There are not many more mesmerizing experiences than seeing the Alps for the first time. Spanning eight countries, there are no shortages of amazing experiences to be had. Ready to plan your Alpine vacation? Here are our top travel tips for skiing in the Alps.
Travel to the Alps
Although the Alps span many European countries, the easiest access to the region’s ski resorts tends to be in France and Switzerland. Probably the fastest way to travel to the Alps for a ski vacation is to fly into Zurich and use the Swiss pass to extend your travel via train to one of the many ski resorts further into the country. Take a direct overnight flight from the US and you can be skiing by lunchtime! Train travel in Switzerland is quite comfortable and clean. Upgrade to first class for more spacious accommodations and fewer crowds so you can relax and enjoy the scenery on your way to your luxury ski vacation.
If the French Alps are more your style, you can easily fly into Paris and enjoy the city for a night or two before hopping a train for a day-long trip to one of the many beautiful ski resorts in the French Alps. Choose one along the Italian border and you can extend your trip with a visit to Northern Italian cities of Milan or Venice.
Once you arrive at your destination ski resort, you’ll find that renting a car is unnecessary. Most ski villages are pedestrian only and operate solely on ski lifts and buses. High-end resorts will provide additional transportation options for travel farther away as well.
Choosing a Ski Resort
There are countless hotels and ski resorts to choose from in the Alps. Whether you prefer old world charm and history or a more modern contemporary look, there is something for everyone. When choosing a resort, look not only at the hotel amenities but compare ski options for your skill level and other activities available as well. Some resorts offer activities such as spas, day trips, and local tours. Here are two favorite Alpine ski destinations that remain popular year after year.
La Chamonix, France
In France, La Chamonix is one of the most famous options for luxury skiing. Nestled at the foot of Mont Blanc, Europe’s highest mountain, Chamonix is a bucket list trip for most skiers and snowboarders. The town center of Chamonix is traffic-free, offering many interesting restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and bookshops. The surrounding villages offer a variety of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury chalets complete with chauffeurs such as the five-star chalets at Les Rives d’Argentiére. The slopes of Chamonix are perfect for all skill levels from beginner to expert, offering something for everyone.
Mt. Titlis, Switzerland
If you are flying into Switzerland, there are many ski options within a short train or car ride of Zurich. Mt. Titlis in central Switzerland is a wonderful option and offers the only glacier skiing in the region. Visitors can take a Titlis Rotair cable car to the summit, which revolves 360° during the five-minute ride and shows off the breath-taking views. In addition to wonderful skiing and snowboarding, the area has tobogganing, cross-country skiing, winter hiking and snowshoe trekking. Also worth a visit are the nearby TITLIS Cliff Walk suspension bridge and glacier caves located twenty meters beneath the glacier surface.
Are you looking to plan your next ski vacation in the Alps? Which of these gorgeous destinations would be your favorite? You might also like to see these 5 Luxury Resort Towns to Visit for Spring Skiing.
