Explore the best ski vacations around the world
From the dry powder of Japan’s Alps to the challenging terrain of Europe to hitting the slopes of Australia during North America’s hot summer, you can find many exciting ski destinations around the world for a new and thrilling ski experience. Offering everything from beginner-friendly slopes for kids to intense off-piste terrain for experts and progressive terrain parks, you can find a resort for every skill and experience level. Whether you want daring rides or a memorable trip with the little ones, take a look at the best ski vacations around the world and plan for an unforgettable ski trip.
Skiing in Australia
With a winter sports season that runs from June to September, Australia is an excellent ski destination for the off-season in North America. Avid skiers and snowboarders can ski year-round with a trip to Australia during the North American summer and enjoy perfect powder and a variety of terrain on prominent peaks. Find out more about skiing in Australia and the best ski resorts.
Thredbo for backcountry
Located near Sydney, Thredbo is an ideal resort for travellers looking for the full ski resort experience. The resort offers long runs and advanced terrain with backcountry areas, as well as dedicated beginner and intermediate areas. One of the advantages of staying at Thredbo is the abundance of ski-in/ski-out accommodation and the lively dining and après-ski scene in the village.
Perisher for family fun
Perisher is a large resort in New South Wales that boasts 1,200 hectares of skiable terrain for beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiers and boarders. Though the resort offers expansive, varied terrain for a unique experience, there’s no central ski village. You’ll find plenty of on-mountain accommodation for more time on the slopes, however. Another benefit of Perisher is that it’s part of the Vail Resorts Epic Pass. Perisher also has progressive terrain parks for freestyling and family-friendly amenities.
Skiing in Europe
Europe is the birthplace of ski culture and boasts some of the best destinations for skiing and snowboarding in the world. Catering to confident intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders, Europe’s ski resorts in the Swiss Alps and French Alps provide you with incredible off-piste experiences and challenging terrain. Take a look at the top ski resorts in Europe for the full alpine experience.
Courchevel for thrilling skiing
Part of the 3 Valles ski area, Courchevel is a top-notch ski resort in France with a mix of beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert ski areas. As part of the lift-linked ski area, you’ll also have access to the rest of the 3 Valles ski area for more opportunities to hit the slopes. For your trip, you can stay at Courchevel 1850 village in luxury accommodation and have quick access to activities and fine dining. Other activities at Courchevel include tobogganing and heli-skiing.
Verbier for apres-ski and nightlife
Located in Switzerland’s largest ski area, the 4 Valles, Verbier is an impressive ski resort that boasts incredible off-piste skiing and rugged terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders. This is the ultimate resort if you want a challenging ski experience. The village at the base of the mountain offers excellent après-ski and nightlife, upscale accommodation, and fine dining.
Zermatt for family snow activities
Offering a range of options for beginners to freestylers, Zermatt is an iconic ski resort on Matterhorn in Switzerland’s Valais canton. The resort features beautiful scenery, a thriving historic centre, and excellent dining and shopping options. You’ll also find a lively après-ski scene and opportunities for other winter sports, including curling and ice skating.
Skiing in Japan
Home to over 500 resorts and host sites for 2 winter Olympics, Japan is a spectacular ski destination if you want something new and different. The ski season brings pure powder skiing and some of the heaviest snowfall in the world for top-notch ski and snowboard experiences. Find out more about skiing in Japan to plan your trip.
Hakuba for diverse terrain
Located near Nagano in the Japanese Alps, Hakuba ski area offers a combination of ski areas and villages for a unique skiing experience. The Hakuba Valley has 11 ski resorts with connected terrain and shuttle bus services, so you can have a new ski experience each day. The skiing is ideal for beginners and intermediate, but you’ll find advanced terrain for expert skiers and snowboarders. The resort also has tree skiing and freeriding areas.
Niseko for family ski trips
One of Japan’s most famous resorts, Niseko Ski Resort is a lovely powder resort that’s popular with international skiers and boarders. The resort boasts a large ski area with off-piste terrain and sidecountry riding, so you’ll have a lot of variety. If you’re travelling with family, Niseko is one of the most family-friendly resorts and offers in-accommodation babysitting, childcare services, and children’s group ski lessons.