The best luxury ski resorts around the world

When winter arrives, so does the thrill of skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Here’s a tour of some of the world’s most luxurious ski resorts, where you can enjoy stunning slopes and premium amenities.

Photo: Kyodo / Kyodo News Images

Dubbed the “world’s best ski resort,” Courchevel in southeastern France is a hub for global elites. With 20 five-star hotels and nearly 10 Michelin-starred restaurants, it’s the ultimate winter social scene. The resort boasts over 600 kilometers (372 miles) of ski runs, one of the largest networks globally, catering to everyone from beginners to experts.

Famous for its world-renowned Corbet’s Couloir, Jackson Hole offers some of the most challenging slopes on the planet. Corbet’s is a steep chute bordered by natural rock formations, drawing thrill-seekers from around the world. Named the top resort for “most challenging terrain” by Ski Magazine readers, Jackson Hole is a haven for adrenaline junkies.

Known as Italy’s premier snow resort, Cortina d’Ampezzo shot to fame after hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics. Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Dolomites,” this resort offers breathtaking views and unforgettable winter sports experiences. In 2026, it will again take center stage as a co-host of the Winter Olympics alongside Milan.

Nestled on New Zealand’s South Island, Treble Cone is the country’s largest ski resort and features its greatest vertical drop. Skiers can glide down a 4-kilometer (2.4 mile) run while taking in panoramic views of Lake Wanaka. With 80% of its slopes designed for intermediate to advanced skiers, it’s ideal for seasoned enthusiasts.

Known as the “world’s oldest ski resort,” St. Moritz boasts a history dating back 3,000 years with its famous natural hot springs. Today, it’s a magnet for celebrities, offering luxury five-star hotels and high-end boutiques. Twice the host of the Winter Olympics, this glamorous destination combines sports with sophistication.

For those dreaming of winter sports in the summer, Portillo in Chile is the place to be. As the oldest and largest ski resort in South America, it offers vast natural beauty with minimal crowds. With just one hotel in the area, you can savor the slopes in tranquility.

The largest ski resort in North America, Whistler is a snow lover’s paradise. It features around 120 hotels, over 200 shops, and more than 90 restaurants. On the slopes, you’ll find over 200 runs, with the longest stretching an incredible 11 kilometers (6.8 miles). Whistler was also a key venue during the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Japan’s ski resorts rival any in the world, and Zao Onsen Mountain & Snow Resort is a shining example. Known for its expansive size, it’s one of Japan’s largest ski resorts, offering a rare chance to ski among the breathtaking "snow monsters"—frost-covered trees that create a truly unique winter landscape. The longest run stretches up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). After a day on the slopes, relax in the resort’s historic onsen (spa), a perfect way to unwind.

Niseko has recently become a favorite among international visitors, particularly for its stunning views of Mount Yotei, often likened to Mount Fuji. The resort offers 47 kilometers (29 miles) of ski runs, but what truly sets Niseko apart is its access to backcountry slopes—an area typically off-limits at other resorts, available exclusively to advanced skiers. The unique snow conditions here make Niseko a must-visit destination for serious snow sports enthusiasts.

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