The 50 most extraordinary ski hotels in Europe
In this article, we've handpicked the 50 most extraordinary ski hotels across the continent. On this list, you can expect to discover the coolest, cosiest, and most unique ski hotels that perfectly combine alpine charm and snowy covered comfort.
From alpine-style lodges in Spain's Sierra Nevada mountains to the modern cabins of the Alps, the variety of extraordinary ski hotels available across Europe will make you want to book a flight right away. From unbridled luxury for people with discerning tastes to more laid-back affordable stays, no matter your preference, there are a variety of amazing hotels that offer you a comfy and cosy place to rest your head before spending the day exploring the mountain, relaxing in the spa, or dancing the afternoon away in your ski boots at aprés. All the most extraordinary ski hotels in Europe in one spot for your reading pleasure. Let’s dive right in and find out which hotel is the best one to suit your budget, tastes, and preferences.
Table of contents
Elevate your style on the slopes
As you consider these amazing ski hotels for your next adventure, remember that your attire is crucial. Navigating the snow-covered mountain peaks requires not just the right location but also the right gear. Get ready for the season with the latest trends in mountain fashion, offering both warmth and style. Explore a sample of our collection below, ensuring everyone makes a statement in the snow.
Switzerland
Tschuggen, Arosa
A sanctuary for the body and soul, the Tschuggen Grand Hotel sits high on a plateau in Arosa and is one of Switzerland's most unique luxury retreats. With the mountain scenery of Graubunden at your fingertips and elegant rooms with epic forest views, this not-so-little hotel is a gem of a find.
Ridestore recommends: If you’re travelling with a group, book the west-facing Junior Suite and enjoy panoramic mountain views while eating breakfast in your private dining area.
Chetzeron, Crans Montana
Chetzeron is an extravagant hotel with an interesting history. This ski-in ski-out resort was once a gondola station before it was transformed into a restaurant in 2009 and a boutique hotel in 2014. From your suite window, you’ll enjoy spectacular views over Crans Montana and some of the highest peaks in the Alps.
Ridestore recommends: The hotel has winter packages, including bundles for 2 and 3-night stays with breakfast and access to the wellness area. Consider booking one of these if you’re only here for a short break.
CERVO, Zermatt
The luxury 54 room hotel Cervo claims to have a ‘deeply rooted sense of the extraordinary’, and who are we to argue with them? Expect modern decor, casual luxury, and an air of opulence! Located within walking distance of the town centre, Cervo is a gateway to the Alps and a first-class ticket to a luxury vacation.
Ridestore recommends: If you’re travelling as a group of six, we recommend reserving the Nomad Roof Apartment and making the most of the kitchenette, living area, and private balcony where you can reach out and touch the trees!
Riders Hotel, Laax
The recently refurbished Riders Hotel in Laax might only have 3-stars to its name, but it’s one of the most fabulous hotels in the Surselva region of Switzerland. The striking glass facade reflects images of the mountains, and the surrounding trees ensure you’re fully immersed in nature. Inside, you can expect a boutique hotel where musicians, artists, skiers and food connoisseurs alike cross paths to make the most of the mountains.
Ridestore recommends: Rider’s Restaurant serves divine organic cuisine using ingredients sourced from local farms, and we strongly recommend reserving a table here in advance.
Bergwelt Grindelwald, Grindelwald
Experience peak luxury (see what we did there?) at Bergwelt Grindelwald, a contemporary Swiss hotel and a haven for skiers, wellness enthusiasts and all-round cool kids. All 90 rooms and suites at Bergwelt have been carefully designed to incorporate the very best of Alpine decor (we’re talking wood panelling, shaggy rugs, and thick throws) alongside modern amenities.
Ridestore recommends: Head to the Fire & Ice Spa and enjoy a Foaming Enzyme Facial. Papaya and pineapple enzymes work their magic to deep cleanse your pores!
Revier Lenzerheide, Lenzerheide
Situated on the shore of Heidsee lake in Lenzerheide in the Grisons Region, a mere 100 metres from Ski Lift Rothorn, the Revier Lenzerheide hotel is a first-generation hotel bringing new life to this Alpine region of Switzerland. The hotel is popular with the younger demographic thanks to its affordable pricing and a busy calendar of events ranging from live music in the bar to outdoor cookouts.
Ridestore recommends: The hotel’s bar has over 20 craft beers from European destinations, including Portugal, Ireland, Scotland, Sweden and Belgium!
3100 Kulmhotel Gornergrat, Zermatt
Welcome to the highest hotel in the Swiss Alps! 3100 Kulmhotel, located in Gornograt, is the mountain base camp of a high mountain range, sits 3,100 meters above sea level, and is considered an ‘observatory’, not just a hotel. From your room, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to see all four of Switzerland’s four-thousanders. This place is incredible.
Ridestore recommends: The Gornergrat is one of the best places in the Alps for stargazing, so make time to visit the hotel’s planetarium and search for the Milky Way.
22 Summits, Zermatt
22 Summits is a 4-star Zermatt hotel nestled amidst the peaks of the region's four-thousanders. A night at this boutique accommodation, which comprises just 22 stylishly furnished rooms, will feel like a home away from home thanks to the cosy touches like the in-house library and reading room.
Ridestore recommends: Speak to the hotel's concierge about planning a day trip over the border to Italy. They'll happily make arrangements to ensure an epic day in the mountains.
The Hide Hotel Flims, Flims
Located in the heart of the wild Swiss Alps is Hide Hotel, a modern, cosy and urban accommodation within walking distance of bars and restaurants. Fun fact, the Hide Hotel is the only hotel in Switzerland to boast four in-house cinemas. From blockbusters to family favourites, this spectacular hotel has your evening entertainment sorted night after night!
Ridestore recommends: If you’re celebrating something special while on ski vacation here, consider booking a private showing in one of their cinemas!
Valsana, Arosa
The 4-star Valsana Hotel in Arosa is a modern and chic hotel boasting panoramic views of Obersee Lake and nearby mountains. From the hotel, guests can access ski lifts by a short bus ride and can ski right to the resort's doors at the end of the day. As for luxury amenities, Valsana features a sun terrace, spacious wellness area, and spa facilities. If you’re after a luxury ski holiday in a quiet location, look no further.
Ridestore recommends: Valsana has nine one and two-bedroom apartments, perfect for groups/ families.
The Cambrian, Adelboden
The Cambrian Hotel, a spa and design hotel in Adelboden, is nestled in the Swiss Alps amid crystal-clear air and world-class mountains; the perfect destinations for avid skiers to kick off their boots. Choose between standard rooms, deluxe rooms (some of which have two balconies), junior suites, and family rooms with a mezzanine level. Other facilities include an indoor and outdoor heated pool, on-site restaurant, and spa.
Ridestore recommends: Take a late afternoon dip in the terrace hydrotherapy pool.
Experimental Chalet, Verbier
As far as stylish Alpine retreats go, Experimental Chalet has pretty much hit the nail on the head. Home to a signature cocktail bar, busy little bistro, and a legendary nightclub, this luxury Verbier hotel has a heck of a lot going for it. The panoramic views of the surrounding Alps (including Mont Combin) are an added bonus.
Ridestore recommends: Dine at the on-site farm-to-table bistro, which Parisian chef Gregory Marchand heads up.
Zermama, Zermatt
Zermatt’s Zermama (a mouthful) is one of the town’s newest hotels and claims to offer ‘Good times, with good people,' which sounds spectacular to us. This art-deco hotel sits just a 5-minute walk from the train station, which puts it right in the heart of Zermatt’s bustling bar scene and a short stroll from the town’s ski lifts.
Ridestore recommends: Dine at the Zermama Bistro, and you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to cheese dishes; they’ve got an entire portion of the menu dedicated solely to ‘cheese from the oven.’
Ski Lodge Engelberg, Engelberg
Set in the heart of Engelberg, boutique-hotel Ski Lodge Engelberg provides 37 individually decorated rooms and gourmet cuisine (with a French flair) close to the ski slopes. This 3-star lodge is ideal for couples and groups of skiers looking for a fun and friendly hotel in the heart of Engelberg, particularly if you want to be close to the apres-ski action.
Ridestore recommends: The lodge offers yoga camp retreats, along with individual yoga classes. Ring ahead and try to join one of their post-ski yoga sessions!
Whitepod, Monthey
Whitepod is an eco-luxury hotel and alpine experience nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 1400 meters. The 'hotel' is a combination of luxurious pods (18) and swiss-cabins (9). While the pods are designed to provide a unique and cosy accommodation amidst nature, the log cabins provide all the regular amenities of a high-end retreat. Whitepod's onsite wellness area offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, and a dip in the Scandinavian bath is an absolute must after a long day of skiing.
Ridestore recommends: If you're staying in one of the pods, and heading out for a day, order a picnic-to-go! You can even order one for your departure day!
France
Hôtel des Dromonts, Avoriaz
Hôtel des Dromonts is a glorious 5-star hotel found in Avoriaz, amidst the Portes du Soleil ski area. With direct access to the ski slopes, mountain view rooms, and a spa without an outdoor jacuzzi, it's one of the most popular hotels in the village. The decor is modern 60s, and the two onsite restaurants (Les Enfants Terribles and Le Festival) allow you to eat your body weight in cheese and then some.
Ridestore recommends: The hotel is best known for its self-catered accommodation, so if you're on a tight budget, consider booking a room with a kitchenette.
Hotel MiL8, Avoriaz
The relatively new Hotel MiL8 is a stylish property in the French mountain resort of Avoriaz. Guests at MiL8 enjoy skiing from the doorstep (and not just any old skiing, we're talking Portes du Soleil, which is one of the largest ski areas in Europe), cosy furnishings, an onsite restaurant and a sunny terrace for a spot of day drinking. The hotel’s funky design and minimalist architecture blend in perfectly with Avoriaz, a resort known for its punchy design and unusual building shapes.
Ridestore recommends: Book a table at the hotel’s restaurant (serving from 7pm to 10pm) and order the trout with citron confit and roasted walnuts.
Aman le Mélézin, Courchevel
Enjoy pole piste position at Aman le Mélézin, a contemporary ski-hotel in the heart of Courchevel. If you're after a traditional wooden chalet with an Alpine theme running throughout then, perhaps the Aman le Mélézin isn't for you. This recently refurbished 5-star retreat is far more contemporary than its competitors and boasts a Japanese restaurant, an inviting cocktail bar, and daily yoga classes.
Ridestore recommends: Dine at Nama's, the onsite Japanese bar and restaurant where last orders are at 10pm. Head chef Keiji Matoba has over 20 years of experience in the culinary field, and his intimate dishes are unrivalled in Courchevel!
Altapura, Val Thorens
Stay at the highest ski resort in Europe at Altapura! Guests enjoy unrivalled access to over 200 miles of ski routes across three different valleys. The decor at Altapura is nordic-chic, and everything inside is as white as snow. Expect contemporary stag heads to adorn the walls and nordic blankets to be thrown across almost every soft furnishing.
Ridestore recommends: Book the Cocoon Suite and stay in a cosy two person cabin-style room with terrace and mountain views. Also, make the most of the free hotel shuttle bus.
Heliopic Hotel & Spa, Chamonix
Nestled in the Mont-Blanc valley, in the centre of Chamonix, the four-star Heliopic Hotel & Spa features a 500-m2 Spa with a Turkish steam bath, ice cave, tepidarium, sauna, and indoor swimming pool. The hotel is both modern and luxurious, and guests enjoy the use of a communal lounge area with a fireplace, a contemporary restaurant (Akashon), a bar that serves afternoon tea plus drinks until midnight.
Ridestore recommends: Rent your ski gear and purchase your ski-pass from the hotel's onsite shop to save both time and money.
Terminal Neige Totem, Flaine
Located in the heart of Flaine, Hotel Totem (Terminal Neige) is a contemporary accommodation offering half-board dining with various meal options. The hotel is bordering on boutique and boasts vintage furniture, colourful decor, and it feels a lot more American than it does French. That said, the sun terrace, apres-ski bar and cosy lounge with roaring fireplace quickly remind you that you're in one of the most talked-about ski destinations in France.
Ridestore recommends: The Totem Spa is relatively affordable in comparison to other spas in Flaine. We recommend booking a treatment at the time of your arrival.
Hotel Artemisia, Corsica
Hotel Artemisia is an elegant accommodation located on the island of Corsica and surrounded by nature. The hotel's elegance also lies in the interior design, where beautiful pieces are combined with classic ornaments. The hotel sits right in the heart of Regional Natural Park, just a 20-minute drive from the ski slopes of Val D'Ese where you can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and luging throughout the winter months.
Ridestore recommends: The onsite restaurant serves seasonal dishes made with love, so there's no need to really leave the hotel once you've returned from a day of skiing!
Ho36 Hostel, La Plagne
Ho36 Hostel (that's right, 'hostel') is the perfect accommodation for the extravagant traveller on a budget. Located in the heart of La Plagne, this charming hostel has complimentary WiFi throughout, a popular restaurant and bar, and offers a buffet spread each morning. Choose between cosy private rooms (some of which feature a kitchenette) or an affordable bed in a shared dormitory.
Ridestore recommends: If you're travelling in a group of 6 to 8 people, book a Loft fully equipped with a kitchenette and private bathrooms.
Moontain Hostel, Oz en Oisans
Moontain Hostel is stylish, contemporary, connected and offers ski-to-door access. What more could you want for an extravagant ski holiday in the mountains? The hostel sits just 200 yards from the Poutran Cable Car and even closer to the Clos du Pre Ski Lift, so access to the piste is fairly straightforward. As for the hostel itself, guests can choose between dormitory rooms, exclusive family and friend rooms, and premium rooms that feature a glorious living area!
Ridestore recommends: Breakfast at the hostel is served until midday, so there's no mad rush to rise early if you're after a leisurely morning.
Rocky Pop, Chamonix
Hotel Rocky Pop straddles the towns of Chamonix and Les Houches in the Mont-Blanc region of France and brings a certain flair to the two ski towns. The hotel prides itself on being affordable (it's the only 3-star hotel in the area), comfortable, and best of all, fun! Expect lively decor, colourful guestrooms, and staff who know how to party.
Ridestore recommends: Make use of the free shuttle to the ski fields, and make sure you spend at least one evening sipping cocktails and playing arcade games at the Rock Pop bar.
Austria
Mama Thresl, Leogang
Millennials and Instagram influencers alike flock to Mama Thresl, a funky retreat located in the small town of Leogang, Austria. Skiers enjoy easy access to the slopes, lively aprés-ski bars, and a restaurant with a menu to make you drool. Everything at Mama Thresl is photogenic, from the forest yoga platforms to the roaring fireplace in the trendy downstairs bar. The best thing about Mama Thresl? All rooms (even the Standard rooms) have private balconies with mountain views.
Ridestore recommends: Take a dip in the hotel's Finnish-style sauna. You won't find anything like it for miles around!
M3 Hotel, St. Anton am Arlberg
M3 hotel’s unique location in the heart of St Anton’s breathtaking old town makes this a true gem amidst St Anton’s hotel boulevard. Here you can find spacious and fresh rooms with a youthful spark and a team that will turn your stay into an absolutely unforgettable experience. This winter, the hotel received a brand new Sky Spa with two sauna baths, steam room, a relaxation lounge and a stunning view over the Austrian alps. What’s not to love about that?
Ridestore recommends: Connected to the hotel, you can find the Hazienda restaurant which offers one of the best fine dining experiences in town. Swing by and enjoy contemporary cuisine at its best!
Holzgauer Haus, Warth Am Arlberg
Holzgauer Haus sits an impressive 1,500 meters above sea level on a sun-drenched patch of land that overlooks rolling Austrian mountains. Holzgauer Haus has a restaurant, garden, bar and sun terrace where guests can relax and soak up the spectacular views. This is another incredibly Instagrammable hotel where contemporary design meets Austrian character.
Ridestore recommends: Head outside and enjoy an open-air shower! The outdoor wash area is situated so guests can enjoy views of Greener Mountain as they bathe.
Ufogel, Nussdorf-Debant
Ufogel is a funky holiday home that gets its name from the joining of two words, ‘UFO’ and ‘Vogel’ (German for ‘bird’). Why would you name a hotel after an alien spacecraft and flying Aves you might be asking? Well, because it literally looks like a UFO has swan-dived into a mountain side. This funky accommodation sits next to an old farmhouse in the village of Nussdorf and offers an extravagant stay for up to eight people.
Ridestore recommends: Get back to your UFO in time to enjoy sunset from the panoramic viewing platform.
Hotel Miramonte, Bad Gastein
The Hotel Miramonte sits at the foot of the Graukogel Mountain, overlooking the centre of Bad Gastein, a place that’s vogue and luxurious to the core. Miramonte Bad Gastein, where transitional mountain life mixes with millennial nomads, is the only design hotel in the valley. Its modern Austrian Alpine elements attract the creative crowd for Bond-style ski holidays. If you’re looking to meet people as cool as you, and mingle with the creatives of the ski world, then we strongly recommend a night or two at this quirky hotel.
Ridestore recommends: Make sure you join at least one communal evening dinner, which takes place on the terrace at the front of the hotel overlooking Bad Gastein. You’ll sit at a long table with your “neighbours” and possibly make new ski friends!
Wiesergut, Saalbach Hinterglemm
Wiesergut is a unique hotel tucked into Saalbach Hinterglemm, one of the most popular (and largest) skiing areas in the Austrian Alps. The location is perfect for avid skiers as the walk to the Zwölferkogel Cable Car is less than 30-seconds from your room. As for amenities, the Wiesergut boasts a cosy bar, library room, tennis court, spa area, infinity pool, and more!
Ridestore recommends: For the full VIP experience, the hotel partners with SENNAIR helicopters and runs sightseeing flights directly from the front door.
Haus Hirt, Bad Gastein
Haus Hirt is a popular alpine spa hotel located in the heart of Bad Gastein with a strong focus on wellness. The hotel pays homage to both modern and classic design and features a cosy interior decor that brings the outside in. What’s so extraordinary about Haus Hirt? The terrace restaurant wraps around the side of the building and offers impressive valley views.
Ridestore recommends: Book a treatment at the AVEDA spa (we recommend a Fango mud pack), or simply take a dip in their panorama indoor pool!
Hotel Hinteregger, Matrei i. Osttirol
If you’re jetting off to the slopes hand-in-hand with a loved one on a romantic break, then a stay at Hotel Hinteregger in Osttirol should be on the cards. The hotel has a rugged urban edge and is more contemporary than you’d think for a remote East Tyrol accommodation! Guests enjoy the use of an outdoor pool and sauna, onsite spa, and spacious sun terrace. The restaurant is the hotel’s selling point, as the head chef uses ingredients grown locally on the surrounding farmland to create innovative Austrian dishes.
Ridestore recommends: Dining at the onsite restaurant every night! The menu changes daily and is entirely dependent on the products available in the garden and surrounding farmland. The beef steak is to die for.
Bergland, Sölden
Hotel Bergland is a five-star luxury hotel in the heart of the Ötztal Valley, where minimalism and traditional alpine decor combine to create world-class accommodation. The hotel sits in the centre of Solden and has one of the largest rooftop spa areas in Europe! Now that’s extravagant. Other highlights at Bergland include the Finnish sauna, a fine-dining restaurant, and an outdoor heated pool. James Bond actor, Daniel Craig, stayed at Bergland while filming James Bond, and if it’s good enough for Bond, it’s good enough for the likes of you and me.
Ridestore recommends: Book a pilates class on the rooftop terrace and stretch out your muscles while enjoying mountain views!
Italy
CampZero, Champoluc
Camp Zero is a luxury alpine hotel situated in the charming village of Champoluc and dedicated entirely to those who love the great outdoors. If you're a lover of all things sport, then you've come to the right place. Aside from skiing, Camp Zero is an ideal base for mountaineering, rock climbing (both indoor and out), canyoning, mountain biking, trekking, golf, ice climbing, and more! As for the hotel's decor, expect a modern yet cosy vibe. All 30 rooms and suites are decorated with wooden features to ensure the Alpine theme runs throughout the hotel.
Ridestore recommends: Book a session on the hotel's climbing wall in advance; it's a popular activity, and slots fill up fast.
Vigilius Mountain Resort, Vigiljoch
Vigilus Mountain Resort sits in the Italian town of Vigiljoch and is only accessible by cable car. That's right, this car free hotel sits quietly amidst nature and is surrounded by looming larch trees and towering pistes. This eco-friendly hotel is known as "an island in the mountains'' as it sits over 1500 meters above sea level and blends right into its surroundings. Expect 5-star luxury, natural spa treatments, and an infinity pool to quite simply die for.
Ridestore recommends: Book a deep massage at the onsite spa. After a day of shredding the slopes, your leg muscles will thank us.
Hotel Miramonti, Meran
After undergoing an extensive renovation, Hotel Miramonti is now considered one of the top hotels in the South Tyrol region. This boutique hotel sits high above the village and provides spectacular views out over the surrounding mountains (head to the lounge deck, and you'll feel like you're actually on top of the mountains). The hotel boasts a large infinity pool, a Japanese Onsen pool and an onsite pool. Other highlights include the three restaurants which take local Tyrolean dishes and add a contemporary twist. The best thing about Hotel Miramonti? It's actually reasonably priced for the region (coming in around 400€ per night).
Ridestore recommends: If you're here to spend money, book out the Sky House, a private "penthouse-style" accommodation added to the property in 2019.
Seehof Nature Retreat, Brixen
Hotel Nature Retreat is an enchanting 4-star hotel located in the small town of Brixen in South Tyrol's Eisack Valley. The hotel prides itself on being an 'idyllic oasis of calm’ and neutral tones run throughout this chic accommodation. The infinity pool, flora-filled gardens, and private natural lake all emphasize being at one with nature, and guests are in for a delightfully zen stay.
Ridestore recommends: The 'Romantic Suite' is the hotel's best room. The large balcony offers incredible mountain views and lets in delicious rays of morning sunlight.
Buehelwirt, St Jakob im Ahrntal
Buehelwirt is a traditional Italian hotel in the Ahrntal valley of South Tyrol. This 3-star abode boasts 20 rooms/suites, a fancy restaurant, and a wellness area. Owners Matthias and Michaela have worked hard to ensure the hotel reflects its natural surroundings, and the interior features local materials, including larch wood and loden cloth.
Ridestore recommends: Guests at Buehelwirt enjoy free admission to the Cascade Acqua Campo Tures (indoor swimming pool and natural bathing pond with large outdoor facilities) located just 15 minutes from the hotel.
Montana Lodge, La Thuile
Montana Lodge & Spa is a luxury 5-star ski resort located in the ski town of La Thuile in the Aosta Valley. While the exterior of the wooden chalet is fairly un-extravagant (beautiful nonetheless), it's the interior decor that draws travellers to its cosy rooms. Expect industrial furnishings, quirky lighting, and a blend of French and Italian fabrics. As for skiing, from your front door, you'll have access to over 160km of slopes, covering both French and Italian pistes.
Ridestore recommends: Dine at the hotel's restaurant and order the seared prawns served with yellow peaches, radicchio, and almonds.
Alpina Dolomites, Alpe Di Siusi
Tucked away in the beautiful Italian Dolomites, Alpina Dolomites is a 5-star luxury furnished hotel with bags of charm and heaps of hospitality. There are 60 superior rooms and suites in total, each offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains (a listed UNESCO World Heritage region). Onsite facilities include a high-end spa (the hotel is a leader in health and psychotherapy), a large outdoor heated pool, and various relaxation areas. The hotel forms part of the Dolomiti Superski circuit and has direct access to the Sella Ronda, offering guests some of the finest skiing in the South Tyrol region.
Ridestore recommends: Book a dip in the bio-herb Sauna, and you can officially say you've been to one of the finest spas in Northern Italy.
Schgaguler, Castelrotto
At Schgaguler Hotel, a relatively mundane 80s building has been transformed into a beautiful glass-fronted luxury resort. The contemporary design adds a real finesse to the hotel, and the mountain village of Castelrotto has a lot to thank for this glow-up! Enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Dolomites from your terrace before tucking into innovative Mediterranean dishes at the onsite restaurant and capping the day off with a nightcap at the fireside bar.
Ridestore recommends: The rooftop suites are the real winners at the Schgaguler and offer insane views of the surrounding mountains from private balconies.
Joas, San Candido
Ski-to-door access plus free ski storage are the highlights of Joas, a modern hotel in San Candido set at the base of the piste. The hotel's rooms are fairly spacious, but the onsite apartments are the real gem of this hotel and are suitable for 2 - 5 guests. Inclusive services at Joas include arrival drinks, complimentary breakfast made with local produce, and access to the Finnish Sauna and steam bath.
Ridestore recommends: Book a guided hike with a local expert, and they'll meet you in the hotel lobby and whisk you away into the mountains!
Rest of Europe
Eleven Experience, Troll Peninsula, Iceland
Deplar Farm is one of the most talked-about hotels amongst high-end hoteliers and luxury travellers. Located on the Troll Peninsula in a cold corner of Iceland, this Eleven Experience hotel is incredibly epic. Most people arrive at Deplar Farm by helicopter and then drop into the off-the-grid sheep farm to be greeted by incredibly beautiful hosts who whisk you away to a cosy wooden cabin and pamper you beyond belief.
Ridestore recommends: Deplar Farm is all about heli-skiing, so you'll want to organize this with the hotel in advance, but you'll also have the opportunity to enjoy cat skiing or on-piste. Better yet, thanks to the region's midnight sun, you can ski as late as 10pm!
El Lodge, Sierra Nevada, Spain
We can’t write an article about extravagant ski hotels without giving the nod to the wonderful El Lodge, arguably one of the best luxury hotels in Spain! The hotel sits right in the heart of Granada and boasts magical mountain views, an open-air heated pool, and 21 carefully designed guest rooms, each with its own outdoor terrace and private jacuzzi.
Ridestore recommends: Rent your ski gear directly from the hotel to save any stress arranging rental in town. The on-site shop stocks well-known brands including Oakley, Bogner, Phenix and Stockli. Similarly, the concierge will happily arrange a ski instructor to whisk you away to the slopes for the day if you’re a beginner.
Niehku, Riksgränsen, Sweden
Niehku Mountain Villa comprises 14 individual rooms in the lodge and successfully combines top-class accommodation and gastronomy with epic outdoor adventures in the scenic mountains of Swedish Lapland. In Northern Sami, Niehku means dream, and this is undoubtedly a hotel where dreams can come true. High, beamed ceilings, the ruins of an abandoned locomotive depot, and a wine cellar that can be seen through the glass-floored restaurant are just a handful of Niehku highlights.
Ridestore recommends: The hotel is co-owned by a local sommelier and a mountain guide, so if you’ve got any skiing (including apres) questions, then you’re in luck.
Vulkana, Tromsø, Norway
Vulkana's ski by boat tours are second to none. With only 9 other people, you could be one of the lucky people who experience a guided ski by boat tour. You sleep in small and cozy cabins on the boat and at night the boat will dock in one of the picturesque Norwegian fishing towns along the way. Onboard you can find a hot tub, steam bath and sauna, plus a private chef cooking up a Norwegian storm while you indulge in a spa treatment. Places are limited, as the ski by boat tours only operate between the end of February until the end of May so you better book now!
Ridestore recommends: The boat sometimes has live music on the deck, and you should definitely check out their Facebook page to see their upcoming events.
Viking Heli Skiing, Siglufjörður, Iceland
Viking Heli Skiing provides heli-skiing and heli-snowboarding tours across Iceland, covering private and custom excursions. The company specializes in Northern Iceland, and there are far better places to heliski than over the Troll Peninsula, trust us! The company has three hotels under their umbrella (Siglo Hotel, The K2 Ski Barn, and the Clubhouse), with a fourth (Hofoi Lodge) set to open in 2023. If you want an all-around all-inclusive ski holiday to remember, Viking Heli-Skiing might just be the tour provider you’re looking for.
Ridestore recommends: Customizing your own heliskiing program and including stays at all four of the Viking Heli-Skiing hotels is completely possible and totally epic!
Szuflandia, Wisla, Poland
Calling all contemporary art appreciators, Szuflandia is the ski hotel for you! This incredible apartment block (located on the slopes of Mount Kiczera) is adorned with contemporary art; the building itself is an epic masterpiece of design and creativity. The apartments are made of wood and stacked on top of each other like a funky game of Jenga. Guests enjoy the use of the communal pool, plus a shared terrace area with mountain views.
Ridestore recommends: Wisla’s Museum of Skiing is just a 30-minute walk away from the property if you’re short of things to do!
Iglu Dorf, different locations across Europe
Iglu Dorf is an impressive snow hotel chain located 2,000 meters above sea level and home to breath-taking snow art, an igloo restaurant. The hotel prides itself on being 50% snow, 30% sun, and 20% starry sky! Six igloo hotels are nestled amongst the mountains, each as impressive as the next and all offering a unique overnight experience amidst the snow.
Ridestore recommends: The wellness area isn’t to be missed, and a dip in the whirlpool after a day on the slopes is more than welcome.
FAQs
Is it necessary to book these ski hotels far in advance?
It's generally a good idea to book your stay at these ski hotels well in advance, especially during high season. Popular hotels in popular ski destinations tend to fill up quickly. However, if you're flexible with your dates or visiting during a less busy time, you may be able to book closer to your trip.
Do these ski hotels offer gear rental facilities?
Most of the high-end ski hotels mentioned in the article provide on-site gear rental. This includes skiing and snowboarding equipment, like boots, skis, snowboards, and safety helmets. It is always recommended to check the details with the hotel to understand the specifics of what they offer.
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