‘Tis the season for the GCC jetset to make their way to Europe’s most glamorous slopes. From royal-approved alpine hotels to snow-covered designer shopping streets, luxe ski resorts have well and truly entered the chat.
Here are all the top destinations for the affluent among us to see and be seen on (and off) the piste.
Megève, France
The vibe: Car-free, cobbled streets paired with unbeatable views of Mont Blanc. When you’re not busy browsing the countless luxury fashion stores, take to Megève’s multi-level pistes for those world-class European ski runs. The alpine village is best-visited at Christmas, where lights, sleighs and festivities work together to bring your dream winter-y Pinterest board to life.
Where to stay: Chic chalet in the mountains? Say less. No one does it quite like Ultima Megève, nestled in the snowy meadows outside of the village centre. This chalet trumps most others in the region, partly due to its ultra-luxurious interiors (which, by the way, features eight bedrooms, a wraparound terrace, wine cellar and private cinema). But the real kicker is the chalet’s own private nightclub. Booking this girls’ trip ASAP.
St Moritz, Switzerland
The vibe: The OG ski town draws is home to the legendary Corviglia ski slopes that draw in seasonal crowds of keen skiers and even keener après-skiers. In true Swiss style, embrace the leisure and luxury of this destination in equal doses, with a coating of sleigh rides, ice skating and pro ice polo, too.
Where to stay: The first hotel to open in 50 years, Grace Le Margna, is as charming as it is cosy. Pick a suite overlooking the famous Lake St Moritz for the best experience. This boutique hotel will tick all your winter wonderland boxes, and then some.
Lech, Austria
The vibe: When it-girls pick a ski season spot, they of course make sure its fit for a princess. Lech is Austria’s famous royally-loved winter destination, frequented by the likes of Princess Diana and other globally-acclaimed families. Although it’s glitzy by nature, Lech retains its alpine charm, with old-timber buildings, cosy cafes and snowy slopes forming a picture-perfect destination.
Where to stay: Those staying in Lech tend to opt for the classics, one such example being royal favourite Hotel Alberg. Its old-world character and chic interiors are just what you need from a winter escape.
Zermatt, Switzerland
The vibe: If you haven’t seen it on your feed, you’re missing out. Zermatt is the ultimate ski szn dream – a luxurious alpine cobbled village, surrounded by huge snowy mountains and endless skiing potential. It is the best ski resort for views of the Matterhorn, plus you can actually ski into Italy from the piests.
Where to stay: The Grand Hotel Zermatterhof is the Grand Budapest Hotel, re-imagined with snow. Its lavish interiors draws in an elite crowd of food lovers, ski enthusiasts and chill-seekers (in every sense of the word).
Courchevel 1850, France
The vibe: A spot that’s increasingly popular with the GCC crowd, Couchevel takes luxury ski resorts to a welcomed extreme. With annual visits from the Dubai Royal family, this is a destination straight out of a winter fairytale. Think elite hotels, luxury retail, Michelin-starred dining, oh and a sprinkle of Gucci-branded gondolas (obvs). Designer-clad skiers populate the slopes, and its fast-becoming the primal spot for glamorous winter travel.
Where to stay: Aman Le Mélézin is a sanctuary for exclusivity and luxury. Based at the foot of the cable cars, this hotel is primed for both seasoned skiers and those seeking a good photo-op. As far as luxurious ski resorts go, this one is quite hard to beat.
Gstaad, Switzerland
The vibe: Frequented by Hollywood starlets, royals and snow sport pro’s, Gstaad is a time-warp of alpine charm. Its luxury offerings aren’t too ‘in-your-face’, but they’re there, all right. If you’re intro a destination with some real old-world glamour, paired with all the trimmings of a snowy destination (glaciers and all), this is the spot for you.
Where to stay: There’s no topping the Gstaad Palace for that coveted royal treatment. It is where all the high rollers flock to come the first snowfall of the season, and for good reason. For those craving a winter wonderland, Gstaad Palace is a bucket-list destination without a doubt.
Need more travel inspo? This Egyptian resort town is so Arabian-dream coded.