Finding the right place to stay is one of the crucial ingredients in creating the perfect ski holiday; that's why Ski Independence visit all of the properties we offer. We take the time to carefully hand-pick the very best ski hotels and residences in every resort that we feature, and every one has been experienced by one of our team of Ski Specialists. Below you'll find our selection of the best unashamed 5-star luxury ski hotels from around the world, from unique family-run hideaways and beautiful home-from-home retreats, to the best-known global hotel brands. Needless to say, all offer outstanding surroundings, impeccable service and world-class dining, leisure and wellness facilities.
Fairmont Banff Springs
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
It may be the obvious choice, but just look at this place – the Fairmont Banff Springs is one of the most iconic hotels in North America! Modelled on a Baronial Scottish Castle, you’d be forgiven for expecting a tacky tartan cliché, but this grand dame of the Canadian Pacific Railroad hotels has kept it classy.
The labyrinth of corridors reveals a multitude of restaurants and lounges – there’s a reason they give you a map when you check in! If you do find your way to the Rundle Lounge then the afternoon tea is as good as you’ll find anywhere. As one Ski Independence client rightly said, "You just can't beat this hotel."
>> Step it up a level and book Fairmont Gold
The Chedi, Andermatt
[caption id="attachment_10139" align="aligncenter" width="800"] A Deluxe Suite at The Chedi Andermatt[/caption]
Named 'Hotel of the Year 2017' by GaultMillau and boasting numerous other accolades, The Chedi Andermatt is really starting to get a name for itself. From the luxurious rooms and suites, incredible dining and drinking spots and the extensive spa and health club, every conceivable option has been thought of and you will not be left wanting.
After skiing why not take a visit to the Wine and Cigar Lounge to unwind, or head to the cheese cellar where your wine and cheese will be professionally matched by the in-house sommelier. Or get a taste of Asia by indulging in one of the Chedi's oriental spa rituals or enjoy one of the five to ten-course Kaiseki menus at The Japanese Restaurant. 'Beyond 5-star luxury', The Chedi Andermatt is luxury like no other!
>> Like this? Try this: AYA Niseko, for 5-star ski-in/ski-out indulgence and spectacular views.
Hotel L'Apogée Courchevel
[caption id="attachment_10108" align="aligncenter" width="800"] A hot tub with a view: Hotel L’Apogée, Courchevel[/caption]
Condé Nast's #1 Ski Resort in 2016, Courchevel is blessed with a vast number of exceptional restaurants, bars, hotels and chalets. Designed to feel as comfortable as being at home, the Hotel L’Apogée, Courchevel exudes luxury through every feature with the warm, alpine textures making for a cosy welcome after a day on slopes. Take advantage of the spectacular location at the top of the original Olympic ski jump and ski-in/ski-out access: you will be lead onto the slopes after being kitted out by the professional staff in the most comfortable of equipment. Upon your return, why not indulge in a relaxing and soothing treatment at Le Spa De L’Apogée?
>> Like this? Try this: Chalets at Hotel Village La Mourra, Val d'Isère for a luxury private chalet experience, complete with a dedicated team at your service.
Four Seasons Vail
[caption id="attachment_10130" align="aligncenter" width="801"] Four Seasons Vail Lobby[/caption]
The elegant Four Seasons Resort Vail offers a tranquil and restful space, just two minutes walk from the centre of Vail. From the outdoor pool - with its fabulous fireplace, to the unique art on display – this is the sort of luxury that’s synonymous with the Four Seasons brand. Foodies should check out the experience of dining at the Chef's Table in ‘Flame’ where you get up close and personal with the kitchen - this is a celebration of all things steak, and Colorado beef is up there with the best.
>> Like this? Try this: foodies will love Badrutt's Palace Hotel in St Moritz, boasting a total of 8 restaurants, as well as 3 bars, Le Grand Hall living room and King's Club nightclub.
Les Barmes de L’Ours, Val d’Isère
Perched above the main village in Val d’Isère sits the impeccably beautiful 5-star Hotel Les Barmes de L’Ours, a high altitude, family-friendly winter retreat. If you didn't know already, 'ours' means bear in French and you'll come across bear references throughout the hotel! It’s all about families here with suites containing mini bathrobes, slippers and super soft teddy bears to make every member's stay equally as comfortable. The family focus doesn’t stop at the suites; after a tasty dinner in one of the three restaurants head over to the in-house bowling alley for some family bonding time while enjoying your favourite beverage from the bar.
[caption id="attachment_10169" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Spa at Les Barmes de l'Ours[/caption]
>> Like this? Try this: The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler, boasting the Westin Kid's Club and Whistler Kids daycare on-site.
Hotel Rosa Alpina, San Cassiano
[caption id="attachment_10146" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Chalet Loft Suite at the Rosa Alpina[/caption]
Take a trip to the traditional village of San Cassiano and the Hotel Rosa Alpina will be sure to wow you with its luxury interiors and spectacular outlook. The hotel will whisk you over to the slopes of the Alta Badia where you will be treated to amazing scenery and 1200km of pistes to explore. Upon your return to the hotel, real foodies will adore the offerings. After a fabulous dinner at 2 Michelin Star Restaurant St Hubertus, catch a movie at their in-house cinema.
>> For more about San Cassiano, read Skiing the Sud Tyrol – The Italian Dolomites
The Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch
[caption id="attachment_10126" align="aligncenter" width="799"] The unbeatable setting of the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch[/caption]
We love the Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch - it’s the ultimate ski-in/ski-out luxury retreat. The location is quiet – but that lends itself to those who want to take time out from busy life. Equally good for couples and families but if you want brownie points with your kids then this is the place! There’s a full program of family activities and they’ll even set up a teepee in your room to recreate the fun and excitement of camping!
>> Like this? Try this: Hotel Riffelalp, Zermatt; inaccessible by car and reached via the Gornergrat mountain railway, the Riffelalp has one of the most unique locations of any ski hotel.
The Alpina, Gstaad
[caption id="attachment_10119" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Panorama Suite at the Alpina Gstaad[/caption]
Is this the ultimate ski & wellness hotel? If you are looking for the very best in quality and luxury, then secure yourself the 400m2 duplex Panorama Suite at The Alpina Gstaad and you will be absolutely wowed! With 3 bedrooms, a large private terrace, a kitchen, its own private Jacuzzi on the balcony along with spa and fireplaces throughout the suite, there’s almost no reason to leave…apart from to go skiing of course! Even the Deluxe Rooms offer a beautiful, hand-crafted decor, beautiful views and the ultimate in comfort. Throughout the hotel you will find a mix of old and new and with traditional, restored artworks and furnishings linking back to Swiss heritage this hotel really defines Alpine Chic.
Emphasising health and wellness, the Six Senses Spa offers beautiful pools and Jacuzzis, plunge pools, saunas, hammams, a juice bar and a range of yoga, pilates and meditation classes. The Alpina Gstaad's 'Healthy-Bar' is a new kind of minibar offering wholesome snacks and drinks in your room; you can also opt for a 'Healthy Start' breakfast complete with detox juice and enjoy the hotel's very own Alpina Honey collected from their very own bee hives.
>> Like this? Try this: Hotel W, Verbier to enjoy the 800m2 AWAY Spa and Verbier's prime location.
Viceroy Snowmass
[caption id="attachment_10171" align="aligncenter" width="640"] Viceroy Snowmass[/caption]
Staying in a luxury hotel doesn’t have to mean compromising on environmental concerns. Aspen Snowmass is a frontrunner in sustainability in the ski industry and the gorgeous Viceroy Snowmass was built using ‘green’ principles, implementing a lot of environmentally friendly initiatives which don’t detract from the quality or experience. The modern décor and great range of room types makes it a good fit for almost anyone – and it’s ski-in/ski-out too! Guilt free luxury! The best kind…
>> Like this? Try this: The Sun Peaks Grand Hotel has a new kind of offer for Winter 2017/18 - elect to have your room cleaned every second day and save 5% with their Eco-Stay option.
Hotel Kaila, Méribel
[caption id="attachment_10120" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Hotel Kaila Méribel[/caption]
Nestled in the heart of Méribel is the 5-star luxury Hotel Le Kaila, surrounded by trees and pristine ski slopes. The alpine chic style throughout the hotel is emphasised by the luxury fabrics and quirky modern features, making this a real home away from home to suit the entire family. Hotel Le Kaila makes the ideal ski-in/ski-out spot to explore the slopes of the 3 Valleys as well as enjoying the après-ski and soothing spa experiences offer at the 500m2 Nuxe Spa.
>> Like this? Try this: Raffl's St Antonerhof, where they say "enjoyment is the first commandment".
Four Seasons Resort Whistler
[caption id="attachment_10123" align="aligncenter" width="801"] Four Seasons Whistler[/caption]
Just set a wee bit back from the base of Blackcomb you’ll find the best rooms in Whistler at the Four Seasons Resort & Residences. Spacious, stylish and with beautiful bathrooms, this is somewhere to truly relax. You might not get the slope views from here but the service, facilities and space make it a true haven. Don’t worry about having to carry your skis to the mountain base – the hotel has a slopeside ski and boot check-in so that the whole experience is seamless.
>> Like this? Try this: The Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole, featuring massive 550sqft guest rooms at the base of the Jackson Hole ski area.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler
Sometimes luxury is more than just fixtures and fittings. Sometimes it’s a space or a location that just feels like it can’t be topped. The Mallard Lounge and Terrace in the Fairmont Chateau Whistler exemplifies that. There are bigger rooms next door at the Four Seasons but for slope view rooms, ambience, space and the ultimate ski-in/ski-out location this is the place to be. Every skier should experience an après-ski margarita in their slopeside hot tub at some point in their lives!
>> Like this? Try this: Hotel Altapura, Val Thorens for ski-in/ski-out 5-star luxury in Europe's highest ski resort.
For more advice and to arrange your next luxury ski getaway, contact our team of Ski Specialists. Call the team on 0131 243 8097 or request a tailor-made quotation online.