10 Highest Ski Resorts In Europe 2025/2026

When it comes to skiing in Europe, altitude matters — but it’s the altitude range that truly makes the difference. High-altitude ski resorts not only promise incredible snow reliability but extensive skiing altitude ranges ensure varied terrain, better snow conditions from top to bottom, and a more dynamic experience throughout the season. Whether you’re chasing guaranteed snow, or simply soaking up the alpine atmosphere, the highest ski resorts in Europe deliver an unforgettable experience.  

From the majestic peaks of the French Alps to the dramatic summits of Switzerland and beyond, we've rounded up ten of the highest ski resorts in Europe that deserve a spot on your bucket list.

Resort altitude 2300 m (7546 feet)
Skiing altitude 1800 m to 3200 m

Perched at an impressive altitude of 2,300 metres, Val Thorens holds the title of the highest ski resort village in Europe AND the largest ski area in the world with more than 600 km of slopes! Nestled in the heart of the expansive Three Valleys ski area, it offers unparalleled ski-in, ski-out access, making it a haven for convenience-loving skiers and snowboarders. Its altitude guarantees excellent snow conditions from November to May, with opportunities for all skill levels. Beyond the slopes, Val Thorens has a lively après-ski scene, offering a range of bars, restaurants, non-ski activities and wellness centres.

Closest airports:

• Chambery (approx. 1hr 40 mins – beware of regular flight delays due to bad weather conditions!)
• Geneva (approx. 2 hrs 40 mins)

Resort altitude 2150 m (7054 feet). 
Skiing altitude 1550 m to 3456 m.

Tignes Val Claret may not boast the traditional charm of some Alpine villages, but what it lacks in quaintness, it more than makes up for with its exceptional ski access. As a purpose-built resort, it is perfectly positioned to offer seamless entry to the world-famous Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area with over 300 km of pistes catering to all levels. Slightly more budget-friendly than its glamorous neighbour Val d’Isère, Tignes Val Claret appeals to those seeking a variety of accommodation and incredible skiing without the premium price tag.

Closest airports:

• Chambery (approx. 2.5 hours – beware of regular flight delays due to bad weather conditions!)
• Geneva (approx. 3-4 hours)

Resort altitude 2006 m (6581 feet) 
Skiing altitude 1524 m to 3490 m

Nestled in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn, Cervinia is a high-altitude ski resort offering one of the longest seasons in Europe and a mix of modern and traditional Italian hospitality. As part of the expansive Matterhorn region, it boasts extensive terrain with seamless connections to Zermatt in Switzerland, creating a world-class skiing experience that spans two countries. Cervinia is renowned for its wide, well-groomed pistes, ideal for intermediate and advanced skiers, as well as its breath-taking alpine views.

Closest airports:

• Turin (approx. 1hr 45 mins)
• Geneva (approx. 2 hrs 45 mins)

Resort altitude 2000 m (6582 feet)
Skiing altitude 1800 m to 2610 m

Isola 2000, located in the Southern Alps near the French Riviera, is a high-altitude resort that offers reliable snow throughout the season due to its proximity to the sea. With varied terrain, this purpose-built resort caters to all skill levels, making it an excellent choice for families and groups. Despite lacking traditional alpine charm, Isola 2000 offers ski-in, ski-out convenience and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Closest airports:

• Nice (approx. 1hr 30 mins)
• Turin (approx. 2 hrs 45 mins)

Resort altitude 1970 m (6463 feet)
Skiing altitude 1250 m to 3250 m

Plagne Centre, situated at a snow-sure altitude of 1,970 metres, is a lively, family-friendly resort in the French Alps. As part of the Paradiski area, it boasts seamless access to 425km of slopes for all abilities and serves as a great base for exploring nearby resorts like Les Arcs. This compact, piste-side village offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and après-ski venues within easy walking distance. For non-skiers, activities like snowshoeing, ice skating and wellness spas provide plenty of entertainment, making Plagne Centre an excellent choice for families, groups, and solo travellers alike.

Closest airports:

• Chambery (approx. 2 hrs 30 mins – beware of regular flight delays due to bad weather conditions!)
• Geneva (approx. 3 hrs 15 mins)

Stay with VIP SKI:

Adding a touch of elegance to La Plagne’s accommodation scene is the Graciosa, a stunning new development completed in 2025 and operated exclusively by VIP SKI. This 5-star residence enjoys a prime piste-side location just above Plagne Centre, offering unparalleled ski-in/ski-out access. With sixteen luxurious chalets, including a show-stopping rooftop penthouse that’s already the talk of the resort, the Graciosa redefines alpine comfort in La Plagne.

Step inside our architect’s vision: stunningly realistic computer generated visuals blending every interior detail with breath-taking views of the resort, piste, and mountains. What you see here is exactly what awaits you, no detail overlooked, no promise unmet. You have our word.

Resort altitude 1950 m (6398 feet)
Skiing altitude 1200 m to 3226 m

Arc 1950 is one of the most unique and picturesque villages in the Paradiski ski area, offering a blend of traditional alpine charm and modern convenience. Purpose-built with a pedestrianised layout, it’s a haven for families and those seeking a stress-free ski holiday. Situated at an altitude of 1,950 metres, the village provides direct access to 425km of varied ski terrain, making it an excellent base for skiers of all abilities. Arc 1950 boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a selection of high-quality restaurants, boutique shops, and a lively après-ski scene. With luxurious accommodation and thoughtful touches like heated walkways and ski-in/ski-out convenience, it’s no wonder Arc 1950 is a firm favourite among visitors to the French Alps.

Closest airports:

• Chambery (approx. 2 hrs – beware of flight delays due to bad weather conditions!)
• Geneva (approx. 3 hrs 15 mins)

Stay with VIP SKI: 

Situated in Arc 1950, with a prime piste-side location, our award-winning family-friendly ski hotel, Bear Lodge, offers everything you could wish for - from a pool and spa for post-ski relaxation to a cinema room for cosy evenings. It’s a destination that truly redefines luxury in the mountains. Many of the 30 beautifully designed bedrooms boast stunning piste-side views with options to suit every guest - from double or twin rooms to interconnecting family suites and family rooms with bunks.

New to the VIP SKI portfolio in 2024, CLUB 21Forty is a one-of-a-kind chalet, nestled in serene isolation on the beginner's plateau, just 100 yards from Arc 2000. When you arrive with your bags, we chauffeur you from the resort in your private 6-person piste-ranger. A leisurely five-minute walk across the snow will take you to the renowned Taj-I Mah hotel for an après-ski cocktail – if you can tear yourself away from the outdoor hot tub with spectacular views of Mont Blanc...

Resort altitude 1930 m (6332 feet)
Skiing altitude 1793 m to 3080 m

Known as the “Diamond of the Alps”, this picturesque resort is renowned for its reliable snow conditions, crowd-free slopes and a welcoming atmosphere. After the lifts close, Obergurgl transforms into a tranquil retreat, ideal for unwinding in luxury hotels, indulging in hearty Tyrolean cuisine or relaxing in world-class spas. For those seeking adventure, the resort’s high-altitude ski area connects to neighbouring Hochgurgl via the Top Express gondola, offering a seamless experience across 112 kilometres of pistes.

Closest airports:

• Innsbruck (approx. 1 hr 30 mins)
• Salzburg (approx. 2 hrs 50 mins)

Resort altitude 1856 m (6089 feet)
Skiing altitude 1720 m to 3057 m

Perched at 1,856 metres in the Swiss Alps, St. Moritz is the epitome of luxury and world-class skiing. Known for its sun-drenched slopes and pristine snow, this iconic resort offers over 350 kilometres of ski terrain, catering to all abilities.

Famed for its glamour, St. Moritz is home to designer boutiques, Michelin-starred dining, and exclusive events like the Snow Polo World Cup on the frozen lake of St. Moritz! Off the slopes, enjoy frozen lake activities or unwind in a luxurious spa. Combining alpine adventure with sophistication, St. Moritz promises a ski holiday like no other.

Closest airports:

• Zurich (approx. 2 hrs 45 mins)
• Milan (approx. 3 hrs)

Resort Altitude 1850 m (6070 feet)
Skiing altitude 1850 m to 3197 m

Renowned for its vast, snow-sure terrain, Val d’Isere is one of Europe’s most iconic ski resorts. Forming part of the Tignes-Val d’Isère ski area, it offers over 300km of pistes and exceptional off-piste opportunities for all skill levels. The Val d’Isère difference: consistently ranked among the world’s top ski destinations, this iconic resort is a favourite among VIP SKI’s returning guests. Offering exceptional high-altitude skiing and one of the most advanced lift systems in the Alps, Val d’Isère is as renowned for its stunning alpine scenery as it is for its lively après-ski scene.

With most skiing at 2,300 metres and above, the resort boasts an unbeatable snow record. While its extensive terrain is more than enough to keep skiers entertained for a week, the nearby allure of Tignes and the breathtaking views from the top of the Grand Motte glacier at 3,656 metres are well worth the short journey.

Closest airports:

• Chambery (approx. 2.5 hours – beware of regular flight delays due to bad weather conditions!)
• Geneva (approx. 3 hours)

Stay with VIP SKI: 

Val d’Isère is our flagship resort, home to 17 luxurious catered chalets that offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer the the charm of the old town or the luxurious convenience of ski-in/ski-out accommodation with a swimming pool and spa, you’ll find the perfect base for your Alpine escape. Each of our chalets boasts features like cosy open fireplaces, private hot tubs and beautiful beamed ceilings, all complemented by our delicious five-star dining. At the core of it all is our signature VIP SKI service, where our talented chefs and welcoming chalet hosts take care of every detail, so you can unwind and enjoy your holiday to the fullest. From champagne and canapés on arrival to flat-screen TVs and music systems, every element is designed to make your Val d’Isère experience truly unforgettable.

Resort altitude 1800 m (5906 feet)
Skiing altitude 1260 m to 2466 m

Unlike many purpose-built resorts, Avoriaz is visually striking and thoughtfully designed. Its car-free, pedestrianised streets mean you can ski directly into the heart of the village, where horse-drawn sleighs serve as taxis and sunny terraces invite you to soak up the lively atmosphere.

As the highest and most snow-sure resort in the expansive Portes du Soleil ski area, Avoriaz boasts access to 650km of pistes spanning 14 resorts and two countries. From the thrill of tackling the infamous Swiss Wall to gliding down serene tree-lined blue runs, this unique resort offers something for every skier. Perched atop a dramatic cliff in a high-altitude mountain bowl, Avoriaz is a forward-thinking destination where innovative design meets unforgettable skiing.

Closest airports:

• Geneva (approx. 1 hr 10 mins)
• Chambery (approx. 2 hrs 15 mins – beware of regular flight delays due to bad weather conditions!)

Stay with VIP SKI:

We are proud to offer seven luxurious ski chalets in Avoriaz, the highest and most snow-sure resort in the vast Portes du Soleil ski area. Renowned for its car-free charm, Avoriaz is the ideal base for exploring 650km of pistes, catering to all abilities, with the added benefit of a short transfer time from Geneva. Each of our catered chalets enjoys a prime piste-side location - so close to the slopes that your luggage is delivered by Snowcat. With dedicated chalet staff attending to your every need, breath-taking mountain views, cosy log fires and sumptuous furnishings, our chalets redefine comfort and convenience in Avoriaz. 

Whether you're drawn to the highest peaks in Europe, the charm of car-free resorts, or the convenience of skiing directly from your chalet doorstep, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to high-altitude winter destinations.

Browse our collection of luxury catered chalets and ski hotels, where comfort, style, and exceptional VIP SKI service come as standard. Start planning your alpine getaway today and let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Please note airport transfer times below are approximate and are based on private transfers/driving times. Coach transfers will be longer.