The 5 Ws and 1 H: Ski Package Holidays

Who:

Everyone can ski, from the young to the young at heart. Ski resorts have ski schools that offer private and group lessons from beginner to advanced.

What:

…Is Included:

• Accommodation

• Lift Tickets

• Equipment Rentals

• Lessons

• Transfers

…To Pack: Resorts typically have skis, boots and poles available for rent. As your Travel Advisor, I will ensure that the equipment you need is available and/or let you know what extras, if any, to pack for your ski package holidays.

When:

…To Book: Offers are available year-round for ski package holidays, but book early to save the most money.

…To Go:

• Northern Hemisphere: December to April

• Southern Hemisphere: June to October

Where:

…To Ski:

Aspen, Colorado, United States of America:
Situated in the Elk Mountains, a notably rugged mountain range within the legendary Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the ultimate winter flex. This ski resort mixes prime skiing, A-list hospitality, Michelin-starred bites, elevated shopping and lit nightlife. What is known as Aspen is not just a single mountain, but, in fact, four distinct mountains, totaling over 360 runs. Connected by a shuttle system that ensures efficient transfer, each mountain offers distinct experiences that complement one another. The most iconic of which, Aspen Highlands, balances double-black-diamond terrain with champagne-filled après at Cloud Nine.

Courchevel, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France:
Courchevel, is part of the world's largest ski area, Le Trois Vallées, which also includes Méribel and Val Thorens. The favorite among the international jet-set, Courchevel is home to the highest concentration of five-starred hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. Despite all the chi-chi, the area caters to circuit enthusiasts with approximately 375 miles of interconnected slopes and excels in off-piste skiing. Lit by festive Christmas lights throughout the season, Courchevel's center boasts narrow streets where horse-drawn carriages pass.

Deer Valley, Utah, United States of America:

Just a short, 10-minute drive from Park City, Deer Valley redefines the ski experience. One of the most exclusive resorts in the States, Deer Valley stands out for service and being the site of Gwyneth Paltrow’s infamous ski collision. Sorry, I had to go there. This is the kind of scene that offers an oyster bar near the slopes and casually serves Veuve Clicquot during après. Finding accommodation with less than five stars is a rarity, as the resort prioritizes luxury. Noteworthy features include the absence of snowboarding and a limitation of lift tickets to prevent queues.


Portillo, Valparaíso Region, Chile:
Chile's oldest ski resort, Portillo offers a welcoming ambiance reminiscent of a close-knit friend group. The breathtaking views of untouched nature add an extra layer to the experience. Set amidst snow-capped mountains and overlooking Laguna del Inca, this iconic yellow hotel takes center stage. The trails, once graced by Olympic athletes, accommodate skiers of all levels, with special learning areas for children that feature mascots a la Disney.

Stowe, Vermont, United States of America:
Entering Stowe is an adventure in itself. The drive through the Green Mountains, dotted with maple trees, into valleys, scented with woodsmoke creates the perfect setting for an enchanting experience. Stowe is home to two of the Northeast’s top mountains, Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, which are seamlessly connected by an inter-mountain gondola. Picture steep runs and the challenging "Front Four" double black diamond trails on one side and a deluxe base lodge on the other. Adding to the allure, the area proudly hosts Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. Do not miss the opportunity to embark on a Factory Tour and relish the flavor of the month before bidding farewell.


Telluride, Colorado, United States of America:
Consistently ranked as one of the world's best ski resorts, Telluride blends an authentic village with exceptional skiing. Stroll a few miles along Colorado Avenue, the ski resort's main street, and you will be immersed in Telluride's Wild West past. Originally founded during the 19th-century mining boom, the town was abandoned in the 1950s and revitalized in the 1970s with the inauguration of the first five lifts. Drawing skiers globally, Telluride boasts lengthy descents on Galloping Goose for beginners, The See Forever for intermediates and exclusive ski areas accessible by helicopter for advanced skiers. A heliskiing pioneer, Telluride still features approximately 200 square miles of untouched, powdery terrain for those seeking an extra adrenaline rush.

Zermatt, Valais, Switzerland:
Zermatt is divided into three distinct areas - Sunegga-Rothorn, Gornergrat-Stockhorn and Schwarzsee-Matterhorn - connecting to Cervinia, Aosta Valley, Italy. With just over 5,000 residents, the village features charming alpine chalets, some over 200 years old and horse-drawn carriages. The backdrop, Matterhorn Peak, is a symbol of Switzerland renowned for the highest quality snow. The ski resort even boasts skiing from January to January on the Theodul Glacier at the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise.

Why:

…Me: As your Travel Advisor, I offer access to experts at the above ski resorts and more than 75 others.

How:

Get in touch with me, your Travel Advisor, so I can take care of all the details of your ski package holidays.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on Active Travel. In need of further inspiration? Check out Jasmine Jackson's trip report, All-Inclusive Winter Resorts.