The 5 most exclusive ski resorts: Luxury and snow experiences

Immaculate slopes, excellent hospitality, gastronomy and unique cultural experiences characterize the most exclusive ski destinations in the world. Come with me to tour the most legendary and the most innovative slopes. Let’s learn how these ski resorts have transcended the pure winter sport to become dream destinations for luxury travelers.

Niseko: Japan’s best kept secret

My first proposal takes us to Japan, to the “Mecca of powder snow”, as the Niseko ski resort on the island of Hokkaido is known today. With the lightest and purest snow in the world, favored by the Siberian winds that cross the Sea of Japan, it offers the perfect conditions for skiing in an absolutely sustainable resort that was a pioneer in implementing a geothermal energy system in its facilities, visited every year by such illustrious personalities as the kings of Denmark.

To enjoy this destination, I recommend the Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono hotel, perfect representative of the fusion between Japanese tradition and contemporary luxury. If you want to live a unique relaxation experience after your day on the slopes, relax in its thermal baths (onsen), while contemplating the wonderful views of Mount Yotei. The finishing touch will be a dinner at the Hanazono Edge restaurant, which offers signature dishes with local ingredients from the island, prepared with Japanese techniques that extol tradition and modernity.

Val d’Isère: The jewel of the French Alps

In the 1930s, the small shepherds’ village of Val d’Isère became one of the world’s most prestigious ski destinations – who could forget the legendary “La Face” slope, which hosted the 1992 Olympic Games! Jean Claude Killy, triple Olympic medalist, began his career on these slopes, which have as another of their great achievements, having been the first to implement a system of artificial snow 100% sustainable.

If you are looking for a special hotel for your stay, that is undoubtedly Les Airelles Val d’Isère. You will be the protagonist of a fairy tale in this incredible exponent of French alpine luxury. All rooms have a personalized decoration characterized by works of art and authentic antiques. If you are also a wine lover, you will enjoy its magnificent wine cellar, which houses more than 200 varieties of French wines.

Aspen Snowmass: Epicenter of Winter Glamour

Fly with me to the most exclusive ski destination in America: Aspen Snowmass, and discover how this corner of Colorado, discovered by silver miners in the 19th century, was transformed from the original idea of its founder, industrialist Walter Paepcke, in the 1940s as an elite cultural and sports center to its current proposal. Preferred by celebrities such as the Kennedy Family or the current magnates of Silicon Valley, Aspen attracts intellectuals and artists throughout the year, through the proposals of the Aspen Institute or its Music Festival. It has a strong commitment to sustainability, being the first resort to achieve ISO 14001 certification for its environmental management.

Stay and enjoy at The Little Nell, the only five-star hotel with direct access to the slopes, which will offer you, in addition to impeccable service, one of the best sommelier programs in the world.

Zermatt: The pinnacle of Swiss skiing

The iconic Matterhorn, says it all in the Swiss village of Zermatt, where cars are not allowed and which has maintained its overwhelming charm since it began its history as a tourist destination in 1865, the year Edward Whymper conquered the Matterhorn for the first time. This fantastic destination today has the highest cable car system in Europe and is the first ski resort totally free of emissions. Here you can enjoy some of its 38 gourmet restaurants, including several with Michelin stars.

My favorite hotel in Zermatt is The Omnia. With panoramic views that will take your breath away, it is an asset in the landscape of the new generation of alpine design hotels. Its Michelin-starred restaurant is a gastronomic destination in its own right.

Kitzbühel: Alpine skiing tradition

With history dating back to the Middle Ages and legendary slopes, Kitzbühel is the birthplace of alpine skiing. The Hahnenkamm, considered the most challenging downhill race in the world, has been held here since 1931. A resort that has hosted 88 World Cup races, did you know that the first ski course was held here in 1893, no less? In addition to being historic, this Austrian destination attracts visitors for its renowned restaurants and signature Tyrolean cuisine.

The Kitzhof Mountain Design Resort is the perfect example to get to know and feel the evolution of Alpine luxury, from warm Tyrolean tradition to contemporary design. You have to let yourself be pampered in its spa. A sanctuary of wellness that occupies 1,000 m².

I am sure you will love these five unique destinations as much as I do. If you are a winter sports lover and are planning a unique and luxurious getaway, you have to consider them. January or February are the best months in Niseko, while Zermatt offers year-round skiing on its glacier. The best powder snow in Niseko, the glamour of Aspen, the chic Val d’Isère, the best pairings in Zermatt and the warm tradition of Kitzbühel await you at the foot of the slopes.

Contact me for more information about this destination and to plan your perfect experience.

Facts & Figures