The Alps are home to some of the most popular ski resorts in Europe, and it’s not hard to imagine why. With the cozy atmosphere, gorgeous scenery, and old-school-style accommodation, the Alps ski area covers over one thousand miles and six countries: France, Germany, Italy, Austria, Slovenia, and Switzerland. As you can imagine, it’s quite difficult to recommend only a handful of resorts. We did our research, so here are some of the most popular and most accommodating ski resorts located in the Alps.
Tignes Resort
This ski area is known as the highest skiable area in Europe. Located in the Savoie region, it’s famous for the amount of snow it receives each year. It’s easily accessible through many big cities such as Lyon and Geneva. Since it’s close to another popular ski area named Val d’Isere, together they’re known as the Escape Killy ski area.
Another reason why you’ve probably already heard the name of the Tignes Resort is because it hosted the 1992 Winter Olympics for freestyle skiing. Even though there are a couple of trails that are suitable for beginners, this resort is best suited for advanced and expert skiers.
Pros
- No long lift lines or crowds
- Beautiful mountain scenery surrounding the resort
- Affordable prices in terms of dining and accommodation
- Friendly and accommodating staff
Cons
- Some of the lifts are quite old and dated
Famous for: gorgeous views, host of the 1992 Olympics, snow-sure.
Town
Tignes is a combination of small villages: Tignes Val Claret, Tignes le Lac, Le Lavachet, Tignes Les Boisses, and Tignes-les-Brévierès. All of them are the final remains of what used to be a bigger town. These villages are in close proximity to each other and all of them are a part of the ski resort. Don’t let their size fool you, because they are incredibly charming, tranquil, and picturesque. If you ever feel like visiting a cozy and wintery area that looks like it would be the background of a Christmas card, then this place is for you.
Ski Terrain
As you know by now, Tignes is a go-to choice for advanced skiers. The terrain is challenging and it’s sure to inject a dose of adrenaline and excitement to your day. If you’ve been on the slopes for years and are looking for a place to test out your skillset, then you should definitely consider Tignes. There are more than 100 runs that vary in terms of difficulty.
There is never a shortage of snow in this place. Almost 450,000 m2 of artificial snow is produced each year which is guaranteed to bring you the perfect conditions for skiing. On top of that, the resort is linked to another resort named Val d’Isere, so if you’re ever in need for a change of scenery, you can easily pop in there.
Crowd Density and Ski Lifts
Visitors claim that this resort doesn’t get really crowded, which means you’re unlikely to encounter long lines in front of the ski lifts.
There are a total of 39 lifts in Tignes, most of which are chairlifts. You can purchase season passes, packages, or daily tickets. The price for a daily ticket is around $65 for adults and $55 for kids.
Accommodation
You have a range of hotels to choose from when staying at Tignes. Just to give you an estimate of the price, the Hotel La Refuge costs around $700 for three people for a three-day stay. The accommodation is likely to sell out, so we recommend booking in advance.
Verdict
Tignes is a wholesome resort that offers the best Europe can provide: great skiing conditions, lots of snow, affordable dining and accommodation, and challenging terrain.
Engelberg-Titlis Ski Resort
Located in Switzerland, this gorgeous resort is one of the largest in the country. It offers many sports and activities like skiing and snowboarding. The 12 km long slope leads directly down to the village, making it easily accessible. There are a total of 82 km of slopes, most of which are aimed at intermediate skiers. Although the official winter skiing season lasts from December to April, skiing is possible on the glacier from October to May, making it a whopping 8 month-long skiing season.
Pros
- Amazing location
- Close to the village
- Diverse terrain
- Long skiing season
Cons
- Most of the slopes are designed for intermediate and beginner skiers, and the difficult slopes are only 9.5 km long
Famous for: long skiing season, outstanding location, long slopes.
Town
Engelberg is a resort village located only 1.3 km away from the skiing area. There is a direct slope that leads down to the village, so you can easily ski your way to this tranquil and picturesque village. There are many things to do in Engelberg apart from skiing. Adrenaline junkies will enjoy the Titlis Cliffwalk, the highest suspension bridge in Europe. Those who are afraid of heights can visit the Titlis Glacier Cave or the Engelberg Abbey.
Ski Terrain
Everyone can enjoy the Engelberg-Titlis Ski Resort because they have terrain that’s catered to every level of expertise. That being said, almost 38 km of terrain is best suited to intermediate skiers, so if you find yourself in that category then you will definitely have a fun time here. The elevation ranges from 1,000 to 3,020 meters. One of the longest slopes found on the Alps connects the top of Titlis to Engelberg.
Crowd Density and Ski Lifts
Engelberg-Titlis is known for being home to one of the longest slopes, but it rarely gets very crowded. However, if you’d like to stay at the accommodation of your choice, it’s best to book in advance.
There are 28 lifts in total. When it comes to the price of the ski lift tickets, adult tickets cost around $65, youth tickets cost around $47, and children’s tickets are approximately $27. Ski rental and ski lessons are also available.
Accommodation
Most guests prefer to stay at the Titlis Resort. With its cozy and charming ambiance, it’s sure to provide you with the ideal home away from home while you’re enjoying the wonderful sights of the Alps. Apart from Titlis Resort, you can also choose various other hotels and suites such as the Hotel Espen, Hotel Central, Ski Lodge Engelberg or Hotel Kaiserstuhl.
Verdict
Engelberg-Titlis Ski Resort is a picturesque ski resort that’s located in Switzerland. With slopes leading to the village of Engelberg, there are many things to experience and see while you’re there. You have various accommodation options to choose from and the resort will provide you with great skiing conditions during a skiing season that can last up to 8 months!
Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets Ski Resort(s)
These three resorts are interlinked, resulting in over 112 km of skiable area! Located in Switzerland, these resorts are spread over the Vaud Alps and guarantee you a good time. With stunning, dreamy scenery and nature sights, this is the place to go if you want to feel like you’re in a Winter Wonderland.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly
- Lots of snow and stunning views
- High slopes
- Suitable for families
Cons
- The restaurants can get a little crowded
Famous for: large skiable area, beginner-friendly, great atmosphere and views.
Town
Villars is a village in Switzerland that accommodates lots of students throughout the year. If you do decide to stop by, be prepared to see some stunning scenery because Mont Blanc is visible from down there. There are many sights you can enjoy here both during the summer and winter. During the summer, make sure to visit the AquaParc, the Labyrnithe Adventure, and the Parc Adventure. Those who aren’t into sports can enjoy some of the local pubs and restaurants.
Ski Terrain
In terms of ski terrain, there is a good selection of slopes for all levels. There are a couple snow gardens aimed at kids where beginners can learn to ski. Advanced skiers can enjoy the snowpark on the high slopes. Night skiing is also available.
Crowd Density and Ski Lifts
Since the ski area is so large, there are rarely any crowds in sight. This means that you are less likely to encounter lines in front of the lifts, which is always good news for those who don’t like to be outside the slopes too much. However, we did mention that sometimes you will find large groups of people in the restaurants, which is why we recommend making a reservation on time.
The ski area has 27 lifts in total. As with most resorts, you can purchase the tickets from their official website. The prices for the tickets are around $50 for adults, $44 for the youth and seniors, and $30 for children.
Accommodation
Villars is known for having many chalets available for tourists. Other than chalets, you can find a couple of hotels and suites. The price per night depends on where you choose to stay. Our personal favorite is Alpe Fleurie, where you can get a room for around $170 per night.
Verdict
Villars-Gryon-Les Diablerets is one of the biggest resorts located in the heart of the Alps. It’s incredibly family-friendly, it offers various accommodation and dining options, and the scenery is simply breathtaking. One of the best things about the resort is the diversity in terms of terrain. Anyone can have a good time here, beginners and advanced skiers alike. Beginners can enjoy skiing lessons and slopes designed specifically for them.
Dorfgastein Ski Resort
Located in beautiful Austria, this resort is part of the Gastein ski area and is suitable for all skiers. Apart from skiing, you could also enjoy snowboarding on the gorgeous slopes overlooking the best nature has to offer. New to skiing? There are many instructors ready to help you get into the world of skiing at all times. The total length of the slopes including all levels is around 201 km, making it one of the biggest ski areas in Europe.
Pros
- Large skiable area with lots of options suitable for all levels of skiing
- Amazing scenery from the top of the mountain
- Close to major cities
- Snowmaking
Famous for: relaxing atmosphere, enormous skiable area, well-groomed slopes.
Town
Dorfgastein is only a one hour drive away from Salzburg. If you’re on the lookout for a major city break, then this is probably the best option for you. However, the municipality of Dorfgastein has lots to offer as well. Although not quite as big as Salzburg, it has a charm to it and you can visit some of the museums and historical sights once you’re there. Not to mention, this place has great nature sights that are worth visiting on sunnier days.
Ski Terrain
Most of the ski terrain is reserved for intermediate skiers, also known as the red slopes. The slopes are in great condition and there is plenty of snow, so you shouldn’t worry about that. There aren’t many black or expert slopes in the area, so experienced skiers might find it a bit too easy at times. However, this means that it’s a great resort to visit if you’re traveling with a diverse range of skiers.
Crowd Density and Ski Lifts
If you do decide to visit Dorfgastein, you might be surprised to see that there aren’t many crowds around. This might be due to the fact that there is such a large skiable area, so you won’t be able to encounter large groups of people in one place.
Due to the number of ski lifts, there are rarely any lines in front. There are 44 lifts in total and you can purchase your tickets from their official website. The price for a daily ticket for adults is around $62, $47 for youth, and $30 for children. The prices go up and down depending on what time of day or season you decide to purchase them for.
Accommodation
Regardless of what type of accommodation you usually go for, you’re bound to find something at the Dorfgastein resort. You have the option of staying at multiple hotels such as the Hotel Münchnerhof, camping at some of the available campgrounds like Kurcamping Bertahof or Camping Erlengrund, or booking an apartment in Hagenhofer.
Verdict
It’s safe to pronounce the Dorfgastein as a family-friendly ski resort that promises lots of fun on the slopes. Visitors claim that the atmosphere in this place is relaxing which is definitely a plus for a winter getaway. There are little to no crowds and the prices are quite affordable. With peak conditions for skiing, this resort is a go-to for many ski lovers.
Ischgl Ski Resort
Located in Ischgl, this resort forms the Silvretta Arena in conjunction with the town of Samnaun. The ski conditions in this resort are unbelievable – the slopes are well maintained, they are diverse and interesting, and they overlook gorgeous scenery that is bound to take your breath away. All of these factors make it the perfect holiday resort whether you’re traveling with your mates, your partner, or your whole family. The resort is famous for its nightlife, so all party animals out there can rejoice.
Pros
- Exciting nightlife
- Many events and competitions that attract an international public
- Well-maintained slopes that are diverse and challenging
- Lots of activities that you can attend
- Stunning views of the mountains
Cons
- The resort can get a bit crowded
Famous for: events and competitions, great terrain, exciting nightlife.
Town
The village of Ischgl isn’t home to a huge number of people, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t have fun there. Apart from enjoying the skiing area, you can visit some of the parks if the weather allows it. For anyone who likes visiting traditional tourist attractions, there are a couple of museums that can be found in the area like the Mathias-Schmid Museum. Like we mentioned earlier, this place is famous for its nightlife, so you can also enjoy some of the various clubs if you’re into partying.
Ski Terrain
The slopes are connected with various ski lifts. There is a snow park suitable for beginners, whereas intermediate skiers will be happy to know that there are lots of red slopes to be found in the area. Children can have a great time in the ski kindergarten where they can learn about skiing from trained professionals. The steepest run in the area is located in the Höllboden bowl. The slopes range in terms of height – they can be located anywhere between 2,000 m and 2,872 m.
Crowd Density and Ski Lifts
Unfortunately, Ischgl Ski Resort isn’t as crowd-free as some of the other resorts on this list. If you don’t like dealing with huge crowds of people, then you might want to consider visiting another resort we recommend here, given that you also might encounter lines in front of the ski lifts.
Speaking of ski lifts, there are a total of 45 lifts. The price of the tickets is around $55 for adults. They offer several packages and deals, and you could also get your hands on some of the discounts from their website.
Accommodation
One of the greatest things about this resort is the fact that it has a wide range of options to choose from in terms of accommodation. Visitors can choose between inns, hotels, holiday homes, private rentals, B&Bs, guesthouses, and holiday apartments. Whatever your preference and price range is, you’re bound to find something that works for you.
Verdict
Ischgl Ski Resort offers a magical atmosphere with some of the best nightlife in all the ski resorts across Europe and amazing conditions for skiing with lots of snow. Not to mention, there are many accommodation options to choose from.
