Large ski resorts are great for keen skiers looking for an adventure. The bigger the ski resort, the more there is to explore. From varied slopes and winter scenery to a mix of restaurants, bars and activities off the slopes, big ski resorts have it all. We are here to help you find the ultimate winter playground to explore on your next visit to the mountains. Whether that’s the largest ski resorts in France providing access to the epic ski area of the Portes du Soleil, the huge network of pistes that make up the Three Valleys ski area or the extensive Arlberg ski area in Austria. We can provide a tailor-made service and expert advice to help find the right ski resort for you.
Our selection of the biggest ski resorts in Europe offers access to some of the most iconic ski areas in the world. Here’s our pick of the largest ski resorts in Europe.
1. Courchevel, France
Courchevel is one of the biggest ski resorts in Europe. The ski resort provides access to the 600km of slopes that make up the Three Valleys ski area. Comprising 328 runs, 166 lifts and 2,200 snowmaking machines; the Three Valleys is one of France’s most iconic ski areas. Courchevel is composed of four different areas, named according to height. Each area has a unique sense of character and charm. Stay in 1850 for glitz, glam and shopping, 1650 for more traditional chalets, 1550 for an even quieter atmosphere, or 1300 for a truly authentic Alpine town. Courchevel has something for everyone.
There’s an incredible 600km of terrain for you to enjoy across the Three Valleys ski area. Enjoy cruisy blues, challenging reds and advanced black runs. When it comes to the evening, there’s a wide range of choices for food and après ski. We recommend the traditional mountain experience at La Cabane des Bûcherons. Tuck into hearty Savoyard food and head home by toboggan run down a floodlit piste.
Stay At:
The Hotel Portetta in Courchevel 1650 is a friendly four-star hotel with easy access to the superb ski area.
2. Avoriaz, France
Staying in Avoriaz provides access to the renowned Portes du Soleil ski area, with an impressive 600km of pistes, served by 201 lifts. Despite being one of the biggest ski resorts in Europe, Avoriaz maintains a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, being completely traffic-free. With an average of eight metres of snowfall per season, Avoriaz’s slopes are blessed with endless powder and glorious skiing conditions. What’s more, much of the accommodation is ski-in ski-out, making it easy to maximise your time on the slopes.
Stay At:
A luxurious, five-star chalet in a prime location in Avoriaz. With incredible Alpine views and ski-in ski-out access, Chalet Ossetra offers the ultimate mountain escape.
3. La Plagne, France
One of the biggest ski resorts in France, La Plagne offers a wealth of choices for groups of all sizes with 11 interconnected villages. The slopes give access to the local ski area as well as the whole of the Paradiski ski area, which links up with Les Arcs ski resort, and offers a total of 425km of skiable terrain. As you make your way down the high-altitude slopes, you will see the sprawling resort filling the landscape below. La Plagne has a network of bars, restaurants and hotels framed against the backdrop of Mont Blanc. Evenings can be filled with enjoying live music and ice-cold beers on blissful sun terraces. There’s also a wide selection of dining options. As one of the biggest ski resorts in France, La Plagne attracts an impressive mix of international eateries, which will ensure everyone is well catered for.
Stay At:
Club Med La Plagne 2100 offers a contemporary-style hotel with excellent facilities and the luxury of ski-in ski-out access.
4. Verbier, Switzerland
Verbier is one of the largest ski resorts in Switzerland. It has access to 412km of pistes as part of the Four Valleys ski area. This Swiss ski resort has 89 lifts connecting to neighbouring resorts La Tzoumaz/ Savoleyres, Bruson and Mont Fort/ 4 Valleys. You can explore each area if you buy a full Four Valleys ski pass. There’s something for everyone because of the amount of varied terrain on offer. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier you’ll enjoy fantastic skiing. The resort is snow-sure throughout the season due to its high altitude ranging from 1,500m to 3,330m.
Stay At:
A magnificent chalet built into the mountainside above the village, with incredible, south-facing views. Enjoy the indoor pool, spa, cinema and wine cellar.
5. Sestriere, Italy
Sestriere is a popular resort ideally positioned in the heart of the Milky Way ski area. Those on a ski holiday in Sestriere have access to more than 400km of well-groomed pistes and other Italian resorts such as Sauze d’Oulx. Courtesy of the extensive range of slopes, there is great skiing to be had for all levels and abilities. There is everything from beginner zones to World Cup racing runs to explore. There is an exciting range of activities both on and off the slopes. Take your pick of ice skating, dog sledding, swimming or taking a ride on a skidoo.
Stay At:
A modern hotel, located in a peaceful spot outside the centre of the resort. For ultimate ease, there is a shuttle taking guests directly from the hotel to the slopes.
6. Zermatt, Switzerland
Zermatt is a world-class ski resort, known for its superb skiing, luxury ski accommodation and views of the iconic Matterhorn Mountain. Sitting at a height of 3,820m, Zermatt boasts reliable snowfall and access to more than 390km of exciting slopes and magnificent winter scenery. The town itself holds a true sense of Swiss charm, pedestrian-only streets lead curious visitors to an array of high-end restaurants and mountain shops.
Stay At:
A luxurious five-star hotel boasting elegant interiors, a sumptuous spa and warm Swiss hospitality.
7. St. Anton, Austria
As one of the oldest and biggest ski resorts in Europe, St. Anton holds a world-famous reputation for its incredible snow record. It has a huge choice of pistes across the 305km of the Arlberg ski area. Whether you are after wide and gentle runs or looking to tackle some of the backcountry terrain in Europe, St. Anton has it all. The off-piste territory is lined with powder bowls, tree routes and epic descents, which can be explored on an exhilarating day out with a guide.
Stay At:
A stylish and modern chalet in a peaceful location, complete with a private hot tub and impressive mountain views.
8. Tignes, France
Purpose-built to offer unparalleled access to the slopes, Tignes is one of the biggest ski resorts in Europe. Home to the Grande Motte glacier, Tignes offers snow-sure conditions all season long, with its ski terrain reaching up to a peak altitude of 3,456m. The Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area joins up with the neighbouring resort of Val d’Isère and spans an incredible 300km of slopes. When you have had your day on the mountain, head to one of the ski resort’s vast array of restaurants that serve up international gourmet cuisine alongside traditional Savoyard fare.
Stay At:
Hotel Village Montana could easily be classed as the most luxurious property in Tignes and rivals the top hotels in Val d’Isère.
9. Les Deux Alpes, France
This buzzing village attracts a lively crowd from far and wide to experience one of Europe’s largest glaciers. There’s also a host of events and parties that take place around the southern end of the town, in Venosc. When the lifts shut and the sun goes down, skiers can enjoy live DJ sets at Le Pano Bar. Alternatively, bask in the sunshine at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants along the Avenue de la Muzelle. We recommend a meal at Le P’tit Polyte. Enjoy gastronomic delights and a spectacular 500-bottle wine cellar. One of the biggest ski resorts in France, Les Deux Alpes offers no shortage of entertainment and activities. The ski resort also caters well for non-skiers with its choice of leisure centres, an ice rink and husky sledding excursions.
Stay At:
A classic Alpine chalet located within close proximity to the slopes and resort centre. The chalet boasts a delightful spa with a heated and covered outdoor swimming pool.
10. Chamonix, France
Chamonix is the ultimate hub of mountain activity. As one of the biggest ski resorts in France, it comes fully equipped with everything from shops and restaurants to gyms, a cinema and a range of spas. Stay in the heart of the action, or choose one of the quieter neighbouring hamlets such as Les Houches. Up on the mountain, skiers can enjoy access to six separate ski areas. There’s a bus service linking each one, meaning that brand new slopes can be explored on every day of your holiday. From the cruisy blues in the Vallorcine area to the famous World Cup downhill course, there will be no struggle to find skiing to suit every ability. Those looking for an adventure will enjoy the 20km of freeride ski terrain along the Vallee Blanche, and the legendary off-piste runs on the Grand Montets glacier.
Stay At:
An exclusive, five-star stay with only 30 bedrooms available. This historical hotel boasts cosy interiors with open log fires and a sumptuous relaxation centre.
To find out more about the biggest ski resorts in Europe, call our ski experts on 020 7471 7700.
