by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:00 AM ET, Sun December 14, 2025
Ski trips are amazing opportunities to spend time with loved ones, hit the slopes, engage in wellness activities and practice in an active hobby or two—but what options exist if you’re considering traveling internationally?
What destinations are known for ski resorts and skiing opportunities, beyond Breckenridge and Park City—and which ones are underrated gems just waiting to be discovered?
There’s quite a few amazing destinations well-known for their skiing opportunities across the globe, including several in Western Europe and Japan, but there’s also a few underrated gems, too, like Quebec, Canada and the Carpathian Mountains in Eastern Europe.
So read on, and check out what makes these places so special—and get some amazing hotel and resort recommendations, too!
The European Alps: Straddling Borders
Andermatt in the Swiss Alps. (Photo Credit: Andermatt, Switzerland)
The European Alps are probably the most well-known mountain range for skiing outside of the United States, home to some of the world’s most luxurious ski resorts from Switzerland to Austria.
It’s a massive mountain range spanning twelve countries, with plenty of places to ski in destinations across France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and more. The western portion of the Alps are well-known for their skiing, since the highest peaks, like Mont Blanc, are located there.
This exciting region of the world has long been known for its opportunities for mountaineering, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and other winter sports and activities, and it’s birthed a tradition of ski resorts both new and old.
Andermatt, Switzerland is a snow-heavy ski destination known for its luxury resorts and incredible opportunities to enjoy winter sports activities. Located near Gemmstock, which towers nearly 10,000 feet into the air, and the Gurschen Glacier, the village enjoys a long winter season, often beginning as early as September and going through April.
Andermatt is also an eco-friendly destination, running entirely on renewable energy. Seventy-five percent of the village heats itself during the winter with climate-neutral systems, intent on protecting the nearby natural wonders, such as the glacier, by being good stewards. The destination covers the glacier in white fleece each spring to retain snow, a nearly two-decade-old practice that reduces its need to create artificial snow the next winter.
Beyond the eco-friendliness, Andermatt is a great place for freeriders and ski touring, where travelers get to enjoy the 112 miles of ski terrain along with the region’s vast backcountry, led by expert guides.
The village is also home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, along with luxury resorts like The Chedi Andermatt, as well as more affordable options, like a Radisson Blu or several locally run mountain lodges.
Aerial view of The Chedi Andermatt, a luxury resort in Andermatt, Switzerland. (Photo Credit: The Chedi Andermatt)
“Winter is when Andermatt truly comes into its own. A 90-minute drive from Zurich, this small Swiss mountain village offers a welcoming, genuine atmosphere where people come because they simply love being in the Alps,” said Thomas Rendell, Chief Marketing Officer at Andermatt Swiss Alps.
“Andermatt’s unique topography and climate make it one of the most snow-sure destinations in the Alps, with high elevation at 9,715 feet on Gemsstock and north-facing slopes, often extending the ski season through April,” continued Rendell. “With 180 kilometers of pistes, outstanding freeride terrain, and beautifully maintained slopes, visitors can explore pristine winter conditions. Combined with an exquisite culinary scene, home to six Michelin stars, Andermatt is a place where the focus is on quality and the simple pleasure of experiencing the mountains at their best.”
One can’t read about ski destinations without talking about St. Moritz. One of the ultimate luxury Swiss Alps destinations, St. Moritz is the ski destination most luxury travelers want to visit. Located in the Engadin Valley, it’s hosted the Winter Olympics twice, earning quite a bit of fame from both.
Nowadays, it’s an upscale location with high prices and experiences to fit travelers with high budgets—along with luxury ski resorts. It’s a great destination, provided you can afford it.
Aerial view of the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz in winter. (Photo Credit: Kulm Hotel St. Moritz)
The all-suite Carlton Hotel St. Moritz is one such luxury resort, located high above the nearby Lake St. Moritz. Offering an exclusive Rent a Mountain experience, travelers can enjoy a private gondola and illuminated slope just for them, complete with an Outdoor Butler serving as host, guide and photographer. An instructor is available upon request. Guests can end the night with a Fondue Gondola.
Another great option is the Kulm Hotel St. Moritz, boasting a 165-year legacy that’s given it the title of “the hotel that made winter.” This historic stay offers an on-property ski shop and concierge, so travelers can go directly from the lobby to the mountain. The hotel also boasts winter polo, a luxurious spa and views of the lake.
Special Alpine Gems: Jungfrau and Montafon 
Grindelwald is one of the charming winter wonderland villages in Switzerland’s Jungfrau region. (Photo Credit: Jungfrau Tourism)
There are a few destinations that, while not well-known to Americans, deserve their own time in the spotlight.
Jungfrau is one of them. Located in the Swiss Alps near Grindelwald, this area has become an overnight sensation, welcoming over two million daily visitors each year, attracted by sights like the highest rail station in Europe, Jungfraujoch.
Yet despite this, the village has become a model for sustainable and regenerative tourism. Over 90 percent of its workforce is employed in the industry, and the destination’s tourism revenue directly supports large-scale sustainability efforts, like the Hintisberg Alpine Solar Project, which will be completed next year. The development will power 3,000 households.
The region is also investing money into the V-Cableway Sustainability Fund, which funds conservation and community projects.
It’s a great destination combining stewardship with the winter sports activities people love. Some recommendations for accommodations include the Grand Hotel Belvedere, a Beaumier Hotel, Kempinski Palace Engelberg and the Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa.
“The Jungfrau Ski Region offers 211 km of perfectly groomed slopes, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a mountain panorama unlike any other,” said Melanie Trummer, Product Manager for Grindelwald Tourism. “Anyone who values top quality and authentic nature experiences will find a winter destination not to be missed. Combined with an overnight stay in Grindelwald and a visit to the Jungfraujoch—Top of Europe—the trip becomes an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a long time.”
Further north is Montafon, Austria, a cultural gem located between several different mountain ranges in the Alps. Boasting five ski areas and several scenic peaks, the region offers over 186 miles of slopes.
(Photo Credit: Stefan Kothner / Montafon Tourismus GmbH)
“Right in the heart of Europe, nestled between the Verwall, Rätikon and Silvretta ranges, the Montafon reveals surprising contrasts—where towering peaks, unspoiled villages and an authentic way of life come together in one compact valley,” or so a Montafon spokesperson described it.
Montafon carries a centuries-old tradition of Alpine farming and pioneering, so culture lovers will delight in the authentic way of life and culture of the place. They can visit the unique Maisäß settlements, where travelers can learn about the region’s three-level farming technique, in between skiing or training.
Accommodations range from the luxurious, like the Falkensteiner Hotel Montafon, a Leading Hotels of the World property, to the more affordable, like the charming Seven Alpina Boutique Hotel.
The Dolomites: Courmayeur and Beyond
The Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc in Courmayeur, Italy, part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. (Photo Credit: Preferred Hotels & Resorts)
The Dolomites is a portion of the Alps in Italy, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding universal value, from its geography to its wildlife and human history.
Northern Italy is getting a fair bit of buzz recently, since it’ll be hosting the upcoming Winter Olympics and Paralympics in Milano and Cortina this February.
There are plenty of ski destinations to love near this adventurous region of Italy, and one of them is Courmayeur. The region has a longstanding tradition of winter sports activities, celebrating the 90th anniversary of its Monte Bianco Ski & Snowboard School next year.
The region, located near the French border, allows for access to Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco in Italian) and offers some amazing places to ski for skiers of any level. Courmayeur is also a stylish place, known for high-end dining. The Skyway Monte Bianco isn’t to be missed—it’s a highlight experience for everyone who visits.
One great hotel option is the Grand Hotel Courmayeur, which boasts dramatic views of Mont Blanc. The 5-star property is easily accessible from Turin, Milan and Geneva, and offers the best opportunities to experience the destination in luxury.
After a long day spent on the slopes, guests can recover in the ERRE SPA with the indoor heated pool, sauna, Turkish hammam, sensory showers and more. And even better—the property matches many travel budgets, with rates starting at less than $300 a night.
“Courmayeur is an Alpine destination where modern elegance and nature’s stunning beauty meet,” said Claudio Coriasco, General Manager of Grand Hotel Courmayeur. “Travelers are awestruck by the vibrant town, unique location at the base of Mont Blanc, gourmet experiences that blend influences from the local regions of Italy, France and Switzerland, enticing shopping options from luxury brands to local artisans and antiques, world-class skiing, snowshoeing and so much more.
“Whether visitors enjoy the groomed pistes, the legendary off-piste terrain, or the serene beauty of the mountains, Courmayeur offers an experience that is truly unmatched. And with Italy preparing to welcome the world for the upcoming Olympic Games in 2026, there is an exciting energy vibrating throughout the country,” Coriasco finished.
Culture lovers will enjoy visiting the region of South Tyrol, a decidedly German part of Italy. Travelers might lose track of where they are, as its jagged mountain peaks, bucolic farms and charming villages often look more like something from Switzerland or Austria than Italy—but this multicultural gem is also home to some awesome ski resorts.
The view of the Dolomites from the COMO Alpina Dolomites terrace. (Photo Credit: COMO Alpina Dolomites)
COMO Alpina Dolomites is an amazing 5-star resort offering several incredible experiences you can only have right there, all in celebration of the upcoming Winter Olympics. The resort is located in the Dolomiti Superski circuit and offers instruction for all skier levels, including other activities like snow power biking, ice climbing, paragliding, carriage rides and more. It also boasts an attractive spa and a style that blends into the mountains around it.
Experiences include the COMO Wellness Journey: The Summit Within, a women’s only skiing and wellness retreat. Held next January, it’s hosted by Olympic Champion Julia Mancuso and physiotherapist and osteopath Martina Wegscheider, combining an amazing ski experience with wellness and sisterhood.
The resort is offering another experience to ski with Olympians later in March, with a Ski With Olympians Retreat, hosted by Olympic ski racing stars Travis and Marie-Michèle Ganong, who will lead skiing along the local pistes, wellness activities at the spa and cultural experiences.
“Our ski-in, ski-out location on Alpe di Siusi places guests at the centre of a remarkable alpine area, with gentle slopes ideal for beginners and families, as well as direct access to Val Gardena and the Sella Ronda for those looking to explore the wider Dolomites,” said Anna Paissan, Concierge at COMO Alpina Dolomites.
“The plateau is also a haven for non-skiers, offering winter trails that open onto extraordinary views. Beyond the activities, the landscape has a way of slowing you down; wide open spaces, crisp mountain air, and the quiet presence of the peaks create a feeling of calm that lingers long after you leave.”
If you’re looking for something decidedly different, try women-owned tour operator Dolomite Mountains. Part of Virtuoso, they’re an eco-friendly operator that prides itself on custom all-inclusive trips to the region all year, with stays at locally owned rifugios or private villas. Solo travelers can also enjoy picking from a selection of crafted itineraries, including “ski safaris,” which introduces travelers to the valleys of the Dolomites.
A ski safari in the Dolomites with Dolomite Mountains. (Photo Credit: Giuseppe Ghedina)
Dolomite Mountains’ guides are all experts, and hold the highest international credentials for sports, holding either UIAGM/IFMGA Professional Mountain Guides or UIMLA Professional Mountain Leaders certifications.
“People visit the Dolomites for skiing that’s huge in scale, with more than 1200km of skiing on one ski pass, the Dolomiti Superski and incredibly well-groomed runs in the stunning UNESCO World Heritage landscape,” said Agustina Lagos Marmol, founder and owner of Dolomite Mountains. “What makes it truly special is that every ski day here includes the local culture, with lunch at charming family-owned mountain rifugios, incredible food with Italian, Austrian, or Ladin specialties depending on the valley, and a welcoming hospitality.”
The Carpathians: A Lesser-Known European Gem
The Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras in winter. (Photo Credit: Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras)
While the Alps often get the most love, there are more mountain ranges in Europe that offer ski resorts and opportunities to enjoy winter sports activities. One such range is the Carpathian Mountains, which stretch from Romania to the Czech Republic.
These mountains provide amazing Alpine beauty without the crowds of more popular destinations, and often offer cheaper accommodations, too.
One amazing luxury stay in the Carpathians is the Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras, a fairytale-esque resort in Slovakia. Located in the High Tatras region of the Carpathians, travelers will see the region’s dramatic beauty everywhere they look, from glacial lakes to granite peaks.
Travelers to the High Tatras can enjoy a guided tour of the peaks with the Mountain Rescue System, encounter wildlife from bears to wolves in the nearby national park and discover unique Slavic and Carpathian heritage, from the architecture to local fare like potato dumplings with sheep cheese, called Bryndzové Halušky. There are also several UNESCO World Heritage Sites located nearby, like the wooden stave churches, which date back to the Medieval times.
The best part? You also get to enjoy lower costs on everything from accommodations to dining and lift passes than what you’d find in a popular ski town.
The Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras is a historic property known for its unique, fairytale architecture and scenic towers. Offering year-round activities that center around the region’s natural beauty and bounty, it’s a great option for travelers to get out and experience nature at its best, and rates begin below 300 euro.
Skiing in Japan: There’s So Much More Than Hokkaido (Though It’s Famous For a Reason)
Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Photo Credit: Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve)
Now, we move across the globe to another country well-known for its winter sports activities: Japan.
Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan’s major islands, is well-known for its ski areas, and it’s not hard to see why: besides having the mountains that are required for skiing, it also gets a ton of snow—about 19 feet of it!
Sapporo, the island’s largest city, gets about 130 days of snowfall a year, contributing to that massive annual total of over 19 feet.
And since a flight from Tokyo to Sapporo is just over an hour and a half long, Hokkaido’s a great location to enjoy some awesome skiing, snowboarding and winter travel experiences for anyone, whether you’re a die-hard black diamond skier or just want to integrate some active wellness experiences into your Japanese travel itinerary.
Not too far from Sapporo is Niseko Village, home to several properties that can become a great base camp for a ski trip—and often cost about 30 percent less than most ski resorts in Europe or the United States.
Recognized for its dry, fluffy powder snow called Japow, the region is a wonderful place to ski, with the Niseko Village Snow School, opportunities for guided runs and more.
“Beyond the snow, Niseko has transformed from a once-sleepy ski town into an international melting pot,” said Stephanie Chai, Chief Nomad and Founder of The Luxe Nomad. “When I’m there in winter I can walk on the street or sit at a bar and count at least 10 different languages from visitors from all over the world. The cuisine is also phenomenal—not only are there top Japanese restaurants, but internationally acclaimed ones as well, and world-class accommodation from ski-in, ski-out condo hotels to luxury chalets. Not to mention Japanese onsen culture—the perfect way to end a day up in the mountains.”
Travelers can choose from a variety of different accommodations ranging from vacation home rentals from brands like The Luxe Nomad to ski-in/ski-out hotels like Niseko Kyo—which features a private onsen in most residences—or the luxurious Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
The only one of its brand in Japan, the resort offers the ultimate in luxury, plus the exciting experiences you’d expect in a ski town, including a snow school and the Spa Chasi La Sothys, which includes a traditional Japanese hot spring.
“Few places capture the quiet grandeur of winter the way Hokkaido does, with 14–18 metres of pristine, powder snowfall shaping a season of extraordinary beauty. Niseko Village transforms this natural wonder into an experience of true refinement,” said Shiau Wee LONG, Chief Executive Officer, Niseko Village.
“From carving snowcat-accessed first tracks through untouched snow at dawn, to the personalised guidance of our multilingual ski school, our slopes are designed for every level of skier,” said LONG. “As dusk settles, the allure shifts to Niseko-Yo, where a curated world of dining awaits: Japanese specialities, Asian comforts, Western classics and inspired desserts, all crafted for connection and discovery. Here, winter is not only seen, it is experienced, cherished, and carried with you long after you leave.”
But let’s say you’re visiting Japan during the winter and don’t need to visit the most popular ski destination in the country: where would you go?
There are two special places: Niigata Prefecture and Nagano Prefecture. Both located not too far from Tokyo, they’re easily accessible and provide some great skiing and active winter experiences.
Skiers enjoy the slopes in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. (Photo Credit: Nagano Prefecture)
Nagano Prefecture is home to what is called the “Japanese Alps,” and is most notable around the world as the place where Japanese Macaques, or Snow Monkeys, warm up during the cold winter in natural hot springs at the Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Beyond that adorable natural wonder, Nagano offers Japow snow, hot-spring villages, historic temples and international-friendly tourism infrastructure, including ski schools. Travelers will love learning about Togakushi’s mountain worship, savoring Nagano’s soba and miso, and participating in rich winter traditions like soaking in a hot spring.
Some great options for stays include the Hotel Grand Phenix Okushiga, the Magarao Kogen Hotel, Biyu no Yado, Yudanaka Yoroduya and THE HIRAMATSU Karuizawa Miyota. Hoshino Resort KAI Alps is another great option, with complimentary Omeza-gayu, or wake-up porridge, daily, guestrooms showcasing traditional craftsmanship, access to an on-site onsen and more.
“In Nagano, skiing is more than a sport — it’s a deep-powder journey into mountain heritage, nourishing local flavors, and the winter culture that shapes this region,” said Mia Walker at Go Nagano. “Experience the season as it was meant to be: pure, flavorful, and truly unforgettable.”
Niigata Prefecture, located just two hours away from Tokyo by bullet train, is another wonderful ski resort destination. The region’s snowfall comes from the wind blowing from the Sea of Japan against the Echigo Mountains, creating a snowier climate than other cities of the same latitude.
Next year is particularly special for the prefecture, as 2026 marks the 115th anniversary of skiing being introduced in the mountains of Echigo, a sport that would become a beloved tradition ever since.
Akakura Kanko Hotel in Myoko City, Niigata Prefecture. It’s Japan’s oldest ski resort. (Photo Credit: Niigata Prefecture)
The prefecture is also home to unique traditions, like the 1,200-year-old Echigo Jofu, a UNESCO-listed textile-making tradition that utilizes snow to refine hemp fabric that is then made into summer kimonos. Niigata also boasts the highest number of sake breweries out of any other prefecture in Japan, in large part due to its large rice production.
“Niigata Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading ski resorts, highly accessible from Tokyo Station by Shinkansen in as little as 70 minutes (to Echigo-Yuzawa),” said Kenichi Shirai, Executive Vice President, Niigata Prefectural Tourism Association. “The Yuzawa and Myoko areas, in particular, have a high concentration of ski resorts, and their appeal lies in the combination of abundant natural snow and well-equipped surrounding areas with hot spring towns and resort hotels.
“Furthermore, Niigata Prefecture is recognized as the ‘Birthplace of Skiing in Japan,’ where skiing was first introduced to the country and where the first full-fledged ski resort was established.”
Akakura Kanko Hotel is Japan’s first international ski resort hotel, and boasts an 88-year history, making it a great option for travelers who also want to pay homage to the region’s long skiing tradition. The resort offers skiing opportunities and panoramic onsen baths.
Closer to Home: Québec, Canada
What if you’re looking for something a bit closer to home, but still not in the United States?
Well, just look north.
Québec, Canada might be most well-known for its unique French-Canadian culture and UNESCO-listed Old Québec City, but venture further afield and you’ll find plenty of ski resorts and opportunities to hit fresh powder.
A true winter wonderland, travelers can find plenty to do, see and love in ski towns like Mont-Tremblant—named for the way the mountain sometimes trembles with geological activity—and Charlevoix, located between the beautiful Laurentides Wildlife Reserve and the scenic St. Lawrence River.
The ski trails in Charlevoix provide beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River. (Photo Credit: Club Med)
Le Massif de Charlevoix offers amazing skiing east of the Rocky Mountains, offering views of the river from high above. Skiers will enjoy 53 runs for all levels of skiers, as well as 98 acres of off-piste skiing for those who love to go off the beaten path.
Curious about how much snow this Canadian winter wonderland enjoys each winter? A stunning 254 inches—which is over 21 feet!
One recommendation for staying in Québec is the Club Med Québec Charlevoix, the brand’s first-ever four-season mountain resort and the first in Canada, offering an easy, all-inclusive ski resort option. Travelers can easily rent their gear, take lessons for all levels, employ a guide, enjoy sledding with the children at the mountain’s 7.5 km sledding track and more.
“Charlevoix is one of the most compelling ski destinations in North America, offering world-class terrain that challenges even the most seasoned skiers, all set against the unparalleled backdrop of the St. Lawrence River,” said Frank Corzo, Club Med’s VP of Sales Strategy, US. “As part of Club Med’s expanding mountain portfolio, the resort reflects our all-inclusive ski model, which is designed to remove the barriers that often complicate a ski vacation.”
Located just an hour from Québec City, it’s a great option for those who want to combine some time skiing with an exploration of the charming and historic Québec City—which is its own unique brand of winter wonderland.
Fresh Powder Can Be Found All Around
In short, a little bit of research and a lot of planning goes a long way towards finding the international ski destination that’s right for you.
Whether you’re heading to Asia or Europe—or hopping a flight or two further north—there’s no shortage of amazing winter experiences to discover around the world.
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