Of course, maxing and relaxing on a white sandy beach is ideal for many vacationers; however, some people prefer the snowy mountains. Avid skiers who enjoy the slopes may have a ski destination as their definition of paradise. Cities all over the world, from Aspen to Zermatt offer a host of world-class ski resorts. The possibilities are practically endless when planning your next downhill adventure. Be sure to pack some hot cocoa and extra layers so that you can enjoy the weather to its fullest!

Aspen, Colorado

If skiing with the rich and famous has you excited, then Aspen is where you want to head. It is comprised of 4 mountains that are not linked. This ski resort located in the beautiful Colorado Mountains accommodates all abilities by offering a variety of terrain suitable for every level of skier.

Aspen Mountain is home to steep bumps and offers a selection of groomed intermediate runs. This mountain is an awesome choice for expert skiers. They have the option of accessing hundreds of acres of terrain off the backside of the mountain. Aspen has a reputation for being one of the top resorts for those who have extra money and therefore, some may find it quite a bit more expensive.

Cortina, Italy

The Cortina Ski Resort in Italy is perhaps where Alberto “La Bomba” Tomba began practicing. The Italian Alps and the city served as the host of the 1956 Olympic Games. Life in Cortina revolves around a street without traffic, similar to that of Zermatt, Switzerland. Cortina happens to be one of the very first ski resort cities and is famous for its style and splendor.

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

Mont-Tremblant has been a paradise for skiers since 1939. The French Canadian zest for life combines with luxury here. This happens to be the best-known ski resort in Eastern Canada. It holds the prestigious title of being the first resort to open in Canada and the second one within North America. Situated only an hour outside of Montreal, it is an excellent vacation base.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe offers the largest vertical drop in the vicinity. It is considered to be one of the most picturesque ski resorts around. The New England charm is cozy and welcoming. There are 2 ski areas: Spruce Park and Mount Mansfield. Spruce Peak backs on the terrain of Smugglers’ Notch; making it one of the few American resorts that offer a lift-link to another resort. There are more than 60 restaurants and 90 shops to ensure that visitors do not trek too far away during their visit.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

Chamonix was the proud host in 1924 of the world’s first Winter Olympic Games. It ranks among the elite of contenders searching for the title of the “World’s Most Famous Ski Resort.” Situated at the base of Mont-Blanc, it measures as the second highest peak in Europe and the highest peak in the Alps. The elevation at the top reaches 15,771 feet. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc holds bragging rights for its vertical drop which reaches a whopping 9209 feet. As well, it offers one of the longest runs in the world. Vallee Blanche stretches out to 13. 7miles.

Banff/Lake Louise, Alberta

Found in the heart of Canada’s Banff National Park, Lake Louise offers a gorgeous getaway. It is ranked as one of the most scenic mountain resorts in all of North America; some would argue in the world. There are 3 different ski areas that make up Banff/Lake Louise: Sunshine Village, Mystic Ridge/Mount Norquay and Lake Louise. These ski areas are relatively close only approximately 31 miles apart from each other.

According to the Insider’s Guide to the Best Canadian Skiing, Norquay has been labeled “an unforgiving brute, legendary for its monster moguls and unrelenting vertical.”

Vail, Colorado

Legendary Vail describes itself as “America’s favorite resort.” It is ranked among the top 5 in the worlds all around ski resorts. Being the largest single ski location in the USA, Vail provides approximately 5300 acres of skiable terrain. It is also home to the fastest high-speed detachable quads on one mountain. Vail showcases much more with a variety of museums, dog sledding, art galleries, hockey, ballooning, snowmobiling and many more activities.

Zermatt, Switzerland

The majority rank Zermatt as being the top resort in Switzerland; even though St. Moritz is more popular and the neighboring Gstaad is one of the best-known resorts in the world. The village is extremely peaceful due to its vehicle-free environment. Exceptionally picturesque, Zermatt holds the record for the second biggest lift-served vertical drop. Thanks to its altitude and the snowmakers on the lower slopes, it receives vast snowfalls.

Kitzbuhel, Austria

Even though the title of liveliest ski resort in Europe belongs to St. Anton, Kitzbuhel is crowned Pearl of the Alps. Innsbruck may be home to one of the most beautiful cities since the International Olympic Committee voted they host the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics; however, Kitzbuhel offers the most famous holiday resort within the Austrian Tyrol. This village is over 700 years old! Visitors enjoy the rustic charm of the alpine village. In the winter of 1892, skiing officially began here and has been ongoing since!

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

The best skiing in North America can be found at Whistler Blackcomb. The largest vertical drop is located here. Over 30 years and an investment of $600 million dollars, this charming village provides every item skiers and snowboarders could possibly want: more than 100 restaurants catering to everything from Thai, Mediterranean, Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Greek and French cuisine, tremendous shopping and numerous cafes.

After a long day out in the elements and physically working hard on the mountain, enjoying great food is a must. During the past decade, Whistler consistently was voted by North Americans as being the best North American Ski Resort. It has surpassed many other mountains as a strong contender for the much disputed title of being the Greatest Ski Resort in the world. It is repeatedly ranked by the Japanese as their favorite international destination.