your stay. This all makes Whistler one of the most luxurious ski resorts in Canada.
We recommend staying at the Westin Resort & Spa because it sits slopeside at the base of Whistler Mountain, making it an excellent choice for those who want to maximise their time on the slopes. Its facilities are top-class with indoor and outdoor pools, two whirlpools plus a full-service spa and fitness studio. Enjoy delicious dishes at the ‘Grill & Vine’ restaurant within the hotel. You can eat the freshest seafood to warm comfort food.
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The Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel offers 81 spacious suites complete with kitchenettes, fireplaces and balconies in every suite.
To find out more about the most exclusive ski resorts in the world, from five-star hotels to our collection of luxury ski chalets, call our ski experts on 020 7471 7700.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no official ranking, but Gstaad in Switzerland is first in this guide for its five-star hotels, designer shops and quiet, well-groomed slopes. St. Moritz, Courchevel and Aspen are also regularly named among the most exclusive ski resorts in the world.
In the 2026 Michelin Guide, two resorts in this guide have a three-starred restaurant: Le 1947 at Cheval Blanc in Courchevel and Flocons de Sel in Megève. Both are in the French Alps.
Zermatt is pedestrianised, apart from small electric taxis. Visitors leave their cars in the valley and arrive in the village by train.
Aspen has its own airport, a few minutes from the town. Courchevel has an altiport, so visitors can arrive by private plane or helicopter.
Cortina d’Ampezzo is part of the Dolomiti Superski area, with over 1,000km of pistes on one lift pass. Courchevel is next, with 600km of pistes across Les 3 Vallées.
I am of the older guard at Ski Solutions, as I joined in August 2004. I grew up outside Munich, where we had easy access to the Bavarian and Austrian mountains.
