The Ultimate Ski Holiday Resorts And What To Pack
From around December to April, many people flock around the world to hit the slopes and make the most of the ski season. There are plenty of ski holidays and destinations to choose, from those who offer the steepest slopes for the adrenaline junkies, to the ones with the best variety of restaurants and 5 star accommodations for après ski for the holidaymakers who like a luxurious trip to the mountains.
We have conducted research and combined everything from the average snowfall and slope difficulty, to Instagram data and TikTok views to uncover the best ski resorts across the globe to help you choose the right ski resort location to suit you. And not to worry, we’ve also included a must-have packing check-list to help you with what to wear skiing along the way, alongside some ways you can incorporate our sumptuous cashmere as you hit the slopes. So it’s time to get your suitcase out ready!
Coming out on top in the index is Zermatt, Switzerland, which gained a perfect score of 100. Not only does it have 121 restaurant offerings and the longest run of 13.7 miles, it also has amazing and picturesque views that are perfect for an Instagram moment, with 1.1 million tags on the app already recorded. However, if you’re looking to visit a real life winter wonderland, Niseko, Japan is the snowiest ski resort, with an average snowfall of 1500 cm. So Whether you’re shooting Instagram content in Switzerland or just wanting something to keep you warm and cosy under your ski clothing while you’re hitting the snowy slopes in Japan, N.Peal’s selection of super-soft cashmere jumpers and cardigans promise to provide you with both warmth and style both on and off the mountains.
We understand that sometimes when you travel, luxury is a must-have. That’s why we used our data to help you select the ski destination with the hotels. Val d'Isere in France is your best option for luxury accommodation, with 67 5* options situated near the resort. In addition to this, you’ll also find 73 different restaurant options, a 6.2 mile run and a slope difficulty rating of 17%, making it the perfect destination for both experienced skiers and amateurs alike. If you’re visiting a luxury resort, you’re going to need some sumptuous cashmere must-haves packed to take with you alongside your ski-wear. N.Peal’s selection of cashmere dresses and roll neck jumpers can take you from après ski to fondue by the fire in style.
Find a list of the top 12 ultimate ski resorts according to our data down below to help you decide on your next trip to the slopes.
12 Ultimate Ski Resorts Ranked By Index Score
Resort |
Country |
Avg. snowfall |
Slope difficulty |
Longest run |
5-star accommodations |
Restaurant options |
Instagram tags |
TikTok views |
Total |
Zermatt-Matterhorn |
Switzerland |
21.5 |
17.0 |
100.0 |
59.7 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
100.0 |
Val d'Isere |
France |
30.0 |
36.2 |
45.3 |
100.0 |
60.3 |
33.5 |
36.2 |
68.5 |
Courchevel/Three Valleys |
France |
20.3 |
25.5 |
22.6 |
52.2 |
66.1 |
43.5 |
90.8 |
64.4 |
Verbier/Four Valleys |
Switzerland |
26.3 |
53.2 |
36.5 |
41.8 |
33.9 |
39.7 |
39.6 |
54.4 |
Niseko |
Japan |
100.0 |
42.6 |
25.5 |
1.5 |
20.7 |
58.0 |
4.7 |
50.8 |
Whistler Blackcomb |
Canada |
75.9 |
53.2 |
51.1 |
4.5 |
12.4 |
39.5 |
7.4 |
49.0 |
Kitzbühel |
Austria |
12.8 |
23.4 |
37.2 |
6.0 |
43.0 |
40.8 |
75.9 |
48.0 |
Aspen Snowmass |
USA |
46.9 |
100.0 |
21.9 |
9.0 |
14.0 |
12.7 |
8.5 |
42.8 |
Vail Mountain Resort |
USA |
59.9 |
85.1 |
29.2 |
6.0 |
11.6 |
2.3 |
1.2 |
39.2 |
Les Arcs |
France |
18.6 |
27.7 |
31.8 |
7.5 |
45.5 |
21.2 |
22.5 |
35.1 |
Grandvalira |
Andorra |
6.9 |
36.2 |
43.8 |
1.5 |
49.6 |
19.2 |
6.3 |
32.8 |
Courmayeur |
Italy |
15.3 |
23.4 |
13.6 |
9.0 |
22.3 |
35.6 |
9.7 |
25.9 |
Despite USA destinations like Aspen and Vail being further down on the list overall, they actually scored the highest for overall slope difficulty, making them the perfect destination for well seasoned skiers who are after a challenge. While you’re enjoying the adrenaline rush of the difficult slopes, it’s important to stay warm and comfortable. N.Peal’s selection of 100% Mongolian cashmere accessories like socks, hats, scarves and gloves are perfect for adding that extra layer of comfort to keep you warm from tip to toe when you need it most.
8 Best Ski Resorts in Europe Based on Index Score
- Zermatt-Matterhorn - Switzerland - 100.1
- Val d'Isere - France - 68.5
- Courchevel - France - 64.4
- Verbier -Switzerland - 54.4
- Kitzbühel - Austria - 48.0
- Les Arcs - France - 35.1
- Grandvalira - Andorra - 32.8
- Courmayeur - Italy - 25.9
Top 3 Ski Resorts in North America Based on Index Score
- Whistler Blackcomb - Canada - 49.0
- Aspen Snowmass - USA - 42.8
- Vail Mountain Resort - USA - 39.2
Once you’ve chosen your next ski holiday destination, you’re going to want an easy and simple travel attire. Why not check out N.Peal's selection of loungewear? All made from sumptuous Mongolian cashmere, our selection of hoodies, leggings and joggers are available in a range of colourways that are perfect for catching flights, buses and ski lifts alike. Shop online today.
The Ultimate List for What to Wear Skiing
- Jumpers & Fleeces
- Ski Jacket
- Layering T-shirts
- Ski Pants
- Leggings for layering
- Helmets
- Goggles
- Hats
- Scarves
- Gloves
- Socks
We hope we’ve helped you find the right ski resort for you this ski season. Check out the new N.Peal Ski Collection online now to make packing easier.