"Jet-Ski !" - 4 Ski Destinations That Are Worth the Trip
If you’re an avid skier or snowboarder living in North America, you’ve probably experienced the best of this part of the world: Alberta, British Columbia, Colorado, Vermont and the like. While places like Aspen, Telluride or Revelstoke make for a great vacation, there are some spectacular international ski destinations that are well worth the trip abroad. Here are five mountains you’ll have to see to believe.
Zinal, Switzerland
Even with an abundance of choice in the Swiss Alps, Zinal remains truly special. The resort lies amongst the up to 4000 metre high peaks of the Weisshorn, Bishorn, Zinalrothorn, Obergabelhorn, Matterhorn and Dent Blanche. The Zinal glacier provides opportunity for spectacular hiking and snowshoeing as well as ice-climbing on frozen waterfalls. Zinal’s village is charming yet more modern than many accomodations in the region, and historical charm still abounds. Visit a 17th century farmhouse and chalet, explore a centuries-old cheese cellar or travel into the mountain itself with a copper mine adventure. The food and drink is lovely, and the skiing is everything you’d dream of in a Swiss resort. Let ELEVATE arrange your flight into nearby Sion. Switzerland, under one hour away.
Niseko, Japan
Niseko calls itself ‘Japan’s best ski resort’ and very few would argue otherwise. It’s actually four resorts called Niseko United surrounding one shared mountain range known for its incredible powder. Niseko is visually stunning and offers a variety of ski terrains, from steeps to woods. The runs are long and scenic, and multiple resorts means a variety of housing options and amenities. There are accommodations suitable to couples, families and large groups, and plenty of additional activities like hiking, snowshoeing, snow-rafting and even reindeer sledding (yes, with genuine reindeer). The nearest airport is in Sapporo. Let ELEVATE take you there!
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
You can’t go wrong with a trip to Italy, but skiing Cortina in the dolomites is particularly magical. The region became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 due to the mountains’ unique formation and exceptional beauty, including many lakes and waterfalls in addition to the famed mountainscape. The resort itself is stunning and offers a wide variety of shops, restaurants, outdoor activities, museums, historical sights and other attractions. There is a large natural park that makes for spectacular hiking or photography. Guests will love the resort’s three separate-but-joined ski areas, which are connected by a complimentary ski-bus requiring only one lift pass. ELEVATE can fly you into either Bolzano, Treviso, or Innsbruck.
Val d’Isère, France
Nestled in France's Upper Tarentaise Valley, Val d’Isère has three distinct sectors with different characteristics: high-altitude glacial zones, very steep couloirs and powder-filled bowls. This is a world-class resort with fantastic accommodations as well as interesting, challenging terrain for advanced skiers as well as gentler runs for beginner and intermediate guests. It’s as picturesque as you’d imagine the French Alps to be and offers excellent dining, shopping and nightlife. Val d’Isère also boasts many outdoor adventures and exceptional spa facilities. ELEVATE can arrange your flight into Chambery, France.
Ready to hit the slopes? If you’d like a quote on private air travel to these or other destinations, please contact us for a no obligation quote.