10 Ski Bucket List Experiences in Europe
The last couple of years have taught us just how important travel is for the soul. We all need a break from the everyday. The delight in being somewhere new, admiring spectacular scenery, sampling new food and exploring different terrain on your skis shouldn’t be underestimated.
With this is mind, we’ve put together a bucket list of top ski experiences in our European programme.
1. Marvel at the Mighty Matterhorn (Zermatt, Switzerland)
You’ve seen photos of this iconic mountain but have you seen it in the flesh? It really is as spectacular as it looks. Zermatt is a picture perfect resort and works well for skiers and non-skiers alike. The best views are from the top of the Gornergrat mountain railway at 3100m.
2. Explore the Sella Ronda Circuit (San Cassiano, Italy)
The Dolomites offer the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Europe and the 40km Sella Ronda circuit is the best way to explore the area on skis. Start from San Cassiano and follow the signs to work your way around the Sella Massif. Even better, the mountain restaurants are out of this world.
3. Frolic at the Folie Douce (Val d’Isère, France)
As the name suggests, this is the place to enjoy a moment of madness. Home to the original and now infamous brand of unique French après-ski, the Folie Douce bar above La Daille in Val d’Isère is the place to let your hair down and party in your ski boots. Crack open that champagne!
4. Cross an International Border on Skis (La Rosière, France)
If one country isn’t enough for you, fear not. Skiing over an international border never gets boring. Start in La Rosière, ski over to La Thuile in Italy for an authentic Italian lunch and return to France when you’re done. Two countries, one day!
5. Dine at a Michelin-starred Restaurant (Madonna di Campiglio, Italy)
Everyone should sample a Michelin-starred restaurant at least once and there’s no better place to do so than in Madonna di Campiglio where not one but two of our featured properties boast this accolade. Choose from the Dolomieu at the DV Chalet Boutique Hotel or the Stube Hermitage at the Biohotel Hermitage.
6. Ride the Après-Ski Train (Andermatt, Switzerland)
The recently expanded ski area in Andermatt now offers 180km of pistes to explore stretching all the way over to Disentis. The best way to travel back to your accommodation is on the après-ski train. A normal train by day, late afternoon sees the train transform into a bar with the best views in town. Cheers!
7. Ski the Swiss Wall (Avoriaz, France)
If you are looking for a thrill, skiing Le Pas de Chavanette, or the Swiss Wall as it’s more commonly known, is an absolute must. Straddling the French-Swiss border this steep mogul field is a challenge for any skier but once you get over the fear, the sense of satisfaction on completion is second to none. Avoriaz is the best place to stay to conquer this epic mountain.
8. Visit the World’s Highest Revolving Restaurant (Saas Fee, Switzerland)
At 3500m, admire the ever changing views from the world’s highest revolving restaurant in Saas Fee. It takes an hour for the restaurant to complete its 360 degree revolution – sit back and relax as you enjoy a leisurely lunch with some of the best views in the Alps.
9. Ride the World’s Largest Cable Car (Les Arcs & Peisey Vallandry, France)
With a capacity of up to 200 people, the double decker Vanoise Express cable car links the world famous resorts of Les Arcs and La Plagne to form the Paradiski area. Travelling at 45km/hour the journey from Peisey Vallandry to La Plagne takes just 3 minutes 50 seconds and offers plenty opportunity to drink in those fabulous mountain views.
10. Ascend Mont Fort in the Four Valleys (Verbier, Switzerland)
A trip up to Mont Fort at 3300m is an absolute must for any visitor to Verbier. Take in the stunning 360 degree panorama and try to spot the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc among the hundred peaks in sight. Finish up at the Pub Mont Fort Happy Hour for the ultimate Verbier experience.
So, how many have you already ticked off your ski bucket list? If there’s anything you haven’t done yet, what are you waiting for? Contact our Ski Specialists and we’ll be happy to discuss your travel plans for Winter 2022/23.
Speak to a Ski Specialist on 0131 243 8097or request a tailor-made quotation